Micro-hinge for electronic devices

Abstract

Certain embodiments described herein provide an electronic device, such as a notebook computer or a laptop computer, that includes a circuit board coupled to a plurality of electronic components (which include any type of component, element, circuit, etc.). One particular exemplary implementation of the electronic device can include a low-profile hinge design that includes a micro hinge. The micro hinge can couple a first element to a second element and includes a first joint coupled to the first element, a second joint coupled to the second element, and a plurality of linkages that couple the first joint to the second joint. The low-profile hinge can also include a plurality of micro hinges and a plurality of support bars.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the same-named patent application with application number 201580011089.4, filed on February 28, 2015. Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments described herein generally relate to the field of hinges, and more particularly, to micro-hinges for electronic devices. Background Art

[0003] End users have more choices of electronic devices than before. Many outstanding technological trends are currently in preparation (e.g., more computing devices that can be changed into different configurations, more devices, etc.), and these trends are changing the electronic device landscape. One of the technological trends is the hybrid laptop (e.g., convertible computer, foldable notebook, etc.). A hybrid laptop is a single-piece mobile computer that can include a laptop configuration and a tablet configuration. To convert from the laptop configuration to the tablet configuration, usually the display or screen can be rotated, twisted, or rotated over the keyboard. Although hybrid laptops are an attractive way to achieve the conversion from the laptop configuration to the tablet configuration, in some designs, the hinge may be bulky and limit the form factor of the device. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0004] Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, and in which:

[0005] Figure 1A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of an electronic device in a closed clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0006] Figure 1B is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of an electronic device in an open clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0007] Figure 1C is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of an electronic device in an open planar configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0008] Figure 1D is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of an electronic device in a tablet configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0009] Figure 1E is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of an electronic device in a tablet configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] Figure 2 is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of a part of a hinge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 3 is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing a part of a hinge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 4 is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing a part of a hinge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 5A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing a part of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 5B is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing a part of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 6A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing an electronic device in an open clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 6B is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing an electronic device in an open flat configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 6C is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing an electronic device in a closed clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 6D is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing an electronic device in a tablet configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 7A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing an electronic device in an open clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 7B is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing an electronic device in an open flat configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 7C is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing an electronic device in a closed clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 7D is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing an electronic device in a tablet configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 8A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing an electronic device in an open clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 8B is a simplified orthographic projection view showing an embodiment of an electronic device in an open planar configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 8C is a simplified orthographic projection view showing an embodiment of an electronic device in a closed clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 8D is a simplified orthographic projection view showing an embodiment of an electronic device in a tablet configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 9 is a simplified block diagram associated with an exemplary ARM ecosystem system-on-chip (SOC) of the present disclosure; and

[0028] Figure 10 is a simplified block diagram showing exemplary logic that can be used to perform activities associated with the present disclosure.

[0029] The figures in the drawings need not be drawn to scale, as their dimensions can vary significantly without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Overview

[0031] In an example, systems, devices, and methods for a low-profile hinge design are disclosed. In one exemplary embodiment, the low-profile hinge can include a micro hinge. The micro hinge can couple or connect a first element to a second element and can include a first joint coupled to the first element, a second joint coupled to the second element, and a plurality of linkages coupling the first joint to the second joint. The low-profile hinge can rotate approximately three hundred and sixty degrees. The low-profile hinge can also include a plurality of micro hinges and a plurality of support rods. Additionally, the low-profile hinge can include a flexible cover. In one example, the low-profile hinge extends approximately the length of the first element and the second element. Additionally, the micro hinge can include an electrical conduit. In some examples, the first element is a base portion of an electronic device and the second element is a display portion of the electronic device.

[0032] Exemplary Embodiments of the Present Disclosure

[0033] A hybrid laptop is a single-piece mobile computer that can include a laptop configuration and a tablet configuration. To transition from the laptop configuration to the tablet configuration, typically the display or screen can be rotated, twisted, or rotated over the keyboard. While hybrid laptops are an attractive way to implement the transition from a laptop configuration to a tablet configuration, in some designs, the hinge can be bulky and limit the form factor of the device. For example, the z-height of the device typically depends on the hinge design.

[0034] Currently, form factor limitations for electronic devices (such as hybrid laptops) are addressed by supporting ultra-low profile and small form factor components (e.g., coreless packages and motherboards, connectors, batteries, etc.). The development of high-density supercapacitors is also used to further reduce the battery form factor and density to support low-profile platforms. However, the form factor for low-profile devices is typically limited by the hinge.

[0035] The above statements are provided by way of non-limiting examples in which the systems and methods of this specification can be usefully arranged. The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing different features of the present disclosure. Examples of specific components and arrangements are described below to simplify the present disclosure. Naturally, these are only examples and are not intended to be limiting. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and / or letters in various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or configurations discussed. Different embodiments may have different advantages, and no particular advantage is required for any embodiment.

[0036] In an example of this specification, systems and methods are provided for a low-profile hinge design. In one example, using a micro-hinge design, a device (e.g., an electronic device) can be configured such that the hinge form factor does not limit the scaling of the overall z-height (height along the z-axis of the X, Y, Z Cartesian coordinate system) of the device. The hinge can be a low-profile, integrally foldable, three-hundred-sixty-degree (360°) hinge. The overall thickness of the hinge design can be scaled by configuring the dimensions of the segmented components of the hinge according to the desired z-height. Thus, the entire z-height of the device can be scaled based on the components of the device (e.g., display portion, base portion, keyboard portion, etc.) without being limited by the hinge size. For example, using a low-profile hinge design, an electronic device can operate in a low-profile clamshell configuration, a low-profile planar configuration, and a low-profile tablet configuration.

[0037] The following is a description of an example of a micro-hinge design according to one or more exemplary embodiments of this specification. It should be understood that the hinge designs disclosed herein are given only as non-limiting examples and that any suitable technology or configuration should be included within the broad scope of this specification.

[0038] Exemplary Embodiment

[0039] The following detailed description sets forth exemplary embodiments of apparatuses, methods, and systems for a micro-hinge configuration for an electronic device. For example, for convenience, features such as structures, functions, and / or characteristics are described with reference to one embodiment; various embodiments can be implemented by means of any suitable one or more of the described features.

[0040] Turning Figure 1A , Figure 1A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of an electronic device 10 in a closed clamshell configuration in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device 10 may include a base portion 12, a display portion 14, a keyboard portion 16, a display hinge 38, and a keyboard hinge 20. The display hinge 38 may define a rotational axis shared between the base portion 12 and the display portion 14. The keyboard hinge 20 may define a rotational axis shared between the base portion 12 and the keyboard portion 16. In this configuration, the keyboard hinge 20 and the display hinge 38 may have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height. As used throughout this specification, the z-height is the height along the z-axis of the X, Y, Z Cartesian coordinate system. In an embodiment, the keyboard hinge 20 is a different type of hinge than the display hinge 38 and may be a flexible fabric, a molded flexible polymer, or some other similar thin flexible material.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, the electronic device 10 is a notebook computer or a laptop computer. In other embodiments, the electronic device 10 may be any suitable electronic device having a display, such as a mobile device, a tablet computer, and / or a slate device (e.g., iPad TM ), a phablet, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a smart phone, an audio system, any type of movie player, a computer docking station, etc. In another embodiment, most of the electronics (e.g., processor, memory, etc.) of the electronic device 10 reside in the base portion 12.

[0042] Turning Figure 1B , Figure 1B is a simplified orthographic projection view of the electronic device 10 in an open clamshell configuration in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 1B shown, the display portion 14 has been rotated about the display hinge 38. The keyboard portion 16 has been rotated about the keyboard hinge 20.

[0043] The keyboard portion 16 may include a keyboard 24. The display portion 14 may include a display 22. In one or more embodiments, the display 22 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, a light emitting diode (LED) screen, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) screen, a plasma screen, or any other suitable display system. The display 22 may be a touch screen that can detect the presence and location of a touch within the display area. In another embodiment, the display portion 14 may include a camera, a microphone, and a speaker.

[0044] Turning Figure 1C , Figure 1Cis a simplified orthographic projection view of an electronic device 10 in an open planar configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, in Figure 1C the display portion 14 has been rotated on the display hinge 38 such that the display portion 14 lies in the same plane as the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard portion 16 also lies in the same plane as the base portion 12. The keyboard hinge 20 and the display hinge 38 are configured to lie relatively flat on a planar surface and allow the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the planar configuration.

[0045] Turning to Figure 1D , Figure 1D is a simplified orthographic projection view of an electronic device in a tablet configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 1D shown, the display portion 14 has been rotated on the display hinge 38 such that the display 22 faces upward and away from the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard 24 (not shown) faces downward and away from the base portion 12. In this configuration, the display 22 faces upward while, on the opposite side, the keyboard 24 faces downward. The base portion 12 is between the display portion 14 and the keyboard portion 16. The keyboard hinge 20 and the display hinge 38 are configured to have a low profile and allow the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the tablet configuration.

[0046] Turning to Figure 1E , Figure 1E is a simplified orthographic projection view of an electronic device in a tablet configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 1E shown, the display portion 14 has been rotated on the display hinge 38 such that the display 22 faces upward and away from the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard 24 (not shown) faces downward and toward the base portion 12. In this configuration, the keyboard portion 16 faces downward and is between the base portion 12 and the display portion 14. In another embodiment, the keyboard portion 16 may be rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard 24 faces downward and toward the display portion 14 and serves as a protective layer for the display 22. In this configuration, the display portion 14 is between the base portion 12 and the keyboard portion 16.

[0047] Generally, the electronic device 10 can be configured to provide a display portion and a keyboard portion coupled to a base portion using a micro-hinge design. The micro-hinge can be configured such that the display portion and the keyboard portion can rotate approximately 360° about the base portion. The entire system can be configured to operate in a low-profile clamshell mode configuration, a low-profile planar mode configuration, and a low-profile tablet mode configuration at a low z-height.

[0048] To illustrate specific example features of the electronic device 10, the following foundational information can be considered as a basis upon which the present disclosure can be correctly interpreted. With the recent release of touch-optimized operating systems (OS), the release of hybrid laptops (e.g., tablet computers, convertible laptops, clamshell computers, etc.) has become increasingly popular. However, convertible hinge designs have drawbacks in terms of usability issues for certain consumer groups. For example, current hinge solutions may have bulky hinge components that may create a large profile and inhibit the functionality and usability of the electronic device. For example, bulky hinge components may constrain the scaling of hybrid electronic devices or two-in-one form factors.

[0049] Currently, by supporting low-profile and small form factor components (e.g., die-less packages and motherboards, connectors, batteries, etc.), the limitations of hybrid electronic devices and convertible form factors are addressed. High-density supercapacitors have also been developed to further reduce the battery form factor and density. In at least one exemplary embodiment discussed herein, the electrical device can be configured with a low-profile hinge design, where the entire system can operate in a low-profile clamshell configuration, a low-profile planar configuration, and a low-profile tablet configuration at a low z-height. By utilizing a micro-hinge split design to support a low-profile, fully foldable, 360° hinge, the low-profile hinge can prevent the hinge form factor from limiting the scaling of the entire system z-height. The overall thickness of the hinge can be scaled according to the system z-height by configuring the dimensions of the split components. Thus, the entire system z-height can be scaled based on the display portion and the keyboard portion without being limited by the hinge size.

[0050] The specific embodiments described herein provide an electronic device, e.g., a notebook computer, a laptop computer, a cellular phone, or other mobile devices including a circuit board coupled to a plurality of electronic components (which include any type of components, elements, circuits, etc.). The electronic device can also include a display portion and a keyboard portion coupled to the base using a micro-hinge. The micro-hinge can be configured to allow a low-profile 360° hinge design for hybrid electronic devices and two-in-one applications. The micro-hinge includes micro-hinge links. The micro-hinge links can be embedded or covered with a molded flexible polymer (e.g., polyurethane or some other rubber-like material). The micro-hinge is mechanically coupled or connected to the display portion (e.g., a display panel) and the base portion (e.g., a system board component) to form the electronic device.

[0051] The micro-hinge linkage mechanism is designed to provide guidance and support when the body of the micro-hinge (e.g., the support rod) bends. For example, the body may include a plurality of flexible support rods encapsulated within a polymer heat shrink. The micro-hinge linkage mechanism (as well as the support rods) can be relatively durable and capable of withstanding several conversion cycles without mechanical breakage. The micro-hinge link can include a mechanical support structure. The mechanical support mechanism can include a metal rod, e.g., a thin stainless steel rod having a diameter of about 0.5 mm. Polymer-based composite materials can also be used and can provide improved mechanical reliability and durability.

[0052] Electrical connections between the base portion and the display portion can be established through interconnects embedded or overmolded within the micro-hinge. The micro-hinge can include connectors and mechanical retention to provide electrical connection between the display portion and the base portion. In one embodiment, an electrical connection between a motherboard in the base portion and a display component in the display portion can be formed via the micro-hinge by a conventional wired connection. In another embodiment, a printed circuit board (PCB) interconnector can be used to electrically connect the display portion and the keyboard portion. In other examples, current and signals can pass through a plug-in connector (e.g., whose raised side protrusions connect to the display portion 14 and whose recessed side connects to the base portion 12, or vice versa) or a wireless connector (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.). Note that any number of connectors can be provided in conjunction with the electronic device 10 (e.g., a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector (e.g., compliant with the USB 3.0 specification released in November 2008), a Thunderbolt TM connector, non-standard connection points, e.g., a plug-in connector, etc.). [Thunderbolt TM and Thunderbolt are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the United States and / or other countries]. In fact, any other electrical connection method can be used and thus clearly falls within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0053] In an embodiment, the main system components (e.g., the motherboard, hard disk drive, battery, communication module, etc.) remain in the base portion. In a particular embodiment, the display can be a touchscreen display. The display portion can also contain a camera module, a microphone, a speaker, and / or a wireless module. This design allows the electronic device to operate in a clamshell configuration or a tablet configuration. In an embodiment, the display includes a plurality of electrical components that allow the display portion to operate as a tablet.

[0054] Turning Figure 2 , Figure 2Is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing a portion of the micro hinge 26 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The micro hinge 26 may include a base joint 30, a link 32, a display joint 34, and an electrical conduit 40. The base joint 30 may be coupled or connected to the base portion 12. The display joint 34 may be coupled or connected to the display portion 14. The link 32 allows the micro hinge 26 to be flexible and rotate approximately 360°, while having a low profile. The electrical conduit 40 may allow for an electrical connection between the base portion 12 and the display portion 14.

[0055] Turn Figure 3 , Figure 3 Is a simplified orthographic exploded view of an embodiment showing a portion of the micro hinge 26. The base joint 30 may include an electrical conduit 40 and a base link joint 54. The link 32 may include an electrical conduit 40, a link link joint 52, a joint area 56, and a joint support 58. The joint area may accommodate the base link joint 54 or the link link joint 52 from another link 32. The display joint 34 may include an electrical conduit 40, a link joint area 50, and a joint support 58.

[0056] When the base link joint 54 on the base joint 30 is inserted into the joint area 56, a pin, rod, or some other fastening component may be inserted through the joint support 58 and through the base link joint 54 to fasten the base joint 30 to the link 32. Similarly, when the link joint 52 on another link 32 is inserted into the joint area 56, a pin, rod, or some other fastening component may be inserted through the joint support 58 and through the link link joint 52 (on another link 32) to fasten the other link 32 to the link 32. Additionally, when the link link joint 52 is inserted into the link joint area 50 on the display joint 34, a pin, rod, or some other fastening component may be inserted through the joint support 58 and through the link link joint 52 to fasten the link 32 to the display joint 34. The base link joint 54 may rotate while being fastened into the joint area 56. Similarly, the link link joint 52 may also rotate while being fastened into the joint area 56 and the link joint area 50. This configuration allows the micro hinge 26 to be flexible to rotate approximately 360°, while having a low profile.

[0057] Turn Figure 4 , Figure 4 Is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing the micro hinge 26. A plurality of links 32 may be stacked together to account for the thickness of the base portion 12, the display portion 14, and / or the keyboard portion 16. For example, if the base portion 12, the display portion 14, and / or the keyboard portion 16 are relatively thin, fewer links 32 need to be stacked together compared to the case where the base portion 12, the display portion 14, and / or the keyboard portion 16 are relatively thick.

[0058] Turning Figure 5A , Figure 5A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing a portion of the display hinge 38 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. The display hinge 38 may include a micro hinge 26, a base joint 30, a display joint 34, an electrical conduit 40, a plurality of support rods 44, and a support arm 46. The micro hinge 26 may include a link 32. The support arm 46 may couple or connect the plurality of support rods 44 to the base portion 12 and the display portion 14. As Figure 5A shown, the display hinge 38 is in an open planar configuration (similar to that shown below in Figure 6B ). However, in some examples, the display hinge 38 is shown without a cover 42, and the cover 42 may cover all or a portion of the display hinge 38. In an embodiment, the electrical conduit 40 may be configured to house the support rods 44 such that the support rods 44 are contained within the micro hinge 26 and provide support to the micro hinge 26.

[0059] Turning Figure 5B , Figure 5B is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing a portion of the display hinge 38 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 5B shown, the display hinge 38 may be in a closed clamshell configuration (similar to that shown below in Figure 6C ) or a flat configuration (similar to that shown below in Figure 6D ). The plurality of support rods 44 are flexible enough to bend and bend with the micro hinge 26, and strong enough to provide support to the display portion 14 when the electronic device is in an open clamshell configuration.

[0060] Turning Figure 6A , Figure 6A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment showing the electronic device 10 in an open clamshell configuration in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 6A shown, the display hinge 38 may include a cover 42, a plurality of micro hinges 26, and a plurality of support rods 44. Although only a portion of the cover 42 is shown, the cover 42 may cover the entire portion of the display hinge 38, or the display hinge 38 may not include any cover 42. The cover 42 may provide an aesthetic and / or protective covering for the plurality of micro hinges 26 and the plurality of support rods 44. The cover 42 may be a molded flexible polymer (e.g., polyurethane or some other rubber-like material), or some other material that provides an aesthetic and / or protective covering for the plurality of micro hinges 26 and the plurality of support rods 44.

[0061] Turning Figure 6B , Figure 6Bis a simplified orthographic projection view of an electronic device 10 in a planar configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 6B shown, the display portion 14 has been rotated on a plurality of micro hinges 26 and a plurality of support bars 44 such that the display portion 14 is in the same plane as the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard portion 16 is also in the same plane as the base portion 12. The plurality of micro hinges 26, the plurality of support bars 44, and the keyboard hinge 20 are configured to lie relatively flat on a planar surface and to allow the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the planar configuration.

[0062] Turning Figure 6C , Figure 6C is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of the electronic device 10 shown in a closed clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, in Figure 6C the display portion 14 has been rotated on a plurality of micro hinges 26 and a plurality of support bars 44 such that the display portion 14 faces the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard portion 16 faces away from the base portion 12. The plurality of micro hinges 26, the plurality of support bars 44, and the keyboard hinge 30 are configured to have a low profile and to allow the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the closed clamshell configuration.

[0063] Turning Figure 6D , Figure 6D is a simplified orthographic projection view of an electronic device in a tablet configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 6D shown, the display portion 14 has been rotated on a plurality of micro hinges 26 and a plurality of support bars 44 such that the display 22 faces upward and away from the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard 24 (not shown) faces downward and away from the base portion 12. In this configuration, the base portion 12 is between the display portion 14 and the keyboard portion 16. The plurality of micro hinges 26, the plurality of support bars 44, and the keyboard hinge 20 are configured to have a low profile and to allow the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the tablet configuration.

[0064] Turning Figure 7A , Figure 7A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of the electronic device 10 shown in an open clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 7AAs shown, the display portion 14 is supported by a single micro-hinge 26. The single micro-hinge 26 may include additional or more supports than a single micro-hinge in a plurality of micro-hinges. For example, the single micro-hinge 26 may include a support rod 44. In the illustrated example, the electrical conduit 40 may be configured to house the support rod 44 such that the support rod 44 is contained within the single micro-hinge 26 and provides support for the single micro-hinge 26. In the open clamshell configuration, the additional support may allow the single micro-hinge 26 to support the display portion 14.

[0065] Turning Figure 7B , Figure 7B is a simplified orthographic projection view of the electronic device 10 in a planar configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 7B shown, the display portion 14 has been rotated on the single micro-hinge 26 such that the display portion 14 is in the same plane as the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard portion 16 is also in the same plane as the base portion 12. The single micro-hinge 26 is configured to have a low profile and allows the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the planar configuration.

[0066] Turning Figure 7C , Figure 7C is a simplified orthographic projection view showing an embodiment of the electronic device 10 in a closed clamshell configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, in Figure 7C the display portion 14 has been rotated on the single micro-hinge 26 such that the display portion 14 faces the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard portion 16 faces away from the base portion 12. The single micro-hinge 26 is configured to have a low profile and allows the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the closed clamshell configuration.

[0067] Turning Figure 7D , Figure 7D is a simplified orthographic projection view of the electronic device in a tablet configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 7D shown, the display portion 14 has been rotated on the single micro-hinge 26 such that the display 22 faces upward and away from the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard 24 (not shown) faces downward and away from the base portion 12. In this configuration, the base portion 12 is between the display portion 14 and the keyboard portion 16. The single micro-hinge 26 is configured to have a low profile and allows the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the tablet configuration.

[0068] Turning Figure 8A , Figure 8A is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of an electronic device 10 in an open clamshell configuration, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 8A shown, the display portion 14 is supported by the micro hinge strip 28. The micro hinge strip 28 may include a strip of continuous (or near continuous) micro hinges 26. One or more of the micro hinges 26 in the micro hinge strip 28 may include additional supports. For example, one or more of the micro hinges 26 may include support bars 44 (e.g., the electrical conduit 40 may be configured to accommodate the support bars 44).

[0069] Turning Figure 8B , Figure 8B is a simplified orthographic projection view of the electronic device 10 in a planar configuration, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, in Figure 8B , the display portion 14 has been rotated on the micro hinge strip 28 such that the display portion 14 is in the same plane as the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard portion 16 is also in the same plane as the base portion 12. The micro hinge strip 28 is configured to have a low profile and allows the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the planar configuration.

[0070] Turning Figure 8C , Figure 8C is a simplified orthographic projection view of an embodiment of the electronic device 10 in a closed clamshell configuration, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, in Figure 8C , the display portion 14 has been rotated on the micro hinge strip 28 such that the display portion 14 faces the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard portion 16 faces away from the base portion 12. The micro hinge strip 28 is configured to have a low profile and allows the electronic device 10 to have a low, planar, or relatively planar profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in the closed clamshell configuration.

[0071] Turning Figure 8D , Figure 8D is a simplified orthographic projection view of the electronic device in a tablet configuration, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 8DAs shown, the display portion 14 has been rotated on the micro hinge strip 28 such that the display 22 faces upward and away from the base portion 12. Additionally, the keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on the keyboard hinge 20 such that the keyboard 24 (not shown) faces downward and away from the base portion 12. In this configuration, the base portion 12 is between the display portion 14 and the keyboard portion 16. The micro hinge strip 28 is configured to have a low profile and to allow the electronic device 10 to have a low, flat, or relatively flat profile with a low z-height when the electronic device 10 is in a tablet configuration.

[0072] Turning Figure 9 , Figure 9 is a simplified block diagram associated with an exemplary ARM ecosystem SOC 900 of the present disclosure. At least one exemplary implementation of the present disclosure may include the micro hinge features and ARM components discussed herein. For example, Figure 9 examples may be associated with ARM cores (e.g., A-9, A-15, etc.). Additionally, the architecture may be any type of tablet computer, smart phone (including Android TM phones, iphones TM ), iPad TM , Google Nexus TM , Microsoft Surface TM , personal computer, server, video processing component, laptop computer (including any type of notebook), Ultrabook TM system, part of any type of touch input device supported, etc.

[0073] In Figure 9 this example, the ARM ecosystem SOC 900 may include multiple cores 906-907, L2 cache control 908, bus interface unit 909, L2 cache 910, graphics processing unit (GPU) 915, interconnect 902, video codec 920, and liquid crystal display (LCD) I / F 925, which may be associated with a Mobile Industry Processor Interface (MIPI) / High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) link coupled to the LCD.

[0074] The ARM ecosystem SOC 900 may also include a subscriber identity module (SIM) I / F 930, a boot read-only memory (ROM) 935, a synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) controller 940, a flash controller 945, a serial peripheral interface (SPI) master 950, appropriate power control 955, dynamic RAM (DRAM) 960, and flash 965. Additionally, one or more exemplary embodiments include one or more communication capabilities, interfaces, and features, such as Bluetooth TMExamples of 970, 3G modem 975, global positioning system (GPS) 980, and 802.11 Wi-Fi 985.

[0075] In operation, Figure 9 Examples can provide processing power and relatively low power consumption to support various types of computing (e.g., mobile computing, high-end digital home, servers, wireless infrastructure, etc.). Additionally, such an architecture can support any number of software applications (e.g., Android TM , players, Java Platform Standard Edition (JavaSE), JavaFX, Linux, embedded Microsoft Windows, Symbian, and Ubuntu, etc.). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the core processor can implement an out-of-order superscalar pipeline with a coupled low-latency level 2 cache.

[0076] Turning Figure 10 , Figure 10 is a simplified block diagram showing possible electronics and logic that may be associated with any of the electronic devices discussed herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, system 1000 may include a touch controller 1002, one or more processors 1004, system control logic 1006 coupled to at least one processor 1004, system memory 1008 coupled to system control logic 1006, non-volatile memory and / or storage device 1032 coupled to system control logic 1006, a display controller 1012 coupled to system control logic 1006, a display controller 1012 coupled to a display device 1010, a power management controller 1018 coupled to system control logic 1006, and / or a communication interface 1016 coupled to system control logic 1006.

[0077] In at least one embodiment, the system control logic 1006 may include any suitable interface controller to provide any suitable interface to at least one processor 1004 and / or any suitable device or component that communicates with the system control logic 1006. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the system control logic 1006 may include one or more memory controllers to provide an interface to the system memory 1008. The system memory 1008 may be used to load and store data and / or instructions, e.g., for the system 1000. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the system memory 1008 may include any suitable volatile memory, e.g., a suitable dynamic random access memory (DRAM). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the system control logic 1006 may include one or more I / O controllers to provide an interface to the display device 1010, the touch controller 1002, and the non-volatile memory and / or storage device 1032.

[0078] The non-volatile memory and / or storage device 1032 may be used to store data and / or instructions, e.g., within the software 1028. The non-volatile memory and / or storage device 1032 may include any suitable non-volatile memory, e.g., flash memory, and / or may include any suitable non-volatile storage device, e.g., one or more hard disk drives (HDDs), one or more compact disk (CD) drives, and / or one or more digital versatile disk (DVD) drives.

[0079] The power management controller 1018 may include power management logic 1030 configured to control various power management and / or power saving functions or any part thereof disclosed herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the power management controller 1018 is configured to reduce the power consumption of components or devices of the system 1000, which may operate at reduced power or be turned off when the electronic device is in a closed configuration. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, when the electronic device is in the closed configuration, the power management controller 1018 performs one or more of the following steps: power off unused portions of the display and / or any backlight associated therewith; allow one or more processors 1004 to enter a low power state when lower computing power is required in the closed configuration; and turn off any devices and / or components that are not in use when the electronic device is in the closed configuration.

[0080] The communication interface 1016 may provide an interface for the system 1000 to communicate through one or more networks and / or with any other suitable device. The communication interface 1016 may include any suitable hardware and / or firmware. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the communication interface 1016 may include, for example, a network adapter, a wireless network adapter, a telephone modem, and / or a wireless modem.

[0081] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the system control logic 1006 may include one or more I / O controllers to provide an interface to any suitable input / output device, e.g., the input / output device may be an audio device to assist in converting sound into a corresponding digital signal and / or to assist in converting a digital signal into a corresponding sound, a camera, a camcorder, a printer, and / or a scanner.

[0082] For at least one exemplary embodiment, at least one processor 1004 may be logically packaged together with one or more controllers for the system control logic 1006. In at least one exemplary embodiment, at least one processor 1004 may be logically packaged together with one or more controllers of the system control logic 1006 to form a system-in-package (SiP). In at least one exemplary embodiment, at least one processor 1004 may be integrated with the logic of one or more controllers of the system control logic 1006 on the same die. For at least one exemplary embodiment, at least one processor 1004 may be integrated with the logic of one or more controllers of the system control logic 1006 on the same die to form a system-on-chip (SoC).

[0083] For touch control, the touch controller 1002 may include a touch sensor interface circuit 1022 and touch control logic 1024. The touch sensor interface circuit 1022 may be coupled to detect touch inputs on a first touch surface layer and a second touch surface layer of a display (i.e., the display device 1010). The touch sensor interface circuit 1022 may include any suitable circuitry, which may, for example, at least in part rely on touch-sensitive technology for the touch input device. In one embodiment, the touch sensor interface circuit 1022 may support any suitable multi-touch technology. In at least one embodiment, the touch sensor interface circuit 1022 may include any suitable circuitry to convert analog signals corresponding to the first touch surface layer and the second surface layer into any suitable digital touch input data. Suitable digital touch input data for at least one embodiment may include, for example, touch position or coordinate data.

[0084] The touch control logic 1024 can be coupled to assist in controlling the touch sensor interface circuit 1022 to detect touch inputs on the first touch surface layer and the second touch surface layer in any manner. The touch control logic 1024 of at least one exemplary embodiment can also be coupled to output digital touch input data corresponding to the touch inputs detected by the touch sensor interface circuit 1022 in any suitable manner. Any suitable logic can be utilized to implement the touch control logic 1024, the logic including any suitable hardware, firmware, and / or software logic (e.g., non-transitory tangible media), which depends at least in part on the circuitry of the touch sensor interface circuit 1022. The touch control logic 1024 of at least one embodiment can support any suitable multi-touch technology.

[0085] The touch control logic 1024 can be coupled to output digital touch input data to the system control logic 1006 and / or at least one processor 1004 for processing. The at least one processor 1004 of at least one embodiment can execute any suitable software to process the digital touch input data output from the touch control logic 1024. For example, suitable software can include any suitable driver software and / or any suitable application software. As Figure 10 shown, the system memory 1008 can store suitable software 1026 and / or non-volatile memory and / or storage devices.

[0086] Note that in some exemplary implementations, the functions listed herein can be implemented in conjunction with logic encoded in one or more tangible non-transitory media (e.g., embedded logic provided in an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), digital signal processor (DSP) instructions, software to be executed by a processor (which may include object code and source code), or other similar machines, etc.). In some of these instances, memory elements can store data for the operations described herein. This can include memory elements capable of storing software, logic, code, or processor instructions to be executed to implement the activities described herein. The processor can execute any type of instructions associated with the data to implement the operations detailed herein. In one example, the processor can transform an element or article (e.g., data) from one state or thing to another state or thing. In another example, the activities listed herein can be implemented by fixed logic or programmable logic (e.g., computer instructions executed by software / processor), and the elements identified herein can be some type of programmable processor, programmable digital logic (e.g., field programmable gate array (FPGA), DSP, erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM)), or an ASIC that can include digital logic, software, code, electrical instructions, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0087] It is necessary to note that, solely for purposes of example and instruction, all of the specifications, dimensions, and relationships (such as height, width, length, material, etc.) listed herein are provided. Each of these data can vary significantly without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure or the scope of the appended claims. The specifications apply only to one non-limiting example and, accordingly, they should be construed as such. In the foregoing description, exemplary embodiments have been described. Various modifications and variations can be made to such embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Thus, the description and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0088] Numerous other changes, substitutions, variations, modifications, and alterations will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure within the scope of the appended claims. To assist the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and any readers of any patent issued on this application in interpreting the appended claims, the applicant wishes to note that the applicant (a) does not intend any of the appended claims to invoke paragraph 6 of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (as it existed on the filing date) unless the phrase "means for" or "step for" is specifically used in a particular claim; and (b) does not wish to be limited by any statement in the specification in any way that is not reflected in the appended claims.

[0089] Exemplary Embodiment Implementations

[0090] A particular exemplary implementation of an electronic device includes activities associated with a low-profile hinge design. The low-profile hinge design allows for a hybrid or convertible laptop hinge that does not have bulky hinge components that could create a large profile, place constraints on the functionality and usability of the electronic device, and have significant industrial design implications. The low-profile hinge can be configured with micro hinges that couple a first element to a second element. The micro hinge can include a first joint coupled to the first element, a second joint coupled to the second element, and a plurality of linkages that couple the first joint to the second joint. The first element can be a base portion and the second element can be a display portion. The micro hinge can rotate approximately three hundred and sixty degrees and can have a flexible cover. The low-profile hinge can also include a plurality of micro hinges and a plurality of support bars. In an embodiment, the low-profile hinge extends approximately the length of the first and second elements. Additionally, the micro hinge can also include electrical conduits.

[0091] Other Notes and Examples

[0092] Example A1 is a low-profile hinge that includes a micro-hinge. The micro-hinge can couple a first element to a second element and includes: a first joint that is coupled to the first element; a second joint that is coupled to the second element; and a plurality of link members that couple the first joint to the second joint.

[0093] In Example A2, the subject matter of Example A1 can optionally include that the low-profile hinge is capable of rotating approximately three hundred and sixty degrees.

[0094] In Example A3, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'A' examples can optionally include: a plurality of micro-hinges; and a plurality of support rods.

[0095] In Example A4, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'A' examples can optionally include: a flexible cover.

[0096] In Example A5, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'A' examples can optionally include: the low-profile hinge extends approximately the length of the first element and the second element.

[0097] In Example A6, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'A' examples can optionally include: the micro-hinge further includes an electrical conduit.

[0098] In Example A7, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'A' examples can optionally include: the first element is a base portion of an electronic device.

[0099] In Example A8, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'A' examples can optionally include: the second element is a display portion of an electronic device.

[0100] Example AA1 can include an electronic device that includes: a base portion; a display portion; and a micro-hinge that couples the base portion to the display portion. The micro-hinge includes: a first joint that is coupled to the base portion; a second joint that is coupled to the display portion; and a plurality of link members that couple the first joint to the second joint.

[0101] In Example AA2, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'AA' examples can optionally include: the micro-hinge is capable of rotating approximately three hundred and sixty degrees.

[0102] In Example AA3, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'AA' examples can optionally include: a plurality of micro-hinges; and a plurality of support rods.

[0103] In Example AA4, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'AA' examples can optionally include: the micro-hinge further includes a flexible cover.

[0104] In example AA5, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'AA' examples may optionally include: the micro hinge extends approximately the length of the base portion and the display portion.

[0105] In example AA6, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'AA' examples may optionally include: the micro hinge further includes an electrical conduit.

[0106] In example AA7, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'AA' examples may optionally include: the micro hinge is a low-profile hinge.

[0107] Example M1 is a method that includes: rotating a display portion about a base portion using a low-profile micro hinge, where the low-profile micro hinge includes: a first joint coupled to the base portion; a second joint coupled to the display portion; and a plurality of link members that couple the first joint to the second joint.

[0108] In example M2, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'M' examples may optionally include: using a plurality of low-profile micro hinges and a plurality of support rods to rotate the display portion about the base portion.

[0109] In example M3, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'M' examples may optionally include: the low-profile micro hinge further includes a flexible cover.

[0110] In example M4, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'M' examples may optionally include: the low-profile micro hinge further includes an electrical conduit.

[0111] An exemplary system S1 may include: a unit for rotating a display portion about a base portion using a low-profile micro hinge, where the low-profile micro hinge includes: a first joint coupled to the base portion; a second joint coupled to the display portion; and a plurality of link members that couple the first joint to the second joint.

[0112] An exemplary system SS1 may include: a processor; and a micro hinge that couples a first element to a second element, where the micro hinge includes: a first joint coupled to the first element; a second joint coupled to the second element; and a plurality of link members that couple the first joint to the second joint.

[0113] In example SS2, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'SS' examples may optionally include: the micro hinge is capable of rotating three hundred and sixty degrees.

[0114] In example SS3, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'SS' examples may optionally include: a plurality of micro hinges and a plurality of support rods.

[0115] In Example SS4, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'SS' examples may optionally include: the micro hinge further includes an electrical conduit.

[0116] In Example SS5, the subject matter of any of the foregoing 'SS' examples may optionally include: the first element is a substrate portion and the second element is a display portion.

[0117] Example X1 is a machine-readable storage medium including machine-readable instructions to implement the method as described in any of Examples A-A8, AA1-AA7, M1-M4 or to implement the device. Example Y1 is a device including units for performing any of the Example methods M1-M4. In Example Y2, the subject matter of Example Y1 may optionally include units for performing a method including a processor and a memory. In Example Y3, the subject matter of Example Y2 may optionally include: the memory includes machine-readable instructions.

Claims

1. An electronic device, comprising: a base having a first boundary; a keyboard having a second boundary, the second boundary being smaller than the first boundary; a display portion having a third boundary; a touch screen carried by the display portion, the touch screen having a fourth boundary, the fourth boundary being smaller than the third boundary; and a hinge for fastening the display portion to the base, the hinge including a base link, a display link, and a plurality of intermediate links, the base link being closer to the base than the plurality of intermediate links, the display link being closer to the display portion than the plurality of intermediate links, a first intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links being coupled to the base link, a second intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links being coupled to the display link, the base link, the display link, the first intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links, and the second intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links defining longitudinal axes parallel to each other, the base link, the display link, the first intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links, and the second intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links rotating in a first direction so that the display portion can move to a first position in which the touch screen faces the keyboard, and the base link, the display link, the first intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links, and the second intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links rotating in a second direction so that the display portion can move to a second position in which the touch screen faces away from the base, wherein the display link is a first display link, and the hinge includes a second display link, wherein the first display link is spaced apart from the second display link along the length direction of the base, wherein the hinge includes at least one support member between the first display link and the second display link, the at least one support member including at least one support arm along the length direction of the base between the first display link and the second display link.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The hinge is configured to enable the display portion to remain in the second position with the touch screen facing away from the base.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, When the display portion is in the first position, the hinge supports the display portion in at least a partially upright position relative to the base.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The hinge will carry at least a part of the electronic components of the electronic device.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising a touchpad.

6. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, When the display portion is in one of the first position or the second position, the base link, the display link, and the plurality of intermediate links at least partially define an arch.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The base link, the display link, the first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links, and the second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links rotate to move the display portion to a third position in which the base and the display portion are substantially coplanar.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, At least two of the plurality of intermediate links are coupled to each other.

9. An electronic device, comprising: A base; A keyboard; A display housing; A touch screen carried by the display housing; And A hinge for fastening the display housing to the base, the hinge including a base link, a display link, and a plurality of intermediate links, the base link being closer to the base than the plurality of intermediate links, and the display link being closer to the display housing than the plurality of intermediate links, A first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links is coupled to the base link, A second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links is coupled to the display link, The base link, the display link, the first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links, and the second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links define longitudinally extending axes that are parallel to each other, The base link, the display link, the first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links, and the second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links rotate in a first direction to enable the display housing to move to a first position in which the touch screen faces the keyboard, and The base link, the display link, the first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links, and the second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links rotate in a second direction to enable the display housing to move to a second position in which the touch screen faces away from the base, Wherein, the display link is a first display link, and the hinge includes a second display link, and wherein the first display link is spaced apart from the second display link along the length of the base, Wherein, the hinge includes at least one support member between the first display link and the second display link, the at least one support member including at least one support arm along the length of the base between the first display link and the second display link.

10. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, The hinge is configured to enable the display housing to remain in the second position with the touch screen facing away from the base.

11. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, When the display housing is in the first position, the hinge supports the display housing in at least a partially upright position relative to the base.

12. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, The hinge will carry at least a portion of the electronic components of the electronic device.

13. The electronic device according to claim 9, further comprising a touchpad.

14. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, When the display housing is in one of the first position or the second position, the base link, the display link, and the plurality of intermediate links at least partially define an arch.

15. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, The base link, the display link, a first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links, and a second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links rotate to move the display housing to a third position, in which the base and the display housing are substantially coplanar.

16. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, At least two of the plurality of intermediate links are coupled to each other.

17. An electronic device, comprising: a base; a keyboard carried by the base; a touch screen display; and a hinge for fastening the touch screen display to the base, the hinge including a base link, a display link, and a plurality of intermediate links, the base link being closer to the base than the plurality of intermediate links, and the display link being closer to the touch screen display than the plurality of intermediate links, a first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links is coupled to the base link, a second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links is coupled to the display link, the base link, the display link, a first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links, and a second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links define longitudinal axes parallel to each other, the base link, the display link, a first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links, and a second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links rotate in a first direction to enable the touch screen display to move to a first position, in which the touch screen display faces the keyboard, and the base link, the display link, a first intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links, and a second intermediate link among the plurality of intermediate links rotate in a second direction to enable the touch screen display to move to a second position, in which the touch screen display faces away from the base, wherein the display link is a first display link, and the hinge includes a second display link, wherein the first display link is spaced apart from the second display link along the length of the base, wherein the hinge includes at least one support between the first display link and the second display link, the at least one support including at least one support arm along the length of the base between the first display link and the second display link.

18. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, The hinge is configured to enable the touch screen display to remain in the second position when the touch screen display faces away from the base.

19. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, When the touch screen display is in the first position, the hinge supports the touch screen display in at least a partially upright position relative to the base.

20. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, The hinge will carry at least a portion of the electronic components of the electronic device.

21. The electronic device according to claim 17 further includes a touchpad.

22. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, When the touch screen display is in one of the first position or the second position, the base link, the display link, and the plurality of intermediate links at least partially define an arch.

23. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, The base link, the display link, a first intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links, and a second intermediate link of the plurality of intermediate links rotate to move the touch screen display to a third position, in which the base and the touch screen display are substantially coplanar.

24. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, At least two of the plurality of intermediate links are coupled to each other.

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