US 6,206,480 B1 · Mobile computing and communication system

Abstract

A dual, or single, case mobile computing and communication system with rapid mobility for usage in the field, consisting of a component mounting mechanism, a mobile computer and peripheral data switching micronetwork, an enclosed modular peripheral power system, and a plug-in modular component card system. The universal mounting mechanism holds multiple peripherals in such a way that they can be easily and quickly installed and removed from the case configuration. It locks the peripherals so they do not move during transportation. It is also low in profile so it does not obstruct the use of the items being held. The system offers rapid reaction mobility, by isolating and securing the many data and power cables necessary to connect up to 8 peripherals. The data part of this micronetwork includes data switching to connect the single computer's parallel and serial interface to these peripherals. The power system is modular and supports unique power outputs to multiple devices from either a single AC or DC input. The invention combines multiple modular component cards that snap together allowing ease of use and quick field exchange of panels for the system.

Claims19

Dependent claims

A mobile information and communication system having components for providing information processing and communication functions such as processing, scanning, printing, copying, secure communications, unclassified communications and data backup, comprising:

at least one case having a base with a floor and a removable lid, said base having a support panel with an upper side on which said components are mounted;
mounting structure for removably mounting said components to said upper side of said support panel against lateral or vertical translation away from said support panel;
rails for removably supporting said support panel in said base spaced above said floor;
a micronetwork that isolates, secures and simplifies the many data and power cables necessary to connect multiple electronic components such as a laptop computer, a scanner, a printer, a satellite or cellular telephone and a backup tape or CD drive, said micronetwork having a power supply, cables and electronics attached to the bottom side of said support panel and coupled through said panel by cables;
whereby said system is ready for use as soon as said lid is opened and said components may be changed out for service or replacement, and said support panel may be easily removed and replaced with a different panel for additional or different functions or for upgrades without discarding the entire system.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Mobile computing and communication system

Life of this patent

Mobile computing and communication system

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims19