For Computer Keyboard Patents (Class 361/679.08)
  • Patent number: 8760404
    Abstract: A keyboard can be comprised of a plurality of alphabetic keys that are disposed in an evenly-spaced grid pattern with respect to one another. In any event, these keys have keycaps configured to comport with touch typing as with a keyboard having a plurality of alphabetic keys that are disposed in an offset pattern (such as the classic QWERTY offset-pattern typewriter-styled keyboard). By one approach, these keycaps can have keycaps having bilaterally-nonsymmetrical tactile features that at least substantially match standard touch-typing finger positions. By one approach these tactile features can comprise an indentation. If desired, these keycaps can share a same form factor. In such a case, some of the keycaps for the alphabetic keys can be disposed on the keyboard at a 180 degree rotation as compared to others of the alphabetic character keycaps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: BlackBerry Limited
    Inventors: Jason Tyler Griffin, Roman Rak
  • Publication number: 20140168874
    Abstract: In one embodiment an assembly comprises a keyboard tray comprising a first side having a plurality of keys and a second side opposite the first side and a planar heat spreader to be in thermal communication with the second side of the keyboard tray. Other embodiments may be described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventors: Mark MacDonald, Carin L. Ruiz, Merwin M. Brown
  • Publication number: 20140160655
    Abstract: An assembly can include a chassis that includes a processor, a memory device with memory accessible by the processor, a battery bay and a cover seat; a cover securable in a seated state with respect to the cover seat to cover the battery bay; and an automatic release mechanism automatically actuatable by an increase in battery volume of a lithium battery disposed in the battery bay to release the cover from its seated state. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: LENOVO (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.
    Inventors: Bouziane YEBKA, Joseph Anthony HOLUNG, Tin-Lup WONG
  • Publication number: 20140160653
    Abstract: Particular embodiments described herein provide for an electronic device, such as a notebook computer or laptop, that includes including a base portion and a keyboard assembly at least partially disposed in the base portion. The keyboard assembly may include a first portion having at least a first key of a first thickness, and a second portion having at least a second key of a second thickness. The first thickness is different than the second thickness. In a particular embodiment, the first thickness is less than the second thickness. In a particular embodiment, the first portion includes a key row of the keyboard assembly. In still another more particular embodiment, the first portion is a top key row of the keyboard assembly. In still another more particular embodiment, the first portion is a bottom key row of the keyboard assembly. In particular embodiments, a reduced thickness of the first portion may provide for additional space within the base portion to allow other components to be located therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventors: Hong W. Wong, Wah Yiu Kwong, Murali Veeramoney
  • Patent number: 8749962
    Abstract: A mobile computing device is disclosed. The mobile computing device comprises a housing that includes a section to retain a keypad assembly. The keypad assembly includes at least a keypad façade that carries a plurality of keys. The keypad façade of the keypad assembly is contoured to adjoin and be substantially flush with the section of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: QUALCOMM Incorporated
    Inventors: Wilhelmus Crooijmans, Yoshimichi Matsuoka
  • Publication number: 20140153174
    Abstract: A computer system includes a desk, and a first display and a first keyboard arranged on a desk panel of the desk and flexibly connected to the desk panel. The panel board includes at least two layers; an edge of a top layer of the panel board is flexibly connected to a second layer of the panel board; a lower surface of the top layer of the panel board is used as a second display and an upper surface of a second layer of the panel board is used as a second keyboard; and the first display, the first key board, the second display, and the second keyboard are all connected to the computer. The computer system of the present disclosure effectively protects eye sights, reduces the probability of shortsightedness, greatly increases the amount of exercise, consumes unnecessary energy, reduces the storage of energy and production of fat, further results in loss of weight, and at the same time strengthens physical exercise and improves health states.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventor: YUNFEI XIAO
  • Publication number: 20140153175
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus includes a base and a plurality of latch members. The base includes a recess portion and a frame connected to the recess portion. The recess portion is configured to receive a keyboard. The plurality of latch members is secured to the frame, and each of the plurality of latch members includes a latch portion and two resilient arms attached to the latch portion. The latch portion of each of the plurality of latch members is configured to engage with the keyboard so that the keyboard is installed on the base. The two resilient arms are resiliently deformed to disengage from the keyboard so that the keyboard can be easily detached from the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: LI-XIN LIU, HSIEN-PIN TSOU, WEI-KUANG LIANG
  • Patent number: 8743535
    Abstract: A keypad suitable for use with a mobile communication or a handheld device. The keypad includes an actuator component formed from multiple materials and comprises a plurality of actuators, a sealing bead and/or a light guide. The sealing bead is formed from a flexible or compressible material such as silicone rubber. When the keypad is installed the sealing bead is compressed against the mounting surface in the device and provides a seal for the keypad against environmental agents such as moisture, dust and/or electrostatic discharges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Blackberry Limited
    Inventors: Dietmar Frank Wennemer, Chao Chen, Timothy Herbert Kyowski
  • Patent number: 8737052
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile terminal. The mobile terminal of the present invention comprises: a front case having a keypad-accommodating portion; a rear case attachably/detachably coupled to a rear surface of the front case such that a component-accommodating space, in which a main PCB is arranged, is interposed between the front case and the rear case; and a keypad which has a plurality of key buttons, and which is made of a flexible material, and which is accommodated in the keypad-accommodating portion of the front case. The keypad has an edge on which a water-resistant blade extends toward the keypad-accommodating portion. The keypad-accommodating portion has a bottom surface on which a blade insertion rain is formed to enable a portion of the water-resistant blade to be inserted into the rail. The mobile terminal of the present invention has a simple structure to enable easy manufacture and assembly, and in particular prevents water or moisture from entering a keypad area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Bluebird Soft Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sang Chul Cho, Jang Won Lee
  • Publication number: 20140133078
    Abstract: An electronic device having function of fixing a keyboard mechanism is disclosed in the present invention. The electronic device includes a casing for holding the keyboard mechanism, and an accommodating space is formed on a lateral inner wall of the casing. The electronic device further includes a hook mechanism disposed inside the accommodating space on the casing. The hook mechanism includes an arm base. An end of the arm base is connected to a surface of the accommodating space, and the other end of the arm base is connected to the other surface of the accommodating space. The hook mechanism further includes a hook portion disposed on the arm base and further located between the ends of the arm base for contacting against the keyboard mechanism, so as to constrain a movement of the keyboard mechanism relative to the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventor: Te-Wei Chang
  • Patent number: 8699214
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a housing, a keyboard, a flexible keyboard cover, a plurality of belt-like members, and an engaging member. The housing is provided with a recess on the front face, which is rectangular in shape in the planar view of the front face. The keyboard is housed in the recess and is rectangular in shape in the planar view. The keyboard cover covers the front face of the keyboard in entirety. The belt-like members are attached to the housing along the inner periphery of the recess while covering the outer periphery of the keyboard and the keyboard cover. The engaging member is located on an end portion in the longitudinal direction of at least one of the belt-like members behind an end portion in the longitudinal direction of another one of the belt-like members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Izen Sakuma
  • Patent number: 8693176
    Abstract: A drainage system is provided for draining liquid accidentally spilled on a casing having a plurality of pushbuttons on a surface of the casing. The drainage system for a pushbutton casing may comprise a liquid collecting receptacle, a counter-bore, and a drainage exit. The counter-bore may have a sidewall. The liquid collecting receptacle may be operatively interfacing the casing. The drainage exit may be disposed on the sidewall of the counter-bore. An end opening of the counter-bore may be in connection with a drainage exit. The end opening of the counter-bore may be disposed to allow liquid entering the drainage exit out of the end opening of the counter-bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Lenovo (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: Takayuki Morino
  • Publication number: 20140092543
    Abstract: A metal baseboard with a planar shape which is placed close to a Near Field Communication (NFC) radio antenna may be configured with a number of slots in the metal. These slots may disrupt the eddy current that would otherwise be induced in the metal by magnetic emissions emanating from the NFC antenna. The reduction in eddy current that results from these slots may reduce the severe attenuation of the signal that would otherwise be caused by the metal. In general, each slot may run approximately perpendicular to the direction of the expected eddy current. This may be approximated by having many of the slots each run perpendicular to the nearest part of the antenna wiring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventors: Songnan Yang, Hong Wong, Ulun Karacaoglu, Bin Xiao, Changsong Sheng
  • Patent number: 8686948
    Abstract: A collapsible compact touch-type keyboard for mobile devices. The keyboard includes a plurality of separate parts that together form a keyboard with keys large enough to allow efficient touch-typing. The plurality of parts includes at least a first and a second base each retaining a plurality of keys. A wireless transmitter exists within at least one of the parts to send keyboard events to a computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Synerdyne Corporation
    Inventors: Mark S. Knighton, Mydul R. Islam, Tzyy-Woei R. Sung, Kevin H. Vuong
  • Publication number: 20140085792
    Abstract: A portable electronic device includes a lower member, an upper member, a strip-storing unit and an electric connecting strip. The lower member is provided with a keyboard module. The upper member is slidably disposed on the lower member. The strip-storing unit is disposed in the lower member. The electric connecting strip is retractably disposed in the strip-storing unit, and two ends thereof are respectively connected to the upper member and the lower member. When the upper member slides on the lower member, a part of the electric connecting strip is pulled out or pulled back into the strip-storing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Quanta Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Chia-Fu LU, Chih-Hsi LAI, Ming-Chin KO, Chao-Hsien CHAN
  • Patent number: 8677911
    Abstract: A lower housing portion and an upper housing portion define an internal technology box that holds a lap top computer such that the base of the laptop is securely held in the technology box while the screen extends above the work surface. The technology box is located remotely from the work surface/keyboard stack. The upper housing may be moved from a closed use position to a partially open, forward position allowing a user to access the power button of laptop and to a fully open position where the laptop may be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventor: Robert Grant McRorie
  • Publication number: 20140068286
    Abstract: The adaptive computing system described herein may generally include a modular control, switching, and power supply architecture. In particular, the adaptive computing system may provide a platform supporting multiple independent desktop computer modules that occupy less physical space than a standalone commercial computer, provide performance density comparable to current server solutions, and address concerns relating to stability, safety, productivity, performance, assembly, service, and other factors important to diverse desktop computer user communities. Moreover, mechanical, electrical, and functional components associated with the adaptive computing system may have various certifications or otherwise be relied upon to demonstrate compliance with criteria in regulatory, environmental, consumer safety, and other contexts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: NCS Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: An Van NGUYEN, M. Dewayne ADAMS, Nesdon Alexandre' HARRIS, Dinh Van NGUYEN, Binh Kien THAI
  • Patent number: 8659882
    Abstract: A keyboard includes a main body, a bottom plate, and a circuit board. The main body includes a top plate, a bottom plate opposite to the top plate, and a plurality of keys secured to the top plate. The bottom cover is secured to the bottom plate and includes a mounting portion. The mounting portion defines an installation opening. The circuit board is secured to the bottom plate and extends out of the installation opening. A gap is defined between each adjacent two keys. The bottom plate defines a plate opening corresponding to each key. The mounting portion abuts the bottom cover. A receiving space is defined between the bottom cover and the bottom plate. The bottom cover defines a cutout communicating with the receiving space. The gap, the plate opening, the receiving space, and the cutout corporately define a water path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wei-Kuang Liang, Quan-Guang Du, Jia-Hua Wang
  • Patent number: 8649163
    Abstract: Provided is an information processing apparatus includes an exterior plate and a sheet-like member. The exterior plate is formed of a plate-like member. The exterior plate has one of a transparent first area and a semi-transparent first area. The sheet-like member is arranged on a rear surface of the exterior plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Soichi Tanaka, Masanori Akiyama, Mamoru Kato, Koichi Hiroyoshi
  • Patent number: 8646884
    Abstract: A liquid supply apparatus configured to supply a liquid, including: a liquid container to store the liquid; an installing section which is formed with an opening and to which the liquid container is installable; and an urging member which urges the liquid container installed to the installing section toward the opening, and the installing section comprises a guide section extending from the opening in an insertion direction of the liquid container from the opening, a stopper which protrudes from the guide section in a direction perpendicular to an removal direction of the liquid container from the installing section; the liquid container comprises an guide objective section guided by the guide section, and a protrusion formed on the guide objective section and which abuts against the stopper to move the liquid container in the direction perpendicular to the removal direction when the liquid container is moved in the removal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akinari Ishibe, Hirotake Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20140029185
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a tablet type computer includes a keyboard, a frame and clamps pivotally connected to the frame by hinges. Each clamp has first and second clamping fingers. The apparatus can further include inserts configured to cover at least a portion of the clamping fingers. The inserts releasably grip portions of the tablet-type computer when the portions of the tablet-type computer are inserted between the clamping fingers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: BRYDGE LLC
    Inventors: Bradley Train Leong, Edward Guillaume Helene Vromen
  • Publication number: 20140016257
    Abstract: An electronic device includes at least one electronic component. The electronic device also includes a first housing of a single piece of metal. The first housing defines a length, a width, and a height that is less than both the length and the width. The housing has at least five side walls defining an internal cavity and an open end to the cavity that spans the width and height of the first housing. The electronic component is contained within the cavity. A cover is removably affixed over the open end of the housing so as to contribute to a retaining force applied on the electronic component therein. The first housing can be a base housing for a portable computer, and the cover can be a first portion of a hinge assembly. The electronic device can further include a display assembly operatively connected to the base housing by the hinge assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventor: Yoshimichi Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 8614667
    Abstract: An ergonomic apparatus for generating data signals that may be indicative of alphanumeric characters for use with an electronic device or system such as a computer or electric typewriter, for example. The apparatus may be configured in accordance with ergonomic principles and use one or two hands to generate the data signals. The apparatus may include a set of domes that are shaped and contoured to conform to the shape of hands in a relaxed state and to distribute pressures across the splayed underside of the user's hand. Each dome may be capable of movement in a plurality of directions extending radially from a home position to generate the data signal or a portion of the data signal. The two-handed implementation disclosed utilizes input movements that enable keystroke actuation via only slight arm or hand movement, no finger movement being required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Blue Orb, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. McAlindon
  • Publication number: 20130335906
    Abstract: Simulated anodized coating systems and methods are provided. The method can include preparing an exterior surface of a metallic electronic enclosure and applying a translucent powder coating to the prepared exterior surface of the metallic electronic enclosure. The method can also include curing the translucent powder coating to form a continuous, translucent, chromatic surface on the prepared exterior surface of the metallic electronic enclosure. The method can also include applying a transparent, matte, liquid coating over the cured translucent powder coating to provide a consistent matte, continuous, chromatic surface on the prepared exterior surface of the metallic electronic enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Shamassian, peter M. On, William Adam Graiewski, Dustin L. Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20130335905
    Abstract: A foldable keyboard includes a first keyboard portion, a second keyboard portion, a third keyboard portion rotatably connected to each other; and a control unit. The control unit includes a detecting module and a processing module. The detecting module detects relative distance between the first keyboard portion, the second keyboard portion and the third keyboard portion, and outputting an electronic signal to the processing module. The processing module receives the electronic signal and computes a distance value. The processing module compares the distance vale with a predetermined standard range value for determining different work modes of the keyboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD
    Inventor: ZHEN-WEI XU
  • Publication number: 20130335904
    Abstract: A cover for a portable electronic device includes a keyboard for electrically communicating with the portable electronic device. The cover includes a back cover body for coupling to a back side of the portable electronic device, and a front cover body coupled to the back cover body and foldable relative thereto. The back cover body is movable relative to the portable electronic device such that a first portion of the back cover body slides away from a back side of the portable electronic device. The front cover body is foldable to stack a keyboard portion, on which the keyboard is disposed, and a support portion of the front cover body. The first portion of the back cover body, the support portion, and the keyboard portion are stacked when the keyboard is exposed for use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: RESEARCH IN MOTION LIMITED
    Inventor: Jason Tyler GRIFFIN
  • Patent number: 8599542
    Abstract: A reversible connection device to attach a cover to a tablet computer in two opposite configurations has a channel pivotally coupled to the cover to receive an edge of the tablet computer. The channel has a first magnet array to magnetically attach to a magnet array of the edge of the tablet computer in a first orientation of the tablet computer with respect to the cover and the channel. A tab is movably coupled in and carried by the channel and movable into the channel. The tab has a second reversed magnet array to magnetically attach to the magnet array of the edge of the tablet computer in a second reversed orientation of the tablet computer with respect to the cover and the channel. The second reversed magnet array has a reversed orientation with respect to the first magnet array of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: ZAGG Intellectual Property Holding Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur Healey, Jim Colby, David Gengler, Daniel Pryor Oakeson, Jeffrey King
  • Publication number: 20130308261
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes a housing, an engagement portion, a module, and a member. The engagement portion is on an inner surface of the housing. The module is in the housing. The member is configured to slide substantially in parallel with the inner surface of the housing in order to engage the engagement portion and to support the module from a side opposite to the inner surface of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventors: Yasuo Matsumoto, Koichiro Takeguchi, Shingo Koide
  • Patent number: 8587933
    Abstract: A handheld electronic device including a first body, a second body, a stand, and a transmission module is provided. The second body is slidably connected to the first body. The stand is pivoted to the first body. The transmission module connects between the first body and the second body. When the second body slides relative to the first body, the second body drives the transmission module to move the stand so that the stand is opened and closed relative to the first body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: HTC Corporation
    Inventors: Yi-Bin Ho, Meng-Sheng Chiang, Chih-Shan Yeh
  • Patent number: 8570724
    Abstract: An exemplary suspension apparatus for suspending built-in equipment is provided. The suspension apparatus includes a fixing plate having a main plate and a recessed portion formed at the main plate, and a rotator rotatably engaged with the fixing plate. The rotator includes an engagement head and a connection pole; the engagement head is received in the recessed portion of the fixing plate, an end of the connection pole is connected to the engagement head, and an opposite end of the connection pole is a suspended end for suspending the built-in equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Che-Yu Chou, Qun Huang, Tai-Shan Zhu, Tao Jiang, Yue-Ping Liu, Jun-Liang Zhang, Jian-Bin Zhou, Wei-Wei Yu, Zhi-Jun Shi, Hai-Qian Ge, Ya-Ping Gu, Wen-Chih Lan
  • Patent number: 8564940
    Abstract: A keyboard mechanism includes a keyboard, a first engaging part, a support frame, and a second engaging part. The first engaging part is disposed on the keyboard. The support frame is installed on a case of a portable electronic device. The support frame is used for supporting the keyboard on the case of the portable electronic device. An opening is formed on the support frame. The location of the opening corresponds to the location of the first engaging part. The second engaging part is used for engaging with the first engaging part when the first engaging part is disposed through the opening of the support frame, so that the keyboard is installed on the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventor: Chun-Fei Yang
  • Patent number: 8564941
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a keyboard unit, a first circuit board, and a first electronic component. The keyboard unit includes a plate that includes a front surface and a bottom surface facing each other and a first coupling portion protruding from the bottom surface, and a plurality of keys provided on the front surface side of the plate. The first circuit board is provided to face the bottom surface via the first coupling portion and includes a second coupling portion to be coupled with the first coupling portion and a first front surface as a surface on a side that faces the bottom surface. The first electronic component is mounted on the first front surface of the first circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Manabu Watabe, Kenji Saito
  • Publication number: 20130258572
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes: a casing that is formed by press molding and that has positioning holes; a first assembly having positioning projections that are inserted into the positioning holes and at whose distal ends are provided buffer portions that project-out from the positioning holes, the first assembly being assembled to an inner side of the casing in a positioned state due to the positioning projections being inserted into the positioning holes; and a second assembly having engaging portions, and being assembled to the inner side of the casing in a state of being positioned at the first assembly, due to the engaging portions being engaged with engaged portions that are formed at the first assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventor: Masahiko HOSHI
  • Publication number: 20130242492
    Abstract: A foldable keyboard including an upper housing having a plurality of keys, a lower housing having a plurality of keys, a spine member configured for pivotally connecting the upper and lower housings along a horizontal axis defined by the upper and lower housings, and a hinge mechanism provided in the spine member and configured for enabling movement of the upper housing relative to the lower housing to move the keyboard between a closed configuration and an open configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: RESEARCH IN MOTION LIMITED
    Inventors: Jason Tyler GRIFFIN, James William REEVES
  • Patent number: 8537530
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic device incorporates a housing, and a keyboard unit attached to the housing. The keyboard unit includes a plate-like base, a plurality of keys mounted on the base, a base cover including a plurality of through holes through which the keys are inserted, and a plurality of peripheral surfaces defining four sides of each of the through holes, and a hook portion provided in one of the peripheral surfaces of the base cover, and used to detach the keyboard unit from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Murakami, Shigeki Nishiyama
  • Patent number: 8531402
    Abstract: A multi-function electronic device is constructed in two parts. A communication part is a self sufficient device for providing multiple functions, such as, cellular phone, PDA, camera, and others. A cover part has a receptacle for receiving the communication part. The cover part includes a lid that is movable from an open position to a position extending over the receptacle. A keyboard is constructed in the lid for use when the lid is in the open position and the communication part is in the cover part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Nokia Corporation
    Inventors: Andrea Finke-Anlauff, Torsten Gunther, Lutz Cordes
  • Patent number: 8531844
    Abstract: Provided is a sliding portable electronic device having a waterproof structure which does not restrict a circuit design. Provided is a sliding portable electronic device having a waterproof structure which does not restrict a circuit design. The sliding portable electronic device according to the present invention comprises a pair of housings engaging slidably with each other. An electric component built in one housing is connected to an electric component built in the other housing through a flexible lead. The other housing is provided with an opening, through which the flexible lead passes, and the opening is blocked by a waterproof sheet. The flexible lead, which is drawn out from the electric component of the one casing, passes between the abutment surfaces of the waterproof sheet and the other casing and is connected to the electric component of the other housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Kyocera Corporation
    Inventor: Masahiko Nishiwaki
  • Publication number: 20130229759
    Abstract: Input device assembly techniques are described. In one or more implementations, an input device includes a key assembly including a plurality of keys that are usable to initiate respective inputs for a computing device, a connection portion configured to be removably connected to the computing device physically and communicatively to communicate signals generated by the plurality of keys to the computing device, a flexible hinge that physically connects the connection portion to the key assembly, and an outer layer that is configured to cover the plurality of keys of the key assembly, form an outer surface of the flexible hinge, and is secured to the connection portion such that the outer layer wraps around at least two sides of the connection portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Matthew David Mickelson, Joel Lawrence Pelley, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Timothy C. Shaw
  • Publication number: 20130229761
    Abstract: Pressure sensitive key techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a device includes at least one pressure sensitive key having a flexible contact layer spaced apart from a sensor substrate by a spacer layer, the flexible contact layer configured to flex responsive to pressure to contact the sensor substrate to initiate an input, for a computing device, associated with the pressure sensitive key. At least one of the flexible contact layer or the sensor substrate are configured to at least partially normalize an output resulting from pressure applied at a first location of the flexible contact layer with an output resulting from pressure applied at a second location of the flexible contact layer that has lesser flexibility than the first location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Timothy C. Shaw, Jim Tom Belesiu, Paul Henry Dietz, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Dennis J. Mathias
  • Publication number: 20130229760
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: 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
  • Publication number: 20130229758
    Abstract: Input device layer and nesting techniques are described. In one or more implementations, an input device includes a pressure sensitive key assembly including a substrate having a plurality of hardware elements secured to a surface. The input device also includes one or more layers disposed proximal to the surface, the one or more layers having respective openings configured to nest the one or more hardware elements therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventors: Jim Tom Belesiu, Timothy C. Shaw, David Otto Whitt, III, Rob Huala, Christopher Harry Stoumbos, Joel Lawrence Pelley
  • Patent number: 8526176
    Abstract: A mobile computer workstation for use with a computer network is disclosed. The workstation can include a wheeled chassis having a vertical beam that supports a horizontal work surface. An input device tray is located at a front side of the work surface and a bracket located at a rear side of the work surface mounts a display screen to the workstation above and off the work surface. A power unit including a battery charger and a battery is mounted to the chassis and supplies power to the display screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: InterMetro Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Clark, Michael R. Jacobs, Steven B. Flemig, Fouad Geries Abu-Akel, Darin Janoschka, Keith Washington
  • Publication number: 20130222993
    Abstract: A keyboard device includes: an elastic portion that is provided on any one of a pair of opposed end faces, abuts on an abutting portion provided on a keyboard holding device, and biases the keyboard device in a direction toward another end face from one end face on which the elastic portion is provided; a first engaging portion that is provided on the one end face, and engages with a third engaging portion provided on the keyboard holding device; and a second engaging portion that is provided on the another end face, and engages with a fourth engaging portion provided on the keyboard holding device by the bias of the elastic portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Fujitsu Component Limited
    Inventor: Fujitsu Component Limited
  • Publication number: 20130222994
    Abstract: A keyboard includes a first keyboard section, a second keyboard section, and a connection structure. The connection structure includes a hook portion, a first operation member, a drive portion, and at least one latch portion. The hook portion, the first operation member, and the drive portion are defined at the first keyboard section, and the at least one latch portion is defined at the second keyboard section. The first operation member is detachably clasped with the hook portion. The drive portion drives the hook portion moving along a first direction to protrude out of the first keyboard section when the first operation member is operated to detach the hook portion. The at least one latch portion is configured for latching with the hook portion to detachably engage the first keyboard section with the second keyboard section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FU TAI HUA INDUSTRY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
  • Patent number: 8508933
    Abstract: A docking station which is electrically connected to a computer main body unit of a portable computer, the docking station includes a docking main body which supports a rear area of the computer main body unit against an installation surface and is electrically connected with the computer main body unit, and an angle adjusting unit which is rotatably coupled to the docking main body to adjust an installation angle of the docking main body with respect to the installation surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Seung-won Lee
  • Publication number: 20130194738
    Abstract: A latching assembly comprises a bracket, and a hook. The hook comprises: a top; a base having a first portion proximate to a first end and a second portion proximate to a second end. The second portion is inclined or sloped towards the top. A front surface extends from the first end to the second end. The front surface is substantially parallel to the surface of the second part at the first end, forming a first portion of the base for engaging the bracket. The front surface is further inclined or sloped toward the surface of the second part at the second end. When the bracket and the hook are engaged and the first part and the second part are separated by force, the bracket slides on the second portion of the base and the inclined or sloped front surface at the second end, thereby disengaging the bracket from the hook.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: RESEARCH IN MOTION LIMITED
    Inventor: Research In Motion Limited
  • Publication number: 20130170124
    Abstract: A foldable electronic device includes a first body, a second body and a hinge body. The hinge body is pivoted to the first body around a first pivoting axis and pivoted to the second body around a second pivoting axis so that the first body is able to rotate relatively to the second body. When the first body rotates to a first position relatively to the second body, a first front surface of the first body is closed to a second front surface of the second body on a closing plane, and a pivoting plane where the first pivoting axis and the second pivoting axis are located on and the closing plane are oblique to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Inventors: Hung-Sung Pan, Chung-Hao Kuo, Jui-Wen Chou, Hung-Jui Lin, Tzu-Chien Lai, Hsin Yeh, Long-Cheng Chang, Chuang-Yueh Chen, Po-Chin Yu, Chuan-Hao Wen, Yung-Hsiang Chen, Ting-Wei Wu, Hui-Lian Chang, Ming-Wang Lin, Jui-Yuan Lee
  • Publication number: 20130170123
    Abstract: A reinforcing structure for a slim keyboard includes a baseboard with a plurality of coupling portions, a top board including at least one opening and connecting to the baseboard, and at least one keyboard portion coupling with one coupling portion and movable within the opening of the top board and against the a circuit board to form a depressing movement and generate a key command signal. The baseboard has a reinforcing portion extended vertically upwards from one end thereof via a first bending line, and the reinforcing portion has a connecting portion extended horizontally outwards from one end thereof via a second bending line. The connecting portion and top board have respectively at least one fastening hole and fastening portion that are run through by a fastening element for fastening. The reinforcing structure thus formed improves stroke feedback feeling, makes the keyboard lighter, and reduces assembly process and cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Inventor: Chin-Hsiu HWA
  • Patent number: 8477485
    Abstract: An electronic device includes an upper body, a lower cover, a lower body, and a slide mechanism installed between the upper body and the lower cover. The lower cover is fastened on the lower body. The mechanism includes a fixed element, a slide element, and two plates. The fixed element is fastened on the lower cover. The slide element may slide relative to the fixed element. The plates are fastened on two opposite sides of the slide element and the upper body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Hsiao-Chun Lin, Chun-Yu Chen
  • Patent number: 8472171
    Abstract: A system and apparatus to draw air for cooling an interior surface in a body of a computer device. In one embodiment, an upward-facing intake of a fan means is at least partially positioned vertically under vent means which are attached to and/or incorporated within an upper exterior surface of the body of the computer device. In another embodiment, air from outside the body of the computer device flows through said vent means and flows directly into the portion of the upper vent, where the vent means includes air-permeable, hydrophobic means to reduce liquid intrusion from the flow of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Rajiv K. Mongia, Krishnakumar Varadarajan