Patent Publication Number: US-2010108726-A1

Title: Computer Backpack

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application relies on the disclosure and claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/110,188 filed Oct. 31, 2008, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to portable work stations capable of being mounted on a user as a backpack and deployed into a workstation to support a computer or other tools which can be used by the user comfortably, securely, and stably while the user is sitting, standing, or even mobile, for example, walking 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     Today&#39;s busy lifestyle often require maximizing the use of almost every waking moment to work, study, network, and other active behaviors. It has become necessary to utilize time spent commuting by public transportation on the bus, subway, train, plane, riding a car as a passenger, or other modes of transportation. A great deal of time is spent waiting for public transportation, a shared ride, or in line to purchase tickets, obtain a driver&#39;s license or other permits, or waiting to meet people. 
     To this end, the present invention provides a carrying bag capable of being worn as a portable carrying bag, which is capable of being opened to allow an interior wall or surface of the bag to be used as a work surface. The carrying bag is typically in the style of a backpack and, typically in the closed position, the carrying bag is worn on the back. When the user wishes to use a flat work surface, the carriage of the bag is switched around so that the bag portion rests on the chest of the user and the backpack straps fit over the user&#39;s shoulders and back. One side of the bag is fixedly attached to the straps, while the other side (the deployable portion) is not attached to the straps. When the bag is opened, a hinge mechanism inside the bag allows the deployable side, typically a compartment, to open up to a position that allows the interior surface of the compartment to become a table-like work surface, which can hold portable computers, games, books, and other electronic devices. 
     The invention may be used for recreational activities such as at a park, beach, swimming pool, at home in the backyard, and many other similar activities. The present invention offers a compact flat work surface area for activities such as reading, writing, playing computer games, playing board games, playing card games like solitaire, playing a musical instrument, holding musical scores, and the like. 
     The invention may also be used by service providers, such as landscapers, lawn maintenance and utility installers, building and real estate professionals, scientists working in the field, or people in any profession needing a work surface that is easily, comfortably, and preferably hands-free transported from one location to another. 
     A preferred use of the mobile workstation of the invention is for transporting and using notebook computers. Though notebook computers are portable, they are either awkward or otherwise impossible to use while one is standing. Even if a user transports a notebook computer to a location for use, the transporting of the device is typically carried in hand by the user or in a backpack or other bag. Setting up the computer for use becomes cumbersome when the computer has to be pulled out of a bag and positioned for use. Typically the user will transport the computer to a location and set it up for use on his lap acting similar to a table-like surface. Difficulties arise when the user desires to move to another location and the laptop has to be picked up with the user&#39;s hands to be transported. Even during use on the user&#39;s lap, the computer is exposed to the potential damage as it is not secured to the user. During use the user must be cautious not to disturb the unsupported computer in his lap. 
     In standing positions, the computer must be held by at least one of the user&#39;s hands. This presents difficulties for some users, as computers, even considering the lighter available notebook PCs, are typically too heavy for some users to hold in one hand for useful periods. Moreover, efficient keyboard entry and other cursor control (e.g., touchpad) require the use of both hands. 
     Another example where such a device is needed is for scientists working in the field. If an arborist was studying a tree and needed to record data, he could set up a work surface at the base of the tree and enter any data into a computer contained in the backpack and supported on the mobile workstation, then pack up his materials in the backpack which is already secured to his body, climb the tree, and resume working on the portable platform in the tree by simply unzipping the compartment to expose the computer in a position ready for use. 
     There is a long-felt need in the art for a compact portable work station that is capable of being carried on the user&#39;s body and opens up quickly and easily into a flat surface work area. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to portable work stations capable of being mounted on a user as a backpack and deployed into a workstation to support a computer or other tools which can be used by the user comfortably, securely, and stably while the user is sitting, standing, or even mobile, for example, walking A portable work station is exposed when a carrying bag or backpack is opened from the closed carrying position. The work area may be used as a portable desk for reading, writing, drawing, playing board games or cards, or any other activity that requires a table-like surface. In particular, it may be used as a surface to hold laptops, notebooks, netbooks, or other portable electronic devices. 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide a portable work station by opening a carrying bag that has one side that is supported by a hinge and the other side that is supported by a hinge and/or a hard surface. The carrying bag, which is typically in the style of a backpack, is attached to the person by straps that are worn on the shoulder and back. In order to use the carrying bag as a portable work station, the bag portion is switched around and carried on the front of the user and the bag opened up so that a flat work surface area folds down. 
     It is a further object of the present invention to provide a portable computer work station, wherein the portion of the bag that folds down holds a portable computer. 
     Embodiments of the invention include a computer backpack, comprising a large compartment on a front side of the backpack, which has fastening devices on three sides to allow the large compartment to transition from open and closed position, the large compartment being configured to hold a computing device in a recess; a back portion, hinged to the a side of the large compartment which may or may not have a fastening device; and shoulder straps, attached to the back portion so that the backpack can be worn on a user&#39;s back or front; wherein when the backpack is worn on the user&#39;s front and the large compartment is in the open position, the hinged back portion maintains the recess, with respect to the back portion, at an angle of approximately 90 degrees and allows the user use of the computing device. 
     Another embodiment includes a computer backpack as mentioned above, wherein the back portion is hinged to the large compartment through an aluminum frame that maintains the angle of approximately 90 degrees when the large compartment is in the open position. 
     Further included embodiments are computer backpacks as mentioned above, wherein the aluminum frame provides support to the large compartment in the closed portion to protect the computing devices from outside forces. 
     The invention also includes a computer backpack further comprising a smaller compartment attached to an outer surface of the large compartment. 
     The present invention also encompasses ergonomically designed, compact, foldable, portable work/activity stations as described above. 
     The present invention provides a carrying bag with attached straps in which the bag opens to the front of the user, opens and exposes a work station. When this work station is used as a portable computer bag, the computer may be used without removing the computer from the bag. 
     Preferred embodiments of the invention include a mobile workstation for a computer comprising: a compartment for holding a computer having at least two opposing walls, wherein one of the walls is capable of providing a platform for supporting a computer; a support frame operably connected to the two opposing walls which is capable of providing the compartment in an open active condition, wherein the two opposing walls are perpendicular to one another, and which is capable of providing the compartment in a closed inactive condition, wherein the two opposing walls are parallel to one another and a selected distance apart; and shoulder straps connected to the compartment capable of providing for hands-free supporting of the compartment on a user&#39;s body; wherein during use the platform for supporting the computer is capable of being provided in a position perpendicular to the user&#39;s body. 
     Additionally included are such mobile workstations further comprising a fastening device, such as a zipper, for maintaining the compartment in a closed position. 
     Mobile workstations wherein the support frame comprises a first flat rigid strip, a hinge member, and a second bent rigid strip capable of being opened to a position wherein the first and second rigid strips are perpendicular to one another and capable of being closed in a position wherein the first and second rigid strips are parallel to one another and a selected distance apart are also included. Optionally, the selected distance is sufficient to provide clearance for a laptop computer inserted between the parallel rigid strips so as to provide crush protection for the computer while in the compartment. 
     Other mobile workstation embodiments include such devices wherein the shoulder straps are capable of being attached to the backpack parallel to one another and are capable of being converted to a position wherein the shoulder straps cross one another. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  shows an embodiment of the computer backpack according to the invention, which is a mobile workstation in use. 
         FIG. 2  shows an embodiment of the computer backpack according to the invention, showing the backpack deployed or in an open position, which exposes the computer resting in the recess of the backpack and makes it available for use. 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  show, respectively, a side rear view and a side front view of an embodiment of the computer backpack and mobile workstation according to the invention, while being transported on the back of a user. 
         FIG. 4  shows an internal view of a computer backpack and mobile workstation according to the invention, with the backpack deployed. 
         FIG. 5  shows a front view of an embodiment of the backpack mobile workstation according to the invention. 
         FIG. 6A  shows an embodiment of a frame for supporting and deploying the backpack into a mobile workstation that can be used to deploy the backpack and expose the mobile workstation platform in a position, for example, roughly a 90 degree angle relative to the front of the user, to support a tool (such as a computer) for comfortable, secure, and stable use by a user. 
         FIG. 6B  shows the frame for supporting and deploying the backpack into a mobile workstation as shown in  6 A, which is in an open position, fully deployed to provide a 90 degree angle between the elongated members of the frame. 
         FIG. 6C  shows a side-by-side comparison of two embodiments of representative frames for supporting and deploying the backpack into a mobile workstation according to the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to various exemplary embodiments of the invention. The following detailed description is presented for the purpose of describing certain embodiments in detail and is, thus, not to be considered as limiting the invention to the embodiments described. Rather, the true scope of the invention is defined by the claims. 
       FIG. 1  shows an embodiment of a computer backpack  100  according to the invention, which is a mobile workstation in use. As shown, the backpack or carrying case comprises a compartment  101  for holding objects during transportation. The compartment  101  can be opened and closed by way of a zipper  102  or other fastening device, such as Velcro or snaps. A preferred object to be carried in the compartment  101  is a computer  103 . Preferably, compartment  101  is designed to have a fixed side and a moveable side. As shown in  FIG. 1 , interior surface  104  of compartment  101  can double as a main surface of the backpack  100 . In this embodiment, surface or wall  104  is capable of being secured to a user to deter movement of this portion of the compartment during use of the mobile workstation. In this embodiment, surface  104  (also referred to as a wall or side) is fixedly attached to shoulder straps  105 . Shoulder straps  105  are capable of holding wall  104  of compartment  101  in place during use and provide for hands-free transportation of objects in compartment  101  and for hands-free supporting of the objects on the mobile workstation platform. Preferred embodiments include shoulder straps  105  capable of releaseable engagement with the backpack  100 . The size and shape of compartment  101  is not critical and it is within the skill of the art to design the carrying compartment for various uses. 
       FIG. 2  shows an embodiment of the computer backpack  200  according to the invention in a deployed position. As shown, compartment  101  has means for opening and closing the compartment, such as zipper  202 . A laptop computer  203  is shown open and ready for use by a user. Back wall  204  of the compartment  201  is shown positioned at roughly a 90 degree angle with respect to the remainder of deployed compartment  201 . Shoulder straps  205  in this embodiment are capable of releaseable engagement with the backpack by way of the swivel connectors. The shoulder straps  205  can additionally be configured to cross one another when secured on a user, especially across a user&#39;s back during use of the mobile workstation to provide additional support and stability. Computer  203  rests within a recess  206  of compartment  201 . Once a user has finished using the computer, the computer can be closed and secured within compartment  201  by way of straps  207 , which in this embodiment fasten together with Velcro. Once the computer  203  is tucked away in compartment  201 , the compartment can be easily and quickly closed using zipper  202  to join compartment  201  with its remaining side  204 . In the closed position, the backpack can transport the computer safely and hands free. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the backpack  200  is capable of providing a workstation to the user without cumbersome or potential obstructions to the user&#39;s hands. For example, the computer  203  can be used within the backpack  200  while strapped on the user without support straps attached to compartment  201  directly. Any straps or other external supporting devices connected to the sides, back, or top surfaces of the compartment  201  will limit the user&#39;s range of motion for his hands. What is achieved by the present invention is the ability of the user to move his hands onto and off of the mobile platform without encountering obstructions such as support straps. The mobile workstations according to the invention are mobile, compact, quickly and easily convertible to active and inactive status to enable a user to work on the mobile platform in one location, temporarily store the tools on the workstation in a backpack for transportation, then resume working in another location on the platform in very few steps. 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  show, respectively, a side rear view and a side front view of an embodiment of the computer backpack and mobile workstation  300  according to the invention, while being transported on the back of a user. Compartment  301  is shown in a closed position, fastened to the remainder of the backpack by way of zipper  302 . The backpack is transported by way of straps  305 . 
       FIG. 4  shows an internal view of a computer backpack and mobile workstation  400  according to the invention, with the backpack deployed  400 . As shown in the open or deployed position, the backpack  400  comprises a compartment  401  for carrying tools needed for a particular job, such as a computer, in recess  406 . When fully deployed, back wall  404  and compartment  401  are positioned at a right angle with respect to one another, providing a mobile platform or workstation on which tasks can be performed, which is similar to the positioning of a table top with respect to a user. The backpack can be opened and closed with a fastening means, such as a zipper  402 . The computer, other objects, or tools can be secured within the compartment  401  with securing straps  407 . The backpack  400  has means for transporting the bag, for example, shoulder straps  405 . 
       FIG. 5  shows a front view of an embodiment of the backpack mobile workstation  500  according to the invention. Compartment  501  is configured to carry objects such as a computer and can be opened and closed with fastening means  502 . The bag  500  is capable of being transported hands-free by a user with shoulder straps  505 . Additional functionalities and features can be added to the bag, such as pocket  509 , which can be used to carry power cords, other tools, and mobile devices. 
       FIG. 6A  shows an embodiment of a frame  610  for supporting and deploying the backpack into a mobile workstation that can be used to deploy the backpack and expose the mobile workstation platform in a position, for example, roughly a 90 degree angle relative to the front of the user, to support a tool (such as a computer) for comfortable, secure, and stable use by a user. In this embodiment, frame  610  comprises a first elongated strip  611 . Strip or support  611  is preferably installed under material covering the back wall of the major compartment of the backpack. Support  611  is preferably comprised of aluminum or other lightweight metal or equivalent material capable of providing comparable rigidity and support. Member  611  is operably connected by way of a pivot connection  612  (or hinge) to a second elongated support member  615 . Support member  615  is preferably installed under material covering the opposing wall of the major carrying compartment of the backpack so that when the backpack is closed elongated members  611  and  615  are parallel. In this embodiment, support member  615  has a bend  614  and additional length  613  configured to provide spacing between members  611  and  615  when device  610  is closed. This configuration provides for protection for objects carried within the major carrying compartment of the backpack to for example prevent crushing of the objects by outside forces imposed on the exterior walls of the backpack. One or more support frames  610  can be incorporated into the backpack, with more than one frame embodiments providing additional support. 
       FIG. 6B  shows the frame  611  for supporting and deploying the backpack into a mobile workstation as shown in  6 A, which is in an open position, fully deployed to provide a 90 degree angle between the elongated members of the frame. As shown, when device  611  is open, support  611  and support  615  are positioned with respect to one another at a right angle. In this embodiment, this angular spacing is achieved or facilitated by the combination of the hinge  612 , section  613 , and bend  614  with elongate members  611  and  615 . 
       FIG. 6C  shows a side-by-side comparison of two embodiments of representative frames  610  for supporting and deploying the backpack into a mobile workstation according to the invention. As shown, strip  611  a can be a thin strip of aluminum or other similarly rigid material, with gussets  611   b  welded, soldered, or otherwise fixedly attached to strip  611   a.  Gussets  611   b  provide additional strength to frame  610  especially for thin metal strips  611   a . Such embodiments can be lighter and easier or less costly to manufacture than thicker aluminum counterparts, such as the other extruded aluminum member  611  shown. An alternative embodiment for hinge  611   c  is also provided, where member  611   c  can be soldered or welded, or otherwise fixedly attached to member  611   a.  Member  611   a  is the portion of the frame  610  that would be installed in the wall of the backpack that resides on a user during use. Elongate support member  611   a  can be combined with elongate member  615  to provide a complete support device or frame  610 . 
     The present invention may have foam padding. The portable desk area may bear a mesh covering under the outer cover, which may be retracted to allowing for ventilation of the computer or other electronic device. 
     The present invention may include a detachable shoulder strap for users who prefer to carry the bag on one shoulder. 
     The present invention may be modified by optionally adding wheel assemblies, an extendable handle, made as a detachable portion of a briefcase or other type of luggage. 
     The present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments having various features. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the practice of the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. One skilled in the art will recognize that these features may be used singularly or in any combination based on the requirements and specifications of a given application or design. Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention. The description of the invention provided is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the essence of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention.