Wearable Laptop Support Assembly for Stable Use While Walking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of laptop computers often face discomfort and efficiency issues due to the lack of a suitable support surface when using these devices while standing or walking, leading to potential data entry errors and reduced productivity.
Innovation Solution
A support assembly that can be fastened around the user's body, featuring a harness assembly with a support structure that is adjustable and includes a tray with flanges to prevent sliding, and counterforce members to maintain the laptop's position, allowing for hands-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a user holds a laptop computer while standing or walking, then the user can operate the device without a support surface, but the user experiences discomfort and data entry errors due to one-handed support
Solution Approach 1:
A support assembly acts as an intermediary between the user's body and the laptop computer. The assembly includes a harness portion that interfaces with the user's body and a support structure that interfaces with the laptop, transferring the support function from the user's hand to the harness system.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly transitions the laptop support from a horizontal hand-held position to a vertically oriented configuration suspended from the user's body. The support structure extends downward from the harness, creating a vertical dimension for laptop placement that frees the user's hands.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a laptop is placed on a table or desk, then the laptop has stable support, but the user cannot move freely or stand while using the device
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly makes the user's own body the support surface for the laptop. The harness portion interfaces with the user's body to provide anchoring, transforming the user into a portable support station that enables both stability and mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly transitions from a static table-based support system to a dynamic body-worn system. The harness and support structure allow the laptop to be securely held while the user moves, standing, or walks, making the support system adaptable to different user positions and activities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a handheld support device is used, then the user can carry the laptop, but the device lacks the stability and coplanar support needed for comfortable operation
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly uses a counterforce member that extends upward from the harness to provide counterbalancing support. This counterforce member opposes the downward force of the laptop weight, creating a balanced system that stabilizes the laptop in a hands-free position.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly divides the support function into distinct components: a harness portion for body attachment, a support structure for laptop placement, and a counterforce member for stabilization. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally, providing both hands-free carrying and stable positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A support assembly suitable to be fastened to a user's body to hold or support a laptop computer or other electronic device, or item, in a functional position for the user may include a harness assembly. A support structure may be carried by the harness assembly. When the harness assembly is secured to the user's body, the support structure may extend forwardly from the harness assembly in front of the user. The user may stand or walk as he or she comfortably operates the laptop computer or other item supported on the support structure.