Abstract: A portable computer system comprising a portable computer mechanically, electrically, and thermally connected to a dock is shown. The portable computer comprises a base assembly containing a microprocessor, media, batteries, and keyboard, and an internal heat moving apparatus thermally connected to the microprocessor. The dock includes a housing with a plurality of connectors and a thermal dissipation apparatus. A thermal connection is made between the portable computer and the dock through a thermal connector port located at the rear of the portable computer base and at the corresponding location on the dock. The portable computer also contains a thermal state monitor and controller subsystem. When the portable computer is connected to the dock, heat is moved from it to the dock via the heat moving apparatus and the thermal state monitor and controller subsystem permits the microprocessor to run at a fast clock-speed.

Abstract: A thermal transfer circuit is provided for dissipating thermal energy within a portable minicomputer. The thermal transfer circuit is formed during assembly of the personal computer. Specifically, the thermal transfer circuit embodies dual cooling paths for extracting thermal energy from opposing surfaces of an encapsulated integrated circuit. The dual path thermal transfer circuit is formed by drawing the integrated circuit between an upper path heatsink assembly and a lower path heatsink assembly. Thermal connection of heatsink assemblies to corresponding integrated circuit surfaces, either directly or indirectly, allows enhanced dissipation of power-consumptive integrated circuits, such as modern day CPUs. Clamping of the upper and lower heatsink assemblies occurs in equal and opposite force directions normal to opposed integrated circuit surfaces.

Abstract: A battery-operated thermal shaver is provided which includes an impeller for directing a stream of heated air to the line of contact between a razor blade and the hair to be cut by the shaver. The impeller is a fan located within an air chamber of the shaver which draws ambient air into the chamber and directs it past a heating element to raise the temperature of the air to 120.degree.-170.degree. F. The impeller then exhausts the heated air through an exhaust port and into proximity with the razor blade. The fan is operated by a motor, having a drive shaft, which is protected against liquid penetration by a liquid barrier. The liquid barrier is a reservoir formed in the base of the fan for holding material immiscible in liquids. During operation, the drive shaft of the motor rotates the impeller while encased within the liquid barrier.