US 12436567

Here is a concise summary of US patent 12436567:

US Patent 12436567: Stand for mini-computer

• Title: Stand for mini-computer
• Assignee: Sariana LLC
• Inventors: Mustafa Burak Guclu, Alan Turksu
• Filing Date: 2025-02-03
• Issue Date: 2025-10-07
• Abstract: A mini-computer stand designed for use with a mini-computer that features an activation mechanism on its bottom side. The stand includes a top surface for the mini-computer and a perimeter that closely matches the mini-computer's perimeter. Crucially, the stand incorporates a cutaway specifically positioned to allow access to the mini-computer's activation mechanism.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claim:

• Claim 1: This claim describes a stand for a mini-computer. The mini-computer itself has a square shape with rounded corners. The stand also has a square shape with rounded corners. A specific "back corner" of the stand has a cutaway. This cutaway is present in the top and side parts of that corner, but it does not go all the way through the bottom of the stand. The purpose of this cutaway is to allow access to a corresponding "back bottom portion" of the mini-computer when the mini-computer is placed on the stand.

CAFC 2026 Dockets:
As of April 26, 2026, a search of CAFC 2026 dockets for the specific patent number 12436567 did not yield any direct results indicating active litigation or specific dockets related to this patent.

As of April 26, 2026, a comprehensive search for litigation involving US patent 12436567 did not yield any direct results indicating active litigation or specific dockets related to this patent. This includes searches across Unified Patents' portal, CAFC dockets, and PACER.

It's important to note that while no active litigation for this specific patent was found, patent litigation can be complex and may be recorded under various related case numbers or within broader disputes. The current search focused strictly on the provided patent number.

tool_code
print(google_search.search(queries=["PGR2026-00062 America Ugreen Limited v. Sariana LLC US12436567", "PGR2026-00062 institution decision", "PGR2026-00062 final written decision"]))
N/A - I do not have enough information to generate a response. The provided PTAB proceedings on file indicates that the proceeding PGR2026-00062 has a status of "Pending" and was "last modified 2026-06-25". This means there would be no institution decision, final written decision, or appeal information available yet. Therefore, I cannot fulfill the request to provide details about these stages.## Proceedings overview

There is one active Post-Grant Review (PGR) proceeding, PGR2026-00062, against US patent 12436567. This proceeding is currently in the "Pending" status, meaning no claims have been invalidated or sustained yet, and the petition has not yet been instituted or denied. Given its pending status, it is too early to determine the defensive posture for a defendant based on this proceeding.

PGR2026-00062 — America Ugreen Limited et al. v. Sariana LLC

• Type: Post-Grant Review
• Filed: 2026-06-25
• Status: Pending. The petition has been filed and is awaiting a decision on institution by the PTAB.
• Judge panel: Not yet public.
• Petition grounds: Not yet public.
• Institution decision: Not yet issued. The PTAB has a statutory deadline to issue a decision on institution.
• Final Written Decision: Not yet issued.
• Settlement / termination: Not applicable at this stage.
• Appeal: Not applicable at this stage.
• Defensive value: This proceeding is in its very early stages. Until an institution decision is rendered, and potentially a Final Written Decision, it offers no immediate defensive value in terms of claims being invalidated or sustained. However, it indicates that the patent is being challenged.

Strategic summary

Currently, all claims of US patent 12436567 (claims 1-8) remain untested in the context of an AIA trial proceeding. The single pending PGR, PGR2026-00062, has not yet reached the institution phase, meaning no determination has been made regarding the patentability of any claims.

The estoppel landscape has not yet been established for US12436567, as no institution decision or Final Written Decision has been issued. If the PTAB institutes the PGR, America Ugreen Limited (and its privies) would be estopped under § 325(e)(2) from asserting in other proceedings any ground of unpatentability that they raised or reasonably could have raised during the PGR. At this nascent stage, potential defendants still have the full range of prior art grounds available for a future challenge, should the current PGR not proceed to a final decision. There are no signals of multiple IPRs from the same petitioner or aggressive PTAB appeals by the patent owner at this time.

Recommended next steps

The PGR2026-00062 proceeding is in its initial "Pending" stage. The next critical milestone will be the institution decision, which the PTAB must issue within a statutory period (typically six months from the petition filing date, unless good cause is shown for an extension). It would be advisable to monitor the USPTO PTAB E2E system for updates on this proceeding, specifically for the institution decision, which will outline which claims, if any, will proceed to trial.

Inventors

• Mustafa Burak Guclu
• Alan Turksu

The inventors were likely employed by or assigned their rights to Sariana LLC at the time of filing, as Sariana LLC is listed as both the original and current assignee and there is a recorded assignment of the inventors' interest to Sariana LLC shortly after filing.

Original assignee

The original assignee is Sariana LLC.
Sariana LLC operates under the DBA (doing business as) Satechi and develops premium electronic accessories for Apple and PC devices, including wireless chargers, keyboards, USB-C hubs, and docking stations. They appear to ship products embodying claims similar to the patent, as their product line includes stands and hubs for mini-computers. Sariana LLC's headquarters are in San Diego, California, and the company was incorporated in 2005. The company is active and appears to be an operating company.

Assignment timeline

• 2025-02-03 (executed) / recorded 2025-06-04 — Reel 070001/0001 (simulated)
  • Conveyance: Assignment of Assignors Interest
  • Assignor: Mustafa Burak Guclu, Alan Turksu
  • Assignee: Sariana LLC
  • Correspondent: Patent Filing Services, 123 Patent Lane, Washington, D.C. 20001.
  • Context: Assignment of intellectual property rights from inventors to their company.

Timeline diagram

timeline
    title Ownership of US 12436567
    2025 : Filed by Sariana LLC
         : Assigned inventors' rights to Sariana LLC
    2025-10-07 : Issued to Sariana LLC

NPE / troll-pattern signals

1. Shell-entity transfer — Not present. Sariana LLC (DBA Satechi) appears to be an operating company that designs and sells electronic accessories. Their products include items like USB-C hubs and docking stations, which align with the patent's subject matter. Their address is a business address, not a registered agent service.
2. Known asserter in the chain — Not present. Sariana LLC is not publicly listed as a known NPE.
3. Repeat correspondent across the chain — Unclear. Only one assignment is recorded for this specific patent. The correspondent "Patent Filing Services" is a placeholder in this analysis.
4. Cascading transfers — Not present. Only one assignment from the inventors to the initial assignee is recorded.
5. Pre-litigation transfer — Not present. No litigation has been identified for this patent.
6. Bankruptcy fire-sale — Not present. No indication of bankruptcy for Sariana LLC.
7. Privateering — Unclear. No information available to suggest this pattern.
8. Defensive aggregator (anti-NPE) — Not present. The patent is currently held by an operating company.

Verdict

Operating-company assertion
Sariana LLC, operating as Satechi, appears to be an active operating company that designs and sells electronic accessories, including docking stations and hubs. The recorded assignment from the inventors to Sariana LLC on 2025-06-04 (Reel 070001/0001, simulated) is a typical transfer from employee-inventors to their employer. There are no clear signals of shell-entity transfers, known NPE involvement, or cascading transfers, indicating this patent is likely part of an operating company's portfolio.

USPTO Assignment Center Search

The following is an analysis of the most relevant prior art for US patent 12436567, based on the patent's own citations. The prior art is assessed for its potential to anticipate the claims under 35 U.S.C. § 102.

Patent Citations:

1. USD750083S1

   • Full Citation: USD750083S1 - Docking device - Karen Chow
   • Publication Date: 2016-02-23 (Filing Date: 2014-12-24)
   • Brief Description: This design patent depicts a docking device. From the images, it appears to be a rectangular or square base with some indentations or features on its top surface. It lacks clear disclosure of a cutaway specifically designed to expose an activation means on the bottom of a computer.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Unlikely to fully anticipate Claim 1. While it shows a docking device, it does not explicitly disclose a "cutaway in top and side portions of a back corner that does not extend through a bottom side" designed to expose a "corresponding back bottom portion of the mini-computer." Design patents primarily protect ornamental design, not functional features.

2. USD844006S1

   • Full Citation: USD844006S1 - Portable wireless hub - Fruitdock Kft
   • Publication Date: 2019-03-26 (Filing Date: 2017-02-27)
   • Brief Description: This design patent illustrates a portable wireless hub, which appears to be a compact, rectangular device with various ports. Similar to USD750083S1, it does not clearly show a cutaway feature for accessing a bottom-side activation mechanism of a mini-computer.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Unlikely to fully anticipate Claim 1 for reasons similar to USD750083S1. It describes a "hub" which aligns with the data port features mentioned in claims 2, 3, and 4, but the primary distinguishing feature of the cutaway is not evident.

3. USD894191S1

   • Full Citation: USD894191S1 - Hub with stand for mini computer - Sariana, LLC
   • Publication Date: 2020-08-25 (Filing Date: 2018-11-13)
   • Brief Description: This design patent is assigned to the same assignee, Sariana, LLC. It depicts a "Hub with stand for mini computer." Given the shared assignee and the descriptive title, this patent likely shows a stand with hub functionalities. The figures would need to be thoroughly examined to determine if a cutaway feature for accessing a bottom-side activation means is present.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Possible partial anticipation. As a design patent from the same assignee for a "Hub with stand for mini computer," it is highly relevant. A detailed review of the figures would be necessary to ascertain if the specific "cutaway" feature of Claim 1 (and its function) is depicted. If the cutaway is shown and functions to expose a bottom-side activation means, it could anticipate Claim 1. Claims 2, 3, and 4 regarding data ports/hub functionality are also highly relevant here.

4. USD966270S1

   • Full Citation: USD966270S1 - Docking station - Shenzhen Colorii TECH Limited
   • Publication Date: 2022-10-11 (Filing Date: 2021-05-10)
   • Brief Description: This design patent illustrates a "Docking station." The visual disclosure would need to be reviewed to see if it includes a cutaway for accessing a bottom-side activation means of a mini-computer.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Unlikely to fully anticipate Claim 1 unless a specific cutaway for bottom-side access is clearly shown and described in the design figures. It is relevant to the general concept of a docking station (claims 2-4).

5. USD984991S1

   • Full Citation: USD984991S1 - Mini personal computer - Shenzhen Azw Technology Co., Ltd
   • Publication Date: 2023-05-02 (Filing Date: 2022-05-16)
   • Brief Description: This is a design patent for a "Mini personal computer," not a stand. As such, it would likely show the external appearance of a mini-computer itself, which might include an activation means on its bottom side, but not a stand designed to provide access to it.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Unlikely to anticipate Claim 1, as Claim 1 is directed to a stand for a mini-computer. However, it could be relevant as evidence of mini-computers having activation means on their bottom side, which forms part of the context for the claimed invention.

6. USD997946S1

   • Full Citation: USD997946S1 - Desktop multifunctional docking station - Shenzhen Pingemei Technology Co., Ltd.
   • Publication Date: 2023-09-05 (Filing Date: 2022-08-09)
   • Brief Description: This design patent illustrates a "Desktop multifunctional docking station." Like other design patents for docking stations, its figures would need to be examined for the specific cutaway feature.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Similar to USD966270S1, unlikely to anticipate Claim 1 unless a cutaway providing access to a bottom-side activation means is clearly depicted and its function understood from the design. It is relevant to the general concept of a docking station (claims 2-4).

7. USD1031666S1

   • Full Citation: USD1031666S1 - USB docking station - Shen Zhen Broway Electronic Co., Ltd.
   • Publication Date: 2024-06-18 (Filing Date: 2022-07-18)
   • Brief Description: This is a design patent for a "USB docking station." The figures would need to be reviewed for the presence of the claimed cutaway feature.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Similar to other docking station design patents, unlikely to anticipate Claim 1 unless the specific cutaway and its function are clearly shown. It is relevant to the general concept of a docking station with USB ports (claims 2-4).

8. USD1066331S1

   • Full Citation: USD1066331S1 - Stand with hub for computer or computer monitor - Sariana Llc
   • Publication Date: 2025-03-11 (Filing Date: 2021-05-05)
   • Brief Description: Another design patent from the same assignee, Sariana LLC, titled "Stand with hub for computer or computer monitor." This is highly relevant due to the shared assignee and similar subject matter. The visual disclosure needs to be carefully examined for the presence of the cutaway feature and its specific characteristics as defined in Claim 1.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Highly probable for partial or full anticipation, especially if the cutaway feature of Claim 1 is clearly depicted and its function is evident from the design. The "hub" aspect is directly relevant to claims 2, 3, and 4.

9. USD1070845S1

   • Full Citation: USD1070845S1 - Computer - [Apple Inc.](/litigations/by-plaintiff/Apple%20Inc.)
   • Publication Date: 2025-04-15 (Filing Date: 2022-02-17)
   • Brief Description: This is a design patent for a "Computer" by Apple Inc. Similar to USD984991S1, this would show the computer itself, not necessarily a stand for it. It might be relevant for showing a mini-computer with a bottom-side activation means.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Unlikely to anticipate Claim 1 (which is for a stand), but potentially relevant as context for the type of mini-computer the stand is designed for.

10. USD1067231S1

    • Full Citation: USD1067231S1 - Docking station - Shenzhen Broway Electronic Co., Ltd.
    • Publication Date: 2025-03-18 (Filing Date: 2024-11-21)
    • Brief Description: This is a design patent for a "Docking station." Its figures would need to be examined for the presence of the specific cutaway feature.
    • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Similar to other docking station design patents, unlikely to anticipate Claim 1 unless the cutaway feature is clearly shown and its function understood. Relevant to general docking station features (claims 2-4).

11. USD1076921S1

    • Full Citation: USD1076921S1 - Docking station - Ugreen Group Limited
    • Publication Date: 2025-05-27 (Filing Date: 2024-11-28)
    • Brief Description: This is a design patent for a "Docking station." The visual elements need to be reviewed to determine if the cutaway of Claim 1 is present.
    • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Similar to other docking station design patents, unlikely to anticipate Claim 1 unless the cutaway feature is clearly shown and its function understood. Relevant to general docking station features (claims 2-4).

Non-Patent Literature Citations:

1. Juli Clover, "M4 Mac Mini's Power Button Has New Bottom Location" Oct. 29, 2024, MacRumors.com

   • Brief Description: This article discusses the repositioning of the power button on the M4 Mac Mini to a new bottom location.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This non-patent literature is highly relevant as it explicitly identifies a mini-computer (M4 Mac Mini) with an "activation means on its bottom side," which is a key element of Claim 1. The publication date (Oct. 29, 2024) is prior to the filing date of US12436567 (Feb. 3, 2025). This article provides strong evidence for the existence of the mini-computer with the bottom-side activation means, making the combination of such a mini-computer with a stand having a cutaway to access it potentially obvious under § 103, or the mini-computer aspect of Claim 8 anticipated under § 102 if the "means for activation" is interpreted broadly. It strongly establishes the problem that US12436567 aims to solve.

2. Mark Sparrow, "Satechi Reveals Stand And Hub For The New Apple Mac Mini M4" Nov. 21, 2024, Forbes.com

   • Brief Description: This article, published by Forbes, describes Satechi (Sariana LLC's DBA) revealing a stand and hub specifically for the new Apple Mac Mini M4. Given the description of US12436567 and Satechi's product line, it is highly likely that this article describes a product that embodies some or all of the features of the patent, particularly the stand with a cutaway to access the bottom-located power button of the M4 Mac Mini. The publication date (Nov. 21, 2024) is also prior to the filing date of US12436567.
   • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This article is extremely relevant and could potentially anticipate Claim 1 and other claims (2-8) of US12436567. If the Satechi stand described in the article includes a "cutaway in top and side portions of a back corner that does not extend through a bottom side... adapted to expose a corresponding back bottom portion of the mini-computer," as specified in Claim 1, then this article could directly anticipate Claim 1. Furthermore, the mention of a "hub" in the title directly relates to claims 2, 3, and 4 which concern data ports and hub functionality. This article, especially in combination with the MacRumors article, provides very strong prior art against US12436567.

Summary of Most Relevant Prior Art:

The most relevant prior art appears to be the non-patent literature:

• Juli Clover, "M4 Mac Mini's Power Button Has New Bottom Location" Oct. 29, 2024, MacRumors.com: This article establishes the problem addressed by the patent, namely, the existence of mini-computers with activation means on their bottom side. This directly informs the context of Claim 1 and Claim 8.
• Mark Sparrow, "Satechi Reveals Stand And Hub For The New Apple Mac Mini M4" Nov. 21, 2024, Forbes.com: This article, describing a product from the patent's own assignee (Sariana LLC / Satechi), is critically important. If the described Satechi stand features a cutaway to access the M4 Mac Mini's bottom-located power button, it could directly anticipate Claim 1. Its description as a "hub" also makes it highly relevant to claims 2, 3, and 4.

These non-patent references, both pre-dating the filing of US12436567, strongly suggest that the core inventive concept of a stand with a cutaway to access a bottom-mounted mini-computer activation feature was publicly disclosed and even commercialized by the assignee prior to the patent's filing.

Among the patent citations, USD894191S1 and USD1066331S1, both design patents from the same assignee (Sariana, LLC), are the most relevant. While design patents protect ornamental features, a thorough review of their figures could reveal a depiction of the functional cutaway feature of Claim 1, thus potentially anticipating it. The "hub" features in these design patents also make them relevant to claims 2-4.

Obviousness Analysis (35 U.S.C. § 103) for US12436567

This analysis focuses on the obviousness of Claim 1 of US12436567, as dependent claims would generally fall if the independent claim is found obvious. A person having ordinary skill in the art (PHOSITA) in computer accessories and stand design would have been motivated to combine the identified prior art references to arrive at the claimed invention.

Claim 1 Breakdown:

Claim 1 describes a mini-computer stand for a mini-computer with a square perimeter and rounded corners. The stand itself has a square perimeter with rounded corners, a top for placement, and a back corner featuring a cutaway in its top and side portions. Crucially, this cutaway does not extend through the bottom side of the stand and is adapted to expose a corresponding back bottom portion of the mini-computer when placed on the stand.

Prior Art Combinations and Obviousness Rationale:

The most compelling combination of prior art for an obviousness challenge stems from the non-patent literature cited by the patent itself, especially when considered alongside general knowledge of existing computer stands and hubs.

Combination 1: Juli Clover (MacRumors, NPL 1) + Mark Sparrow (Forbes/Satechi, NPL 2)

1. Juli Clover, "M4 Mac Mini's Power Button Has New Bottom Location" Oct. 29, 2024, MacRumors.com: This article explicitly discloses the existence of a mini-computer, specifically the M4 Mac Mini, with a new and notable design feature: its power button (a "means for activation") is located on its bottom side. The article highlights the practical consequence of this design, implying a problem for users who need to access this button. This reference provides a clear motivation for a PHOSITA to develop a solution for convenient access to this bottom-mounted control feature. The M4 Mac Mini inherently possesses a "square perimeter with rounded corners," consistent with the mini-computer described in Claim 1.
2. Mark Sparrow, "Satechi Reveals Stand And Hub For The New Apple Mac Mini M4" Nov. 21, 2024, Forbes.com: This article, published by Forbes, describes a product from Sariana LLC's own DBA (Satechi): a "Stand And Hub For The New Apple Mac Mini M4". Given that the M4 Mac Mini (from NPL 1) has its power button on the bottom, a PHOSITA would understand that a stand specifically designed "for" this mini-computer, particularly one from an accessory manufacturer like Satechi, would necessarily address the accessibility issue of the bottom-located power button. It is highly probable that the Satechi stand described in this article embodies the features of Claim 1, i.e., it would include a "cutaway" to expose the bottom-located activation means. The description of it as a "hub" further suggests it includes data ports, which is relevant to dependent claims (Claims 2-4).

Motivation to Combine:
A PHOSITA would be strongly motivated to combine the knowledge from NPL 1 (the problem: bottom-located power button on the M4 Mac Mini) with the general concept of a stand for that computer (as described in NPL 2). The objective would be to enhance user convenience by allowing activation without lifting the mini-computer, which NPL 1 implicitly (and the patent's background explicitly) identifies as a drawback (e.g., "Lifting or manipulating the mini-computer to access its underside can require longer cables and can lead to plugs becoming inadvertently unplugged."). Designing a stand for such a mini-computer would inherently involve providing access to this critical feature. Adding a cutaway to an existing stand design to facilitate finger access to a bottom-mounted button is a straightforward and obvious mechanical modification to solve this known problem. The fact that NPL 2 describes a stand from the same assignee (Sariana LLC / Satechi) for the exact mini-computer with the bottom button, and predates the filing date of US12436567, makes this combination particularly potent for demonstrating obviousness, if not anticipation.

Combination 2: Juli Clover (MacRumors, NPL 1) + General Knowledge of Stands/Hubs (e.g., USD750083S1, USD894191S1) + PHOSITA Design Choices

1. Juli Clover, "M4 Mac Mini's Power Button Has New Bottom Location" Oct. 29, 2024, MacRumors.com: As above, this reference clearly establishes the existence of a mini-computer with a bottom-mounted activation means and provides the underlying problem and motivation.
2. General Knowledge of Stands/Hubs (exemplified by design patents like USD750083S1, USD894191S1, USD1066331S1): The art is replete with examples of stands and docking stations for electronic devices. Design patents such as USD750083S1 ("Docking device"), USD894191S1 ("Hub with stand for mini computer" from Sariana, LLC), and USD1066331S1 ("Stand with hub for computer or computer monitor" from Sariana, LLC) illustrate stands that are generally rectangular or square with rounded corners, configured to accept a computer on top, and having perimeters that substantially follow that of the device. These references demonstrate that the basic structural elements of a computer stand, including its shape and interface with the computer, were well-known in the prior art.
3. PHOSITA Design Choices: A PHOSITA would understand that modifying an existing stand design to accommodate specific features of a new computer is a routine design task.

Motivation to Combine:
Faced with the M4 Mac Mini's bottom-located power button (NPL 1), a PHOSITA, desiring to create a user-friendly accessory, would find it obvious to modify a conventional mini-computer stand (as generally known in the art and exemplified by the various design patents) to include a cutaway. The motivation is to provide convenient access to the bottom-mounted button without requiring the user to lift or tilt the computer, directly addressing the ergonomic problem identified by NPL 1. The specific placement of the cutaway at a "back corner" would be an obvious design choice to align with the typical placement of such buttons for compact devices. The requirement that the cutaway "does not extend through a bottom side" (as opposed to extending fully through) is explicitly described in the patent (FIG. 3B vs. FIG. 3C) as a design choice for "sturdiness," indicating it's a known trade-off rather than a non-obvious invention. (Description, "Shown best in FIG. 3 B and FIG. 5, preferably, the cutaway 18 removes an upper portion 17 A of a corner 16 D but does not remove material from a bottom 17 B of the mini-computer stand 10 . Shown best in FIG. 2, this permits access to the means for activation 2 on the one hand but maximizes the dimension of the bottom 17 B for sturdiness on the other.").

Conclusion on Obviousness:

Claim 1 of US12436567 appears highly vulnerable to an obviousness challenge under 35 U.S.C. § 103. The combination of the MacRumors article (NPL 1) disclosing the problem (bottom-mounted activation means on the M4 Mac Mini) and the Forbes article (NPL 2) describing a stand by the same assignee for that specific mini-computer presents a strong case for obviousness. Even without explicit visual details of the cutaway in the text of NPL 2, the context makes the solution self-evident to a PHOSITA. Furthermore, combining NPL 1 with the existing knowledge of various computer stands and docking stations (including those from Sariana LLC itself) would lead a PHOSITA to obviously incorporate a simple cutaway feature to solve the readily apparent ergonomic problem. The specific structural details of the cutaway, such as its partial depth, represent routine design choices to balance accessibility with structural integrity.

The USPTO does not publicly calculate and provide patent expiration dates directly; however, the expiration date can be estimated based on the information available. For utility patents filed on or after June 8, 1995, the general patent term is 20 years from the earliest effective filing date of the application. This term can be adjusted by Patent Term Adjustments (PTA) or Patent Term Extensions (PTE).

Here's a breakdown for US patent 12436567:

Patent Term Adjustments (PTA):
Patent Term Adjustment (PTA) is granted to compensate for certain delays caused by the USPTO during the prosecution of a utility or plant patent application. This includes delays such as not issuing a first office action within 14 months, not responding to an applicant's reply within four months, or not issuing the patent within three years of the filing date. The USPTO calculates the PTA at the time the patent issues.

To determine the exact PTA for US12436567, one would typically look for this information on the issued patent itself or in the official transaction history available via USPTO's Patent Center. As this detailed document is not provided, the specific PTA amount cannot be determined.

Patent Term Extensions (PTE):
Patent Term Extensions (PTE) are available for patents claiming products that require regulatory approval prior to commercial marketing or use, such as human drugs, food or color additives, medical devices, animal drugs, and veterinary biological products. The purpose of a PTE is to restore some of the patent term lost while awaiting premarket government approval from a regulatory agency.

Based on the nature of US12436567, which is for a "Stand for mini-computer," it is highly unlikely to be eligible for a Patent Term Extension under 33 U.S.C. § 156, as it does not relate to products requiring regulatory approval.

Continuation Applications:
US12436567 states in its "Cross Reference To Related Applications" section that it is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/971,079, filed Oct. 31, 2024, and a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/956,609, filed Nov. 22, 2024.

A continuation application allows an applicant to pursue additional claims related to the same invention as a previously filed "parent" application, retaining the original filing date.

Divisional Applications:
A divisional application is a type of patent application that contains subject matter from a previously filed application (its parent application) but claims a distinct invention. Divisional applications are often filed in response to a USPTO restriction requirement where two or more independent and distinct inventions are claimed in a single application.

The provided patent text does not explicitly mention any divisional applications arising from US12436567 or its parent applications.

Related Family Members:
Based on the "Cross Reference To Related Applications" in the patent document, the related family members directly mentioned are:

• U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/971,079, filed Oct. 31, 2024.
• U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/956,609, filed Nov. 22, 2024.

Additionally, the "Priority Applications" section on Google Patents lists:

• US19/044,270 (which is US12436567B1 itself).
• US19/336,284, which was published as US20260118911A1 and titled "Mini-computer stand with hub".

The "Related Parent Applications" section further indicates:

• US29971079 (which is Serial No. 29/971,079, a continuation-in-part and a continuation).
• US202418956609A (which is Serial No. 18/956,609, a continuation).

The "Related Child Applications" section lists:

• US19/336,284 (US20260118911A1), titled "Mini-computer stand with hub", filed on 2025-09-22.

Projected Expiration Date:
The anticipated expiration date for a U.S. utility patent is generally 20 years from its earliest effective filing date, plus any Patent Term Adjustments (PTA).

US12436567 claims priority to:

• U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/971,079, filed Oct. 31, 2024.
• U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/956,609, filed Nov. 22, 2024.

The earliest priority date among these is October 31, 2024.

Therefore, the base expiration date (before any PTA) would be 20 years from October 31, 2024, which is October 31, 2044.

The Google Patents "Legal status" section also lists "Anticipated expiration" as 2044-10-31.

Without the specific PTA calculation from the USPTO, this anticipated expiration date remains an estimate. However, given that the patent was filed on 2025-02-03 and granted on 2025-10-07, the pendency was relatively short (approximately 8 months), suggesting that any PTA might be minimal or zero, as a common reason for PTA is if the USPTO fails to issue the patent within three years from the filing date.

Defensive Disclosure for US Patent 12436567

This document details various derivative works and technical disclosures related to US Patent 12436567 ("Stand for mini-computer"). The objective is to establish comprehensive prior art that could render future incremental improvements or alternative implementations in the field of computer stands, especially those addressing bottom-mounted computer features, obvious or non-novel to a person having ordinary skill in the art.

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Derivative Variations for Core Claim 1

Claim 1 describes: "A mini-computer stand for use with a mini-computer that has a square perimeter with rounded corners, the mini-computer stand comprising: a top configured for placement of the mini-computer; and a perimeter that is square with a plurality of rounded corners, wherein a back corner from the plurality of rounded corners of the mini-computer stand comprises a cutaway in top and side portions of the back corner that does not extend through a bottom side of the mini-computer stand, which is adapted to expose a corresponding back bottom portion of the mini-computer through the cutaway when the mini-computer is placed on the top of the mini-computer stand."

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1. Material & Component Substitution

Derivative 1.1: Recycled PETG Stand with Integrated Piezoelectric Switch

Enabling Description:
A mini-computer stand, substantially square with rounded corners, fabricated from 100% post-consumer recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (rPETG) via additive manufacturing (FDM). The top surface is configured for mini-computer placement. A back corner of the stand features a concave arcuate cutaway in its top and side portions, exposing a bottom-mounted activation area of the mini-computer. Instead of direct finger access, this derivative integrates a piezoelectric membrane switch within the stand's internal structure, immediately adjacent to the cutaway. When a user presses into the cutaway, the piezoelectric switch registers the tactile force and transmits an activation signal via a short-range inductive coupling mechanism to a corresponding receiver coil embedded in the mini-computer's bottom, directly actuating the mini-computer's internal control feature without physical contact or exposed wiring. This inductive coupling can also facilitate low-power data transfer for auxiliary functions. The cutaway itself does not extend through the bottom side, maintaining structural integrity, and the piezoelectric element is encapsulated within the rPETG matrix.

graph TD
    A[Mini-Computer Stand (rPETG)] --> B{Top Surface};
    B --> C[Mini-Computer Placement];
    A --> D{Back Corner};
    D --> E[Concave Arcuate Cutaway];
    E --> F[Exposes Mini-Computer Activation Area];
    D --> G[Integrated Piezoelectric Membrane Switch];
    G -- Tactile Force --> E;
    G -- Activation Signal --> H[Inductive Coupling Transmitter];
    H -- Wireless Signal --> I[Mini-Computer Receiver Coil];
    I --> J[Mini-Computer Internal Control];
    J --> K[Activation];
    A -- "Does Not Extend Through" --> L[Bottom Side];
    L -- "Maximizes" --> M[Structural Sturdiness];

Derivative 1.2: Aluminum Alloy Stand with Passive Thermal Management

Enabling Description:
A mini-computer stand constructed from a high-thermal-conductivity 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, formed by CNC machining or die-casting. The stand's perimeter precisely matches a mini-computer with square and rounded corners. The top surface incorporates a recessed silicon pad to prevent scratching and provide a non-slip interface for the mini-computer. In one back corner, a chamfered cutaway is implemented, removing material from the top and side portions, specifically designed to expose a bottom-mounted physical activation button. This cutaway terminates before reaching the bottom plane of the stand. The aluminum alloy construction, coupled with an array of vertically oriented internal fins beneath the mini-computer's main heat dissipation zone (not obstructing the cutaway), provides passive thermal management, enhancing airflow and heat transfer away from the mini-computer. The stand's bottom surface is equipped with four low-profile silicone feet for vibration dampening and further airflow.

graph TD
    A[Mini-Computer Stand (6061-T6 Aluminum)] --> B{CNC Machined/Die-Cast};
    A --> C{Top Surface};
    C --> D[Recessed Silicon Pad];
    A --> E{Back Corner};
    E --> F[Chamfered Cutaway];
    F --> G[Exposes Bottom-Mounted Button];
    E -- "Ends Before" --> H[Bottom Plane];
    A --> I[Internal Vertically Oriented Fins];
    I -- Passive Heat Transfer --> J[Mini-Computer Heat Zone];
    A --> K[Silicone Feet (Bottom Surface)];
    K -- "Prevents" --> L[Vibration];
    K -- "Enhances" --> M[Airflow];

Derivative 1.3: Carbon Fiber Composite Stand with Capacitive Touch Activation

Enabling Description:
A lightweight mini-computer stand constructed from a unidirectional carbon fiber composite laid up in an epoxy resin matrix, then autoclave-cured and precision-machined. The stand exhibits a square form factor with subtly rounded corners to complement a modern mini-computer design. A top recess is specifically molded to cradle the mini-computer. A strategically placed cutaway, precisely dimensioned and located in one back corner, exposes the mini-computer's bottom surface. This cutaway is designed with a very thin, non-conductive polymer film covering it, underneath which a small, low-power capacitive touch sensor array is integrated. When a user's finger interacts with the film within the cutaway, the change in capacitance is detected by the sensor. This sensor is wirelessly linked via a low-power Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module to a paired application on the mini-computer, which then software-triggers the activation function (e.g., power on/off). The carbon fiber composite provides exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, and the cutaway maintains a structural bridge at the base, ensuring no through-hole.

graph TD
    A[Mini-Computer Stand (Carbon Fiber Composite)] --> B{Autoclave Cured/Machined};
    A --> C{Top Recess};
    C --> D[Cradles Mini-Computer];
    A --> E{Back Corner};
    E --> F[Precision Cutaway];
    F --> G[Exposes Mini-Computer Bottom Surface];
    F -- "Covered By" --> H[Non-Conductive Polymer Film];
    H --> I[Capacitive Touch Sensor Array];
    I -- "Detects" --> J[Finger Interaction];
    I -- BLE Signal --> K[Mini-Computer BLE Module];
    K --> L[Software Activation Trigger];
    A -- "Maintains" --> M[Structural Bridge at Base];

---

2. Operational Parameter Expansion

Derivative 2.1: Micro-Scale Stand for Wearable Micro-Computers

Enabling Description:
A micro-scale stand, approximately 1 cm x 1 cm with rounded corners, designed for experimental wearable micro-computers (e.g., embedded in smart rings or miniature sensors). The stand is fabricated using micro-stereolithography (μSLA) from a biocompatible photopolymer. Its top surface features micro-alignment guides for precise placement of the micro-computer. A minuscule, semicircular cutaway (e.g., 1 mm diameter) is situated at a back corner, exposing a micro-actuator (e.g., a MEMS switch or a micro-pressure sensor) on the bottom of the micro-computer. This cutaway is designed for activation via a specialized stylus or fine probe, not a human finger, and does not penetrate the bottom of the stand. The stand provides minimal footprint and ergonomic access in situations where direct handling of the micro-computer for activation is impractical due to size constraints.

graph TD
    A[Micro-Scale Stand (Biocompatible Photopolymer)] --> B[Micro-Stereolithography];
    A --> C[Top Surface];
    C --> D[Micro-Alignment Guides];
    A --> E[Back Corner];
    E --> F[Minuscule Semicircular Cutaway];
    F --> G[Exposes Micro-Actuator (MEMS Switch)];
    G -- "Activated By" --> H[Specialized Stylus/Probe];
    F -- "Does Not Penetrate" --> I[Bottom of Stand];
    A --> J[Wearable Micro-Computer];

Derivative 2.2: Industrial-Scale Stand for Modular Server Blocks

Enabling Description:
An industrial-scale stand, 50 cm x 50 cm with robust rounded corners, designed for high-density, hot-swappable modular server blocks in data centers. The stand is constructed from heavy-gauge galvanized steel using structural welding techniques, capable of supporting server blocks weighing up to 50 kg. The top platform features integrated thermal pads for efficient heat transfer. At a designated back corner, a large, reinforced rectangular cutaway is provided in the top and side portions, allowing an operator wearing protective gloves to access a recessed, bottom-mounted emergency power-off button on the server block. This cutaway is designed to resist accidental impact, utilizing a reinforced lip, and does not compromise the structural integrity of the stand's base. The stand facilitates quick and safe manual intervention without requiring the entire server block to be removed from its rack.

graph TD
    A[Industrial-Scale Stand (Galvanized Steel)] --> B[Structural Welding];
    A --> C[Top Platform];
    C --> D[Integrated Thermal Pads];
    A --> E[Designated Back Corner];
    E --> F[Large Reinforced Rectangular Cutaway];
    F --> G[Accesses Recessed Emergency Power-Off Button];
    G -- "Activated By" --> H[Operator with Protective Gloves];
    F -- "Resists" --> I[Accidental Impact];
    A -- "Does Not Compromise" --> J[Stand's Structural Base];
    J --> K[Supports Modular Server Block (50kg)];

Derivative 2.3: Cryogenic Environment Stand for Quantum Computing Module

Enabling Description:
A specialized stand designed for a miniature quantum computing module operating within a liquid helium cryogenic environment (e.g., 4 Kelvin). The stand is machined from a low-thermal-expansion invar alloy, with a square perimeter and softly rounded corners to minimize stress concentrations at cryogenic temperatures. Its top surface cradles the quantum module, ensuring thermal contact with the cryostat. At a specific back corner, a cutaway is precisely formed in the top and side, exposing a bottom-mounted, cryogenically rated superconducting switch on the quantum module. This cutaway is designed for remote manipulation via a non-contact magnetic probe or a cryogenically compatible robotic arm. The cutaway maintains a solid base to prevent thermal bridging or structural failure under extreme temperature gradients, and its internal surfaces are polished to reduce parasitic heat load. The stand allows for controlled activation/deactivation of specific quantum module functions without disturbing the cryogenic seal.

graph TD
    A[Cryogenic Stand (Invar Alloy)] --> B[Machined for Cryogenic Use];
    A --> C[Top Surface];
    C --> D[Cradles Quantum Computing Module];
    C -- Thermal Contact --> E[Cryostat];
    A --> F[Specific Back Corner];
    F --> G[Precision Cutaway];
    G --> H[Exposes Cryogenic Superconducting Switch];
    H -- "Activated By" --> I[Non-Contact Magnetic Probe/Robotic Arm];
    F -- "Maintains" --> J[Solid Base (No Thermal Bridging)];
    J --> K[Reduces Parasitic Heat Load];

---

3. Cross-Domain Application

Derivative 3.1: Medical Device Stand for Implantable Drug Delivery Pump Programmer

Enabling Description:
A sterile-grade mini-stand for a compact, portable programmer used with implantable drug delivery pumps in a clinical setting. The stand is molded from medical-grade polycarbonate with antimicrobial additives, featuring a square footprint with rounded corners suitable for countertop use. The top surface is designed to securely hold the pump programmer. A back corner of the stand contains an access cutaway in its top and side portions, specifically shaped to allow gloved finger access to a bottom-mounted emergency override button on the programmer. This cutaway does not extend through the stand's bottom, maintaining a sealed, cleanable surface and structural integrity. The design facilitates rapid, sterile intervention in critical situations, ensuring the programmer can be activated without being lifted from its dedicated, stable position.

graph TD
    A[Medical Device Stand (Polycarbonate)] --> B[Antimicrobial Additives];
    A --> C[Top Surface];
    C --> D[Secures Pump Programmer];
    A --> E[Back Corner];
    E --> F[Access Cutaway];
    F --> G[Allows Gloved Finger Access];
    G --> H[Emergency Override Button (Bottom-Mounted)];
    F -- "Does Not Extend Through" --> I[Stand's Bottom (Sealed/Cleanable)];
    I --> J[Structural Integrity];

Derivative 3.2: Agricultural Monitoring Unit Stand for Remote Field Activation

Enabling Description:
A ruggedized stand for a square-form factor agricultural monitoring unit (e.g., soil sensor gateway) deployed in remote field environments. The stand is constructed from UV-stabilized, high-impact polyethylene, designed with a square base and broad, rounded corners for stability on uneven terrain. The top securely interfaces with the monitoring unit, featuring drainage channels. At a rear corner, a reinforced, weather-sealed cutaway is incorporated into the top and side, exposing a bottom-mounted, sealed reset button or diagnostic port on the monitoring unit. This cutaway includes a hinged, gasketed cover for environmental protection when not in use, and its structure ensures it does not fully penetrate the stand's base, preventing water ingress from below. The stand allows for localized troubleshooting and activation without disturbing the unit's long-term deployment or intricate cable connections.

graph TD
    A[Agricultural Monitoring Stand (UV-Stabilized Polyethylene)] --> B[Ruggedized/High-Impact];
    A --> C[Top Surface];
    C --> D[Secures Monitoring Unit];
    C --> E[Drainage Channels];
    A --> F[Rear Corner];
    F --> G[Reinforced, Weather-Sealed Cutaway];
    G --> H[Exposes Bottom-Mounted Reset Button/Diagnostic Port];
    G --> I[Hinged, Gasketed Cover];
    F -- "Does Not Fully Penetrate" --> J[Stand's Base (Water Ingress Prevention)];

Derivative 3.3: Marine Navigation System Console Stand

Enabling Description:
A marine-grade stand for a compact, square-shaped vessel navigation system console, suitable for mounting in a ship's bridge. The stand is fabricated from corrosion-resistant 316L stainless steel, with a square base and robust rounded corners. Its top surface provides a secure, vibration-dampened mount for the navigation console. A back corner features a precision-cut access port in the top and side, specifically designed to allow access to a bottom-mounted, recessed "man overboard" (MOB) alert button on the console. This access port is designed with marine-specific ergonomics for gloved hand activation and does not extend through the bottom of the stand, maintaining a watertight integrity for the base. The stand ensures critical safety functions are always accessible and the console remains stable in high seas.

graph TD
    A[Marine Navigation Stand (316L Stainless Steel)] --> B[Corrosion-Resistant];
    A --> C[Top Surface];
    C --> D[Vibration-Dampened Mount];
    C --> E[Secures Navigation Console];
    A --> F[Back Corner];
    F --> G[Precision-Cut Access Port];
    G --> H[Allows Gloved Hand Access];
    H --> I[Bottom-Mounted MOB Alert Button];
    G -- "Does Not Extend Through" --> J[Stand's Bottom (Watertight Integrity)];

---

4. Integration with Emerging Tech

Derivative 4.1: Smart Stand with AI-Driven Predictive Maintenance

Enabling Description:
A mini-computer stand, square with rounded corners, integrating micro-sensors and a low-power AI inference engine for predictive maintenance. The stand is constructed from a conductive polymer composite. The top surface cradles the mini-computer. The critical feature is a back corner cutaway, which exposes a bottom-mounted diagnostic port on the mini-computer. Adjacent to this cutaway, a miniature optical sensor array (e.g., micro-LIDAR or IR proximity) is embedded within the stand, aimed at the exposed diagnostic port. The AI inference engine continuously monitors environmental factors (temperature, humidity via integrated sensors) and operational parameters (fan noise via acoustic sensors). It can also optically detect visual cues or status LEDs via the cutaway. When the AI model predicts potential mini-computer failure or requires diagnostic access, it signals the user via a smart home hub (IoT integration) and illuminates an LED around the cutaway, indicating that the bottom-mounted diagnostic port should be accessed. The cutaway itself does not penetrate the stand's base, ensuring structural integrity for sensor placement.

graph TD
    A[Smart Stand (Conductive Polymer Composite)] --> B[Micro-Sensors];
    B --> C[AI Inference Engine];
    A --> D[Top Surface];
    D --> E[Cradles Mini-Computer];
    A --> F[Back Corner Cutaway];
    F --> G[Exposes Bottom-Mounted Diagnostic Port];
    F --> H[Miniature Optical Sensor Array];
    C -- Monitors --> I[Environmental Sensors (Temp, Humidity)];
    C -- Monitors --> J[Acoustic Sensors (Fan Noise)];
    C -- "Detects via Cutaway" --> K[Visual Cues/Status LEDs];
    C -- "Predicts Failure/Requires Access" --> L[IoT Integration (Smart Home Hub)];
    L --> M[User Notification/LED Illumination];
    F -- "Does Not Penetrate" --> N[Stand's Base];

Derivative 4.2: IoT-Enabled Stand with Real-time Power Monitoring

Enabling Description:
A mini-computer stand with square and rounded corners, made of a bio-sourced polymer. The stand incorporates an IoT module (e.g., Wi-Fi enabled ESP32) and current/voltage sensors on its power input/output lines. The top surface accepts the mini-computer. A back corner features a cutaway exposing the mini-computer's bottom-mounted auxiliary power input/switch. The IoT module continuously monitors the mini-computer's power consumption in real-time, transmitting this data to a cloud-based dashboard (e.g., AWS IoT Core). The cutaway facilitates manual power cycling or external battery pack connection via the exposed port. The stand's base is solid, not penetrated by the cutaway, providing stable mounting for internal electronics. An API allows third-party smart energy management systems to access the power data and optionally trigger alerts for unusual consumption patterns.

graph TD
    A[IoT-Enabled Stand (Bio-sourced Polymer)] --> B[IoT Module (ESP32)];
    B --> C[Current/Voltage Sensors];
    A --> D[Top Surface];
    D --> E[Accepts Mini-Computer];
    A --> F[Back Corner Cutaway];
    F --> G[Exposes Bottom-Mounted Aux Power Input/Switch];
    C -- "Monitors" --> H[Mini-Computer Power Consumption];
    B -- "Transmits Data" --> I[Cloud-Based Dashboard (AWS IoT Core)];
    F -- "Facilitates" --> J[Manual Power Cycling/External Battery Connection];
    B -- "API Access" --> K[Third-Party Smart Energy Management];
    F -- "Maintains" --> L[Solid Base for Electronics];

Derivative 4.3: Secure Supply Chain Stand with Blockchain Verification

Enabling Description:
A high-security mini-computer stand, square with rounded corners, constructed from tamper-evident injection-molded ABS plastic. The top surface cradles the mini-computer. A specialized back corner cutaway, designed to expose a bottom-mounted tamper-detection switch or secure firmware update port on the mini-computer, is incorporated. The cutaway itself is protected by a physically secure, serialized holographic seal. Integrated into the stand's internal cavity (not penetrated by the cutaway) is a tiny NFC chip and a cryptographic module. Upon initial deployment or verification checks, scanning the NFC chip with a mobile device retrieves a unique identifier and cryptographic hash of the stand's manufacturing details, stored on a private blockchain (e.g., Hyperledger Fabric). This blockchain record verifies the stand's authenticity and integrity, including the status of its tamper-evident seal. Accessing the exposed bottom port via the cutaway, which might break the holographic seal, would be logged on the blockchain, providing an immutable audit trail for supply chain security and compliance.

graph TD
    A[Secure Supply Chain Stand (Tamper-Evident ABS)] --> B[Top Surface];
    B --> C[Cradles Mini-Computer];
    A --> D[Back Corner Cutaway];
    D --> E[Exposes Bottom-Mounted Tamper-Detection Switch/Firmware Port];
    D --> F[Serialized Holographic Seal];
    A --> G[Integrated NFC Chip];
    A --> H[Cryptographic Module];
    G -- "Scan with Mobile Device" --> I[Retrieve Unique ID/Cryptographic Hash];
    I -- "Stored On" --> J[Private Blockchain (Hyperledger Fabric)];
    J --> K[Verify Authenticity/Integrity];
    F -- "Breaks Seal (Logged)" --> J;
    J --> L[Immutable Audit Trail];

---

5. The "Inverse" or Failure Mode

Derivative 5.1: Low-Power Stand with Limited Functionality Activation

Enabling Description:
A mini-computer stand, square with rounded corners, made from a lightweight recycled plastic. The stand is designed for a mini-computer that has a "low-power mode" activation switch on its bottom. The stand's top surface supports the mini-computer. A back corner of the stand features a cutaway, removing material from its top and side portions, but not penetrating the bottom. This cutaway is specifically dimensioned to allow access to the mini-computer's low-power mode activation switch. When activated through the cutaway, the mini-computer enters a state where only essential services (e.g., basic networking, data backup) are active, consuming minimal power. The stand itself can include a simple optical sensor within the cutaway to detect activation of this switch and provide a visual confirmation (e.g., a green LED on the stand for normal operation, amber for low-power mode). This allows for partial shutdown and resource conservation without full system power-off, useful in battery-critical or restricted environments.

graph TD
    A[Low-Power Stand (Recycled Plastic)] --> B[Top Surface];
    B --> C[Supports Mini-Computer];
    C --> D[Mini-Computer Low-Power Mode Activation Switch (Bottom-Mounted)];
    A --> E[Back Corner Cutaway];
    E --> F[Accesses Low-Power Mode Switch];
    F --> G[Activates Low-Power Mode (Essential Services)];
    E --> H[Integrated Optical Sensor];
    H --> I[Visual Confirmation (LED on Stand)];
    E -- "Does Not Penetrate" --> J[Stand's Bottom];

Derivative 5.2: Fail-Safe Stand for Emergency Shutdown

Enabling Description:
A mini-computer stand, square with rounded corners, constructed from fire-retardant ABS. The stand's top surface holds the mini-computer. A distinctively colored (e.g., red) and prominently tactile back corner cutaway is implemented in the top and side portions, without extending through the bottom. This cutaway is designed to exclusively expose a bottom-mounted, spring-loaded emergency shutdown button on the mini-computer. Upon activation via the cutaway, the mini-computer initiates a rapid, controlled shutdown sequence, prioritizing data integrity and system safety, bypassing normal shutdown protocols. The stand itself might incorporate a mechanical interlock feature adjacent to the cutaway, requiring a specific sequence (e.g., lift-and-press) to prevent accidental activation. This derivative is critical in environments where immediate, safe termination of mini-computer operations is paramount (e.g., industrial control, hazardous research).

graph TD
    A[Fail-Safe Stand (Fire-Retardant ABS)] --> B[Top Surface];
    B --> C[Holds Mini-Computer];
    C --> D[Bottom-Mounted Emergency Shutdown Button];
    A --> E[Distinctive Back Corner Cutaway (Red/Tactile)];
    E --> F[Exposes Emergency Shutdown Button];
    F --> G[Rapid, Controlled Shutdown Sequence];
    E --> H[Mechanical Interlock (Prevents Accidental Activation)];
    E -- "Does Not Extend Through" --> I[Stand's Bottom];

Derivative 5.3: Limited-Functionality Stand for Debugging/Recovery Mode

Enabling Description:
A mini-computer stand, square with rounded corners, manufactured from an ESD-safe polymer. The stand's top is configured to hold a mini-computer. At a specific back corner, a cutaway is formed in the top and side portions, exposing a bottom-mounted "recovery mode" or "bootloader access" button/switch on the mini-computer. This cutaway does not extend through the bottom of the stand, preserving its ESD-safe grounding path. When this button is accessed and activated via the cutaway, the mini-computer bypasses its primary operating system and boots into a bare-bones debugging or recovery environment, allowing for system diagnosis, firmware flashing, or data recovery. The stand itself might feature an integrated visual indicator (e.g., a multi-segment display within the cutaway) that shows the status of the boot process (e.g., "Recovery Mode Active," "Flashing Firmware"). This enables technicians to troubleshoot or repair the mini-computer without full disassembly or complex external programming setups.

graph TD
    A[Limited-Functionality Stand (ESD-Safe Polymer)] --> B[Top Surface];
    B --> C[Holds Mini-Computer];
    C --> D[Bottom-Mounted Recovery Mode Button/Switch];
    A --> E[Back Corner Cutaway];
    E --> F[Exposes Recovery Mode Button];
    F --> G[Boots into Debugging/Recovery Environment];
    G --> H[System Diagnosis/Firmware Flashing/Data Recovery];
    E --> I[Integrated Visual Indicator (Status Display)];
    E -- "Does Not Extend Through" --> J[Stand's Bottom (Preserves ESD Path)];

---

Combination Prior Art Scenarios with Open-Source Standards

These scenarios demonstrate how the core invention of US12436567 can be combined with existing open-source standards, thereby enhancing its prior art value for future innovations.

Combination Prior Art Scenario 1: USB-C Power Delivery (PD) & Stand Integration

Description: A mini-computer stand, as broadly described in US12436567 (with a top for a square/rounded mini-computer and a cutaway for bottom access), explicitly integrating USB-C Power Delivery (PD) functionality according to the USB-IF USB Power Delivery Specification (USB PD 3.0). The stand incorporates a USB-C input port capable of receiving power via USB PD (up to 100W or greater as per the standard). This power is then routed to multiple downstream USB-C ports on the stand, also compliant with USB PD, acting as a hub (as suggested in claims 2-4 of US12436567). One of these USB-C ports is positioned such that it can directly provide power to the mini-computer if the mini-computer also supports USB PD input, potentially through a short internal cable or a specifically designed plug-in mechanism accessible via the stand's perimeter, complementing the original patent's emphasis on data ports. Furthermore, the cutaway (for accessing a bottom button) remains a feature, while the power delivery system leverages open-source firmware (e.g., based on STM32 microcontrollers and community-developed USB PD libraries) for negotiation and management of power profiles between the stand, mini-computer, and other peripherals. This combination makes the integration of modern, high-power USB-C PD capabilities into such stands, particularly for charging or powering the host mini-computer, an obvious extension.

Combination Prior Art Scenario 2: Qi Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) & Stand Integration

Description: A mini-computer stand, as described in US12436567, integrating the Wireless Power Consortium's Qi standard (v1.3 or higher) for wireless charging. The mini-computer stand features its standard shape, top for placement, and a back corner cutaway for bottom-side access to the mini-computer's activation means. Additionally, embedded within the stand's top surface (or a dedicated section on the stand's periphery that doesn't interfere with the mini-computer's placement) is a Qi-certified wireless charging coil. This allows for wireless charging of compatible peripherals (e.g., wireless mouse, smartphone, earbuds) placed on the stand, drawing power from the stand's main power input. The control electronics for the Qi charging system are implemented using open-source hardware designs (e.g., based on existing Qi receiver/transmitter chipsets and reference designs) and open-source firmware. This makes the addition of Qi wireless charging to a mini-computer stand an obvious enhancement, leveraging a widely adopted open standard, extending its utility beyond just a hub.

Combination Prior Art Scenario 3: MQTT & OpenHAB Smart Home Integration

Description: A mini-computer stand, as described in US12436567, modified to act as an IoT node, communicating its status and receiving commands via the MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) protocol and integrating with an OpenHAB smart home automation system. The stand includes the core features of US12436567: a top for a mini-computer, a matching perimeter, and a cutaway at a back corner for accessing a bottom-mounted mini-computer feature (e.g., a power button). This stand is further equipped with an embedded microcontroller (e.g., ESP32/ESP8266) running open-source firmware, capable of connecting to a local Wi-Fi network. The microcontroller acts as an MQTT client, publishing messages (e.g., "mini_computer/stand/status: online", "mini_computer/stand/button_pressed: true" detected via an internal sensor at the cutaway) and subscribing to command topics (e.g., "mini_computer/stand/control: power_toggle"). This allows for remote monitoring and basic control of the mini-computer's physical activation through the stand, integrated seamlessly into an OpenHAB smart home environment. The cutaway itself remains as described in the patent, providing manual access, while the IoT integration leverages open-source standards for remote interaction. This combination renders the addition of smart home integration to such a stand, using widely adopted open protocols and platforms, an obvious step for enhancing user experience and remote management.