MEDIA HOLDER WITH ADJUSTABLE SUPPORT

Abstract

A kneeboard includes a deck, securement strap, a detachable clip board, and an adjustable bolster. The deck has a first side end, a second side, a holding side, and a support side. The detachable clip board is pivotally attached to the kneeboard. The detachable clip board has a closed position in which the holding side is covered by the detachable clip board and an open position in which the holding side is exposed. The adjustable bolster includes a first wing and a second wing. Each wing has a flat configuration in which wings are engaged with the support side of the deck a minimum distance from the first or second side end and a raised configuration in which the wings are engaged with the support side of the deck and spaced apart from the first side end or the second side end a distance greater than the minimum distance.

Claims

1. A kneeboard comprising: a deck having a first side end, a second side end opposite the first side end, a holding side, and a support side opposite the holding side, the first side end and the second side end extending between the holding side and the support side, the support side including a first part of a two-part fastening system, the holding side configured to support media thereon; a securement strap attached to the deck, the securement strap configured to secure the kneeboard to a limb of a user; a detachable clip board pivotally attached to the kneeboard, the detachable clip board having a closed position in which the holding side is covered by the detachable clip board and an open position in which the holding side is exposed; and an adjustable bolster attached to the support side of the deck, the adjustable bolster comprising a first wing and a second wing, the first wing and the second wing each including a second part of the two-part fastening system, each wing having a flat configuration in which the second part of the wing is engaged with the first part of the support side of the deck a minimum distance from the first side end or the second side end, each wing having a raised configuration in which the second part of the wing is engaged with the first part of the support side of the deck and spaced apart from the first side end or the second side end a distance greater than the minimum distance.

2. The kneeboard according to claim 1, wherein the deck comprises a tab projecting from the holding side of the deck, the tab having a first face and second face opposite the first face.

3. The kneeboard according to claim 2, comprising a flexible hinge securing the detachable clip board to the tab such that the detachable clip board is moveable between the closed position and the open position, the flexible hinge having a first leaf engaged with the first face of the tab and a second leaf extending from the first leaf, the second leaf engaged with the second face of the tab.

4. The kneeboard according to claim 3, wherein the detachable clip board defines a first slot adjacent to an edge thereof, the second leaf passing through the first slot to engage with the second face of the tab.

5. The kneeboard according to claim 4, wherein the flexible hinge has a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the first side having a first component and a second component of a two-component fastening system, the first component of the two-component fastening system disposed on the first leaf and the second component of the two-component fastening system disposed on the second leaf.

6. The kneeboard according to claim 5, wherein the second side of the flexible hinge has a first component and a second component of the two-component fastening system, the first component of the two-component fastening system disposed on the second leaf and the second component of the two-component fastening system disposed on the first leaf.

7. The kneeboard according to claim 6, wherein the two-component fastening system of the flexible hinge is a hook and loop fastening system with one of the first component or the second component being a hook component and the other of the first component or the second component being a loop component.

8. The kneeboard according to claim 5, wherein the flexible hinge is folded such that the first side of the flexible hinge is engaged with the first face of the tab and the first side of the flexible hinge is engaged with the second face of the tab to secure the detachable clip board to the deck.

9. The kneeboard according to claim 4, wherein the detachable clip board defines a second slot adjacent to the edge of the detachable clip board such that the first slot and the second slot form a first pair of slots, the first slot and the second slot separated by a bridge.

10. The kneeboard according to claim 9, wherein the first leaf and the second leaf define a notch therebetween, the bridge positioned within the notch when the second leaf is received in the first slot and the second slot.

11. The kneeboard according to claim 10, wherein the second leaf comprises a first segment and a second segment that define a gate therebetween, the notch accessible through the gate to insert the first segment into the first slot, the second segment into the second slot, and the bridge through the gate.

12. The kneeboard according to claim 9, wherein the detachable clip board defines a third slot and a fourth slot positioned adjacent to an edge of the detachable clip board opposite the first slot and the second slot such that the third slot and the fourth slot form a second pair of slots, the kneeboard including another flexible hinge having: a first leaf; and a second leaf extending from the first leaf, the second leaf passing through the third slot and the fourth slot of the detachable clip board, the first leaf engaged with the second leaf to secure the other flexible hinge to the detachable clip board.

13. The kneeboard according to claim 3, wherein the flexible hinge has a monolithic construction.

14. The kneeboard according to claim 1, wherein the adjustable bolster has a unitary construction and is attached to the deck by a central segment of the adjustable bolster such that unattached segments of the adjustable bolster form the first wing and the second wing, the first wing and the second wing each extending outwardly from the central segment opposite one another, each wing terminating in an engagement portion including the second part of the two-part fastening system.

15. A media holder comprising: a deck having a holding side and a support side opposite the holding side, the holding side including a tab extending therefrom, the tab having a first face and a second face opposite the first face; a detachable clip board; and a flexible hinge attached to the detachable clip board, the flexible hinge including a first leaf and a second leaf extending from the first leaf, the flexible hinge folded about the tab such that the first leaf is engaged with the first face of the tab and the second leaf is engaged with the second face of the tab, the flexible hinge securing the detachable clip board to the tab such that the detachable clip board is moveable between a closed position in which the detachable clip board covers the holding side and an open position in which the holding side is exposed.

16. The media holder according to claim 15, wherein the flexible hinge is fixedly attached to the detachable clip board.

17. The media holder according to claim 15, wherein the detachable clip board has a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the second side covered in a fabric material configured to contact a display screen of an electronic device when the detachable clip board is in the closed position.

18. The media holder according to claim 15, comprising an adjustable bolster attached to the support side of the deck, the adjustable bolster comprising a pair of wings each having a first peak, each wing having a flat configuration in which the wing is secured to the support side of the deck such that the first peak is substantially in contact with the support side, each wing having a raised configuration in which the wing is secured to the support side of the deck such that the first peak is spaced apart from the support side of the deck.

19. The media holder according to claim 15, wherein the second leaf comprises a first segment and a second segment that define a gate therebetween, the flexible hinge defining a notch between the first leaf, the first segment, and the second segment that is accessible through the gate; and wherein the detachable clip board comprises a pair of slots positioned adjacent to an edge of the detachable clip board, the slots of the pair of slots separated by a bridge, the first segment and the second segment received through a respective slot of the pair of slots with the bridge positioned within the notch, the flexible hinge folded to engage the first leaf with the first face of the tab and the second leaf with the second face of the tab.

20. A flexible hinge of monolithic construction having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the flexible hinge comprising: a first leaf including a first component of a two-component fastening system disposed on the first side of the flexible hinge and a second component of the two-component fastening system disposed on the second side of the flexible hinge; and a second leaf extending from the first leaf, the second leaf and the first leaf defining a notch therebetween, the second leaf including a first component of the two-component fastening system disposed on the second side of the flexible hinge and a second component of the two-component fastening system disposed on the first side of the flexible hinge, the second leaf comprising a first segment and a second segment, the first segment and the second segment defining a gate therebetween with the notch accessible through the gate, the flexible hinge foldable a first direction to a engage the first component of the two-component fastening system of the first leaf with the second component of the two-component fastening system of the second leaf, the flexible hinge foldable a second direction opposite the first direction to engage the second component of the two-component fastening system of the first leaf with the first component of the two-component fastening system of the second leaf, the flexible hinge adapted to pivotally secure a detachable clip board to a media holder.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Various aspects of the present disclosure are described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, wherein:

[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a kneeboard according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in a bundled state thereof;

[0033] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the kneeboard of FIG. 1 in a secured configuration thereof;

[0034] FIG. 3 is a top view of the kneeboard of FIG. 1 in an unbundled state thereof;

[0035] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the kneeboard of FIG. 3 with one wing in a flat configuration and one wing disengaged from the support side;

[0036] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the kneeboard of FIG. 4 with an adjustable bolster in a flat configuration thereof;

[0037] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the kneeboard of FIG. 4 with the adjustable bolster in a first raised configuration thereof;

[0038] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the kneeboard of FIG. 4 with the adjustable bolster in a second raised configuration thereof;

[0039] FIG. 8 is a side view of the kneeboard of FIG. 7;

[0040] FIG. 9 is a top view of the kneeboard of FIG. 1 with a detachable clip board in a closed position thereof;

[0041] FIG. 10 is a top view of the kneeboard of FIG. 9 with the detachable clip board in an open position thereof;

[0042] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another kneeboard according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with an adjustable bolster in a flat configuration thereof;

[0043] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the kneeboard of FIG. 11 with the adjustable bolster in a first raised configuration thereof;

[0044] FIG. 13 is a top view of another kneeboard in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure with a writing board in a closed position thereof;

[0045] FIG. 14 is a top view of the kneeboard of FIG. 13 with the writing board in an open position thereof;

[0046] FIG. 15 is a top view of the writing board of FIG. 13 with flexible hinges in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure unattached to the writing board and another flexible hinge attached to the writing board;

[0047] FIG. 16 is a top view of one of the flexible hinges of FIG. 15;

[0048] FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the flexible hinge of FIG. 16;

[0049] FIG. 18 is a top view of another writing board including flexible hinges in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0050] FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the writing board of FIG. 18.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to example embodiments thereof with reference to the drawings in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views. These example embodiments are described so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Features from one embodiment or aspect can be combined with features from any other embodiment or aspect in any appropriate combination. For example, any individual or collective features of method aspects or embodiments can be applied to apparatus, product, or component aspects or embodiments and vice versa. The disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms a, an, the, and the like include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships or the like, unless otherwise stated, any one or more if not all of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to manufacturing or engineering tolerances or the like.

[0052] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, a media holder or kneeboard 10 includes a deck 20, a securement strap 40, and an adjustable bolster 60. The kneeboard 10 may transition between a bundled state (FIG. 1) and a secured state (FIG. 2). The kneeboard 10 is configured to retain media such as printed media, e.g., maps or notebooks, or digital devices, e.g., an iPad or tablet, to the deck 20. In the bundled state the securement strap 40 wraps about the deck 20 and any media retained thereto. The bundled state may aid in retention of the media to the deck 20 or prevent snagging of the securement strap 40 on an environmental object. In the secured state, the kneeboard 10 may be secured to a limb or extremity, e.g., a leg or arm, of a user. The securement strap 40 wraps about the limb of the user such that media retained to the deck 20 is accessible to the user. The adjustable bolster 60 stabilizes the kneeboard 10 relative to the limb to provide the user with a suitable work surface, as detailed below.

[0053] With additional reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the deck 20 has a holding side 22 and a support side 24. The holding side 22 retains media to the kneeboard 10. A non-slip material may cover the holding side 22 to resist shifting of media secured to the deck 20. The holding side 22 may be textured. In embodiments, the holding side 22 may have an inverse waffle texture with a plurality of raised squares separated by troughs. The holding side 22 may include a plurality of retention members 26 to retain media to the deck 20. In some embodiments, the retention members 26 may be elastic straps.

[0054] The support side 24 includes the first part of a two-part fastener system. In certain embodiments, the first part of the two-part fastener system may be the loop part of a hook and loop fastener system. The first part of the two-part fastener system may cover the entire support side 24 of the deck 20. In some embodiments, the first part of the two-part fastener system may be disposed on select portions of the support side 24. For example, in certain embodiments, the first part of the two-part fastener system may be strips or patches located on the support side 24 corresponding to a flat configuration (FIG. 5) and a first raised position (FIG. 6) of the adjustable bolster 60, described in detail below. A first set of patches or strips may be located on the support side 24 adjacent to the side ends 28 of the deck 20, corresponding to the flat configuration, and a second set of patches or strips may be located inwardly from the side ends 28, corresponding to the first raised configuration.

[0055] The securement strap 40 secures the kneeboard 10 to a limb of a user. The securement strap 40 has an eye strap 42 and an anchor strap 44. The eye strap 42 and the anchor strap 44 each attach to the kneeboard 10 at opposite side ends 28 of the deck 20 and each extend a length outwardly from the deck 20. The eye strap 42 or the anchor strap 44 may attach to a respective side end 28 of the kneeboard 10 along the holding side 22 or the support side 24 or from an edge of the side ends 28 between the holding side 22 and the support side 24.

[0056] The anchor strap 44 includes an anchor 48 to couple the anchor strap 44 to the eye strap 42. In certain embodiments, the anchor 48 may have a hook 50 that engages the eye strap 42. The anchor strap 44 may be made of an elastic material. In particular embodiments, the anchor strap 44 may include a slide adjustor to adjust the length of the anchor strap 44 available to be disposed about the limb of a user. The anchor 48 and the slide adjustor may be monolithically formed such that the slide adjustor positions the anchor 48 and/or the hook 50 at a position along the length of the anchor strap 44. The anchor 48 may be laser cut from recycled material. The anchor strap 44 may include the first part of a two-part fastener system. The first part of the two-part fastener system may be positioned at an end portion 52 that is spaced a maximum distance along the anchor strap 44 from the attachment of the anchor strap 44 to the deck 20. The end portion 52 may engage a bundling segment 54 including the second part of the two-part fastening system when the kneeboard 10 is in the bundled state. In some embodiments, the bundling segment 54 may be included on the anchor strap 44 such that when the anchor strap 44 is wrapped about the deck 20 in the bundled state, the end portion 52 engages the bundling segment 54. The two-part fastener system of the end portion 52 and the bundling segment 54 may be a hook and loop system, a snap fit system, a buckle system, or the like.

[0057] The eye strap 42 defines a plurality of eyes 46 to receive the anchor 48. The plurality of eyes 46 are disposed along the length of the eye strap 42 such that the anchor 48, and/or the hook 50, may be received within an eye 46 at multiple points along the length of the eye strap 42. The eye strap 42 may be made of an inelastic material, e.g., webbing made of nylon or polyester. In the secured state the eye strap 42 and the anchor strap 44 wrap about a limb of a user such that the anchor 48 is received in an eye 46 to secure the kneeboard 10 to the limb.

[0058] The securement strap 40 is adjustable to selectively tighten or loosen the securement strap 40 about the limb of the user. In embodiments, the securement strap 40 may have two adjustment mechanisms. One of the two adjustment mechanisms may be considered a course adjustment and the second adjustment mechanism may be considered a fine adjustment. Inserting the anchor 48 into one of the eyes 46 along the length of the eye strap 42 may alternately tighten or loosen the securement strap 40 about the limb of the user. For example, inserting the anchor 48 in the eye 46a nearest the deck 20 along the length of the eye strap 42 may tighten the securement strap 40. Inserting the anchor 48 in the eye 46c may loosen the securement strap 40 about the limb compared to inserting the anchor 48 in the eye 46a. The eyes 46 are located at predetermined positions along the length of the eye strap 42 making adjustment by way of selecting an eye 46a, 46b, 46c a course adjustment mechanism. In certain embodiments, the eye strap 42 may include a single eye 46 configured to slide along the length of the eye strap 42. As detailed above, the anchor 48 may be moveable along the length of the anchor strap 44 to adjust the length of the anchor strap 44 available to wrap about the limb of a user. Positioning the anchor 48 at a position along the length of the anchor strap 44 closer to the end portion 52 will increase the operational length of the anchor strap 44 thereby loosening the securement strap 40. Positioning the anchor 48 closer to the deck 20 along the length of the anchor strap 44 will shorten the operational length of the anchor strap 44 thereby tightening the securement strap 40. The anchor 48 may be positioned at a desired point along the length of the anchor strap 44 making the adjustment by way of positioning the anchor 48 a fine adjustment. The combination of selecting an eye 46 of the eye strap 42 to receive the anchor 48 and positioning of the anchor 48 along the length of the anchor strap 44 makes the securement strap 40 quickly adjustable to meet the needs of most users. For example, the adjustment mechanisms may be used to compensate for additional or thick layers of clothing, or may compensate for items stored in pockets adding girth to the limb the kneeboard 10 is secured about.

[0059] Continuing to refer to FIG. 4, the adjustable bolster 60 is attached to the support side 24 of the deck 20 such that the adjustable bolster 60 stabilizes the kneeboard 10 relative to the limb of a user. The adjustable bolster 60 includes a pair of wings 62. Each wing 62 has an engagement portion 64 including the second part of the two-part fastener system of the support side 24. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 64 includes the hook part of a hook and loop fastener system. Each wing 62 of the pair of wings 62 may be formed from multiple panels 70, e.g., two panels, three panels, or more. For example, the panels 70 may include an attachment panel 70a configured to secure the wing 62 to the deck 20, a medial panel 70b extending from the attachment panel 70a, and an engagement panel 70c having the engagement portion 64 extending from the medial panel 70b. In certain embodiments, the engagement portion 64 covers or extends the length of the engagement panel 70c. In particular embodiments, the engagement portion 64 covers a segment of the engagement panel 70c, e.g., patches of hook fasteners disposed at opposite ends of the engagement panel 70c. In some embodiments, the two-part fastener system of the wings 62 and the support side 24 are cooperating magnets or snaps. The panels 70 may be ridged or semi-rigid and configured to bend, fold, pivot, or flex relative to each other along a joint J-J separating the panels 70a, 70b, and 70c. The adjustable bolster 60 may include padding for the comfort of the user. In some embodiments, the adjustable bolster 60 includes breathable material that allows for moisture to be wicked away from the user. For example, a 3D padded, mesh may be used to achieve both comfort and breathability.

[0060] In certain embodiments, each wing 62 may include a docking fastener 63. The docking fasteners 63 may allow for the kneeboard 10 to be docked when not in use. The docking fasteners 63 may mate with a dock placed on a wall to retain the kneeboard 10 thereto. For example, the dock may be placed on a wall or a surface within the cockpit of an aircraft to house the kneeboard 10 when not in use by a pilot. The docking fasteners 63 and the dock may be two halves of a cooperating hook and loop fastener system. Additionally or alternatively, the docking fasteners 63 may mate with the end portion 52 of the hook strap 44 to secure the kneeboard 10 in the bundled state. For example, the kneeboard 10 may have several layers of media increasing the overall thickness of the kneeboard 10. The docking fasteners 63 may mate with the end portion 52 where media secured to the kneeboard 10 restricts the end portion 52 from reaching and engaging the bundling segment 54.

[0061] With additional reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the adjustable bolster 60 has a flat configuration (FIG. 5) and a first raised configuration (FIG. 6). In the flat configuration, the pair of wings 62 are substantially parallel to the support side 24 of the deck 20 with the engagement portion 64 engaged with the support side 24 of the deck 20 immediately adjacent to the side ends 28 as shown in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, in the flat configuration the wings 62 may be engaged with the support side 24 a minimum distance from the side ends 28. The minimum distance is the shortest distance between a wing 62 engaged with the support side 24 and a side end 28. In the first raised configuration, the engagement portion 64 is engaged with the support side 24 such that each wing 62 may form a substantially triangular profile with the support side 24. In embodiments utilizing more than three panels 70, a different polygonal profile may be formed in the first raised configuration, e.g., a square or pentagon. In the first raised position the engagement panel 70c may engage the support side 24 immediately adjacent to an edge 71 of the attachment panel 70a that is secured to the support side 24 as shown in FIG. 6. The adjustable bolster 60 may have multiple raised configurations between the first raised configuration and the flat configuration. For example, the engagement panel 70c of each wing 62 may engage the support side 24 inwardly from the respective side end 28 but not immediately adjacent to the attachment panel 70a. In certain embodiments, in the first raised configuration the wings 62 may be engaged with the support side 24 a maximum distance from the side ends 28. The maximum distance is the greatest distance between a wing 62 engaged with the support side 24 and a side end 28. The wings 62 may be engaged with the support side 24 between the minimum distance and the maximum distance. In the first raised configuration, the pair of wings 62 and the support side 24 of the deck 20 may define a valley 69 therebetween. In embodiments, each wing 62 of the pair of wings 62 attaches to the support side 24 of the deck 20 near a central axis C-C of the deck 20 and extends outwardly in opposite directions from the central axis C-C toward the side ends 28. In certain embodiments, one of the engagement panels 70c may engage the support side 24 immediately adjacent to the edge 71 of the attachment panel 70a that is secured to the support side 24 and the other of the engagement panels 70c is spaced apart from the edge 71 of the attachment panel 70a that is secured to the support side 24.

[0062] In order to move the adjustable bolster 60 between the flat configuration and the first raised configuration, each wing 62 folds, bends, or pivots from the flat configuration. Each wing 62 may fold, bend, or pivot along joints J-J between adjacent panels 70. Moving the adjustable bolster 60 to the first raised configuration may cause the attachment panel 70a and the medial panel 70b to fold relative to one another such that a peak 72 projecting from the support side 24 is formed. In the flat configuration, the peak 72 may be substantially in contact with the support side 24 of the deck 20 as shown in FIG. 5. The peak 72 may be a point, edge, or surface of each wing 62 that is most distant from the support side 24 when the adjustable bolster 60 is in the first raised configuration, or one of the multiple raised configurations between the flat configuration and the first raised configuration. The distance the peak 72 projects from the support side 24 may be determined by how far inwardly from the side end 28 the engagement panel 70c engages the support side 24. The farther from the side end 28 the engagement panel 70c engages the support side 24 the greater the distance the peak 72 may project from the support side 24. In the first raised configuration the peak 72 may be in the range of 0.5 inches to 3.0 inches, e.g., 1.5 inches, from the support side 24 of the deck 20. As a wing 62 moves from the flat configuration to the first raised configuration the engagement panel 70c may move inwardly away from the side end 28 toward the central axis C-C. Each wing 62 may be adjustable independently of the other. One wing 62 may be in the first raised configuration and the other wing 62 may be in the flat configuration.

[0063] In particular embodiments, the adjustable bolster 60 has a unitary construction. A unitarily constructed adjustable bolster 60 is attached to the support side 24 of the deck 20 along a central segment 68 of the adjustable bolster 60. Each wing 62 of the pair of wings 62 is formed from the segments of the adjustable bolster 60 unattached to the support side 24. Each wing 62 extends outwardly from the central segment 68 opposite one another. The central segment 68 and the attachment panel 70a of each wing 62 define one of the joints J-J between each other, with the attachment panel 70a extending outwardly from the central segment 68. In the first raised configuration, the attachment panel 70a of each wing 62 and the central segment 68 define a valley 69 therebetween to receive the limb of a user. In some embodiments, the wings 62 and the support side 24 of the deck 20 define the valley 69 therebetween.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 7, the adjustable bolster 60 may have a raised configuration in which one or more of the wings 62 of the adjustable bolster 60 is twisted which will be referred to generally as the second raised configuration. The second raised configuration may allow the adjustable bolster 60 to better conform to the anatomy of a user. In the second raised configuration, a first end 74 of the wing 62 is engaged with the support side 24 adjacent to the side end 28 and a second end 76 of the wing 62 is engaged with the support side 24 inward of the side end 28 toward the central axis C-C. In the second raised configuration, the wing 62 has a first peak 72a at the first end 74 of the wing 62 and a second peak 72b at the second end 76 of the wing 62. The second peak 72b has a different height than the first peak 72a in the second raised configuration. The valley 69 defined between the wings 62 in the second raised configuration may be wider near the first end 74 and narrower near the second end 76, or vice versa, such that the valley 69 is tapered. The tapered shape of the valley 69 may conform to the taper of a limb of a user, e.g., the taper of the leg from knee to hip. In some embodiments, the width of the valley 69 may be defined between the peaks 72 of each wing 62 along the central axis C-C. Twisting the wing 62 causes the walls of the valley 69 formed by the attachment panel 70a of each wing 62 to have a different slope at the first end 74 and the second end 76 of the adjustable bolster 60. Where the attachment panel 70a has greater slope the valley 69 is narrower. Where the attachment panel 70a has a lesser slope the valley 69 is wider. The wings 62 may twist an angle relative to the deck 20 in the second raised configuration. The angle of the wings 62 relative to the deck 20 may be measured between the side end 28 of the deck 20 and the wing 62. The angle may be in the range of 5 degrees to 45 degrees, e.g., 10 degrees. The bolsters in the second raised configuration may improve comfort of the user when the kneeboard 10 is secured to a limb of the user.

[0065] With particular reference to FIG. 8, in certain embodiments the adjustable bolster 60 may have a raised position in which the deck 20 is angled relative to the limb of the user which will be referred to generally as the third raised configuration. The degree the deck 20 is angled is marked by an angle measured between the support side 24 of the deck 20 and a plane parallel to a surface supporting the kneeboard 10, e.g., a part of a limb of a user. The angle may be in the range of 3 degrees to 25 degrees, e.g., 8 degrees. The third raised configuration may improve the viewing angle of media retained to the deck 20. For example, the angle of the portion of the deck 20 adjacent a knee of the user may be elevated in relation to the portion of the deck 20 adjacent the hip of the user. The third raised configuration may provide an improved position for writing or typing media secured to the deck 20.

[0066] With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, the kneeboard 10 may include a pouch 90, a plurality of pen loops 92, and a detachable clip board 100. The pouch 90 may be attached to a side end 28 of the deck 20 and to the eye strap 42 such that the plurality of eyes 46 are defined between the eye strap 42 and the pouch 90. In the bundled state the pouch 90 may fold over top the holding side 22 of the deck 20 to cover the media retained to the deck 20. In the secured state the pouch 90 may be pulled taut by engagement of the eye strap 42 and the anchor strap 44 and positioned adjacent to the limb of the user such that the contents of the pouch 90 are readily accessible. The plurality of pen loops 92 may be attached to the pouch 90 or along an end of the deck 20. The pen loops 92 may be made of an elastic material to receive writing utensils of various diameters. The pouch 90 may be made of a mesh material. In some embodiments, the pouch 90 is a water resistant pouch.

[0067] The detachable clip board 100 includes a carrier board 110 and a writing board 120. The carrier board 110 secures the detachable clip board 100 to the kneeboard 10 such that the detachable clip board 100 folds over the holding side 22 to cover media retained to the deck 20. The carrier board 110 has an integrally formed clip 112 and a band 114. The clip 112 is formed as a pair of projections 116 that define a slot to receive the anchor strap 44 and allow the carrier board 110 to fold over the holding side 22. The band 114 retains the writing board 120 to the carrier board 110 such that the writing board 120 may be separated from the carrier board 110. The writing board 120 has a clamp 122 to retain media to the writing board 120. The band 114 may additionally aid in the retention of media to the writing board 120 when the writing board 120 is retained to the carrier board 110. In the bundled state, the securement strap 40 wraps about the detachable clip board 100 and retained the detachable clip board 100 snuggly against the holding side 22 of the deck 20. In the secured state, the detachable clip board 100 may be freely folded between a closed position in which the detachable clip board 100 covers the holding side 22 (FIG. 9) and an open position in which the detachable clip board 100 exposes the holding side 22 (FIG. 10).

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, another kneeboard 210 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The kneeboard 210 is substantially similar to the kneeboard 10 with like elements represented with a similar label with a leading 2 placed at the start of the label of the similar element of the kneeboard 10. As such only the differences will be detailed herein for brevity.

[0069] Each wing 262 of the adjustable bolster 260 of the kneeboard 210 attaches to the support side 224 adjacent a respective side end 228 and extends inward towards the central axis C-C. In embodiments, each wing 262 attaches at a respective side end 228. In some embodiments, each wing 262 attaches to the support side 224 spaced-apart from a respective side end 228. In the flat configuration, the pair of wings 262 are substantially parallel to the support side 224 of the deck 220 with the engagement panel 270c engaged with the support side 224 at a minimum distance from the central axis C-C. The minimum distance may be the smallest distance between a wing 262 engaged with the support side 224 and the central axis C-C. In the first raised configuration as shown in FIG. 12, the engagement panel 270c may be engaged with the support side 224 a greater distance from the central axis C-C as compared to the flat configuration. In certain embodiments, in the first raised configuration, the wings 262 may be engaged with the support side 224 a maximum distance from the central axis C-C. The maximum distance may be the largest distance between a wing 262 engaged with the support side 224 and the central axis C-C. At the maximum distance, the wing 262 may engage the support side 224 adjacent to the edge 271 of the attachment panel 270a that is secured to the support side 224. The wings 262 may be engaged with the support side 224 in a plurality of positions between the minimum distance and the maximum distance. In the first raised configuration, a wing 262 is engaged with the support side 224 such that each wing 262 may form a substantially polygonal profile, e.g., a triangular profile, with the support side 224. In the first raised configuration, the peak 272 of the wings 262 may be parallel to the edge 271. The wings 262 may have a second raised configuration in which the peak 272 of the wing 262 is askew from the edge 271.

[0070] The securement strap 240 attaches to the adjustable bolster 260. In certain embodiments, attaching the securement strap 240 to the adjustable bolster 260 may secure a deck 220 with dimensions substantially larger than the limb of a user while minimizing potential deformation of the large deck 220. The hook strap 244 and the eye strap 242 may each attach to a respective wing 262 between the attachment panel 270a and the medial panel 270b. In the first raised position, the hook strap 244 and the eye strap 242 may extend from the peak 272. The securement strap 240 may be utilized with kneeboard 10. In such embodiments, the securement strap 240 is attached to the adjustable bolster 60 between the attachment panel 70a and the medial panel 70b. When secured to a limb of a user, the force exerted by the securement strap 240 on the deck 220 may be distributed by the adjustable bolster 260, may be more axially directed and less laterally directed, and may be centrally located along the width of the deck 220. A potential bending moment placed on the deck 220 by the securement strap 240 when in use may be minimized.

[0071] Referring now to FIGS. 13-17, another kneeboard 310 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The kneeboard 310 is substantially similar to the kneeboard 10 with like elements represented with a similar label with a leading 3 placed at the start of the label of the similar element of the kneeboard 10. As such only the differences will be detailed herein for brevity. The kneeboard 310 includes a deck 320, a detachable clip board or writing board 330, and flexible hinges 380. Each flexible hinge 380 is adapted to pivotally secure the writing board 330 to the deck 320.

[0072] With particular reference to FIG. 14, the deck 320 includes one or more tabs 321 that protrude from the holding side 322 of the deck 320. The tabs 321 protrude from the holding side 322 along the side ends 328. The tabs 321 may be positioned centrally along each side end 328. In embodiments, more than one tab 321 may protrude from the holding side 322 along each side end 328. For example, two tabs 321 may protrude from the holding side 322 along each side end 328 positioned in spaced relation to each other. When the tabs 321 are laid against the holding side 322, each tab 321 has a first or top face 323 that faces away from the holding side 322 and a second or bottom face 325 that faces towards the holding side 322. The top face 323 of the tabs 321 includes a first component of a two-component fastening system and the bottom face 325 includes a second component of a two-component fastening system. For example, the first component of the two-component fastening system may be the loop component of a hook and loop fastening system and the second component of the two-component fastening system may be the hook component of the hook and loop fastening system. In some embodiments, each face 323, 325 of the tab 321 includes the same component of the two-component fastening system.

[0073] With particular reference to FIG. 15, the writing board 330 is substantially similar to the writing board 120 of the detachable clip board 100. However, the writing board 330 is attached directly to kneeboard 310 without the need for a carrier board 110. The writing board 330 includes a clamp 332 to retain media to the writing board 330. The writing board 330 defines a pair of slots 334 to receive portions of the flexible hinge 380 therethrough. The pair of slots 334 may be located adjacent to an edge of the writing board 330. In embodiments, a pair of slots 334a and a pair of slots 334b may be located along an opposite edge of the writing board 330. In such an embodiment, one or both pairs of slots 334 include a bridge 336 that separates the individual slots of the pair of slots 334 from one another. The writing board 330 may define an array of holes 338. The array of holes 338 may be located adjacent to an edge of the writing board 330. The array of holes 338 may have any number of holes 338 in a range of four to twenty. In some embodiments, the array of holes 338 may have more than twenty holes 338. The array of holes 338 may be interrupted by the pair of slots 334. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the array of holes 338 may have twenty holes 338 with ten holes 338 located adjacent to each edge of the writing board 330. Along each respective edge, each pair of slots 334a, 334b may interrupt the array of holes 338. Each pair of slots 334 may separate the holes 338 along a respective edge of the writing board 330 in half with five holes 338 on either side of each pair of slots 334a, 334b. In embodiments, the writing board 330 may include a band 314. The band 314 may be woven through the array of holes 338 to attach the band 314 to the writing board 330. The band 314 may be an elastic member. The band 314 may aid in the retention of media to the writing board 330 when the writing board 330 is retained to the kneeboard 310.

[0074] In some embodiments, a single slot may be used in lieu of the pair of slots 334. In such embodiments, the single slot will omit the bridge 336 from writing board 330. Additionally or alternatively, the flexible hinge 380 used in conjunction with the single slot may omit the notch 388 due to the omission of the bridge 336.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the flexible hinge 380 includes a first leaf 382 and a second leaf 384. The second leaf 384 has a first segment 386a and a second segment 386b. The first leaf 382 may extend the entire longitudinal length of the flexible hinge 380. The first segment 386a and the second segment 386b of the second leaf 384 may each be approximately half the length of the first leaf 382, as shown. In certain embodiment, the first segment 386a and the second segment 386b may have different lengths that may sum to the approximate length of the first leaf 382. The flexible hinge 380 may define a notch 388 between the first leaf 382 and the second leaf 384. The first segment 386a and the second segment 386b may define a gate 381 so that the notch 388 is accessible through the gate 381. In embodiments, the flexible hinge 380 is of monolithic construction such that the entire flexible hinge 380 forms a single unitary body.

[0076] The flexible hinge 380 has a first or a front side 383 and a second or a rear side 385. Each of the front side 383 and the rear side 385 includes a first component of a two-component fastening system and a second component of the two-component fastening system. The two-component fastening system may be, but is not limited to, a hook and loop fastening system, a button fastening system, a snap fastening system, a mushroom hook fastening system, or a magnetic fastening system. For example, on the front side 383 of the flexible hinge 380 the first leaf 382 may have the first component of the two-component fasting system disposed thereon and the second leaf 384 may have the second component of the two-component fastening system disposed thereon. On the rear side 385 of the flexible hinge 380 the first leaf 382 may have the second component of the two-component fasting system disposed thereon and the second leaf 384 may have the first component of the two-component fastening system disposed thereon. The relative positions of the first component and the second component of the two-component fastening system from the front side 383 and the rear side 385 allow for folding of the flexible hinge 380 to engage the front side 383 or the rear side 385 with itself. For example, the flexible hinge 380 may be folded with the front side 383 exposed and the rear side 385 engaged with itself or may be folded with the front side 383 engaged with itself and the rear side 385 exposed.

[0077] In some embodiments, each side 383, 385 of the flexible hinge 380 includes a single component of the two-component fastening system with the opposite side 383, 385 including the other component of the two-component fastening system. For example, the front side 383 may be entirely covered in the first component of the two-component fastening system and the rear side 385 may be entirely covered in the second component of the two-component fastening system. In particular embodiments, only a single side 383, 385 of the flexible hinge 380 includes one or both components of the two-component fastening system. For example, on the front side 383 of the flexible hinge 380 the first leaf 382 may have the first component of the two-component fasting system disposed thereon and the second leaf 384 may have the second component of the two-component fastening system disposed thereon, while the rear side 385 has no components of the two-component fastening system. In embodiments, the rear side 385 may be entirely covered in the first component or the second component of the two-component fastening system while the front side 383 has no components of the two-component fastening system.

[0078] Referring back to FIGS. 13-15, each flexible hinge 380 selectively, pivotally secures a respective edge of the writing board 330 to the deck 320. The flexible hinge 380 is insertable through the slots 334 of the writing board 330 and is engageable with the tabs 321. Specifically, the first segment 386a and the second segment 386b are insertable into a respective slot 334 of a respective one of the pair of slots 334a, 334b of the writing board 330. When the flexible hinge 380 is inserted into one of the pair of slots 334, the flexible hinge 380 may be folded with one of the tabs 321 positioned between the leaves 382, 384. The flexible hinge 380 may be folded such that the front side 383 is engaged with both faces 323, 325 of the tab 321 or may be folded such that the rear side 385 is engaged with both faces 323, 325 of the tab 321. The respective components of the two-component fastening system of the leaves 382, 384 cooperates with the respective components of the two-component fastening system of the tabs 321 to secure the writing board 330 to the kneeboard 310. With the writing board 330 secured to a single one of the tabs 321, the writing board 330 may pivot between the closed position and the open position. It will be appreciated that the single one of the tabs 321 may be disposed on either side 328 of the holding side 322.

[0079] In some embodiments, a second flexible hinge 380 is attached to the writing board 330. The second flexible hinge 380 may be attached to the writing board 330 through the pair of slots 334b. The second flexible hinge 380 may be folded and engaged with itself. In such an embodiment, the second flexible hinge 380 may function as grip to assist in moving the writing board 330 between the closed and open positions. In certain embodiments, the second flexible hinge 380 may be engaged with a respective tab 321 and the first flexible hinge 380 may function as a grip. Engaging the second flexible hinge 380 with the respective tab 321 may change the writing board 330 from a left-hand open swing in which the writing board 330 pivots adjacent to a respective side end 328 to a right-hand open swing in which the writing board 330 pivots adjacent to the other side end 328. In particular embodiments, both flexible hinges 380 may be engaged with a respective tab 321 concurrently. In such an embodiment, the writing board 330 is prevented from pivoting with respect to the deck 320. When both flexible hinges 380 are engaged with a respective tab 321, the writing board 330 may further secure media retained directly to the holding side 322 of the deck 320.

[0080] Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, another writing board 430 with another flexible hinge 480 is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The writing board 430 is substantially similar to the writing board 330 and the flexible hinge 480 is substantially similar to the flexible hinge 380 with like elements represented with a similar label with a leading 4 placed at the start of the label of the similar element of the writing board 330 and the flexible hinge 380. As such only the differences will be detailed herein for brevity.

[0081] The writing board 430 includes flexible hinges 480 fixedly attached thereto. A back side 438 of the writing board 430 is covered in a fabric material 489. The fabric material 489 may protect the display screens of digital devices, e.g., an iPad or tablet, secured on the deck 320 of the kneeboard 310. For example, the fabric material 489 covering the back side 438 may be a microfiber fabric material configured to contact a display screen of electronic devices without causing damage, e.g., scratches, or to clean display screens of electronic devices, e.g., remove fingerprints from touch sensitive display screens. Additionally or alternatively, the fabric material 489 may be one part of a two part fastening system. For example, the fabric material 489 may be the loop part of a hook and loop fastening system. In such an embodiment, media may be attached to the back side 438 of the writing board 430. For example, the media may be patches having the hook part of the hook and loop fastening system may be attached to the back side 438. The patches may contain relevant reference material, e.g., a Morse code reference patch or ballistic data card patch, that may be frequently referenced.

[0082] The flexible hinge 480 may include a first leaf 482 and a second leaf 484. The first leaf 482 and the second leaf 484 may be attached to opposite sides of the writing board 430. The first leaf 482 and the second leaf 484 are fixedly attached to a respective side of the writing board 430. For example, the first leaf 482 and the second leaf 484 may be stitched, adhered, or welded to the writing board 430. The second leaf 484 may be smaller than the first leaf 482. Specifically, the second leaf 484 may have a substantially equal longitudinal length as the first leaf 482 but may have a narrower width. The narrower width of the second leaf 484 may aid in proper engagement of the tabs 321 with the flexible hinge 480 when the writing board 430 is attached to the kneeboard 310.

[0083] While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Any combination of the above embodiments is also envisioned and is within the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope of the claims appended hereto.