text:
An adjustable support for a data input device and the like including a base attached to an associated worksurface, a platform shaped to support the data input device thereon and having a front portion and a rearward portion, and a support arm having one end pivotally joined with the base, and an opposite end pivotally joined to the rearward portion of the platform. Also included is a locking member fixed to the support arm, and an elongate brake element wrapped around the locking member, and having one end coupled to the base and a second end connected with the platform at a point spaced from the opposite end of the arm such that rotation of the tray about the coupling at the second end of the support arm releases the brake element and permits changes in the elevation of the support with respect to the base, and the moment of the platform and any associated input device tenses the braking element against the locking member and locks the platform in its selected position.
1. A combination keyboard support and adjustable palm rest assembly, comprising:
a keyboard support having a forward portion;
a support disposed adjacent said forward portion of the keyboard support;
a slide mounted adjacent said support and configured to slide laterally back and forth in a plane generally parallel to said support; said slide including at least one elongated angled slot having an edge that forms a camming surface; and
a palm rest engaging said camming surface and interconnected through said slide to said support whereby back and forth movement of said slide translates said palm rest vertically at infinitesimally small increments.
2. The keyboard support and adjustable palm rest assembly as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said keyboard support comprises a platform having a leading edge configured to receive said support thereon.
3. The keyboard support and adjustable palm rest assembly as set forth in claim 2, including:
an arm having one end pivotally connected to said platform;
a base assembly pivotally interconnected to an opposite end of said arm, said base assembly configured to be coupled to a worksurface; and
an elongate flexible brake extending through said arm and interconnecting said platform to said base assembly for releasably locking said platform at a desired elevation and maintaining an angular orientation of said platform relative to said worksurface with a change in elevation of said platform.
4. A combination keyboard support and auxiliary support assembly, comprising:
a keyboard support platform adapted to support a keyboard thereon;
a housing having a generally planar surface;
a hinge assembly pivotably interconnecting said housing to said keyboard support platform; and
a latching mechanism biased within said housing and configured to selectively engage said hinge assembly for fixing said housing in a selected one of a plurality of orientations relative to said keyboard support platform, said planar surface positionable in a horizontal orientation.
5. The keyboard support and auxiliary support surface assembly as set forth in claim 4, wherein:
said hinge assembly includes an anchor member;
said keyboard support platform having at least one opening in an end thereof for receiving said anchor member therein; and including:
an arm having one end pivotally connected to said platform;
a base assembly pivotally interconnected to an opposite end of said arm, said base assembly configured to be coupled to a worksurface; and
an elongate flexible brake extending through said arm and interconnecting said platform to said base assembly for releasably locking said platform at a desired elevation and maintaining an angular orientation of said platform relative to said worksurface with a change in elevation of said platform.
6. A combination keyboard support and auxiliary support assembly, comprising:
a keyboard support platform defining opposite side edges, each side edge including a receptacle;
an auxiliary support including an anchor member that releasably engages a selected one of said receptacles, such that said auxiliary support can be selectively positioned adjacent either of said side edges of said keyboard support platform; and
said anchor member configured to permit tilting of said auxiliary support about a horizontal axis to a selected angular position relative to said keyboard support platform, said auxiliary support positionable through a complete three hundred and sixty degrees relative to said keyboard support.
7. A combination keyboard support and auxiliary support assembly, comprising:
a keyboard support platform defining opposite side edges, each side edge including a receptacle;
an auxiliary support including an anchor member that releasably engages a selected one of said receptacles, such that said auxiliary support can be selectively positioned adjacent either of said side edges of said keyboard support platform;
said anchor member pivotable to permit tilting of said auxiliary support to a selected angular position relative to said keyboard support platform, wherein:
each receptacle comprises a cavity having a quadrilateral cross-sectional shape; and
said anchor member having a first member with a quadrilateral cross-section closely corresponding to said cavity and closely received therein.
8. The keyboard and auxiliary support of claim 7, wherein:
said anchor member includes a knuckle pivotably connected to said first member for tilting of said auxiliary support about a first axis; and
said auxiliary support pivotably connected to said knuckle for pivoting about a second axis between a use position and a storage position.
9. The keyboard and auxiliary support of claim 8, wherein:
said knuckle has a recess; and including a pin biased into engagement with said recess to retain said auxiliary support in a horizontal use position.
10. The keyboard and auxiliary support of claim 9, wherein:
said auxiliary support includes a release lever that engages said pin and selectively shifts said pin out of engagement with said recess to permit pivoting of said auxiliary support about said knuckle.
11. A keyboard support assembly, comprising:
a keyboard support platform defining opposite ends, each end including a connector;
an auxiliary support including an anchor member adapted to secure said auxiliary support to said connectors of said keyboard support platform to position said auxiliary support at a selected end of said keyboard support platform; and
a hinge assembly interconnecting said auxiliary support to said anchor member, said auxiliary support pivotable between a use position and stored position.
12. The keyboard support assembly of claim 11, including:
a knuckle pivotably connected to said anchor member to provide tilt adjustment of said auxiliary support relative to said keyboard support.
13. The keyboard support assembly of claim 12, wherein:
said keyboard support platform has an opening in each of said opposite ends;
said anchor member includes an elongated portion received within a selected one of said openings to secure said auxiliary support to said keyboard support platform.
14. The keyboard support assembly of claim 13, wherein:
said elongated portion of said anchor member has a quadrilateral cross-sectional shape.
15. The keyboard support assembly of claim 14, wherein:
said knuckle has a cylindrical outer surface with an opening therein; and including:
a pin slidably mounted to said auxiliary support and biased into engagement with said cylindrical outer surface and engaging said opening to retain said auxiliary support in a use position.
16. The keyboard support assembly of claim 15, including:
a release lever mounted to said auxiliary support and engaging said pin to shift said pin out of engagement with said opening to permit pivoting of said auxiliary support out of said use position.
17. The keyboard support assembly of claim 16, including:
a base configured to be secured to an associated worksurface;
an arm having one end pivotably connected to said base, and an opposite end pivotably connected to said keyboard support platform.
18. The keyboard support assembly of claim 17, including:
a brake member that prevents rotation of said arm relative to said base:
said brake operably connected to said keyboard support platform such that tilting of said keyboard support platform releases said brake.
19. The keyboard support assembly of claim 18, wherein:
said arm includes a drum; and
said brake member comprises an elongate cable wrapped at least partially around said drum.
20. The keyboard support assembly of claim 19, wherein:
said arm includes a spring biasing said keyboard support platform upwardly.
This is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/087,551 filed on May 29, 1998 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,975,474, issued on Nov. 2, 1999, entitled ARTICULATED KEYBOARD SUPPORT SHELF, which is a division of Ser. No. 08/561,667, filed on Nov. 22, 1995, issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,836,560, issued on Nov. 17 , 1998, entitled ARTICULATED KEYBOARD SHELF.
This invention relates generally to adjustable supports, and in particular to an articulated tray or support for a data input device, such as a computer keyboard, mouse, or the like.
Personal computers are becoming more and more common in many industries and office environments, and such systems typically employ a keypad, mouse, and/or other data input device, such as a digitizing pad. Often, the personal computer occupies much of the desk or worksurface, making it difficult to locate the keyboard thereon. Furthermore, many users do not prefer to locate the keyboard on the desk top because it is uncomfortable to address the keyboard over the course of the workday.
A number of devices have been developed to offer greater flexibility in supporting the keyboard, mouse, or other device at a comfortable position relative to the user. Many of these systems are structurally complex and typically require rather awkward adjustments through manipulations of a number of knobs and levers or handles. Moreover, many of the adjustable keyboard supports available today utilize an adjustment system which is counter-intuitive, insofar as the end user must learn a detailed sequence of steps, knobs, locks, etc. before the device can be used effectively instead of simply moving the keyboard directly to the desired position.
To date, no one has provided an intuitive, stable, affordable, and mechanically simple keyboard support which retracts beneath the worksurface and provides keyboard height and tilt adjustment in a device which has few moving parts.
One aspect of the invention is to provide an adjustable support for data input devices and the like. In particular, the adjustable support includes a mounting bracket attached to an associated worksurface, a platform for supporting the input device, and having a forward portion to be grasped by the user and a rearward portion disposed generally opposite the forward portion. Also included is a support arm having one end pivotally connected to the mounting bracket and an opposite end pivotally connected to the platform, such that rotation of the support arm shifts the vertical position of the platform. A locking mechanism is also provided including a lock drum fixed to the support arm, and an elongate flexible brake element extending around at least a portion of the lock drum having one end connected to the mounting bracket and an opposite end connected to the platform. The weight of the platform and any device supported thereon tenses the brake element on the lock drum and normally locks the platform in its preselected vertical position, and rotation of the platform about the pivotal coupling with the arm releases the element on the lock drum and permits the platform to be adjusted to a different vertical position.
Another form of the adjustable support includes a bracket attached to an associated worksurface, a platform for supporting a device thereon and having a forward and rearward generally opposing edges, and a support arm pivotally connected to the bracket at one end and pivotally connected to the platform at an opposite end. The support arm includes a locking member fixed thereon configured to receive an elongate flexible brake element on a substantial portion thereon. A first end of the brake element is attached to the bracket, and a second end is connected to the platform such that the weight of the platform pulls the brake element tightly against the locking member and holds the platform in its preselected vertical position. The support arm is readily adjustable between various vertical positions by lifting the forward portion of the platform to release tension on the brake element and thereby permit movement of the support arm to relocate the platform to a new vertical position. Lowering the forward portion of the platform retightens the brake element of the locking member to retain the platform at its new vertical position.
Another form of the adjustable platform assembly is provided for data input devices which include a base, an arm having one end pivotally connected to the base, and a table or tray pivotally coupled to an opposite end of the arm and configured to receive a data input device thereon. A brake system including a drum and cable is provided wherein the drum is fixed to the arm and the cable extends through the arm and interconnects the table to the base. When in the resting position, the moment of the table tightens the cable against the drum to lock the arm in place. Upward rotation of the table about its pivot point with the arm disengages the cable, allowing the user to change the height of the table.
According to another form of the invention and including many of the features described above, the adjustable support includes a tilt assembly coupled to the brake or locking system on the platform or table which permits angular adjustment of the table with respect to the base. Moreover, a counterbalance system is provided to partially support the weight of the table and arm and aid the user in positioning the support assembly.
In yet another form of the invention, the adjustable support includes a movable or adjustable palm rest on the leading or forward edge of the tray or table. The adjustable palm rest includes a first support fixed to the leading edge of the support tray, a slide engaging the first support, and a movable palm rest operably connected to the slide such that horizontal translation of the slide results in a vertical translation of the movable palm rest. The adjustable palm rest is configured to be detachably coupled to the leading edge of the tray and includes bumpers for contacting and retaining one edge of any device disposed on the tray, such as a computer keyboard or the like.
In still another form of the invention, an adjustable palm rest is provided for use with a keyboard support or tray, including a first member, a slide member adjacent the first member and configured to slide back and forth in a plane generally parallel to the first member, the slide including at least one camming surface; and a palm rest engaging the camming surface on the slide and interconnected therethrough in sliding relationship to the first member whereby back-and-forth movement of the slide translates the palm rest vertically. A platform pivotally coupled to a movable arm is also provided using the elongate flexible brake described above.
According to another form of the invention, an auxiliary support assembly is provided for attachment to the end of the keyboard platform, including a housing, an anchor member, a hinge assembly interconnecting the housing to the anchor member, and a latching mechanism biased within the housing and configured to engage the hinge for fixing an orientation of the housing in spaced relation to the anchor.
The principal objects of the present invention are to provide an adjustable support which requires few moving elements, provides a stable platform which is retractable for storage beneath the worksurface, and the operation of which is simple and intuitive, without the need to learn a sequence or series of operations involving knobs and levers.
The various embodiments of the invention described below all offer advantages not offered by the prior devices, including that the angle of the platform with respect to the base remains substantially constant as the height is adjusted, the structure has very few parts, and the entire assembly impacts little on storage space due to its essentially planar profile. Furthermore, the adjustable support operates in an intuitive manner, allowing the user to quickly and easily position the platform at the appropriate height and angle without the adjustment of a plurality of knobs. Other advantages will become apparent based on the description of the invention provided below with reference to the drawing figures.
FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of one embodiment of an adjustable support embodying the invention;
FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the invention shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the invention shown in FIGS. 1-3;
FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment of an adjustable support embodying the invention;
FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of the invention shown in FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the invention shown in FIGS. 5 and 6;
FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the invention shown in FIGS. 5-7;
FIG. 9 is an enlarged exploded view of FIG. 8, illustrating the tray, keyboard clamp, and the movable palm rest assembly;
FIGS. 10 and 11 are section views of the invention illustrating the action of a tray tilt adjustment mechanism;
FIG. 12 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the invention shown in FIG. 12;
FIG. 14 is a fragmentary section view of the invention taken along line XIV--XIV in FIG. 13;
FIG. 15 is an exploded view of a base assembly of the invention shown in FIGS. 12-14;
FIG. 16 is an exploded view of a platform assembly of the invention shown in FIGS. 12-15;
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a tilt adjustment device to be used with the invention; and
FIG. 18 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the auxiliary support surface to be used with the invention.
For the purposes of the following description, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "front," "back," and relative terms of similar reference shall refer to the orientation of the invention as shown in FIG. 1. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and configurations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific embodiments of the invention described below and the methods or processes described and/or illustrated in the attached drawing figures, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts as defined in the appended claims. Specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to different embodiments are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.
The various embodiments of the adjustable support constituting the invention offer several advantages over other currently available devices. Due to the intuitive nature of its operation, stability, affordability, life cycle cost, and minimum number of parts, the support capabilities should be seen as beneficial to the perspective end user. It is preferred that this support device will completely retract underneath the worksurface to which it is mounted, allow height adjustability in order to accommodate different size users, swivel for user accessibility, and tilt for optimal usage angle. It will also accept a palm rest repositionable laterally and vertically by the user, and will support mousing activities in several ways. While these are common characteristics to many supports, the uniqueness of this product lies in its simplicity of use, particularly insofar as it operates on intuitive principals. Rather than requiring the user to operate a number of control knobs, handles, or levers to set the use height, which can be both difficult and confusing, the user simply needs to know where he or she would like to position the support. The user adjusts the height by simply tilting the platform upward about a pivot coupling to the arm, moving the platform to the desired height, and then releasing the platform. Upon release, the platform will securely remain in the position desired until it is repositioned by the user. Consequently, adjustment is not only made easier, but encourages the users to set the support at a comfortable location since the complexity normally inherent in these types of devices is eliminated.
A primary objective of the present invention is to offer superior functionality in a package that is easy for the user to both own and operate. This objective is achieved by providing an adjustable keyboard support which is substantially free of adjustment knobs and levers to properly position the keyboard support. As a result, the keyboard support position can be quickly and easily changed simply by raising an edge of the platform. Moreover, the primary objective is achieved by providing a basic support design having fewer moving parts than previous designs, which translates into improved functionality at lower cost.
Generally, and with reference to FIGS. 1-4, reference numeral 20 identifies one embodiment of an adjustable support assembly configured to receive and have located thereon a device 22, such as a computer keypad or keyboard, mouse, digitizing board, or the like, accessible by a user or operator. The adjustable support assembly 20 typically includes a base assembly 24 mounted in various ways to the underside or bottom surface 28 of a worksurface 30, such as a desktop, modular workstation component, or the like, and is configured to be connected to one end of an arm assembly 26. Attached to the opposite end of the arm assembly 26 is an adjustable platform or tray 32 which supports the keypad or other input device 22. The adjustable platform assembly 20 is configured to position the input device 22 at the desired height by the user, and includes a brake or locking assembly 34 (FIG. 4) to fix and hold tray 32 and arm assembly 26 at the desired vertical orientation with respect to the worksurface 30. Brake assembly 34 is engaged by the moment of tray 32 about the pivotal coupling at the second end of the arm assembly 26. Upward rotation of tray 32 about the pivotal coupling disengages the brake assembly 34, permitting the user or operator to move the tray to a different elevation.
Base assembly 24 includes an elongate track 40 having a generally C-shaped cross section defining downwardly depending channels 42 along the length thereof interconnected by a central web 43 preferably attached to the undersurface 28 of a workstation or desktop. Disposed in sliding relationship in track 40 is a U-shaped slide 44 having a pair of parallel arms 46 spaced from each other and interconnected by a central member 47. A generally rectangular opening 48 is defined in the inner faces of each arm 46, each adapted to receive a peripheral edge of a pivoting disk 49. Disk 49 is preferably circular having a depressed central region 50 relative to a circumferential flange 51 which is received in openings 48. Attached to the bottom of the depressed central portion 50 of disk 49 is a generally U-shaped bracket 53 having downwardly depending flanges 54. Flanges 54 are interconnected by a strap 55 along the top of the bracket. To prevent slide 44 from coming out of track 40, end 38 may be closed by metal flanges (not shown) while end 41 may be closed by a track front 52.
Pivotally attached between flanges 54 of bracket 53 is one end of an arm assembly 26. In a preferred embodiment, arm assembly 26 includes two halves 60, 61 each preferably cast from aluminum and configured to fit together to define a first end 62 and a second end 63 interconnected by a gently arcuate intermediate section 64. End 62 is preferably generally cylindrical in form and has defined therein at least one, and preferably two, cylindrical cavities 65, 66, one nested within the other. It is preferred that cylindrical cavities 65, 66 be concentric with each other about an axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the arm 26. A hole 72 extending through end 62 along the axis of the cavities receives a pin or axle 72A to pivotally join end 62 to the base 24. To assist the user in raising arm assembly 26 and the associated tray and input devices, and to partially support the weight of these components, a torsion spring 73 is preferably disposed within cavity 66 wherein one end 74 is connected to the end 62 of the arm 26, and an opposite end 76 of the spring is connected to bracket 53. A second pin 58 may be fixed between flanges 54 and extend through an arcuate or crescent-shaped opening 59 extending through end 62. Pin 58 may provide the attachment point for the opposite end 76 of the torsion spring. Pin 58 is located eccentric and parallel to the pivot axis of end 62 and interacts with crescent-shaped opening 59 to limit the pivot angle of arm 26. Although it is preferred that arm 26 be cast from aluminum, it is contemplated that other materials and manufacturing techniques can be used, i.e., molding the arm from a polymeric material or the like.
Tubular arm 26 preferably has a reduced thickness, tapering from first end 62 to a desired thickness which extends in an arcuate fashion to second end 63. In a preferred embodiment, arm 26 also includes a passage 78 extending therethrough, which is connected to cylindrical cavity 66 at the first end 62, and terminates at an opening 79 at the second end 63. The passage 78 within arm 26 is characterized as curvilinear or circuitous, extending from an upper portion of cylindrical cavity 66 downwardly, and extending along a bottom portion of arm 26 where it rises sharply at end 63, extending around a cylindrical section 63A having a radius substantially identical to cylindrical cavity 66 at the first end 62. Although it is preferred that the radius of cylindrical section 63A and cylindrical cavity 66 be substantially the same, it may be desirable to make the radiuses dissimilar to change the characteristics of the support as will be described in greater detail below. Extending transversely through the second end 63 of arm 26 and concentric therewith is transverse opening 75 adapted to receive a pin or axle 71 for pivotally coupling the tray 32 thereto. The brake assembly 34 includes a flexible elongated brake element, such as a cable 81, which wraps partially around, preferably at least once, and most preferably twice, the inner wall 82. One end 83A of cable 81 is preferably fixed to bracket 53. An opening 84 is provided in end 62 to allow cable 81 to pass therethrough over the entire range of the arm rotation. The opposite end 83 of cable 81 extends the length of the passage 78 and is connected to the tray 32, as described below.
Although cable 81 is described as wrapping at least partially around inner wall 82 at end 62, basic functionality of the brake 34 can be achieved with only a small degree of angular wrap. The amount of wrap required is inversely proportional to the coefficient of friction between the braking element 81 and the inner wall 82. For a high coefficient of friction, cable 81 may only need to contact less than one-half the diameter of the drum 82A. For lower friction coefficients, cable 81 may wrap at least once, and preferably no more than twice, around drum 82A. Moreover, the cylindrical drum defined by inner wall 82 may be disposed at end 63 or in the intermediate portion 64 to achieve the same purpose. Furthermore, although arm 26 is described as having an arcuate or dog-leg configuration, arm 26 may also be straight. The curve or dog-leg configuration is preferred to accommodate the edge of the worksurface.
Attached to end 63 of arm 26 is tray assembly 32 which includes a bracket or subplatform 85 defined by a central web 86 and parallel, spaced apart downwardly depending flanges 87 pivotally connected to end 63. Attached to the top of web 86 is a generally rectangular platform or tray 88 configured to support a keyboard or other device thereon. In a preferred embodiment, subplatform 85 is connected centrally near the rear edge of platform 88, either by spot welds or other fasteners, such as nuts and bolts. In a preferred embodiment, tray 88 may be stamped or pressed from a sheet of sheet metal and includes bilateral depressions 89, each configured to receive a resilient mouse pad 90. The leading or front edge of the platform 88 preferably includes a U-shaped trough or channel 91 defined along the length thereof which is configured to receive a trim piece or trough filler 92 having a flange 92A received in trough 91. Trough filler 92 also provides a finished look to the leading edge. Attached below the leading edge is a belly pan 93 preferably molded from a polymeric material. In the preferred embodiment, belly pan 93 extends substantially the entire length of the leading edge to finish off the underside of the leading edge. Defined along the rear edge of platform 88 is a raised ridge 94C which acts as a barricade at the opposite edge.
In this embodiment, end 83 of cable 81 is fixed with respect to the subplatform 85. End 83 preferably includes a threaded termination configured to extend through a hole in flange 95 (FIG. 1) depending from web 86 of bracket 85. The location or position of the cable end 83 may be semi-permanently fixed using locking nuts or other types of fasteners. The tilt angle of tray 88 may be adjusted at the time of installation by changing either the coupling point of end 83 to subplatform 85, or by changing or adjusting the coupling point of the cable to the base. The attachment points may be made by way of set screws, pins extending through the end, or by other types of clamps or terminations. It is desired that bracket 85 and end 83 of cable 81 be concealed by a protective cover similar to belly pan 93 to provide a finished appearance as well as protect the user from any sharp edges or points associated with the cable termination and fixation. Similar results may be achieved by changing the length of the cable. For example, one technique is to use a turnbuckle or structure to attach the cable end to the platform, base, or both.
In operation, the assembly is assembled as described above, with the tilt angle of the platform established at that time by adjusting the length of cable 81 or coupling point of end 83 to bracket 85. In this configuration, the moment of the tray 88, bracket 85, and the accompanying input device places cable 81 in tension which, in turn, causes it to tighten around drum 82A, against wall 82. As mentioned previously, the amount of cable in contact with drum 82A varies inversely with the coefficient of friction between the cable 81 and drum wall 82. To adjust the height of the platform, the user simply lifts the leading edge such that the platform pivots about end 63 of arm 26 producing slack in cable 81 and releasing the brake or locking action. When in this configuration, the user is free to locate the tray at substantially any position, limited only by the pin passing through crescent-shaped opening 59. When at the desired elevation, the user lowers the edge of the platform to again place cable 81 in tension.
FIGS. 5-11 illustrate another embodiment of the invention based generally on the concept described above. Accordingly, the reader is referred to the above text for a description of the base and arm assemblies 24 and 26, respectively. The alternate embodiment of the adjustable support assembly 120 includes an adjustable subplatform or bracket 122 pivotally attached to the end 63 of the arm assembly 26. Subplatform 122 includes a central web 124 interconnecting two spaced apart and downwardly depending flanges 126 through which a pivot pin 71 extends as well as through end 63 of arm 26. Central web 124 also includes a tongue 130 terminating at its distal end 132 in a transverse groove 134 having a slot 136 extending through the tongue, the purpose of which will be described below. Also defined at the distal end 132 of the tongue is a downwardly depending flange 138 having an opening 140.
Attached to the upper surface of subplatform 122 is a T-shaped platform or tray 142 wherein the central web 124 is located proximate a rear edge 144 of the tray 142. Tray 142 is preferably stamped or die-pressed from sheet metal, but it is contemplated that tray 142 may be injection molded or manufactured using any other technique common in the industry. In a preferred embodiment, the upper surface of tray 142 contains a generally central depression 146 extending from the rear edge 144 at the base of the "T," substantially to the leading edge 148 (see FIG. 9). Parallel elongate, spaced apart slots 150 are formed in the bottom of the depression for the purpose of receiving a keyboard clamp assembly 152 retained by fasteners extending through slots 150 to permit translation of movement of the clamp assembly with respect to leading edge 148. Extending from an upper surface of clamp assembly 152 is a post or wall 153 configured to retain a resilient bumper 155 provided to engage a rear edge of the keyboard or other input device to tightly hold the device against the leading edge. It is also contemplated that clamp assembly 152 may be spring loaded such that the bias force exerted by the springs clamps the keyboard in position, but the keyboard can quickly and easily be moved or removed. Attached to the leading edge 148 of platform 142 is a palm rest support assembly 154 including a base support 156 received in U-shaped trough 158 defined along the leading edge. As shown in greater detail in FIG. 9, base support 156 includes a flange 157 received in trough 158. A latch 159 extending from the upper edge may be formed having a detent 161 adapted to engage a window 163 extending through a wall of the trough. Using this or a related structure, base support 156 is securely retained in trough 158, but may be easily removed. The upper edge of base support 156 also includes at least one and preferably two posts 156A preferably containing a resilient material, and configured to engage the edge of the device opposite that in contact with clamp assembly 152. Depending from the upper edge and adjacent trough 158 is one and preferably two coplanar flanges 156B, each containing a vertical slot 156C for reasons which will become apparent below. Defined parallel along the upper terminus of flanges 156B, is a horizontal channel 156D configured to slidably receive therein an upper flange 160A of a slide 160. A pair of inclined slots 162 are formed in the face or downwardly depending body of slide 160, each slot inclined in the same direction at the same angle, and appropriately spaced apart so as to overlap vertical slots 156C in base support 156. The inclined slots 162 of slide 160 each receive a boss (not shown) extending from a palm rest pad support 164 which, in turn, supports a palm rest pad 166. Fasteners are provided which extend through vertical slots 156C and into the bosses received in inclined slots 162. The height of palm rest pad 166 is changed by moving the slide either left or right along channel 156D such that inclined slots 162 vertically move the bosses in a camming direction. If the adjustable palm rest assembly is not preferred, it may be removed in its entirety by moving the latch lever and pulling the assembly off. A trough filler, or similar structure, as described above, may be used to finish the leading edge.
Attached to subplatform 122 and located beneath tray 142 is a tray tilt adjustment mechanism 172 for changing the angular orientation of tray 142 with respect to arm assembly 26 and base assembly 24 (see FIGS. 8, 10, and 11). In this embodiment, mechanism 172 includes a tilt rod 174 open at end 176 to securely receive and retain the end 83 of cable 81 therein. In turn, end 176 of rod 174 is concentrically received by a tension spring 177 having one end attached to end 176 of rod 174, and the opposite end attached to a lever 182 described below resulting in a constant tension being applied to cable 81. The opposite end 178 of rod 174 is received through the opening 140 in flange 138. Also received over end 178 of rod 174 is one leg 180 of an L-shaped lever or grabber 182, briefly mentioned above, wherein the end of leg 180 is retained in the slot 136 extending through groove 134 described above. The other leg 184 of the lever extends generally parallel to rod 174 and terminates proximate the leading edge 148 of the tray. The opening 186 in leg 180 receiving rod 174 is such that when leg 180 is perpendicular to rod 174, the rod is free to slide with respect to lever 182. However, as a result of the tension applied by spring 177, leg 180 is biased at an angle with respect to rod 174 such that opening 186 binds against and retains rod 174 in position. The binding of lever 182 on rod 174 is released by moving leg 184 substantially parallel to rod 174.
Attached to the bottom of tray 142 is a belly pan 187, substantially concealing subplatform 122, tilt adjustment mechanism 172, and end 63 of arm 26. In general, pan 187 has a T-shaped configuration to conform to tray 142. A leading edge of the pan is configured to underlie the trough 158 as well as a portion of the palm rest assembly 154. A hole 189 is provided such that a portion of lever leg 184 can extend partially therethrough. To provide a finished appearance as well as an ergonomic means of actuating the lever, a button 188 is attached to the end of leg 184 through hole 189. In the preferred embodiment, a spherically shaped segment forming a handle 190 is provided on the leading edge of the belly pan to enable the user to retract and extend the adjustable support assembly as well as to partially conceal button 188.
In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5-11, the elevation of the tray or keyboard support 142 is accomplished much in the same manner as described in reference to FIGS. 1-4. Normally, the moment of tray 142, and any device resting thereon, places the cable extending through the arm and in contact with the lock drum under sufficient tension such that the lock drum is fixed in space preventing the arm from moving. To change the height of the platform 142, the user need only lift the leading edge, rotating the tray about the pivot point with the second end of the arm. The rotation about the pivot point produces slack in the cable which, in turn, releases the lock drum, permitting the user to either raise or lower the arm and attached tray. Once at the desired elevation, the user simply lowers the tray to reapply tension on the cable. As a result of the cable length being substantially fixed, the angular orientation of the tray 142 relative to the base or worksurface remains constant with changes in elevation of the tray. If it is desired to change the angular orientation of the tray, the user simply depresses button 188 upward to move leg 180 substantially perpendicular to tilt rod 174. In this orientation, leg 180 no longer binds on tilt rod 174, and the tray can be adjusted to the desired angle. Spring 177 interconnecting lever leg 180 to the end of tilt rod 174 maintains tension on cable 81 to maintain the elevation of tray 142. Once the tray has been adjusted, the user releases button 188. Spring 177 biases lever leg 180 back into a position to bind against tilt rod 174. In another embodiment, two springs can be used to accomplish the same task.
With respect to the upper surface of the tray, the user can adjust the height to the palm rest quickly and easily by moving the slide 160 left or right. The inclined slots in the slide engaging the bosses on the palm rest translate horizontal motion into vertical motion. Appropriate friction between the sliding components will hold the palm rest at the appropriate height.
The user can also fix or remove the input device from the upper surface of the tray by sliding the keyboard clamp either toward or away from the device. It is contemplated that a fastener could be provided extending through the top of clamp 152 and into a slot formed in the platform to securely retain the clamp in position. Additionally, the clamp may be attached to springs biasing the clamp in a closed position.
FIGS. 12-14 illustrate another embodiment 220 of an adjustable support assembly embodying the invention. As in the previous embodiments, assembly 220 is configured to support a data input device 222, such as a computer keyboard or the like, and includes a base assembly 224 connected to one end 260 of an arm assembly 226. The base assembly is preferably mounted to the underside or bottom surface 228 of a worksurface 230, such as in the manner described above. Attached to the opposite end 270 of arm 226 is an adjustable platform or tray 232 which supports device 222. The adjustable platform assembly 220 is configured to position the device 222 at the desired height and angular orientation selected by the user and includes a locking assembly 234 to fix and hold tray 232 at the desired angular orientation with respect to worksurface 230.
As shown in the drawings, base assembly 224 includes a generally U-shaped yoke or bracket 240 having a central web 242 and downwardly depending parallel flanges 244 at opposite ends. Each flange preferably includes a hole 246 passing therethrough in axial alignment with the other. Extending along a rear edge of bracket 240 proximate web 242 and interconnecting flanges 244 is a back rail or block 248. If it is desired to provide translational movement of bracket 240, a slide 250 (FIG. 15) may be pivotally coupled to web 242. Alternatively, ends 254 of slide 250 may be upturned slightly to define a pair of bearing surfaces, each of which are configured to be received in a corresponding channel or track 256 defined in a mounting plate 258 secured to the undersurface 228 of the worksurface 230. The positioning of the ends 254 in the channels 256 allows slide 250 to translate back and forth therein. The pivotal coupling of slide 250 to web 242 also permits bracket 240 to rotate about a vertical axis with respect to slide 250 and mounting plate 258. Other means for providing translational movement of bracket 248 may be provided other than described above, including drawer glides or similar tracking arrangements. One example may be found in a computer keyboard support available from Steelcase, Inc., of Grand Rapids, Mich., and designated Model W99274A.
Pivotally attached to bracket 240 and forming a joint through holes 246 in flanges 244 is one end 260 of arm assembly 226, briefly described above. Arm assembly 226 may be a substantially solid or rigid tubular arm member 259 preferably having a shape ranging between a straight arm, a C-shape, and an L-shaped configuration. In one embodiment, end 260 of arm 259 is divided vertically to define two spaced apart fingers or flanges 262 separated or spaced from each other by a gap 264. Disposed within gap 264 and securely attached to flanges 262 and concentric with holes 246, is a cylindrical locking member or drum 266. A pin or axle 268 is provided through holes 246 to journal the first end 260 and drum 266 thereon for pivotal rotation of arm 259 thereabout. Pin 268 may be removed in the event the adjustable platform assembly 220 requires servicing.
Between end 260 and an opposite end 270 of the arm 259 (FIG. 14), and defined therein, is a curvilinear or circuitous passage 272 generally conforming to the configuration of the arm assembly. In the embodiment shown in the FIG. 14, passage 272 is defined by arcs or circular segments 274 and 276. Arcuate bodies 274, 276 are disposed in the interior of arm 259, with segment 274 located adjacent the inside bend 278 or inner portion of the elbow. In a similar fashion, segment 276 is located proximate second end 270 to define a radius opposite to that defined by segment 274. In a preferred embodiment, the radius of segment 276 is substantially the same as the radius of lock drum 266. In a working embodiment of the adjustable support, arm 259 contains two circular segments or members 274, 276 positioned therein to define passage 272, each having the same radius as lock drum 266. Member 274 has generally a three-quarter circular shape with its center located approximately at the inner elbow 278 of the arm 259. Member 276 is approximately semi-circular in shape having its center located inwardly from end 270. In the working embodiment, the diameter (.O slashed.) of the lock drum 266 and the two members 274, 276 is approximately 37/8 inches. Although circular member or segments 274, 276 and drum 266 are disclosed as defining circuitous passage 272, other means may be used to achieve substantially the same results including a series of pulleys or angular members.
Pivotally coupled to the second end 270 and forming a joint with arm 259 is the platform or tray assembly 232. As seen in FIGS. 12, 13, and 16, platform assembly 232 includes a generally rectangular table or tray 280 having an upper surface 282 configured to support a computer keypad, keyboard, mouse, digitizing pad, or the like, for easy access by the user. A flange or stop 295 may be attached to a rear edge 286 of the tray. While proximate the forward edge 288, the tray 280 may contain or support a resilient pad or support surface 290 to pad the user's palms. It is contemplated that table, tray, or platform 280 may have any one of a number of configurations, including generally rectangular or a more ergonomic angular shape to accommodate split keyboards. It is preferred that tray 280 be large enough or have an adjustable width to accommodate a wide range of input devices including notebook sized personal computers and the like. It is also contemplated that tray 280 be configured to receive accessories dependant therefrom including a foldable or detachable mouse pad, as described below.
Attached to an undersurface 292 of tray 280 proximate the rear edge 286 is a U-shaped bracket 294 having a central web 296 and a pair of downwardly depending flanges 298 each extending from or proximate an opposite end of web 296. Extending through the distal end of each flange is a hole 300 configured to align with a similar hole defined in the second end 270 of the arm 259, and receive a pin or axle 302 such that the tray is pivotally joined to end 270 of arm 259. Attached to U-shaped bracket 294 on a side opposite rear edge 286 is a tray tilt adjustment mechanism 310 to change the angular orientation of tray 280 with respect to base assembly 224. The adjustment device 310 includes, in one embodiment, a wedge or ramp 312 defined along a length of bar or strap 314. A straight edge 316 of bar 314 lies adjacent plate 318 interconnecting flanges 298. Adjacent an opposite edge 320 of bar 314 is a keeper 322 designed to retain bar 314 in sliding relationship against plate 318. Bar 314 is translated left and right by a lever 324, having one end pivotally coupled to the underside 292 of tray 280 proximate the rear edge 286. A link or yoke 326 pivotally interconnects end 328 of bar 314 to a point 330 intermediate on lever 324.
Interconnecting tilt adjustment device 310 to base assembly 224 is an elongate flexible locking or brake element 234 mentioned above, including a cable, rope, or metal band 332 acting as a load supporting member passing through the curvilinear passage 272. In particular, cable 332 extends from a clamp or fitting 334 (FIGS. 14 and 15) on the back side of bracket 248 which securely fixes end 336 of the cable 332 to base assembly 224. Cable 332 extends through an opening in bracket 248 and has at least a portion in contact with drum or cylindrical member 266. In one embodiment, braking cable 332 wraps at least once, and preferably twice, around drum or cylindrical member 266 starting at a point along the upper portion of the drum 266. Cable 332 continues around drum 266 in a spiral fashion such that it never crosses itself. From drum 266, cable 332 extends through circuitous path 272 around and engaging the radiuses circumscribed by members 274, 276 before exiting second end 270 of arm 259. From end 270, element 332 passes through a hole defined in plate 318 and through an elongated slot 338 defined in and extending through ramped surface 312 and surface 316. Second end 340 of element 332 passing through ramped surface 312 of bar 314 receives a fitting 342 secured thereto which prevents element 332 from being withdrawn through slot 338. In this configuration, the coupling or attachment point of tray 280 to second end 340 of element 332 is generally toward the central portion of the tray. Because the joint 304 (FIG. 12) of tray 280 to end 270 of arm 259 occurs proximate the rear edge 286, tray 280 creates a substantial moment (M) or load about the pivotal coupling 304. As a result, when tray 280 is in a resting or generally horizontal orientation, the moment (M) results in substantial tension force on element 332 through passage 272 and around drum 266 such that the friction of element 332 against drum 266 locks drum 266 and arm 259 in place with respect to base assembly 224. Upward rotation of the forward edge 288 of tray 280 about joint 304 releases the tension on cable 332 which, in turn, reduces the friction with drum 266, such that arm 259 may be rotated up or down with respect to base assembly 224.
It is not absolutely necessary that cable 332 wrap around drum 266 or even around a major portion of the drum. Basic functionality of the brake assembly can be achieved with only a small degree of angular wrap. The amount of wrap required to achieve full functionality is inversely proportional to the coefficient of friction between the cable 332 and drum 266. There is no absolute minimum wrap that can be defined. With high friction, significant counterbalancing, and minimal loading, a small angular wrap may be adequate.
Instead of cable 332 tightening against lock drum 266 to hold arm 259 in position, other means may be used. It is contemplated that a clutch mechanism may be used to fix the angular orientation of arm 259 engaged and disengaged by cable 332. Friction may be enhanced by providing interlocking grooves on the mating surfaces of the clutch components. Additionally, a brake system, similar to that used on the wheels of vehicles, may be used wherein one or more brake shoes or pads engage a drum or disk attached to end 260 of arm 259. These and similar structures are contemplated to be within the scope of the invention.
All of the components comprising arm assembly 226 and platform assembly 232 themselves create a significant moment with reference to base assembly 224, such that some users may find it inconvenient or cumbersome to raise or lift the arm and tray assemblies 226, 232 to a new position. To assist in raising the arm and tray assemblies, and to prevent the entire assembly from dropping or falling away from the user with the release of the locking or brake mechanism, at least one bias member or spring interconnects arm assembly 226 to base assembly 224 to produce an upward force on arm assembly 226. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13-16, it is contemplated that one, and preferably two tensional springs 350, interconnect arm assembly 226 to an upper portion of base assembly 224.
The angular orientation of tray 280 with respect or reference to the worksurface may be changed. It is contemplated that with element 332 in tension, the user may change the angular orientation of tray 380 by moving lever 324 either toward or away from the tilt adjustment assembly. As seen in FIG. 13, movement of lever 324 toward the outside or end of tray 280 pulls bar 314 such that fitting 342 moves up ramped surface 312, thus moving the forward or leading edge 288 of tray 280 upward. During the adjustment as just outlined, the moment created by tray 280 on element 332 creates sufficient tension to maintain the angular orientation of arm 259. Tension of element 332 about drum 226, of course, increases once the user rests his or her hands on the forward edge 288 or the resilient pad 290.
An alternate embodiment 400 of the tilt adjustment mechanism for the tray is shown in FIG. 17. In this embodiment, the support includes a base pivotally mounted at one end of the arm assembly. The base assembly includes a bracket mounted to a plate, such as described above, in sliding relationship to a substrate, such as the underside of a desk or computer stand. Attached to the opposite end of the arm assembly is a platform assembly which is configured to support an input device and to provide adjustable configurations to suit the particular user. A brake or locking assembly is also provided to fix the angular orientation of the arm with respect to the base. The following discussion will focus on the tray 414 and related structures. For the purposes of this embodiment, the above descriptions of base, arm, and brake assemblies may apply equally as well here, although it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that other structures or assemblies may be used.
Referring again to FIG. 17, attached to the undersurface or bottom of the tray 414 proximate the back edge is a yoke, bracket, or other pivotal coupler, such as described above, configured to pivotally couple with the second end of the arm thereto. As with the first end, a number of pivotal couplers may be used. Located adjacent the tray coupler or integral therewith, and on a side opposite rear edge of the tray 414 is a tilt adjustment mechanism or assembly 422. In this embodiment, assembly 422 includes a frame 424 having a first wall 426, a second opposite wall 428, and an intermediate wall 430. Extending through walls 426, 430 and coaxial with each other are holes 432 adapted to receive a pin or termination fitting 434 in sliding relationship therein. One end 436 of the pin has a flange 438 to prevent the pin from passing through wall 426. The opposite end 440 of the pin 434 extends through wall 430 and is connected by a tension spring 442 to wall 428. Disposed between walls 426, 430 is a lever 444 having a hole 446 through which pin 434 passes. End 448 of the lever 444 engages a shoulder 450 extending from frame 424 while an intermediate portion 452 of the lever 444 is coupled by a second spring 454 to the upper portion of wall 426. With lever 444 oriented substantially perpendicular to pin 434, the pin may slide freely through holes 432 and 446 limited only by flange 438 and the tension applied by spring 442. With the lever 444 inclined away from the perpendicular with respect to pin 434, the pin binds in hole 446 and is retained in place.
Pin 434 is connected to an elongate flexible locking element, such as the length of cable mentioned above. In this embodiment, the cable extends from the pin into an opening in the second end of the arm, around the radiused path, and at least partially around the outer wall of the cylindrical drum. The second end of the cable is clamped or otherwise fixed in place to the base. In this fashion, the moment (M) exerted by the tray about the pivot point with the second end of the arm, together with the weight of any input device, provides sufficient tension on the cable such that it creates sufficient friction with the outer wall of the drum to prevent pivotal movement of the arm about the base. The brake created by the cable may be released by rotating the forward portion of the tray about the pivot point with the second end of the arm allowing the user to move the arm to the desired orientation. With respect to changing the angular orientation of the tray with respect to the worksurface, movement of lever 444 to a point substantially perpendicular to pin 434 releases pin 434 and allows the user to select the desired angular orientation of the tray. The spring 442 maintains tension on cable 332 to keep the brake engaged and the arm at the selected position.
Referring to FIGS. 8 and 18, another embodiment 700 of an auxiliary support surface is shown intended for use with a mouse, joystick, rollerball, or other input device (not shown). Auxiliary support 700 is intended to be connected to either end of the tray or platform of the adjustable support mechanism described above. In this particular instance, and in variations thereof, auxiliary support 700 includes body and cover portions 702, 704, respectively, defining a housing 706 having substantially any one of a number of geometric configurations. Housing body 702 and cover 704 may be made using a number of techniques, although injection molding using a high-impact polymeric material is preferred. Extending from a peripheral edge 710 of body 702 is a hinge 708. Hinge 708 is configured to mate with a knuckle 712 to form a hinge joint. Knuckle 712 is, in turn, connected to one end of an anchor member 714 adapted to be received by and fixed in a hole defined in the ends of the trays or platforms.
Auxiliary support 700 is intended to swing about the horizontal axis of the hinge joint formed by knuckle 712 and hinge 708 such that support 700 may be stowed when not in use. To retain support 700 in the horizontal use position, it is contemplated that a releasable locking mechanism be used. For example, a locking pin 716 may be biased within housing 706 and adapted to move back and forth along its axis such that in the extended position, pin 716 engages a recess or socket 717 defined in knuckle 712 and locking it in a fixed orientation. Support 700 can be released by retracting pin 716 to disengage knuckle 712 and pivot freely downwardly about the hinge joint. Pin 716 may be biased such that the pin automatically engages the knuckle when rotated into position. A release button, such as 718, pivotally coupled between housing halves 702, 704 may be provided to withdraw pin 716 from knuckle 712. One end 720 of button 718 is configured to be received in a recess 722 defined by the two halves. The opposite end 724 of button 718 is attached to one end 726 of the pin. C-clips 728 or other structures may be located along the length of pin 718, one adapted to engage one end of a compression spring 730. The opposite end of the spring is configured to butt against one of the ribs 732 in the interior of housing 706. In this configuration, spring 730 biases pin 716 against knuckle 712 such that pin 716 automatically engages a hole in the knuckle when aligned. Depression of end 720 retracts pin 716 and compresses spring 730 which, when released, causes pin 716 to extend out from housing 706.
To provide front-to-back structural stability, anchor member 714 preferably includes a first member 734 received in a hole defined in the end of the tray. Fasteners or other means are provided to retain first member 734 in the hole. First member 734 is pivotally coupled to knuckle 712 by a threaded fastener extending the length of the anchor. Extending generally perpendicular from the end of the anchor adjacent knuckle 712 is a flange 736, the opposite end of which retains a second and smaller member or post 740 oriented in the same direction and parallel to first member 734. Second member 740 is received in a second hole in the end of the tray. Receipt of the two members in the end of the tray provides substantial front-to-back support of auxiliary support 700. Rotational adjustment of the support can be provided about the pivotal coupling of the first member to the knuckle.
Although the embodiments described above contemplate wrapping the brake cable at least partially around a drum at the end of the arm connected to the base, the drum may be located substantially anywhere along the length of the arm including the opposite end. Additionally, the brake cable may be wrapped and attached to the tray such that lifting the rear edge of the tray to pivot about the pivot point with the arm could release the brake as well, provided that the end of the arm is attached to the leading edge of the tray.
According to another form of the invention, although the tray or platform angle with respect to the base or worksurface remains constant with changes in the elevation or height of the platform, some sort of programmed platform angle change can be built in as the platform height is changed. For example, the platform could tilt in a positive direction (front edge down) as the platform is elevated, and tilt in a negative direction as the platform is lowered. This could be accomplished by making the radius of the circular member at the platform end smaller than the drum or circular member at the opposite end. By using a carefully designed cam shape for one of the circular members, nearly any angle versus platform height should be achievable.
The above description is considered that of the preferred embodiments only. Modification of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make and use the invention. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the following claims.
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Chief operations officers (COO) are in charge of planning and overseeing all the company operations and projects. They are responsible for creating operation strategies to increase profitability of their organization, and they actively participate in corporate efforts to increase brand loyalty. They work closely with the chief financial officer to create transparency in expenses and financial reports. COOs also implement new marketing initiatives and measure their effectiveness, as well as create company-wide policies to boost productivity. They also help develop or guide internal training programs for new products or services.Read More...
COOs report directly to the chief executive officer and/or a board of directors. They typically work in an office setting during regular business hours, but overtime is often required due to their wide range of responsibilities.
A bachelor's degree in business administration, management, finance, or related field is needed for this position. Additional years of work experience in a management position, and leadership certifications are a plus.
COOs must have strong interpersonal and communication skills. They also must be organized, analytical, and have experience leading a large group of workers to meet company objectives. COOs should also have a good knowledge of office software they use to create presentations and communicate with employees and vendors (e.g., the Microsoft Office suite and email applications).
Overall, survey participants reported applying a fair number of skills to their work. Most notably, skills in Strategic Planning, Leadership, Business Development, and Corporate Communications are correlated to pay that is above average, with boosts between 4 percent and 10 percent. At the other end of the pay range are skills like Human Resources and IT Management. For most people, competency in Leadership indicates knowledge of Strategic Planning.
Median of all compensation (including tips, bonus, and overtime) by years of experience.
Chief Operations Officers with a lot of experience tend to enjoy higher earnings. The average worker who claims fewer than five years of experience earns around $77K. In contrast, however, individuals who report five to 10 years in this occupation see a much larger median of $99K. After 10 to 20 years, professionals can make it pretty big; the median salary sits in the six-figure neighborhood of $118K. Respondents who claim more than 20 years of experience may encounter pay that doesn't quite reflect their extensive experience; these veterans report a median income of around $140K.
Surpassing the national average by 90 percent, Chief Operations Officers in San Francisco receive some of the highest pay in the country. Chief Operations Officers will also find cushy salaries in Atlanta (+38 percent), Washington (+36 percent), New York (+34 percent), and Miami (+30 percent). Those in the field find the lowest salaries in San Diego, 14 percent below the national average.
|Extremely satisfied
Rated 5 out of 5
based on 273 votes.
38 %
62 %
|Medical: 77%
|Dental: 57%
|Vision: 42%
|None: 21%

subset: commoncrawl


text:
50 Grammy moments we'd like to forget
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The traditional 50th anniversary gift is gold. But since the Grammys are already flush in gold — or at least gold-plated — trophies, perhaps it's better to give the Recording Academy a piece of something else: our minds.
While the awards have had plenty of triumphs over the past half-century, they've made just as many fumbles, questionable decisions, weird occurrences and out-and-out goof-ups. And in the interest of constructive criticism, we'd like to point out 50 of them. Remember, Grammy — we kid because we love.
1. 1965: Anita Kerr Singers' "We Dig Mancini" beats The Beatles' "Help!" for Best Vocal Group Performance. We don't dig that.
2. 2006: Queen Latifah's presentation of a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award to Richard Pryor is abruptly cut short.
3. Speaking of the Lifetime Achievement Award, it's disrespectful to not even let the honorees come up to the podium or even speak.
4. The fact that Jimi Hendrix, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Four Tops and Sam Cooke never won one Grammy, when the Starland Vocal Band did.
5. 1990: The travesty is not only that Milli Vanilli win Best New Artist for songs they didn't sing but that they beat the Indigo Girls and Neneh Cherry in the first place.
6. 1998: We know Kelsey Grammer went to Juilliard, but we're still not sure that qualifies "Frasier" to host the Grammys.
7. 2007: Nelly Furtado is "Like A Bird," which may explain why her Roberto Cavalli dress looks like a peacock shed on it.
8. 1989: "Parents Just Don't Understand," by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince wins the first Best Rap Performance Grammy over KRS-One, Big Daddy Kane and NWA.
9. 1968: "Little Green Apples" beats The Beatles' "Hey Jude" for Song of the Year.
10. 1990: Michael Bolton and his hair win Song of the Year for "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You" over Roy Orbison's "You Got It."
11. 2006: Madonna's heralded duet with the animated Gorillaz is ... less than animated.
12. 1997: We love Celine Dion but wonder why "Falling Into You" beat Beck's "Odelay" or The Fugees' "The Score" for Album of the Year.
13. 1985: Lionel Richie's "Can't Slow Down" is a more worthy Album of the Year than Bruce Springsteen's "Born In The U.S.A." or Prince's "Purple Rain?" As Lionel himself might say, "Outrageous!"
14. 1981: Christopher Cross, the standard bearer of the so-called "Best New Artist" curse, wins over The Pretenders. Back to the chain gang with you, Grammy voters!
15. 2006: "Hey nah!" OutKast's performance of their big hit "Hey Ya" dressed as a outer space Indians draws ire from Native American groups.
16. 1998: Michael "Soy Bomb" Portnoy's weird shirtless dance behind Bob Dylan may not have been an unintended goof, but it sure was goofy.
17. 2000: Jennifer Lopez stretches the definition of the word dress in a green, plunging Versace curtain kind of thing. Daring? Try doofus.
18. 1992: Sting's "The Soul Cages" beats Metallica's "Enter Sandman" and Queensryche's "Silent Lucidity" for Best Rock Song. Is it even a rock song?
19. 1994: Nirvana, Belly, REM and Smashing Pumpkins were certainly Alternative, but by 1994, was U2, who beat them in the Alternative category? We don't think so.
20. 1989: Jethro Tull wins Best Hard Rock performance. Flute solo!
21. 1999: We hate to keep knocking Will Smith, but we're still dubious about "Getting Jiggy With It" beating Jay-Z's "Hard Knock Life" for Best Rap Performance.
22. 2001: Best New Artist Shelby Lynne is fabulous. She also wasn't new.
23. 1982: Best New Artist Sheena Easton is fabulous. But there's no way she's better than the Go-Gos, James Ingram or LUTHER VANDROSS. Seriously.
24. 1991: Grammy's altruistic heart sings louder than its ears when Phil Collins' grim, homeless-supporting anthem "Another Day In Paradise" wins Song of the Year over Sinead O'Connor's "Nothing Compares 2 U."
25. 1995: I love me some Sheryl Crow. But "All I Wanna Do" is make her give her Song of the Year Grammy to Bruce Springsteen and "Streets of Philadelphia."
26. 1979: Taste of Honey's Best New Artist award over Elvis Costello and The Cars? "Boogie Oogie" Icky.
27. More people who've never won Grammys: Diana Ross, The Who, Janis Joplin.
28. 1998: Ol' Dirty Bastard interrupts Shawn Colvin's "Album of the Year" speech to protest Wu-Tang's winless streak. He did apologize, but still ...
29. 2004: Janet Jackson's Super Bowl "wardrobe malfunction" gets her disinvited from the Grammys, but co-malfunctioner Justin Timberlake apologizes and gets to go.
30. 1967: We were as fascinated as anybody by Best New Artist Bobbie Gentry's "Ode To Billie Joe," but not as much as we love Jefferson Airplane or the Fifth Dimension.
31. 1959: In the heyday of rock's birth, only two rockers, The Everly Brothers and The Champs, win anything at the first Grammys.
32. 1992: Natalie and Nat King Cole's beyond-the-grave Song of the Year duet was "Unforgettable," but not more so that REM's "Losing My Religion."
33. 2007: My Grammy Moment tries to give an "American Idol" twist to the discovery of a young singer but winds up being My Grammy Potty Break.
34. 1994: The Grammys like Frank Sinatra enough to give him a lifetime achievement award, but not enough to let him finish his speech.
35. 2005: Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony's awkward boudoir duet on Escapemonos is not the least bit sexy.
36. 1970: Ray Stevens wins Best Male Pop Vocal over Joe Cocker, Elton John and James Taylor. Everything is not beautiful.
37. 1998: Lil' Kim. A leotard. Tights so shiny they stab the eye. At least it was better than having her boobies hanging out at the VMAs, but just barely.
38. 2003: Gwen Stefani celebrates No Doubt's Best Pop Duo or Group award in formal tails ... and thigh-high leather boots and camo shorts. Classy!
39. 1993: Nine Inch Nails, who, as far as we know, are not a metal group, win Best Metal Performance anyway over Helmet, Megadeth, Ministry and Soundgarden.
40. 1998: We can think of several words to describe Bob Carlisle's Best Country Song-winning "Butterfly Kisses" - saccharine, schmaltzy, syrupy. But not country.
41. 1986: USA For Africa's "We Are The World" was a landmark musical event, but how it won Best Short Form Video in the same year a-ha's classically animated "Take On Me" was eligible escapes us.
42. 2007: Best New Artist nominee Imogen Heap borrows the dress and parasol of the cast of "Hello, Dolly!" and the palm-frond headdress of Wilson the soccer ball from "Cast Away."
43. 1978: Leo Sayer wins Best R&B Performance for "You Make Me Feel Like Dancing." Yeah. We're just as stunned as you are.
44. 2005: Nostalgia rears its sweet but misinformed head, giving the late Ray Charles' uneven duets package "Genius Loves Company" Album of the Year over Green Day's "American Idiot" and Kanye West's "The College Dropout."
45. 1983: Toto's "Rosanna" is a fine song. But it's not a better Record of the Year candidate than Willie Nelson's "You Were Always On My Mind" or Joe Jackson's "Steppin' Out."
46. 1991: We thought MC Hammer's "U Can't Touch This" was a rap song, not R&B. But it still won Best R&B performance over Johnny Gill's "My My My" and Luther's "Here and Now." We can't believe this.
47. 2001: Christina Aguilera sports a red Goth bondage number and the blond dreads of a coed who got drunk on Spring Break in Montego Bay.
48. 2007: I see London, I see France, I see Teri Hatcher's underpants through her sheer lace dress. Oww.
49. 1998: Fiona Apple's feeling like a "Criminal," but even though it won Best Rock Performance, it's not feeling like a rock song.
50. Even more people who never won Grammys: Tupac, Queen, Lynyrd Skynyrd.
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text:
AION: The tower of eternity
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Takin 'er easy
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Jowjah
Posts: 6,687
Re: AION: The tower of eternity
Originally Posted by
So far, I think the launch went really well. I could login after 2 minutes since the announcement of going live, sure all ten channels were crowded, but because I was already pretty familiar with that place it wasn't that hard to get everything done. I think it took me 3 hrs to hit lvl 10, which is not bad at all, considering it normaly takes 2 hrs, if you are alone. By the way, sometime tomorrow we should be able claim our pre-order bonuses, so that will speed things up a little bit more.
Having never played it before, I didn't have any trouble finding my way around and questing. There was almost no lag at all and aside from some long queues shortly after the launch, the servers were 100% stable. Easily the smoothest and best launch I've ever seen in an MMORPG. The level of polish surprised me too - I know the game has been around for a while in Korea (and wherever else) but the localization was done very well.
This is the only MMORPG since WoW that I would seriously consider renewing my sub for after the initial free month. I have no plans to stop playing WoW though, and I don't know if I'll be up for paying two MMO subs a month. We'll see.
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text:
First real Blu-ray player announced, Panasonic DMP-BD50
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Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: San Diego, CA
Posts: 4,411
Re: First real Blu-ray player announced, Panasonic DMP-BD50
Once again Cain comes out of the woodwork with a clueless post. BDLive is done NOW, just no manufacturer has put it in until Panasonic. Only the PS3 can be upgraded to it, all other SAL's are SOL as they have no Ethernet port.
Transformers had no lossless track because Paramount chose not to include one, they way they did on NEARLY ALL OF THEIR BD'S. You are so freaking clueless. Quit posting random BS. It had nothing to do with space. If you had a brain, you'd know about Troy DC which is a THREE HOUR MOVIE and included DOLBY TRUE HD on HD DVD. Transformers is shorter. God damn man..... you also don't even seem to know Transformers HD DVD is a ****ING TWO DISC SET. The special features are on an entirely DIFFERENT DISC therefore have nothing to do with why there is no lossless track on the disc. You just exposed a great deal of ignorance. Additionally, there are not "2 tracks" for THD and DD+. damn....
The POS3 is not even a candidate for a BD player for me and never has been. You seem VERY uninformed about the craptastic standalones with profile 1.0, COMPLETELY UNABLE TO BE UPGRADED DUE TO NON PRESENT HARDWARE. You also don't realize the PS3 WILL NEVER BE ABLE to bitstream HD audio, only decode it if you are lucky, due to the HDMI chip it uses. Read up sometime. Good luck praying for DTSMA.
While you do, I'll have the player this thread is about, which you derailed, which is a 100% superior BD player compared to everything out there including the POS3.
You say lossless audio is important? You're screwed then because your POS3 cannot decode DTSMA or bitsteam ANYTHING. This thread is about the new BD50, the 1st REAL BD PLAYER. The PS3 is a toy, and craptastic player due to the fact it cannot support what 100% of the discs have.
This thead had nothing to do with HD DVD so take your PS3 bias to the console forum newb. My thread is about the new Panasonic, the first actual BD player that supports the specs of BD. You're into lossless audio? You bought the wrong player. It's too bad PS3 owners get so damn butt hurt when the deficiencies of PS3 BD playback are cited.
I am very sorry you need to justify your PS3 purchase and rant about HD DVD in a thread about the new Panasonic BD50.
[/CENTER][B][CENTER]--Communist Party of America--[/CENTER][/B]
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The Hatewatch blog is managed by the staff of the Intelligence Project of the Southern Poverty Law Center, an Alabama-based civil rights organization.
Motorcycle group targets laborers
Long-simmering tensions over day laborers have ignited new clashes between business owners and activists in east Phoenix, worsening a situation that community leaders have had little success in resolving.
National Vanguard members cited for trespassing
The [UNLV campus] amphitheater was host early Wednesday evening to a gathering of roughly eight National Vanguard splinter group members versus roughly 50 to 60 students…


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The North Branch Quarterback Club would like to invite you to the following Homecoming events this week: •Wed, Oct. 3 – The Powderpuff Football Game at 7 p.m. at Harder Park. •Fri. Oct. 5 – The Homecoming Parade – new route. The Parade will begin at 4:30 p.m. at the NB Fire Hall, h...Read More
(Slideshow) Local businesses throughout town are once again displaying fun scarecrow scenes for the Fall Harvest Scarecrow Challenge, an event of North Branch Area Chamber's 22nd Annual Fall Harvest Festival Sept. 26-30. This year's winner is Andersen Corporation, the chamber announced o...Read More
Concerts in the Park return Concerts in the Park: a Hometown Celebration, are held Thursday evenings starting July 12 at 7 p.m. in Central Park, North Branch. For the next five weeks, this series features a variety of family-friendly music. Arrive by 6:45 p.m. to enjoy "Story Time" with friends ...Read More
Residents from the Ecumen senior living community in North Branch sported fun T-shirts while taking in a classic car show on May 14 as part of National Nursing Home Week. Resident Elmer Karas said the cars reminded him of the 1928 Buick and Model T's from 1918 and 1926 that his father once drove a...Read More
Wild River State Park has packed away the snowshoes, skis and maple syruping supplies and is ready for the summer. Several activities and volunteer opportunities are fast approaching, so plan ahead and mark your calendars: Native Plant Sale: Sunday, May 20 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.), Wild River State Park V...Read More
By Derrick Knutson— Sometimes a student makes nearly all of the right moves throughout his or her high school career. Tests are thoroughly prepared for, homework is always finished and there's a nearly perfect balance between school and social life. However, one destructive decision, such as get...Read More


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Anne Lamott claims the two best prayers she knows are: "Help me, help me, help me" and "Thank you, thank you, thank you." She has a friend whose morning prayer each day is "Whatever," and whose evening prayer is "Oh, well." Anne thinks of Jesus as "Casper the friendly savior" and describes God as "one crafty mother."Despite--or because of--her irreverence, faith is a natural subject for Anne Lamott. Since Operating Instructions and Bird by Bird, her fans have been… (mehr)
Verlag: Anchor ( 5. September 2000)
Format: EPUB
Dateigröße: 278 KB
Schutz: DRM
Sprache: Englisch


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Category: Air & Climate ×
Employees number: 1-10 ×
Industry: Energy ×
Location: Europe ×
Location: Romania ×
Intermountain Environmental, Inc.
based in Logan, UTAH (USA)
Intermountain Environmental, Inc. sells, installs and supports a variety of data collection and environmental monitoring systems. We offer sensors, packaged systems and custom integrated systems. We can provide professional grade weather stations for research applications and less expensive weather stations for basic environmental monitoring. We offer water monitoring ...
based in Coimbatore, INDIA
Mevadhashma, Indian based ISO 9001 - 2008 certified company and eminent supplier for major industries plant spares and equipment. We are recognized and specialized as a Manufacturer, Exporter, Trader and Supplier of quality products. We offer a wide range of products which includes Electrostatic Precipitator Spares of BHEL, Thermax, Alstom Flsmidth, ACC make Esp spares ...
Environmental Source Samplers, Inc.
based in Wilmington, NORTH CAROLINA (USA)
Environmental Source Samplers, Inc. (ESS) has a long and proven track record. We have been providing air quality related services since 1979. Headquartered in Wilmington, North Carolina, ESS has provided stack testing services in most of the fifty states and internationally. ESS serves clients in many industries including: Aluminum, Asphalt, Automobile, Carbon, ...
DFGE – Institute for Energy, Ecology and Economy
based in Greifenberg, GERMANY
At DFGE – Institute for Energy, Ecology and Economy we provide consulting and auditing services to realize a Green Vision integrated in your corporate business processes.We provide you with strategic advice on topics like technology, energy and emissions with an expanded view on business related and socio-economic aspects. We support you in developing and managing a ...
icenta Controls Ltd
based in Salisbury, UNITED KINGDOM
icenta Controls is a specialist in precision flow meters, level sensors, instrumentation & control, supplying to manufacturing and process industries throughout the UK. icenta represents some of the leading names in flow, pressure, level and temperature measurement offering a range of solutions for liquids, gas or vapours. In flow metering, icenta's product portfolio ...
based in Newington, AUSTRALIA
CCUP - The Climate Cleanup dot com group - specializes in new technologies able to dramatically reduce and even eliminate Carbon Dioxide (CO2) gas emissions into the atmosphere.CCUP specializes in applications to reduce carbon emissions from the generation of electricity from any fuel sources including diesel and coal burning power plants.CCUP's products are designed to ...
Gulf Coast Consulting (GCC)
based in Pearland, TEXAS (USA)
Gulf Coast Consulting (GCC) is the exclusive Gas Recovery System licensee for manufacturing, distribution, sales and marketing throughout North and Latin America. GCC sales territories include Asia and Russia. The GRS market focus is flare and gas recovery and recycling for the oil, gas, and chemicals industries. The patented GRS capabilities include degassing, purging, ...
Fuel Cell Markets Ltd
based in Iver, UNITED KINGDOM
Fuel Cell Markets is a business facilitator, assisting fuel cell, hydrogen and related sustainable energy companies with building the necessary partnerships to take their technologies & services to market. We provide a service that utilises business to business marketing tools in conjunction with our business development team, who assist by establishing direct ...
Protea Limited
based in Cheshire, UNITED KINGDOM
Protea is a UK-based instrument manufacture and systems builder specialising in spectroscopic gas analysis, using FTIR, TDLAS and QMS technologies amongst others. Our customer-focused analysis systems for process, emission and environmental monitoring can provide a solution for direct installation into a plant (such as CEM systems) or we can provide the analytical ...
PACE Environmental Products, Inc.
based in Whitehall, PENNSYLVANIA (USA)
PACE Environmental Products Inc. is your single best resource for turnkey CEMS Systems. Each CEMS is designed to conform to current EPA standards and is built to suit the monitoring requirements you need. Housed within a single cabinet, all systems are built with the highest quality and designed for easy maintenance and serviceability. Gases such as SO2, NO, NOx, CO2, O2 ...


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HOOVER, Ala. – Johnthan Banks didn't spent Southeastern Conference Media Days talking about himself.
The former East Webster High School player who has developed into an All-SEC defensive back at Mississippi State decided to promote his teammates more than himself at the Wynfrey Hotel on Wednesday.
HOOVER, Ala. – Mississippi State fans have long waited for the day when their beloved Bulldogs displayed a high-flying, high-octane offense.
When quarterback Tyler Russell signed with Mississippi State, that fire was stoked giving way to the anticipation of when the Meridian native would lead the offense.
HOOVER, Ala. – Gabe Jackson really didn't know what to expect from Southeastern Conference Football Media Days.
The 6-4 320-pound junior guard from Liberty made all the stops on his first appearance at SEC Media Days.
HOOVER, Ala. – The NCAA has implemented several new rule changes for the upcoming season.
The most significant being moving the kickoff to the 35-yard line from the 30-yard line and making a touchback go to the 25-yard line rather than the 20-yard line like it has been in years past.
Former East Webster football player Johnthan Banks is accustomed to being the center of attention on the football field.
In high school, Banks was the best athlete on the field most Friday nights. At Mississippi State, he's one of the most gifted defensive backs in the nation.
His prowess on the field has landed him on a variety of preseason watch lists and deservingly so.
HOOVER, Ala. – The Wynfrey Hotel is once again home to the unofficial kickoff to the college football season called Southeastern Conference Media Days.
The gathering of over 1,100 media types set to grill the league's head coaches and top athletes began Tuesday afternoon with SEC Commissioner Mike Slive addressing the media.
Winning a championship usually comes with two things.
The thrill of winning the championship is the first emotion and probably one of the best feelings. The second is the remembrance of that championship with a ceremony.
The 10-year-old Dizzy Dean State Tournament offered just a hint of what Starkville is capable of doing if allowed to host other All-Star event in the future.
Randy Carlisle, the coach of Starkville's 10-year-old All-Stars and active member of the Starkville Baseball Association, was encouraged by the feedback from the state tournament hosted by the city at McKee Park two weeks ago.
Mississippi State once again has a full baseball staff as head coach John Cohen has hired Jake Wells, the university announced Monday.
Exiting spring practice the Mississippi State Bulldogs felt pretty good about the work they had done and the questions they had answered.Â
The newcomers were working in nicely and the rising seniors were leading, teaching, and coaching the youngsters.Â
And while State made progress on a multitude of fronts, the offensive line remained in doubt.Â


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U.S.: Libya in 'very fragile place'
Official acknowledges 'outside interference' undermining
Posted: August 27, 2014 at 2:29 a.m.
WASHINGTON -- Egypt and the United Arab Emirates secretly carried out airstrikes against Islamist militias inside Libya, the United States publicly acknowledged Tuesday, another sharp jolt to American-led attempts over the past three years to stabilize Libya after dictator Moammar Gadhafi's overthrow.
This story is only available from our archives.
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CDC chief to Africans: Have hope
MONROVIA, Liberia -- The Ebola virus still has the "upper hand" in the outbreak that has killed more than 1,40... Read »
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Jewish center back after India attacks
MUMBAI, India — Rabbis from across Asia on Tuesday celebrated the reopening of a Jewish center that had been targeted by Pakistani gunmen who stormed through Mumbai on a 60... Read »


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World Series MVP David Ortiz has been the Red Sox 'thread' since 2004 - Boston Sports Live
World Series MVP David Ortize has been the common thread of success for the Red Sox since the team broke the curse in 2004. Chris Gasper and Dan Shaughnessy discuss on Boston sports Live.
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Bar shell black HiRek. Sledge base, H75cm, chrome, non-stackable.
Bar shell HiRek, Midnight Grey, Wooden base, H75cm, oak, non-stackable. ,
Founded in 1987, Komplot Design, a partnership of Poul Christiansen & Boris Berlin, has designed furniture and created multidisciplinary design soluions for both Danish and international companies. Their Gubi chair design has been displayed in important exhibitions, such as MoMA, 2004 and has won several prestigious awards, including The Danish Design Prize 2004 and the RED DOT Design Award 2004.
"We believe that through design history, many traditions within the field have been preoccupied with the idea of total control over function, form, material and so on. This striving for control of our surroundings is probably a typical urge of Western culture, being both its principal strength and its greatest failing. Instead of fighting against "mistakes" by forcing the material to behave "perfectly" (often against its nature), we choose to accept the way the material "wants" to behave, the way its nature tells it to move..."
Komplot Design created a new series of dining tables and center bases for the Gubi chair in 2013.
The 5 mm thick shell is made of interjected moulded HiRek material and is available in a range of different colors.
The four-leg wooden base comes in oak, American walnut and black stained beech.
H: 74/87.5 x L: 47 x W: 44 cm.
Download pictures in high or low resolution
Gubi Chair Stool_Grey Hirek_oak wood base_back_300dpi
Gubi Chair Stool_Grey Hirek_oak wood base_front_300dpi
Gubi Chair Stool_Grey Hirek_oak wood base_back_72dpi.jpg


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You can now invite anyone to meet at your favorite Starbucks.
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28 year old man | North Hollywood, CA, USA | Seeking women 25-30 within 100 miles of Los Angeles, CA
The bitterest TRUTH is better than the sweetest LIE.
WAIT!!! Don't just skim through my photos hoping you'll fine a photo with me half dressed.. Because you won't (naughty you) haha but I like your thinking. How about just reading my profile and if it makes you smile then mission accomplished. So, about me: If your looking for a family oriented man then look no further because I'm super close to my family and they are my biggest support system. Do you like to dance?? Because I do! I use to compete in hip hop dance competitions back in the day and I still have some of that groove left - we can two step the night away, maybe the typical line dance, or maybe bring it closer with a slow jam ("I don't see nothing wrooong.. With a little bump and..."). Aaaaand I'm willing to take salsa classes, swing classes, tango, or any dance that includes a partner. Not into dance?! Well, how about the intellectual side of me... I'm pretty much an open book. Ask me anything you want and I'll try to blow your mind away! Orrr want someone with more brawn and less brain?? (don't know why you would want that but guess what?) I enjoy working with my hands and staying physically fit! I'm pretty much a do-it-yourself type of guy. Better yet, I can give you that back massage after a long day at whatever you do. If you haven't noticed I'm easily entertained and entertaining - I like making people laugh because life is a little better with a smile on your face! :-) me smiling sideways If I've piqued your interest please read on! About her: Looking for a nice, witty, wholesome girl with an excellent sense of humor; especially someone who can laugh at herself (brownie points if you can make my friends and family laugh!). Be able to have intellectual conversations, gallivant the world with me, be my sidekick, and maybe knows the concept of how to drive a manual transmission - if not I can always teach you (learn something new right?!) Haha.. Oh yeah, I also enjoy photography! Photo-jogging anyone!? (name that movie) Anyway, thanks for viewing my profile. I hope you see that not all guys on here are just d-bags but just regular guys looking for the exact same thing YOU are... A soulmate, a best friend, a partner, and in the end a loved one.
Alumni connections , Camping , Coffee and conversation , Business networking , Cooking , Dining out , Hobbies and crafts , Movies/Videos , Museums and art , Music and concerts , Exploring new areas , Nightclubs/Dancing , Performing arts , Playing sports , Shopping/Antiques , Travel/Sightseeing , Video games , Volunteering , Watching sports , Wine tasting
Auto racing / Motorcross, Baseball, Billiards / Pool, Bowling, Cycling, Dancing, Football, Other types of exercise, Running, Swimming, Walking / Hiking, Weights / Machines, Yoga
I exercise 3-4 times per week.
Don't display my sign
I have Dogs
I have a shiba inu. He is the best... at being lazy!
Middle of the Road
The road less traveled or the road NOT taken?! Feeling intrigued now, huh??
I like random things; Power tools, my camera, Blistex, Wacom tablets, Dyson hand dryers, Lysol disinfectant...
Getting out of the concrete jungle and enjoy what mother nature has to offer. I'm definitely a foodie! And finding new areas of LA to photograph.
The Lost Symbol. IKEA instructions for some shelving
Z{{Cta}} {{#if HasMoreInfo}} ?{{CtaSecondary}} {{/if}}
|What he is looking for
|5'7" (170cms)
|5'0" (152cms) to 5'5" (165cms)
|Body type:
|About average
|Slender, About average, Curvy, Athletic and toned
|No preference
|No preference
|No Way
|No Way
|Social Drinker
|Social Drinker
|Technical / Science / Computers / Engineering
|No preference
IT Professional by day, Photographer by night...
|I'll tell you later
|No preference
|Never Married
|Never Married
|Have kids:
|Wants kids:
|Definitely, Someday
|Asian, Pacific Islander
|No preference
|Spiritual but not religious
|Spiritual but not religious, Other
|Bachelors degree
|Some college, Associates degree, Bachelors degree, Graduate degree
BS in Computer Networking (I enjoy saying that I have a BS degree haha)


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The basic system consists of a vessel, a Primary Control Unit for entering and displaying process parameters, and a Power Module to control temperature, agitation and pumps.
Advanced Fermentation Kits include additional modules for pH/DO and foam/level control, as well as a pump module consisting of four pumps for feeding/harvesting operations in batch, fed-batch or perfusion modes. Advanced Cell Culture Kits further add a Gas Mix controller.
All process parameters are entered and displayed on the systems Primary Control Unit (PCU). The PCU is capable of simultaneously controlling up to four individual vessels, and displaying up to 32 parameters in English, French, Spanish, or German. BioCommand Plus, a PC-compatible data acquisition and control package, is also available for comparing historical data, trend graphing, and validation support.
Used an Advanced Cell Culture Kit with 3.0-L water-jacketed vessel, magnetic drive and a spin-filter impeller. BioCommand software was also used to control feeding and collect data. See Table 2.
Used an Advanced Fermentation Kit with direct-drive motor and 7.5L heat-blanketed vessel. BioCommand software was also used to control feeding and collect data. See Table 3.
Related biology technology :
1. Inoculation, Growth & Harvesting in a New Easy-to-Use Disposable Cell Culture System
2. The DIG System Nonradioactive Automated High-Throughput In Situ Hybridization: a Powerful Tool for Functional Genomics Research
3. Quantitation of the Protein MIA as a Marker for Chondrocytes in Research Samples
4. Control Your siRNA Research
5. Getting Started with MicroRNA Research
6. Monitoring Microbial Populations Using Real-Time qPCR on the MJ Research Opticon 2 System
7. Proteomics in Bladder Cancer Research: Protein Profiling of Bladder Squamous Cell Carcinomas, Rev C
8. Research Organics
9. A Robust LC/MS/MS Method for the Quantitation of Very Long Chain Fatty Acids for Research into the Characterization of Peroxisomal Disorders
10. A new LC/MS/MS Research Method for Rapid Quantitation of Five Immunosuppressant Drugs, including Mycophenolic Acid (MPA)
11. Research Tools for Analysis of ZAP-70


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Roast Beef Hash
21 Jun 2009
The roast beef hash is a roasted preparation of leftover roast beef combined and cooked with diced potatoes and onions. Flavored with dry onion soup mix, the roasted beef hash can be served with crisp vegetables.
|Leftover roast beef
|2 Cup (32 tbs), cut in small pieces
|Diced potatoes
|2 Cup (32 tbs)
|Chopped onion
|1⁄2 Cup (8 tbs)
|Onion soup mix
|1 Packet
Combine meat, potatoes and onions in casserole.
Sprinkle dry onion soup mix over top and add small amount of water.
Bake in 350 degree oven for approximately 1 hour.
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Roast Beef Hash Recipe


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