Detachable Keyboard Patents (Class 361/679.17)
  • Publication number: 20140333542
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to a carrying case device or apparatus and methods by which a user of a portable electronic device—such as tablet computer, smart phone, game display or navigation device—can use the portable electronic device with the carrying case. The carrying case includes a holder that is configured to receive the portable electronic device, a keyboard section that includes a physical keyboard, and a cover section. The carrying case may be arranged in different configurations. The portable electronic device may automatically detect the configuration of the carrying case and can set or adjust its own functionality accordingly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: RESEARCH IN MOTION LIMITED
    Inventor: Matteo Demetrio BARRECA
  • Patent number: 8873227
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: 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
  • Patent number: 8830667
    Abstract: A keyboard portion is configured to move (with respect to a housing) between a deployed position and a non-deployed position. A cover pivotally couples to the housing and is configured to at least partially cover the keyboard portion when the keyboard portion is in the non-deployed position and to reveal the keyboard portion when the keyboard portion is in the deployed position. By one approach the cover is configured to move the keyboard portion between the deployed position and the non-deployed position as the cover pivots with respect to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: BlackBerry Limited
    Inventors: Jason Tyler Griffin, Martin Philip Riddiford
  • Publication number: 20140247546
    Abstract: Fabric outer layer techniques are described. In one or more implementations, an apparatus includes, an input portion having one or more keys configured to generate signals to be processed by a computing device as inputs, a connection portion that is configured to be removable attachable to the computing device and including at least one communication contact configured to form a communicative coupling with the computing device to communicate the generated signals, a flexible hinge that is configured to flexibly and communicatively connect the connection portion to the input portion, and first and second outer fabric layers that are configured to act as an outer surface of the one or more keys of the input portion and the flexible hinge and are physically secured to the connection portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    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
  • Patent number: 8811003
    Abstract: A computing device may include a base assembly defining an opening, and a keyboard assembly including a plurality of keys. The keyboard assembly may be disposed within the opening of the base assembly. The computing device may include a keyboard support member having a lattice structure defining a plurality of openings. The keyboard support member may be configured to secure the keyboard assembly to the base assembly within the opening defined by the base assembly such that the plurality of keys fit within the plurality of openings defined by the lattice structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Hayashida, Michelle Yu, Ji Heun Lee
  • Patent number: 8804320
    Abstract: A keyboard assembly includes a keyboard, a receiving member, and a supporting member receiving the receiving member. The keyboard defines a nick. The receiving member defines a receiving space receiving the keyboard. The supporting member includes a resilient piece and a resisting portion. The resilient piece includes a stopper portion. The resilient piece is engaged in the nick to prevent the keyboard from moving along a first direction. The resisting portion is used for resisting the stopper portion to prevent the resilient piece from moving along the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (WuHan) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Gui-Fang Yang, Zhi-Ping Wu
  • Publication number: 20140211394
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a base, a cover, and a keyboard module. The base includes a mounting end and a first supporting end. The cover includes a connecting end and a second supporting end. The connecting end is pivotally mounted on the mounting end of the base. A bottom portion of the keyboard module includes a screen. The keyboard module is detachably mounted on the base to expose the screen. The cover rotates relative to the base to have the first supporting end and the second supporting end supporting the cover and the base to use the screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: TAY-YANG LIN, CHIN-FENG CHEN, CHIA-JUNG LIU, YI-RU LAI
  • Publication number: 20140211395
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a base and a keyboard module. The base defines a receiving space in which a number of magnets is received. The keyboard module includes a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. A frame is connected between sidewalls of the first side and the second side. The first side includes a key unit. The second side includes a screen. The keyboard module includes a number of mounting members made of magnetic material. The keyboard module is received in the receiving space in either a first position to expose the key unit to the first surface, or a second position to expose the screen to the first surface. The magnets are configured to adhere to the number of mounting members to secure the keyboard module in the receiving space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: TAY-YANG LIN, CHIN-FENG CHEN, CHIA-JUNG LIU, SHU-MING LIU
  • Publication number: 20140204519
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a base and a keyboard. The base includes a working surface and defines a receiving space. The keyboard includes a top side and a bottom side opposite to the top side. A plurality of key is mounted on the top side. A function module is mounted on the bottom side. The keyboard can be alternatively mounted in the receiving space in a first direction or in a second direction. The plurality of keys is accessible from the working surface when the keyboard is mounted in the receiving space in a first direction, and the function module is accessible from the working space when the keyboard is mounted in the receiving space in a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: TIANJIN FUNAYUANCHUANG TECHNOLOGY CO.,LTD.
    Inventor: HO-CHIEN WU
  • Publication number: 20140204520
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a base and a keyboard module detachably mounted on the base. The keyboard module includes a first side and a second side. The first side includes a first unit. The second side includes a second unit. The keyboard module is mounted on the base in different directions to expose the first unit or the second unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., TIANJIN FUNAYUANCHUANG TECHNOLOGY CO.,LTD.
    Inventors: HO-CHIEN WU, KAI-WEN HSUEH
  • Publication number: 20140198444
    Abstract: A keyboard that is attached on to the back of a mobile computing device, having keys that are facing rearward away from the user as the user holds and faces the display screen of the mobile computing device. When the user holds the mobile computing device with both hands at the bottom or side edges, his/her fingers are free to press the rearward-facing keys of the attached keyboard. The keys are divided into one partial field for the left-hand fingers and another partial field for the right-hand fingers. The keys within their respective partial fields are placed in mirror-opposite of the positions that would have been in a front-facing keyboard that is laid before the user. This rearward-facing key orientation allows the user to use the same rapid typing system, such as that of the QWERTY keyboard layout, on the rearward-facing keyboard as he/she would on a traditional front-facing keyboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Sze Wai Kwok
  • Publication number: 20140198445
    Abstract: A double-sided keyboard comprises a rearward-facing keyboard, a traditional front-facing keyboard and a hinging means. The double-sided keyboard is assembled in a way that the rearward-facing keyboard is on one side of the double-sided keyboard while the traditional front-facing keyboard is on another side of the double-sided keyboard. The hinging means, being on one edge of the double-sided keyboard, is used for connecting to one edge of a tablet computer or mobile computing device, and further provides a sliding mechanism for guiding the sliding motion of the double-sided keyboard. When the double-sized keyboard is attached on to back of a mobile computing device, the rearward-facing keyboard is facing rearward away from the user as the user holds and faces the display screen of the mobile computing device, so that the fingers of the user are free to press the rearward-facing keys on the rearward-facing keyboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Sze Wai Kwok
  • Patent number: 8780540
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: 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
  • Patent number: 8780541
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: 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
  • Patent number: 8775710
    Abstract: A mobile information handling apparatus and system is configured for convenient mobile data entry, communication, and computation. A mobile computing device is configured to detachably mount on an adjustable dock and couple and communicate with a keyboard I/O device and a communication portion when mounted on the dock. The dock is configured to support the computing device, keyboard, and communication portion as well as secure the apparatus to a base via a ball mount. Corner protectors are configured to protect the mobile computing device as well as couple to shoulder straps and a palm cover configured to secure to the hand of an operator. Detachable fans configured to mount to the computing device are powered and controlled by the computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Mobiledemand LC
    Inventors: Matthew Miller, Steven R. Kunert
  • Publication number: 20140185220
    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: March 6, 2014
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    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: 20140133080
    Abstract: A detachable electronic device includes a connection apparatus disposed in one end of a peripheral apparatus to which a tablet computer is detachably mounted, the connection apparatus includes a base disposed in the peripheral apparatus, a mounting groove that is formed in the base and in which one end of the tablet computer is inserted, a hook disposed on a bottom surface of the mounting groove to move parallel to the mounting groove, and a pressure member to push the hook in a direction, and the tablet computer includes an inserting groove formed in the one end of the tablet computer and in which the hook can be inserted, a catch projection formed at a side surface of the inserting groove and which engages the hook, and a pushing projection disposed opposite to the catch projection inside the inserting groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sung-ho HWANG, June-young HUR, Ki-young KWON
  • Patent number: 8724302
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: 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
  • 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: 8693178
    Abstract: An input device fixing structure includes an input device and a housing case. The input device is disposed with at least one first magnetic component, and the housing case is disposed with at least one second magnetic component. The second magnetic component and the first magnetic component are adsorbed with each other through a magnetic force, so that the input device is fixed on the housing case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Li Yin Ho
  • Publication number: 20140055937
    Abstract: A slider for keyboard is disclosed, which comprises a keyboard, a slider, and a supporting frame. The slider is slidably disposed on the lateral side of the keyboard. The supporting frame is pivotally connected to the slider. The keyboard includes a top shell and a bottom shell, the top shell formed with a first sliding rail and the bottom shell formed with a second sliding rail. The slider is slightly bent defining a first block and a second block, a first track is formed on the first block, and a second track is formed on the second block. The first sliding rail is slidably received by the first track, and the second sliding rail is slidably received by the second track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: DEXIN CORPORATION
    Inventor: TING-SHENG WANG
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20140043746
    Abstract: A portable computer includes a base, a keyboard module, a pushing assembly, a display module, and a sliding assembly. The base includes a front end and a rear end. The keyboard module includes two keyboard portions; each keyboard portion is moveably combined with the base by at least one moving structure. The pushing assembly includes two pushing elements combined moveably with the base. The display module includes a connecting end and a support portion. The sliding assembly includes a slide corresponding element disposed in the base and a sliding element pivoted on the connecting end and moved along the slide corresponding element. When the connecting end moves towards the front end with the slide element, the pushing assembly pushes and moves the moving structures by the slide element, and the two keyboard portions are separated; then the connecting end is moved through the keyboard module with the slide element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Inventors: YEN-CHANG LAI, SHANG-MAO LEE, CHUN-CHIEN CHEN, HUNG-CHIH CHEN
  • Patent number: 8625263
    Abstract: A portable computer includes a main body, a display, and a wireless keyboard. The main body includes a keyboard supporting panel. The display is hinged to the main body. The wireless keyboard detachably attached on the keyboard supporting panel. The wireless keyboard is mechanically coupled to the main body and wirelessly communicatively coupled to the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hong-Liang Pu, Yong-Feng Zhao, Fu Liao, Yong-Jun Gu, Ren-Qian Liu, Ming-Chang Lee
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8576550
    Abstract: A keyboard fixing structure for fixing a keyboard in an opening of a housing is disclosed. The keyboard fixing structure includes an engaging portion, a first fixing portion, a first flexible connecting portion, a second fixing portion and a second flexible connecting portion. The engaging portion presses a first side of the keyboard in the opening. The first fixing portion is fixed on the housing, and the first flexible connecting portion is connected to the first fixing portion and the engaging portion. The second fixing portion is fixed on the housing, and the second flexible connecting portion is connected to the second fixing portion and the engaging portion. The first flexible connecting portion and the second flexible connecting portion cooperatively provide resilient force to the engaging portion in a first direction for driving the engaging portion to press the first side of the keyboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventors: Yu-Hsien Huang, Chi-Chun Chiang, Chih-Hao Chen, Chia-Hsiung Hsueh
  • Patent number: 8570725
    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: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: 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
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8564944
    Abstract: Flux fountain techniques are described. In one or more implementations, an apparatus includes a cover configured to be disposed over at least a portion of a display device of a computing device that is configured as a tablet and a connection portion attached to the cover using a flexible hinge. The connection portion is configured to be physically coupled to the computing device using a magnetic coupling device. The magnetic coupling device includes a first magnet that is disposed in the connection portion such that a magnetic field is aligned along an axis and second and third magnets are disposed in the connection portion at opposing sides of the first magnet from each other. The second and third magnets have respective magnetic fields that are aligned along a respective axis that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the magnetic field of the first magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: David Otto Whitt, III, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Summer L. Schneider, Eric Joseph Wahl, James H. Wise, Camilo Leon, Karsten Aagaard, Thomas Charles Oliver
  • 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: 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
  • Patent number: 8526172
    Abstract: A hinge device and a keyboard dock and a portable electronic device having the same are provided. The hinge device includes a body, a torsion generating part, a rotating part and a second wedging unit. The torsion generating part is pivotally connected to the body and has a first wedging unit. The rotating part is pivotally connected to the body. The second wedging unit is assembled to the rotating part and moved along with the rotating part. The first wedging unit and the second wedging unit are wedged together or separated from each other while the rotating part rotates relative to the body along a first axis. The body can rotate along a second axis relative to the torsion generating part while the first wedging unit and the second wedging unit are separated from each other. The first axis is vertical to the second axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignees: Wistron Corporation, Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hish-Bin Dai, Yi-Ling Kuo, Ming-Hua Hung, Wen-Chin Wu, Chih-Kuang Chuang
  • Patent number: 8525791
    Abstract: A miniature keyboard for a palm held computer is disclosed. The miniature keyboard includes a plurality of keys for providing input to a hand held computing device. The keyboard includes a platform supporting the plurality of keys. The platform is configured to be sized for use by a single hand and the platforms is selectively foldable to substantially conceal the plurality of keys from view. The keyboard also includes a support structure that couples the platform to the hand held computing device body. The support structure is configured to prevent substantial movement of the platform relative to the hand held computing device body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Palm, Inc.
    Inventors: William Webb, Alan C. Urban, Richard Gioscia, Lawrence Lam, David Northway
  • Patent number: 8503175
    Abstract: A variable form handheld computer may be configurable either as a short form handheld computer or as long form handheld computer. The variable form handheld computer comprises a variable form housing frame configurable as either a short form housing frame or a long form housing frame. The variable form housing frame comprises a plurality of handheld computing modules comprising a keyboard module, a circuitry module, a battery module and a variable form display screen. The variable form display screen is configurable either as a short form display screen or a long form display screen. The long form housing frame securely frames the handheld computing modules when the variable form display screen is configured as the long form display screen, and the short form housing frame securely frames the plurality of computing modules when the variable form display screen is configured as the short form display screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Psion Inc.
    Inventors: Dinesh Nataly Gandhi, Michael Gleeson
  • Patent number: 8498100
    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: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: 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: 20130170126
    Abstract: A mobile apparatus includes a first body, a second body, a rotary adaptor including an accommodation portion to accommodate the second body, rotatably installed on the first body, and to move the second body to a position where the second body is stacked on the first body and a position where the second body is unfolded, first magnets disposed on the accommodation portion, and second magnets disposed on the second body so as to face the first magnets and having different polarity from the first magnets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Seung-Won Lee
  • Patent number: 8467185
    Abstract: Tablet computer cases and associated methods are disclosed and described. In one embodiment, a tablet computer case may include a first panel configured to releasably engage and hold a tablet computer of a predetermined size and shape, a second panel having a keyboard a hinge rotatably attaching the two panels, and a communication connector that allows the keyboard to communicate with the tablet computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: CruxCase, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Hullinger Probst, David W. Osborne
  • Patent number: 8422212
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a display unit and a main unit having a separable module and a base. The separable module is provided along two opposite shorter edges with a plurality of hooking elements, and has at least one carrier member located on one side of the separable module. The base includes a plurality of retaining slots corresponding to the hooking elements, and at least one magnetic element located on one side of the base facing toward the carrier member. To cover the separable module onto the base, first cause the carrier member to be magnetically attracted to the at least one magnetic element and align the hooking elements with the retaining slots, and, then, move the separable module for the hooking elements to engage with the retaining slots, so that the separable module is held to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Elitegroup Computer Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yun-Ping Liu, Chih-Ming Chen, Chia-Yun Wu
  • Patent number: 8422211
    Abstract: An assembling/disassembling keyboard structure for a portable device includes a main body, a keyboard, and at least one fastening unit. The main body has a surface which forms a containing cavity with at least one side wall and a plurality of holes defined on the side wall. The keyboard is capable of being assembled to/disassembled from the containing cavity. The fastening unit is disposed on the other surface in opposite to the surface where the containing cavity was formed and has at least one engaging portion which can be correspondingly inserted into one of the holes for assembling/disassembling the keyboard to/from the containing cavity. Accordingly, the present invention is not only capable of easily assembling/disassembling the keyboard by the engaging portion but also prevents the keyboard from being possibly scratched or damaged during a process of utilizing an auxiliary tool to assembling/disassembling the keyboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Elitegroup Computer Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hsiao-hui Lee, Kuang-liang Chen, Ping-yang Fan
  • Patent number: 8400773
    Abstract: A mobile actuating device including a two shell housing, an interior chamber delimited by the shells, an electronic unit for data communication, an actuating member inside an opening of the first shell, a gap between the actuating member and the first shell, a carrier element, and a switching element connected to the electronic unit and associated with the actuating member, wherein the first shell includes a display having an opening in the first shell from which a light signal is emitted, the carrier element being translucent and made of a first material having a low modulus of elasticity, wherein the opening is completely filled by the carrier element, which conducts the light signal through the opening, and wherein the actuating member is made out of a second material with a larger modulus of elasticity than the first material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Alexander Geldmacher
  • Publication number: 20130021735
    Abstract: A portable computer includes a main body, a display, and a wireless keyboard. The main body includes a keyboard supporting panel. The display is hinged to the main body. The wireless keyboard detachably attached on the keyboard supporting panel. The wireless keyboard is mechanically coupled to the main body and wirelessly communicatively coupled to the main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: HONG-LIANG PU, YONG-FENG ZHAO, FU LIAO, YONG-JUN GU, REN-QIAN LIU, MING-CHANG LEE
  • Patent number: 8351193
    Abstract: A coupling mechanism includes a pivot assembly and a lifting assembly. The pivot assembly includes a first bracket, a pivot pin, a second bracket, and a cam piece. The second bracket is rotatably mounted to the first bracket via the pivot pin and has a valley portion recessed from one surface thereof. The cam piece is mounted to the pivot pin for holding the second bracket at any angle. The cam piece has a peak portion formed on one surface thereof and received in the valley portion of the second bracket at a closed position. The lifting assembly is adjustably assembled to the second bracket such that the lifting assembly is pivotally assembled with the first bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Lian-Cheng Huang, Jian Li, Han-Zheng Zhang
  • Publication number: 20120300382
    Abstract: An exemplary notebook computer includes a first cover, a keyboard, and a second cover. Two resisting members protrudes from a sidewall of a receiving space defined in the first cover. The first cover deforms under finger pressure to allow the fitment and containment of a keyboard in the receiving space. The keyboard includes a main body and a flange extending around the peripheral of the main body. The second cover defines a pair of through holes aligned with the resisting members, and when for example finger pressure is applied to the base of the keyboard, the keyboard moves out the receiving space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: WEN-CHI HUANG
  • Patent number: 8310823
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable digital computer having a housing on which a keyboard, a detachable mouse and a swivelling monitor are disposed. The housing (10, 11) is configured in two parts and contains the accumulators only. The two housing parts can be swivelled by another hinge (12, 13) parallel to the first, and the keyboard (15) can be detached from the housing. A CD-ROM player (30) and the data processor are accommodated behind the monitor (14). The two housing parts (10, 11) can be laid one upon the other and serve as a support structure for the monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: Henning Stoltz
  • Patent number: 8299373
    Abstract: The outer case of the display module 10 is constructed of static dissipative polypropylene components that house a circuit board 16 and display 14. When the display module 10 utilizes the hand held pendant option a front cover 18 is used. This front cover 18 provides a viewing window 20 to the display 14 and a flat surface to attach the membrane 22. When the display module 10 is to be mounted inside of an enclosure, the front cover is replaced by a flat plate 28 that then provides the viewing window 30 and flat surface membrane 32 requirements. The rear portion 12 of the display module 10 is used with either option and contains the necessary features to allow for either the front cover 18 or the flat plate 28 to be attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventors: Derek R. Shaw, John C. Holman, Christopher M. Lange, Nicholas D. Long, Greg T. Mrozek, Michael L. Kashmark
  • Patent number: 8295038
    Abstract: A variable form handheld computer may be configurable either as a short form handheld computer or as long form handheld computer. The variable form handheld computer comprises a variable form housing frame configurable as either a short form housing frame or a long form housing frame. The variable form housing frame comprises a plurality of handheld computing modules comprising a display module, a circuitry module, a battery module and a variable form keyboard, the variable form keyboard configurable either as a short form keyboard or a long form keyboard. The long form housing frame securely frames the handheld computing modules when the variable form keyboard is configured as the long form keyboard, and the short form housing frame securely frames the plurality of computing modules when the variable form keyboard is configured as the short form keyboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Psion Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Gleeson, Dinesh Nataly Gandhi
  • Patent number: 8289684
    Abstract: An adjustable keyboard includes a first keying module situated pivotably with respect to the second keying module for providing a keyboard having improved ergonomics and comfort, and promoting improved productivity of a user. In one embodiment, the first and the second keying modules are pivotably mounted on a base assembly having fixed opposing tenting angles. In one embodiment the first and the second keying modules are mounted on a pivot link assembly configured to pivot the keying modules with respect to each other. In one embodiment, the first and the second keying modules are configured to also laterally separate. In one embodiment, first and second lift modules space a portion of the first and the second keying modules, respectively, from a supporting surface to form opposing tenting angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Kinesis Corporation
    Inventors: William R. Hargreaves, Carsten Buus, Jonathan H. Biggs, Mark Ando
  • Patent number: 8284543
    Abstract: A structure of a keyboard is combinable with an electronic device, and includes a keyboard body and a frame. The frame is of a U-shape having two limbs that has end portions slidably fit in elongate slots defined in two side walls of the keyboard body to be movable along the slots and rotatable with respect thereto. When the keyboard body and the frame are assembled together, the keyboard structure defines in a top thereof a receptacle for receiving and retaining the electronic device. The keyboard body includes a signal output structure engageable with a signal transmission interface of the electronic device. When combined together for operation, the electronic device is movable with the frame to expose keys of the keyboard. The electronic device is detachable from the keyboard structure for independent operation thereby reducing the overall size for easy carrying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Unication Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsung-Han Wang
  • Patent number: 8279590
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes an accommodation plate, a first exterior member, and a second exterior member. The accommodation plate accommodates a plurality of components except at least a keyboard component. The first exterior member holds the keyboard component and constitutes a first exterior surface of the electronic apparatus. The second exterior member constitutes a second exterior surface as an opposite surface of the first exterior surface. The accommodation plate is disposed between the first exterior member and the second exterior member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Noriko Kito, Akira Hanatsuka, Ryosuke Tobiyama, Yu Togasaki
  • Patent number: 8238085
    Abstract: A detachable portable computing device is provided. The computing device comprises a display device and a main body. The main body comprises a base and a detachable member. The base is rotatably connected to the display device. The detachable member is detachably connected to the base. The computing device also includes a latching mechanism configured for detachably connecting the detachable member to the base. The latching mechanism comprises a first locking member, a second locking member, and an actuating mechanism. The first locking member is securely connected to one of the base and the detachable member. The second locking member is movably connected to the other one of the base and the detachable member. The second locking member is slidable between a first position and a second position where the second locking member engages and disengages the first locking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wei Wu, Xin Yang