COMPUTER CASE

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for a notebook or laptop or tablet computer case that can also be used as a ventilated and/or insulating platform for supporting a computer during use, on either a lap or desk or table.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from provisional patent application 60/885,215 filed 16 Jan. 2007 and incorporated herein by reference.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

Pursuant to 37 C.F.R. 1.71(e), Applicants note that a portion of this disclosure contains material that is subject to and for which is claimed copyright protection (such as, but not limited to, drawings and/or design elements). The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records. All other rights are reserved, and all other reproduction, distribution, creation of derivative works based on the contents, public display, and public performance of the application or any part thereof are prohibited by applicable copyright law.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to cases for holding or protecting laptop computers and similar devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Since the advent and popularity of the laptop or notebook computer, there has been a need for ever improved cases or other carrying or protection mechanism for the physical computer when not in use.

Examples of prior art cases and stands are shown in U.S. Patents and patent applications listed below. This listing shall not be taken to construe that a search has been performed or that these examples are particularly relevant to the present invention: U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,036,642, 6,496,360, 6,349,825, 6,305,652, 6,305,652, 6,269,948, 6,181,554, 5,639,004, 5,607,054, 5,552,960, 5,445,266, D510,348, 2006237615, 2004240164, 2004188289.

Despite the large number of competing laptop case designs available, there remains a sustained interest in laptop computer cases that provide novel combinations of functionality and pleasing designs.

SUMMARY

The invention involves a computer case that can serve as a base. In one embodiment, the case naturally or selectively conforms to a wedge-shape when a computer is not inside. In specific embodiments, the invention does this using a simple design by constructing the case so that two edges of the opening can fold easily together when a computer is not present in the case. In an alternative embodiment, a case according to specific embodiments of the invention may either naturally or selectively maintain a box conformation, providing a raised ventilated base for the computer. In various embodiments, the present invention can be broadly understood as a notebook or laptop or tablet computer case that can also be used as a ventilated and/or insulating platform for supporting a computer during use, on either a lap or desk or table.

In either configuration, the case is designed not only for holding the computer, but also to serve as an insulating base that is suitable for use either on a desk, table, or similar surface or on the user's lap. In further embodiments, the case optionally contains a specific heat reflective or shielding material to prevent heat from the computer from transferring to a user's lap or to a desk or table.

Because of the unique design of the wedge shaped embodiment of invention, a computer case can be constructed that has a slim appearance and that easily conforms to a ventilated base of the desired configuration.

Thus, the invention in various embodiments provides a new and improved computer case and methods for the use and construction thereof that has simplicity in construction and assembly and that is simple to use in multiple modes.

Other Features & Benefits

The invention and various specific aspects and embodiments will be better understood with reference to the following drawings and detailed descriptions. In some of the drawings and detailed descriptions below, the present invention is described in terms of the important independent embodiments of specific computer cases of specific design and construction, in some cases including specific materials. This should not be taken to limit the invention, which, using the teachings provided herein, can encompass a variety of different materials of construction and a variety of different design elements. It is therefore intended that the invention not be limited except as provided in the attached claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A illustrates a computer case according to specific embodiments of the invention in a closed rectangular box configuration, optionally enclosing a notebook or laptop computer.

FIG. 1B illustrates a computer case according to specific embodiments of the invention in a closed wedge configuration.

FIG. 1C illustrates a computer case according to specific embodiments of the invention in a closed wedge configuration with a notebook or laptop computer positioned on the closed case and using the closed case as a ventilated base.

FIG. 2 illustrates a computer notebook case according to specific embodiments of the invention in a closed wedge configuration being used as a ventilated base.

FIG. 3A is a front elevation view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3B is a side plane view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3C is a front plane view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3D is a bottom plane view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a laptop case according to specific embodiments of the invention showing an example of case construction according to specific embodiments.

FIG. 5A illustrates an alternative notebook computer case according to specific embodiments of the invention with a non-collapsible closed configuration with a decorative ventilation pore arrangement.

FIG. 5B and C illustrate a case similar to that of FIG. 5A but with an alternative ventilation pore arrangement and showing the case with a flap in an open and closed position.

FIG. 6A is a front elevation view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration having a zipper fastening according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6B is a side plane view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6C is a front plane view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6D is a top plane view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a side plane view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention illustrating positioning of a computer on the base.

FIG. 8A and B are views of a computer case showing optional ventilating construction according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative computer holder and base according to specific embodiments of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

The present invention can be broadly understood as a notebook or laptop or tablet computer case that can also be used as a ventilated and/or insulating platform for supporting a computer during use, on either a lap or desk or table. A number of different configurations are possible according to various embodiments of the invention. The figures included herewith each exemplify various embodiments of the invention, but dimensions shown or implied in the figures are examples only and cases of a wide range of sizes can be constructed according to specific embodiments of the present invention. While the invention will be better understood by reference to the figures and the figures each may illustrate novel features and/or novel combinations of specific embodiments, many variations of case design according to specific embodiments of the invention will be understood to practitioners in the art having the benefits of the teachings provided herein.

FIG. 1A-C illustrate an example computer case according to specific embodiments of the invention showing the case in a closed rectangular box configuration (FIG. 1A), optionally enclosing a notebook or laptop computer and in a closed wedge configuration (FIG. 1B). In FIG. 1C, a computer is shown positioned on the wedge configuration, which, according to this embodiment, provides ventilation and a tilt angle to the computer keyboard. Note that while the FIG. 1C illustrates a computer with the keyboard tilted downward towards the user, if desired the user can reverse direction of the computer, allowing providing the notebook keyboard with a tilt down and away from the user, as is sometimes desired for ergonomic reasons.

FIG. 2 illustrates a computer notebook case according to specific embodiments of the invention in a closed wedge configuration being used as a ventilated base. In this illustration, the case is shown being used as a laptop base, which provides some flexibility in positioning the computer for the user and also shields the user's lap from heat that can be generated especially by higher-performance laptop computer systems.

FIG. 3A-D provide various views illustrating one design of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that some design details, such as the edge stitching shown, are optional details and will not be present in all embodiments.

In this embodiment, the basic design can be understood as involving a set of mostly rigid panels each joined along opposite edges including a front panel with a bottom edge flexibly connecting to a bottom panel with its opposite edge flexibly connecting to a back panel with its opposite edge flexibly connecting to a top panel with its opposite edge flexibly connected to a flap panel. These panels are joined together to form an open box by two collapsible side panels each connecting to an edge of the front panel, an edge of the back panel and an edge of the bottom panel. The construction allows the case to be easily closed to form a protective rectangular box for holding a computer. The construction also allows the case to be easily closed to form a wedge-shaped laptop base as illustrated in the figures.

Example Construction

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a laptop case according to specific embodiments of the invention showing an example of case construction according to specific embodiments. In this example, a rigid, heat resistant plastic insert is sewn or otherwise attached inside of the back panel to protect the users lap from heat. The flexible lid/flap is flexible material that can fold over and act as a closure when either the case has a laptop inside or it is empty. In specific examples, a breathable, perforated material cover is used for the case. A rigid, plastic insert with holes can be attached inside of the top cover to allow air to circulate through it while adding some rigidity to the structure and breathable, perforated material sides allow air circulation.

According to various embodiments, a case according to the invention can be constructed from any suitable material or combinations of materials. In one embodiment, the case is constructed out or one or more plastic or polymer materials with the properties as described herein. Other materials, including natural and synthetic fabric, metals, polycarbonate materials, ceramics, wood or wood derived materials, paper, etc., can all be used in various embodiments as will be understood in the art.

Non-Collapsible Box Design

FIG. 5A-C illustrate alternative notebook computer cases according to specific embodiments of the invention with a non-collapsible configuration and a decorative ventilation pore arrangement. It will be understood from the teachings herein that this design embodiment provides the advantages of a sleeve type computer case that can function as a ventilated base but without the option of having an alternative wedge shaped configuration.

Flap-Less Design

FIG. 6A is a front elevation view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration having a zipper fastening according to specific embodiments of the invention. In this embodiment, the design is simplified and includes a fastener (e.g., a zipper) that allows opening of the case at least enough to insert or remove a laptop computer. An important element of this design is that when a computer is not in the case, the case closes at the top edge and while remaining substantially rigid at the bottom edge, thereby allowing the case to also act as a stable base for the laptop.

In particular embodiments, the top surface of the case optionally includes elements that assist in ventilation for a laptop computer. For example, the illustrated bars can represent ventilating slots for providing airflow underneath the laptop into the case when closed. Alternatively, the illustrated bars can represent raised portions or ridges that elevate the laptop slightly from the base, thereby providing greater air circulation.

FIG. 7 is a side plane view of a computer case in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodiments of the invention illustrating positioning of a computer on the base. In this illustration, the side panels are shown as a flexible ventilated material. This illustrates that the zipper enclosure is optional.

FIG. 8A and B are views of a computer case showing optional ventilating construction according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative computer holder and base according to specific embodiments of the invention.

Conclusion

The invention in its various embodiments provides a sleeve type computer case (which may be referred to as the Aerocase™ computer case) that can be used as a case to (1) protect a laptop or notebook or tablet computer from bumps and scratches; and as a base to (2) protect a computer processor from over heating by encouraging proper air circulation on the underside of the computer; (3) protect a user's lap from radiant heat that can cause discomfort; (4) present the computer at a desired ergonomic angle when used on the lap and/or on a table or desk or other surface.

It is understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested by the teachings herein to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application and scope of the claims.

All publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein or filed with this application, including any references filed as part of an Information Disclosure Statement, are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. A laptop case comprising:

a back panel with a top edge flexibly connecting to;

a top panel with one edge flexibly connected to said back panel and an edge flexibly connected to a flap panel;

a front panel;

a bottom panel connecting said back panel and said front panel;

two collapsible side panels each connecting to an edge of said front panel, an edge of said back panel and an edge of said bottom panel;

wherein, when said case does not contain a laptop computer;

said front panel and said back panel meet along said top edge;

said front panel and said back panel remain separated by said bottom edge;

said laptop case thereby providing a wedge-shaped laptop base.

2. The case according to claim 1 further wherein:

said top panel and said flap panel fit over said front panel when said case is closed.

3. The case according to claim 1 further wherein: said two collapsible side panels are made of a ventilating material allowing air flow when said case is closed.

4. (canceled)

5. The case according to claim 1 further wherein:

said back panel includes a heat resistant and/or heat reflective rigid material to prevent heat from transferring to a surface upon which said panel is resting, such as a user's lap from heat.

6. The case according to claim 1 further wherein:

said front panel includes a rigid and ventilating material allowing air flow from underneath a laptop when said laptop is positioned on said front panel.

7. The case according to claim 1 further wherein:

said case is manufactured with nine edges that are not separable by the user.

8. (canceled)

9. (canceled)

10. (canceled)

11. (canceled)

12. (canceled)

13. (canceled)

14. (canceled)

15. (canceled)

16. A laptop case comprising:

a back panel with a top edge flexibly connecting to;

a top panel with one edge flexibly connected to said back panel and an edge connected to a flap portion;

a front panel;

a bottom panel connecting said back panel and said front panel;

two side panels each connecting to an edge of said front panel, an edge of said back panel and an edge of said bottom panel;

wherein, when said case does not contain a laptop computer said case forms a rectangular box able to support a laptop computer while in use and providing a ventilated base;

wherein at least two of said panels include ventilation passages allowing for air flow through said case.

17. The case of claim 16 further wherein: said ventilation passages are arranged in a decorative pattern on at least one of said panels.

18. A laptop case comprising:

a back panel with a back-panel top edge;

a front panel with a front-panel top edge;

a bottom portion connecting said back panel and said front panel;

wherein, when said case does not contain a laptop computer;

said front panel and said back panel meet along said top edge;

said front panel and said back panel remain separated by said bottom edge;

said laptop case thereby providing a wedge-shaped laptop base.

19. The case according to claim 18 further comprising:

two collapsible side panels each connecting to an edge of said front panel, an edge of said back panel and an edge of said bottom panel.

20. The case according to claim 18 further comprising:

two side portions each connecting to an edge of said back panel.

21. The case according to claim 18 further comprising:

a zipping fastener connecting said top edges and connecting portions of said two collapsible side panels.

22. The case according to claim 19 further wherein:

said two collapsible side panels are made of a ventilating material allowing air flow when said case is closed.

23. The case according to claim 18 further wherein:

said two collapsible side panels are made of a ventilating material allowing air ventilation while preventing dust to enter said case.

24. The case according to claim 18 further wherein:

said back panel includes a heat resistant and/or heat reflective rigid material to prevent heat from transferring to a surface upon which said panel is resting, such as a user's lap from heat.

25. The case according to claim 18 further wherein:

said front panel includes a rigid and ventilating material allowing air flow from underneath a laptop when said laptop is positioned on said front panel.