Briefcase PC

This project was started around January of 2022. I started this project becuase I wanted a portable high performance computer with multiple monitors. Laptops on the market today only come with one display which is why I had the idea for the Briefcase PC. This invention is composed of two displays, a computer motherboard, hard drive, and I/O ports. This product can be easily folded and locked into a briefcase formfactor. In this shape, the computer is hidden from view as the briefcase does not have any I/O ports on the outside.

First, the invention was drawn out and several versions were analyzed to find the best desgn for the briefcase PC. One of the major issues during the design phase was to fit two displays in the briefcase PC, while ensuring the case body doesn't become too thick. The assembly I thought of was a sliding rack and pinion gear system to retract the secondary display. This allowed for a relatively thin case and room for the rest of the electronics.

One issue that presented itself in a prior project was the wiring for integrated circuit boards. This was a major issue in this project because unlike standard parts, wires were never in the CAD model. This brought up unplanned issues in the assembly phase when the display wires were jamming the rack and pinion sliding mechanism. I had to improvise and ended up creating a coil of wire that would expand when needed and retract to prevent the cable harness from being caught in any motor or gearing system.

Upon completing the design, I completed stress calculations to ensure the handle had a sufficient factor of safety to withstand standard use. Additionally, I optimized the CPU cooling solution by using a heatsink with a high number of fins. This increased the surface area, thus improving the heat dissipation from the chipset. Overall, this project was a success and I learned a lot in the process. From CAD, to manufacturing, to circuit design, I was able to create a successful working invention.