Electrically Connected Through Hinge Means Patents (Class 361/679.28)
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Patent number: 8902607Abstract: A testing apparatus and method of extending the life of a testing apparatus may comprise a chassis including a case having a testing module receptacle receiving a plurality of testing modules comprising at least one processor module and a plurality of test modules, each having the same physical footprint, including respective racking mechanisms and inter-module interface connectors; and a backplane with connectors connecting with a respective inter-module connector, and bus-work interconnecting the respective modules through the inter-module interface connectors and the backplane connectors. The backplane may comprise a battery and display connector. The chassis may comprise a display mounting receptacle configured to receive a display unit having a display connector configured to interface with the backplane display connector. A battery receptacle may receive a battery unit, such as a rechargeable battery.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2011Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: VeEX Inc.Inventors: Paul Ker Chin Chang, Cyrille Morelle
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Patent number: 8897007Abstract: A portable computing device can include one or more clutch assemblies that can include a conductive elastomer configured to contact at least a portion of the clutch assembly of the portable computing device. The conductive elastomer can be configured to also contact at least one region of the base portion of the portable computing device and can include highly conductive regions. A USB grounding plate can be attached to a portion of a case for the portable computing device and can be configured to provide a ground pathway between the case and a ground sheath of a USB connector inserted into an opening in a side wall of the case.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2013Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Inventors: Brandon S. Smith, Cheryl P. Espiritu, Houtan R. Farahani, Charles A. Schwalbach
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Patent number: 8891244Abstract: A hinge assembly is provided for a signal cable to pass through. The hinge assembly includes a first bearing block, a second bearing block, and a spindle. The first bearing block includes a first fixing plate and a first sleeve, the first sleeve is connected to a side edge of the first fixing plate, and the first sleeve has a first sectioned groove linked to its two ends. One end of the spindle is inserted in the first sleeve, and the other end is fixed on the second bearing block. The spindle has a second sectioned groove, and the second sectioned groove has at least one end linked to the first sectioned groove of the first sleeve, so that one end of the first sleeve, the first sectioned groove, and the second sectioned groove are linked to form an accommodating space for signal cables to pass through.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Wistron CorporationInventor: Chun-Fei Yang
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Patent number: 8885332Abstract: An electronic device includes an input device, a display that displays information, a first housing provided with the input device, a second housing provided with the display, a coupler that couples the first housing and the second housing to each other to enable changing of a positional relationship between the first housing and the second housing, a setter that allows a user to make a setting for enabling or disabling inputting to the input device, a positional-relationship detector that detects the positional relationship between the first housing and the second housing, and a controller that enables inputting to the input device, regardless of a setting by the setter, when a result of detection by the positional-relationship detector satisfies a first predetermined condition, in a case where a setting by the setter is made to disable inputting to the input device.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2013Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventor: Satoru Masaoka
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Patent number: 8873227Abstract: Flexible hinge and removable attachment techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a flexible hinge is configured to communicatively and physically couple an input device to a computing device and may implement functionality such as a support layer and minimum bend radius. The input device may also include functionality to promote a secure physical connection between the input device and the computing device. One example of this includes use of one or more protrusions that are configured to be removed from respective cavities of the computing device along a particular axis but mechanically bind along other axes. Other techniques include use of a laminate structure to form a connection portion of the input device.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2014Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Eric Joseph Wahl, David C. Vandervoort, Todd David Pleake, Rob Huala, Summer L. Schneider, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Matthew David Mickelson, Joel Lawrence Pelley, Timothy C. Shaw, Ralf Groene, Hua Wang, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Karsten Aagaard
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Patent number: 8854828Abstract: A connecting module, disposed at a casing having a through hole, includes a door, a connecting port and an elastic member. The door is rotatably coupled to the casing so as to be located at a first position to cover the through hole or at a second position to open with respect to the casing. The connecting port is disposed at an inner side of the door so as to be disposed inside the casing when the door is located at the first position or exposed outside the casing when the door is located at the second position. The elastic member is rotatably coupled to the connecting port so as to rotate with respect to the connecting port to fasten a plug between the connecting port and the elastic member when the plug is connected to the connecting port.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2012Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Wistron CorporationInventor: Chin-Lung Fan
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Publication number: 20140285961Abstract: A cover for a portable terminal having a fixing part for fixing the portable terminal and a folder rotating at the fixing part to open and close the portable terminal. The cover includes an input unit and/or a display unit, and a charging unit. The input unit inputs data to the portable terminal The display unit displays data from the portable terminal. The input unit and display unit are constructed in the folder. The charging unit is constructed in at least one of the fixing part and folder, and supplies power to the portable terminal generated using a solar cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2014Publication date: September 25, 2014Inventor: Myoung-Ji NAM
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Publication number: 20140285960Abstract: Particular embodiments described herein provide for an electronic device, such as a notebook computer or laptop, that includes a circuit board coupled to a plurality of electronic components (which includes any type of components, elements, circuitry, etc.). The electronic device may also include a hinge assembly to secure a top portion of the electronic device to an accessory. The hinge assembly is to allow a rotation of the top portion in relation to the accessory. The hinge assembly may include a plurality of discs to receive a plurality of segments of the accessory as the hinge assembly engages to secure the top portion of the electronic device to the accessory.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2012Publication date: September 25, 2014Inventors: Sameer Sharma, Douglas Satzger, Gadi Amit, Yoshikazu Hoshino, Chadwick Harber, Daniel Clifton, Phil Houdek, Stanislav Moiseyenko, Nathan Jauvtis
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Patent number: 8830664Abstract: A ground member of a personal electronic device includes a base and a first deflection arm formed of a portion of the base. The first deflection arm exposes a cutout portion of the base and is bent along a first bend line. The cutout portion is dimensioned to engage with a complementary dimensioned support member and the first deflection arm is configured to deflect and engage with the support member in response to insertion of the support member in the cutout portion. The ground member further includes a second deflection arm extending from the base and bent along a second bend line.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2012Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Jared Mitchell Kole, Charles B. Woodhull, Michael Benjamin Wittenberg
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Patent number: 8811005Abstract: A portable computing device can include one or more clutch assemblies that can include a conductive elastomer configured to contact at least a portion of the clutch assembly of the portable computing device. The conductive elastomer can be configured to also contact at least one region of the base portion of the portable computing device. In one embodiment, the conductive elastomer can be disposed on the clutch assembly. The conductive elastomer can enhance an electrical coupling between two or more regions of the base portion, especially in the region near the conductive elastomer and the clutch assembly. The enhanced coupling can increase a performance of an electrical shield provided by the two or more regions of the base portion.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2012Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Matthew P. Casebolt, Gavin J. Reid, Charles A. Schwalbach, Brandon S. Smith
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Patent number: 8811011Abstract: A notebook computer includes a display device, a main body, a pivoting component, and a foldable device. The display device includes a connection end. The pivoting component is pivoted to the connection end. The foldable device includes two arm components, each arm component includes a first supporting pole and a second supporting pole. Each first supporting is rotatably connected to the main body. Each second supporting pole is rotatably connected between the pivoting component and the first supporting pole.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2011Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Bo Tian, Kang Wu
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Publication number: 20140226272Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a first main unit having a surface thereof provided with a display panel, a second main unit having a surface thereof provided with another display panel, a hinge mechanism coupling the first and second main units, and two operation buttons arranged symmetrical with respect to a center line passing through the respective centers of the first and second main units.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2014Publication date: August 14, 2014Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventors: Akira IMAMURA, Toshikatsu NAKAMURA
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Patent number: 8804324Abstract: In embodiments of a flexible display overcenter assembly, an overcenter assembly includes a first flange integrated in a first housing part of a foldable electronic device. The device includes a flexible display, and the first housing part is integrated with a first section of the flexible display. The overcenter assembly also includes a second flange integrated in a second housing part of the foldable electronic device, and the second housing part is integrated with a second section of the flexible display. The first and second flanges are implemented to fold and form a radius that supports the flexible display in a closed position of the device. Hinge assemblies are implemented to movably couple the first and second housing parts of the foldable electronic device, and the flexible display bends through a pivot axis of the hinge assemblies when the first and second housing parts of the device are closed.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2011Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David D. Bohn, Paul M. O'Brien, Christopher B. Fruhauf
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Patent number: 8803746Abstract: There is provided a portable device which includes a first housing, a housing member removable from the first housing, where the housing member includes an exposed portion, the exposed portion projecting from the first housing when the housing member is inserted in the first housing, a second housing coupled with the first housing so as to be allowed to be folded on the first housing, the second housing including a wall made of electrical insulating material, and an antenna disposed in the second housing and surrounded partially with the wall, a part of the antenna and the exposed portion facing each other via the wall when the first and second housings are folded on each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2012Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventors: Shinya Matsushita, Daisuke Mihara, Takashi Abe
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Patent number: 8783457Abstract: An apparatus and system for housing a device include a housing that is configured such that a device may be fitted within the housing and thereby be protected, such as from shocks and/or liquid. The housing may include top and bottom members that may be removably coupled together so as to form the housing. Each top and bottom member optionally includes front and back surfaces surrounded by a perimeter. The perimeter is defined by proximal and distal ends as well as opposing sides. The top and bottom members may include respective clasping mechanisms that extend along the perimeter of the top and bottom members. The clasping mechanisms are configured for coupling the top and bottom members with one another thereby sealing the housing, for instance, in a shock-proof and/or water tight seal.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2013Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: TreeFrog Development, Inc.Inventor: Gary Rayner
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Patent number: 8787010Abstract: An information processing apparatus is disclosed which can be enhanced in degree of freedom in design. A hinge mechanism is provided which includes a first shaft structure provided in an exposed state on a second face of a main body section, a second shaft structure provided on a display section, and a shaft connection section which connects the first and second shaft structures to each other. The hinge mechanism pivotably connects the display section to the main body section between a first position at which a screen of the display section is opposed to a first face of the main body section and a second position at which the screen is inclined with respect to the first face of the main body section such that the center of the pivotal motion of the display section varies during the pivotal motion.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2011Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Sony CorporationInventor: Kiyokuni Arima
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Patent number: 8780541Abstract: Flexible hinge and removable attachment techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a flexible hinge is configured to communicatively and physically couple an input device to a computing device and may implement functionality such as a support layer and minimum bend radius. The input device may also include functionality to promote a secure physical connection between the input device and the computing device. One example of this includes use of one or more protrusions that are configured to be removed from respective cavities of the computing device along a particular axis but mechanically bind along other axes. Other techniques include use of a laminate structure to form a connection portion of the input device.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2013Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Eric Joseph Wahl, David C. Vandervoort, Todd David Pleake, Rob Huala, Summer L. Schneider, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Matthew David Mickelson, Joel Lawrence Pelley, Timothy C. Shaw, Ralf Groene, Hua Wang, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Karsten Aagaard
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Patent number: 8780540Abstract: Flexible hinge and removable attachment techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a flexible hinge is configured to communicatively and physically couple an input device to a computing device and may implement functionality such as a support layer and minimum bend radius. The input device may also include functionality to promote a secure physical connection between the input device and the computing device. One example of this includes use of one or more protrusions that are configured to be removed from respective cavities of the computing device along a particular axis but mechanically bind along other axes. Other techniques include use of a laminate structure to form a connection portion of the input device.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2013Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Eric Joseph Wahl, David C. Vandervoort, Todd David Pleake, Rob Huala, Summer L. Schneider, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Matthew David Mickelson, Joel Lawrence Pelley, Timothy C. Shaw, Ralf Groene, Hua Wang, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Karsten Aagaard
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Patent number: 8780570Abstract: In embodiments of a double hinge torsion bar, a portable device includes a first housing integrated with a display device, and a second housing movably coupled to the first housing. Double hinges attach to the first and second housings of the portable device, and the double hinges are operable to open and close the first and second housings relative to each other. A torsion bar movably couples the double hinges to open and close at approximately a same timing rate, which can prevent the double hinges from binding when the first and second housings are opened and closed relative to each other.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2011Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David D. Bohn, Paul M. O'Brien, Christopher Bramley Fruhauf
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Patent number: 8780544Abstract: A flat cable arranging structure and a slider electronic apparatus therewith are disclosed. The slider electronic apparatus includes two casings movably connected to each other, a flat cable connected to the two casings respectively, and a flat cable arranging structure. The flat cable arranging structure is disposed in one of the two casings and includes a movement-guiding structure, a pushing-against part, and a forcing mechanism. The movement-guiding structure is fixedly disposed. The pushing-against part is disposed to be connected to the movement-guiding structure and is capable of being confined by the movement-guiding structure to move in a specific direction. The flat cable partially winds the pushing-against part. The forcing mechanism is disposed to at least contact the pushing-against part to keep the flat cable in a tensile stretch state. Thereby, the flat cable can be stretched all the time so as not to intertwine together.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Wistron CorporationInventors: Chen-Yi Liang, Chun-Chien Chen
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Patent number: 8773849Abstract: In embodiments of an extendable connecting link, a first link section attaches in a first housing part of a device and a second link section attaches in a second housing part of the device. The first and second link sections interlock and slide-engage relative to each other. An interconnection channel routes an electrical interconnection between the first housing part and the second housing part of the device, where the interconnection channel is formed when the first and second link sections are slide-engaged. The first and second link sections also slide relative to each other to increase or decrease a length of the extendable connecting link.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2011Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David D. Bohn, Paul M. O'Brien
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Patent number: 8767384Abstract: A display apparatus includes a display module which forms an image, a window cover affixed to an upper side of the display module, a base cover affixed to a lower side of the display module and a middle member which is disposed between the display module and the base cover that includes both a module support unit for supporting the display module and a bezel unit arranged about a circumference of the module support unit for coupling with the window cover.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2010Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Young-Shin Song
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Patent number: 8767383Abstract: A support assembly which supports a computer device body having a display unit. The support assembly includes a base member which is supported on an installation plane, a shaft which extends in parallel to a plane of the base member, a first support member having one end portion joined to the base member and the other end portion which supports the shaft, at least one pinion gear which is concentrically joined to the shaft, a second support member including a first support part which supports the computer device body having the display unit, a second support part which extends from the first support part to have a predetermined curvature, and a rack gear which is formed on a plane of the second support part facing the shaft along the extension direction of the second support part and moves according to rotation of the computer device body supported by the first support part.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2011Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jin-hyuk Ahn, Yun-pil Yeom
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Patent number: 8737045Abstract: An electronic device housing includes a bottom housing, a support frame, and a plastic side frame. The support frame is fixed on the bottom housing to form a receiving groove between the bottom housing and the plastic side frame. The plastic side frame is integrally formed by injecting a plastic material in the receiving groove. A manufacturing method for an electronic device housing is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2010Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Bin Dai, Fa-Guang Shi
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Patent number: 8730669Abstract: An approach is provided that uses a foldable transformable display case that includes two panels. The two panels are attached using a hinge. Two components are attachable to at least one of the panels. One of the two components is an integrated display screen. Another component is a keyboard unit. At least one of the components can be removed from the panels.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2008Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Lenovo (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.Inventors: Howard Locker, Daryl Cromer, Liu Jun Feng, Qian Ying Wang
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Patent number: 8724302Abstract: Flexible hinge and removable attachment techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a flexible hinge is configured to communicatively and physically couple an input device to a computing device and may implement functionality such as a support layer and minimum bend radius. The input device may also include functionality to promote a secure physical connection between the input device and the computing device. One example of this includes use of one or more protrusions that are configured to be removed from respective cavities of the computing device along a particular axis but mechanically bind along other axes. Other techniques include use of a laminate structure to form a connection portion of the input device.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2012Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Eric Joseph Wahl, David C. Vandervoort, Todd David Pleake, Rob Huala, Summer L. Schneider, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Matthew David Mickelson, Joel Lawrence Pelley, Timothy C. Shaw, Ralf Groene, Hua Wang, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Karsten Aagaard
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Patent number: 8724306Abstract: Example embodiments disclosed herein relate to a hinge assembly. An example of the hinge assembly includes a pair of active hinges and a pair of passive hinges. The hinge assembly may be utilized in portable computing devices such as notebook computers and personal digital assistants (PDAs).Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2011Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Britt C Ashcraft, Peter M On, Michael Delpier
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Patent number: 8717747Abstract: An electronic device having a stowable display unit includes a housing, a slide element, a display unit, and a control module. The housing has a receiving space, and an opening at a front side of the housing. The slide element is disposed in the receiving space, and is connected slidably to the housing. The display unit is disposed in the receiving space, and is connected pivotally to a front end of the slide element. The control module includes an actuating mechanism connected to a rear end of the slide element, and a control unit provided on the housing and controlling operation of the actuating mechanism. The actuating mechanism is controllable by the control unit to activate movement of the slide element to move the display unit to a used position externally of the opening.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2011Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Wistron CorporationInventors: Chih-Hung Chen, Tzu-Yi Huang
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Patent number: 8711567Abstract: An electronic hand-held device, for example a mobile phone (10), includes a first unit (cover 12) and a second unit (keypad unit 14). The device (10) has a first configuration in which the first unit (12) is in a contracted position, and the second unit (14) is in a depressed position and positioned beneath the first unit (12); and a second configuration in which the first unit (12) is in a fully extended position, the second unit (14) is in a fully raised position, and the upper surfaces (12u, 14u) of the first and second units are adjacent to each other. The movement of the second unit (14) depends on the movement of the first unit (12) by moveable guide members (40) mounted along the lateral edges of the device (10). The guide member (40) may include a guide surface (140) shaped to hold the second unit (14) firmly in position in fully raised position.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2009Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Native Design LimitedInventors: Morten Warren, Stephen De Saulles
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Patent number: 8699215Abstract: Flexible hinge spine techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a flexible hinge is configured to communicatively and physically couple an input device to a computing device and may implement functionality such as a support layer and minimum bend radius. The input device may also include functionality to promote a secure physical connection between the input device and the computing device. One example of this includes use of one or more protrusions that are configured to be removed from respective cavities of the computing device along a particular axis but mechanically bind along other axes. Other techniques include use of a laminate structure to form a connection portion of the input device.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2012Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Eric Joseph Wahl, David C. Vandervoort, Todd David Pleake, Rob Huala, Summer L. Schneider, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Matthew David Mickelson, Joel Lawrence Pelley, Timothy C. Shaw, Ralf Groene, Hua Wang, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Karsten Aagaard
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Patent number: 8693175Abstract: A cover lifting structure is suitable for a body of an electronic device. The body has a recess. The cover lifting structure includes a first rotating member, a second rotating member, an elastic member and a pushing member. The first rotating member pivoted to the body with a first axis. The second rotating member pivoted to the first rotating member with a second axis. The elastic member is propped against the first and the second rotating members. The first rotating member closes the recess, and the second rotating member contacts against the pushing member in a first state. The first rotating member opens the recess, and the second rotating member moves away from the pushing member in a second state. In a third state, the first rotating member closes the recess, and the second rotating member falls behind a stroke to the first rotating member.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2012Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: ASUSTeK Computer Inc.Inventor: Shin-Min Lee
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Patent number: 8693181Abstract: An electronic device includes a first body, a second body and a battery base. The second body is pivoted to the first body and has a first block. The battery base is pivoted to the first body and has a second block. When the second body rotates relative to the first body, the first block is driven to contact the second block and push the second block for driving the battery base to pivot relative to the first body.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Compal Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Huai-Te Tseng, Ching-Fu Yang
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Publication number: 20140049895Abstract: A display module and an electronic device are provided. The display module includes a housing, a pivot rod, and a flexible circuit board. The housing has a connection portion, wherein the connection portion has a connecting hole. The pivot rod is partially disposed in the connecting hole. The flexible circuit board includes a first transmission section, a second transmission section, and a connecting section that connects the previous two sections. The connecting section is disposed in a traverse direction with respect to the extending directions of the first transmission section and the second transmission section and wraps around the pivot rod with the traverse direction as an axial direction, wherein the connecting section is at least partially disposed in the connecting hole such that the first transmission section is in the housing and the second transmission section is outside of the housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Inventor: Keng-Yi Lee
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Patent number: 8634548Abstract: A free-stop hinge apparatus employed in a folding-type mobile terminal preferably includes: a hinge housing; a driving part for providing a free-stop operation, which is received in the hinge housing. A hinge shaft restrains the driving part in the hinge housing, and the driving part includes a rotating driving actuating cam and a driven sliding cam slides according to rotation of the driving actuating cam. The driving actuating cam includes an inner cam formed on one surface of a body, and an outer cam confronting the inner cam, and the driven sliding cam includes an inner valley which is disposed to confront the inner cam and slides together with the inner cam, and an outer valley which is disposed to confront the outer cam and slides together with the outer cam.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2010Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Young-Jun Jung, Hae-Won Sung, Sung-Sun Park
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Patent number: 8630086Abstract: An electronic device includes a first component defining at least one through hole, a hinge defining at least one round hole corresponding to the at least one through hole, and a fixing mechanism for securing the hinge to the first component. The fixing mechanism includes a latching member and at least one fixing member capable of extending through the at least one through hole and the at least one round hole. The latching member defines at least one fixing hole corresponding to the at least one round hole. When the at least one fixing member extends through the at least one round hole and the at least one through hole, the at least one fixing hole receives an end of the at least fixing member to secure the hinge to the first component.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2012Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Guan-Dong Zhao, He-Li Wang
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Publication number: 20140009881Abstract: A laptop personal computer (PC) is disclosed. The laptop PC includes a hinge unit that turns around a vertical axis and rotates around a horizontal axis, and the hinge unit connects a main body chassis to a display chassis. The hinge unit includes an inside, through which cables connecting a main body and a display pass. A path is provided, along which the cables are installed, and the path includes a part that is parallel to the vertical axis and is apart from the vertical axis and having a part overlapping with the horizontal axis towards the vertical axis. The cover is provided at the display chassis for covering the cables overlapping with the horizontal axis. This can eliminate the necessity of a cover for the cables on the side of the hinge unit, thus making the laptop PC thinner.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2013Publication date: January 9, 2014Inventors: HIROAKI KINOSHITA, GANG JI, HIROYUKI NOGUCHI, EIJI SHINOHARA
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Patent number: 8611078Abstract: In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus comprising a first body comprising a first power source, and a second body comprising a second power source and a display, the second body is configured to move relative to the first body between a closed configuration and an open configuration via at least one intermediate configuration, and when the apparatus is in at least one of the open and closed configurations the first power source is configured to power the display, and when the apparatus is in the at least one intermediate configuration the second power source is configured to power the display.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2010Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventors: Markku Rouvala, Tapani von Rauner, Kimmo-Antero Rantala
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Publication number: 20130322005Abstract: An electronic device includes a main body, a cover, a pivot mechanism, a main circuit board received in the main body, and a sub-circuit board received in the cover. The pivot mechanism is conductive, the main circuit board comprises a grounded first conductive layer, the sub-circuit board comprise a grounded second conductive layer, the first conductive layer is connected to the second conductive layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2013Publication date: December 5, 2013Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.Inventors: XIAO-HUI MA, XIN-PING LI, TAO WANG, XUE-BING DENG, HAI-LONG CHENG
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Patent number: 8599544Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes: a first member; a second member overlapped on the first member; a plurality of joints that are spaced apart from each other and that link the first member and the second member at an overlapping portion between the first member and the second member; and a curved rib that is erected on a surface of the second member and that has a curved shape over the surface of the second member in between the joints.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2010Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Atsuhiro Yanagida
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Patent number: 8593800Abstract: In the electronic equipment of the present application, a center axis of a cylindrical portion 11a of a shaft 11 is eccentric with respect to a rotation center axis of the shaft 11, whereby even when a cable 21 comes closest to the shaft 11 in the turning of a first housing 1 or second housing 2, a sufficient space can be secured between the shaft 11 and the cable 21. Thus, in a turning range of the first housing 1 or second housing 2, it is highly unlikely that the shaft 11 and the cable 21 come into contact with each other, which avoids an increase in a tension of the cable 21 and wear on an insulation cover of the cable 21. By avoiding the increase in the tension of the cable 21, breakage of the electric wires in the cable 21 can be avoided.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2010Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Hirofumi Asakura, Jun Sato, Isao Shimada
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Publication number: 20130301206Abstract: Flexible hinge and removable attachment techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a flexible hinge is configured to communicatively and physically couple an input device to a computing device and may implement functionality such as a support layer and minimum bend radius. The input device may also include functionality to promote a secure physical connection between the input device and the computing device. One example of this includes use of one or more protrusions that are configured to be removed from respective cavities of the computing device along a particular axis but mechanically bind along other axes. Other techniques include use of a laminate structure to form a connection portion of the input device.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2013Publication date: November 14, 2013Inventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Eric Joseph Wahl, David C. Vandervoort, Todd David Pleake, Rob Huala, Summer L. Schneider, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Matthew David Mickelson, Joel Lawrence Pelley, Timothy C. Shaw, Ralf Groene, Hua Wang, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Karsten Aagaard
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Publication number: 20130286578Abstract: A hinge assembly having a hollow clutch is arranged to pivotally couple a portable computer base portion to a portable computer lid portion. The hinge assembly includes at least a hollow cylindrical portion that includes an annular outer region and a central bore region, the central bore region suitably arranged to provide support for electrical conductors between the base and lid portions. The hinge assembly also includes a plurality of fastening components that couple the hollow clutch to the base portion and the lid portion of the portable computer, with at least one of the fastening regions being integrally formed with the hollow cylindrical portion such that space, size and part count are minimized. The integrally formed fastening region(s) can be flat with holes dispersed therethrough for screws, bolts or the like. The central bore can also support a heat transfer element and can also serve as a lubricant reservoir.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2013Publication date: October 31, 2013Inventors: Brett William DEGNER, John M. BROCK, Bradley Joseph HAMEL
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Patent number: 8570725Abstract: Flexible hinge and removable attachment techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a flexible hinge is configured to communicatively and physically couple an input device to a computing device and may implement functionality such as a support layer and minimum bend radius. The input device may also include functionality to promote a secure physical connection between the input device and the computing device. One example of this includes use of one or more protrusions that are configured to be removed from respective cavities of the computing device along a particular axis but mechanically bind along other axes. Other techniques include use of a laminate structure to form a connection portion of the input device.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2012Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Eric Joseph Wahl, David C. Vandervoort, Todd David Pleake, Rob Huala, Summer L. Schneider, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Matthew David Mickelson, Joel Lawrence Pelley, Timothy C. Shaw, Ralf Groene, Hua Wang, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Karsten Aagaard
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Patent number: 8553172Abstract: Methods and apparatus for aligning a display stack with respect to a housing associated with a portable electronic device are disclosed. According to one aspect of the present invention, a chassis arrangement suitable for use in aligning a display stack with respect to a housing includes a first portion, a second portion, and a coupling arrangement. The first portion is configured to engage the display stack, and the second portion is configured to enable the display stack to be manipulated when the display stack is engaged by the first portion. The coupling arrangement couples the first portion with the second portion, and is configured to enable the second portion to be detached from the first portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2011Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Richard Hung Minh Dinh, Wei Yao, Erik Wang
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Publication number: 20130242495Abstract: A connection device for computing devices is described. In one or more implementations, a connection device comprises a plurality of connection portions that are physically and communicatively coupled, one to another. Each of the plurality of connection portions has at least one communication contact configured to form a communicative coupling with a respective one of a plurality of computing devices and with at least one other communication contact of another one of the connections portions to support communication between the plurality of computing devices. Each of the plurality of connection portions also includes a magnetic coupling device to form a removable magnetic attachment to the respective one of the plurality of computing devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2013Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Steven Nabil Bathiche, Flavio Protasio Ribeiro, Nigel Stuart Keam, Bernard K. Rihn, Panos C. Panay, David W. Voth
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Patent number: 8537533Abstract: An electronic device includes a main body and a support assembly. The support assembly includes four support components arranged at four sides of the main body. Each support component includes a first arm and a second arm. A first arm includes a first end portion rotatably connected to one end of one of the four sides of the main body, and a second end portion extending from an end of the first arm. The second arm includes a third end portion rotatably connected to the other end of the side of the main body and defines a sliding groove. A pin is connected to the second end portion and slidably received in the sliding groove. The pin is capable of being held in various positions by friction between the pin and the sliding groove, allowing the support components to maintain at a desired orientation for supporting the main body.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2011Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hsiung-Wei Sung
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Patent number: 8520379Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes a first case, a second case, a first hinge which has a first fixing portion fixed to the first case and a second fixing portion fixed to the second case and rotatably connects the first case and the second case, and a first reinforcing plate configured to be fixed to the first fixing portion and spaced apart from an inner surface of a first cover and an inner surface of a second cover inside the first case. The first case includes a first storing portion storing electronic parts and a second storing portion projecting from the first storing portion and storing the first fixing portion. The first reinforcing plate extends over both the first storing portion and the second storing portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2011Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Yuichi Hirai, Ryosuke Saito
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Patent number: 8508948Abstract: A communication apparatus includes first and second housings connected to each other by a hinge mechanism. The first housing includes a first substrate having electronic components electrically connected to an antenna, a first hinge portion configuring a portion of the hinge mechanism, and a first conductive member provided in the first hinge portion. The second housing includes a second substrate having electronic components, a waterproofing partition wall surrounding the second substrate, a second hinge portion configuring a portion of the hinge mechanism, a second conductive member provided in the second hinge portion to be capacitively-coupled with the first conductive member, and a third conductive member insertion-molded therein. The third conductive member includes an inner portion positioned on an inner side of the partition wall, and an outer portion extending from the inner portion toward an outer side of the partition wall and capacitively-coupled with the second conductive member.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2011Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Kyocera CorporationInventor: Naohiro Katou
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Patent number: 8508925Abstract: A portable electronic device includes a first body, a second body and a linkage. The first body has a first upper surface, and the second body has a second upper surface. An end of the linkage is coupled to the first body through a first pivot shaft and another end of the linkage is coupled to the second body through a second pivot shaft, in which the second body is suitable to be stacked on the first upper surface of the first body to make the portable electronic device in a retracted state. The linkage is suitable to rotate relatively to the first body so that the first body and the second body of the portable electronic device are side by side in an expanded state.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2011Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Au Optronics CorporationInventors: Wen-Lin Cheng, Han-Ping Kuo
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Patent number: 8498100Abstract: Flexible hinge and removable attachment techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a flexible hinge is configured to communicatively and physically couple an input device to a computing device and may implement functionality such as a support layer and minimum bend radius. The input device may also include functionality to promote a secure physical connection between the input device and the computing device. One example of this includes use of one or more protrusions that are configured to be removed from respective cavities of the computing device along a particular axis but mechanically bind along other axes. Other techniques include use of a laminate structure to form a connection portion of the input device.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2012Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Eric Joseph Wahl, David C. Vandervoort, Todd David Pleake, Rob Huala, Summer L. Schneider, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Matthew David Mickelson, Joel Lawrence Pelley, Timothy C. Shaw, Ralf Groene, Hua Wang, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Karsten Aagaard