GB2534590A

GB2534590A - LapScreen 2015

Info

Publication number: GB2534590A
Application number: GB1501438.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: O'connor Edward
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-01-28
Filing date: 2015-01-28
Publication date: 2016-08-03
Also published as: GB201501438D0

Abstract

An apparatus for holding a flat-screen auxiliary visual display unit (VDU) 31 to at least partially overlap the built-in VDU 2 of a laptop computer 1 so that the VDUs face in the same direction comprises a holding means 32 for holding the auxiliary VDU adapted to engage with the auxiliary VDU and the built-in VDU and an additional support hinge 10 for rotatably coupling the base 3 of the laptop computer 1 and the auxiliary VDU to control rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU with respect to the base of the laptop computer about the hinge (4, figure 1) of the laptop computer 1. Preferably, the holding means comprises a sleeve 32 for receiving the built-in VDU and attaching to the rear of the auxiliary VDU. Also disclosed is an apparatus for holding a flat-screen VDU (31, figure 20) to at least partially overlap the built-in VDU (2) of a laptop computer (1) so that the VDUs face in the same direction comprising a holding means (132) and a supporting means (101, 102, 103) for supporting the auxiliary VDU by engaging with the base of the laptop computer.

Description

Flat-Screen Auxiliary VDU Holding Apparatus The present invention relates to a flat-screen auxiliary VDU holding apparatus.

The use of laptop computers is now commonplace. In particular the use of such machines with small screens (VDUs) has increased. 13-inch screens (33cm) are especially popular due to ease of carrying and use in small areas or when sitting or lying down.

The convenience of a small laptop computer has a downside. The small size of screen limits what the laptop can display. One common solution is to link a laptop with a conventional desktop screen of larger size. However, this solution has some drawbacks. In particular, this solution only allows the linked system to be used at a desk. This means that whenever the user is away from the desk, the screen size cannot be expanded in this way.

This is clearly problematic in many situations. The use of an undersize screen to make a presentation away from the desk is problematic, as is working with complex graphics on an undersize screen.

Such problems are duplicated in the social sphere where playing computer games or watching a film are both less than optimum experiences on a small screen.

Finally, the sheer flexibility of a laptop is lost when a desktop screen is needed. The ability to sit anywhere or lie down or generally arrange things in a comfortable fashion are all lost.

Another solution to this problem is for the user to buy a bigger laptop. However, big laptops are heavier and more cumbersome. They are also often more expensive. For example, an Apple (RTM) laptop with a 13-inch screen currently costs around £900. An Apple (RTM) laptop with a 17-inch (43cm) screen currently costs around £2000.

Another solution is to use one of many attachable screens on the market or to buy a laptop with twin screens. Such attachable screens provide additional display area beside the laptop screen. A laptop with two screens effectively provides the same additional display area. However, in both cases the display area is not unitary which can cause inconvenience for the user.

Korean Patent Application Number 2007-855260 discloses a mobile phone with a larger screen disposed in front of the screen of the mobile phone, the larger screen being attached to the screen of the mobile phone. However, this apparatus is unsuitable for use with larger screen sizes because the hinge of the mobile phone is unable to support the weight of larger screens.

United States Patent Application US 2007/0060204 also discloses a mobile phone with a larger screen disposed in front of the screen of the mobile phone. A button protective cover of the mobile phone supports the larger screen at an angle. However, this apparatus is unsuitable for use on the hand of a user because the hand would be too small to provide an area for the button protective cover to engage.

The present invention seeks to overcome or mitigate at least one disadvantage of the prior art.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, apparatus is provided for holding a flat-screen auxiliary visual display unit, VDU, to at least partially overlap the built-in VDU of a laptop computer so that the VDUs face in the same direction, comprising holding means for holding the flat-screen auxiliary VDU to overlap the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, adapted to engage with the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, and a support hinge additional to the hinge of the laptop computer for rotatably coupling the base of the laptop computer and the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, to control rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU with respect to the base of the laptop computer about the hinge of the laptop computer.

The present invention allows the user of the laptop computer to use a larger flat-screen auxiliary VDU without the cost associated with purchasing a larger laptop. The apparatus also allows the larger flat-screen auxiliary VDU to be tilted which is advantageous in comparison to use of conventional desktop flat-screen auxiliary VDU linked to the laptop computer. The apparatus and additional support hinge supports the flat-screen auxiliary VDU so preventing overstressing of the hinge of the laptop computer and keeping the flat-screen auxiliary VDU at the desired vertical angle. The apparatus can also be used away from the desk, for example on the lap of the user. This is because the support hinge engages with the base of the laptop computer rather than for example a desk surface. Additionally, the larger flat-screen auxiliary VDU provides a unitary display area.

The support hinge is for allowing adjustment of the angle of inclination of the flat screen auxiliary CDU and built-in VDU of the laptop computer to the plane of the base of the laptop computer.

Preferably, the support hinge in combination with a base member is provided to control rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU away from the base of the laptop computer about the hinge of the laptop computer i.e. rotational movement that increases the angle between the auxiliary VDU and the base of the laptop computer. Alternatively or additionally, the support hinge is provided to control rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU towards the base of the laptop computer about the hinge of the laptop computer.

The control is achieved by impeding or dampening rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU with respect to the base of the laptop computer about the hinge of the laptop computer.

The support hinge may couple the flat-screen auxiliary VDU via the built-in VDU of the laptop computer or the holding means.

The support hinge is provided to offset and reduce the load on the hinge of the laptop computer and thereby prevent overstressing of the hinge of the laptop computer by impeding or dampening the opening or closing of the hinge of the laptop computer, or by impeding or dampening the relative movement of the built-in VDU of the laptop computer and the base of the laptop computer. The impeding or dampening may occur by removably locking the hinge of the laptop computer in position, or by locking the hinge of the laptop computer in position while torque applied to the hinge is below a certain value. The latter could be achieved by providing the support hinge as a constant torque friction hinge.

The flat-screen auxiliary VDU is preferably 10% to 100% larger in the width direction than the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, more preferably 30% to 80% larger, and most preferably 40% to 60% larger. The flat-screen auxiliary VDU is preferably 10% to 100% larger in the height direction than the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, more preferably 30% to 80% larger, and most preferably 40% to 60% larger.

The apparatus may be provided for holding a flat-screen auxiliary VDU to overlap the built-in VDU of a laptop computer completely or substantially. During complete overlap, the flat-screen auxiliary VDU completely covers the built-in VDU of the laptop computer. In embodiments, the apparatus allows variable overlap of the built-in VDU of a laptop computer by a flat-screen auxiliary VDU so that the degree of overlap can be adjusted by a user.

Preferably, the holding means is for holding the flat-screen auxiliary VDU to overlap the built-in VDU of the laptop computer so that the planes of each VDU are substantially or closely aligned during adjustment of the vertical angle of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and built-in VDU of the laptop computer using the support hinge. This alignment allows the VDUs to be easily moved in tandem by a user when adjusting the vertical angle of the VDUs. Such an alignment may be assisted by a flexible or mechanical swivel mechanism attached to the top edge of the auxiliary VDU that provides additional movement or positioning of the auxiliary VDU in relation to the built-in VDU of the laptop computer.

The support hinge need not engage or contact the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, but may engage the built-in VDU of the laptop computer or the holding means, which in turn engages the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, thereby supporting the flat-screen auxiliary VDU via the built-in VDU of the laptop computer or the holding means.

Preferably, the support hinge is removably lockable in position to maintain a desired vertical angle of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU. Alternatively, the hinge may be a constant torque friction hinge.

Preferably, the hinge comprises at least one flange adapted to engage with the bottom of the base of the laptop computer. This provides a convenient arrangement for the support hinge to engage with the base of the laptop computer.

Preferably the hinge comprises at least one flange adapted to engage with the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU. This provides a convenient arrangement for the support hinge to engage with the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU.

Preferably, the hinge comprises at least one flange adapted to engage with the rear of the built-in VDU of a laptop computer. This provides a convenient arrangement for the support hinge to engage with the rear of the built-in VDU of a laptop computer.

Preferably, the holding means comprises a sleeve, attachable to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, for receiving the built-in VDU of the laptop computer. The sleeve may be slid over the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, which provides a convenient way of engaging the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and the built-in VDU of the laptop computer. The sleeve may also be suitable for receiving the at least one flange adapted to engage with the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU. The sleeve may be open at both ends, or may be closed at one end.

Preferably, the sleeve is collapsible to allow space-saving.

Preferably, a side of the sleeve is transparent or open to allow the built-in VDU of the laptop computer to be viewed when received in the sleeve. This is possible when the built-in VDU of the laptop computer is received in the sleeve and faces in the opposite direction to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU. Thus both VDUs can be viewed at the same time by different users.

Preferably, the holding means comprises a holding member attachable to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and connected to the support hinge, the built-in VDU of the laptop computer being receivable between the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and the holding member. The laptop can conveniently be slid between the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and the holding member. Additionally, once the flat-screen auxiliary VDU is attached to the holding member, the built-in VDU of the laptop computer can be put into and out of position behind the built-in VDU in a single movement. Further, conveniently, the holding means is connected to the support hinge, thus providing the apparatus in a single piece.

Preferably, the apparatus comprises a base member connected to the support hinge, and wherein the base member, when in the closed position, is adapted to cover the front of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, and when in an open position, is adapted to engage with the bottom of the base of the laptop computer to support the flat-screen auxiliary VDU.

Preferably, the holding means comprises a screen hinge, the holding member being attachable to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU by the screen hinge so that the flat-screen auxiliary VDU can pivot relative to the holding member. Thus the flat-screen auxiliary VDU can be pivoted away from the holding member to allow the built-in VDU of the laptop computer to be moved into position more easily.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, apparatus is provided holding a flat-screen auxiliary visual display unit, VDU, to at least partially overlap the built-in VDU of a laptop computer so that the VDUs face in the same direction, comprising holding means for holding the flat-screen auxiliary VDU to overlap the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, adapted to engage with the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, and supporting means for supporting the flat-screen auxiliary VDU by engaging with the base of the laptop computer, and for controlling rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU with respect to the base of the laptop computer about the hinge of the laptop computer, the supporting means comprising a first attachment means for attachment to the built-in or flat-screen auxiliary VDU; a second attachment means for attachment to the base of the laptop computer, and a connector for connecting the first and second attachment means.

The connector may be part of the first or second attachment means, or may be a separate part.

Preferably, the first attachment means or the second attachment means comprises a clamp.

Preferably, the first attachment means is attachable to an edge of the built-in or flat-screen auxiliary VDU. This allows the attachment to occur without blocking the user's view of the built-in or auxiliary VDU.

Preferably, the second attachment means is attachable to an edge of the base of the laptop computer. This provides attachment away from the keyboard on the base so that use of the keyboard is not hindered.

Preferably, the second attachment means is attachable to an edge of the base of the laptop computer by engagement within a recess in the edge. This provides attachment to the edge without the attachment means engaging with the top of the base of the laptop computer. Preferably, the recess forms a USB port.

Preferably, connection between the connector and the second attachment means is adjustable so that the distance between the first and second attachment means can be adjusted. The second attachment means can therefore be positioned in a convenient position for the user.

Preferably, the connector comprises first teeth which are releasably engageable with corresponding second teeth on the second attachment means thereby providing the adjustable connection. Preferably, the first teeth are slidably engageable with the corresponding second teeth so that the connector can be lifted out of the second attachment means, thereby disengaging the first and second teeth. Preferably, the first and second teeth are provided in respective rows.

Preferably, the connection between the connector and the first attachment means is pivotal so that the connector can pivot about the connection. This allows the connector to be easily disengaged from and reengaged with the second attachment means if the user desires to change the position of the engagement. Preferably, the connection between the connector and the first attachment means provides a hinge.

Preferably, there is provided apparatus comprising holding apparatus, and a flat-screen auxiliary VDU capable of being engaged by the holding apparatus.

Preferably, the apparatus comprises a laptop computer having a built-in VDU capable of being engaged by the holding apparatus.

Preferably there is provided apparatus comprising holding apparatus, and a laptop computer having a built-in VDU capable of being engaged by the holding apparatus.

Preferably, the apparatus comprises an adhesive for attaching the holding means to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU.

The apparatus may be provided as a kit. The apparatus can thus be assembled by the user.

Preferably, the kit comprises an adhesive for attaching the holding means to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU. The kit may comprise a connection cable to provide electrical connection between the laptop computer and the flat-screen auxiliary VDU.

Preferably, the kit comprises means for attaching the support hinge or supporting means to the base of the laptop computer selected from the following group: fixed strapping, adjustable strapping, mechanical clamping means, suction means, magnetic attachment means, single-use adhesion means, reusable adhesion means.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a laptop computer in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 2 shows a hinge according to a first embodiment of the invention in a closed position in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 3 shows the hinge of Figure 2 in an open position in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 4 shows the laptop computer of Figure 1 in a closed position received within the hinge of Figure 2 in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 5 shows the laptop computer of Figure 1 received within the hinge of Figure 2 in an open position in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 6 shows a flat-screen auxiliary VDU and holding means according to a first embodiment of the invention in plan view and in rear and side elevation views.

Figure 7 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and holding means of Figure 6 in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 8 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and holding means of Figure 6 before engagement with the laptop computer and hinge of Figure 5 in front and side elevation views.

Figure 9 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and holding means of Figure 6 after engagement with the laptop computer and hinge of Figure 5 in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 10 shows a flat-screen auxiliary VDU, holding means and hinge according to a second embodiment of the invention in plan view and in rear and side elevation views.

Figure 11 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, holding means and hinge of Figure 10 in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 12 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, holding means and hinge of Figure 10 before engagement with a laptop computer in front and side elevation views.

Figure 13 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, holding means and hinge of Figure 10 after engagement with a laptop computer in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 14 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, holding means and hinge of Figure 13 with the hinge an open position in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figures 15 (a) to (c) show a clamp and connector according to a third embodiment of the invention in first, second and third positions, respectively, in front elevation view and left and right side elevation views. Figure 15 (d) shows a base attachment means according to the third embodiment of the invention in plan view, in front elevation view and in left and right side elevation views.

Figure 16 shows a flat-screen auxiliary VDU and holding means with the clamp and connector of Figures 15 (a) to (c) attached in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 17 shows a laptop computer with the base attachment means of Figure 15 (d) attached in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 18 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, holding means, clamp and connector of Figure 16 engaged with the laptop computer and base attachment means of Figure 17, the connector in a vertical rest position disconnected to the base attachment means, in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 19 shows the apparatus of Figure 18, the connector in a vertical open position disconnected from the base attachment means, in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 20 shows the apparatus of Figure 18, the connector in a horizontal position connected to the base attachment means, in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 21 shows apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, including a flat-screen auxiliary VDU, with the base member in a closed position in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 22 shows the apparatus of Figure 21 with the base member in an open position in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 23 shows a laptop computer in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 24 shows the laptop of Figure 23 after insertion on the base member of the apparatus of Figure 21, with the laptop computer in a closed position, in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 25 shows the laptop of Figure 23 after insertion on the base member of the apparatus of Figure 21, with the laptop computer in a closed position and the flat-screen auxiliary VDU in an open position, in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 26 shows the laptop of Figure 23 after insertion on the base member of the apparatus of Figure 21, with the laptop computer in an open position and the flat-screen auxiliary VDU in an open position, in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 27 shows the laptop of Figure 23 after insertion on the base member of the apparatus of Figure 21, with the laptop computer in an open position and the flat-screen auxiliary VDU in a closed position, in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 28 shows the laptop of Figure 23 after insertion on the base member of the apparatus of Figure 21, with the laptop computer in an open position and the flat-screen auxiliary VDU in a closed position, in plan view and in front and side elevation views, with a connection cable connected to the laptop computer and flat-screen auxiliary VDU in plan view and in front and side elevation views.

Figure 29 shows the apparatus of Figure 28 with the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and built-in VDU of the laptop computer upright and tilted rearwards, respectively, in side elevation view.

Figures 1 to 9 show apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention.

Referring to Figure 1, a laptop computer 1 has a built-in VDU 2, a base 3 and a hinge 4.

Referring to Figure 2, according to a first embodiment of the invention, a support hinge 10 is provided for rotatably coupling the base 3 of the laptop computer 1 and a flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31, to control rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU 31 with respect to the base 3 of the laptop computer 1 about the hinge 4 of the laptop computer 1.

The support hinge 10 comprises a flange 14 adapted to engage with the rear of the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1, and a flange 15 adapted to engage with the bottom of the base 3 of the laptop computer 1. In this embodiment, the flanges 14, 15 are identical. In this embodiment the support hinge 10 is a button lock hinge whereby the hinge can be locked in position or unlocked by pushing button 12 or 13. In other embodiments, other types of hinges are used.

Figure 3 shows the support hinge 10 in an open position. Inner surfaces 21 of the flanges 14, 15 are adhesive to engage with rear of the built-in VDU 2 and the bottom of the base 3 of the laptop computer 1, respectively.

Referring to Figure 4, the laptop computer 1 is received within a space between the inner surfaces the flanges 14, 15 and adhered thereto by the adhesive. To open the laptop computer button 12 or 13 is pushed and the built-in VDU of the laptop computer 1 is raised to a desired position. Button 12 or 13 is then pushed to lock the hinge in position, as shown in Figure 5.

According to the first embodiment of the invention, Figures 6 and 7 show holding means (sleeve 32) for holding a flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 to overlap the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1, adapted to engage with the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1. In this embodiment, the sleeve 32 is attached to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 by adhesive. Other suitable means of attachment would be apparent to one skilled in the art.

The sleeve 32 in this embodiment is open at the bottom end 34 so that the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 can be inserted into and received by the sleeve 32. The top end 35 of the sleeve 32 is closed so that the top of the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 cannot emerge therefrom. Connection cable 33 is attached to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31.

Figure 8 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and sleeve 32 being lowered onto laptop computer 1 and support hinge 10 so that the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 and flange 14 are received within the sleeve 32. The flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and sleeve 32 are lowered until the free end of the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 abuts the closed top end 35 of the sleeve 32. The free end of connection cable 33 is then attached to a socket on the base 3 of the laptop computer 1. Figure 9 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 in position on the laptop computer 1. Thus, Figure 9 shows apparatus for holding a flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 to at least partially overlap the built-in VDU 2 of a laptop computer 1 so that the VDUs face in the same direction.

By providing a sleeve 32 as the holding means attached to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 in this way, the planes of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 are aligned during adjustment of the vertical angle of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 using the support hinge 10. The vertical angle of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 can be adjusted by the user by pressing button 12 or 13 to unlock the support hinge 10, adjusting the vertical angle, and then pushing button 12 or 13 to lock the support hinge 10 in position.

Figures 10 to 14 show apparatus according to a second embodiment of the invention.

In this embodiment, a support hinge 50 comprises flanges 51, 52 adapted to engage with the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31, and flanges 53, 54 adapted to engage with the top of the base 3 of the laptop computer 1. In Figure 10, flanges 51 and 52 are attached to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 by adhesive, and flanges 53 and 54 are engaged with the front of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31. The flanges 53 and 54 lie parallel to the front of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU. The flanges 53 and 54 are connected to the support hinge 50 by hinge sections 57. In this embodiment the support hinge 50 is a button lock hinge whereby the hinge can be locked in position or unlocked by pushing button 55 or 56. In other embodiments, other types of hinges are used.

A sleeve 58 is provided as a holding means between flanges 51 and 52 on the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31. In this embodiment, the sleeve 58 is attached to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 by adhesive. Other suitable means of attachment would be apparent to one skilled in the art.

The sleeve 58 in this embodiment is open at the bottom end 59 so that the built-in VDU 2 of a laptop computer 1 can be inserted into and received by the sleeve 58. The top end 60 of the sleeve 58 is closed so that the top of the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 cannot emerge therefrom. In this embodiment, the side of the sleeve 58 not attached to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 is transparent to allow the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 to be viewed when received in the sleeve 58. Thus one viewer can view the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 through the transparent side of the sleeve 58 from one direction, and another viewer can view the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 from the opposite direction. Connection cable 33 is attached to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31.

The initial engagement of the holding means (sleeve 58) and support hinge 50 with the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 allows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU to be engaged with different laptop computers in sequence without the need to engage any part of the apparatus beforehand with the laptop computers.

Figures 12 and 13 show the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31, sleeve 58 and support hinge 50 being lowered onto laptop computer 1 so that the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 is received within the sleeve 58. The flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and sleeve 58 are lowered until the free end of the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 abuts the closed top end of the sleeve 50. The free end of connection cable 33 is then attached to a socket on the base 3 of the laptop computer 1. Figure 9 shows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 in position on the laptop computer 1. Thus, Figure 9 shows apparatus for holding a flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 to at least partially overlap the built-in VDU 2 of a laptop computer 1 so that the VDUs face in the same direction.

Referring to Figure 14, buttons 55 or 56 are pushed to allow flanges 53 and 54 to rotate about the hinge section 57 to which they are attached to engage with the base 3 of the laptop computer 1. Flanges 53 and 54 are preferably adhered to the base 3 of the laptop computer 1 using adhesive, or may be fixedly engaged using any suitable method for example using strapping. Buttons 55 or 56 are then pushed again to lock the support hinge 50 in position, the support hinge 50 thereby supporting the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31. Thus, Figure 14 shows apparatus for holding a flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 to at least partially overlap the built-in VDU 2 of a laptop computer 1 so that the VDUs face in the same direction.

As with the first embodiment, by providing a sleeve 58 as the holding means attached to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 in this way, the planes of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 are aligned during adjustment of the vertical angle of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 using the support hinge 50. The vertical angle of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 can be adjusted by the user by pressing button 55 or 56 to unlock the support hinge 50, adjusting the vertical angle, and then pushing button 55 or 56 to lock the support hinge 50 in position. Thus the support hinge 50 controls rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU 31 with respect to the base 3 of the laptop computer 1 about the hinge 4 of the laptop computer 1.

Figures 15 to 20 show apparatus according to a third embodiment of the invention. Referring to Figures 15 (a) to (d) supporting means comprises a first attachment means (clamp 101) for attachment to an edge of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31, a second (base) attachment means (clamp 102) for attachment to an edge of the base 3 of the laptop computer 1, and a connector 103 for connecting the first attachment means (clamp 101) and the second attachment means (clamp 102). The connector 103 has a row of teeth 104 which are releasably engageable with corresponding teeth 105 on the clamp 102 thereby providing an adjustable connection. The connection between the connector 103 and the clamp 101 is pivotal so that the connector 103 can pivot about the connection. Preferably, the connection between the connector 103 and the first attachment means 101 provides a hinge. The supporting means is provided for supporting the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 by engaging with the base 3 of the laptop computer 1, and for controlling rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU 31 with respect to the base 3 of the laptop computer 1 about the hinge of the laptop computer 1.

The clamp 102 has a channel 106 to receive the connector 103. The connector 103 is generally flat and elongate and has the row of teeth 104 provided on one a flat surface.

The channel 106 of the clamp 102 has the teeth 105 provided on one of the walls of the channel. When the connector is received in the channel 106, the width of the channel 106 is such that the row of teeth 104 engages with the teeth 105 on the wall of the channel, so that the clamp 102 and connector 103 are connected. Both sets of teeth are preferably provided as ridges and troughs running orthogonal to the main axis of the connector 103 and channel 106, respectively. This allows connector to be disconnected from the clamp 102 by sliding the connector 103 out of the channel 106 in a direction orthogonal to the main axis of the channel 106.

The clamp 107 preferably has gripping means, for example rubber ridges, to allow the clamp 107 to grip the surface of the base 3 of the laptop computer 1.

Referring to Figure 16, holding means (sleeve 132) is shown for holding a flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 to overlap the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1, adapted to engage with the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1. In this embodiment, the sleeve 132 is attached to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 by adhesive. Other suitable means of attachment would be apparent to one skilled in the art.

Clamp 101 grips an edge of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31. The connector 103 is shown in an upright "vertical rest" position, parallel to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31. Conveniently, the sleeve 132 is collapsible so that the sleeve 132 can flatten against the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31. Connection cable 33 is attached to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31.

Figure 17 shows the clamp 102 attached to an edge of the base 3 of the laptop computer 1.

Figure 18 shows the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 received within the sleeve 132, connector 103 being in the vertical rest position. Figure 19 shows the connector 103 being moved to the upright "vertical open" position, that is being rotated 90 degrees about its main axis, ready to pivot downwards to a horizontal position to connect to the clamp 102. Figure 20 shows the path of the connector 103 as it pivots downwards to a horizontal position to connect to the clamp 102.

As can be seen from Figure 20, to adjust the vertical angle of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1, the connector 103 can be lifted out of the channel 106 in the clamp 102, the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 31 and the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 can then be tilted backwards or forwards, and the connector 103 can be reintroduced into the channel 106 so that the row of teeth 104 engage with the corresponding teeth 105 of the clamp 102 in a different position.

Figures 21 to 29 show apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.

Referring to Figure 21, the holding means comprises a holding member (comprising intermediate member 403 and end member 406) attachable to a flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 and connected to a support hinge 405, the built-in VDU of a laptop computer 1 being receivable between the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 and the holding member 403. The intermediate member 403 is longer than the end member 406, both being wider than the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407. Intermediate member 403 and end member 406 are disposed orthogonally to each other. The intermediate member 403 connected to the support hinge 405 and the end member 406 is disposed at the end of the intermediate member 403. The end member 403 is attachable to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 so that the flat-screen auxiliary VDU is orthogonal with the end member 406 and is parallel with the intermediate member 403. Thus the end member 406, intermediate member 403 and flat screen VDU 407 form a space in which the built-in VDU 2 of a laptop computer 1 is receivable.

The holding member (comprising intermediate member 403 and end member 406) is attachable to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 by a screen hinge 506. The screen hinge 506 allows the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 to pivot about the end of the end member 406.

The supporting means comprises a base member 402 connected to the support hinge 405. The base member 402, when in the closed position, is adapted to cover the front of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407, and when in an open position, is adapted to engage with the bottom of the base 3 of the laptop computer 1 to support the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407.

The support hinge 405 and the base member 402 are connected by a connector 409.

In this embodiment, the connector 409 is orthogonal to the base member 402. The holding member 403, support hinge 405, connector 409 and base member 402 form a case 401 which encloses and protects the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 when in a closed position.

On the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 is provided a screen buffer comprising a sheet of thin soft material to prevent the front of the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 from rubbing against and being damaged by the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407.

Figure 22 shows path of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407, end member 406 and intermediate member 403 when rotated about the support hinge 405 so that the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 is in an upright position, orthogonal to the base member 402. The base member 402 is disposed on the same side of the intermediate member 403 as the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407.

Figure 23 shows a laptop computer 1 having a built-in VDU 2 and a base 3. A socket 412 is provided on an edge of the base 3.

As shown in Figure 24, the laptop computer 1 in a closed position (i.e. the built-in VDU 2 is parallel with the base 3) is inserted between the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 and the base member 402. Referring to Figure 25, the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 is then rotated about the screen hinge 506 until it is horizontal and orthogonal with the intermediate member 403. Referring to Figure 26, the built-in VDU of the laptop computer 1 is then opened so that it is parallel with the intermediate member 403.

Referring to Figure 27, the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 is then rotated about the screen hinge 506 back to its original position i.e. until it is vertical and parallel with the intermediate member 403. Thus the built-in VDU of the laptop computer 1 is received between the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 and the intermediate member 402. This provides a convenient way of inserting the laptop computer that reduces the likelihood that the built-in VDU 2 will become scratched during the positioning. Referring to Figure 28, the connection cable 33 is then connecting to the socket 408 on the side of the flat screen auxiliary VDU 407 and the socket 412 on the edge of the base 3 of the laptop computer 1.

Figure 29 shows how the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407, end member 406 and intermediate member 403 can be rotated about the support hinge 405 to tilt the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 backwards, the flat-screen auxiliary VDU 407 in turn tilting the built-in VDU 2 of the laptop computer 1 backwards.

The present invention has been described purely by way of example, and various modifications, additions and/or omissions will present themselves to one skilled in the art, all of which form part of the invention, together with their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS: 1. Apparatus for holding a flat-screen auxiliary visual display unit, VDU, to at least partially overlap the built-in VDU of a laptop computer so that the VDUs face in the same direction, comprising: holding means for holding the flat-screen auxiliary VDU to overlap the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, adapted to engage with the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, and an additional support hinge aligned with the hinge of the laptop computer for rotatably coupling the base of the laptop computer and the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, to control rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU with respect to the base of the laptop computer about the hinge of the laptop computer.
2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the support hinge comprises at least one flange adapted to engage with the bottom of the base of the laptop computer.
3. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the support hinge comprises at least one flange adapted to engage with the top of the base of the laptop computer.
4. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the support hinge comprises at least one flange adapted to engage with the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU.
5. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the support hinge comprises at least one flange adapted to engage with the rear of the built-in VDU of the laptop computer.
6. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the holding means comprises a sleeve, attachable to the rear of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, for receiving the built-in VDU of the laptop computer.
7. Apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the sleeve is collapsible.
8. Apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein a side of the sleeve is transparent or open to allow the built-in VDU of the laptop computer to be viewed when received in the sleeve.
9. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the holding means comprises a holding member attachable to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and connected to the support hinge, the built-in VDU of the laptop computer being receivable between the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and the holding member.
10. Apparatus according to claim 9, comprising a base member connected to the support hinge, and wherein the base member, when in the closed position, is adapted to cover the front of the flat-screen auxiliary VDU, and when in an open position, is adapted to engage with the bottom of the base of the laptop computer to support the flat-screen auxiliary VDU.
11. Apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the holding means comprises a screen hinge, the holding member being attachable to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU by the screen hinge so that the flat-screen auxiliary VDU can pivot relative to the holding member.
12. Apparatus for holding a flat-screen auxiliary visual display unit, VDU, to at least partially overlap the built-in VDU of a laptop computer so that the VDUs face in the same direction, comprising: holding means for holding the flat-screen auxiliary VDU to overlap the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, adapted to engage with the flat-screen auxiliary VDU and the built-in VDU of the laptop computer, and supporting means for supporting the flat-screen auxiliary VDU by engaging with the base of the laptop computer, and for controlling rotational movement of the auxiliary VDU with respect to the base of the laptop computer about the hinge of the laptop computer, the supporting means comprising: a first attachment means for attachment to the built-in or flat-screen auxiliary VDU; a second attachment means for attachment to the base of the laptop computer, and a connector for connecting the first and second attachment means.
13. Apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the first attachment means comprises a clamp.
14. Apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the first attachment means is attachable to an edge of the built-in or flat-screen auxiliary VDU.
15. Apparatus according to claim 12, 13 or 14, wherein the second attachment means comprises a clamp.
16. Apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the second attachment means is attachable to an edge of the base of the laptop computer.
17. Apparatus according to claim 12, 13 or 14, wherein the second attachment means is attachable to an edge of the base of the laptop computer by engagement within a recess in the edge.
18. Apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the recess forms a USB port.
19. Apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein connection between the connector and the second attachment means is adjustable so that the distance between the first and second attachment means can be adjusted.
20. Apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the connector comprises teeth which are releasably engageable with corresponding teeth on the second attachment means thereby providing the adjustable connection.
21. Apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 20, wherein the connection between the connector and the first attachment means is pivotal so that the connector can pivot about the connection.
22. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising means for attaching the support hinge or supporting means to the base of the laptop computer selected from the following group: fixed strapping, adjustable strapping, mechanical clamping means, suction means, magnetic attachment means, single-use adhesion means, and reusable adhesion means.
23. Apparatus comprising holding apparatus according to any preceding claim, and a flat-screen auxiliary VDU capable of being engaged by the holding apparatus.
24. Apparatus according to claim 23, and a laptop computer having a built-in VDU capable of being engaged by the holding apparatus.
25. Apparatus comprising holding apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 22, and a laptop computer having a built-in VDU capable of being engaged by the holding apparatus.
26. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising an adhesive for attaching the holding means to the flat-screen auxiliary VDU.