CA2286143A1 - Portable workstation housing - Google Patents
Portable workstation housing Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2286143A1 CA2286143A1 CA002286143A CA2286143A CA2286143A1 CA 2286143 A1 CA2286143 A1 CA 2286143A1 CA 002286143 A CA002286143 A CA 002286143A CA 2286143 A CA2286143 A CA 2286143A CA 2286143 A1 CA2286143 A1 CA 2286143A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- lid
- housing
- computer
- base
- spine
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 27
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 abstract description 12
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 abstract description 12
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 description 11
- 241000270295 Serpentes Species 0.000 description 5
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000001413 cellular effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000008520 organization Effects 0.000 description 2
- GNVNKFUEUXUWDV-VIFPVBQESA-N (2s)-2-amino-3-[4-(aminomethyl)phenyl]propanoic acid Chemical compound NCC1=CC=C(C[C@H](N)C(O)=O)C=C1 GNVNKFUEUXUWDV-VIFPVBQESA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012141 concentrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000018109 developmental process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002708 enhancing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000002148 esters Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000008014 freezing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007710 freezing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1628—Enclosures for carrying portable computers with peripheral devices, e.g. cases for a laptop and a printer
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
- Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Purses, Travelling Bags, Baskets, Or Suitcases (AREA)
Abstract
In its closed configuration, a portable workstation housing resembles a closed attache case. A lid, having opposed sidewalls and a top, and a planar base, having little or no peripheral lip, are separated by a narrow spine. The lid pivots through a range of up to 180 degrees relative to the base and upper portion of the spine. A lid support element is pivotable between a first position flush to the housing and a second position perpendicular to the lid which supports the weight of the lid when fully open. The base supports a portable computer by means of releasable fasteners. A fastener having a first sex of loop and hook fasteners is attached by adhesive to the bottom of the computer and a fastener having a second sex of loop and hook fasteners is attached to the base, allowing the computer to be held in place for use and transit. Similarly, a printer, disk drives, modems, ac-converters and other peripherals are held in place. A printer is typically carried by the lid.
Elongate loop and hook fastener cord wraps, having a covering of a first sex loop and hook fastener on one side and a second sex of loop and hook fastener on the opposite side are attached and one end to the housing, and are used to wrap and organize the many power and data cords. A power strip, having a power cord that is retractable into a spool, is carried within the portable workstation housing and provides power to the computer and all peripherals.
Elongate loop and hook fastener cord wraps, having a covering of a first sex loop and hook fastener on one side and a second sex of loop and hook fastener on the opposite side are attached and one end to the housing, and are used to wrap and organize the many power and data cords. A power strip, having a power cord that is retractable into a spool, is carried within the portable workstation housing and provides power to the computer and all peripherals.
Description
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n , ~ r . . . 1 1 .
. 1 1 - , r 1 ~ 1 PORTABLE WORKSTATION HOUSING
As a result of the recent technological developments, notebook and lap-top computers have become truly portable. However, to provide a truly ~o~~ vuor~-er~vir~nmEatr~-usEr-rEquirES~~ort_ abJs~nmputer~avin~a~aumber - of ep ripheral items, such as a printer, data/fax modem and cellular phone, AC
current adapters, a power strip having a surge suppressor, and a number of data and power cables to connect together the various portable components. Without these peripheral devices, the user would not have the ability to perform many tasks. Without the power and data cables interconnecting the peripheral devices, the user would have to spend a great deal of time setting up and disassembling the work station before and after use.
To provide the user with a truly portable, fully functional work environment, a portable workstation housing is required. The portable workstation housing must protect, organize and house the various necessary elements in a manner that allows the user to efficiently operate the computer while contained within the housing. Several previous housings have attempted to fill the needs of the user. Unfortunately, several problems still exist.
Known portable computer housings have failed to adequately provide the structures required to allow the user to conveniently bundle together unneeded cable length in a safe and organized,manner. Known computer housings have failed to provide the structures needed by users to releasably attach computer and peripheral equipment and devices to the housing in a customizable and re-arrangeable manner that prevents unwanted movement of the attached devices both in use and in travel. Moreover, known portable computer housings have failed to provide a power cord that is suitable for plugging into an AC wall outlet that is variable in length and that retracts into an enclosed spool after use.
Known computer housings have failed to provide dual work surfaces having different elevations; in particular, a lower work surface to support a computer and an upper work surface that is raised several inches above the lower work surface to provide an easily accessible and viewable location for a peripheral device. Known computer housings have also failed to provide means to adjust the elevation of the computer within the computer housing. Known computer housing have failed to AME~ID~D SHEET
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provide protection against theft; in particular, they have failed to employ Kensington~-type slots which could be used to anchor the housing. Known computer housing have failed to provide a structure consistent with the need to _~~rgebatteries _ouec~nextencled~erio~i_of_.timer~ncl~he_need_to_ leav~ihe - computer housing unattended yet protected during that timeAdditionally,-known-computer housings have failed to provide a lid in a pivoting relationship to a base having a stiff hinge or locking means to enable the user to open and fix the lid at any angle, where it will remain fixed until released and moved again.
U.S. 4851812A, 4896776A, 5214574A and 5485922A disclose structures which deal with same of the problems described above. However, the prior art does not address some of the problems solved by the present invention, such as unimpeded access to a portable computer when the housing is in the open position, and the proper storage of cables.
The present invention is directed to an apparatus that satisfies the above needs by providing a portable workstation housing that supports, protects, electrically charges and organizes a portable computer, associated peripheral equipment and devices and data and power cables. The portable workstation housing of the invention allows the user to store, electrically charge and use the computer while in the housing.
A preferred version of the present invention comprises: a portable workstation housing for use in storing, facilitating operation of and accessing a portable computer and a peripheral device during travel including a base for carrying a portable computer; a spine perpendicular to said base, and attached to one side of the base; a lid pivotally connected to a top edge of the spine, the lid having a planar top wall, a front wall and a pair of opposed end walls; and friction means for maintaining the lid at an angle of 0 to 180° with respect to the base;
positioning means for holding a computer on the base, characterised by the base being planar facilitating access to the computer from the front and sides when the housing is open; gussets connecting the rear corners of the base to ends of the spine, each said lid end wall having a bevelled corner adjacent said top edge of the spine, whereby, when the lid is closed, the gussets and the lid side walls define planar end walls of the housing; a lid support on said lid movable between
n , ~ r . . . 1 1 .
. 1 1 - , r 1 ~ 1 PORTABLE WORKSTATION HOUSING
As a result of the recent technological developments, notebook and lap-top computers have become truly portable. However, to provide a truly ~o~~ vuor~-er~vir~nmEatr~-usEr-rEquirES~~ort_ abJs~nmputer~avin~a~aumber - of ep ripheral items, such as a printer, data/fax modem and cellular phone, AC
current adapters, a power strip having a surge suppressor, and a number of data and power cables to connect together the various portable components. Without these peripheral devices, the user would not have the ability to perform many tasks. Without the power and data cables interconnecting the peripheral devices, the user would have to spend a great deal of time setting up and disassembling the work station before and after use.
To provide the user with a truly portable, fully functional work environment, a portable workstation housing is required. The portable workstation housing must protect, organize and house the various necessary elements in a manner that allows the user to efficiently operate the computer while contained within the housing. Several previous housings have attempted to fill the needs of the user. Unfortunately, several problems still exist.
Known portable computer housings have failed to adequately provide the structures required to allow the user to conveniently bundle together unneeded cable length in a safe and organized,manner. Known computer housings have failed to provide the structures needed by users to releasably attach computer and peripheral equipment and devices to the housing in a customizable and re-arrangeable manner that prevents unwanted movement of the attached devices both in use and in travel. Moreover, known portable computer housings have failed to provide a power cord that is suitable for plugging into an AC wall outlet that is variable in length and that retracts into an enclosed spool after use.
Known computer housings have failed to provide dual work surfaces having different elevations; in particular, a lower work surface to support a computer and an upper work surface that is raised several inches above the lower work surface to provide an easily accessible and viewable location for a peripheral device. Known computer housings have also failed to provide means to adjust the elevation of the computer within the computer housing. Known computer housing have failed to AME~ID~D SHEET
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provide protection against theft; in particular, they have failed to employ Kensington~-type slots which could be used to anchor the housing. Known computer housing have failed to provide a structure consistent with the need to _~~rgebatteries _ouec~nextencled~erio~i_of_.timer~ncl~he_need_to_ leav~ihe - computer housing unattended yet protected during that timeAdditionally,-known-computer housings have failed to provide a lid in a pivoting relationship to a base having a stiff hinge or locking means to enable the user to open and fix the lid at any angle, where it will remain fixed until released and moved again.
U.S. 4851812A, 4896776A, 5214574A and 5485922A disclose structures which deal with same of the problems described above. However, the prior art does not address some of the problems solved by the present invention, such as unimpeded access to a portable computer when the housing is in the open position, and the proper storage of cables.
The present invention is directed to an apparatus that satisfies the above needs by providing a portable workstation housing that supports, protects, electrically charges and organizes a portable computer, associated peripheral equipment and devices and data and power cables. The portable workstation housing of the invention allows the user to store, electrically charge and use the computer while in the housing.
A preferred version of the present invention comprises: a portable workstation housing for use in storing, facilitating operation of and accessing a portable computer and a peripheral device during travel including a base for carrying a portable computer; a spine perpendicular to said base, and attached to one side of the base; a lid pivotally connected to a top edge of the spine, the lid having a planar top wall, a front wall and a pair of opposed end walls; and friction means for maintaining the lid at an angle of 0 to 180° with respect to the base;
positioning means for holding a computer on the base, characterised by the base being planar facilitating access to the computer from the front and sides when the housing is open; gussets connecting the rear corners of the base to ends of the spine, each said lid end wall having a bevelled corner adjacent said top edge of the spine, whereby, when the lid is closed, the gussets and the lid side walls define planar end walls of the housing; a lid support on said lid movable between
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a first position against said lid and a second position perpendicular to the lid for supporting the lid in a fully open position in which the lid is at an angle of 180°
relative to the base and at the same height as the top edge of the spine;
cable of~a~j~~g ~~s- in -the~o~s+ng-i~cludf~g~~~d--w~ap~or-const~aW ir~g-a--~olded_ c~~l_e~each said wrap including an elongated strip having first and second sides,_ the first side having a covering of a first sex of fastener and the second side having a covering of a second sex of fastener, whereby a folded cable can be wrapped inside a loop formed by attaching the first side of the strip to the second side of the strip.
More specifically, the portable workstation housing of the present Includes:
(a) A base including a substantially flat work surface for supporting a portable computer. The preferred version of the base has little or no lip, and therefore allows the user complete access to the keyboard and sides of the computer, which may include expansion slots or disk drive access.
(b) A spine is attached at right angles to the rear edge of the base in a rigid manner. In a preferred version, the spine and base are rigidly formed of a unitary piece of rugged plastic. Two typically triangular gussets, one attached to each end of the spine and also to the base, maintain the rigidity of the spine-to-base connection.
(c) A lid, providing finro opposed end walls and a connected perpendicular front wall having a handle, carries a computer peripheral, such as a printer. When fully opened by movement through 180 degrees from the base, the bottom or inner surface of the lid defines a second work surface elevated above the base by a distance equal to the height of the spine.
(d) A hinge, typically a piano hinge, allows the lid to pivot with respect to the spine and attached base. In a preferred version, the hinge is stiff and will stay in a partly open position unattended, due to friction. Alternatively, left and right locking
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a first position against said lid and a second position perpendicular to the lid for supporting the lid in a fully open position in which the lid is at an angle of 180°
relative to the base and at the same height as the top edge of the spine;
cable of~a~j~~g ~~s- in -the~o~s+ng-i~cludf~g~~~d--w~ap~or-const~aW ir~g-a--~olded_ c~~l_e~each said wrap including an elongated strip having first and second sides,_ the first side having a covering of a first sex of fastener and the second side having a covering of a second sex of fastener, whereby a folded cable can be wrapped inside a loop formed by attaching the first side of the strip to the second side of the strip.
More specifically, the portable workstation housing of the present Includes:
(a) A base including a substantially flat work surface for supporting a portable computer. The preferred version of the base has little or no lip, and therefore allows the user complete access to the keyboard and sides of the computer, which may include expansion slots or disk drive access.
(b) A spine is attached at right angles to the rear edge of the base in a rigid manner. In a preferred version, the spine and base are rigidly formed of a unitary piece of rugged plastic. Two typically triangular gussets, one attached to each end of the spine and also to the base, maintain the rigidity of the spine-to-base connection.
(c) A lid, providing finro opposed end walls and a connected perpendicular front wall having a handle, carries a computer peripheral, such as a printer. When fully opened by movement through 180 degrees from the base, the bottom or inner surface of the lid defines a second work surface elevated above the base by a distance equal to the height of the spine.
(d) A hinge, typically a piano hinge, allows the lid to pivot with respect to the spine and attached base. In a preferred version, the hinge is stiff and will stay in a partly open position unattended, due to friction. Alternatively, left and right locking
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means, carried by the opposed lid end walls and by the gussets provide a structure capable of freezing the movement of the lid on the hinge, allowing user to release the lid, where it - _-.w~1-be-inaintai~edj at-at~y at~gfe~etween-~-ar~d~~9--degrees -_ - T~~~osltio~ means are.~ro~ed for holding the computer, - -printer and other components or devices in place without slipping, sliding or falling. Typically, the positioning means comprise of a loop and hook fasteners. In a typical application, the loop and hook fasteners are applied by means of adhesive backing to the base and lid in a pattern appropriate to support the computer, printer, and other devices. A similar pattern of the loop and hook fasteners is then applied to the undersides of the computer, printer and other devices by means of the adhesive backing. The computer and peripherals are then releasably fixed to the computer housing by the loop and hook fasteners.
(f) Cable organizing means, typically comprising elongate wraps or strips carrying loop and hook fasteners are attached at one end to the base, spine or lid. Each strip includes a loop and hook fastener on one side and the second on the other side.
By encircling a coiled and folded cable or wire, the strips promote safety and organization by maintaining the coiled or folded cable configuration.
(g) A mouse pad is carried on the base by means of a two-sided tape or adhesive in a position adjacent to the computer. The mouse pad may be oriented for either left- or right-handed use by the user when the portable workstation housing is configured.
(h) A power strip is typically carried by the spine, but may be carried in alternative locations by means of the above described positioning means. The power strip typically includes a plurality of outlets, a surge suppressor, on-off switch
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means, carried by the opposed lid end walls and by the gussets provide a structure capable of freezing the movement of the lid on the hinge, allowing user to release the lid, where it - _-.w~1-be-inaintai~edj at-at~y at~gfe~etween-~-ar~d~~9--degrees -_ - T~~~osltio~ means are.~ro~ed for holding the computer, - -printer and other components or devices in place without slipping, sliding or falling. Typically, the positioning means comprise of a loop and hook fasteners. In a typical application, the loop and hook fasteners are applied by means of adhesive backing to the base and lid in a pattern appropriate to support the computer, printer, and other devices. A similar pattern of the loop and hook fasteners is then applied to the undersides of the computer, printer and other devices by means of the adhesive backing. The computer and peripherals are then releasably fixed to the computer housing by the loop and hook fasteners.
(f) Cable organizing means, typically comprising elongate wraps or strips carrying loop and hook fasteners are attached at one end to the base, spine or lid. Each strip includes a loop and hook fastener on one side and the second on the other side.
By encircling a coiled and folded cable or wire, the strips promote safety and organization by maintaining the coiled or folded cable configuration.
(g) A mouse pad is carried on the base by means of a two-sided tape or adhesive in a position adjacent to the computer. The mouse pad may be oriented for either left- or right-handed use by the user when the portable workstation housing is configured.
(h) A power strip is typically carried by the spine, but may be carried in alternative locations by means of the above described positioning means. The power strip typically includes a plurality of outlets, a surge suppressor, on-off switch
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and a power indicator light. A power cord is mounted on a retracting spool, allowing the cord to be withdrawn from the spook to plug into a wall outlet, thereby transferring power to _ -thE_-ewer ~trtp-and allowing-the-eq uipr~ent ~~~t~e -_ _ _ _ _-~ustc ~mizabl~r~able_wQrks~ati~n housi to be c arged when the housing is closed. After use, the power cord may be recoiled into the spool, where it is conveniently stored.
(I) A battery powered snake light, typically mounted on the lid, allows users to concentrate light where it is needed.
(j) A lid support device, carried by the lid, prevents the entire portable workstation housing from tipping when the weight of the printer and associated paper exceeds the weight of the computer. The lid support device is typically a centre mounted leg that snaps from a first position flush with the lid, to a second, supporting, position perpendicular to the lid.
(k) Optionally, the computer housing provides a Kensington~
security slot and a locking mechanism to prevent the case from being opened. Therefore, the entire case and its contents could be protected by using just one Kensington~ or similar security device and cable.
(I) A vertically adjustable computer support includes a scissor type mechanism which allows the user to adjust the elevation of a platform. The platform is fully lowered prior to storage or transport, and then is easily raised for convenient use. The vertically adjustable computer support allows the user to adjust the height of the computer to compensate for undesired work location.
(m) A file pocket adjusts between a smaller size suitable for letter sized files and a larger size suitable for legal sized files. Loop and hook fasteners support the file pocket on the inside of the lid.
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It is therefore a primary advantage of the present invention to provide a novel portable workstation housing that includes adjustable positioning means to hold in place a computer, a printer or other peripheral device, date and power -- __ - -cables; arrd otherslevices-in-a-~nanner~hat-nay tie-~It~red~o -eonfiri~-t~ the-exact- -_.-.d~erasions of tt~car~ied~~~he_housing,_~n~Lthaima~r he al-tel~d_ to-the -preferences of a left-or right-handed user.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a power strip having the advantages of multiple electrical outlets, on-off switch, a surge suppressor and an electric power cord that extends to the desired length and retracts about an enclosed spool by means of a spring-loaded mechanism.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a battery operated snake light built into the case, typically on the lid, thereby providing an adjustable light source.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes structures that will allow the user to charge batteries while the portable workstation housing is closed and locked.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that allows the interconnecting cables between components to be left attached when the housing is closed and moved to a new location.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a vertically adjustable computer support surface for adjusting the vertical altitude of the computer.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes cable organizing means for wrapping the extra length of the power and date cables in a manner that ensures organization and safety.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a lid that may be opened to any angle between 0 and 180 degrees, having a hinge that is stiff enough to allow the lid to be maintained in that angle, or that provides locking means that allows the user to lock the lid at any angle.
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A still further advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a lid support, for use where the lid is opened to 180 degrees, to prevent the case from tipping.
- _.T~ese-and-other~eatur~s; aspects-,-~~d-ad-vantages-o#~~e-~~-~ser~t -______._- inver>tian.~r~rilL become betteLUndetstQO~hncith_..re~gard to the following description -_- -appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
FIGURE 1 is a top view of a housing in accordance with the invention in the open position;
FIGURE 2 is a side view of a vertically adjustable computer support;
FIGURE 3 is a side view of the housing of FIG. 1;
FIGURE 4 is a side view of the housing of FiG 1 in the fully closed position;
FIGURE 5 is a front view of the housing of FIG 4 in the carrying position;
FIGURE 6 is an enlarged view of a lid support;
FIGURES 7a and 7b are side views of one corner of the housing;
FIGURE 8 is a front view of a portion of the power strip;
FIGURE 9 is a top view of the power strip of FIG. 8;
FIGURE 10 is a bottom view of a computer;
FIGURE 11 is a top view of the lid, spine and base, showing the tongue and groove structure that may be used;
FIGURE 12 is a top view of the housing of F1G 1 with elements removed;
FIGURE 13 is a top view of a file pocket in its extended configuration for legal-sized file folders;
FIGURE 14 is a top view of the file pocket in its shortened configuration for letter-sized file folders; and FIGURE 15 is a top plan view of an open second embodiment of the housing configured for a left-handed user.
In its closed configuration, a portable workstation housing 100 resembles a closed attache case. In the preferred embodiment, the portable aMEriG~g sHC~
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workstation housing includes support and adaptation for a computer, printer and other peripherals.
In the following description of the housing base 120 and lid 140, the --elements-of the base an~f-li~l-are descrii~e~i as-they wo-aid-app~arwith~he-housing - -Referring to the figures, a lid 140 includes a top wall 141, opposed end walls 152, 153 and a front wall 150. A planar base 120, having no peripheral lip, carries a narrow spine 160, which is rigidly attached in a perpendicular relationship to the base by means of left and right gussets 170, 171. The lid pivots on a hinge 180 attached to the top edge 163 of the spine 160 through a range of up to 180 degrees relative to the base 120. A lid support 220, pivotable between a first position against to the housing and a second position perpendicular to the lid, supports the weight of the lid when fully open. The base and lid support portable computer components such as a computer, printer, disk drive, modem or ac-converter by means of positioning elements 200. A
positioning element having a first sex of loop and hook fasteners is attached by adhesive to the bottom of the each computer component. Similarly, a positioning element having a second sex of loop and hook fastener is attached to the base or lid by adhesive, allowing the component to be held in place both during use and transit by mating the loop and hook fasteners. Elongate loop and hook fastener strips 280, having a covering of a first sex of loop and hook fasteners on one side and a second set on the opposite side, are attached at one end to the housing, and are used to wrap and organize the many power and data cords. A snake light 340 provides the user with lighting, as needed. Thus positioned by positioning elements 200 and strips 280, the computer and peripherals may remain hooked up and ready to go, once the portable workstation housing is opened. A power strip 240, having a power cord 244 that is retractable into a spool 245, is carried within the portable workstation housing and provides power to the computer and all peripherals.
Referring in particular to FIGS. 1 and 3, a portable workstation housing constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention is shown.
In the preferred embodiment, the base 120 is planar, and is typically made of rigid kiv9EPIDED SHEET
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plastic or other suitable material. The dimensions of the base tend to be determined by the dimensions of the computer and computer peripherals to be carried, but in a preferred version a width 60 cm and a depth of 33 cm is used.
_. _ ~fiEbase~as--a .top~t-inner--surface-122;-whief~t~ppo~t~-#i~e _ ester com~onP ts, and a bottom s~e~2_4. The front ed~an~ileft_and right side edges 125, 126 are free of any sidewall or lip. This provides access to the PCMCIA slots or disk drives the computer may have on its side, and also allows the user to type without reaching over a wall or lip structure. As a result, the computer housing of the invention is adapted for use in supporting computer equipment while the computer equipment is in actual use. A rear edge 127 supports the spine 160.
A spine 160 is mounted on the base 120 at the rear edge 127. The spine is an elongate planar wall having a length equal to that of the base, typically about 60 cm. The height of the spine depends on the height of the computer components to be housed, but is typically 3 to 5 inches. A top edge 163 carries a hinge 180 which allows the lid to pivot with respect to the spine. The bottom edge 164 is attached to the base 120. Left and right edges 161, 162 are attached to gusset braces 170, 171.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the left and right gussets 170, 171 increase the strength of the connection between the spine 160 and the base 120.
In the embodiment seen in FIG 3, the back edge 172 of each gusset is typically shorter than the height of the spine by an amount equal to the thickness of the lid.
The bottom edge 173 is typically approximately the same length as the back edge of the base. An inclined edge 174 generally slopes at an angle of 30 of 60 degrees with respect to the base.
In the preferred embodiment, the base 120, spine 160 and gussets 170, 171 could all be molded of a single piece of plastic. If the base is sufficiently strong, the gussets would not be needed. Similarly, the lid 140, ends 152, 153, and the front wall 150 could also be molded in a single piece.
As seen in FIGS 1 and 3, the lid 140 having dimensions similar to the base is pivotally connected to the top edge of the spine 160 by the hinge 180.
In the preferred embodiment, the lid 140 is somewhat thinner than the base, since it ,ww'~cP~:L~:~J JI-~L~T
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will tend to be somewhat less stressed, and has the end walls 152, 153 for strength. The lid 140 may be pivoted over a range of 180 degrees from a closed position. A seated user may easily see over the housing, allowing for interaction ,Kith-others while using th~p~rtat~ie-workstation,--~i~e-top_.~il-j-4-1._of..the lid _ _.
-__~,~Gud~an_ sce-apd-a- oparouier_sumace 142~ront Ed~e~~~carries a _ _ perpendicularly oriented front wall 150. The wall 150 is planar, having a length equal to the length of the lid and a height equal to the height of the spine.
A
handle 151 is attached to the centre of the wall 150. A left edge 145 of the lid carries a left end wall 152, while a right edge carries a right end wall 153.
Each end wall has bevelled edges 154 complementary to the inclined edge 174 of the gusset 170, 171. When the housing is closed, the edges 154 and 174 abut so that the lid end walls 152, 153 and the gussets 170, 171 define planar end walls of the housing. Each end wall has a height equal to the height of the top and spine, and a length when combined with the gussets length equals the width of the base and lid. A rear edge 143 of the lid 140 carries the hinge 180, allowing the lid to pivot with respect to the spine and base. As seen in FIG 12, in a preferred version of the invention, a slot 156 in one or both end walls 152, 153 or gussets 170, allows the power cord to enter through the housing even when the housing is closed and locked, thereby allowing the user to charge batteries while the workstation housing is unattended and secured by means of the Kensington~ slot and cable.
Referring to FIG 11, in the preferred embodiment, the lid and base are connected when closed by a tongue and groove. The lid includes a tongue 380 at one end thereof while the base includes a groove 381 at the corresponding end thereof.. Additionally, as seen in FIG 11a, the base may include a lock hollow 382 where a locking device 383 supported by the top or sides could be engaged.
A shoulder strap 155 is attached to the computer housing, typically to the end walls of the lid.
In a preferred version of the invention, an elongate piano hinge 180 us used to allow the lid to pivot with respect to the base and spine. In a first embodiment of the invention, a piano hinge having low frictional characteristics is combined with locking means to allow pivoting and to prevent unwanted AivEP~ID~D SHEET
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movement of the hinge when the lid is partially open. The locking means comprises left and right arc-shaped locking elements 181. Each locking element includes an elongate element 181 having a medial slot, carried by one half of the housing: The slot frames a-bolt ~rrot sfiawnjcarried--byrthe-oth~rhalf-.of the _ h~~As tie-user-a~j~-sts-p~sitian-of , ~laa~ed~n~mo~es-_.
against the bolt. Once adjusted, the user tightens a knurled knob or butterfly nut (not shown) on the bolt, thereby holding the lid in a fixed position relative to the base. When the knob or nut is loosened, the lid may be readjusted or closed.
As a result, the user may open the lid partially, and the locking elements may be used to prevent further movement due to the weight of the lid.
An alternative version of the invention provides a shaft-type hinge or stiff piano hinge that is similar in structure to the hinge structures common to many lap-top and portable computers. This type of hinge is inherently somewhat frictional, and typically often does not require the arc-shaped locking elements to keep the lid from rotating after it is positioned by the user.
Other versions of the invention employ alternative structures to prevent unwanted movement about the hinge between the lid and the base. A
listing of such structures is unnecessary, since structural solutions to this narrow problem are well documented by prior art. One such solution would involve the use of a notched cam, which would provide incrementally variable, rather than continuously or infinitely variable, adjustment. Using such a structure, the user could select the proper adjustment by choosing between 10 degree increments.
A lid support 220 prevents the computer housing from tipping when fully opened. The lid support 220 maintains the lid level above a table or other work surface. The lid support is pivotable from a first position flush with the lid, to a second supporting position perpendicular to the lid, as seen in FIG 3. As seen in FIG 6, the lid support includes a base 224 connected to the top or outer surface 142 of the lid 140. The base carries a hinge 221 that allows the leg 222 having a foot 223 to rotate. When the leg is oriented perpendicular to the base it supports the base, as seen in FIG 3. The leg is oriented parallel to the base for transport.
As seen in FIGS 1, 12 and 15, a mouse pad 300 is carried by the top surface of the base 120 by means of double sided tape, glue or other fastening AMENDED SHEET
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r . ~ 1 1 means. The mouse pad may be carried to the left or right of the computer, to accommodate left- or right-handed users.
As seen in FIGS 1 and 7 - 9, a power strip 240 having an internal S~.ge_.s~ppressor--is-provided-~hE--preferred-Embodiment; tt~e-power-~ttip-is-. __ - -- pa~itionable t~d~ank~asteners pQSitioni~elements200, as -.. --will be seen below. In an alternative embodiment, the power strip is rigidly attached to the spine, as seen in FIGS 1, 12 and 15 and provides a plurality of outlets 241. If the power strip is rigidly attached to the spine of the workstation housing, a recessed area on the outside of the gusset is provided to house the plug of the power cord used to attach to external power. Such a recessed area prevents the cord from catching on things during transport, and allows the cord to be accessed for battery charging while the case is locked. The power strip includes a switch 242 and in indicator light 243. As seen in FIGS 8 and 9, a spring powered spool device 254 is attached to the power strip. The power cord 244 may be extended against the spring to a desired length and retracted by the spring when not needed. In one embodiment of the invention, the power strip additionally includes multiple interconnected telephone jacks 246. Wiring internal to the power strip connects the several jacks. Such an arrangement is advantageous, since it allows the length of wire from the power strip to the modem and telephone to be precisely chosen, and allows the user to connect a telephone line to only the power strip, thereby providing a telephone connection going to the modem and a telephone connection going to the telephone, and /or any other device.
As seen in FIGS 4 and 12, an opening 156 in the gusset 171 for a power cord 244 allows the computer to be plugged in while the housing is locked, which allows the user to charge the computer's batteries while simultaneously providing security for the computer and peripherals.
As seen by a comparison of FIGS 1, 12 and 15, the portable .
computer 500, printer 501, external CD ROM drive 502, external modem 503, and external hard disk drive 504 and any other peripheral components, including ac power converters 506 and the ac power strip, may be supported on the inner surfaces of the lid, spine or base by means of positioning elements 200. A
An,~EPIDE~ Si~f~' a r s ~ v v . , , . v . v ~ v , ~ ~ v calculator 505 may optionally be installed by either two-sided tape, loop and hook fasteners positioning elements or other fastening means. In the preferred embodiment, the positioning elements include similarly sized male fastener strips _ _ _ _ _ 201 end- femate-fastener~ttips- 2f?4:--The reale fast~r~i~g-~t~i~s -iv cl~des ~n _ adhesiue couid~-that i~~fecie~ before us~y a feel-of~bac_kina,-An _ opposite side includes male loop and hook fastener covering 203. Similarly, the female fastening strips include an adhesive covered side that is protected before use by a peel-off backing. An opposite side includes female loop and hook fastener covering. In both cases, the adhesive is chosen so that it allows the later removal, if desired, without damage, of the positioning elements 200 for reinstallation. Using the male and female fasteners, the user may secure any computer component to the computer housing. FIG 12 shows the workstation housing having male fastening elements 201 secured by means of adhesive to the portable workstation housing, ready for attachment of the computer and printer.
F1G 10 shows the bottom of the computer, having female fastening elements 204 secured by means of adhesive to the computer base, ready for attachment to the housing of FIG 12. Referring to FIG 10, the battery compartment opening 508 of the computer is framed by, but not covered by, the loop and hook fastener positioning elements. Clearly, alternately sized computers, having differently places battery openings, could be provided with female fasteners 204 in alternative configurations.
As seen in particular FIGS 7a, 7b, and 8, loop and hook fastener cord strips or wraps 280 can be placed in any location in the portable workstation housing to allow the user to secure data and power cables and cords 507 in a safe and organized manner. The cord wraps 280 generally include a patch 281 and an elongate strip 282. The patch is secured to any advantageous portion of the workstation housing in a non-permanent manner by means of adhesive. The elongate strip 282 is removably attachable to the patch 281, and includes a covering of female loop and hook fastener 283 on one side and male loop and hook fastener 284 on the other. In operation, one end of the elongate strip 282 is wrapped around the cables and back on itself with the female material on the outside. The wrapped bundle is then attached to the male loop and hook fastener AMENDED SHEET
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patch 281 which was previously mounted in the housing. FIG 7a shows an elongate strip 282 having a covering of female loop and hook fastener 283 on one side and male loop and hook fastener 284 on the other side in an extended _ -. Positian,- Prior to- being--wrapped~boat-a-i~i~ndied- power- fli,-~~ta~ab+e~fG- 7b-_ _ -s~,~~-cord.~rurap-28Dsecu~gd~p~rnr~i._-_______ _-__ -As seen in FIG 1, loop and hook fasteners 400 are used to support and constrain non-folded or coiled cables against the lid, base or spine of the computer housing.
As seen in FIG 2, a vertically adjustable computer support 360 allows the user to adjust the altitude of the computer. A computer support platform is sized to support a computer, and may be moved manually upwardly, using scissor supports 362 which pivot about pivots 365 while the lower ends of the scissors slide along lower adjustment tracks 363. Locks 364 allow the user to prevent movement of the scissors along the tracks, thereby fixing the altitude of the computer. Loop and hook fastener pads 366 keep the computer in place on top of the support surface. Loop and hook fastener pads 367 on the bottom of the surface 360 attach to corresponding loop and hook fastener pads on the base 120.
As seen in FIG 15, a cellular telephone may be supported by the inner surface of the lid by means of cellular telephone fasteners 330. In the preferred embodiment of the computer housing, a single loop and hook fastener, attached to the phone and to the workstation housing allows the user to position the telephone. In other embodiments, loop and hook fasteners or similar releasable fastening elements are used to attach the antenna, the telephone body and the data cord to the lid. If desired, the data cord may be routed to the modem, where it is attached.
As seen in FIG 4, a Kensington~ or similar type of security slot 320 may be provided by the computer housing of the invention. Such security slots are commonly used by computer manufacturers to allow users to secure computers and occasionally peripheral devices to cables having devices which may be inserted into the slots. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the security slot would allow the user to attach the entire computer housing to a APJIEPlDED SHEET
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. , s v ' a a security cable. When the computer housing is in the closed position seen in FIGS
4 and 5, it could be locked. In this manner, a single security cable could be used to protect the housing, the computer, and all peripherals and cables. In the _ p~efe~r~ed eri~bo~irnerit;-the~ensing~on~ slot-would.be~locate~-irt-tl~e-gusset-rt~1- or -.
172 c~-end ~nraN-1~2~~of +~~ ' q.p_~~~g~-~. _ - -..
opened or closed or stood on end (the gusset) without the need to disengage the cable from the Kensington~ slot. The workstation housing would typically provide a metal insert carried by the plastic gusset or sidewall, thereby enhancing the rigidity and integrity of the case.
Further security structures optionally incorporated into some versions of the invention would apply known locks and security alarms. Known locking mechanisms are provided to prevent the case from being opened by unauthorized people. Also, in one version of the invention, a security alarm using known technology and having an audible alarm provides sensors attached to the body panels, hinges and locks of the portable workstation housing. Optionally, a motion sensor could detect violent motion. When the workstation housing was tampered with, a piercing alarm would result.
A file pocket 260 is adjustable to accept either regular and legal size file folders. As seen in FIGS 13 and 14, the file pocket includes two, overlapping sheets. In a typical version of the invention, an outside sheet 263 remains fixed in position by upper and lower loop and hook fastener tabs 261, 262. An inside telescoping sheet 264 may be adjusted to accommodate letter and legal sized folders by movement of loop and hook fastener attachment tabs 261, 262 between either of two sets of corresponding attachment tabs carried by the bottom or inside surface of the lid. As seen in FIG 14, when attached to a first set of narrowly spaced tabs carried by the inside surface of the lid 140, the file pocket is sized to accept file folders for standard 8.5 X 11 inch paper. As seen in FIG
13, when attached to a second set of more widely spaced tabes carried by the lid, the file pocket is sized to accept legal file folders, and the overlap between the two sheets 263, 264 is less. Optionally, accordion side elements allow the pocket to expand somewhat when the pocket is filed. A computer disk pocket 265 (Fig.
15) may be carried by the file pocket 260.
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As seen in FIG 1, in the preferred embodiment a battery powered snake light 340 is carried by the upper right hand corner of the inside surface of the lid, The snake light provides a movable source of light, and can be used when _ .- alternative lig~~ing- ~s unavaifiab~e. - __. _ _ _ __._-. _ ~ ~~~$~f~ ° ~nwon+inn is i icon h~th-t~_.__._...
store and to transport a computer and asso~~c~i~at'e'd peripheral devices.
Moreover, the computer housing is particularly designed to allow the user to use the computer and peripherals while they are still carried by the housing. As a result, the user attaches cables as needed to all peripheral devices only during installation or reconfiguration.
Prior to first using the computer housing, the user should position all movable components, including the computer and all peripherals, including AC
adapters) and the power strip, in a manner that is best suited to the sizes of the components and the space available. Once satisfied with the arrangements, the user should attach the adhesive sides of positioning elements 200 to the bottoms of the computer and peripherals and the corresponding locations on the inner surfaces 122, 141 of the base and lid, respectively. The loop and hook fastener positioning elements may then be mated, holding he computer components in position. Cord wraps 280 are then wrapped about folded power and data cords.
Loop and hook fasteners 400 may then be used to prevent unwanted movement of non-bundled cords.
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and a power indicator light. A power cord is mounted on a retracting spool, allowing the cord to be withdrawn from the spook to plug into a wall outlet, thereby transferring power to _ -thE_-ewer ~trtp-and allowing-the-eq uipr~ent ~~~t~e -_ _ _ _ _-~ustc ~mizabl~r~able_wQrks~ati~n housi to be c arged when the housing is closed. After use, the power cord may be recoiled into the spool, where it is conveniently stored.
(I) A battery powered snake light, typically mounted on the lid, allows users to concentrate light where it is needed.
(j) A lid support device, carried by the lid, prevents the entire portable workstation housing from tipping when the weight of the printer and associated paper exceeds the weight of the computer. The lid support device is typically a centre mounted leg that snaps from a first position flush with the lid, to a second, supporting, position perpendicular to the lid.
(k) Optionally, the computer housing provides a Kensington~
security slot and a locking mechanism to prevent the case from being opened. Therefore, the entire case and its contents could be protected by using just one Kensington~ or similar security device and cable.
(I) A vertically adjustable computer support includes a scissor type mechanism which allows the user to adjust the elevation of a platform. The platform is fully lowered prior to storage or transport, and then is easily raised for convenient use. The vertically adjustable computer support allows the user to adjust the height of the computer to compensate for undesired work location.
(m) A file pocket adjusts between a smaller size suitable for letter sized files and a larger size suitable for legal sized files. Loop and hook fasteners support the file pocket on the inside of the lid.
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It is therefore a primary advantage of the present invention to provide a novel portable workstation housing that includes adjustable positioning means to hold in place a computer, a printer or other peripheral device, date and power -- __ - -cables; arrd otherslevices-in-a-~nanner~hat-nay tie-~It~red~o -eonfiri~-t~ the-exact- -_.-.d~erasions of tt~car~ied~~~he_housing,_~n~Lthaima~r he al-tel~d_ to-the -preferences of a left-or right-handed user.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a power strip having the advantages of multiple electrical outlets, on-off switch, a surge suppressor and an electric power cord that extends to the desired length and retracts about an enclosed spool by means of a spring-loaded mechanism.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a battery operated snake light built into the case, typically on the lid, thereby providing an adjustable light source.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes structures that will allow the user to charge batteries while the portable workstation housing is closed and locked.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that allows the interconnecting cables between components to be left attached when the housing is closed and moved to a new location.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a vertically adjustable computer support surface for adjusting the vertical altitude of the computer.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes cable organizing means for wrapping the extra length of the power and date cables in a manner that ensures organization and safety.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a lid that may be opened to any angle between 0 and 180 degrees, having a hinge that is stiff enough to allow the lid to be maintained in that angle, or that provides locking means that allows the user to lock the lid at any angle.
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A still further advantage of the present invention is to provide a portable workstation housing that includes a lid support, for use where the lid is opened to 180 degrees, to prevent the case from tipping.
- _.T~ese-and-other~eatur~s; aspects-,-~~d-ad-vantages-o#~~e-~~-~ser~t -______._- inver>tian.~r~rilL become betteLUndetstQO~hncith_..re~gard to the following description -_- -appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
FIGURE 1 is a top view of a housing in accordance with the invention in the open position;
FIGURE 2 is a side view of a vertically adjustable computer support;
FIGURE 3 is a side view of the housing of FIG. 1;
FIGURE 4 is a side view of the housing of FiG 1 in the fully closed position;
FIGURE 5 is a front view of the housing of FIG 4 in the carrying position;
FIGURE 6 is an enlarged view of a lid support;
FIGURES 7a and 7b are side views of one corner of the housing;
FIGURE 8 is a front view of a portion of the power strip;
FIGURE 9 is a top view of the power strip of FIG. 8;
FIGURE 10 is a bottom view of a computer;
FIGURE 11 is a top view of the lid, spine and base, showing the tongue and groove structure that may be used;
FIGURE 12 is a top view of the housing of F1G 1 with elements removed;
FIGURE 13 is a top view of a file pocket in its extended configuration for legal-sized file folders;
FIGURE 14 is a top view of the file pocket in its shortened configuration for letter-sized file folders; and FIGURE 15 is a top plan view of an open second embodiment of the housing configured for a left-handed user.
In its closed configuration, a portable workstation housing 100 resembles a closed attache case. In the preferred embodiment, the portable aMEriG~g sHC~
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workstation housing includes support and adaptation for a computer, printer and other peripherals.
In the following description of the housing base 120 and lid 140, the --elements-of the base an~f-li~l-are descrii~e~i as-they wo-aid-app~arwith~he-housing - -Referring to the figures, a lid 140 includes a top wall 141, opposed end walls 152, 153 and a front wall 150. A planar base 120, having no peripheral lip, carries a narrow spine 160, which is rigidly attached in a perpendicular relationship to the base by means of left and right gussets 170, 171. The lid pivots on a hinge 180 attached to the top edge 163 of the spine 160 through a range of up to 180 degrees relative to the base 120. A lid support 220, pivotable between a first position against to the housing and a second position perpendicular to the lid, supports the weight of the lid when fully open. The base and lid support portable computer components such as a computer, printer, disk drive, modem or ac-converter by means of positioning elements 200. A
positioning element having a first sex of loop and hook fasteners is attached by adhesive to the bottom of the each computer component. Similarly, a positioning element having a second sex of loop and hook fastener is attached to the base or lid by adhesive, allowing the component to be held in place both during use and transit by mating the loop and hook fasteners. Elongate loop and hook fastener strips 280, having a covering of a first sex of loop and hook fasteners on one side and a second set on the opposite side, are attached at one end to the housing, and are used to wrap and organize the many power and data cords. A snake light 340 provides the user with lighting, as needed. Thus positioned by positioning elements 200 and strips 280, the computer and peripherals may remain hooked up and ready to go, once the portable workstation housing is opened. A power strip 240, having a power cord 244 that is retractable into a spool 245, is carried within the portable workstation housing and provides power to the computer and all peripherals.
Referring in particular to FIGS. 1 and 3, a portable workstation housing constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention is shown.
In the preferred embodiment, the base 120 is planar, and is typically made of rigid kiv9EPIDED SHEET
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plastic or other suitable material. The dimensions of the base tend to be determined by the dimensions of the computer and computer peripherals to be carried, but in a preferred version a width 60 cm and a depth of 33 cm is used.
_. _ ~fiEbase~as--a .top~t-inner--surface-122;-whief~t~ppo~t~-#i~e _ ester com~onP ts, and a bottom s~e~2_4. The front ed~an~ileft_and right side edges 125, 126 are free of any sidewall or lip. This provides access to the PCMCIA slots or disk drives the computer may have on its side, and also allows the user to type without reaching over a wall or lip structure. As a result, the computer housing of the invention is adapted for use in supporting computer equipment while the computer equipment is in actual use. A rear edge 127 supports the spine 160.
A spine 160 is mounted on the base 120 at the rear edge 127. The spine is an elongate planar wall having a length equal to that of the base, typically about 60 cm. The height of the spine depends on the height of the computer components to be housed, but is typically 3 to 5 inches. A top edge 163 carries a hinge 180 which allows the lid to pivot with respect to the spine. The bottom edge 164 is attached to the base 120. Left and right edges 161, 162 are attached to gusset braces 170, 171.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the left and right gussets 170, 171 increase the strength of the connection between the spine 160 and the base 120.
In the embodiment seen in FIG 3, the back edge 172 of each gusset is typically shorter than the height of the spine by an amount equal to the thickness of the lid.
The bottom edge 173 is typically approximately the same length as the back edge of the base. An inclined edge 174 generally slopes at an angle of 30 of 60 degrees with respect to the base.
In the preferred embodiment, the base 120, spine 160 and gussets 170, 171 could all be molded of a single piece of plastic. If the base is sufficiently strong, the gussets would not be needed. Similarly, the lid 140, ends 152, 153, and the front wall 150 could also be molded in a single piece.
As seen in FIGS 1 and 3, the lid 140 having dimensions similar to the base is pivotally connected to the top edge of the spine 160 by the hinge 180.
In the preferred embodiment, the lid 140 is somewhat thinner than the base, since it ,ww'~cP~:L~:~J JI-~L~T
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will tend to be somewhat less stressed, and has the end walls 152, 153 for strength. The lid 140 may be pivoted over a range of 180 degrees from a closed position. A seated user may easily see over the housing, allowing for interaction ,Kith-others while using th~p~rtat~ie-workstation,--~i~e-top_.~il-j-4-1._of..the lid _ _.
-__~,~Gud~an_ sce-apd-a- oparouier_sumace 142~ront Ed~e~~~carries a _ _ perpendicularly oriented front wall 150. The wall 150 is planar, having a length equal to the length of the lid and a height equal to the height of the spine.
A
handle 151 is attached to the centre of the wall 150. A left edge 145 of the lid carries a left end wall 152, while a right edge carries a right end wall 153.
Each end wall has bevelled edges 154 complementary to the inclined edge 174 of the gusset 170, 171. When the housing is closed, the edges 154 and 174 abut so that the lid end walls 152, 153 and the gussets 170, 171 define planar end walls of the housing. Each end wall has a height equal to the height of the top and spine, and a length when combined with the gussets length equals the width of the base and lid. A rear edge 143 of the lid 140 carries the hinge 180, allowing the lid to pivot with respect to the spine and base. As seen in FIG 12, in a preferred version of the invention, a slot 156 in one or both end walls 152, 153 or gussets 170, allows the power cord to enter through the housing even when the housing is closed and locked, thereby allowing the user to charge batteries while the workstation housing is unattended and secured by means of the Kensington~ slot and cable.
Referring to FIG 11, in the preferred embodiment, the lid and base are connected when closed by a tongue and groove. The lid includes a tongue 380 at one end thereof while the base includes a groove 381 at the corresponding end thereof.. Additionally, as seen in FIG 11a, the base may include a lock hollow 382 where a locking device 383 supported by the top or sides could be engaged.
A shoulder strap 155 is attached to the computer housing, typically to the end walls of the lid.
In a preferred version of the invention, an elongate piano hinge 180 us used to allow the lid to pivot with respect to the base and spine. In a first embodiment of the invention, a piano hinge having low frictional characteristics is combined with locking means to allow pivoting and to prevent unwanted AivEP~ID~D SHEET
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movement of the hinge when the lid is partially open. The locking means comprises left and right arc-shaped locking elements 181. Each locking element includes an elongate element 181 having a medial slot, carried by one half of the housing: The slot frames a-bolt ~rrot sfiawnjcarried--byrthe-oth~rhalf-.of the _ h~~As tie-user-a~j~-sts-p~sitian-of , ~laa~ed~n~mo~es-_.
against the bolt. Once adjusted, the user tightens a knurled knob or butterfly nut (not shown) on the bolt, thereby holding the lid in a fixed position relative to the base. When the knob or nut is loosened, the lid may be readjusted or closed.
As a result, the user may open the lid partially, and the locking elements may be used to prevent further movement due to the weight of the lid.
An alternative version of the invention provides a shaft-type hinge or stiff piano hinge that is similar in structure to the hinge structures common to many lap-top and portable computers. This type of hinge is inherently somewhat frictional, and typically often does not require the arc-shaped locking elements to keep the lid from rotating after it is positioned by the user.
Other versions of the invention employ alternative structures to prevent unwanted movement about the hinge between the lid and the base. A
listing of such structures is unnecessary, since structural solutions to this narrow problem are well documented by prior art. One such solution would involve the use of a notched cam, which would provide incrementally variable, rather than continuously or infinitely variable, adjustment. Using such a structure, the user could select the proper adjustment by choosing between 10 degree increments.
A lid support 220 prevents the computer housing from tipping when fully opened. The lid support 220 maintains the lid level above a table or other work surface. The lid support is pivotable from a first position flush with the lid, to a second supporting position perpendicular to the lid, as seen in FIG 3. As seen in FIG 6, the lid support includes a base 224 connected to the top or outer surface 142 of the lid 140. The base carries a hinge 221 that allows the leg 222 having a foot 223 to rotate. When the leg is oriented perpendicular to the base it supports the base, as seen in FIG 3. The leg is oriented parallel to the base for transport.
As seen in FIGS 1, 12 and 15, a mouse pad 300 is carried by the top surface of the base 120 by means of double sided tape, glue or other fastening AMENDED SHEET
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r . ~ 1 1 means. The mouse pad may be carried to the left or right of the computer, to accommodate left- or right-handed users.
As seen in FIGS 1 and 7 - 9, a power strip 240 having an internal S~.ge_.s~ppressor--is-provided-~hE--preferred-Embodiment; tt~e-power-~ttip-is-. __ - -- pa~itionable t~d~ank~asteners pQSitioni~elements200, as -.. --will be seen below. In an alternative embodiment, the power strip is rigidly attached to the spine, as seen in FIGS 1, 12 and 15 and provides a plurality of outlets 241. If the power strip is rigidly attached to the spine of the workstation housing, a recessed area on the outside of the gusset is provided to house the plug of the power cord used to attach to external power. Such a recessed area prevents the cord from catching on things during transport, and allows the cord to be accessed for battery charging while the case is locked. The power strip includes a switch 242 and in indicator light 243. As seen in FIGS 8 and 9, a spring powered spool device 254 is attached to the power strip. The power cord 244 may be extended against the spring to a desired length and retracted by the spring when not needed. In one embodiment of the invention, the power strip additionally includes multiple interconnected telephone jacks 246. Wiring internal to the power strip connects the several jacks. Such an arrangement is advantageous, since it allows the length of wire from the power strip to the modem and telephone to be precisely chosen, and allows the user to connect a telephone line to only the power strip, thereby providing a telephone connection going to the modem and a telephone connection going to the telephone, and /or any other device.
As seen in FIGS 4 and 12, an opening 156 in the gusset 171 for a power cord 244 allows the computer to be plugged in while the housing is locked, which allows the user to charge the computer's batteries while simultaneously providing security for the computer and peripherals.
As seen by a comparison of FIGS 1, 12 and 15, the portable .
computer 500, printer 501, external CD ROM drive 502, external modem 503, and external hard disk drive 504 and any other peripheral components, including ac power converters 506 and the ac power strip, may be supported on the inner surfaces of the lid, spine or base by means of positioning elements 200. A
An,~EPIDE~ Si~f~' a r s ~ v v . , , . v . v ~ v , ~ ~ v calculator 505 may optionally be installed by either two-sided tape, loop and hook fasteners positioning elements or other fastening means. In the preferred embodiment, the positioning elements include similarly sized male fastener strips _ _ _ _ _ 201 end- femate-fastener~ttips- 2f?4:--The reale fast~r~i~g-~t~i~s -iv cl~des ~n _ adhesiue couid~-that i~~fecie~ before us~y a feel-of~bac_kina,-An _ opposite side includes male loop and hook fastener covering 203. Similarly, the female fastening strips include an adhesive covered side that is protected before use by a peel-off backing. An opposite side includes female loop and hook fastener covering. In both cases, the adhesive is chosen so that it allows the later removal, if desired, without damage, of the positioning elements 200 for reinstallation. Using the male and female fasteners, the user may secure any computer component to the computer housing. FIG 12 shows the workstation housing having male fastening elements 201 secured by means of adhesive to the portable workstation housing, ready for attachment of the computer and printer.
F1G 10 shows the bottom of the computer, having female fastening elements 204 secured by means of adhesive to the computer base, ready for attachment to the housing of FIG 12. Referring to FIG 10, the battery compartment opening 508 of the computer is framed by, but not covered by, the loop and hook fastener positioning elements. Clearly, alternately sized computers, having differently places battery openings, could be provided with female fasteners 204 in alternative configurations.
As seen in particular FIGS 7a, 7b, and 8, loop and hook fastener cord strips or wraps 280 can be placed in any location in the portable workstation housing to allow the user to secure data and power cables and cords 507 in a safe and organized manner. The cord wraps 280 generally include a patch 281 and an elongate strip 282. The patch is secured to any advantageous portion of the workstation housing in a non-permanent manner by means of adhesive. The elongate strip 282 is removably attachable to the patch 281, and includes a covering of female loop and hook fastener 283 on one side and male loop and hook fastener 284 on the other. In operation, one end of the elongate strip 282 is wrapped around the cables and back on itself with the female material on the outside. The wrapped bundle is then attached to the male loop and hook fastener AMENDED SHEET
r S s a 1 ~ ~
. ~ , . . . . ~ ~
patch 281 which was previously mounted in the housing. FIG 7a shows an elongate strip 282 having a covering of female loop and hook fastener 283 on one side and male loop and hook fastener 284 on the other side in an extended _ -. Positian,- Prior to- being--wrapped~boat-a-i~i~ndied- power- fli,-~~ta~ab+e~fG- 7b-_ _ -s~,~~-cord.~rurap-28Dsecu~gd~p~rnr~i._-_______ _-__ -As seen in FIG 1, loop and hook fasteners 400 are used to support and constrain non-folded or coiled cables against the lid, base or spine of the computer housing.
As seen in FIG 2, a vertically adjustable computer support 360 allows the user to adjust the altitude of the computer. A computer support platform is sized to support a computer, and may be moved manually upwardly, using scissor supports 362 which pivot about pivots 365 while the lower ends of the scissors slide along lower adjustment tracks 363. Locks 364 allow the user to prevent movement of the scissors along the tracks, thereby fixing the altitude of the computer. Loop and hook fastener pads 366 keep the computer in place on top of the support surface. Loop and hook fastener pads 367 on the bottom of the surface 360 attach to corresponding loop and hook fastener pads on the base 120.
As seen in FIG 15, a cellular telephone may be supported by the inner surface of the lid by means of cellular telephone fasteners 330. In the preferred embodiment of the computer housing, a single loop and hook fastener, attached to the phone and to the workstation housing allows the user to position the telephone. In other embodiments, loop and hook fasteners or similar releasable fastening elements are used to attach the antenna, the telephone body and the data cord to the lid. If desired, the data cord may be routed to the modem, where it is attached.
As seen in FIG 4, a Kensington~ or similar type of security slot 320 may be provided by the computer housing of the invention. Such security slots are commonly used by computer manufacturers to allow users to secure computers and occasionally peripheral devices to cables having devices which may be inserted into the slots. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the security slot would allow the user to attach the entire computer housing to a APJIEPlDED SHEET
. . ,..
. , s v ' a a security cable. When the computer housing is in the closed position seen in FIGS
4 and 5, it could be locked. In this manner, a single security cable could be used to protect the housing, the computer, and all peripherals and cables. In the _ p~efe~r~ed eri~bo~irnerit;-the~ensing~on~ slot-would.be~locate~-irt-tl~e-gusset-rt~1- or -.
172 c~-end ~nraN-1~2~~of +~~ ' q.p_~~~g~-~. _ - -..
opened or closed or stood on end (the gusset) without the need to disengage the cable from the Kensington~ slot. The workstation housing would typically provide a metal insert carried by the plastic gusset or sidewall, thereby enhancing the rigidity and integrity of the case.
Further security structures optionally incorporated into some versions of the invention would apply known locks and security alarms. Known locking mechanisms are provided to prevent the case from being opened by unauthorized people. Also, in one version of the invention, a security alarm using known technology and having an audible alarm provides sensors attached to the body panels, hinges and locks of the portable workstation housing. Optionally, a motion sensor could detect violent motion. When the workstation housing was tampered with, a piercing alarm would result.
A file pocket 260 is adjustable to accept either regular and legal size file folders. As seen in FIGS 13 and 14, the file pocket includes two, overlapping sheets. In a typical version of the invention, an outside sheet 263 remains fixed in position by upper and lower loop and hook fastener tabs 261, 262. An inside telescoping sheet 264 may be adjusted to accommodate letter and legal sized folders by movement of loop and hook fastener attachment tabs 261, 262 between either of two sets of corresponding attachment tabs carried by the bottom or inside surface of the lid. As seen in FIG 14, when attached to a first set of narrowly spaced tabs carried by the inside surface of the lid 140, the file pocket is sized to accept file folders for standard 8.5 X 11 inch paper. As seen in FIG
13, when attached to a second set of more widely spaced tabes carried by the lid, the file pocket is sized to accept legal file folders, and the overlap between the two sheets 263, 264 is less. Optionally, accordion side elements allow the pocket to expand somewhat when the pocket is filed. A computer disk pocket 265 (Fig.
15) may be carried by the file pocket 260.
~ , , .
,. , ~ ~ s ~vv , , ~ ~
. . ~ Y
As seen in FIG 1, in the preferred embodiment a battery powered snake light 340 is carried by the upper right hand corner of the inside surface of the lid, The snake light provides a movable source of light, and can be used when _ .- alternative lig~~ing- ~s unavaifiab~e. - __. _ _ _ __._-. _ ~ ~~~$~f~ ° ~nwon+inn is i icon h~th-t~_.__._...
store and to transport a computer and asso~~c~i~at'e'd peripheral devices.
Moreover, the computer housing is particularly designed to allow the user to use the computer and peripherals while they are still carried by the housing. As a result, the user attaches cables as needed to all peripheral devices only during installation or reconfiguration.
Prior to first using the computer housing, the user should position all movable components, including the computer and all peripherals, including AC
adapters) and the power strip, in a manner that is best suited to the sizes of the components and the space available. Once satisfied with the arrangements, the user should attach the adhesive sides of positioning elements 200 to the bottoms of the computer and peripherals and the corresponding locations on the inner surfaces 122, 141 of the base and lid, respectively. The loop and hook fastener positioning elements may then be mated, holding he computer components in position. Cord wraps 280 are then wrapped about folded power and data cords.
Loop and hook fasteners 400 may then be used to prevent unwanted movement of non-bundled cords.
AMENDED SHEET
Claims (9)
1. A portable workstation housing for use in storing, facilitating operation of and accessing a portable computer (500) and a peripheral device during travel including a bass (120) for carrying a portable computer (500) a spine (160) perpendicular to said base, and attached to one side (127) of the base (120);
a lid (140) pivotally connected to a top edge (163) of the spine (160), the lid (140) having a planar top wall (141), a front wall and a pair of opposed end walls (152, 153); and friction means (181) for maintaining the lid (140) at an angle of 0 to 180°
with respect to the base; positioning means (200) for holding a computer (500) on the base (120), characterised by the base (120) being planar facilitating access to the computer (500) from the front and sides when the housing is open; gussets (170, 171) connecting the rear corners of the base to ends (161, 162) of the spine (160), each said lid end wall (152, 153) having a bevelled corner (154) adjacent said top edge (163) of the spine (160), whereby, when the lid (140) is closed, the gussets (170, 171) and the lid side walls (152, 153) define planar end walls of the housing; a lid support (220) on said lid (140) movable between a first position against said lid (140) and a second position perpendicular to the lid (140) for supporting the lid (140) in a fully open position in which the lid (140) is at an angle of 180° relative to the base (120) and at the same height as the top edge (163) of the spine (160); cable organizing means in the housing including cord wraps (280) for constraining a folded cable (507), each said wrap including an elongated strip (282) having first and second sides, the first side having a covering (283) of a first sex of fastener and the second side having a covering (284) of a second sex of fastener, whereby a folded cable (507) can be wrapped inside a loop formed by attaching the first side of the strip (282) to the second side of the strip (282).
a lid (140) pivotally connected to a top edge (163) of the spine (160), the lid (140) having a planar top wall (141), a front wall and a pair of opposed end walls (152, 153); and friction means (181) for maintaining the lid (140) at an angle of 0 to 180°
with respect to the base; positioning means (200) for holding a computer (500) on the base (120), characterised by the base (120) being planar facilitating access to the computer (500) from the front and sides when the housing is open; gussets (170, 171) connecting the rear corners of the base to ends (161, 162) of the spine (160), each said lid end wall (152, 153) having a bevelled corner (154) adjacent said top edge (163) of the spine (160), whereby, when the lid (140) is closed, the gussets (170, 171) and the lid side walls (152, 153) define planar end walls of the housing; a lid support (220) on said lid (140) movable between a first position against said lid (140) and a second position perpendicular to the lid (140) for supporting the lid (140) in a fully open position in which the lid (140) is at an angle of 180° relative to the base (120) and at the same height as the top edge (163) of the spine (160); cable organizing means in the housing including cord wraps (280) for constraining a folded cable (507), each said wrap including an elongated strip (282) having first and second sides, the first side having a covering (283) of a first sex of fastener and the second side having a covering (284) of a second sex of fastener, whereby a folded cable (507) can be wrapped inside a loop formed by attaching the first side of the strip (282) to the second side of the strip (282).
2. A portable workstation housing of claim 1, including a groove (381) in the top surface (122) of said base (120) parallel to one end thereof;
and a tongue (380) on a corresponding end of said lid (140) extending into said groove (381) when the housing is in the closed position.
and a tongue (380) on a corresponding end of said lid (140) extending into said groove (381) when the housing is in the closed position.
3. The portable workstation housing of claim 1, wherein said lid support (220) includes a plate (224) connected to the top surface (142) of the lid (140); a leg (222) pivotally connected to the plate (224); and foot (223) on a free end of the leg (222) for supporting the plate (224) and the lid (140) in the fully open position.
4. The portable workstation housing of claim 1, including locking means for maintaining the position of the lid (140) at any angle from 0 to 180° with respect to the base (120), said locking means comprising arc-shaped locking elements (181) extending between the spine (160) and one said end wall (152, 153) of the lid (140).
5. The portable workstation housing of claim 1, including a vertically adjustable computer support (360) on said base (12); said support (360) including a track (363) on said base (120), scissor supports (362) slidable on said track (363), a computer support platform (361) pivotally connected to said scissor supports (362), and loop and hook fastener pads (366) on said support platform (361) for releasably connecting the computer (500) to the platform (361).
6. The portable workstation housing of claim 1, including a security slot (320) in said housing for receiving a security cable.
7. The portable workstation housing of claim 1, including a power strip (240), said power strip (240) comprising a plurality of outlets (241), an internal surge suppressor electrically connected to the outlets (241), a retractable power cable device (245) for extending and retracting a power plug and cord (244), and an on-off switch (242).
8. The portable workstation housing of claim 1, wherein said positioning means (200) includes a first fastening strip (201) for attachment to the housing, a first covering (203) of a first sex of fastening material on one side of the first strip (201), a second fastening strip (204) for attachment to the computer (500), and a second covering (204) of a second sex of fastening material on one side of the second strip for releasable engagement with said first covering to releasably connect the computer (500) to the housing.
9. The portable workstation housing of claim 1, wherein said cable organizing means includes a patch (281) mounted in said housing to which said loop formed by said elongated strip (282) can be releasably attached to secure the folded cable (507) to the interior of the housing.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/CA1997/000257 WO1998048340A1 (en) | 1996-06-21 | 1997-04-18 | Portable workstation housing |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2286143A1 true CA2286143A1 (en) | 1998-10-29 |
Family
ID=31722369
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002286143A Abandoned CA2286143A1 (en) | 1997-04-18 | 1997-04-18 | Portable workstation housing |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2286143A1 (en) |
-
1997
- 1997-04-18 CA CA002286143A patent/CA2286143A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |