Laptop computer case

Abstract

A mobile workstation is provided. The mobile workstation provides dual functions of transporting a mobile computer, such as a laptop, and providing a functional workspace. The bottom surface of the workstation includes two indented portions. This bottom surface is intended for placement on a user's legs and to allow for a more comfortable use of a laptop in that position. One or more extensions can be provided, such as a surface for using a computer mouse. The lid of the workstation can include rigid and non-rigid portions, which can be folded to compact the lid when the workstation is open and used as a workstation. A power supply compartment provides separate storage of a power supply from the laptop while allowing connection between the laptop and the power supply to permit use while in the laptop compartment.

1 . A mobile workstation comprising:
 a base defining two contoured indented surfaces extending along the entire length of the base arranged to engage ergonomically with legs of a user;   an outer frame comprising side walls, a top wall and a bottom wall;   a lid hinged to the base, the lid comprising a plurality of substantially rigid sections and a plurality of non-rigid sections separating the plurality of substantially rigid sections, the plurality of rigid sections arranged to be compactly folded upon one another to permit use of the laptop computer while in the case; and   a retractable working surface tray engaging with and extending from a first side of the base,   the base, the outer frame, and the lid defining a laptop compartment.   
   
   
       2 . The mobile workstation of  claim 1  further comprising a power supply compartment, provided adjacent the laptop compartment, arranged to provide separate storage of a power supply from the laptop, and defining a power supply passage arranged to permit a computer end of a power cord to be connected to the laptop to permit use while in the laptop compartment. 
   
   
       3 . The mobile workstation of  claim 2  wherein the power supply compartment further defines a second power supply passage arranged to permit access to the power supply without opening the laptop compartment. 
   
   
       4 . The mobile workstation of  claim 1  further comprising a pair of exterior protective feet provided at a bottom end of the mobile workstation. 
   
   
       5 . The mobile workstation of  claim 1  further comprising a shoulder strap, wherein the mobile workstation comprises a shoulder strap retainer to receive the shoulder strap when in a non-operational position. 
   
   
       6 . The mobile workstation of  claim 4  further comprising a shoulder strap, wherein the mobile workstation comprises a shoulder strap retainer provided between the pair of protective feet, to receive the shoulder strap when in a non-operational position. 
   
   
       7 . The mobile workstation of  claim 1  further comprising a removable file sleeve arranged to be removably mated with the lid to provide additional storage. 
   
   
       8 . The mobile workstation of  claim 1  further comprising a retractable handle disposed at a top of the mobile workstation and integrating with the base when in an unretracted position. 
   
   
       9 . The mobile workstation of  claim 1  wherein the plurality of non-rigid sections are arranged to provide hinging movement when one or more of the plurality of rigid sections are compactly folded upon one another. 
   
   
       10 . The mobile workstation of  claim 1  further comprising a second retractable tray engaging with and extending from a second side of the base opposite the first side. 
   
   
       11 . The mobile workstation of  claim 10  further comprising a base foam support and storage unit provided in the base, a storage portion of the storage unit being housed between the first and second retractable trays when the trays are in a closed position. 
   
   
       12 . The mobile workstation of  claim 1  further comprising a finned foam liner arranged to dissipate heat and secure a laptop in a closed position in the laptop compartment. 
   
   
       13 . The mobile workstation of  claim 1  further comprising a lid gel foam and a base gel foam provided within the lid and the base, respectively, for securing a laptop computer within the laptop compartment.