TWM430792U - Protective cover arranged to protect a display of a tablet computer - Google Patents

Abstract

A magnetic attachment mechanism is described. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach at least two objects together in a preferred configuration without fasteners and without external intervention. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach an accessory device to an electronic device. The accessory device can be used to augment the functionality of usefulness of the electronic device.

Description

M430792 V. New Description [Technical Field of the Invention] The embodiments described in the present invention are generally related to portable electronic devices. More specifically, the embodiments of the present invention describe various releasable attachment techniques that are well suited for portable electronic devices. [Prior Art] Recent developments in portable computing devices include the introduction of handheld electronic devices and computing platforms related to the iPadTM tablet manufactured by Apple Inc. (Cupertino, Calif.). These handheld computing devices can be constructed such that a large portion of the electronic device is in the form of a display for presenting visual content, leaving only a limited amount of available space for the attachment mechanism that can be used to attach the accessory device. Conventional attachment techniques generally rely on mechanical fasteners, which typically require at least one attachable feature that is accessible from the outside for attachment to a corresponding attachment feature on the accessory device. The construction matches. The presence of an externally attached feature configuration can detract from the overall appearance of the handheld computing device and increase the unwanted weight and complexity and damage the appearance of the handheld computing device. Therefore, a mechanism for releasably attaching at least two articles together is desirable. [New Content] -3- M430792 This description describes various embodiments relating to systems, methods, and devices that releasably attach an accessory to an electronic device. An electronic device includes a first magnetic attachment feature configured to be wrapped within a first sidewall of the electronic device proximate the first sidewall. The first magnetic attachment feature includes a first magnetic element, and a retaining mechanism coupled to the housing and configured to provide a retention force, and wherein when changing from an inactive state to In an active state, the magnetic element moves a distance of Δχ toward the first side wall against the holding force. In another embodiment, an electronic device includes at least one outer casing having a side wall, a bottom surface, and a top side opening, a display device disposed in the opening, a protective layer on the display device, and a first magnetic An attachment mechanism is enclosed within the outer casing and positioned in a first position adjacent a first side wall of the outer casing. The first magnetic attachment mechanism includes a first magnetic component, and a retention mechanism coupled to the housing and configured to provide a retention force, the magnetic flux density on the outer surface of the first sidewall being less than a predetermined threshold In a non-acting state, the holding force holds the magnetic element in a first position away from the first side wall, and in an active state, the magnetic element faces the holding force against the first side wall Move a distance of Δχ. An electronic device having a housing including at least one dual-state magnetic component disposed in a first sidewall within the housing and configured to provide a first magnetic property on an outer surface of the first sidewall in the first state a surface, the first magnetic surface is unsuitable for magnetic attachment and does not substantially affect the magnetically sensitive device-4 - M430792, wherein in the second state, the dual state magnetic element provides a first surface on the outer surface of the first side wall a second magnetic surface adapted to be a magnetic attachment and a state retaining mechanism coupled to the outer casing and configured to retain the two-state magnetic element in the first state unless the dual-state magnetic element is externally activated Activator (activat〇r) role. Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the drawings. [Embodiment] Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a preferred embodiment. Rather, the description is to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, which are included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. The following description generally relates to a mechanism that can be used to attach at least two suitably constructed items together. In an embodiment, this can be achieved without the use of conventional fasteners. Each of the items may include an attachment feature configuration configured to provide a magnetic field having appropriate characteristics. When the attachment features are placed in close proximity to one another, the magnetic fields can cooperatively interact according to their respective characteristics, allowing the objects to magnetically attach to each other in a desired and reproducible manner. For example, due at least in part to the nature of the cooperative interaction of the magnetic fields, the objects can be attached to each other at a predetermined location and relative to the M430792 without external interventional intervention. For example, the cooperative magnetic interaction can result in self-alignment of the objects and self-centering in a desired orientation. The articles can be held in a magnetically attached state until a sufficient release force sufficient to overcome the overall net magnetic attraction is applied. However, 'in some cases, it is desirable to be able to separate the objects sequentially (such as, for example, a zipper), in which case the release force only needs to be large enough to overcome the net of a pair of magnetic elements each time. Magnetic attraction is enough. No connectors, such as mechanical fasteners, are required to attach the items together. Furthermore, in order to prevent undue interference with the magnetic interaction between the magnetic attachment features, at least a portion of the objects in the vicinity of the magnetic attachment features may be made of a non-magnetic material, such as plastic, or Made of iron metal, such as aluminum or non-magnetic stainless steel. The objects can take many forms and perform many functions. When the objects are magnetically attached to each other, they can communicate with each other and interact to form a cooperative system that can perform the operations and provide functions that are not provided by separate individual items. In another embodiment, at least one device can be used as an accessory device. The accessory device can be magnetically attached to at least one electronic device. The accessory device provides services and functions that can be used to enhance the operability of the electronic device. For example, the accessory device can be in the form of a protective cover that is magnetically attached to the electronic device. The protective cover provides protection to certain portions of the electronic device (e.g., display) while improving the overall appearance and texture of the electronic device. The magnetic attachment mechanism used to magnetically attach the accessory device to the electronic device ensures that the protective cover can be attached to the electronic device in a particular orientation. Further, in the -6-M430792, the magnetic attachment mechanism can also ensure proper alignment and positioning of the protective cover with the electronic device. • The protective cover may include at least one hinge portion. The hinge portion can be magnetically attached to the electronic device by using a magnetic attachment feature. The hinge portion can be pivotally coupled to a flap that is disposed on a portion of the electronic device that needs to be protected. The protective cover can include an electronic circuit or other (by a φ or active) component capable of cooperating with electronic components within the electronic device to be transmitted between the protective cover and the electronic device as part of the cooperation. The signals can be used to modify the operation of the electronic device, the operation of the electronic circuitry or components of the protective cover, and the like. As an example, the electronic device can include a magnetic sensitive circuit, such as a Hall Effect sensor, to detect the presence of a magnetic field. The Hall effect sensor can generate a signal as a response to the presence of a magnetic field. The signal can be used to change the operational state of the electronic device. Thus, the protective cover can include a magnetic element, such as a permanent magnet having a magnetic field that can cause the Hall effect sensor to generate a signal. The magnetic element can be disposed on the protective cover at a position where the protective cover is placed on or in close proximity to a surface of the electronic device to activate the signal generated by the Hall effect sensor. The signal may indicate that the protective cover is in a predetermined position relative to the electronic device that may cause the operational state of the electronic device to change. For example, when the protective cover has a portion of the magnetic element in close proximity to the Hall effect sensor, a magnetic field from the magnetic element causes the Hall effect sensor to generate a signal that the signal can be used to The M430792 is changed in state to a state in which the display of the electronic device is completely covered. In another aspect, the Hall effect sensor can be generated when the protective cover has a portion of the magnetic element that is removed to a location where the Hall effect sensor no longer reacts to the magnetic field of the magnetic element. Another signal. The other signal allows the electronic device to enter a different operational state in which at least a portion of the display is cleaved and visible. These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to Figures 1-35. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the detailed description of the drawings is provided for purposes of illustration only and should not be construed as a limitation. With regard to the remainder of this discussion, first and second articles that are suitably constructed to be magnetically attached to each other in accordance with the described embodiments will be described. It should be noted that any number and type of suitably constructed articles can be magnetically attached to one another in a precise and repeatable manner. In particular, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, with respect to the remainder of this discussion, the first object is assumed to be in the form of an electronic device and in particular a handheld electronic device. 1 is a simplified block diagram of an article 10 and an electronic device 12 that are releasably attached to each other in a desired and reproducible manner. In particular, the article 10 and the electronic device 12 can be attached to each other at predetermined locations and relative orientations without external intervention and without the use of mechanical fasteners. The article 10 and the electronic device 12 can remain attached to each other until a release force that overcomes the engagement therebetween is applied. However, in some cases, it is desirable to sequentially separate the article 10 from the electronic device 12 (such as a zipper), in which case the M430792 can unlock the object and the electronic device. The release force of the engagement between the 12 is applied to an attachment member each time. For example, an attachment member can include a suitably matched pair of magnetic elements, one in the article 10 and the other in the electronic device 12. The electronic device 12 can take many forms. For example, an electronic device! 2 can be a portable electronic device. In some examples, the portable electronic device can include a housing 15. The outer casing 15 can enclose and provide support for the components of the portable electronic device. The housing 15 can also provide support for a large and significant display that occupies most of the front side of the portable electronic device. The display can be used to present visual content. The visual content includes still images, visuals, text data, and graphics materials including images (iC0ns) that are used as part of a graphical user interface (GUI). In some cases, at least a portion of the display can be touch sensitive. Touch sensitive means that an object (e.g., a finger, a stylus, etc.) can be in contact with or in close proximity to the upper surface of the display during a touch event. The details of the touch event (location, pressure, duration, etc.) can be used to provide information to the portable electronic device for processing. In some embodiments, in addition to being provided to the portable electronic device, information can be provided tactilely by the portable electronic device using, for example, a haptic actuator. It should be understood that this configuration is by way of example and not limitation, as the electronic device can vary widely. In one example, the portable electronic device is a tablet computer such as the iPadTM manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, California. -9 - M430792 Objects ι〇 can vary widely and can take many forms, such as attachments or equipment such as the electronic device 12. As an accessory, the object 1 can be constructed as an outer cover, a stand, a dock, an input/output device, and the like. In a particularly useful form, the article 10 can be in the form of a protective cover that can include a member, such as a flap, disposed on the display of the portable electronic device. As with the electronic device 12, the article 10 can also include a housing 17 that can enclose the member of the article 10 and provide support for the articles. One or both of the article 10 or the electronic device 12 can include an attachment feature. For example, article 10 can include attachment system 13 and the electronic device 12 can include a corresponding attachment system 14. Attachment system 13 can cooperate with the corresponding attachment system 14 to attach the article 10 to the electronic device 12 in an releasable manner. When the article 10 and the electronic device 12 are attached to each other, they can move separately and can act as two separate components if needed. The attachment systems 13 and 14 are constructed in such a manner that the article 10 and the electronic device 12 can be attached to each other in a desired and reproducible manner. In other words, the attachment systems 13 and 14 can repeatedly align the article 10 with the electronic device 12 such that they are uniform at a predetermined position relative to each other. These attachment feature configurations can vary widely. The attachment may be provided by a variety of couplings including mechanical, electrical, electrostatic, magnetic, friction, and/or the like. In one embodiment, the attachment cannot be seen from the exterior of the article and/or electronic device. For example, the object and the electronic device may not include an externally visible attachment feature configuration (eg, snaps, pins, etc.) that is detrimental to the appearance and texture or aesthetic appearance - but may include no An attachment feature that is visible from the exterior of the article or electronic device and that does not adversely affect the appearance and texture or aesthetic appearance of the article or electronic device. For example, the attachment features can be provided by a suction surface that does not damage the outer surface of the article or electronic device. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the attachment feature configurations utilize magnetic attraction to provide a portion or all of the suction. ^ The attachment systems can include one or more attachment features. If multiple features are used, they may be fixed in the same way or may be different. For example, in one embodiment, a first attachment feature configuration utilizes a first attachment mechanism and a second attachment feature configuration utilizes a second attachment mechanism that is different from the first attachment mechanism. For example, the first attachment mechanism can utilize frictional coupling and the second attachment mechanism can utilize magnetic force. In another embodiment, a first attachment feature configuration utilizes a first attachment mechanism and a second attachment feature configuration utilizes the same or similar Φ attachment mechanism. For example, the first and second attachment mechanisms can be provided by a magnet. Although the attachment mechanism can be a similar mechanism, it should be understood that the configuration of the feature configurations can vary depending on the needs of the system. Also, any number and configuration of attachment mechanisms can be used. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the attachment systems 1 3 and 14 includes at least a first set of corresponding attachment features 13 a/ 14a and a second set of attachment features 13b/ 14b . The attachment feature 13a can cooperate with a corresponding attachment feature configuration l4a for attaching the article 10 to the electronic device 12 in a releasable manner -11 - M430792. In a particular embodiment, this is achieved by magnetic attraction. Further, the attachment feature 13b can cooperate with a corresponding attachment feature 14b for further attaching the article 10 to the electronic device 12 in a releasable manner. For example, 'the attachment feature 13a/14a can be placed in a first position and the attachment feature 13b/14b can be placed in a second position." In a particular example, the attachment feature in cooperation with the attachment feature 13a The structure 14a secures the electronic device 12 to the article 10. In another example, the attachment feature 13b can secure the article 10 to the electronic device 12 by using the attachment feature formation 14b. It should be noted that the attachment systems 13 and 14 of this example may be separate or they may cooperate together to create the attachment. If they cooperate, the attachment features 14a and 14b correspond to one or more attachment features 13a and 13b. In either case, the attachment features can be mechanically or electrostatically generated in any of these examples. , adsorption, magnetic attachment, and/or the like. The placement of such attachment features within the attachment system and attachment system can vary widely. With respect to electronic device 12, attachment system 14 can be placed on the front, back, top, bottom, and/or sides. Attachment features 14a and 14b can be placed anywhere in the attachment system 14 yesterday. Thus, the attachment features 14a and 14b can be placed anywhere relative to the housing and/or the display. In one example, the attachment features 14a and 14b can provide engagement along one or more of the sides of the housing (e.g., top side, bottom side, left side, right side). In another example, the attachment features -12-M430792 configurations 14a and 14b can provide engagement on the back of the electronic device 12. In yet another example, the attachment features 14a and 14b can be provided on the front side of the electronic device 12 (e.g., where the display is located, if there is a display). In some cases, combinations of such attachment feature configurations may be located in different regions of the electronic device 12, such as on the sides and on the front side. In an embodiment, the attachment system 14 including the attachment features 14a and 14b does not damage the surface of the electronic device 12. Similarly, the attachment system 13, specifically the attachment features 13a and 13b, does not destroy the table of objects 10.

W face. According to an embodiment, the attachment feature configurations may comprise magnetic elements. The magnetic elements can be constructed to assist in positioning the article 10 relative to the electronic device 12 in a matched configuration. The magnetic elements can further assist in securing the article 10 and the electronic device 12 to a mating engagement. It should be noted that the engagement of the article 10 with the electronic device 12 can be reversed by applying an appropriate release force that allows the object 10 to be separated from the electronic device 12 back to the individual object state. However, the magnetic elements can allow the article 10 and the electronic device 12 to subsequently regain the mating engagement without the need for any type of fastener, mechanical or other type of fastener. In this manner, the magnetic elements provide a repeatable and consistent engagement between the article 10 and the electronic device 12. The article 10 and the electronic device 12 can further include members 16 and 18, respectively. Components 16 and 18 are typically associated with the article 10 with the electronic device 12 and may, for example, be mechanical or structural members used to provide support, or they may be operable to provide a particular set of operations/functions-13 - M430792 Sexual/functional components. Such components may be exclusive to their respective devices or they may be constructed for use with aspects (e.g., wired or wireless coupling) of corresponding objects or devices. Examples of structural members may include frames, walls, fasteners, reinforcements, kinematics (hinge), and the like. Examples of operational components include handling, memory, battery packs, antennas, circuits, sensors, displays, inputs, and the like. Depending on the desired configuration, the components may be external (e.g., exposed on the surface) and/or internal (e.g., embedded within the housing). 2A and 2B are simplified perspective views of an article 20 in accordance with a described embodiment, the article being releasably attached to electronic device 22 via a magnetic attachment system. The object 20 and the electronic device 22 generally correspond to the object and electronic device described with reference to FIG. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment system can be embodied as a magnetic surface 24 (indicated by dotted lines and shading), more specifically as a magnetic surface 24 on the side of the electronic device 22. The magnetic surface 24 can provide a magnetic field that can cooperate with the corresponding attachment feature configuration when placed in close proximity to a corresponding attachment feature within the article 20. The magnetic field establishes a net magnetic attraction that pulls the article 20 and the electronic device 22 together into a mating engagement along the engagement surface 26 as shown in Figure 2B. In other words, the magnetic field provided by the magnetic surface 24 can have characteristics that allow the net magnetic attraction between the article 20 and the electronic device 22 to be substantially perpendicular to the engagement surface 26. Moreover, the magnetic field allows the net magnetic attraction between the article 20 and the electronic device 22 to be uniformly applied to the engagement surface 26. In order to release the article 20 and the electronic device 22, a release force can be applied to the two bonded articles by -14-M430792 to overcome the net magnetic attraction provided by the magnetic attachment system. * It should be understood that although only one side wall is shown, in some examples, the combination of different side walls and side walls may be used depending on the needs of the attachment interface. It should be noted that the use of magnetic attachments eliminates the need for mechanical attachments such as fasteners. Moreover, without the mechanical attachment member and the uniformity of the overall magnetic attraction, the object 20 and the surface 0 of the electronic device 22 are not damaged. This contributes to the appearance of the same oneness, in the same whole The object 20 and the electronic device 22 appear to be a single intact individual. The uniformity in appearance improves the overall aesthetic appearance of both the article 20 and the electronic device 22. In one embodiment, a magnetic surface can be created by embedding the magnetically attractable element in the form of an attachment feature in the electronic component 22 and/or the article 20. That is, the magnetically attractable elements can be disposed within the article 20 and the electronic device 22, such as within the housing of the electronic device φ 22. In this configuration, the housing can be made of a non-magnetic material such as a plastic or non-ferrous metal such as aluminum. In this way, a magnetic line can be constructed to penetrate the wall of the outer casing. The attachment features are constructed without damaging the physical appearance of the object 20 and the outer surface of the electronic device 22. The magnetically attractable elements in the article 20 and the electronic device 22 can be configured to generate magnetic fields that can cooperate with one another to create a magnetic field that can be attached to the electronic device 22 for mating engagement. The configuration of the suction. The magnetic attraction is constructed to produce a magnetic attraction orthogonal to the engagement surface 26 between the article 20 and the electronic device 22. -15- M430792 The magnetic attraction between the object 20 and the corresponding magnetic element in the electronic device 22 can also be uniformly applied along the engagement surface 26. The uniformity of the overall magnetic attraction along the engagement surface 26 can be a result of the uniformity of the separation distance between the object 20 and the corresponding magnetic element within the electronic device 22. The uniformity may also be a result of the consistency of the magnetic flux between the object 20 and the corresponding magnetic element within the electronic device 22. The uniformity of the magnetic attachment can be facilitated by the object 20 and the surface of the electronic device 22, each of which forms a well that fits each other. For example, one surface may be flat or have a concave shape, and the other surface may have a matching convex shape. In this manner, by closely fitting together, the separation distance between the article 20 and each corresponding magnetic element within the electronic device 22 can be minimized. The uniformity of the surface shape can also enhance the overall appearance and texture of the article 20 and the electronic device 22 by reducing or eliminating the appearance of the seam at the engagement surface 26. This seamless quality provides the illusion of a single body when the object 20 and the electronic device 22 are attached to each other. In addition to enhancing the overall appearance and texture, the uniformity of the separation distance between the magnetic elements allows the adhesion between the article 20 and the electronic device 22 to be uniformly along the engagement surface 26» in this manner, the engagement The force can be evenly distributed over the engagement surface 26 to prevent buckling 'vulnerability points, etc., which can adversely affect the overall integrity of the engagement between the article 20 and the electronic device 22. 3A and 3B are simplified perspective views of a -16-M430792 of an article 30 releasably attached to an electronic device 32 by a magnetic attachment system 34 and a corresponding attachment system 36. It should be noted that this particular embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 2A' 2B 'but no matter where the magnetic surface previously placed on the side wall is now placed on one side of the electronic device 32 and is not necessary Ground on a pair of façades of the article 30. For example, in an example of an electronic device that includes a display device, the magnetic components of the magnetic attachment system 34 can be embedded behind the display surface. 3B shows the article 30 magnetically attached to each other to form a cooperative system 38 and the electronic device 32 as part of the cooperative system 38, the electronic device 32 and the article 30 can cooperate with each other to provide the article 30 or the electronic device 32 respectively Feature constructs that are not available. For example, article 30 can be in the form of an outer cover that provides a protective feature. In one embodiment, the protective cover can be used to support and protect the sub-device 32 (e.g., to cover the display surface) during transport or storage of the electronic device. Because of the releasable nature of the magnetic attachment between the magnetic attachment systems 34 and 36, the article 30 can be easily removed when the electronic device 32 is to be used and subsequently subsequently Reattach. The magnetic elements may be arranged such that only certain magnetically sensitive elements within the electronic device 32 are affected by the magnetic fields generated by the embedded magnetic elements. For example, a Hall effect sensor can be used to detect whether the object 30 is magnetically attached to the electronic device 32 and covers all portions of the display by using a magnetic field generated by a magnetic element located within the object 30. Or part of it. In another aspect, a magnetic sensitive component within the electronic device 32 (e.g., a compass that relies on an external magnetic field (e.g., a magnetic field provided by the earth) must not be subjected to the magnetic field lines generated by the embedded magnetic components - 17- M430792 Improper influence. Thus, the magnetic elements can be confined within the electronic device 32 away from the locations of the magnetic sensing elements (e.g., compasses). 4A and 4C are simplified perspective views of an article 40 releasably attached to an electronic device 42 by a magnetic system 44. This embodiment is similar to FIGS. 2A, 2B and 3A, 3B in that the magnetic system 44 can include a plurality of magnetically attractable elements and in that the object 40 and the electronic device 42 generally correspond to previous ones. The objects and electronic devices mentioned in the drawings. For example, a set of magnetically attractable magnetic elements 44a can be disposed relative to the object 40 and one side of the electronic device 42, and a second set of magnetically attractable magnetic elements 44b can be associated with the object 40 One side of the electronic device 42 is provided. As shown in FIG. 4B, the cooperation system 46 can be formed by placing the article 40 and the electronic device 42 in close proximity to each other, so that in addition to the magnetic components located on the faces of the electronic device 42 and the object 40, The object 40 and the core of the magnetic element 4 on the side of the electronic device 42 also magnetically attract each other. The overall magnetic attraction generated on the sides and faces is sufficient to maintain the mating engagement of the article 40 with the electronic device 42 to form the cooperating system 46. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 4C, the cooperative system 46 is shown in an open configuration in which the article 40 is used as an openable and closable cover for the electronic device 42. That is, the object 40 functions like a protective cover of the electronic device 42. In this embodiment, the article 40 can include an adhesive member 48 that is attached along the sides of the electronic device 42 and that is attached to the front side of the electronic device 42 and more specifically attached to the top surface 52. Top surface 52 can correspond to a display. In one embodiment, the flaps 50 are movable relative to the bond member -18-M430792. This movement can vary widely. In one example, the flap 50 is pivotable relative to the bond 48. This pivoting can vary widely. In an example, the pivoting can be implemented by a hinge mechanism. In another example, the pivoting can be implemented by a fold. Again, the flaps can be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible. In this manner, the article 40 can be formed in an open configuration in which the flap 50 is placed away from the electronic device 42 (the display 52 can be seen), and with a closed configuration, that is, the flap 50 is placed Adjacent to the electronic device 42 (the display 52 is covered, as shown in the closed state of Figure 4B). In one embodiment, the bond 48 is only on one side and the flap 50 is only on the top surface 52. In this configuration, the other surfaces of the electronic device 42 are exposed. Therefore, the beauty of the electronic device can be exhibited while the object is attached to the electronic device. Again, this configuration provides better I/O access and feature-related connectivity (eg, buttons, connectors, etc.). While the purpose of the magnetic elements is similar, i.e., attaching the items to the electronic device, it should be understood that these mechanisms can vary widely. In some examples, the magnetic fields can be constructed differently. For example, the side-mounted magnetic surface provides a first magnetic force and the front facing magnetic surface provides a second magnetic force different from the first magnetic force. This is due in part to the different retention requirements and the different surface area, the space available for the internal components of the electronic device. In one example, the side-mounted magnetic surface provides a greater holding force to secure the article to the electronic device, ie, it is the primary fixed force, and the front facing -19-M430792 magnetic surface is Provides an auxiliary fixed force. In one example, the flap 50 includes a plurality of sections that are semi-rigid and bendable relative to each other such that the flap is movable and flexible. In an embodiment, the flaps 50 can be folded into one or more different configurations, and in some examples, a magnetic system similar to that described above can be maintained in these configurations. These and other embodiments are described in more detail below. Moreover, it should be understood that the described embodiments are not limited to the outer cover and other configurations may be used, including accessory devices that are used as a suspension device for the electronic device. The support mechanism is for improving the viewing of the display device, and for supporting the input touch event as the winning portion of the display, and the like. The electronic device and the article can take many forms. For the remainder of this discussion, the electronic device is described as an example of a handheld portable computing device. Thus, Figure 5 shows a top perspective view of an electronic device 100 in accordance with the described embodiment. The electronic device 100 can process data, more specifically media data, such as audio, video, video, etc., for example, the electronic device 100 generally corresponds to a smart phone, a music player, a game machine. , visual player, personal digital assistant (PDA), tablet, and devices like this. The electronic device 100 can also be handheld. With regard to hand-held, the electronic device 100 can be held in one hand while being operated with the other hand (i.e., without a reference surface, such as a table top). Therefore, the electronic device 100 can be held in one hand while the operation input command can be provided by the other hand. Such operational input commands may include operating a volume switch, a hold switch, or a -20-M430792 providing input to a touch sensitive surface, such as a touch sensitive display or a touch panel. • The electronic device 100 can include a housing 102. In some embodiments, the outer casing 102 can be a one-piece outer casing that is forged, molded, or otherwise formed into a desired shape from a variety of materials, such as plastic or non-magnetic metals. In the case where the electronic device 100 has a metal casing and includes a radio frequency (RF) based function, a portion of the casing 102 may include φ a material that allows radio frequency penetration, such as, for example, ceramic or plastic. The outer casing 102 can be constructed to enclose many internal components. For example, the housing 102 can enclose and support various structures and electronic components (including integrated circuit wafers) to provide operational operations for the electronic device 100. The integrated circuits can be in the form of a wafer, a wafer set, or a module, any of which can be surface mounted to a printed circuit board, or PCB, or other support structure. For example, a primary logic board The (MLB) may have an integrated circuit mounted thereon, which may include at least a microprocessor, a semiconductor memory (e.g., φ FLASH), various support circuits, and the like. The housing 102 can include an opening 104 for placement into the interior member and can be sized to accommodate a display assembly for presenting visual content if necessary, the display assembly being covered and protected by the protective layer 106. In some examples, the display component can be a touch sensitive display component that allows for tactile input that can be used to provide control signals to the electronic device 100. In some examples, the display assembly can be a large, significant display area that occupies most of the area of the front of the electronic device. The electronic device 100 can include a magnetic attachment system that can be used to magnetically attach the -21 - M430792 electronic device 100 to at least one other item that is properly constructed. The magnetic attachment system can include a plurality of magnetic attachment features that are distributed within the outer casing 102 and, in some examples, to the outer casing 102. For example, the magnetic attachment system can include a first magnetic attachment feature 108 and a second magnetic attachment feature 110 positioned on different sides of the electronic device 100. In particular, the first magnetic attachment feature 108 can be disposed adjacent the sidewall 102a of the housing 102. The second magnetic attachment feature 1 10 can be disposed within an opening 104 adjacent the sidewall 102b of the outer casing 102. In embodiments where the electronic device 100 includes a display having a cover glass that substantially fills the opening 104, the second magnetic attachment feature 110 can be disposed under the cover glass. Positioning the first magnetic attachment feature 108 on the sidewall 102a facilitates the use of the first magnetic attachment feature 108 to magnetically attach the electronic device 100 to another suitably constructed article, such as another electronic device or An accessory device. Thus, the first magnetic attachment feature 108 will be referred to hereinafter as the device attachment feature 108 without losing its generality. In another aspect, providing the second magnetic attachment feature 110 can facilitate the use of the second magnetic attachment feature 110 to secure an aspect of another device by which the device is attached to the feature 108. It is attached to the electronic device 100. In this manner, the overall attachment between the other device and the electronic device 100 can be more robust than the attachment only through the first attachment feature 108. Thus, the second magnetic attachment feature 110 will be referred to hereinafter as the fixed -22-M430792 attachment feature 110 without losing its generality. Although not explicitly shown, it should be understood that the plurality of magnetic attachment features of the magnetic attachment system can be disposed at any suitable location of the housing 102. For example, the magnetic attachment features can be disposed on the bottom surface of the interior of the outer casing 102 or along the sides l2c and 120d of the outer casing 102. As shown in Figure 6, the device attachment feature 108 and the fixed attachment feature 110 each include one or more magnetic elements. In one example, the device attachment feature 108 can be a plurality of magnetic elements that can magnetically interact with each other to provide a magnetic field 1 1 2 (only a portion is shown, in other words, the characteristics of the magnetic field 12 (shape, field strength, etc.) Depending on the interaction of the magnetic field generated by each magnetic element. In this way, the characteristics of the magnetic field 112 can be simply by arranging the characteristics of each magnetic element (eg, physical layout, relatively large, and The magnetic poles are configured to vary. For example, each of the magnetic elements can have different heights and can be disposed along an axis. In this manner, the magnetic properties of each of the magnetic elements can interact to establish a magnetic field. The overall characteristics of 1 1 2. In some examples, the portion of the magnetic field 112 that is used for magnetic attachment between the device attachment feature 108 and another device can be enhanced by a magnetizer (not shown). The magnetizer can be fabricated from a magnetically active material, such as steel or iron, and can be placed in a magnetic field line that would otherwise be directed away from the attachment region. Partially redirected to the location of the attachment zone. The redirected magnetic field lines may have the effect of increasing the average magnetic flux density within the attachment zone. -23- M430792 The device attachment feature 108 may be in an active state (active And operating in an inactive state. In the inactive state, the magnetic flux density B112 may be equal to or greater than a magnetic flux density lower limit 値Bthresh<)ld inside the inner surface of the outer casing 102, However, it is not applicable outside the inner surface of the outer casing 102. In other words, the magnetic flux density B112 of the magnetic field Π2 at the outer surface of the outer casing 102 is smaller than the magnetic flux density lower limit 値BthreSh〇id. The magnetic flux density is low 値Bthresh() ld represents - the number of magnetic fluxes 値, and when less than a few 値, the magnetic sensitive device (for example, the magnetic strip on the credit card) can remain substantially unaffected. In addition, the presence of a magnetically active material (e.g., steel) in an area outside the electronic device 1 itself will not trigger the device attachment feature 108 to transition from the inactive state to the active state. As mentioned above, when the device attachment feature 108 is inactive, the magnetic flux density B112 of the magnetic field 112 at the outer surface of the side 102a of the outer casing 102 is less than the magnetic flux density lower limit 値Bthresht)ld. In particular, with respect to the device attachment feature 108, the magnetic flux density B112 can be varied as a function of the distance X from the magnetic elements (i.e., B = B112(x)). Thus, when the device attachment feature 112 is in an inactive state, B112(X) may satisfy equation (1).

Bm (x = X 〇 + 0 < Bthreshold, where (t) is the thickness of the outer casing 102 at the side 102a, and XQ is the distance from the interior of the side 102 a to the magnetic elements. When the configuration 108 is in an inactive state, any amount of magnetic flux leakage (i.e., Bii2(X>X〇+t)) in the region close to the outside of the electronic device 100 is small enough to give way. The ability of the magnetically sensitive device in the proximity region to be adversely affected is extremely low. However, it should be noted that the magnetic field 112 may have a satisfying equation (1) even in an inactive state. Magnetic flux. The quantity 値B112 (X = x〇+ t) is large enough to interact with the magnetic field of another device placed in close proximity to it. In this way, even if equation (1) is satisfied, A properly constructed magnetic attachment feature in the other device can be used to activate the device attachment feature 108. The characteristics of the seating magnetic field 112 include at least field strength, magnetic poles, and the like.

The characteristics of W 112 are based on a combination of magnetic fields of each of the magnetic elements included in the device attachment feature 108. The combined magnetic fields can form the stacked magnetic field 112», for example, the magnetic elements can be generated by a combination of the individual magnetic fields to produce a magnetic field 112 having a desired magnetic field characteristic (e.g., field strength). Configuration. For example, a combination of configurations of the magnetic elements can produce a magnetic field 1 1 2 having characteristics (e.g., magnetic poles and strength) that are mostly symmetrical about a particular axis (e.g., a geometric center • line). In another aspect, the magnetic elements are arranged in such a way that the magnetic field 1 1 2 produced by the combination of the magnetic fields of the magnetic elements has at least one characteristic that is asymmetric with respect to the centerline. For example, the magnetic element on one side of the centerline is disposed such that its north magnetic pole body faces upward and the corresponding magnetic element on the other side of the center line is disposed such that its south magnetic pole system faces upward. The magnetic properties of the magnetic field 112 can be adjusted in a suitable manner to provide the desired mating engagement. For example, the magnetic properties of the magnetic field 112 can be altered by configuring the magnetic elements in a manner that allows the magnetic field 112 to cooperatively interact with another magnetic field (e.g., from another-25-M430792 magnetic attachment system). . The cooperative interaction between the two magnetic fields produces the result of magnetically attaching the two objects to each other in a clear, precise, and repeatable manner. The characteristics of the magnetic field 112 can be stable. Stabilization means that the characteristics of the magnetic field can remain substantially unchanged for a sustained period of time. Thus, a stable version of the magnetic field 112 can be substantially constant (or nearly constant) over a sustained period of time using magnetic features or at least any change within one component can be corresponding to within another component. The changes are offset by the magnetic components that are produced. The magnetic elements may be physically configured in a configuration that is fixed or at least substantially fixed relative to other magnetic elements. For example, the magnetic elements can each have a fixed size and magnetic poles disposed in a particular order relative to one another to provide a magnetic field 112 having desired characteristics (shape, strength, magnetic pole, etc.). Thus, depending on the nature and nature of the magnetic elements, the shape of the magnetic field 112 can remain substantially unchanged for a sustained period of time (e.g., during the expected operational life of the electronic device 1). However, in some embodiments, the characteristics of the magnetic field 112 can be varied by altering the magnetic or other physical properties of at least one of the magnetic elements. When at least one of the magnetic elements has a magnetic property that can be altered (e.g., magnetic pole or field strength), the generated magnetic field can also be altered. Thus, in some embodiments, at least one of the magnetic elements can be characterized as having dynamic magnetic properties. Dynamic means that at least one magnetic property, such as a magnetic pole, can be altered. In this way, the magnetic field characteristics of the resulting magnetic field can also be changed. The resulting magnetic field can then change the magnetic properties of the -26-M430792 magnetic field 112, which can then change the way the magnetic attachment system magnetically attaches the objects to each other (eg, alignment, orientation, centering, etc.*, etc. ). An electromagnet is an example of the magnetic element, and its magnetic properties can be changed as desired. Other examples include a ductile non-magnetic substrate that is implanted with a magnetic dopant (e.g., magnetite). In this manner, the extensible substrate can be formed into a solid shape capable of affecting the nature of the magnetic field produced by the magnetic doping material. ^ Turning now to other faces of the magnetic attachment system, the fixed attachment feature 110 can include one or more magnetic elements 116. When multiple magnetic elements are used, the configuration of the magnetic elements 116 can vary widely and can magnetically interact with a corresponding feature configuration on another device. In one embodiment, the magnetic elements 116 associated with the fixed attachment feature 110 can assist in securing at least a portion of another device that is attached to the device by the device attachment feature configuration 1〇8 Electronic device 100. At least some portions of the magnetic elements 116 may have a fixed dimension φ and polarity (e.g., a simple rod magnet), while other portions of the magnetic elements 116 may have modifiable magnetic properties (e.g., Electromagnets, other portions of the magnetic elements can be shaped to provide specific magnetic properties. For example, at least one of the magnetic elements 116 can be configured to interact with a magnetic response circuit at a location that interacts with a magnetic response circuit included in another device and, if necessary. Thus, the magnetic response circuit can respond to the presence (or absence) of a particular magnetic component of the fixed attachment feature configuration 110. An example of such a magnetic response circuit is described above with respect to the Hall effect sensor 181 by -27-M430792. It should be noted that the magnetic field generated by the magnetic elements 116 should not extend too far, causing the magnetic sensitive circuits (such as the Hall effect sensor 118) in the electronic device 1 to be adversely affected. This is particularly important because the magnetic field is typically not contained within the outer casing 102 because at least a portion of the magnetic field must extend in the x-direction to interact with the magnetically active portions of other devices. Therefore, the extent of the magnetic field within {X, y} must be limited to avoid magnetic sensitive circuits such as Hall effect sensor 1 18 and compass 120. In a particular embodiment, the magnetic elements of the device attachment feature 108 can be gathered into different magnetic regions. In this way, the magnetic fields from the magnetic domains can be superimposed to form a magnetic field 1 1 2 . The magnetic regions can include different magnetic elements that can be configured as a group represented by magnetic elements 126 and 128. By concentrating the magnetic elements into separate magnetic regions, the ability of the magnetic attachment system to provide a magnetic field having the desired characteristics can be substantially enhanced. The magnetic elements 1 26 and 1 28 can interact with each other to form a magnetic field 1 1 2 . In this embodiment, the interaction can be a combination of the magnetic properties of each of the magnetic elements 126 and 128. In some examples, the configuration of magnetic elements 1 26 and 128 can be associated with each other to provide a magnetic field 1 12 having the desired characteristics. For example, magnetic elements 126 and 128 are configured in a manner that is related to one another such that the magnetic field 112 is asymmetrical (or symmetrical) with respect to the horizontal centerline of the device attachment feature 108. In another embodiment, the magnetic field 112 may be asymmetric (or symmetrical) with respect to the vertical centerline of the device attachment feature configuration 108. In still other embodiments, the magnetic -28-M430792 field 112 may be asymmetrical (or symmetric) both horizontally and vertically. Figure 7A shows the electronic device 1 〇〇 in close proximity to the article 200 having the magnetic attachment feature 202. The magnetic attachment feature 202 of the article 200. may include magnetic elements, each magnetic element generating a magnetic field, the magnetic fields The interaction can be combined to form a resulting magnetic field. The resultant magnetic field may have magnetic properties (e.g., field strength and shape φ) that can interact with the magnetic field 112 of the electronic device 1 to provide the electronic device 100 and the object 200 with a clear and precise It can be attached in a repeatable manner without mechanical fasteners and without external assistance. It should be noted that the magnetic field 208 is approximately 2500 Gauss, and the magnetic field 12 is about 1 400 Gauss when the device attachment feature 108 is in the inactive state. Object 200 can be in many forms including accessories, peripherals, electronics, or the like. In an embodiment, the object 200 may be in the form of the electronic device 100 or the like. Accordingly, the electronic device 100 and the electrical device 200 can be magnetically attached to each other using the device attachment feature 108 and the magnetic attachment feature 202 to form a cooperative electronic system. The cooperative electronic system may be an electronic system in which electronic components in the electronic device 100 and corresponding electronic components in the electronic device 200 cooperate with each other to implement functions in which the two electronic devices are separated from each other and cannot be independently implemented. In an embodiment, information can be transmitted between the electronic devices 100 and 200. In particular, the magnetic attachment feature 202 can include at least magnetic elements 204 and 206, each of which can generate a magnetic field that the magnetic fields can interact with each other to provide a magnetic field 208 (only a portion of which is shown). The M430792 characteristics are based on the interaction of each of the magnetic elements 204 and 206. In this manner, magnetic field 208 can have a physical layout, relative dimensions, and magnetic characteristics that make up the magnetic poles, depending on each of magnetic elements 204 and 206. For example, magnetic elements 204 and 206 can be disposed along a centerline and have stackable magnetism to provide a magnetic field 208 having desired characteristics. The magnetic flux density B2Q8 of the magnetic field 208 of the object 200 can be varied as a function of the distance from the magnetic elements 204 and 206 (i.e., B = B2G8(x)). When the form of the object 200 is an electronic device, such as the electronic device 100, the magnetic flux density B2Q8 satisfies the formula (1). However, when the form of the article 200 is an accessory device, the magnetic flux density B 2 0 8 of the accessory device 200 can satisfy the formula (2) unlike the magnetic flux density B112 of the electronic device 1 that satisfies the formula (1). B2O8 (X = Xl + S) > Bthreshold Formula (2) where S is the thickness of the outer casing 212 at the side 212a, and X| is the internal separation distance. In this manner, the accessory device 200 can magnetically interact with the electronic device 100 and be removed from the electronic device 1 further than otherwise. Accordingly, the accessory device 200 can be disposed adjacent to, but not necessarily in close proximity to, the electronic device 1 to enable the electronic device 1 and the article 200 to be magnetically coupled to each other in a clear, predictable, and repeatable manner. Ground adsorption. In addition to the magnetic attachment feature 206, the accessory device 200 can further include a magnetic attachment feature 216 that can be used to interact with the fixed attachment feature 11〇. The magnetic attachment feature 216 can include a plurality of magnetically active members. Some of the magnetic elements may be in a form configured to cooperatively interact with magnetic elements corresponding to within the solid -30-M430792 fixed attachment feature 110. Other magnetic elements may be more passive in nature because they provide a mechanism for completing a magnetic circuit with the magnetically active elements within the fixed attachment feature 110. An example of such a magnetically driven element is a body-containing magnetic material, such as, for example, iron or steel, which can interact with a magnetic element that actively provides an associated magnetic field. In this manner, the ferrous magnetic material can interact with the magnetic field to complete a magnetic circuit between the passive component within the magnetic attachment feature 216 and the active component within the fixed attachment feature 110. Figure 7B shows that the accessory device 200 can be used to provide support functions and services for the electronic device. By allowing a portion of the magnetic field 208 (which has a magnetic flux density B2Q8 that satisfies equation (2)) to extend into the region 214, the magnetic attraction force Fnet between the device attachment feature 108 and the magnetic attachment feature 202 can be generated. , wherein the net magnetic attraction force Fnet satisfies the formula (3a) and the formula (3b).

Fnet _ (Ltotal) · B / |1〇(3a) B/B〇= f(xsep) where (3b) where Lt()tal is the total area of the magnetic elements; B is the total magnetic flux density (B2) 〇8 + B112) ; xsep is the distance separating the magnetic elements; B0 is the magnetic flux density at the surface of the magnetic regions. The magnetic attachment feature 02 can be used to activate the device attachment feature 108 due to the net magnetic attraction Fnet resulting from the interaction of the magnetic field 206 with the magnetic field 112. Also, when the device attachment feature 108 is activated, the magnetic flux density B 112 satisfies equation (4). -31 - M430792 B| n(x = x〇+ 〇> Baueshoid, ^(4) The increase in magnetic flux density B112 in the magnetic region 214 in an active state substantially enhances the relationship between the accessory device 200 and the electronic device 100. Net net magnetic force Fnet. Again, because the net magnetic attraction force Fnet changes with the total magnetic flux density (B2Q8 + B μ 2) and the magnetic flux density B changes substantially inversely proportional to the separation distance (formula (3b)), When the electronic device 100 and the accessory device 200 are close to each other and the separation distance xsep is reduced to a limit 一致 which is in physical contact with the electronic device 100 and the accessory device 200, the increase of the net magnetic force Fnet can be performed in a relatively short time. Rapid increase within. This rapid increase in net magnetic force Fne, can cause the two devices to be quickly joined together, as shown in Figure 7C, which can be referred to as "quick embedding to positioning", Figure 7C The display electronics 100 are magnetically adsorbed along the engagement surface 218 to the cooperation system 300 of the accessory device 200. It should be noted that in a representative embodiment, the magnetic components within the device attachment feature 108 are It can be a N52 magnet, The magnetic elements 216 within the attachment features 216 may be N3 type 5 magnets. Again, the net magnetic attraction is from about 1 Newton to at least 20 Newtons, wherein about 3 Newtons is required to activate the device attachment feature 108. The total magnetic attraction force FNET between the device 100 and the device 200 at the engagement surface 218 can be derived from the sum of all the net magnetic forces Fneti of all coupled magnetic elements. In other words, Fnet satisfies equation (5) Fnet^X" (5) where is the net magnetic attraction force Fneti of each of the n members. In one embodiment, the net magnetic attraction force Fneti and the meshing surface 21 8 are intersected by the magnetic field 12 and the magnetic-32-M430792 field 208. The intersecting portions are substantially orthogonal. In order to ensure that the total magnetic attraction force FNET along the meshing surface between the device 1 and the device 200 is uniform, within the attached feature configurations 1〇8 and 202 The separation distance between each corresponding magnetic element is reliably controlled. The separation distance can be reliably controlled by, for example, shaping the magnetic elements into shapes conforming to the shape of the devices. If installed 100. A housing having a curved (curved) shape, the magnetic elements within the device 100 can be shaped to conform to the curved shape. Furthermore, the magnetic elements can be used to provide magnetic properties for corresponding magnetic elements. The vectors are formed in a mutually aligned manner. In this way, the magnitude and direction of the net magnetic force can be controlled as desired. One result of aligning the magnetic vectors is the net magnetic force between each magnetic element. The direction can be reliably controlled. Moreover, by reducing the separation distance between the corresponding magnetic elements to a minimum 値, the net magnetic attraction force Fneti between each magnetic element can be maximized. Moreover, maintaining a substantially uniform separation distance between the different magnetic elements, a corresponding uniform magnetic force can be provided along the engagement surface 218. Also, FNET can be applied perpendicularly to the meshing surface by appropriately adjusting the magnetic vectors corresponding to the phases. In addition to minimizing the separation distance between the corresponding magnetic elements, the magnetic flux density between the corresponding magnetic elements can be increased by using a magnetic shunt. A magnetic separator made of a magnetically active material, such as steel or iron, can be placed at or near a magnetic element that has an effect on directing the magnetic flux lines in the desired direction. In this manner, the flux-33-M430792 line that would otherwise be propagated in a direction away from a corresponding sexual element can be partially redirected toward a desired direction, such as toward a device. A magnetic attachment zone between them to increase the overall magnetic flux density. Thus, increasing the magnetic flux density achievable between the magnetic elements can result in substantial enhancement of the net magnetic attraction force. Figure 8A shows an embodiment of the attachment feature configuration 110. In detail, the attachment feature 110 can be part of the outer casing 102. In detail, the attachment feature can include a magnetic element 4 0 2 that can be mounted to the projection 404 of the housing 102. The magnetic element 420 can vary widely. For example, magnetic element 402 can be configured as an array on the projection 404 for attaching at least a portion of an accessory device to a particular aspect of electronic device 100. For example, when the accessory device is in the form of a flap, the magnetic member 402 can be used to magnetically attach the flap to the electronic device 100 to cover at least a portion of the display. Widely changed. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8A, the array can be rectangular and shaped to include a substantial portion of the projection 404. Figure 8B shows a plurality of magnetic elements 410 that can be included in a fitting device as part of the attachment feature configuration 216. Some, but not all, of the magnetic elements 410 may correspond to the magnetic element 402 and be used to magnetically attach the accessory 200 to the electronic device 100. In another embodiment, all or a substantial portion of the magnetic elements 410 can be used to secure portions of the accessory device 200 together to form other support structures that can be used in conjunction with the electronic device. In an embodiment, the magnetic element 414 can be used to activate a magnetically sensitive circuit, such as a Hall effect sensor 118. Figures 9A-9C show representative magnetic-34-M430792 attachment features in accordance with a described embodiment. Construct 5 00. The magnetic attachment feature configuration 500 can correspond, for example, to the device attachment feature configuration 108 illustrated in Figures 6 and 7A-7C. In the non-operating state, the magnetic element within the magnetic attachment feature configuration 500 can be disposed away from the housing 1〇2 to minimize the magnetic field lines propagating through the housing 102. In another aspect, in an active state, the magnetic elements can be moved toward the outer casing 102 to increase the number of magnetic field lines propagating through the outer casing 102 to satisfy equation (2). The manner in which these magnetic components move can vary widely. In one example, the magnetic elements can be rotated, pivoted, translated, slipped, or the like. In one example, the magnetic elements can be disposed in a passage that allows the magnetic elements to slide from a first position corresponding to the inoperative to a second position corresponding to the action. In this particular embodiment, illustrated in Figures 9A-9C, the magnetic attachment feature 500 can include a magnetic element 502 that has a magnetic property that remains stable for a period of time. For example, the magnetic attachment characteristics remain stable during the expected lifetime of the electronic device Φ 100. In this way, the magnetic field created by the interaction of the magnetic fields of each of the magnets will also remain stable. The stability of the magnetic field produces the result of a repeatable attachment method. This repeatability is particularly useful when the electronic device 100 is subjected to an object that is continuously and accurately placed, such as the accessory device 200, with numerous, and repeated attachment cycles (attachment/separation). In the representative embodiment shown, the magnetic element 502 can take many forms. For example, the magnetic element 502 can be a plurality of in a particular order and have stable magnetic properties (e.g., magnetic pole and intrinsic magnetic strength). The -35- M430792 is configured in the form of a configured magnet. However, in order to satisfy the formula (1) when the magnetic attachment feature 500 is in an inactive state, the magnetic member 502 must maintain a distance of at least x = (XQ + t) from the outside of the outer casing 102. In other words, in order to satisfy equation (1), the dimensions of the magnetic attachment feature 500 must take into account at least the magnetic properties and physical layout of the magnetic element 502. Thus, the magnetic element 502 can be attached to a retaining mechanism 504 configured to apply a retention force Fretain. Retentivity

Fretain can be used to maintain the magnetic element 502 within the device attachment feature 500 when the device attachment feature 500 is in an inactive state, resulting in little or no leakage of magnetic flux to the electronic device 100. Outside (ie, at a position that satisfies equation (1)), in one embodiment, the retention mechanism 504 can be configured to provide retention according to equation (6)

Fretain's spring form:

Ke,cin=k-Ax (6) where k is the spring constant of the holding mechanism 504, and Δχ is the displacement of the spring from the equilibrium point. For example, Figure 9A shows the representative magnetic attachment feature 500 in an active state. By properly constructing the magnetic element 502 and the magnetic element within the accessory attachment feature 204, the magnetic interaction of the resulting magnetic element 502 with the magnetic field generated by the accessory attachment feature 204 can produce at least the activation of the magnetic The attachment feature constructs a net adsorption magnetic force that is as large as the adsorption magnetic force required for 500. In other words, the net sorption magnetic force can have a magnitude that satisfies at least the magnitude of the activation force Faet of equation (7), thereby overcoming the retention force Fretain causing the magnetic element 502 to move from the inactive position -36-M430792 (ie, χ = 0) To the active position (ie, χ = χ〇),

Fact ^ Fretain (Δχ = X〇) Equation (7) ο However, only the magnetic attachment feature configuration that produces a magnetic field having a characteristic of "matching" the magnetic field characteristics of the magnetic element 502 can activate the magnetic attachment feature configuration 5. 00. Thus, as shown in Figure 9C, the presence of an object 506 formed on the outer surface of the outer casing 102 (i.e., x = X() + t) with a magnetically active material (e.g., steel) cannot activate the magnetic attachment feature configuration 500 » More specifically, in one embodiment, the net magnetic attraction generated between the article 506 and the magnetic attachment feature 500 is less than 2 NT, and the activation force Fact requires a size of 3 NT. More specifically, in order to transition from an inactive state to an active state, the magnetic force generated between the magnetic element 502 and the object 506 must be greater than the activation force FACT. However, the magnetic flux generated by the magnetic element 502 located on the outer surface of the outer casing 102 has a magnetic flux density less than Bthresh (>ld, which produces substantially less magnetic force between the object 506 and the magnetic element 502. Equation (7) cannot be satisfied. Therefore, the magnetic element 502 remains fixed at a position of about x = 且 and the magnetic attachment feature configuration 500 cannot undergo a transition from an inactive state to an inactive state. It should be understood that The spring can vary widely. For example, it can vary depending on the type of motion. Examples of this include tension springs, compression springs, torsion springs, leaf springs, and the like. In a particular embodiment, the plates A spring is used. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the magnetic element 052 can be secured in a manner that does not require the use of a spring. In these embodiments, although the formula -37-M430792 (1) cannot be satisfied, it Still an implementable configuration. Figure 10 shows an embodiment of a device attachment feature configuration 600 in accordance with one embodiment of the present author. Attachment feature configuration 600 may correspond to a diagram 6 and elements 208 of Figures 7A-7C. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 9A-9C, but differs in that a plurality of mechanisms or more specifically a pair of magnetic elements 602 and magnetic elements 604 are used. Formal mechanism, rather than a single mechanism. In particular, Figure 10 shows the device attachment feature configuration 600 in an active state. More specifically, the spring 606 attached to the magnetic element 602 and the spring 608 attached to the magnetic element 604 Each is extended by a distance of Δ X. In this system, the two mechanisms cooperate to form the magnetic field. They can move independently or they can be connected together and move like a unit. The spring force and magnetic force can be changed. For example, the system can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. The configuration of the magnetic elements can be similar or different. The configuration of the magnetic elements can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. Depending on the needs of the system. The magnetic attachment system can take many forms, each of which provides a repeatable and precise magnetic attachment mechanism that can be used to properly build multiple The attached objects are attached together. Figure 11 A-11B shows a particular embodiment of the device attachment feature configuration 108 in the form of a device attachment feature configuration 700 in accordance with an embodiment. The device attachment feature configuration may correspond to Figures 6 and 7A- Element 108 is shown at 7C. In some examples, device attachment feature 70 can be used in conjunction with springs 606 and 608 shown in Figure 10. As shown in Figure 11A, device M430792 attachment feature 700 is shown. In other words, the device attachment feature 700 is in an inactive state having a magnetic element in the form of a magnetic component 702 that can be coated within an enclosure. In this manner, a magnetic A retention mechanism (not shown) of assembly 702 can apply an associated retention force Fretain. The retention force Fretain can be used to maintain the magnetic assembly 702 in a position that is consistent with the device attachment feature configuration 700 in an inactive state (i.e., satisfies equation (1)). Each of the magnetic components 702 includes an individual magnet. In the depicted embodiment, the individual magnets can be configured in a configuration in which the magnetic poles of the magnet can be oriented to form a coded magnetic structure. The encoded magnetic structure can be formed using a series of magnetic poles and magnetic strength in some examples. In other words, the series of magnetic poles can be represented by, for example, {+1, +1, -1, +1, -1, +1, -1, -1}. In this particular example, "+1" refers to the direction and strength of the magnet. Therefore, the positive sign "+" indicates that the corresponding magnet being aligned has a magnetic vector of Φ in a specific direction, the negative sign indicates a magnetic vector in an opposite direction, and "1" indicates the intensity of a unit magnet. When a plurality of magnets of the same magnetic pole are placed in close proximity to one another, the magnetic fields from each of the magnets can be combined such that the magnets can be considered equivalent to a single magnet having the magnets Combined characteristics. For example, the encoded magnetic sequence { + 1' +1, -1, +1, -1, +1, -1, -1} representing eight individual magnets can be considered equivalent to six The encoded magnetic sequence of the array of individual magnets { + 2, -1, +1, -1, +1, -2}. In one embodiment, the magnets at the first and last -39-M430792 positions may have the same magnetic strength as the other magnets in the array but are twice as large as the other magnets. On the one hand, the magnets in the first and last positions may have substantially the same size as the other magnets in the array but have twice the magnetic strength of the other magnets. In either case, the equivalence of magnetic properties provides a smaller sequence of edge-coded magnets. The smaller size helps to reduce weight and retains the valuable internal space required to accommodate the magnetic attachment feature. In addition, since the magnetic flux density is directly related to the area through which the magnetic field lines propagate, the resulting magnetic flux density increases as the area through which a given magnetic flux propagates decreases. In one embodiment, magnetic component 702 can include individual magnets 712a, 712b, and 712c having relative dimensions of 2L, 1L, and 1L, respectively, where "L" represents a unit length. It should be noted that, as discussed above, a magnet having a relative size of "2L" can be embodied as a single magnet having a solid length of "2L", two juxtaposed magnets having a length of "1L" and their The magnetic poles are aligned with each other, or a magnet having a unit length L and a magnetic strength twice that of other magnets. Thus, for the remainder of this discussion, with respect to the terms 2L and 1L, "L" can represent a unit length and the relative strength of the magnet can be represented by an associated number. For example, a magnet having a relative magnetic strength of "1" but a length of "2L" can be regarded as equivalent to a magnet having a relative magnetic strength of "2" and a length of "1 L". In this way, both relative magnetic strength and orientation can be used to form the encoded magnetic structure. For example, magnet 712a can have an overall length that is approximately twice the length of magnet 712b or 712c. On the other hand, the magnet 712a may have -40-M430792 having the same length as the magnets 712b and 712c, but having a magnetic strength which is twice the magnetic strength of the magnets 7 1 2b and 7 1 2c. In another embodiment, • magnet 712a may be an equivalent magnet formed by two or more magnetic poles of aligned constituent magnets. In one embodiment, the magnets 712a, 712b, 712c are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. For example, in one embodiment, the magnets are spaced apart from one another by the same distance. This spacing is of course based on the desired magnetic properties of the generated magnetic field φ. In another embodiment, those magnets having non-aligned poles may be magnetically attached to each other. In this manner, a magnetic bond formed between adjacent magnets can be used to maintain the integrity of the magnet sequence in the magnetic assembly. However, those magnets with aligned poles must hold them together by overcoming the force applied to the outside of the magnetic force that repels the reciprocal between the two aligned magnets. In addition to size and position, the poles of the magnets 712a, 712b, 712c can be selected based on the desired characteristics of the magnetic field being generated. While φ, in the illustrated embodiment, the magnetic elements are magnetically coupled end-to-end with each other to reduce the space required and to increase the magnetic flux density by reducing the overall area through which the magnetic field lines propagate. In particular, magnetic component 702 can have a particular set of polarity patterns in which magnets 712a, 712b, 712c are aligned (or misaligned) in a particular manner with their N or S poles. Oriented. For example, the magnets in the magnetic assembly 702 can be configured to form a first encoded magnetic structure {+ 1, -1, +1} in which the magnetic poles of the magnets 712a, 712b, 712c are based on the first polarity The pattern {PI, P2, -41 - M430792 P1} is aligned, the polarity pattern indicating that the magnetic pole of the magnet 712a is misaligned with respect to the magnet 712b, and the magnet 712b is misaligned with respect to the magnet 712c. The magnetic component 7〇2 may also include individual magnets 714a, 714b, 714c and have relative dimensions of 1L, 1L and 2L, respectively. Moreover, the magnets 714a, 714b, 714c can be configured such that their respective magnetic poles are aligned according to a second polarity mode {P2, PI, P2}, the second polarity mode and the first polarity mode {P1, P2, P1 } opposite (or complementary). With respect to the encoded magnetic structure, the magnets 714a, 714b, 714c can be aligned according to the second encoded magnetic sequence {-1, +1, -1}, the second encoded magnetic sequence and the first encoded The magnetic sequence { + 1, -1, +1} is opposite or complementary. The asymmetrical relationship between magnets 712a, 712b, 712c and 714a, 714b, 714c provides a magnetic field that is asymmetric with respect to centerline 716. 11A and 11B also show a particular embodiment of an accessory attachment feature 800 that can correspond to element 202 shown in Figures 6 and 7 A-7C. Magnetic component 802 can include a number of magnetic components. The magnetic elements can be configured in such a manner that the combined magnetic field matches the magnetic field of the magnetic component 702. The magnetic assembly 802 can include magnets 802a, 802b, 802c, each of which is substantially the same size as the corresponding magnets 712a, 712b, 712c of the magnetic assembly 702. However, in order to maximize the net magnetic attraction Fnet and drive the magnetic interaction between the magnetic fields to a desired balance, the magnets 802a, 802b, 802c are aligned according to the second polarity pattern {P2, PI, P2}. The magnetic assembly 802 can also include magnets 804a, 804b, 804c, each of which is substantially the same size as the corresponding magnets 714a, 714b, 714c. Again, in order to maintain the overall goal of magnetic interaction between the magnetic fields balanced in the desired device configuration, the magnets 804a, 804b, 804c can be aligned according to the first polarity pattern {PI, P2, P1}. FIG. 1B shows that the device attachment feature 700 is in this active state due to the magnetic interaction between the magnetic components 702 and 822. In particular, because the configuration of the magnetic elements of the device attachment feature configuration 700 is "matched" to the configuration of the magnetic elements of the accessory attachment feature configuration 800, the magnetic interaction between the magnetic fields can cause the magnetic assembly 702 to never function. The state (ie, X = 0) moves to the active state (ie, x = x〇). Figure 12 illustrates a series of relative displacement positions of the magnetic structure of the magnetic assembly 702 and one of the complementary magnetic structures of the magnetic assembly 822. Magnetic component 702 is encoded with an encoded sequence { + 2, -1, +1, -1, +1, -2}. Magnetic component 802 is encoded with an encoded sequence {-2, +1, -1, +1, -1, +2}. For this example, the magnets may have the same or substantially the same magnetic field strength (or amplitude). For this example, the magnetic field strength is provided as a unit (where A = phase absorption, R = phase exclusion, A = -R, A = 1, R = -l) » In this example, magnetic components 702 and 802 are each moved a length of "1 L" relative to each other (it should be noted that relative to the encoded magnetic The centerline of the sequence, 7 1 6 asymmetry, allows the result of shifting to the left to mirror the result of the shift to the right, so only the shift to the right is shown). For each opposing pair, the number of repulsive magnets plus the number of attracting magnets is calculated, and each alignment has a total force based on a magnetic function -43-M430792, which is based on the total force. The magnetic field strength of these magnets is based on. In other words, the total magnetic force between the first and second magnet structures is each magnet that interacts with the corresponding magnet directly in the opposite magnet structure at each magnet position from left to right along the structure. Or the sum of the individual forces of the magnet pair is determined. When only one magnet is present, the corresponding magnet is 〇 and the force is 〇. When two magnets are present, the force of each unit magnet is R (same pole) or A (opposite pole). The total magnetic force of each graph can be calculated and displayed along with the relative shift 每一 of each. Therefore, using a specific encoded magnetic sequence { + 2, -1, +1, -1, +1, -2}, the range of variation can be obtained from -3 (ie, 3R) to + 8 (ie, +8A). The net magnetic attraction Fnet, where the peaks occur when the magnetic components 702 and 822 are aligned such that their respective codes are also aligned. It should be noted that the net magnetic attraction from the peak varies between -3 and +4. Thus, the net magnetic attraction can cause the magnetic components 702 to substantially repel each other unless they are aligned such that each of their magnets is associated with a complementary magnet (ie, the south pole of one magnet and the other magnet) The North Pole is aligned, or vice versa). In other words, the magnetic components 702 and 802 are highly correlated when they are aligned such that they are substantially opposite each other. It should be noted that when the magnetic components 702 and 802 are 180 degrees out of phase (i.e., similar to head and tail misalignment, also referred to as upside down), the resulting net magnetic force may be 8R. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that the devices magnetically attached to each other by using the magnetic members 702 and 802 are attached upside down. Figure 13 shows a graph of two functions Fnet(L). The function Fnet(L) describes the net M430792 magnetic FNET as a function of the displacement displacement (L) of the encoded magnet structure in the magnetic assembly 702 and the magnetic assembly 802 shown in FIG. It should be noted that in the magnetic assemblies 702 and 802, the encoded magnet structures provide a symmetric nature with respect to the centerline 716 that the function FNET(L) is asymmetrical with respect to the centerline 716. In this manner, the results of Figure 12 can be drawn to the right of center line 7 16 and reflected relative to centerline 7 16 to be positioned to the left of graph 9000. As shown in Figure 13, the function FNET(L) has a global maximum when the magnetic components 702 and 802 are associated with each other at a position corresponding to the centerline 716. In other words, when all of the magnetic elements having the opposite magnetic poles in the magnetic components 702 and 802 are aligned with each other, the function FNET (L = 0) reaches a maximum 値 (β 卩, 8A). The result of any other configuration (i.e., the function FNET) is that the net magnetic force FNET is less than the global maximum 値 (8A). However, it should be further noted that the function FNET(L) has at least two local maximum chirps (i.e., the function FNET (L = ±3)) which allows for a weak attachment between the magnetic components 702 and 802. However, a strong durable attachment will only occur when the device magnetic attachment feature 700 associated with the magnetic assembly 702 is properly activated. Therefore, by establishing the activation force FACT that satisfies the equation (8), a "false activation" of the device magnetic attachment feature 700 or a weak adhesion between the magnetic device 702 and the 802 can be avoided. .

Fnet (L = local maximum 値) $ FactS Fnet (L = global maximum 値) equation (8). It should be noted that the activation force FACT is related to the retention force Fretain of the equation (6). In this way, considering the function FNET(L), Equations (6) and (8) can be used to determine a suitable number of spring constants k using -45-M430792. Figures 14 and 15 show that the magnetic elements can be removed. Other embodiments that are configured straight and horizontally. Moreover, the magnetic elements can be sized such that their magnetic poles also extend horizontally and vertically. For example, configuration 1 000 shows two columns of magnetic elements 'the height of each of the magnetic elements extends in the vertical direction. In the configuration shown, each of the vertically disposed magnetic elements has the same magnetic polarity to form an equivalent magnetic structure 1002. In other words, both configuration 1000 and configuration 1002 can be characterized as having encoded magnetic sequences 歹IJ { + 2, -2, +2, -2, +2, -2}°. Figure 15 shows the implementation in accordance with the description. A top view of a magnetic array of encoded magnetic sequence 1 004 that is constructed to form a two-dimensional image. The two-dimensional encoded magnetic sequence 1004 can be used to extend the combined magnetic field over an entire area extending in the X and y directions. This extended region produces an increase in magnetic flux and a net increase in the net magnetic attraction. In addition to providing an improved magnetic attachment, the two-dimensional encoded magnetic sequence 1004 can approximate non-integer magnetic properties, such as magnetic strength. For example, with the magnetic configuration 1004, the magnetic fields of the various components can be combined to approximate the encoded magnetic sequence { + 1.5 , -1.5, +1.5, -1.5, +1.5, -1.5}. Again, the two-dimensional coded magnetic sequence 1 〇〇 4 helps provide vertical alignment in addition to horizontal alignment. With regard to the remainder of this discussion, various embodiments of accessory device 200 will be discussed. In an embodiment, the accessory device 200 can include a plurality of protective components such that the M430792 can be used to protect portions of the electronic device 100. For example, accessory device 200 can be in the form of a protective cover. The protective cover can include a flap that is pivotally coupled to a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly can then be coupled to the electronic device 100 by the accessory attachment feature 202. In this manner, the flap portion can be used as a protective cover to protect portions of the electronic device 100, such as a display. The flaps can be formed from a variety of materials such as plastic, cloth, and the like. The flap may be segmented in such a manner that a section of the flap can be picked up to reveal a corresponding portion of the display. The flap may also include a functional component that cooperates with a corresponding functional component within the electronic device 100. In this manner, manipulating the flap can result in a change in the operation of the electronic device 100. The flap may comprise a magnetic material that can be used to activate a magnetically sensitive circuit within the electronic device 100 in accordance with, for example, the Hall effect. The magnetic sensitive circuit can be responsive by generating a signal which can then be used to change the operational state of the electronic device 100. Since the protective cover can be easily attached directly to the outer casing of the tablet device without a fastener, the protective cover can substantially follow the shape of the electronic device 100. In this manner, the protective cover will not detract or otherwise interfere with the appearance and texture of the electronic device 100. In an embodiment, the accessory device 200 can be used to enhance the overall functionality of the electronic device 100. For example, the accessory device 200 can be constructed to function as a suspension device. When magnetically attached to the electronic device 100, the accessory device 200 can be used to suspend the electronic device 100. In this manner, electronic device 100 can be used as a display for presenting visual content -47-M430792 (e.g., art, movies, photos, etc.). As a suspension device, the accessory device 200 can be used to hang the electronic device 100 on a wall or roof. The electronic device 100 can be removed simply by applying a release force sufficient to overcome the net magnetic attraction FNET. The accessory device 200 can be left in place and can be used later to reattach the electronic device 1 (or another device). In one embodiment, the accessory device 200 can also be in the form of a retention mechanism for attaching an object that is not magnetically attached to the electronic device 100 to the electronic device. For example, accessory device 200 can be constructed to carry a stylus or other input device. The stylus can be used to provide input to the electronic device 100. In some examples, the accessory device 200 can provide a signal to the electronic device 100 indicating the presence of the stylus. The signal can cause the electronic device 100 to enter, for example, a pen recognition state. In detail, when the accessory device 200 is magnetically attached to the electronic device 100, the electronic device 100 can be activated; an electric pen input state to recognize the input of the electric pen type. When the accessory device 200 is removed, the electronic device 100 can stop the electric pen input state. In this way, the stylus can be easily attached to or removed from the electronic device 100 when needed. Accessory device 200 can be in the form of a support that can be used to enhance the functionality of the electronic device 100. For example, the accessory device 200 can be configured to function as a display stand on which the display of the electronic device 100 can be viewed at a comfortable viewing angle, such as 75°. In other words, when placed on a horizontal surface (such as a table or desk), the accessory device 200 can support the visual content M430792 presented on the display at a viewing angle of about 75°. Electronic device 100° • The accessory device 200 can also be in the form of a support for enhancing the functionality of the electronic device 100 in the state of the keyboard. In the keyboard state, the accessory device 200 can be used to present a touch of the keyboard surface at an ergonomic perspective. In this manner, the input touch event can be implemented A (e.g., for a virtual keyboard) at an angle that does not burden the user's wrists, hands, arms, and the like.

The remainder of this discussion will describe a particular embodiment of a device that can use the magnetic attachment system. In particular, Figures 16A and 16B show the electronic device 1 presented in the form of a tablet device 1100 in a top perspective view and the accessory device 200 is presented in a lid assembly 1200. These elements generally correspond to any of the above mentioned. In particular, Figures 16A and 16B show perspective views of the tablet unit 1100 and the lid assembly 1 200 in an open configuration. For example, Figure 16A shows a φ device attachment feature 108 included in the tablet device 1100 and its relationship to the tablet device 1100. On the other hand, Fig. 16B is a view of Fig. 16A rotated by 180 to provide an attachment feature 202 and a second view thereof in relation to the cover assembly 1200. The tablet device 1100 may be in the form of a tablet computing device such as the iPADTM manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, California. Referring now to Figure 16A, tablet device 1100 can include a housing 1102 that can enclose and support the device attachment feature 108. In order not to interfere with the magnetic field generated by the device attachment feature 108, at least the portion of the outer-49-M430792 case 1102 adjacent to the device attachment feature 108 can be any number of non-magnetic materials (eg, plastic or non-magnetic). A metal such as aluminum is formed. The housing 1102 can also surround and support various internal structural members and electronic components (including integrated circuit chips and other circuitry) to provide transport operations for the tablet device 1100. The housing 1102 can include an opening 1 104 for placing the internal components and can be sized to accommodate a display assembly or a system adapted to provide visual content to the user via, for example, a display. In some examples, the display assembly can include touch sensitive capabilities to provide the user with the ability to use tactile input to provide tactile input to the tablet device 1100. The display assembly can be formed in a number of layers comprising an uppermost layer in the form of a transparent cover glass 1106 made of polycarbonate or other suitable plastic or highly polished glass. By using highly polished glass, the cover glass 1106 can be in the form of a cover glass 1106 that substantially fills the opening 1104. Although not shown, the display assembly underneath the cover glass 1106 can be used to display images by using any suitable display technology, such as LCD, LED, OLED, electronic or electronic ink, and the like. The display assembly can be placed and secured within the recess by the use of various mechanisms. In an embodiment, the display assembly is press fit into the pocket. The display assembly can be placed flush with the abutment portion of the housing. In this manner, the visual content that the display can present includes visual, still images, and icons, such as providing information to the user (eg, text, objects, graphics) and accepting input provided by the user. Graphical user interface (GUI). In some examples, the displayed image can be moved by the user M430792 to a more convenient location on the display. In some embodiments, a display mask can be applied to or incorporated within the cover glass 1106. The display mask can be used to emphasize that the display is used to present an uncovered portion of the visual content and can be used to make the device attachment feature 108 and the fixed attachment feature configuration 11 inconspicuous. The tablet device 1100 can include a variety of ports that can be used to communicate information between the tablet device 1100 and the external environment. In particular, data 埠 1108 facilitates the transfer of data and circuitry, while speaker 1110 can be used to output audio content. A home button 1112 can be used to provide an input signal that can be used by a processor within the tablet device 11. The processor can use the signal from the home button 1112 to change the operational state of the tablet device 1100. For example, the home button 111 2 can be used to reset the current page presented by the display device component. In an embodiment, the accessory device 200 can be in the form of a cover assembly 1 200. The lid assembly 1 200 has an appearance and texture that can be added to the overall appearance and texture of the tablet device 1100 in accordance with the appearance and texture of the tablet device 1100. The lid assembly 1 200 is shown in Figures 16A and 16B and is attached to the tablet unit 1100 in an open configuration in which the cover glass 1106 can be viewed in its entirety. The cover assembly 1 200 can include a flap 1202. In an embodiment, the flap 1202 can have a size and shape corresponding to the cover glass 1106. The flap 1202 can be pivotally coupled to the fitting attachment feature formation 2〇2 by a hinge assembly (not shown). The magnetic adhesion between the attachment feature 202 and the device attachment feature -51 - M430792 configuration 108 maintains the lid assembly 12 and the tablet device 1100 in face of the flap 1 202 and the cover glass 1106. The proper orientation and location. Appropriate orientation means that the lid assembly 1200 can only be properly attached to the tablet device 1100 in a mating-aligned manner with the flap 1 202 and the cover glass 11〇6. The mating engagement between the cover glass 1106 and the flap 1 202 means that when the flap 1 202 is placed in contact with the cover glass 1106 as shown in Figure 17A, the flap 1 202 substantially covers all of the cover glass. 1106. 17A and 17B show that the lid assembly 1200 and the tablet device 1100 are magnetically attached to each other. Figure 17A shows the closed configuration in which the cover glass 1106 is completely covered by the flap 1 202 and in contact with the flap 1 202. The lid assembly 1200 is pivotable about the hinge assembly 1204 from the closed state of Figure 17A to the open state of Figure 17B. In the closed configuration, the inner layer 1206 of the lid assembly 1200 can be in contact with the cover glass 1 106. In an embodiment, the inner layer 1 206 can be formed from a material that is capable of passively cleaning the cover glass 1106. Passive cleaning of the inner layer 1206 of the cover glass 1106 can be achieved by movement of the portion of the inner layer 1206 that is in contact with the cover glass 1106. In a particular embodiment, the inner layer 206 can be formed from a microfiber material. In order to transition from the closed configuration to the open configuration, an release force Frelease can be applied to the flap 1202. The release force FreUase overcomes the magnetic attraction between the attachment feature 216 within the flap 1 202 and the attachment feature 110 within the tablet 1100. Thus, the lid assembly 1200 can be secured to the tablet device 1 100 until the Frelease is applied to the flap 1202 by the M430792. In this manner, the flap 1202 can be used to protect the cover glass 1106. For example, the lid assembly 1200 can be magnetically attached to the tablet device 1100. The flaps 1202 can then be placed on the cover glass 1106 and magnetically secured to the cover glass 1106 by magnetic interaction between the attachment features 110 and 216. The flap 1 202 can be detached from the cover glass 1106 by applying the Frelease directly to the flap 1 202. The Frelease overcomes the magnetic attraction between the attachment features 110 φ and 216. Therefore, the flap 1 202 can be detached from the cover glass 1106 without any hindrance. In order to maintain good magnetic attachment between the flap 1 202 and the attachment feature 110, the flap 1202 can include a plurality of magnetic elements. Some of the magnetic elements in the flap 1 202 can interact with corresponding magnetic elements within the attachment feature formation 110. The net magnetic attraction generated between the magnetic elements is strong enough to prevent the flap 1 202 from being accidentally released from the cover glass 1106 during normal handling. However, the net magnetic attraction can be overcome by the F r e 1 e a s e. FIG. 18 shows a top view of a particular embodiment of the lid assembly 1200 presented in a segmented lid assembly 1300. The segmented lid assembly 1 300 can include a body 13〇2. The body 1 302 can have a size and shape corresponding to the cover glass 1106 of the tablet device 1100. The body 1 302 can be fabricated from a single piece of foldable or pliable material. The body 1 302 can also be segmented into segments, the segments and segments being separated from one another by a fold. In this way, the segments can be folded relative to each other at the fold regions. In one embodiment, the body 1302 can be formed from a plurality of layers of material - 53 - M430792. The layers of material are attached to each other to form a laminate structure. Each layer of material may be in the form of a single piece of material' having a size and shape that conforms to the body 1302. Each material layer may also have a size and shape that corresponds only to a portion of the body 1302. For example, a layer of hard or semi-rigid material that is substantially the same size and shape as a segment can be attached to or otherwise associated with the segment. In another example, a layer of hard or semi-rigid material having a size and shape corresponding to the body 1302 can be used to provide the basis for the resilient lid assembly 1 300. It should be noted that each of the layers of material may be formed from a material having the desired characteristics. • For example, a layer of the segmented lid assembly 1300 that is in contact with a frangible surface (eg, glass) may be used. A soft material that does not damage or otherwise damage the fragile surface is formed. In another embodiment, a material such as a microfiber can be used that passively cleans the frangible surface. In another aspect, a layer of material exposed to the external environment can be formed from a coarser and more durable material, such as, for example, plastic or leather. In a particular embodiment, the segmented body 13 02 can be segmented into several Fragments 1 304-1 3 1 0 are separated by a thin, foldable portion 1312. Each of the segments 1 304-1 3 10 can include one or more inserts disposed therein. For example, the segments can include a pocket-shaped region that can be disposed within the pocket regions or the inserts can be embedded within the segments (e.g., insert molded). If a pocket is used, the pocket can have a size and shape that can accommodate a corresponding insert. The inserts can have a variety of shapes, but most typically are shaped to conform to the overall appearance of the segment body 1302 of the -54-M430792 (e.g., rectangular). The inserts can be used to provide structural support. Give the fragmented ontology • 1 302. That is, the inserts provide rigidity to the lid assembly. In some examples, the inserts may be referred to as stiffeners. Thus, the lid assembly is relatively rigid, except for portions along the fold regions that are relatively thin and do not include the inserts (to allow for folding), allowing the segmented lid assembly 1300 More durable and easier to operate. In an embodiment 0, the ratio of the segments 1 304, 1 306, and 1310 relative to the segment 1 308 may be about 0.72 to 1, indicating that the width of the segments 1304, 1306, and 1310 is about the width of the segment 1308. 72%. In this manner, a triangle with a suitable angle can be formed (i.e., about 75° for the display stand and about 1 用于 for the keyboard stand, as will be discussed below). Segments 13 06, 1308, and 1310 can include inserts 1314, 1 3 1 6, and 1 3 1 8 (shown in dashed lines), respectively. The insert 1 3 1 4-1 3 1 8 can be formed of a hard material or a semi-rigid material which increases the elasticity of the body 1300. Examples of materials that can be used include plastics, fiberglass, carbon fiber compositions, metals, and the like. The segment 1304 can include an insert 1 3 20 that is also made of an elastomeric material (eg, plastic) but is configured to receive the magnetic elements 1 322, a portion of which can be associated with a magnetic component within the tablet device 1100 , more specifically for the attachment features to construct 1 1 〇, interaction. Because of the ability of the segmented body 1302 to be folded, more specifically the ability of the different segments to fold relative to each other, most of the magnetic elements 1322 can be used with the magnetic-55 embedded in the insert 1318. - M430792 Acting insert 1324 magnetically interacts. By magnetically bonding the active insert 1324 to the magnetic elements 1322, different support structures can be formed, a portion of which can be triangular in shape. The triangular support structures can assist in the use of the tablet device 1100. For example, a triangular support structure can be used to support the tablet device 11 in a manner that visual content can be presented at a desired viewing angle of about 75 degrees from the horizontal clip. However, in order to be able to properly fold the segmented cover 1300, the segment 1308 can be made slightly larger than the segments 13 04, 1 3 06 and 1310 (which are approximately the same size). In this manner, the segments can form a triangle having two equilateral sides and a longer third side, the triangle having an internal angle of about 75°. The method of forming at least one triangular support structure can include a segment 13〇4' folded relative to the segment 1306-1310 in a manner that most of the magnetic elements 1322 embedded within the insert 1 320 magnetically attract the magnetically acting insert 1324. . In this manner, segment 1304 and segment 1310 can be magnetically bonded together to form a triangular support structure of appropriate dimensions. The triangular rubbing structure can be used as a pedestal on which the tablet device 1100 can be placed such that the visual content can be about 75. The angle is presented. In another example, the segmented lid 13 can be folded to form a triangular support structure that can be used as a keyboard support. The segmented lid 13 can also be folded to form a triangular support structure that can be used to hang the tablet device 1100 on a horizontal support (such as a ceiling) or a vertical support (such as a wall). . The lid assembly 13 00 can be pivotally attached to the -56-M430792 accessory attachment feature 202 by a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly can provide one or more pivot pins for allowing the cover to be folded over the cover while the cover assembly is attached to the device. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge assembly can include a first hinge portion (also referred to as a first end projection) 13 28 and a second hinge portion disposed opposite the first end projection (or Second end projection) 1 3 3 0. The first end projection 1 3 28 can be rigidly coupled to the second end projection by a connecting rod 1 3 3 2 (shown in dashed lines) contained within the tube portion of the segment body 1 302 1330. The longitudinal axis of the connecting rod 1332 can function as a pivot axis 1333 about which the segment body can pivot relative to the hinge assembly. The connecting rod 1332 can be fabricated from a metal or plastic that is strong enough to rigidly support the lid assembly 1 300 and any articles that are magnetically attached to the magnetic attachment formation 202, such as the flat panel device 1100. In order to prevent metal from contacting the metal, the first end projection 1 328 and the second end projection 1330 may each have a protective layer 1336 and 1338 attached thereto. Protective layers (also referred to as bumpers) 1336 and 1338 prevent first end projections 1 32 8 and second end projections 1 3 3 0 from coming into direct contact with the outer casing 1102. This is particularly important when both the first end projection 1328 and the second end projection 1330 and the outer casing 1102 are made of metal. The presence of the cushioning members 1336 and 1338 prevents metal-to-metal contact between the end projections and the outer casing 11〇2 to eliminate substantial wear and tear at the contact points (which reduces the overall appearance and texture of the tablet device 1100). . In order to maintain their protective qualities, the cushioning members 1336 and 1338 can be made of a resilient, durable material that prevents damage to the -57-M430792 of the outer surface of the tablet device 1100. This is particularly important because the tolerances required for good magnetic attachment are tight and the number of attachment cycles expected during the life of the tablet unit 1100 is large. Thus, cushioning members 1336 and 1338 can be made of soft plastic, cloth or paper that can be attached to the end projections by the use of any suitable adhesive. It should be noted that the cushioning members can be removed and replaced with new cushioning members when needed. The first end protrusion 13 28 and the second end protrusion 1330 can be magnetically connected to the electronic device by the hinge span 1 340, and the hinge span 1 340 is constructed to be opposite to the end The convex part pivots. This pivoting can be achieved using hinge posts 13 42 (a portion of which can be exposed). The hinge strut 1 342 can rotatably secure the hinge span 1 340 to the first end projection 1328 and the second end projection 1330. The hinge span 1340 can include a magnetic element. The magnetic elements can be configured to magnetically attach the hinge span 1340 to a magnetic attachment feature configuration having a mating configuration of magnetic elements within the electronic device. In order to secure the magnetic elements in the position within the hinge span 1 340, the hinge struts 1 342 can be used to secure the magnetic elements at the ends of the hinge span 1 340, reducing the The magnetic elements within the hinge span 1 340 move around to disturb the possibility of magnetic attachment between the hinge span 1 340 and the magnetic attachment features within the electronic device. In order to ensure that there is no interference between the magnetic element within the hinge span 1 340 and the corresponding magnetic element within the electronic device, the hinge span 1 13 can be made of a non-magnetic material, such as plastic, or non-magnetic. Made of metal, such as aluminum. Metal-to-metal contact between the hinge span 1 340 and the outer casing 1102 of the electronic device 1100 when the hinge span 1 340 is fabricated from a metal such as aluminum that is non-magnetically acting M430792 Can be prevented by using the protective layer 1344. When the hinge span member 1 340 and the electronic device 1 100 are magnetically attached to each other, a protective layer 1344 can be applied to the surface of the hinge span member 1 340 facing the outer casing 1102. The protective layer 1344 (also referred to as label 1 344) can be fabricated from a number of materials that do not damage the surface of the outer casing 1102. These materials may include, for example, paper, cloth, plastic, and the like.

W Figures 19A and 19B show details of two embodiments of the hinge span 1340. In particular, Figure 19A shows an embodiment 14 00 of a hinge span wherein a magnetically passive spacer is used to separate and secure the magnetic components. In particular, the hinge span 1400 can enclose and support a magnetic element 1402 that is used by the magnetic attachment feature 202 to magnetically attach the segmented lid assembly 1 300 to the tablet device 1 1〇〇 . The magnetic elements 1402 can be configured in a particular configuration, with Φ matching the corresponding magnetic elements within the device attachment feature 108 of the tablet device 110. In this manner, the segmented lid assembly 1 300 and the tablet device 1100 can be attached to each other accurately and reproducibly. In order to maintain a repeatable and stable magnetic engagement for a long period of time, the magnetic elements 1 402 can be maintained in a stable configuration. In other words, the magnetic elements 1402 within the hinge span 1400 should remain in their relative positions and poles for a prolonged period of time relative to corresponding magnetic elements in the magnetic attachment system of the tablet device 1100. This is particularly important when the cover subassembly 1 300 and/or the expected lifetime of the tablet unit 1100 -59-M430792 is expected to have repeated attachment cycles. Here, to ensure the integrity of the magnetic engagement throughout the many attachment cycles, the configuration of the magnetic elements 1402 can remain substantially relative to each other and to the corresponding magnetic elements within the device attachment feature configuration 108. fixed. Thus, in order to ensure that the physical layout of the magnetic elements 1 402 remains substantially stationary, the entanglement material 1404 can be inserted between the different magnetic elements 1402 within the hinge span 1400. The filling material 1404 can be a non-magnetic material such as plastic. The squeezing material 1404 can be formed into a shape that can be embedded in a gap space between magnetic elements. In this manner, the magnetic element 1402 can be maintained in a fixed and stable configuration for a long period of time. In another aspect, Figure 19B shows another embodiment in which the hinge span 1340 is presented in the form of a hinge span 1410 that utilizes mutual magnetic attraction between physically adjacent magnetic elements to secure the magnetic components to Positioning. In this way, the number of constituent parts can be reduced. Furthermore, since the area occupied by the magnetic elements 1 402 is reduced, the corresponding magnetic flux density can be improved. However, the end plug 1412 can be used to secure the magnetic elements positioned at the ends of the hinge span 1410. When the magnetic elements positioned at the ends of the hinge span 1410 have aligned poles, the end plugs 1412 must be used to overcome the net magnetic mutual repulsion. In addition to the end plug 1412, another embodiment can provide a centrally disposed spacer 1 14 14 . The centrally disposed spacers 1 4 1 4 can be made of a magnetically passive material and can be used to secure the magnetic elements 1402 in position. Figure 19C shows that when the segmented lid assembly 1 300 is magnetically attached to the tablet device 1100, the hinge span member 1340 forms a portion of the mating surface. In particular, the label 1 344 is shown attached to the hinge span 1 340 by using an adhesive (e.g., glue). It should be noted that the label 134 is configured to conform to the shape of the portion of the outer casing 1 102 that forms part of the engagement surface. In this way, the separation distance between the corresponding magnetic elements can be minimized. Figure 20A shows a representative side view of a segmented φ lid assembly 1 300 that is magnetically attached to the tablet device 1100. Figure 20B shows a representative cross-sectional view of the segmented lid assembly 1300/plate apparatus 1100 taken along line A-A of Figure 18. Fig. 20B shows a covered form and Fig. 20C shows a form folded back, which completely exposes the protective layer 1106 of the tablet device 1100. Figure 21A shows a cross-sectional side view 1500 of the hinge span 1 340 magnetically attached to the outer casing 1 102 having a curved shape. In this embodiment, the outer casing 1 102 may have a curved shape and be made of a non-magnetic material φ (e.g., aluminum). Magnetic element 152 can be included within device attachment feature 108 of tablet device 1100. In some embodiments, in order to prevent metal from metal contact, in embodiments where the magnetic element 1 502 is metal, a protective film can be attached to an engagement surface of the magnetic element 105, which prevents the magnetic element. The 1 502 is in direct contact with the housing 1102. When considering the magnetic meshing force between the corresponding magnetic members, the protective film can be thin enough to be ignored. If the magnetic element 1 502 is not made of metal or if the portion of the outer casing 1102 that is in contact with the magnetic element 1 502 is not metal, the protective film may not be necessary. - 61 - M430792 Magnetic element 1 502 can magnetically interact with a corresponding magnetic element 1504 within the hinge span 1 340. Magnetic element 1 504 can have a thickness of about 2 mm. The magnetic interaction produces a net magnetic attraction FNET that satisfies equation (3a), wherein the separation distance xsep is approximately equal to the sum of the thickness t of the outer casing 1102 and the thickness "丨" of the label 1344. The thickness "Γ" may be about 0.2 mm. Therefore, in order to minimize the separation distance Xsep (and thereby increase the Fnet), the magnetic member 1502 may be formed to conform to the shape of the inner surface 1 506 of the outer casing 1102. The label 1 344 and the magnetic element 1 504 can each be shaped to conform to the outer surface 158 of the outer casing 1102. In this manner, the distance between the magnetic element 1 502 and the magnetic element 1 504 It can be reduced to about the thickness t of the outer casing 1102 and the thickness 1 of the label 1344. # In order to further improve the net magnetic attraction Fnet between the magnetic elements 1 502 and 1 504, the magnetic shunt 1510 can be Adhesive to the portion of the magnetic element 154 away from the outer casing 1102 and surrounding the portion. The magnetic separator 1510 can be fabricated from a magnetically active material such as steel or iron. The magnetically active material can be directed away from the magnetic element. The magnetic flux line of 1 502 is redirected to the outer casing 1102, thereby increasing the total magnetic flux density B TOTA L * between the magnetic element 1502 and the magnetic element 1 504 resulting in a corresponding increase in the net magnetic attraction force FNET. The splitter 1510 The outer casing 1512 is glued to the hinge span 1 340. It should be noted that in order to ensure that only the label 1 344 contacts the outer surface 1 5 08 of the outer casing 1102 (to avoid metal-to-metal contact), the label 13 44 protrudes (i.e., protrudes) from the outer casing 1512 of the hinge span member 1340 by a distance of about "d". Nominally, the distance M430792d may be about 〇1 mm. Because of the net magnetic attraction FNET and cooperation The separation distance between the magnetic elements is partially related, so the overall integrity between the magnetic attachment system of the tablet device 11 and the magnetic components within the hinge span 1 340 is subject to actual separation between the cooperating magnetic components. The effect of the distance and the uniformity of the separation distance along the length L of the hinge span 1340. In order to provide a highly correlated magnetic attraction along the hinge span 1 340, the hinge span 1 340 The separation distance between the magnetic element and the magnetic element of the magnetic attachment system within the tablet device 1100 is well controlled. Figure 21B shows the hinge span 1 1 40 magnetically attached to the housing 1102 having a flat surface. Figure 1 550. In this configuration, the label 1 344 and the magnet 1 5 54 each conform to the flat shape of the outer casing 1102. To ensure that the net magnetic attraction is along the length of the hinge span 1 340 Consistency, the components of the hinge span 1 340 can be assembled using a fixture 1600, as shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 22A and the perspective view of Figure 22B. The fixture 16 00 can have a surface 1 602 that conforms to the shape of the outer surface of the outer casing 1102. In order to assemble the hinge span 1 340 in a manner that ensures a consistent magnetic attraction along the length L of the hinge span 1 340 (and to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance), the label 1344 is temporarily attached to the surface 1602 of the fixture 1 600. Since the surface 16〇2 substantially volatizes the row of the outer surface 1508, the label 1 344 will have a shape that also conforms to the shape of the outer surface 15008. In an embodiment, a portion of the true -63-M430792 can be created in the fixture 1600, which allows the label 13 44 to adhere to the surface 1602 under suction. In this manner, the assembled hinge span can be removed from the surface 1 602 by removing the partial vacuum. - but the label 1 344 is fixed to the surface 106 of the fixture 1 600, and the magnetic element 1 504 can be placed in direct contact with the label 1 344 and attached to the label 1 by using any suitable adhesive 344. In order to reduce the separation distance as much as possible, the magnetic element 1 504 may have a shape conforming to both the label 1 344 and the surface 1 602 in such a manner as to conform to the shape of both the label 13 44 and the magnetic element 1504. It can be ensured that the separation distance between the magnetic elements 1 506 and 1 52 is minimal. The magnetic element 1 504 can then be glued to the magnetizer 1510 made of a magnetically active material (e.g., steel) for focusing the magnetic flux toward the magnetic element 1502. The splitter 1510 can then be encapsulated and glued to the outer casing 1512 of the hinge span member, leaving the label 1 344 about d = 0.1 mm projecting from the outer casing 1521. In addition to providing protection for the tablet device 1100, the segmented lid assembly 1 300 can be operated to form a useful support structure. Thus, Figures 23 through 26 show a useful configuration of the lid assembly 1 300 in accordance with the described embodiment. For example, as shown in Figure 23, the segmented lid assembly 1 300 can be folded such that the magnetically active portion of the insert 1 324 magnetically interacts with the magnetic element 1 322. It should be noted that the magnetic force used to maintain the triangular support structure 1700 is between about 5 and 10 Newtons (NT). In this manner, the triangular support structure 1 700 can be prevented from unintentionally unfolding. The triangular M430792 support structure 1700 can be formed to be used to support the tablet device 1 100 in a number of ways. For example, the triangular support structure 1700 can be used to support the tablet device 11 in a manner that places the touch surface 172 relative to a support surface at an ergonomic angle. In this way, the user's use of the touch surface 172 will be a friendly experience. This is particularly remarkable in the case where the touch surface is used for a long time. For example, a virtual keyboard cocoa is presented on the touch surface 1702. The virtual keyboard can be used to input data to the tablet device 1100. By using the triangular support structure 1 700 to support the tablet device 1100 at an ergonomic angle, the detrimental effects of repeated motion can be reduced or even eliminated. 24A and 24B show another folding operation of the segmented lid assembly 1300, wherein the triangular support structure 1700 can be used to support the tablet unit 1 1 〇〇 in a viewing state. Viewing state means that visual content (visual, still photos, cartoons, etc.) can be presented at an angle of 75° to the viewer's perspective. In this "kickstand" state, visual content can be presented in an easy to view angle. The viewable area of the tablet unit 11〇〇 can be presented at an angle of about 75° which is within an optimal viewing angle range that produces good viewing experience. Figures 25A and 25B show the segmented lid assembly 1 300 being folded into different suspension embodiments. The suspension embodiment means that by folding the segmented lid assembly 13 00 into a suitable triangle, the tablet device 1100 can be suspended from above into the form of a spreader 1 900 as shown in Fig. 26A. The spreader 1 900 can be used to suspend the tablet device 1100 from above. For example, the spreader 19 00 can be suspended directly from the ceiling by the -65-M430792 by using a support (e.g., a rod). The spreader 1 900 can be magnetically engaged with the magnetically acting insert 1 324 made of steel or iron by simply folding the segmented lid assembly 1300 in a first direction until the embedded magnets 1 322 magnetically engage the magnets 1 322 Produced so far. The magnetic circuit created by the engagement of the embedded magnets 1 32 with the magnetically acting inserts 1 324 provides sufficient support for the panel device 1100 to be safely suspended from any horizontally aligned support structure. 25B shows a spreader implementation suitable for suspending the tablet device 1100 on a vertically aligned support structure, such as a wall. In particular, the spreader 1910 can be mechanically attached to a wall or other vertical support structure. The spreader 1910 can then be used to suspend the panel device 1100, such as a wall mount. In this manner, the tablet device 1100 can be used to present visual content, such as a visual display for visual content, or a wall mount for still images such as photographs, artwork, and the like. Figures 26A-26B show that the triangular support structure 1 700 can be used as a handle configuration 2000. By folding the segmented lid assembly 1 300, the segments interact with each other to form a triangular support structure that can be used as a handle. Therefore, the tablet device 1100 can be picked up as if a person picked up a book. The body of the segmented lid assembly 1300 provides a convenient gripping configuration that can more securely hold the triangular support structure 1700 when the triangular support structure is used to hold the tablet device 1100 as a book. In the example where the tablet device 1100 includes image capturing devices (e.g., front facing camera 2002 and rear facing camera 2004), M430792 visual content can be presented by the tablet device 1100. In this manner, the triangular support structure 1 70 0 can be used as a grip as a camera grip. Thus, the triangular support structure 1700 can provide a convenient and efficient mechanism that assists during image capture. For example, when the tablet device 1100 is used to capture an image, the tablet device 1100 can be stably held by the triangular support structure 17 00 and the rearward facing camera 2004 can be pointed at an object. An image of the object can then be presented on the display of the tablet device 11A as shown in Figure 25B. In this manner, the forward facing camera 2002 and/or the rear facing camera 2004 can be used to capture still images or video, such as in a video chat, or simply to view a video presentation. As part of the video chat, a virtual chat participant can easily perform a video conversation while using the triangular support structure 1700 to hold the tablet device 1 00. Figures 27A-27C show the lid assembly 1 300 and the form 2100 of the tablet unit 1100 showing the voyeur mode operation referred to as the tablet unit 11〇〇. In particular, when the segment 13 〇 4 is picked up from the cover glass 106, the sensor in the tablet device 11 detects the segment 1304 and only the segment 1304 is from the glass layer 1106. Was picked up. Upon detection, the tablet device 1 100 can activate only the exposed portion 2102 of the display. For example, the tablet device 11 can utilize a Hall effect sensor to detect that the segment 1034 has been picked up from the glass cover 1106. Additional sensors (such as optical sensors) can detect if only segment 13 04 is picked up or if additional segments are picked up. As shown in FIG. 27B, when the tablet device 1100 decides that only the segment-67-M430792 1 304 is picked up, the tablet device 1100 can change the operation state to the "peeping" state, and the exposed portion of the display in the voyeur state 2 1 02 Presents the visual content of the image (icon) 2 104. Thus, information in the form of visual content (e.g., time, date, notes, etc.) can be provided for viewing only in the viewable portion of the display. Once the sensor detects that the segment 13 04 is placed back on the glass layer 1106, the tablet device 1 100 can revert to the previous operational state, such as a sleep state. Moreover, in another embodiment, when an image set to respond to the touch is displayed, the portion of the touch sensitive layer corresponding to the visible portion of the display can also be activated. Again, as shown in Figure 27C, when additional segments are picked up from the cover glass 1106 to further expose the second portion 2106 of the cover glass 1106, the second portion 2106 of the display can be activated" in this manner, In this "expanded" voyeur mode, additional visual information (e.g., image 2108) can be presented on the activated portion of the display. It should be noted that when the segment is picked up from the cover glass 1106, additional segments of the display can be activated. In this way, an expanded voyeur mode can be provided. Alternatively, the tablet device 1100 can respond to the sense of Hall effect by simply activating the display when the flap is removed from the display and closing (sleeping) the display when the display is covered by the flap. The signal of the detector. In an embodiment, a subset of the magnetic elements 1 322 can be mated with a corresponding magnetic element 402 within the attachment feature 110 to secure the cover assembly 1 300 to the M430792 cover glass of the tablet device 1100. 11 06 on. Also, at least magnet 1326 can be used to activate the magnetically sensitive circuit 404. For example, when the segmented cover 1300 is placed over the cover glass 1106 of the tablet device 1100, the magnetic field from the magnet 1326 can be detected by the magnetic sensitive circuit 404 (which can be in the form of a Hall effect sensor). The detection of the magnetic field can cause the Hall effect sensor 118 to generate a signal that can cause a change in the operational state of the tablet device 11. For example, when the Hall effect sensor 1 1 8 detects that the segment cover 1 300 is in contact with the cover glass 1106 (which means the display is not viewable), the signal sent by the Hall sensor 118 It can be interpreted by the processor within the tablet device _ 1100 to change the current operational state to a sleep state. On the other hand, when the segment 1 3 04 is picked up from the cover glass 1106, the Hall effect sensor 118 can return the magnetic field of the magnet 1326 by sending another signal to the processor. except. The processor can interpret the signal by changing the current operational state again. This change can include changing the operational state from a sleep state to an active state. In another embodiment, the processor can interpret the signals sent by the Hall effect sensor 118 and other sensors by changing the operating state of the tablet device 1100 to the voyeur state, in the voyeur mode. Only the display is activated by the exposed portion of the segment 1304 and can display visual content and/or receive (or send) visual input. In some examples, when segment 1 306 is picked up from the cover glass 1106 at the same time, the Hall effect sensor 118 will indicate that the segment 1304 is also picked up, other than the Hall effect sensor 118. The presence of the detector -69-M430792 can cause the processor to enter an expanded voyeur mode in which additional display resources corresponding to the portion of the display that is additionally exposed are also activated. For example, if the tablet device 00 includes other sensors (eg, optical sensors) that can detect the presence of a particular segment, the signals from the Hall effect sensor 118 can be provided in conjunction with other sensor signals. The processor indicates that a particular portion or portions of the display component are currently viewable and can present visual content. FIG. 28A shows a lid assembly 2200 in accordance with a particular embodiment. The lid assembly 2200 can include a segmented cover 22 02 attached to the pivot assembly 2204, which is shown in an exploded view. The pivoting assembly 22 04 can include end projections 2206 and 2208 that are enclosed by a hinge span 2210 and a connecting rod 22 12 (which can be enclosed within a sleeve 2214 that is attached or enclosed The segmented cover 2202 is not visible in the interior and is pivotally connected to each other. In this manner, at least two pivot axes 2216 and 2218 can be provided to pivotally move the end projections 2206 and 2208, the hinge span 2210, and the connecting rod 2212. For example, the hinge span 2210 (and the end projections 2206 and 2208) can be rotated about the pivot axis 2216 and the connecting rod 2212 (and the end projections 2206 and 2208) can be rotated about the pivot axis 2218. It should be noted that the connecting rod 2212 and the hinge span member 2210 can pivot independently of each other. This pivoting can occur simultaneously or at different times, which allows the pivot assembly 2204 to have at least four independent axes of rotation. In order to prevent metal-to-metal contact when the hinge span 2210 is magnetically coupled to the tablet device 1100, the label cassette 220 can be attached to the outer surface of the hinge span 2210 and the cushion member 2222 can be Attached to the outer surface of the M430792 end projections 2206 and 2208. The label 2220 and the cushioning member 2222 can be fabricated from a material that can withstand repeated contact with the outer casing 102 without damaging or otherwise damaging the appearance of the outer casing 102. Thus, the label 2 22〇 and the cushioning member 2222 can be made of paper, cloth, plastic and bonded to the hinge span 2210 and the end projections 2206 and 22 08 by the use of an adhesive (e.g., glue). In some examples, the adhesive can have the property of being able to easily replace the label 2220 and/or the cushioning member 2222 when needed.

28B shows an assembled embodiment of the pivot assembly 2204 showing that the end projections 2206 and 2208 and the connecting rod 2212 (located within the sleeve 2214) are rotatable about a pivoting pivot axis 2216. Two axes in the direction (ie, clockwise and counterclockwise). It should be noted that the end projections 2206 and 2208 and the hinge span member 2210 are rotatable relative to the axis of rotation 2218 in two axial directions (i.e., clockwise and counterclockwise). In this manner, the end projections 22 06 and 2208 are rotatable about the pivot axis 2216 and the pivot axis 2218 in four axial directions. Figure 28C shows a hinge span 2210 showing in detail the end pins 2224 and 2226 that can be used to mount the hinge span 2210 in the end projections 2206 and 2208, respectively. Although not visible in this view, the end pins 2224 and 2226 can be further utilized to mate with the inner plug for securing the unit magnetic elements contained within the inner end of the hinge span 2210. This is particularly useful in the example where the encoded sequences of the magnetic elements contained within the hinge span 2210 cause the end unit magnetic elements to magnetically repel adjacent magnetic elements. Figure 28D shows an exploded view of hinge span members 2210-71-M430792 in accordance with the described embodiment. The magnetic elements 2228 can be constructed as an encoded magnetic structure in which individual magnetic elements can be arranged in a particular pattern of magnetic poles, strength, size, and the like. In the illustrated embodiment, those magnets that are adjacent to each other with anti-aligned poles may rely on their mutual magnetic attraction to maintain their position in the encoded magnetic structure. The magnetic elements that are disposed adjacent to each other with magnetic poles that are reversely aligned require external forces to overcome mutual magnetic repulsive forces to maintain their position in the encoded magnetic structure. For example, each of the magnetic elements 228 1 -1 and 228 1 -2 can be formed by two magnets having aligned magnetic poles. In this case, each of the two magnets forming magnetic element 2281-1 (and 2281-2) will have aligned poles, thus creating a net magnetic repulsion between them. Therefore, an externally applied restriction can be applied by, for example, using the plugs 2232-1 and 2232-2, respectively. The magnetic forces provided by magnets 2228-3 and 2228-4, which are inversely aligned with magnets 2228-1 and 2228-2, respectively, help to stabilize the encoded enveloped within the hinge span 22 1 0 Magnetic structure. A spacer 2234 made of a magnetically passive material can be used to provide additional physical integrity of the encoded magnetic structure formed by the magnetic element 2228. In order to improve the overall net magnetic attraction, a magnetizer 2236 made of a magnetically active material (e.g., steel) can be adhered to the back end of the magnetic element 2228. "Place the magnetizer 2236 at the back end to help the original." The magnetic field lines propagating away from the mating surface between the hinge span 22 10 and the outer casing 1102 are redirected. By deflecting the magnetic field lines toward the mating surface, the magnetic flux density provided by the magnetic elements 2228 at the mating surface can be increased by an equal amount - 72 - M430792 for use in the magnetic elements 2228 and the housing 1102 An enhanced net magnetic attraction is obtained between the corresponding magnetic members. • As previously discussed, the label 2220 can be adhered to the magnetic elements 2228 (and the spacers 2234, if any), which are then adhered to the splitter 2236. The splitter 2236 can be adhered to the opening 2238 in the hinge span 2210 such that the label 2220 protrudes a distance of about "d", which can be about 0.1-0.2 mm to prevent the hinge A chain span Metal-to-metal contact between the piece 2210 and the outer casing 1102.

W It should be noted that in the keyboard configuration and display configuration, the hinge span 2210 is subject to shear forces due to the tablet device 11 being placed at an angle on the support surface. The shear force can be resisted by the net magnetic attraction generated between the hinge span 2210 and the device attachment feature of the tablet device 1100. FIG. 29 shows an exploded view of the segmented cover 2202. The bottom layer 2250 can be directly connected to a protected surface (for example, a cover glass of a display). The bottom layer 2250 can be fabricated from a material that is capable of passively cleaning the protected surface. The material is, for example, a microfiber material. The bottom layer 2250 can be attached to a reinforcing layer 2252 made of an elastic material such as plastic. The reinforcing layer 2252 can then be adhered to the insert 2254 to form a laminated structure comprising an adhesive layer 2256, a laminate 2258, and an insert 2254. Certain inserts 22 54 can accommodate the embedded components. For example, the insert 2254- 1 can accommodate a magnet 2260, a portion of which can cooperate with an attachment feature embedded in the tablet device 1100 for securing the segment cover 2202 to the tablet device 1100. . At least one magnet - 73 - M430792 2260-1 can be placed and formed in a position and size that interacts with a magnetic sensitive circuit (e.g., a Hall effect sensor) contained within the tablet device 1100. It should be noted that although some of the magnets 2260 are specifically configured to interact only with the attachment feature configuration, substantially all of the magnets 2260 can be embedded within the segment 2254-2 that is used to form a different polygonal support structure. The magnetic plates 2262 magnetically interact. In this way, a strong magnetic force can be generated to provide a stable basis for the triangular support structure. Additional laminate structures may be formed using adhesive layer 2256, laminate 2258, and top layer 2264. In some embodiments, an intervening layer of a material can be provided having a woven structure that facilitates attachment of the top layer 2264. The top layer 2264 can be formed from a variety of materials, such as plastic, leather, and the like, to maintain the overall appearance and texture of the tablet unit 11〇〇. In order to provide additional structural support, the top layer 22 64 can have edges that are reinforced by the reinforcing bars 2266, which can be formed from plastic or other hard or semi-rigid materials. Figure 30 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the position of the segment cover 22 00 of Figure 29 placed on the cover layer 1106 of the plate device 1100. Particular attention should be paid to the relative position of the magnet 2260-1 to the Hall effect sensor 118. In this manner, when the segmented cover 2200 is placed over the cover layer 1 106, a magnetic field from the magnet 2260-1 can interact with the Hall effect sensor 118, which can generate a signal To respond. The signal can then be processed in a manner that the operational state of the tablet device 1100 can be varied depending on the presence of the cover 2200. On the other hand, removal of the cover 2200 can cause the operational state to return to the previous operational state, or another operational state (e.g., voyeur mode). It should be noted that the magnetic field density between the magnet 2260-1 and the Hall effect sensor 118 can be about 500 gauss. However, in embodiments where the cover 2200 is flipped over the back of the housing 1102, the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect sensor 118 can be about 5 Gauss. 31A shows a cross-sectional view of the hinge span 2210 in engagement with the device attachment feature 2300 within the tablet device 1100. In particular, the magnetic attachment feature 2 3 00 includes at least a magnetic element 23 02 that forms a magnetic circuit with the magnetic element 2228 (the magnetic element 2228 is the encoded magnetic structure contained within the hinge span 22 10 ) a part of). The demultiplexer 2304 can be used to redirect the magnetic field lines propagating from the magnetic element 2302 in a direction different from the direction of propagation of the magnetic element 2228. In this way, the magnetic flux density at the meshing surface 2 3 06 can be increased by an equal amount, thereby increasing the net magnetic attraction Fnet. Magnetic Attachment Features The construction 2300 can be included in the housing 11A as a barrel 2308 that is sized to accommodate the magnetic element 2302 and the demultiplexer 2304. In the depicted embodiment, the bucket 23 08 can provide the magnetic element 23 02 and the splitter 23 04 support. The barrel 2308 can also guide the movement of the magnetic element 23 02 and the demultiplexer 2304 when the magnetic attachment feature 2300 transitions between an active state and an inactive state * in order to ensure that the net magnetic attraction Fnet is substantially vertical The engagement surface 236 is applied and the magnetization of the magnetic element 2228 and the magnet element 2302 can be constructed to form their respective magnetization vectors Μ substantially aligned. The term magnetization means that the magnet can be fabricated to have a magnetic -75-M430792 magnetic domain that is substantially aligned in the same direction. By aligning the magnetization vectors Mi and M2 of the magnetic element 2302 and the magnetic element 2228, respectively, the net magnetic attraction force Fnet can be generated substantially perpendicular to the engagement surface 2306. Figure 31B shows the magnetic attachment feature configuration 2300 in an inactive state. . When in this inactive state, the magnetic attachment feature 2300 is tied at a distance of at least xq from the outer surface of the outer casing 1102 to satisfy equation (1). Therefore, the barrel 2308 must be able to accommodate the movement of the magnetic element 2302 and the demultiplexer 2304 from the inactive state χ = 〇 to the active state of approximately x = XQ. 3 - 3 3 show a representative view of an embodiment in which the attachment feature 108 is presented in the form of an attachment feature 2400. In particular, the attachment feature formation 2400 can include a magnetic element 2402/divider 2404 attached to the leaf spring 2406. The leaf spring 2406 can be secured directly to the splitter 2404 by fasteners 2408 and the end support 2410 by fasteners 2412. End support 2410 can be attached to a support structure (e.g., outer casing) to provide support for the attachment feature formation 240. In one embodiment, the alignment posts 2414 can be used to provide alignment of both the end 5 struts 2410 and the leaf springs 2406 when assembled. Figure 33 shows an enlarged view of the interface of the support structure 2410 / leaf spring 2406. Figure 34 is a block diagram of a configuration 3100 of a functional module used in an electronic device. The electronic device can be, for example, a tablet device 1100. The configuration 3100 includes an electronic device 3102 that can output media to a user of a portable media device and can store and retrieve data from a data store 3104. The configuration 3100 also includes a graphical user interface (GUI) manager 3 106. The GUI manager 3 106 operates to control information that is provided to the M430792 and displayed on a display device. The configuration 3100 also includes a communication module 3108 that facilitates communication between the portable media device and an accessory device. Moreover, the configuration 3100 includes an accessory manager 3110 that operates to authenticate and retrieve data from an accessory device that is coupled to the portable media device. Figure 35 is a block diagram of an electronic device 3150 suitable for use with the described embodiments. The electronic device 3150 illustrates a circuit of a representative computing device. The electronic device 3150 includes a processor 3152 associated with a microprocessor or controller for controlling the overall operation of the electronic device 3150. The electronic device 3150 stores media data related to the media item in the file system 3U4 and the cache memory 3156. The file system 3154 is typically a storage disc or a plurality of discs. The file system 3154 typically provides a high capacity storage capability of the electronic device 3150. However, because the access time to the file system 3154 is relatively slow, the electronic device 3150 can also include a cache memory 3156. The cache memory 3156 φ is, for example, a random access memory (RAM) of a semiconductor memory. The access time to the cache memory 3156 is substantially shorter than the file system 3154. However, the cache memory 3156 does not have a large storage capacity like the file system 3154. Moreover, the file system 3154 consumes more power than the cache memory 3156 when it is active. When the electronic device 3150 is a portable media device that uses the battery 3174 to provide power, power consumption is usually a consideration. . The electronic device 3150 can also include a RAM 3 170 or a read only memory (ROM) 3 172. The ROM 3172 can store programs, utilities, or -77-M430792 that will be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM 3170 provides volatile data storage, such as volatile data storage for the cache. The electronic device 3150 also includes a user input device 3158 that allows a user of the electronic device 3150 to interact with the electronic device 3150. For example, the user input device 3158 can be in various forms, such as a button, a keyboard, a dial, a touch screen, a sound input interface, a visual/image capture input interface, an input of a sensor data format, etc. The electronic device 3150 includes a display 3160 (screen display) that can be controlled by the processor 3152 to display information to the user. A data bus 3166 facilitates data transfer between the file system 3154, the cache memory 3156, the processor 3152, and the CODEC 3163. In one embodiment, the electronic device 3150 stores a plurality of media items (e.g., 'songs, podcasts, etc.) in the file system 3154. When the user wants the electronic device to play a particular media item, a form of available media item is displayed on the display 3160. The user can then use the user input device 3158 to select an item from the available media items. The processor 3152 provides the media material (e.g., sound file) of the particular media item to an encoder/decoder (CODEC) 3163 upon receiving a selection of a particular media item. The CODEC 3163 then produces an analog output signal for the speaker 3 1 64. The speaker 3164 can be a speaker inside the electronic device 3150 or a speaker external to the electronic device 3150. For example, a headset or earphone connected to the electronic device 3150 can be considered an external speaker. M430792 The electronic device 3150 also includes a network/bus interface 3161 coupled to a data link 3162. The data link 3162 allows the electronic device 3150 to be coupled to a host computer or accessory device. The data link 3162 can be provided on a wired connection or a wireless connection. In the example of a wireless connection, the network/bus interface 3161 can include a wireless transceiver. Such media projects (media assets) may be related to one or more different kinds of media content. In one embodiment, the media items are soundtracks (eg, songs, audiobooks, and podcasts). In another embodiment, the media items can be images (e.g., photos). However, in other embodiments, the media items can be any combination of audio, picture or visual content. The sensor 3 1 76 can be in the form of a circuit for detecting any number of stimuli. For example, sensor 3176 can include a Hall effect sensor, a sound sensor, a light sensor (e.g., a photometer), or the like that is responsive to an external magnetic field. The magnetic attachment feature can be used to magnetically attach at least two items. The objects can take many forms and perform many functions. When more magnetically attached than this, the objects communicate and interact with each other to form a cooperative system. The cooperating system can perform operations and provide functions that cannot be provided independently when the objects are separated. For example, at least a first article and a second article can be magnetically attached to each other such that the first article can be constructed to provide the second article-support mechanism. The support mechanism can be mechanical in nature. For example, the first item may be in the form of a pedestal that can be used to support the second item on a work surface, such as a table. In another example, the first item can be in the form of a suspension device. Thus, the first object can be used to hang the second object, which can then be used as a visual content for viewing visual images, such as visual, static images (photographs), artwork, etc., as -79-M430792. Etc., the display. The support mechanism can also be used as a handle for conveniently grasping or grasping the second item. The configuration is particularly useful when the second object can present visual content, such as images (static or visual), text (such as in an e-book), or has image capture capabilities, where the second object has image capture capabilities. In the example, the second item can be used as an image capture device, such as a static or visual camera and the first item can be constructed as a support, such as a tripod and a handle. The described embodiments can take many forms. For example, the attachment can occur between a first item and a second item, wherein the first item and the second item can be in the form of an electronic device. The electronic devices are magnetically attached to each other to form a cooperative electronic system in which the electronic devices can communicate with one another. Information can be transmitted between the first and second electronic devices as part of this communication. The information may be processed in whole or in part at the first or second electronic device depending on the nature of the process. In this manner, the cooperative electronic system can utilize the synergistic effects of a plurality of electronic devices that are magnetically attached and communicate with each other. In one example, the communication can be implemented using any suitable wireless communication protocol, such as Bluetooth (BT), GSM, CDMA, WiFi, and the like. The cooperative electronic system can be in the form of an array of electronic devices. In one embodiment, the array of electronic devices can function as a single integrated display (mosaic or the like). In another embodiment, the array of electronic devices can provide a single function or a set of functions (e.g., a 'virtual keyboard'). In still another embodiment, one of the -80-M430792 of the electronic devices can be in the form of a power providing device that can be attached to the electronic device by using the magnetic attachment feature configuration. The electrical providing device can provide electrical current to the electronic device using a mechanical connection, such as a power connector or, in some instances, a magnetic charging mechanism. This current can be used to charge a battery pack when necessary while providing power to operate the cooperating electronic system. The supplied power can be transferred from one device to another as if it were a bucket bridge to balance the power distribution and battery pack charging in the φ cooperating electronic system. The accessory unit includes an accessory body and a magnetic component pivotally coupled to the accessory body, the magnetic component including a first plurality of magnetic elements arranged along a first straight line to each other in a first relative size Adjacent and arranged according to a first polarity pattern of alternating magnetic poles, and a second plurality of magnetic members arranged along the first straight line in a second relative size to be adjacent to each other and according to a second polarity pattern of alternating magnetic poles Arranged wherein the magnetic component is configured to magnetically attach the accessory unit to a first portion of a host unit. The first and second size dimensions and the first and second polarity patterns are complementary to each other. The first polarity mode is {PI, P2, P1} and the second polarity mode is {P2, P1, P2}, wherein P1 is the first polarity and P2 is the opposite polarity. The first relative size order is { 2L, 1L, 1L} and the second relative size order thereof are {1L, 1L, 2L}, where 1L is an effective unit magnet length and 2L of it is twice the length of the effective unit magnet. A 2L magnetic element includes a configuration of a first 1L magnetic element having a first polarity P1 adjacent to a second 1L magnetic element -81 - M430792 having the first polarity P1, wherein The first 1L magnet and the adjacent second 1L magnet are held together by an externally applied force against the mutually exclusive magnetic force. The magnetic assembly further includes a housing having a front opening and a decouper encased within the housing and attached to the back of the first and second plurality of magnetic elements, the demultiplexer being configured to at least some of the magnetic field lines Redirecting away from the back side of the housing and toward the front opening, thereby increasing the magnetic flux density between the first and second plurality of magnetic elements and a corresponding magnetic element within the body unit. a first end plug is inserted into the first end of the splitter and a second end plug is inserted into a second end of the splitter, wherein the first and second end plugs provide The externally applied force used to hold the 2L magnetic element configuration together, wherein adjacent magnetic elements having opposite magnetic poles are held together by a magnetic force that attracts each other. The magnetic assembly also includes a first end projection pivotally coupled to one end of the housing, a second end projection pivotally coupled to an opposite end of the housing, wherein the first and second ends The projection and the outer casing pivot about a first pivot axis, a rigid connecting rod connecting the first and second end projections, and a sleeve formed to accommodate the rigid connecting rod Inserting the sleeve and the rigid connecting rod into an opening in the fitting body, the rigid connecting rod forming a second pivot axis different from the first pivot axis, the first and second ends The projection pivots with the outer casing about the second pivot axis. The accessory body includes a segmented flap portion having a plurality of segments, wherein an outermost segment portion includes a first magnetic member that cooperates with the magnetic member for magnetically attaching the segmented flap portion to the A second portion of the body unit that is separate from the first portion of the -82-M430792, wherein the segmented flap portion has a size and shape that is consistent with the second portion of the body unit. The first magnetic element includes a plurality of magnetic members. The second portion of the body unit is a display device having an uppermost protective layer. When the segmented flap portion is over the uppermost protective layer, at least one magnetic member that is not used to magnetically attach the accessory unit to the plurality of magnetic members of the body unit is used by the body A sensor in the unit detected it. The sensor facilitates a change in the operational state of the body unit based on the position of the segmented flap portion associated with the protective layer and the segmented flap portion is formed from leather or polyurethane. Various aspects, embodiments, entity examples or features of the described embodiments may be used separately or in combination. The various aspects of the described embodiments can be embodied in a combination of software, hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as a computer readable code on a non-transitory computer readable medium. The computer readable medium is defined as any data storage device that can store data, which can then be read by a computer system. Examples of such computer readable media include read only memory, random access memory, CD-ROM, DVD, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over a network coupled computer system such that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a decentralized manner. The above description is intended to provide a complete understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the implementation of such described embodiments does not require the specific details of the -83-M430792. Accordingly, the above description of the specific embodiments described herein is provided for the purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to exhaust or limit the embodiments to the particular form disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that there are many possible modifications and variations under the above teachings. The described embodiments have many advantages. Different aspects, embodiments, or entity examples may yield one or more of the following benefits. Many of the features and benefits of the embodiments are apparent from the written description, and thus the scope of the appended claims is intended to cover all such features and advantages. Also, the present invention should not be limited to the construction and operation of one of the illustrated and described embodiments, as many modifications and variations will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, appropriate modifications and equivalents are to be construed as falling within the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals designate the same structural elements, and in which: Figure 1 is a desired and repeatable A simplified block diagram of an object and an electronic device that are releasably attached to each other. Figure 2A is a simplified perspective view of an article in accordance with a described embodiment. The article can be releasably attached to an electronic device by a side magnetic attachment system. Figure 2B shows the article of Figure 2A and the electronic device attached together in accordance with the side magnetic attachment system. -84 - M430792 Figure 3A is a simplified perspective view of an article releasably attached to an electronic device by a top magnetic attachment system in accordance with an described embodiment. Figure 3B shows the article of Figure 3A and the electronic device being magnetically attached to each other using the top magnetic attachment system to form a corresponding system. Figure 4A is a simplified perspective view of an article releasably attached to an electronic device by the top magnetic attachment system. Figure 4B shows a system of the attached article of Figure 4A in a closed configuration corresponding to the electronic device. Figure 4C shows the configuration of the corresponding system of Figure 4B in an open state. Figure 5 shows a top perspective view of an electronic device in accordance with the described embodiment. Figure 6 shows another embodiment of a magnetic attachment feature configuration. Figure 7A shows an electronic device adjacent to another article in the form of an attachment having a magnetic attachment feature. Figure 7B shows an image representation of the magnetic interaction between the electronic device and the accessory device of Figure 7A in accordance with the described embodiment. Figure 7C shows an image representation of a cooperative system formed by the magnetic attachment of the accessory device and the electronic device of Figures 7A and 7B. Figure 8A shows an embodiment of an attachment feature configuration in an electronic device. Figure 8B shows an embodiment of an attachment feature configuration corresponding to the attachment feature configuration of Figure 8A in an accessory device. -85- M430792 Figure 9A shows a representative surface device attachment feature configuration in an inactive state. Figure 9B shows the situation in which the representative device attachment feature configuration of Figure 9A is actuated by another magnetic attachment feature. Fig. 9C shows the state in which the magnetic attachment feature is constructed to be inactive in the presence of the magnetic object. Figure 10 shows an embodiment of a device attachment feature configuration utilizing a leaf spring arrangement as a securing mechanism. Figure 11A shows an embodiment of a keyed magnetic attachment system and a matched magnetic attachment system in an inactive state. Fig. 11B shows the case where the key magnetic attachment system of Fig. 11A is actuated by the matching magnetic attachment system. Figure 12 shows an offset position for the keyed magnetic attachment system of Figure 11A. Figure 13 shows a graph showing the relationship between the magnetic adhesion and the relative position of the bonded magnetic attachment feature. Figures 14 and 15 show different embodiments of magnetic elements used in the keyed magnetic attachment feature configuration. Figure 16A shows a first perspective view of an electronic device in the form of a tablet device and an accessory device in the form of a protective cover. Figure 16B shows a second perspective view of an electronic device in the form of a tablet device and an accessory device in the form of a protective cover. 17A shows the cooperative system (co 0P erate system) formed by the tablet device and the accessory device shown in Figs. 16A and 16B in the state of the closed configuration M430792. Fig. 1 7B shows the state in which the cooperative system shown in Fig. 17A is in the open configuration. Figure 18 shows a top view of an embodiment of a segmented outer cover assembly. 19A-19C show a detailed view of a hinge span in accordance with the described embodiment.

Figure 20A shows a side view of the segmented outer cover assembly of Figure 18 attached to a flat panel assembly. 20B-20C show cross-sectional views of the segmented outer cover assembly of Fig. 20A and the plate assembly. Figure 21A shows a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the hinge span of Figures 19A-19C magnetically attached to a curved outer casing. Figure 21B shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of the hinge span that is magnetically attached to a housing having a flat surface. Figures 22A and 22B show a cross-sectional view and a perspective view of a fixture for assembling the hinge span member in accordance with the described embodiment. Figure 23 shows a side view of a segmented outer cover constructed to support a tablet device in a keyboard state. 24A and 24B respectively show a side view and a perspective view of the segmented cover constructed to support a tablet device in a keyboard state. Figures 25A-25B show the segmented embodiment of a different embodiment constructed to form a suspension device. Cover assembly. 26A and 26B show front and rear views, respectively, of a tablet device having front and rear image pickup devices. -87- M430792 Figures 27A-27C show a cooperative system of a segmented cover and tablet unit in a voyeur mode that is constructed to activate only the opened portion of a display. 28A-28D show various exploded views of a pivot joint assembly in accordance with the described embodiment. Figure 29 shows an exploded view of an upper cover assembly in accordance with the described embodiment. Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view of the upper cover assembly of Figure 29 on a flat panel assembly detailing the relationship between a magnet embedded in the upper cover assembly and a magnetic sensitive circuit within the flat panel assembly. Figure 31A shows a cross-sectional view of a hinge span that is magnetically engaged with a corresponding device attachment feature in an active state in accordance with the described embodiment. Figure 31B shows a cross-sectional view of the device attachment feature configuration of Figure 31A in an inactive state. Figures 32-3 show a perspective view of a device attachment feature configuration including a plate spring as a securing mechanism in accordance with the described embodiment. Figure 34 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a functional module used in a portable media device. Figure 35 is a block diagram of an electronic device suitable for use with the described embodiments. [Main component symbol description] 1 0 : Object -88- M430792

12: electronic device 15: outer casing 17: outer casing 13: attachment system 1 4 attachment system 1 3 a : attachment feature configuration 14a: attachment feature configuration 13b: attachment feature configuration 14b: attachment feature configuration 1 6 : member 1 8 : member 2 0: object 22: electronic device 24: magnetic surface 26: meshing surface 30: object 32: electronic device 34: magnetic attachment system 3 6: attachment system 3 8: cooperative system 40: object 42: electronic device 44: magnetic system 44a: magnetic element -89 M430792 44b: magnetic element 46: cooperative system 50: flap 52: top surface (display) 4 8 · bonding piece 1 00: electronic device 102: housing 1 0 4 : opening 108: first magnetic Attachment feature configuration 110: second magnetic attachment feature configuration 102a: sidewall 120b: sidewall l〇2c: side l〇2d: side 1 1 2 : magnetic field B ii 2 : magnetic flux density

Bthresh()ld: magnetic flux density threshold 1 1 6 : magnetic element 1 1 8 : Hall effect sensor 1 20 : compass 1 2 6 : magnetic element 1 2 8 : magnetic element 200 : object (accessory device) 202 : Magnetic attachment feature construction M430792 2 Ο 8 : Magnetic field 204 : Magnetic element 206 : Magnetic element 216 : Magnetic attachment feature 2 1 4 : Area 2 1 8 : Engagement surface

3 00 : Cooperative system 402 : Magnetic element 404 : Projection 4 1 0 : Magnetic element 4 1 4 : Magnetic element 5.00 : Magnetic attachment feature configuration 5 02 : Magnetic element 5 0 6 : Object 600 : Device attachment feature configuration 602 : Magnetic element 604: Magnetic element 606: Spring 608: Spring 700: Device attachment feature 702: Magnetic component 7 1 2 a : Magnet 7 12b: Magnet 712c: Magnet - 91 M430792 714a: Magnet 714b: Magnet 714c: Magnet 800: Accessories Attachment feature 802: magnetic component 802a: magnet 802b: magnet

802c: magnet 804a: magnet 804b: magnet 8 0 4 c: magnet 7 1 6 : center line 900 : chart 1000 : configuration 1 002 : configuration

1 004 : Encoded magnetic sequence 1 200 : Cover assembly 1100 · Flat panel device 1102 : Housing 1 1 0 4 : Opening 1 106 : Cover glass 1108 : Data 埠 1 1 1 2 : Home button 1202 : Fold - 92 - M430792 1 204: hinge assembly 1206: inner layer 1 300: segmented lid assembly 1 3 0 2 : body 1 304: segment 1 305: segment 1 3 06: segment 1 3 07: segment 1308: segment 1 309: segment 1 3 1 0: Fragment 1312: Foldable portion 1 3 1 4 : Insert 1 3 1 6 : Insert 1 3 1 8 : Insert 1 3 2 0 : Insert 1 322 : Magnetic element 1 3 24 : Insert 1 3 2 8 : first end convex portion 1 3 3 0 : second end convex portion 1 3 3 2 : connecting rod 1 3 3 3 : pivot axis 1 3 3 6 : protective layer 1 3 3 8 : protective layer - 93 M430792 1 340 : Hinge span 1 342 : Hinge post 1 344 : Protective layer (label)

1400: hinge span 1 402 : magnetic element 1 404 : dip material 1 4 1 0 : hinge span 1412 : end 1 4 1 4 : spacer

1 5 0 0 : cross-sectional side view of the hinge span 1 5 02 : magnetic element 1 504 : magnetic element 1 506 : inner surface 1 5 08 : outer surface 1 5 1 0 : splitter 1512 : outer casing 1 5 5 0 : Cross-sectional side view of the hinge span 1 5 5 4 : Magnet 1 600 : Clamp 1 602 : Surface 1 700 : Triangular support structure 1 702 : Touch sensitive surface 1 9 0 0 : Suspension 1 9 1 0 : Suspension - 94- M430792 2000 : Configuration

2002: Camera facing forward 2004: Camera facing forward 2 100: Configuration of the cover assembly 2102: exposed portion 2104: image 2106: second portion 2 1 0 8 : image 2200: cover assembly 2202: fragment cover Assembly 2 2 0 4 : pivoting assembly 2206 : end projection 22 0 8 : end projection 2210 : hinge span 2 2 1 2 : connecting rod

2216: pivot axis 221 8 : pivot axis 2220 : label 2222 : bumper 2224 : end pin 2226 : end pin 2228 : magnetic element 2228-1 : magnetic element -95- M430792

2228-2: Magnetic element 2223-2: Plug 2232-2: Plug 2228-3: Magnet 2228-4: Magnet 2234: Spacer 2 2 3 6 : Splitter 2238: Open □ 2250: Bottom 2 2 5 2 : Strengthening layer 2 2 5 4 : Insert 2 2 5 6 : Adhesive layer 225 8 : Laminate material 2 2 5 4 - 1 : Insert 2260 : Magnet

2 2 6 0 - 1 : Magnet 2254-2 : Fragment 2 2 6 2 : Actuator 2264 : Top layer 2 2 6 6 : Reinforcement rod 2300 : Device attachment feature 2302 : Magnetic element 2 3 0 4 : Separator 2306 : Engage Surface-96- M430792

_L 3. 〇: Year H 2308 : Barrel 2400 : Attachment Features 2402 : Magnetic Components

2 4 0 4 : Separator 2406 : Plate spring 2408 : Tightening member 2410 : End support 2412 : Tightening member 2414 : Alignment column

-97-

Claims (1)

M430792 Patent Application No. 1. A cover for protecting at least one display of a tablet computer, comprising: an attachment mechanism; - a flexible body portion that is pivotally coupled to the attachment mechanism, the body portion having The display is of uniform size and shape and comprises: - a first end positioned on the attachment mechanism: and a second end opposite the first end, the plurality of magnets comprising a plurality of magnets in a closed configuration When the body portion is all in contact with the display, at least one of the magnets can be detected by a sensor in the tablet, wherein the at least one magnet is sensed during the closed configuration The detection detected by the device causes the tablet to change the current operating state of the tablet. 2. The cover of claim 1, wherein the sensor is a Hall Effect (HFX) sensor that is only in contact with the display when the body portion is in a closed state. The magnetic field generated by the at least one magnet is detected. 3. The cover of claim 2, wherein when the HFX sensor detects the magnetic field, the HFX sensor causes the tablet to disable the entire display. 4. The cover of claim 3, wherein the HFX sensor does not detect the magnetic field when the configuration is turned on and the entire display of the tablet is rendered capable of presenting visual content. 5. The cover of claim 3, wherein the cover further comprises: M43.0792 i&inrw^ I year a: ; /·' a folding zone that allows the first end and the second The ends are folded independently of each other such that when the cover is in a partially open configuration, the first end remains in contact with the display and the second end is folded away from the display to expose a first portion of the display, The first portion is smaller than the entire display, causing the tablet to present visual content only in the first portion of the display. 6. The cover of claim 5, wherein the body portion further comprises: φ a first segment at the first end; and a second segment at the second end, the first and the first The two segments are foldably connected by the folded region. 7. The cover of claim 6, wherein the second segment comprises: a rigid insert having a size and shape consistent with the second segment, wherein the plurality of magnets are embedded The at least one magnet system # within the rigid insert and detectable by the HFX sensor in the closed configuration is in a position near the HFX sensor when the cover is in the closed configuration. 8. The cover of claim 7, wherein the first segment comprises: a rigid and magnetically attachable insert having a size and shape consistent with the first segment, wherein In a folded configuration, the first segment and the second segment are folded together such that a magnetic attachment is formed between the rigid and magnetically attachable insert and at least one of the plurality of magnets To form a knot suitable for supporting the tablet -99- M430792 f II I '~.... mK3. .07* 5