BRPI1001237A2

Portable computing system and portable computer for use with same

Abstract

computing system and method for using a computing system, laptop, portable smart card and processing system. a computer system comprising a personal pocket computer and a reader is described. the pocket pc is pocket-sized and comprises flash memory, and optionally a processor and a gps chip. the reader includes a monitor, a keyboard with a docking port and an optional processor and at least one usb input / output connector. a user cannot interact with the pocket pc without the reader. the reader is a "wrapper" that does not work without the pocket pc, however when they are connected the system becomes a fully functional personal computer. for logging on, a user provides security information, for example, a password or biometric, such as fingerprints. the size of the credit card and the capabilities of the pocket pc allow the user to easily carry their entire computer in a pocket for use anywhere they have a reader. in addition, the pocket pc provides security against unauthorized use, even if lost or stolen. a password or fingerprints are required to access the device, the circuit board can be coated with a protective coating and the system can include an RFID tag and RFID reader.

BRPI1001237A2, drawing sheet 1 — Sheet 1 of 6

Term

Projected expiry 4 February 2030.

66 claims: 8 independent, 58 dependent

1
1/14 REIVINDICAÇÕES 1. Sistema de computação compreendendo:um computador portátil (10) compreendendo: pelo menos um componente de armazenamento;uma placa de circuito impresso (12) compreendendo pelo menos um circuito integrado;um revestimento cobrindo o pelo menos um circuito integrado;e pelo menos um conector adaptado para conectar a pelo menos uma impressora;uma ou mais leitoras compreendendo: um alojamento (14);e pelo menos um conector para conectar-se ao computador portátil (10), em que o computador portátil (10) exclui os meios para um usuário interagir diretamente com o computador portátil (10), caracterizado pelo fato de que o alojamento (14) compreende pelo menos um dispositivo de entrada e pelo menos um dispositivo de saída que facilita dirigir a interação do usuário com o computador portátil (10), em que as leitoras são envoltórios que não funcionam quando não conectados a um computador portátil (10);e em que as leitoras tornam-se computadores para fins gerais completamente funcionais substancialmente imediatamente após serem conectados com um computador portátil (10).
2
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) compreende substancialmente todos os componentes de um computador para fins gerais completamente funcional.
3
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) compreende um processa- 2/14 dor e pelo menos um controlador.
4
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que a pelo menos uma leitora compreende uma unidade de geração de energia.
5
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende ainda uma leitora de RFDI e em que o computador portátil (10) compreende uma etiqueta de RFDI configurada para interagir com a leitora de RFDI.
6
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que o dispositivo de entrada é selecionado a partir do grupo consistindo em:um teclado, um teclado numérico, uma tela de toque, um microfone, e um PDA e um dispositivo de saída é selecionado a partir do grupo consistindo em um vídeo e pelo menos um altofalante.
7
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que as leitoras são configuradas de modo que elas não operam com um computador diferente de um computador portátil (10) do sistema.
8
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) é capaz de ser usado com cada leitura no sistema.
9
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que o conector do computador portátil (10) é uma grade de alvos condutivos.
10
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que as leitoras compreendem pelo menos um escâner biométrico selecionado a partir do grupo consistindo em uma leitora de impressão digital, escâner de retina e leitora de pulso.
11
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 1, caracterizado pelo fato de que o alojamento (14) compreende um suporte de sis 3/14 tema de computação para componentes de hardware dinâmicos e em que o alojamento (14) e o computador portátil (10) executam um comando não encaixado para liberar os discos, que não são mais necessários uma vez que o computador portátil (10) é destacado de uma leitora.
12
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 4, caracterizado pelo fato de que as leitoras compreendem pelo menos uma interface elétrica para transmitir energia a pelo menos um computador portátil (10) e em que o computador portátil (10) compreende uma interface elétrica para receber energia de pelo menos uma leitora.
13
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 12, caracterizado pelo fato de que a interface elétrica do computador portátil (10) é uma pluralidade de pás revestidas com placas de ouro e em que a interface elétrica da leitora é uma pluralidade de pinos.
14
Computador portátil (10) para uso com uma leitora, o computador portátil (10) compreendendo:pelo menos um componente de armazenamento;pelo menos um processador;pelo menos um cabo do controlador;pelo menos uma placa de circuito impresso (12) compreendendo pelo menos um circuito integrado;pelo menos um conector adaptado para conectar pelo menos uma leitora;caracterizado pelo fato de que um invólucro (16,18) substancialmente rígido compreendido de um material eletricamente condutivo e substancialmente envolvendo o pelo menos um componente de armazenamento, o pelo menos um processador, o pelo menos um cabo de controlador e a pelo menos placa de circuito impresso (12), o invólucro (16, 18) substancialmente rígido tendo pelo menos uma janela (20) para expor o conector, 4/14 em que o computador portátil (10) exclui os meios para um usuário interagir com o computador portátil (10) independente de uma leitora.
15
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 14, caracterizado pelo fato de que o armazenamento é compreendido de pelo menos uma memória de estado sólido de células de nível único.
16
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 14, caracterizado pelo fato de que o armazenamento é compreendido de pelo menos um memória de estado sólido de células de múltiplos níveis.
17
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 14, caracterizado pelo fato de que o armazenamento é compreendido de pelo menos uma memória volátil.
18
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 14, caracterizado pelo fato de que o processador é procurado na forma de matriz nua.
19
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 14, caracterizado pelo fato de que a placa de circuito impresso (12) é configurada como um empilhamento de 8 camadas (8).
20
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 14, caracterizado pelo fato de que os circuitos integrados são conectados em uma configuração de “flip ship”.
21
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 14, caracterizado pelo fato de que o cabo do controlador do sistema é montado em uma configuração de flip chip ball grid array e compreende 1249 pinos.
22
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 14, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) é 4 mm de altura, 83 mm de comprimento e 52 mm de largura. 5/14
23
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 14, caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende ainda um revestimento cobrindo substancialmente o pelo menos um circuito integrado (12), o revestimento selecionado a partir do grupo consistindo em silicone, epóxi, acrílico, uretano e paraxileno.
24
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 17, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) compreende somente a memória volátil e é configurado para salvar os conteúdos de sua memória volátil na memória flash em um processo de hibernação.
25
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 17, caracterizado pelo fato de que a memória volátil é uma memória de acesso aleatório dinâmica.
26
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 17, caracterizado pelo fato de que a placa de circuito impresso (12) tem uma densidade de 8 GB a 128 GB.
27
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 25, caracterizado pelo fato de que a memória de acesso aleatório dinâmica é DDR2.
28
Cartão inteligente portátil, compreendendo:pelo menos uma placa de circuito impresso (12) contendo pelo menos um circuito integrado para armazenar dados;segurança para restringir o acesso aos dados armazenados;e um revestimento cobrindo substancialmente o pelo menos um circuito integrado;caracterizado pelo fato de que o revestimento opera para: inibir violação, 'a medida que tentativas para ganhar acesso de modo impróprio aos dados armazenados danificarão o pelo menos um circuito integrado;6/14 dissipar o calor gerado por pelo menos um circuito integrado;e impermeabilizar o pelo menos um circuito integrado.
29
Cartão inteligente portátil, de acordo com a reivindicação 28, caracterizado pelo fato de que o revestimento é selecionado a partir do grupo consistindo em silicone, epóxi, acrílico, uretano e paraxileno.
30
Cartão inteligente portátil, de acordo com a reivindicação 28, caracterizado pelo fato de que o armazenamento é compreendido de pelo menos uma memória no estado sólido de célula de nível único.
31
Cartão inteligente portátil, de acordo com a reivindicação 28, caracterizado pelo fato de que o armazenamento é compreendido de pelo menos uma memória no estado sólido de células de múltiplos níveis.
32
Cartão inteligente portátil, de acordo com a reivindicação 28, caracterizado pelo fato de que o armazenamento é compreendido de pelo menos uma memória volátil.
33
Cartão inteligente portátil, de acordo com a reivindicação 28, caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende ainda um processador procurado na forma de matriz nua.
34
Cartão inteligente portátil, de acordo com a reivindicação 28, caracterizado pelo fato de que a placa de circuito impresso (12) é configurada como um empilhamento de múltiplas camadas.
35
Cartão inteligente portátil, de acordo com a reivindicação 28, caracterizado pelo fato de que os circuitos integrados são conectados em uma configuração de “flip ship”.
36
Sistema de processamento compreendendo:um computador portátil (10) compreendendo: pelo menos um componente de armazenamento;7/14 uma placa de circuito impresso (12) compreendendo pelo menos um circuito integrado;e pelo menos um conector adaptado para conectar-se a pelo menos uma impressora;uma ou mais leitoras caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende: um alojamento (14);e pelo menos um conector para conectar-se ao computador portátil (10), caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10), quando conectado à leitora, é configurado para acessar uma rede.
37
Sistema de processamento, de acordo com a reivindicação 36, caracterizado pelo fato de que a rede compreende a internet.
38
Sistema de processamento, de acordo com a reivindicação 36, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) quando conectado à leitora acessa o conteúdo disponível na internet.
39
Sistema de processamento, de acordo com a reivindicação 36, caracterizado pelo fato de que a leitora compreende um vídeo e alto-falantes.
40
Sistema de processamento, de acordo com a reivindicação 36, caracterizado pelo fato de que o conteúdo é transmitido ou baixado ao computador portátil (10).
41
Sistema de processamento, de acordo com a reivindicação 36, caracterizado pelo fato de que o conteúdo compreende música, filmes ou shows de televisão.
42
Computador portátil (10) compreendendo:um ou mais componentes de armazenamento, um ou mais conectores (22) adaptados para conectar o computador portátil (10) a pelo menos uma leitora;e 8/14 caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) exclui os meios para interagir diretamente com o computador portátil (10) independente da pelo menos uma leitora, em que a pelo menos uma leitora facilita dirigir a interação do usuário com o computador portátil (10), com o computador portátil (10) configurado para ser inoperável a menos que conectado a pelo menos uma leitora, e quando conectado, torna-se um computador para fins gerais substancialmente completamente funcional.
43
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 42, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) é não maior do que aproximadamente 90,00 mm x 60,00 mm e é não mais espesso do que aproximadamente 6 mm de espessura.
44
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 42, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) é não maior do que aproximadamente 82,00 mm x 52,00 mm e é não mais espesso do que aproximadamente 4,3 mm de espessura.
45
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 42, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) compreende um comprimento L, uma largura W e uma altura H, em que L está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 50 mm a 200 mm, W está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 25 mm a 100 mm e H está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 1 mm a 20 mm.
46
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 42, caracterizado pelo fato de que o armazenamento compreende uma memória flash e um sistema operacional e o computador portátil (10) compreende ainda um ou mais selecionados a partir do grupo consistindo em um dispositivo de CPU e um dispositivo de GPS.
47
Computador portátil (10) compreendendo:um cartão compreendendo um comprimento L, uma largura W e uma altura H, em que L está em uma faixa aproximadamente en 9/14 tre 50 mm a 200 mm, W está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 25 mm a 100 mm e H está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 1 mm a 20 mm, e com o cartão caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende: um ou mais componentes de armazenamento;um ou mais conectores (22) adaptados para conectar o computador portátil (10) com pelo menos uma leitora;e em que o computador portátil (10) exclui os meios para interagir diretamente com o computador portátil (10) independente da pelo menos uma leitora, em que a pelo menos uma leitora facilita dirigir a interação do usuário com o computador portátil (10), com o computador portátil (10) configurado para ser inoperável a menos que conectado a pelo menos uma leitora, e quando conectado, tornar-se um computador para fins gerais substancialmente completamente funcional.
48
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 47, caracterizado pelo fato de que o cartão é não maior do que aproximadamente 90,00 mm x 60,00 mm e não é mais espesso do que aproximadamente 6 mm de espessura.
49
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 47, caracterizado pelo fato de que o cartão é não maior do que aproximadamente 82,00 mm x 52,00 mm e é não mais espesso do que aproximadamente 4,3 mm de espessura.
50
Sistema de computação compreendendo:uma ou mais leitoras compreendendo cada uma: um alojamento (14) compreendendo pelo menos um dispositivo de entrada e pelo menos um dispositivo de saída;e pelo menos um conector, e um computador portátil (10) compreendendo: armazenamento;pelo menos um conector para conectar-se onde desejado com a uma ou mais leitoras;e 10/14 caracterizado pelo fato de que o pelo menos um dispositivo de entrada e pelo menos um dispositivo de saída do alojamento (14) de uma ou mais leitoras facilitam dirigir a interação do usuário do computador portátil (10) com a uma ou mais leitoras quando o computador portátil (10) e uma ou mais leitoras são conectados, em que o computador portátil (10) exclui os meios para um usuário interagir diretamente com o computador portátil (10) independente da uma ou mais leitoras;e em que o computador portátil (10) e a uma ou mais leitoras quando conectada torna-se um computador para fins gerais substancialmente completamente funcional.
51
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 50, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) é não maior do que aproximadamente 90,00 mm x 60,00 mm e é não mais espesso do que aproximadamente 6 mm de espessura.
52
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 50, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) é não maior do que aproximadamente 82,00 mm x 52,00 mm e é não mais espesso do que aproximadamente 4,3 mm de espessura.
53
Computador portátil (10), de acordo com a reivindicação 50, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) compreende um comprimento L, uma largura W e uma altura H, em que L está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 50 mm a 200 mm, W está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 25 mm a 100 mm e H está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 1 mm a 20 mm.
54
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 50, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) compreende um processador, pelo menos um controlador, armazenamento, uma interface de som e um chip de GPS.
55
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 50, caracteri 11/14 zado pelo fato de que o dispositivo de entrada é selecionado a partir do grupo consistindo em um teclado, um teclado numérico, uma tela de toque, um mouse, um microfone, um controle remoto, PDA e um gravador de vídeo e o dispositivo de saída é selecionado a partir do grupo consistindo em:um vídeo, um monitor de televisão, um monitor de computador, uma webcam e alto-falantes.
56
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 50, caracterizado pelo fato de que o pelo menos um conector do computador portátil (10) com a uma ou mais leitoras é uma conexão com fio e sem fio ou combinação de com fio e sem fio.
57
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 50, caracterizado pelo fato de que a uma ou mais leitoras compreendem pelo menos um escâner biométrico selecionado a partir do grupo consistindo em uma leitora de impressões digitais, escâner de retina e leitora de pulso, em que o dispositivo de armazenamento do computador tem uma pluralidade de compartimentos acessíveis independentemente separados para armazenar informação diferente, em que a informação é acessada e transmitida baseada na informação biométrica lida pelo escâner biométrico de tal modo que o acesso a cada compartimento é controlado pela leitura do escâner biométrico.
58
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 50, caracterizado pelo fato de que o computador portátil (10) compreende ainda uma placa mãe, chip de gráficos, um cartão de som, ROM, pelo menos um acionador do dispositivo adaptado para interagir com hardware das leitoras, um criptoprocessador seguro, um controlador SCSI, uma interface IDE, e em que o armazenamento é compreendido de uma memória flash e RAM.
59
Sistema, de acordo com a reivindicação 50, caracterizado pelo fato de que a uma ou mais leitoras compreendem uma ou mais selecionadas a partir do grupo consistindo em uma televisão, te 12/14 lefone, telefone celular, PDA, dispositivo de DVD, dispositivo de CD e rádio.
60
Método de usar um sistema de computação tendo uma ou mais leitoras e pelo menos um computador portátil (10) capaz de interagir com a uma ou mais leitoras, o método caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende:fornecer pelo menos um computador portátil (10) tendo armazenamento e que exclui um dispositivo de entrada e saída, em que o pelo menos um computador portátil (10) compreende um cartão compreendendo um comprimento L, uma largura W e uma altura H, em que L está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 50 mm a 200 mm, W está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 25 mm a 100 mm e H está em uma faixa aproximadamente entre 1 mm a 20 mm;fornecer pelo menos uma leitora tendo um dispositivo de entrada e saída para interagir com o pelo menos um computador portátil (10);conectar o computador portátil (10) a pelo menos uma leitora, em que a pelo menos uma leitora e o computador portátil (10) tornam-se um computador para fins gerais substancialmente completamente funcional;interagir com um computador portátil (10) através de um dispositivo de entrada e saída da pelo menos uma leitora de modo a ter a capacidade de pelo menos um dos dados de armazenamento a ou acessar os dados de armazenamento;e desconectar o computador portátil (10) de pelo menos uma leitora, sobre a qual o computador portátil (10) e a pelo menos uma leitora cessa de ser um computador para fins gerais substancialmente completamente funcional, e em que a pelo menos uma leitora não retém qualquer um dos dados que foram armazenados a ou acessados a partir do armazenamento enquanto o computador portátil (10) e pelo 13/14 menos uma leitora foram conectados.
61
Método, de acordo com a reivindicação 60, caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende ainda fornecer informação segura se pelo menos uma leitora identifica um computador portátil (10), o computador portátil (10) e a pelo menos uma leitora determinando se a informação de segurança é exata, e se a informação de segurança é exata, interagindo com o computador portátil (10) através de pelo menos uma leitora.
62
Método,de acordo com a reivindicação 60, caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende ainda:fornecer um dispositivo biométrico para verificar a identidade do usuário do computador portátil (10) quando conectado a pelo menos uma leitora;fornecer um dispositivo de GPS para identificar a localização de pelo menos um do computador portátil (10) ou a pelo menos uma leitora;fornecer um sistema operacional para uso quando o computador portátil (10) está conectado a pelo menos uma leitora;e fornecer comunicação na internet quando o computador portátil (10) está conectado a pelo menos uma leitora.
63
Método, de acordo com a reivindicação 60, caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende ainda fornecer acesso a uma rede de computador quando o computador portátil (10) e a uma ou mais leitoras são conectados.
64
Método, de acordo com a reivindicação 60, caracterizado pelo fato de que a rede de computador compreende ainda a internet.
65
Método, de acordo com a reivindicação 60, caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende ainda um ou mais a partir do grupo consistindo em enviar/receber e-mail e baixando música, filmes ou 14/14 shows de televisão.
66
Método, de acordo com a reivindicação 60, caracterizado pelo fato de que compreende ainda carregar uma remuneração para uma ou mais da conexão à internet, para enviar/receber e-mail, ou 5 para baixar música, filmes ou shows de televisão.

Independent claims66

109 paragraphs in 5 sections, as filed

1/37

Descriptive Report of the Invention Patent for COMPUTING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING A COMPUTING SYSTEM, PORTABLE COMPUTER, PORTABLE SMART CARD AND PROCESSING SYSTEM.

FIELD OF INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to computing systems and in particular to a portable computer that is small in size so as to be easily carried, and yet has the capabilities of a conventional large-scale computer, and is also secure to address concerns such as data theft and corruption.

BACKGROUND

[002] Computers have historically been large in size based on the components required to provide sufficient computing capabilities, such as mainframe computers. With the advent of personal computers, computers that once could fill the size of a room have been able to be reduced in size to fit within a single desktop device. However, desktop computers, which require a large tower to house the processing components, a monitor, and a keyboard, are not suitable for being carried from place to place. In contrast, laptop computers are designed to contain the processing capabilities of a computer, monitor, and keyboard within a smaller unitary package, in order to allow transport from place to place. However, laptop computers are still fairly large in size and also sacrifice quality as compared to desktop computers. Furthermore, desktop, laptop and mainframe computers are also susceptible to data corruption from viruses or worms, and also to data theft by hackers. While computers need to be immune to these threats, they also need to be portable.

2/37 and convenient to use easily almost anywhere.

[003] There is a need for a computing system that is portable, can be used in a number of different applications, and protects sensitive information. The present invention provides a computing system that meets these needs and provides additional advantages.

SUMMARY

[004] The present invention comprises, in an exemplary embodiment, a portable computer sized to be held in the hand and a computing system comprised of at least one portable computer and at least one reader configured to interact with the portable computers. The portable computer has all the components of a fully functional, general purpose conventional computer. The portable computer is small in size. In one embodiment, it is the size of a credit card. In other embodiments, it is the size of multiple credit cards stacked on top of each other. In still other embodiments, it is housed in a case measuring approximately 85 mm by 55 mm by 5 mm. The above dimensions allow the portable computer to be easily carried in a wallet or pocket. Several embodiments provide the versatility of a Pocket PC with the advantages and capabilities of a traditional computer. For example, the laptop computer is easily portable and the laptop reader provides the use of a full-size computer with a full-size screen, desktop, etc.

[005] In certain embodiments, the portable computer is operable only when used with a reader. The portable computer's reader provides the means for a user to interact with the portable computer and programs therein; for example, the portable computer's reader may comprise a monitor and/or a keyboard. In essence,

3/37 The laptop reader is a wrapper that does not function when not connected to the laptop. However, once the laptop is connected to the laptop reader, the laptop and the laptop reader create a fully operational computing system. The laptop thus acts as the brain and the laptop reader operates as the body that will perform the functions, however, without the brain, the body does not function like this.

[006] When a user is finished computing, he or she simply removes the laptop and can take it with them. Because the laptop's reader is a wrapper, none of the user's information is left behind. All downloaded files, cookies, keystrokes, etc. remain with the laptop. Thus, several embodiments do not make any information, including sensitive information, available to subsequent users of the laptop reader. Furthermore, there is virtually no danger that the laptop reader could be infected by a computer virus for this very reason, since there is no ability for the laptop reader to retain any data from a previous person's usage. As a result, applications for the laptop are almost limitless where security and privacy of content is a concern, and where there may be concern of corruption by viruses or moths. For example, applications include, but are not limited to, hotels, internet cafes or other public places such as libraries or universities, etc.

[007] The portable computer comprises additional levels of security. For example, in one embodiment, the printed circuit board components of the computer are coated with a coating. The coating may be made of fragile components, leading

4/37 to break when tampered with. The coating may make the components sticky, making it extremely difficult to remove them from the PCB. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the PCB and other components of the portable computer are encased within a rigid enclosure. Finally, the portable computer may comprise an RFID tag configured to interact with an RFID reader of the computing system. The RFID reader and/or RFID tag produces a loud audible sound or triggers a silent alarm when the portable computer is moved to or located in an impermissible location, where an unauthorized user attempts to move the portable computer from a location containing multiple portable computer readers.

[008] Finally, in certain embodiments, the portable computer may comprise one or more flash memory devices or flash disks. A flash disk is a storage device that uses flash memory instead of conventional spinning platters to store data. The advantages of using flash memory or flash disks with the portable computer is that there is little lag time when booting, as is the case when booting conventional computers. Also, flash memory is non-volatile, meaning that it does not require power to maintain the information stored on the device. As a result, the laptop requires only low power for operation, which can be readily supplied by batteries or similar low-power sources, such as solar cells. Flash memory can also be tailored to provide as much storage capacity as may be desired depending on the particular application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[009] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a portable computer in accordance with the present invention.

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[0010] Figure 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a portable computer in accordance with the present invention.

[0011] Figure 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a portable computer in accordance with the present invention.

[0012] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a computing system in accordance with the present invention.

[0013] Figure 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a computing system in accordance with the present invention.

[0014] Figure 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a computing system in accordance with the present invention.

[0015] Figure 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a computing system in accordance with the present invention.

[0016] Figure 8 is a perspective view of various embodiments of a portable computer reader in accordance with the present invention.

[0017] Figure 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a portable computer in accordance with the present invention.

[0018] Figure 10 is an exploded view of the laptop computer shown in Figure 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The following embodiments of the invention may be implemented using hardware and software or any combination thereof when desired. Various embodiments may also be implemented using commercially available technology.

[0020] The invention comprises in various embodiments a portable computer which may be referred to as a Pocket PC. The invention also comprises a computing system having at least one portable computer and one or more portable computer readers. Versions of the portable computer, computing system and methods of using the same are shown and described in the application

6/37 pending n2 Applicant's serial number 12/099.000, which is incorporated by reference. The versions of the computer readers and method of using them are described in copending application No.2 Applicant's serial number 12/099,032, which is also incorporated by reference. Copending patent application No.2Applicant's patent application Serial No. 10/461,303, which is incorporated by reference, also describes various embodiments of a portable computer, computing system, and method.

[0021] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, in an exemplary embodiment, the portable computer comprises a card, preferably the size of a credit card so as to be easily carried in a pocket or wallet. The portable computer reader, shown in FIGS. 4-7, comprises a reader, which is described in more detail below. Laptop readers may comprise a main docking station which is a desktop and monitor for the computer, telephone or mobile phone. Any of the laptop readers may also include a card reader and/or a biometric reader, as described in more detail below.

[0022] In one embodiment, the laptop computer is hand-held, removable, and portable. As provided above, the computer may be a card. As shown in Figure 1 in one embodiment (Laptop Computer 'A'), the computer is a card with a CPU, reader contacts, and memory. As shown in Figure 3 (Laptop Computer 'C'), in another embodiment, the computer may comprise only a memory and reader contacts. All the components shown in Figures 1 and 3 may be on a surface of the card, preferably embedded in it, or they may be internal to the card. The cards have embedded integrated circuits that can process information. This implies that the computer can receive input that is processed - through the application of ICC - and

7/37 released as an exit.

[0023] The card may be of any desired size and thickness, which may also be attributed to desired capabilities and technologies used, such as memory/storage requirements. Dimensions are typically the size of a credit card. The card may meet the ID-1 standard of ISO/IEC 7810, which defines the card size as 85.60 cm x 53.98 cm. Thus, the card is generally no larger than approximately 90 mm by 60 mm and no larger than approximately 80 mm in thickness. The card may be of other different sizes, such as ID-000 which is 25 x 15 mm. The card may be 0.76 mm thick. The card may also have at least one means for attaching the card to a lanyard, chain, string, etc. for ease of carrying. Such means may be a hole or aperture in the card or a hook or fastener attached to the card.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2 (Dual Layer Laptop Computer 'B'), in one embodiment, the computer comprises at least two connected cards. Preferably, the cards are stacked on top of each other, but may be connected in other ways. The cards may be credit card sized, as described above. The cards may be stacked directly on top of each other or there may be a space between that may hold the computing components. The top card may comprise a controller, CPU and GPS and a female connector on one edge. It may also comprise additional elements such as a GPS chip, processor, RFID cryptographic memory, logic element, specialized reader contact, controller, microprocessor, and means for interacting with handheld readers, such as pins, USB, etc. The bottom card may comprise all the memory. It could be understood that the card may comprise elements

8/37 other than those shown. In another embodiment, shown in Figures 9 and 10, the portable computer contains its computing components within a housing such that the physical components are not readily removable from the portable computer. In this embodiment, the computer is preferably a rectangular box or prism, but may take other shapes. The portable computer may take other forms larger or smaller than a credit card, for example, a compact disk, cellular phone, PDA, smartphone, etc. Each card may also have at least one means for attaching the card to a lanyard, chain, string, etc. for ease of carrying. Such a means may be a hole or opening in the case of a hook or fastener attached to the card.

[0025] Regardless of the form of the computer, in the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2, the portable computer may contain all the components of a fully functional general purpose conventional computer, but is generally without means for interacting with the computer, as described below. General purpose computer means that the computer contains enough hardware and software to enable a user to do many different things with the computer such as typing documents, sending e-mail, surfing the Internet and playing games. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the portable computer comprises only a memory and ISO 7816 reader contacts for connecting portable computer readers.

[0026] As shown, at least the components of the portable computer include a main or primary memory, and a connector for connecting to a reader. The connector may be a female connector for receiving pins. The connector may be comprised of a grid of conductive targets on a printed circuit board (see, for example, Figures 9 and 10). The targets may be coated with a non-corrosive laminate to prevent excessive wear on the targets.

9/37 targets repeated contact with the reader connector. The reader may comprise the connector body so that the laptop computer only needs to comprise a pattern of laminated copper pads to complete the electrical connection to the reader. The laptop connector may be laminated with gold.

[0027] As provided above, the portable computer may comprise at least one storage component such as memory. Two classes of solid state memory (i.e., hard disk type storage) may be available. The memory may be a multi-level cell and a single-level cell. The storage component may also be volatile memory. The volatile memory may be dynamic random access memory. The dynamic random access memory may be DDR2. DDR2 memory may support processor speeds of 400 MHz and 533 MHz. In one embodiment, the laptop computer comprises both volatile state and solid state memory.

[0028] A controller may be incorporated into the portable computer to increase transfer rate. The portable computer may also comprise dynamic memory. A central processing unit (CPU) may be present in the portable computer card or reader. For example, where minimal processing capabilities may be required, the CPU may be readily accommodated within the computer card. Furthermore, in embodiments where significant processing capabilities are desired, a large-sized CPU may be preferred, which may be easier to accommodate by locating the CPU in the portable computer reader, such as in the keyboard and/or monitor. Alternatively, the CPU may be located in the computer reader, as described below.

[0029] The CPU is preferably a microprocessor as is known in the art. The CPU is preferably designed for portability.

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As such, it may feature a speed of 800 MHz so that it uses less power, for example 0.65 watts, and is designed to operate without active cooling such as a fan. Such a processor may be an INTEL® ATOM processor. The ATOM processor used may be the Z500, Z510, Z520, Z530, and Z540 and subsequent versions. The processor may be available in a 441-pin FCBGA package. The processor may be available in bare die form and packaged as a flip chip. The combined die-solder package will reduce the processor height to 0.48 mm. A System Controller Cable may be available in a 1249-pin flip chip ball grid array (FCBFA) package with a height of 2.1 mm. Reducing the package to a bare die leaves a vertical height of 0.9 mm. Main memory is accessible to the CPU. In one embodiment, there are tiers of storage and primary storage is accessible only to the CPU. Primary storage may include processor registers and storage, ROM, as well as BIOS, RAM, magnetic or optical storage. Primary memory may be volatile or non-volatile. The laptop may also have non-volatile, read-write, secondary storage, which may not be readable by the CPU. Secondary storage may comprise a hard disk or optical storage devices such as CD and DVD discs, flash memory (e.g. stickers or USB keys), floppy disks, magnetic tape, paper tape, stand-alone RAM disks, and ZIP disks. Preferably, the storage is formatted according to a file system format. Where the portable computer is desired to be particularly small, it may not contain a hard disk. More precisely, it can contain only ROM and/or RAM, where RAM can be a flash disk.

[0030] Loaded into memory, preferably RAM, is software that runs on the central processing unit.

11/37 trai. Such software may include application software such as word processors, systems software such as operating systems that interface with hardware to provide services needed by application software, and middleware that controls and coordinates distributed systems. Applications may also include control applications. Control applications enable the handheld computer to generate control signals interpretable by the handheld reader, which is explained in more detail below. Control applications can generate a user interface over a display on the handheld reader and receive user inputs into the handheld reader through the input/output devices on the handheld reader, which are shown in Figures 4-7 and described below. Control applications translate user inputs into control signals provided to the handheld reader.

[0031] The system software may include device drivers, diagnostic tools, servers, windowing systems, and utilities. In one embodiment, the portable computer comprises the hardware necessary to execute the aforementioned software. In other embodiments, this hardware is a part of the portable computer reader. Application software may include business software, educational software, medical software, databases, word processing software, and computer games. The software includes an operating system such as Microsoft Windows® or Windows Mobile, NetBSD, Mac OS X, Linux, Palm OS, or Windows Mobile. Where the processor is an ATOM™ processor, the laptop may support Mac OS X. The operating system may be capable of using the TCP/IP networking protocols, have a graphical user interface, and device drivers. The operating system may be installed on the laptop by the manufacturer or downloaded by the user.

12/37 Synchronization can be performed using the operating system's built-in tools. This will transfer user parameters, data files, email settings, etc. to the laptop. The capacity and speed of each core unit can be made compatible with state-of-the-art computer science as well as with the casings used.

[0032] The portable computer may also comprise, but is not limited to, various activation means, a video video controller, SCSI controller, video card, a graphics processing unit, graphics cards, sound cards, sound interface such as an AC97 interface, means for producing sound, input/output controller means, PCMCIA controller, a graphics controller and a series of controllers, a power supply, which may include an electrical transformer that regulates the electricity used by the computer and a means for communicating with external sources of data and information. Preferably, the aforementioned components (CPU, RAM, hard drives, etc.) are attached to a motherboard. The motherboard or circuit board may be a printed circuit board comprising a plurality of stackups. In one embodiment, the printed circuit board is an 8-layer stackup. The PCB may be 0.075 mm wide. The optimum tracking impedance for high-speed tracking; for example, memory and front-side bus, USB, LVDS, etc. is 50 Ω to 100 Ω. With a layer thickness of 0.11 mm, the total stackup thickness of the laptop may be 0.77 mm. The motherboard may also include a PCI or planar device for attaching peripheral devices to the motherboard or devices located on or in the laptop drive. All of the above mentioned components (CPU, RAM, hard drives, etc.) can be attached to the motherboard. The motherboard can be inside the laptop or it can be

13/37 inside the laptop reader.

[0033] The portable computer may also comprise a GPS chip, a specialized reader contact, a logic element, a smart card device, and/or RFID cryptographic memory. The specialized reader contact is the interface to specialized readers for door/card readings. It may utilize ISO-7816 standard locations for the interface to the single chip smart card microprocessor, and AFNOR standard locations for the interface to the logic element. The logic element acts as the card's policeman. It directs the message traffic and interrogates the readers and secure keys to allow access to the data stored in the flash memory. This device can interact with the smart card chip and the GPS device over the SPI communication links. Only if the correct security is achieved will access to the data be permitted. The RFID cryptographic memory may comprise a contactless EFDI complying with ISO 14443. This allows expanded use of the card in proximity ID applications. For example, the handheld computer can communicate with the reader in a contactless mode via RFID. The subsystem is powered in the presence of an ISO 14443-compliant reader (or, the handheld computer reader could be such a reader). Limited duplicate data is stored in encrypted form in CryptoRF memory for access by RFID systems employing the standard protocol. The smart card device is a secure microcontroller specifically designed for the existing smart card market, as produced by ATMEL. The device runs specific application software that enables control of smart cards, javacards, and secure partition control.

[0034] To provide an appropriate fast boot scenario; e.g., 15 second boot time, the computer

14/37 A laptop may use a technique to speed up boot time. When instructed to shut down, the laptop may save the contents of its volatile memory to flash in a hibernation process. This process is supported on Windows operating systems, for example. To restart, the laptop needs only to reload the contents of its memory; a process that usually takes less than 10 seconds.

[0035] Any version of the portable computer may be fitted into a housing. Figures 9 and 10 show an embodiment of the portable computer 10 comprised of a printed circuit board 12 having an eight-stack configuration (8). Although an eight-stack configuration is shown, more or fewer stacks may be used. The portable computer is fitted into a rigid housing 14. As shown in Figure 10, the rigid housing 14 sandwiches the printed circuit board 12 and the electronic components within two housing portions 16, 18. As explained above, the printed circuit board (or any portion thereof) may be coated with at least one coating 24, which is shown in Figure 10. The housing portions 16, 18 may be comprised of virtually any rigid material. The housing portions 16, 18 may be thermally conductive. In one embodiment, the housing portions 16, 18 are metal. The housing portions 16, 18 are attached to form a version of the portable computer, which is shown in FIG. 9. As shown in FIG. 9, at least one of the housing portions 16, 18 may have at least one opening or window 20. This opening or window 20 exposes electrical connectors 22 of the portable computer 10, which allows the portable computer 10 to be connected to and interact with at least one reader (not shown). These connectors may be a grid of conductive targets. In the version of the notebook computer shown in Figure 9, the opening 20 is in the

15/37 top of housing 16, however it may be on the bottom of housing 18, on one side, etc. The housing may also have at least one means for attaching the housing to a lanyard, chain, rope, etc. for ease of carrying. Such a means may be a hole or opening in the housing or a hook or fastener attached to the housing. The enclosed portable computer 10 has length L1, width W1 and height H1. L1 may be 50 mm to 200 mm. W1 can be 25mm to 100mm and H1 can be 1mm to 20mm. In one version, L1 is 80mm, W1 is 50mm and H1 is 4.5mm. L1 can be 82.55mm. W1 can be 51.52mm and H1 can be 4.41mm.

[0036] The embedded integrated circuits and other electronic components in any version of the portable computer may be coated with the at least one coating. The coating would at least substantially cover the entire integrated circuits (or any single integrated circuit or portion thereof) and may be applied to both sides of the printed circuit board or multiple sides comprising the integrated circuits and chips. Coating is a material that protects integrated circuits from damage; for example, from water damage or from physical contact with objects that can damage the circuits. The coating should protect the electronic assembly or integrated circuit from damage due to contamination, moisture, fungus, dust, and corrosion caused by harsh or extreme environments, etc. The coating material should also protect the integrity of the integrated circuit components (i.e., from tampering or improper access to stored data); for example, by preventing or deterring reverse engineering or removal of any components of the circuit. In particular, an epoxy coating may render integrated circuit components or electrical equipment fragile so that any attempt to remove or tamper with the components could cause them to break or break.

16/37 the coated components. A laminated material can also be used.

[0037] The coating material should also protect the portable computer from damage by rough handling, installation, or mechanical or thermal stress reduction. The coating may be a protective non-conductive dielectric layer that is applied over the printed circuit board assembly. The coating may be substantially clear or may be substantially or partially opaque. The coating may be rigid or may have a slightly rubbery or rubbery texture. The coating may provide at least some thermal conductivity from the integrated circuits or electronic components. Where the coating is electrically insulating, thermally conductive elements such as metals or semiconductors may be included in the coatings to dissipate thermal energy. In addition, channels, openings, holes, etc. in the coatings may be provided to dissipate heat. Coatings that may be suitable include silicone, epoxy, acrylic, urethane, and Paraxylene, as examples. When an epoxy coating is used, the coating can disperse heat generated by the processor to thermally conductive housing parts, where the heat can be dissipated through a chimney in the housing. Thus, in one embodiment, an epoxy casing and a thermally conductive, e.g., metal, casing provide protection from and dissipation of heat from the laptop computer.

[0038] In addition, any version of the laptop may include security information in the software. The security information allows only authorized users to access certain information on the computer. The access information may include personal identification numbers, security questions, passwords, etc. The laptop may also contain biometric information.

17/37 stored or baseline information such as height, weight, blood type, voice and retinal patterns, fingerprints, pulse rate, etc. The laptop or reader may comprise a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip, which will encrypt and encrypt both the data files and the software. The contents of the computer cannot be accessed without a user providing a combination of biometric information such as a fingerprint. Preferably, the laptop reader or computer could comprise means for reading the biometric information. Such means include, but are not limited to, a wrist reader, fingerprint reader, retinal scanner, voice recognition recorder, etc. For example, the system could include biometric mice as an input, which include a fingerprint reader integrated into both the receiver and the mouse. Such biometric information, readers, storage media, etc. are described in US patent application No.2 11/054.519 of the applicant, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0039] The portable computer may also contain at least one sensor configured to detect the location of the portable computer and when the portable computer has left a specified area. The sensor may be embedded or otherwise attached to the epoxy, or provided at any other desired location in/on the portable computer. In particular, the sensor may be configured to track the position of the portable computer within a designated area. Such a sensor may cooperate with a tracking device. For example, the sensor may contain at least two parts. One is an integrated circuit for storing and processing information, modulating and demodulating a signal, for example a radio frequency signal, and other specialized functions. The second is an antenna for receiving and transmitting the signal. Such a sensor may be a radio frequency identification tag

18/37 (RFID) and the tracking device may be an RFID reader. The RFID tag may be active or passive. The RFID tag may contain identifying information such as the owner of the laptop, serial number of certain parts, etc. The RFID reader comprises a module (transmitter and receiver), a control unit and a coupling element (antenna). The RFID reader may be part of a laptop reader or may be positioned alone. Communication between the tag and reader can occur wirelessly. Additionally, either or both the tag and reader can emit an audible and/or visual signal, for example, when the tag is outside a specified range of the reader or when the tag is within a specified position relative to the reader. For example, if a user removes a laptop from a designated area, a loud beep may be emitted from the laptop.

[0040] In certain embodiments. The computer does not contain a means for a user to directly interact with the computer. In other embodiments, the computer contains a means for interacting with it. Directly interacting means that the user cannot access the software programs, hardware, or other functionality such as sounds, displays, etc., on the computer without a portable computer reader, which provides the means for accessing the computer, as described below.

[0041] As shown in Figures 4-7, such means for interacting with the computer may include a reader, which is preferably an input and output device. Such an input/output device may be, for example, a keyboard, a display, a mouse, a speaker, etc. In one embodiment, the portable computer reader only provides a means for a user to interact with or use the portable computer. The portable computer reader is a casing without the computer

19/37 portable and is therefore inoperable to perform computing functions without the laptop. Once the laptop is connected to the laptop reader, preferably in a plug-and-play fashion, the system becomes a fully functional conventional computer capable of any known computer operation. When the laptop is disconnected from the laptop reader, the laptop reader once again becomes a wrapper and the computer cannot be directly accessed unless reconnected to the laptop reader or a laptop reader.

[0042] As provided above, in one embodiment, the portable computer does not comprise a means for a user to directly interact with the contents of the computer. For example, as shown in Figures 1-3, the portable computer does not have a video or monitor, a keyboard or numeric keypad, voice input device, etc. Rather, such input devices are included in portable computer readers. In other embodiments, the computer may have such input/output devices. For example, in one embodiment, the laptop computer itself is a cell phone that can access the Internet via a wireless network.

[0043] The portable computer preferably also has means for connecting to any portable computer reader, meaning that it can be used virtually anywhere. Connecting refers to being attached to or in combination with the portable computer reader by being affixed to, stored within, or in operable communication with the portable computer reader. As shown in Figure 2, the female connector may include a uniquely configured universal connector laptop reader that mates with or fits against a power connector source or active media on any of the laptop readers in the system.

20/37 ma. As shown in Figures 4-6, the connection means may also include a wireless connection between the laptop and the laptop readers. Thus, the laptop may have a wireless transmitter and the laptop readers have a receiver, or vice versa. The universal connector may be a USB-type connector. Regardless of the connector form, the connector shall be configured to connect to each handheld computer reader in the system and provide full computing function once connected. The means for communication shall also provide for communication or transfer of information over a bus or in a wireless mode. Preferably, the computer and handheld computer reader shall support multiple wireless protocols including, but not limited to, WiFi, Bluetooth™, Wymax, etc. For example, a wireless chip(s) may be contained in the card and/or laptop reader to accommodate wireless communication with other devices or the Internet.

[0044] As provided above, and as shown in Figures 4-7, a computing system of the present embodiment also comprises at least one portable computer and a plurality of portable computer readers. In one embodiment, these portable computer readers are located in multiple locations that are spread out from one another so that the user can take his or her computer with him or her and use it in remote locations. For example, laptop readers may include readers located in central locations for access by numerous users, such as those located in computer centers, libraries, universities, Internet cafes, and/or hotels, as examples. The primary function of the laptop reader is to allow a user to interact with the laptop. In one embodiment, the handheld computer reader is the only device that will allow the user to interact with the computer, which

21/37 provides additional security. In other embodiments, the reader is configured to interact with portable computers other than those in the system.

[0045] As shown in Figures 4-7, generally, the handheld computer reader comprises a housing; in various embodiments, the housing may be an input/output device in and of itself. However, in other embodiments, the housing may be positioned alone - i.e., a reader, which needs to be connected to an input/output device. The laptop reader housing may be a component of a conventional desktop or laptop computer, such as a keyboard, monitor, tower, mouse, etc. Additionally, the housing may comprise operating system support for dynamic hardware components and use an undock command to release triggers, which are no longer needed once the laptop has been detached from a reader. Similarly, the laptop can execute an undock command before entering hibernation - that is, when shutting down and in the process of being removed from a reader.

[0046] The housing may comprise a power supply, Ethernet port, or WiFi and USB ports. In particular, the housing or readers may comprise at least one power generation unit with power generation components. The power supply unit may be configured to convert 100-120 V AC power from the main parts into low voltage DC power useful for the internal components of the computer. The power generation unit may conform to the ATX form factor. The power generation unit may be configured to turn on and off using a signal from the motherboard, and to provide support for modern functions such as standby mode. The power generation unit may comprise a power connector of the

22/37

Main PC to supply power to the motherboard. The power generation unit may also comprise at least one 4-pin ATX12V power connector leading from the motherboard to supply dedicated power to a processor. The power generation unit may also have peripheral power connectors. The power supply unit may also have auxiliary power connectors such as Serial ATA power connectors: a 5-pin connector for components using SATA power sockets, which can supply power at three different voltages: +3.3, +5, and +12 turns; and a 6-pin connector - most modern computer power supplies include 6-pin connectors that are typically used for PCI Express graphics cards. The readers may comprise at least one electrical interface for transmitting power to at least one portable computer, and the portable computer may comprise an electrical interface for receiving power from the at least one reader. The electrical interface of the portable computer may be a plurality of gold plated paddles, and the electrical interface of the reader may be a plurality of pins. The electrical interface from the laptop to the reader should provide both high-current power connections as well as high-speed data connections. The connector is designed to withstand at least 10,000 connect/disconnect cycles. The connector may be a SAMTEC™ GFZ style connector, which may have 100-900 pins. The connector body can be connected to the reader on which the laptop connector would need only a pattern of copper spades coated with gold plates.

[0047] Optional items such as CD/DVD/BlueRay™ players may be implemented as a USB peripheral or integrated using a high-speed Serial ATA (SATA) interface. In other embodiments, the housing is connected to an input device

23/37 of/output. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the reader comprises substantially all the elements of a conventional desktop computer such as a keyboard, mouse, video, etc., a video or monitor, a keyboard and a mouse. As shown, it preferably does not have a structure that would typically house a hard drive because the reader is preferably an enclosure without the portable computer. In other words, it does not contain the inner workings of a traditional desktop computer, but contains the unique configuration of the readers of the present invention that allow the readers to interact with the computer but become a wrapper without the computer. The keyboard and display may be connected by any means known in the art, including a serial bus or wirelessly, e.g., Bluetooth. The mouse can be connected by any means, including a USB connection. When the reader is a portable computer, such as a laptop, the laptop and reader may comprise a powerful notebook computer that has a faster CPU and where the reader connects to the laptop computer via a SATA interface.

[0048] As also shown in Figures 4 and 5, handheld computer readers may include a PDA, a cellular phone, or a local area network (LAN) phone. Where the reader is a cellular phone, the card itself has a SIM card so that a user can download information such as telephone numbers to the computer. When the reader is a cellular phone, PDA, etc. it may include a custom application providing the phone interface that supports SMS and MMS call transactions. In addition, special drivers may be included to adapt Windows to the small, low-resolution screens of some handheld devices. The reader may also be WiFi-enabled. In addition, the reader may have a SIM card that can become a phone. In this embodiment, the device

24/37 Input devices are the keyboard, mouse or touch screen of PDA or PDA keyboard or phones. Output devices are the various video displays, speakers, etc.

[0049] In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the reader appears as a traditional laptop-type computer. The input device is the keyboard and the output devices are the video, speakers, etc. It is noted that the structure supporting the keyboard in one embodiment does not contain internal functionalities of a conventional laptop, but contains the unique configuration of the readers of the present invention that allow the reader to interact with the computer, but becomes a casing without the computer.

[0050] In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the reader is a touch screen, video or television. Thus, the screen may be the input or output device. Another input/output device may be a microphone. Readers may comprise additional input/output devices such as printers, optical disks, speakers, voice recognition hardware, etc. It could be understood that the reader could take any number of different forms, for example, it could be a casing for a CD or DVD player, radio, etc. In other embodiments, a display could be eliminated if desired, depending on the application and/or other input devices that could be used instead of a keyboard, such as a touch screen, voice activated input, etc. The portable computer reader could also be relatively stationary or portable, as may be desired.

[0051] In another embodiment (not shown), the reader may be a stand-alone reader. The reader may include at least one connector for connecting to a separate input and output device. Such a connector may be a USB or SATA connector. The stand-alone reader also includes a power supply as well as a biometric scanner. The stand-alone reader may also

25/37 can understand VGA, DVI and/or S-video formats.

[0052] The readers may comprise at least one connector for attaching the laptop computer to the reader. In one embodiment, the connector is attached to the housing of the laptop computer readers. In the embodiments shown in Figures 4-7, the connector is within a slot or hole for receiving the laptop computer. The slot may be located anywhere on the reader, for example, on the keyboard, as shown in Figure 4, or on the monitor, as shown in Figure 5. The laptop reader connector is configured to mate with any of the above-mentioned universal connectors on the laptop computer. The connector may include a bus as is known in the art.

[0053] In the embodiments shown in Figures 4-6, the laptop reader (generally, card B) uses a wireless connection to connect to the laptop, such as Ethernet or FireWire. The wireless connection may include modems and network cards. These devices may also allow the laptop to interact with other laptops. The laptop reader is configured to send input and output from the operating system on the laptop. In addition to the above connection, the laptop has means to interact and communicate with the laptop reader.

[0054] As shown in Figures 4-6, the reader may include a biometric scanner or reader. Such a scanner may include a wrist reader, fingerprint scanner, retinal scanner, voice recognition recorder, etc. The system may include biometric mice as an input, which include a fingerprint reader integrated into the receiver or mouse. Such biometric information, readers, storage media, etc. are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No.2 11/054.519 of the applicant, the contents of which are incorpo

26/37 hereby referenced. In addition, the laptop may include security information in the software. The security information allows only authorized users to access certain information on the computer. The access information may include personal identification numbers, security questions, passwords, etc. The laptop may also contain stored or baseline biometric information such as height, weight, blood type, voice and retina patterns, fingerprints, pulse rate, etc. In addition, each laptop may be connected to a biometric fingerprint scanner, which identifies a given user as the owner of the laptop. Thus, the fingerprint scanner can identify whether the user is the licensee who purchased the laptop.

[0055] As shown in Figure 8, portable computer readers preferably have a main circuit board, at least a GPS chip, graphics processor, CPU, biometric chip, and an I/O chip. Internally, the portable computer reader housing may also include a heat sink/fan, video cards, PCI buses, etc. The housing may also include external bus controllers for connecting to external peripherals, speakers, etc. In one embodiment, the portable computer reader supplies power and connections to the portable computer and peripherals. However, in other embodiments, the portable computer reader does not supply power. Rather, power is supplied by batteries or another power source, such as a solar cell, attached to or provided within the portable computer.

[0056] The handheld computer reader may contain an AC or DC power supply and a controller interfaced with the handheld computer. Furthermore, location tracking may also be incorporated into the total system where desired. For example, the reader

27/37 may be equipped with the required RF front end and conversion needed to support a single-chip receiver and a global positioning system (GPS) in the notebook computer. An RF feed may be used when the device contained on the card, such as an onboard processor, cannot receive power from an onboard antenna. In one embodiment, when connected to a playback/sending unit, an electrical path is created that connects the antenna on the card's playback/sending unit to the single-chip GPS solution. Power is then applied across the playback/sending unit. By initiating a delay time required for the GPS signal to be processed, time and location information is available. This time and location information can also be used to time-stamp each transaction on the digital ID card. Furthermore, the playback/sending unit can also contain a biometric fingerprint reader that allows the user to be matched to the biometric information stored on the card. Only a correct match will allow access to the data on the computer.

[0057] In one embodiment, the portable computer reader is not completely a wrapper without the portable computer, but includes storage with software loaded thereon for searching for a portable computer. Thus, after a device is inserted into the portable computer reader, the system will automatically search for a portable computer. Once the portable computer reader finds the portable computer, it substantially immediately executes the computer's programs. In other words, the computer does not need to boot before it is operational. More accurately, the laptop is ready to work immediately similar to a digital camera. As stated above, laptop readers are either inert or in a casing like a computing device.

28/37 general tion until the portable computer is connected thereto. The portable computer may be arranged in certain embodiments so that it does not function and is not activated separately from the reader because the portable computer has all the components of a conventional computer, except possibly a video and an input source, such as a keyboard/numeric keypad, and may also include at least one connector for a direct power connection, and a communication bus. In these embodiments, the reader may comprise a CPU, a graphics processor and a GPS device, a sound card, a heat sink, storage, circuit board, etc.

[0058] In another embodiment, the portable computer is a card reader and the portable computer reader is a card reader as described in prior patent application No.2 Applicant's serial number 10/461,303 ('303 application). The card may be of any size and thickness, which may also be attributed to the desired features and technologies used, such as memory/storage requirements. As noted above, in certain embodiments. The card is preferably the size of a conventional credit card for ease of transport. Furthermore, the storage capacities of the card may range according to the particular application for the laptop. Current technologies could readily accommodate over a gigabyte on the card and it is anticipated that a terabyte or more could also be present on the card. The card and reader may communicate using any of the means described above, such as over a cellular network. For example, the card and/or reader may incorporate the required components needed to communicate over a cellular network. Alternatively, the card and/or reader may be connected to a cellular phone via either a hard-wired connection or a wireless connection.

29/37 The card-enabled mobile phone can then be used for full general computing functions such as accessing the Internet, e-mail, text editing, etc. In this embodiment, the card and reader together comprise all the elements of a fully functional, general purpose computer. In another embodiment, the card can be used in a card reader, which has a built-in camera. The reader, along with the card, is capable of accessing the Internet to download music, movies, television shows, etc. The reader may also include a GPS system and biometric scanners or readers. When the reader includes a biometric reader, it sends the biometric data to the laptop for further processing and comparison. Ideally, the card has software that stops the downloaded programs and thus renders them useless after a certain period of time. For example, a user may be able to download a movie and then have a certain amount of time to watch the movie. Once this time expires, or when the user has watched the movie, it will be automatically deleted from the card, reader or phone. In another embodiment, the user is able to download prepaid calling minutes from the system. Similarly, the system is able to automatically delete any downloaded items if the user violates the pre-set terms.

[0059] In one embodiment, the computer and the portable computer reader form a memory device, such as the identification card described in U.S. Pat.2 Applicant's US Patent 7,139,914 ('914 patent) and '303 application, which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. A separate reader, such as those described in the '914 patent and '303 application, may be used to read information on the identification card. For example, the laptop computer may have electronic files that store personal and biometric information. The reader is configured to read the biometric information stored on the laptop computer. The laptop can also buy

30/37 ender a GPS system or location system that can communicate wirelessly with a reader in the form of a scanner when the card is brought into proximity of the scanner, as described in the '914 patent and '303 application. Information can also be transferred from the identification card (laptop computer and laptop computer reader), as described in the '914 patent and '303 application.

[0060] In another embodiment, once the laptop computer is connected to the laptop reader, the system can become a personal digital voice recorder for people, including but not limited to medical patients and children. In this embodiment, the recorder stores the voice data in real time, such as in a non-volatile memory. Recording can begin at any desired time, such as by a relative using the playback/send unit. The recorder can then be attached to a user, such as a child or patient, and all sound in the vicinity of the child or patient is recorded until either a low power condition or a full memory condition is reached. The memory can be expanded according to the amount of time and fidelity of recording desired by the parent or authorized maintenance person.

[0061] In another embodiment, once the laptop is connected to the laptop reader, the system becomes an automated voice notebook, such as for healthcare professionals on patrol as one example. Similar uses, such as by building, maintenance or security inspectors and military personnel, as one example, are also anticipated. In this embodiment, memory, such as non-volatile, non-removable memory such as flash memory, may be used to store encrypted digital data in the recording unit. A small cell may be used in this unit and keep the size and weight to a minimum. A real-time clock may be embedded in the recording unit to be used for

31/37 to time the recorded voice segments. The recording unit may have a connector, such as along its bottom surface, that interfaces with a separate playback unit, such as when the recording unit is inserted into a recessed opening in its top surface. The playback unit includes conventional features such as a speaker, play button, volume control, and forward/reverse switching for navigating the data. Both the recording unit and the playback unit may also have identifying features, such as combinations of bar codes and their housings, which can be used to identify the individual units in the event of loss or to confirm identity.

[0062] In another embodiment, the portable computer may operate as a backup system to a conventional computer. For example, the portable computer may be connected via a portable computer reader or other wired or wireless connector, such as a USB or FireWire port, to the conventional computer in order to load data or other information stored on the conventional computer. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the portable computer may operate as the computing system when connected to a portable computer reader, such as an enclosure comprising a monitor and a keyboard. In still other embodiments, the portable computer may be switched as desired between operating as a backup system or as a primary computing system, as described above. Furthermore, in these and other embodiments, information stored on the laptop computer may be downloaded to another computing system where desired when connected to the laptop computer, such as through the USB or FireWire port described above, or any other wired or wireless means. [0063] In operating one embodiment, the user connects a

32/37 card reader/writer into your home or office computer. This is a fully functional computer as known in the art. The user then inserts a blank or new laptop computer (e.g., Computer A, B or C) into the card reader/writer. Through the application software, the user is then prompted to download virtually all of the information from the home or office computer onto the laptop. This includes all programs, operating system, etc. The user is then prompted to provide biometric identification information such as a fingerprint or retinal scan. This baseline information is stored in the laptop's memory as only a user with a combination of such information can interact with the laptop. A user is then able to remove the laptop and lift it with them. The user can then connect the laptop to the laptop reader, which as provided above is a wrapper until the laptop is connected. Once the laptop is connected to the laptop reader, the reader automatically searches for the computer. Once it finds the computer, the user needs to log-on by entering biometric information. If the information matches, the user is able to interact with the laptop. Thus, the present invention allows the user to safely use his computer virtually anywhere.

[0064] The present system provides many advantages. First, because the portable computer is capable of being operated on almost any portable computer reader, it allows the user to carry essentially an entire computer easily for use anywhere. For example, the portable computer can be the size of a credit card, so as to be easily carried in a pocket or wallet of its user. And, as provided, the

33/37 portable computer is capable of performing virtually any computing function once connected to the portable computer reader. Thus, the various embodiments of the present invention do not rely on a chassis for computing functions such as data retrieval, operating software application, and video interface software. Rather, all of these functions and applications are contained within the portable computer. Examples of the present invention contain all of the storage, processing, video interface and software in the portable computer that allows it to be used with just the housing without concern for the operating software version, application software or video configuration. A user can easily carry the portable computer, place it in or attach it to a portable computer reader, and then operate the computer as is known in the art. This may include accessing the Internet, e-mail, drafting and saving documents, sending and receiving all types of data including photographs, video and text, etc. For example, the laptop reader may include the software and hardware required to access the Internet, such as a modem and Internet Protocol (IP) address. In other embodiments, these devices may be provided on the laptop. An advantage of the various embodiments is that the hardware and software components that are required for conventional computer operation can be contained within the portable computer reader, which enables the portable computer to contain minimal components, which benefits in that the portable computer can be small in size, economical to produce, and durable. The laptop acts as the brain and the laptop reader operates as the body that will perform the functions. However, without the brain, the body will do nothing. When the user is done computing, he or she simply removes the laptop and can take the same

34/37 with it. Because the handheld computer reader is a wrapper, none of the user's information is left behind. Thus, various embodiments of the present invention do not make any information, including sensitive information, available to subsequent users of the wrapper computer. Furthermore, there is virtually no danger that the laptop reader could be affected by a computer virus for this very reason, since there is no ability for the laptop reader to retain any data from a person's previous use. As a result, the applications for the laptop are almost limitless where security and privacy of content is a concern, and where there may be concern about corruption by viruses or moths. For example, applications include, but are not limited to, hotels, internet cafes or other public places such as libraries or universities, etc. Furthermore, various embodiments of the present invention provide the portability of a Pocket PC with the advantages of a traditional computer. For example, the portable computer is easily portable and the portable computer reader provides the use of a full-featured computer such as a full-size screen, larger keyboard, etc. that are not available with traditional Pocket PC type computers. Finally, there is substantially no boot time with various embodiments of the present invention due to the arrangement and/or nature of the technology utilized. For example, in certain embodiments, the portable computer may comprise one or more flash memory devices or flash disks. A flash disk is a storage device that uses flash memory instead of spinning platters to store data. Flash disks tend to physically mimic conventional hard disks in performance. The motivation for calling it a disk comes from the fact that it is serving the purpose of a part that has traditionally been mechanically driven. The advantages of using flash memory or flash disks with a portable computer is that there is little lag time when booting, as is the case when booting conventional computers, whose drives take time and also several hardware and software components are inspected before the computers are capable of being operated by a user. Also, flash memory is non-volatile, meaning that it does not require power to maintain the information stored on the device, and as a result, the portable computer in many embodiments requires only low power for operation, which can be readily supplied by batteries or similar low-power sources, such as solar cells. Flash memory can also be tailored to provide as much storage capacity as may be desired depending on the particular application.

[0065] Furthermore, since various embodiments of the portable computer can be comprised of minimal components, since the portable computer reader could capture the remaining components, such as the monitor and keyboard of a computer with the above-referenced enclosure, the costs of the portable computer could be greatly reduced over the costs of conventional computing systems. Furthermore, the use of cost-effective technologies, such as flash memory, can further reduce the cost of the laptop. As a result, the laptop in some embodiments may be seen as a disposable device due to cost efficiencies. Also, the small size could result in the device being more environmentally friendly even if disposable as compared to conventional computers. In other embodiments, due to cost efficiencies, dealers can utilize laptops as promotional items, which are provided to

36/37 users at no cost, or provided to a user who may purchase a related product, such as operating system software, i.e., Windows, or for subscription to a designated service, such as an Internet service provider. In these embodiments, the portable computer reader, i.e., the monitor/keyboard or reader, may be supplied by the dealer for use with the portable computer or purchased by the user. Furthermore, in other examples, portable computers may be provided at no or minimal charge to students or employees, who may then be able to use the portable computer with portable computer readers located in designated areas provided by the school, university, business or government, as examples.

[0066] Among other features, the reader includes WiFi, Bluetooth, 3 USBs, Ethernet, HDMI, Audio I/O, and an optional HDD. It is 3G/4G (WiMax), CDMA and GSM ready as well.

[0067] Biodigital PC specifications (The Card). Includes among other parts Intel Atom Z550 CPU (2 GHz) with controller, 2 GB DRAM, SSD (32 GB to 128 GB). It is tailored to run Windows 7 and can also support any Linux-based OS.

[0068] Internet Television: At minimal cost, we are able to incorporate the reader circuit into a TV which will enable the TV to accept the Card creating a fully functional computer capable of connecting to the internet via WiFi or Ethernet connection allowing the user to surf the web, watch Internet TV or conduct Video over IP.

[0069] For Cable Box: The player can also be incorporated into a cable box to provide the same functionality listed above. External video to the player can be connected to a 2- (external HDMI to allow PIP viewing on the TV) or to the video circuitry of the TV box.

37/37 cable allowing the user to switch between cable television and the computer (Internet TV, Video over IP, etc.).

[0070] Camera: A camera may be built into or otherwise integrated into a television, cable box, reader, or other device that is in communication with any of the above components, to provide additional functionality for use with the Card. For example, the Card may be used for the purpose of providing access to and communication on the Internet or any other network, such as through an Internet television or cable TV set-top box described above, or using any other conventional communication devices and over any means, such as over cable, telephone lines, and/or any wireless networks, etc. The camera could be used for the purpose of viewing people situated in front of the camera and which could then be displayed either locally on the television or remotely on any other target television reachable on a network. This could be used, for example, as a type of video telephone for communicating with individuals who are in remote locations, or simply for use as a monitor for display on a local television. Using picture-in-picture or split-screen capability, it might be possible to display the image from the camera and one or more other items in different parts of the screen at the same time, such as broadcasts, Internet access, cable, video, teleprompter, etc.

[0071] Although the invention has been described in terms of exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Rather, the appended claims should be construed broadly to include other variants and embodiments of the invention that may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and range of equivalents of the invention.

Contents5

75 members in 9 offices

This recordMember, by publication datePriority claim

Priority claims9

Priority claims
Document	Office	Kind	Date
12402712	United States of America	–	2009-03-12
40271209	United States of America	A	2009-03-12
40271209	United States of America	A	2009-03-12
2010023126	United States of America	W	2010-02-04
2010023126	United States of America	W	2010-02-04
12402712	–	–	–
PCTUS2010023126	–	–	–
US20090402712	–	–	–
WO2010US23126	–	–	–

Members75

Family members, oldest first
Document	Office	Kind
US2004255127A1	United States of America	A1	2004-12-16
CA2529098A1	Canada	A1	2005-01-06
WO2005002105A1	World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)	A1	2005-01-06
US2005021983A1	United States of America	A1	2005-01-27
EP1636930A1	European Patent Office (EPO)	A1	2006-03-22
IL172497D0	Israel	D0	2006-04-10
EA200600020A1	Eurasian Patent Organization (EAPO)	A1	2006-06-30
US7139914B2	United States of America	B2	2006-11-21
JP2007505420A	Japan	A	2007-03-08
EA008879B1	Eurasian Patent Organization (EAPO)	B1	2007-08-31
US7472275B2	United States of America	B2	2008-12-30
US7516484B1	United States of America	B1	2009-04-07
US7533408B1	United States of America	B1	2009-05-12
US2009126009A1	United States of America	A1	2009-05-14
US2009200367A1	United States of America	A1	2009-08-13
CA2717989A1	Canada	A1	2009-08-20
WO2009102521A1	World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)	A1	2009-08-20
WO2009102523A1	World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)	A1	2009-08-20
EP1636930A4	European Patent Office (EPO)	A4	2010-04-07
CA2714951A1	Canada	A1	2010-09-16
WO2010104631A1	World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)	A1	2010-09-16
EP2255290A1	European Patent Office (EPO)	A1	2010-12-01
EP2260375A1	European Patent Office (EPO)	A1	2010-12-15
CN102007467A	China	A	2011-04-06
CN102007468A	China	A	2011-04-06
CN102007478A	China	A	2011-04-06
US2011240728A9	United States of America	A9	2011-10-06
US2011271312A1	United States of America	A1	2011-11-03
WO2012009419A2	World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)	A2	2012-01-19
US2012192265A1	United States of America	A1	2012-07-26
EP2260375A4	European Patent Office (EPO)	A4	2012-08-01
EP2594066A2	European Patent Office (EPO)	A2	2013-05-22
US2013308265A1	United States of America	A1	2013-11-21
CN103415846A	China	A	2013-11-27
WO2012009419A3	World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)	A3	2014-04-03
CN102007478B	China	B	2014-10-01
US8854831B2	United States of America	B2	2014-10-07
EP2594066A4	European Patent Office (EPO)	A4	2014-11-26
US2015026515A1	United States of America	A1	2015-01-22
US9010623B2	United States of America	B2	2015-04-21
US9010645B2	United States of America	B2	2015-04-21
US2015185772A1	United States of America	A1	2015-07-02
BRPI0908233A2	Brazil	A2	2015-07-21
US9141139B2	United States of America	B2	2015-09-22
US2015382498A1	United States of America	A1	2015-12-31
WO2016057166A1	World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)	A1	2016-04-14
BR112013001186A2	Brazil	A2	2016-05-31
US2017192928A1	United States of America	A1	2017-07-06
EP3271793A1	European Patent Office (EPO)	A1	2018-01-24
CA2998615A1	Canada	A1	2018-09-22
EP3379405A1	European Patent Office (EPO)	A1	2018-09-26
CN108628403A	China	A	2018-10-09
CN108628404A	China	A	2018-10-09
US10101769B2	United States of America	B2	2018-10-16
EP3271793A4	European Patent Office (EPO)	A4	2018-12-05
US2018348820A1	United States of America	A1	2018-12-06
CN109299031A	China	A	2019-02-01
BR102018005679A2	Brazil	A2	2019-02-12
US10235323B2	United States of America	B2	2019-03-19
US2019095374A1	United States of America	A1	2019-03-28
US2019294578A1	United States of America	A1	2019-09-26
US10429887B2	United States of America	B2	2019-10-01
US2020026328A1	United States of America	A1	2020-01-23
CN103415846B	China	B	2020-03-10
BRPI0908233B1	Brazil	B1	2020-03-17
US10628368B2	United States of America	B2	2020-04-21
US10638635B2	United States of America	B2	2020-04-28
US2020137916A1	United States of America	A1	2020-04-30
US10649491B2	United States of America	B2	2020-05-12
US10660232B1	United States of America	B1	2020-05-19
US2020226090A1	United States of America	A1	2020-07-16
BRPI1001237A2This record	Brazil	A2	2020-08-18
US11113228B2	United States of America	B2	2021-09-07
US11216403B2	United States of America	B2	2022-01-04
USRE49124E	United States of America	E	2022-07-05

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2021-11-23	Update of information on the portal [chapter 15.35 patent gazette]B350	B350
2020-12-22	Dismissal acc. art. 36, par 1 of ipl - no reply within 90 days to fullfil the necessary requirementsB11B	B11B
2020-09-08	Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]B06U	B06U
2020-09-01	Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]B06F	B06F