If you have ever tried to use a notebook computer outside in bright sunlight you know it simply can't be done. The notebook's screen backlighting is so strongly overpowered by the sunlight that you are quickly forced back indoors if you want to see something. With our wireless technology and nearly all day battery life it's a shame to waste a nice sunny day indoors. I thought I would share share a unique invention my team created that addresses this problem.

At the Summer Olympics in 1996 many officials complained they were frustrated trying to read their notebook screens in bright sunlight. Makeshift shade devices created from trash bags and discarded cardboard boxes were the only fix available. Not exactly the most sophisticated or stylish design. As the 2000 games drew closer my team immediately went to work on a more elegant solution.

Inspired by the clever crank powered Mutoscope movie machines of yesteryear, we had a solution that not only fully shaded the screen but still provided a view down to the keyboard. A few quick studies with foam core and we had the basic idea working. The biggest issue was how to attach the unique looking hood to the screen. What we finally ended up with was a device very similar to an athletic sock. Slip the stretchy black fabric "sock" over the back of the screen and you are good to go.

The lightweight structure is made from sewn fabric with a rigid plastic insert that folds flat for storage or travel. The patented "sock" structure accommodates a wide variety of screen sizes. One size truly fits all.

The final shade was widely used by Olympic officials and offered for sale briefly as part of the collection of Olympic branded merchandise. Needless to say it was much better received than trash bags over the head. No longer available for sale, I have one of the few left that I am aware of. Is it time to bring this clever device back and offer it for sale again to the general public? I'd love your feedback on this. 

David Hill