[cube13]

It's not the clamshell design that's the problem, I think. I think it's other parts, like the charging apparatus.

The magsafe-like charging connector is pretty much identical in appearance to Apple's design. I would be surprised if Apple doesn't have an industrial design patent on that.

The keyboard is similar, but I don't think there's a problem, considering all the other Chiclets-style keyboards out there.

[com]

There is significant prior art around larger-than-Apple-magsafe magnetic-attach power connectors - if you ever used a Japanese-made domestic deep fryer in the 80s or 90s, you'll have noticed the same concept. Design IP is a different matter of course.