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  Laptop support deviceUSPTO Application #: 20060231704Title: Laptop support device Abstract: A laptop support device secures a laptop for use in a vehicle. The device provides vertical and horizontal stability and presents the laptop in an open configuration for viewing. (end of abstract) Agent: NationalIPRights Center, LLC Scott J. Fields, Esq. - Blue Bell, PA, US Inventors: Rob Storey, Adam Garfield, Carson Storey USPTO Applicaton #: 20060231704 - Class: 248205100 (USPTO) Related Patent Categories: Supports, Brackets, Specially Mounted Or Attached The Patent Description & Claims data below is from USPTO Patent Application 20060231704. Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention is directed to a system for supporting a laptop from a vehicle headrest. In particular, the present invention is a system which supports a laptop between two headrests. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] There have been a number of patents directed towards computer transport systems. For the most part, advancements have been directed to the protection of a laptop computer system through either a rigid exterior or cushioned interior of a laptop case. As computers become more capable and able to display moving images and sounds from a variety of sources, there is an accompanying need to be able to access the digital contents in the memory of the computer or on various forms of removable media. Consumer electronics are typically not as upgradeable as a computer. Additionally, most consumer electronics are not networked, and therefore are not able to download content from sources via the internet. [0003] It is therefore needed to provide a way to both secure and display a laptop in mobile environment. There have been a few inventions directed to securing a laptop device while allowing the laptop computer to be viewed by a user. [0004] U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,796,473 and 6,659,319 are directed to a laptop computer transport and support system for a mobile environment such as an airplane, bus or train is embodied as a wheeled clamshell style backpack carrying case with a retractable handle. [0005] U.S. Pat. No. 6,626,275 is directed to an apparatus for connecting a laptop computer to a communications network for access by a seated user in a mobile platform. A cord reel assembly within the seat headrest includes a user interface retractable through the headrest and a user connector for connecting the laptop thereto. [0006] U.S. Patent Application No. 2005/0001137 is directed to a notebook travel harness. The device discloses a central restraint with a top opening and U shaped straps. The device uses buckles and straps to contain the notebook, and discloses use of the device in a vehicle. The device however, overlaps the keyboard of the invention. [0007] U.S. Patent Application Nos. 20040094591 and 20030038149 are directed to a laptop computer transport and support system for a mobile environment such as an airplane, bus or train is embodied as a wheeled clamshell style backpack carrying case with a retractable handle. [0008] While the above inventions are directed to securing a laptop, or connecting a computer device to a network, none of the above publications disclose a non-occlusive apparatus for displaying and securing a laptop in a vehicle. What is needed is a versatile and inexpensive device for utilizing a laptop computer to display sounds and images in a vehicle while minimizing the interference with the operation and viewing of the device. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0009] It is an aspect of the present invention to provide a laptop support device for supporting a laptop computer. The invention is defined by the appended claims with a specific embodiment shown in the attached drawings. For the purpose of summarizing the invention, the invention is directed to a laptop support device for use in a vehicle. The device utilizes webbing with both fixed and removable attachments to secure the device to a laptop and to secure the device to a vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the device is secured to a vehicle seat by way of a hook and loop fastener removably attached to a post of a vehicle seat head rest. The device of the invention is sized to receive a laptop computer in an opened configuration. The webbing of the invention secures the laptop vertically, and an elastic member provides tension to secure the laptop horizontally without obscuring the display of the laptop computer. The invention provides an optimal viewing position for passengers for example in the back seat of an automobile. The device of the present invention is very cost effective and lightweight. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES [0010] Further features and advantages of the present invention, as well as the structure and operation of various embodiments of the present invention, will become apparent and more readily appreciated from the following description of the preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of which: [0011] FIG. 1 is a view of the device of the invention; [0012] FIG. 2 is a view of the front of the device of the invention in use; and [0013] FIG. 3 is a view of the rear of the device of the invention in use. [0014] FIG. 4 is a view of an alternate embodiment of the invention. [0015] FIG. 5 is a view of an additional embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0016] Reference will now be made in detail to the presently preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. The invention can be practiced with any available textile, but in a preferred embodiment, the device of the invention is comprised of nylon straps or nylon webbing. FIG. 1 presents four strap pieces. Horizontal support member 10 has a right extension 12 and left extension 14. Right extension 12 has hook and loop fastener material attached at 15 and 16. Left extension 14 has hook and loop fastener material attached at 17 and 18. In use, right extension 12 attaches the device to a right side seat (not pictured) and left extension 14 attaches the device to a left side seat (not pictured). [0017] Vertical support member 20 is fixedly attached to horizontal support member 10 at a first attachment point 51. Horizontal support member 10 and vertical support member 20 are also attached at point 52, 53, and 54. Vertical support member 20 is internally reinforced by right side rigid member 26 and left side rigid member 27. The rigid members 26, 27 provide rigidity and reduce swinging of the device in use. [0018] Right support arm 22 is fixedly attached to right extension 12 and vertical support member 20. Left support arm 24 is fixedly attached to left extension 14 and vertical support member 20. Support arms 22, 24 provide additional stability. Having a single attachment point on each side of vertical support member 20 would provide an axis about which the device could swing. Support arms 22, 24 create a wider area of support to increase stability of the device. [0019] Lower support member 30 is removably attached to vertical support member 20 at front locations 33 and 35. Lower support member 30 is fixedly attached to vertical support member 20 at 31 and 32. It is an advantage of the present invention that lower support member 30 passes around the back of the laptop device and does not cover or interfere with the keyboard controls or dr4ive bays of the laptop. Cross member 40 is fixedly attached to vertical support member 20 at 41 and 42. It is another advantage of the device that cross member 40 is positioned at the bottom of a laptop device. It does not therefore interfere with the operation of the laptop. Continue reading... Full patent description for Laptop support device Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims Click on the above for other options relating to this Laptop support device patent application. ###  How KEYWORD MONITOR works... a FREE service from FreshPatents1. Sign up (takes 30 seconds). 2. Fill in the keywords to be monitored. 3. Each week you receive an email with patent applications related to your keywords. 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