U.S. patent application number 12/259167 was filed with the patent office on 2009-08-06 for laptop computer case.
This patent application is currently assigned to 1747108 ONTARIO INC.. Invention is credited to Pasquale DE FILIPPIS, Rocco RUSO.
Application Number | 20090194209 12/259167 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40930498 |
Filed Date | 2009-08-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090194209 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DE FILIPPIS; Pasquale ; et
al. |
August 6, 2009 |
LAPTOP COMPUTER CASE
Abstract
A mobile workstation is provided. The mobile workstation
provides dual functions of transporting a mobile computer, such as
a laptop, and providing a functional workspace. The bottom surface
of the workstation includes two indented portions. This bottom
surface is intended for placement on a user's legs and to allow for
a more comfortable use of a laptop in that position. One or more
extensions can be provided, such as a surface for using a computer
mouse. The lid of the workstation can include rigid and non-rigid
portions, which can be folded to compact the lid when the
workstation is open and used as a workstation. A power supply
compartment provides separate storage of a power supply from the
laptop while allowing connection between the laptop and the power
supply to permit use while in the laptop compartment.
Inventors: |
DE FILIPPIS; Pasquale;
(Brampton, CA) ; RUSO; Rocco; (Brampton,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BORDEN LADNER GERVAIS LLP;Anne Kinsman
WORLD EXCHANGE PLAZA, 100 QUEEN STREET SUITE 1100
OTTAWA
ON
K1P 1J9
CA
|
Assignee: |
1747108 ONTARIO INC.
Brampton
CA
|
Family ID: |
40930498 |
Appl. No.: |
12/259167 |
Filed: |
October 27, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60982876 |
Oct 26, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
150/107 ;
206/320 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 11/00 20130101;
A45C 2011/003 20130101; A45C 13/30 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
150/107 ;
206/320 |
International
Class: |
A45C 13/30 20060101
A45C013/30; B65D 85/00 20060101 B65D085/00 |
Claims
1. A mobile workstation comprising: a base defining two contoured
indented surfaces extending along the entire length of the base
arranged to engage ergonomically with legs of a user; an outer
frame comprising side walls, a top wall and a bottom wall; a lid
hinged to the base, the lid comprising a plurality of substantially
rigid sections and a plurality of non-rigid sections separating the
plurality of substantially rigid sections, the plurality of rigid
sections arranged to be compactly folded upon one another to permit
use of the laptop computer while in the case; and a retractable
working surface tray engaging with and extending from a first side
of the base, the base, the outer frame, and the lid defining a
laptop compartment.
2. The mobile workstation of claim 1 further comprising a power
supply compartment, provided adjacent the laptop compartment,
arranged to provide separate storage of a power supply from the
laptop, and defining a power supply passage arranged to permit a
computer end of a power cord to be connected to the laptop to
permit use while in the laptop compartment.
3. The mobile workstation of claim 2 wherein the power supply
compartment further defines a second power supply passage arranged
to permit access to the power supply without opening the laptop
compartment.
4. The mobile workstation of claim 1 further comprising a pair of
exterior protective feet provided at a bottom end of the mobile
workstation.
5. The mobile workstation of claim 1 further comprising a shoulder
strap, wherein the mobile workstation comprises a shoulder strap
retainer to receive the shoulder strap when in a non-operational
position.
6. The mobile workstation of claim 4 further comprising a shoulder
strap, wherein the mobile workstation comprises a shoulder strap
retainer provided between the pair of protective feet, to receive
the shoulder strap when in a non-operational position.
7. The mobile workstation of claim 1 further comprising a removable
file sleeve arranged to be removably mated with the lid to provide
additional storage.
8. The mobile workstation of claim 1 further comprising a
retractable handle disposed at a top of the mobile workstation and
integrating with the base when in an unretracted position.
9. The mobile workstation of claim 1 wherein the plurality of
non-rigid sections are arranged to provide hinging movement when
one or more of the plurality of rigid sections are compactly folded
upon one another.
10. The mobile workstation of claim 1 further comprising a second
retractable tray engaging with and extending from a second side of
the base opposite the first side.
11. The mobile workstation of claim 10 further comprising a base
foam support and storage unit provided in the base, a storage
portion of the storage unit being housed between the first and
second retractable trays when the trays are in a closed
position.
12. The mobile workstation of claim 1 further comprising a finned
foam liner arranged to dissipate heat and secure a laptop in a
closed position in the laptop compartment.
13. The mobile workstation of claim 1 further comprising a lid gel
foam and a base gel foam provided within the lid and the base,
respectively, for securing a laptop computer within the laptop
compartment.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application relates to prior U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/982,876 filed Oct. 26, 2007, the disclosure of
which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to carrying cases.
More particularly, the present invention relates to a carrying case
for a portable, or laptop, computer.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A portable computer, also known as a laptop computer, or
laptop, provides a user with a convenient and transportable
workstation. The laptop can be transported within a home or place
of work, or be brought with a user on travel. The user does not
have to worry about availability of a computer at an unfamiliar
location, since they can take their own computer and files with
them.
[0004] A carrying case for a laptop typically includes some padding
or other protection to keep the computer safe from potential damage
during transport. Many laptop carrying cases are simply
modifications of existing carrying cases, such as briefcases or
backpacks, with additional padding to protect the computer.
[0005] Other products address the use of laptop computers. For
example, the LapDesk.TM. product provides a foam filled base that
provides stability and comfort for the user while using a laptop
computer. It is not designed for transporting the laptop.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,871,094 issued to Leibowitz on Feb. 16, 1999
provides a laptop computer case and stand. A lid is hinged to the
base. A leg engaging facility is provided along the rear edge of a
rear portion of the lid of the case, to fit upon the upper surface
of a pair of legs of a person using the laptop computer. However,
both the leg engaging facility and the base engage the user's legs,
creating pressure points for the weight of the laptop and case on
the user's legs. Moreover, while the leg engaging facility is
contoured, the base is not contoured, thereby creating areas of
discomfort.
[0007] It is, therefore, desirable to provide a laptop computer
case that can be used to transport and use a laptop in a
comfortable manner.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] It is an object of the present invention to obviate or
mitigate at least one disadvantage of previous laptop computer
cases.
[0009] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a mobile
workstation, such as a laptop computer workstation case. The mobile
workstation includes a base defining two contoured indented
surfaces extending along the entire length of the base arranged to
engage ergonomically with legs of a user. The mobile workstation
includes an outer frame comprising side walls, a top wall and a
bottom wall. A lid is hinged to the base. The lid includes a
plurality of substantially rigid sections and a plurality of
non-rigid sections separating the plurality of substantially rigid
sections. The plurality of rigid sections are arranged to be
compactly folded upon one another to permit use of a laptop
computer while in the laptop compartment. A retractable working
surface tray engages with and extends from a first side of the
base. The base, the outer frame, and the lid define a laptop
compartment.
[0010] The mobile workstation can further include a power supply
compartment, provided adjacent the laptop compartment, arranged to
provide separate storage of a power supply from the laptop. A power
supply passage can permit a computer end of a power cord to be
connected to the laptop to permit use while in the laptop
compartment. The power supply compartment can further define a
second power supply passage arranged to permit access to the power
supply without opening the laptop compartment.
[0011] A pair of protective feet can be provided at a bottom end of
the mobile workstation, for additional exterior protection. The
mobile workstation can further include a shoulder strap. The mobile
workstation can include a shoulder strap retainer to receive the
shoulder strap when in a non-operational position. The shoulder
strap retainer can be provided between the pair of protective
feet.
[0012] The mobile workstation can further include a removable file
sleeve arranged to be removably mated with the lid to provide
additional storage. A retractable handle can be disposed at a top
of the case and integrate with the base when in an unretracted
position.
[0013] The plurality of non-rigid sections can be arranged to
provide hinging movement when one or more of the plurality of rigid
sections are compactly folded upon one another. A second
retractable tray can engage with and extend from a second side of
the base opposite the first side
[0014] The mobile workstation can further include a lid gel foam
and a base gel foam provided within the lid and the base,
respectively, for securing a laptop computer within the laptop
compartment. A base foam support and storage unit can be provided
in the base. A storage portion of the storage unit can be housed
between the first and second retractable trays when the trays are
in a closed position.
[0015] In another aspect, the present invention provides a laptop
computer case and workstation including a base defining two
contoured indented surfaces extending along the entire length of
the base for engaging with legs of a user. A lid is hinged to the
base. A first retractable tray engages with and extends from a
first side of the base. A second retractable tray engages with and
extends from a second side of the base, opposite the first
side.
[0016] The case can further include a lid gel foam and a base gel
foam provided within the lid and the base, respectively, for
securing a laptop computer within the case. The case can further
include a base foam support and storage unit provided in the base.
A storage portion of the storage unit is housed between the first
and second retractable trays when the trays are in a closed
position.
[0017] Other aspects and features of the present invention will
become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review
of the following description of specific embodiments of the
invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described,
by way of example only, with reference to the attached Figures,
wherein:
[0019] FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C are bottom, front and in-use views of a
mobile workstation according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0020] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a mobile workstation according to
an embodiment of the present invention with a working surface in a
retracted and operational position, respectively.
[0021] FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C illustrate a mobile workstation
according to an embodiment of the present invention showing a
plurality of rigid and non-rigid portions in a lid thereof, in
various states of retraction.
[0022] FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C illustrate a mobile workstation
according to another embodiment of the present invention two rigid
and non-rigid portions in a lid thereof, in various states of
retraction and positioning.
[0023] FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D and 5E illustrate right front
perspective, front open, left front perspective with retracted
strap, top and side views of an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0024] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D and 6E illustrate front left and right
perspective, rear with retracted handle, top and side views of
another embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D and 7E illustrate front perspective,
front open, side opening positions, top and side views of an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D and 8E illustrate front perspective,
top, rear with retracted handle, end and side views of another
embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 9A illustrates a top perspective view of a mobile
workstation according to an embodiment of the present invention,
with FIG. 9B being an enlarged detail view of a zipper point.
[0028] FIG. 10A illustrates a side cross-section view of a mobile
workstation according to an embodiment of the present invention
showing a laptop compartment and a power supply compartment, with
FIG. 10B being an enlarged detail view of the joint between the two
compartments.
[0029] FIG. 11A illustrates a front view of a mobile workstation
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0030] FIGS. 11B and 11C illustrate side and top views of the
embodiment of FIG. 11A.
[0031] FIGS. 11D, 11E, 11F and 11G illustrate bottom perspective,
front, side, and bottom views of an embodiment of the present
invention showing two different materials.
[0032] FIGS. 11E, 11F and 11G illustrate front, side, and bottom
views of an embodiment of the present invention showing two
different materials.
[0033] FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded view of an assembly of an
exemplary mobile workstation according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0034] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate front perspective and front
views of an embodiment of the present invention in a closed
position.
[0035] FIGS. 13C and 13D illustrate rear and front views of an
embodiment of the present invention with the lid in an open
position and a working surface in a retracted position.
[0036] FIG. 13E illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the
present invention focusing on a zipper area.
[0037] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a mobile workstation, such
as a laptop computer case, according to an embodiment of the
present invention in a closed position.
[0038] FIG. 15 is a top view of the mobile workstation of FIG.
14.
[0039] FIG. 16 is a front view of the mobile workstation of FIG.
14.
[0040] FIG. 17 is a side view of the mobile workstation of FIG.
14.
[0041] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a mobile workstation
according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open
position, with a laptop housed therein.
[0042] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a mobile workstation
according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open
position, with no laptop.
[0043] FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of a mobile workstation
according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open
position, with a laptop housed therein.
[0044] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of elements of a mobile
workstation according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0045] FIG. 22 is a top view of a mobile workstation base according
to an embodiment of the present invention with portions in
section.
[0046] FIG. 23 is a top view of a mobile workstation according to
an embodiment of the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the mobile workstation
of FIG. 23 taken along line A-A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] Generally, the present invention provides a mobile
workstation for carrying a portable computer, such as a laptop. The
mobile workstation, or laptop workstation case, provides dual
functions of transporting a mobile computer, such as a laptop, and
providing a functional workspace. The bottom surface of the
workstation includes two indented portions. This bottom surface is
intended for placement on a user's legs and to allow for a more
comfortable use of a laptop in that position. One or more
extensions can be provided, such as a surface for using a computer
mouse. The lid of the workstation can include rigid and non-rigid
portions, which can be folded to compact the lid when the
workstation is open and used as a workstation. A power supply
compartment provides separate storage of a power supply from the
laptop while allowing connection between the laptop and the power
supply to permit use while in the laptop compartment.
[0049] While some existing approaches provide a combined laptop
carrying case and stand, they do not provide contoured surface that
extends along the entire length of the bottom of the case
itself.
[0050] While embodiments of the present invention provide a mobile
workstation, the terms "mobile workstation", "laptop workstation
case" and "laptop case" are used herein interchangeably to refer to
a mobile workstation that provides both the ability to transport a
mobile computer and use as a work surface, or work station.
Embodiments of the present invention provide a laptop case that
protects the laptop during transport and provides features that
enhance the experience of using the laptop while it is actually in
a user's lap. Embodiments of the present invention allow for easy
access and set-up of the laptop without removing it from the case.
The case can provide a comfortable and ergonomic laptop work area
for use on the lap.
[0051] FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C are bottom, front and in-use views of a
laptop case and workstation according to an embodiment of the
present invention. A case according to an embodiment of the present
invention can be referred to as a laptop computer workstation case
10, as it combines the functions of a laptop case and a laptop
workstation. As shown in FIG. 1A, the case 10 includes a base 12
defining two contoured indented surfaces extending along the entire
length of the base arranged to engage ergonomically with legs of a
user. The base, an outer frame, and a lid of the case can define a
laptop compartment. The outer frame can include side walls, a top
wall and a bottom wall. The view of FIG. 1B shows some of the
curvature of the base, providing ergonomic engagement with legs of
the user, providing an even distribution of pressure, thus avoiding
concentrated pressure points. FIG. 1C shows the case in use on a
user's lap.
[0052] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a laptop workstation case
according to an embodiment of the present invention with a working
surface in a retracted and operational position, respectively.
These figures show a retractable working surface tray 14 engaging
with and extending from a first side of the base. The tray 14 is
shown in FIG. 2A in a retracted position and in FIG. 2B in an
operational position. The retractable working surface tray 14 can
be a mousing surface, such as for use with a computer mouse, or can
be used as a working surface for jotting notes or performing
calculations. Also shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the lid can include a
plurality of rigid sections and a plurality of non-rigid sections.
A rigid section can also be provided to cover the power supply
compartment.
[0053] FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C illustrate a laptop workstation case
according to an embodiment of the present invention showing a
plurality of rigid and non-rigid portions in a lid thereof, in
various states of retraction. The lid 10 is hinged to the base, and
can a plurality of substantially rigid sections 16. The rigid
sections 16 can provide protection and sturdiness to the case. A
plurality of non-rigid sections 18 separate the plurality of
substantially rigid sections 16. The plurality of rigid sections 16
are arranged to be compactly folded upon one another to permit use
of the laptop computer while in the case. The folded up, or rolled
up, rigid portions of the case can provide a stopping surface to
prevent the top (or screen portion) of the laptop from being
extended beyond a certain angle.
[0054] FIG. 3B shows how a non-rigid portion 18 of the lid can be
made of a material suitable to be used to function as a hinge.
Arrows in FIGS. 3A and 3B show the direction in which rigid and
non-rigid portions of the lid can be rolled or flipped, to compact
the lid to a compacted or open position. FIG. 3C shows a fully
opened laptop bag with the lid in a fully open position 20, also
referred to as a fully compacted position.
[0055] FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C illustrate a laptop workstation case
according to another embodiment of the present invention two rigid
and non-rigid portions in a lid thereof, in various states of
retraction and positioning. This embodiment is similar to the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, and show that the rigid sections
of the lid can be folded on to one another, rather than simply
rolled into one another. The folded rigid sections can co-operate
to provide a stand surface in a fully open position. The stand
surface can be useful to prop up papers, or be used as a support
for a book or magazine.
[0056] FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D and 5E illustrate right front
perspective, front open, left front perspective with retracted
strap, top and side views of an embodiment of the present
invention. In this embodiment, the case is a full hard shell with a
hinged lid 10 that is a rigid lid. The lid 10 defines the top of a
laptop compartment. A power supply compartment 22 is provided below
the laptop compartment, and permits separate storage of the power
supply. An additional exterior protective portion 24 can provide
additional protection to a surface that is likely to be engaged
with a floor or with the ground. The exterior protective portion 24
can be provided as a pair of rubberized feet.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 5B, a compartment separator 26 is arranged
to provide access between the compartments, such as to permit a
power cable to be connected to the laptop when in the case, and to
permit access to the power supply without opening the laptop
compartment. A finned top foam liner 28, such as shown provided in
the upper and lower portions of the laptop compartment, can
dissipate heat and secure the laptop in a closed position. A lid
opening 30 provides a strong and accurate feeling and provides a
greater visual mass.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 5C, a shoulder strap 32, such as a
rubberized shoulder strap, can be provided for comfort. An
integrated latch 34 can provide a secure closing connection of the
lid with the base, to close the laptop compartment. The ergonomic
curvature of the base 12 is slightly visible from the front view,
providing a visual cue to its ergonomic use as a workstation on a
user's lap.
[0059] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D and 6E illustrate front left and right
perspective, rear with retracted handle, top and side views of
another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 6A, a file
sleeve 36, such as a neoprene file sleeve, is shown as being
removable attachable to the lid. For example, the sleeve can simply
hook onto the lid and integrate into the design of the case.
[0060] FIG. 6B shows that a shoulder strap can mate with a shoulder
strap retainer 38 to receive the shoulder strap when in a
non-operational position. In the embodiment of FIG. 6B, the case
comprises a shoulder strap retainer provided between the pair of
protective feet, to receive the shoulder strap when in a
non-operational position.
[0061] FIG. 6C illustrates a retractable handle 40 disposed at a
top of the case and integrating with the base when in an
unretracted position. A padded bottom surface 42 of the base 12 is
preferably made with a material that is comfortable and grips the
user's lap. The base 12 can also be provided as a louvered base 44
that allows breathability for the user's lap.
[0062] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D and 7E illustrate front perspective,
front open, side opening positions, top and side views of an
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7A is another
illustration showing that the lid can include a plurality of rigid
portions 16. The non-rigid portions can be provided of a fabric
material, which allows greater possibility for inner volume, in
addition to the folding of the rigid lid sections.
[0063] FIG. 7B illustrates a finned foam lower liner 42, similar to
the liner described in relation to FIG. 5B, provided in the laptop
compartment and arranged to dissipate heat. Different sizes and
shapes of the liner 42, in either or both of the top and/or bottom
of the laptop compartment, can allow for a greater range of laptop
sizes to be housed in the case. FIG. 7C illustrates the case with a
double-hinged lid in various states of opening, and shows that the
lid crates a smaller visual mass when the lid is open.
[0064] FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D and 8E illustrate front perspective,
top, rear with retracted handle, end and side views of another
embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 8A, a removable file
sleeve 46 is illustrated. This file sleeve is similar to the file
sleeve 36 of FIG. 6A, but shows that the shape and coverage of the
sleeve with respect to the size of the lid can be varied.
Similarly, a retractable handle 48 is shown in FIG. 8C, which also
integrated into the case when not in use, but with a slightly
different design than the retractable handle 40 shown in FIG. 6C.
The base 12 can be lightly curved, such as resulting in a height at
the peak of the curve of about 1/8'', to allow ergonomic lap use
with minimal volume or size increase. The padded bottom surface 42
and louvered base 44 are similar to FIG. 6C.
[0065] A shoulder strap retainer 50 in FIG. 8D is shown with a
different design and manner in which to engage and retain the
shoulder strap, as compared to the shoulder strap retainer 38 in
FIG. 6B.
[0066] FIG. 9A illustrates a top perspective view of a laptop
workstation case according to an embodiment of the present
invention. This figure shows some detailing in an exemplary
embodiment. In particular, FIG. 9B is an enlarged detail view of a
zipper point of the case. A dual layer fabric can be arranged to
surround and conceal the zipper and create an intuitive touch
point.
[0067] FIG. 10A illustrates a side cross-section view of a laptop
workstation case according to an embodiment of the present
invention showing a laptop compartment and a power supply
compartment. FIG. 10B is an enlarged detail view of the joint
between the two compartments. While the rubber power door
(described earlier as a compartment separator 26) is shown in a
closed position, such a rubber separator can be used to provide
wire access while separating the two compartments.
[0068] FIG. 11A illustrates a front view of a laptop workstation
case according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the
exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 11A, the base 12 is a scalloped
base, or bottom, that has a height of about 0.125''. That height is
measured at the peak of the curvature of the contoured indented
surfaces extending along the entire length of the base, which are
arranged to engage ergonomically with legs of a user.
[0069] FIGS. 11B and 11C illustrate side and top views of the
embodiment of FIG. 11A. These figures show a total height of the
case as about 2'', a total width of about 15.25'', and a total
depth of about 14''.
[0070] FIGS. 11D, 11E, 11F and 11G illustrate bottom perspective,
front, side, and bottom views of an embodiment of the present
invention showing two different materials. In FIG. 11D, the base 12
is shown to curl slightly up at the front edge of the case. An
upholstering material 52 can be provided on the base 12. FIGS. 11E,
11F and 11G show other views with the upholstering material shown
as a darker material than the rest of the case material.
[0071] FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded view of an assembly of an
exemplary laptop workstation case according to an embodiment of the
present invention. A number of elements that are shown as separate
elements can be provided as constituent parts of other elements
described herein.
[0072] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate front perspective and front
views of an embodiment of the present invention in a closed
position. FIG. 13A illustrates an embodiment of a shoulder strap
that has an engaging portion to engage with a shoulder strap
retainer at the bottom of the case. FIG. 13B illustrates a front
view of the case without the shoulder strap in use.
[0073] FIGS. 13C and 13D illustrate rear and front views of an
embodiment of the present invention with the lid in an open
position and a working surface in a retracted position. These
figures show that when in an open position, the rigid portions of
the lid can be provided with a lining material arranged to grip
paper or other materials placed therein. The top edge of the lid
can double as a retaining means to retain items in the "back"
portion of the opened lid, while the front portion of the opened
lid (which faces the user) can be used to store documents behind a
laptop screen, or as a rest for the laptop screen.
[0074] FIG. 13E illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the
present invention focusing on a zipper area. Similar to the
embodiment shown in FIG. 9B, a zipper point area is shown, in which
a dual layer fabric can be arranged to surround and conceal the
zipper and create an intuitive touch point.
[0075] Therefore, in an aspect, the present invention provides a
laptop computer workstation case. The case includes a base defining
two contoured indented surfaces extending along the entire length
of the base arranged to engage ergonomically with legs of a user.
The case includes an outer frame comprising side walls, a top wall
and a bottom wall. A lid is hinged to the base. The lid includes a
plurality of substantially rigid sections and a plurality of
non-rigid sections separating the plurality of substantially rigid
sections. The plurality of rigid sections are arranged to be
compactly folded upon one another to permit use of the laptop
computer while in the case. A retractable working surface tray
engages with and extends from a first side of the base. The base,
the outer frame, and the lid define a laptop compartment.
[0076] The case can further include a power supply compartment,
provided adjacent the laptop compartment, arranged to provide
separate storage of a power supply from the laptop. A power supply
passage can permit a computer end of a power cord to be connected
to the laptop to permit use while in the case. The power supply
compartment can further define a second power supply passage
arranged to permit access to the power supply without opening the
laptop compartment of the case.
[0077] A pair of protective feet can be provided at a bottom end of
the case, for additional exterior protection. The case can further
include a shoulder strap. The case can include a shoulder strap
retainer to receive the shoulder strap when in a non-operational
position. The shoulder strap retainer can be provided between the
pair of protective feet.
[0078] The case can further include a removable file sleeve
arranged to be removably mated with the lid to provide additional
storage. A retractable handle can be disposed at a top of the case
and integrate with the base when in an unretracted position.
[0079] The plurality of non-rigid sections can be arranged to
provide hinging movement when one or more of the plurality of rigid
sections are compactly folded upon one another. A second
retractable tray can engage with and extend from a second side of
the base opposite the first side
[0080] The case can further include a lid gel foam and a base gel
foam provided within the lid and the base, respectively, for
securing a laptop computer within the laptop compartment of the
case. A base foam support and storage unit can be provided in the
base. A storage portion of the storage unit can be housed between
the first and second retractable trays when the trays are in a
closed position.
[0081] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a laptop computer case
according to an embodiment of the present invention in a closed
position. This view illustrates sleek lines of the case. The handle
is shown as including a locking means, or securing means, to secure
the laptop within the case.
[0082] FIGS. 15, 16 and 17 are top, front and side views,
respectively, of the laptop computer case of FIG. 14. FIGS. 15 and
16 show exemplary dimensions, in inches, for the case. FIG. 16 also
illustrates the base having two curved indentations that extend
along the entire length of the bottom of the case. The dimensions
and curvature of the indentations, or contoured surfaces, can be
varied to suit adults and children having legs of different shapes
and sizes.
[0083] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a laptop computer case
according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open
position, with a laptop housed therein. The case can be described
as having a lid hingedly attached to a base, and a retaining means.
In FIG. 18, the retaining means comprises upper and lower gel foam
portions provided in the lid and the base, respectively, to wrap
around the laptop when closed. This retaining method allows for
various sizes of laptops, while providing the same gel foam
portions. FIG. 18 also shows a retractable tray that extends from
the left side of the base of the case, preferably in a pull-out
manner. The retractable tray can be used as a storage tray to store
a variety of documents or other items, and can also be used as a
work surface. A retractable mouse pad is also provided in the base
of the case, on an opposite side from the retractable tray. The
retractable mouse pad is advantageously used as a mouse pad, but
can also be used as a further work surface, such as for using a
calculator or jotting notes.
[0084] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a laptop computer case
according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open
position, with no laptop. The lower gel foam portion in FIG. 19 is
shown as defining a slit to allow access to storage, as well as to
keep wires from coming to the surface where the laptop is used. A
base foam support and storage area is also illustrated, which
provides a storage area for a laptop power supply, wires, mouse and
other cables or desired items. This storage area is preferably only
accessible when the lower gel foam portion is removed.
[0085] FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of a laptop computer
case according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open
position, with a laptop housed therein. The embodiment in FIG. 20
shows non-slip comfort pads provided in the contoured surfaces that
extend along the entire length of the bottom of the case. This
provides for enhanced gripping and reduces slippage during use.
[0086] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of elements of a laptop computer
case according to an embodiment of the present invention. A laptop
is shown simply for illustration, and is not part of the case. FIG.
21 provides an illustration of the relationship between the lid,
lid gel foam, base gel foam, base foam support and storage unit (or
area), pull-out document storage drawer, base and retractable mouse
pad.
[0087] FIG. 22 is a top view of a laptop computer case base
according to an embodiment of the present invention with portions
in section. The base in FIG. 22 is shown with the openings to
receive the retractable storage drawer, or tray, and the
retractable mouse pad. The dimensions shown in FIG. 22 are
exemplary, and non-limiting.
[0088] FIG. 23 is a top view of a laptop computer case according to
an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 24 is a
cross-sectional view of the laptop computer case of FIG. 23 taken
along line A-A. Exemplary dimensions are provided, in inches, in
FIG. 24 to illustrate the relative dimensions of various elements
of the laptop computer case. For example, exemplary dimensions are
provided for the height and width of the curved indented portions
extending along the entire length of the base. Exemplary dimensions
are also provided for the storage area, the base, the lid, and
other previously-discussed elements.
[0089] In an embodiment, the case has no straps, cables or
Velcro.TM., and provides a good use of space for storage, with a
strong emphasis on ergonomic design.
[0090] In the above description, for purposes of explanation,
numerous details have been set forth in order to provide a thorough
understanding of the present invention. However, it will be
apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are
not required in order to practice the present invention. In other
instances, well-known electrical structures and circuits are shown
in block diagram form in order not to obscure the present
invention. For example, specific details are not provided as to
whether the embodiments of the invention described herein are
implemented as a software routine, hardware circuit, firmware, or a
combination thereof.
[0091] The above-described embodiments of the present invention are
intended to be examples only. Alterations, modifications and
variations may be effected to the particular embodiments by those
of skill in the art without departing from the scope of the
invention, which is defined solely by the claims appended
hereto.
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