CN102131356B

CN102131356B - Portable electronic device housing with outer glass surfaces

Info

Publication number: CN102131356B
Application number: CN201010608849.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: D·帕库拉; R·H·M·迪恩; S·梅尔斯; 陈冬耀
Original assignee: Apple Computer Inc
Current assignee: Apple Inc
Priority date: 2010-02-02
Filing date: 2010-09-25
Publication date: 2014-06-18
Anticipated expiration: 2030-09-25
Also published as: CN102131356A

Abstract

Improved housings for electronic devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, an electronic device housing can have one or more outer members (e.g., exposed major surfaces), such as front or back surfaces, that are formed of glass. The one or more glass surfaces can be part of outer member assemblies that can be secured to other portions of the electronic device housing. In other embodiments, apparatus, systems and methods for robustly attaching a cover portion of an electronic device to a bottom portion, e.g., a housing portion, of the electronic device are described. The electronic device can be portable and in some cases handheld.

Description

There is the portable electronic device housing of outer glass surfaces

When the model machine of the iPhone 4 of Apple is in the time that on March 25th, 2010 is stolen (known to us) from an engineer of Apple, the invention that will disclose and advocate in the application by advance and without Apple authorize to public.Before this is according to the theft known to us, not yet submit to the application based on U.S.'s priority application.

the cross reference of related application

The application requires to enjoy the U.S. Provisional Application No.61/325 of on April 19th, 2010 " HOUSINGS FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND METHODS THEREFOR " by name, and 801 priority, is herein incorporated by reference.

The application also requires to enjoy " HANDHELD ELECTRONIC DEVICES " the U.S. Provisional Application No.61/300 by name proposing on February 2nd, 2010,780, priority, be herein incorporated by reference.

Background technology

Mancarried electronic aid can be constructed by various method.For example, can use " bucket (bucket) " type method, in the method, the first housing parts serves as bucket, and electronic equipment part is placed wherein, and the second housing parts serves as the lid of bucket.This layout is protected electronic equipment part between the first and second housing parts.As the modification of this layout, the some or all of parts of electronic equipment can be assembled in the lid of bucket, can be threaded in bucket to close equipment with bonnet.

Other known mancarried electronic aid can be constructed by parts being inserted in the casing member of hollow.For example, electronic equipment can use tubular structure (for example, the pipe of flattening or the rectangular tube of hollow) to construct, and electronic equipment part can be inserted in tubular structure.Electronic equipment part can be inserted into tubular structure from one or both ends, and connects in this structure.For example, the one or more circuit that insert from the opposite end of tubular structure can be connected through the opening that is used as window this structure.This structure can be at one end or sealing two ends, to guarantee that parts keep fixing in tubular structure, and provides interface unit (for example, connector, button or port) for equipment.

But, unfortunately, along with mancarried electronic aid is constantly made less, thinner and/or with better function, there is lasting demand, need to provide improved technology and structure to provide housing for mancarried electronic aid.

Summary of the invention

At this, embodiment is described the in the situation that of casting of electronic device.Housing can use at least one external member (for example lid).This external member can be outer glass member.For example, housing can comprise one of positive outer glass member and back side outer glass member or both, and wherein positive outer glass member is as housing front surface, and back side outer glass member is as housing rear surface.Electronic equipment can be portable, and can be hand-hold type in some cases.

In one embodiment, electronic equipment can have the one or more external members (first type surface for example exposing) that formed by glass, such as front or rear surface.Described one or more glass surface can be the part that can be secured to the external member assembly of the other parts of casting of electronic device.

In other embodiments, divide device, the system and method for (bottom portion) (for example housing parts) to be described for the bottom that the cover of electronic equipment (cover portion) is firmly attached to electronic equipment.Cover generally can comprise the framework (for example interface component (interface member)) that has wherein been inserted with external member (for example glass component).Coupling member (attachment member) (for example arm, tab) can couple (for example insert-molding) to cover, and can be arranged to housing parts and engage fully, so that cover and housing parts maintain effectively.Coupling member can be for being fastened to housing by cover.Conventionally, the socket of housing parts (receptacle) is configured to capture fully (capture), closely cooperates or the coupling member of engages cap part otherwise.

The present invention relates to about assembling electronic equipment, i.e. device, system or the method for portable or handheld electronic equipment.

The present invention can implement in a lot of modes, including, but not limited to as method, system, equipment or device.Some embodiments of the present invention come into question below.

As casting of electronic device, an embodiment can for example at least comprise: be placed and fix to provide the front glass lid of front surface for electronic equipment casing; And be placed and fix to provide the rear glass cover of rear surface for electronic equipment casing.

As casting of electronic device, another embodiment can for example at least comprise: be the outer peripheral member of electronic equipment casing restriction side surface, and relatively described outer peripheral member is placed and fixing cap assemblies.Cap assemblies can at least be included as electronic equipment casing the glass component of the outer surface of exposure is provided.

As assembly, an embodiment can for example at least comprise that cover, described cover comprise that at least one is from its outstanding connector.This embodiment can also comprise housing section, and described housing section comprises at least one socket that is configured to receive described at least one connector.Described at least one socket can be limited in the first side of described housing section at least in part, and can be configured to capture described at least one connector.In the time that described at least one connector is captured in described at least one socket, cover can engage with the second side of housing section.This embodiment may further include at least one electronic unit that can be placed in the internal capacity at least being limited by described housing section.

As electronic equipment casing, an embodiment can for example at least comprise: for electronic equipment casing limits the outer peripheral member of side surface, and be fixed to the internal structure of the inner surface of outer peripheral member.This internal structure can be from the front and rear planar boundary skew of outer peripheral member.This embodiment can also comprise and be adjacent to be placed with the frontal plane border of outer peripheral member and fixing front cover component, thereby the front surface of described electronic equipment casing is provided.And this embodiment can also comprise the means for front cover component being firmly installed to internal structure or outer peripheral member.

As electronic equipment casing, another embodiment can for example at least comprise: for electronic equipment casing limits the outer peripheral member of side surface, and be fixed to the internal structure of the inner surface of this outer peripheral member.This internal structure can be from the front and rear planar boundary skew of outer peripheral member.This embodiment can also comprise coupling member, and at least uses the frontal plane border of described coupling member and described outer peripheral member to be adjacent to be placed and fixing front cover component, thereby the front surface of described electronic equipment casing is provided.

Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become obviously in the specific descriptions below in conjunction with accompanying drawing, and accompanying drawing illustrates principle of the present invention by way of example.

Brief description of the drawings

Accompanying drawing is merged in and forms the part of this specification, with together with the explanation of exemplary embodiment, one or more exemplary embodiments is described, with laying down a definition the principle relevant with this specification and enforcement.

Figure 1A-1D is the view according to the electronic devices structure of an embodiment.

Fig. 2 A-2C is the view according to the electronic devices structure of another embodiment.

Fig. 3 is the flow chart according to the example process of the assembling electronic equipment of one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 4 is the flow chart according to the housing member alignment procedures of one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 5 is the structure chart according to the alignment configurations of an embodiment.

Fig. 6 is the flow chart according to the housing member alignment procedures of one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 7 A-7D illustrates according to the assembling of the assembled part of an embodiment.

Fig. 8 A is the end view according to the local side part of the casting of electronic device of an embodiment.

Fig. 8 B is the end view according to the local side part of the casting of electronic device of another embodiment.

Fig. 8 C is the end view according to the local side part of the casting of electronic device of another embodiment.

Fig. 8 D is the end view according to the local side part of the casting of electronic device of another embodiment.

Fig. 9 A is the cross sectional view according to the casting of electronic device of an embodiment.

Fig. 9 B is the cross-sectional assembled view at the casting of electronic device shown in Fig. 9 A according to an embodiment.

Figure 10 is the cross sectional view according to the casting of electronic device of an embodiment.

Figure 11 A is the cross sectional view according to the casting of electronic device of an embodiment.

Figure 11 B is the cross-sectional assembled view at the casting of electronic device shown in Figure 11 A according to an embodiment.

Figure 12 is the cross sectional view according to the casting of electronic device of an embodiment.

Figure 13 is the flow chart according to the external member assembling process of one embodiment of the invention.

Figure 14 is the end view of the local side part of casting of electronic device.

Figure 15 A be according to the assembling of an embodiment general perspective of housing of lid show.

Figure 15 B shows in the summary side cross-sectional view of the lid that is assembled into housing shown in Figure 15 A.

Figure 16 is the flow chart according to the assembling electronic equipment of an embodiment.

Figure 17 is according to being arranged to the assembly that lid is couple to the side screw of housing comprising of an embodiment.

Figure 18 shows according to the summary sectional view coupling that utilizes side screw and fluted sub sheet (slotted tab) of an embodiment.

Figure 19 shows with the summary sectional view that cover frame frame is couple to the pincerlike fastener of shrimp (lobster snap) of housing and the assembly of intermediate plate according to the cooperation that comprises of an embodiment.

Figure 20 is the schematic diagram according to the housing that is coupled with intermediate plate of an embodiment.

Figure 21 is the cover with insert-molding (insert molded) tab and the schematic diagram with the housing that is configured to the support that holds this tab according to an embodiment.

Figure 22 is the flow chart that the method for establishment equipment is shown according to an embodiment, and this equipment comprises the cover with insert-molding tab, and has the housing that is configured to the support that holds this tab.

Figure 23 A-23C shows the perspective view according to the rear case component 2300 of an embodiment.

Figure 24 shows the assembly drawing according to the glass component of an embodiment.

Embodiment

At this, taking casting of electronic device as background, embodiment is described.Housing can use external member.External member can be aligned with respect to the other parts of casting of electronic device, protection and/or fastening.Electronic equipment can be portable, and is hand-held in some cases.

According to an aspect, the surface of the adjacency of casting of electronic device can be mounted or be arranged so that the surface of adjacency is concordant with pinpoint accuracy.The edge of mancarried electronic aid is subject to the impact of impulsive force, for example, in the time dropping.According to another aspect, can provide edge protection with dissipating impact force at the edge of casting of electronic device, thereby reduce the damage to casting of electronic device.According to another embodiment, casting of electronic device can have the first type surface (for example, front or rear surface) of one or more exposures that formed by glass.These one or more glass surfaces can be protected by edge protection, and/or can be aligned to make the upper surface of glass surface and the edge protection can be substantially concordant.

According to another aspect, divide device, the system and method for (for example housing parts) to be described for the cover of electronic equipment being firmly attached to the bottom of electronic equipment.Cover generally can comprise the framework (for example interface component) that has wherein been inserted with external member (for example glass component).Coupling member (for example arm, tab) can couple (for example insert-molding) to cover, and can be arranged to housing parts and engage fully, so that cover and housing parts maintain effectively.Coupling member can be for being fastened to housing by cover.Conventionally, the socket of housing parts is configured to capture fully, closely cooperates or the coupling member of engages cap part otherwise.

According on the other hand, cap assemblies can be configured to support and protection outer glass member.Cap assemblies can form a part for the housing of electronic equipment.Cap assemblies can also comprise different glass lens, coupling member, structural support.

According to another aspect, optical lens can be formed by the optical cement being shaped (optical adhesive).Optical lens can for example be used as the camera lens of the camera flash-light of mancarried electronic aid.Optical lens can be arranged between camera flash-light and lid member.Mould can be for forming camera lens by optical cement.

Following specific descriptions are only exemplary, are not the restriction that will make any mode.Other embodiment will make those skilled in the art in benefit of this disclosure be readily understood that.Now the execution mode shown in accompanying drawing will be referred in detail.Identical Reference numeral will be generally for institute's drawings attached and the following detailed description to indicate same or analogous part.Should be appreciated that accompanying drawing is not generally to draw in proportion, at least some features of accompanying drawing are in order more easily to illustrate and to be exaggerated.

For clear, the conventional feature of execution mode described here does not all illustrate and illustrates.Certainly will recognize, in any so actual exploitation of implementing, in order to reach developer's specific objective, for example, obey and implement the constraint relevant with business, must make many decision-makings specific to implementing, these specific objectives are by the difference with implementing and developer's difference and difference.And will recognize, such development effort may be complicated and time-consuming, but be a conventional project job for thering is ordinary skill and benefiting from that people of the present disclosure can't outargue.

According to an aspect, the housing of electronic equipment can comprise outer peripheral member, and it forms the side of electronic equipment.Outer peripheral member can limit the volume (volume) that wherein can place electronic equipment part.For the parts in equipment, can on the front surface of outside peripheral member and rear surface, place protecgulum and bonnet.

Outer peripheral member can provide multiple attribute for electronic equipment, comprise for example structure, function, decorate attribute or these combination.Outer peripheral member can be for example a part for the right side of forming device, a left side, top and bottom face at least.Like this, outer peripheral member can be from back to front, from front to back or from centre backward with forward for example, around the parts (being inserted into by the parts in the volume of outer peripheral component limit) that are placed on equipment.Outer peripheral member can be formed by one or more elements.These elements can be similar or different, depend on size or the shape of equipment, also depend on the consideration (for example, outer peripheral member serves as for tuning electromagnetic antenna) of function or structure.If several elements are combined to form outer peripheral member, these elements can connect in any suitable mode, have suitable structure, function or decorate the individual unit of character to form.In some cases, the element that outer peripheral member can for example, be used as single full unit (single component) by several forms.For example, these elements can be formed integrally as together.

In certain embodiments, outer peripheral member can define the sideband (band) that forms the volume being surrounded with front and rear open area.This sideband can define the circulus around the some or all of parts of electronic equipment.Electronic equipment can comprise the parts of various kinds, for example casing member, electronic component, structural elements or these combination.In some cases, one or more structural elements (for example intermediate plate) can be connected to outer peripheral member in the volume being surrounded by outer peripheral member, to receive and support component, or the structural property of enhancing outer peripheral member.

In certain embodiments, cap assemblies before or after electronic equipment can comprise, for sealing the volume by outer peripheral component limit.Cap assemblies can be placed with respect to the open region of outer peripheral member, and front and rear cap assemblies is placed adjacent to the front and rear surface of outer peripheral member respectively.Cap assemblies can comprise any suitable parts, comprises for example housing parts, accessing points, electronic component, structural elements, aesthstic member or these combination.In some cases, cap assemblies can comprise one or more parts fastening for the volume being surrounded by outer peripheral member or maintenance electronic equipment part.

Outer peripheral member, front and rear cap assemblies can provide the some or all of outer surfaces of equipment, thereby define external peripheral form or the look and feel of electronic equipment.Especially, protecgulum is the front surface of forming device substantially, and bonnet is the rear surface of forming device substantially, outer peripheral member substantially forming device upper and lower, left and right is surperficial.But it should be understood that as an alternative or additional, some or all of cap assemblies can provide upper and lower, a part that left or right is surperficial for equipment, and some or all of outer peripheral members can provide the part on the front or rear surface of equipment.

Because cap assemblies can limit the surface that electronic equipment exposes, one of cap assemblies or both can comprise parts, coating or the retouching for function, decoration and/or the aesthetic characteristic of lifting subassembly.For example, one of in cap assemblies or both can comprise transparent or semitransparent window, user can use input/output component by it.For example, an operable output block is display device, and it can be by cap assemblies to user's presentation information.As another example, an operable input block is touch sensor (for example touch sensor), and it can receive the user's input from user by cap assemblies.As another example, one of cap assemblies or both can comprise ornamental member, for improving the aesthstic attractive force of equipment.In certain embodiments, ornamental member can make cap assemblies (for example, on rear case component) in some region substantially opaque, but it is transparent or semitransparent in other region, (for example, on front cover component, providing by it content being generated by display device).In other words, cap assemblies can comprise the transparent or semitransparent window in a part that is arranged on cap assemblies.Cap assemblies also can be supported other functional part, such as camera opening, camera lens, lamp, transducer etc.

The internal part of electronic equipment can be by using any suitable method assembling.In certain embodiments, internal part can define the one or more layers that are placed in outer peripheral member.For example, layer can be positioned near central by the volume of outer peripheral component limit at first, then one of towards the front and rear surface of equipment or both increase layer.The each layer being increased in equipment can couple or be installed to the layer that inserts and be attached in the past equipment.

For further holding member layer, electronic equipment can comprise inside panel, and it provides structural detail for outer peripheral member, and component layer can couple with it.In certain embodiments, inside panel can provide interface for the different layers of placing in electronic equipment.Inside panel can be placed on and within the height of outer peripheral member, make it substantially for example, near the middle part (, at the half At The Height of outside peripheral member) of outer peripheral member, thus definition intermediate plate.Especially, intermediate plate can form the cross section of H shape substantially with outer peripheral member, thereby the architectural characteristic of enhancing is provided.Electronic equipment part or layer can be assembled to the front and rear surface both (for example, the internal capacity of outer peripheral member is divided into two different regions or chamber (pocket) by intermediate plate) of intermediate plate.Intermediate plate can be fastened to outer peripheral member (for example using welding), or forms together with outer peripheral member or entirety manufacture.Although be called plate or platform, it should be understood that inside panel can adopt various nonplanar forms, comprise the various structures such as step, scarcement (offset), curved surface or their combination.

Figure 1A is the sectional view along plant width direction according to the exemplary electronic device structure of an embodiment.Figure 1B is the cross section decomposition view along device length direction according to the exemplary electronic device of an embodiment.Fig. 1 C is the top view according to the exemplary electronic device of an embodiment.Fig. 1 D is the upward view according to the exemplary electronic device of an embodiment.Electronic equipment 100 can comprise the electronic equipment with display of any suitable type, comprises personal computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), kneetop computer, desktop computer, phonographic recorder, video tape recorder, camera, broadcast receiver, the Medical Devices of for example media player, mobile phone, personal email or information receiving and transmitting equipment, pocket size and combines the equipment of some or all of these functions.

Electronic equipment 100 can possess any suitable shape, for example comprises the shape being limited by front surface 110, rear surface 112, left surface 114, right surperficial 116, upper surface 118 and lower surface 119 (not showing in cross section).Each surface can be smooth, bending or these combination substantially.Described surface can comprise the features (feature) of one or more grooves (chamfer), locator (detent), opening, inclined-plane (dip), extension or other amendment surface smoothness.

Electronic equipment 100 can be constructed by any suitable structure, comprises and for example uses outer peripheral member 120.Outer peripheral member 120 can around or around part or all of electronic equipment, thereby outer peripheral component limit wherein can be placed the internal capacity 122 of electronic equipment part.For example, outer peripheral member 120 can be around equipment, so that the outer surface of outer peripheral member 120 limits the left surface 114, right surperficial 116 of equipment, and upper surface 118 and lower surface 119.For the function needing is provided to user, electronic equipment can comprise some parts that are placed in equipment, for example, be arranged in volume 122.

Outer peripheral member can have specific height, and (height of for example equipment h), makes outer peripheral member surround the volume 122 that can assemble therein electronic equipment part.Thickness (for example thickness t of outer peripheral member), length (for example device length l), highly (for example device height h) and the cross section of outer peripheral member can select based on any suitable standard, for example based on structural requirement (for example comprise, hardness, or resistance to bending on specific direction, withstand voltage, Nai La or the resistance to property turned round).In certain embodiments, outer peripheral member can be as the structural elements that other electronic equipment part can be installed.Outer peripheral member can comprise for support component or for equipment provides one or more depressions, recess, groove, projection or the opening of support structure.In certain embodiments, opening can be for providing the access to being included in the one or more internal parts in outer peripheral member.

Outer peripheral member 120 (or equipment 100) can have any suitable cross section.For example, can to have be roughly the cross section of rectangle to outer peripheral member 120.Alternatively or additionally, in certain embodiments, outer peripheral member 120 can have difform cross section, comprises for example circle, ellipse, polygon or curvilinear cross.In certain embodiments, the shape in cross section or size can be according to the length of equipment or width and difference (for example hourglass shape cross section).

Electronic equipment part can use any suitable method to be positioned in volume 122.For example, electronic equipment 100 comprises the

parts

130 and 132 that can be inserted in volume 122.

Parts

130 and 132 each parts that can comprise that some are single, or some assembling parts are together as component layer or lamination (stack), or comprise that some different component layer are to be inserted in volume 122.In certain embodiments,

parts

130 and 132 can represent the some parts stacking along the height of equipment separately.Component layer can be electrically coupled to one another to realize the required data of the normal work of electronic equipment 100 and the transmission of energy.For example, component layer can with in PCB, flexible circuit, welding, SMT, electric wire, connector or these combination one or more come electric coupling.Component layer can be used any suitable method to be inserted in outer peripheral member 120.For example,

parts

130 and 132 can all insert from front surface 110 or from rear surface 112 (for example, from back to front, from front to back, or from centre forward with).Alternatively, parts can insert from front surface 110 and rear surface 112.

In certain embodiments, one or more parts can be used as structural detail.Alternatively, electronic equipment 100 can comprise the independently structural detail that is placed in volume 122 and is coupled to outer peripheral member 120.For example, electronic equipment 100 can comprise one or more internal structure or platform 140, it can help fastening, to keep or encapsulate one or more component layer (for example parts 130 are attached to the rear surface of inside panel 140, and parts 132 are attached to the front surface of inside panel 140) assembling point or region with acting on.Can use any suitable method that inside panel 140 is couple to outer peripheral member, comprise and for example use fastener, securing member, bending, welding, gluing or these combination.Alternatively, inside panel 140 can be even a part (be for example machined, mold pressing or casting or monolithic molding be individual unit) for outer peripheral member.Inside panel can have any suitable size, comprises the size of the internal capacity that is for example less than outer peripheral member 120.

Inside panel 140 can be arranged in the At The Height of outer peripheral member 120 any appropriate, comprises for example roughly half At The Height in outside peripheral member 120.The structure (for example, outer peripheral member 120 and inside panel 140) obtaining can form H shape structure, and it provides enough hardness and Nai La, withstand voltage, resistance to turning round and resistance to bending.

The inner surface of inside panel, outer peripheral member or both can comprise one or more projections, depression, shelf, recess, groove or the further feature portion for receiving or keep electronic equipment part.In some cases, inside panel, outer peripheral member or both can comprise one or more openings, for being coupled the parts that are positioned at front and rear region.The size in each region can be based on any suitable Standard Selection, comprises quantity and type, the manufacturing constraints of inside panel or these the combination of electronic unit in the action need, equipment of for example system.Inside panel can be constructed to for example, individual components by any suitable material (plastics, metal or both) structure, or replaces by the already present electronic equipment part being placed on by the volume of outer peripheral component limit and limit.For example, inside panel can be used by equipment printed circuit board (PCB) or chip form.

In certain embodiments, inside panel 140 and/or opening 122 can comprise one or more for the conducting element of electrical connection is provided between parts.For example, inside panel 140 and/or opening 122 can comprise one or more PCB, flexible circuit, electric wire, pad, cable, connector or other conductive mechanism, at electronic equipment link.

Electronic equipment 100 can comprise front cover component 150 and the rear case component 160 on the front and rear surface that limits respectively electronic equipment 100.Front and rear cap assemblies can comprise one or more parts, or can at least comprise part or all front part and the rear member on the outside front and rear of forming device surface.Front and rear cap assemblies 150 with 160 with respect to the front and rear surface of outer peripheral member 120 can be concordant, fall in or outstanding.In certain embodiments, one of front and rear cap assemblies 150 and 160 or both can comprise exquisite or frangible parts.Not damaged when protecting these parts in use or to drop, one of cap assemblies or both can be concordant with outer peripheral member or approximate concordant, to prevent that edge and other surface from conflicting.Alternatively, these one or more cap assemblies can " exceed " (for example giving prominence on the edge of outside peripheral member).In certain embodiments, one of front cover component 150 and rear case component 160 or both can comprise one or more viewing areas, can watch one or more display devices by these regions.These one or more viewing areas can be limited by frame (boarder), and this frame can provide by the coating or the retouching that are applied to front part or rear member.Similarly, coating or retouching also can be applied in front part or rear member, can provide screening effect to hide internal part.

In certain embodiments, electronic equipment can be mainly by glass manufacture.For example, outside at least 75% of casting of electronic device each several part can be glass.In one is implemented, one of cap assemblies or both can be glass, and side surface is certain material (for example metal, plastics) that is different from glass.

In certain embodiments, the housing of mancarried electronic aid may be knocked or with various mantle frictions.In the time using plastics or metal shell surface, surface may easily be scratched.On the other hand, more scratch resistance of glass shell surface (for example glass cover assembly).And glass shell surface can provide radio penetrability, and radio communication can be disturbed or hinder in metal shell surface.In one embodiment, casting of electronic device can be front surface and the rear surface use glass shell member (for example glass cover assembly) of casting of electronic device.For example, the front surface being formed by glass shell member can be transparent, to provide the visible access to being positioned at the display device after glass shell member at front surface, and the rear surface being formed by glass shell member can be transparent or opaque.If needed, opacity can be hidden any internal part in casting of electronic device.In one embodiment, face coat or film can be applied to glass shell member so that opacity or at least part of translucence to be provided.Such face coat or film can be arranged on the inner surface or outer surface of glass shell member.

In certain embodiments, one of front and

rear cap assemblies

150 and 160 or both can provide limit protection for front and rear member.In the time that front part is formed by glass, if the impact of suffering, limit protection can help to protect front part in order to avoid damage.In the time that rear member is formed by glass, if the impact of suffering, limit protection can help to protect rear member in order to avoid damage.

In certain embodiments, front and rear cap assemblies 150 with one of 160 or both can provide and can be used in the coupling member that is connected front and rear cap assemblies 150 and 160.For example, front cover component 150 can comprise that coupling member is to be connected to front cover component 150 inside panel 140 and/or outer peripheral member 120.Rear case component 160 can comprise that coupling member is to be connected to rear case component 160 inside panel 140 and/or outer peripheral member 120.

In certain embodiments, one of front and rear member of front and

rear cap assemblies

150 and 160 or both can be formed by glass.The main front or rear member being formed by glass can comprise one or more glass.For example, different glass blocks can have different configurations, optical characteristics and/or decorative appearance.

Fig. 2 A is the perspective illustration according to the exemplary electronic device of an embodiment.Fig. 2 B is according to the exploded view of electronic equipment in Fig. 2 A of an embodiment.Fig. 2 C is according to the cross sectional view of electronic equipment in Fig. 2 A of an embodiment.Electronic equipment in Fig. 2 A-2C can comprise some or all features of the electronic equipment in Figure 1A-1D.Especially, the parts that have similar numbering can be shared some or all feature.Outer peripheral member 220 can be around the periphery of electronic equipment 200 for example, to form part or all of outermost surface, upper surface and lower surface (surface 210,212,214,216,218 and 219) of electronic equipment.Outer peripheral member 220 can have any suitable shape, comprises one or more elements of for example formation ring capable of being combined.The annular of outer peripheral member 220 can surround the volume 222 that wherein can assemble and keep electronic equipment part.The shape of outer peripheral member 220 can defined volume 222 border, size and the type of parts that therefore can be based on placing in volume 222 be determined this shape.The border of (for example being determined by the shape of outer peripheral member 220) volume 222 can have any suitable shape, comprises the shape of the sealing of the shape (for example having edge or angle straight or circle), circle, ellipse, polygon or any other energy defined volume that are for example roughly rectangle.

Outer peripheral member 220 can have any suitable size, and it can for example, be determined based on any suitable standard (aesthetics or industrial design, structure consideration, requirement or the product design of required function to parts).Outer peripheral member can have any suitable cross section, comprises for example variable cross section or constant cross section.In certain embodiments, the architectural characteristic that the cross section of ring can need based on outer peripheral member is selected.For example, the cross section of outer peripheral member 220 can be essentially rectangular, makes the width of aspect ratio outer peripheral member of outer peripheral member many greatly.This provides structural rigidity can and be bent in pressurized, tension time.

In certain embodiments, the size of outer peripheral member section can be determined with respect to the size in inside panel cross section.For example, the height of outer peripheral member can 5 of inside panel height to 15 times within the scope of, for example 8 of inside panel height to 12 times, 9 to 11 times, or about 10 times.In one is implemented, the height of outer peripheral member can be about 9mm, and the height of inside panel can be about 0.9mm.

As another example, the width of outer peripheral member can 8 of inside panel width to 25 times within the scope of, for example 12 of inside panel width to 20 times, 15 to 18 times, or about 16 times.For example, the width of outer peripheral member can be 3mm, and the width of internal structure can be 50mm.In certain embodiments, the height of inside panel can be associated with the width of outer peripheral member.For example, the width of outer peripheral member can be 1 to 8 times of inside panel height, for example 2 of inside panel height to 6 times, or about 4 times.In one is implemented, the height of inside panel can be about 0.7mm, and the width of outer peripheral member can be approximately 2.5mm.In certain embodiments, the height of outer peripheral member can be associated with the width of inside panel.For example, the width of inside panel can be 3 to 10 times of outer peripheral member height, for example 4 of outer peripheral member height to 8 times, and 5 to 7 times, or about 6 times.For example, the width of inside panel can be approximately 5.5mm, and the height of outer peripheral member can be approximately 0.9mm.

In certain embodiments, outer peripheral member 220 can comprise parts for receiving equipment or one or more openings, knob, extension, flange, groove or the further feature portion of element.These features of outer peripheral member can extend from any surface of outer peripheral member, for example comprise from inner surface (for example, in order to keep internal part or component layer), or from outer surface.Especially, outer peripheral member 220 can comprise for the card of receiving equipment or the groove of pallet or opening 224.Opening 224 can for example, be aimed at one or more internal parts of the parts (SIM card of inserting) for receiving and be connected to insertion.As another example, outer peripheral member 220 can comprise connector opening 225 connector of 30 pins (for example for), and connector can engage by this opening one or more conductive pins of electronic equipment 200.Outer peripheral member 220 can comprise opening 226 and 227, is used to user that audio frequency (for example opening of close loud speaker) is provided, or for example, from user's audio reception (opening of close microphone).Alternatively or additionally, outer peripheral member 220 for example can comprise, for the opening of audio connector or power supply (opening 228), or for keeping and enable the features 229 of the button such as volume control or silence switch.

The various features of outer peripheral member 220 can use any suitable method to construct at any reasonable time.In certain embodiments, these features can be used as a part that forms the process of outer peripheral member 220 by single piece of material and construct, and wherein this single piece of material is made into the final shape of outer peripheral member 220 (for example using mechanical processing process).In certain embodiments, as an alternative or additional, some block of material can be formed separately and be combined into outer peripheral member 220.Then the part that different features can be used as each independent piece is formed, once or whole outer peripheral member complete assembling and be just formed.Outer peripheral member 220 can be by any suitable material structure, comprises for example metal (for example steel or aluminium), plastics (for example polyurethane, polyethylene or Merlon), composite material or their combination in any.In certain embodiments, outer peripheral member 220 can be constructed by the combination of several material.

In certain embodiments, outer peripheral member 220, except as decorative element or structure member, can also have functionalized use or object.For example, outer peripheral member 220 can as the radiation to catch as the part of communication network of the part of antenna electromagnetic wave.In some cases, outer peripheral member 220 can be as the part of more than one antenna.

In certain embodiments, one or more parts of outer peripheral member 220 can be processed in order to provide tool artistic parts.Especially, left surface 214, right surperficial 216, upper surface 218 and lower surface 219 can be processed by combination with decorative surfaces processing mode, for example polishing, coating (for example use dyestuff or coloured material, or the material of optical effect is provided), glazing, thin film deposition, grinding, microstoning or any other suitable technique.In certain embodiments, as an alternative or additional, the front or rear surface of outer peripheral member 220 can be provided to decorate and process (for example, in outer peripheral member those may not can by regions rear and that

front cover component

250 and 260 covers).

For reduce the total weight, size of electronic equipment 200 or its both, the thickness of outer peripheral member 220 can be selected as making outer peripheral member 220 only to the one or more resistances with minimum level in other distortion of bending, distortion, stretching, pressure or sideband.For example, outer peripheral member 220 can more have resistance to stretching and pressure, but poorer to bending or distortion resistance.For the enough resistances to all deformation types are provided, electronic equipment 200 can comprise the structure member being placed in volume 222.In certain embodiments, one or more internal parts of electronic equipment can be connected to outer peripheral member and be used as structure member.For example, circuit board (having or do not have independent stiffening elements) can be connected to the relative part of outer peripheral member 220.Alternatively, independent and special structure member can be couple to outer peripheral member 220.In the example of Fig. 2 A-2C, electronic equipment 200 can comprise inside panel 240, and it forms the absolute construction parts of electronic equipment.Inside panel 240 can comprise any suitable shape, comprises the shape of for example general plane.In certain embodiments, inside panel 240 can comprise some different regions, and for example main region and the stepped area of extending from main region, to engage one or more features of outer peripheral member 220.

Inside panel 240 can cover any suitable region in volume 222.Inside panel 240 can comprise that any suitable features is with fastening or connecting electronic equipment unit, such as one or more fasteners, pawl, groove, extension, opening, accessing points, passage or these combination.In some cases, inside panel 240 can comprise that one or more special features are to receive or fastening specific electronic unit, such as loud speaker, microphone, audio jack, camera, light source, chip or these combination.

Inside panel 240 can use any suitable method construct.In certain embodiments, inside panel 240 can be constructed by the combination of singly planting material or some materials.For example, inside panel 240 can comprise one or more hardwares (being for example included in the extension for inside panel 240 being connected to outer peripheral member 220), and plastics can be molded in its surrounding, to form inside panel 240.Some part of the hardware of inside panel 240 can extend beyond the edge of plastics periphery, makes inside panel 240 to be couple to outer peripheral member by hardware.For example, the hardware exposing can use welding, soldering, hot melt, adhesive, adhesive tape, securing member or any other connection mechanism to be connected to outer peripheral member.Outer peripheral member can be included in the one or more characteristic of correspondence portion on the inner surface of outer peripheral member, for keeping or receiving inside panel 240.Being connected between the metal part of inside panel 240 and outer peripheral member 220 can be for for example, by specific electronic equipment part (parts 230 and 232) ground connection.

Inside panel 240 can be coupled to any suitable part of outer peripheral member 220.For example, the height that inside panel 240 can be assemblied in outer peripheral member 220 for example, with interior (position in the contact point based on outer peripheral member or region).The distribution of contact point can be considered to select based on structure, comprises for example resistance to distortion or bending based on required.Especially, electronic equipment can comprise at least 4 contact points or region (for example,, near the turning of outside peripheral member) that are distributed in outer peripheral member 220.As another example, inside panel 240 can comprise along the contact area of the straight line portion of outer peripheral member 220.As another example, the step region of inside panel 240 can be couple to the front or rear surface of outer peripheral member 220 (for example, in the relative part on front or rear surface).

In certain embodiments, inside panel 240 can be positioned in the height of outer peripheral member 220, to make front and rear surface that

parts

230 and 232 can be placed on inside panel 240 on both.For example, parts 230 can insert from rear surface 212, and parts 232 can insert from front surface 210.For safety,

parts

230 and 232 can be coupled to inside panel 240, and alternatively or additionally, can be electrically connected to each other by the opening in inside panel.In certain embodiments, some

parts

230 and 232 can, inserting volume 222 and being connected to before outer peripheral member 220, first be couple to respectively rear and front cover component 250 and 260.In fact, inside panel 240 can limit by its position back cavity (or rear region) and the ante-chamber (or forefoot area) that wherein can place electronic equipment part in volume 222.The size in each chamber or region can be determined based on any suitable standard, comprise quantity and the size that for example will be placed on the parts in each region, desired inside panel 240 with respect to the position of outer peripheral member 220 (for example, if available position is because structural requirement is limited), or these combination.

For holding member in volume 222, electronic equipment 200 can comprise front cover component 250 and rear case component 260, and the front and rear surface of electronic equipment is provided respectively.Each cap assemblies can use any suitable method to be couple to outer peripheral member 220, comprises and for example uses adhesive, adhesive tape, machanical fastener, hook, tab or these combination.In certain embodiments, one of

cap assemblies

250 and 260 or both can be movably, for example, for example, for keeping in repair or replace electronic equipment part (battery).In certain embodiments,

cap assemblies

250 and 260 can comprise some different parts, comprises for example standing part and moveable part.The inner surface of front cover component 250 and rear case component 260 can comprise any suitable features, comprises one or more ridges for example, hook, tab, extension or any these combination, for keeping lid or guaranteeing the correct aligning of lid.These features of

cap assemblies

250 and 260 can interact with other parts of the corresponding features of outer peripheral member 220 or electronic equipment, to guarantee the correct placement of lid.Front cover component 250 and rear case component 260 can be placed in any suitable manner with respect to outer peripheral member 220.

Rear case component and front cover component can be couple to any suitable part of outer peripheral member.In certain embodiments, rear case component and front cover component can be connected with respect to outer peripheral member in identical or different mode.In the example of electronic equipment, rear case component and front cover component can be placed on respectively on the rear surface and front surface of outer peripheral member.In certain embodiments, one of rear case component and front cover component or both can only partly cover respectively rear surface and front surface.For example, one of rear case component and front cover component or both can be placed in the periphery of outer peripheral member (for example,, in recessed outer peripheral member).

Return electron equipment 200 (Fig. 2 A-2C), rear case component 260 and front cover component 250 can be constructed by the combination of any suitable material or material.In certain embodiments, each cap assemblies 250 and 260 can be constructed by combining some different parts.For example, one of cap assemblies or both can comprise transparent or semitransparent plate (for example rectangular glass).As another example, one of cap assemblies or both can comprise for example, base portion or supporting construction by one or more metals or plastics (aluminium) structure, above transparent component can be assembled in.Transparent component can assemble by any suitable method, comprise that for example to make one or more electronic equipment parts to pass through this transparent component (for example display circuit) visible, or can pass through the environment that this transparent component (for example transducer) receives signal or detects user.Alternatively, that one or more parts of transparent panel can be rendered as is opaque (for example use China ink, or by supporting construction being placed on after transparent panel), thereby transparent panel can mainly be used as ornamental member.The different parts of each cap assemblies can use any suitable method assembling, comprise and for example use adhesive, securing member, adhesive tape, interlocking member, post forming (overmolding) or manufacture process, or one or more in these combination in any.

In the example of Fig. 2 A-2C, front cover component 250 can comprise supporting construction 252, and glass plate 254 fills in the above.Supporting construction 252 can comprise one or more openings, comprises the opening that display 255 can be provided by it.In certain embodiments, supporting construction 252 and glass plate 254 can comprise the opening for equipment unit, for example button openings 256 and receiver opening 257.The size and dimension of opening can be selected by any suitable method, for example comprise that size and dimension based on being placed on the equipment unit in opening or below opening (for example, opening 256 can be determined by the size of button, and opening 257 can be considered to determine by the size of receiver with for user provides the acoustics of enough audio frequency).

In certain embodiments, glass plate 254 can comprise that ornamental retouching hides the internal part of electronic equipment in order to avoid seen.For example, opaque layer can be applied to display 255 region 259 around, for the non-displaypart of hiding display circuit in order to avoid seen.Because one or more transducers can receive signal by glass plate 254, therefore opaque layer can optionally be removed or be selected to allow signal to arrive the transducer after plate by glass plate.For example, glass plate 254 can comprise region 259a and 259b, and transducer (for example camera, infrared sensor, proximity transducer or ambient light sensor) can receive signal by these regions.

In certain embodiments, front cover component 250 can support or enable one or more users can be so as to using the interface of electronic equipment.For example, glass plate 254 can support to touch interface (for example touch pad or touch-screen) and control processing and the operation of electronic equipment.As another example, front cover component 250 can comprise that one or more buttons or transducer (above-described) come to carry out alternately with equipment.In some cases, alternatively or additionally, button, switch or other interface element can be incorporated in outer peripheral member 220 or rear case component 260.Electronic equipment 200 can comprise for any other suitable interface of user interactions, comprise display circuit for example, the projector (projector), audio output circuit (for example loud speaker or audio port), haptic interface (for example vibrative motor or the power supply of electrostimulation is provided) or these combination.

In order to improve decoration or the aesthstic attractive force of electronic equipment 200, in outer peripheral member 220, front cover component 250 and rear case component 260 one or allly can use suitable technique to retouch.For example, for example, in, polishing, coating (use dyestuff or coloured material, or the material of optical effect is provided), glazing, thin film deposition, grinding, microstoning or any other suitable technique one or more can be applied to electronic equipment part.In certain embodiments, one or more glass surfaces (glass surface for example front cover component 250 or rear case component 260) can be retouched to provide tool artistic outward appearance, for example, use one or more masks (mask), coating (for example colour or dichromatism), China ink layer or these combination.The specific retouching that is applied to the glass surface of front cover component 250 and rear case component 260 can be selected as making front and

rear surface

214 and 216 to have similar or different outward appearances.In certain embodiments, glass surface can be processed for example, with opposing wearing and tearing or impact (anti-scratch), touch the oil that brings or any other is applied to the external force of equipment.

Fig. 3 is the flow chart according to the example process of the assembling electronic equipment of one embodiment of the invention.Process 300 can start in step 302, can obtain the outer peripheral member with closed hoop.For example, one or more parts can be combined to form ring.In step 304, inside panel can be connected to outer peripheral member.For example, internal structure can insert in the ring of sideband and the some parts that is connected to outer peripheral member carrys out limiting structure parts.In step 306, the parts of electronic equipment can be arranged at least part of volume by outer peripheral component limit.These parts can be arranged on this volume from the one or both sides of outer peripheral member.For example, parts can be coupled to the both sides of inside panel.In step 308, cap assemblies can be placed with respect to outer peripheral member.For example, front and rear cap assemblies can be connected to outer peripheral member so that the parts that insert are included in the shell being formed by outer peripheral member and front and rear cap assemblies.Especially, front and rear cap assemblies can be placed as and make the display interface of equipment keep visible by the window of a lid.Process 300 then can be in the rear end of step 308.

For the above electronic devices structure of discussing in Fig. 1-3 and the additional information of assembly processing, referring to the U.S. Provisional Application No.61/300 of " the HANDHELD ELECTRONIC DEVICES " by name that propose on February 2nd, 2010,780, be herein incorporated by reference.

aim at and protection layout and technology

Because the some parts of casting of electronic device is stacked, may exist and may make to aim at not too accurate cumulative limit.According to an aspect, the face of the adjacency of casting of electronic device can be mounted or be arranged so that the face of adjacency is concordant with high accuracy.The edge of mancarried electronic aid is subject to the impact of impulsive force, for example, in the time dropping.According to another aspect, can provide edge protection to carry out dissipating impact force at the edge of casting of electronic device, thereby reduce the damage to casting of electronic device.According to another embodiment, casting of electronic device can have the first type surface (for example, before or after surface) of one or more exposures that formed by glass.Glass surface can be protected by edge protection, and can be aligned to make the upper surface of glass surface and the edge protection can be substantially concordant.

Fig. 4 is the flow chart according to the housing member alignment procedures 400 of one embodiment of the invention.This housing member alignment procedures 400, for allowing contiguous housing member to be fastened to together, provides concordant interface simultaneously between them.

Housing member alignment procedures 400 provides the 402 external shell members for apparatus casing, namely, can (for example assembly bench) provide casting of electronic device in assembly section.And, the 404 edge protection structural elements with the receiving plane for receiving external shell member can be provided.

External shell member can be close to the receiving plane of edge protection structural elements and be placed 406.In order to ensure the correct aligning of the concordant degree of height, 408 first power that apply are to push external shell member to the smooth plane of reference.Here, the smooth plane of reference can be the level and smooth steel surface arranging in assembly section.In one is implemented, the smooth plane of reference can for example, apply with inviscid coating (special teflon (Teflon)).Further, can apply 410 second power to push edge protection structural elements to this smooth plane of reference.Typically, second power also can be to outside housing member pushing edge protection structural elements.Then edge protection structural elements can fastened 412 to external shell member.As a result of, once external shell member and edge protection structural elements are fastened 412, just can show as one of apparatus casing assembled part.Thereafter, this assembled part can remove 414 from assembly section.After assembled part is removed 414, housing member alignment procedures 400 can finish.

Fig. 5 is the structure chart according to the alignment configurations 500 of an embodiment.Alignment configurations 500 can be corresponding to the aligning that is close to as discussed above housing member, for example, in housing member alignment procedures 400 illustrated in fig. 4.Alignment configurations 500 comprises the smooth plane of reference 502, and it is fastened in fixed mode.Can push external shell member 504 to the smooth plane of reference 502 by power F1.Power F1, as shown in Figure 5, can be applied to the relative lip-deep difference place of external shell member 504.For example, in this is arranged, can press towards the surface of the smooth plane of reference 502 upper surface of external shell member 504, power F1 can be transmitted on the lower surface of external shell member 504.Power F1 can for example, for example, apply by single structure (spring) or multiple structure (a series of springs).The use of multiple springs can provide applying of more uniform power on the surface of outside housing member 504.And at least one limit that can be close to external shell member 504 provides edge protection structural elements 506.In order to place edge protection structural elements 506 with respect to external shell member 504 in concordant mode, can use power F2 to carry out the surface pushing edge protection structural elements 506 to the plane plane of reference 502.Power F2 can for example, for example, apply by single structure (spring) or multiple structure (a series of springs).The upper surface that has ensured like this edge protection structural elements 506 can be placed as and make its upper surface concordant with the upper surface of external shell member 504.In addition,, if needed, can apply power F3 and carry out the limit pushing edge protection structural elements 506 to outside housing member 504.Once external shell member 504 and edge protection structural elements 506 are biased with respect to the smooth plane of reference 502, external shell member 504 and edge protection structural elements 506 can be fastening mutually.These members of casting of electronic device can be fastened to together by various mode.For example, these members can for example, keep together with adhesive (glue or epoxy resin), and in the time that adhesive solidifies, these members can keep with respect to biased in the smooth plane of reference 502.As another example, these members can such as, keep together by mechanical structure (screw, fastener, tab, locator etc.).

Fig. 6 is the flow chart according to the housing member alignment procedures 600 of one embodiment of the invention.Housing member alignment procedures 600 can be casting of electronic device combination external shell member (being outer glass member) and edge protection structural elements.Then the outer surface that housing member alignment procedures 600 carries out to aim at these members makes these members secured to one another.

Housing member alignment procedures 600 can provide the 602 outer glass members for casting of electronic device.The edge protection structural elements with the plane of the receiving for receiving outer glass member also can be provided.Then liquid adhesive can be applied to 606 to a part for outer glass member and/or a part for edge protection structural elements.Then can be close to the receiving plane of edge protection structural elements and place 608 outer glass members.In order to realize the accurate aligning that produces high concordant degree, 610 first power that apply are to push outer glass member to the smooth plane of reference.Also can apply 612 second power to push edge protection structural elements to this smooth plane of reference.This has guaranteed that outer glass member and edge protection structural elements are placed as and has made both upper surfaces closely adjacent and concordant.Thereafter, liquid adhesive is cured 614.For example, be assembled together and become the member of assembled part and can be placed in baking oven to accelerate solidifying of liquid adhesive.Once the adhesive that edge protection structural elements and outer glass member are cured is fastening, just can from baking oven, removes 606 assembled parts, and can remove first and second power.Here, assembled part comprises outer glass member and edge protection structural elements.In addition, be assembled into this mode of assembled part for member, the upper surface of outer glass member is concordant with the new upper surface of edge protection structural elements.After frame 616, housing member alignment procedures 600 finishes.

In one embodiment, compared with accurate concordant, the concordant degree providing by registration process can not be greater than 80 μ m at the most.In another embodiment, compared with accurate concordant, the concordant degree providing by registration process can not be greater than 60 μ m at the most.In another embodiment, compared with accurate concordant, the concordant degree providing by registration process can not be greater than 40 μ m at the most.

Fig. 7 A-7D illustrates the assembling of assembled part according to an embodiment.Assembled part can be assembled according to housing member alignment procedures 600.Part after assembling can be used as a part for casting of electronic device.

The composition member of Fig. 7 A explanation assembled part.Especially, part comprises outer glass member 700 and edge protection structural elements 702.Edge protection structural elements 702 has upper surface 704 and lower surface 706, and upper surface 704 can be received outer glass member 700 in the time of assembling, and lower surface 706 provides the inner surface of casting of electronic device.Edge protection structural elements 702 also comprises limit buffer (side bumper) 708, and it has upper surface 710.

The initial number of assembling steps of Fig. 7 B explanation assembled part.Outer glass member 700 remains on fixing reference configuration 712.The upper surface of outer glass member 700 is forced on the flat plane of reference being provided by the reference configuration 712 of fixing.Outer glass member 700 can for example, be biased into (, being forced into) this flat plane of reference by the mechanical component (one or more springs) that bias pressure is provided.In addition, edge protection structural elements 702 can be piled up and have liquid adhesive 714 in a part for upper surface 704.

Fig. 7 C explanation assembled part following step.Here the edge protection structural elements 702 that has a liquid adhesive 714, can be pressed onto on the flat plane of reference being provided by the reference configuration 712 of fixing.More particularly, the upper surface 710 of the limit buffer 708 of edge protection structural elements 702 is crushed on the flat plane of reference.Edge protection structural elements 702 can for example, be biased into (being forced into) this flat plane of reference by the mechanical component (one or more springs) that bias pressure is provided.The mechanical component of the mechanical component of bias voltage edge protection structural elements 702 and bias voltage outer glass member 700 is separated.Once assembled part is maintained at appropriate location by bias pressure, as shown in Fig. 7 C, liquid adhesive just can be cured.In one embodiment, adhesive can solidify with heating, for example, by assembled part is put into baking oven.Curing adhesive is for secure component (being outer glass member 700 and edge protection structural elements 702); the tolerance of compensation (for example, in the composition lamination of parts) parts simultaneously, so that the upper surface 710 of the upper surface of outer glass member 700 and limit buffer 708 is concordant.In one embodiment, concordantly mean that adjacent upper surface is in concordant 60 micrometer ranges of perfection.One and adhesive solidify, just can remove heating, and assembled part has just assembled.In addition, the limit buffer of edge protection structural elements 702 708 is for example, with the limit (edge) of outer glass member 700 closely adjacent, and the impulsive force of side edge to glass component 700 provides protection.

The assembling subsequently of Fig. 7 D explanation assembled part.Assembled part can be connected to another structure member of casting of electronic device.As an example, another structure member can be the outer peripheral member 716 of casting of electronic device.Outer peripheral member 716 can limit side surface for casting of electronic device.Outer peripheral member 716 also can be connected to internal structure 718 (for example inside panel) or for example, with internal structure 718 (inside panel) integrated, and this internal structure provides structural rigidity for casting of electronic device.For example, internal structure 718 can be fixed to the inner surface of outer peripheral member 716.Internal structure 718 can be offset the front and rear planar boundary of outer peripheral member 716 and place.As shown in Fig. 7 D, assembled part can be coupled to outer peripheral member 716 at frontal plane boundary.For fastening assembled part, edge protection structural elements 702 may further include or be couple to link arm 720.Link arm 720 can be fastened to there near the inner surface of outer peripheral member 716 and such as, by adhesive or mechanical means (screw, tab, fastener etc.).

Assembled part can have glass component, polymer elements and/or metal parts.In a particular embodiment, outer glass member 700 is glass, for example alumina silicate glass; Edge protection structural elements 702 is polymer, for example polyarylamide (polyarylamide); Outer peripheral member 716, internal structure 718 and link arm can be metal, for example stainless steel.

Fig. 8 A is the end view according to the local side part of the casting of electronic device 800 of an embodiment.Local side part comprises external shell member 802.External shell member 802 can be adjacent to limit member 804.And, can provide edge protection buffer 806 with protection external shell member 802 otherwise the limit 808 that can expose.The configuration of edge protection buffer 806 can be according to application and difference.Typically, the thickness of edge protection buffer 806 is very thin at the part place adjacent with the limit 808 exposing.For example, the thickness of external shell member 802 is 1 millimeter (mm), and the thickness of edge protection buffer 806 can be less than 1mm, and more specifically, its thickness can be about 0.8mm.In one embodiment, external shell member 802 can be made up of glass, and edge protection buffer 806 can be made up of polymer, and limit member 804 can be made of metal.

Fig. 8 B is the end view according to the local side part of the casting of electronic device 800 ' of another embodiment.With Fig. 8 category-A seemingly, external shell member 802 can be adjacent to limit member 804 '.Can provide edge protection buffer 806 with protection external shell member 802 otherwise the limit 808 that can expose.In this embodiment, limit member 804 ' can stretch out a little from the outer surface of edge protection buffer 806.In one embodiment, external shell member 802 can be made up of glass, and edge protection buffer 806 can be made up of polymer, and limit member 804 ' can be made of metal.

Fig. 8 C is the end view according to the local side part of the casting of electronic device 820 of another embodiment.Local side part comprises external shell member 822.External shell member 820 can be adjacent to limit member 824.In this embodiment, limit member 824 supports outer housing members 822, and limit 828 that edge protection buffer 826 is protected external shell member 822 otherwise that can expose is provided.The configuration of edge protection buffer 826 can be according to application and difference.Typically, the thickness of edge protection buffer 826 is very thin at the part place adjacent with the limit 828 exposing.For example, the thickness of external shell member 822 is 1 millimeter (mm), and the thickness of edge protection buffer 826 can be less than 1mm, and more specifically, its thickness can be about 0.8mm.Limit member 824 can be coupled to internal structure 830 to provide support for the limit member 824 of casting of electronic device.In one embodiment, internal structure 830 can comprise the limit part 832 being embedded in limit member 824.In one embodiment, external shell member 822 can be made up of glass, and limit member 824 and edge protection buffer 826 can be made up of polymer, and internal structure 830 (comprising limit structure 832) can be made of metal.

Fig. 8 D is the end view according to the local side part of the casting of electronic device 840 of another embodiment.Casting of electronic device 840 is similar to the casting of electronic device 820 shown in Fig. 8 C, but has been to provide another external shell member 842.For example, external shell member 822 can be corresponding to the top cover of casting of electronic device, and outer peripheral member 842 can be corresponding to the bottom of casting of electronic device.Limit member 824 ' not only comprises edge protection buffer 826, also comprises edge protection buffer 844.

Fig. 9 A is the cross sectional view according to the casting of electronic device 900 of an embodiment.Casting of electronic device 900 comprises the external shell member 902 that is supported and protected by interface component (interface member) 904.Provide the interface component 904 of edge protection member 906 (for example edge protection buffer) to be close to the limit placement of external shell member 902.Also supports outer housing member 902 for external shell member 902 being fastened to the other parts of casting of electronic device 900 of interface component 904.In this embodiment, interface component 904 is secured to outer peripheral member 908.More particularly, in this embodiment, interface component 904 comprises fastening part 910 (for example link arm), and it is for being fastened to outer peripheral member 908 by interface component 904 (thereby by external shell member 902).Casting of electronic device 900 also can comprise another external shell member 912.Another external shell member 912 can for example be incorporated into or be fastened on the limit relative with external shell member 902 of outer peripheral member 908.Provide inner space 914 in the inside of casting of electronic device 900, various electric parts can be coupled, adhere to or be placed on here, for electronic equipment provides electronic operation.

Various members, part or the assembly of mancarried electronic aid 900 can be formed by any one in multiple material, for example glass, polymer or metal.In one embodiment, external shell member 902 is glass, and outer peripheral member 908 for example, is formed by metal or polymer (plastics), and another external shell member 912 for example, is formed by glass, polymer (plastics) or metal.Interface component 904 can form by polymer or by the combination of material.For example, edge protection member 906 will be firm; Thereby, can use structure-reinforced polymer, for example polyarylamide.Equally as an example, fastening part 910 can be formed to gain in strength by metal.If fastening part 910 is formed by metal, can be combined with the balance point of interface component 904 by secondary forming process.

Fig. 9 B is the cross-sectional assembled view at the casting of electronic device 900 shown in Fig. 9 A according to an embodiment.External shell member 902 has upper surface 920 and lower surface 922.The lower surface 922 of external shell member 902 can be fastened to the upper surface 924 of interface component 904.For example, external shell member 902 can be fastened to adhesive the upper surface 924 of interface component 904.In the time that external shell member 902 is fastened to interface component 904, edge protection member 906 is positioned at the edge (being edge) of external shell member 902 and locates.Edge protection member 906 provides resilient coating (for example, buffer), and it weakens the impact producing in the edge of the external shell member 902 of casting of electronic device 900.In addition, the lower surface 926 of interface component 904 is positioned on the upper surface 928 of outer peripheral member 908.The fastening part 910 of interface component 904 can be for being fastened to outer peripheral member 908 by interface component 904.

Figure 10 is the cross sectional view according to the casting of electronic device 1000 of an embodiment.Casting of electronic device 1000 comprises the first external shell member 1002 that is supported and protected by first interface member 1004.First interface member 1004 provides the edge protection member 1006 (for example edge protection buffer) being close to the limit of the first external shell member 1002.First interface member 1004 also supports the first external shell member 1002, and for the first external shell member 1002 being fastened to the other parts of casting of electronic device 1000.In this embodiment, first interface member 1004 is secured to outer peripheral member 1008.More particularly, in this embodiment, first interface member 1004 comprises the first fastening part 1010, and it is for being fastened to outer peripheral member 1008 by first interface member 1004 (thereby by first external shell member 1002).

Casting of electronic device 1000 can also comprise internal structure 1012, and itself and outer peripheral member 1008 are integrated or be fastened to outer peripheral member 1008.In one embodiment, the inner surface that internal structure 1012 can be fastened to outer peripheral member 1008 is so that the skew of its front and rear planar boundary from outer peripheral member 1008.As shown in figure 10, internal structure 1012 can be fastened on the midpoint of the height of outer peripheral member 1008.Provide the first inner space 1014 in casting of electronic device 1000 inside, various electric parts can be coupled, adhere to or be placed on here, for electronic equipment provides electronic operation.

In this embodiment, casting of electronic device 1000 also comprises similar structure at the opposite side of casting of electronic device 1000.That is to say, casting of electronic device 1000 can also comprise the second external shell member 1016 that is supported and protected by the second interface component 1018.The second interface component 1018 provides the edge protection member 1020 (for example edge protection buffer) being close to the limit of the second external shell member 1016.The second interface component 1018 also supports the second external shell member 1016, and for the second external shell member 1016 being fastened to the other parts of casting of electronic device 1000.In this embodiment, the second interface component 1018 can be fastened to outer peripheral member 1008 in a side relative with first interface member 1004.More particularly, in this embodiment, the second interface component 1018 comprises the second fastening part 1022 (for example link arm), and it is for being fastened to outer peripheral member 1008 by the second interface component 1018 (thereby by second external shell member 1016).And, in casting of electronic device 1000 inside, (between internal structure 1012 and the second interface component 1018) provides the second inner space 1024, various electric parts can be coupled, adhere to or be placed on here, for electronic equipment provides electronic operation.

In one embodiment, the first external shell member 1002 can represent the external upper of mancarried electronic aid, and the second outer surface housing 1016 can represent outer lower face housing.In one embodiment, the first external shell member 1002 and the second external shell member 1016 can be (for example glass covers) of glass.

In Fig. 9 A, 9B and 10, edge protection member (for example edge protection buffer) is the thin-material layers being close to the limit of external shell member, thereby is buffered in the impact of the edge of external shell member.In one embodiment, edge protection member will be firm; Thereby, can use structure-reinforced polymer, for example polyarylamide.Polyarylamide can be strengthened by comprising glass fibre.A source of strengthening polyarylamide is from Solvay Advanced Polymers, the lxef polyarylamide (PARA) of L.L.C, and it can comprise glass fiber-reinforced thing.In addition, although the limit of edge protection member next-door neighbour external shell member can be that edge protection member and external shell member use material separately.Especially, the thermal coefficient of expansion (CTE) of their materials separately if do not controlled, may produce undesirable stress on the side of outside housing member.For example, for the external shell member of glass, its CTE is approximately 10 millimeters/meter/DEG C.Therefore, this example be it is desirable to, the CTE of the material of edge protection member should be approximately 10 millimeters/meter/DEG C.For example, although the CTE of plastics (being roughly 100 millimeters/meter/DEG C) is often significantly higher than the CTE of glass, but some man-made polymers' (for example polyarylamide) CTE (being for example roughly 30 millimeters/meter/DEG C) can be substantially closer to the CTE of glass, if thereby used, can make the stress on the limit of outside housing member less.For example, in one embodiment, so the man-made polymer of purposes can have the CTE that is less than or equal to about 50 millimeters/meter/DEG C, and in another embodiment, so the man-made polymer of purposes can have the CTE that is less than or equal to about 35 millimeters/meter/DEG C.In addition, as mentioned above, the thickness of edge protection member also can be very thin, and for example in one embodiment, this thickness can be no more than about 1mm.

In another embodiment, edge protection material can be formed by multiple material, and these materials can replace, winding or layering.The material layer that nestles up the edge of glass outer member can have the CTE that relatively approaches glass, and exterior layer can have higher CTE, and it can allow larger material ranges, for example, such as polymer (plastics).

But edge protection member can very thinly not affect on decorating.For example, in certain embodiments, the thickness of edge protection member (t1) can be less than 1mm (for example, 0.8mm).For example, and in certain embodiments, the thickness of external shell member (t2) can be less than 5mm (, 1mm).But these thickness are exemplary and according to the size of casting of electronic device and the intensity of requirement and difference.As mentioned above, be also favourable for edge protection member uses the material of strengthening.But, for the external shell member such as glass cover provides thin edge protection member, contribute to provide compact and the thin portable electronic device housing that but can resist the side impact injury to outside housing member.

Figure 11 A, 11B and 12 are similar with Fig. 9 A, 9B and 10 structures respectively.But, the configuration difference of edge protection member.Edge protection member shown in Figure 11 A, 11B and 12 forms the turning of casting of electronic device, and therefore it is typically thicker than the edge protection member shown in Fig. 9 A, 9B and 10.For instance, in one embodiment, the thickness of edge protection member is similar to the thickness of external shell member.

Figure 11 A is the cross sectional view according to the casting of electronic device 1100 of an embodiment.Casting of electronic device 1100 comprises the external shell member 1102 that is supported and protected by interface component 1104.Interface component 1104 provides edge protection member 1106 (for example edge protection buffer), the limit of its next-door neighbour's external shell member 1102.Also supports outer housing member 1102 of interface component 1104, and for external shell member 1102 being fastened to the other parts of casting of electronic device 1100.In this embodiment, interface component 1104 is fastened to outer peripheral member 1108.More particularly, in this embodiment, interface component 1104 comprises fastening part 1110 (for example link arm), and it is for being fastened to outer peripheral member 1108 by interface component 1104 (thereby by external shell member 1102).Casting of electronic device 1100 can also comprise another external shell member 1112.This another external shell member 1112 is can be for example integrated or be fastened to outer peripheral member 1108 in a side relative with external shell member 1102 and outer peripheral member 1108.Provide inner space 1114 in casting of electronic device 1100 inside, various electric parts can be coupled, adhere to or be placed on here, for electronic equipment provides electronic operation.

Various members, part or the assembly of mancarried electronic aid 1100 can be formed by any one in multiple material, for example glass, polymer or metal.In one embodiment, external shell member 1102 is glass, outer peripheral member 1108 for example, is formed by metal or polymer (plastics), and another external shell member 1112 for example, is formed by glass, polymer (plastics) or metal.Interface component 1104 can be made up of the combination of polymer or material.For example, edge protection member 1106 will be firm; Thereby, can use structure-reinforced polymer, for example polyarylamide.Polyarylamide can be strengthened by comprising glass fibre.Equally as an example, fastening part 1110 can be formed to gain in strength by metal.If fastening part 1110 is made up of metal, can be combined with the balance point of interface component 1104 by secondary forming process.

Figure 11 B is the cross-sectional assembled view at the casting of electronic device 1100 shown in Figure 11 A according to an embodiment.External shell member 1102 has upper surface 1120 and lower surface 1122.The lower surface 1122 of external shell member 1102 can be fastened to the upper surface 1124 of interface component 1104.For example, external shell member 1102 can be fastened to adhesive the upper surface 1124 of interface component 1104.In the time that external shell member 1102 is fastened to interface component 1104, edge protection member 1106 is positioned at the edge (being edge) of external shell member 1102 and locates.Edge protection member 1106 provides resilient coating (for example, buffer), and it weakens the impact producing in the edge of the external shell member 1102 of casting of electronic device 1100.In addition, the lower surface 1126 of interface component 1104 is positioned on the upper surface 1128 of outer peripheral member 1108.The fastening part 1110 of interface component 1104 can be for being fastened to outer peripheral member 1108 by interface component 1104.

Figure 12 is the cross sectional view according to the casting of electronic device 1200 of an embodiment.Casting of electronic device 1200 comprises the first external shell member 1202 that is supported and protected by first interface member 1204.First interface member 1204 provides the edge protection member 1206 (for example edge protection buffer) being close to the limit of the first external shell member 1202.First interface member 1204 also supports the first external shell member 1202, and for the first external shell member 1202 being fastened to the other parts of casting of electronic device 1200.In this embodiment, first interface member 1204 is secured to outer peripheral member 1208.More particularly, in this embodiment, first interface member 1204 comprises the first fastening part 1210, and it is for being fastened to outer peripheral member 1208 by first interface member 1204 (thereby by first external shell member 1202).

Casting of electronic device 1200 can also comprise internal structure 1212, and itself and outer peripheral member 1008 are integrated or be fastened to outer peripheral member 1208.In one embodiment, the inner surface that internal structure 1212 can be fastened to outer peripheral member 1208 is so that the skew of its front and rear planar boundary from outer peripheral member 1208.As shown in figure 12, internal structure 1212 can be fastened on the midpoint of outer peripheral member 1208 height.Provide the first inner space 1214 in casting of electronic device 1200 inside, various electric parts can be coupled, adhere to or be placed on here, for electronic equipment provides electronic operation.

In this embodiment, casting of electronic device 1200 also comprises similar structure at the opposite side of casting of electronic device 1200.That is to say, casting of electronic device 1200 can also comprise the second external shell member 1216 that is supported and protected by the second interface component 1218.The second interface component 1218 provides the edge protection member 1220 (for example edge protection buffer) being close to the limit of the second external shell member 1216.The second interface component 1218 also supports the second external shell member 1216, and for the second external shell member 1216 being fastened to the other parts of casting of electronic device 1200.In this embodiment, the second interface component 1218 can be fastened to outer peripheral member 1208 in a side relative with first interface member 1204.More particularly, in this embodiment, the second interface component 1218 comprises the second fastening part 1222 (for example link arm), and it is for being fastened to outer peripheral member 1208 by the second interface component 1218 (thereby by second external shell member 1216).And, in casting of electronic device 1200 inside, (between internal structure 1212 and the second interface component 1218) provides the second inner space 1224, various electric parts can be coupled, adhere to or be placed on here, for electronic equipment provides electronic operation.

In one embodiment, the first external shell member 1202 can represent the external upper of mancarried electronic aid, and the second outer surface housing 1216 can represent outer lower face housing.In one embodiment, the first external shell member 1202 and the second external shell member 1216 can be (for example glass covers) of glass.

In Figure 11 A, 11B and 12, edge protection member (for example edge protection buffer) is the thin-material layers being close to the limit of external shell member, thereby is buffered in the edge impulsive force of external shell member.In these embodiments, edge protection member is round in the corner of casting of electronic device.For example, in certain embodiments, the thickness of edge protection member (t3) can be less than 5mm (for example, 1mm).For example, and in certain embodiments, the thickness of external shell member (t4) can be less than 5mm (, 1mm).But these thickness are exemplary and according to the size of casting of electronic device and the intensity of requirement and difference.As mentioned above, be also favourable for edge protection member uses the material of strengthening.But, for the external shell member such as glass cover provides thin edge protection member, contribute to provide compact and the thin portable electronic device housing that but can resist the side impact injury to outside housing member.

Figure 13 is the flow chart according to the external member assembling process 1300 of one embodiment of the invention.In this example, external member is outer glass member.Outer glass member can fastened 1302 to edge protection member.As an example, the performed processing that outer glass member is fastened to edge protection member can be used respectively the housing member alignment procedures 400,600 shown in Fig. 4 and 6 in certain embodiments.

At outside glass component fastened 1302, to edge protection member, glass assembly can be placed 1304 in the opening of outside peripheral member.After placing glass assembly, can fastened 1306 at the glass assembly of the opening part of outside peripheral member.Glass assembly, namely outer glass member, thus can be as the outer surface of casting of electronic device.After frame 1306, external member assembling process 1300 can finish.

In one embodiment, outer glass member can represent casting of electronic device before (or on) surface.In another embodiment, outer glass member can represent rear (or under) surface of casting of electronic device.In general, external member assembling process 1300 can represent the surperficial processing of any exposure of the casting of electronic device that is suitable for being formed by glass component.In another embodiment, casting of electronic device can be that the front surface of casting of electronic device uses outer glass member, and can be the rear surface use outer glass member of casting of electronic device.

As discussed above, for example, in Figure 10 and 13, casting of electronic device can be made up of glass substantially.For example, can to make its outer surface of at least 75% be glass to casting of electronic device.In one is implemented, the front and lower surface of casting of electronic device can be glass, and side surface can for example, for being different from certain material (metal, plastics) of glass.

The in the situation that of mancarried electronic aid, clash into or friction on housing and various surface.In the time using plastics or metal shell surface, surface is easily scratched.On the other hand, if use glass shell surface (for example glass cover), surperficial scratch resistance many.And glass shell surface provides radio penetrability, and metal shell surface disturbance or obstruction radio communication.In one embodiment, casting of electronic device can be front surface and the rear surface use glass shell member (for example glass cover) of casting of electronic device.For example, the front surface being formed by glass shell member can be transparent, to provide the visible access to being positioned at the display device after glass shell member at front surface, and the rear surface being formed by glass shell member can be transparent or opaque.If needed, opacity can be hidden any internal part in casting of electronic device.In one embodiment, face coat or film can be applied to glass shell member so that opacity or at least part of translucence to be provided.Such face coat or film can be arranged on the inner surface or outer surface of glass shell member.Can use alternatively edge protection member discussed here and interface component, to protect and/or to assemble glass shell member.

Figure 14 is the end view of the local side part of casting of electronic device 1400.The local side part illustrating comprises first interface assembly 1402 and the second interface module 1404.

Interface module

1402,1404 may also be referred to as interface component.Interface module 1402 comprises support and protection member 1406 and coupling member 1408.Similarly, interface module 1404 comprises support and protection member 1410 and coupling member 1412.As discussed above, support and protect member 1406 can support the first external shell member and edge protection member is provided.Similarly, therefore, as discussed above, support and protect member 1410 can support the second external shell member and edge protection member is provided.Coupling member 1408 can be for interface module 1402 being connected and being fastened to limit member 1414, and coupling member 1412 can be for connecting interface module and being fastened to limit member 1414.Can provide coupling arrangement 1416 (for example screw, bolt) to closely fix the first support and protection member 1406 with respect to limit member 1414.Similarly, can provide coupling arrangement 1418 (for example screw, bolt) to closely fix the second support and protection member 1410 with respect to limit member 1414.

Although only shown the single coupling arrangement 1416 for coupling member 1408, can understand, generally can first interface assembly 1402 be fixed to limit member 1414 reliably with several coupling arrangements.Similarly, although only shown the single coupling arrangement 1418 for coupling member 1412, can understand, generally can the second interface module 1404 be fixed to limit member 1414 reliably with several coupling arrangements.And, although embodiment shown in Figure 14 is at relative two end supports external shell member, also can understand, in other embodiments, casting of electronic device also can only use single external shell member.

draw bail and technology

According to another aspect, divide device, the system and method for (for example housing parts) to be described for the cover of electronic equipment being firmly attached to the bottom of electronic equipment.Cover generally can comprise the framework (for example interface members) that has wherein inserted glass component.Coupling member (for example arm, tab) can couple (for example insert-molding) in cover, and can be arranged to housing parts and engage fully, so that cover and housing parts maintain effectively.Coupling member can be for being screwed to cover or being otherwise fastened to housing.Conventionally, the socket of housing parts is arranged to fully and captures, closely cooperates or the coupling member of engages cap part otherwise.

In one embodiment, cover and housing parts maintain to make the contact surface of cover and the contact surface of housing parts to join, for example, make in fact not exist gap between contact surface.More generally, cover can and housing parts maintain to make the size in any space between the contact surface of cover and the contact surface of housing parts to control.For example, for cover and housing parts are maintained, can engage with the part as housing parts or the socket being attached on housing parts as the part of cover or the projection that is attached to cover.

Device of the present invention, system and method have been considered for example, the formation firmly coupling between lid and the housing of this equipment of equipment (hand-hold electronic equipments).Hand-hold electronic equipments generally can include, but are not limited to comprise mobile phone, media player, user input device (for example mouse, touch-sensitive device), personal digital assistant, remote controllers, E-book reader etc.Said apparatus, system and method also can for example, such as, for the displays of lid (having the lid of glass component) or other relatively large electronic equipment (portable computer, desktop computer, display, monitor, TV etc.).

Usually, the equipment that comprises the lid that is fastened to housing is relatively durable or firmly.Fastening coupling between lid and housing can be arranged in the internal capacity of equipment, makes this couple the appearance that can not hinder equipment.The aesthetic quality of equipment can improve.In one embodiment, lid and housing are connected together, and there is no clearance space between them.More generally, the aesthetics of equipment or visual quality can, in the time of lid and housing assembling, be covered the size in gap between housing and fully be improved by control.In addition,, in the time that the size in the gap between lid and housing can be minimized substantially, the profile of the equipment being made up of with housing lid also can be relative very thin.

Figure 15 A be according to the assembling of one embodiment of the invention the general perspective of housing of lid show, described lid is for example the lid that comprises the glass component being kept by framework.Assembly 1502 comprises and covers 1508, and it is mounted or is fully fastened to housing 1512.In one embodiment, lid 1508 is removably connected to housing 1512, makes to cover 1508 and in the time that needs couple, is closely engaged in housing 1512.But in certain embodiments, lid 1508 is removably connected, making to cover 1508 can depart from thereafter.

Figure 15 B is the summary side cross-sectional view diagram that is assembled into the lid 1508 of housing 1512.As shown in the figure, with Figure 15 A comparison, the size of lid 1508 and the size of housing 1512 have been exaggerated in order to illustrate.Lid 1508 and housing 1512 interface 1530 places couple to make to cover 1508 and housing 1512 between gap 1528 can control.In one embodiment, it is minimum that gap 1528 reaches substantially, and the surface of lid 1508 and housing 1512 can contact near interface 1530 places or its.Interface 1530 can comprise below the machinery of discussion is coupled to layout, and it allows to cover 1508 and is installed on housing 1512.As shown in the figure, interface 1530 is typically arranged in by housing 1512 and lid 1508 internal capacities that limit or in its vicinity.

With reference to Figure 16, will a kind of method of assembling electronic equipment be described according to an embodiment.The method 1601 of assembling electronic equipment starts from step 1605, its middle shell, and for example outer peripheral member, is formed.Usually, one or more parts can form housing.For example, can in conjunction with or combine two or more parts with form housing.Form housing and also can be included in attached on housing or otherwise create connection part, it is configured to help mounting cover on housing.

In step 1609, cover forms.Form lid and can include, but are not limited to comprise, obtain framework and glass component is attached to framework.Should be understood that forming lid also can comprise effectively and covering attached or otherwise creating connection part, for example, use injection moulding (injection molding) technique, described connection part is configured to help lid to be installed on housing.When using insert-molding technique that connection part is attached to while covering, can form lid by plastic material at least in part.

Once housing and lid form, inner structure part, for example, can comprise and the inside panel of electronic unit can be connected to fully housing in step 1613.For example, internal structure can insert in housing and some parts of being connected to housing with limiting structure parts.

After inner structure part is connected on housing fully, parts can be inserted in housing in step 1617.For example, parts (for example electronic unit) can insert from the both sides of housing.Then in step 1621, lid can be installed on housing.Lid is installed on housing and can includes, but are not limited to comprise, the connection part of lid is engaged with housing.The method of assembling electronic equipment just can complete after lid is installed on housing.

In one embodiment, lid can be by using screw to be installed on housing.Referring to Figure 17, according to an embodiment, describe and comprise and be arranged to the assembly that lid is couple to the side screw of housing.Figure 17 is that the summary side elevation of the inner surface of assembly 1702 represents.Assembly 1702 comprises and covers a part of 1708 and a part for housing 1712.Tab 1732 embeds or is attached to and covers 1708.In one embodiment, tab 1732 is metal tab, and it is given prominence to from covering 1708 in lid 1708 and effectively by insert-molding.Metal tab can be formed by the sheet metal of any suitable thickness, the sheet metal that for example thickness is about 0.5mm.Typically, tab 1732 comprises the groove (slot) that screw 1736 can pass.In other words, normally fluted sub sheet of tab 1732.Housing 1712 comprises screw socket (not shown), for example threaded screw hole, and it is for holding screw 1736.

In the time that thereby screw 1736 is fastened to housing 1712 for fastening tab 1732 by lid 1708, packing ring 1740 can be placed between the head and tab 1732 of screw 1736.In the time that screw 1736 is screwed into the screw socket (not shown) being formed in housing 1712, tab 1732 is secured to housing 1712.Tab 1732, as shown in the figure, is secured to the surface of housing 1712, and this surface is different from housing 1712 and contacts and cover 1708 surface in fact.

Figure 18 shows according to the summary sectional view coupling that utilizes side screw and fluted sub sheet of an embodiment.Housing 1812 has the opening 1844 being limited to wherein.In the embodiment describing, opening 1844 is threaded screw holes, and it can be formed in the side of housing 1812.Pass the groove of packing ring 1840 and fluted sub sheet and be screwed into housing 1812 for the screw 1836 that fluted sub sheet 1832 (being attached to or being otherwise couple to the fluted sub sheet 1832 that covers (not shown)) is fastened to housing 1812.Packing ring 1840 is generally used for and improves screw-threaded engagement degree, that is, packing ring 1840 makes screw 1836 have longer reach, and tolerance is provided.Should be understood that packing ring 1840 can be optional.

Replace and use screw that lid is firmly installed on housing, the coupling mode of other type also can be for being firmly installed to lid on housing.The coupling mode that another kind can be used for lid to be installed on housing comprises the pincerlike fastener of shrimp and internal structure (for example intermediate plate).Figure 19 is that the summary sectional view of the assembly that comprises the pincerlike fastener of shrimp and intermediate plate of an embodiment of foundation shows, the pincerlike fastener of shrimp and intermediate plate cooperate so that cover frame frame is couple to housing.Assembly 1902 comprises and covers a part of 1908 and a part for housing 1912.The pincerlike fastener 1948 of shrimp is installed or is otherwise attached to and covers 1908.Can be arranged to by the intermediate plate 1952 that is couple to housing 1912 and engage by the pincerlike fastener 1948 of the shrimp being formed to the metal in lid 1908 by insert-molding.In one embodiment, the pincerlike fastener 1948 of shrimp is formed by compliance (compliant) metal, when it is arranged in the opening being pushed through in intermediate plate 1952 from " have a rest (rest) " position deflection, once and be inserted through opening and just substantially turn back to resting guard.The thickness that is used to form the metal of the pincerlike fastener 1948 of shrimp can in very large range change.In one embodiment, the sheet metal that the pincerlike fastener 1948 of shrimp can be approximately 0.3mm by thickness forms.

The intermediate plate 1952 that can be formed by metal can use any suitable method to be couple on housing 1912.For instance, intermediate plate 1952 can be soldered in the inner surface of housing 1912.Below with reference to Figure 20, can the housing that intermediate plate is for example coupled to by welding be described according to an embodiment.The housing 2012 that can be formed by metal has outer surface (not shown) and inner surface 2058.Intermediate plate 2052, it can be the sheet metal with at least one otch 2056 forming at edge, is soldered to inner surface 2058.When intermediate plate 2052 is welded to inner surface 2058, otch 2056 defines an opening jointly with inner surface 2058, the pincerlike fastener of shrimp, and the pincerlike fastener 1948 of for example shrimp in Figure 19, can insert through this opening.

The suitable coupling mode of another kind that allows lid to be arranged on housing is that fastener is arranged, it comprises that configuration is used for holding the support of tab.Such support can be arranged on housing, and can comprise that being disposed to engagement links the compliance fastener of the tab covering.Figure 21 is according to the cover with insert-molding tab of an embodiment and has the schematic diagram of the housing of the support that configuration is used for holding this tab.For convenience of explanation and comprise and cover a part of 2108 and a part for housing 2112 with the assembly 2102 shown in decomposed form.Lid 2108 comprises the tab or the hook 2160 that are wherein provided with opening.Tab 2160 can be by insert-molding in lid 2108, and tab 2160 can be formed by the sheet metal of any suitable thickness, and for example thickness is approximately the sheet metal of 0.5mm.Housing 2112 has the support 2164 coupling with it.The support 2164 that can be formed by metal can be soldered to the surface of housing 2112, for example inner surface.

Compliance fastener 2168 is formed in support 2164, and be configured to, in the time that tab 2160 for example inserts, through the opening 2172 being formed by the inner surface of support 2164 and housing 2112 (" kennel (doghouse) " shape fastener openings), engage with tab 2160.Generally exerted pressure to tab 2160 by compliance fastener 2168, so that tab 2160 is fastened in opening 2172, thereby lid 2108 is remained to housing 2112 fully.

Figure 22 is the flow chart that the method for establishment equipment is shown according to embodiment, and this equipment comprises the cover with insert-molding tab, and has the housing that is configured to the support that holds this tab, as described above with reference to the example of Figure 21.The method 2201 of establishment equipment starts from step 2205, and wherein this equipment comprises cover, and its use comprises that the coupling mode of tab and support is installed on housing, in step 2205, support, comprises the support of fastener component, can be around the periphery welding of housing side.Support can be for example identical or similar with the support 2164 in Figure 21.Generally speaking, can connect around the peripheral weld of housing side the support of any amount.For instance, can be around 10 supports of periphery welding of housing side.Can understand, support also can be attached to housing by the method except welding.

Once support is soldered to or, more generally, be attached to the periphery of housing side, tab or hook just can be in step 2209 be arrived cover supporting member by insert-molding.Then in step 2213, sheet glass is couple to cover supporting member to form complete cover.In one embodiment, cover supporting member can be the framework that sheet glass can be fastened in it.Can typically by any suitable method, sheet glass be couple to cover.

After complete cover forms, process flow operation is to step 2217, and therein, internal part is placed in the internal capacity limiting in housing.Internal part generally comprises, and comprises electronic unit but be not limited to.Whole cover is installed to housing in step 2221, and the tab in cover is inserted in the support being welded on housing fully through kennel shape opening.In the time that tab inserts through kennel shape opening, the compliance fastener of support can make whole cover remain to housing by engagement tabs sheet.Whole cover is assembled into housing so that tab through the kennel shape opening in support after, the method that creates equipment completes.

Although only described some embodiments of the present invention, can understand, in the situation that not deviating from the spirit or scope of the present invention, can implement the present invention with a lot of other specific forms.For instance, lid is generally described as and is removably coupled to housing.Screw can screw out to remove lid from housing, and fastener can depart from from intermediate plate, and tab can depart from from fastener.Lid is departed from or the ability that separates can make it possible to carry out the parts that maintenance and repair are held by housing substantially from housing.But in certain embodiments, lid can unremovably be coupled to housing substantially.

For example, although housing is generally described to comprise the cover supporting member (framework) that is attached with glass component, can understand, lid itself can be glass component.Be in the embodiment of glass component at lid itself, the connection part such as tab and fastener can be directly bonded to glass component or indirectly be adhered to glass component.In the time that connection part is adhered to glass component indirectly, connection part can insert-molding in plastic sheet, and plastic sheet can bonding or otherwise be attached to glass component.

Example as shown in Figure 17 and 19, the limit of the housing being associated with the engagement of cover tab is different from the limit that engages (for example fully contacting) with the housing of cover.Namely, be different from substantially and lid limit or the surface of the housing of sealing mutually for the limit of the housing of engages cap.Should be appreciated that and replace at housing and lid seal cover and housing substantially while engaging, can have gap at housing and between covering.In one embodiment, the material such as conforming materials can be placed in the gap between housing and lid.

The coupling access component that makes lid can be installed to any amount of housing usually can be included in electronic equipment.Coupling access component is generally placed along the interior periphery of electronic equipment, and the factor that in electronic equipment, the quantity of coupling access component can depend on includes, but are not limited to comprise the size of electronic equipment and the space that electronic equipment internal can be used.In one embodiment, the coupling access component between about 10 to about 20 can be included in electronic equipment.But should be understood that usually, be less than 10 and also can be included in electronic equipment more than the coupling access component of 20.

optical lens forms

According to another aspect, optical lens can be formed by the optical cement being shaped.Optical lens can for example be used as the camera lens of the camera flash-light of mancarried electronic aid.Can use mould, by can form camera lens by curing optical cement when molded.For example, optical cement can be to carry out curing fluid binder by ultraviolet ray (UV) radiation.In one embodiment, the mould (for example punching block) with configurations of lenses can be applied to does not have curing optical cement, then applies UV radiation optical cement is solidified.Once solidify, mould can remove, and optical lens forms.In a particular embodiment, optical lens can be formed on the inner surface of mancarried electronic aid glass shell member, and the solidifying of optical cement that is used to form optical lens can be carried out by UV radiation, and this radiation acts on optical cement through glass shell member.In another particular embodiment, it is upper that optical lens can be formed on optical substrate (for example transparent plastic carrier), and then optical substrate is installed in mancarried electronic aid, for example, be arranged on the inner surface of glass shell member of electronic equipment.

In one embodiment, the mancarried electronic aid that has an optical lens being formed by optical cement can be configured to comprise the surface of shell with at least one opening or transparent part.Mancarried electronic aid also can comprise camera and produce the camera flash modulation element of light.Optical lens receives the light that at least a portion is produced by camera flash modulation element, and the light of guiding reception is through opening or the transparent part of surface of shell.Optical lens can be formed by the optical cement that is molded and is cured as predetermined camera lens structure.

the structure of cap assemblies and assembling

According to another aspect, cap assemblies, for example rear case component, can be configured to support and protection outer glass member.Cap assemblies can form a part for casting of electronic device.Cap assemblies also can comprise clear and definite glass lens, coupling member and structural support.

Figure 23 A-23C shows the perspective view of rear case component 2300 according to an embodiment.The one of for example rear case component 260 shown in presentation graphs 2B of rear case component 2300 realizes.Rear case component 2300 also can represent the assembly with the second external shell member 1016 and the second interface component 1018 (having edge protection member 1020) shown in Figure 10, and/or the assembly with the second external shell member 1216 and the second interface component 1218 (having edge protection member 1220) shown in Figure 12.

Figure 23 A illustrates according to the front perspective view of the rear case component 2300 of an embodiment.Rear case component 2300 can comprise interface component 2302 and glass component 2304 (for example glass plate).Interface component 2302 provides the supporting construction that can be secured to base house (base housing).In one embodiment, interface component 2302 can removably be fastened to base house.

Rear case component 2300 can be fastened to base house in many ways.In the embodiment of the interface component 2302 shown in Figure 23 A, interface component 2302 comprises one or more tabs 2306 and one or more hook 2308.One or more tabs 2306 and one or more hook 2308 be for rear case component 2300 is fixed to base house, all outer peripheral members 220 as discussed above.One or more hooks 2306 can comprise screw thread openings (for example hole), and it can receive joint bolt, for example, for rear case component 2300 being fastened to base house (outer peripheral member 220).Joint bolt can prevent that rear case component 2300 from departing from base house.But by removing joint bolt, rear case component 2300 can be removed.

Glass component 2304 is thin glass sheet, and it is configured to be arranged in the recess being provided by interface component 2302.In one embodiment, when it is in recess time, the limit (for example edge) of glass component 2304 can be protected by edge protection structural elements.Sheet glass 2310 and optics fence 2312 can be couple to glass component 2304.Sheet glass 2310 can be provided to the image acquisition equipment (for example camera) for arranging at electronic equipment base house.Sheet glass 2310 is separated with glass component 2304.Sheet glass 2310 also can provide the optical characteristics different from the optical characteristics of glass component 2304.For example, sheet glass 2310 can (himself or pass through coating) provide optical lightscreening (for example infrared filtering) or amplify.In other words, sheet glass 2310 can be used as camera lens, filter or above-mentioned both.

Size, size and the material of the parts of casting of electronic device can be according to different embodiment and difference.The in the situation that of mancarried electronic aid, the thickness of rear case component 2300 (removing above-mentioned one or more tab 2306 and one or more hook 2308) can be about 5 millimeters or still less.For example, for thin mancarried electronic aid (hand-hold electronic equipments), the thickness of rear case component 2300 (removing above-mentioned one or more tab 2306 and one or more hook 2308) can be about 2 millimeters or still less.And the thickness of glass component 2304 can be about 1 millimeter or still less.For example, the thickness of glass of glass component 2304 can be about 0.3 to 0.6 millimeter.Glass component 2304 is glass (for example aluminosilicate or soda-lime glass).But in interchangeable embodiment, glass component 2304 can be replaced by the member that (all or in part) is made up of metal, pottery and/or plastic material.

Figure 23 B illustrates according to the back perspective view of the rear case component 2300 of an embodiment.Interface component 2302 is mainly extended around the periphery of rear case component 2300.Interface component 2302 can be formed by polymer.Interface component 2302 illustrates camera lens retainer 2314, and it is used for sheet glass 2310 to be fixed to interface component 2302.Interface component 2302 also can comprise gusset plate 2316, and it is used for strengthening interface component 2302.Gusset plate 2316 can for example, be formed by metal (stainless steel).Gusset plate 2316 is the independent pieces that are independent of outer peripheral support section 2318.Gusset plate 2316 can be fixed to outer peripheral support section 2318.For example, gusset plate 2316 can be inserted in the outer peripheral support section 2318 in position with groove and/or tab.As another example, outer peripheral part 2318 can be around the part of gusset plate 2316 insert-molding, so that gusset plate 2316 is fixed to outer peripheral border 2318.And in one embodiment, one or more tabs 2306 and/or one or more hook 2308 can be reinforced by the features on gusset plate 2316.For example, one or more hooks 2308 can be by can extend upward into or carry out structural strengthening in abutting connection with the features of described one or more hooks from gusset plate 2316 on gusset plate 2316.

Figure 23 C illustrates according to the assembly drawing of the rear case component 2300 of an embodiment.The assembling of rear case component 2300 can provide interface component 2302, and outer peripheral support section 2318 is fastened or be integrated into interface component 2302.Adhesive phase 2320 can be arranged between gusset plate 2316 and interface component 2302.Adhesive phase 2320 can be used as film, spraying, adhesive tape or coating and applies.Except adhesive phase 2320, fluid binder also can be deposited on some of adhesive phase 2320 regions is not provided.Glass component 2304 can be upper by being pressed in adhesive phase 2320 (and fluid binder), makes glass component 2304 can be connected to interface component 2302.Especially, once interface component 2302 is aimed at and be connected to glass component 2304, glass component is just fixed to interface component 2302, and its limit (edge) protected by outer peripheral support section 2318.By glass component 2304 being adhered to its exhibiting high surface region, glass component 2404 is firmly fixed, and makes in the time there is glass component 2304 breakage, and the fragment of glass component 2304 will remain fixed on adhesive and rear case component 2300.

In addition, rear case component can also comprise that one or more features are convenient to image acquisition.In one embodiment, rear case component 2300 also can comprise the opening 2322 for image acquisition component in interface component 2302.In base house, can be provided with image acquisition equipment (being generally expressed as camera), and opening 2322 in interface component 2300 position that can alignment image obtains equipment.In addition, glass component 2304 can comprise opening 2324, for the camera lens retainer 2314 of receiving sheet glass 2310 and comprising sheet glass 2310.Adhesive rings 2326 can be between camera lens retainer 2314 and the back side of glass component 2304, so that adhesive rings 2316 is disposed in around opening 2324, camera lens retainer 2314 is fixed to the back side of glass component 2304.

Figure 24 shows the assembly drawing according to the glass component 2304 of an embodiment.Although glass component 2304 is mainly the glass component being formed by sheet glass 2400, other parts or material also can adhere on sheet glass 2400 so that it is suitable for its expectation purposes as casting of electronic device back cover portion better.Especially, the physical vapour deposition (PVD) (PVD) of metal (for example aluminium) can form the marking on sheet glass 2400.This marking can comprise figure (for example mark) 2404 or text 2406.In this embodiment, this marking can be arranged on the inner surface of sheet glass 2400.Glass component 2304 also can comprise covering layer 2408.Covering layer 2408 also can be arranged on the inner surface of sheet glass 2400.Covering layer 2408 can be sheet glass 2400 otherwise can be translucent glass colouring.Covering layer 2408 can make glass component be rendered as opaque with cover or hidden glass sheet 2400 parts below in order to avoid expose.Because the marking and covering layer 2408 are on the inner surface of sheet glass 2400, they are protected by sheet glass 2400 and are in use difficult for damaged.In addition, in one embodiment, coat 2410 can be applied to the outer surface of sheet glass 2400.Coat 2410 can be for the observability of minimizing user fingerprints in order to avoid appear on sheet glass 2400 outer surfaces.Coat 2410 can provide the coating (for example anti-fingerprint fluosilicate coating (Anti-fingerprint Fluorosilicate Coating)) of anti-fingerprint, and it can reduce surface on sheet glass 2400 and stain (stain, stain) (for example Anti-stain coating).

other

Usually, the step relevant to the inventive method can extensively change.Step can increase, removes, changes, combines and reorder in the situation that not deviating from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Aspect, feature, embodiment or the realization that the present invention described above is different can be used separately or combination by different way.For example, the pincerlike member of side screw and shrimp can cooperate lid is connected to housing.

Although illustrate that school bag draws together a lot of details, this should not become the restriction of the scope that maybe may require the scope of the present disclosure, and should regard the description for the special characteristic of disclosure specific embodiment as.Some feature of describing in the context of different embodiment also can combine enforcement.On the contrary, the different characteristic of describing in the context of single embodiment also can be implemented respectively or implement in any suitable sub-portfolio mode in multiple embodiment.And although feature may be described to work with specific compound mode, the one or more features in the combination of advocating can be removed in some cases from combination, and the combination of advocating can refer to the modification of sub-portfolio or sub-portfolio.

Although illustrated and described embodiment and application, for those skilled in the art in benefit of this disclosure, than being possible above-mentioned be modified in do not deviate from herein the principle of the invention in the situation that more.

Claims

1. an electronic equipment casing, comprising:

For the outer peripheral member of described electronic equipment casing restriction side surface;

Be fixed to the intermediate plate of the inner surface of described outer peripheral member, described intermediate plate is the inner plane structure from the front and rear planar boundary skew of described outer peripheral member; And

Relatively described outer peripheral member is placed and fixing cap assemblies, and described cap assemblies is at least included as described electronic equipment casing provides the glass component of the outer surface of exposure.

2. electronic equipment casing as claimed in claim 1, wherein said outer peripheral member comprises metal.

3. electronic equipment casing as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glass component is as the front surface of described electronic equipment casing.

4. electronic equipment casing as claimed in claim 1,

Wherein said cap assemblies comprises that at least one is from its outstanding connector,

Wherein said outer peripheral member is a part for housing section, and

Wherein said housing section comprises at least one socket that is configured to receive described at least one connector, described at least one socket is limited in the first side of described housing section at least in part, described at least one socket is further configured to capture described at least one connector, wherein, in the time that described at least one connector is captured in described at least one socket, described cap assemblies engages with the second side of described housing section.

5. electronic equipment casing as claimed in claim 4, wherein said cap assemblies and described housing section cooperate so that at least one electronic unit is included in the internal capacity at least being limited by described housing section.

6. electronic equipment casing as claimed in claim 4, wherein in the time that described at least one connector is captured in described at least one socket, the described second side adjacency of described cap assemblies and described housing section.

7. electronic equipment casing as claimed in claim 4, wherein said at least one connector is tab.

8. electronic equipment casing as claimed in claim 7, wherein said at least one socket is configured to receive described tab, and described at least one socket is arranged to the described tab of engagement.

9. electronic equipment casing as claimed in claim 4, wherein said at least one connector is fluted sub sheet, and described housing section comprises support, described support has compliance fastener, and wherein said support cooperates to limit described at least one socket with described the first side.

10. electronic equipment casing as claimed in claim 9, wherein, in the time that described fluted sub sheet is captured in described at least one socket, described compliance fastener engages described fluted sub sheet.

11. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 4, wherein said cap assemblies comprises described glass component and framework, described framework is arranged to and supports described glass component.

12. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 11, wherein said at least one connector is formed by metal, and by insert-molding in framework.

13. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 4, wherein said cap assemblies is formed by plastic material at least in part, and described at least one connector forms by metal, described at least one connector by insert-molding in described plastic material.

14. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 1,

Wherein said electronic equipment casing also comprises:

At least one coupling member, and

Wherein said cap assemblies is at least to use the frontal plane border of described coupling member and described outer peripheral member to be adjacent to be placed and fixing front cover component, thereby the front surface of described electronic equipment casing is provided.

15. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 14, wherein said coupling member helps described front cover component to be attached to described intermediate plate or described outer peripheral member.

16. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 15, wherein said intermediate plate comprises metallic plate.

17. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 14, wherein said at least one coupling member extends from described front cover component.

18. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 14, wherein said at least one coupling member comprises tab.

19. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 14,

Wherein said coupling member helps described front cover component to be attached to described intermediate plate or described outer peripheral member, and

Wherein said outer peripheral member or described intermediate plate comprise at least one socket that is configured to receive described at least one coupling member.

20. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 19, wherein said at least one socket is limited in the first side of described outer peripheral member at least in part, described at least one socket is also configured to capture described at least one coupling member, and in the time that described at least one coupling member is captured in described at least one socket, described front cover component engages with the second side of described outer peripheral member.

21. electronic equipment casings as described in any one in claim 14-20; wherein; described front cover component comprises protecgulum member and edge protection member; described protecgulum member has the edge of exposure, and described edge protection member be set near with the edge of the described exposure around described protecgulum member.

22. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 21, wherein said edge protection member comprises polyarylamide.

23. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 21, wherein said edge protection member comprises that thermal coefficient of expansion (CTE) is less than or equal to the polymer of about 50 millimeters/meter/DEG C.

24. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 21, the thickness of wherein said edge protection member is no more than about 1mm.

25. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 21; wherein said front cover component also comprises supporting member and another coupling member; protecgulum member described in described support member support; and described another coupling member and described supporting member are integrated or be connected to described supporting member; described supporting member and described edge protection member are integrated or be connected to described edge protection member, and described another coupling member is for fixing described front cover component with respect to described electronic equipment casing.

26. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 21; wherein said front cover component also comprises supporting member and coupling member; protecgulum member described in described support member support; and described coupling member and described supporting member are integrated or be connected to described supporting member; described supporting member and described edge protection member are integrated or be connected to described edge protection member, and described coupling member is for fixing described front cover component with respect to described limit member.

27. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 26, wherein said electronic equipment casing also comprises:

Be placed and fix so that for described electronic equipment casing provides the rear case component of rear surface, described rear case component comprises bonnet member and rear edge protection member, described rear edge protection member be set near with limit around described bonnet member, and

Wherein said rear case component also comprises rear support member and rear coupling member; bonnet member described in described rear support member supports; and described rear coupling member and described rear support member are integrated or be connected to described rear support member; described rear support member and described rear edge protection member are integrated or be connected to described rear edge protection member, and described rear coupling member is fixed described rear case component for phase time in limit member.

28. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 27, wherein said protecgulum member comprises glass, and described bonnet member comprises glass.

29. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 21, wherein said protecgulum member comprises glass.

30. electronic equipment casings as described in any one in claim 22-27, wherein said protecgulum member comprises glass.

31. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 29, the thickness of wherein said protecgulum member is no more than about 5mm.

32. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 1, wherein said glass component is the front glass lid as the front surface of described electronic equipment casing, and

Wherein said electronic equipment casing also comprises:

Be placed and fix to provide the rear glass cover of rear surface for described electronic equipment casing.

33. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 32, wherein said front glass lid is as the whole front surface substantially of electronic equipment casing, and described rear glass cover is as the whole rear surface substantially of electronic equipment casing.

34. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 32, wherein said electronic equipment casing also comprises the limit member extending around the periphery of described electronic equipment casing.

35. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 34, wherein said limit member is mainly metal or plastics.

36. electronic equipment casings as claimed in claim 32, at least substantial transparent of wherein said front glass lid, and described rear glass cover is rendered as at least substantially opaque by coating.

37. electronic equipment casings as described in any one in claim 32-36, the thickness of wherein said front glass lid is no more than about 5mm, and the thickness of described rear glass cover is no more than about 5mm.