With the burgeoning use of mechanical, electrical, and computer equipment in non-private locations, such as laboratories, offices, libraries, and stores, have come the difficulties associated with providing security against the theft of the equipment.

Many equipment security systems are either bolted or permanently attached to the supporting object. These security systems inflict permanent damages on the surface of the supporting object. Other security systems secure the equipment by chaining or wiring it around the legs of the supporting object. This arrangement prohibits an user from effectively using the surface of the supporting object for other useful purposes. In addition, these systems tend to become vulnerable to casual theft, for example, merely by lifting the supporting object and dropping the equipment and chain downward to remove them from the object. Typical is International Business Machine's Security Hook for their Dock 1@ computer docking system. See IBM's IBM ThinkPad, Dock 1 Users Guide (1993), First Edition, page 3-4. Another type of security systems is designed for specific manufacturer's product. In general, these systems utilize screws, holes or other features that are specific to a particular product, thus cannot be used for other products which are used for similar purposes but made by other manufacturers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention features a securing device for releasably securing a movable article to a stationary or non-stationary supporting object. The securing device forms at least one releasable vacuum coupling between the movable article and the supporting object. The securing device includes a contact member with at least one vacuum coupler arranged to form a vacuum coupling with the supporting object, and at least one releasable coupler arranged to form a releasable coupling with the movable article. The securing device also includes a securing member arranged to create vacuum for the vacuum coupling. The invention also features a method of releasably securing the movable article to the stationary or non-stationary supporting object by employing the securing device described above.

I. SECURING DEVICE FOR EQUIPMENT In one aspect of the invention, a vacuum-coupling securing device of a stand-alone type secures mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination to a stationary or non-stationary supporting object. The vacuum-coupling securing device generally includes a contact member with at least one vacuum coupler arranged to form a first vacuum coupling on the supporting object, and at least one releasable coupler arranged to form a releasable coupling with the equipment.

The securing device further includes a securing member arranged to create vacuum for the first vacuum coupling, thereby releasably securing the equipment to the supporting object.

The vacuum-coupling securing device for securing mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination to a supporting object

offers numerous advantages. The securing device can form a vacuum coupling with any supporting object on which the securing device can form a confined, air-tight contact space. Accordingly, the vacuum-coupling securing device can secure the equipment to any object having either a flat or a curved surface, as long as the securing device employs the contact member having suitable shape, size, and physical properties. The vacuum-coupling securing device does not require the supporting object to have on its surface any special structure which couples with the securing device.

For example, the supporting object does not need on its surface any male or female fitting receiving or receivable by the securing device. There is no need to use adhesives or to drill a hole for a nail, screw, or bolt. Therefore, the securing device can be used without temporarily or permanently damaging the surface of the supporting object.

The vacuum coupling between the securing device and the supporting object is entirely reversible. Upon releasing the vacuum from the vacuum coupling, the securing device is released from the surface of the supporting object without leaving any mark of attachment on the surface of the supporting object. The vacuum-coupling securing device can be made not any bigger than the equipment to be secured. By appropriately arranging the releasable coupling with the equipment, the securing device can be made at most as long or as wide as the equipment itself. The contact member of the securing device can also be made to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of the equipment such that the area required to secure the equipment on the surface of the supporting object is less than the area occupied by the equipment itself. There is no need for any structural component, such as a strap and chain which extend out of the securing device. Accordingly, the user can make the most

use of the rest of the surface of the supporting object for other useful purposes.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The vacuum coupler of the contact member includes at least one first contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on a surface of the supporting object, and which is arranged to form a confined first contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the first contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object. The securing member of the securing device is arranged to discharge air from the first contact space.

The releasable coupler of the contact member may include a second contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on a surface of the equipment, and which is arranged to form a confined second contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the second contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the equipment.

The releasable coupler may also include a first coupling mechanism which is arranged to form the releasable coupling with a contacting portion of the equipment. The securing member of the securing device may also be arranged to discharge air from the second contact space.

The first and/or second contact pad may be arranged to have a changeable shape responsive to a pressure difference applied across the first and/or second contact pad. The first and/or second contact pad may be arranged to be releasably connected to the vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler. Such an arrangement enables the vacuum- coupling securing device to be applicable to any object and/or equipment having either a flat or a curved surface, as long as the securing device employs the first and/or

second contact pad with suitable shape, size, and physical characteristics. The first and/or second contact pad may include, on its inner surface, at least one protrusion around a center of the first and/or second contact space.

The protrusion may be arranged to form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object and/or the surface of the equipment, thereby forming separate vacuum zones across the protrusion. The securing member is arranged to create vacuums in the vacuum zones. This arrangement ensures the securing device to have multiple vacuum zones within the first and/or second contact space with identical or varying degrees of vacuum, thereby providing the securing device with multiple lines of defense against an unauthorized physical intrusion into the first and/or second contact space. The first and/or second contact pad may be arranged to have differential stiffness increasing from an outer portion to an inner portion of the first and/or second contact pad, and the securing member creates vacuums in the vacuum zones sequentially from an outer vacuum zone to an inner vacuum zone of the first and/or second contact pad.

The vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler may include at least one pad guard disposed external to the first and/or second contact pad, such that the pad guard blocks an access to the first and/or second contact pad therethrough. The pad guard may be arranged to retract into and extend out of the vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler. Instead of providing a single pad guard, multiple pad guards may be disposed external to the first and/or second contact pad at varying distances. The vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler may also include at least one guard path disposed around the first and/or second contact space. The guard path may be arranged to retain at least a portion of the pad guard therein, and the pad guard may be

arranged to move along the guard path. This arrangement enables the user to selectively position the first and/or second contact pad at a high risk region which is most vulnerable to the unauthorized intrusion.

The first coupling mechanism of the releasable coupler may include a male fitting arranged to be receivable by a female fitting of the contacting portion of the equipment, and/or a female fitting arranged to receive a male fitting of the contacting portion of the equipment. In addition, the male and/or female fitting may be arranged to be adjustable in its width, length, depth, thickness, height, and/or radius. Therefore, the securing device may be made not any bigger than the equipment itself, thereby allowing the user to make the best use of the surface of the supporting object for other useful purposes. The securing device and/or equipment may also include a locking mechanism which is arranged to releasably secure the releasable coupling.

The securing member includes an air pumping mechanism arranged to discharge air from the first and/or second contact space, and an air pathway in fluid communication with the air pumping mechanism and the first and/or second contact space. The air pathway may include at least one air flow regulator arranged to prevent retrograde flow of air into the first and/or second contact space.

Alternatively, when the equipment includes an air transporting mechanism, a nozzle is disposed at a downstream of the air transporting mechanism, and the first and/or second contact space is arranged to be in fluid communication with a low-pressure region formed adjacent to the nozzle. By utilizing the air transporting mechanism of the equipment, the size and manufacturing cost of the securing device can be reduced.

The securing device and/or equipment may further include a release member, at least a portion of which is disposed adjacent to the air pathway, and arranged to release the vacuum from the first and/or second contact space. The release member may be arranged to provide fluid communication between atmospheric air and the first and/or second contact space. The release member may also be arranged to be manually manipulated by an user to provide fluid communication between atmospheric air and the first and/or second contact space. Alternatively, the release member may be arranged to manipulate the securing member to supply its exhaust gas to the first and/or second contact space. These arrangements allow the vacuum coupling to be released without leaving any mark of attachment on the surface of the supporting object.

The securing device and/or equipment may include a control member which has at least one of a monitoring mechanism monitoring a first operation of the securing device and/or equipment, an input module receiving an user input, and a control algorithm generating a control command signal to control a second operation of the securing device and/or equipment. The first and second operations may or may not be identical operations. The control algorithm is arranged to generate the control command signal based on the first operation and/or user input. Examples of the first and second operations include a vacuum-engaging operation in the first and/or second contact space, and a vacuum-release operation from the first and/or second contact space. The control member may be arranged to communicate with the securing device and/or equipment by sending and receiving a signal such as a mechanical, electrical, electromagnetic, and optical signal. The control member may also include at least one sensing mechanism monitoring pressure in the first

and/or second contact space. The control member may manipulate the securing member to stop its vacuum-engaging operation when the pressure in the first and/or second contact space decreases below a first preselected value, and to manipulate the securing member to start its vacuum- engaging operation when the pressure in the first and/or second contact space is above a second preselected value.

The control member may also include at least one sensing mechanism which is arranged to monitor at least one of a distance between the supporting object and a portion of the securing device and/or equipment, force exerted on the sensing mechanism, and/or pressure in the first and/or second contact space. When the distance, force, and/or pressure falls within a preselected range, the control member then manipulates the securing member to automatically start the vacuum-engaging operation thereof. This arrangement allows the user to quickly secure the securing device and/or equipment on the supporting object without going through a multi-step procedure for manipulating the securing member to initiate the vacuum-engaging operation.

The securing device and/or equipment may include at least one of the first, second, and third security members.

The first security member includes a first sensing mechanism and a first alarm mechanism. The first sensing mechanism receives an external signal and compares the external signal with a preselected release code, and to manipulate the first alarm mechanism to give off an alarm signal when the external signal does not match the preselected release code.

The second security member includes a second sensing mechanism and a second alarm mechanism. The second sensing mechanism monitors an unauthorized attempt to release the vacuum from the first and/or second contact space, and manipulates the second alarm mechanism to give off an alarm

signal upon detecting such an attempt. The third security member includes a third sensing mechanism and a third alarm mechanism. The third sensing mechanism monitors an unauthorized movement of the securing device and/or equipment, and manipulates the third alarm mechanism to give off an alarm signal upon detecting such movement. The first sensing mechanism may be arranged to manipulate the release member to release the vacuum from the first and/or second contact space when the external signal matches the preselected release code. The first, second, and third security members may be arranged to be armed and disarmed by an user. Furthermore, the securing device and/or equipment may also include an auto-securing mechanism which is arranged to automatically engage a vacuum-engaging operation of the securing member to create vacuum in the first and/or second contact space, when an user does not use the equipment for a period longer than a preselected time interval, or at a specific time selected by an user.

The contact member may be arranged to include a main body, at least one extendable unit, and at least one connection member. The extendable unit may include at least one vacuum coupler and/or at least one releasable coupler.

The extendable unit may be arranged to extend out of the contact member, and to form at least one first and/or second contact space. The connection member connects the extendable unit to the main body of the contact member, and provides fluid communication between the securing member and the first and/or second contact space. The connection member may be arranged to be retained inside the securing device when not in use. The control member may be arranged to monitor an operation of the first and/or second contact space. Furthermore, vacuum may be engaged and disengaged in

the first and/or second contact space independently of at least one of the other first and/or second contact space.

Alternatively, the securing device may be arranged to include at least one extendable member and at least one connection member. The extendable member may be arranged to extend out of the securing device, and to include at least one third contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object and/or equipment. The third contact pad is arranged to form a third contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the third contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object and/or equipment. The connection member connects the extendable unit to the securing device and provides fluid communication between the third contact member and the securing member. The securing member is arranged to discharge air from the third contact space. The control member may be arranged to monitor an operation of at least one third contact space. Furthermore, vacuum may be engaged and disengaged in at least one third contact space independently of at least one of the other third contact spaces. These arrangements allow the user to secure the equipment on a supporting object without a horizontal surface or having a horizontal but grooved or perforated surface, as long as the supporting object has another non-horizontal, and non-grooved or non-perforated surface elsewhere. These arrangements also allow the securing device to secure multiple equipment to the surface (s) of the supporting object, or alternatively to secure the equipment using multiple vacuum couplings.

The securing device and/or equipment may also be arranged that at least a portion of the contact member and/or securing member is disposed at the equipment. This arrangement enables an optimal distribution of the

components of the securing device, and to avoid redundant implementation of the components which already exist at the equipment.

In another aspect of the invention, a securing device secures mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination to a surface of a supporting object. The securing device generally includes a contact member arranged to form a releasable coupling with at least one of the equipment, and to form a first contact space on the surface of the supporting object. The securing device further includes a securing member arranged to create vacuum in the first contact space.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The contact member includes at least one first contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object, and to form the first contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the first contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object. The contact member may also include a second contact pad and/or a first coupling mechanism. The second contact pad is arranged to form an air-tight seal on a surface of the equipment, and to form a second contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the second contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the equipment. The first coupling mechanism is arranged to form the releasable coupling with a contacting portion of the equipment. The securing member is arranged to discharge air from the second contact space.

In yet another aspect, the invention features a method of securing mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, and their combination to a stationary or non-stationary supporting object by a securing

device including a contact member with at least one vacuum coupler and at least one releasable coupler, and a securing member arranged to create vacuum in a confined space. The method includes forming a first vacuum coupling between the vacuum coupler of the contact member and the supporting object, and forming a releasable coupling between the equipment and the releasable coupler of the contact member.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The first vacuum coupling is formed by positioning a first contact portion of the vacuum coupler on a surface of the supporting object, by forming a confined first contact space within the first contact portion by providing an air- tight seal around the first contact portion of the vacuum coupler, and by discharging air from the first contact space by the securing member.

The releasable coupling may be formed by forming a second vacuum coupling between the releasable coupler and the equipment by positioning a first contact portion of the releasable coupler on a surface of the equipment, by providing an air-tight seal around the first contact portion of the releasable coupler, by forming a confined second contact space within the first contact portion of the releasable coupler, and by discharging air from the second contact space by the securing member. The releasable coupling may also be formed by coupling a second contact portion of the releasable coupler with the contacting portion of the equipment. The first and/or second vacuum coupling may be formed by replaceably connecting the first contact portion of the vacuum coupler to the rest of the vacuum coupler, and/or by replaceably connecting the first contact portion of the releasable coupler to the rest of the releasable coupler.

The first and/or second vacuum coupling may also be formed by protruding at least a portion of an inner surface of the first contact portion of the vacuum coupler and/or the first contact portion of the releasable coupler, by providing an air-tight seal around the protruded portion, and by forming multiple separate air-tight vacuum zones by creating vacuums in each of the vacuum zones. Vacuums may be formed in the vacuum zones sequentially from an outer vacuum zone to an inner vacuum zone of at least one of the first contact portions. The first and/or second vacuum coupling may be provided by positioning at least one pad guard external to and around at least one of the first contact portions, and by blocking an access to at least one of the first contact portions. The pad guard may be positioned by retracting and extending it into and out of the vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler, and by adjusting a height of a portion of the pad guard exposed between the contact member and the supporting object and/or equipment. The pad guard may be positioned at a desirable position by providing at least one guard path around the first and/or second contact space, by arranging the guard path to retain at least a portion of the pad guard, and by moving the pad guard along the guard path.

The releasable coupling may be formed by providing the second contact portion of the releasable coupler with a male and/or female fitting, and by coupling the male and/or female fitting of the releasable coupler with a female and/or male fitting of the equipment. The releasable coupling may also be formed by adjusting a dimension of the male and/or female fitting of the releasable coupler and/or contacting portion of the equipment.

Air is discharged from the first and/or second contact space by the air pumping mechanism of the securing

member. Air may also be discharged from the first and/or second contact space by providing the equipment with an air transporting mechanism, by disposing a nozzle at a downstream of the air transporting mechanism, by generating a low pressure region adjacent to the nozzle, and by providing fluid communication between the low-pressure region and the first and/or second contact space.

The vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler may be released from the surface of the supporting object and/or equipment by releasing vacuum from the first and/or second contact space. Vacuum may be removed by providing fluid communication between atmospheric air and the first and/or second contact space. Vacuum may also be removed by supplying an exhaust gas of the securing member to the first and/or contact space.

Operations of the securing device and/or equipment may be controlled by monitoring a first operation of the equipment and/or securing device, by receiving an user input by the equipment and/or securing device, by generating a control command signal by a control algorithm provided at the equipment and/or securing device, and by controlling a second operation of the equipment and/or securing device based on the first operation, the user input, and/or the control command signal.

Vacuum developed in the first and/or second contact space may be protected by detecting a preselected event and generating an alarm signal. The preselected event may include supplying an invalid release command to release the equipment and/or securing device from the surface of the supporting object and/or securing device, an unauthorized attempt to release the vacuum from the first and/or second contact space, and an unauthorized attempt to move the

equipment and/or securing device from the surface of the supporting object and/or securing device.

The first and/or second vacuum coupling may be formed by providing the contact member with at least one extendable unit which is mechanically coupled to the contact member and in fluid communication with the securing member, by extending the extendable unit from the contact member to the surface of the supporting object and/or equipment, and by forming the first and/or second vacuum coupling. Vacuum may be engaged and disengaged in at least one of the first and/or second vacuum coupling independently of the other first and/or second vacuum coupling.

In addition, at least a portion of the contact member and/or the securing member of the securing device may be disposed at the equipment.

In yet another aspect, the invention also features a method of securing mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination to a surface of a supporting object. A securing device generally includes at least one contact member arranged to form at least one releasable coupling and a securing member arranged to create vacuum in a confined space. The method includes forming at least one releasable coupling between the equipment and the contact member of the securing device, and forming at least one first contact space between the contact member of the securing device and surface of the supporting object.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The first contact space may be formed by providing the contact member with at least one first contact pad, by forming an air-tight seal around the first contact pad, and by forming the first contact space between at least a

portion of an inner surface of the first contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object.

The releasable coupling may be formed by providing the contact member with at least one second contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on a surface of the equipment, and which is arranged to form a second contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the second contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the equipment. The releasable coupling may also be formed by coupling the first coupling portion of the contact member with a contacting portion of the equipment. The securing member is arranged to discharge air from the second contact space.

II. SELF-SECURING EQUIPMENT In another aspect of the invention, mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination secures itself to a stationary or non- stationary supporting object. The self-securing equipment generally includes a contact member with at least one vacuum coupler arranged to form a first vacuum coupling on the supporting object. The self-securing equipment further includes a securing member arranged to create vacuum for the vacuum coupling, thereby releasably securing itself to the supporting object.

The self-securing mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination offers numerous advantages. The self-securing equipment can form a vacuum coupling with any supporting object on which the equipment can form a confined, air-tight contact space.

Accordingly, the self-securing equipment can secure itself to any object having either a flat or a curved surface, as long as the equipment employs the contact member having

suitable shape, size, and physical properties. The self- securing equipment does not require the supporting object to have on its surface any special structure which couples with the equipment. For example, the supporting object does not need on its surface any male or female fitting receiving or receivable by the equipment. There is no need to use adhesives or to drill a hole for a nail, screw, or bolt.

Therefore, the self-securing equipment can be used without temporarily or permanently damaging the surface of the supporting object. The vacuum coupling between the equipment and the supporting object is entirely reversible.

Upon releasing the vacuum from the vacuum coupling, the self-securing equipment is released from the surface of the supporting object without leaving any mark of attachment on the surface of the supporting object. The self-securing equipment can be made not any bigger than other similar equipment without the self-securing arrangement. The contacting portion of the self-securing equipment can also be made to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of the equipment such that the area required to secure the equipment on the surface of the supporting object is less than the area occupied by the equipment itself. There is no need for any structural component, such as a strap and chain which extend out of the equipment. Accordingly, the user can make the most use of the rest of the surface of the supporting object for other useful purposes.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The vacuum coupler of the contact member includes at least one first contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on a surface of the supporting object, and which is arranged to form a confined first contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the first

contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object. The securing member is arranged to discharge air from the first contact space.

The first contact pad may be arranged to have changeable shape responsive to a pressure difference applied across the first contact pad. The first contact pad may be arranged to be releasably connected to the vacuum coupler.

Such an arrangement enables the self-securing equipment to be applicable to any object having either a flat or a curved surface as long as the self-securing equipment employs the first contact pad with suitable shape, size, and physical characteristics. The first contact pad may include, on its inner surface, at least one protrusion around a center of the first contact space. The protrusion may be arranged to form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object, thereby forming separate vacuum zones across the protrusion. The securing member is arranged to create vacuums in the vacuum zones. This arrangement ensures the self-securing equipment to have multiple vacuum zones within the first contact space with identical or varying degrees of vacuum, thereby providing the self-securing equipment with multiple lines of defense against an unauthorized physical intrusion into the first contact space. The first contact pad may be arranged to have differential stiffness increasing from an outer portion to an inner portion of the first contact pad, and the securing member creates vacuums in the vacuum zones sequentially from an outer vacuum zone to an inner vacuum zone of the first contact pad.

The vacuum coupler may include at least one pad guard disposed external to the first contact pad, such that the pad guard blocks an access to the first contact pad therethrough. The pad guard may be arranged to retract into and extend out of the vacuum coupler. Instead of providing

a single pad guard, a plurality of pad guards may be disposed external to the first contact pad at varying distances. The vacuum coupler may also include at least one guard path disposed around the first contact space. The guard path may be arranged to retain at least a portion of the pad guard therein, and the pad guard may be arranged to move along the guard path. This arrangement enables the user to selectively position the first contact pad at a high risk region which is most vulnerable to the unauthorized intrusion.

The securing member includes an air pumping mechanism arranged to discharge air from the first contact space, and an air pathway in fluid communication with the air pumping mechanism and the first contact space. The air pathway may include at least one air flow regulator arranged to prevent retrograde flow of air into the first contact space. Alternatively, when the equipment includes an air transporting mechanism, a nozzle is disposed at a downstream of the air transporting mechanism, and the first contact space is arranged to be in fluid communication with a low- pressure region formed adjacent to the nozzle. By replacing the air pumping mechanism by the air transporting mechanism of the equipment, the size and manufacturing cost of the self-securing equipment can be reduced.

The self-securing equipment may further include a release member, at least a portion of which is disposed adjacent to the air pathway, and arranged to release the vacuum from the first contact space. The release member may be arranged to provide fluid communication between atmospheric air and the first contact space. The release member may also be arranged to be manually manipulated by an user to provide fluid communication between atmospheric air and the first contact space. Alternatively, the release

member may be arranged to manipulate the securing member to supply its exhaust gas to the first contact space. These arrangements allow the vacuum coupling to be released without leaving any mark of attachment on the surface of the supporting object.

The self-securing equipment may include a control member which has at least one of a monitoring mechanism monitoring a first operation of the equipment, an input module receiving an user input, and a control algorithm generating a control command signal to control a second operation of the equipment. The first and second operations may or may not be identical operations. The control algorithm is arranged to generate the control command signal based on the first operation and/or user input. Examples of the first and second operations include a vacuum-engaging operation in the first contact space, and a vacuum-release operation from the first contact space. The control member may also include at least one sensing mechanism monitoring pressure in the first contact space. The control member may manipulate the securing member to stop its vacuum-engaging operation when the pressure in the first contact space decreases below a first preselected value, and to manipulate the securing member to start its vacuum-engaging operation when the pressure in the first contact space is above a second preselected value. The control member may also include at least one sensing mechanism which is arranged to monitor at least one of a distance between the supporting object and a portion of the self-securing equipment, force exerted on the sensing mechanism, and/or pressure in the first contact space. When the distance, force, and/or pressure falls within a preselected range, the control member then manipulates the securing member to automatically start the vacuum-engaging operation thereof. This

arrangement allows the user to quickly secure the self- securing equipment on the supporting object without going through a multi-step procedure for manipulating the securing member to initiate the vacuum-engaging operation.

The self-securing equipment may include at least one of the first, second, and third securing members. The first security member includes a first sensing mechanism and a first alarm mechanism. The first sensing mechanism receives an external signal and compares the external signal with a preselected release code, and to manipulate the first alarm mechanism to give off an alarm signal when the external signal does not match the preselected release code. The second security member includes a second sensing mechanism and a second alarm mechanism. The second sensing mechanism monitors an unauthorized attempt to release the vacuum from the first contact space, and manipulates the second alarm mechanism to give off an alarm signal upon detecting such an attempt. The third security member includes a third sensing mechanism and a third alarm mechanism. The third sensing mechanism monitors an unauthorized movement of the self- securing equipment, and manipulates the third alarm mechanism to give off an alarm signal upon detecting such movement. The first sensing mechanism may be arranged to manipulate the release member to release the vacuum from the first contact space when the external signal matches the preselected release code. The first, second, and third security members may be arranged to be armed and disarmed by an user. Furthermore, the self-securing equipment may also include an auto-securing mechanism which is arranged to automatically engage a vacuum-engaging operation of the securing member to create vacuum in the first contact space, when an user does not use the equipment for a period longer

than a preselected time interval, or at a specific time selected by an user.

The contact member may be arranged to include a main body, at least one extendable unit, and at least one connection member. The extendable unit may include at least one vacuum coupler. The extendable unit may be arranged to extend out of the contact member, and to form at least one first contact space. The connection member connects the extendable unit to the main body of the contact member, and provides fluid communication between the securing member and the first contact space. The connection member may be arranged to be retained inside the self-securing equipment when not in use. The control member may be arranged to monitor an operation of the first contact space.

Furthermore, vacuum may be engaged and disengaged in at least one first contact space independently of at least one of the other first contact spaces.

Alternatively, the self-securing equipment may be arranged to include at least one extendable member and at least one connection member. The extendable member may be arranged to extend out of the equipment, and to include at least one third contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object. The third contact pad is arranged to form a third contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the third contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object. The connection member connects the extendable unit to the equipment and provides fluid communication between the third contact member and the securing member. The securing member is arranged to discharge air from the third contact space. The control member may be arranged to monitor an operation of at least one of the third contact spaces. Furthermore, vacuum may be

engaged and disengaged in at least one third contact space independently of at least one of the other third contact spaces. These arrangements allow the user to secure the equipment on a supporting object without a horizontal surface or having a horizontal but grooved or perforated surface, as long as the supporting object has another non- horizontal, and non-grooved or non-perforated surface elsewhere. These arrangements also allow the self-securing equipment to form multiple vacuum couplings.

The self-securing equipment may also be arranged that at least a portion of the contact member and/or securing member is detachably disposed at the equipment.

This arrangement enables an user to detach unnecessary components from the equipment when the user does not intend to secure the equipment, thereby making the equipment lighter and more compact.

In another aspect of the invention, mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination secures itself to a surface of a supporting object. The self-securing equipment generally includes a contact member arranged to form a first contact space on the surface of the supporting object. The self- securing equipment further includes a securing member arranged to create vacuum in the first contact space.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The contact member includes a first contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object, and to form the first contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the first contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object.

In yet another aspect, the invention features a method of providing self-securing mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination which secures itself to a stationary or non- stationary supporting object. The self-securing equipment includes a contact member with at least one vacuum coupler, and a securing member arranged to create vacuum in a confined space. The method includes forming a first vacuum coupling between the vacuum coupler of the contact member and the supporting object.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The first vacuum coupling is formed by positioning a first contact portion of the vacuum coupler on a surface of the supporting object, by forming a confined first contact space within the first contact portion by providing an air- tight seal around the first contact portion of the vacuum coupler, and by discharging air from the first contact space by the securing member. The first vacuum coupling may be formed by replaceably connecting the first contact portion of the vacuum coupler to the rest of the vacuum coupler.

The first vacuum coupling may also be formed by protruding at least a portion of an inner surface of the first contact portion of the vacuum coupler, by providing an air-tight seal around the protruded portion, and by forming a plurality of separate air-tight vacuum zones by creating vacuums in each of the vacuum zones. Vacuums may be formed in the vacuum zones sequentially from an outer vacuum zone to an inner vacuum zone of the first contact portion. The first vacuum coupling may be protected by positioning at least one pad guard external to and around the first contact portion of the vacuum coupler, and by blocking an access to the first contact portion. The pad guard may be positioned

by retracting and extending it into and out of the vacuum coupler, and by adjusting a height of a portion of the pad guard exposed between the contact member and the supporting object. The pad guard may be positioned at a desirable position by providing at least one guard path around the first contact space, by arranging the guard path to retain at least a portion of the pad guard, and by moving the pad guard along the guard path.

Air is discharged from the first contact space by the air pumping mechanism of the securing member. Air may also be discharged from the first contact space by providing the equipment with an air transporting mechanism, by disposing a nozzle at downstream of the air transporting mechanism, by generating a low pressure region adjacent to the nozzle, and by providing fluid communication between the low-pressure region and the first contact space.

The vacuum coupler may be released from the surface of the supporting object by releasing vacuum from the first contact space. Vacuum may be removed by providing fluid communication between atmospheric air and the first contact space. Vacuum may also be removed by supplying an exhaust gas of the securing member to the first contact space.

Operations of the self-securing equipment may be controlled by monitoring a first operation of the equipment, by receiving an user input, by generating a control command signal by a control algorithm, and by controlling a second operation of the equipment based on the first operation, the user input, and/or the control command signal.

Vacuum developed in the first contact space may be protected by detecting a preselected event and generating an alarm signal. The preselected event may include supplying an invalid release command to release the equipment from the surface of the supporting object, an unauthorized attempt to

release the vacuum from the first contact space, and an unauthorized attempt to move the equipment from the surface of the supporting object.

The first vacuum coupling may be formed by providing the contact member with at least one extendable unit which is mechanically coupled to the contact member and in fluid communication with the securing member, by extending the extendable unit from the contact member to the surface of the supporting object, and by forming at least one first vacuum coupling. Vacuum may be engaged and disengaged in at least one first vacuum coupling independently of the other first vacuum coupling.

In yet another aspect, the invention features a method of providing mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination which secures itself to a surface of a supporting object. The self-securing equipment generally includes a contact member arranged to form at least one vacuum coupling and a securing member arranged to create vacuum in a confined space. The method includes forming a first contact space between the contact member of the securing device and the surface of the supporting object.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The vacuum coupling may be formed by providing the contact member with at least one first contact pad, by forming an air-tight seal around the first contact pad, and by forming the first contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the first contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object.

The securing member is arranged to discharge air from the first contact space.

III. SECURING DEVICE FOR MOVABLE ARTICLES In yet another aspect of the invention, a vacuum- coupling securing device secures a movable article to a stationary or non-stationary supporting object. The vacuum- coupling securing device generally includes a contact member with at least one vacuum coupler arranged to form a first vacuum coupling with the supporting object, and at least one releasable coupler arranged to form a releasable coupling with the movable article. The securing device further includes a securing member arranged to create vacuum for the first vacuum coupling, thereby releasably securing the movable article to the supporting object. The movable articles may include an article which is to be displayed, an article which is to be stored, an article which is to be transported, an article which is to be retained, an article which is to be held, and/or a component of an entrance structure. The releasable coupler is arranged to form the releasable coupling with at least one of the articles and/or a structure arranged to hold or retain the articles.

Examples of the movable articles may also include an art work, gem, jewelry, ornament, valuable article of commerce, portable mechanical, electrical, and computer equipment, door, and a window.

The vacuum-coupling securing device for securing the movable article offers numerous advantages. The securing device can form a vacuum coupling with any supporting object on which the securing device can form a confined, air-tight contact space. Accordingly, the vacuum-coupling securing device can secure the movable article to any object having either a flat or a curved surface, as long as the securing device employs the contact member having suitable shape, size, and physical properties. The vacuum-coupling securing device does not require the supporting object to have on its

surface any special structure which couples with the securing device. For example, the supporting object does not need on its surface any male or female fitting receiving or receivable by the securing device. There is no need to use adhesives or to drill a hole for a nail, screw, or bolt.

Therefore, the securing device can be used without temporarily or permanently damaging the surface of the supporting object. The vacuum coupling between the securing device and the supporting object is entirely reversible.

Upon releasing the vacuum from the vacuum coupling, the securing device is released from the surface of the supporting object without leaving any mark of attachment on the surface of the supporting object. The vacuum-coupling securing device may be made not any bigger than the movable article to be secured. By appropriately arranging the releasable coupling with the movable article, the securing device can be made at most as long or as wide as the movable article itself. The contact member of the securing device can also be made to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of the movable article such that the area required to secure the movable article on the surface of the supporting object is less than the area occupied by the movable article itself. There is no need for any structural component, such as a strap and chain which extend out of the securing device. Accordingly, the user can make the most use of the rest of the surface of the supporting object for other useful purposes.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The vacuum coupler of the contact member includes at least one fourth contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on a surface of the supporting object, and which is arranged to form a confined fourth contact space

between at least a portion of an inner surface of the fourth contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object. The securing member of the securing device is arranged to discharge air from the fourth contact space.

The releasable coupler of the contact member may include a fifth contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on a surface of the movable article, and which is arranged to form a confined fifth contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the fifth contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the movable article. The releasable coupler may also include a fourth coupling mechanism which is arranged to form the releasable coupling with a contacting portion of the movable article. The securing member of the securing device may also be arranged to discharge air from the fifth contact space.

The fourth and/or fifth contact pad may be arranged to have changeable shape responsive to a pressure difference applied across the fourth and/or fifth contact pad. The fourth and/or fifth contact pad may be arranged to be releasably connected to the vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler. Such an arrangement enables the vacuum-coupling securing device to be applicable to any object and/or movable article having either a flat or a curved surface, as long as the securing device employs the fourth and/or fifth contact pad with suitable shape, size, and physical characteristics. The fourth and/or the fifth contact pad may include, on its inner surface, at least one protrusion around a center of the fourth and/or fifth contact space.

The protrusion may be arranged to form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object and/or the surface of the movable article, thereby forming separate vacuum zones

across the protrusion. The securing member is arranged to create vacuums in the vacuum zones. This arrangement ensures the securing device to have multiple vacuum zones within the fourth and/or fifth contact space with identical or varying degrees of vacuum, thereby providing the securing device with multiple lines of defense against an unauthorized physical intrusion into the fourth and/or fifth contact space. The fourth and/or fifth contact pad may be arranged to have differential stiffness increasing from an outer portion to an inner portion of the fourth and/or fifth contact pad, and the securing member creates vacuums in the vacuum zones sequentially from an outer vacuum zone to an inner vacuum zone of the fourth and/or fifth contact pad.

The vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler may include at least one pad guard disposed external to the fourth and/or fifth contact pad, such that the pad guard blocks an access to the fourth and/or fifth contact pad therethrough. The pad guard may be arranged to retract into and extend out of the vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler. Instead of providing a single pad guard, multiple pad guards may be disposed external to the fourth and/or fifth contact pad at varying distances. The vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler may also include at least one guard path disposed around the fourth and/or fifth contact space. The guard path may be arranged to retain at least a portion of the pad guard therein, and the pad guard may be arranged to move along the guard path. This arrangement enables the user to selectively position the fourth and/or fifth contact pad at a high risk region which is most vulnerable to the unauthorized intrusion.

The fourth coupling mechanism of the releasable coupler may include a male fitting arranged to be receivable by a female fitting of the contacting portion of the movable

article, and/or a female fitting arranged to receive a male fitting of the contacting portion of the movable article.

In addition, the male and/or female fitting of the releasable coupler and/or movable article may be arranged to be adjustable in its width, length, depth, thickness, height, and/or radius. Therefore, the securing device may be made not any bigger than the movable article itself, thereby allowing the user to make the best use of the surface of the supporting object for other useful purposes.

The securing device and/or movable article may also include a locking mechanism which is arranged to releasably secure the releasable coupling.

The securing member includes an air pumping mechanism arranged to discharge air from the fourth and/or fifth contact space, and an air pathway in fluid communication with the air pumping mechanism and the fourth and/or fifth contact space. The air pathway may include at least one air flow regulator arranged to prevent retrograde flow of air into the fourth and/or fifth contact space.

Alternatively, the movable article may include an air transporting mechanism and a nozzle. The nozzle is disposed at downstream of the air transporting mechanism, and the fourth and/or fifth contact space is arranged to be in fluid communication with a low-pressure region formed adjacent to the nozzle. By utilizing the air transporting mechanism of the equipment, the size and manufacturing cost of the securing device can be reduced.

The securing device may include a release member, at least a portion of which is disposed adjacent to the air pathway, and arranged to release the vacuum from the fourth and/or fifth contact space. The release member may be arranged to provide fluid communication between atmospheric air and the fourth and/or fifth contact space. The release

member may also be arranged to be manually manipulated by an user to provide fluid communication between atmospheric air and the fourth and/or fifth contact space. Alternatively, the release member may be arranged to manipulate the securing member to supply its exhaust gas to the fourth and/or fifth contact space. These arrangements allow the vacuum coupling to be released without leaving any mark of attachment on the surface of the supporting object.

The securing device may include a control member which has at least one of a monitoring mechanism monitoring a first operation of at least one of the securing device and movable article, an input module receiving an user input, and a control algorithm generating a control command signal to control a second operation of at least one of the securing device and/or movable article. The first and second operations may or may not be identical operations.

The control algorithm is arranged to generate the control command signal based on at least one of the first operation and the user input. Examples of the first and second operations include a vacuum-engaging operation in the fourth and/or fifth contact space, and a vacuum-release operation from the fourth and/or fifth contact space. The control member may also include at least one sensing mechanism monitoring pressure in the fourth and/or fifth contact space. The control member may manipulate the securing member to stop its vacuum-engaging operation when the pressure in the fourth and/or fifth contact space decreases below a first preselected value, and to manipulate the securing member to start its vacuum-engaging operation when the pressure in the fourth and/or fifth contact space is above a second preselected value. The control member may also include at least one sensing mechanism which is arranged to monitor at least one of a distance between the

supporting object and a portion of the securing device and/or movable article, force exerted on the sensing mechanism, and/or pressure in the fourth and/or fifth contact space. When the distance, force, and/or pressure falls within a preselected range, the control member then manipulates the securing member to automatically start the vacuum-engaging operation thereof. This arrangement allows the user to quickly secure the self-securing equipment on the supporting object without going through a multi-step procedure for manipulating the securing member to initiate the vacuum-engaging operation.

The securing device and/or movable article may include at least one of the first, second, and third security members. The first security member includes a first sensing mechanism and a first alarm mechanism. The first sensing mechanism receives an external signal and compares the external signal with a preselected release code, and to manipulate the first alarm mechanism to give off an alarm signal when the external signal does not match the preselected release code. The second security member includes a second sensing mechanism and a second alarm mechanism. The second sensing mechanism monitors an unauthorized attempt to release the vacuum from the fourth and/or fifth contact space, and manipulates the second alarm mechanism to give off an alarm signal upon detecting such an attempt. The third security member includes a third sensing mechanism and a third alarm mechanism. The third sensing mechanism monitors an unauthorized movement of the securing device and/or movable article, and manipulates the third alarm mechanism to give off an alarm signal upon detecting such movement. The first sensing mechanism may be arranged to manipulate the release member to release the vacuum from the fourth and/or fifth contact space when the external

signal matches the preselected release code. The first, second, and third security members may be arranged to be armed and disarmed by an user. Furthermore, the securing device and/or movable article may also include an auto- securing mechanism which is arranged to automatically engage a vacuum-engaging operation of the securing member to create vacuum in the fourth and/or fifth contact space when an user does not use or move the movable article for a period longer than a preselected time interval, or at a specific time selected by an user.

The contact member may be arranged to include a main body, at least one extendable unit, and at least one connection member. The extendable unit may include at least one vacuum coupler and/or at least one releasable coupler.

The extendable unit may be arranged to extend out of the contact member, and to form at least one fourth and/or fifth contact space. The connection member connects the extendable unit to the main body of the contact member, and provides fluid communication between the securing member and the fourth and/or fifth contact space. The connection member may be arranged to be retained inside the securing device when not in use. The control member may be arranged to monitor an operation of the fourth and/or fifth contact space. Furthermore, vacuum may be engaged and disengaged in the fourth and/or fifth contact space independently of at least one of the other fourth and/or fifth contact space.

Alternatively, the securing device may be arranged to include at least one extendable member and at least one connection member. The extendable member may be arranged to extend out of the securing device, and to include at least one sixth contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object and/or movable article. The sixth contact pad is arranged to form a

confined sixth contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the sixth contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object and/or movable article. The connection member connects the extendable unit to the securing device and provides fluid communication between the sixth contact member and the securing member. The securing member is arranged to discharge air from the sixth contact space. The control member may be arranged to monitor an operation of at least one sixth contact space. Furthermore, vacuum may be engaged and disengaged in at least one sixth contact space independently of at least one of the other sixth contact spaces. These arrangements allow the user to secure the movable article on a supporting object without a horizontal surface or having a horizontal but grooved or perforated surface, as long as the supporting object has another non- horizontal, and non-grooved or non-perforated surface elsewhere. These arrangements also allow the securing device to secure multiple movable object to the surface (s) of the supporting object, or alternatively to secure the movable article using multiple vacuum couplings.

The securing device and/or movable article may also be arranged that at least a portion of the contact member and/or securing member is disposed at the movable article.

This arrangement enables an optimal distribution of the components of the securing device, and to avoid a redundant implementation of the components which already exist at the movable article.

In another aspect of the invention, a securing device secures a movable article to a surface of a supporting object. The securing device generally includes a contact member arranged to form a releasable coupling with the movable article, and to form a fourth contact space on

the surface of the supporting object. The securing device further includes a securing member arranged to create vacuum in the fourth contact space.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The contact member includes at least one fourth contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object, and to form the fourth contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the fourth contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object. The contact member may further include a fifth contact pad and/or a fourth coupling mechanism. The fifth contact pad is arranged to form an air-tight seal on a surface of the movable article, and to form a fifth contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the fifth contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the movable article. The fourth coupling mechanism is arranged to form the releasable coupling with a contacting portion of the movable article.

The securing member is arranged to discharge air from the fifth contact space.

In yet another aspect, the invention features a method of securing a movable article to a stationary or non- stationary supporting object by a securing device including a contact member with at least one vacuum coupler and at least one releasable coupler, and a securing member arranged to create vacuum in a confined space. The method includes forming a fourth vacuum coupling between the vacuum coupler of the contact member and the supporting object, and forming a releasable coupling between the movable article and the releasable coupler of the contact member. The movable article may include an article which is to be displayed, an article which is to be stored, an article which is to be

transported, an article which is to be retained, an article which is to be held, and/or a component of an entrance structure. The releasable coupler is arranged to form the releasable coupling with at least one of the articles and/or a structure arranged to hold or retain the articles.

Examples of the movable articles may also include an art work, gem, jewelry, ornament, valuable article of commerce, portable mechanical, electrical, or computer equipment, door, and a window.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The fourth vacuum coupling is formed by positioning a fourth contact portion of the vacuum coupler on a surface of the supporting object, by forming a confined fourth contact space within the fourth contact portion by providing an air-tight seal around the fourth contact portion of the vacuum coupler, and by discharging air from the fourth contact space by the securing member.

The releasable coupling may be formed by forming a fifth vacuum coupling between the releasable coupler and the movable article by positioning a first contact portion of the releasable coupler on a surface of the movable article, by providing an air-tight seal around the first contact portion of the releasable coupler, by forming a confined fifth contact space within the first contact portion of the releasable coupler, and by discharging air from the fifth contact space by the securing member. The releasable coupling may also be formed by coupling a second contact portion of the releasable coupler with a contacting portion of the movable article. The fourth and/or fifth vacuum coupling may be formed by replaceably connecting the first contact portion of the vacuum coupler to the rest of the vacuum coupler, and/or by replaceably connecting the second

contact portion of the releasable coupler to the rest of the releasable coupler.

The fourth and/or fifth vacuum coupling may also be formed by protruding at least a portion of an inner surface of the fourth contact portion of the vacuum coupler and/or the first contact portion of the releasable coupler, by providing an air-tight seal around the protruded portion, and by forming multiple separate air-tight vacuum zones by creating vacuums in each of the vacuum zones. Vacuums may be formed in the vacuum zones sequentially from an outer vacuum zone to an inner vacuum zone of the fourth contact portion of the vacuum coupler and/or the first contact portion of the releasable coupler. The fourth and/or fifth vacuum coupling may be provided by positioning at least one pad guard external to and around the fourth contact portion of the vacuum coupler and/or the first contact portion of the releasable coupler, and by blocking an access to at the fourth contact portion of the vacuum coupler and/or the first contact portion of the releasable coupler. The pad guard may be positioned by retracting and extending the pad guard into and out of the vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler, and by adjusting a height of a portion of the pad guard exposed between the contact member and the supporting object and/or movable article. The pad guard may be positioned at a desirable position by providing at least one guard path around the fourth and/or fifth contact space, by arranging the guard path to retain at least a portion of the pad guard, and by moving the pad guard along the guard path.

The releasable coupling may be formed by providing the second contact portion of the releasable coupler with a male and/or female fitting, and by coupling the male and/or female fitting of the releasable coupler with a female and/or male fitting of the movable article. The releasable

coupling may also be formed by adjusting a dimension of the male and/or female fitting of the releasable coupler and/or contacting portion of movable article.

The vacuum coupler and/or releasable coupler may be released from the surface of the supporting object and/or movable article, by removing the vacuum from the fourth and/or fifth contact space. Vacuum may be removed by providing fluid communication between atmospheric air and the fourth and/or fifth contact space. Vacuum may also be removed by supplying an exhaust gas of the securing member to the fourth and/or fifth contact space.

Operations of the securing device and/or movable articles may be controlled by monitoring a first operation of the securing device and/or movable article, by receiving an user input, by generating a control command signal by a control algorithm provided at the securing device and/or movable article, and by controlling a second operation of the securing device and/or movable article based on the first operation, the user input, and/or the control command signal. The first and/or second operations may or may not be identical operations.

Vacuum developed in the fourth and/or fifth contact space may be protected by detecting a preselected event and generating an alarm signal. The preselected event may include supplying an invalid release command to the securing device to release the movable article and/or securing device from the surface of the supporting object and/or securing device, an unauthorized attempt to release the vacuum from the fourth and/or fifth contact space, and an unauthorized attempt to move the movable article and/or securing device from the surface of the supporting object and/or securing device.

The fourth and/or fifth vacuum coupling may be formed by providing the contact member with at least one extendable unit which is mechanically coupled to the contact member and in fluid communication with the securing member, by extending the extendable unit from the contact member to the surface of the supporting object and/or movable article, and by forming the fourth and/or fifth vacuum coupling.

Vacuum may be engaged and disengaged in at least one of the fourth and/or fifth vacuum coupling independently of the other fourth and/or fifth vacuum coupling.

In addition, at least a portion of the contact member and/or the securing member of the securing device may be disposed at the movable article.

In yet another aspect, the invention also features a method of securing a movable article to a surface of a supporting object. A securing device generally includes at least one contact member arranged to form at least one releasable coupling and a securing member arranged to create vacuum in a confined space. The method includes forming at least one releasable coupling between the movable article and the contact member of the securing device, and forming at least one fourth contact space between the contact member of the securing device and a surface of the supporting object.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The fourth contact space may be formed by providing the contact member with at least one fourth contact pad, by forming an air-tight seal around the fourth contact pad, and by forming the fourth contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the fourth contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the supporting object.

The releasable coupling may be formed by providing the

contact member with at least one fifth contact pad which is arranged to form an air-tight seal on a surface of the movable article, and which is arranged to form a fifth contact space between at least a portion of an inner surface of the fifth contact pad and at least a portion of the surface of the movable article. The releasable coupling may also be formed by coupling the first coupling portion of the contact member with a contacting portion of the movable article. The securing member is arranged to discharge air from the fifth contact space.

IV. CONTROL DEVICE FOR SECURING DEVICE In yet another aspect of the invention, a control device controls an operation of a securing device for securing a movable article to a supporting object. The securing device and/or movable article includes a contact member forming at least one vacuum coupling with the supporting object and/or movable article, a securing member including an air pumping mechanism and an air pathway and arranged to create vacuum in a confined space for the vacuum coupling, a release member arranged to release vacuum from the confined space, a security member including an alarm mechanism and arranged to protect vacuum in the confined space, a control valve arranged to form at least one air pathway, and a sensing element monitoring an operation of the securing device and/or movable article. The control device includes at least one of an input member arranged to receive an input signal, a main control processor arranged to generate a control command signal, and an output member arranged to send an output signal to a component of the securing device and/or movable article.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The input member may include at least one of a receiving module arranged to receive an user input, a monitoring module arranged to receive a signal generated by the sensing element, and a control database arranged to store control-related information. The signal may include a mechanical, electrical, electromagnetic, and/or optical signal. The signal may also include an user identification code or a control signal for controlling an operation of the contact member, securing member, release member, security member, control valve, and sensing element of the securing device and/or equipment. The control-related information may be stored in the control database in a read-only mode.

Alternatively, the control-related information stored in the control database may be replaced by another information.

The control-related information may include an optimal set- point of pressure in the confined space, a threshold value for starting a vacuum-engaging operation of the securing member, a threshold value for terminating the vacuum- engaging operation of the securing member, a parameter for the security member to detect an unauthorized intrusion into the confined space, a parameter for the security member to detect an unauthorized movement of the securing device and/or movable article, and a control parameter for the main control processor such as a control gain, control time lag, and time constant. The output member may include at least one of a first control module arranged to control a first operation of the securing member, a second control module arranged to control a second operation of the release member, and a third control module arranged to control a third operation of the security member.

At least one element of the control device may be arranged to send a signal to and/or receive a signal from the other element of the control device, where the examples

of the elements include the receiving module, monitoring module, control database, main control processor, first control module, second control module, and third control module. At least one of the element of the control device may also be arranged to send a signal to and/or receive a signal from an user, the securing device, and the movable article.

The main control processor may include a control algorithm which is arranged to receive a signal from the input member, and to generate the control command signal based the signal from the input member, the control algorithm, and/or the information stored in the control database.

The output member may arranged to receive the control command signal from the main control processor. The first operation may include starting a vacuum-engaging operation of the securing member, terminating the vacuum- engaging operation of the securing member, providing the air pathway by manipulating the control valve, and controlling a suction rate of the securing member. The second operation may include starting a vacuum-releasing operation of the releasing member, terminating the vacuum-releasing operation of the release member, and providing the air pathway by manipulating the control valve. The third operation may include detecting an unauthorized intrusion into the confined space, detecting an unauthorized movement of the securing device and/or movable article, activating the alarm mechanism of the security member, and deactivating the alarm mechanism of the alarm mechanism of the security member.

The control device may be arranged to detect a leak along the air pathway and/or other parts of the securing device and/or equipment by disposing a sensing element along the air pathway and monitoring pressure at the location.

The control device may also include a mock air pathway arranged to provide a mock confined space, and perform a self-diagnosis by running a mock simulation of a vacuum- engaging operation in the mock confined space and/or a vacuum-release operation from the mock confined space. The control device may further include a monitoring member which is arranged to display a echo of the user input, signal generated by the sensing element, control-related information stored in the control database, control command signal generated by the main control processor, and signals transmitted from the output member.

In another aspect, the invention features a method of controlling a securing device for securing a movable article to a supporting object. The securing device and/or movable article may include at least one of a contact member forming at least one vacuum coupling with the supporting object and/or movable article, a securing member including an air pumping mechanism and an air pathway and arranged to create vacuum in a confined space for the vacuum coupling, a release member arranged to release vacuum from the confined space, a security member including an alarm mechanism and arranged to protect vacuum in the confined space, a control valve arranged to form at least one air pathway, and a sensing element monitoring an operation of the securing device and/or movable article. The control steps include at least one of receiving an input signal, generating a control command signal, and sending an output signal to a component of the securing device and/or movable article.

Embodiments of this aspect of the invention may include one or more of the following features.

The step of receiving the input signal may further include at least one of receiving an user input, receiving a signal generated by the sensing element, and retrieving a

signal stored in a control database. The step of retrieving the signal from the control database further includes replacing the signal with a new signal and retrieving the new signal stored in the control database.

The step of sending the output signal may include at least one of sending a first output signal to the securing member, sending a second output signal to the release member, and sending a third output signal to the security member. The steps of receiving and sending the signal may include providing a communication path from one element of the control device to at least one of the other elements of the control device, where the element includes the receiving module, monitoring module, control database, main control processor, first control module, second control module, and the third control module. The steps of receiving and sending the signal may further include providing a communication path from at least one of the element of the control device, the user, the securing device, and the movable article, to at least one of the other of the element of the control device, the user, the securing device, and the movable article.

The step of generating the control command signal may include providing the control device with a control algorithm, and generating the control command signal based on the signal from the input member, control algorithm, and/or information stored in the control database.

The control method may also include providing the control device with at least one sensing element along the air pathway, monitoring pressure at the location, and detecting a leak along the air pathway. The control method may further include providing the control device with at least one mock air-pathway and at least one mock confined space, running a mock simulation of a vacuum-engaging

operation in the mock confined space and/or a vacuum-release operation from the mock confined space, and performing a self-diagnosis. The control method may further include providing the control device with at least one monitoring member, and displaying thereon a echo of the user input, signal generated by the sensing element, control-related information stored in the control database, control command signal generated by the main control processor, and signals transmitted from the output member.

As used herein, the term"non-stationary article"or "movable article"means an article which is movable due to its relatively light weight or relatively small size, and/or any article which is intended to be movable due to the purpose of its application. The"non-stationary article"or "movable article"also includes an article which is secured for prevention of theft, for display, for storage, for handling, and for transportation. Examples of the"non- stationary article"or"movable article"which has the relatively light weight and/or small size and therefore are to be secured include, but are not limited to, a light and/or small article of commerce including art works (for example, painting, photographs, and sculpture), valuable articles (for example, gems, jewelry, antiques, and ornaments), compact or portable equipment, and the above mentioned or other articles which are displayed, retained, or stored and, thus, need to be secured. Examples of the "non-stationary article"or"movable article"which is to be secured due to the purpose of its application include, but are not limited to, an article which is to be secured by a holding structure (for example, an instrument holder, a jewelry holder, and a cup holder), any component of a structure for allowing entrance of people or matter to a space (for example, a door and a window), and an article

which is to be secured by a storage structure (for example, a box, a bucket, and a tray).

As used herein, the term"equipment"means any kind of mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, and their combination which is to be placed on and supported by a"supporting object."The"equipment" includes both portable equipment (for example, a lap-top computer) and stationary equipment (for example, a desk-top computer).

As used herein, a"supporting object"or an"object" is any article having a structural component which is capable of supporting the"non-stationary article"that is placed thereon. Therefore,"supporting object"may support the self-securing"non-stationary article,"or may support the securing device which in turn secures the"non- stationary article. "Accordingly, when the"non-stationary article"is one of mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, and their combination, the "supporting object"supports the"equipment"that is placed thereon, or supports the securing device which is releasably coupled to the"equipment."Thus,"supporting object"or "object"includes any stationary and/or movable object that has a planar and/or curved surface on which the"equipment" and/or the securing device securing the"equipment"is placed. Examples of the stationary"supporting object" includes, but are not limited to a desk, table, shelf, work bench, door, window, floor, wall, ceiling, and other structural component. Examples of the movable'supporting object"include, but are not limited to a desk, table, shelf, work bench including a conventional transportation means such as canisters and wheels. Examples of the movable "supporting object"further include a table, shelf, floor, wall, ceiling, door, window, and other structural component

of a conventional transporting means such as automobiles, trains, ships, and air planes.

A"contact space"is a confined space bound by one or more curvilinear surfaces such as a contacting portion of the surface of the"supporting object,"and an inner surface of a contacting portion of the securing device such as a contact pad.

A"curvilinear"surface means either a flat (planar) or curved surface.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description, and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING Fig. 1 is a side view of a vacuum-coupling device securing the equipment (a lap-top computer) to a surface of a supporting object.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a contact member of the securing device of Fig. 1 which includes a female

fitting portion to form a releasable coupling with a male fitting portion of the equipment.

Fig. 3A is a side view of a first contact pad having three protrusions in its inner surface.

Fig. 3B is a side view of the first contact pad of Fig. 3A when vacuum is developed in a first contact space.

Fig. 3C is a side view of the first contact pad of Fig. 3B with higher vacuum created in the first contact space.

Fig. 3D is a top view of the first contact pad of Figs. 3A to 3C.

Fig. 4A is a side view of a circular first pad guard disposed external to and around the first contact pad.

Fig. 4B is a top view of the first pad guard and the first contact pad of Fig. 4A.

Fig. 4C is a side view of a first pad guard having an adjustable portion exposed between the securing device and the surface of the supporting object.

Fig. 5A is a side view of a securing member and a release member with passive vacuum release arrangement for releasing vacuum from the first contact space.

Fig. 5B is a side view of another embodiment of a securing member and a release member with positive pumping vacuum release arrangement for releasing vacuum from the first contact space.

Fig. 6 is a side view of a contact member forming releasable vacuum couplings with both the equipment and the surface of the supporting object.

Fig. 7A is a side view of a circular second pad guard disposed external to and around a second contact pad.

Fig. 7B is a top view of the second pad guard and the second contact pad of Fig. 4A.

Fig. 7C is a side view of a second pad guard having an adjustable portion exposed between the securing device and the surface of the equipment.

Fig. 8A is a side view of a securing member and a release member with passive vacuum release arrangement for releasing vacuum from the second contact space.

Fig. 8B is a side view of a securing member and a release member with positive pumping vacuum release arrangement for releasing vacuum from the second contact space.

Fig. 9 is a side view of the self-securing equipment securing itself (a lap-top computer) to the surface of the supporting object.

Fig. 10A is a side view of a third contact pad having three protrusions in its inner surface.

Fig. 10B is a side view of the third contact pad of Fig. 10A when vacuum is developed in a third contact space.

Fig. 10C is a side view of the third contact pad of Fig. 10B with higher vacuum created in the third contact space.

Fig. 10D is a top view of the third contact pad of Figs. 10A to 10C.

Fig. 11A is a side view of a circular third pad guard disposed external to and around the third contact pad.

Fig. 11B is a top view of the third pad guard and the third contact pad of Fig. 11A.

Fig. 11C is a side view of a third pad guard having an adjustable portion exposed between the self-securing equipment and the surface of the supporting object.

Fig. 12 is a side view of a vacuum-coupling device securing a movable article (a sculpture) to a surface of a supporting object by a vacuum coupling between the

supporting object and the securing device, and by a releasable coupling between the securing device and the movable object.

Fig. 13 is a side view of a vacuum-coupling device securing a movable article (a ring retained by a holder) to the surface of the supporting object by multiple vacuum couplings.

Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram of a control device for monitoring and controlling operations of securing device and/or self-securing equipment.

Fig. 15 is a flow chart of an exemplary control algorithm implemented to a main control processor of the control device of Fig. 14.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The invention features a securing device and a method thereof for releasably securing a movable article to a stationary and/or non-stationary supporting object by providing at least one releasable vacuum coupling between the article and the supporting object.

I. SECURING DEVICE FOR EQUIPMENT In one aspect of the invention, a securing device secures mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination to a stationary or non- stationary supporting object. The securing device generally includes a contact member having a releasable coupler arranged to form a releasable coupling with the equipment, and a vacuum coupler arranged to form a vacuum coupling by forming a first contact space on the surface of the supporting object. The securing device further includes a securing member arranged to create vacuum in the first

contact space, thereby releasably securing the equipment to the surface of the supporting object.

Referring to Fig. 1, a securing device 10 secures the equipment 12, such as a portable lap-top computer, to a surface 16 of a supporting object 14, such as a table and desk. Securing device 10 includes a contact member 20 and a securing member 70. Securing member 70 further includes an air pumping mechanism 71 and an air pathway 72. In general, a releasable coupler 31 of contact member 20 is arranged to form a releasable coupling with equipment 12. A vacuum coupler 32 of contact member 20 is arranged to form a first contact space 40 on surface 16 of supporting object 14. Air pumping mechanism 71 of securing member 70 is arranged to be in fluid communication with first contact space 40 and to discharge air from first contact space 40 through air pathway 72 to atmosphere through a vent 73. Vacuum created in first contact space 40 secures one side of contact member 20 of securing device 10 to surface 16 of supporting object 14. Accordingly, equipment 12 which is releasably secured to another side of contact member 20 is secured to surface 16 of supporting object 14 as well.

I-1 RELEASABLE COUPLING WITH EOUIPMENT In general, releasable coupler 31 of contact member 20 includes a male and/or female fitting which couples with a counterpart female and/or male fitting of equipment 12.

Each fitting is shaped and sized to match its counterpart fitting. A locking mechanism may be provided at one or both of the fittings for securing the releasable coupling between releasable coupler 31 and equipment 12. Undoing the locking mechanism allows equipment 12 to be releasable from releasable coupler 31 of contact member 20.

The releasable coupling between releasable coupler 31 and equipment 12 can be accomplished by numerous ways.

Referring to Fig. 2, one way of accomplishing the releasable coupling is to provide releasable coupler 31 with a female fitting and to provide equipment 12 with a male fitting (not shown). Releasable coupler 31 includes a receptacle 21 and a locking mechanism 22. Receptacle 21 has a top opening 23 and a front opening 24 at its top end 25 and front end 26, respectively. Top and front openings 23,24 are shaped and sized to releasably receive the male fitting (not shown) of equipment 12. Top and front openings 23,24 are also arranged to expose the functional aspects of equipment 12 to allow an user to use equipment 12 free from any interference from surrounding releasable coupler 31. A back, bottom, and sidewalls of receptacle 21 are arranged to abut and support the male fitting (not shown) of equipment 12. Top opening 23 is also shaped and sized to prevent equipment 12 from slipping therethrough. Releasable coupler 31 also includes a front cover 27 which is pivotally coupled to front end of 26 of receptacle 21 by the hinges 28. Front cover 27 has an open position in which receptacle 21 receives equipment 12 through top and front openings 23,24, and a closed position in which front cover 27 in conjunction with other walls of receptacle 21 encloses the male fitting (not shown) of equipment 12 therein. Once closed, front cover 27 is retained by male and female retainers 29 disposed at front end 26, and remains in its closed position.

Receptacle 21 may be arranged to accommodate equipment 12 of different shapes and/or sizes. For example, a portion of top opening 23, front opening 24, front cover 27, and other walls of receptacle 21 are made to have an adjustable length, width, depth, thickness, and/or radius to sung fit the male fitting (not shown) of equipment 12. This

arrangement allows securing device 10 to be universally applicable to equipment 12 of varying shapes, sizes, and manufacturers. This arrangement also enables securing device 10 to adjust its size no bigger than that of equipment 12. Accordingly, the user can use the unused portion of surface 16 of supporting object 14 for other useful purposes.

Locking mechanism 22 may be provided, for example, at top end 25 of receptacle 21 to releasably secure the releasable coupling between releasable coupler 31 and equipment 12. Various mechanical, electrical, and/or magnetic locking means known in the art may be used.

Alternatively, electrical and/or computer control mechanisms may be implemented into the conventional locking means such that the releasable coupling is formed and released by the analog and/or digital signals supplied to securing device 10 by the user.

The releasable coupling between releasable coupler 31 and equipment 12 can be modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present invention.

According to the specific needs and/or physical constraints due to the shape and/or size of securing device 10 and/or equipment 12, the male and/or female fitting may be provided to either or both of equipment 12 and releasable coupler 31 of securing device 10. Alternatively, the female fitting which is only a portion of one of securing device 10 and equipment 12 may be arranged to receive the male fitting which is also only a portion of the other of securing device 10 and equipment 12. For example, a small protrusion may be provided at a bottom of equipment 12. A groove is provided to releasable coupler 31 of securing device 10 to receive and releasably secure the protrusion of equipment 12 therein. Alternatively, various releasable retaining and/or

locking mechanisms known in the art may also be used to provide the releasable coupling between releasable coupler 31 and equipment 12. Examples include, but are not limited to an anchor, ratchet, clamp, hook, swivel lock, and the combination thereof. <BR> <BR> <P>I-2 VACUUM COUPLING WITH SUPPORTING OBJECT<BR> I-2-1 FIRST CONTACT SPACE AND FIRST CONTACT PAD Referring to Figs. 3A to 3D, vacuum coupler 32 of contact member 20 forms a first vacuum coupling between securing device 10 and supporting object 14 by providing air-tight first contact space 40 on surface 16 of supporting object 14. Vacuum coupler 32 includes a first contact pad 41 which is shaped and sized to form an air-tight seal around a contacting portion of surface 16 of supporting object 14. First contact space 40 is then formed, which is defined by at least a portion of an inner surface of first contact pad 41 and the flat or curved contacting portion of surface 16 of supporting object 14. Once first contact space 40 is formed, air pumping mechanism 71 of securing member 70 discharges air from first contact space 40 through air pathway 72 and creates vacuum in first contact space 40.

First contact pad 41 may have a shape deformable according to a pressure difference applied thereacross.

Still referring to Figs. 3A to 3D, for example, funnel- shaped first contact pad 41 retains its original shape in an unstressed state (Figs. 3A and 3B), whereas first contact pad 41 is deformed in a stressed state (Figs. 3C and 3D) where vacuum is developed in first contact space 40. First contact pad 41 may be made of, for example, rubber or thermoplastic polymer which is resilient enough to endure the weight of equipment 12 and securing device 10. The

material for first contact pad 41 may be, up to a certain degree, flexible enough to conform its shape adaptive to curvilinear shape of surface 16 of supporting object 14, and responsive to the pressure difference applied across first contact pad 41. First contact pad 41 may also include hygroscopic material which retains moisture at an operating temperature of securing device 10, thereby enhancing the formation of an air-tight seal around an edge 46 and/or an inner portion of first contact pad 41. The material for first contact pad 41 may also have recoil properties such that, upon removing the pressure difference applied thereacross, first contact pad 41 restores its original unstressed shape.

Constructing first contact pad 41 of the material having at least some of the above described properties offers an unique advantage that vacuum-coupling securing device 10 can secure equipment 12 to almost any supporting object 14 having either a flat or curved surface, so long as first contact pad 41 has an appropriate shape and size to form the air-tight seal on surface 16 of supporting object 14. First contact pad 41 may be arranged to have shape and size adaptive to surface 16 of supporting object 14. For example, a group of first contact pads 41 may be provided, each of which has different shape, size, and/or physical characteristics, for example, compliance, recoil properties, and hygroscopicity. The user can select one first contact pad 41 which best fits the shape and/or size of surface 16 of supporting object 14, and replaceably couple selected first contact pad 41 to vacuum coupler 32. Fluid communication between the inner portion of selected first contact pad 41 and air pathway 72 as well as an air-tight seal around a connecting portion between selected first contact pad 41 and the rest of vacuum coupler 32 is to be

maintained during replaceable coupling of selected first contact pad 41 to vacuum coupler 32. Selected first contact pad 41 then forms an air-tight seal on curvilinear surface 16 of supporting object 14.

I-2-2 MULTIPLE VACUUM ZONES Still referring to Figs. 3A to 3D, first contact pad 41 may include, on its inner surface, one or more curvilinear protrusions 42,43,44 which are disposed, for example, around a center 45 of first contact space 40 in a substantially concentric pattern. Each protrusion 42,43, 44 is arranged to form an air-tight seal when it is brought into contact with surface 16 of supporting object 14.

Protrusions 42,43,44 and/or first contact pad 41 itself may be made of hygroscopic material. Protrusions 42,43,44 may be contiguously constructed to form an unitary article with first contact pad 41, or may be fixedly attached to the inner surface of first contact pad 41.

When vacuum coupler 32 is placed on surface 16 of supporting object 14, an air-tight seal is formed around edge 46 of first contact pad 41. As air is discharged from first contact space 40, first contact pad 41 begins to collapse and flatten, bringing curvilinear protrusions 42, 43,44 closer to surface 16 of supporting object 14. When one protrusion forms an air-tight seal on surface 16 of supporting object 14, the zones neighboring that protrusion lose fluid communication therebetween and are separated from each other across that protrusion. Accordingly, when vacuum is created in first contact space 40, each curvilinear protrusion 42,43,44 may form a separate air-tight seal on surface 16 of supporting object 14, resulting in a series of vacuum zones of varying sizes, with an outer-most vacuum zone having the largest dimension and an inner-most vacuum

zone the smallest dimension. This arrangement provides an additional safety feature to vacuum-coupling securing device 10. For example, when edge 46 of first contact pad 41 is detached from surface 16 of supporting object 14 due to a slippery or oily substance deposited on surface 16 of supporting object 14, or due to unauthorized intrusion through the air-tight seal by a perpetrator, a next inner protrusion, for example, protrusion 44 in Figs. 3A to 3D, preserves the air-tight seal of inner vacuum zones of first contact space 40 and prevents destruction of other air-tight seals formed by remaining inner protrusions 42,43,44.

Still referring to Figs. 3A to 3D, first contact pad 41 may be arranged to allow securing member 70 to draw vacuum in each of the vacuum zones in a sequential order, from the outer-most vacuum zone to the inner-most vacuum zone of first contact space 40. When air is discharged from first contact space 40 with multiple curvilinear protrusions 42,43,44, if an intermediate protrusion 43 is the first one that forms an air-tight seal therearound, outer protrusion 44 loses its fluid communication with securing member 70, and cannot have any vacuum developed therein.

Accordingly, it is necessary to create vacuum in each vacuum zone separately. One such way is to provide separate fluid communication between securing member 70 and each vacuum zone in first contact space 40 such that securing member 70 discharges air from each vacuum zone. Alternatively, first contact pad 41 may be arranged to have stiffness varying along its radial axis, with an outer-most region of first contact pad 41 having the lowest stiffness, while an inner- most region thereof having the highest stiffness. For example, as shown in Fig. 3C, when vacuum is created in first contact space 40, the pressure difference across first contact pad 41 causes first contact pad 41 to flatten its

most compliant outer-most region to form an outer-most vacuum zone. Because outer-most protrusion 44 separates the outer-most vacuum zone from the rest of first contact space 40, discharging air further from first contact space 40 flattens the next outer-most protrusion 43, thereby forming another vacuum zone, as shown in Fig. 3D. This process is repeated until the inner-most vacuum zone develops vacuum therein. This arrangement offers an advantage of providing first contact space 40 with multiple vacuum zones therein, thereby providing multiple lines of defense against unauthorized physical intrusion into first contact space 40.

This arrangement also provides first contact space 40 with multiple vacuum zones having varying degrees of vacuum. The inner-most vacuum zone generally has the highest vacuum, that is, the lowest pressure, substantially due to the highest stiffness thereof.

Alternatively, first contact pad 41 may be made of rather rigid material which does not significantly change its shape responsive to the pressure difference applied across first contact pad 41. First contact pad 41 may be made, for example, thermo-setting polymers or metals. To enhance the formation of an air-tight seal on surface 16 of supporting object 14, edge 46 of rigid first contact pad 41 may include a lining of flexible and/or hygroscopic material.

I-2-3 FIRST PAD GUARD Referring to Figs. 4A to 4C, vacuum coupler 32 may include a first pad guard 51 which is generally disposed external to and around first contact pad 41 and protects the vacuum developed in first contact space 40 from external disturbances. In Fig. 4A, first pad guard 51 is shaped and sized to completely enclose first contact pad 41 therein,

thereby blocking an access to first contact space 40 from, for example, underneath a bottom portion of vacuum coupler 32. Thus, first pad guard 51 provides a first line of defense to an unauthorized intrusion intended to release the vacuum from first contact space 40. First pad guard 51 may be made of any material which is resilient enough to endure the weight of both equipment 12 and securing device 10, and to withstand physical intrusion therethrough.

Referring to Fig. 4B, cylindrical first pad guard 51 may be arranged to completely enclose first contact pad 41 therein. First pad guard 51 has an inner diameter greater than an outer diameter of first contact pad 41, and may have a height less than that of first contact pad 41 in its unstressed position but greater (not shown) than that of first contact pad 41 in its stressed position. An optimal height of first pad guard 51 may depend on the height of first contact pad 41 in its stressed position as well as the degree of vacuum required in first contact space 40.

Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 4C, first pad guard 51 may be arranged to have an adjustable height such that the height of a portion exposed between contact member 20 and surface 16 of supporting object 14 is adjustable. For example, first pad guard 51 includes a cylindrical body portion 52, and a top portion 53 which is inwardly extended such that an inner diameter of top portion 53 is less than that of body portion 52. A hollow, cylindrical receiving space 54 is provided to vacuum coupler 32. Receiving space 54 includes a step 55 at its lower portion which is arranged to retain top portion 53 of first pad guard 51 therein by abutting a lower face of top portion 53 by an upper face of step 55. An elastic element 56 such as a spring is provided between an upper face of top portion 53 and a ceiling 57 of receiving space 54. Elastic element 56 pushes top portion

53 of first pad guard 51 downward, for example, until it abuts the upper face of step 55. When securing device 10 is placed on surface 16 of supporting object 14 and/or vacuum is created in first contact space 40, the bottom of contact member 20 is brought closer to surface 16 of supporting object 14 while first pad guard 51 moves upward and squeezes elastic element 56, thereby decreasing a height of the portion of first pad guard 51 exposed between contact member 20 and surface 16 of supporting object 14. Upon disengaging the vacuum from first contact space 40, elastic element 56 recoils back toward its unstressed length and first pad guard 51 is pushed downward toward its position of abutting step 55.

The vacuum created in first contact space 40 may also be protected by multiple first pad guards 51. For example, instead of providing single first pad guard 51 which completely encloses first contact pad 41 at a certain distance, multiple first pad guards 51 (not shown) may be provided external to and around first contact pad 41 at fixed and/or varying distances and/or locations. Each first pad guard 51 may be arranged to have its end portions overlap end portions of neighboring first pad guards 51 such that multiple first pad guards 51 block an access to every portion of first contact pad 41. Alternatively, multiple first pad guards 51 may be arranged in multiple layers (not shown) such that multiple concentric inner and outer bands of first pad guards 51 are provided external to and around first contact space 40. Each or at least some first pad guards 51 may also be arranged to have adjustable heights such that heights of the portions exposed between contact member 20 and surface 16 of supporting object 14 are adjustable, an arrangement similar to the one described in the previous paragraph. Each or at least some first pad

guards 51 may also be provided with guard paths along which they are arranged to travel around first contact pad 41.

The guard path may be a straight and/or curved groove in which first contact pad 41 is retained, and along which first contact pad 41 travels. The guard path may be arranged to receive and retain therein more than one first pad guards 51. These arrangements allow the user to appropriately position first pad guard 51 at a high-risk region which is most vulnerable to the unauthorized intrusion.

I-3 SECURING MEMBER Referring to Figs. 5A and 5B, securing device 10 includes securing member 70 which is arranged to discharge air from first contact space 40 and to create the vacuum therein. Securing member 70 includes air pumping mechanism 71 and air pathway 72. A portion of air pathway 72 provides fluid communication between an intake of air pumping mechanism 71 and first contact space 40. Through this portion of air pathway 72, air pumping mechanism 71 discharges air from first contact space 40. Another portion of air pathway 72 provides fluid communication between an exhaust of air pumping mechanism 71 and vent 73 open to atmosphere. The air discharged from first contact space 40 is discharged into atmosphere through vent 73. Various manual and/or automatic air pumping mechanisms known in the art may be used for discharging air from first contact space 40. Examples include, but are not limited to, a piston- cylinder type manual and/or electric air pump, a peristaltic air pump, a bellow-type pump, and conventional air and/or vacuum pumps. When an electric air pump is used, a power source 74 is provided to securing member 70, where power source 74 may be a rechargeable battery. In particular,

when securing device 10 is applied to secure equipment 12 using electricity, a power source of equipment 12 may be arranged to supply electricity to electric air pumping mechanism 71 of securing device 10. Maximum capacity of air pumping mechanism 71 may be determined by numerous factors, including the degree of vacuum required in first contact space 40 which is in turn determined by the factors including the volume of first contact space 40, cross- sectional area of first contact pad 41, compliance of first contact pad 41, and height of first pad guard 51. The securing force exerted on first contact pad 41 may also be determined by numerous factors including the degree of vacuum in first contact space 40 and the area contacted by the first contact pad 41. Accordingly, small first contact pad 41 may effectively secure equipment 12 if first contact space 40 is engaged with higher vacuum.

It is appreciated that conventional air transporting mechanisms used in mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, and their combination 12 may be arranged to discharge air from first contact space 40.

For example, an electric fan used for cooling a power supply, transformer, and/or other parts of equipment 12 may be utilized as air pumping mechanism 71 of securing device 10. For example, the cooling fan may be provided with a nozzle having a configuration known in the art. When air transported by the cooling fan is passed through the nozzle, pressure in a region downstream to the nozzle may be arranged to decrease according to the Bernouille equation.

By providing appropriate fluid communication between the low-pressure region and first contact space 40, air in first contact space 40 may be discharged toward the low-pressure region. The efficiency of using the air transporting mechanism for discharging air from first contact space 40

depends on many factors including the power of the air transporting mechanism, volume of first contact space 40, and nozzle characteristics.

Air pathway 72 may be made of a variety of materials known in the art, for example, compliant but resilient polymeric tubing for ease of manufacturing, handling, and assembly. At least one air-flow regulator 75 may be disposed along air pathway 72 to prevent retrograde flow of air back into first contact space 40. For example, an one- way valve known in the art may be disposed along air pathway 72 between the intake of air pumping mechanism 71 and first contact space 40.

I-4 RELEASE MEMBER Securing device 10 may be provided with a release member 80 which releases the vacuum from first contact space 40, thereby releasing securing device 10 from surface 16 of supporting object 14. Releasing the vacuum from first contact space 40 can be achieved in a variety of ways. For example, Fig. 5A illustrates an example of release member 80 with a passive vacuum release arrangement, whereas Fig. 5B illustrates an example of release member 80 with a positive pumping vacuum release arrangement.

In Fig. 5A, release member 80 includes a first control valve 81 having multiple channels and a channel selector. For example, first control valve 81 includes a first channel 81A in fluid communication with first contact space 40, a second channel 81B in fluid communication with an intake of air pumping mechanism 71, and a third channel 81C open to atmosphere. At an intersection of three channels 81A, 81B, 81C is provided a channel selector 81D which is arranged to connect, for example, any two of three channels 81A, 81B, 81C of first control valve 81. When

securing member 70 operates to create and/or maintain the vacuum in first contact space 40, release member 80 manipulates channel selector 81D to connect first and second channels 81A, 81B to discharge air from first contact space 40, while shutting off third channel 81C. When securing device 10 is to be released from surface 16 of supporting object 14, release member 80 again manipulates channel selector 81D to shut off second channel 81B, and to connect first and third channels 81A, 81C to allow atmospheric air to fill in first contact space 40 and to release the vacuum therein.

Securing member 70 may be arranged to participate in removing the vacuum from first contact space 40. For example, release member 80 may be arranged to remove the vacuum from first contact space 40 by including two or more control valves which direct the exhaust gas from air pumping mechanism 71 to first contact space 40. In Fig. 5B, release member 80 includes a second control valve 82 and a third control valve 83, each of which has three channels and one channel selector. Second control valve 82 has a first channel 82A in fluid communication with the intake of air pumping mechanism 71, a second channel 82B connected to a second channel 83B of third control valve 83, a third channel 82C open to atmosphere, and a channel selector 82D.

Third control valve 83 has a first channel 83A in fluid communication with the exhaust of air pumping mechanism 71, second channel 83B connected to second channel 82B of second control valve 82, a third channel 83C connected to vent 73, and a channel selector 83D. When securing member 70 operates to create and/or maintain the vacuum in first contact space 40, release member 80 manipulates channel selectors 82D, 83D to shut off channels 82C and 83B. The air in first contact space 40 is then discharged from first

contact space 40 through channels 82B, 82A, 83A, 83C, and eventually to vent 73. When securing device 10 is to be released from surface 16 of supporting object 14, release member 80 again manipulates channel selectors 82D, 83D to shut off channels 82B, 83C. Air pumping mechanism 71 takes in atmospheric air through channel 82C and supplies its exhaust gas to first contact space 40 through channels 82A, 83A, and 83B. Removal of vacuum in first contact space 40 by this positive pumping vacuum release arrangement may be advantageous when heavy equipment 12 secured by securing device 10 tends to constantly push first contact pad 41 downward and to generate vacuum therein. By supplying the high-pressure exhaust gas from air pumping mechanism 71, first contact pad 41 may be easily detached from surface 16 of supporting object 14. This positive pumping vacuum release arrangement may be implemented to securing device 10 and be used in parallel with the passive vacuum release arrangement.

It is appreciated that control valves known in the art may be used for release member 80. Examples include, but are not limited to, solenoid valves and three-way valves with actuators and/or final control elements. Instead of using the control valves with three channels, the control valves with two, four, or more channels mat also be used.

I-5 CONTROL MEMBER Securing device 10 may also include a control member which monitors and/or controls operations of securing device 10 and/or equipment 12. In general, control criteria of securing device 10 are preset by a manufacturer. These criteria may be arranged to be adjustable and/or to be overridden by an user input and/or a control command signal generated by a control algorithm of securing device 10.

When securing device 10 is used to secure equipment 12 with input/output signal transmission capabilities, for example, a lap-top computer, at least a portion of software and/or hardware of the control member may be implemented to equipment 12. Accordingly, a hard disk of a lap-top computer may be loaded with control software of the control member, or the computer may include a portion of hardware of the control member including a monitoring mechanism, actuator, controller, and/or final control element. The control member and equipment 12 may be arranged to communicate signals in an unilateral or a bilateral manner.

For example, the control member may send to or receive from equipment 12 analog, digital, mechanical, electromagnetic, and/or optical signals. The user inputs and internal and/or external control commands may be received and/or generated by either or both of securing device 10 and equipment 12.

The control member may include at least one monitoring mechanism for monitoring operations of securing device 10 and/or equipment 12. For example, a sensor may be positioned in first contact space 40 to generate signals responsive to pressure changes therein. Conventional pressure sensors known in the art may be used to measure the pressure in first contact space 40. Based on these signals, the control member may manipulate securing member 70 to stop a vacuum-engaging operation when the pressure in first contact space 40 falls below a first preselected pressure, and to resume the vacuum-engaging operation of securing member 70 when the pressure in first contact space 40 rises above a second preselected pressure. In general, the control member is arranged to maintain the pressure in first contact space 40 within a specific range. Thus, the second preselected pressure is generally set at a higher value than the first preselected pressure.

The control member may also be provided with an arrangement for initiating the vacuum-engaging operation of securing member 70. For example, the control member may include a sensing mechanism which is arranged to monitor a distance between supporting object 14 and a portion of the securing device 10 and/or equipment 12, force exerted on the sensing mechanism, and/or pressure in first contact space 40. When the distance, force, and/or pressure falls within a preselected range, the control member automatically manipulates securing member 70 to start the vacuum-engaging operation thereof.

The control member may include a warning mechanism arranged to generate a warning signal which warns the user of an inappropriate vacuum development in first contact space 40. For example, the control member may monitor the pressure in first contact space 40, and manipulates the warning mechanism to generate a warning signal when a desired level of vacuum is not attained after operating securing member 70 for more than a preselected period, indicating that there may exist a leak in the air-tight seal around first contact pad 41. The control member may also monitor a rate of change of the pressure in first contact space 40 and warn the user when the pressure in first contact space 40 changes in a rate not conforming to a preselected pattern.

I-6 SECURITY MEMBERS Securing device 10 may also include at least one security member which is arranged to protect the vacuum created in first contact space 40 from unauthorized intrusion thereto and/or destruction thereof. The security member may monitor disturbances to either or both of securing device 10 and equipment 12, in particular, those

disturbances originating from an external source. The security member may also be arranged to take appropriate protective actions responsive to these disturbances. When securing device 10 is used to secure equipment 12 with input/output signal transmission capabilities, for example, a lap-top computer, at least a portion of software and/or hardware of the security member may be implemented to equipment 12. A hard disk of the lap-top computer may be loaded with monitoring and/or controlling software of the security member, or the computer may include a portion of hardware of the security member such as a sensing mechanism, alarm mechanism, actuator, and final control element. The security member and equipment 12 may also be arranged to communicate unilaterally or bilaterally. For example, the security member may send to or receive from equipment 12 analog, digital, electromagnetic, mechanical, and/or optical signals. The user inputs and internal and/or external control commands may be received and/or generated by either or both of the security member and equipment 12.

I-6-1 FIRST SECURITY MEMBER A first security member is generally arranged to release the vacuum from first contact space 40 when the first security member receives an user-supplied release signal that matches a preselected release code. The first security member may manipulate release member 80, as described in Section I-4, to provide fluid communication between first contact space 40 and atmospheric air, or may control air pumping mechanism 71 to positively supply its exhaust gas to first contact space 40. Alternatively, the first security member may include a separate release mechanism having multiple control valves to release the vacuum from first contact space 40. Depending on the

existence of signal communication capabilities between the first security member and equipment 12, the external release signal may be received by the first security member and/or equipment 12.

The first security member may include and manipulate a first alarm mechanism. When the release signal supplied by the user does not match the preselected release code, the first alarm mechanism is activated to give off an alarm signal. Examples of the alarm signals include, but are not limited to, sound, light, and other signals known in the art, including alarming sound and flashing light. The first security member may also be arranged to be armed or disarmed by supplying valid arming or disarming codes thereto.

I-6-2 SECOND SECURITY MEMBER A second security member monitors an unauthorized attempt to release the vacuum from first contact space 40.

The second security system includes one or more sensing elements which are disposed adjacent to at least one of first pad guard 51, first contact pad 41, and first contact space 40. For example, when a perpetrator inserts a sharp object underneath first pad guard 51 and/or first contact pad 41 to break the vacuum coupling and to displace securing device 10 and/or equipment 12 from supporting object 14 and/or securing device 10, sensing elements such as displacement sensors, motion sensors, and/or force transducers known in the art detect the intrusion by a foreign object. Alternatively, pressure sensors may be used to detect a sudden unexpected change in the pressure in first contact space 40. When these sensors detect the unauthorized attempts, the second security member activates its second alarm mechanism to give off an alarm signal. The second security member may also be arranged to be armed or

disarmed by supplying valid arming or disarming codes thereto.

I-6-3 THIRD SECURITY MEMBER A third security member includes one or more sensing elements which are positioned at various locations of securing device 10 and/or equipment 12. The third security member detects an unauthorized motion of securing device 10 and/or equipment 12, or an unauthorized relative motion of one from the other. Unauthorized motions may be detected by a single sensor, for example, by measuring a displacement, velocity, and/or acceleration. Unauthorized motions may also be detected by measuring the distance from a portion of securing device 10 and/or equipment 12 to surface 16 of supporting object 14.

Alternatively, the third security member may detect unauthorized motions by analyzing signals generated by multiple sensors disposed at various locations of securing device 10 and/or equipment 12. Use of multiple sensors may improve the performance of the third security member, for example, by screening false signals (those due to movement of both securing device 10 and supporting object 14, for example, during an earthquake) from legitimate warning signals (those due to a relative movement of equipment 12 and/or securing device 10 from supporting object 14, for example, an unauthorized attempt to detach equipment 12 and/or securing device 10 from supporting object 14 and/or securing device 10). When the sensors detect the unauthorized motion of securing device 10 and/or equipment 12, the third security member activates its third alarm mechanism to give off the alarm signal. The third security member may also be arranged to be armed or disarmed by supplying valid arming or disarming codes thereto.

I-6-4 AUTO-SECURING MECHANISM The security member may also include an auto- securing mechanism which is arranged to automatically engage or disengage the vacuum in first contact space 40. For example, when the user does not operate equipment 12 for a period longer than a preselected time interval, the auto- securing mechanism manipulates securing member 70 to start vacuum-engaging operation to create vacuum in first contact space 40. This arrangement is useful for the users who tend to be forgetful in taking care of ordinary chores. The auto-securing mechanism may also be arranged to stop the vacuum engaging operation of securing member 70 when an authorized user resumes the operation of equipment 12.

Alternatively, the auto-securing mechanism may manipulate securing device 70 to start the vacuum-engaging operation of securing member 70 at a specific time selected by the user. This arrangement is attractive to those users who need to secure equipment 12 at a certain time of the day on a regular basis. The auto-securing mechanism may be arranged to stop the vacuum-engaging operation of securing member 70 at a specific time selected by the user. The auto-securing mechanism may also be arranged to be armed or disarmed only when the authorized user supplies valid arming or disarming codes thereto.

I-7 VACUUM COUPLING WITH EQUIPMENT Vacuum-coupling securing device 10 described heretofore can be modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present invention.

For example, securing device 10 may include releasable coupler 31 which is arranged to form a second contact space 140 on a surface 116 of equipment 12. One or more securing members 70 may also be arranged to create

vacuums in both first and second contact spaces 40,140, thereby securing equipment 12 to surface 16 of supporting object 14.

I-7-1 SECOND CONTACT SPACE AND SECOND CONTACT PAD Referring to Fig. 6, securing device 10 may be arranged to form a second vacuum coupling between releasable coupler 31 and equipment 12 by providing air-tight second contact space 140 on surface 116 of equipment 12.

Releasable coupler 31 includes a second contact pad 141 which is shaped and sized to form an air-tight seal around a contacted portion of surface 116 of equipment 12. Second contact space 140 is then formed, which is defined by at least a portion of an inner surface of second contact pad 141 and the flat or curved contacted portion of surface 116 of equipment 12. Once second contact space 140 is formed, air pumping mechanism 71 of securing member 70 discharges air from second contact space 140 through air pathway 72 and creates vacuum in second contact space 140.

Second contact pad 141 may have shape deformable according to a pressure difference applied thereacross, similar to first contact pad 41 described in Section 1-2-1.

The material for second contact pad 141 may have properties such as deformability, hygroscopicity, and recoil property, all of which are substantially similar to those of first contact pad 41 described in Section 1-2-1.

Second contact pad 141 may be arranged to have shape and size adaptive to surface 116 of equipment 12. For example, a group of second contact pads 141 may be provided, each of which has different shape, size, and/or physical characteristics, for example, compliance, recoil properties, and hygroscopicity. The user can select one second contact pad 141 which best fits the shape and/or size of surface 116

of equipment 12, and replaceably couple selected second contact pad 141 to releasable coupler 31. Details related to this feature are substantially similar to those described in Section 1-2-1.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to first contact space 40 and first contact pad 41 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 10 and/or equipment 12 related with second contact space 140 and second contact pad 141 described in this Section 1-7-1.

I-7-2 MULTIPLE VACUUM ZONES Still referring to Fig. 6, second contact pad 141 may include, on its inner surface, one or more curvilinear protrusions 142,143,144 which are disposed, for example, around a center 145 of second contact space 140 in a substantially concentric pattern. Each protrusion 142,143, 144 is arranged to form an air-tight seal when it is brought into contact with surface 116 of equipment 12. Protrusions 142,143,144 and/or second contact pad 141 itself may be made of hygroscopic material. Protrusions 142,143,144 may be contiguously constructed to form an unitary article with second contact pad 141, or may be fixedly attached to the inner surface of second contact pad 141.

When releasable coupler 31 is attached to surface 116 of equipment 12, an air-tight seal is formed around edge 146 of second contact pad 141. As air is discharged from second contact space 140, second contact pad 141 begins to collapse and flatten, brings curvilinear protrusions 142, 143,144 closer to surface 116 of equipment 12, and allows each curvilinear protrusion 142,143,144 to form a separate air-tight seal on surface 116 of equipment 12, in a manner

substantially similar to the one described in Section 1-2-2.

This results in a series of vacuum zones of varying sizes, with an outer-most vacuum zone having the largest dimension and an inner-most vacuum zone the smallest dimension. This arrangement provides an additional safety feature to vacuum- coupling securing device 10.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to multiple vacuum zones related with first contact space 40 and first contact pad 41 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 10 and/or equipment 12 with multiple vacuum zones related with second contact space 140 and/or second contact pad 141 described in this Section 1-7-2.

I-7-3 SECOND PAD GUARD Referring to Figs. 7A to 7C, releasable coupler 31 may include a second pad guard 151 which is generally disposed external to and around second contact pad 141 and protects the vacuum developed in second contact space 140 from external disturbances. Second pad guard 151 may be made of any material which is resilient enough to endure the weight of equipment 12, and to withstand physical intrusion therethrough. In Fig. 7A, second pad guard 151 is shaped and sized to completely enclose second contact pad 141 therein, thereby blocking an access to second contact space 140. In Fig. 7B, cylindrical second pad guard 151 may be arranged to completely enclose second contact pad 141 therein.

Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 7C, second pad guard 151 may be arranged to have an adjustable height such that the height of a portion exposed between contact member 20 and surface 116 of equipment 12 is adjustable. For example,

second pad guard 151 includes a cylindrical body portion 152, a bottom portion 153, a hollow, cylindrical receiving space 154 with a step 155 and an elastic element 156 such as a spring provided between a lower face of bottom portion 153 and a base 157 of receiving space 154. In an arrangement substantially similar to the one described in Section I-2-3, second pad guard 151 can retract into and extend out of releasable coupler 31.

The vacuum created in second contact space 140 may also be protected by multiple second pad guards 151 (not shown) provided external to and around second contact pad 141 at fixed and/or varying distances and/or locations, or arranged in multiple layers (not shown) of concentric inner and outer bands of second pad guards 151 provided external to and around second contact space 140. Each or at least some second pad guards 151 may also be arranged to have adjustable heights such that heights of the portions exposed between contact member 20 and surface 116 of equipment 12 are adjustable, an arrangement substantially similar to the one described in Section 1-2-3. Each or at least some second pad guards 151 may also be provided with guard paths which are substantially similar to those described in Section 1-2-3.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to first pad guard 51 and its guard paths which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 10 and/or equipment 12 related with second pad guard 151 and/or its guard paths described in this Section 1-7-3.

I-7-4 SECURING MEMBER To create vacuum in second contact space 140, securing member 70 described hereinabove can be modified in

a variety of ways. One such way is to provide an additional securing member with an additional air pumping mechanism and air pathways, all of which are exclusively used for creating the vacuum in second contact space 140. This arrangement may be advantageous in that the vacuum in second contact space 140 can be created and maintained regardless of an operational status of securing member 70 for first contact space 40. However, this arrangement has a drawback of redundantly implementing multiple air pumping mechanisms and air pathways to securing device 10, thereby increasing the weight and manufacturing cost of the securing device.

Another way of creating the vacuum in second contact space 140 is to arrange air pumping mechanism 71 to create vacuums in both first and second contact spaces 40,140.

Referring to Fig. 6, for example, securing member 70 includes one air pumping mechanism 71. A portion of air pathway 72 provides fluid communication between an intake of air pumping mechanism 71 and first contact space 40 to discharge air from first contact space 40. Another portion of air pathway 172 provides fluid communication between the intake of air pumping mechanism 71 and second contact space 140 to discharge air from second contact space 140. Between these portions 72,172 of air pathway is disposed a fourth control valve 84 having a first channel 84A in fluid communication with an intake of air pumping mechanism 71, a second channel 84B in fluid communication with first contact space 40, and a third channel 84C in fluid communication with second contact space 140. At an intersection of three channels 84A, 84B, 84C is provided a channel selector 84D which is arranged to connect, for example, one of second and third channels 84B, 84C to its first channel 84A of fourth control valve 84. To create vacuum in first contact space 40, fourth control valve 84 shuts off channel 84C and

connects first and second channels 84A, 84B. Similarly, to create vacuum in second contact space 140, fourth control valve 84 shuts off channel 84B and connects first and third channels 84A, 84C. Air discharged from first and/or second contact space 40,140 is discharged into atmosphere through common vent 73.

Various air pumping mechanisms and power sources described in Section I-3 may be used for discharging air from second contact space 140. Maximum capacity of air pumping mechanism 71 and securing force exerted on second contact pad 151 may be determined by the factors described in Section 1-3.

It is appreciated that conventional air transporting mechanisms used in mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, and their combination 12 may also be arranged to discharge air from second contact space 140. For example, an electric cooling fan may be provided with a nozzle having a configuration known in the art, and discharge air from second contact space 140 by employing substantially similar configurations and/or methods described in Section 1-3.

Air pathway 172 may be made of materials which are substantially similar to those for air pathway 72 described in Section 1-3. At least one additional air-flow regulator may also be disposed along air pathway 172 to prevent retrograde flow of air back into second contact space 140.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to securing member 70 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 10 and/or equipment 12 related with second contact space 140 and/or securing member 80 described in this Section 1-7-4.

I-7-5 RELEASE MEMBER To release vacuum from second contact space 140, release member 80 described hereinabove can be modified in a variety of ways. One such way is to provide one release member 80 for both first and second contact spaces 40,140.

For example, first and second contact spaces 40,140 may be arranged to share certain common air pathways, where a first common pathway is open to atmosphere, a second common pathway is in fluid communication with an intake of air pumping mechanism 71, and a third common pathway is in fluid communication with an exhaust of air pumping mechanism 71.

This arrangement may be advantageous in providing compact air pathways 72.

Another way of releasing the vacuum from second contact space 140 is to use release member 80 described in Section I-4 for releasing the vacuum from first contact space 40, and an additional release member 180 for releasing the vacuum from second contact space 180. For example, referring to Figs. 8A and 8B, Fig. 8A illustrates examples of release members 80,180 with passive vacuum release arrangements, whereas Fig. 8B illustrates examples of release members 80,180 with positive pumping vacuum release arrangements.

In Fig. 8A, release member 80 includes the first control valve 81 which is substantially identical to the one described in conjunction with Fig. 5A. For example, first control valve 81 has first channel 81A in fluid communication with first contact space 40, second channel 81B connected to a second channel 84B of fourth control valve 84, and third channel 81C open to atmosphere. At an intersection of three channels 81A, 81B, 81C is provided a channel selector 81D which connects, for example, any two of three channels 81A, 81B, 81C of first control valve 81.

Additional release member 180 includes a fifth control valve 181 having a first channel 181A in fluid communication with second contact space 140, a second channel 181B connected to a third channel 84C of fourth control valve 84, a third channel 181C open to atmosphere, and a channel selector 181D.

Between second channels 81B, 181B of first and fifth control valves 81,181 is disposed the fourth control valve 84 which is substantially identical to the one described in conjunction with Fig. 6. For example, fourth control valve 84 has first channel 84A in fluid communication with the intake of air pumping mechanism 71, second channel 84B connected to second channel 81B of first control valve 81, third channel 84C connected to second channel 181B of fifth control valve 181, and a channel selector 84D.

When securing member 70 operates to create and/or maintain the vacuum in second contact space 140 (or first contact space 40), fourth control valve 84 connects its first channel 84A with its third channel 84C (or second channel 84B) to discharge air from second contact space 140 (or first contact space 40), while shutting off its second channel 84B (or its third channel 84C). When equipment 12 is to be released from contact member 20, fifth control valve 181 shuts off its second channel 181B and connects first and third channels 181A, 181C, regardless of the operating status of first and fourth control valves 81,84.

Similarly, when securing device 10 is to be released from surface 16 of supporting object 14, first control valve 81 shuts off its second channel 81B and connects its first and third channels 81A, 81C, regardless of the operating status of fourth and fifth control valves 84,85.

Securing member 70 may be arranged to participate in removing the vacuum from first and/or second contact spaces

40,140. For example, release members 80,180 may be arranged to remove the vacuums in first and second contact spaces 40,140 by including two or more control valves which direct the exhaust gas from air pumping mechanism 71 to first and/or second contact spaces 40,140. An example having such an arrangement is illustrated in Fig. 8B, where release members 80,180 include seven control valves, including first, fourth, and fifth controls valves 81,84, 181 which are substantially identical to those described in Fig. 8A. When equipment 12 is to be released from contact member 20 (vacuum released from second contact space 140), release member 180 manipulates channel selectors 181D, 84D, 85D, 186D to shut off channels 181C, 84C, 85B, 186C such that air pumping mechanism 71 takes in atmospheric air through channel 84B and supplies its exhaust gas to second contact space 140 through channels 84A, 85A, 85C, 186A, 186B, 181B, and 181A. Similarly, when securing device 10 is to be released from surface 16 of supporting object 14 (vacuum released from first contact space 40), release member 80 manipulates channel selectors 81D, 84D, 85D, 86D to shut off channels 81C, 84C, 85C, 86C such that air pumping mechanism 71 takes in atmospheric air through channel 84B and supplies its exhaust gas to first contact space 40 through channels 84A, 85A, 85B, 86A, 86B, 81B, and 81A. Removal of vacuum in first and second contact spaces 40,140 by this positive pumping vacuum release arrangement may be advantageous when heavy equipment 12 secured by securing device 10 tends to constantly push first and/or second contact pads 41,141 downward and to generate vacuums therein. By supplying the high-pressure exhaust gas from air pumping mechanism 71, first and/or second contact pads 41,141 may be easily detached from surface 16 of supporting object 14. This positive pumping vacuum release arrangement

may be implemented to securing device 10 and be used in parallel with the passive vacuum release arrangement.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to release member 80 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 10 and/or equipment 12 related with second contact space 140 and/or release members 80,180 described in this Section 1-7-5.

I-7-6 OTHER MEMBERS Features related to the control member described in Section I-5 and to the security members described in Section I-6 are equally applicable to securing device 10 and/or equipment 12 related with second contact pad 141. For example, the control member described in Section I-5 or an additional control member substantially similar to that control member may be arranged to monitor and/or control operations of securing device 10 and/or equipment 12, in particular, related with second contact space 140. In addition, the security members described in Section I-6 or additional security members substantially similar to those security members may also be arranged to protect the vacuum created in second contact space 140 from unauthorized intrusion thereto and/or destruction thereof. Furthermore, single control member and/or single first, second, and third security members as well as the auto-securing mechanism may be used for both first and second contact spaces 40,140.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to first contact space 40, first contact pad 41, and/or first pad guard 51 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 10 and/or equipment 12 related

with second contact space 140, second contact pad 141, and/or second pad guard 151 described in this Section 1-7.

I-8 OTHER EMBODIMENTS Vacuum-coupling securing device 10 described heretofore can be modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The securing device may include more than one first and/or second contact pads. By creating vacuum in multiple contact spaces formed by these multiple contact pads, the required securing force may be distributed among multiple contact pads in a parallel fashion. Accordingly, each first and/or second contact pad may be made smaller and/or may be required to be engaged with less vacuum. The securing device may also be arranged such that an user may select one or more first and/or second contact pads to be engaged with vacuums. A securing member is then arranged to discharge the air only from the selected first and/or second contact spaces.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to first and/or second contact pad 41,141 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to the securing device and/or equipment related with these multiple first and/or second contact pads described in the previous paragraph.

The release member may be arranged to operate in a manual mode. When the securing device and/or equipment runs short of electricity due to power failure, or when release member 80, control valves, and/or air pumping mechanism 71 becomes inoperative, it may be infeasible to release vacuum from the first and/or second contact space. The manual mode may allow the user to manually connect the first and/or

second contact space to atmospheric air, or to manually supply air to the first and/or second contact space.

The vacuum coupling between a contact member of a securing device and a surface of a supporting object and/or equipment may be provided by at least one extendable portion of the contact member. When the supporting object and/or equipment has holes or grooves over a substantial or an entire portion of its horizontal surface, the first and/or second contact pad with an ordinary shape and size cannot form an air-tight seal on the surface of the object and/or equipment, thus rendering it impractical to form the vacuum coupling on these surfaces. The securing device may include a contact member with at least one extendable portion which is arranged to extend out of the contact member and to form the vacuum coupling on another non-perforated, non-grooved surface of the object or equipment which may be an inclined or vertical sidewall, or a ceiling of a compartment of the supporting object and/or equipment. This extendable portion of the contact member may be arranged to include at least one additional contact pad and/or pad guard, each of which is substantially similar to first and/or second contact pads 41,141, and/or first and/or second pad guards 51,151 of securing device 10 described in Sections I-2 through 1-7. A flexible but temper-proof connection member may be arranged to connect the extendable portion to a main body of the contact member. The fluid communication between the contact pad and securing member 70 may be provided inside the connection member. The connection member may also be arranged to be folded into the securing device and to be retained therein when not in use. This arrangement prevents the connection member to drag around the securing device.

Alternatively, first and/or second contact pads 41,141 may be provided to the extendable member with first and/or

second pad guard 51,151 such that these pads 41,141 and pad guards 51,151 can be applied to both non-perforated (i. e., without being extended out of the securing device) and perforated surfaces (i. e., by being extended out of the securing device to form first and/or second contact spaces 40,140 on another non-perforated surface). In either arrangement, the control member may be arranged to monitor and/or control an operation of at least one of the first, second, and third contact spaces. In addition, at least one of the first, second, and third contact space may be arranged to be engaged with and disengaged from vacuum independently of the other first, second, and third contact spaces.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to first and/or second contact space 40,140, first and/or second contact pad 41,141, and/or first and/or second pad guard 51,151 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to the securing device and/or equipment related with the contact space, the contact pad, and/or the pad guard disposed at the extendable portion described in the previous paragraph.

At least a portion of the securing device may be physically and/or functionally implemented to equipment which is to be secured by the securing device. A portion of male and/or female fittings of a releasable coupler may be disposed at the equipment. Examples include, but are not limited to, front cover 27 and retainers 29 described in Section I-1. A locking mechanism may also be provided at the coupling mechanism of the equipment. Similarly, a portion of a securing member may also be incorporated to the equipment. For example, the equipment may be arranged to include therein an air pumping mechanism which is arranged

to be in fluid communication with the air pathway of the securing device. Alternatively, the air pumping mechanism may supply its exhaust gas to the components of the equipment to be cooled. These arrangements are beneficial when the securing device is applied to secure the equipment having an internal air pumping and/or transporting mechanism, because one mechanism may serve both the equipment and the securing device. A portion of an air pathway and/or air flow regulator may also be disposed at the equipment. When the equipment has the input/out signal communication capability and uses an algorithm and/or operating system which is similar to the one used by the securing device, the equipment may include a certain portion of these features, for example, to control operations of the securing device, and to secure the vacuum couplings. This arrangement offers an advantage in avoiding redundant implementation of software and/or hardware to both the securing device and the equipment. By utilizing existing capabilities of the equipment and appropriately allocating parts of the securing device to the equipment, the securing device may be manufactured at a lower cost and be made compact as well.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 which have been described heretofore and will be described hereinafter are equally applicable to the securing device and/or equipment described in the previous paragraph.

The control member may be arranged to monitor and/or control operations of the securing device and/or equipment.

In particular, when the securing device forms more than one contact space, the control member may monitor the operational status of each contact space, identify the contact space (s) with improper vacuum development and/or maintenance, and take appropriate actions. For example,

when the securing device includes more than one contact member and/or a contact member with more than one contact space to secure multiple equipment to one or more supporting objects, the control member is arranged to serve as a central control module. Therefore, when one or more contact spaces do not develop and/or maintain proper vacuum therein or do not need to be engaged with vacuum, the control member may manipulate the securing member (s) to develop vacuums in other contact spaces. In addition, the control member may also manipulate the securing member to develop vacuums in only a portion of contact spaces, while manipulating the release member (s) to release vacuums from another portion of contact spaces.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with the control and/or security member described in the previous paragraph.

II. SELF-SECURING EOUIPMENT In another aspect of the invention, mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, or their combination secures itself to a stationary or non- stationary supporting object by including therein, for example, a substantial or an entire portion of securing device 10 described in Section I. The self-securing equipment generally includes a contact member arranged to form a third contact space on the surface of the supporting object. The self-securing equipment further includes a securing member which is arranged to create vacuum in the third contact space, thereby releasably securing itself to the surface of the supporting object.

Referring to Fig. 9, a self-securing equipment 212 such as a portable lap-top computer secures itself to surface 16 of supporting object 14, such as a table and desk. Self-securing equipment 212 includes a contact member 220 and a securing member 270. Securing member 270 further includes an air pumping mechanism 271 and an air pathway 272. In general, contact member 220 is arranged to form a third contact space 240 on surface 16 of supporting object 14. Air pumping mechanism 271 of securing member 270 is arranged to be in fluid communication with third contact space 240 and to discharge air from third contact space 240 through air pathway 272 to atmosphere through a vent 273.

The vacuum created in third contact space 240 secures contact member 220 of self-securing equipment 212 to surface 16 of supporting object 14, thereby securing self-securing equipment 212 as well. <BR> <BR> <P>II-1 VACUUM COUPLING WITH SUPPORTING OBJECT<BR> II-1-1 THIRD CONTACT SPACE AND THIRD CONTACT PAD Referring to Figs. 10A to 10D, contact member 220 forms a first vacuum coupling between self-securing equipment 212 and supporting object 14 by providing air- tight third contact space 240 on surface 16 of supporting object 14. Contact member 220 includes a third contact pad 241 which is shaped and sized to form an air-tight seal around a contacting portion of surface 16 of supporting object 14. Third contact space 240 is then formed, which is defined by at least a portion of an inner surface of third contact pad 241 and the flat or curved contacting portion of surface 16 of supporting object 14. Once third contact space 240 is formed, air pumping mechanism 271 of securing member 270 discharges air from third contact space 240

through air pathway 272 and creates vacuum in third contact space 240.

Third contact pad 241 may have shape deformable according to a pressure difference applied thereacross.

Still referring to Figs. 10A to 10D, for example, funnel- shaped third contact pad 241 retains its original shape in an unstressed state (Figs. 10A and 10B), whereas third contact pad 241 is deformed in a stressed state (Figs. 10C and 10D) where vacuum is developed in third contact space 240. Third contact pad 241 may be made of, for example, rubber or thermoplastic polymer which is resilient enough to endure the weight of self-securing equipment 212. The material for third contact pad 241 may be, up to a certain degree, flexible enough to conform its shape adaptive to curvilinear shape of surface 16 of supporting object 14, and responsive to the pressure difference applied across third contact pad 241. Third contact pad 241 may also include hygroscopic material to enhance the formation of an air- tight seal around an edge 246 and/or an inner portion of third contact pad 241. The material for third contact pad 241 may also have recoil properties such that, upon removing the pressure difference applied thereacross, third contact pad 241 restores its original unstressed shape.

Constructing third contact pad 241 of the material having at least some of the above described properties offers an unique advantage that vacuum-coupling self- securing equipment 212 can secure itself to almost any supporting object 14 having either a flat or curved surface, so long as third contact pad 241 has an appropriate shape and size to form the air-tight seal on surface 16 of supporting object 14. Third contact pad 241 may be arranged to have shape and size adaptive to surface 16 of supporting object 14. For example, a group of third contact pads 241

may be provided, each of which has different shape, size, and/or physical characteristics, for example, compliance, recoil properties, and hygroscopicity. The user can select one third contact pad 241 which best fits the shape and/or size of surface 16 of supporting object 14, and replaceably couple selected third contact pad 241 to contact member 220.

Fluid communication between the inner portion of selected third contact pad 241 and air pathway 272 as well as an air- tight seal around a connecting portion between selected third contact pad 241 and the rest of contact member 220 is to be maintained during replaceable coupling of selected third contact pad 241 to contact member 220. Selected third contact pad 241 then forms an air-tight seal on curvilinear surface 16 of supporting object 14.

11-1-2 MULTIPLE VACUUM ZONES Still referring to Figs. 10A to 10D, third contact pad 241 may include, on its inner surface, one or more curvilinear protrusions 242,243,244 which are disposed, for example, around a center 245 of third contact space 240 in a substantially concentric pattern. Each protrusion 242, 243,244 is arranged to form an air-tight seal when it is brought into contact with surface 16 of supporting object 14. Protrusions 242,243,244 and/or third contact pad 241 itself may be made of hygroscopic material. Protrusions 242,243,244 may be contiguously constructed to form an unitary article with third contact pad 241, or may be fixedly attached to the inner surface of third contact pad 241.

When contact member 220 is placed on surface 16 of supporting object 14, an air-tight seal is formed around edge 246 of third contact pad 241. As air is discharged from third contact space 240, third contact pad 241 begins

to collapse and flatten, bringing curvilinear protrusions 242,243,244 closer to surface 16 of supporting object 14.

When one protrusion forms an air-tight seal on surface 16 of supporting object 14, the zones neighboring that protrusion lose fluid communication therebetween and are separated from each other across that protrusion. Accordingly, when vacuum is created in third contact space 240, each curvilinear protrusion 242,243,244 may form a separate air-tight seal on surface 16 of supporting object 14, resulting in a series of vacuum zones with varying sizes, with an outer-most vacuum zone having the largest dimension and an inner-most vacuum zone the smallest dimension. This arrangement provides an additional safety feature to vacuum-coupling self-securing equipment 12. For example, when edge 246 of third contact pad 241 is detached from surface 16 of supporting object 14 due to a slippery or oily substance deposited on surface 16 of supporting object 14, or due to unauthorized intrusion through the air-tight seal by a perpetrator, a next inner protrusion, for example, protrusion 244 in Figs. 10A to 10D, preserves the air-tight seal of inner vacuum zones of third contact space 240 and prevents destruction of other air-tight seals formed by remaining inner protrusions 242,243,244.

Still referring to Figs. 10A to 10D, third contact pad 241 may be arranged to allow securing member 270 to form vacuum in each of the vacuum zones in a sequential order, from the outer-most vacuum zone to the inner-most vacuum zone of third contact space 240. When air is discharged from third contact space 240 with multiple curvilinear protrusions 242,243,244, if an intermediate protrusion 243 is the first one that forms an air-tight seal therearound, outer protrusion 244 loses its fluid communication with securing member 270, and cannot have any vacuum developed

therein. Accordingly, it is necessary to create vacuum in each vacuum zone separately. One way is to provide separate fluid communication between securing member 270 and each vacuum zone in third contact space 240 such that securing member 70 discharges air from each vacuum zone.

Alternatively, third contact pad 241 may be arranged to have stiffness varying along its radial axis, with an outer-most region of third contact pad 241 having the lowest stiffness, while an inner-most region thereof having the highest stiffness. For example, as shown in Fig. 10C, when vacuum is created in third contact space 240, the pressure difference across third contact pad 241 causes third contact pad 241 to flatten its most compliant outer-most region to form an outer-most vacuum zone. Because outer-most protrusion 244 separates the outer-most vacuum zone from the rest of third contact space 240, discharging air further from third contact space 240 flattens the next outer-most protrusion 243, thereby forming another vacuum zone, as shown in Fig. 10D. This process is repeated until the inner-most vacuum zone develops vacuum therein. This arrangement offers an advantage of providing third contact space 240 with multiple vacuum zones therein, thereby providing multiple lines of defense against unauthorized physical intrusion into third contact space 240. This arrangement also provides third contact space 240 with multiple vacuum zones having varying degrees of vacuum. The inner-most vacuum zone generally has the highest vacuum, that is, the lowest pressure, substantially due to the highest stiffness thereof.

Alternatively, third contact pad 241 may be made of rather rigid material which does not significantly change its shape responsive to the pressure difference applied across third contact pad 241. Third contact pad 241 may be

made of, for example, thermo-setting polymers or metals. To enhance the formation of an air-tight seal on surface 16 of supporting object 14, edge 246 of rigid third contact pad 241 may include a lining of flexible and/or hygroscopic material.

11-1-3 THIRD PAD GUARD Referring to Figs. 11A to 11C, contact member 220 may include a third pad guard 251 which is generally disposed external to and around third contact pad 241 and protects the vacuum developed in third contact space 240 from external disturbances. In Fig. 11A, third pad guard 251 is shaped and sized to completely enclose third contact pad 241 therein, thereby blocking an access to third contact space 240 from, for example, underneath a bottom portion of contact member 220. Thus, third pad guard 251 provides a first line of defense to an unauthorized intrusion intended to release the vacuum from third contact space 240. Third pad guard 251 may be made of any material which is resilient enough to endure the weight of self-securing equipment 12, and to withstand physical intrusion therethrough.

Referring to Fig. 11B, cylindrical third pad guard 251 may be arranged to completely enclose third contact pad 241 therein. Third pad guard 251 has an inner diameter greater than an outer diameter of third contact pad 241, and may have a height less than that of third contact pad 241 in its unstressed position but greater (not shown) than that of third contact pad 241 in its stressed position. An optimal height of third pad guard 251 may depend on the height of third contact pad 241 in its stressed position as well as the degree of vacuum required in third contact space 240.

Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 11C, third pad guard 251 may be arranged to have an adjustable height such that

the height of a portion exposed between contact member 220 and surface 16 of supporting object 14 is adjustable. For example, third pad guard 251 includes a cylindrical body portion 252, and a top portion 253 which is inwardly extended such that an inner diameter of top portion 253 is less than that of body portion 252. A hollow, cylindrical receiving space 254 is provided at contact member 220.

Receiving space 254 includes a step 255 at its lower portion which is arranged to retain top portion 253 of third pad guard 251 therein by abutting a lower face of top portion 253 by its upper face of step 255. An elastic element 256 such as a spring is provided between an upper face of top portion 253 and a ceiling 257 of receiving space 254.

Elastic element 256 pushes top portion 253 of third pad guard 251 downward, for example, until it abuts the upper face of step 255. When self-securing equipment 12 is placed on surface 16 of supporting object 14 and/or vacuum is created in third contact space 240, the bottom of contact member 220 is brought closer to surface 16 of supporting object 14 while third pad guard 251 moves upward and squeezes elastic element 256, thereby decreasing a height of the portion of third pad guard 251 exposed between contact member 220 and surface 16 of supporting object 14. Upon disengaging the vacuum from third contact space 240, elastic element 256 recoils back toward its unstressed length and third pad guard 251 is pushed downward toward its position of abutting step 255.

The vacuum created in third contact space 240 may also be protected by multiple third pad guards 251. For example, instead of providing single third pad guard 251 which completely encloses third contact pad 241 at a certain distance, multiple third pad guards 251 (not shown) may be provided external to and around third contact pad 241 at

fixed and/or varying distances and/or locations. Each third pad guards 251 may be arranged to have its end portions overlap end portions of neighboring third pad guards 251 such that multiple third pad guards 251 block an access to every portion of third contact pad 241. Alternatively, multiple third pad guards 251 may be arranged in multiple layers (not shown) such that multiple concentric inner and outer bands of third pad guards are provided external to and around third contact space 240. Each or at least some third pad guards 251 may also be arranged to have adjustable heights such that heights of the portions exposed between contact member 220 and surface 16 of supporting object 14 are adjustable, an arrangement similar to the one described in the previous paragraph. Each or at least some third pad guards 251 may also be provided with guard paths along which they are arranged to travel around third contact pad 241.

The guard path may be a straight and/or curved groove in which third contact pad 241 is retained, and along which third contact pad 241 travels. The guard path may be arranged to receive and retain therein more than one third pad guards 251. These arrangements allow the user to appropriately position third pad guard 251 at a high-risk region which is most vulnerable to the unauthorized intrusion.

11-2 SECURING MEMBER Referring to Fig. 9, self-securing equipment 12 includes securing member 270 which is arranged to discharge air from third contact space 240 and to create the vacuum therein. Securing member 270 includes air pumping mechanism 271 and air pathway 272, both of which have configurations substantially similar to those of air pumping mechanism 71 and air pathway 72 described in Section 1-3.

Various air pumping mechanisms and/or power sources described in Section I-3 may be used for discharging air from third contact space 240. Maximum capacity of air pumping mechanism 271 and securing force exerted on third contact pad 251 may be determined by the factors substantially similar to those described in Section 1-3.

It is appreciated that conventional air transporting mechanisms used in mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, computer equipment, and their combination 12 may also be arranged to discharge air from third contact space 140. For example, an electric cooling fan may be provided with a nozzle having a configuration known in the art, and discharges air from third contact space 240 by employing the configurations and/or methods substantially similar to those described in Section 1-3. Air pathway 272 may be made of materials which are substantially similar to those for air pathway 72 described in Section 1-3. At least one additional air-flow regulator may also be described along air pathway 272 to prevent retrograde flow of air back into third contact space 240.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to securing member 70 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to self-securing equipment 212 related with securing member 270 described in this Section 11-2.

11-3 RELEASE MEMBER Self-securing equipment 212 may be provided with a release member 280 which releases the vacuum from third contact space 240, thereby releasing self-securing equipment 12 from surface 16 of supporting object 14. Releasing the vacuum from third contact space 40 can be achieved by employing the configurations and/or by using the methods

which are substantially similar to those described in Section 1-4.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to release members 80,180 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to self-securing equipment 212 related with third contact space 240 and/or release member 280 described in this Section 11-3.

11-4 OTHER MEMBERS Features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to the control member described in Section I-5 and to the security members described in Section I-6 are equally applicable to self-securing equipment 212 described in this Section II. For example, the control member described in Section I-5 or an additional control member substantially similar to that control member may be arranged to monitor and/or control operations of self-securing equipment 212, in particular, in relation to third contact space 240. In addition, the security members described in Section I-6 or additional security members substantially similar to those security members may also be arranged to protect the vacuum created in third contact space 240 from unauthorized intrusion thereto and/or destruction thereof.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to the control and security members which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to self-securing equipment 212 related with the control and security members described in this Section II.

11-5 OTHER EMBODIMENTS Self-securing vacuum-coupling equipment 212 described hereinabove can be modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The self-securing equipment may include more than one third contact pads. By creating vacuums in multiple third contact spaces formed by multiple third contact pads, the required securing force may be distributed among multiple third contact pads in a parallel fashion.

Accordingly, each third contact pad may be made smaller and/or may be required to be engaged with less vacuum. The self-securing equipment may also be arranged such that an user may select one or more third contact pads to be engaged with vacuums. A securing member is then arranged to discharge the air only from the selected third contact spaces.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to first and second contact pads 41,141 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to self-securing equipment 212 with these multiple third contact pads 241 described in the previous paragraph.

The release member may be arranged to operate in a manual mode. When the self-securing equipment runs short of electricity due to power failure, or when release member 80, control valves, and/or air pumping mechanism 71 becomes inoperative, it may be infeasible to release vacuum from the third contact space. The manual mode may allow the user to manually connect the third contact space to atmospheric air, or to manually supply air to the third contact space.

The vacuum coupling between a contact member of a self-securing equipment and a surface of a supporting object may be provided by at least one extendable portion of the

contact member. When the supporting object has holes or grooves over a substantial or an entire portion of its horizontal surface, the third contact pad with an ordinary shape and size cannot form an air-tight seal on the surface of the supporting object, rendering it impractical to form the vacuum coupling on the surface. The self-securing equipment may include at least one contact member with at least one extendable portion which is arranged to extend out of the contact member and to form the vacuum coupling on another non-perforated, non-grooved surface of the object which may be, for example, an inclined or vertical sidewall, or a ceiling of a compartment of the supporting object.

This extendable portion of the contact member may be arranged to include at least one additional contact pad and/or pad guard, each of which is substantially similar to first and/or second contact pads 41,141 and/or first and/or second pad guards 51,151 of securing device 10 described in Sections I-2 through 1-7. A flexible but temper-proof connection member may be arranged to connect the extendable portion to a main body of the contact member. The fluid communication between the contact pad and securing member 70 may be provided inside the connection member. The connection member may also be arranged to be folded into the securing device and to be retained therein while not in use, to prevent the connection member from dragging along the securing device. Alternatively, at least one third contact pad 241 may be provided to the extendable member such that the third contact pad can be applied to both non-perforated i. e., without being extended out of the contact member) and perforated horizontal surfaces (i. e., being extended out of the contact member and forming the third contact space on another non-horizontal surface). In either arrangement, the control member may be arranged to monitor and/or control an

operation of at least one of the first and third contact spaces. In addition, at least one of the first and third contact space may be arranged to be engaged with and disengaged from vacuum independently of the other first and third contact spaces.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to first, second, and/or third contact space 40, 140,240, first, second, and/or third contact pad 41,141, 241, and/or first, second, and/or third pad guard 51,151, 251 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to self- securing equipment 212 with the contact space, the contact pad, and/or the pad guard disposed at the extendable portion described in the previous paragraph.

It is appreciated that the self-securing equipment does not need certain features of securing device 10 described heretofore, in particular, when the self-securing equipment has a preexisting functional or physical equivalent of a part of securing device 10. For example, a self-securing lap-top computer may not need an additional operating system software to execute a control algorithm of securing device 10 when equipment 12 and securing device 10 use the same operating system. A self-securing computer may not need air pumping mechanism 71 of securing device 70 if an air transporting mechanism of the computer may be arranged to discharge air from its third contact space, as described in Section 11-2.

It is also appreciated that the self-securing device may be arranged to releasably retain a certain portion of the contact member and/or the securing member therein. For example, a portion of the securing member may be separated from the self-securing equipment. This arrangement gives an user an option of detaching a heavy or a bulky part of the

equipment to make the equipment lighter and more compact when the user does not need to secure the equipment.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 which have been described heretofore and will be described hereinafter are equally applicable to self- securing equipment 212 with the releasable arrangement described in the previous paragraph.

The control member may be arranged to monitor and/or control operations of the self-securing equipment. In particular, when the self-securing equipment forms more than one contact space, the control member may monitor the operational status of each contact space, identify the contact space (s) with improper vacuum development and/or maintenance, and take appropriate actions. For example, when the self-securing equipment includes more than one contact member and/or a contact member with more than one contact space to form multiple vacuum couplings to one or more supporting objects, the control member is arranged to serve as a central control module. Therefore, when one or more contact spaces do not develop and/or maintain proper vacuum therein or do not need to be engaged with vacuum, the control member may manipulate the securing member (s) to develop vacuums in other contact spaces. In addition, the control member may also manipulate the securing member to develop vacuums in only a portion of contact spaces, while manipulating the release member (s) to release vacuums from another portion of contact spaces.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 which have been described heretofore and will be described hereinafter are equally applicable to self- securing equipment 212 related with the control member described in the previous paragraph.

III. SECURING DEVICE FOR MOVABLE ARTICLES In yet another aspect of the invention, a securing device secures a movable article to a stationary or non- stationary supporting object. The movable article includes an article which is movable due to its relatively light weight or relatively small size, and/or any article which is intended to be movable due to the purpose of its application. The movable article also includes an article which is secured for prevention of theft, for display, for storage, for handling, and for transportation.

The securing device generally includes a contact member having a releasable coupler arranged to form a releasable coupling with the movable article, and a vacuum coupler arranged to form a vacuum coupling by forming a fourth contact space on the surface of the supporting object. The securing device further includes a securing member arranged to create vacuum in the fourth contact space, thereby releasably securing the movable article to the surface of the supporting object.

Referring to Fig. 12, a securing device 310 secures the movable article 312, such as a sculpture secured by a retainer 313, to a surface 16 of a supporting object 14, such as a display stand and panel. Securing device 310 includes a contact member 320 and a securing member 370.

Securing member 370 further includes an air pumping mechanism 371 and an air pathway 372. In general, a releasable coupler 331 of contact member 320 is arranged to form at least one releasable coupling with movable article 312. A vacuum coupler 332 of contact member 320 is arranged to form at least one fourth contact space 340 on surface 16 of supporting object 14. Air pumping mechanism 371 of securing member 370 is arranged to be in fluid communication with fourth contact space 340 and to discharge air from

fourth contact space 340 through air pathway 372 to atmosphere through a vent 373. Vacuum created in fourth contact space 340 secures one side of contact member 320 of securing device 310 to surface 16 of supporting object 14.

Accordingly, movable article 312 which is releasably secured to another side of contact member 320 is secured to surface 16 of supporting object 14 as well.

III-1 RELEASABLE COUPLING WITH MOVABLE ARTICLE In general, releasable coupler 331 of contact member 320 includes a male and/or female fitting which couples with a counterpart female and/or male fitting of movable article 312. Each fitting is shaped and sized to match its counterpart fitting. A locking mechanism may be provided at one or both of the fittings for securing the releasable coupling between releasable coupler 331 and movable article 312. Undoing the locking mechanism allows movable article 312 to be releasable from releasable coupler 331 of contact member 320.

One way of accomplishing the releasable coupling is to provide releasable coupler 331 with a female fitting and to provide movable article 312 with a male fitting, an arrangement substantially similar to the one described in Section I-1. Releasable coupler 331 may be arranged to accommodate movable articles 312 of different shapes and/or sizes by arranging a mechanism which adjusts a length, width, depth, thickness, and/or radius of a portion of releasable coupler 331 in order to sung fit the male and/or female fitting of movable article 312. This arrangement allows securing device 310 to be universally applicable to different movable articles of varying shapes, sizes, and/or manufacturers.

Various mechanical, electrical, and/or magnetic locking means known in the art may be used as a locking mechanism. Alternatively, electrical and/or computer control mechanisms may be implemented into the conventional locking means such that the releasable coupling is formed and released by the analog and/or digital signals supplied by the user.

The releasable coupling between releasable coupler 331 and movable article 312 can be modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. According to the specific needs and/or physical constraints due to the shape and/or size of securing device 310 and/or movable article 312, the male and/or female fitting may be provided to either or both of movable article 312 and releasable coupler 331 of securing device 310.

Alternatively, the female fitting which is only a portion of either securing device 310 or movable article 312 may be arranged to receive the male fitting which is also only a portion of the other of securing device 310 and movable article 312.

Other features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to releasable coupler 31 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to releasable coupler 331 described in this Section III-1.

111-2 VACUUM COUPLING WITH SUPPORTING OBJECT 111-2-1 FOURTH CONTACT SPACE AND FOURTH CONTACT PAD Vacuum coupler 332 of contact member 320 forms a fourth vacuum coupling between securing device 310 and supporting object 14 by providing air-tight fourth contact space 340 on surface 16 of supporting object 14. Vacuum coupler 332 includes a fourth contact pad 341 which is

shaped and sized to form an air-tight seal around a contacting portion of surface 16 of supporting object 14.

Fourth contact space 340 is then formed, which is defined by at least a portion of an inner surface of fourth contact pad 341 and the flat or curved contacting portion of surface 16 of supporting object 14. Once fourth contact space 340 is formed, air pumping mechanism 371 of securing member 370 discharges air from fourth contact space 340 through air pathway 372 and creates vacuum in fourth contact space 340.

Fourth contact pad 341 may have shape deformable according to a pressure difference applied thereacross, substantially similar to first contact pad 41 described in Section 1-2-1. The material for fourth contact pad 341 may have properties such as deformability, hygroscopicity, and recoil property, all of which are substantially similar to those of first contact pad 41 described in Section 1-2-1.

Multiple fourth contact pads 341 may also be provided, each of which has different shape, size, and/or physical characteristics. The user can select one fourth contact pad 341 which best fits the shape and/or size of surface 16 of supporting object 14, and replaceably couple selected fourth contact pad 341 to vacuum coupler 332, as described in Section 1-2-1.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to first, second, and third contact spaces 40,140,240 and first, second, and third contact pads 41,141,241 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with fourth contact space 340 and fourth contact pad 341 described in this Section 111-2-1.

111-2-2 MULTIPLE VACUUM ZONES Still referring to Fig. 12, fourth contact pad 341 may include, on its inner surface, one or more curvilinear protrusions 342,343,344 which are disposed, for example, around a center 345 of fourth contact space 340 in a substantially concentric pattern. Each protrusion 342,343, 344 is arranged to form an air-tight seal when it is brought into contact with surface 16 of supporting object 14.

Protrusions 342,343,344 and/or fourth contact pad 341 itself may be made of hygroscopic material. Protrusions 342,343,344 may be contiguously constructed to form an unitary article with fourth contact pad 341, or may be fixedly attached to the inner surface of fourth contact pad 341.

When vacuum coupler 332 is placed on surface 16 of supporting object 14, an air-tight seal is formed around edge 346 of fourth contact pad 341. As air is discharged from fourth contact space 340, fourth contact pad 341 begins to collapse and flatten, brings curvilinear protrusions 342, 343,344 closer to surface 16 of supporting object 14, and allows each curvilinear protrusion 342,343,344 to form a separate air-tight seal on surface 16 of supporting object 14, in a manner substantially similar to the one described in Sections I-2-2 and 1-7-2. This results in a series of vacuum zones of varying sizes, with an outer-most vacuum zone having the largest dimension and an inner-most vacuum zone the smallest dimension. This arrangement provides an additional safety feature to vacuum-coupling securing device 310.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to multiple vacuum zones related with first, second, and third contact spaces 40,140,240 and first, second, and third contact pads 41,141,241 which

have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with multiple vacuum zones related with fourth contact space 340 and/or fourth contact pad 341 described in this Section III-2-2.

111-2-3 FOURTH PAD GUARD Still referring to Fig. 12, vacuum coupler 332 may include a fourth pad guard 351 which is generally disposed external to and around fourth contact pad 341 and protects the vacuum developed in fourth contact space 340 from external disturbances. Fourth pad guard 351 may be made of any material which is resilient enough to endure the weight of both movable article 312 and securing device 310, and to withstand physical intrusion therethrough. Fourth pad guard 351 may be shaped and sized to completely enclose fourth contact pad 341 therein, thereby blocking an access to fourth contact space 340. Fourth pad guard 351 may be arranged to have an adjustable height such that the height of a portion exposed between contact member 320 and surface 16 of supporting object 14 is adjustable. For example, in an arrangement substantially similar to the one described in Sections I-2-3 and 1-7-3, fourth contact pad 351 can retract into and extend out of vacuum coupler 332.

The vacuum created in fourth contact space 340 may also be protected by multiple fourth pad guards 351 provided external to and around fourth contact space 340 at fixed and/or varying distances and/or locations, may be arranged in multiple layers, and/or may be arranged to have its end portions overlap end portions of neighboring fourth pad guards, as described in Sections I-2-3 and 1-7-3. Each or at least some fourth pad guards 351 may also be provided

with guard paths which are substantially similar to those described in Sections I-2-3 and 1-7-3.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to first, second, and third pad guards 51,151,251 and their corresponding guard paths which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with fourth pad guard 351 and/or its guard path described in this Section 111-2-3.

111-3 SECURING MEMBER Still referring to Fig. 12, securing device 310 includes securing member 370 which is arranged to discharge air from fourth contact space 340 and to create the vacuum therein. Securing member 370 includes air pumping mechanism 371 and air pathway 372, both of which have substantially the same configuration as air pumping mechanism 71 and air pathway 72 described in Section 1-3.

Various air pumping mechanisms and/or power sources described in Section I-3 may be used for discharging air from fourth contact space 340. Maximum capacity of air pumping mechanism 371 and securing force exerted on fourth contact pad 341 may be determined by the factors substantially similar to those described in Section 1-3.

It is appreciated that, in case movable article 312 should include a conventional air transporting mechanism, the air transporting mechanism may be arranged to discharge air from fourth contact space 340 by an arrangement and/or method substantially similar to the one described in Section 1-3. The efficiency of using the air transporting mechanism may also depend on the factors substantially similar to those described in Section 1-3.

Air pathway 372 may be made of materials which are substantially similar to those described in Section 1-3. At least one air-flow regulator 375 may be disposed along air pathway 372 to prevent retrograde flow of air back into fourth contact space 340.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to securing member 70,270 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with securing member 370 described in this Section 111-3.

111-4 RELEASE MEMBER Securing device 310 may be provided with a release member which releases the vacuum from fourth contact space 340, thereby releasing securing device 310 from surface 16 of supporting object 14. Releasing the vacuum from fourth contact space 340 can be achieved by employing the configuration and/or method substantially similar to the one described in Sections 1-4.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to release member 80,180,280 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with the release member described in this Section 111-4.

111-5 CONTROL MEMBER Securing device 310 may also include a control member which monitors and/or controls operations of securing device 310 and/or movable article 312. Control criteria of securing device 310 are generally preset by a manufacturer.

These criteria may be arranged to be adjustable and/or to be

overridden by an user input and/or a control command signal generated by a control algorithm of securing device 310.

When securing device 310 is used to secure movable article 312 with input/output signal transmission capabilities, at least a portion of software and/or hardware of the control member may be implemented to movable article 312. Thus, movable article 312 may include a portion of control software of the control member, or a portion of hardware of the control member including a monitoring mechanism, actuator, controller, and/or final control element. The control member and movable article 312 may be arranged to communicate signals in an unilateral or a bilateral manner.

The user inputs and internal and/or external control commands may be received and/or generated by either or both of securing device 310 and movable article 312.

The control member may include at least one monitoring mechanism for monitoring operations of securing device 310 and/or movable article 312. For example, a sensor may be positioned in fourth contact space 340 to generate signals responsive to pressure changes therein.

Conventional pressure sensors known in the art may be used to measure the pressure in fourth contact space 340. Based on these signals, the control member may manipulate securing member 370 to stop a vacuum-engaging operation when the pressure in fourth contact space 340 falls below a first preselected pressure, and to resume the vacuum-engaging operation of securing member 370 when the pressure in fourth contact space 340 rises above a second preselected pressure.

In general, the control member is arranged to maintain the pressure in fourth contact space 340 within a specific range. Thus, the second preselected pressure is generally set at a higher value than the first preselected pressure.

The control member may also be provided with an arrangement for initiating the vacuum-engaging operation of securing member 370. For example, the control member may include a sensing mechanism which is arranged to monitor a distance between supporting object 14 and a portion of the securing device 310 and/or movable article 312, force exerted on the sensing mechanism, and/or pressure in fourth contact space 340. When the distance, force, and/or pressure falls within a preselected range, the control member automatically manipulates securing member 370 to start the vacuum-engaging operation thereof.

The control member may include a warning mechanism arranged to generate a warning signal which warns the user of an inappropriate vacuum development in fourth contact space 340. For example, the control member may monitor the pressure in fourth contact space 340, and manipulates the warning mechanism to generate a warning signal when a desired level of vacuum is not attained after operating securing member 370 for more than a preselected period, indicating that there may exist a leak in the air-tight seal around fourth contact pad 341. The control member may also monitor a rate of change of the pressure in fourth contact space 340 and warn the user when the pressure in fourth contact space 340 changes in a rate not conforming to a preselected pattern.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to the control member which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with the control member described in this Section 111-5.

111-6 SECURITY MEMBERS Securing device 310 may also include at least one security member which is arranged to protect the vacuum created in fourth contact space 340 from unauthorized intrusion thereto and/or destruction thereof. The security member may monitor disturbances to either or both of securing device 310 and movable article 312, in particular, those disturbances originating from an external source. The security member may also be arranged to take appropriate protective actions responsive to these disturbances. When securing device 310 is used to secure movable article 312 with input/output signal transmission capabilities, at least a portion of software and/or hardware of the security member may be implemented to movable article 312. The security member may include at least one of a first security member, a second security member, a third security member, and an auto-securing mechanism, which are substantially similar to those described in Sections I-6-1,1-6-2, I-6-3, and 1-6-4, respectively.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to the security members which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with the security member described in this Section III-6.

111-7 VACUUM COUPLING WITH MOVABLE ARTICLES Vacuum-coupling securing device 310 described heretofore can be modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present invention.

For example, securing device 310 may include releasable coupler 331 which is arranged to form a fifth contact space on a surface of movable article 312. One or

more securing members 370 may also be arranged to create vacuums in both the fourth and fifth contact spaces, thereby securing movable article 312 to surface 16 of supporting object 14.

111-7-1 FIFTH CONTACT SPACE AND FIFTH CONTACT PAD Referring to Fig. 13, securing device 310 may be arranged to form a fifth vacuum coupling between releasable coupler 331 and movable article 312 by providing an air- tight fifth contact space 440 on a surface 416 of movable article 312. Releasable coupler 331 includes a fifth contact pad 441 which is shaped and sized to form an air- tight seal around a contacting portion of surface 416 of movable article 312. Fifth contact space 440 is then formed, which is defined by at least a portion of an inner surface of fifth contact pad 441 and the flat or curved contacting portion of surface 416 of movable article 312.

Once fifth contact space 440 is formed, air pumping mechanism 371 of securing member 370 discharges air from fifth contact space 440 through air pathway 372 and creates vacuum in fifth contact space 440.

Fifth contact pad 441 may have shape deformable according to a pressure difference applied thereacross, substantially similar to first, second, and/or third contact pad 41,141,241 as described in Sections I-2-1, I-7-1, and II-7-1, respectively. The material for fifth contact pad 441 may have properties such as deformability, hygroscopicity, and recoil property, all of which are substantially similar to those of first, second, and/or third contact pad 41,141,241 described in Sections 1-2-1, 1-7-1, and II-1-1, respectively.

Multiple fifth contact pads 441 may also be provided, each of which has different shape, size, and/or

physical characteristics. The user can select one fifth contact pad 441 which best fits the shape and/or size of surface 416 of movable article 12, and replaceably couple selected fifth contact pad 441 to releasable coupler 331, as described in Sections 1-2-1,1-7-1, and II-1-1.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to first, second, and third contact pads 41,141,241, and first, second, and third contact spaces 40,140,240 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with fifth contact pad 441 and/or fifth contact space 440 described in this Section 111-7-1.

111-7-2 MULTIPLE VACUUM ZONES Still referring to Fig. 13, fifth contact pad 441 may include, on its inner surface, one or more curvilinear protrusions 442,443,444 which are disposed, for example, around a center 445 of fifth contact space 440 in a substantially concentric pattern. Each protrusion 442,443, 444 is arranged to form an air-tight seal when it is brought into contact with surface 416 of movable article 312.

Protrusions 442,443,444 and/or fifth contact pad 441 itself may be made of hygroscopic material. Protrusions 442,443,444 may be contiguously constructed to form an unitary article with fifth contact pad 441, or may be fixedly attached to the inner surface of fifth contact pad 441.

When releasable coupler 331 is attached to surface 416 of movable article 312, an air-tight seal is formed around edge 446 of fifth contact pad 441. As air is discharged from fifth contact space 440, fifth contact pad 441 begins to collapse and flatten, brings curvilinear

protrusions 442,443,444 closer to surface 416 of movable article 312, and allows each curvilinear protrusion 442, 443,444 to form a separate air-tight seal on surface 416 of movable article 312, in a manner substantially similar to the one described in Sections I-2-2,1-7-2, and 11-1-2.

This results in a series of vacuum zones of varying sizes, with an outer-most vacuum zone having the largest dimension and an inner-most vacuum zone the smallest dimension. This arrangement provides an additional safety feature to vacuum- coupling securing device 410.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to the multiple vacuum zones related with first, second, and/or third contact space 40, 140,240 and first, second, and/or third contact pad 41, 141,241 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with the multiple vacuum zones related with fifth contact space 440 and/or fifth contact pad 441 described in this Section III- 7-2.

111-7-3 FIFTH PAD GUARD Still referring to Fig. 13, releasable coupler 331 may include a fifth pad guard 451 which is generally disposed external to and around fifth contact pad 441 and protects the vacuum developed in fifth contact space 440 from external disturbances. Fifth pad guard 451 may be made of any material which is resilient enough to endure the weight of movable article 312, and to withstand physical intrusion therethrough. Fifth pad guard 451 may be shaped and sized to completely enclose fifth contact pad 441 therein, thereby blocking an access to second contact space 440. Fifth pad guard 451 may be arranged to have an

adjustable height such that the height of a portion exposed between contact member 320 and surface 416 of movable article 312 is adjustable. In an arrangement substantially similar to the one described in Sections I-2-3, I-7-3, and II-1-3, fifth pad guard 451 can retract into and extend out of releasable coupler 331.

Alternatively, multiple fifth contact pads 451 may be provided external to and around fifth contact pad 441 at fixed and/or varying distances and/or locations, may be arranged in multiple layers, and/or may be arranged to have its end portions overlap end portions of neighboring fifth pad guards 451, as described in Sections I-2-3, I-7-3, and II-1-3.Each or at least some fifth pad guards 451 may also be provided with guard paths which are substantially similar to those described in Sections I-2-3, I-7-3, and 11-1-3.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to first, second, third, and fourth contact pads 41,141,241,341 and their guard paths which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with fifth contact pad 441 and/or its guard paths described in this Section 111-7- 3.

III-7-4 SECURING MEMBER To create vacuum in fifth contact space 440, securing member 370 described hereinabove can be modified in a variety of ways. One such way is to provide an additional securing member with an additional air pumping mechanism and air pathways, all of which are exclusively used for creating the vacuum in fifth contact space 440. This arrangement may be advantageous in that the vacuum in fifth contact space 440 can be created and maintained regardless of an

operational status of securing member 370 for fourth contact space 340. However, this arrangement has a drawback of redundantly implementing multiple air pumping mechanisms and air pathways to securing device 310, thereby increasing the weight and manufacturing cost of the securing device.

Another way of creating the vacuum in fifth contact space 440 is to arrange air pumping mechanism 371 to create vacuums in both fourth and fifth contact spaces 340,440 using a configuration and/or method substantially similar to the one described in Sections I-3 and/or 1-7-4.

Various air pumping mechanisms and power sources described in Section I-3 may be used for discharging air from fifth contact space 440. Maximum capacity of air pumping mechanism 371 and securing force exerted on fifth contact pad 451 may be determined by the factors described in Section 1-3.

It is appreciated that, in case movable article 312 includes a conventional air transporting mechanism, the air transporting mechanism may be arranged to discharge air from fifth contact space 440 by employing substantially similar configurations and/or methods described in Section 1-3.

Air pathway 472 may be made of the materials substantially similar to those for air pathway 72 described in Section 1-3. At least one additional air-flow regulator may also be disposed along air pathway 372 to prevent retrograde flow of air back into fifth contact space 440.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to securing member 70,270 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with securing member 370 described in this Section 111-7-4.

111-7-5 RELEASE MEMBER To release vacuum from fifth contact space 440, release member 380 described hereinabove can be modified in a variety of ways. One such way is to provide one release member 380 for both fourth and fifth contact spaces 340,440 as described in Section 1-4. Another way is to use release member 380 described in Section I-4 for releasing the vacuum from fourth contact space 340, and an additional release member for releasing the vacuum from fifth contact space 440 as described in Section 1-7-5. Furthermore, the passive vacuum release arrangements as well as the positive pumping vacuum release arrangements may be provided to securing device 310. These arrangements are realized by disposing at least one control valve which is substantially similar to the one described in Sections I-4 and 1-7-5.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to release members 80,180,280 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with the release member described in this Section 111-7-5.

111-7-6 OTHER MEMBERS Features of securing device 10 and equipment 12 related to the control member described in Section I-5 and to the security members described in Section I-6 are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable object 312 with fifth contact pad 141. For example, the control member described in Sections I-5 and I-7-6 or an additional control member substantially similar to that control member may be arranged to monitor and/or control operations of securing device 310 and/or movable article 312, in particular, those operations related with fifth contact space 440. In

addition, the security members described in Sections I-6 and I-7-6 or additional security members substantially similar to those security members may also be arranged to protect the vacuum created in fifth contact space 440 from unauthorized intrusion thereto and/or destruction thereof.

Furthermore, single control member and/or single first, second, and third security members as well as the auto- securing mechanism may be used for both fourth and fifth contact spaces 340,440.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to first, second, and/or third contact space 40,140,240, first, second, and/or third contact pad 41,141,241, and/or first, second, and/or third pad guard 51,151,251 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with fourth and/or fifth contact space 340,440, fourth and/or fifth contact pad 341,441, and/or fourth and/or fifth pad guard 351,451 described in this Section 111-7.

111-8 OTHER EMBODIMENTS Vacuum-coupling securing device 310 described heretofore can be modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The securing device may include more than one fourth and/or fifth contact pads. By creating vacuum in multiple contact spaces formed by these multiple contact pads, the required securing force may be distributed among multiple contact pads in a parallel fashion. Accordingly, each fourth and/or fifth contact pad may be made smaller and/or may be required to be engaged with less vacuum. The securing device may also be arranged such that an user may select one or more fourth and/or fifth contact pads to be

engaged with vacuums. A securing member is then arranged to discharge the air only from the selected fourth and/or fifth contact spaces.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to first, second, and/or third contact pads 41,141,241 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with multiple fourth and/or fifth contact pads 341, 441 described in the previous paragraph.

The release member may be arranged to operate in a manual mode. When the securing device and/or movable article runs short of electricity due to power failure, or when the release member, control valves, and/or air pumping mechanism 371 becomes inoperative, it may be infeasible to release vacuums from the fourth and/or fifth contact space.

The manual mode may allow the user to manually connect the fourth and/or fifth contact space to atmospheric air, or to manually supply air to the fourth and/or fifth contact space.

The vacuum coupling between a contact member of a securing device and a surface of a supporting object and/or movable article may be provided by an extendable portion of the contact member. When the supporting object and/or movable article has holes or grooves over a substantial or an entire portion of its horizontal surface, the fourth and/or fifth contact pad with an ordinary shape and size cannot form an air-tight seal on the surface of the object or movable article, thus rendering it impractical to form the vacuum coupling on these surfaces. The securing device may include a contact member with at least one extendable portion which is arranged to extend out of the contact member and to form the vacuum coupling on another non-

perforated, non-grooved surface of the object or movable article which may be an inclined or vertical sidewall, or a ceiling of a compartment of the supporting object and/or movable article. This extendable portion of the contact member may be arranged to include at least one additional contact pad and/or pad guard, each of which is substantially similar to first, second, and/or third contact pads 41,141, 241 and/or first, second, and/or third pad guards 51,151, 251 of securing devices 10,210,310 described in Sections I, II, and III. A flexible but temper-proof connection member may be arranged to connect the extendable portion to a main body of the contact member. The fluid communication between the contact pad and securing member 370 may be provided inside the connection member. The connection member may also be arranged to be folded into the securing device and to be retained therein when not in use. This arrangement prevents the connection member to drag around the securing device. Alternatively, fourth and/or fifth contact pads 341,441 may be provided to the extendable member with fourth and/or fifth pad guard 351,451 such that these pads 341,441 and pad guards 351,451 can be applied to both non-perforated (i. e., without being extended out of the securing device) and perforated surfaces (i. e., by being extended out of the securing device to form fourth and/or fifth contact spaces 340,440 on another non-perforated surface).

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to first, second, and/or third contact spaces 40,140,240, first, second, and/or third contact pads 41,141,241, and/or first, second, and/or third pad guards 51,151,251 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312

related with the contact space, the contact pad, and the pad guard disposed at the extendable portion described in the previous paragraph.

At least a portion of the securing device may be physically and/or functionally implemented to the movable article which is to be secured by the securing device. A portion of male and/or female fittings of a releasable coupler may be disposed at the movable article. Similarly, a portion of the securing member may also be incorporated to the movable article. For example, the movable article may be arranged to include therein an air pumping mechanism which is arranged to be in fluid communication with an air pathway of the securing device. Accordingly, the air pumping mechanism may supply its exhaust gas to the components of the movable article to be cooled. These arrangements are beneficial when the securing device is applied to secure the movable article having an internal air pumping and/or transporting mechanism, because one mechanism may serve both the movable article and the securing device.

A portion of an air pathway and/or air flow regulator may also be disposed at the movable article. When the movable article has the input/out signal communication capability and uses an algorithm and/or operating system which is similar to the one used by the securing device, the movable article may include a certain portion of these features, for example, to control operations of the securing device, and to secure the vacuum couplings. This arrangement offers an advantage in avoiding redundant implementation of software and/or hardware to both the securing device and the movable article. By utilizing existing capabilities of the movable article and appropriately allocating parts of the securing device to the movable article, the securing device may be manufactured at a lower cost and be made compact as well.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 described in the previous paragraph.

The control member may be arranged to monitor and/or control operations of the securing device and/or movable article. In particular, when the securing device forms more than one contact space, the control member may monitor the operational status of each contact space, identify the contact space (s) with improper vacuum development and/or maintenance, and take appropriate actions. For example, when the securing device includes more than one contact member and/or a contact member with more than one contact space to secure multiple movable articles to one or more supporting objects, the control member is arranged to serve as a central control module. Therefore, when one or more contact spaces do not develop and/or maintain proper vacuum therein or do not need to be engaged with vacuum, the control member may manipulate the securing member (s) to develop vacuums in other contact spaces. In addition, the control member may also manipulate the securing member to develop vacuums in only a portion of contact spaces, while manipulating the release member (s) to release vacuums from another portion of contact spaces.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 related to securing member 70,270 and the control member which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with the control and/or securing member described in the previous paragraph.

Certain new features may be provided to the securing device. For example, the securing device may be provided with multiple contact pads so that one or a few securing members of this securing device can secure dozens or more of movable articles. This securing device may also be provided with a central control mechanism. For example, a release member and/or a security member of this securing device may be arranged to perform monitoring, controlling, and alarming functions by centrally monitoring multitude of those contact pads, while tracking their location and operational status.

Other features of securing device 10,210 and equipment 12,212 which have been described heretofore and will be discussed hereinafter are equally applicable to securing device 310 and/or movable article 312 related with the control and/or security member described in the previous paragraph.

IV. CONTROL DEVICE FOR SECURING DEVICE In yet another aspect of the invention, a control device 600 monitors and/or controls the operations of the securing device and/or equipment described in Sections I, II, and III. In general, control device 600 includes at least one of: one or more input members 610 for receiving an input signal; one or more main control processor 620 for generating a control command signal; and one or more output member 630 for transmitting the control command signal to a component of the securing device and/or equipment.

Referring to Fig. 14, control device 600 includes one input member 610, one main control processor 620, and one output member 630. Input member 610 includes at least one of a receiving module 611 which receives an user input, a monitoring module 612 which receives a signal generated by a sensing element, and a control database 613 which contains

a variety of preset control set-points and/or parameters.

Output member 630 includes at least one of a first control module 631, a second control module 632, and a third control module 633. First control module 631 is arranged to control the operations of a variety of securing members described in Sections I-3, I-7-4, I-8, II-2, II-5, III-3, III-7-4, and III-8, Second control module 632 is arranged to control the operations of a variety of release members described in Sections 1-4,1-7-5, I-8, II-3, II-5, III-4, III-7-5, and III-8, Third control module 633 is arranged to control the operations of a variety of security members described in Sections 1-6, I-7-6,1-8, II-4, II-5, III-6, III-7-6, and III-8, First and/or second control module 631,632 is also arranged to manipulate the operations of the control valves described in Sections 1-4, I-7-4,1-7-5,1-8, II-3, II-5, III-4, andIII-8.MaincontrolprocessorIII-7-5, 620 receives input signals from input member 610, generates appropriate control command signals, and sends the control command signals to output member 630.

Still referring to Fig. 14, receiving module 611 of input member 610 is arranged to receive an input signal supplied by an user. Examples of the input signals include, but are not limited to, electrical (analog and/or digital), mechanical, electromagnetic, and/or optical signals. The input signals may serve to identify an authorized user or to direct a specific component of the securing device and/or equipment to perform a preselected operation. Monitoring module 612 is also arranged to receive an input signal generated by a variety of sensing elements. These signals may represent, for example, the pressure in the contact space, the location of the securing device and/or equipment, the distance between the supporting object and the securing device and/or equipment, the operational status of the

control valve, the air suction rate of the securing member, and the time elapsed after the user's most recent operation of the equipment and/or the most recent movement of the securing device and/or equipment. Control database 613 stores information related with control features of the securing device and/or equipment. Examples of information stored in control database 613 include, but are not limited to, optimal set-point of pressure in the contact space, threshold values for engaging and/or disengaging the auto- securing mechanism which has been described in, for example, Section 1-6-4, parameters used by the security members to detect the unauthorized intrusion into the contact space and/or the unauthorized movement of the securing device and/or equipment, and parameters for control algorithms such as a control gain, time lag, and time constant. Information stored in control database 613 may be arranged to be read only (such as in a ROM) or to be overridden and replaced by the user and/or control device 600 if desired. At least one component of input member 610 may be arranged to transmit the above described input signal directly to one of the control modules of output member 630, or to the component of the securing device and/or equipment.

Main control processor 620 is arranged to receive an input signal from at least one of the components of input member 610. Based on the input signal and/or the control algorithm implemented therein, main control processor 620 generates a control command signal. Examples of the control command signals include, but are not limited to, engaging or disengaging the securing member, manipulating the channel selector of the control valve, controlling the suction rate of the securing member, and activating or deactivating one of the security members. Main control processor 620 then transmits the control command signal to at least one control

module of output member 630 such that an appropriate control command signal can be transmitted to the component of the securing device and/or equipment to be controlled thereby.

Main control processor 620 may be arranged to receive at least one of the above described input signals directly from the user and/or the sensors. In addition, main control processor 620 may also be arranged to directly transmit an input signal, without performing any signal processing, to one or more modules of output member 630, or to one or more components of the securing member and/or equipment.

First control module 631 and second control module 632 of output member 630 are arranged to receive the control command signal generated by main control processor 620 and to transmit the control command signal to the corresponding component of the securing device and/or self-securing equipment to be controlled. For example, first control module 631 may turn on or off the securing member, may manipulate the channel selector of the control valve to provide appropriate air pathways for a vacuum-engaging and/or vacuum-releasing operation, and may adjust the air suction rate of the securing member. Second control module 632 may also manipulate the air pathways for the release member to release vacuum from the contact space. When the release member adopts a positive pumping vacuum release arrangement described in, for example, Section 1-4, second control module 632 may also manipulate the securing member and the control valves such that the exhaust gas of the securing member is supplied to the contact space. Third control module 633 is also arranged to receive the control command signal from main control processor 620 and to transmit the control command signal to the corresponding component of the securing device and/or equipment to be controlled. For example, third control module 633 may

activate one of the security members and/or their alarm mechanisms to warn the user of the occurrence of unauthorized attempts to remove vacuum from the contact space, or unauthorized attempts to remove the securing device and/or equipment from the supporting object.

Control device 600 can be modified in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Control device 600 may be arranged to detect a leak, for example, in the air pathway, and warn the user of the presence of a leak. For example, at least one pressure sensor may be disposed along the air pathway and send the pressure signal (s) to control device 600. Control device 600 then analyzes the signal, assesses whether the measured and/or processed signal conforms to a predetermined value and/or pattern, and informs the user of the presence or absence of the leak.

Control device 600 may be arranged to perform a self-diagnosis by running a mock simulation of the vacuum- engaging operation and/or vacuum-release operation. For example, control device 600 may be arranged to manipulate the securing device and/or equipment to briefly operate each of its components, and to monitor and assess the operational status of its component. In addition, control device 600 may also manipulate at least one control valve to form a confined space and run a mock simulation by engaging vacuum in the confined space and/or releasing vacuum therefrom.

Control device 600 may be arranged to inform the user of the echo of the user input, the monitored value of the operational parameter, control criteria, and/or the control results. For example, when the securing device and/or equipment includes a monitor which the user can view, control device 600 may be arranged to display to the user

information related with the pressure in the contact space (s), air suction rate of the securing device, remaining power of the power supply, channel arrangements of the control valve (s), and the arming status of the security members. Control device 600 may also be arranged to interact with the user on a real-time basis such that the user can access information other than those described above.

Control device 600 may be arranged to have inter- component and/or bilateral communication capabilities. For example, each component of input member 600, main control processor 620, and each control module of output member 630 may receive and/or send signals to each other. For example, at least one control module of output member 630 may be arranged to feed a signal back to a component of input member 610 and/or main control processor 620. In addition, control device 600 may also be arranged to transmit the above described input signal directly to the component of the securing device and/or equipment to be controlled.

Referring to Fig. 15, main control processor 620 is implemented with a control algorithm according to which main control processor 620 generates at least one control command signal which is transmitted to the component of the securing device and/or equipment to be controlled. As described in the preceding paragraphs, the user input signal and/or monitored signal is received either by one of the components of input member 610 or directly by main control processor 620. Similarly, the control command signals which are generated by main control processor 620 may be transmitted to the component of the securing device and/or equipment either directly by main control processor 620 or indirectly through at least one control module of output member 630.

For ease of illustration, however, Fig. 14 shows an

arrangement where main control processor 620 is arranged to directly receive the input signal and to directly transmit the control command signals to the components of the securing device and/or equipment to be controlled.

In the block 701, the control algorithm is initiated by receiving an access code from an user. When the code supplied by the user is invalid, main control processor 600 generates and sends a control command signal (CCS-01) to the first security member (described in, for example, Section I- 6-1) to activate its first alarm element. A counter may be added to block 701 such that main control processor 620 provides the user with multiple opportunities to supply a valid access code before generating and sending the control command signal (CCS-01) to the first security member.

When the access code supplied by the user is a valid code, main control processor 620 allows the user to choose a desired operation to be controlled. One way is to provide a menu in which the user selects a desired operation. Another way is to allow the user to choose a specific operation from a list including a series of operations. The arrangement illustrated in Fig. 15 adopts the second mode.

In the block 702, the user may choose to start a vacuum-engaging operation of the securing member by specifying a contact space (s) to be engaged with vacuum.

When the securing device and/or equipment includes more than one contact space, the user may provide main control processor 620 with the code (s) and/or ID number (s) of the contact space (s). In the block 703, main control processor 620 receives the information, and generates a control command signal (CCS-02) to manipulate a channel selector of a control valve to arrange appropriate air pathways for the vacuum-engaging operation, as described in, for example, Section 1-7-4. When the securing device and/or equipment

includes more than one securing member, main control processor 620 also selects a securing member, as described in the block 704. The selected securing member may be the one which is exclusively assigned to the selected contact space to be engaged with vacuum, which is disposed adjacent to the selected air pathway, or which has the least work load. Main control processor 620 then generates and sends a control command signal (CCS-03) to the selected securing member. Although not shown in Fig. 15, a substantially similar arrangement may also be used to terminate the vacuum-engaging operation in a specific contact space, and/or to release vacuum from a specific contact space.

In the block 705, the user may arm or disarm a security member of the securing device and/or equipment, by specifying a security member to be armed or disarmed. When the securing device and/or equipment includes more than one security member, the user may provide main control processor 620 with the code (s) and/or ID number (s) of the security member (s). In the block 706, main control processor 620 receives the information, and generates a control command signal (CCS-04) to the selected security member (s) which is to be armed or disarmed accordingly.

In the block 707, main control processor 620 is arranged to perform a mock operation for self-diagnosis.

Main control processor 620 generates a control command signal (CCS-05) to manipulate a channel selector of a control valve to arrange appropriate air pathways for the self-diagnosis, as described in the block 708. When the securing device and/or equipment includes more than one securing member, main control processor 620 also selects a securing member, as described in the block 709. The selected securing member may be the one which is exclusively assigned to the self-diagnosis, the one chosen randomly, or

the one selected by the user. Main control processor 620 then generates and sends a control command signal (CCS-06) to the selected securing member.

In the block 710, the user changes the control- related information, such as optimal set-points of pressure in the contact space, threshold values for engaging and/or disengaging the auto-securing mechanism, parameters used by the security members to detect the unauthorized intrusion into the contact space and/or the unauthorized movement of the securing device and/or equipment, and parameters for control algorithms such as a control gain, time lag, and time constant. When the information is not the kind stored in control database 613, main control processor 620 generates a control command signal (CCS-07) and send the signal to an appropriate component of the securing device and/or equipment. However, when the information is one of the kinds stored in control database 613 and the change is desired to be permanent, control processor 620 generates another control command signal (CCS-08) and sends the signal to control database 613. The signal then manipulates control database 613 to replace the old information with the new information. However, when the information is one of the kinds stored in control database 613 but the change is only temporary, main control processor 620 generates the control command signal (CCS-07) and sends the signal directly to an appropriate component of the securing device and/or equipment.

Control device 600 described in this Section IV can be used as the control members for the securing device and/or equipment described in Sections 1-5, I-7-6,1-8, II- 4, II-5, III-5, III-7-6, and 111-8. Other features of the securing device and/or equipment related to the control members described in Sections I, II, and III are equally

applicable to the control member described in this Section IV.

It is to be understood that while the invention has been described in conjunction with the detailed description thereof, the foregoing description is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the scope of the appended claims. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications are within the scope of the following claims.

What is claimed is: