An accelerometer detects weightlessness, as when the computer has started to fall or is in free flight, and inflates the outer case into an appropriately sized ball, displaying the manufacturer's logo.
-- FlyingToaster, Nov 05 2011

Retro-tech solution http://www.youtube....watch?v=RCVPNQhXtq8
[TolpuddleSartre, Nov 07 2011]

Similar, smaller Hacky_20Sack_20Cell_20Phone
[shudderprose, Nov 07 2011]

Punnily enough, it seems floorless. except when using the computer during flight and an air pocket is hit. Coincidently the Mrs dropped her ipad as I typed.
-- Ah Supp, Nov 05 2011


I just thought of one for the i-pod/i-phone (an i-pad/laptop would be too heavy): instead of turning into a sphere, the case turns into a porcupine.
-- FlyingToaster, Nov 05 2011


//Flying Toaster// Great. That should please a few of the pricks who possess one. they should readily identify with them, especially if the deployed sphere causes the device to roll under the wheel of an oncoming bus.
-- Ah Supp, Nov 06 2011


// or is at the zenith of its parabolic travel//

The apparent weightlessness of an unpowered projectile occurs throughout its parabolic trajectory. So, you won't be able to detect the zenith by means of accelerometers.

Not to say this isn't a good idea, though.
-- MaxwellBuchanan, Nov 06 2011


Then let's make it a powered projectile.
-- AusCan531, Nov 06 2011


The whole problem could be solved by making a neutrally-bouyant laptop.

Or retro-rockets.
-- MaxwellBuchanan, Nov 06 2011


//retro-rockets// Yes!! Rockets modelled on Soviet era rockets, or the one from Tintin - Destination Moon would be far out!
-- spidermother, Nov 07 2011



random, halfbakery