| 摘要 |
<p>A table (1) is provided which houses a computer system including a display (9), a plurality of input devices (11) and output devices (13), and one or more viewing orientation controls. The display is provided within the frame (5) of the table in a substantially vertical alignment and under a flat surface which is made of a transparent or translucent material, such as plastic. The flat surface allows for viewing of the display from any seating position at the table, and further may protect the display from any fluids that may be spilled or sprayed onto the flat surface. The input and output devices may be provided within enclosures which prevent damage from fluids, yet still allow user access. The viewing orientation controls allow a plurality of users to rotate the display or an image on the display so that the image is oriented to a specific seating position. The computer may be connected to a network system, such as the Internet, so as to allow user interaction with a multitude of internal or external data sources. A plurality of such tables may be further networked together and controllable by a central server. Each table may accept the input of coins, currency, credit cards, debit cards, financial account identifiers and the like for making payments via the computer system. The table is especially suited for use in a restaurant, a cafe, a pub and the like so that patrons may dine while using the computer system.</p> |
