Apple wins patent detailing “desk-free” wireless computer with built-in projector

Apple has today been awarded a patent that describes a wireless “desk-free” computer with an integrated projector aimed to be extremely portable, with its only component being a computer housing. The patent, titled “Computer systems and methods with projected display,” was filed back in 2008, and details a computer housing with minimal wires, an advanced projection technology, and the ability to turn-off certain components based on the current usage requirements. Apple’s “smart projection” technology will perform certain image processing techniques on the input display data to adjust or correct color, brightness, or geometry artefacts generated due to the projection surface. It could also adjust the the size of icons and other graphics UI elements based on the distance or orientation of the projection surface relative to the viewer or to the computer. Another feature Apple describes is the computer’s ability to selectively turn on only those components that are required. For instance, when used as a media player, only the DVD drive and the projector would run, and all other components would be turned off. To reduce wires, the computer would have inductive charging or integrated batteries. Just like current desktop Macs, the computer detailed in this patent would also connect to a mouse and keyboard via Bluetooth. A previous Apple patent, filed a couple of years back, detailed a portable device with an integrated pico-projector. I’d like Apple to combine these two patent ideas, making an iPhone or an iPad that could also double up as a full-fledged personal computer. Since this a patent, it’s unlikely we’ll see this outside Apple’s lab anytime soon, but similar projects by other companies have failed. Let us know what you think of the idea described in the patent. [USPTO via Apple Insider] Continue reading →

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