Market Research and News. (2024). Rugged Portable Computer Market [2024-2031] Size, Analysis, and Outlook Insights.
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The rugged portable computer market was valued at 2.1 billion USD as of 2023 and is expected to be worth 3.1 billion by 2035. In particular, it identifies North America as a major growth region because of the various technological advancements and computing manufacturing giants located here. Panasonic, Dell, Getac, and Durabook are also recognized as the industry leaders. The idea of a rugged portable computer has grown thanks to an increase in applications, like military/defense, industrial, and public safety.
This article validates the demand for a rugged portable computer by showing that a market already exists and that it will continue to grow in the coming years. Additionally, it names companies that currently make products like our own, which provides us with a point of comparison for our design. However, because the market is already dominated by these companies, it could pose a challenge for new entrants. Additionally, it doesn’t mention our use case, maritime safety. Finally, the article doesn’t provide any specifics as to what the most popular kinds of rugged portable computers are, like handhelds or laptops.
Blickenstorfer, C. H. (2024). Case study: Computers in marine exploration - Handheld Algiz RT10 rugged Android tablet computer boosts productivity, data capture, and positioning on all-female marine expedition beyond the Arctic Circle.
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This article is about an expedition to Norway’s Arctic fjords in which a rugged computing device was used. The device in question was an Android tablet that was capable of withstanding the extreme cold and wetness of the arctic environment. They used it to capture data, photos, and videos, and compute marine data. If the computer hadn’t been designed to withstand harsh conditions, they wouldn’t have been able to document their data on the expedition.
This article validates our use case for the cyberdeck and provides an example of how useful it can be. Recording data is an important task that wouldn’t have been possible without the rugged computing device. Despite only focusing on one use case, this article validates the portability, durability, and resilience of a device like ours. The article was about a tablet, not a laptop, which has more mechanical parts, like hinges and keyboards, which can be damaged in a temperature extreme environment. Additionally, a tablet has a longer battery life, which is an issue we will have to overcome in our design when making the computer.
Business Research Insights. (n.d.). Rugged laptop computer market research report: Global forecast till 2031.
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This report is a combination of an analysis of the market, as well as a description of what a rugged portable computer is and what it can do. These devices combine the functionality of a laptop and a tablet while reinforcing the resistance to elements. They are constructed using a tough plastic casing, which is tested to withstand drops, shocks, extreme temperatures, dust, and water penetration. This is done by extending the battery life, isolating important components, and reinforcing the internal structure. It underscores the importance of having a rugged laptop in an extreme environment, or in a sector where reliability is key.
This analysis provides more insights into the rugged laptop sector and validates the demand for such a product. It also mentions the opportunities and setbacks that occurred during the pandemic, which provides more context for where the device could be used. Additionally, it mentions certain features that are common in these devices, which could help us implement them. Furthermore, it highlights that rugged computers are expensive, mainly due to their specially designed construction and extreme testing, which provides us with an opportunity to create a budget portable computer. However, the article refers not just to laptops, but to handhelds, like tablets, which could lead us to pursue the wrong market.
Patent Reviews
Patent Review: US9010623B2
Source: Arnouse, M. (2015). Portable computing system and portable computer for use with same (U.S. Patent No. US9010623B2). Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Summary
The patent describes a small, portable computing system comprising a pocket-sized personal computer and a companion reader device. The pocket PC includes flash memory, optional processors, and GPS capabilities, fitting into a compact form similar to a credit card for easy portability. An important feature is its integration with the reader device, which provides essential components like a monitor, keyboard, and USB connectors necessary for user interaction. Security is enhanced with features such as password protection, fingerprint authentication, and RFID technology, ensuring data security even in public settings. Overall, it highlights the system's innovation in compact computing with robust security, suitable for various personal and professional applications.
Critique
This article highlights the use of a miniature monitor and keyboard, and demonstrates several features that could be used in our specific use case. However, it doesn’t mention anything about the battery life. Additionally, it doesn’t mention resistance against moisture and saltwater, which could be a problem on boats. It also fails to mention how they will fit a whole keyboard, monitor, and computer into a pocket-sized device, leading this patent to sound like speculation.
Patent Review: US10660232B1
Source: Arnouse, M. (Inventor). (2020). Portable computing system with advanced security features (U.S. Patent No. US10660232B1). Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Summary
This patent is about a portable and mobile data center, which in the images is built into a case like the one we’d like to use. It has functions like computing, data storage, communications, and routing. The specific rugged case is suitable for harsh environments, and it has hot swappable power supplies to quickly replace the battery. It also offers a coupling design for the power supplies to daisy chain them. Additionally, the case supposedly protects against electromagnetic interference.
Critique
This patent uses easy removal and deployment of both computing and power systems, allowing it to be dynamic and flexible. Additionally, the idea of an integrated power supply allows for a streamlined design. However, the design is complex with multiple racks and mechanisms. Additionally, it is specific to mobile data centers, which doesn’t fit our use case.
Patent Review: EP2630552B1
Source: Reber, D., & Garel, M. (Inventors). (2018). Portable computing device and method with modular expansion (European Patent No. EP2630552B1). Munich, Germany: European Patent Office.
Summary
This patent is for a tablet computer with a sealed waterproof compartment for the electronics. It also includes an outward-facing touch screen display with the electronics of the display inside the sealed compartment. Additionally, the battery is integrated into the case, and there is an active cooling system that transfers heat to the ambient air. Finally, there is a heatsink and fan to facilitate heat dissipation.
Critique
The active cooling system is similar to the idea we have planned, as it uses a fan and heatsink to cool the components. Additionally, it uses a sealed waterproof compartment for the electronics, just like ours. However, the patent still has the screen exposed, which could lead it to crack or get wet. Also, it might not be able to dissipate the heat effectively, because of the small surface area. Finally, the patent uses metal to connect components, which is more susceptible to vibration issues than plastic, as well as heat penetration.