Suitcase integrated laptop tray

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a lack of products available to provide a clean and secure surface for using a laptop while traveling, particularly in public spaces like airports, where concerns about contamination are heightened due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Innovation Solution

A suitcase-integrated laptop tray with adjustable height, a hinge for easy deployment and storage, and folding legs for stability, which slides out of a pocket on the suitcase to serve as a clean and secure platform for electronics or meals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a laptop tray is provided as a separate device, then a clean surface for laptop use is available, but portability and space efficiency are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovehygieneVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The laptop tray is nested within the suitcase structure, specifically integrated into the suitcase pocket. The tray can be stored inside the suitcase when not in use and deployed when needed, eliminating the need for separate carrying of a laptop tray while maintaining hygiene benefits

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The laptop tray functionality is merged with the suitcase by integrating it into the suitcase pocket structure. This combination allows the tray to serve dual purposes: as part of the suitcase when stored and as a standalone laptop surface when deployed, improving portability while maintaining hygiene

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Volume of moving object

If a fixed laptop tray is integrated into the suitcase, then space efficiency is improved, but adaptability to different user needs is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage spaceVSAvoidadjustability

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The laptop tray is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to be deployed and retracted as needed. The tray can be pulled out from the suitcase pocket when required and pushed back in when not needed, providing adaptability to different usage scenarios while maintaining compact storage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The laptop tray is designed as a separable component that can be independently deployed from the suitcase. The tray, support legs, and suitcase pocket are distinct segments that work together, allowing flexible deployment and storage while maintaining adaptability to user needs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Volume of moving object

If a pull-out laptop tray is integrated into the suitcase, then portability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage spaceVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The laptop tray system is divided into simple, distinct segments: the tray itself, the support legs, and the suitcase pocket. Each segment has a straightforward function and can be easily manufactured and assembled, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining portability benefits

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12066146B2Suitcase integrated laptop tray

Publication Date: 2024.08.20 HATCHER ROBERT

AI summary

The laptop tray is the only product of its kind that enables users to easily release and retract a foundational item from their suitcase that can be used to hold a wide variety of items. This unprecedented product is uniquely designed with a charging port, a small ledge that prevents a laptop from sliding off, and ultimately, provides an accessory that can be adjusted to accommodate a user's preferences.