Briefcase computer

Details Briefcase computer Briefcase computer

1999-12-01

2002-08-27

Schuberg, Darren (Department: 2835)

Electricity: electrical systems and devices

Housing or mounting assemblies with diverse electrical...

For electronic systems and devices

C361S689000, C206S305000, C248S118100

Reexamination Certificate

active

06442018

ABSTRACT:

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to a briefcase carrying device with an integrated portable computer (e.g., a “laptop” computer).
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventional portable computer systems (e.g., “laptops”) are becoming more and more prevalent in business, especially by business travelers, etc. The conventional systems typically utilize liquid crystal display (LCD) screens for their output (display) devices.
However, the sizes of such screens have continually increased over the years. Thus, a problem arises in that as the screens continue to grow, the LCD screens will eventually grow larger than the form factor for a laptop computer.
Secondly, portable computers are inherently fragile and/or contain sensitive information thereon. Accordingly, a passenger (e.g., an airline traveler, train traveler, etc.) typically “carries-on” the portable computer into the passenger compartment of an airplane, train, etc.
However, yet another problem arises in that airlines etc. typically limit a passenger's carry-on baggage to two small bags, or, for some flights, to only one carry-on bag. Airline passengers (especially business travelers) typically travel with a briefcase, a laptop and a laptop case (e.g., yet another piece of luggage). As a result, the passenger typically must check one of these bags and must spend valuable time at the “Baggage Claim” area of the airport. Further, if the laptop is checked, costly or irreparable damage may occur during baggage handling.
Yet another problem is that battery life is generally considered insufficient in today's laptop computers. While lithium batteries have made great strides over Nickel-cadmium (Nicad) batteries in increasing a usable time period of the portable computer, generally the battery life is still deemed insufficient. As a result, typically the traveler will pack in the laptop an additional battery (ies). However, the laptop becomes too heavy when loaded with such battery (ies) to extend service life sufficiently. This is a problem.
Fourth, as costs of laptops drop, the casing and carrying bag are becoming a more substantial fraction of the costs of producing a laptop.
Finally, the notebook (laptop) computer is not an attractive form factor because the notebook computer basically looks like a block of plastic. It is bulky and lumpy. The laptop carrying case is typically made of nylon and is relatively unattractive, and in some cases appears to have low quality (e.g., looks “cheap”). In contrast, after years of style evolution, the briefcase is typically attractively upholstered in leather. The handle and clasps are integrated into the design. The stitching denotes craftsmanship and quality, and is often secured from entry with a key or combination. The briefcase is a mature, well-evolved attractive form factor.
Hitherto, the invention there has been no structure integrating the attractive looking briefcase with the relatively unattractive form factor of the laptop computer.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In view of the foregoing and other problems of the conventional structures, an object of the present invention is to provide a structure for combining a portable computer and a briefcase into a convenient and attractive looking carrying case.
In a first aspect of the present invention, a carrying case (and an integrated briefcase computer including the carrying case) includes a housing having first and second container portions which are selectively opened and closed, the first and second container portions being coupled together, a computer including central processing unit (CPU) integrally housed in one of the first and second container portions of the housing, a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen located in the other of the first and second container portions of the housing, and a keyboard, removably housed in the one of the first and second container portions, for communicating with the LCD screen.
In a second aspect of the invention, an integrated briefcase with a computer houses a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen in the inside top cover and the LCD screen can be covered by folder holders which are attachable by a fastening mechanism, such as a snap, velcro strips and hooks, leather loops and knobs, etc. Basically, any device suitable for holding up a folder holder in a briefcase can be employed. The LCD screen can range in size, but a maximum size would be limited to the inside boundary of the inside top cover of the briefcase.
With the inventive configuration, a portable computer and a briefcase can be combined into a convenient carrying case with an attractive form factor, and can include a large LCD screen, with space for peripheral equipment and office materials. Further, a traveler need not check such a structure as “checked baggage”, thereby saving valuable time (and potentially costly repairs) by not having to check such a structure with airport/train officials.
Other advantages include that the electronics of the laptop are embedded into the body of the briefcase, thereby providing better heat dissipation. In addition, reuse of structural support components allows a reduction in total weight Additionally, embedding the battery in the briefcase body will allow additional flexibility in placement of components. Thus, more standard and bulkier shapes can be used, thereby reducing cost.
Further, a keyboard portion can be used without a briefcase portion for office/home office activity. Thus, the keyboard portion can be detachable, and the keyboard can be used with a monitor alone. Using a normal laptop requires a separate keyboard for use with a monitor because the built-in monitor is not detachable.
Additionally, the briefcase computer preferably accommodates a full-size keyboard. Moreover, the keyboard portion can be transported alone between two sites (e.g., such as home and office) that each have power and a monitor which saves on weight. Further, the keyboard portion can be used separately if the LCD screen burns out (or otherwise becomes defective) or if there is a flaw in manufacturing.


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