International Business Machines Corporation

Robert Curtis Crigler

Rodrigo Samper

Jacklin Ann Adams

Peter Torgil Haughton

Gerald Cecil Proctor

Kline Whitehead

A notebook computer has a base with a pivotable display monitor. The base contains a disc drive for manipulating a disc, such as a CD or DVD. The disc drive has a manually-operated, rotating guard on a side edge of the base. Prior to the insertion of a disc, the guard is substantially retracted within the base. To load a disc into the disc drive, the guard is rotated about five degrees to a load/unload position and the disc is inserted into a slot. In the fully inserted position, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches of the disc will extend beyond the side edge of the base. The guard is rotated to its fully closed and locked position. Closing the guard causes the disc drive to engage and interface with the disc. The guard and the disc protrude from the side of the base during operation, but the disc is completely enclosed. The disc is removed by pushing an eject button and rotating the guard to its original position.

Miniature disc drive for notebook computer

A system for mounting components within a frame of a personal computer where access to only one side of the frame is needed to mount or remove the components with fasteners and fastening tools. The components are secured and restrained from movement in three orthogonal directions. The fasteners are mounted to the exposed side. Bracket guides and spring fingers extend from the frame to provide location and biasing forces to secure the components in their proper locations. This system requires fewer fasteners and reduces assembly time during manufacturing and/or repair. It is easier and quicker to remove and replace a defective component or one which is being upgraded in the system.

Growing community of inventors

Durham, NC, United States of America

Robert Curtis Crigler