Ballistic Desk Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/637,400, which was filed on Apr. 23, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of ballistic protection devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to a ballistic desk device configured as a dual-purpose structure functioning as both a conventional desk and a deployable ballistic shield suited for high-risk environments such as educational, governmental, or institutional settings. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

School shootings have presented a persistent and critical threat to student safety in educational environments. In such incidents, the primary challenge lies in the absence of immediate, accessible protection for students within classrooms. Common classroom fixtures such as doors, desks, and tables do not offer sufficient protection against ballistic threats, especially those involving high-powered firearms. Conventional emergency response protocols emphasize evacuation or lockdown, but these strategies may not provide adequate physical protection when escape is not feasible. The use of military-grade ballistic shields has proven effective in other security contexts; however, such equipment is rarely present or accessible in school settings. The integration of ballistic protection into classroom furniture presents a potential means to bridge this safety gap.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a ballistic desk device that provides immediate ballistic protection within a conventional classroom setting. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for the ballistic desk device that integrates National Institute of Justice Level III compliant materials capable of withstanding high-powered rifle fire. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for the ballistic desk device that allows students to convert their workstations into mobile or stationary ballistic shields during active shooter emergencies.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a ballistic desk device. The device is comprised of a ballistic desk device configured as a dual-purpose structure that functions both as a traditional desk and a deployable ballistic shield suitable for educational, governmental, or institutional settings requiring operational utility and protective capability. The device comprises a tabletop with foldable or telescopic legs with height adjustment and leveling mechanisms for stability on uneven surfaces. A ballistic shield is integrated into the underside of the tabletop and is preferably constructed from aramid or UHMWPE fabrics arranged in layered, crosshatch patterns for energy dispersion and protection aligned with NIJ Level II-A through Level IV standards. In one embodiment, the shield is removable from the tabletop to provide both stationary and mobile defense functionality during emergencies.

In this manner, the ballistic desk device of the present invention accomplishes all the forgoing objectives and combines a functional desk structure with an integrated ballistic shield mounted to the underside of the tabletop. The device provides NIJ Level III ballistic protection through the use of advanced woven fabric materials and rigid composite layers capable of stopping. .30 caliber projectiles. It features a foldable frame with adjustable legs for stability, a quick-release mechanism for detaching the shield, and an ergonomic handle for transport and use. The shield can be deployed by tipping the desk forward or removed entirely for handheld defense. Optional transparent viewing windows allow for situational awareness without compromising safety. These features ensure that each student has access to an effective, rapidly deployable protective device in a hostile scenario, thus fulfilling the critical need for safety in educational environments.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a ballistic desk device. The ballistic desk device is a multifunctional structure configured to operate as both a conventional desk and a deployable ballistic shield for emergency scenarios, such as active shooter situations. The device is suitable for use in environments requiring both functionality and ballistic protection, including educational and governmental settings. The device is transformable from a workspace into a protective barrier designed to meet National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Level III ballistic standards.

The ballistic desk device is comprised of a tabletop that may be implemented in various configurations, including teacher desks, standing desks, or collaborative workstations. The tabletop may further be comprised of a protective coating that improves resistance to abrasion, impacts, cleaning agents, and environmental factors.

The ballistic desk device is further comprised of a frame that provides structural support and mechanical stability. In one embodiment, the frame supports folding and height adjustment and is comprised of at least one leg. The leg may be foldable, enabling the frame to collapse into a compact form for transport or repositioning.

The leg may also be comprised of a telescopic mechanism for height adjustment, with a locking mechanism that secures the leg in a desired position. The locking mechanism may include spring-loaded pushpins, twist-lock collars, cam levers, or detent-based ratcheting locks.

The bottom surface of the tabletop is comprised of at least one ballistic shield configured to protect against high-velocity projectiles. The ballistic shield may be attached or detached and may be comprised of one or more layers of woven ballistic fabric, including aramid-based materials, ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, or hybrid composites. In some embodiments, the shield is comprised of multiple fabric layers arranged in a crosshatch pattern with alternating angles, such as 0 degrees, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees, to improve impact resistance and energy dispersion. The ballistic shield may be configured to meet various NIJ ballistic protection levels, including Level II-A, II, III-A, III, or IV.

Some embodiments include a modular or layered shield system in which multiple shields are stacked or overlapped to increase ballistic performance and enable zone-specific protection. The shields may be tessellated or interlocked along the bottom surface of the tabletop for segmented coverage. The shield may also be detachably mounted to the bottom surface of the tabletop using mechanical fasteners for portable use. In one embodiment, the ballistic shield includes a transparent viewing window fabricated from ballistic-grade transparent materials.

Accordingly, the ballistic desk device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it combines a functional desk structure with an integrated ballistic shield mounted to the underside of the tabletop. The device provides NIJ Level III ballistic protection through the use of advanced woven fabric materials and rigid composite layers capable of stopping .30 caliber projectiles. It features a foldable frame with adjustable legs for stability, a quick-release mechanism for detaching the shield, and an ergonomic handle for transport and use. The shield can be deployed by tipping the desk forward or removed entirely for handheld defense. Optional transparent viewing windows allow for situational awareness without compromising safety. These features ensure that each student has access to an effective, rapidly deployable protective device in a hostile scenario, thus fulfilling the critical need for safety in educational environments.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a ballistic desk device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a ballistic desk device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom view of a shield of one potential embodiment of a ballistic desk device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a ballistic desk device that provides immediate ballistic protection within a conventional classroom setting. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for the ballistic desk device that integrates National Institute of Justice Level III compliant materials capable of withstanding high-powered rifle fire. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for the ballistic desk device that allows students to convert their workstations into mobile or stationary ballistic shields during active shooter emergencies.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a ballistic desk device. The ballistic desk device is a multifunctional structure configured to function both as a conventional desk and as a deployable ballistic shield for emergency situations, including active shooter incidents. The device is intended for use in settings that demand both day-to-day functionality and ballistic protection, such as educational and governmental environments. The structure is capable of transitioning from a standard workspace into a ballistic barrier designed to comply with National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Level III protection standards.

The ballistic desk device is comprised of a tabletop that may be implemented in various formats, including teacher desks, standing desks, and collaborative workstations. The tabletop may also be comprised of a protective coating that enhances resistance to abrasion, impact, cleaning agents, and environmental exposure.

The ballistic desk device is further comprised of a frame that supplies structural support and mechanical stability. In one embodiment, the frame permits folding and height adjustment and is comprised of at least one leg. The leg may be foldable, allowing the frame to collapse into a compact configuration suitable for transportation or repositioning.

The leg may additionally be comprised of a telescopic mechanism for height adjustment, featuring a locking mechanism that secures the leg at a selected height. The locking mechanism may include spring-loaded pushpins, twist-lock collars, cam levers, or detent-based ratcheting locks.

The underside of the tabletop is comprised of at least one ballistic shield designed to provide protection from high-velocity projectiles. The shield may be configured for attachment or detachment and may be comprised of one or more layers of woven ballistic fabric, such as aramid-based materials, ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, or hybrid composites. In certain embodiments, the shield is comprised of multiple fabric layers oriented in a crosshatch pattern at alternating angles, including 0 degrees, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees, to enhance impact resistance and energy distribution. The ballistic shield may be designed to meet a range of NIJ protection levels, including Level II-A, II, III-A, III, or IV.

In some embodiments, the device is comprised of a modular or layered shield system, wherein multiple shields are stacked or overlapped to increase ballistic resistance and provide zone-specific protection. The shields may be arranged in a tessellated or interlocking pattern along the bottom surface of the tabletop for segmented defensive coverage. The ballistic shield may be detachably mounted using mechanical fasteners to enable portable use. In one embodiment, the shield is comprised of a transparent viewing window fabricated from ballistic-grade transparent materials.

As a result, the ballistic desk device provides a dual-purpose solution by integrating a functional desk structure with a ballistic shield mounted beneath the tabletop. The device delivers NIJ Level III ballistic protection using advanced woven fabrics and rigid composite layers capable of stopping .30 caliber projectiles. The design includes a foldable frame with adjustable legs for stability, a quick-release mechanism for shield detachment, and an ergonomic handle to support transport and handheld use. The shield may be deployed by tipping the desk forward or fully removed for standalone defense. An optional transparent viewing window enables visual awareness without compromising protection. These features collectively ensure access to an effective, rapidly deployable protective device within educational settings, addressing critical safety needs.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a ballistic desk device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The ballistic desk device 100 is a multifunctional structure configured to operate both as a conventional desk and as a deployable ballistic shield designed for use during active shooter or other emergency situations. The ballistic desk device 100 is particularly suited for deployment in educational, governmental, or institutional environments where both functionality and protection are critical. The ballistic desk device 100 is capable of transforming from a workspace into a protective barrier rated to resist ballistic threats consistent with National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Level III standards, with the capability of halting projectiles up to .30 caliber in one embodiment.

The ballistic desk device 100 is comprised of a tabletop 102. The tabletop 102 may be implemented in a variety of structural formats, including but not limited to teacher desks, standing desks, computer desks, collaborative workstations, or other configurations tailored for individual or group use. The tabletop 102 may be planar or contoured and may incorporate ergonomic rounded edges 103. The tabletop 102 may be comprised of materials including, but not limited to, high-pressure laminate over medium-density fiberboard, solid wood, polymer composites, or thermoplastic-infused ballistic panels.

The tabletop 102 may further be comprised of a protective coating 104, as seen in FIG. 1. The protective coating 104 may be selected from coatings such as scratch-resistant polyurea, epoxy-based sealants, polyurethane clear coats, or antimicrobial surface treatments. The protective coating 104 enhances resistance to abrasion, impacts, cleaning agents, and environmental factors encountered in high-use environments such as schools.

The ballistic desk device 100 is further comprised of a frame 106. The frame 106 provides structural support and mechanical stability to the tabletop 102. In one embodiment, the frame 106 allows for the folding and height adjustment of the device 100. In one embodiment, the frame 106 is comprised of at least one leg 108. The leg 108 may be comprised of a foldable design, allowing the frame 106 to collapse into a low-profile stowable state for rapid repositioning or transportation.

In another embodiment, the leg 108 may be alternatively or additionally comprised of a telescopic mechanism enabling height adjustment. A locking mechanism 110 is integrated into the telescopic leg 108 to secure the desired height or folded position, as seen in FIG. 1. The locking mechanism 110 may be comprised of spring-loaded pushpins, twist-lock collars, cam levers, or detent-based ratcheting locks.

The leg 108 may further be comprised of a repositionable and leveling foot 112. The leveling foot 112 may be in the form of articulating or swivel-mounted pads, threaded height adjusters, or shock-absorbing inserts that allow the desk to maintain stability on uneven flooring. In one embodiment, the foot 112 may include a non-slip rubberized base 113 to prevent unwanted movement during emergency deployment.

A bottom surface 114 of the tabletop 102 is comprised of at least one ballistic shield 120, as seen in FIG. 2. The ballistic shield 120 is configured to provide protection against high-velocity projectiles and is capable of functioning in both attached and detached modes. In one embodiment, the ballistic shield 120 is made from at least one layer 121 of a woven ballistic fabric. The fabric may be an aramid-based material, such as Kevlar®, an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), or a hybrid composite weave. Each layer 121 may be fabricated to a target mass of approximately 15 grams per square meter (GSM), although higher or lower GSM values may be used to achieve different performance characteristics.

In some embodiments, the shield 120 is made from multiple layers 121 of ballistic fabric arranged in a crosshatch pattern. The crosshatch arrangement may be achieved by orienting successive layers at alternating angles, such as 0 degrees, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees, to improve energy dispersion, reduce backface deformation, and enhance resistance to multiple projectile impacts.

The ballistic shield 120 may be configured in multiple ballistic resistance levels in accordance with standards published by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). In various embodiments, the shield 120 may be fabricated to meet or exceed the requirements for Level II-A, Level II, Level III-A, Level III, or Level IV ballistic protection.

In some embodiments, the ballistic desk device 100 may be comprised of a modular or layered shield 120 system in which multiple ballistic shields 120 are stacked or overlapped along the bottom surface 114 of the tabletop 102. This stacked or overlapping configuration may be implemented to increase ballistic performance, allow for zone-specific protection, and improve redundancy. For instance, additional shields 120 may be added incrementally to enhance the level of ballistic resistance, such as upgrading from Level II-A to Level III-A or from Level III to a composite configuration approaching Level IV. The shields 120 may also be arranged in a tessellated or interlocking pattern to create segmented protection zones concentrated along critical portions of the table top 102.

The ballistic shield 120 may further be comprised of a ballistic outer body 122. The body 122 may be a rigid composite shell fabricated from polycarbonate, fiberglass-reinforced resin, or thermoplastic laminate. The ballistic core 122 serves to encapsulate the fabric layers, provide impact resistance, and protect against abrasion and environmental degradation.

In one embodiment, the ballistic shield 120 is detachably mounted to the bottom surface 114 of the tabletop 102. A plurality of mechanical fasteners 124 is used to secure the shield 120 in position. The fasteners 124 may include but are not limited to elevator bolts, fender washers, vibration-resistant lock nuts, or other hardware suitable for high-load retention. In one embodiment, the fasteners 124 are comprised of quick-detach mechanisms such as quarter-turn fasteners, captive screws with spring-loaded retention, or cam-lock latches, allowing for rapid release of the shield 120 during emergency situations.

The ballistic shield 120 and/or tabletop 106 may be further comprised of an integrated handle 126, as seen in FIG. 3. The handle 126 facilitates manual operation of the shield in both attached and detached configurations. The handle 126 may be comprised of a molded polymer grip, padded strap, or fold-flat metal bar and may be ergonomically contoured to support prolonged carry or use as a handheld shield.

In one embodiment, the ballistic shield 120 is comprised of a transparent viewing window 128, as seen in FIG. 3. The viewing window 128 is fabricated from ballistic-grade transparent materials such as laminated polycarbonate, acrylic composite, or glass-clad polycarbonate. The window 128 enables visual assessment of the surroundings while maintaining the protective capability of the shield. The viewing window 128 may be positioned in an upper region of the shield 120 and may be framed or recessed to enhance impact resistance.

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “ballistic desk device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the ballistic desk device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the ballistic desk device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the ballistic desk device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the ballistic desk device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the ballistic desk device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the ballistic desk device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.