CN103365816A - Modular system having cross platform master device - Google Patents
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- CN103365816A CN103365816A CN2012104063119A CN201210406311A CN103365816A CN 103365816 A CN103365816 A CN 103365816A CN 2012104063119 A CN2012104063119 A CN 2012104063119A CN 201210406311 A CN201210406311 A CN 201210406311A CN 103365816 A CN103365816 A CN 103365816A
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Abstract
A modular system of devices, in which a (master) device can be combined with one or more of the other (slave) devices in the system to form a functional electronic device (e.g., handheld cellular phone, tablet computing device), having different functionalities and features in different form factors across various platforms. The master device provides control and/or stored data to operate the slave devices, to reduce redundancy between devices of various form factors and/or platforms, in a manner that provides additional or different functions and features in an optimized and/or enhanced manner as the form factor and/or platform changes from one to another. The master device is not functional independent without attachment to a slave device. The master device requires at least a peripheral component (e.g., a display module) provided by the slave device to become an overall functional unit.
Description
Technical field
The present invention is the modular system of relevant a kind of many devices, and its main device can be assembled in one or more other devices in the system, to expand function and the assembly at different platform and/or apparent size.
Background technology
The progress of Portable personal electronic device has changed consumer's life, for example mobile computer and handset device.Practicality and convenience that these devices provide the consumer were impossible before 20 years.In addition, the assembly and the function that develop of some less electronic installations also can be compared competition with larger electronic installation.For instance, intelligent mobile phone can provide enough processing poweies to move multiple application program at present, and these application programs only can be adopted by larger mobile computer in the past.
So far, the hand-held personal electronic device has developed into various apparent sizes, and for the user, each design apparent size all has certain the most effective practical application.For example, intelligent mobile phone (for example apple iPhone) is compared with flat computer (for example apple iPad) has less apparent size, and intelligent mobile phone is mainly used to call, but also can provide online, operation amusement and multiple application program.Flat computer is compared the display screen with large and high-resolution with intelligent mobile phone, but weight is light than mobile computer.Flat computer is mainly the instrument that the consumer is used in online, operation amusement and multiple application program, and also has the function of calling at some type.Have larger display device and the device of other power consumption in the flat computer of larger apparent size, therefore need larger battery to support relatively high power consumption.
By above narration as can be known, the function aspect hardware and software and assembly have significant overlapping between intelligent mobile phone and the flat computer.Along with more and more development with intelligent mobile phone of power and assembly, the performance of intelligent mobile phone (for example processing power) is brought with larger flat computer and mobile computer to be compared, but the screen apparent size has significantly different from resolution, battery apparent size at these devices with different apparent sizes.If the user wishes to have simultaneously the larger display of convenience in the intelligent mobile phone conversation and flat computer, although the device of different apparent sizes has function and the assembly of redundance, all need buy.When user's conversion different device, the user is in order to ensure complete function commonly used, and similar application program all need download in these devices.In addition, some data (for example personal data) that are stored in a device must exchange with another device, or deposits synchronously another device.Thus, when user's conversion different device, just can obtain similar data.Exchanges data application program and not well established is difficult to provide synchronization seamless, error-free data at present.
U.S. Patent Application No. 13/186,397 assignees of the present invention that assigned, this patent discloses a kind of modular system of device, and its (master) device can be assembled in one or more other and be transformed into multi-functional electronic installation (for example mobile phone, flat computer, mobile computer and little pen electricity) at this intrasystem (attached) device.This multi-functional electronic installation is at the function and the assembly that have expansion aspect expansion apparent size and/or the different system platform.This modular system has not only reduced the repeatability between various device assemblies in the system, also promoted the function of relevant optimization and/or enhancing and the running property of assembly, for example main device is by being transformed into larger apparent size and/or different system platforms from the slave unit combination.Be transformed into other apparent size and/or system platform from an apparent size and/or system platform by being combined with slave unit when main device, main device provides control and/or the data that store operate slave unit.Share main device and slave unit control, hardware, software and data reduce the repeatability between various apparent sizes and/or system platform device.When apparent size and/or system platform when changing over another kind, can provide in the function aspects of optimization and/or enhancing extra or different function and assemblies from a kind of.Main device is by entity connectivity port or interface, and data/electrics connection port or interface dock different slave units, makes the electronic installation integration of the difference in functionality of different apparent sizes and/or system platform, and reaches the functional or different functional of enhancing.
The viewpoint of this invention has been exposed in U.S. Patent Application No. 13/186,397, and when main device did not dock slave unit, main device with assembly was standalone feature.For instance, intelligent mobile phone has the operating system, system processor (such as CPU (central processing unit)), Basic Input or Output System (BIOS) (BIOS), internal memory (such as flash memory, random access memory, solid state hard disc etc.), display, keyboard, microphone, loudspeaker of itself, relevant simulation and digital circuit, battery etc.Wherein, system processor is the general service processor, or the multifunctional processor of control system each side.Basic Input or Output System (BIOS) can be the part of system processor.In one embodiment, slave unit is assembly and functional limited unpowered base unit, any or any important processing power of tool not, and have different input and output specification (such as drawing resolution, audio signal etc.).For example, the slave unit of dull and stereotyped profile has internal memory (such as flash memory, random access memory, solid state hard disc etc.), display, keyboard, microphone, loudspeaker, relevant simulation and digital circuit, battery etc., but does not have a system processor.When the larger slave unit of main device docking, the system processor of main device and operating system are used for driving slave unit, and application program belongs to main device, and the entity surrounding enviroment are provided by slave unit (for example larger display).Additional application software can be installed on slave unit, and is carried out by the system processor of main device.
Although be exposed in U.S. Patent Application No. 13/186,397 modular system has overcome the defective of prior art, but aspect hardware, software and data, or wish to develop a kind of system and further reduce repeatability between device, and the function of cross-system platform and/or apparent size is provided.
Summary of the invention
The invention provides a kind of modular system of many devices, one (master) device can be assembled in the system one or more other (attached) and install.This modular system is formed by the multifunction electron device (such as mobile phone, flat computer, mobile computer and little pen electricity etc.) of tool difference in functionality and assembly between different apparent sizes and system platform.Inter-module at the electronic installation of various cross-system platforms, modular system has reduced repeatability, and promoted relevant optimization and/or strengthened the running property of function and assembly, for example main device is by being transformed into different apparent sizes and/or system platform from different slave unit combination.
In the present invention's one technical characterictic, when main device when being transformed to another apparent size and/or system platform in conjunction with one or more slave units from an apparent size and/or system platform, main device provides control and/or the data that store operate slave unit.Share main device and slave unit control, hardware, software and data reduce the repeatability between various apparent sizes and/or system platform device.When apparent size and/or system platform when changing over another kind, can provide in the function aspects of optimization and/or enhancing extra or different function and assemblies from a kind of.Main device is coupled operationally by entity interface and data/electrical interface or butts up against different affiliated entity unit, the electronic installation of the difference in functionality of different apparent sizes and/or system platform is integrated, and reached functional or different functional purpose of enhancing.
When main device was not coupled slave unit, main device itself (assembly that has and function) can't independently operate.Main device needs at least one entity component (for example display module) to become the unit that comprehensively can operate.In one embodiment, main device does not comprise drawing image display (for example display module).The drawing image display provides the drawing of data and information to be shown to the user.Main device can comprise intrinsic assembly, and these assemblies share application between different system platform (for example processor, internal memory, keyboard and battery), main device can be connected from the different slave units of the different apparent sizes of cross-system platform use.Main device can comprise the specific components of some application, and these specific components can be irrelevant from the different application program of different apparent sizes and/or system platform.
Slave unit is peripheral unit (namely unpowered unit), provides one or more peripheral functions at least one application-specific (for example application program of mobile phone), and the slave unit any or important processing power of tool not itself.Slave unit can have limited processing power or the processing power of assistance compared to the processing power of main device, drive processing power, human-computer interface device etc. such as limited drawing, or other is for slave unit relevant control function and perimeter component.Different slave units can design and be arranged to suitable perimeter component group (such as display, microphone, loudspeaker, antenna etc.), and when slave unit was incorporated into main dress, application-specific made the perimeter component group do optimized running.For some application program, the height entity integrated assembly optimization that in solid element, provides apparent size, and can be to specific its performance characteristics of application optimization, different slave units can have some repeatability (can have loudspeaker, microphone of different types etc. such as different attached dresses), and comes optimization by the application program of particular demands.
For instance, if slave unit design with relevant mobile phone is set should be used in conjunction with main device, slave unit can comprise at least one perimeter component for mobile phone (for example antenna for mobile phone), also can comprise loudspeaker, microphone, and other perimeter component.These perimeter components can link and the optimization cell-phone function is used with more specific mobile phone.Main device can be installed powerful processor, and when main device coupling mobile phone, various software applications are in the inner installed in main device operation.And under the environment of another slave unit (draw with the board device of audio such as being used for strengthening, strengthen the board device of wireless receiving etc.), main device can these application programs of continuous service and application program that repetition need not be installed in slave unit.
In one embodiment, main device roughly is contained at least one coupling slave unit thereon, or the exterior contour of main device is substantially flush in the exterior contour of at least one slave unit.
Description of drawings
Figure 1A illustrates main device and the state that is not coupled of slave unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 1B illustrates the state of main device and slave unit coupling.
Fig. 1 C illustrates the slave unit with screen and slides in the keyboard of main device.
Fig. 2 A illustrates the rear view that according to an embodiment of the present invention main device is coupled in different slave units.
Fig. 2 B illustrates the front view that according to an embodiment of the present invention main device is coupled in different slave units.
Fig. 3 A illustrates the image of mobile device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 3 B illustrates the schematic diagram of board device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 3 C illustrates the schematic diagram of duplexer according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 4 illustrates the rear view that according to an embodiment of the present invention base unit is coupled in mobile phone display module operationally.
Fig. 5 illustrates the rear view of base unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 6 illustrates the rear view of mobile phone display module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 7 illustrates the side view of mobile phone display module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 8 A illustrates the top view that the snap-lock mechanism on base unit is according to an embodiment of the present invention removed with adjustment part.
Fig. 8 B illustrates the rear view that the snap-lock mechanism on base unit is according to an embodiment of the present invention removed with cover plate.
Fig. 9 illustrates the amplification rearview of mobile phone display module.
Figure 10 illustrates the schematic diagram that according to an embodiment of the present invention base unit is coupled in board device.
Figure 11 illustrates the calcspar of main device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 illustrates the calcspar of slave unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The primary clustering symbol description
10: modular system 12: main device
13: base unit 14: antenna
15: keyboard 15 ': the bottom surface
16: wireless receiving connector 17: body
18: shell 19: cavity
20: electronic installation 21: mobile device
22: slave unit 23: display module
25: display panel 26: the coupling pedestal
27: contact 28: flexible circuit board
30: electronic installation 31: the flat computer device
32: slave unit 33: display module
34: antenna 35: display panel
36: cavity 37: snap-lock mechanism
38: contact 39: pedestal
41: loam cake 42: coupling part
43: contact 44: snap-lock mechanism
50: trimmer 51: spring
52: control lever 53: position
54: switch 55: ring spring
56: top 57: recess
58: protuberance surface 59: guide rail
75: switch 77: rearmounted camera
102: internal memory 103: signal line
104: chip 106: input/output subsystem
108: radio circuit 110: sound circuit
111: loudspeaker 112: keyboard
113: microphone 114: camera
116: control device 118: perimeter interface
120: processing unit 122: controller
124: connectivity port 126: operating system
128: module 136: tool model
156: display controller 160: the input control device
162: power-supply system 303: signal line
308: antenna 310: sound circuit
311: loudspeaker 312: Touch Screen
313: microphone 314: camera
316: control device 324: connectivity port
362: power-supply system
Embodiment
Below will be with graphic exposure a plurality of embodiments of the present invention, as clearly stated, the details on many practices will be explained in the following description.Yet, should be appreciated that, the details on these practices does not use to limit the present invention.That is to say, in part embodiment of the present invention, the details on these practices is non-essential.In addition, for the purpose of simplicity of illustration, some known habitual structures and assembly are graphic middle will illustrating in the mode of simple signal.
Consult simultaneously Figure 1A to Fig. 1 C and Fig. 2 A to Fig. 2 B.The modular system 10 of an embodiment of the present invention comprises main device 12.Main device 12 is compatible with at least two slave units 22,32, can obtain respectively the electronic installation 20,30 of the independent function of the different apparent sizes of tool and system platform after combination is finished.For instance, main device 12 is base unit 13, can be used for connecting the first slave unit 22 of the less display module 23 of tool, makes main device 12 and the first slave unit 22 form the electronic installation 20 of the first function.Wherein, electronic installation 20 is the form of mobile device 21.In addition, main device 12 also can connect the second slave unit 32 of the larger display module 33 of tool, makes main device 12 and the second slave unit 32 form the electronic installation 30 of the second function.Wherein, electronic installation 30 is the form (for example e-book) of flat computer device 31.Above-mentioned example only is example, not with restriction the present invention.In the present embodiment, main device does not comprise provides dynamic image data and the information dynamic image display apparatus (being the two dimensional liquid crystal display panel module) to the user.For the function of particular restricted, main device can comprise the status indicator lamp (for example open/close cresset) of a plurality of restricted functions.
In the present embodiment, mobile device 21 is the first electronic installation 20, and the first electronic installation 20 of this kenel has base unit 13 and slip display module 23, namely refers generally to the alleged slide phone device 21 of consumer.Small-sized display module 23 base unit 13 that removably is coupled/is connected in, and become mobile device 21.In the present embodiment, base unit 13 is main device 12, and display module 23 is the first slave unit 22.Flat computer device 31 is second electronic device 30, and the second electronic device 30 of this kenel has almost and the large-scale display module 33 of whole flat computer device 31 with apparent size.Identical base unit 13 can insert/be coupled in the slot in the large-scale display module 33 with its coupling, and obtains flat computer device 31.According to above narration, to compare with flat computer device 31, main device 12 (being base unit 13) can be used for the mobile device 21 of small appearance size and different system platform.
Base unit 13 comprises main system processor (for example CPU (central processing unit)), operating system, basic input/output (BIOS, it can be the part of CPU (central processing unit)), one or more controller (such as display controller, i/o controller etc.), data storing assembly (such as flash memory, solid state hard disc etc.), relevant simulation and digital circuit, power pack, rearmounted camera 77 (seeing Fig. 2 A, such as the CCD camera of 800 ten thousand picture elements) etc.In the present embodiment, base unit 13 also can comprise keyboard 15, and the assembly relevant with cell-phone function.Fig. 3 A illustrates the image of the cover-slide-type handset device 21 of an embodiment of the present invention.Base unit 13 also can comprise built-in wireless antenna (for example cellular antenna).Particularly, built-in wireless antenna 14 is positioned at the base of base unit 13.Consult Fig. 3 B, flat computer device 31 also can comprise antenna 34.When base unit 13 coupling display module 33, according to plate mode or the handset mode of running, switch 75 (such as mechanical switch, electronic inductor etc.) is selected wireless receiving connector 16 for base unit 13.Wherein between the antenna 14 and the antenna 34 in the display module 33 of wireless receiving connector 16 on base unit 13.Switch 75 can determine to switch other function between handset mode and plate mode.Below will narrate the more details of this respect.
Those skilled in the art understands the master control program that operating system comprises drive electronics (such as mobile phone, mobile computer etc.).For all application programs that drive specific electronic devices, operating system established standards.Application program communicates with operating system, for example man-machine interface and file administration operation.Generally speaking, operating system presents the management function that comprises between man-machine interface management, work management, task management, data management, device management, other task.On the other hand, those skilled in the art understands Basic Input or Output System (BIOS) (BIOS) and comprises basic routine group limited in the electronic installation.Basic Input or Output System (BIOS) is stored in chip, and operating system in the electronic installation and the interface between hardware are provided.Basic Input or Output System (BIOS) is supported peripheral function and basic internal services, for example real-time clock (time and date).When starting (start) electronic installation, Basic Input or Output System (BIOS) is recalled this system of library test and is prepared electronic installation driving the short biography of setting with other configuration by itself.Afterwards, Basic Input or Output System (BIOS) load operation system and with control to operating system.
Less mobile phone display module 23 comprises display panel 25 (can be the contact panel with soft touch key-press) and other I/O assembly, such as loudspeaker (or receiver of user's ear), preposition camera etc. also can comprise GPS (GPS) receiver/antenna.
Larger flat display module 33 comprises touch-control display panel 35, larger electric battery, antenna for mobile phone, wireless network and other wireless antenna (can be the part of antenna 34) and other I/O assembly, such as loudspeaker, preposition camera etc.Compare with the position of inside antenna 14 in the base unit 13, because flat display module 33 provides larger apparent size, make antenna 34 can be positioned at better receiving position.Compare with the antenna 14 of mobile device 21, the antenna 34 of flat computer device 31 can be positioned to receive stronger position.
Consult Fig. 4, base unit 13 has body 17 and shell 18.Body 17 comprises to hold the cavity 19 of battery (not being illustrated in figure), and shell 18 covering bodies 17 make the battery setting in the inner.Fig. 4 illustrates the body 17 that mobile phone display module 23 connects base unit 13.Particularly, mobile phone display module 23 have the coupling pedestal 26, display panel 25 be coupled slidably/be connected in the coupling pedestal 26.The coupling pedestal 26 of display module 23 removably is connected in the body 17 of base unit 13.Fig. 5 illustrates the loam cake 41 that removes body 17, and exposes the bottom surface 15 ' of keyboard 15.As shown in the figure, cavity 19 is defined in the bottom surface 15 ' of keyboard 15.Fig. 5 illustrates the bottom surface of the coupling part 42 of body 17.Consult simultaneously Figure 1A, coupling part 42 arranges the coupling pedestal 26 of accommodating display module 23.
Consult Fig. 8 A, base unit 13 has electrically and data contacts 43 (can be considered main electrical interface).Contact 43 is in order to the coupling contact 27 on the coupling pedestal 26 that is connected in mobile phone display module 23 (see Fig. 6, can be considered the first electrical interface).In the embodiment of Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 A, by composite contact 27, come transmitting control signal, the assembly that data and electric power provide to mobile phone display module 23 (such as loudspeaker, display panel etc.) from the composite contact 43 of base unit 13.Consult simultaneously Fig. 7, flexible circuit board 28 (FPC) is electrically connected the coupling pedestal 26 of display panel 25, and the display panel 25 coupling pedestal 26 (coupling pedestal 26 can in display panel 25 relative slidings) that is coupled slidably/is connected in.In case mobile phone display module 23 removably is connected in base unit 13 (being the coupling part 42 that the coupling pedestal 26 of display module 23 is connected in base unit 13), just can form the electronic installation of complete function, can claim mobile device 21.
Snap-lock mechanism 44 provides firmly accommodating mobile phone display module 23 in base unit 13.Shell 18 provides the opening of snap-lock mechanism 44 (seeing Fig. 4) coupling.Fig. 8 A and Fig. 8 B illustrate the thin section configuration of snap-lock mechanism 44.Fig. 8 A illustrates the top view (keyboard side) of base unit 13, and removes the assembly that covers to illustrate contained spring latch mechanism 44 near the adjustment part of keyboard 15.Fig. 8 B illustrates the lower view (opposition side of keyboard side) of base unit 13, and the loam cake 41 of removing the body 17 of base unit 13 illustrates the assembly of contained spring latch mechanism 44.Each spring latch mechanism 44 comprises trimmer 50.Trimmer 50 can flatly be moved inward by spring 51 pressurizations, and this direction is contrary in spring-biased.Trimmer 50 is coupled in control lever 52 pivotly.When trimmer 50 moved inward contrary direction in spring-biased, control lever 52 was pivoted on position 53 and promotes switch 54 against ring spring 55, and top 56 levels of switch 54 are shunk.The top 56 of switch 54 is provided with a protuberance surface 58 that the angle arranged.When a surface promoted protuberance surface 58, protuberance surface 58 is the top 56 of pull switch 54 outward.
Consult simultaneously Fig. 9, setting based on above-mentioned snap-lock mechanism 44, when mobile phone display module 23 enters coupling part 42 in the base unit 13 (seeing Figure 1A) and is coupled in base unit 13 by the coupling pedestal 26 that slides, the guide rail 59 of coupling pedestal 26 1 sides promotes protuberances surface 58 and stresses on the top 56 of switch 54 outwardly, until top 56 is incorporated into the indication recess 57 that arranges along guide rail 59 (seeing Fig. 9), and top 56 is still in the recess 57 of ring spring 55 pressurizations and just stops.Therefore in this pattern, mobile phone display module 23 firmly is connected in base unit 13, also can consult Fig. 4.
In order to discharge mobile phone display modules 23 from base unit 13, on a side of coupling pedestal 26, trimmer 50 is toward interior movements, and the moving switch 54 of heap is mobile and shrink recess 57 in 56 getaways 59 of top outward.Afterwards, mobile phone display module 23 just can skid off base unit 13 (seeing Figure 1A).
Consult Figure 10, for flat computer device 31 is used base unit 13, mobile phone display module 23 is from base unit 13 dismountings, and base unit 13 inserts the cavity 36 that flat display module 33 backs provide, electronic installation with the complete function that forms another system platform and apparent size can claim flat computer device 31.Base unit 13 arranges to identify flat display module 33 and has connected thereon, and identification base unit 13 will operate in a pattern.This pattern designs for specific slave unit (namely for flat computer device 31 adjusting operation systems, function and assembly).Snap-lock mechanism 37 provides firmly accommodating hand base unit 13 in flat display module 33.(snap-lock mechanism 37 can arrange in the mode that similar known battery is fixed in mobile computer and operate).In the present embodiment, the exterior contour of main device/base unit 13 is substantially flush in the exterior contour of flat display module 33.By being coupled operationally and docking, main device/base unit 13 can be considered and roughly is contained in the flat display module 33.
Flat display module 33 also has electrically and data contact 38 (can be considered the second electrical interface).Contact 38 is built in antenna 34 (being the exterior antenna of the base unit 13) contact in the flat display module 33 in order to be connected in the coupling contact 27 on the base unit 13 in contact 38 comprises.Contact 38 can be by pedestal 39 support, wherein the coupling pedestals 26 of pedestal 39 similar mobile phone display modules 23 (seeing Fig. 4, Fig. 6 figure and Fig. 7 figure).38 groups of contacts that can be same or different from mobile phone display module 23 of contact on the flat display module 33.For similar or different functions, part contact 38 can be shared with mobile phone display module 23.When base unit 13 and flat display module 33 provide the aerial lug of the radio frequency in the interface, build the exterior antenna 34 in the flat display module 33 in the base unit 13 changeable uses in.Because the inside antenna 14 of base unit 13 can be subjected to other assembly (for example Liquid Crystal Module and the driving electronic package) impact in the flat display module 33, therefore uses exterior antenna 34 better.In another embodiment, mobile phone display module 23 has inside antenna, and base unit 13 is not had an inside antenna.According to the pattern of operation, the antenna in base unit 13 changeable running mobile phone display modules 23 or the flat display module 33.
According to above narration, concerning different slave unit 22 (mobile phone display module 23) and slave unit 32 (flat display module 33), electronic installation 20 (mobile device 21) and electronic installation 30 (flat computer device 31) that main device 12 (base unit 13) provides compatible and interchangeability to form different system platform and/or apparent size, and the entity of electronic installation 20,30 with coupling with electrically dock/coupling interface.
In the above-described embodiment, slave unit 22,32 can be the unpowered unit of the limited assembly of tool and function, but has different I/O specification (such as drawing resolution, sound etc.).Main device 12 (base unit 13) can be equipped with powerful processor, when main device 12 be coupled with slave unit operationally/when docking, the software application that processor operation is various.The system software of main device 12 (being operating system) arranges the control (such as touch-controlling interface, display panel, loudspeaker, microphone etc.) of assembly between switch mobile phone display module and flat display module.For instance, when the main device 12 with less mobile phone display module 23 be coupled operationally/when butting up against mobile phone display module 23, main device 12 can be under the environment of mobile device 21 some application program of operation.When main device 12 is coupled/butts up against flat computer device 31 operationally, main device 12 can continue identical or other the application program of operation and strengthen drawing and the abilities such as sound, wireless receiving under the environment of flat computer device 31, do not need to install in flat computer device 31 application program of repetition.For instance, when the main device 12 of coupling/docking during operationally in plate mode, main device 12 arrange the display module 33 of control linkage show better resolution than large icons, and switch the antenna 34 of the flat display module 33 that makes the better receiving ability of apparatus.But in handset mode, the inside antenna 14 of base unit uses.
In this embodiment, main device 12 arranges to allow slave unit 22,32 the mode with hot plug to make switching controls, need not close main device 12 and/or slave unit 22,32 power supply.
In this another embodiment, the method for intensified charging and power management provides optimization to the main device 12 that is connected and/or the power management of slave unit 32 (flat display module 33 that for example has power pack).Use and the battery charge capacity based on the electric weight of main device and slave unit, what the method can be for user's programming, and dynamically between main device and slave unit, distribute.According to this invention, provide electric power to slave unit in contrast to common USB interface, namely main device (for example Partial Jobs software) arranges to provide electric power to slave unit.The slave unit of (for example flat computer device) provides electric power to main device according to charged state according to the present invention.
In addition, based on the power management example of capacity and availability be: suppose that main device battery electric weight is " Y " for " X " and slave unit battery electric quantity, when X, Y＜80%, the X to 80% that can charge first, the Y to 80% that then charges, afterwards more simultaneously slowly charging.As X〉80% and Y＜80% the time, charging current is slowly charging X and rapid charge Y separately.As X, Y〉80% the time, simultaneously slowly charging.Similar method for managing power supply is exposed in U.S. Patent Application No. 13/186,397, can be applicable to the present invention.
Figure 11 illustrates the calcspar of the assembly of base unit 13 according to an embodiment of the present invention.Figure 11 has implemented above-mentioned various functions, assembly and structure.Base unit 13 comprises internal memory 102, Memory Controller Hub 122, one or more processing unit 120 (CPU), perimeter interface 118, radio circuit 108, sound circuit 110, loudspeaker 111, microphone 113, camera 114, keyboard 112, input/output subsystem 106, other input or control device 116 and external connection port 124.Wherein, internal memory 102 is one or more computer-readable storing medias for example, such as high random access internal memory and Nonvolatile memory.Memory Controller Hub 122 is by other assembly control internal memory 102.Processing unit 120 operation or carry out various software programs and/or be stored in instruction in the internal memory 102.When base unit 13 is connected in slave unit (for example display module 23 or 33) with routine data, just can show various functions.The input/output interface of perimeter interface 118 coupling base units 13, and slave unit connects the processing unit 120 and internal memory 102 of base unit 13.Radio circuit 108 comprises antenna/radio, in order to receiving and to transmit electromagnetic riveting machine signal, and is connected telecommunication network (for example GSM and/or WiFi network) and other communicator via the electromagnetic riveting machine signal of known wireless communication specification.Control device 116 such as physical button (such as pressing key, joystick key etc.), dial (of a telephone), slide switch, some striking wheel etc.External connection port 124 is used for connecting the coupling connectivity port 324 (such as universal serial bus (USB), coupling/docking slave unit connectivity port, power source charges port etc.) on the slave unit.External connection port 124 can be implemented with the pattern of composite contact data/electrical interface.Composite contact data/electrical interface has 43 groups of aforesaid contacts (seeing 8A figure).These assemblies can transmit one or more communication buss or signal line 103.In other embodiments, perimeter interface 118, processing unit 120 may be implemented on the one chip with Memory Controller Hub 122, and for example chip 104.In other embodiments, said modules also may be implemented on a plurality of chips that separate.
When base unit 13 is coupled in slave unit operationally, input/output subsystem 106 is controlled input/output interface equipment (for example keyboard 112, other input or control device 116) on the base unit 13 and the input/output interface equipment on the slave unit (for example the Touch Screen display panel 25 on the mobile phone display module 23 and other input/output device, or the Touch Screen display panel 35 on the flat display module 33) operationally to perimeter interface 118.Input/output subsystem 106 can comprise one or more input control devices 160 that display controller 156 reaches about other input or control device.For instance, the Touch Screen display panel 25 of the touch-control sensing on the mobile phone display module 23 provides output interface between input interface (for example virtual or soft touch key-press, soft touch keyboard) and mobile device 21 and the user output of user's display of visually (for example to).Visual output can comprise image, literal, icon, film and any above-mentioned combination.Touch Screen display panel 25 can use lcd technology, light emitting diode or light emitting polymer display technology.Touch Screen display panel 35 on the flat display module 33 also can have identical application.
The component software that is stored in the internal memory 102 comprises operating system 126, various module 128 and is convenient to various hardware and software inter-modules the assembly that transmits.Operating system 126 operating system of Android, WINDOWS or embedding for example wherein.Module 128 has component software and/or is used for controlling and the drive software of managing the General System task.Internal memory 102 for example can store communication module, contact/mobile module and graphics module.Communication module by one or more external connection port 124 convenient with other device transmission signals, and communication module comprises various component softwares and processes the data that received by radio circuit 108 and/or external connection port 124.Contact/mobile module is used for detecting and/or reading user's touch-control/movement input (for example dynamic with the user of Touch Screen at the keyboard 112 that connects on the slave unit).Graphics module is used for describing and shows that image is in the display screen that is connected on the slave unit.In addition, internal memory 102 can comprise various application tool modules 136, phone module, E-mail service module, real-time information module, camera model (such as rearmounted camera), music playing module, browser module, calendar module etc.Tool model 136 is contact module (can claim address book or contact inventory) for example.Camera model is in order to take pictures and/or to record a video.
Above-mentioned each module and application program are corresponding to the indication combination that is used for representing one or more above-mentioned functions.Software program, program or module that these modules (i.e. indication combination) do not need to separate are implemented, and the sub-portfolio of these modules can combination or again layout in various embodiments.For instance, but movie module combining music playing module in single module.In other embodiments, internal memory 102 can store the sub-portfolio of above-mentioned module and data structure.In addition, internal memory 102 can store above-mentioned NM other module and data structure.
Should be appreciated that the base unit 13 that illustrates only is a kind of example of main device, main device can have than assembly more or less in graphic, can in conjunction with plural assembly, maybe can have the different setting of assembly or arrangement.The various assemblies that Figure 11 paints formula may be implemented in the combination of hardware, software or hardware and software, comprise one or more signal programs and/or use specific integrated circuit (ASICs).
Figure 12 illustrates the calcspar of slave unit (for example mobile phone display module 23 or flat display module 33) according to an embodiment of the present invention.Slave unit is unpowered end, controls by base unit 13, and uses the application program that is stored in base unit 13.Slave unit and base unit 13 are compared, and have relatively simple passive component group.Slave unit comprises external connection port 324, sound circuit 310, loudspeaker 311, microphone 313, camera 314 (such as forward type), Touch Screen 312, other input or control device 316 (physical button (such as pressing key, joystick key etc.), dial (of a telephone), slide switch, some striking wheel etc.).Wherein, external connection port 324 is used for connecting base unit 13, such as universal serial bus (USB), docking connectivity port, power source charges connectivity port etc.(contact 27 of mobile phone display module and the contact 38 of flat display module) implemented with the pattern of the composite contact mating interface of tool contact in connectivity port 324, is used for being coupled directly to the data/electrical interface on the above-mentioned base unit 13.For slave unit, Touch Screen 312 is the part of display module.These assemblies of part can be similar in appearance to the assembly of base unit 13, for redundance, but applicable to application program and function, show (for example concerning larger flat computer device 31, having the loudspeaker that strengthen audio) by specific slave unit after adjusting.These assemblies can connect one or more communication buses or signal line 303 with external connection port 324.In addition, when wishing the wireless connections of enhancing, the antenna 308 of enhancing can be used to the connecting communication networking.
Visible output comprises image, literal, icon, film and any above-mentioned combination.Touch Screen 312 can use lcd technology, light emitting diode or light emitting polymer display technology.When slave unit can be coupled in base unit 13 with turning round (external connection port 124 on the base unit 13 can be coupled by the data/electric connector in the above-mentioned card casket directly or indirectly with the external connection port 324 on the slave unit with turning round), various input/output interface equipment on slave unit are by input/output subsystem 106 controls in the base unit 13, for example Touch Screen 312 and other I/O control device 116.When base unit 13 can be coupled in slave unit with turning round, interfacing equipment was controlled by external connection port 124,324 by the perimeter interface 118 in the base unit 13.Interfacing equipment is sound circuit 310, loudspeaker 311, microphone 313 and camera 314 for example.
In another embodiment, subsidiary controller (not illustrating) can be provided by slave unit, and the running of subsidiary controller is by the controller 122 in the base unit 13 and/or processing unit 120 and/or input/output subsystem 106 controls.The control signal that subsidiary controller receives according to base unit 13 is controlled various interface equipment and/or the input/output device in the slave unit.
Should be appreciated that the slave unit that illustrates in Figure 11 only is a kind of example of slave unit, slave unit can have than assembly more or less in graphic, can in conjunction with plural assembly, maybe can have difference setting or the arrangement of assembly.
The base unit 13 that illustrates at Fig. 1 cover-slide-type handset display module that is coupled operationally.Though figure does not illustrate, the base unit 13 fixed mobile phone display module that also can be coupled operationally by the setting of different entities coupling makes mobile phone display module removably connect base unit 13 in the display module back of general plane.
The base unit 13 that illustrates at Fig. 2 and Figure 10 is coupled flat display module 33 in the edge near flat computer device 31 backs operationally by docking base unit 13.Though figure does not illustrate, base unit 13 can roughly butt up against the center at flat computer device 31 backs.When slave unit butts up against flat computer device 31, just can provide uniform weight distribution.
Except mobile device 21 and flat computer device 31 or except mobile device 21 and flat computer device 31, base unit 13 can be coupled operationally or butts up against the slave unit (for example mobile computer base unit) of other form by entity connectivity port or interface and data/electric connection port or interface, form the electronic installation of the difference in functionality of different apparent sizes and/or system platform, and reach the purpose of the functional or different functionalities of enhancing.Except the mobile device 21 and flat computer device 31 that illustrates, other slave unit can design with arranging and be connected suitable perimeter component group (such as display, microphone, loudspeaker, antenna etc.).When slave unit connected main device, the perimeter component group was the design optimization of application-specific.For some application, the height entity integrated assembly optimization that in solid element, provides apparent size, and can be to specific its performance characteristics of application optimization, main device and slave unit can have unnecessary repeatability (can have multi-form display, microphone, loudspeaker etc. such as main device and slave unit, and display, microphone, loudspeaker for main device and slave unit separately be applied as design optimization).Main device can together operate with slave unit, and the electronic installation that forms various tools different or similar apparent size and/or system platform is such as notebook computer device being, projector, and devices such as digital photo frame apparatus, electric paper apparatus, game machine, device for vehicular electronic, integrated office equipment.The repeatability of the assembly of each device in the modular system 10 minimizing systems, and work as main device by being transformed into different apparent sizes and/or different system platform in conjunction with different slave units, also can promote the functional and assembly of operability and optimization and/or enhancing.
Although the present invention discloses as above with embodiment; right its be not to limit the present invention, anyly have the knack of this skill person, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention; when can being used for a variety of modifications and variations, so protection scope of the present invention is as the criterion with the content of being put down in writing in the claim.
Claims (19)
1. a modular system is characterized in that, comprises:
One first slave unit has one first apparent size and/or system platform;
One second slave unit has one second apparent size and/or system platform; And
One main device, comprise the control system with a system processor and an operating system, wherein this main device is coupled in this first slave unit or this second slave unit operationally, make this main device form one first electronic installation or a second electronic device, this main device removably is incorporated into this first slave unit and this second slave unit, and this main device not in conjunction with this first or during this second slave unit, this main device can't independently operate by the assembly group of itself, and
Wherein when this main device is coupled in this first slave unit or this second slave unit operationally, this first or at least part of this system processor by this main device of running of this second electronic device control.
2. modular system as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, this main device more comprises a main electrical interface, this first slave unit comprises one first electrical interface, this second slave unit comprises one second electrical interface, when this main device is coupled in this first when this second electronic device operationally, this main electrical interface is connected to this first and second electrical interface.
3. modular system as claimed in claim 2 is characterized in that, this main device more comprises one first power supply, and this first power supply provides electric power to operate at least this first electronic installation.
4. modular system as claimed in claim 3 is characterized in that, this second slave unit more comprises a second source, and this second source provides electric power to operate this second electronic device.
5. modular system as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, this main device more comprises an internal memory, this operating system of this memory storage, application program and data, when this main device is coupled in this first when this second slave unit operationally, this operating system, application program and data rely on this first and this second electronic device.
6. modular system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, this first is controlled by this operating system of this main device with the running of this second electronic device.
7. modular system as claimed in claim 6, it is characterized in that, this operating system in this main device to this first with this second electronic device provide functional respectively more than the routine of this first specific running of constrained devices that provides with this second slave unit.
8. modular system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, this first with this second electronic device respectively by substantially and individually control of this system processor in this main device.
9. modular system as claimed in claim 8 is characterized in that, this system processor in this main device provide be higher than this first with this second slave unit in the processing power of processor.
10. modular system as claimed in claim 8, it is characterized in that, this system processor comprises a CPU (central processing unit), this CPU (central processing unit) provide be higher than this first with this second slave unit in the processing power of processor, and be higher than this first with this second slave unit in the CPU (central processing unit) that comprises.
11. modular system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, this main device roughly be contained at least one operationally the coupling thereon this first with this second slave unit in.
12. modular system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, the exterior contour of this main device substantially flush at least one operationally coupling thereon this first with the exterior contour of this second slave unit.
13. modular system as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, the set-up of control system of this main device decide this first and this second slave unit between couple state, and according to this first slave unit the coupling of this main device is confirmed, this main device automatically switches the control to the running of this first slave unit, and according to this second slave unit this main device coupling is confirmed, this main device automatically switches the control to the running of this second slave unit.
14. modular system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, this first with this second slave unit be respectively one first and one second peripheral device.
15. modular system as claimed in claim 14 is characterized in that, this first with this second peripheral device comprise respectively one first and one second video display.
16. modular system as claimed in claim 15, it is characterized in that, this control system switch to control this first with this second video display based on related a plurality of image features, and those image features according to this main device to this first with the affirmation of this second slave unit running couple state.
17. modular system as claimed in claim 16 is characterized in that, this first slave unit is a mobile phone display module, and this second slave unit is a flat display module.
18. modular system as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, this main device comprises one first antenna, and this second slave unit comprises one second antenna, when this main device was coupled this second slave unit operationally, this main device switched this first antenna to this second antenna running.
19. modular system as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, this main device does not comprise image display.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US13/430,527 | 2012-03-26 | ||
| US13/430,527 US9047050B2 (en) | 2011-03-24 | 2012-03-26 | Modular system having cross platform master device |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
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| CN103365816A true CN103365816A (en) | 2013-10-23 |
| CN103365816B CN103365816B (en) | 2016-04-06 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CN201210406311.9A Active CN103365816B (en) | 2012-03-26 | 2012-10-23 | There is the modular system of cross-platform main device |
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| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CN (1) | CN103365816B (en) |
| TW (1) | TWI492068B (en) |
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Also Published As
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| CN103365816B (en) | 2016-04-06 |
| TWI492068B (en) | 2015-07-11 |
| TW201339856A (en) | 2013-10-01 |
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