Hinge Patents (Class 439/165)
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Publication number: 20040266239Abstract: A plurality of wound portions are formed on a wiring cable to be arranged in a two-axis hinge that connects two casings. Winding directions of the wound portions which are adjacent are set opposite to each other. In a foldable electronic device in which two casings are pivotally connected to each other through a two-axis hinge having two pivot shafts, the wiring cable is arranged in the two-axis hinge. One wound portion of the wiring cable is wound around one pivot shaft of the two-axis hinge. The other wound portion of the wiring cable is wound around the other pivot shaft of the two-axis hinge.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 14, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Applicant: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tomoyasu Kurokawa
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Patent number: 6830456Abstract: A connector for mechanically and electrically connecting devices such that the devices can pivot about two different axes relative to one another.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2002Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventor: John R. Obermeyer
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Patent number: 6808402Abstract: The present invention provides a portable wireless terminal which includes a main body and a folder which is rotatably connected to the main body, and a method for using the same. The portable wireless terminal further comprises a housing of the main body which is coated with an electrically conductive material on the inner surface in order to provide a ground for an electric circuit device mounted in the main body, a housing of the folder which is coated with an electrically conductive material on the inner surface in order to provide a ground for an electric circuit device mounted in the folder, and a hinge module which is received within the folder and rotatably connects the folder to the main body. The hinge module also electrically interconnecting the ground of the main body and the ground of the folder.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2003Date of Patent: October 26, 2004Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Gwan-Woo Ryu, Sung-Ha Jung
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Publication number: 20040157481Abstract: Connection board is provided at one end of flexible board. Connector is formed on either connection board or circuit board, and connector socket is formed on the other board not having the connector. Connector socket and connector can be electrically connected by joining them together. A sealing member is provided between connection board and circuit board, for tightly sealing the periphery of connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Takaaki Watanabe
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Publication number: 20040074045Abstract: A system for providing electrical conductivity through the hinge(s) of an electronic device without the use of individual conductive wires, flexible conductive cables, bundles of wire, discrete connectors, or combinations thereof is disclosed. A hinged member physically interconnects a movable body to a non-movable body of an electronic device, where at least one of the movable member and non-movable member includes three dimensional circuitry. The hinged member comprises electrically conductive material integrated therein and forming part of the hinge member. By use of this conductive material integrated within the hinged member, the hinged member provides electrical conductivity between the movable body and the non-movable body.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2002Publication date: April 22, 2004Inventors: Russell Winstead, Charles Rudisill
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Publication number: 20040077199Abstract: A hinge member provides electrical conductivity between pivotable bodies of an electronic device without the use of individual conductive wires, flexible conductive cables, bundles of wire, discrete connectors, or combinations thereof. The hinge member physically interconnects a first body to a pivotable second body of an electronic device, and includes a cylinder made in at least two portions and having circumferential grooves with three dimensional circuitry in the grooves and extending onto a mating surfaces of the two portions. Spring contacts connect to the three dimensional circuitry in the grooves and provide electrical connection to the first body.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2003Publication date: April 22, 2004Inventors: Russell Winstead, Charles Rudisill
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Patent number: 6716058Abstract: A cradle device of a portable terminal such as a PDA (personal digital assistance). The cradle device of the portable terminal has a cradle body on which the portable terminal is placed; and a holder to embrace the portable terminal settled on the cradle body. The holder is rotatable with respect to the cradle body within a predetermined angular range. A bracket hinge is settled at the cradle body, and a bracket shaft is settled at the holder. A friction member is disposed between the bracket hinge and the bracket shaft with a predetermined friction force. Accordingly, an angle of the holder can be freely adjusted when the portable terminal is embraced by the holder.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jae-Sam Youn
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Patent number: 6709278Abstract: A personal digital assistant (PDA) with a foldable memory card adapter has a PDA and a memory card adapter. The PDA is formed with a connecting slot in one edge of the PDA. The memory card adapter is connected to the PDA by a slide connector on an end a signal bus made of flexible material. When the card adapter is attached to the PDA, the slide connector is linked to the connecting port, whereby the memory card adapter can be folded to overlap the rear of the PDA. Thus the entire size of the PDA device is reduced and convenient to carry.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2002Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Unication Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ying-Jen Liu
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Publication number: 20040043650Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus including a dock and a stand. The dock is configured to receive a portable computer. A stand is pivotably attached to the dock. Some embodiments may have the advantage that a portable computer can be used during travel and used as a desktop computer having a larger keyboard and a wide range of peripheral devices. In some embodiments, the display of the portable computer is used when the portable computer is docked in the dock. Further, because the portable computer can be pivotably attached within the dock for example by a cradle and arm, the display can be selectively used in a landscape mode or a portrait mode. Particularly, the dock (with the portable computer attached) may be rotatable to change the angle at which a user can view the display. Additionally, because the dock is pivotably attached to the stand there is unique versatility of viewable options of the display of the portable computer, when it is used as a desktop computer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Myeong Kyoo Yang, Joung Sea Park, Dong Joon Choi
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Patent number: 6700784Abstract: A handheld type electronic device of this invention includes two housings respectively provided with electronic system components, a rotary device, and an electrical connector electrically connecting the electronic system components in the two housings. The invention is characterized in that the rotary device has a pivoting portion disposed on one side of one of the housings to rotatably connect with the other one of the housings, and a receiving portion. The electrical connector is disposed in the receiving portion and is confined in the housing provided with the rotary device such that rotation of the pivoting portion can bring the two housings to open or close while the electrical connector remains immovable.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Molex IncorporatedInventors: San-Shan Huang, Hung-Chuen Yin
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Patent number: 6692275Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for guiding a flexible printed circuit board that electrically connects the main body and the liquid crystal display (LCD) unit of a mobile terminal that protects the FPCB from damages, cushions the switching force caused by the hinge unit, and stops the LCD unit at an arbitrary angle, thus improving the product reliability. The guiding apparatus includes: a body corresponding to the inner diametral shape of a guide case of the liquid crystal display unit, in which the hinge is formed; a guiding groove that is formed to a predetermined length in the axial direction from one end of the body; a pair of guide protrusions that are extended from the circumferential portion of the other end of the body in the axial direction with a predetermined width and facing to each other; and a pair of connection protrusions that are extended from the circumferential portion of the other end of the body in parallel with the guiding groove and facing to each other.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Curitel Communications, Inc.Inventor: Byoung-Gon Lee
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Publication number: 20040014343Abstract: The present invention provides a portable wireless terminal which includes a main body and a folder which is rotatably connected to the main body, and a method for using the same. The portable wireless terminal further comprises a housing of the main body which is coated with an electrically conductive material on the inner surface in order to provide a ground for an electric circuit device mounted in the main body, a housing of the folder which is coated with an electrically conductive material on the inner surface in order to provide a ground for an electric circuit device mounted in the folder, and a hinge module which is received within the folder and rotatably connects the folder to the main body. The hinge module also electrically interconnecting the ground of the main body and the ground of the folder.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2003Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventors: Gwan-Woo Ryu, Sung-Ha Jung
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Publication number: 20040002242Abstract: An electric connection apparatus includes a cylindrical main body through which a center shaft passes. The main body has a plurality of conductor layers, and rigid dielectric layers which electrically insulate the conductor layers. The conductor layers and dielectric layers are alternately laminated in the radial direction of the center shaft. The main body has a first terminal to which the conductor layers are exposed, and a second terminal to which the conductor layers are exposed. The first and second terminals shift each other in the axial direction of the main body. A first connector is attached to the first terminal, and has a plurality of contact parts to contact the conductor layers. A second connector is attached to the second terminal, and has a plurality of contact parts to contact the conductor layers.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2003Publication date: January 1, 2004Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventor: Kazuyoshi Sasaki
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Publication number: 20040002241Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for guiding a flexible printed circuit board that electrically connects the main body and the liquid crystal display (LCD) unit of a mobile terminal that protects the FPCB from damages, cushions the switching force caused by the hinge unit, and stops the LCD unit at an arbitrary angle, thus improving the product reliability. The guiding apparatus includes: a body corresponding to the inner diametral shape of a guide case of the liquid crystal display unit, in which the hinge is formed; a guiding groove that is formed to a predetermined length in the axial direction from one end of the body; a pair of guide protrusions that are extended from the circumferential portion of the other end of the body in the axial direction with a predetermined width and facing to each other; and a pair of connection protrusions that are extended from the circumferential portion of the other end of the body in parallel with the guiding groove and facing to each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2002Publication date: January 1, 2004Inventor: Byoung-Gon Lee
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Patent number: 6650547Abstract: The present invention provides a space-saving rotary structure for relaying signals which can relay a large number of signal lines without causing a disconnection of the signal lines. The rotary structure for relaying signals comprising a fixed frame which is supported and fixed in the inside of first and second casings, a rotary sleeve which is rotatably inserted into a through hole of the fixed frame and has a distal end thereof projected to the outside of the first and the second casing, a rotary frame which is arranged outside the first and second casings and is fixed to the distal end of the rotary sleeve such that the rotary frame is integrally rotatable with the rotary sleeve, and a flexible printed wiring film which has a distal end thereof pulled out to the outside of the first and second casings along the rotary sleeve and is wound around a winding tongue of the rotary sleeve which is positioned in the inside of the first and the second casings.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2003Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Omron CorporationInventors: Yoshinobu Hemmi, Tsuyoshi Uchida, Satoshi Takamori
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Publication number: 20030211766Abstract: The invention is directed to a joint arrangement for guiding a cable therethrough with a holding body (201) and a leg (204) which is rotatably journalled on the holding body (201). In the joint arrangement, a mechanism for limiting the rotation of the leg relative to the holding body is provided in order to protect a cable passed through the leg and holding body against excessive twisting. The leg (204) is journalled on the holding body (201) with a ball joint (205). Alternatively or additionally, the joint arrangement includes a swivel joint having a sleeve wherein means for limiting rotation are provided in the form of a stop pin and a stop formed on the sleeve or in a sleeve. Electric operator-controlled elements can be movably mounted on a surgical microscope with the joint arrangement.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2003Publication date: November 13, 2003Inventor: Franz Krug
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Patent number: 6628351Abstract: In liquid crystal display apparatus comprising a liquid crystal display device and a flexible board with a pattern formed on one surface, the flexible board is bent approximately at the center in two via a bending section and the inner surfaces are hermetically fixed thus configuring a first pattern surface, associated parts, and a second pattern surface, contacts with the printed circuit board, at the rear of the first pattern surface. Via this configuration, the liquid crystal display apparatus can be configured using a flexible board having a single-sided pattern and assembly of the liquid crystal display device and the printed circuit board can be facilitated.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2000Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toshiyasu Kitamura, Hiroyuki Chihara, Shinichi Terao, Takefumi Ishida
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Patent number: 6616467Abstract: In a folding-type electronic apparatus in which first and second base members (81, 83) are connected by a hinge element (11) to be rotatable around a predetermined axis with respect to each other, the hinge element has a receptacle portion for receiving a flexible conductor element (41). An end of the flexible conductor element is connected to a first electric element mounted on the first base member. Another end of the flexible conductor element is connected to a second electric element mounted oh the second base member. The flexible conductor has an intermediate portion located between the ends thereof and received in the receptacle portion of the hinge element.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, LimitedInventors: Kazuaki Ibaraki, Mamoru Suzuki, Noriyuki Konishi, Masao Higuchi
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Patent number: 6616470Abstract: A pivot mechanism is arranged between a first portion and a second portion of an appliance. The pivot mechanism includes a first ring member, a first humpback bridge, a positioning base and a shaft. The first ring member is disposed on the first portion and having a first engaging element on the peripheral surface thereof. The first humpback bridge is disposed on the second portion and has a second engaging element on the top surface thereof, wherein the first humpback bridge is resilient and flexible. The positioning base is coupled with the second portion and has a first positioning hole.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2002Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Primax Electronics, Ltd.Inventors: Chang-Kun Lu, Chin-Yi Chou
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Patent number: 6594145Abstract: A high voltage electrical connection between a base unit and a panel display in a portable computer wherein the base unit and the panel display are pivotably secured to each other about a hinge axis, includes a flexible high voltage electrical conductor extending from the base unit to the panel display. A portion of the electrical conductor extends along the hinge axis such that pivoting of the panel display relative to the base unit causes said portion of the flexible conductor to twist about the hinge axis rather than actively bend.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Robert M. Williams, Richard H. Plourde, Jr.
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Patent number: 6568947Abstract: A portable electronic apparatus which includes first and second portions arranged to be movable relative to each other. Electrical connection between the portions is effected through use of a flexible electrical connector. The route of the connector between the two portions is impeded by an obstacle so that in a first configuration, the connector is constrained to follow a first route, and in a second configuration, the connector is constrained to follow a second, different, route.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2001Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: Nokia Mobile Phone LimitedInventor: Andrew Koch-Osborne
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Patent number: 6561708Abstract: A foldable keyboard includes a clamping stage, and a retaining stage. The foldable keyboard has an accommodation region on rear edge thereof. A strip-shaped rail is formed in front of the accommodation region and a guiding groove is formed on an opposite side of the accommodation region. The clamping stage is laterally movable on the accommodation region. The clamping stage has a pair of bumps on a rear side thereof and each bump has a pivotal hole on an inner side thereof such that the clamping stage can be pivotally connected to the retaining stage. The retaining stage has a socket electrically connected to an internal circuit of the foldable keyboard and a portable electronic device can be inserted into the socket.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Silitek CorporationInventor: Winky Lin
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Patent number: 6547575Abstract: In the hinge connector used for an electronic equipment, a first housing has a first hinge connector portion 75 in a hinge unit 27, and a second housing a second hinge connector portion 77 in the hinge unit 27. The second hinge connector portion 77 is housed in the hinge unit 27 slidably between a position in which the hinge connector portion is housed in the hinge unit 27 and a position in which the hinge connector portion projects out from the hinge unit 27, the first housing and second housing being mechanically combined together, the first and second hinge connector portions being then connected together by slidingly moving the second hinge connector portion in the direction crossing the mentioned combining direction at right angles thereto, the first housing and second housing being thereby electrically connected together. This structure enables a hinge connector capable of preventing damage to the connector portions, i.e.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2001Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, LimitedInventors: Nobukazu Kato, Kazuhito Hisamatsu
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Patent number: 6530792Abstract: The present invention provides a cover connecting mechanism which is used for connecting the cover to the main body of an electronic product, including: at least one FPC used for communication data amission; a connector made of elastically deformable material which partially wraps the FPC while exposing its two ends. The two exposed FPC ends are connected to the cover and the printed circuit board in the main body to enable the transmission of communication data.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2001Date of Patent: March 11, 2003Assignee: Inventec Electronics (Nanjing) Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chengshing Lai, Wenyuan Huang
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Patent number: 6488517Abstract: A high voltage electrical connection between a base unit and a panel display in a portable computer wherein the base unit and the panel display are pivotably secured to each other about a hinge axis, includes a flexible high voltage electrical conductor extending from the base unit to the panel display. A portion of the electrical conductor extends along the hinge axis such that pivoting of the panel display relative to the base unit causes said portion of the flexible conductor to twist about the hinge axis rather than actively bend.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 1998Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: Compaq Information Technologies Group, L.P.Inventors: Robert M. Williams, Richard H. Plourde, Jr.
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Patent number: 6490163Abstract: A portable data storage device includes a main circuit board, a stack of memory circuit boards mounted on the main circuit board, and a USB port pivoted to one end of the main circuit board and adapted to electrically connect the main circuit board to, for example, the USB port of a personal computer at one of a series of angular positions.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2001Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: Phison Electronic Corp.Inventors: Khein-Seng Pua, Chien An Chen, Yu-Fong Lin, Chee-Kong Awyong
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Publication number: 20020155740Abstract: A hinge mechanism includes flanges 23A, 23B, and a swivel mechanism includes swiveling shaft 25. Spring 26 energizes the swiveling mechanism. Resilient repulsion of spring 26 torqued energizes the swiveling mechanism to swivel toward either end of a swivelable range.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2002Publication date: October 24, 2002Inventors: Masaki Sawada, Tamotsu Yamamoto, Katsuichi Minami
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Patent number: 6447315Abstract: The present invention is related to a connecting structure for electronic signal transmission, having a hollow hinged body, with at least one pair of corresponding gaps arranged at two opposite sides of one end. Two gaps each accommodate respectively a hollow turning shaft, each with a channel on it. Two turning shafts are covered respectively by a bushing each with another channel also. A lengthy narrow FPC with plurality of lines is arranged in hollow hinged body, with mainframe and folding part arranged at two opposite sides of bushings in hinged body respectively. The end of FPC is inserted into and extends out from channel of two turning shafts and another channel of two bushings respectively, and thence enters into the mainframe and the folding part respectively to transmit signal with respect to each other.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2001Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Assignee: Inventec Electronics (Najing) Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hao Pan, Chengshing Lai
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Patent number: 6447314Abstract: In order to prevent damage to an electroconductive member during an assembly process or when using electronic equipment, a hinge connector is constituted primarily by a main unit connector assembly to be connected to a connector of a computer main unit, an LCD connector assembly to which an FPC from an LCD is connected, and an electroconductive member to be installed in these connector assemblies. The electroconductive member is comprised of connections provided at both ends and a flexible portion located between the connections. The flexible portion has a plurality of slits that extend in a direction for connecting the connections so that the flexible portion is contractible in the foregoing direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1999Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Assignee: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, LimitedInventors: Nobukazu Kato, Kazukuni Hisatomi, Kazuhito Hisamatsu, Kazuhiro Fujino
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Patent number: 6439905Abstract: An electronic device comprising at least a first part and a second part, the first part and second part being movable between a first closed position and a second open position. The device has a hinge for coupling together the first part and the second part, the hinge providing an axis of rotation and including a knuckle on the first part and a knuckle on the second part. An electrical connector is provided for connecting electronic components housed in the first part and the second part, said connector being routed via the hinge. The electrical connector comprises an elongate body having a helical turn along its length which helical turn extends from within the knuckle on the first part to within the knuckle on the second part.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1999Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: Nokia Mobile Phones LimitedInventors: Trevor Andrews, Neil Charman
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Publication number: 20020076960Abstract: In a folding-type electronic apparatus in which first and second base members (81, 83) are connected by a hinge element (11) to be rotatable around a predetermined axis with respect to each other, the hinge element has a receptacle portion for receiving a flexible conductor element (41). An end of the flexible conductor element is connected to a first electric element mounted on the first base member. Another end of the flexible conductor element is connected to a second electric element mounted oh the second base member. The flexible conductor has an intermediate portion located between the ends thereof and received in the receptacle portion of the hinge element.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2001Publication date: June 20, 2002Inventors: Kazuaki Ibaraki, Mamoru Suzuki, Noriyuki Konishi, Masao Higuchi
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Publication number: 20020058435Abstract: A high voltage electrical connection between a base unit and a panel display in a portable computer wherein the base unit and the panel display are pivotably secured to each other about a hinge axis, includes a flexible high voltage electrical conductor extending from the base unit to the panel display. A portion of the electrical conductor extends along the hinge axis such that pivoting of the panel display relative to the base unit causes said portion of the flexible conductor to twist about the hinge axis rather than actively bend.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2001Publication date: May 16, 2002Inventors: Robert M. Williams, Richard H. Plourde
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Patent number: 6383034Abstract: A network access terminal includes an enclosure and a connector panel hinged to the enclosure such that a double-sided connector received within an opening in the panel does not need to be removed to access the rear of the connector. The enclosure has an opening such that telephone cables enter the enclosure and wiring is routed to the underside of the panel. The hinge is located along an edge of the panel adjacent the cable entry for optimum slack management. The network access terminal may also include a mechanical stop for limiting the travel of the panel and for supporting the panel while the technician routes and connects the wiring to the rear of the connector. The front of the panel may incorporate restricted access fasteners such that the underside of the panel can be accessed only by authorized personnel while still permitting access to the front.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2001Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLCInventors: K. Erin Blake, Chois A. Blackwell, Jr.
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Patent number: 6352434Abstract: Apparatus for routing a flexible circuit element (216) between a top housing (102) and a bottom housing (108) in an electronic device such as a radiotelephone (100). The flexible circuit element includes a termination at a tab (2712) off the edge of the flex strip, oriented at an angle from the direction of trace routing. This provides the minimum possible flex width so that the flex may be routed through minimally sized openings, in turn minimizing the size of the electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1997Date of Patent: March 5, 2002Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventor: Steven C. Emmert
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Patent number: 6338182Abstract: A computer has a base and a speaker pivotably attached to the base via a hinge assembly. A cable extends through the hinge assembly to electrically connect the base and the speaker. The hinge assembly includes a pair of bushings fixed to the base, a sleeve fixed to the speaker and a pair of shafts. The pair of shafts is retained in opposite ends of the sleeve and is rotatably received in the bushings for pivotably attaching the speaker to the base. An aperture is defined in one of the bushings, a notch is defined in the sleeve, and a bore is defined through the shaft for providing access to the cable.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2000Date of Patent: January 15, 2002Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Wen-Hung Tseng, Nien Chiang Liao
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Patent number: 6320131Abstract: Systems and methods for providing for a single piece, hinged cable routing device for use with cables. The device includes sections hingedly connected allowing each section to flex and bend. The device can include fingers on an upper portion of the device. Upon pushing a cable through the fingers, the cable securely remains in position within the device. In a preferred embodiment, the device connects cables to an amplifier housing in a cable television network. When the amplifier housing closes, the device folds securely within the amplifier housing ensuring the cable remains in a position within the amplifier housing that avoids electrical interference and noise.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1999Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Assignee: Scientific-Atlanta, Inc.Inventor: Andrew F. McCann
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Patent number: 6317497Abstract: A toggle joint combination for extending a receptacle of automobile cigarette lighter and application thereof, wherein an insertion portion of this invention is plugged in the receptacle of automobile cigarette lighter; every extension portion may be extended by coupling with additional extension portions; the rear end of the last toggle is used to connect with various articles, such as a beverage rack, electric fan, illuminating ashtray, electric extension connector, map light, hold-free mobile phone set, etc, which can be adjusted at will. This invention comprises at least an insertion portion, a first extension portion, and a second extension portion, and, more than two extension portions can be combined if desired.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1999Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Inventor: Jack Ou
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Publication number: 20010027042Abstract: Disclosed is a terminal including at least two terminal bodies each having a plurality of wire receiving holes, and a plurality of hinge shafts rotatably supported by each of the bodies, a plurality of wire connecting engagement members respectively coupled to the hinge shafts so that they are rotated in accordance with the rotation of the hinge shafts, separation walls formed inside of each of the bodies and adapted to limit the rotation of associated ones of the wire connecting engagement members, a link strip adapted to come into contact with wires received in the wire receiving holes, respectively, thereby electrically connecting the wires together, a plurality of springs each arranged between an associated one of the wire connecting engagement members and the body associated with the wire connecting engagement member and adapted to urge the associated wire connecting engagement member toward the link strip, wherein the link strip comprises a plurality of inverted U-shaped bent portions maintained to be iType: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2001Publication date: October 4, 2001Inventor: Heung-Sik Yoon
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Publication number: 20010001749Abstract: An electronic device comprising at least a first part 42 and a second part 43, the first part and second part being movable between a first closed position and a second open position. The device has a hinge 44 for coupling together the first part and the second part, the hinge providing an axis of rotation and including a knuckle 45 on the first part and a knuckle 46 on the second part. An electrical connector 2 is provided for connecting electronic components housed in the first part 42 and the second part 43, said connector being routed via the hinge 44. The electrical connector 2 comprises an elongate body having a helical turn 32 along its length which helical turn 32 extends from within the knuckle 44 on the first part to within the knuckle 45 on the second part.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 1999Publication date: May 24, 2001Inventors: TREVOR ANDREWS, NEIL CHARMAN
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Patent number: 6193546Abstract: An assembly for supporting a personal electronic device includes a base and a holder. The holder is adapted to hold the device. The holder is removably connected to the base such that the holder may be selectively removed from and replaced on the base. Also, the holder is adjustably movably connected to the base such that the holder may be repositioned relative to the base. The device may thereby be reoriented relative to the base and, thus, a support surface, when mounted in the holder. A method for handling a personal electronic device includes mounting the device in a holder, mounting the device and the holder on a base, repositioning the holder relative to base to position the device as desired while the holder is mounted on the base, and removing the device and the holder from the base.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1999Date of Patent: February 27, 2001Assignee: Ericsson Inc.Inventor: John Thomas Sadler
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Patent number: 6133531Abstract: A weatherproof outlet cover assembly for protecting an outdoors electrical outlet is disclosed. The cover includes a housing which is hinged at one corner so that the cover can be used for either a horizontally or vertically oriented electrical receptacle. With the corner hinge, the cover closes due to gravity in either position, thus ensuring that the cover will always remain closed unless it is purposely held open. The hinge preferably includes a baffle which directs water down and away from the mating surfaces of the housing and back body. The back body may have a recessed and key shaped opening so that existing screws in a receptacle need only be backed partially out, rather than being completely removed. A wall plate may be snapped into place within the back body using a unique tab and tooth rack combination.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1998Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas P. Hayduke, Andrea Burke
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Patent number: 6088240Abstract: A hinged flip assembly includes a door cover (120) having a chamber (214) and a hub (122) for rotating along a hinge mechanism (133). A transducer (206) is disposed in the chamber (214). At least one wire (202) is coupled (222) through the hub (122) of the door cover (120) for connecting to the transducer (206). A wire connector (204) terminating the at least one wire (202) and the wire connector (204) is also coupled (222) through the hub (122).Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1998Date of Patent: July 11, 2000Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventors: William S. Steinhoff, William A. Gilbert, Aaron M. Schuelke
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Patent number: 6079993Abstract: A hinged device comprising a first and a second part joined with hinges. The first and second part have been connected using a cable. The cable exits from the first part through a hole near a hinge in the first part and is guided to run a part of its length along the hinge-axis to the second part using a holding means mounted on top of the hole. When the parts are turned in relation to each other, the cable twists in relation to its longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1999Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Assignee: Nokia Mobile Phones LimitedInventor: Pasi Laine
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Patent number: 6077116Abstract: A structure for fixing an electrical junction assembly on a corner portion defined by a first attaching surface and a second attaching surface perpendicular to the first attaching surface, the fixing structure comprises an electrical junction assembly body including a wire harness drawn out from a first side face thereof, the first side face opposing to the first attaching surface, a first bracket including a first fastening portion parallel to the first side face and a through hole formed in the first fastening portion, into which a first bolt vertically provided on the first attaching surface is inserted, a second bracket including a second fastening portion parallel to a second side face opposing to the second attaching surface, and an elongated through hole formed in the second fastening portion and extending toward the first side wall, into which a second bolt vertically provided on the second attaching surface is inserted, and a thin breakable member provided on a face of the second fastening portion whType: GrantFiled: September 30, 1998Date of Patent: June 20, 2000Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Masaki Yamamoto, Hiroki Shiraiwa
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Patent number: 5995373Abstract: In an electronic apparatus having a first and a second casing part, when the casing parts are rotated relative to each other about a hinge structure, a first and a second sleeve constituting a connector are also rotated relative to each other. A flexible conductive member is received in the sleeves so as to set up electrical connection between circuit portions built in the casing parts. The connector is removable from the circuit portions of the casing parts. In the event of assembly, the electrical connection is set up only if the connector is connected to the circuit portions.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1995Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: NEC CorporationInventor: Michio Nagai
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Patent number: 5967814Abstract: An adjustable angle extender card is used to hot-test a circuit pack having electrical connectors that connect to back plane electrical connectors in an electrical cabinet when the circuit pack is inserted into the electrical cabinet. The extender card comprises a rigid basic board that can be inserted into the electrical cabinet and a rigid circuit pack card guide that accepts the circuit pack. The basic board includes plural replication electrical connectors, arranged along one edge of a substrate, for connection to the back plane electrical cabinet connectors when the basic board is inserted into the electrical cabinet, and plural basic board electrical connectors arranged along an opposite edge of the substrate. Corresponding replication connectors and basic board connectors are electrically connected.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1998Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.Inventor: Theodore Joseph Sikorski, Jr.
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Patent number: 5951312Abstract: The subject invention relates to a type of accommodating hinge mechanism, comprising two positioning plates, an inner shaft and an outer shaft; the inner shaft and the outer shaft are respectively joined to a positioning plate; the inner shaft is inserted inside the outer shaft, and so positioned by the matching jutted ring and the dented ring to compose a hinge mechanism; the two positioning plates serve to position the LCD monitor and the main unit of a notebook computer; the connecting wires of the LCD monitor and the main unit can pull through the slots of the positioning plate, the inner shaft and the outer shaft to inside the inner shaft, and then the slot on the inner shaft is sealed; by way of said mechanism, the hinge serves to accommodate the connecting wires and hide them inside the hinge, thus avoiding the need to reserve additional space for the connecting wires.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1997Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Inventor: Chin-Fu Horng
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Patent number: 5860824Abstract: An extension device adapted to be mounted in the automobile cigarette lighter holder, includes an adaptor sized and configured to be fit into the automobile cigarette lighter holder, an end holder for holding a mobile phone, a power outlet section arranged between the adaptor and the end holder and connected thereto by means of a first and a second connectors both of which are capable to rotate about two orthogonal axes to allow the adjustment of spatial location of the mobile phone. The adaptor has a central bore inside which a plug, serving as the negative contact, is received and spring biased to be contact engageable with the negative contact of the cigarette lighter holder. The adaptor also has a plurality of flutes formed on a side surface, inside each of which a resilient strip is received to serve as a positive contact. The strip has a U-shaped end.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1997Date of Patent: January 19, 1999Inventor: Eagle Fan
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Patent number: 5841635Abstract: Relatively moveable portions of a flexible printed circuit member are interconnected by a web that extends between the moveable portions and is disposed in a cavity within a hinge interconnecting separately moveable parts of a split keypad assembly. The web portion of the flexible printed circuit is folded so that it is coaxially aligned with the axis of rotation of the moveable portions of the keypad assembly. The design and arrangement of the flexible printed circuit member avoids bending the flexible printed circuit member about an axis perpendicular to the member when the keypad assembly is opened or closed, and provides a vertically assemblable structure that completely encloses the interconnecting web portion of the printed circuit member, thereby avoiding the need for external connectors between the moveable elements of the keypad assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1997Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Assignee: Ericsson, Inc.Inventors: John T. Sadler, Thomas D. Snyder, Jason D. Mareno
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Patent number: 5835353Abstract: A modular electronic assembly comprises an electronic circuit module package having electrical contacts and a carrier having a socket for receiving the package. Lever arms pivotally mounted on the carrier retain the module in the socket in their closed position and eject the module from the socket in their open position. The lever arms also carry electrical contacts for engaging corresponding contacts on the module so as to provide electrical connection thereto. The assembly may be mounted in a housing comprising first and slidably engaging portions such that the size of the housing is adjustable.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1996Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Assignee: Northern Telecom LimitedInventor: Anthony Dalby