Modular Computing and Input Devices

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to modular computing and input devices. A computing device may be reconfigured in various configurations to include one or more electronic devices. The computing device may include a base forming an input surface configured to receive user input. The base may receive one or more input devices, such as a display or a keyboard. The base may include a hinge rotatably attached to the base and configured to removably hold an electronic device, such as a display. The computing device may include a coupling mechanism having a first holding portion and a second holding portion rotatably coupled to an intermediate portion. The first holding portion and the second holding portion may be configured to removably hold an electronic device to the coupling mechanism.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 059,141, filed July 30, 2020, entitled "MODULARIZED COMPUTING AND INPUT DEVICES", the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The examples described herein generally relate to computing devices. More specifically, the examples provided relate to modular computing devices having removably attached components. Background Art

[0004] Components of a computing device can be designed or formed for a particular purpose, including the housing for the computing device. Traditionally, large or bulky components have been used to achieve a desired level of performance in a computing device, such as a desired amount of storage, a desired level of computing power, or a desired way of user input. Accordingly, the housing for such a computing device has been limited to designs including a relatively large or uninterrupted internal volume. Other performance requirements of the computing device also often limit the housing to certain form factors.

[0005] Recent advancements in computing devices have provided for the miniaturization or size reduction of components for powering and driving the device, such as computing components (e.g., processors, batteries, memories, and integrated circuits). Accordingly, computing devices having different form factors have been adopted to provide an effective platform for a particular use or in a particular environment. For example, laptop computing devices and tablet computing devices are typically used when mobility is needed, such as reading news articles on a bus or park bench. Alternatively, a desktop computing device is typically required when a user wants a larger display and / or a full-size keyboard. While computing devices have traditionally been constructed to meet the needs of a single particular use (e.g., hand drawing, virtual and augmented reality applications, reading social media, etc.), reconfigurable computing devices may be desirable to provide a higher quality user experience across a wide range of uses and environments. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An exemplary computing device can include a base or body defining an input surface and an internal volume. The computing device can include a plurality of sensors disposed within the internal volume. The computing device can include a hinge including a retaining portion and a pivot member. The retaining portion can include a first wall and a second wall defining a channel. The pivot member can be rotatably attached to the base and can be positioned between the retaining portion and the base. The computing device can include a display removably attached to the hinge.

[0007] In some examples, the first wall may define a window, and a portion of the display may be visible to a user through the window. The computing device may also include a keyboard removably attached to the input surface. The keyboard may cover at least a portion of the input surface. The computing device may include a second display removably attached to the input surface. The second display may cover at least a portion of the input surface. The base may include one or more magnets to align the keyboard or the second display on the input surface. The base may form a raised portion that serves as a reference for aligning the keyboard or the second display on the input surface. Additionally or alternatively, a plurality of sensors may be disposed within the raised portion and configured to detect capacitive touches at or near the input surface.

[0008] In some examples, the computing device may include a battery, a processor, and a memory disposed within an internal volume. At least one of the plurality of sensors may be configured to detect the position and movement of a user's limb in a region adjacent to the input surface and communicate with the processor in response to the detected movement or position. The computing device may include a power source disposed within the base. The power source may include an inductive charging coil. The computing device may include a projector to project a desired image onto the input surface or elsewhere.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a hinge for an electronic device. The hinge may include a retaining portion having a first wall and a second wall. The first wall and the second wall may form at least a portion of a channel. The hinge may include a pivot member rotatably attached to the retaining portion.

[0010] In some examples, at least one of the first wall or the second wall may define a window. At least one of the first wall or the second wall may include a sub-display. The pivot member may define an axis, and the electronic device coupled to the hinge is capable of pivoting about the axis. The hinge may include one or more magnets configured to hold the electronic device within the retaining portion. The height of the first wall may be greater than the height of the second wall.

[0011] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a coupling mechanism for interconnecting electronic devices. The coupling mechanism may include a first retaining portion, a second retaining portion, and an intermediate portion. The intermediate portion may be positioned between the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion. Each of the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion is capable of pivoting relative to the intermediate portion. Each of the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion may include a first wall, a second wall, a channel at least partially defined by the first wall and the second wall, and a pivot member. The pivot member may be rotatably attached to the intermediate portion.

[0012] In some examples, at least one of the first sidewall or the second sidewall may define a window, and at least a portion of the display interconnected to the coupling mechanism may be visible through the window. At least one of the first wall or the second wall may include a sub-display. The pivot member may define an axis, and the electronic device interconnected to the coupling mechanism is capable of pivoting about the axis. The coupling mechanism may include one or more magnets configured to hold the electronic device within the first holding portion or the second holding portion. The electronic device may include a pair of tablet computing devices or a keyboard and a single computing device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like structural elements, and in which:

[0014] Figure 1A A perspective view of components of a computing device is shown.

[0015] Figure 1B A perspective view of a computing device arranged in a configuration is shown. Figure 1A is shown.

[0016] Figure 1C A perspective view of a computing device arranged in another configuration is shown. Figure 1A is shown.

[0017] Figure 2A A perspective view of a computing device arranged in another configuration and in a closed state is shown. Figure 1A is shown.

[0018] Figure 2B A perspective view of a computing device arranged in another configuration and in a closed state is shown. Figure 1A is shown.

[0019] Figure 2C A perspective view of a computing device arranged in another configuration is shown. Figure 1A is shown.

[0020] Figure 3A A perspective view of a computing device is shown.

[0021] Figure 3B A perspective view of a computing device arranged in an assembled configuration is shown. Figure 3A is shown.

[0022] Figure 3C A perspective view of a computing device arranged in another assembled configuration is shown. Figure 3A is shown.

[0023] Figure 4A A perspective view of a computing device in a closed state is shown. Figure 3B is shown.

[0024] Figure 4B shows a perspective view of the Figure 3C in a closed configuration.

[0025] Figure 4C shows a Figure 3A computing device arranged in another configuration.

[0026] Figure 5A shows a perspective view of the computing device.

[0027] Figure 5B shows Figure 5A a top view of the computing device.

[0028] Figure 5C shows Figure 5A a side view of the computing device.

[0029] Figure 6 shows Figure 5A an exploded view of the computing device.

[0030] Figure 7A and Figure 7B shows a cross-sectional view of the Figure 5B computing device in an open state and a closed state.

[0031] Figure 8A shows a perspective view of the computing device.

[0032] Figure 8B shows Figure 8A a rear perspective view of the computing device.

[0033] Figure 8C shows Figure 8A a top view of the computing device.

[0034] Figure 8D shows Figure 8A a cross-sectional view of the computing device.

[0035] Figure 9 shows Figure 8A an exploded view of the computing device.

[0036] Figure 10A shows a perspective view of the computing device.

[0037] Figure 10B shows the Figure 10A computing device in a closed state.

[0038] Figure 11A shows a perspective view of the computing device in an assembled configuration.

[0039] Figure 11Bshows a computing device in another configuration Figure 11A in a perspective view.

[0040] Figure 12A shows a perspective view of a computing device.

[0041] Figure 12B shows a computing device arranged in another configuration and in a closed state Figure 12A in a perspective view.

[0042] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a computing device including an input device.

[0043] Figure 14 shows a perspective view of a computing device.

[0044] Figure 15A shows a perspective view of a computing device with a hinge in an open state.

[0045] Figure 15B shows a perspective view of a computing device with a hinge in a closed state.

[0046] Figure 16A shows a perspective view of a computing device in a closed state.

[0047] Figure 16B shows a perspective view of a computing device in a closed state.

[0048] Figure 16C shows a perspective view of a computing device in a closed state. Detailed Description

[0049] This specification provides examples and does not limit the scope, applicability, or configuration set forth in the claims. Accordingly, it should be understood that various changes may be made to the functions and arrangements of the elements discussed without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, and that various examples may be appropriately omitted, replaced, or additional procedures or components added. Additionally, features described with respect to some examples may be combined in other examples.

[0050] Traditionally, computing devices can include tablet computing devices, laptop computing devices, and desktop computing devices. A tablet computing device can be similar to a display screen configured to display content to a user of the device while also being capable of receiving touch input from the user. A laptop computing device typically presents a clamshell configuration having a display portion and a keyboard portion pivotally coupled together. A desktop computing device typically includes a separate display (i.e., a monitor), a keyboard, and a host computer. While each of these types of computing devices effectively provides a high-quality user experience in a particular environment, it may be desirable to be able to reconfigure these devices to operate effectively in a wide range of applications in various environments. Thus, for traditional computing devices, a user may need to rely on multiple different computing devices to fully meet their diverse needs.

[0051] In some examples, the computing devices described herein can be modular or reconfigurable to provide improved functionality in a variety of uses and environments. In some examples, a computing device can include a base and a hinge operably coupled to the base. The hinge can be rotatably attached to the base and can be configured to receive and hold a component or an electronic device (e.g., a display) to the base. The base can define an input surface that communicates with one or more sensors to detect touch or near-touch input at the input surface. In addition or alternatively, one or more sensors can detect movement of an object above the input surface, such as a gesture of a user's hand from the computing device.

[0052] In some examples, one or more devices or components can be placed adjacent to the input surface, such as a keyboard positioned on the input surface. In some examples, the keyboard can have electronics or mechanisms for receiving input from a user and can transmit the input to the base. In other examples, the keyboard can include a pad having markings that delineate the boundaries of the keys but does not include any electronics or mechanisms for providing input to the input surface of the base. Instead, one or more sensors within the base can detect input through or at the pad such that the keyboard can be used as a guide or pattern for a user that outlines the boundaries of user input associated with particular keys of the keyboard. In some examples, one or more other input devices can be positioned at the input surface of the base, such as one or more displays, knobs, switches, buttons, dials, or other input devices.

[0053] In some examples, a computing device can include a coupling mechanism configured to interconnect multiple electronic devices or components. The coupling mechanism can include a first holding portion and a second holding portion rotatably attached to an intermediate portion. Each of the holding portions can receive an electronic device within a channel defined by one or more walls.

[0054] The computing devices described herein can include various designs and configurations to accommodate various uses. Such computing devices can be modular and can include, as needed, multiple displays, multiple input devices, or combinations thereof that are selectively coupled to a base, a hinge, or a coupling mechanism. This arrangement can provide a variety of different and novel configurations for using the computing devices described herein.

[0055] These examples, as well as other examples, will be discussed below with reference to Figures 1A to 16C . However, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0056] Figure 1A An example of a computing device 100 as discussed herein is shown, including a base 102, a first display 104, a second display 106, and a keyboard 108. One or more of the first display 104, the second display 106, and the keyboard 108 can be combined with the base 102 in various configurations, for example, by removably coupling thereto. In some examples, the base 102, the first display 104, the second display 106, and the keyboard 108 can all be considered parts of the computing device 100, although in some examples, the base 102 alone can be referred to as the computing device 100, and the first display 104, the second display 106, and the keyboard 108 can be referred to as components, input components, devices, or electronic devices.

[0057] The base 102 can include a hinge 110 that has a retaining portion 112 configured to removably hold an electronic device (e.g., the first display 104 or the second display 106) to the base 102. In some examples, the electronic device can be at least partially held within a channel formed by the retaining portion 112. The electronic device can be at least partially held on or within the retaining portion 112 by a magnetic force that couples the electronic device to the retaining portion 112. For example, the retaining portion 112 can be magnetic or can include one or more magnets or electromagnets that apply a force on corresponding magnets or ferromagnetic materials in the electronic device to hold a portion of the housing of the electronic device to the hinge 110. The hinge 110 can be rotatably or otherwise movably coupled to the base 102 such that the electronic device coupled to the retaining portion 112 can pivot or move relative to the base 102.

[0058] The base 102 may define an input surface 114 (e.g., the uppermost or top surface of the base 102). The input surface 114 may receive input from a user of the computing device 100. For example, the base 102 may include one or more sensors disposed within an interior volume defined by the base 102 to detect user input at or near the input surface 114 (see Figure 7A and Figure 7B and their related disclosures herein). Alternatively or in addition, an input device (e.g., the first display 104 or the second display 106, or the keyboard 108) may be positioned and / or held on the input surface 114 to enable the user to provide input to the computing device 100.

[0059] The first display 104 may be any form of display, component, or device for displaying visual content to a user. For example, the first display 104 may be an LED display, an OLED display, or an LCD display. In some examples, the first display 104 may be any form of display known in the art or that may be developed in the future. In some examples, the first display 104 may be a touchscreen display, or may have touch detection capabilities such as capacitive touch, force touch, and proximity touch capabilities. However, in some examples, the computing device 100 may be able to detect user touches and / or the position of the user's limb through components other than the first display 104. In some examples, the first display 104 may also be used as a stand-alone computing device, such as a tablet in a conventional configuration, when not held on the base 102. In some examples, the first display 104 may communicate with the base 102, and the computing components in the base 102 may provide signals to the first display 104 regardless of whether the first display 104 is held on the base 102.

[0060] The second display 106 may be substantially similar to the first display 104 and may include some or all of the features of the first display 104. In some examples, the second display 106 may be any form of display, component, or device for displaying visual content to a user. For example, in some examples, the second display 106 may be an LED display, an OLED display, or an LCD display. In some examples, the second display 106 may be any form of display known in the art or that may be developed in the future. In some examples, the second display 106 may be a touchscreen display, or may have touch detection capabilities such as capacitive touch, force touch, and proximity touch capabilities. However, in some examples, the computing device 100 may be able to detect user touches and / or the position of the user's limb through components other than the second display 106.

[0061] As described herein and as shown in the associated figures, the first display 104 and the second display 106 can be removably coupled to the base 102 or otherwise positioned around the base 102 to provide various configurations of the computing device 100. Thus, one or both of the first display 104 and the second display 106 can be used to form the computing device 100. Although in a particular example reference may be made to a corresponding display (e.g., the first display 104), the other display (e.g., the second display 106) can be equally applicable within that example. Additionally, although the size and aesthetic features of the second display 106 are illustrated in the figures as being the same as those of the first display 104, the second display 106 can be different from the first display 104 in terms of size, aesthetic features, and functionality.

[0062] In some examples, the keyboard 108 can include one or more keys 116. A user can provide input to the computing device 100 by pressing one or more of the keys 116. Each key 116 can include a corresponding marking or symbol printed, etched, or otherwise provided on the surface of the key 116 to form an alphanumeric keyboard (e.g., a QWERTY-type keyboard, etc.). In addition or alternatively, one or more of the keys 116 can change or alter aspects of the operation of the computing device 100, for example, by adjusting the intensity of the backlight behind the key 116 or by changing the magnitude of the volume emitted from speakers (not shown) housed within the first display 104 or the second display 106 and / or the base 102.

[0063] Although the figures illustrate the keyboard 108 as having a particular number of keys 116, each with a particular size and shape, the number of keys 116 and the specific size and shape of the keys 116 can vary from example to example. Additionally, the position of each key 116 on the keyboard 108 can vary to accommodate other input mechanisms on the keyboard 108, such as a touchpad, a touchscreen, or other input surfaces or components. Further, each key 116 can be configured to receive multiple types of input. In some examples, a key 116 can be actuated or receive a force from a user vertically displacing the key 116. In addition or alternatively, a key 116 can receive touch input at its surface to provide touchpad or trackpad functionality. For example, touch input at the surface of a key 116 can control or operate a cursor displayed at an electronic device (e.g., the first display 104 and / or the second display 106) operably coupled to the computing device 100. In some examples, a key 116 can be configured to receive multi-touch input at the surface of the key 116 to enable additional operational features for a user of the computing device 100, such as pinch, zoom, and rotation features that enable the user to manipulate the view displayed on the electronic device.

[0064] In some examples, keyboard 108 may include electrical and / or mechanical components that enable keys 116 to be physically actuated or otherwise receive input from a user of computing device 100. In such examples, keyboard 108 may include a set of key mechanisms and / or a set of sensors. Each key mechanism in the set of key mechanisms may include a keycap, a support structure, and a biasing component. Each sensor in the set of sensors may be configured to detect capacitive touch or proximity touch at the surface of keyboard 108.

[0065] In other examples, keyboard 108 may not have some or all of the electrical and mechanical components such that only one or more sensors disposed within base 102 detect input at keyboard 108. In such examples, keyboard 108 may be a pad or a disk that provides a reference or pattern to a user identifying the boundaries and relative sizes of each key 116, but keyboard 108 does not provide any input to base 102. In other words, one or more sensors within base 102 may detect input through keyboard 108, which acts as a guide for a user of the computing device by outlining the respective input areas and key boundaries.

[0066] Figure 1B A perspective view of computing device 100 arranged in a first configuration is shown, where first display 104 is removably attached to hinge 110 and keyboard 108 is positioned on or near input surface 114. When coupled or attached to base 102, first display 104 may be in electrical communication with one or more computing components within base 102, other components within base 102 (e.g., a power supply), keyboard 108, an accessory device (e.g., a stand-alone touchpad), or a combination thereof. For example, retention portion 112 may form an electrical conduction path that is configured to receive and / or transmit data and / or power from first display 104 and to distribute the data to one or more of the above components. Similarly, retention portion 112 may be configured to convey or transfer data and / or power from one or more of the above components to first display 104. In some examples, first display 104 may wirelessly transmit and / or receive data and / or power from base 102. In some examples, base 102 and / or first display 104 may include wireless charging components, such as inductive charging components. In some examples, base 102 and / or display 104 may include one or more wireless antennas, such as WIFI, Bluetooth, cellular, LTE, or any other form of wireless antenna.

[0067] Similar to the first display 104, when coupled or attached to the input surface 114, the keyboard 108 can also be positioned to be in wireless communication and / or electrical communication with one or more computing components within the base 102, other components within the base 102 (e.g., a power supply), the first display 104, an auxiliary device (e.g., a separate touchpad), or a combination thereof. For example, due to user input received at the keyboard 108 (e.g., actuation of a key 116), the keyboard 108 can wirelessly transmit data to the base 102 or other components. The keyboard 108 can be aligned and attached to the base 102, for example, using one or more magnets within the base 102 and / or the keyboard 108. In some examples, the base 102 can form or define a raised portion 118 that can act as a reference for aligning the keyboard 108 relative to the input surface 114. Additionally or alternatively, the bottom surface (e.g., the surface of the keyboard 108 that interfaces with the base 102 and / or the input surface 114) can have a relatively high coefficient of friction to limit or prevent the keyboard 108 from sliding or moving on the base 102 when receiving input. For example, the surface of the keyboard 108 and / or the input surface 114 can include a coating or material having a relatively high coefficient of friction, such as a polymer material or a rubber material.

[0068] Figure 1C A perspective view of the computing device 100 arranged in a second configuration is shown, where the first display 104 is removably attached to the hinge 110 and the second display 106 is positioned near the input surface 114. Similarly, when coupled or attached to the base 102, the first display 104 can be positioned to be in electrical communication and / or wireless communication with one or more computing components within the base 102, other components within the base 102 (e.g., a power supply), the second display 106, an auxiliary device (e.g., the keyboard 108), or a combination thereof. For example, the retaining portion 112 can form an electrical conduction path that is configured to receive data and / or power from the first display 104 and distribute the data to one or more of the above components. Similarly, the retaining portion 112 can be configured to transfer or convey data and / or power from one or more of the above components to the first display 104.

[0069] Similar to the first display 104, when coupled or attached to the input surface 114, the second display 106 can also be positioned in electrical communication with one or more computing components within the base 102, other components within the base 102 (e.g., a power supply), the first display 104, an auxiliary device (e.g., the keyboard 108), or a combination thereof. For example, due to user input received at the second display 106 (e.g., user input at the surface of the second display 106 configured to receive capacitive touch input), the second display 106 can wirelessly transmit data and / or power to the base 102 or other components. The second display 106 can be aligned and attached to the base 102, for example, using one or more magnets within the base 102 and / or the second display 106. In some examples, the raised portion 118 of the base 102 can act as a reference for aligning the second display 106 relative to the input surface 114. Additionally or alternatively, the bottom surface (e.g., the surface of the second display 106 that interfaces with the base 102) can have a relatively high coefficient of friction to limit or prevent the second display 106 from sliding or moving on the base 102.

[0070] Figure 2A The computing device 100 in a closed state arranged in a third configuration is shown, Figure 1A where the second display 106 is positioned on the housing 120 of the first display 104 such that the display screen 122 of the second display 106 is visible or otherwise accessible to a user of the computing device 100. As Figure 2A shown, when the computing device 100 is in the closed state, the keyboard 108 can be positioned between the base 102 and the first display 104. In some examples, when the computing device 100 is in the closed state and the keyboard 108 is positioned between the base 102 and the first display 104, the first display 104 and / or the keyboard 108 can be deactivated or made inoperative to prevent unintentional or accidental input to the computing device 100 from the first display 104 and the keyboard 108. If the computing device 100 is opened by a user to an open state, the second display 106 can be deactivated or made inoperable, while the first display 104 and / or the keyboard 108 can be activated or made operable.

[0071] In this configuration, the second display 106 can be used as the primary display of the computing device 100 and receive user input at the display screen 122. In some examples, in this configuration, the computing device 100 can be used as a tablet computing device, where the user interacts and interfaces with the second display 106. The second display 106 can be removably attached to the first display 104, for example, by one or more magnets positioned within the first display 104 and / or the second display 106. In some examples, the housing 120 of the first display can include metal or magnets that interact with one or more magnets within the second display 106 to removably couple the second display 106 to the housing 120 of the first display 104. Similarly, the housing 124 of the second display 106 can include metal or magnets that interact with one or more magnets within the first display 104 to removably couple the second display 106 to the first display 104.

[0072] Figure 2B The computing device 100 in a closed state arranged in a fourth configuration is shown, Figure 1A where the second display 106 is positioned on the housing 120 of the first display 104 such that the display screen 122 of the second display 106 is not visible or otherwise face - down and facing the first display 104. Similar to the Figure 2A configuration shown, when the computing device 100 is in the closed state, the keyboard 108 can be positioned between the base 102 and the first display 104. Also, when the computing device 100 is in the closed state and the keyboard 108 is positioned between the base 102 and the first display 104, the first display 104 and / or the keyboard 108 can be deactivated or non - operative to prevent unintentional or accidental input to the computing device 100 from the first display 104 and the keyboard 108.

[0073] If the computing device 100 is opened by the user to the open state, the first display 104 and / or the keyboard 108 can be activated or made operable. In this configuration, the second display 106 can be inoperable or deactivated to no longer output content to the user or receive input from the user. For example, this can be beneficial when transporting the computing device 100 and input at the computing device 100 is not desired. Similar to the Figure 2A configuration shown, in this configuration, the second display 106 can be removably attached to the first display 104. For example, the second display 106 can be removably attached to the first display 104 by one or more magnets positioned within the first display 104 and / or the second display 106.

[0074] Figure 2C The computing device 100 in a closed state arranged in a fifth configuration is shownFigure 1A Computing device 100, wherein the keyboard 108 is positioned on the housing 120 of the first display 104. As Figure 2C shown, when the computing device 100 is in the closed state, the second display 106 can be positioned between the base 102 and the first display 104. When the computing device 100 is in the closed state and the second display 106 is positioned between the base 102 and the first display 104, the first display 104 and / or the second display 106 can be deactivated or inoperative to prevent unintentional or accidental input to the computing device 100 from the first display 104 and the second display 106. By positioning the second display 106 between the base 102 and the first display 104, the second display 106 can be protected or shielded from potential damage when transporting the computing device 100. In addition, the first display 104 can be protected or shielded from damage by the keyboard 108.

[0075] If the computing device 100 is opened by the user to the open state, the first display 104 and / or the second display 106 can be activated or made operable. The keyboard 108 can be removably attached to the first display 104, for example, by one or more magnets positioned within the first display 104 and / or the keyboard 108. In some examples, the housing 120 of the first display can include metal that interacts with one or more magnets within the keyboard 108 to removably couple the keyboard 108 to the housing 120 of the first display 104.

[0076] In some examples, components positioned on the first display 104 (e.g., Figure 2A and the second display in FIG. 2B, or Figure 2C the keyboard 108 in Figure 2A ) can remain attached to the first display 104 when the computing device 100 is opened by the user and can remain attached while the computing device 100 remains in the open state. Although reference has been made to the first display 104 and the second display 106 at specific locations within the computing device 100, the first display 104 can replace the second display 106, and vice versa. For example, the relative positions and functions of the first display and the second display can be swapped Figure 2A such that the first display 104 is positioned outside the closed computing device 100.

[0077] Various examples of computing devices attached with one or more electronic devices are described below with reference to Figure 3A to Figure 4C . Figure 3A FIG. shows an example of a computing device 200 as discussed herein, including a coupling mechanism 202, a first display 204, a second display 206 (see Figure 3C) and keyboard 208. One or more of the first display 204, the second display 206, and the keyboard 208 can be combined with the coupling mechanism 202 in various configurations to form the computing device 200. In some examples, the computing device 200 and the first display 204, the second display 206, and the keyboard 208 can include some or all of the features of other computing devices, displays, and keyboards discussed herein.

[0078] The coupling mechanism 202 can include a first holding portion 210 and a second holding portion 212 pivotally coupled to an intermediate portion 214 such that a display or a keyboard coupled to the first holding portion 210 or the second holding portion 212 can pivot relative to the intermediate portion 214. Each of the first holding portion 210 and the second holding portion 212 can be configured to removably hold an electronic device (e.g., the first display 204 or the second display 206, or the keyboard 208) or other object to the coupling mechanism 202. In some examples, the first holding portion 210 can define or form a first channel 216, and the second holding portion 212 can define or form a second channel 218. The first display 204, the second display 206, the keyboard 208, or another object can be removably held within one of the first channel 216 or the second channel 218 or otherwise removably attached to the coupling mechanism 202. For example, the first holding portion 210 can be magnetic or can include one or more magnets or electromagnets that hold a portion of the housing of the electronic device to the first holding portion 210.

[0079] In some examples, the intermediate portion 214 can form an elongate member 220 having a first recess and a second recess formed therein. In some examples, the elongate member 220 can form an internal volume. One or more computing components, sensors, other components, or combinations thereof can be disposed within the internal volume of the elongate member 220. The first recess can receive at least a portion of a first pivot member, while the second recess can receive at least a portion of a second pivot member. This will be referred to herein Figures 8A to 8D The coupling mechanism 202 will be discussed in more detail.

[0080] Figure 3B A perspective view of the computing device 200 arranged in a first configuration is shown, in which the first display 204 is removably coupled to the first holding portion 210, and the keyboard 208 is removably coupled to the second holding portion 212. In this configuration, the computing device 200 can be substantially similar to a conventional laptop computing device and / or used as a conventional laptop computing device.

[0081] When coupled or attached to the coupling mechanism 202, the first display 204 can be positioned to be in wireless communication and / or electrical communication with one or more computing components (e.g., a processor, a memory, etc.) within the coupling mechanism 202, other components within the coupling mechanism 202 (e.g., a power supply), the keyboard 208, or a combination thereof. For example, the first retaining portion 210 can form an electrical conduction path that is configured to receive data and / or power from the first display 204 and to distribute the data and / or power to one or more of the above components. Similarly, the first retaining portion 210 can be configured to transfer or transmit data and / or power from one or more of the above components to the first display 204. Thus, the first retaining portion 210, the second retaining portion 212, and the intermediate portion 214 can form a wireless path and / or an electrical conduction path to electrically couple the first display 204 to the keyboard 208.

[0082] Figure 3C A perspective view of the computing device 200 arranged in a second configuration is shown, in which the first display 204 is removably coupled to the first retaining portion 210, and the second display 206 is removably coupled to the second retaining portion 212. In this configuration, the second display 206 can be used as a virtual keyboard, a touchpad, an auxiliary display, another form of input component, or a combination thereof.

[0083] When coupled or attached to the coupling mechanism 202, the second display 206 can be positioned to be in electrical communication and / or wireless communication with one or more computing components (e.g., a processor, a memory, etc.) within the coupling mechanism 202, other components within the coupling mechanism 202 (e.g., a power supply), the first display 204, or a combination thereof. For example, the second retaining portion 212 can form an electrical conduction path that is configured to receive data and / or power from the second display 204 and to distribute the data and / or power to one or more of the above components. Similarly, the second retaining portion 212 can be configured to transfer or transmit data and / or power from one or more of the above components to the second display 206. Thus, the first retaining portion 210, the second retaining portion 212, and the intermediate portion 214 can form an electrical conduction path to electrically couple the first display 204 to the second display 206.

[0084] Figure 4A A configuration of the computing device 200 in a closed state is shown Figure 3B having a first retaining portion 210 and a second retaining portion 212 that are rotated relative to the intermediate portion 214 such that the first display 204 is positioned adjacent to the keyboard 208. When in the closed state, the first display 204 and the keyboard 208 can be inoperable or deactivated to prevent accidental or unwanted operation of the computing device 200.

[0085] In some examples, the first retaining portion 210 and the second retaining portion 212 may be pivotally coupled to the intermediate portion 214 such that when the computing device 200 is in the closed state, the first display 204 and the keyboard 208 are substantially parallel to each other. When the first display 204 and the keyboard 208 are substantially parallel, the computing device 200 may be biased to remain in the closed state. For example, the coupling mechanism 202 may include a biasing member (e.g., a spring, not shown) that is configured to bias the first retaining portion 210 relative to the second retaining portion 212 to a particular position. Alternatively or in addition, one or more magnets may be positioned within the first display 204 and the keyboard 208 such that when the keyboard 208 and the first display 204 are adjacent to each other (i.e., when the computing device 200 is in the closed state), the magnets bias the keyboard 208 to contact the first display 204.

[0086] Figure 4B The configuration of the Figure 3C computing device 200 in the closed state is shown, having a first retaining portion 210 and a second retaining portion 212 that are rotatable relative to the intermediate portion 214 such that the first display 204 is positioned adjacent to the second display 206. When in the closed state, the first display 204 and the second display 206 may be inoperable or deactivated to prevent accidental or undesired operation of the computing device 200.

[0087] In some examples, the first retaining portion 210 and the second retaining portion 212 may be pivotally coupled to the intermediate portion 214 such that when the computing device 200 is in the closed state, the first display 204 and the second display 206 are substantially parallel to each other. When the first display 204 and the second display are substantially parallel, the computing device 200 may be biased to remain in the closed state. For example, the coupling mechanism 202 may include a biasing member (e.g., a spring) that is configured to bias the first retaining portion 210 relative to the second retaining portion 212 to a particular position. Alternatively or in addition, one or more magnets may be positioned within the first display 204 and the second display 206 such that when the second display 206 and the first display 204 are adjacent to each other (i.e., when the computing device 200 is in the closed state), the magnets bias the second display 206 to contact the first display 204.

[0088] Figure 4C The configuration of the computing device 200 in the closed state and another configuration is shown Figure 4AA computing device, wherein a first display 204 is positioned within a first retaining portion 210 such that a display screen 226 of the first display 204 is oriented away from a keyboard 208. In some examples, in this configuration, the computing device 200 can be used as a tablet computing device, wherein a user interacts with and interfaces with the first display 204.

[0089] As Figure 4A and Figure 4C shown, the first display 204 can be received and retained within the first retaining portion 210 in multiple orientations. For example, as Figure 4A shown, the first display 204 can be oriented within the first retaining portion 210 such that the display screen 226 is oriented toward the keyboard 208. However, the first display 204 can be detached or removed from the first retaining portion 210, flipped or rotated, and reattached within the first retaining portion 210 such that the display screen 226 is oriented away from the keyboard 208, as Figure 4C shown. Thus, the computing device 200 is modular or otherwise configured to allow removal and reattachment of multiple components (e.g., the first display 204, the second display 206, the keyboard 208, other objects, or combinations thereof) in various orientations relative to the first retaining portion 210 and the second retaining portion 212.

[0090] Various examples of computing devices having a base configured to be coupled to one or more electronic devices are described below with reference to Figures 5A to 7B . Figures 5A to 5C Various views of an example of a computing device 300 including a base 302 and a display 304 are shown. In some examples, the computing device 300 can be substantially similar to any of the computing devices described herein, such as Figure 1A the computing device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 to 2C. For example, the computing device 300 can include a second display and a keyboard (not shown) configured to be removably coupled to the base 302. Additionally, the display 304 is capable of being removed from a hinge 306 of the base 302.

[0091] Similar to other examples described herein, the base 302 can define an input surface 308 that receives input from a user of the computing device 300. In some examples, the input surface 308 can detect touch input at one or more locations on the input surface 308 corresponding to a particular response of the computing device 300. For example, a keyboard can be projected, etched, or otherwise defined on the input surface 308, and user input (e.g., touch input or gesture input) at a location on the input surface 308 can cause the computing device 300 to display a marker, such as a letter, symbol, or other alphanumeric value corresponding to that location, or perform any other desired action.

[0092] Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the input surface 308 may be configured to operate as a touchpad to control or manipulate a cursor displayed at the display 304. Thus, the input surface 308 may detect touches, near touches, and / or force inputs to determine a direction in which the cursor or other indicator displayed at the display 304 may be moved (e.g., in response to a user input signal associated with cursor movement). Thus, multiple discrete touch and / or force inputs may be compared across the input surface 308 to determine a direction of movement of a user's finger across the input surface 308. A user input signal may be generated that indicates that the computing device 300 will display the cursor at a new location or perform any other desired action based on the determined direction of movement. The portion of the input surface 308 that operates as a touchpad may vary, for example, depending on a program or software running on the computing device 300. In some examples, the input surface 308 may be used as both a touchpad and a keyboard, for example, by detecting a touch input at a location as an input to the keyboard and detecting a swipe touch input as an input to the touchpad.

[0093] The base 302 may form or define a raised portion 310 having one or more sensors, computing components, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the raised portion 310 may include a top wall 312 and side walls 314. The side walls 314 may be substantially perpendicular to the top wall 312. In some examples, the side walls 314 may define a reference or alignment surface on which other devices (e.g., a second display, a keyboard, etc.) may be positioned to align the other device on the input surface 308. Similar to the input surface 308, the top wall 312 of the raised portion 310 may be configured to receive inputs from a user. For example, the top wall 312 may operate as a dynamic input / output device or other input mechanism. Non-limiting examples of dynamic input / output devices are described in U.S. Patent No. 9,927,895, published on March 27, 2018, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0094] The base 302 may include any material that permits the functions and uses described herein. In some examples, the base 302 may include metal, metal alloy, glass, ceramic, polymer, or a combination thereof. For example, the base 302 may include aluminum and glass, where the glass forms the input surface 308 and the aluminum forms the remainder of the structure of the base 302. Forming the input surface 308 from glass, polymer, or ceramic may permit radio frequency (RF) transmission and reception through the input surface 308. For example, a transceiver or antenna positioned within the base 302 may receive and transmit RF signals through the input surface 308. In some examples, a relatively small portion of the base 302 may be made of RF-transparent material, such as the raised portion 310, to provide wireless communication to other devices (e.g., IEEE802: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless networking technologies).

[0095] In some examples, the input surface 308 can be a smooth, flat surface with no ridges, depressions, or formations on the input surface 308. For example, the input surface 308 can be a smooth surface on which an input area is projected or otherwise displayed as a reference for a user of the computing device 300. For example, a projector can be positioned within the raised portion 310 and configured to project an image onto the input surface 308 or elsewhere. In other examples, the input surface 308 can be a textured flat surface with ridges, depressions, and / or other formations thereon. For example, the input surface 308 can be etched or machined to define the key boundaries of a QWERTY keyboard that can be recognized by a user of the computing device 300.

[0096] Figure 6 A exploded view of the base 302 is shown, which includes a hinge 306, an upper portion 316 of the base 302, a plurality of sensors 318, 320, a computing component 322, a substrate 324, and a lower portion 326 of the base 302. As Figure 6 shown, the base 302 can form a body around which other components can be positioned. For example, the base 302 can define an internal volume or cavity between the upper portion 316 and the lower portion 326. One or more of the plurality of sensors 318, 320, the computing component 322, the substrate 324, or a combination thereof can be disposed within the internal volume (see the internal volume 344 in Figure 7A and Figure 7B ).

[0097] The hinge 306 can be pivotally coupled to the base 302. For example, a portion of the hinge 306 can be pivotally coupled within a recess 328 formed within the base 302. For example, a pivot member of the hinge 306 (see Figure 7A and Figure 7B ) can be positioned within the recess 328. The hinge 306 can be pivotally or rotatably coupled to the base 302 by any mechanism known now or later developed in the art. For example, the hinge 306 can be pinned to the base 302 to enable the hinge 306 to rotate relative to the base 302.

[0098] The retaining portion 330 can include a first wall 332 and a second wall 334 that define a channel 336 (see Figure 7A and Figure 7B ). A device such as a display can be at least partially positioned between the first wall 332 and the second wall 334 and within the channel 336 when the device is removably attached within the retaining portion 330. In some examples, the first wall 332 can have a first height H 1 , while the second wall 334 has a second height H 2 (seeFigure 7A and Figure 7B )。The first height H 1 may be different from the second height H 2 . For example, in some examples, the first height H 1 may be greater than or higher than the second height H 2 . Although the first height H 1 is depicted as greater than or higher than the second height H Figure 7A and Figure 7B , in other examples, the second height H 2 may be equal to the first height H 2 or less than the first height H 1 . 1 .

[0099] In some examples, the input surface 308 may define the entire upper portion 316 of the base 302. In other examples, the input surface 308 may define a portion of the upper portion 316. A plurality of first sensors 318 may be disposed within the internal volume 344 below the raised portion 310 to detect touch inputs at the base 302. For example, the plurality of first sensors 318 may detect touch inputs at the raised portion 310. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of first sensors 318 may detect the location where the input surface 308 receives an input. For example, the plurality of first sensors 318 may be configured to emit light or another form of energy that rebounds or reflects from a user's finger or hand to determine the distance from the user's touch of the input surface 308 to the sensors 318. Then, the sensors 318 (or a processing unit 338 communicatively coupled to the sensors 318) may determine the location where the input surface 308 is touched based on the determined distance and implement a response to the input.

[0100] A plurality of second sensors 320 may be disposed within the internal volume 344 below the input surface 308. The plurality of second sensors 320 may be configured to detect touch inputs or near-touch inputs at the input surface 308. For example, the plurality of sensors 320 may be an electrode array configured to detect capacitance changes at the input surface 308. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of second sensors 320 may include piezoelectric or strain-sensing elements configured to detect forces at the input surface 308. After an input at the input surface 308 is detected by the plurality of second sensors 320, a signal corresponding to the user input may be generated and transmitted to another component within the base 302, such as the processing unit 338.

[0101] Multiple first sensors 318 and multiple second sensors 320, a processing unit 338, other computing components (e.g., memory), or combinations thereof may be communicatively coupled to a substrate 324. In some examples, the substrate 324 includes electrical traces 340 that electrically couple each of the multiple first sensors 318, the multiple second sensors 320, the processing unit 338, and other computing components (e.g., memory). The substrate 324 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) having one or more electronic components (e.g., capacitors, resistors, inductors, transistors, etc.) and logic circuitry enabling the functions of the base 302, as well as one or more wireless antennas as described herein.

[0102] The computing device 300 may use the electrical responses of the sensors 318, 320 to control the functions of the computing device 300 and provide haptic feedback (e.g., haptic vibrations) to the input surface 308. In some examples, one or more haptic elements may provide local haptic feedback to the input surface 308, for example, at or near the location of the received touch and / or force input. Additionally or alternatively, haptic feedback may be provided to the input surface 308 to indicate to the user the boundaries of sub-input regions (e.g., causing haptic vibrations when the user's finger crosses the perimeter of a virtual button). This may simulate a keyboard surface with discrete keys (e.g., a keyboard with mechanically actuated keycaps), but above a substantially flat, variable-sized input surface 308. The components involved in generating the haptic response may include the input surface and one or more actuators (such as piezoelectric transducers, electromechanical devices, and / or other vibration-inducing devices). In some examples, the input surface 308 may be defined by any of a variety of input devices, including but not limited to capacitive touch input, mechanical input, or optical sensing input.

[0103] The processing unit 338 may include one or more computer processors or microcontrollers that perform operations in response to receiving computer-readable instructions. The processing unit 338 may include the central processing unit (CPU) and memory of the computing device 300. Additionally or alternatively, the processing unit 136 may include other processors within the computing device 300, including application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and other microcontrollers.

[0104] The memory may include various types of non-transitory computer-readable storage media, including, for example, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and EEPROM), or flash memory. The memory may store computer-readable instructions. Additionally or alternatively, the memory may include various types of non-transitory computer-readable storage media, including, for example, hard drive storage devices, solid-state storage devices, portable magnetic storage devices, or other similar devices. The processing unit 338 may read the computer-readable instructions stored on the memory. The computer-readable instructions may cause the processing unit 338 to perform the operations, functions, and aspects of the disclosure described herein. The computer-readable instructions may be provided as a computer program product, a software application, or the like.

[0105] In some examples, the computing device 300 may further include one or more power sources or power supplies (not shown) positioned within the base 302 and operatively coupled to the computing components (e.g., the processing unit 338 and / or other computing components). For example, the computing device 300 may include one or more power sources positioned within the internal volume defined by the base 302. The one or more power sources may be rechargeable and provide power to the computing components and sensors 318, 320 of the computing device 300. The one or more power sources may include any device capable of storing and discharging electrical power, such as one or more lithium-ion polymer batteries or other forms of electrical energy storage devices.

[0106] In some examples, the power supply of the computing device 300 may include one or more inductive charging coils. The inductive charging coils may enable the power supply of the computing device 300 to be charged using resonant inductive coupling, for example, when the computing device 300 is positioned above or near a charging pad. In some examples, the inductive charging coils may provide between 5 watts and 15 watts of power to the power supply of the computing device 300. The inductive charging coils may be configured to operate according to known charging technologies, such as the Qi open interface standard for wireless power transfer or other mechanisms for wirelessly charging electronic devices.

[0107] The lower portion 326 of the base 302 forms the bottom surface 342 that supports the substrate 324 and the plurality of sensors 318, 320. The lower portion 326 may be attached to the upper portion 316 by fasteners, clamps, interlocking features, adhesives, or another mechanism for coupling the lower portion 326 to the upper portion 316. In some examples, a barrier, gasket, or membrane (not shown) may be attached between the lower portion 326 and the upper portion 316 to inhibit or otherwise prevent contaminants (e.g., liquids, dust particles, debris) from entering the internal volume of the base 302.

[0108] Figure 7A and Figure 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the computing device 300 in an open state ( Figure 7A ) and the computing device 300 in a closed state ( Figure 7B ). In some examples, the display 304 may be held within a channel 336 defined by a first wall 332 and a second wall 334 of the holding portion 330. The holding portion 330 may be rotatable relative to the base 302. Accordingly, the display 304 removably coupled to the holding portion 330 may be rotatable relative to the base 302. As Figure 7A and Figure 7B shown, the plurality of sensors 318, 320 and the substrate 324 may be disposed within an internal volume 344 defined by the base 302.

[0109] The raised portion 310 of the base 302 may define a recess 346. In some examples, the recess 346 may be formed within a corresponding rear surface 348 of the base 302, as Figure 7A and Figure 7B shown. The holding portion 330 may include a pivot member 350 configured to be positioned within the recess 346 and to allow the holding portion 330 to rotate relative to the base 302. In other words, the pivot member 350 may be coupled or interlocked with the recess 346 such that the pivot member 350 may rotate within the recess 346. For example, the pivot member 350 may define a rotational axis about which the holding portion 330 may rotate, pivot, or otherwise move. Although Figure 7A and Figure 7B the examples shown illustrate the base 302 having a recess 346 within the rear surface 348, in other examples, the base 302 may include a recess within the top wall 312 of the raised portion 310 or other surfaces of the base 302.

[0110] The raised portion 310 may form or define a cavity 352 configured to receive at least a portion of the second wall 334 of the holding portion 330 when the computing device 300 is in the closed state. For example, the cavity 352 may be dimensioned to be substantially similar to the second wall 334 such that the second wall 334 can move within the cavity 352 when the holding portion 330 is rotated to the closed state (as Figure 7B shown).

[0111] Various examples of computing devices having one or more attached electronic devices are described below with reference to Figure 8A to Figure 9 . Figures 8A to 8CShows multiple views of an example of a coupling mechanism 400 including a first retaining portion 402 and a second retaining portion 404, each of the first retaining portion 402 and the second retaining portion 404 being independently rotatable or pivotable relative to an intermediate portion 418. In some examples, the coupling mechanism 400 may be substantially similar to and include some or all of the features of the coupling mechanisms described herein, such as Figures 3A to 4C the coupling mechanism 202 shown. For example, one or more displays and / or keyboards (not shown) may be operatively coupled to the first retaining portion 402 and the second retaining portion 404 of the coupling mechanism 400 to form a computing device. Similarly, each of the first retaining portion 402 and the second retaining portion 404 may be substantially similar to Figures 3A to 4C the first retaining portion 210 and the second retaining portion 212 shown. Figure 8D Shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling mechanism 400 taken along line 8D shown by Figure 8C .

[0112] The first retaining portion 402 may include a first wall 406 and a second wall 408 that form a channel 410 extending between the first wall 406 and the second wall 408. The channel 410 may receive a portion of a device, such as a display (e.g., the first display 204 or the second display 206), a keyboard, or another device. As previously described herein, each of the first wall 406 and the second wall 408 may have a corresponding height (see Figure 7A and Figure 7B ), which may be different or equivalent. In some examples, the first wall 406 may be substantially parallel to the second wall 408 such that the cross-sectional shape of the channel 410 is rectangular or square. In some examples, one or both of the first wall 406 and the second wall 408 may be magnetic to hold a device (e.g., the display 204) within the channel 410. In some examples, the first retaining portion 402 may include one or more magnets for removably holding a device within the channel 410.

[0113] Similar to the first retaining portion 402, the second retaining portion 404 may also include a first wall 412 and a second wall 414 that form a channel 416 extending between the first wall 412 and the second wall 414. The channel 416 may receive a portion of a device, such as a display (e.g., the first display 204 or the second display 206), a keyboard, or other device. As previously described herein, each of the first wall 412 and the second wall 414 may have a corresponding height (see Figure 6), which can be different or equivalent. In some examples, the first wall 412 can be substantially parallel to the second wall 414 such that the cross-sectional shape of the channel 416 is rectangular or square. In some examples, one or both of the first wall 412 and the second wall 414 can be magnetic to hold the device (e.g., the display 204) within the channel 416. In some examples, the second retaining portion 404 can include one or more magnets that removably hold the device within the channel 416.

[0114] The intermediate portion 418 can form an elongate member that defines a first recess 420 and a second recess 422. In some examples, the first recess 420 and the second recess 422 can be formed within respective side surfaces 428 of the intermediate portion 418, as Figures 8A to 8D shown. The first retaining portion 402 can include a first pivot member 432 configured to be positioned within the first recess 420. The second retaining portion 404 can include a second pivot member 434 configured to be positioned within the second recess 422.

[0115] The first pivot member 432 and the second pivot member 434 can couple or interlock the first retaining portion 402 and the second retaining portion 404 to the intermediate portion 418 such that each pivot member 432, 434 can rotate independently relative to the intermediate portion 418. For example, each of the first pivot member 432 and the second pivot member 434 can define a respective axis of rotation about which the first retaining portion 420 and the second retaining portion 404 can rotate or pivot. Although Figures 8A to 8D the example shown illustrates an intermediate portion 418 having a first recess 420 and a second recess 422 within respective side surfaces 428, in other examples, the intermediate portion 418 can include recesses in the top surface 426 or the bottom surface 430 of the intermediate portion 418.

[0116] The intermediate portion 418 can form or define a cavity 436 that is configured to receive at least a portion of the second wall 408 of the first retaining portion 402 when the coupling mechanism 400 is in a closed state. For example, the dimensions of the cavity 436 can be substantially similar to the dimensions of the second wall 408 such that the second wall 408 can move within the cavity 436 when the first retaining portion 402 is rotated to the closed state.

[0117] In some examples, the cross-sectional shape of the intermediate portion 418 can be rectangular or square. However, in other examples, the cross-sectional shape of the intermediate portion 418 can be other geometric shapes. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the intermediate portion 418 can be triangular, oval, spherical, or any other geometric shape. The intermediate portion 418 can include metal, metal alloy, polymer, or any other material capable of providing the functions disclosed herein. For example, the intermediate portion 418 can include aluminum of the 6000 or 7000 series with an oxide layer formed thereon.

[0118] In some examples, the intermediate portion 418 can define an internal volume that houses one or more sensors, computing components (e.g., processing units), batteries, and similar electronic components. For example, the intermediate portion 418 can house one or more batteries or inductive charging components within the internal volume to provide power to one or more devices pivotally coupled to the coupling mechanism 400. As described herein, the coupling mechanism 400 can provide a communication path or conductive path that places a device coupled to the coupling mechanism 400 (e.g., a tablet computing device) in wireless and / or electrical communication. In this way, the coupling mechanism 400 can provide a communication path that enables the devices to transfer power and / or data between the devices.

[0119] Figure 9 is an exploded view of the coupling mechanism 400 that includes the first holding portion 402 and the second holding portion 404 and the intermediate portion 418. The respective hinge mechanisms for pivotally coupling the holding portions 402, 404 to the intermediate portion 418 can be any mechanism known in the art now or that may be developed in the future. For example, the hinge mechanism can be a piano hinge, a living hinge, a barrel hinge, or another functionally similar hinge. Non-limiting examples of hinges are described in U.S. Patent No. 9,450,289, published on September 20, 2016, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0120] Various examples of computing devices having a base configured to be coupled to one or more electronic devices are described below with reference to FIGS. 10 to Figure 13 are described. Figure 10A illustrates an example of a computing device 500, including a base 502, a first display 504, a second display 506, and a third display 508. The computing device 500, the first display 504, the second display 506, and the third display 508 can be substantially similar to and can include some or all of the features of the computing devices and displays or keyboards described herein. The first display 504 can be pivotally coupled to the base 502. And Figures 1A to 2C and Figure 5ASimilar to the example shown in FIGS. 7A to 7B, the first display 504 can be removably coupled to the hinge 514 of the base 502. The hinge 514 can be substantially similar to the hinges described and Figures 1A to 2C and Figures 5A to 7B shown herein. In some examples, the base 502 can be substantially similar to Figures 1A to 2C and Figure 5A to Figure 7B the base 102 shown. For example, similar to the base 102, the base 502 can define an input surface 510 (located below the second display 506 and the third display 508) and a raised portion 512.

[0121] As Figure 10A shown, the second display 506 and the third display 508 can be positioned adjacent to the input surface 510 of the base 502. When positioned adjacent to the input surface 510, the second display 506 and the third display 508 can provide input and output functions to a user of the computing device 500. For example, the second display 506 can display auxiliary content (e.g., a web page or an email account) to the user, while the third display 508 provides a virtual keyboard configured to receive input from a user of the computing device 500. As described herein, the second display 506 and the third display 508 can be removably coupled to the input surface 510, e.g., using one or more magnets within the base 502 or the display 506. In some examples, the third display 508 can be removed from the base 502 to expose a portion of the input surface 510. The exposed portion of the input surface 510 can be configured to receive touch input or near-touch input from a user of the computing device 500. For example, the exposed portion of the input surface 510 can be used as a touchpad to enable the user to move a cursor on the first display 504 or the second display 506.

[0122] As Figure 10B shown, the computing device 500 can include a keyboard 516. The computing device 500, the first display 504, the keyboard 516, and the third display 508 can be substantially similar to and can include some or all of the features of the computing devices and displays or keyboards described herein. The keyboard 516 and the third display 508 can be positioned adjacent to the input surface 510 of the base 502. When positioned adjacent to the input surface 510, the keyboard 516 and the third display 508 can provide input and output functions to a user of the computing device 500. For example, the keyboard 516 can receive input from a user of the computing device 500. As described herein, the keyboard 516 and the third display 508 can be removably coupled to the input surface 510, e.g., using one or more magnets within the base 502 or the keyboard 516. In some examples, the third display 508 can be used as a touchpad to replicate the functions of a traditional laptop computer (e.g., a display, a keyboard, and a touchpad).

[0123] In some examples, the base may be repositionable to provide multiple use configurations, such as Figure 11A and Figure 11B as described. Figure 11A and Figure 11B FIG. shows multiple exemplary configurations of a computing device 600 including a base 602, a first display 604, a second display 606, and a keyboard 608. The computing device 600 may be substantially similar to any of the computing devices described herein, such as Figure 1A to Figure 2C and Figures 5A to 7B the computing devices 100, 300 shown. Figure 11A FIG. shows the computing device 600 in a configuration where the base 602 is placed parallel to a support surface (e.g., a desktop, a table, a user's thigh, etc.) and the first display is rotatably coupled to the base 602 at an inclined angle relative to the support surface by a hinge 610. The second display 604 may be removably coupled to the input surface of the base 602 and be substantially parallel to the support surface. In this configuration, the first display 604 may be the primary display, while the second display 606 is the secondary display. The keyboard 608 may be communicatively coupled to at least one of the first display 604 or the second display 606 or the base 602. For example, the keyboard 608 may be configured to communicate wirelessly via Bluetooth or another wireless communication standard. In some examples, the first display 604, the second display 606, and the keyboard 608 may be configured to receive input from a user to operate the computing device 600.

[0124] Figure 11B FIG. shows another configuration of the computing device 600, where the base 602, the first display 604, and the second display 606 are positioned perpendicular to the support surface. The first display 604 may rotate about the base 602 such that the base 602 and the first display 604 are self-supporting in a standing position. In some examples, the first display 604 and the second display 606 may operate as a single display screen. In other words, the content shown at the first display 604 may extend onto the second display 606, or may be dragged by the user of the computing device 600 onto the second display 606. For example, this configuration may be beneficial when the user desires a computing device with a larger display screen. Alternatively or in addition, the first display 604 may show a first content to the user, while the second display 606 shows a second content to the user. In some examples, the first display 604, the second display 606, and the keyboard 608 may be configured to receive input from a user to operate the computing device 600.

[0125] In some examples, a computing device can include a base configured to support and interact with a plurality of input devices simultaneously, as described below with reference to Figure 12A and Figure 12B . Figure 12A An exemplary computing device 700 is shown that includes a base 702, a display 704, a keyboard 706 positioned on the base, and an input device 708 positioned on the base. The keyboard 706 can be substantially similar to the Figures 1A to 2C shown keyboard 108 and can include some or all of the features of the keyboard 108. The input device 708 can occupy the input surface (e.g., input surface 308) of the base 702 simultaneously with the keyboard 706. For example, the input device 708 can define an engagement surface 710 that contacts at least a portion of the input surface (e.g., input surface 308) of the base 702. The engagement surface 708 can be recessed such that the sidewall 712 of the base 702 interfaces with the wall 714 of the input device 708, which has dimensions and a shape that are substantially similar to the sidewall 712. The dimensions and shape of the sidewall 712 and the engagement surface 708 can be such that the raised portion 720 of the base 702 is flush with the keyboard 706 and the input device 708. The input device 708 can also form a base portion 716 that supports the input device 708 and extends flush with the bottom surface of the base 702. Thus, the input device 708 can be positioned adjacent to the keyboard 706 and can provide an extended or enlarged input area for the computing device 700.

[0126] One or more of power and / or data can be transmitted through the engagement between the engagement surface 710 and the input surface of the base 702. In some examples, power and / or data can be transmitted through a direct electrical connection. In some examples, power and / or data can be wirelessly transmitted, for example, by inductive coupling or one or more wireless antennas or components. For example, the input device 708 can house one or more batteries that provide power to the computing device 700. In addition or alternatively, the input device 708 can house one or more processors that provide processing capabilities to the computing device 700. In some examples, the input device 708 can be used as a touchpad or a hand-drawing surface for a stylus 718 or other similar hand-drawing tools.

[0127] Figure 12B The computing device 700 in the Figure 12A closed state is shown, which is arranged in a configuration where the input device 708 is positioned on the display 704. As Figure 12BAs shown, when the computing device 700 is in the closed state, the keyboard 706 can be positioned between the base 702 and the display 704. When the computing device 700 is in the closed state and the keyboard 706 is positioned between the base 702 and the display 704, the display 704 and / or the input device 708 can be deactivated or inoperative to prevent unintentional or accidental input to the computing device 700. By positioning the keyboard 706 between the base 702 and the display 704, the keyboard 706 can be protected or shielded from potential damage when transporting the computing device 700. Additionally, the display 704 can be protected or shielded from damage by the input device 708.

[0128] If the computing device 700 is opened by the user to the open state, the display 704 and / or the keyboard 706 can be activated or made operable. The input device 708 can be removably attached to the display 704, for example, by one or more magnets positioned within the display 704 and / or the input device 708. In some examples, the display 704 can include metal that interacts with one or more magnets within the input device 708 to removably couple the input device 708 to the display 704.

[0129] In some examples, components positioned on the first display 704 (e.g., Figure 12A the second display 708 in Figure 2C or the keyboard 706 in Figure 12A can remain attached to the first display 704 when the computing device 700 is opened by the user and can remain attached while the computing device 700 remains in the open state. Although reference has been made to the first display 704 and the second display 708 at specific locations within the computing device 800, the first display 704 can replace the second display 708 and vice versa. For example, the relative positions and functions of the first display and the second display in

[0130] can be exchanged such that the first display 704 is positioned outside the closed computing device 700. Figure 13 and Figure 14 as described below. Figure 13An exemplary computing device 800 is shown that includes a base 802, a display 804, and an input device 806 positioned on the base 802. The computing device 800 can be substantially similar to any of the computing devices described herein and can include some or all of the features of any of those computing devices. The input device 806 can be configured to provide input to the computing device 800. For example, the input device 806 can be communicatively coupled to at least one of the base 802 or the display 804. Thus, the input device 806 can include a variety of input mechanisms that can be detected by the base 802 and / or the first display 804, such as via electrical or wireless communication with the base 802 and / or the first display 804, or by sensors in the base 802, as described, for example, with respect to the base 302. In some examples, the input device 806 can include at least one of a knob 808, a button 810, a switch 812, a slider 814, a rotary dial 816, or other input mechanisms (e.g., dials, switches, levers, and piano keys) configured to provide input to the base 802 or the display 804 to control aspects of the operation of the computing device 800. The computing device 800 can be used by music producers, disc jockeys, audio engineers, etc. in one configuration for making music while also being modular to allow a user to remove the input device 806 and removably attach a keyboard or a second display (not shown) to the base 802 to provide traditional laptop functionality. Thus, the computing device 800 is reconfigurable or modular to effectively accommodate a user in a variety of operating applications (e.g., music production, hand drawing, document preparation, online shopping, video conferencing, etc.).

[0131] Figure 14 An example of a computing device 900 is depicted that includes a base 902 and a display 904. The base 902 can be substantially similar to other bases described herein, such as Figures 1A to 2C , Figure 5A shown in FIGS. 7B and 10 through Figure 13 . For example, similar to other bases, the base 902 can define an input surface 906 and a raised portion 908. The input surface 906 can be configured to receive input from a user of the computing device 900, such as touch input or near-touch input at the input surface 906. In addition or alternatively, the computing device 900 can detect user gestures at or above the input surface 906. As Figure 14 shown, a user can make gestures with their hand or another object that can be detected by the computing device 900. For example, the raised portion 908 can include a plurality of sensors configured to detect movement above the input surface 906. Figure 14The exemplary gestures shown illustrate a user flipping or turning a virtual page of a book or magazine being displayed at the display 904. The computing device 900 may recognize other gestures, such as pinch / zoom gestures, swipe gestures, scroll gestures, and / or rotation gestures.

[0132] In some examples, the base may include a hinge that is rotatably coupled to the base, as described below with reference to Figure 15A and Figure 15B described. Figure 15A and Figure 15B shows an example of a base 1000 having a hinge 1002. The hinge 1002 is shown in an open state in Figure 15A and in a closed state in Figure 15B The hinge 1002 may include features and functions substantially similar to those of the hinge shown in Figures 1A to 2C , Figures 5A to 7B and FIGS. 10 through Figure 13 shown. For example, the hinge 1002 may be configured to removably couple to an electronic device (e.g., a tablet computing device) and rotate the electronic device relative to the base 1000. In some examples, the hinge 1002 may rotate from an angle of 0 degrees relative to the base 1000 (i.e., the closed state as shown in Figure 15B ) to an angle between about 0 degrees and about 180 degrees relative to the base 1000 (i.e., the open state as shown in Figure 15A ).

[0133] The following describes various examples of hinges of computing devices with reference to Figures 16A to 16C FIGS. Figure 16A through Figure 16C show a computing device 1100. The computing device 1100 may be substantially similar to any of the computing devices described herein and may include some or all of the features of any of those computing devices. The computing device 1100 may include a base 1102, a display 1104, a hinge 1106, and another device (not shown) positioned between the base 1102 and the display 1104. As shown, the display 1104 may be positioned such that the display screen 1108 of the display 1104 faces away from the base 1102. When in this configuration, the first wall 1110 of the hinge 1106 may obscure or block a portion of the display screen 1108 (as shown in FIG. 16A). A significant obscuration of the display screen 1108 may be undesirable for a user of the computing device 1100. Thus, the hinge 1106 may include various features (as shown in Figure 16B and Figure 16C ) that provide an effective display area at the hinge 1106. In some examples, as shown in Figure 16BAs shown, the hinge 1106 may include a window 1112 formed within the first wall 1110, which enables a user of the computing device 1100 to view a significant portion of the display screen 1108 that would otherwise be blocked by the first wall 1110.

[0134] In some examples, as Figure 16C shown, the hinge 1106 may include a sub-display 1114 that is positioned adjacent to the first wall 1110 and is configured to replicate or repeat the portion of the display screen 1108 that is blocked by the first wall 1110. Additionally or alternatively, the sub-display 1114 may be configured to display additional content, such as the time of day, the current date, the current battery level of the computing device 1100, the volume setting, open application icons, other content, or a combination thereof.

[0135] The display 1114 can be any form of display, component, or device for presenting visual content to a user. For example, in some examples, the sub-display 1114 can be an LED display, an OLED display, or an LCD display. In some examples, the sub-display 1114 can be any form of display known in the prior art or that may be developed in the future. In some examples, the sub-display 1114 can be a touchscreen display, or may have touch detection capabilities, such as capacitive touch, force touch, and proximity touch capabilities.

[0136] Any features or aspects of the computing device discussed herein can be combined or included in any combination. For example, the computing device can include a base and one or more displays and / or keyboards attached thereto. The one or more displays and / or keyboards are capable of rotating relative to the base and are removably attached to one or more retaining portions. Additionally, the components of the computing device described herein, including components that can be fully or partially removable, can be fully contained within an internal volume. For example, the internal volume defined by the base.

[0137] Any features or aspects of the computing device discussed herein can be combined or included in any combination. For example, the computing device can include a coupling mechanism and one or more displays and / or keyboards attached thereto. The one or more displays and / or keyboards are capable of rotating relative to the coupling structure and are removably attached to one or more retaining portions. Additionally, the components of the computing device described herein, including components that can be fully or partially removable, can be fully contained within an internal volume. For example, the internal volume defined by an intermediate portion of the coupling mechanism.

[0138] To the extent applicable to the present technology, data collected and used from various sources can be used to improve the delivery of heuristic content or any other content that a user may be interested in. The present disclosure contemplates that, in some instances, the data collected may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data may include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, IDs, home addresses, data or records related to the user's health or health level (e.g., vital sign measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information.

[0139] The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data in the technology of the present invention can be used to benefit the user. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver target content that the user is more interested in. Therefore, the use of such personal information data enables the user to have planned control over the delivered content. In addition, the present disclosure also anticipates other uses of personal information data that are beneficial to the user. For example, health and fitness data can be used to provide insights into the user's overall health condition, or can be used as positive feedback for individuals who use technology to pursue health goals.

[0140] The present disclosure contemplates that entities responsible for collecting, analyzing, disclosing, transmitting, storing, or otherwise using such personal information data will comply with established privacy policies and / or privacy practices. Specifically, such entities should implement and adhere to privacy policies and practices that are recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or government requirements for maintaining the privacy and security of personal information data. Such policies should be readily accessible to users and should be updated as the data collection and / or use changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable purposes of the entity and not shared or sold outside of these legitimate uses. In addition, such collection / sharing should be done after receiving the informed consent of the user. In addition, such entities should consider taking any necessary steps to safeguard and secure access to such personal information data and ensure that others with access to the personal information data comply with their privacy policies and procedures. Additionally, such entities may subject themselves to third-party assessments to demonstrate their compliance with widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adjusted to the specific type of personal information data collected and / or accessed and should apply to applicable laws and standards including specific considerations of the jurisdiction. For example, in the United States, the collection or acquisition of certain health data may be governed by federal and / or state laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); while health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Therefore, different privacy practices should be maintained for different types of personal data in each country.

[0141] Regardless of the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates examples where a user selectively blocks the use or access of personal information data. That is, the present disclosure anticipates that hardware elements and / or software elements may be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of an advertising delivery service, the inventive technology may be configured to allow a user to select "opt-in" or "opt-out" of participating in the collection of personal information data during or at any time after registering for the service. In another example, a user may choose not to provide emotion-related data for a targeted content delivery service. In another example, a user may choose to limit the length of time emotion-related data is retained, or completely prohibit the development of underlying emotional states. In addition to providing "opt-in" and "opt-out" options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notices related to the access or use of personal information. For example, a user may be notified when downloading an application that their personal information data will be accessed, and then reminded again just before the personal information data is accessed by the application.

[0142] Furthermore, it is an object of the present disclosure to manage and process personal information data to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Once the data is no longer needed, the risk can be minimized by restricting data collection and deleting the data. Additionally, and when applicable, including in certain health-related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect the privacy of users. De-identification can be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of the data stored (e.g., collecting location data at the city level rather than at the address level), controlling how the data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and / or other methods.

[0143] Thus, while the present disclosure broadly covers the use of personal information data to implement one or more of the various disclosed examples, the present disclosure also contemplates that various examples may be implemented without access to such personal information data. That is, various examples of the inventive technology will not fail to operate properly due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, preferences can be inferred by relying on non-personal information data or an absolute minimum amount of personal information such as the content requested by a device associated with the user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery service, or publicly available information, and content can be selected and delivered to the user accordingly.

[0144] For purposes of illustration, the foregoing description uses specific names to provide a thorough understanding of the examples. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the examples may be practiced without these specific details. Accordingly, the foregoing description of the specific examples described herein is presented for purposes of illustration and description. These descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the examples to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the above teachings.

Claims

1. A computing device, comprising: a base that defines: an input surface; an internal volume; and a raised portion that defines a cavity, the raised portion defining: a recess; a rear surface; a top surface extending between the rear surface and the input surface; and a side wall extending between the top surface and the input surface; a computing component disposed in the internal volume; a hinge that includes a retaining portion and a pivot member configured to be positioned within the recess to rotatably attach the retaining portion to the base; and a display removably attached to the retaining portion, wherein: a side surface, a display surface, and a surface opposite the display surface of the display are removably attached within a channel of the retaining portion, and wherein: the retaining portion includes a first side wall and a second side wall that define the channel sized to receive the display; and the cavity is configured to receive the second side wall when the computing device is closed.

2. The computing device according to claim 1, further comprising a keyboard removably attached to the input surface.

3. The computing device according to claim 1, wherein the display is a first display, and the computing device further comprises a second display removably attached to the input surface.

4. The computing device according to claim 1, wherein the base includes component retaining magnets.

5. The computing device according to claim 1, wherein the base includes a raised input component alignment portion.

6. The computing device according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor disposed in the internal volume to detect user input.

7. The computing device according to claim 6, wherein: the sensor includes a capacitive touch sensor; and the sensor is disposed in the internal volume and is located below a portion of the base that defines the input surface.

8. The computing device according to claim 6, further comprising a light emitting component disposed in the internal volume; wherein the sensor receives light emitted by the light emitting component and reflected from an object to detect the position of the object.

9. The computing device according to claim 6, wherein the sensor detects the position and movement of a user's limb in a region adjacent to the input surface.

10. An electronic device, comprising: a body that at least partially defines: an internal volume; and a raised portion that defines a cavity, the raised portion defining: a recess; a rear surface; a top surface extending between the rear surface and an input surface; and a side wall extending between the top surface and the input surface; a computing component disposed in the internal volume; a retaining portion that includes a first wall and a second wall that at least partially define a channel sized to receive and hold a display, wherein at least one of the first wall or the second wall is configured to contact a display screen surface of the display; and A pivot member configured to be positioned within the recess to rotatably couple the holding portion to the body, wherein: The holding portion includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall that define the channel sized to receive the display; and The cavity is configured to receive the second sidewall when the electronic device is closed.

11. The electronic device according to claim 10, further comprising a display holding magnet positioned adjacent to the channel.

12. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein the height of the first wall is greater than the height of the second wall.

13. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein the computing component includes a battery, a processor, and a memory.

14. The electronic device according to claim 10, further comprising an inductive charging coil disposed within the internal volume.

15. An electronic device, comprising: A first holding portion including a first wall and a second wall that at least partially define a channel for removably holding a display; A second holding portion for removably holding an input component; and An intermediate portion positioned between the first holding portion and the second holding portion, the first holding portion and the second holding portion being rotatably coupled to the intermediate portion, the intermediate portion defining an internal volume, a cavity for receiving the second wall, and a recess; A pivot member configured to be positioned within the recess to rotatably couple at least one of the first holding portion and the second holding portion; and A computing component disposed within the internal volume, and wherein: The holding portion includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall that define the channel sized to receive the display; and The cavity is configured to receive the second sidewall when the electronic device is closed.

16. The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein the first holding portion includes a magnet.

17. The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein the display is a first display, and at least one of the first holding portion or the second holding portion includes a second display.

18. The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein the first holding portion and the second holding portion are capable of rotating independently relative to the intermediate portion.

Images