JP6323698B1 - Information equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a clamshell type information device capable of preventing falling without impeding weight reduction and maintaining usability. A first case 110 having a flat plate shape and at least a display device and a flat plate shape having one end 120a hinged with a first axis AX1 as a rotation axis together with one end 110a of the first case 110. The second case 120 and a support member 130 that interlocks as the first case 110 is rotated around the first axis AX1 and opened with respect to the second case 120 are provided. The clamshell type information device is configured such that the footprint boundary BFPa on one end side of the information device 1 defined by is moved in the direction from the other end 120b of the second case 120 toward the one end 120a of the second case 120. 1. [Selection] Figure 3

Description

The present invention relates to information equipment.

(1) Weight balance of information device As one of information devices, a so-called clamshell laptop PC (Personal Computer) is known.
As shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the information device 700 of the clamshell notebook PC includes a first case 710 in which a display device such as a display panel (not shown) is accommodated, a keyboard, and the like. And a second case 720 that accommodates an input device, a CPU board, a battery, and the like (all not shown). A hinge portion H1 is formed at one end 710a of the first case 710 and one end 720a of the second case 720, and the first case 710 and the second case 720 are hinge-coupled by the hinge portion H1.
At the time of storage / transportation, as shown in FIG. 13B, the first case 710 and the second case 720 are in a state of being overlapped with each other and closed. At the time of use, as shown in FIG. 13C, the first case 710 is opened from the second case 720 while rotating around the first axis AX1 of the hinge portion H1. The user adjusts the opening / closing angle OA between the first case 710 and the second case 720, and sets the angle DA with respect to the desk surface (here, the horizontal plane) of the first case 710 so that the display can be easily viewed. To do.

  In recent years, electronic devices such as active elements, passive elements, LSIs, and batteries have been reduced in size and weight, auxiliary storage devices have been reduced in size by replacing hard disks (HDD, etc.) with silicon disks, and advances in mounting technology on printed circuit boards. The weight reduction of information equipment in general is advancing due to the reduction in size and weight and the reduction in size and weight by improving the casing material and casing structure.

  For example, in the information device 700 of the clamshell notebook PC described above, the weight reduction on the second case 720 side in which the CPU board, the battery, and the like are stored is particularly advanced. On the other hand, hardware having a touch panel function may be added to the first case 710 side. Combined with these circumstances, the weight balance between the second case 720 and the first case 710 has changed compared to before, and the weight of the first case 710 has become relatively heavier. For this reason, the design which considered prevention of a fall is important.

(2) The problem of the fall of the information device The problem of the fall of the information device is, for example, that the information device 700 (clamshell type notebook PC) is installed on a horizontal desk surface and the first case 710 is removed from the second case 720. In the case of opening, when the first case 710 is opened at a certain angle or more, the center of gravity CG of the information device 700 straddles the footprint boundary (definition will be described later) of the information device 700 and the footprint FP (definition will be described later). This causes the first case 710 to fall backward, and the entire information device 700 also falls.

  “Footprint” refers to a region that the information device occupies on the horizontal plane when the information device is installed on the horizontal plane. More specifically, it refers to a region surrounded when information devices identify points, lines, or surfaces that come into contact with a horizontal plane and virtually connect them. The “footprint boundary” is a boundary that defines the footprint. A location where the information device is in contact with the horizontal plane (hereinafter also referred to as a “ground location”) may also be a footprint boundary.

  This will be described using a specific example. As shown in FIG. 15, it is assumed that an information device 700 (clamshell notebook PC) according to the background art is installed on a horizontal plane and is in contact with the horizontal plane using four rubber legs 121 as grounding locations. A region FP surrounded by a line when connecting these grounding points (select the outermost part in contact) with a line is a “footprint” in this case. In addition, the boundary line indicated by the symbol BFP is a “footprint boundary” in this case.

The center of gravity CG of the information device 700 having the weight W is normally located inside the footprint FP. << FIG. 15 (a), FIG. 15 (b), FIG. 13 (b) and FIG. 13 (c) reference".
However, when the first case 710 is opened further than usual, as shown in FIG. 14A, the center of gravity CG of the entire information device 700 (clamshell notebook PC) straddles the footprint boundary BFPa, It will be located outside the footprint FP. Eventually, as shown in FIG. 14 (b), the first case 710 will fall backward, the second case 720 will also be lifted by this, and the entire information device 700 will fall.
As described above, when the opening / closing angle OA between the first case 710 and the second case 720 becomes equal to or larger than a certain angle, the entire information device 700 falls backward due to the relationship between the center of gravity CG and the footprint FP. The problem is called the problem of the fall of information equipment.

  For reference, an increasing number of PCs in the market can remove the first case and use the first case as a single tablet terminal. Such a PC is also called a so-called detachable PC. For example, a clamshell type notebook PC in which the first case can be removed, a cradle type PC, and the like can be seen. Such a detachable PC needs to continue to operate alone after the first case is removed. For this reason, hardware such as a CPU and a battery mounted on the second case side in the case of a non-detachable PC is mounted on the first case side in the case of a detachable PC. One case tends to be heavy (in other words, the top of the neck is getting heavier). Therefore, in a detachable PC, a design that takes into account a fall problem is even more important.

(3) Proposed Solution In order to prevent the above-mentioned problem of falling, the following solutions have been proposed conventionally.
(I) The information device has a cradle type configuration, and the opening / closing angle OA between the first case and the second case is fixed (not shown).
(Ii) Limiting the opening / closing angle OA so that the maximum opening angle between the first case and the second case is such that the information device 800 does not fall over. << Conventional as shown in FIG. See the information device 800 in FIG. For example, according to a clamshell type notebook PC by a certain manufacturer, there can be seen that the opening and closing angle is limited to 125 °.
(Iii) A weight 840 is mounted on the second case 820 (refer to the conventional second information device 800a shown in FIG. 16B).

However, the above solution has the following problems.
In the solution according to (i) above, since the opening / closing angle is fixed, the angle of the first case (and thus the angle of the display) cannot be changed freely according to the user's physique / posture, the installation state of the PC, and the like. . Therefore, there is a problem that the display screen is difficult to see and the usability is impaired.
Moreover, in the solution by said (ii), since the angle which can be opened and closed is restrict | limited to the angle smaller than the normal range assumed on use, the usability as a clamshell type notebook PC is impaired. For example, when a clamshell type notebook PC is placed on the lap and used, it is often used with a larger opening / closing angle than that used when placed on a desk. However, the angle that can be opened and closed is smaller than the normal range, and it cannot be opened any more. Therefore, the display screen is difficult to see and unsuitable for use on the knee, and there is a problem that the usability as a clamshell PC is impaired.
Furthermore, in the solution according to the above (iii), since the weight 840 is mounted, there is a problem that the weight of the clamshell type notebook PC becomes large and the weight reduction is hindered.

Apart from the solutions (i) to (iii) above, a method of supporting an information device using a support member (so-called stand) has also been proposed.
(Iv) The conventional third information device 900 has a flat plate shape, at least a first case 910 on which a display (not shown) is mounted, and a flat plate shape, and one end 920a is one end 910a of the first case 910. And a second case 920 that is hinge-coupled with a first axis AX1 (not shown) in the hinge portion H1 as a rotation axis. In addition, one end 930a further includes a support member 930 that is hinged in the middle of the first case 910 (see Non-Patent Document 1 and FIG. 17A).
Since it has such a configuration, the user opens the other end 930b of the support member 930 rearward, and grounds the other end 930b of the support member 930 so as to fix the open angle. The case 910 can be supported. Thereby, a fall can be prevented.
(V) The conventional fourth information device 950 includes a first cover case 951 that accommodates or covers at least a part of the flat display device 10, and a flat second cover case 952. Information device 950 provided.
The display 10 is supported by leaning against the structure for support by temporarily setting the structure for support so that the other end 951b of the first cover case 951 is folded back. Thereby, a fall can be prevented (refer to Non-Patent Document 2 and FIG. 17B).

“HP Elite x2 1012 G1 Product Details”, [online], Japan HP, 2017, [March 13, 2017 search], Internet <URL: http://jp.ext.hp.com/notebooks/ business / elite_x2_1012_g1 /> “HUAWEI MateBook” online catalog, [online], Huawei Technology Japan Co., Ltd., 2017, [March 13, 2017 search], Internet <URL: http: //consumer.huawei.com/minisite/jp/matebook/ index.htm>

However, according to the conventional third information device 900 and the conventional fourth information device 950, the second case 920 and the second cover case 952 to the first case 910 and the first cover case until the start of use. There is a problem that it is necessary to consciously perform at least two steps of operations such as opening the support member from the first case 910 or folding the first cover case 951 after opening the 951.
Further, according to the conventional third information device 900, the other end 930b of the support member 930 has to be opened considerably rearward in order to prevent toppling, and there is a problem that the footprint becomes considerably large. Also, the desk surface for installation needs to have a correspondingly large area.
According to the third conventional information device 900, when the information device 900 is switched to use with the support member 930 opened, the other end 930b of the support member 930 is placed on the knee. There is a problem in that the information device 900 is not stabilized due to detachment from the knee.
Furthermore, according to the fourth conventional information device 950, the opening / closing angle between the first cover case 951 and the second cover case 952 can basically be set to only one stage. For this reason, the opening / closing angle between the first cover case 951 and the second cover case 952 (and thus the angle of the display screen when viewed from the user) cannot be freely set, resulting in the display screen being It becomes difficult to see.
As described above, even if the conventional third information device 900 and the conventional fourth information device 950 are used to prevent overturning, there is a problem that the usability as the information device is impaired in exchange.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a clamshell type information device capable of preventing a fall while maintaining ease of use without inhibiting weight reduction. .

[1] An information device according to the present invention has a flat plate shape, at least a first case on which a display is mounted, a flat plate shape, and one end hinged with one end of the first case and a first axis as a rotation axis A coupled second case, and a support member that interlocks as the first case is rotated with respect to the first axis and is opened with respect to the second case. The clamshell type of the present invention is configured such that a footprint boundary on one end side of the information device defined by the reference device moves in a direction from the other end of the second case toward the one end of the second case. Information equipment.

  According to the present invention, the first case includes the support member that is interlocked with the second case when the first case is opened, and the footprint boundary on one end side of the information device defined by the support member is associated with the interlocking with the second case. Since the center of gravity of the information device can be maintained inside the footprint, the information device can be overturned. Can be prevented.

Moreover, according to this invention, it is only necessary to add a support member and it is not necessary to put a weight in a 2nd case. That is, the weight reduction of the information equipment is not hindered in order to take measures to prevent the fall.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, as the first case is opened with respect to the second case, the support member automatically interlocks to move the footprint boundary backward. For this reason, the user can open the first case at any angle, but the user can automatically prevent falling without any special consciousness or special operation. Can be achieved. That is, while preventing falling, it is possible to maintain the usability of the information equipment.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a clamshell-type information device that can prevent falling without impeding weight reduction and maintaining usability.

In the clamshell type information device described in [1] above, the first case is opened with respect to the second case after the first case is closed to the second case, and the opening / closing angle is the standard use angle. The amount of movement of the footprint boundary on one end side until it becomes (described later) is preferably in the range of about 1.3 to 3.0 times the thickness of the second case. More specifically, it is more preferably within a range of about 1.6 times to 2.0 times.
If the movement amount of the footprint boundary is too small (for example, less than 1.3 times), the fall prevention effect cannot be obtained sufficiently, and it becomes difficult to increase the weight on the first case side. This is because it becomes unsuitable for PC. Furthermore, if the movement amount of the footprint boundary is too small, the opening / closing angle OA cannot be increased so much, and the usability is restricted. On the other hand, if the movement amount of the footprint boundary is set too large (for example, exceeding 3.0 times), the support member for securing the footprint protrudes, and on the contrary, the usability is impaired. It is.

In the clamshell type information device described in [1] above, it is preferable that the support member is not connected to the first case. In other words, the support member is preferably connected to the second case by a hinge, a gear, a lever, or the like so as to belong to the second case, and the support member is preferably not connected to the first case.
If the support member is connected to the first case in any form, the first case cannot be removed / is difficult, and an information device (for example, a detachable PC) in which the first case is removable can be used. Difficult to compose.
Therefore, by configuring the information device so that the support member is not connected to the first case (in other words, the support member belongs to the second case and is connected to the second case by a hinge, a gear, a lever, etc. In addition, by configuring the support member not to be connected to the first case, the first case can easily configure an information device (for example, a detachable PC) that is detachable.

[2] In the information device according to [1], the support member is disposed below the second case, and one end of the support member is centered on a second axis set at a predetermined position of the second case. The other end is a flap hinged to the second case as a free end that can be pivoted to the second case, and when the information device is viewed in the + y direction or the −y direction, The end at the one end of the case and the end at the one end of the flap are positioned closer to the + x direction side than the first shaft, and the one end of the first case is located above the flap. The lower surface of the flap has a shape bent in the + z direction as it advances in the + x direction, and the first case opens with respect to the second case. When starting, the first case One end of it is preferably configured to abut on the one end of the flap.

With this configuration, when the user grips the other end of the first case and opens it upward from the closed state, the first case rotates about the first axis. Begin to. When the first case starts to rotate around the first axis, the first case is acted upon by the lever (the lever having the other end side of the first case as a power point, the first shaft as a fulcrum, and the one end side as an action point). The end at one end (hereinafter referred to as “rear end”) begins to be displaced downward and rotates. Then, the end (rear end) at one end of the first case is displaced downward, thereby pushing the one end of the flap downward as if stepping on the flap.
As the opening / closing angle between the first case and the second case increases, one end of the first case slides on the upper sliding surface of the flap.
On the other hand, since the flap is hinged to the second case so as to be rotatable about the second axis, one end of the flap rotates about the second axis as it is pushed downward.
On the other hand, the lower profile of the flap has a shape that is bent in the + z direction as it advances in the + x direction. Therefore, as the flap rotates about the second axis (initially downward), the flap becomes a horizontal plane. The contact point moves in the + x direction.
That is, the footprint boundary moves in the + x direction. That is, the footprint expands in the + x direction.
Therefore, even if the center of gravity of the information device moves in the + x direction as the first case is opened, the footprint boundary moves in the + x direction in conjunction with this, so the center of gravity of the information device The position can be maintained inside the footprint, and the information device can be prevented from falling.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a clamshell-type information device that can prevent falling without impeding weight reduction and maintaining usability.

In the present invention, when the information device is closed and the information device is installed on a horizontal surface with the first case facing up and the second case facing down, A surface is defined as a front surface, a surface on the one end side of the second case is defined as a back surface, a direction from the front surface to the back surface of the information device is defined as a + x direction, and a direction opposite to the + x direction is − The x direction is defined as the direction perpendicular to the + x direction and parallel to the first axis, and the direction from the right side surface to the left side surface of the information device is defined as the + y direction, which is opposite to the + y direction. The direction is defined as -y direction, the direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane and directed from the second case side to the first case side is defined as + z direction, and the direction opposite to the + z direction is defined as -z direction. Define.
Note that this definition is also used in [3] to [9] described later.

[3] In the information device of the present invention, it is preferable that the second axis is located at a position closer to the −x direction side than the first axis.

  Thereby, even if the length of the flap is designed to be longer in the + x direction or the −x direction, the flap can be hidden in the −x direction side than the first axis of the lower surface of the information device. For this reason, even if the length of the flap is designed to be relatively long, the entire information device does not increase in size.

[4] In the information device of the present invention, a flap convex portion is formed on the lower side of the flap, and the first case is opened with respect to the second case within a range of a standard use angle. It is preferable that the flap convex portion is positioned on the extension of the center line of the thickness of one case.

  Because of this configuration, when the first case is opened within the range of the standard use angle, the grounding location (footprint boundary) formed by the center of the thickness of the first case, the flap protrusion, and the flap protrusion. ) Are arranged on a substantially straight line. For this reason, the stress applied to the first case is directly transmitted to the grounding location via the flap protrusion, and the installation state of the first case can be stabilized.

[5] In the information device of the present invention, when the flap is viewed along the + y direction or the -y direction, a part of the lower outline of the flap has a straight flap straight line portion. And when the first case is opened with respect to the second case within a standard operating angle range, the flap straight portion is configured to come into contact with a horizontal plane in a straight line having a given length. Is preferred.

  Due to such a configuration, when the first case is opened within the range of the standard use angle, the flap contacts the horizontal surface with a line or surface to support the weight of the information device. Therefore, it becomes difficult for the flap to bend, and the installation state of the information device can be stabilized.

[6] In the information device of the present invention, it is preferable that an elastic member configured to generate a biasing force in a direction to close the flap with respect to the lower surface of the second case is further provided. .

Since such an elastic member is provided, when the first case is closed with respect to the second case, the flap is pressed against the second case by the biasing force. Even when the first case is open, the flap is pressed against the end of the first case by the biasing force.
Therefore, even if the entire information device is lifted from a horizontal plane (for example, the upper surface of a desk or the like), the flap does not swing. For this reason, it becomes an information apparatus excellent in storage property and transportability. Further, since the flap does not protrude from the entire information device due to the swing, the information device is excellent in appearance.

[7] In the information device of the present invention, the sliding surface on the upper side of the flap on which the one end of the first case slides has a friction coefficient smaller than that of acrylonitrile / butadiene / styrene, and It is preferable to have a friction coefficient smaller than that of polystyrene.

  Because of such a configuration, the sliding surface on the upper side of the flap has a relatively small coefficient of friction, so that high lubricity can be exhibited and one end of the first case slides. It will be easy. In addition, since it has a relatively small coefficient of friction, it becomes an information device that is not easily worn and has excellent durability.

[8] In the information device according to [1], the support member is a flap disposed on the upper side of the first case when the information device is in a closed state. A first gear that rotates about the first axis in conjunction with the rotation; a second gear that engages with the first gear; and the third gear that engages with the second gear; A third gear that rotates about the first gear, and the flap is coupled to one end of the flap on the shaft of the third gear, and the first case is opened relative to the second case. It is preferable to rotate around the third axis.

With this configuration, when the first case is opened and rotated with respect to the second case, the first gear rotates around the first axis so as to interlock with the rotation of the first case. Move. Accordingly, the second gear engaged with the first gear rotates, and further, the third gear engaged with the second gear rotates. Since one end of the flap is coupled to the shaft of the third gear, the flap also rotates around the third axis as the third gear rotates. When the flap rotates about the third axis, the other end of the flap eventually comes into contact with the horizontal plane, and the other end of the flap forms the footprint boundary.
That is, as the first case is opened, the footprint boundary moves in the + x direction compared to before the first case is opened. Eventually, the footprint expands in the + x direction.
Therefore, even if the center of gravity of the information device moves in the + x direction as the first case is opened, the footprint boundary moves in the + x direction in conjunction with this, so the center of gravity of the information device The position can be maintained inside the footprint, and the information device can be prevented from falling.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a clamshell-type information device that can prevent falling without impeding weight reduction and maintaining usability.

[9] In the information device of the present invention, when the information device is in a closed state, an end of the first case at the one end is located at a position closer to the + x direction side than the first axis. And the support member is disposed below the second case, and further includes a lever that converts the movement of the first case into the movement of the support member. The other end of the lever is connected to the support member via a second universal joint, and the one end of the lever and the other are connected to the one end of the first case via a universal joint. It is preferable that the intermediate portion between the ends is connected to the one end of the second case so that the lever can be rotated with the intermediate portion serving as a fourth axis.

Due to such a configuration, when the information device is in a closed state, the end of the first case at one end is positioned closer to the + x direction side than the first axis. For this reason, when the first case is opened and rotated with respect to the second case, the end at one end of the first case relatively moves in the −x direction.
On the other hand, one end of the first case is connected to one end of the lever through the first universal joint. On the other hand, the other end of the lever is connected to the support member via the second universal joint, and the lever can be rotated about the intermediate portion as a fourth axis in the intermediate portion between the one end and the other end of the lever. In this way, it is connected to one end of the second case.
For this reason, when the end at one end of the first case moves in the −x direction, one end side of the lever via the first universal joint is used as a power point, the fourth shaft at the middle part of the lever is used as a fulcrum, and the other end of the lever is As an action point, a force in the + x direction is applied to the support member via the second universal joint.
When the support member moves in the + x direction by this force, the footprint boundary formed by the contact between the support member and the horizontal plane also moves in the + x direction.
That is, as the first case is opened, the footprint boundary moves in the + x direction compared to before the first case is opened. Eventually, the footprint expands in the + x direction.
Therefore, even if the center of gravity of the information device moves in the + x direction as the first case is opened, the footprint boundary moves in the + x direction in conjunction with this, so the center of gravity of the information device The position can be maintained inside the footprint, and the information device can be prevented from falling.

[10] In the information device of the present invention, it is preferable that the first case is detachable from the information device.

  As described in the “Background Art” section, the information device in which the first case is detachable is mounted with a CPU, a battery, and the like, and therefore the weight of the first case tends to increase. For this reason, the problem of the fall of an information apparatus tends to arise. Therefore, an information device in which the first case is detachable can implement the present invention in a particularly suitable form and can further enjoy the effect.

[11] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information device according to another aspect of the present invention, a first cover case that houses a flat display, a flat cover, and one end of the first cover case together with one end of the first cover case. And a second cover case that is hinge-coupled with at least an input device mounted thereon, and interlocks as the first cover case is opened with respect to the second cover case while rotating about the first axis. And, with the interlocking, a footprint boundary on one end side of the information device defined by the support member is directed from the other end of the second cover case to the one end of the second cover case. A clamshell type information device characterized by being configured to move in a direction.

[12] A cover for information equipment according to the present invention includes a first cover that covers at least a part of a flat-shaped information equipment, a flat shape, and one end pivots along a first axis together with one end of the first cover. A second cover that is hinged as a shaft, and a support member that interlocks as the first cover is opened with respect to the second cover while rotating around the first shaft. A footprint boundary on one end side of the information device cover defined by the support member is configured to move in a direction from the other end of the second cover toward the one end of the second cover. To do.

It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the information equipment 1 which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the information equipment 1 which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the information device 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the information equipment 2 which concerns on Embodiment 2. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the information equipment 3 which concerns on Embodiment 3. FIG. It is the figure which expanded the principal part of the information equipment 3 which concerns on Embodiment 3. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate an experimental example. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the elastic member 140 of the modification 1. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the information equipment 1 'concerning the modification 2. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the information equipment 4 which concerns on the modification 3. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the cover 5 for information devices which concerns on the modification 4. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the information equipment 6 which concerns on the modification 5. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the information equipment 700 which concerns on background art. FIG. 13A is a perspective view when the information device 700 is viewed obliquely from the lower right side. 13 (b) and 13 (c) are right side views as seen from the right in FIG. 13 (a). It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the problem of the fall in information equipment. Each figure is a right side view of the information device viewed from the right. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the footprint FP and footprint boundary BFP of an information device. FIG. 15A is a plan view of the information device 700 as viewed from above, and the positions where the rubber legs 121 are arranged are indicated by circles. FIG. 15B is a right side view of the information device 700. In either case, the first case 710 is shown closed with respect to the second case 720. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the conventional information apparatus 800 and the conventional 2nd information apparatus 800a. Each figure is a right side view of the information device viewed from the right. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the conventional 3rd information equipment 900 and the conventional 4th information equipment 950. FIG. FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the information device 900 as viewed from the right rear, and FIG. 17B is a right side view of the information device 950.

  Hereinafter, an information device and an information device cover according to the present invention will be described based on embodiments shown in the drawings. In addition, each drawing is a schematic diagram and does not necessarily reflect an actual dimension exactly.

[Embodiment 1]
1 and 2 are diagrams for explaining the information device 1 according to the first embodiment. 1A to 1C and subsequently FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B, the first case 110 is gradually changed to the second case 120 from the state in which the information device 1 is closed. It is the figure which opened with respect to and represents the state where the opening / closing angle OA between the 1st case 110 and the 2nd case 120 was gradually enlarged in steps. Each figure is a right side view of the information device 1 viewed from the right. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the information device 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3A is an enlarged view of a portion C1 surrounded by a dotted line in FIG. FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of a portion C2 surrounded by a dotted line in FIG. FIG. 3C is an enlarged view of a portion C3 surrounded by a dotted line in FIG.

  The “open / close angle” refers to an angle formed between the first case and the second case when the information device is cut along a plane perpendicular to the first axis AX1. Typically, it refers to the angle formed by the main surface of the first case and the second main surface. By adjusting the opening / closing angle, the angle of the screen of the display as viewed from the user can be adjusted.

  In addition, the definition of direction etc. is as follows. When the information device 1 is closed and the information device 1 is installed on the horizontal surface with the first case 110 facing up and the second case 120 facing down, the surface on the other end 120b side of the second case 120 is defined as the front surface. The surface on the one end 120a side of the second case 120 is defined as the back surface. Further, the direction from the front to the back of the information device 1 is defined as + x direction, the direction opposite to the + x direction is defined as -x direction, and the direction is perpendicular to the + x direction and parallel to the first axis AX1. Thus, the direction from the right side to the left side of the information device 1 is defined as the + y direction, the direction opposite to the + y direction is defined as the -y direction, and the direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane is the second case 120 side. A direction toward the one case 110 side is defined as a + z direction, and a direction opposite to the + z direction is defined as a −z direction.

1. Basic structure of information device 1 according to Embodiment 1
(1) The information device 1 according to Embodiment 1 is a clamshell type information device including a first case 110, a second case 120, and a support member 130 when roughly grasping the whole (FIGS. 1 and 2). reference).
The “clamshell type” generally refers to a structure (a structure similar to a bivalve shell) in which a case disposed on the upper side and a case disposed on the lower side are hinge-coupled.
“Information equipment” mainly refers to PCs, tablet terminals, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this as long as it has a configuration relating to the fall prevention of the present invention. For example, a keyboard with a cover is also included in the information device of the present invention. In addition, the information device may be a device in which the first case cannot be removed, or a device that is removable (so-called detachable).

(2) The first case 110 is a case in which at least a display (not shown) is mounted.
The “display” may be anything as long as it gives visual information to the user. For example, a display panel such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this.
The first case 110 has a flat plate shape when the information device 1 is closed and viewed from above << state of FIG. 1A >>. The first case 110 has a rectangular shape when viewed from above. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an elliptical shape may be used.
“Platform” means a substantially flat plate shape, the main surface may be a strict flat surface, or the main surface is based on a flat surface with some uneven parts on the surface. It may be a substantially flat surface having a curved portion.
These descriptions are similarly applied to the second case 120.

(3) When the information device 1 is a typical clamshell notebook PC, the second case 120 is usually a case on the side where an input device such as a keyboard is mounted. However, in the first embodiment, the input device may not be mounted.
The second case 120 has a flat plate shape when viewed in plan.
The second case 120 is hinged at one end 120a together with the one end 110a of the first case 110 with the first axis AX1 as a rotation axis, thereby forming a hinge portion H1.

Here, when the first case 110 is cut along a plane perpendicular to the first axis AX1 and viewed in cross section, the end on the first axis AX1 side (the back side of the information device 1) is referred to as “one end 110a of the first case 110”. And the end opposite to the one end (the front side of the information device 1) is defined as “the other end 110b of the first case 110”. Here, “the one end 110a of the first case 110” does not mean only the end 110c in a strict sense, but also a slightly wide range including the end 110c and its periphery (summarizing these). ("End"). The same applies to “the other end 110b of the first case 110”.
Further, “one end 120a of the second case 120” and “the other end 120b of the second case 120” are similarly defined.
Furthermore, “rotation” includes not only a rotation operation that traces an arc of a perfect circle but also a movement that can be regarded as a rotation operation. Examples of the movement that can be regarded as a rotational movement include an operation that traces an arc of an ellipse, and an operation that traces a circular arc after moving linearly once.

(4) The support member 130 may have any structure as long as it can support the information device 1 (in particular, support the first case 110 so as not to fall backward) while being in contact with the installation surface of the information device 1. -Any material may be adopted.

(5) The information device 1 has a mechanism in which the support member 130 is interlocked as the first case 110 is opened with respect to the second case 120 while rotating around the first axis AX1. Then, the information device 1 has a footprint boundary BFPa on the one end side (+ x direction side) of the information device 1 defined by the support member 130 along with the interlocking, from the other end 120b of the second case 120 to the second case. It is comprised so that it may move in the direction which goes to the one end 120a (refer FIG.1 and FIG.2).

In the clamshell type information device 1 according to the first embodiment, the first case 110 is opened with respect to the second case 120 from the time when the first case 110 is closed to the second case 120, and the opening / closing angle is changed. The amount of movement of the footprint boundary BFPa on one end side until the standard use angle (described later) is within the range of about 1.3 to 3.0 times the thickness of the second case 120. Is preferred. More specifically, it is more preferably within a range of about 1.6 times to 2.0 times.
The “thickness” of the second case 120 refers to a dimension in a direction perpendicular to the main surface of the second case 120.

  In addition, in the clamshell type information device 1 according to the first embodiment, it is preferable that the support member 130 is not connected to the first case 110. In other words, the support member 130 is connected to the second case 120 by a hinge, a gear, a lever or the like so as to belong to the second case 120, and the support member 130 is connected to the first case 110. Preferably not.

2. Detailed Structure of Information Device 1 According to Embodiment 1 The detailed structure of the information device 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be specifically described below.

(1) Flap Structure As shown in FIG. 3, the support member 130 is a flap 135 having one end 130 a as a free end and the other end 130 b hinged to the second case 120.
The other end 135b (130b) of the flap 135 and the first case 110 constitute a hinge portion H2 in the vicinity of the second axis AX2. On the other hand, one end 135a (130a) of the flap 135 is rotatable about a second axis AX2 set at a predetermined position of the second case 120.

(2) Insulator structure in the first case 110 When the state in which the information device 1 is closed is viewed along the + y direction or the −y direction, the end 110c at the one end 110a of the first case 110 is more than the first axis AX1. It is located at a position close to the + x direction side (see FIG. 3A). Because of this positional relationship, the first case 110 is configured with an insulator having the other end 110b as a power point, the first axis AX1 as a fulcrum, and the end 110c at the one end 110a as an action point. .

(3) Shape of Flap 135, etc. The contour 136 on the lower side (−z direction side) of the flap 135 has a shape bent in the + z direction as it proceeds in the + x direction. Since the lower contour 136 of the flap 135 is bent, the contact portion between the contour 136 and the installation surface can be moved backward (+ z direction) as the flap 135 rotates.
As the “bent shape”, in the first embodiment, when the flap 135 is viewed along the + x direction, the direction of the tangent line of the contour 136 changes greatly in the vicinity of the middle of the flap 135 so-called “character shape”. It has a shape. However, it is not limited to this. For example, it may be a “curve” shape in which the direction of the tangent changes substantially continuously. In addition, as long as the functions and effects intended by the first embodiment are exhibited, the “bent shape” includes a substantially straight shape.
In addition, as a member forming the lower outline 136 of the flap 135, urethane rubber or the like having a relatively high grip force is used.

A flap protrusion 137 is formed on the lower side of the flap (on the −z direction side). When the first case 110 is opened with respect to the second case 120 within the range of the standard use angle, the flap convex portion 137 is formed on the extension of the center line CL1 of the thickness of the first case 110. It is comprised so that it may be located (refer FIG.3 (c)).
Here, “standard use angle” means that an information device (clamshell notebook PC) is installed on a standard desk and the user views the display screen of the information device in a normal posture. The opening / closing angle between the first case and the second case set when assumed. The “standard use angle” may have a certain width. “Standard use angle” refers to the height of the installation surface of the information device (the height of the desk on which the information device is installed), the height of the user (more specifically, the height of the user's eyes), the height of the information device Although it may vary depending on the distance between the first case and the user's eyes, approximately 100 ° to 140 ° is assumed.
“The thickness of the first case” refers to the dimension of the first case in the direction perpendicular to the main surface of the first case.
“The flap convex part 137 is located on the extension” means that the center line CL1, the end 110a of the first case 110 is in contact with the sliding surface 139, and the flap convex part 137 is in contact with the installation surface. This means that the points are almost straight. Even if they are not strictly arranged on a straight line, the case where they are almost straight within the range where stability can be obtained is also included.

Note that the flap convex portion 137 is located approximately directly below the second axis AX2 (around the −z direction of the second axis) when the information device 1 is closed, and the flap convex portion 137 has a footprint. It is preferable to constitute a boundary.
At this time, the one end 120a side of the second case 120 is raised by the flap convex portion 137, and the information device 1 is installed with a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the installation surface. Along with this, an input device such as a keyboard is inclined, so that the user can easily perform an input operation. Since a gap is formed between the one end 120a of the second case 120 and the installation surface, it is easy to put a finger in the gap and to grip an information device. A leg (rubber leg) may be attached to the front side of the second case 120. In this case, the footprint FP is defined by the legs and the flap convex portion 137.
In addition, the flap convex part 137 may be integrally formed with the flap body (not shown) as a part constituting the flap 135, or may be molded separately and united with the flap body (not shown). May be.

When the flap 135 is viewed along the + y direction or the −y direction, a part of the outline 136 on the lower side of the flap 135 has a straight flap straight line portion 138.
As shown in FIG. 3 (c), the information processing apparatus 1 allows the flap straight line portion 138 to be opened when the first case 110 is opened with respect to the second case 120 within the range of the standard use angle OAs. It is comprised so that it may contact with a horizontal surface in the state of the straight line which has a given length << Please refer also to Fig.2 (a) >>.

  A sliding surface 139 on which one end 130a of the first case 110 slides is formed on the upper side (+ z direction side) of the flap 135 (see FIGS. 3B and 3C).

  The flap 135 is described assuming a plate shape having a relatively large area, but is not limited thereto. For example, it may be bone-shaped (frame).

(4) Characteristics of the sliding surface 139 The sliding surface 139 on the upper side of the flap 135 on which the one end 110a (particularly the end 110c) of the first case 110 slides is smaller than the friction coefficient of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). It is preferable to have a friction coefficient and a friction coefficient smaller than that of polystyrene (PS).
Specifically, on the sliding surface 139 on the upper side of the flap 135, it is preferable that the static friction coefficient μ is smaller than 0.25 and the dynamic friction coefficient is smaller than 0.4.
From another viewpoint, the sliding surface 139 on the upper side of the flap 135 is preferably made of a material having higher friction resistance than a so-called general-purpose resin, and a material classified as a so-called general-purpose engineering plastic.
In the first embodiment, the sliding surface 139 on the upper side of the flap 135 is configured using, for example, crystalline resin and high self-lubricating polyacetal (POM). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, crystalline general-purpose engineering plastics such as syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS), polyamide (PA), GF-reinforced polyethylene terephthalate (GF-PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) can be used. Further, non-crystalline general-purpose engineering plastics such as polycarbonate (PC) and η-polyphenylene ether (η-PPE) can also be used.

  Thus, since the sliding surface on the upper side of the flap has a relatively small coefficient of friction, high lubricity can be exhibited and one end of the first case can easily slide. In addition, since it has a relatively small coefficient of friction, it becomes an information device that is not easily worn and has excellent durability.

  In the first embodiment, the one end 110a of the first case 110 that slides on the sliding surface 139 is, for example, one whose surface is anodized, but is not limited thereto.

(5) Positional relationship The flap 135 is arrange | positioned under the 2nd case 120 (side in the -z direction).
Further, the end 135c (130c) of the one end 135a of the flap 135 is located at a position closer to the + x direction side than the first axis AX1.
Further, when the first case 110 starts to open with respect to the second case 120, the one end 110a of the first case 110 is configured to come into contact with one end 135a (the free end side) of the flap 135. 3 (a) and FIG. 3 (b) >>.
Further, the second axis AX2 is located at a position closer to the −x direction side than the first axis AX1.

3. Operation and Effect of Information Device 1 According to Embodiment 1 (1) The information device according to Embodiment 1 is a clamshell type information device 1, which has a flat plate shape and at least a display mounted thereon. 110, a second case 120 having a flat plate shape, one end 120a being hinged with the first axis AX1 as a rotation axis together with the one end 110a of the first case 110, and the first case 110 around the first axis AX1 And a support member 130 that interlocks as it is opened relative to the second case 120 while rotating. In association with the interlocking, the footprint boundary BFPa on one end side of the information device 1 defined by the support member 130 moves in the direction from the other end 120b of the second case 120 toward the one end 120a of the second case 120. It is configured.

The information device 1 according to the first embodiment includes the support member 130 that interlocks as the first case 110 is opened with respect to the second case 120, and the information device is defined by the support member 130 along with the interlock. Since the footprint boundary BFPa on one end side is configured to move in the direction (rear) from the other end 120b of the second case 120 toward the one end 120a of the second case 120, the position of the center of gravity CG of the information device 1 Can be maintained inside the footprint FP, and the information device 1 can be prevented from falling.
Further, according to the information device 1 according to the first embodiment, only the support member 130 is added, and it is not necessary to put a weight on the second case 120. That is, weight reduction of the information device 1 is not hindered in order to take measures to prevent the overturn.
Furthermore, according to the information apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, as the first case 110 is opened with respect to the second case 120, the support member 130 is automatically interlocked to move the footprint boundary BFPa backward. For this reason, the user can open the first case 110 at a free angle, but the user falls down automatically without any special consciousness or special operation. Prevention can be achieved. That is, while preventing falling, it is possible to maintain the usability of the information device 1.
Therefore, according to the information device 1 according to the first embodiment, it is possible to provide the clamshell type information device 1 that can prevent the fall while maintaining the usability without inhibiting the weight reduction.

Further, in the clamshell information device 1 according to the first embodiment, the first case 110 is opened with respect to the second case 120 from the time when the first case 110 is closed to the second case 120, and the opening / closing angle is changed. The amount of movement of the footprint boundary BFPa on one end side until reaching the standard use angle is in the range of about 1.3 to 3.0 times the thickness of the second case 120. More specifically, it is in the range of about 1.6 times to 2.0 times.
Here, if the movement amount of the footprint boundary BFPa is too small (for example, less than 1.3 times the thickness of the second case 120), the effect of preventing the fall cannot be obtained sufficiently, so the first case It becomes difficult to increase the weight on the 110 side, and it is unsuitable for a detachable PC, for example. Furthermore, if the movement amount of the footprint boundary BFPa is too small, the opening / closing angle OA cannot be increased so much, which limits the usability. On the contrary, if the movement amount of the footprint boundary BFPa is set too large (for example, exceeding 3.0 times the thickness of the second case 120), the support member 130 for securing the footprint protrudes. On the other hand, usability is impaired.
Therefore, the movement amount of the footprint boundary is set within the range of about 1.3 to 3.0 times the thickness of the second case 120, and more preferably within the range of about 1.6 to 2.0 times. By making it inside, it is possible to appropriately prevent falls without impairing usability.

In the clamshell type information device 1 according to the first embodiment, the support member 130 is preferably not connected to the first case 110. In other words, the support member 130 is connected to the second case 120 by a hinge, a gear, a lever or the like so as to belong to the second case 120, and the support member 130 is connected to the first case 110. Preferably not.
If the support member 130 is connected to the first case 110 in some form, the first case 110 cannot be attached / detached from the main body side of the information device 1 or is difficult. Then, it is difficult to configure an information device (for example, a detachable PC) in which the first case is detachable.
By configuring the information device so that the support member is not connected to the first case (in other words, the support member belongs to the second case and is connected to the second case by a hinge, a gear, a lever, etc. In addition, by configuring the support member so as not to be connected to the first case, it is easy to configure an information device (for example, a detachable PC) in which the first case is detachable.

(2) Further, in the information device 1 according to the first embodiment, the support member 130 is disposed on the lower side (the −z direction side) of the second case 120, and one end 135 a thereof is set at a predetermined position of the second case 120. The other end 135b is a flap 135 that is hinged to the second case 120 as a free end that can rotate about the set second axis AX2. Further, when the state in which the information device 1 is closed is viewed along the + y direction or the −y direction, the end 110c at the one end 110a of the first case 110 and the end 135c at the one end 135a of the flap 135 are from the first axis AX1. Is also located on the + x direction side. A sliding surface 139 on which the one end 110a of the first case 110 slides is formed on the upper side of the flap 135, and the contour 136 on the lower side (−z direction side) of the flap 135 is in the + x direction. As it progresses, it is bent in the + z direction. Further, when the first case 110 starts to open with respect to the second case 120, the one end 110 a of the first case 110 is configured to contact the one end 135 a of the flap 135.

However, since “the end 110c of the one end 110a of the first case 110 is positioned closer to the + x direction side than the first axis AX1”, in the first case 110, the other end 110b side is applied as a power point. And an insulator having a first axis AX1 as a fulcrum and an end 110c at one end 110a as an action point.
Here, when the user grasps the other end 110b side of the first case 110 and opens upward from the closed state of the information device 1, the first case 110 rotates about the first axis AX1. Will start.
When the first case 110 starts to rotate around the first axis AX1, the end 110c at the one end 110a of the first case 110 starts to be displaced downward and rotates by the action of the insulator.
The flap 135 is disposed on the lower side of the second case 120, and “the end 135c of the one end 135a of the flap 135 is positioned closer to the + x direction side than the first axis AX1”, and “When the first case 110 starts to open with respect to the second case 120, the one end 110a of the first case 110 is configured to abut against the one end 135a of the flap 135”. For this reason, the end 110c of the one end 110a of the first case 110 is displaced downward, so that the end of the flap is pushed downward as if the flap 135 is stepped on.
“A sliding surface 139 on which one end 110a of the first case 110 slides is formed on the upper side of the flap 135”. For this reason, as the opening / closing angle between the first case 110 and the second case 120 increases, the one end 110a of the first case 110 slides on the sliding surface 139 on the upper side of the flap 135.
On the other hand, the other end 135b of the flap 135 is “hinge-coupled to the second case 120”, and the one end 135a of the flap 135 is “rotated around the second axis AX2 set at a predetermined position of the second case 120”. "A free end that is possible." For this reason, the one end 135a of the flap 135 rotates around the second axis AX2 as it is pushed downward.
On the other hand, “the contour 136 on the lower side (−z direction side) of the flap 135 has a shape bent in the + z direction as it proceeds in the + x direction”. For this reason, as the flap 135 rotates around the second axis AX2 (initially downward), the location where the flap 135 contacts the horizontal plane moves in the + x direction. That is, the footprint boundary BFPa moves in the + x direction. That is, the footprint FP expands in the + x direction.
Therefore, even if the center of gravity of the information device 1 moves in the + x direction as the first case 110 is opened, the footprint boundary BFPa moves in the + x direction in conjunction with this, so that the information device 1 The position of the center of gravity CG of 1 can be maintained inside the footprint FP, and the information device 1 can be prevented from falling.

  Note that “opening” the first case or “opening” the information device means that the first case 110 is rotated by rotating the first case 110 about the rotation axis (here, AX1) of the hinge portion H1. 2. Operation in the direction of peeling from the case 120 (in the direction of increasing the opening / closing angle). “Closing” the first case or “closing” the information device is an operation in a direction in which the first case 110 and the second case 120 are brought close to a planar state (in a direction to reduce the opening / closing angle). That means.

(3) In the information device 1 according to the first embodiment, the second axis AX2 is located at a position closer to the −x direction side than the first axis AX1.

  However, since “the second axis AX2 is positioned closer to the −x direction side than the first axis AX1”, the length of the flap 135 is designed to be longer in the + x direction or the −x direction. In addition, the flap 135 can be hidden in the −x direction side of the first axis AX1 of the lower surface of the information device 1. For this reason, even if the length of the flap 135 is designed to be relatively long, the entire information device does not increase in size.

(4) In the information device 1 according to the first embodiment, the flap convex portion 137 is formed on the lower side of the flap 135, and the first case 110 is opened with respect to the second case 120 within the range of the standard use angle OAs. When it is, the flap convex portion 137 is configured to be positioned on the extension of the center line CL1 of the thickness of the first case 110.

  Due to such a configuration, when the first case 110 is opened within the range of the standard use angle OAs, it is configured by the center line CL1 of the thickness of the first case 110, the flap convex portion 137, and the flap convex portion 137. The three elements of the ground contact point (footprint boundary) are arranged substantially in a straight line. For this reason, the stress etc. concerning the 1st case 110 will be transmitted directly to a grounding location via the flap convex part 137, and the installation state of the 1st case 110 can be stabilized.

(5) Further, in the information device according to the first embodiment, when the flap 135 is viewed along the + y direction or the −y direction, a part of the lower outline 136 of the flap 135 includes a linear flap straight line portion. 138. When the first case 110 is opened with respect to the second case 120 within the range of the standard use angle OAs, the flap straight part 138 is configured to come into contact with the horizontal plane in a straight line having a given length. .

  Due to such a configuration, when the first case 110 is opened within the range of the standard use angle OAs, the flap 135 contacts the horizontal plane with a line or surface to support the weight of the information device 1. Therefore, the flap 135 becomes difficult to bend and the installation state of the information device 1 can be stabilized.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, the information device 2 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the information device 2 according to the second embodiment. 4A to 4C, the first case 210 is gradually opened with respect to the second case 220 from the state in which the information device 2 is closed, and the first case 210 and the second case 220 are separated from each other. It is the figure which represented the state which increased gradually the opening-and-closing angle OA of stepwise. Each figure is a right sectional view when the information device 2 is cut along a plane perpendicular to the first axis AX1. The first gear 241, the second gear 242 and the third gear 243 are represented on the same cross section regardless of the arrangement positions in the + y direction or the -y direction. Further, the first case 210 and the second case 220 are omitted along the length direction in the + x direction or the −x direction.

  The information device 2 according to the second embodiment basically has the same configuration as that of the information device 1 according to the first embodiment, but in a detailed structure (particularly, how to configure a support member and a mechanism that drives the support member). This is different from the information device 1 according to the first embodiment.

  That is, in the information device 2 according to the second embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the support member 230 is a flap 235 arranged on the upper side of the first case 210 when the information device 2 is closed. The first gear 241 that rotates about the first axis AX1 in conjunction with the rotation of the first case 210, the second gear 242 engaged with the first gear 241, and the second gear 242 And a third gear 243 that rotates about the third axis AX3. One end 235a (230a) of the flap 235 (230) is coupled to the shaft (not shown) of the third gear 243, and the third case 210 is interlocked with the opening of the first case 210 with respect to the second case 220. It rotates around the axis AX3.

With this configuration, when the first case 210 is opened and rotated with respect to the second case 220 (see FIGS. 4A to 4B), the first case 210 rotates. The first gear 241 rotates about the first axis AX1 so as to be interlocked with each other. Accordingly, the second gear 242 engaged with the first gear 241 rotates, and further, the third gear 243 engaged with the second gear 242 rotates. Since one end 235a of the flap 235 is coupled to the shaft (not shown) of the third gear 243, the flap 235 also rotates around the third axis AX3 as the third gear 243 rotates. Become. When the flap 235 rotates around the third axis AX3, the other end 235b of the flap 235 eventually comes into contact with the horizontal plane, and the other end 235b of the flap 235 forms the footprint boundary BFPa (see FIG. 4C). .
That is, as the first case 210 is opened, the footprint boundary BFPa moves in the + x direction compared to the case before opening the first case 210 (see FIG. 4A). )reference". Eventually, the footprint expands in the + x direction.
Therefore, even if the center of gravity CG of the information device 2 moves in the + x direction as the first case 210 is opened, the footprint boundary BFPa moves in the + x direction in conjunction with this, so that the information The position of the center of gravity CG of the device 2 can be maintained inside the footprint FP, and the information device 2 can be prevented from falling.

  The first case 210 is opened from the second case 220, and the other end 235b of the flap 235 is brought into contact with the installation surface of the information device 2 when the opening / closing angle is within the range of the standard use angle. You may let them. The information device 2 can be stabilized at the standard use angle.

  Moreover, although the magnitude ratio of the number of teeth which each of the first gear 241, the second gear 242 and the third gear 243 has can be set as appropriate, in the information device 2 according to the second embodiment, medium: small: large Yes. With this configuration, the angular displacement due to the rotation of the first case 210 can be amplified to the angular displacement due to the rotation of the flap 235. For example, when the opening / closing angle of the first case 210 is 140 °, the displacement of the rotation angle of the flap can be set to 230 °.

  In addition, a flap 235 is interposed between the first gear 241 and the second gear 242, between the second gear 242 and the third gear 243, or before the third gear 243, with another gear interposed therebetween. It is good also as a mechanism which drives. Such a configuration is also equivalent to the information device 2 according to the second embodiment.

  Note that the information device 2 according to the second embodiment has a detailed structure (particularly, how to configure a support member and a mechanism that drives the support member), except for using the first gear 241 to the third gear 243 and the like. The configuration is the same as that of the information device 1 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, it has the corresponding effect similarly among the effects which the information equipment 1 which concerns on Embodiment 1 has.

[Embodiment 3]
Next, the information device 3 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.
FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the information device 3 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram when the first case 310 is opened from the second case 320 and the information device 3 is viewed from above.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a main part of the information device 3 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D are diagrams focusing on the target portion C4 surrounded by the dotted line in FIG. FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B show a state when the information device 3 is closed by fitting the first case 310 to the second case 320. 6C and 6D show a state when the first case 310 is opened from the second case 320. FIG. FIGS. 6A and 6C show the target portion C4 when viewed in plan. FIG. 6B and FIG. 6D are right sectional views when the target portion C4 is cut along a plane perpendicular to the first axis AX1. The support member 330, the lever 340, the first universal joint 351, the second universal joint 352, and the like are expressed on the same cross section regardless of the arrangement positions in the + y direction or the -y direction.

  The information device 3 according to the third embodiment basically has the same configuration as that of the information device 1 according to the first embodiment, but in a detailed structure (particularly how to configure a support member and a mechanism for driving the support member). This is different from the information device 1 according to the first embodiment.

  That is, in the information device 3 according to the third embodiment, when the information device 3 is in a closed state, the end 310c at the one end 310a of the first case 310 is at a position closer to the + x direction side than the first axis AX1. The support member 330 is located below the second case 320. Further, a lever 340 that converts the movement of the first case 310 into the movement of the support member 330 is further provided. On the other hand, one end 340 a of the lever 340 is connected to one end 310 a of the first case 310 via the first universal joint 351. On the other hand, the other end 340 b of the lever 340 is connected to the support member 330 via the second universal joint 352. The intermediate portion between the one end 340a and the other end 340b of the lever 340 is connected to one end of the second case 320 so that the lever 340 can be rotated with the intermediate portion serving as the fourth axis AX4. See FIG. 6 (a) and FIG. 6 (b) >>.

However, when the information device 3 is in the closed state (see FIGS. 6A and 6B), the end 310c at the one end 310a of the first case 310 is closer to the + x direction than the first axis AX1. Since the first case 310 is opened and rotated with respect to the second case 320, the end 310c at the one end 310a of the first case 310 relatively moves in the −x direction. It will be.
On the other hand, one end 310 a of the first case 310 is connected to one end 340 a of the lever 340 via the first universal joint 351. On the other hand, the other end 340 b of the lever 340 is connected to the support member 330 via the second universal joint 352. The intermediate portion between the one end 340a and the other end 340b of the lever 240 is connected to the one end 320a of the second case 320 so that the lever 340 can be rotated with the intermediate portion serving as the fourth axis AX4. For this reason, when the end 310c at the one end 310a of the first case 310 moves in the -x direction, the end 340a side of the lever 340 via the first universal joint 351 is used as a power point, and the fourth axis AX4 at the intermediate portion of the lever 340 A force in the + x direction is applied to the support member 330 via the second universal joint 352 with the other end 340b of the lever 340 as an action point (see FIG. 6A).
As the support member 330 moves in the + x direction by this force, the footprint boundary BFPa formed by the contact between the support member 330 and the horizontal plane also moves in the + x direction accordingly. See transition from a) and FIG. 6 (b) to FIG. 6 (c) and FIG. 6 (d) >>.
That is, as the first case 310 is opened, the footprint boundary BFPa moves in the + x direction compared to before the first case is opened. Eventually, the footprint FP expands in the + x direction.
Therefore, even if the center of gravity CG of the information device 3 moves in the + x direction as the first case 310 is opened, the footprint boundary BFPa moves in the + x direction in conjunction with this, so that the information The position of the center of gravity CG of the device 3 can be maintained inside the footprint FP, and the information device 3 can be prevented from falling.

The structure of the first universal joint 351 can transmit the movement of the one end 310a of the first case 310 that is displaced in the −x direction to the lever 340 as the first case 310 is opened and closed. Any structure may be used as long as it can appropriately absorb the displacement of the one end 310a in the z direction.
For example, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, by combining a ball joint 351c using a so-called free ball, a columnar first boss 351b, a first long groove 351a extending in the y direction, and the like. The first universal joint 351 may be configured.
The structure of the second universal joint 352 may be any structure as long as it can transmit the rotation of the lever 340 to the support member 330 and can move the support member 330 in the x direction.
For example, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, a second boss 352a having a pillar shape is provided at the other end 340b of the lever 340, and the second long groove 352b extends in the y direction on the support member 330. And the second boss 352a may be engaged with the second long groove 352b.

  Note that the information device 3 according to the third embodiment uses the lever 340, the first universal joint 351, the second universal joint 352, and the like in a detailed structure (particularly, how to configure the support member and the mechanism that drives the support member). In other respects, the configuration is the same as that of the information device 1 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, it has the corresponding effect similarly among the effects which the information equipment 1 which concerns on Embodiment 1 has.

[Experimental example]
As a result of the evaluation by experiment, it has been found that according to the information device of the present invention, the effect of preventing overturning can be obtained as compared with the case of using the conventional information device, and will be described below with reference to FIG.
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an experimental example. FIG. 7A shows a diagram (A to C) for comparing the weight balance of each sample and a diagram (D to E) for comparing the experimental results. FIG.7 (b) is a right view shown in order to demonstrate an experimental method.

1. Sample Preparation A commercially available clamshell notebook PC having a conventional structure was prepared and used as Sample 1 (Comparative Example). Further, a PC having the same configuration as that of the information device 1 (clamshell type notebook PC) according to the first embodiment was prepared and used as a sample 2 (Example).
As shown in lines A to C in FIG. 7A, samples 1 (comparative examples) having the same weight as the first case and the weight of the second case were selected. On the other hand, as Sample 2 (Example), the overall weight (total weight) is lighter than Sample 1 (Comparative Example), while the weight of the first case is significantly larger than the weight of the second case. A weight balance was selected.

2. Experimental Method As shown in FIG. 7B, a desk surface inclined at an angle of 17 ° with respect to a horizontal plane was prepared as an installation surface.
For each sample, the opening / closing angle OA between the first case 110, 710 and the second case 120, 720 is gradually increased from the 0 ° state (the state in which each sample is closed), The sample was installed on an inclined installation surface. The opening / closing angle OA when the other ends of the second cases 120 and 720 are separated from the desk surface (falling down) and an indicator mounted on the desk surface and the first cases 110 and 710 (not shown). The angle DA formed with the main surface of the DA was measured (the angle of the DA was measured with assistance so as not to fall).

3. Experimental Results As shown in rows D to E of FIG. 7A, in the PC (sample 1) according to the comparative example, the first case 710 has a weight substantially equal to that of the second case 720. Fell over at 126 °.
On the other hand, in the PC (sample 2) according to the example, the first case 110 has a greater weight than the second case 120, but the posture does not fall until just before the DA is 140 °. Could be maintained.
From this experiment, it was confirmed that the information device 1 of the present invention can achieve the effect of preventing the fall than the conventional information device.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated based on said embodiment, this invention is not limited to said embodiment. The present invention can be implemented in various modes without departing from the spirit thereof, and for example, the following modifications are possible.

(1) In Embodiment 1, you may further provide the elastic member 140 comprised so that a biasing force might be produced in the direction which closes the flap 135 with respect to the lower surface of the 2nd case 120 (modification 1).
FIG. 8 is a view for explaining the elastic member 140 of the first modification.
By providing the elastic member 140, when the first case 110 is closed with respect to the second case 120, the flap 135 is pressed against the second case 120 by the biasing force. Even when the first case 110 is open, the flap 135 is pressed against the one end 110a of the first case 110 by the biasing force.
Therefore, even if the entire information device is lifted from a horizontal plane (for example, the upper surface of a desk or the like), the flap 135 does not swing. For this reason, it becomes the information equipment 1 excellent in storage property and transportability. Further, since the flap 135 does not protrude from the entire information device due to the swing, the information device 1 having an excellent appearance can be obtained.
In addition, although a spring member etc. can be employ | adopted as the elastic member 140, if the said urging | biasing force is produced, it will not be limited to this but another member can be employ | adopted.

(2) In the description of each of the above embodiments, the case where the first case is completely hinged to the second case and the first case cannot be detached from the information device has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Is not to be done. That is, in the information device of the present invention, the first case may be detachable (Modification 2).

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an information device 1 ′ according to the second modification.
As shown in FIG. 9, in the information device 1 ′ according to the second modification, the first case 110 ′ is detachable from another part of the information device 1 ′. In addition, as a mounting destination of the first case 110 ′, a first case hinge portion 110 ″ that receives the first case 110 ′ while being hinge-coupled to the second case 120 may be separately provided.

  As described in the “Background Art” section, the information device in which the first case is detachable is mounted with a CPU, a battery, and the like, and therefore the weight of the first case tends to increase. For this reason, the problem of the fall of an information apparatus tends to arise. Therefore, the information device in which the first case is detachable as described above can implement the present invention in a particularly preferable form and can further enjoy the effect.

(3) In the description of each of the above embodiments, the information device in which the display is mounted on the first case has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an information device (for example, with a cover for covering a tablet PC) is not provided with a display device, but a first cover case for housing the display device and a second cover case with an input device mounted. The present invention can also be applied to a kind of information device called a keyboard (variation 3).

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the information device 4 according to the third modification.
As illustrated in FIG. 10, the information device 4 according to Modification 3 includes a first cover case 410, a second cover case 420, and a support member 430.
The first cover case 410 has a flat plate shape and accommodates the display device 600. Typical examples of the display device 600 to be accommodated include a tablet PC and a tablet terminal. However, it is not limited to these.
The second cover case 420 has a flat plate shape, and one end 420a is hinged with the one end 410a of the first cover case 410 about the first axis AX1 as a rotation axis.
At least the input device 20 is mounted on the second cover case 420. Examples of the input device 20 include hardware having an input function such as a keyboard, a track pad, and a digitizer. However, it is not limited to these.

The information device 4 has a mechanism in which the support member 430 is interlocked as the first cover case 410 is opened with respect to the second cover case 420 while rotating around the first axis AX1. In addition, the information device 4 has a footprint boundary BFPa defined by the support member 430 on one end side (+ x direction side) of the information device 4 from the other end 420b of the second cover case 420 to the second position. The cover case 420 is configured to move in a direction toward the one end 420a.
In addition, about the mechanism which drives the support member 430 and the support member 430, the detailed structure (flap etc.) described in Embodiment 1-3 can be applied as it is.

  With this configuration, even if the center of gravity of the information device 4 moves in the + x direction as the first cover case 410 is opened, the footprint boundary BFPa is + x so as to be linked to this. Since it moves in the direction, the position of the center of gravity of the information device 4 can be maintained inside the footprint FP, and the information device 4 can be prevented from falling.

(4) In the description of each of the above embodiments, the information device including at least the first case on which the display is mounted and the second case hinged to the first case has been described. The invention is not limited to this. For example, a substantial information device is not actually mounted, but a so-called information device cover having a function for protecting the information device (for example, a cover for an information device called a cover for a tablet terminal) is provided. The present invention can be applied (Modification 4).

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the information equipment cover 5 according to the fourth modification.
As shown in FIG. 11, the information equipment cover 5 according to the modification 4 includes a first cover 510, a second cover 520, and a support member 530.
The information device cover 5 is used as, for example, a stand when operating the information device 610. When the information device 610 is carried, the first cover 510 is closed with respect to the second cover 520 and used as a protective cover or a transport cover.
The first cover 510 has a flat plate shape and covers at least a part of the information device 610. Typical examples of the information device 610 to be covered include a tablet PC and a tablet terminal. However, it is not limited to these.
The second cover 520 has a flat plate shape, and one end 520a is hinged together with the one end 510a of the first cover 510 about the first axis AX1 as a rotation axis.

The information device cover 5 has a mechanism in which the support member 530 is interlocked as the first cover 510 is opened with respect to the second cover 520 while rotating around the first axis AX1. In addition, the information device cover 5 has a footprint boundary BFPa on one end side (+ x direction side) of the information device cover 5 defined by the support member 530 in accordance with the interlocking, and the other end 520b of the second cover 520. The second cover 520 is configured to move in a direction toward the one end 520a of the second cover 520.
In addition, about the support member 530 and the mechanism which drives the support member 530, the detailed structures (flaps etc.) described in Embodiments 1 to 3 can be applied as they are.

  The information device cover 5 has a function of protecting the information device 610 by covering, wrapping, housing, or the like. What accommodates the information equipment 610 like a case, a housing | casing, a container, etc. is also contained. For example, the information device of the present invention is also used for the so-called attachment that has the function and effect of preventing the fall of the present invention although it is made of a frame (frame) or the like and does not have a function of directly protecting the information device 610. Included in the cover 5.

(5) In the description of each embodiment, when the information device is closed, the length of the support member when the support member is cut in the xz plane is set so that the end at one end of the support member is approximately inside the first case. It explained using the figure made into the length which can be stored. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The length of the support member can be changed in design so that the end at one end of the support member is positioned closer to the + x direction than the end at one end of the first case (Modification 5).

As an example, the deformation of the support member 130 / flap 135 of the first embodiment will be described.
FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the information device 6 according to the fifth modification. FIG. 12A is a right side view showing when the information device 6 is closed (when the first case 110 is closed with respect to the second case 120). FIG. 12B is a right side view showing a state in which the information device 6 is opened.
As shown in FIG. 12, when the information device 6 is closed, the end 135′c at one end of the flap 135 ′ is positioned closer to the + x direction than the end 110c at the one end 110a of the first case 110. . That is, the length of the flap 135 ′ of the modification 5 is designed to be longer than the length of the flap 135 of the first embodiment. Here, the length L of the flap straight portion 138 ′ is designed to be longer than the length of the flap straight portion 138 of the flap 135 of the first embodiment.
In other words, since the one end 135a of the flap 135 of the first embodiment is a free end, the overall length can be appropriately changed as in the fifth modification.
Therefore, according to the weight balance between the first case and the second case and according to the increase in the upper limit value of the opening / closing angle OA, a design change is performed to extend or shorten the flap length. The amount of movement of the boundary can be changed as appropriate.
Note that a second protrusion 135′d is provided at one end 135′a of the flap 135 ′ so as to cover the one end 110a of the first case 110.

(6) In the information device 3 of the third embodiment, the lever 340 has a structure in which the distance from the one end 340a of the lever 340 to the fourth axis AX4 is shorter than the distance from the other end 340b of the lever 340 to the fourth axis AX4. However, the present invention is not limited to this (see FIG. 6A). The lever 340 may have a structure in which the distance from the one end 340a to the fourth axis AX4 is longer than the distance from the other end 340b to the fourth axis AX4 of the lever 340.

  1, 2, 3, 4, 610, 700, 800, 800a, 900, 950 ... information equipment, 5 ... information equipment cover, 10 ... display, 20 ... input device, 110, 110 ', 210, 310, 710 , 910 ... first case, 110 '' ... first case hinge, 110a, 320a, 310a, 710a, 910a ... one end of the first case, 110b ... other end of the first case, 110c, 310c ... first case 120, 220, 320, 720, 820, 920, second case, 120a, 720a, 920a, one end of the second case, 120b, 720b, the other end of the second case, 121, rubber leg, 130 , 230, 330, 430, 530, 930 ... support member, 130a, 930a ... one end of the support member, 130b, 930b ... other end of the support member, 135,135 ' 235 ... flap, 135a, 135'a, 235a ... one end of the flap, 135b, 235b ... the other end of the flap, 135c, 135'c ... one end of the flap, 135'd ... the second convex part of the flap, 136 ... Outline of lower side of flap, 137 ... flap convex part, 138 ... flap linear part, 139 ... sliding surface, 140 ... elastic member, 240 ... lever, 241 ... first gear, 242 ... second gear, 243 ... third Gear, 340 ... Lever, 340a ... One end of lever, 340b ... Other end of lever, 351 ... First universal joint, 351a ... First long groove, 351b ... First boss, 351c ... Ball joint, 352 ... Second universal joint, 352a ... second boss, 352b ... second long groove, 410, 951 ... first cover case, 410a, 951a ... one end of the first cover case, 420, 952 ... Second cover case, 420a ... one end of the second cover case, 420b ... the other end of the second cover case, 510 ... first cover, 510a ... one end of the first cover, 520 ... second cover, 520a ... of the second cover One end, 520b ... The other end of the second cover, 600 ... Display, 940 ... Base member, 941 ... Locking part, AX1 ... First axis, AX2 ... Second axis, AX3 ... Third axis, AX4 ... Fourth axis , BFP ... footprint boundary, BFPa ... footprint boundary on one end side (+ x direction side) of information equipment, CG ... center of gravity, CL1 ... centerline, FP ... footprint, H1, H2 ... hinge part, OA ... opening / closing angle , OAs ... standard use angle

Claims (9)

A first case having a flat plate shape and at least a display mounted thereon;
A second case having a flat plate shape and having one end hinged to the first case together with one end of the first case;
A support member that interlocks as the first case is opened relative to the second case while rotating about the first axis;
In association with the interlocking, the crumb is configured such that a footprint boundary on one end side of the information device defined by the support member moves in a direction from the other end of the second case toward the one end of the second case. A shell-type information device,
When the information device is closed and the information device is installed on a horizontal surface with the first case facing up and the second case facing down, the surface on the other end side of the second case is defined as the front surface. The surface of the one end side of the second case is defined as the back surface, the direction from the front surface to the back surface of the information device is defined as the + x direction, and the direction opposite to the + x direction is defined as the -x direction. A direction perpendicular to the + x direction and parallel to the first axis and extending from the right side surface to the left side surface of the information device is defined as a + y direction, and a direction opposite to the + y direction is defined as a -y direction. Defining a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane and going from the second case side to the first case side as a + z direction, and defining a direction opposite to the + z direction as a -z direction,
The support member is disposed on the lower side of the second case, and has one end as a free end rotatable about a second axis set at a predetermined position of the second case, and the other end as the second case. A flap hinged to the case,
When viewing the state where the information device is closed along the + y direction or the -y direction,
The end at the one end of the first case and the end at the one end of the flap are located at a position closer to the + x direction side than the first axis,
On the upper side of the flap, a sliding surface on which the one end of the first case slides is formed,
The lower profile of the flap has a shape bent in the + z direction as it proceeds in the + x direction,
When the first case starts to open with respect to the second case,
The information device according to claim 1, wherein the one end of the first case is configured to contact the one end of the flap. The information device according to claim 1 ,
The information apparatus, wherein the second axis is located at a position closer to a −x direction side than the first axis. In the information equipment according to claim 1 or 2 ,
A flap protrusion is formed on the lower side of the flap,
When the first case is opened with respect to the second case in a range of a standard use angle, the flap convex portion is configured to be located on an extension of the center line of the thickness of the first case. Characteristic information equipment. The information device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 ,
When the flap is viewed along the + y direction or the −y direction,
A part of the lower profile of the flap has a straight flap straight portion,
When the first case is opened with respect to the second case within a range of a standard use angle, the flap straight portion is configured to come into contact with a horizontal plane in a straight line having a given length. Information equipment. In the information equipment in any one of Claims 1-4 ,
An information device, further comprising an elastic member configured to generate a biasing force in a direction to close the flap with respect to a lower surface of the second case. In the information equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 5 ,
The sliding surface on the upper side of the flap on which the one end of the first case slides has a friction coefficient smaller than that of acrylonitrile / butadiene / styrene and a friction coefficient smaller than that of polystyrene. An information device characterized by having. A first case having a flat plate shape and at least a display mounted thereon;
A second case having a flat plate shape and having one end hinged to the first case together with one end of the first case;
A support member that interlocks as the first case is opened relative to the second case while rotating about the first axis;
In association with the interlocking, the crumb is configured such that a footprint boundary on one end side of the information device defined by the support member moves in a direction from the other end of the second case toward the one end of the second case. A shell-type information device,
The support member is a flap disposed on the upper side of the first case when the information device is in a closed state,
A first gear that rotates about the first axis in conjunction with the rotation of the first case;
A second gear engaged with the first gear;
Engaged with said second gear, further comprising a third gear which rotates about a third axis, a,
One end of the flap is coupled to the shaft of the third gear, and the flap rotates around the third axis in conjunction with the opening of the first case with respect to the second case. Information equipment characterized by. A first case having a flat plate shape and at least a display mounted thereon;
A second case having a flat plate shape and having one end hinged to the first case together with one end of the first case;
A support member that interlocks as the first case is opened relative to the second case while rotating about the first axis;
In association with the interlocking, the crumb is configured such that a footprint boundary on one end side of the information device defined by the support member moves in a direction from the other end of the second case toward the one end of the second case. A shell-type information device,
When the information device is closed and the information device is installed on a horizontal surface with the first case facing up and the second case facing down, the surface on the other end side of the second case is defined as the front surface. The surface of the one end side of the second case is defined as the back surface, the direction from the front surface to the back surface of the information device is defined as the + x direction, and the direction opposite to the + x direction is defined as the -x direction. A direction perpendicular to the + x direction and parallel to the first axis and extending from the right side surface to the left side surface of the information device is defined as a + y direction, and a direction opposite to the + y direction is defined as a -y direction. Defining a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane and going from the second case side to the first case side as a + z direction, and defining a direction opposite to the + z direction as a -z direction,
When the information device is in a closed state, the end of the first case at the one end is positioned closer to the + x direction side than the first shaft, and the support member is It is located below the second case,
A lever that converts the movement of the first case into the movement of the support member;
One end of the lever is connected to the one end of the first case via a first universal joint,
The other end of the lever is connected to the support member via a second universal joint,
An intermediate portion between the one end and the other end of the lever is connected to the one end of the second case so that the lever can rotate with the intermediate portion serving as a fourth axis. Information equipment. In the information equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 8 ,
The information device is characterized in that the first case is detachable.