Foldable Computer Case with Scannable Zones for Security Screening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Portable computer cases do not facilitate convenient security screening, as they require users to remove the computer from the case for scanning, which can lead to increased risk of damage or loss, especially in crowded and busy environments like airports.

Innovation Solution

Designing a carrying case that allows the portable computer to be positioned partially within the case while enabling effective screening, using features such as foldable designs, transparent sections for liquids, and secure storage sections that do not interfere with scanning processes, including materials and configurations that allow for X-ray inspection without removing the computer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the portable computer is removed from the case for security screening, then the screening process can be completed, but the risk of damage or loss increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity screening completionVSAvoidrisk of damage or loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The case is divided into multiple compartments including a dedicated computer receiving area with edge cushions, a liquids section with clear container, and a storage section. This segmentation allows the computer to remain protected within its own compartment while enabling security personnel to screen other items separately, eliminating the need to remove the computer from the case.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The case structure acts as an intermediary between the computer and the security screening process. The transparent liquids section and scannable materials serve as mediators that allow X-ray penetration for screening while the physical structure maintains protection around the computer, enabling simultaneous screening and protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the portable computer is removed from the case for security screening, then the screening can be performed, but time is lost in the busy environment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity screening completionVSAvoidscreening time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The case is pre-organized with dedicated compartments for the computer, liquids, and storage items before reaching security. The transparent liquids section is designed to be readily visible and accessible, allowing security personnel to quickly screen contents without requiring the user to unpack or remove items during the screening process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

By segmenting the case into distinct functional areas (computer receiving area, liquids section, storage section), the design enables security personnel to efficiently screen different compartments independently, reducing the overall screening time compared to handling a single undifferentiated bag or case.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Strength

If the case uses opaque materials for protection, then the computer is protected, but X-ray screening is interfered with

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection capabilityVSAvoidX-ray inspection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

Different parts of the case have different transparency properties tailored to their function. The liquids section uses transparent materials to allow X-ray penetration, while the computer receiving area uses protective materials with scannable properties. This local differentiation enables both protection and screening capability in appropriate zones.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The case employs composite material construction combining protective elements with scannable materials. The materials are selected to provide necessary protection while maintaining X-ray transparency, creating a composite structure that satisfies both protection and detection requirements simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS8567578B2Portable computer case
Publication Date: 2013.10.29 TARGUS INTERNATIONAL LLC
  • US8567578B2 patent drawing
  • US8567578B2 patent drawing
  • US8567578B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer case having an open and a closed configuration may comprise two or more sections. The sections may be foldably joined. A fastener may selectively maintain the computer case in the closed configuration. One or more of the sections may be adapted to receive an electronic device, such as a computer. The sections adapted to receive a computer may comprise a cover. The computer case may be comprised of materials configured to allow the contents thereof to be scanned by a scanning device, such as an X-ray. Portions of the case may allow for visual inspection of a computer disposed therein. A foldable container may be disposed between foldable sections of the case. The foldable container may be configured to receive and hold personal items during a security screening process.