KR100461936B1 - Core computer unit - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a core computer that includes all the components of a conventional computer, but which does not work unless located within an enclosure. Enclosures direct computer functions, and core units provide computer components. The core unit is inactive or non-operational unless it is located in a compatible enclosure.

Description

Core computer unit

The present invention relates to a computer architecture, and more particularly to a transferable mobile core computer that can be inserted into and used in a plurality of enclosures. This application is Partial Application (CIP) of United States Application No. 08 / 911,642, filed August 15, 1997, with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Application No. 08 / 911,642 describes a system in which a core unit containing all components of a conventional computer is used with an enclosure of any one of a number of enclosures, each enclosure having the same or totally different functionality. have. For example, the enclosure may be a conventional desktop, laptop, or mobile computer (such as disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,305,244) that includes a removable core unit. The same core unit can also be separated from this conventional computer and used in an automatic enclosure or in another enclosure that has a completely different function compared to a previously used enclosure.

As with the present invention, the core unit disclosed in parent application number 08 / 911,642 (referenced herein) is in other words not only an external contact means with the enclosure but also a CPU, internal storage means, memory means, activation means, It has all the components of a general purpose computer (hereinafter referred to as "conventional computer"), such as a video display controller, input / output controller means. When the terms "conventional computer" and "self-contained computer" are used herein, they refer to the computer structure shown in the drawings attached hereto. In addition, "standalone" or "conventional computer" refers to a structure having all conventional components and, when used in an enclosure, interfaces with data, information or external devices of any kind (except power and display) from external sources. It has a built-in capacity that can. The standalone core unit of the present invention has a means for electrically connecting with a number of different enclosures, each enclosure defining a desired usage. For example, home computers such as mobile computers, laptop computers, base computers, automobiles, electrical appliances, televisions, alarms and electric heating systems, office equipment such as copiers, fax machines, telephones, oral voice recorders. The core unit of the present invention may be used in an "enclosure" or other suitable enclosure. This is what is defined by the "enclosure" in the present invention.

Two applications of United States Patent No. 5,305,244, United States Patent Application No. 08 / 538,194, and its continuing application (filed May 22, 1997) and United States Patent Application No. 08 / 911,642 (filed August 15, 1997) with common applicants Discloses a mobile user supported computer apparatus having means for attaching a computer and a display to a user or attaching only a display to a user. The user assisted computers disclosed in these applications and patents are commercialized under the trademark "Mobile Assistant", a registered trademark of Xybernaut Corporation, located in Fairfax, Virginia, United States. Mobile Assistant is very lightweight, versatile and efficient, can be attached to the user, and is voice activated, resulting in the user being free to repair or perform tasks.

Various systems are known using detachable modules for use in other computers or structures. These modules generally have only one function and are not completely functionally independent computers. Also known are removable and dockable mobile computers that are functionally complete computers that can be inserted into docking stations and further enhance their functionality. It is important to note that these prior art dockable computers are fully functional computers that are independent and separate from the docking station. Some of these systems are disclosed in US Pat. Nos. 5,488,572, 5,526,493, 5,608,608, 5,627,974, 5,632,020 and many PCT publications WO 94/163, WO 93/00627, WO 90/11628. According to US Pat. No. 5,488,572 to Belmont, a fully functional notebook computer is docked at a motorized expansion base unit before docking is performed. Before docking occurs, the notebook computer communicates with the kidney base via a sense signal. Notebook computers and docking stations are specifically designed to work and interact together. Notebook computers are not general purpose computers that can be used without distinguishing other docking stations. In Belmont's invention, if the expansion base determines that the notebook computer is in a suitable state to dock, it drives a motor to mount the notebook computer. This is a very specially designed system in which notebook computers and docking stations are specially configured to accommodate each other. The docking base cannot accommodate other computers that are incompatible.

US Pat. No. 5,526,493 (Shu) discloses another docking system for computer expansion. Shu's system eliminates the need for the computer user to manually replace the portable computer in suspend mode before docking to the docking station. Shu's portable computer 12 is a fully functional computer before docking with the docking station 14.

U.S. Patent No. 5,608,608 (Flint) discloses the use of independent cartridges and two chassis with individual functional components interfacing over a common bus. Flint's cartridge has only one processor and memory coupled to the second bus and at least one slot that houses the communication module coupled to the second bus. The cartridge is designed for use in laptops, notebooks, and sub notebook computers. Flint's cartridges do not handle the functions normally required by general-purpose computers, and in particular, data storage means, operating systems and software, and video display interface electronics are all included in Flint's chassis, not in Flint's cartridges. The cartridge is thus dependent on at least one chassis out of two chassis for data retrieval, operating software, application software and video interface, all of which are necessary for the computer to perform as a whole. As described below in the present disclosure, the present invention includes memory, processing, video interfaces, and software in a core unit, and such cores in all enclosed housings, regardless of the version of operating software, application software, or video setting. To use. Flint's invention requires matching all of these settings in order for the computer to function properly. Also in the invention of Flint three separate components (two chassis and cartridges) are required, while in the present invention only two components are required.

Watts, US Pat. No. 5,627,974, provides a computer docking system having connection means for connecting a portable computer to a docking station and means for causing the microprocessor of the docking station to execute software using a central processing unit of the portable computer. Watts' portable computers are fully functional before and after docking and can perform everyday computer functions without being docked.

Gephardt U.S. Pat.No. 5,632,020 discloses a dockable computer system capable of performing hot or warm docking, where the bus arbiter responds to a handheld computer and docking in response to a notification signal. Allow the bus exclusively non-preemptive access to docking agents that can stop (deactivate) the bus of the station. All of the above PCT publications disclose a conventional inter-docking station that accepts a mobile computer and allows it to be an active desktop computer unit.

None of the prior art described above discloses the idea of a standard mobile core unit that can be routinely used in many standard enclosures.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a core computer unit which solves the above problems.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a transferable core unit that does not function unless the core unit is used with an enclosure.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a standalone core unit which has all the components of a conventional computer and which can be used in different environments or enclosures.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a standalone core unit that can be easily used even by a user who has not received any computer training.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a standalone core unit that is uniquely designed that can be used in completely different ways in completely different enclosures.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a uniquely designed core unit that can be used interchangeably or permanently in one or more enclosures.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a simple and compact portable core unit which functions only when the connector is connected to the connector of the enclosure.

The above and other objects of the invention are generally realized by interchangeable and detachable portable computer core units contained in a single housing which is of great importance for the invention. The core unit of the present invention is simple and uncomplicated and is housed in a closed single housing and is easily detached or inserted from the mating enclosure as a unit and interchangeable. The core unit of the present invention preferably has only one connector means which is uniquely configured to engage or fit with a power connector or activation means in the enclosure. All components of the core unit other than these connector means are sealed against movement from the core housing. These same connector means make it possible to communicate or transmit information via a bus or wirelessly. Unlike the prior art, for example, where a CPU is removed or replaced by a second CPU or other component, all computer components of this core unit remain unchanged. The security provided by the core unit is provided by a uniquely constructed mating connector means on the outer housing which is connected with the mating connector of the enclosure. Since the core unit is only activated when connected with an equally original mating connector of the enclosure, this data cannot be used by other devices and cannot be read or printed if the core unit is lost or misplaced. In addition, since the core unit is located in a fully enclosed housing for security, no computer component can be separated, duplicated or tampered with. This feature is very important in the present invention.

As used throughout the disclosure and claims herein by the term "enclosure", the terms "enclosed" and "enclosure" mean that the core unit is connected to or at least partially accommodated with the enclosure. The term "communication activation means" means wireless transmission or communication, radio, cellular communication, or the like.

As mentioned above, the core unit of the present invention is completely different from the prior art computer apparatus, and in particular is completely different from the cartridge unit of US Pat. No. 5,608,608 described above. U.S. Patent 5,608,608 (Flint) discloses the use of a cartridge and two chassis with separate functional components that interface with each other via a common bus. Flint's cartridge has only one processor and memory coupled with the second bus and at least one slot for receiving a communication module coupled with the second bus. Cartridges are designed for use in laptops, notebooks, and sub-notebook computers. Flint's cartridges do not handle the functions typically required in general-purpose computers, and in particular data storage means, operating systems, software, and video display interface electronics are not included in the cartridge, but in the chassis.

The Flint's cartridge is thus dependent on the two chassis for data retrieval, operating software, application software and video interfaces, all of which are necessary for the computer to function fully as a whole. As described below in the present disclosure, the presently described core unit includes memory, processing, video interface and software in the core unit, so that any housing, regardless of operating software, application software or video settings and versions, may be used. Can also be used together. In Flint's invention these settings must be correctly matched for the computer to function normally. The invention of Flint also requires three separate components (two chassis and cartridges), while the invention only requires two components. Moreover, in the invention of Flint, the user can configure the chassis, but not the core unit of the present invention.

Finally, in Flint's cartridge, an external peripheral device or port (eg PCMCIA) becomes an integral part of the same cartridge. In contrast, in the present invention, since the core unit has a component in a completely sealed housing, the peripheral device or the external peripheral port cannot be an integral part of the same core unit, and as a result, tamper-proof security proof) to provide a core unit. Communication with the internal components of the core unit is only possible by means of connectors.

The core unit of the present invention is used in a system consisting of two parts. The first component, the core, houses all the components commonly found in laptop or desktop computers except all peripheral connector ports, displays, and power supplies. The second component is an enclosure that provides all the necessary peripheral connector ports (eg PCMCIA, serial, parallel, etc.) while providing power to the core unit. The power is only expected to pass through. Power actually comes from an external battery or an AC source. The purpose of the core / enclosure design is to minimize the size of the entire system, keeping the enclosure or housing at its smallest size at all times. The core can then move between enclosures regardless of the configuration of this device.

Flint's device consists of three possible individual parts. The first component, called a cartridge, houses the core processor, memory, power interface and at least one PCMCIA slot. The second part is called a chassis. The chassis also accommodates PCMCIA slots as well as external interfaces and display interfaces for LCD displays or external VGA displays. Flint has an expansion bus interface and connector ports (additional peripherals such as network interface cards). Flint's invention also has an input / output interface and an external connector port (for data storage, external keyboard, image position indicating device) and finally a power source. The third part of Flint (optional) is a housing containing the cartridge and the chassis. In fact, this housing is used to hold cartridges and chassis or only cartridges, depending on the mode of operation / application being used.

Difference between the present invention and Flint

1. The core unit system of the present invention requires the enclosure to direct the user to useful functions. Flint's invention requires cartridges and / or chassis to do this.

2. The core of the present invention is designed to be used in all applications and working modes.

3. The enclosure in the system of the present invention is designed to be used in a single apply / work mode or multiple apply / work modes.

4. Flint's cartridges and chassis are each designed for multiple applications or working modes.

5. Flint attempts to clone a computer, and the present invention provides computer functionality in an environment that requires it.

6. In the present invention, the enclosure accepts all external peripheral connector ports.

7. Flint's cartridges and chassis accept external peripheral connector ports.

8. The core of the present invention expects most general computer processing, if not all applications or tasks.

9. Flint's cartridges expect only general CPU functions and memory to be used in any application or working mode.

10. The invention of Flint directly violates the object of the present invention. The present invention seeks to minimize the size of the system depending on the functionality required. Flint's invention is not concerned with minimizing the size of the system, as demonstrated by actively using and trusting PCMCIA slots to add functionality.

11. The system used in the core unit of the present invention separates the computer's processing functions from external connector ports as well as associated peripheral devices plugged into these ports.

12. The system used for the core unit of the present invention does not depend on any interface module other than the power source present to operate the system.

13. Flint's cartridge does not require the chassis to provide power to these units. Power is supplied by the cartridge itself or by a PCMCIA battery (paragraph 6, line 15). The system relies on the enclosure as a path to supply power.

14. The user cannot extend the performance of the core of the present invention. Only through the enclosure can functionality be added to the core unit of the present invention. Flint can extend cartridge performance by adding components to the cartridge. Example: The invention of Flint extends the functionality of a cartridge by adding an additional (4) PCMCIA port using a second cartridge. See FIG. 2 of the Flint invention.

The core unit of the present invention is small, compact and standalone. Each enclosure into which the core unit can be inserted can have its own unique peripheral or peripheral connector port to perform single or multiple functions. For example, if a factory technician is responsible for inventory management, the core unit is located in an enclosure with a connector port that specializes in inventory functions (for example, a port for barcode scanners, a port for communicating with a remote computer). Is inserted. If the same technician is responsible for repairing and repairing the hardware, the technician removes the core unit from the enclosure and separate peripheral or connector ports (e.g., for professional servicing of the same core computer). It can be inserted into different enclosures with 1553 interfaces for performing non-insertion testing of equipment, head mounted display ports, and digital multimeters for electrical readings, to function as repair and maintenance computers. Additional security measures can be added if security is important so that only one person can access the enclosure or system.

The same technician can also have an office and access and operate a laptop computer. The core computer used in this example can be inserted into a laptop enclosure in which all peripheral connector ports, built-in peripherals (eg CD-ROM readers) and power supply means are in an enclosure similar to a laptop. When the core unit is inserted into the laptop enclosure, the unit operates as a conventional laptop.

In the above example, a general purpose core computer used in a variety of or different environments and conditions, in which three different computers (ie, inventory management devices, test equipment and computers, and laptop computers) do not need to perform different functions, or The core unit is shown.

By keeping the core unit and interface standard, the user can make a single investment in the core computer to allow the enclosure to direct the functionality. In other words, different companies have different procedures or functions, so the company can determine the enclosure functions needed to perform its mission (e.g., inventory management, maintenance and general purpose office computers) to properly configure the enclosure.

Each enclosure into which the core unit can be inserted at least partially has its own peripheral external connecting port. For example, if the core unit is disconnected from a computer located in an office or from another enclosure, the core unit can be inserted into the console of the car, which can be used for automobile safety, brakes, motors, transmissions, telephones, It has an externally connected port with the vehicle functions monitored for geographic information systems, etc. If the car needs to be repaired, the core unit can simply be removed from the console of the car and given to the repair technician, who can then insert the core unit into the diagnostic equipment with the appropriate mating connector to diagnose the car's problems. In such a case, the core unit may perform the function of a vehicle "black box" (as in an airplane). The core unit can implement a complete office environment when used in an automobile. For example, the same core unit can be inserted into a home electrical control enclosure to control the lighting of lights and the lighting off, the cooling or heating system of the home. Naturally, the enclosure according to the present embodiment has a connector means that is specifically designed to accommodate a core unit having a mating connector. Thus, the special connector core unit of the present invention supports or replaces office computers and automotive computers that control the memory for security, read information, and the temperature of the sheet, and supports or replaces home regulators of lighting, heat, air and TV. It can be used as a single portable unit, which can be used as a whole core computer that is inserted into every mobile or stationary computer. The specially designed core computer unit of the present invention can be easily transferred from one enclosure to another and operates in all environments. This is a true general purpose personal computer because the user can go anywhere and be used wherever the user is in any environment. In a preferred embodiment each enclosure has a display or monitor and a power supply. For example, a vehicle enclosure may have a small display on its dashboard, and a mobile wearable computer (such as Mobile Assistant) may be mounted on the head, cuffs, shoulders or glasses. The home monitoring system may use a TV screen as a display. It is clear that the enclosure can be used without a display if necessary and appropriate. In the case of automotive, home or mobile computers, power sources such as batteries, solar energy, man-oriented or electrical systems can be used to power the core units of the invention. The core unit must be housed in a mating enclosure before functioning as a computer. As used throughout this disclosure and claims, the term "house" means that at least a portion of the core unit is included in the enclosure or in electrical or physical contact. The core unit of the present invention comprises mouse activation means, keyboard activation means, audio activation means, eye tracking activation means, electroencephalography activation by means of activation means associated with an enclosure such as means, pen activation means and combinations thereof.

The components of the general purpose core unit of the present invention may be similar to those disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,305,244, which is incorporated herein by reference. The CPU is, for example, an Intel 80286, 80386SX, 80486, or Pentium microprocessor from the United States. These enclosures include different interfaces and controllers for use with other types of peripherals, such as Cardbus, other communication devices, and the like. If necessary, circuit cards from Dover Electronics Manufacturing in Longmont, Colorado, USA, and Ampro Computers, Sunnyvale, California, USA can be used for the core unit. When the core unit is activated by voice, it may include a voice-recognition engine produced by Dragon Systems, located in Newton, Massachusetts, USA, connected to and used with a sound card. Other components used in the core unit of the present invention are currently useful standards, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,305,244 and U.S. Patent Application No. 08 / 538,194 and its partial application filed May 22,1997. Component. The core unit differs in that it must be inserted into a specific enclosure containing only the core unit with the original connector means to act as a computer, thus providing a very secure system.

The interchangeable and detachable standardized core computer unit of the present invention comprises a single permanently sealed housing having the standard features of a standalone general purpose computer. The enclosure unit has at least one electrical connector means for bus connection and for power connection external to the enclosure. It does not operate power and security devices provided by or through the enclosure, and does not function as a stand-alone unit if directly connected to the power source. The enclosure includes a peripheral connector port or device for interacting with the core computer unit when the core unit is located therein, and when the core computer unit is in its original position or transported from another enclosure and inserted into the enclosure Has means for interoperating with different enclosures. The core computer unit has an activation cooperation mean for interacting with the desired activation means. The activation means is selected from the group consisting of audio activation means, communication activation means, pen activation means, brain activation means, eye tracking activation means, mouse activation means, keyboard activation means and mixtures thereof. Any suitable means of activation can be used. The core unit has no detachable components and cannot function as a computer without an enclosure.

The core computer unit of the present invention may be removed from a laptop enclosure and inserted into a mobile body worn enclosure, resulting in a mobile body worn computer in another embodiment. This type of use is important because the core units of the present invention can be used interchangeably in an infinite number of enclosures that mate with mating connectors. Such enclosures include automotive enclosures such as car armrests or dashboard consoles, enclosures for other forms of transportation, enclosures for household appliances or residential systems such as alarms or heating systems or electrical systems, enclosures for test equipment, televisions, etc. You can have a means to monitor all office functions. Each enclosure is equally structured to accommodate a core unit of a particular structure of the present invention. Thus, if desired, the same core unit can be used in multiple coupling enclosures on the same date or period. The memory and storage means of the core computer can, for example, move the work from the office to the home to ensure the continuity of one work, while, as mentioned above, only within a suitable coupling enclosure to selectively provide security. It is possible to employ means for restricting a particular enclosure that can operate and interact with one or one type of core unit. The core unit may in addition have improved security measures. The same core unit may be used sequentially, such as at home, for example in an office, in a car on the way home. Each enclosure has ports for various functions, such as connecting to a headset or display means. The core unit may comprise a CPU, a memory means, an internal nonvolatile storage means, an activation means, a video, an input / output interface and a support circuit. The core unit does not operate as a computer unless it is electrically connected to a specially designed coupling enclosure or is inside or on the surface of the enclosure. The enclosure can provide a display if necessary, supply (activate) power for the core unit, and provide a port for connecting peripherals, such as a connection to a display or printer. The enclosure and core unit have a uniquely configured coupling connection for the power source, enabling communication between the core and the enclosure. If the enclosure already has a CPU connected to the core unit, the core unit of the present invention provides additional functions of the desired core unit. If the enclosure does not have a CPU, that is, if the enclosure is inactive, the enclosure must rely on the core unit to function as a general purpose computer. The enclosure provides a connection to the system described herein with peripherals such as power and display means, sensors and control means, and the like. The enclosures do not operate as a general purpose computer device until the core unit is inserted therein, but unlike conventional docking systems, the core unit cannot operate or be activated separately from the enclosure, and the core unit does not display the display. It has all the components of a conventional computer except the one, and also has at least one connector and communication bus for direct connection with the power source. The core unit is always activated only by the original connection or connections with the enclosure. This is important for the present invention. A "traditional computer" is a single, fully enclosed enclosure that includes a CPU, memory means, internal nonvolatile memory means, activation means, video, input / output interfaces, support circuits, and in this case, a uniquely designed connector that connects to the enclosure power supply. Means housing. Enclosures are always parts of other structures such as computers, telephones or parts of local network systems, automobiles, test equipment, building electrical systems, etc. and can never be used alone. The enclosure is not a stand-alone enclosure that is used alone like a conventional docking system unless the docking station is ultimately connected to a second structure (eg a motor vehicle). The enclosure has a uniquely designed electrical connector that fits or fits only in the uniquely designed mating connector of the core unit, and there can be many designs for this mating.

As noted above, the core unit and enclosure must have connectors that are uniquely or specially designed for functional and security reasons. A number of different conventional and different configurations can be used, such as specially configured tongue and groove connectors, dove tail connectors, bar connectors, slots and projection connectors, etc. There are connectors. The more original the communication or connector, the more secure the core unit. It is apparent that other security measures can be implemented within the system of the present invention to further improve the security of the system.

In FIG. 1, the core unit 1 is shown before being inserted into the enclosure 2. As mentioned above, the core unit 1 includes all the components of a conventional computer except the display. Also, the core unit 1 does not perform a function as a computer unless it is inserted into the enclosure 2. The core unit 1 itself is entirely inactive and cannot extract any information or data from the core unit unless it is combined with the enclosure using compatible connector means. The connector means 3 of the core unit 1 are metal bars that can be constructed in any design as long as they are compatible with the connector means 4 of the enclosure 2. For security reasons, the more original coupling connector means 3, 4 are configured, the higher the security of the contents of the core unit 1 is provided. The connector means of FIG. 1 are shown in a relatively simple structure, just to show how they fit together. It is evident that a commercialized connector with one kind of structure, for example a security code, provides the best security. The core unit 1 does not have its own display and must rely on the enclosure 2 to provide a display. This is accomplished by the peripheral port 5 on any side of the enclosure 2. This port is connected to the display means or any other extended connection required. For clarity, the connection of the core unit 1 connected to these ports is not shown. It is apparent that all known conventional circuitry or electrical connections can be used. Enclosure 2 is always directly or indirectly connected to structure 6, such as a console, test equipment, household electrical system, other computer, etc. of an automobile. When the core unit 1 is positioned as shown in FIG. 2, the electrical connector means 3, 4 are engaged with each other, and the core unit 1 is activated to perform a function as a computer unit together with the enclosure 2. As mentioned above, the communication of the internal computer components of the core unit 1 is only possible by the connector means 3. No PCMCIA or other port is present in the core unit 1. This is important for the present invention. The monitor or display is connected by a cable 7 and can be connected to other peripheral functions using other ports or interconnects 5 in the enclosure 2. In one embodiment, if the core unit 1 shown in FIG. 1 is lost or misplaced, it is of no use to anyone other than the owner of the matching enclosure 2. Because of the customizable connector means of the core 1 and the enclosure 2, the third party cannot access the information of the core unit unless they have a similar matching enclosure. Security can be further enhanced by program control or pre-programming before release. The core unit 1 does not drive itself, just as the enclosure 2 does not drive itself. In one embodiment, one core unit 1 may not be interchanged with another core unit 1. In other words, each core unit is designed according to an individual order.

In figure 3 a block diagram of the internal components and the external connector 3 of the core unit 1 of the invention is shown. The core unit or core housing 1 completely seals all internal components of the same unit to provide strain relief. On the other hand, the user cannot add other components to the internal structure of the fully enclosed core unit 1. The external functional component of the core unit 1 is only a connector 3 which is joined together when the core unit 1 is in functional contact with the connector 4 of the enclosure 2. As shown, the CPU or processor 8 communicates with the L ₂ cache, ie the fast Level 2 cache 10, via the local bus 9. It is also connected to the system and memory controller 11 (with host-PCI bridge) via bus 9. The computer memory 12 is in contact with the system controller 11. The second bus 13 and the third bus 14 are used as peripheral component interconnectors (PCI). These buses 13 and 14 are not local buses because they do not directly connect with the microprocessor. These PCI are 32-bit buses running at a clock speed of 33MHz. This produces an output speed of 132 megabytes per second. Alternatively, the PCI can be a 64-bit bus running at a clock speed of 66 MHz. However, any suitable bus can be used. It is connected to an audio coder 15 or an audio coder decoder 15 and a PCI audio controller decoder 17 via a bus 13. Also connected to bus 13 is a video controller 16 which handles all display functions. The power supply module 18 supplies power to the entire core unit system. PCMCIA controller 19 operates as a PCMCIA that interfaces with the PC card subsystem. The BASIC INPUT-OUTPUT SYSTEM or BIOS 20 provides the system with a low level of functionality for accessing peripheral devices. The input / output interface 21 provides all input / output functions to the system. Legacy bridge 22 is a bridge that can be connected to both ISA and PCI. The nonvolatile memory device 23 provides a hard driver that is a nonrotating memory. The core connector 3 provides connector means to the enclosure 2 via the enclosure connector 4. The core unit 1 is activated through a connection with the enclosure 2 and becomes inactive until it functions as a computer. The connectors 3, 4 (of the core unit 1 and the enclosure 2) allow other elements or functions to be connected with the enclosure. For example, the enclosure is connected to a universal serial bus (USB) 24, communication serial port (COM) 1 and COM 2, floppy disk access floppy (26), LPT parallel port (27), VGA, as shown. (video graphic adapter) (28), PCI (peripheral connector interface) (29), head mounted display (HMD) (30), audio input / output port (31), power supply to supply core unit (1) A power port 32 to activate and operate, an infra red data association (IRDA) -33, a mouse 34 as a means of activating the system, and a PCMCIA port 35 to connect all PCMCIA cards or cards.

In order to show the principle inherent in the present invention, embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, but it should be understood that many modifications and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

See above

1 is a perspective view of the core unit of the present invention before the core unit is inserted into the enclosure shown.

2 is a perspective view of the core unit of the present invention after being inserted into the illustrated enclosure.

3 is a block diagram of the internal components and external connector means of the core unit of the present invention.

Claims (11)

A core computer unit consisting of a combination of a core housing, an inner core component and an outer core connector, The inner core component includes all components of a conventional computer, all of which have an electrical connection to the outer core connector, The core computer unit has power connection means for electrically connecting with an enclosure via the external core connector, The core computer unit does not remain inactive or function as a computer having the electrical connection without the power connection means, The core computer unit provides all desired computer functionality indicated by the enclosure, The core computer unit has no peripheral ports, and has means for cooperating with the enclosure to provide all the desired computer functionality to the peripheral device in communication with the enclosure, The outer core connector has means suitable for cooperating with a predetermined connector to provide the electrical connection between the core computer unit and the enclosure, The core housing is completely sealed such that the inner core component cannot be altered or deformed. Core computer unit. In claim 1, The unit uses a U.S.B., communication serial port, floppy disk, video graphics adapter, P.C.I. A core computer unit having means for communicating with a function selected from the group consisting of a bus, a head mounted display, an audio input / output means, a power supply means, an IRDA means, a PCMCIA card, an activation means and a mixture thereof. In claim 1, Said unit comprising means for communicating via said enclosure with a PCMCIA card connected to said enclosure. In claim 1, The unit communicates via the enclosure with an activation means selected from the group consisting of mouse activation means, keyboard activation means, audio activation means, eye tracking activation means, pen activation means, electroencephalography activation means and mixtures thereof. A core computer unit comprising means for stopping the function. In claim 1, The unit comprising means for communicating with a port located in the enclosure. In claim 1, The unit includes means for providing built-in capability to interface with external data and information sources when connected to the enclosure. In claim 1, The power connection means comprises a connector in electrical connection with all the internal core components, the connector having means for connecting with a compatible connector means of the enclosure, the power connection means and the connector means being configured to function only with respect to each other. Core computer unit. It comprises a first component and a second component, The first component comprises a core computer unit, The core computer unit No system power, Enclosures with all components of a general-purpose computer including substantially sealed, non-removable processors, volatile and nonvolatile storage, motherboards, I / O controllers, video controllers, and audio controllers; and Single interface connector to interface with the second component Including, The second component A corresponding connector for electrically supplying power with the first component; An enclosure for accommodating the first component in a case and providing a foundation interface between the computer system and the peripheral device generated by combining the first and second components Including, The enclosure has the form of several other computers that are activated by an electronic device, The core computer unit provides computing power to the electronic device without forming part integrated into the electronic device, The first component and the second component do not fully operate as a computer unless paired. Computer system. A standalone core computer unit consisting of a combination of a core housing, an inner core component and an outer core connector, The inner core component includes all the components required for a conventional computer, The outer core connector extends from the interior of the housing into the atmosphere, The outer core connector is made of a conductive material and can transmit electrical signals from an inner portion of the core housing, All the inner core components are electrically connected to the outer core connectors; The core computer unit does not have an external port, The core computer unit has power connection means for electrically connecting with a compatible enclosure via the external core connector, Without the power connection means and core attachment, the core computer unit remains inactive or does not function as a computer, Using the attachment, the core computer unit provides all the desired computer functionality indicated by the enclosure, The core housing is completely sealed such that the inner core component cannot be altered or deformed. Standalone Core Computer Unit. As a core computer module, Sealed housing, A computer motherboard comprising all components of a general purpose computer system, and A connector disposed on one side of the housing to receive power and transfer information between the core computer module and the enclosure Including, Components of the general-purpose computer system include a CPU, volatile and nonvolatile storage, l / O controllers, video controllers and audio controllers disposed within the housing, The core computer module does not have a connector or peripheral port interface other than the connector, does not function as a computer unless it is paired with an enclosure, and can be paired with various different enclosures through the connector. Core computer module. Core computer module for use with multiple enclosures, All internal components of a conventional computer except peripheral interface components, and External core connector allowing components of the core unit to cooperate with the enclosure Including, The core computer module consists of a fully sealed module and does not have peripheral connector ports other than a single connector disposed on one surface to provide electrical connection with any one of the plurality of enclosures, The core computer module and the enclosure cannot function as a computer unless paired. Core computer module.