I was inspired by reading a couple of entries in this category - see links.
My idea is for a briefcase which turns inside out in order to provide a stable laptop platform, say for use on a train.
The transformation would take place as follows: Your laptop is secured to inside the briefcase using the 'docking station'-style adapter. The lid is hinged differently to normal, allowing it to open past the normal 90 degrees and fold underneath the base, where a stud on the lid clicks it into position. This would provide a stable base for your laptop, gently inclined towards you. A pair of horseshoe shaped plastic clamps, on the underside of the lid, are used to attach the case to your legs - securing everthing in place.
Next, the front of the case folds down to provide build-in hand rest area. Similarly, the floor of the case is covered in mouse mat material, allowing either side to be folded out to provide a mouse area.
The end result would be a bit more ergonomic than the current situtation; hunching over a laptop, fiddling with a pointer device while the overheated laptop 'warms' my knees.
Naturally, this assumes you have sufficient elbow room to operate your laptop. I ,therefore, propose that the briefcase should incorporate two high voltage spikes at either side of the case, charged-up while your in the office... ;-)-- riposte, Dec 10 2001 briefcomputer http://www.halfbake...fcomputer#966944857 [riposte, Dec 10 2001] laptop travel supports http://www.halfbake...0supports#979923257 [riposte, Dec 10 2001] !! Horseshoe-shaped clamps ! … two high voltage spikes-- reensure, Dec 10 2001 only, on the deluxe model...
Actually, the horseshoe clamps could be supply the voltage. It depends what sort of stimulation your are looking for. "knee-trembler" anyone?-- riposte, Dec 10 2001 You could always try muttering to yourself and sniffing a lot, *that* tends to ensure you have plenty room on public transport. Or so I've heard.-- salachair, Dec 10 2001 From the title I thought that, perhaps, this was an argument for the creation of a third typecase. Uppercase, lowercase and Geekcase. Maybe something specifically designed for reading in text editors at very high resolutions.I was wrong, of course.-- bristolz, Dec 10 2001 I like this idea except for the part about strapping the kit to my legs. Just pad the lap-touching portion for my comfort.-- phoenix, Dec 10 2001 [waugsqueke] Hmmm, the stand-up idea is interesting. A tray, akin to those used by ice-cream salesmen on the beach, might suffice...-- riposte, Dec 10 2001 [waugsqueke] I got that, but I can't imagine trying to make an emergency exit with my thighs clamped together and not laugh.-- phoenix, Dec 10 2001 random, halfbakery