TW201444195A - Electrical contacts and connectors - Google Patents

Abstract

Electrical contact and connector techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a computing system includes a computing device and an input device that are configured to be physically and communicatively coupled using a projection that is configured to be disposed within a channel, communication contacts that are configured to contact contacts within the channel to support the communicative coupling; and a protrusion disposed on the projection, the protrusion configured to be received within a cavity formed as part of the channel. The protrusion includes an electrical contact that is configured to be self-cleaning due to movement of the protrusion in relation to the cavity and is configured to transfer power between the input device and the computing device.

Description

Electrical contacts and connectors [related application]

This application is part of a continuation of US Provisional Application No. 61/758,581, entitled "Power and Spine Connection", filed on January 30, 2013, and claims US Provisional Application No. 61/758,581 and 2013 US Patent Application No. 13/939,032, entitled "Flexible Hinge and Removable Attachment", filed on July 10, 2012, filed on May 14, 2012, filed on May 14, 2012 The continuation of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/470,633, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety in its entirety in the entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire entire all The priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/606,313 (Attorney Docket No. 336084.01) is hereby incorporated by reference.

This invention relates to electrical contacts and connectors.

Mobile computing devices have been developed to increase the functionality available to users in action settings. For example, users can work with mobile phones, tablets or their He interacts with mobile computing devices to check emails, browse the web, write text, interact with applications, and more. However, since the mobile computing devices are configured to be mobile, such devices may be difficult to interact in certain situations, such as to support the use of intensive data entry.

Accordingly, input devices have been developed to expand the functionality of computing devices, such as via the use of keypads, track pads, and the like. However, conventional techniques for installing and removing input devices from computing devices sway between being difficult to remove but providing good protection or relatively easy to remove but providing limited protection.

Further, the functionality achievable via such devices is continually expanding such that significant amounts of power and/or data can be involved in the transmission between devices. However, conventional connections are typically limited in the amount of power that can be transferred between devices, thereby limiting the functionality supported by such devices.

The present invention describes electrical contacts and connector technology. In one or more embodiments, the input device includes an input portion configured to generate a signal to be processed by the computing device, and a connection portion to which the input portion is attached. The connection portion is configured to be communicatively coupled to the computing device to transmit the generated signal and physically coupled to the computing device.

The connecting portion includes a convex portion configured to be disposed inside the passage formed in the outer casing of the computing device, and a protruding portion disposed on the convex portion. The raised portion is configured to be received within a cavity formed as part of the passage. The raised portion includes an electrical contact configured to self-clean and configured to transfer power between the input device and the computing device due to movement of the raised portion relative to the cavity.

In one or more embodiments, a computing system includes a computing device and an input device configured to use the following component entities and communication couplings: a convex portion configured to be disposed within the channel; a communication contact configured to contact A contact inside the channel to support the communication coupling; and a protruding portion disposed on the protrusion, the protrusion portion being configured to be received inside the cavity formed as a portion of the channel. The raised portion includes an electrical contact configured to perform a wiping action and transfer power between the input device and the computing device as the raised portion moves within the cavity.

In one or more embodiments, the computing system includes: a computing device and an input device configured to use the following component entities and communication couplings: a convex portion configured to be disposed inside the channel; a communication contact disposed in the convex portion The communication contacts are configured to utilize the contacts within the channel to provide communication coupling; and the electrostatic discharge device is configured to protect the communication contacts from electrostatic discharge by providing a path from the raised grounded electrostatic discharge.

The present invention is provided to introduce a series of concepts in a simplified form, which are further described in the following [Embodiment]. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, and is not intended to assist in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

100‧‧‧ Environment

102‧‧‧ Computing device

104‧‧‧ Input device

106‧‧‧Flexible hinges

108‧‧‧Input/Output Module

110‧‧‧ display device

200‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

202‧‧‧Connected section

204‧‧‧Magnetic coupling device

206‧‧‧ Magnetic coupling device

208‧‧‧Mechanical coupling protrusion

210‧‧‧Mechanical coupling protrusion

212‧‧‧Communication contacts

214‧‧‧ embossed line

300‧‧‧Model orientation

400‧‧‧Model orientation

402‧‧‧ bracket

500‧‧‧Model orientation

502‧‧‧ camera

600‧‧‧Model orientation

Section 602‧‧‧

604‧‧‧Flexible hinges

700‧‧‧Model orientation

800‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

900‧‧‧Axis

902‧‧‧ convex

904‧‧‧cavity/channel/input section

906‧‧‧Spring force pin

908‧‧‧ barrel

910‧‧‧Communication contacts

912‧‧‧Conductor

914‧‧‧ Input section

916‧‧‧ first outer layer

918‧‧‧ second outer layer

920‧‧‧Intermediate ridge/joining section

922‧‧‧First flexible part

924‧‧‧Second flexible part

1100‧‧‧Axis

1102‧‧‧ Magnet

1104‧‧‧ Magnet

1106‧‧‧ Magnetic coupling device

1108‧‧‧Backing

1200‧‧‧Instance

1202‧‧‧First magnet

1204‧‧‧Second magnet

1206‧‧‧ Third magnet

1208‧‧‧4th magnet

1210‧‧‧ fifth magnet

1300‧‧‧Instance

1302‧‧‧First magnet

1304‧‧‧Second magnet

1306‧‧‧ Third magnet

1308‧‧‧4th magnet

1310‧‧‧ fifth magnet

1400‧‧‧ axis

1402‧‧‧ Cavity

1500‧‧ ‧ perspective

1502‧‧‧ top surface

1600‧‧‧ top view

1602‧‧‧First contact

1604‧‧‧second junction

1700‧‧‧ cross-sectional view

1702‧‧‧First contact

1704‧‧‧second junction

1800‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

1802‧‧‧Electrical contacts

1900‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2000‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2100‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2102‧‧‧Electrical contacts

2200‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2300‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2400‧‧‧Expanded isometric view

2402‧‧‧Plastic carrier

2404‧‧‧Plastic shell

2406‧‧‧ Carrier

2500‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2600‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2700‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2800‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2900‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

2902‧‧‧Electrostatic discharge device

2904‧‧‧ Path

2906‧‧‧Metal joints

2908‧‧‧ tablet

2910‧‧‧ Screw

3000‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

3002‧‧‧Printed circuit board

3100‧‧‧Exploded view

3200‧‧‧ exploded view

3300‧‧‧Exemplary embodiment

3302‧‧‧Connector

3304‧‧‧Direct load path

3306‧‧‧ shading screen

3308‧‧‧Shell

3310‧‧‧ glass

3312‧‧‧Binder

3400‧‧‧Model System

3402‧‧‧ Computing device

3404‧‧‧Processing system

3406‧‧‧Computer readable media

3408‧‧‧Input/Output Interface

3410‧‧‧ hardware components

3412‧‧‧Memory/storage

3416‧‧‧ key

3418‧‧‧Module

Reference is made to the accompanying drawings [Embodiment]. In the drawings, the leftmost digit of a component symbol identifies the schema in which the component symbol first appears. In the description and the drawings, the same reference Entities indicated in the figures may indicate one or more entities, and thus, the singular or plural forms of the entities are interchangeable.

1 is a diagram of an environment operable in an exemplary embodiment to use the techniques described herein.

Figure 2 depicts an exemplary embodiment of the input device of Figure 1 when the flexible hinge is illustrated in more detail.

Figure 3 depicts an exemplary orientation of an input device relative to a computing device when overlaying a display device of a computing device.

Figure 4 depicts an exemplary orientation of an input device relative to a computing device when a keying orientation is taken.

Figure 5 depicts an exemplary orientation of an input device relative to a computing device when overlaying the backside housing of the computing device and exposing the display device of the computing device.

Figure 6 depicts an exemplary orientation of an input device when including a portion configured to cover a back side of a computing device, in this case for supporting a stand of the computing device.

Figure 7 depicts an exemplary orientation in which both the front and back sides of the computing device are covered using an input device comprising a portion of Figure 6.

Figure 8 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a perspective view illustrating the connection portion of Figure 2, the connection portion including a mechanical coupling protrusion portion and a plurality of communication contacts.

Figure 9 depicts a cross section of the illustrated communication contact taken along the axis and a cross section of the cavity of the computing device in more detail.

Figure 10 depicts a cross-section of a flexible hinge of the oriented computing device, the connecting portion and the input device as shown in Figure 3, wherein the input device acts as a cover for the display device of the computing device.

Figure 11 depicts a cross section of the illustrated magnetic coupling device taken along the axis and a cross section of the cavity of the computing device in more detail.

Figure 12 depicts an example of one of the magnetic coupling portions that may be used by an input device or computing device to implement a flux fountain.

Figure 13 depicts another example of a magnetic coupling portion that may be used by an input device or computing device to implement a flux fountain.

Figure 14 depicts a cross section of the illustrated mechanical coupling projection portion taken along the axis and a cross section of the cavity of the computing device in more detail.

Figure 15 depicts a perspective view of a raised portion configured to transmit signals and/or transmit power between an input device and a computing device.

Figure 16 illustrates a top view of the raised portion in which the surface is divided to support a plurality of different contacts.

Figure 17 depicts a cross-sectional view of the raised portion of Figure 16 disposed within the cavity of the computing device.

Figure 18 depicts an exemplary embodiment illustrating an exploded view of a self-cleaning electrical contact formed as part of a mechanical coupling projection.

Fig. 19 depicts an exemplary embodiment illustrating the mechanical coupling projection portion of Fig. 18 in an isometric sectional view.

Figure 20 depicts an exemplary embodiment showing a top view of one of the mechanical coupling projections and the formed electrical contacts disposed thereon.

Figure 21 depicts an exemplary embodiment illustrated by a cross-section of a mechanical interlocking feature supported by a mechanically coupled projection portion, the mechanical interlocking feature including an electrical connection between the input device and the computing device.

Figure 22 depicts an exemplary embodiment showing an isometric view A self-cleaning function of the electrical contacts due to movement relative to each other.

Figure 23 depicts an exemplary embodiment in which the input device and computing device are configured to support an arcless connection.

Figure 24 depicts an exploded isometric view illustrating the technique of manufacturing the assembly.

Figure 25 depicts an exemplary embodiment illustrating the electrical contacts of Figure 24 in more detail.

Figure 26 depicts an exemplary embodiment in which the electrical contacts are formed to have a circular shape.

Figures 27 and 28 depict an exemplary embodiment of an alternative design combination in which the computing device includes a movable electrical contact and the input device includes a non-mobile electrical contact.

Figures 29 and 30 depict an exemplary embodiment of an electrostatic discharge device configured to protect communication contacts of a computing device.

Figures 31 and 32 include exploded views of the components of the electrostatic discharge device.

Figure 33 depicts an exemplary embodiment in which a connector for supporting a communication contact of a computing device acts as a structural support.

Figure 34 illustrates an exemplary system including various components of an exemplary device that can be implemented as any type of computing device described with reference to Figures 1 through 33 to implement the techniques described herein. example.

Overview

A variety of different devices may be physically attached to the mobile computing device to provide Various functions. For example, the device can be configured to provide at least a cover for the display device of the computing device to protect the display device from damage. Other devices may also be physically attached to the mobile computing device, such as an input device (eg, a keyboard with a tracking pad) that is input to the computing device. Further, such devices may relate to power transfer between the computing device and the devices. However, conventional techniques for supporting power transfer can be limited in power support, which is so limited and therefore has an impact on the overall form factor of the device and/or computing device, and the like.

The present invention describes electrical contacts and connector technology. In one or more embodiments, electrical contacts configured to transmit power and/or data between the input device and the computing device are configured to support a self-cleaning function. This configuration can be implemented via the use of wiping movement to at least partially remove the oxide layer on the electrical contacts of the input device and/or computing device.

This wiping movement can be performed as part of attaching or removing an input device to or from the computing device. In this manner, greater transmission of power and/or data between the computing device and the input device can be supported by the entity reducing the resistance on the contact interface, as described with respect to FIG. This can be used to support various functions, such as transmitting power to an input device to support functions that consume a large amount of power (eg, charging an input device, supporting haptic feedback, display devices, etc.) and (eg, when the input device includes a computing device) Auxiliary power supply) supports the transmission of power and/or data from the input device to the computing device. Further description of such configurations of electrical contacts can begin with respect to FIG.

Various other functions are also contemplated, such as support for an electrostatic discharge device configured to protect components of the computing device and/or input device from electrostatic discharge, which may be further described with respect to Figures 29 through 32 Discussion. In another example, a support for guiding a communication contact as part of a computing device can also be used as a support for a display device, which can be further discussed with respect to Figure 33.

In the following discussion, an exemplary environment in which the techniques described herein may be used is first described. Exemplary processes that may be performed in the exemplary environment as well as other environments are described subsequently. Thus, execution of the exemplary processes is not limited to the exemplary environments and the exemplary environments are not limited to the execution of the exemplary processes. Further, although an input device is described, other devices (such as a cover) that do not include an input function are also contemplated. For example, the techniques are equally applicable to passive devices, such as covers having one or more materials (eg, magnets, ferrous materials, etc.) that are configured within the cover And magnetic coupling means positioned to be attracted to the computing device; use of raised portions and connecting portions, etc., as further described below.

Exemplary environment

1 is a diagram of an environment 100 that is operable to use the techniques described herein in an exemplary embodiment. The illustrated environment 100 includes an example of a computing device 102 that is physically and communicatively coupled to the input device 104 via a flexible hinge 106. Computing device 102 can be configured in a variety of ways. For example, computing device 102 can be configured for use with an activity, such as a mobile phone, a tablet as shown, and the like. Thus, computing device 102 can range from a full resource device with large memory and processor resources to a low resource device with limited memory and/or processing resources. Computing device 102 may also be related to software that causes computing device 102 to perform one or more operations.

For example, computing device 102 is illustrated as including an input/output module 108. Input/output module 108 represents functionality associated with processing the input of computing device 102 and the output of computing device 102. Various inputs may be processed by the input/output module 108, such as inputs associated with keys corresponding to the input device 104, functions of keys of the virtual keyboard displayed by the display device 110, etc., to identify gestures and trigger execution Corresponding to the operation of the gesture that can be recognized via the input device 104 and/or the touch screen function of the display device 110 or the like. Thus, the input/output module 108 can support a variety of different input techniques by recognizing and utilizing the division of labor between input types including buttons, gestures, and the like.

In the illustrated example, input device 104 is configured to have an input portion that includes a keyboard and track pad with QWERTY key settings, but other key settings are also contemplated. Further, other non-known configurations, such as game controllers, configurations of analog musical instruments, and the like, are also contemplated. Thus, the keys incorporated by input device 104 and input device 104 can take a variety of different configurations to support a variety of different functions.

As previously described, the input device 104 is physically and communicatively coupled to the computing device 102 via the flexible hinge 106 in this example. The flexible hinge 106 is flexible because the rotational movement supported by the hinge is achieved by flexing (eg, bending) of the material forming the hinge, as opposed to mechanical rotation supported by the prongs, but also encompassing implementation example. Further, this flexible rotation can be configured to support movement in one or more directions (eg, in the vertical direction of the drawing) but restrict movement in other directions, such as input device 104 relative to computing device 102 Move laterally. This can be used to support consistent alignment of input device 104 with respect to computing device 102 to align sensors for changing power states, application states, and the like.

For example, one or more layers of fabric may be used to form the flexible hinge 106 and the flexible hinge includes a conductor formed as a flexible trace to communicatively couple the input device 104 to the computing device 102, and vice versa Of course. For example, this communication can be used to transfer the results of the button to computing device 102, receive power from the computing device, perform authentication, provide auxiliary power to computing device 102, and the like. The flexible hinge 106 can be configured in a variety of ways, which can be further discussed with respect to the following figures.

FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary embodiment 200 of the input device 104 of FIG. 1 illustrating the flexible hinge 106 in greater detail. In this example, a connection portion 202 of the input device is illustrated that is configured to provide communication and physical connections between the input device 104 and the computing device 102. As shown, the connecting portion 202 has a height and cross-section that is configured to be received in a passage in the housing of the computing device 102, but may be without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Reverse this setting.

The connecting portion 202 is flexibly coupled to a portion of the input device 104 that includes the keys via the use of a flexible hinge 106. Thus, when the connecting portion 202 is physically coupled to the computing device, the combination of the connecting portion 202 and the flexible hinge 106 supports movement of the input device 104 relative to the computing device 102, which is similar to a hinge of a book.

By this rotational movement, various different orientations of the input device 104 relative to the computing device 102 can be supported. For example, rotational movement can be supported by the flexible hinge 106 such that the input device 104 can be placed against the display device 110 of the computing device 102 and thereby act as a cover as shown in the exemplary orientation 300 of FIG. Accordingly, input device 104 can function to protect computing device 102 The display device 110 is protected from damage.

As shown in the exemplary orientation 400 of Figure 4, typing settings can be supported. In this orientation, the input device 104 is placed against the surface and the computing device 102 is placed at an angle (eg, via use of the bracket 402 disposed on the back surface of the computing device 102) to permit viewing of the display device 110.

In the exemplary orientation 500 of FIG. 5, the input device 104 can also be rotated to seat against the back of the computing device 102 (eg, against the back housing of the computing device 102 opposite the display device 110 disposed on the computing device 102) The input device. In this example, the orientation of the connection portion 202 relative to the computing device 102 causes the flexible hinge 106 to "surround" the connection portion 202 to position the input device 104 on the back of the computing device 102.

This wrap causes a portion of the back side of computing device 102 to remain exposed. This situation can be used for various functions, such as allowing the use of camera 502 positioned on the back side of computing device 102, even though a larger portion of the back side of computing device 102 in this exemplary orientation 500 can be overlaid by input device 104. Although the above describes the configuration in which the input device 104 covers a single side of the computing device 102 at any one time, other configurations are also contemplated.

In the exemplary orientation 600 of Figure 6, the input device 104 is illustrated as including a portion 602 that is configured to cover the back of the computing device. This portion 602 is also coupled to the connecting portion 202 using a flexible hinge 604.

The exemplary orientation 600 of FIG. 6 also illustrates a keying setting in which the input device 104 is placed against the surface and the computing device 102 is placed at an angle to permit viewing of the display device 110. In this example, the contact portion 602 is accessed via the use of a bracket 402 disposed on the back surface of the computing device 102. To support this setting.

FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary orientation 700 in which an input device 104 including portion 602 is used to cover the front side (eg, display device 110) and back side of computing device 102 (eg, the opposite side of the housing of the display device) . In one or more embodiments, electrical connectors and other connectors may also be placed along the sides of computing device 102 and/or input device 104 (eg, to provide an auxiliary power source when turned off).

Naturally, various other orientations are also supported. For example, computing device 102 and input device 104 may employ an arrangement such that the two are laid flat against the surface as shown in FIG. Other scenarios are also covered, such as tripod settings, collapse settings, presentation settings, and the like.

Returning to FIG. 2, the connection portion 202 is illustrated in this example to include magnetic coupling devices 204, 206, mechanically coupled projection portions 208, 210, and a plurality of communication contacts 212. Magnetic coupling devices 204, 206 are configured to magnetically couple to a complementary magnetic coupling device of computing device 102 via the use of one or more magnets. In this manner, the input device 104 can be physically secured to the computing device 102 via the use of magnetic attraction.

The connecting portion 202 also includes mechanical coupling protrusion portions 208, 210 to form a mechanical physical connection between the input device 104 and the computing device 102. The mechanical coupling protrusion portions 208, 210 are illustrated in more detail with respect to Figure 8, and will be discussed below. Additionally, the raised portions 208, 210 can be configured to support the communication of data and/or power transfer, which can be further discussed with respect to FIG.

Figure 8 depicts an exemplary embodiment 800 illustrating a perspective view of the connection portion 202 of Figure 2, the connection portion including a mechanical coupling protrusion portion 208, 210 and a plurality of communication contacts 212. As shown, the mechanical coupling projections 208, 210 are configured to extend away from the surface of the attachment portion 202, although other angles are also contemplated, but extend vertically in this case.

The mechanical coupling protrusion portions 208, 210 are configured to be received within a complementary cavity inside the passage of the computing device 102. When so received, the mechanical coupling projections 208, 210 promote mechanical coupling between the devices when the force is applied, the forces being not aligned with the axis, the axis being defined by the height of the projections and the depth of the cavity, Further discussion is made with regard to Figure 14.

Connection portion 202 is also illustrated as including a plurality of communication contacts 212. A plurality of communication contacts 212 are configured to contact corresponding communication contacts of computing device 102 to form a communication coupling between the devices, as illustrated and discussed in greater detail with respect to the following figures.

FIG. 9 depicts a cross section of one of the illustrated communication contacts 212 taken along axis 900 of FIGS. 2 and 8, and a cross-section of the cavity of computing device 102 in more detail. The connecting portion 202 is illustrated as including a protrusion 902 that is configured to be complementary (eg, having a complementary shape) to the channel 904 of the computing device 102 such that movement of the protrusion 902 within the cavity 904 is limited.

The communication contacts 212 can be configured in a variety of ways. In the illustrated example, the communication contacts 212 of the connection portion 202 are formed as spring bias pins 906 that remain inside the barrel 908 of the connection portion 202. The spring bias pin 906 is biased outwardly from the barrel 908 to provide a consistent communication interface between the input device 104 and the computing device 102, such as a contact 910 that is coupled to the computing device 102. Thus, contact can be maintained and communication can be maintained during movement or pushing of the device. Various other examples are also contemplated, including pin placement on computing device 102 And the contacts are placed on the input device 104.

In the example of Figure 9, the flexible hinge 106 is also illustrated in greater detail. The flexible hinge 106 in this cross section includes a conductor 912 that is configured to connect the communication contact 212 of the connection portion 202 with the input portion 914 of the input device 104 (eg, one or more keys, track pads, etc. ) Communication coupling. Conductor 912 can be formed in various ways, such as copper traces, that have operational flexibility to permit operation as part of a flexible hinge (e.g., to support repeated flexing of hinge 106). However, the flexibility of the conductor 912 can be limited, for example, for deflection above the minimum bend radius, the conductor 912 can remain operational to conduct the signal.

Accordingly, the flexible hinge 106 can be configured to support a minimum bend radius based on the operative flexibility of the conductor 912 such that the flexible hinge 106 resists deflection below the radius. A variety of different technologies are available. For example, the flexible hinge 106 can be configured to include a first outer layer 916 and a second outer layer 918 that can be formed from a fabric, microfiber cloth, or the like. The flexibility of the material used to form the first outer layer 916 and/or the second outer layer 918 can be configured to support flexibility as described above such that the conductor 912 does not move during the movement of the input portion 914 relative to the connecting portion 202. Damaged or otherwise rendered inoperable.

In another example, the flexible hinge 106 can include an intermediate ridge 920 positioned between the connecting portion 202 and the input portion 914. For example, the intermediate ridge 920 includes a first flexible portion 922 that flexibly connects the input portion 904 to the intermediate ridge 920, and a second flexible portion 924 that flexibly connects the intermediate ridge 920 to the connecting portion 920.

In the illustrated example, the first outer layer 916 and the second outer layer 918 are self-contained The input portion 914 extends through the first flexible portion 922 and the second flexible portion 924 of the flexible hinge 106 (and as a cover for the input portion) and (eg, via clamps, adhesives, etc.) It is fixed to the connecting portion 202. A conductor 912 is disposed between the first outer layer 916 and the second outer layer 918. The intermediate ridges 920 can be configured to provide mechanical stiffness to a particular location of the flexible hinge 106 to support the desired minimum bend radius, which can be further discussed with respect to the following figures.

10 depicts a cross-section of the computing device 102, the connecting portion 202, and the flexible hinge 106 of the input device 104 as shown in FIG. 3, wherein the input device 104 acts as a cover for the display device 110 of the computing device 102. As shown, this orientation causes the flexible hinge 106 to bend. However, by including the intermediate ridge 920 and sizing the first flexible portion 922 and the second flexible portion 924, the bend does not exceed the operational bending radius of the conductor 912 as previously described. In this manner, the mechanical stiffness provided by the intermediate ridge 920, which is greater than the mechanical stiffness of other portions of the flexible hinge 106, can protect the conductor 912.

The intermediate ridge 920 can also be used to support a variety of other functions. For example, the intermediate ridge 920 can support movement along a longitudinal axis as shown in FIG. 1, but helps limit movement along the transverse axis that would otherwise be caused by the flexibility of the flexible hinge 106.

Other techniques may also be utilized to provide the desired flexibility along the flexible hinge 106 at a particular point. For example, embossing may be used in which an embossed area (eg, an area simulating the size and orientation of the intermediate ridge 920) is configured to increase the material at the embossed location (such as the first outer layer 916 and the The flexibility of one or more of the outer layers 918. Figure 2 illustrates an example of an embossed line 214, This embossed line increases the flexibility of the material along a particular axis. However, it should be apparent that the various shapes, depths, and orientations of the embossed regions are also contemplated to provide the desired flexibility of the flexible hinge 106.

11 depicts a cross section of the illustrated magnetic coupling device 204 taken along axis 1100 of FIGS. 2 and 8, and a cross-section of cavity 904 of computing device 102 in more detail. In this example, the magnet of the magnetic coupling device 204 is illustrated as being disposed inside the connecting portion 202.

Moving the connection portion 202 and the channel 904 together can induce the magnet 1104 that attracts the magnet 1102 to the magnetic coupling device 1106 of the computing device 102, which in this example is disposed within the channel 904 of the housing of the computing device 102. In one or more embodiments, the flexibility of the flexible hinge 106 can cause the attachment portion 202 to "lock into" the channel 904. Further, the flexibility may also cause the connecting portion 202 to "align" with the channel 904 such that the alignment mechanical coupling protrusion portion 208 is inserted into the cavity 1002 and the communication contacts 208 and the respective contacts 910 in the channel. alignment.

The magnetic coupling devices 204, 1106 can be configured in a variety of ways. For example, the magnetic coupling device 204 can initiate a magnetic field generated by the magnet 1102 to extend outwardly away from the backing 1108 using a backing 1108 (eg, such as steel). Therefore, the range of the magnetic field generated by the magnet 1102 can be extended. The magnetic coupling devices 204, 1106 can also use various other configurations, and examples of such other configurations will be described and illustrated with respect to the following figures.

Figure 12 depicts an example 1200 that may be used by input device 104 or computing device 102 to implement a magnetic coupling portion of a flux fountain. In this example, an arrow is used to indicate the magnetic field for each of the plurality of magnets alignment.

The first magnet 1202 is disposed in a magnetic coupling device having a magnetic field aligned along the axis. A second magnet 1204 and a third magnet 1206 are disposed on opposite sides of the first magnet 1202. The respective magnetic fields of the second magnet 1204 and the third magnet 1206 are aligned substantially perpendicular to the axis of the first magnet 1202 and generally opposite one another.

In this case, the magnetic fields of the second magnet and the third magnet are aimed at the first magnet 1202. This causes the magnetic field of the first magnet 1202 to extend further along the indicated axis, thereby expanding the range of the magnetic field of the first magnet 1202.

This effect can be further extended using the fourth magnet 1208 and the fifth magnet 1210. In this example, fourth magnet 1208 and fifth magnet 1210 have a magnetic field that is substantially oppositely aligned with the magnetic field of first magnet 1202. Further, a second magnet 1204 is disposed between the fourth magnet 1208 and the first magnet 1202. A third magnet 1206 is disposed between the first magnet 1202 and the fifth magnet 1210. Therefore, the magnetic fields of the fourth magnet 1208 and the fifth magnet 1210 can be further extended along the respective axes, which can further increase the strength of the magnets and other magnets in the set. This setting of five magnets is suitable for forming a flux fountain. Although five magnets are described, any odd number of five or greater magnets can repeat this relationship to form a more powerful flux fountain.

For magnetic attachment to another magnetic coupling device, a similar arrangement of magnets can be placed on the "top" or "bottom" of the illustrated arrangement, for example, such that the first magnet 1202, the fourth magnet 1208, and the fifth magnet The magnetic field of 1210 is aligned with the corresponding magnet above or below their magnets. Further, in the illustrated example, the first magnet 1202, the fourth magnet 1208, and the fifth magnet 1210 are stronger than the second magnet 1204 and the third magnet 1206, but also cover Other embodiments. The following discussion of the drawings describes another example of a flux fountain.

Figure 13 depicts an example 1300 that may be used by input device 104 or computing device 102 to implement a magnetic coupling portion of a flux fountain. In this example, arrows are also used to indicate the alignment of the magnetic fields for each of the plurality of magnets.

Similar to the example 1200 of Figure 12, the first magnet 1302 is disposed in a magnetic coupling device having a magnetic field aligned along the axis. A second magnet 1304 and a third magnet 1306 are disposed on opposite sides of the first magnet 1302. The alignment of the magnetic fields of the second magnet 1304 and the third magnet 1306 is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the first magnet 1302 and generally opposite one another, similar to the example 1200 of FIG.

In this case, the magnetic fields of the second magnet and the third magnet are aimed at the first magnet 1302. This causes the magnetic field of the first magnet 1302 to extend further along the indicated axis, thereby expanding the range of the magnetic field of the first magnet 1302.

This effect can be further extended using the fourth magnet 1308 and the fifth magnet 1310. In this example, the fourth magnet 1308 has a magnetic field that is substantially oppositely aligned with the magnetic field of the first magnet 1302. The fifth magnet 1310 has a magnetic field that substantially corresponds to the magnetic field alignment of the second magnet 1304 and is substantially opposite to the magnetic field of the third magnet 1306. A fourth magnet 1308 is disposed between the third magnet 1306 and the fifth magnet 1310 in the magnetic coupling device.

This setting of five magnets is suitable for forming a flux fountain. Although five magnets are described, any odd number of five or greater magnets can repeat this relationship to form a more powerful flux fountain. Therefore, the magnetic fields of the first magnet 1302 and the fourth magnet 1308 can be further extended along the axis thereof, which can further increase the strength of the magnet.

For magnetic attachment to another magnetic coupling device, the magnet can be similarly designed The "top" or "bottom" placement is shown, for example, such that the magnetic fields of the first magnet 1302 and the fourth magnet 1308 are aligned with corresponding magnets above or below their magnets. Further, in the illustrated example, the strengths of the first magnet 1302 and the fourth magnet 1308 are (individually) stronger than the second magnet 1304, the third magnet 1306, and the fifth magnet 1310, but other covers are also included. Example.

Further, using a similarly sized magnet, the example 1200 of FIG. 12 can have enhanced magnetic coupling as compared to the example 1300 of FIG. For example, the example 1200 of Figure 12 uses three magnets (eg, first magnet 1202, fourth magnet 1208, and fifth magnet 1210) to primarily provide magnetic coupling, with two magnets for "steer" The magnetic fields of the magnets (eg, the second magnet 1204 and the third magnet 1206). However, the example 1300 of Figure 13 uses two magnets (eg, first magnet 1302 and fourth magnet 1308) to primarily provide magnetic coupling, with three magnets used to "guide" the magnets (eg, the second magnet) The magnetic field of 1304, third magnet 1306, and fifth magnet 1308).

Thus, despite the use of similarly sized magnets, the example 1300 of FIG. 13 can have enhanced magnetic alignment capabilities compared to the example 1200 of FIG. For example, the example 1300 of FIG. 13 uses three magnets (eg, the second magnet 1304, the third magnet 1306, and the fifth magnet 1310) to "guide" the magnetic fields of the first magnet 1302 and the fourth magnet 1308. The first magnet and the fourth magnetic system are used to provide primary magnetic coupling. Thus, the alignment of the magnetic fields of the magnets in the example 1300 of Figure 13 can be more closely aligned than the example 1200 of Figure 12.

Regardless of the technique used, it should be apparent that the magnetic field described by "guiding" or "aiming" can be used to increase the effective range of the magnet (eg, similar to its use in conventional alignment). Comparison of the strength of the magnet). In one or more embodiments, this initiation is increased from a few millimeters using a certain amount of magnetic material to a few centimeters using the same amount of magnetic material.

Figure 14 depicts a cross-section of the illustrated mechanical coupling protrusion portion 208 taken along axis 1400 of Figures 2 and 8, and a cross-section of cavity 904 of computing device 102 in more detail. As previously described, the projections 902 and channels 904 are configured to have complementary sizes and shapes to limit movement of the connecting portion 202 relative to the computing device 102.

In this example, the raised portion 902 of the connecting portion 202 also includes a mechanical coupling projection portion 208 disposed above itself that is configured to be received in the complementary cavity 1402 disposed within the passage 904. For example, the cavity 1402 can be configured to receive the raised portion 1002 when the raised portion 1002 is configured as a substantially elliptical cylinder as shown in FIG. 8, but other examples are also contemplated.

When a force is applied that coincides with the longitudinal axis of the depth of the mechanical coupling projection 208 and the depth of the cavity 1002, the user overcomes the magnetic coupling force applied only by the magnet to interface the input device 104 with the computing device 102. Separation. However, when a force is applied along the other axis (ie, at other angles), the mechanical coupling protrusion portion 208 is configured to mechanically engage within the cavity 1002. In addition to the magnetic forces of the magnetic coupling devices 204, 206, this creates a mechanical force that resists the removal of the input device 104 from the computing device 102.

In this way, the mechanical coupling protrusion portion 208 can be elastically loaded from the calculation. The input device 104 is removed 102 to simulate an attempt to tear the page away from the book and to limit other separation devices. Referring again to FIG. 1, the user can grasp the input device 104 with one hand and grasp the computing device 102 with the other hand, thereby generally pulling the devices away from each other relative to the "flat" orientation (eg, to simulate Tearing the pages from the book). Through the flexing of the flexible hinge 106, the axes of the raised portions 208 and the cavity 1402 can be generally aligned to permit removal.

Nonetheless, in other orientations such as those illustrated in Figures 3 through 7, the sides of the raised portion 208 can be joined against the sides of the cavity 1402, thereby limiting the removal and facilitating tightness between the devices. Solid connection. The raised portions 208 and the cavities 1402 can be oriented relative to one another in various other manners as described to facilitate facilitating removal along the desired axis and facilitating secure attachment along other axes without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Examples of such functions may also be discussed with respect to the following figures, with the raised portions 208 providing various other functions in addition to mechanical retention.

Figure 15 depicts a perspective view 1500 of a raised portion configured to transmit signals and/or transmit power between input device 104 and computing device 102. In this example, the top surface 1502 of the raised portion is configured to be in communication with a contact disposed within the cavity 1402 of the computing device 1402, or vice versa.

This contact can be used for a variety of purposes, such as to transfer power from computing device 102 to input device 104, from the auxiliary power source of input device 104 to the computing device to transmit power, and to transmit signals (eg, signals generated from the keys of the keyboard) and many more. Further, as shown in the top view 1600 of FIG. 16, the surface 1502 can be divided to support a plurality of different contacts, such as the first contact 1602 and the second contact 1604, but other numbers, shapes, and sizes are also contemplated.

FIG. 17 depicts a cross-sectional view 1700 of the raised portion 208 of FIG. 16 disposed within the cavity 1402 of the computing device 102. In this example, the first contact 1702 and the second contact 1704 include spring features to flex the contacts outwardly from the cavity 1402. The first contact 1702 and the second contact 1704 are disposed to respectively contact the first contact 1602 and the second contact 1602 of the protruding portion. Further, the first contact 1702 is configured to be grounded, the ground being configured to contact the first contact 1602 of the raised portion 208 before the second contact 1704 touches the second contact 1604 of the raised portion 208. In this manner, input device 104 and computing device 102 can be protected from electrical shorts. Various other examples are also contemplated without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

FIG. 18 depicts an exemplary embodiment 1800 illustrating an exploded view of self-cleaning electrical contacts 1802 formed as part of a mechanical coupling protrusion portion 208, 210. As previously described, the magnetic coupling devices 204, 206 of the connection portion 202 are configured to help form a physical connection between the input device 104 and the computing device 102, which can be manually removed by one or both hands of the user.

For example, the magnetic fields of the magnetic coupling devices 204, 206 can cooperate with the magnetic fields of the magnets disposed in the cavities of the computing device 102 to pull the connecting portions into alignment such that the mechanical coupling projection portions 208, 210 are The slot in the computing device 102 reaches the corresponding cavity 1402 of FIG. Due to the mechanical coupling described above, the mechanical coupling projections 208, 210 can also help form a physical connection by limiting removal, and thereby eliminating the mechanical benefits that result from using the input device 104 as a lever.

Mechanical coupling projections 208, 210 are also illustrated as including electrical contacts 1802. In this example and the following examples, the electrical contacts 1802 are configured to self-clear Clean so that the oxide layer formed on the contacts can be removed. In this manner, electrical contacts 1802 can support a greater amount of power or data transmission than conventional techniques, such as transmissions of approximately four amps or more compared to one-half amp transmission in the prior art. A further discussion of the self-cleaning function (eg, via the use of a wiping action) can be initiated with respect to Figure 21. As previously mentioned, although this and other examples illustrate that mechanical coupling protrusions 208, 210 are disposed on input device 104 and that cavity 1402 and channels are disposed on computing device 102, without departing from the invention This setting is reversed in the case of spirit and category, and an example of this setting is described with respect to FIG.

Fig. 19 depicts an exemplary embodiment 1900 illustrating the mechanical coupling protrusion portion 210 of Fig. 18 in an isometric sectional view. Figure 20 depicts an exemplary embodiment 2000 illustrating a top view of one of the mechanical coupling protrusion portions 210 and the formed electrical contacts 1802 disposed thereon. In these examples 1900, 2000, electrical contacts 1802 are placed on the sides of the mechanical coupling projections 210 to coincide with the axes of insertion and removal of the passages of the connecting portions 202 to the computing device 102.

The electrical contact 1802 of Fig. 19 is illustrated as a leaf spring, and the electrical contact 1802 of Fig. 20 is illustrated as having a circular shape and a formed shape. Various other shapes are also encompassed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

In these examples, each of the mechanical coupling protrusion portions 208, 210 is illustrated as including four electrical contacts 1802. This can be used to support a variety of different functions including redundancy such that power or data transmission is supported even if one or more of the lost electrical contacts 1802 are lost. For example, the individual electrical contacts 1802 on the mechanical coupling protrusion portion 208 can be redundant such that the protruding portions still operate as desired, and electrical connections are used by each of the mechanical coupling protrusion portions 208, 210. Points can support the transmission of power or communication, and so on.

In this manner, including electrical contacts 1802 as part of the mechanical coupling protrusion portions 208, 210 can be used to support various functions. For example, the molded features of the plastic housing of the connection portion 202 can be configured to precisely align the mechanical coupling projections 208, 210 with the cavities of the passages of the computing device 102 as previously described. Electrical contacts 1802 can be configured to support this alignment and thus do not interfere with the physical connection of input device 104 to computing device 102. Also, electrical contacts 1802 can be disposed on the sides of the mechanical coupling projections 210 that are positioned on opposite sides of the input surface of the input device 104 (eg, a keyboard). In this way, the contacts are protected from user contact and the aesthetic design goals are maintained.

21 depicts an exemplary embodiment 2100 illustrated via a cross-section of a mechanical interlocking feature supported by a mechanical coupling protrusion portion 208 that includes an electrical connection between the input device 104 and the computing device 102. In this example, as previously described with respect to Figure 14, the mechanical coupling projection portion 208 is disposed within the cavity 1402, and thus the mechanical coupling projection portion can resist rotational and off-axis movement as shown.

Electrical contacts 1802 are configured to support movement away from the raised portion 208 to contact the sides of the cavity 1402 that includes the electrical contacts 2102. In this manner, the electrical contacts 1802 are configured to be in contact with the electrical contacts 2101 in the sides of the cavity 1402. Further, this offset can contribute to the self-cleaning function of the electrical contacts 1802, 2102, as will be discussed further below and illustrated in the corresponding figures.

Figure 22 depicts an exemplary embodiment 2200 illustrating an isometric cross-sectional view to illustrate the self-contact of the electrical contacts 1802, 2102 due to movement relative to each other Cleaning function. An oxide layer formed on the metal conductor acts to increase the electrical resistance of the electrical contacts 1802, 2102, thereby reducing the efficiency of the connection. The conversion of energy into heat is not desirable for electronic components.

Thus, in this example, the electrical contacts 1802, 2102 are configured to self-clean via the use of a wiping move. For example, due to the relatively small contact surface and relatively high current load (eg, approximately 4A per electrical contact 1802, 2102), the wiping action can be supported because of the insertion and withdrawal movement (via Figure 22 via The use of an arrow diagram acts to slide the two metal contact surfaces against each other and to destroy the oxide layer. Thus, the offset of the electrical contacts 1802, 2102 and the movement caused by the insertion or removal of the mechanical coupling protrusion portion 208 relative to the cavity 1402 can support the self-cleaning function of the electrical contacts 1802, 2102, and thus via the use of Equal contacts increase data transmission and power transfer.

Figure 23 depicts an exemplary embodiment 2300 in which input device 104 and computing device 102 are configured to support arcless connections. In this example, the electrical contacts 1802 are positioned such that the connections between the contacts and the electrical contacts 2102 in the cavity 1402 are made prior to the connection between the communication contacts 212, 910. This ensures that there will be no power during the time of connection or disconnection because in this example the data connection regulates the power flow between the input device 104 and the computing device 102.

This is accomplished by the communication contacts 212, 910 and the electrical contacts 1802, 2102 of the mechanical coupling projections 208, 210 being staggered along the axis of insertion and removal (eg, the gap can be approximately 0.5 mm). Other examples are also contemplated to enable support for power connections prior to supporting the connection of data transfers between computing device 102 and input device 104.

This design allows for the fabrication of several technologies for the assembly. As shown in the exploded isometric view 2400 of Figure 24, the electrical contacts 1802 are pressed onto the plastic carrier 2402 and the plastic carrier is then pressed into the plastic housing 2404. Thereafter, a wire or a flexible printed circuit (FPC) can be attached. Similarly, carrier 2406 and plastic carrier 2402 can be formed as a single unitary unit. Further, after the electrical contacts 1802 and the communication contacts 212 are assembled, the FPC can be attached and then inserted into the plastic housing 2404. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other arrangements and combinations of the illustrated components are otherwise apparent.

Figure 25 depicts an exemplary embodiment 2500 illustrating the electrical contact 1802 of Figure 24 in more detail. In this example, electrical contacts 1802 are configured to support a high number of cycles (eg, at least 10,000 times) involving insertion and removal. Further, in this example, each of the electrical contacts 1802, 2102 is configured to deliver a current of at least 4.5 A without appreciable temperature rise. Variations can be made to the electrical contacts as needed, such as in plating materials, base materials, material thickness, spring deflection, spring length (L), solid shape, beam cross-section, surface finish, surface coating, etc., to increase and/or Reduce the amount of power or communication that can be supported by the contacts.

Figure 26 depicts an exemplary embodiment 2600 in which electrical contacts 1802 are formed to have a circular shape. As shown, the electrical contacts 1802 are circular and have a base that is formed flush with the outer casing of the mechanical coupling projection 208 to prevent inadvertent obstruction of the electrical contacts 1802.

The tight spacing between the electrical contacts 1802 and the outer casing of the mechanical coupling projections 208 can also help prevent plastic deformation of the electrical contacts in the event that the sides are loaded. In addition, the outer casing of the mechanical coupling projection portion 208 can act to prevent the electrical contact 1802 from being deformed beyond the distance "d" as shown. Over distance Deformation of "d", for example, can cause permanent joint deformation and reduce or eliminate electrical contact interference for conduction.

FIGS. 27 and 28 depict exemplary embodiments 2700, 2800 of alternative design combinations in which computing device 102 includes electrical contacts 1802 and input device 104 includes electrical contacts 2102. As shown, the electrical contacts 2102 on the input device 104 are stationary or stationary and are not in an affliction. On the other hand, the electrical contacts 1802 on the computing device 102 are configured to be moved and springed by use of a spring-like movement. Further, it should be noted that the cavity is formed as part of the computing device 102 and the mechanical coupling projection portion is formed as part of the input device 104, but this design can also be reversed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

FIGS. 29 and 30 depict an exemplary embodiment 2900, 3000 of an electrostatic discharge device 2902 that is configured to protect a communication contact 910 of the computing device 102. Electrostatic discharge can have an adverse effect on components of computing device 102, such as integrated circuits, memory devices, processors, and the like. For example, the communication contact 910 can provide a similar path for the electrostatic discharge to reach the components while providing the data to the path of the components of the computing device 102.

Accordingly, the electrostatic discharge device 2902 can be configured to provide a grounded path 2904 for electrostatic discharge without reaching the components of the computing device 102. For example, electrostatic discharge device 2902 can include metal contacts 2906 (eg, formed in sheet metal or other metal configurations) disposed adjacent communication contacts 910 of the computing device.

The metal contacts 2906 can be electrically coupled to the plate 2906 via an electrical coupling device (the plate can also be configured using one or more wires), the electrical The coupling device is configured as a screw 2910 in this example. The tablet 2908 can also be coupled to the printed circuit board 3002 of the computing device 102 to provide grounding. In this manner, static charge that may accumulate on the user's body may be dissipated via the use of path 2904 provided by electrostatic discharge device 2902, thereby avoiding potential damage to components of computing device 102. 31 and 32 include exploded views 3100, 3200 of the components of electrostatic discharge device 2902. In FIG. 32, pins 1, 2, 9, and 10 include electrical contacts 2102 and pins 3 through 8 configured as communication contacts 910.

Figure 33 depicts an exemplary embodiment 3300 in which the connector for supporting the communication contact 910 of the computing device 102 acts as a fabric support. The connector 3302 for holding the communication contact 910 (and also for the electrical contact 2102) is configured in this case to generate a direct load path 3304 between the display panel's shading screen 3306 and the computing device 102's housing 3308. .

Thus, this allows for a continuous bond perimeter between the glass 3310 and the adhesive 3312 that is used to bond the category to the glass screen 3306. This also provides a continuous perimeter between the display panel's shading screen 3306 and the housing 3308, which was originally interrupted by space constraints due to the inclusion of the communication contacts 910.

Exemplary system and device

Figure 34 generally illustrates an exemplary system 3400 including an exemplary computing device 3402 that represents one or more computing systems and/or devices that can implement various ones described herein technology. The computing device 3402 can be configured, for example, to employ an operational configuration that is formed by use of a housing and a size that is grasped and carried by one or both of the users, examples of which include mobile phones, action games, and music. Device and flat Board computer, but other examples are also covered.

As shown, the exemplary computing device 3402 includes a processing system 3404, one or more computer readable media 3406, and one or more I/O interfaces 3408 that are communicatively coupled to one another by one By. Although not shown, computing device 3402 can further include a system bus or other data and command transmission system that couples the various components from one to the other. The system bus can include any one or combination of different bus structures, such as a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, a universal serial bus, and/or using any of a variety of bus architectures. Processor or local bus. Various other examples are also covered, such as control and data lines.

Processing system 3404 represents functionality to perform one or more operations using hardware. Accordingly, processing system 3404 is illustrated as including a hardware component 3410 that can be configured as a processor, a functional block, or the like. This may include hardware embodiments as a special application integrated circuit or other logic device formed using one or more semiconductors. The hardware component 3410 is not limited to the processing material used in the formed material or hardware component. For example, the processor can be comprised of one or more semiconductors and/or transistors (eg, an electronic integrated circuit (IC)). In this context, the processor-executable instructions can be electronically executable instructions.

Computer readable storage medium 3406 is illustrated as including memory/storage 3412. Memory/storage 3412 represents the memory/storage capacity associated with one or more computer readable media. The memory/storage component 3412 can include volatile media (such as random access memory (RAM)) and/or non-volatile media (such as read only memory (read only) Memory; ROM), flash memory, CD, disk, etc.). The memory/storage component 3412 can include fixed media (eg, RAM, ROM, fixed hard drives, etc.) as well as removable media (eg, flash memory, removable hard drives, optical disks, and the like). Computer readable media 3406 can be configured in a variety of other manners as will be described further below.

One or more input/output interfaces 3408 represent functions that allow a user to input instructions and information to computing device 3402 and also allow information to be presented to the user and/or other components or devices that use various input/output devices. Examples of input devices include a keyboard, a cursor control device (eg, a mouse), a microphone, a scanner, a touch function (eg, a capacitive or other sensor configured to detect a physical touch), a camera (eg, usable Visible or invisible wavelengths (such as infrared frequencies) recognize movement of gestures when no touch is involved) and so on. Examples of output devices include display devices (eg, monitors or projectors), speakers, printers, network cards, tactile response devices, and the like. Thus, computing device 3402 can be configured in a variety of ways to support user interaction.

The computing device 3402 is further illustrated as being communicatively and physically coupled to the input device 3414, the input device being removable from the computing device 3402 entity and communication. In this manner, a variety of different input devices can be coupled to computing device 3402 having various configurations to support various functions. In this example, input device 3414 includes one or more keys 3416 that can be configured as pressure sensitive keys, mechanical switching keys, and the like.

Input device 3414 is further illustrated as including one or more modules 3418 that can be configured to support various functions. One or more modules 3418 may be configured, for example, to process analogies and/or digits received from keys 3416. The signal determines whether the key is required, determines whether the input indicates a resting pressure, supports authentication of the input device 3414 with the operation of the computing device 3402, and the like.

This article describes various techniques in the general context of software, hardware components, or program modules. In general, such modules include routines, programs, objects, components, components, data structures, and the like that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The terms "module," "function," and "component" as used herein generally mean a soft body, a firmware, a hardware, or a combination thereof. The features of the techniques described herein are platform-independent, meaning that the techniques can be implemented on a variety of commercial computing platforms having various processors.

Embodiments of the modules and techniques described may be stored on or across a computer readable medium of any form. The computer readable medium can include various media that are accessible by computing device 3402. For example, and not by way of limitation, computer readable media may include "computer readable storage media" and "computer readable signal media".

"Computer-readable storage media" may refer to media and/or devices that permit continuous and/or non-transitory storage of information as compared to pure signal transmission, carrier or signal itself. Therefore, the computer can read the storage medium to indicate the non-signal bearing media. Computer readable storage media including hardware such as volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media and/or storage devices suitable for storage such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, logic components / The method or technique of information on circuits or other materials implements such hardware. Examples of computer readable storage media may include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology; CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD) or other Optical storage; hard disk; tape A cartridge, tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage device; or other storage device, tangible media or article suitable for storing the desired information and accessible by a computer.

"Computer readable signal media" may refer to a signal bearing medium that is configured to transmit instructions to the hardware of computing device 3402, such as via a network. Signal media typically embodies computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in modulated data signals such as carrier waves, data signals or other transmission mechanisms. The signal media also includes any information delivery media. The term "modulation data signal" means to set or change the signal of one or more of the signal characteristics in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example and not limitation, communication media may include wired media (such as a wired network or direct wired connection) and wireless media (such as acoustic, RF, infrared, and other wireless media).

As previously described, hardware component 3410 and computer readable medium 3406 represent modules implemented in hardware, programmable device logic, and/or fixture logic, which may be used in some embodiments. And computer readable media implements at least some aspects of the techniques described herein, such as to execute one or more instructions. The hardware may include an integrated circuit or a component on a system on a wafer, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and a composite programmable logic. Other embodiments in a complex programmable logic device (CPLD) and/or other hardware. In this context, hard gymnastics may be used as a processing device for executing the program tasks defined by the instructions and/or logic embodied by the hardware, and as hardware for storing instructions for execution (eg, the computer described above) Read storage media).

The various techniques described herein can also be implemented using the combinations described above. Thus, a software, hardware or executable module can be implemented as one or more instructions and/or logic embodied in a form of computer readable storage medium and/or by one or more hard Body element 3410 is implemented. The computing device 3402 can be configured to implement specific instructions and/or functions corresponding to the software and/or hardware modules. Thus, embodiments of a module that can be executed by the computing device 3402 as a software can be implemented, at least in part, in hardware (eg, via a computer readable storage medium and/or hardware component 3410 of the processing system 3404). The techniques, modules, and examples described herein may be implemented by one or more articles (e.g., one or more computing devices 3402 and/or processing system 3404) executing/operating instructions and/or functions.

in conclusion

Although the exemplary embodiments have been described in terms of structural features and/or methodological acts, it is understood that the embodiments defined in the appended claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary forms of implementing the claimed features.

100‧‧‧ Environment

102‧‧‧ Computing device

104‧‧‧ Input device

106‧‧‧Flexible hinges

108‧‧‧Input/Output Module

110‧‧‧ display device

Claims (20)

An input device comprising: an input portion configured to generate a signal to be processed by a computing device; and a connection portion attached to the input portion using a flexible hinge, the connection portion configured to be used The following components are communicatively coupled to the computing device to transmit the generated signals and physically coupled to the computing device: a protrusion configured to be disposed within a channel formed in a housing of the computing device; and a a raised portion disposed on the raised portion, the raised portion configured to be received within a cavity formed as part of the passage, the raised portion including an electrical contact configured to be caused by the raised portion Self-cleaning and configured to transfer power between the input device and the computing device relative to movement of the cavity. The input device of claim 1, wherein the electrical contact is configured to self-clean due to a wiping movement, the wiping movement moving through the electrical contact against at least a portion of the computing device is sufficient to remove the electrical placement At least a portion of the oxide on the joint. The input device of claim 1, wherein the electrical contact is configured to be biased to contact an edge of the cavity to support a wiping movement to perform the self-cleaning and at the input device and the computing device The ability to transmit power between. The input device of claim 1, wherein the protruding portion comprises a plurality of the electrical contacts. The input device of claim 4, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of the electrical contacts are configured to deliver a current of greater than 1 amp. The input device of claim 1, wherein the protruding portion is configured to be removed from the cavity along an axis and resist movement along at least one different axis, the axis being from the protrusion to the protruding portion A height is defined and coincides with the wiping movement. The input device of claim 6, wherein the raised portion is configured to mechanically engage within the cavity to resist movement along the at least one different axis. The input device of claim 1, wherein the connection portion is further configured to form the physical connection via use of magnetics. The input device of claim 8, wherein the magnetic property is supported by using a magnetic coupling device disposed on the connecting portion or the computing device. The input device of claim 1, wherein the connection portion further comprises a plurality of communication contacts configured to contact contacts disposed within the channel of the computing device to provide the communication coupling. The input device of claim 10, wherein the connection portion is configured to form an electrical connection to support the use of the plurality of communication contacts to form a communication coupling as part of the connection of the input device to the computing device Power transfer of electrical contacts. A computing system comprising: a computing device and an input device, the devices configured to use the following component entities and communication couplings: a convex portion configured to be disposed within a channel; a communication contact, via Arranged to contact a contact inside the channel to support the communication coupling; and a raised portion disposed on the protrusion, the protrusion portion configured to be received within a cavity formed as part of the channel, the protrusion being received The portion includes an electrical contact configured to perform a wiping action and transfer power between the input device and the computing device as the raised portion moves within the cavity. The computing system of claim 12, wherein the computing device and the input device are configured to support coupling of the entity using magnetic. The computing system of claim 12, wherein the wiping movement is moved through the electrical contact against at least a portion of the computing device to remove at least a portion of the oxide disposed on the electrical contact. The computing system of claim 12, wherein the electrical contact is configured to bias to contact an edge of the cavity to support the wiping movement and the ability to transfer power between the input device and the computing device. The computing system of claim 12, wherein the raised portion is configured to be removed from the cavity along an axis and resist movement along at least one different axis, the axis being from the protrusion to the raised portion A height is defined and coincides with the wiping movement. A computing system comprising: a computing device and an input device, the devices configured to use the following component entities and communication couplings: a convex portion configured to be disposed within a channel; a communication contact, disposed And the communication contacts are configured to provide the communication coupling with the contacts inside the channel; and an electrostatic discharge device configured to provide an electrostatic discharge by grounding from the protrusions The path protects the communication contacts from the electrostatic discharge. The computing system of claim 17 wherein the electrostatic discharge device comprises a contact region forming a portion of a perimeter around the communication contact. The computing system of claim 17, the computing system further comprising: a magnetic coupling device configured to support the physical coupling of the computing device to the input device. The computing system of claim 17 further comprising: a raised portion disposed on the raised portion, the raised portion configured to be received within a cavity formed as part of the channel, the raised portion An electrical contact is included that is configured to perform a wiping action and transfer power between the input device and the computing device as the raised portion is moved within the cavity.