Device for holding a laptop computer in a hardside computer or attache case

Abstract

This laptop computer case takes advantage of the clamshell opening construction and the relatively stiff, mutually engaging frames (13) forming the clamshell closure construction. A pair of gripping elements engages a laptop computer (L) by its major surfaces. The gripping elements preferably comprise an upper gripping bar (16) and lower bars (20) or tray support (18). These elements move towards and away from one another and thus into engagement with the laptop computer (L) being carried. These elements are moved and forced to clamp the computer (L) by the clamshell frames. High friction materials of the gripping elements engage the upper and lower surface of the laptop computer (L) to prevent the laptop computer from being dashed against the sides and top of the case. The gripping force is enhanced by a linkage system and torsion spring providing a significant mechanical advantage.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to systems for holding a laptop computer case or similar relatively delicate instruments in a carrying case, specifically an attaché or computer carrying case. More particularly, this invention relates to a system that uses the clamshell type opening system that characterizes virtually all rigid or hardshell attache cases, and some hybrid type of such cases as well. Such rigid cases are usually called “hardside” cases although, as used in this document, hardside also embraces any cases that have a generally rigid peripheral frame that surrounds a pair of opposed, open shell constructions in which the user's laptop computer or the like can be placed for transport. It is understood that the shells themselves need not be entirely rigid, but can have textile or leather panels attached to and suspended by the respective rigid frames. These frames are hinged to one another along one edge or side of their general rectangular shapes....

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0003] Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide a system for a laptop computer carrying case with a clamshell type hinged opening that automatically grips the laptop computer when the clamshell opening is closed whereby the laptop computer can be held away from the sides of the case to help prevent damage should the case fall.

[0004] It is another object of the invention to provide a gripping device that moves from a closed position to an open position when the clamshell opening of the case is opened. In the open position, a laptop computer suspended therein can be easily withdrawn from the open clamshell case, but when the clamshell opening is closed, the gripping device engages the main surfaces of the computer to help prevent the computer from moving within the computer case when the computer case is subject to physical forces.

Problems solved by technology

These systems tend to be bulky, cumbersome, difficult to use to the extent that sometimes the user either fails to fasten the straps to secure the computer, or removes the padding, etc.

Failure to use these securing systems could result in damage to the computer if the case containing the laptop computer suffers some abuse, for example, falling from a desk or out of the hands of the traveler.

The laptop computer can crash to the side of the case, sometimes breaking the more delicate components of the computer.

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