Mobile display packaging for improved robustness and water resistance

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a mobile display package for improving robustness and water resistance. An electronic device is disclosed, comprising a housing defining an aperture, a display component positioned within the aperture, and a filler material at least partially surrounding a perimeter of the display component. The filler material can contact the display component and a portion of the housing defining the aperture.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments described herein generally relate to improved robustness and water resistance of electronic devices. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to filler materials that improve the robustness and water resistance of mobile displays. Background Art

[0002] During use, modern electronic devices are subject to a wide range of hazardous conditions, such as forces from drops and falls or stresses caused by compression. Furthermore, electronic devices can be subject to physical contamination, corrosive chemicals, and / or water. These considerations can be particularly relevant in portable electronic devices and mobile device applications, where sensitive control and display components can often be exposed to stress events and undesirable environmental conditions.

[0003] To address these issues, many alternatives have been proposed, but these solutions often involve bulky seals and isolation components that can significantly increase the size of the device and negatively impact device performance and user experience. Consequently, there remains a need to improve the robustness of advanced consumer electronics and other digital device applications without undesirably increasing device size or impacting performance. Specifically, there is a need for enhanced impact protection and resistance to environmental exposure for modern electronic devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes a frame defining an aperture, a display component positioned in the aperture, and a filler material at least partially surrounding a perimeter of the display component. The filler material may contact the display component and the portion of the frame defining the aperture.

[0005] In some examples, the filler material includes an epoxy resin. The housing may at least partially define an interior volume, wherein the frame is secured to the housing. The filler material may define a seal between the surrounding environment and the interior volume. In some examples, the housing may at least partially define the interior volume, wherein the frame is secured to the housing, and the filler material defines a tortuous leak path between the surrounding environment and the interior volume. In some examples, a parylene coating may cover at least one of the display component or the filler material.

[0006] In some examples, an electronic device includes a housing surrounding and secured to a frame. The frame may define a port for injecting a filler material between the frame and the display assembly.

[0007] In some examples, the filler material is curable and has an uncured viscosity that is inversely proportional to the number and size of the ports. In some examples, the display component includes a curved region defined by a curved surface, and the filler material may include a potting material positioned in the curved region in contact with the curved surface. The filler material may have a modulus of approximately 10 MPa to approximately 20 MPa.

[0008] According to some aspects, a display assembly includes a display layer, a contact member in electrical communication with the display layer, and a conformal coating at least partially covering the display layer and at least a portion of the contact member, the conformal coating defining an aperture positioned over a contact area of ​​the contact member.

[0009] In some examples, the display assembly includes a protective material in contact with the display layer. The conformal coating at least partially covers the protective material. The conformal coating can have a thickness of about 2 microns to about 3 microns. The contact member can be a flexible connector. In some examples, the display layer includes a masked area that prevents the conformal coating from being applied to the masked area.

[0010] According to some aspects, a display assembly includes a frame including side walls defining a port and an orifice; a display component positioned in the orifice, the display component and the frame at least partially defining a volume; and a flowable filler material at least partially surrounding a periphery of the display component and positioned in the volume, the filler material contacting the display component and the side walls.

[0011] In some examples, the filler material has a non-uniform thickness. The filler material may adhere to the frame. The filler material may occupy substantially all of the volume. In some examples, the filler material is non-reactive with moisture. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The present disclosure will be readily understood through the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and wherein:

[0013] Figure 1 A perspective view of an electronic device is shown.

[0014] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of an electronic device is shown.

[0015] Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of components of an electronic device is shown.

[0016] Figure 4 A perspective view of an electronic device is shown.

[0017] Figure 5 An exploded view of the electronic device is shown.

[0018] Figure 6 An exploded perspective view of components of an electronic device is shown.

[0019] Figure 7 An exploded perspective view of components of an electronic device is shown.

[0020] Figure 8A A cross-sectional side view of components of an electronic device is shown.

[0021] Figure 8B A cross-sectional side view of internal components of an electronic device is shown.

[0022] Figure 9 A perspective view of a frame of an electronic device is shown.

[0023] Figure 10 A perspective view showing material deposition on an electronic device.

[0024] Figure 11A A cross-sectional side view of internal components of an electronic device is shown.

[0025] Figure 11B Shown Figure 11A An enlarged cross-sectional side view of the internal components.

[0026] Figure 12 A process flow diagram is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Reference will now be made in detail to the representative embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents that may be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

[0028] The following disclosure relates to electronic devices with improved robustness and water resistance. The electronic devices described herein offer several enhanced features compared to conventional devices. For example, conventional devices typically provide "wiggle room" between the display component and the housing, allowing internal components to shift a certain amount before contacting and potentially being damaged by the housing in the event of a drop or other high-force event. In contrast, the electronic devices described herein can include impact-absorbing filler material that increases durability and improves the sealing of the display component within the electronic device.

[0029] The electronic device described herein may be a mobile wireless communication device, such as a smartphone. In a specific example, the electronic device may include a housing defining an aperture. In some examples, the housing includes a display frame defining an interior portion of the housing and a device housing defining an exterior portion of the housing. The display frame may be attached to internal electronic components of the electronic device, such as a display component. The device housing may surround and be secured to the display frame. In some examples, the display frame and / or the device housing may be made of a composite material of metal and plastic, such as steel and plastic.

[0030] The display component can be positioned in an aperture defined by the frame such that the housing abuts or surrounds the perimeter of the display component. In some examples, the display component can include a display panel or display layer that includes a liquid crystal display ("LCD") that relies on a backlight to present visual information. In some examples, the display panel includes an organic light emitting diode ("OLED") display designed to illuminate individual pixels when needed. In some examples, the display panel can be bent or folded to form a panel bend. The panel bend can be a concave curved surface or portion of the display panel.

[0031] In some examples, the display frame can define one or more ports for injecting a filler material between the housing and the display assembly after the display assembly has been coupled to the housing. The filler material can act as a shock absorbing material to improve the robustness of the electronic device and, in particular, protect, insulate, and / or reduce stress exposure of the display layer and the panel flexure area.

[0032] The filler material comprises one or more polymers and may be a two-component epoxy resin in some examples. In some examples, the filler material may be a flowable or moldable material that behaves like a soft rubber with a low level of shrinkage when it solidifies or solidifies. The filler material may have a modulus of approximately 10 MPa to approximately 20 MPa, or approximately 15 MPa to approximately 20 MPa. In some examples, the filler material has a viscosity that is inversely proportional to the number and size of the ports in the display frame. In some examples, the filler material has an uneven thickness. For example, the thickness of the filler material may vary based on the width of the gap separating the frame and the display component.

[0033] The filler material may at least partially surround the periphery of the display component so that the filler material is positioned between the display component and the housing and / or frame. In some examples, the filler material is in direct physical contact with the display component. In some examples, the filler material is in direct physical contact with the housing. In some examples, the filler material is in direct physical contact with the display component and the housing. For example, the filler material may be positioned adjacent to or adjacent to the panel bend so that the filler material is sandwiched between the convex area of ​​the panel bend and the display frame. The filler material may substantially occupy all of the volume between the display component and the display frame. In this way, the filler material occupies the volume of the space traditionally used as swing space. In some examples, the filler material may act as an adhesive to enhance the connection between the display component and the housing. The filler material may be attached to at least one of a metal (such as stainless steel) or a polymer (such as nylon, acrylic resin or pressure-sensitive adhesive).

[0034] To further improve the durability of the display component, a potting material can be positioned in the concave region of the panel bend. In some examples, the potting material can include a polymer and can be substantially similar to the filler material, however, the potting material can be different from the filler material. For example, the potting material can have a modulus of about 150 MPa to about 300 MPa. In this way, the filler material and the potting material can protect both sides of the panel bend (e.g., the concave curve of the panel bend and the convex curve of the panel bend).

[0035] In some examples, the filler material can act as a sealant to protect internal components of an electronic device from exposure to water or moisture. For example, the filler material can define an increased leakage path that liquid would need to travel before reaching sensitive components. In some examples, the filler material is non-reactive with moisture.

[0036] In some examples, a conformal coating may cover at least one of the display component or the filler material. In some examples, the conformal coating may complement the filler material by sealing any gaps or cracks at the interface between the filler material and the display component or the housing. The conformal coating may include Parylene-N having a thickness of about 2 microns to about 3 microns. The conformal coating may be applied to the electronic device as desired by any deposition method, for example, by a vapor deposition method such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD). When applying the conformal coating, a mask may be applied to certain areas where the coating is not desired.

[0037] In some examples, a contact component, such as a flexible connector, can be in electrical communication with the display layer, and a conformal coating can at least partially cover the display layer and at least a portion of the contact component. The conformal coating can define an aperture at a contact area of ​​the contact component to accommodate the connection.

[0038] References below Figures 1 to 12However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these drawings is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0039] Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of electronic device 100 is shown. Figure 1 The illustrated electronic device 100 is a mobile wireless communications device, such as a smartphone. Figure 1 The smartphone is merely one representative example of a device that may be used in conjunction with the systems and methods disclosed herein. Electronic device 100 may correspond to any form of wearable electronic device, portable media player, media storage device, portable digital assistant ("PDA"), tablet computer, computer, mobile communication device, GPS unit, remote control device, or other electronic device. Electronic device 100 may be referred to as an electronic device, a consumer device, or simply a device.

[0040] The electronic device 100 may have a housing that includes a hoop 102 that defines an outer perimeter of the electronic device 100. The hoop 102 or a portion thereof may be formed using an additive manufacturing process or may be machined. In some examples, the frame 102 may define one or more sidewall components of the electronic device 100. In some examples, the frame 102 defines a non-continuous perimeter of the electronic device 100. That is, the frame 102 may be formed to have gaps or spaces therein.

[0041] In some examples, frame 102 includes an antenna assembly ( Figure 1 (not shown). Thus, one or more non-metallic materials can separate the sidewall components of frame 102 from one another to electrically isolate the sidewall components. For example, separator materials 112, 114 can be positioned between sections of frame 102. As non-limiting examples, these materials can include one or more electrically inert or electrically insulating materials, such as plastics and / or resins. As discussed in more detail below, separator materials 112, 114 can be formed using similar manufacturing techniques as frame 102. For example, separator materials 112, 114 can be formed using an additive manufacturing process.

[0042] The electronic device 100 may also include a display assembly 116 (shown in dotted lines) covered by a protective cover 118. The display assembly 116 may include multiple layers, each of which provides a unique function. The display assembly 116 may be partially covered by a frame 120 that extends along the outer edge of the protective cover 118 and partially covers the outer edge of the display assembly 116. In some examples, the frame 120 may be part of the frame 102, formed together with the frame 102. The frame 120 can be positioned to hide or shield any electrical and mechanical connections between the layers of the display assembly 116 and the flexible circuit connector. In addition, the frame 120 may include a uniform thickness. For example, the frame 120 may include a thickness that does not typically change in the X and Y dimensions.

[0043] In addition, if Figure 1 As shown, the display assembly 116 may include a notch 122, which indicates that the display assembly 116 is missing. The notch 122 may allow for a visual system that provides information to the electronic device 100 for object recognition, such as facial recognition. In this regard, the electronic device 100 may include a masking layer having an opening (as shown in dashed lines) designed to hide or obscure the visual system, while the opening allows the visual system to provide object recognition information. Additionally, the protective cover 118 may be formed of a transparent material such as glass, plastic, sapphire, or a similar transparent material. In this regard, the protective cover 118 may be referred to as a transparent cover, a transparent protective cover, or (when the protective cover 118 includes glass) a protective glass. As shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the protective cover 118 includes an opening 124, which may represent a single opening of the protective cover 118. The opening 124 may allow acoustic energy (in the form of audible sound) to be transmitted into the electronic device 100, which may be detected by a microphone ( Figure 1 In addition, the opening 124 can allow the transmission of acoustic energy (in the form of audible sound) to the outside of the electronic device 100, which can be received by the audio module ( Figure 1 ) is generated.

[0044] In some examples, the ferrule 102 may define a port 126 designed to receive a connector of a cable assembly. The port 126 allows the electronic device 100 to transmit (send and receive) data information and also allows the electronic device 100 to receive electrical energy to charge a battery assembly. Thus, the port 126 may include a terminal electrically coupled to the connector. The port 126 may be formed as part of the additive manufacturing process to form the ferrule 102, or may be formed through subsequent processing.

[0045] In addition, the band 102 may define a number of openings. For example, the band 102 may define an opening 128 that allows an additional audio module ( Figure 1102 ). The hoop 102 may further define an opening 132 that allows a microphone of the electronic device to receive the acoustic energy. The hoop 102 may define holes to receive fasteners. For example, the electronic device 100 may further include a first fastener 134 and a second fastener 136 that are designed to be fastened to a rail coupled to the protective cover 118. In this regard, the first fastener 134 and the second fastener 136 are designed to couple the protective cover 118 to the hoop 102. As discussed in more detail below, the hoop 102 may define holes for injecting an encapsulant or filler material between the hoop 102 and the display assembly 116. These various openings may be formed with the hoop 102 as part of a 3D printing process. In some examples, the openings are machined into the hoop 102 after the hoop 102 is formed.

[0046] The electronic device 100 may include several control inputs designed to provide commands to the electronic device 100. For example, the electronic device 100 may include a first control input 142 and a second control input 144. As non-limiting examples, the aforementioned control inputs may be used to adjust the visual information presented on the display assembly 116 and / or the amount of acoustic energy output by the audio module. The control may include one of a switch, a sensor, or a button designed to generate commands to the processor circuit. The control input may extend at least partially through an opening in the side wall member. For example, the second side wall member 106 may include an opening 146 that receives the first control input 142. Figure 2 More details of the electronic device 100 are provided.

[0047] Figure 2 An exploded view of electronic device 200 is shown. As shown, ferrule 202 at least partially defines an exterior portion, such as the outer perimeter of the electronic device. ferrule 202 may include one or more features, such as feature 221, that receive or couple to other components of device 200. For example, ferrule 202 may include any number of features, such as apertures, cavities, recesses, protrusions, projections, and other mating features configured to receive and / or attach to one or more components of device 200. In some examples, feature 221 may be printed onto ferrule 202 using an additive manufacturing process, as described herein. Furthermore, in some examples, feature 221 may include a different metallic material than the metallic material of ferrule 202. In some examples, both ferrule 202 and feature 221 may be formed using one or more additive manufacturing processes. In some examples, similar to ferrule 102, ferrule 202 may include multiple sections that may be electrically isolated from each other by separator material 214.

[0048] The electronic device 200 can include a display assembly 216 covered by a protective cover 218. The display assembly 216 can include multiple layers, each providing a unique function, and can include a frame (not shown) that can be used to secure, engage, or attach the display assembly to the hoop 202, as further described herein.

[0049] The electronic device 200 may include internal components such as a processor, memory, circuit boards, batteries, and sensors. Such components may be disposed within an interior volume defined at least in part by the hoop 202 and may be attached to the hoop 202 via an interior surface formed into, defined by, or otherwise part of the hoop 202, attachment features such as feature 221, threaded connectors, studs, columns, and / or other securing features.

[0050] Device 200 may include internal components, such as a system-in-package (SiP), which includes one or more integrated circuits, such as a processor, sensors, and memory. Device 200 may also include a battery 224 housed in the internal volume of device 200. Device 200 may also include one or more sensors, such as optical sensors or other sensors, that can sense or otherwise detect information about the environment outside the internal volume of device 200. Additional components, such as a haptic engine, may also be included in device 200. In some examples, display assembly 216 may be housed by and / or attached to hoop 202 via one or more attachment features.

[0051] The electronic device 200 may also include a motherboard 220 that can provide structural support. The motherboard 220 may include a rigid material such as metal, or may include a composite construction. The motherboard 220 may also be coupled to the ferrule 202. In this way, the motherboard 220 can provide an electrical ground path for electrically coupling components to the motherboard. The electronic device may alternatively or additionally include a backplate 230 having a cladding and / or other attachment features so that one or more components of the electronic device 200 can be attached to the backplate 230, for example, via soldering. The backplate 230 can form an electrically conductive path for connecting the components of the electronic device 200. In some examples, the backplate 230 can be attached to the ferrule 202 of the device 200 via one or more attachment features. In some examples, the ferrule 202, the motherboard 220, and the backplate 230 can be integrally formed with one another as segmented elements in any combination using the additive manufacturing processes described herein.

[0052] The outer surface of the electronic device 200 can also be defined by a back cover 240 that can be coupled to the hoop 202. In this regard, the back cover 240 can be combined with the hoop 202 to form a housing or enclosure for the electronic device 200, wherein the housing or enclosure (including the hoop 202 and the back cover 240) at least partially defines an interior volume. The back cover 240 can include a transparent material such as glass, plastic, sapphire, or another transparent material. As described below, the back cover 240 can be formed together with the hoop 202 using an additive manufacturing process.

[0053] The housing including the hoop 202 can be conformable to the internal dimensional requirements defined by the internal components. For example, the structure of the housing including the hoop 202 can be defined or limited solely or primarily by the internal components that the housing is designed to accommodate. That is, because the housing including the hoop 202 can be extremely lightweight and strong, the housing can be shaped to accommodate the internal components in a dimensionally efficient manner without being constrained by factors other than the size of the components, such as the need for additional structural elements. In some examples, these forming processes described herein can allow the housing and / or hoop 202 to have a detailed shape or design that is specifically tailored to meet one or more requirements (such as internal dimensional requirements) without the need for additional features to reinforce the structure of the housing. Additionally, artifacts of the housing manufacturing process can be eliminated. Figure 3 Further details of the electronic equipment are provided.

[0054] Figure 3 A perspective view of an electronic device 300 including a display assembly 316 positioned in a frame 302 is shown. The electronic device 300 can be substantially similar to any of the electronic devices described herein, such as electronic devices 100 and 200, and include some or all of the features of any of the electronic devices. For clarity, various components of the electronic device 300 have been removed. In some examples, the display assembly 316 can be attached to the frame 302 by various attachment means, such as adhesion, welding, or mechanical attachment. In some examples, the frame 302 is made of a composite material of steel and plastic. The frame 302 can serve as a connection between the display assembly 316 and the outer shell, housing, or hoop ( Figure 3 In this way, the frame 302 can serve as a protective barrier around the perimeter of the display assembly 316.

[0055] Any number or type of components in any configuration described herein may be included in an input device. Components may include any combination of features described herein and may be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an input device having a housing with the structure described herein and defining an interior volume, as well as the concepts regarding input components, filler materials, and display assemblies, may be applied not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Figures 4 to 6Various examples of electronic devices are described that include components having various features in various arrangements.

[0056] Figure 4 Another example of an electronic device 400 is shown. Figure 4 The electronic device shown in FIG is a watch, such as a smart watch. Figure 4 The smartwatch 400 is only one representative example of a device that may be used with the components and methods disclosed herein. As described with respect to the electronic device 100, the electronic device 400 may correspond to any form of wearable electronic device, portable media player, media storage device, portable digital assistant ("PDA"), tablet computer, computer, mobile communication device, GPS unit, remote control device, and other devices. The electronic device 400 may be referred to as an electronic device or a consumer device. Figure 5 Provide more details about the watch.

[0057] Now refer to Figure 5 , electronic device 500 may include a housing 502 and a cover 518 attached to the housing. Housing 502 may substantially define at least a portion of the exterior surface of device 500. Cover 518 may include glass, plastic, or any other substantially transparent material, component, or assembly. Although in some examples, cover 518 may include one or more materials that are opaque. Cover 518 may cover or otherwise cover display assembly 516. Display assembly 516 may include multiple layers, each of which provides a unique function. Thus, cover 518 may be an interface component or may be part of an interface component. Cover 518 may define the front exterior surface of device 500, and as described herein, this exterior surface may be considered an interface surface. In some examples, the interface surface defined by cover 518 may receive input from a user, such as touch input.

[0058] A back cover 530 can also be attached to the housing 502, for example opposite the lid 518. The back cover 530 can include ceramic, plastic, metal, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the back cover 530 can include an electromagnetically transparent portion 532. The electromagnetically transparent portion 532 can be transparent to any desired wavelength of electromagnetic radiation, such as visible light, infrared light, radio waves, or a combination thereof. The housing 502, the lid 518, and the back cover 530 together can substantially define the interior volume and exterior surface of the device 500.

[0059] The housing 502 can be a substantially continuous or unitary component and can include one or more openings 504, 506 to accommodate components of the electronic device 500 and / or provide access to internal portions of the electronic device 500. In some examples, the device 500 can include input components, such as one or more buttons 526 and / or a crown 528, which can be disposed in the openings 504, 506. In some examples, a material can be disposed between the buttons 526 and / or the crown 528 and the housing 502 to provide an airtight and / or waterproof seal at the locations of the openings 504, 506. As discussed in more detail below, the housing 502 can define a hole for injecting an encapsulant or filler material between the housing 502 and the display assembly 516.

[0060] Electronic device 500 may also include a strap 560 or other component designed to attach device 500 to a user or provide wearable functionality. In some examples, strap 560 may be a flexible material that comfortably allows device 500 to be retained at a desired location on the user's body. Additionally, housing 502 may include one or more features that provide attachment locations for strap 560. In some examples, strap 560 may be retained on housing 502 using any desired technique. For example, strap 560 may include any combination of magnets that are attracted to magnets disposed within housing 502 and / or retention features that mechanically retain strap 560 to housing 502.

[0061] Device 500 may also include internal components, such as a haptic engine 524, a battery 522, and a system-in-package (SiP) including one or more integrated circuits, such as a processor, a sensor, and a memory. The SiP may also include packaging. The internal components, such as one or more of components 522, 524, may be disposed within an interior volume at least partially defined by housing 502 and may be attached to housing 502 via interior surfaces formed into, defined by, or otherwise becoming part of housing 502 and / or cover 518 and / or back cover 530, attachment features, threaded connectors, studs, posts, or other features.

[0062] Figure 6An exploded view of an electronic device 600 including a display assembly 616, a cover 618, a frame 602, and a housing 601 is shown. The electronic device 600 may be substantially similar to any of the electronic devices described herein, such as electronic devices 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500, and may include some or all of the features of any of the electronic devices. For clarity, various components of the electronic device 300 have been removed. In some examples, the display assembly 616 may be attached to the frame 602 by various attachment means (such as adhesion, welding, or mechanical attachment). In some examples, the frame 602 is made of a composite material of steel and plastic. The frame 602 may serve as a joint between the display assembly 616 and the outer shell or housing 601. In this way, the frame 602 may serve as a protective barrier around the perimeter of the display assembly 616.

[0063] Any number or type of components in any configuration described herein may be included in an input device. Components may include any combination of features described herein and may be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an input device having a housing with the structure described herein and defining an interior volume, as well as the concepts regarding input components, filler materials, and display assemblies, may be applied not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Figures 7 to 8B Various examples of electronic devices are described that include components having various features in various arrangements.

[0064] Figure 7 A partially exploded view of an electronic device 700 is shown. Electronic device 700 may be substantially similar to electronic devices described herein, such as electronic devices 100-300, and may include some or all of the features of such electronic devices. For simplicity, several features of electronic device 700 are not shown. A first protective layer 718, such as a cover glass, may cover display assembly 716. First protective layer 718 may be adhesively secured to display assembly 716 using an adhesive layer (not shown) or by any other technique as desired.

[0065] The display assembly 716 may include a touch-sensitive layer 703 designed to receive touch input, a display layer 707 designed to present visual information, and a force-sensitive layer 709 designed to detect the magnitude of a force applied to or acting on the display layer 707 by applying force to at least one of the first protective layer 718, the touch-sensitive layer 703, and the display layer 707. Although not shown in the figures, the display assembly 716 may include an adhesive layer for adhesively fixing the touch-sensitive layer 703 and the display layer 707 together and for adhesively fixing the display layer 707 and the force-sensitive layer 709 together.

[0066] The touch-sensitive layer 703 is designed to receive touch input when, for example, a user applies pressure to the first protective layer 718. The touch-sensitive layer 703 may include capacitive touch-sensitive technology. For example, the touch-sensitive layer 703 may include a layer of capacitive material that holds an electrical charge. The capacitive material layer is designed to form a portion of a plurality of capacitive parallel plates in a location corresponding to the display layer 707. In this regard, when a user touches the first protective layer 718, the user forms one or more capacitors. In addition, the user causes a voltage drop across the one or more capacitors, which in turn causes the charge of the capacitive material to change at one or more specific contact points corresponding to the location of the user's touch input. The capacitance change and / or voltage drop can be measured by the electronic device 700 to determine the location of the touch input. The touch-sensitive layer 703 may include an edge region 715. The edge region 715 may include an electrical connector.

[0067] In some examples, the display layer 707 includes a liquid crystal display ("LCD") that relies on a backlight to present visual information. Figure 7 In the embodiment shown in , the display layer 707 includes a light emitting diode (LED) and / or organic light emitting diode ("OLED") display designed to illuminate individual pixels when needed. When the display layer 707 has OLED technology, the display layer 707 can have a reduced size profile compared to an LCD display. In this regard, the display assembly 716 can have a smaller footprint and / or thickness, thereby creating more room for other components in the internal volume, such as a battery assembly. In some examples, the display layer 707 can be bent or curved without causing damage to the display layer 707. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, the display layer 707 includes or defines a bend or bend area 711. The bend area 711 can be a 180-degree bend or a bend of approximately 180 degrees. In some examples, the bend 711 can have any angle and / or radius of curvature as desired, and can be a bend of at least about 90 degrees, a bend of at least about 120 degrees, a bend of at least about 135 degrees, a bend of at least about 150 degrees, a bend of at least about 180 degrees, a bend of at least about 220 degrees, a bend of at least about 235 degrees, or a bend of at least about 270 degrees or more. In some examples, the bend 711 allows the display layer 707 to bend or flex around at least a portion of the force-sensitive layer 709, as shown. Figure 7 In some examples, the curved portion 711 can extend along the length or width of the electronic device. In some examples, the display layer 707 includes multiple curved portions 711 located on various edges of the display layer 707. For example, the display layer 707 can define two curved portions on opposite ends of the display layer 707, which extend along substantially the entire length of the electronic device 700.

[0068] The display layer 707 may include an edge region or tail portion 713 having a connector (not shown) for electrically and mechanically coupling the display layer 707 to a flexible circuit (not shown) electrically coupled to a circuit board assembly (shown below), wherein the flexible circuit enables communication between the display layer 707 and the circuit board assembly. In some examples, the display layer 707 may include an active matrix organic light emitting diode ("AMOLED") display. Even when the display layer 707 includes the curved portion 711, the edge region 715 of the touch-sensitive layer 703 may be parallel or at least substantially parallel relative to the edge region or tail portion 713 of the display layer 707.

[0069] The force-sensitive layer 709 can operate by determining the magnitude of the force or pressure applied to the first protective layer 718, the touch-sensitive layer 703, and / or the display layer 707. In this regard, the force-sensitive layer 709 can distinguish between different magnitudes of force applied to the electronic device 100. Different magnitudes of force can correspond to different user inputs. The force-sensitive layer 709 may include a plurality of parallel capacitor plate arrangements, wherein one plate in each capacitor plate arrangement has an electrical charge. When the force applied to the first protective layer 718 causes a distance between one or more pairs of parallel plate capacitors to decrease, a change in capacitance between the one or more pairs of parallel plate capacitors can occur. The amount of change in capacitance corresponds to the magnitude of the force acting on the first protective layer 718.

[0070] Furthermore, in order to support the first protective layer 718 and the display assembly 716 and facilitate assembly of the first protective layer 718 and the display assembly 716 with the electronic device 700, a frame 702 may be included to accommodate and secure the first protective layer 718 and the display assembly 716. Thus, the frame 702 may include a size and shape consistent with the size and shape of the first protective layer 718 and / or the display assembly 716. In some examples, the frame 702 may at least partially define the outer surface of the electronic device 700. In some examples, the electronic device 700 further includes a hoop or housing ( Figure 7 700 and is coupled to the frame 702. The frame 702 may be formed of a polymer material such as plastic and may further include a metal ring (not shown) that is partially embedded in the polymer material during an insert molding operation. In this regard, the frame 702 may structurally support the first protective layer 718, as well as one or more components of the display assembly 716. This will be described in more detail below, with reference to Figure 8A Provides more details on the display components.

[0071] Figure 8AA cross-sectional side view of an electronic device 800 is shown. The electronic device 800 can be substantially similar to any of the electronic devices described herein, such as electronic devices 100-700, and can include some or all of the features of any of the electronic devices. In some examples, the electronic device 800 includes a frame 802 that at least partially surrounds a display assembly 816.

[0072] Similar to other examples described herein, electronic device 800 may include a display assembly 816 that includes a touch-sensitive layer 803 designed to receive touch input, a display layer 807 designed to present visual information, and a force-sensitive layer 809 designed to detect the magnitude of a force applied to or acting on the display layer 807 by applying force to at least one of the touch-sensitive layer 803, the display layer 807, and a protective cover 818 covering the display assembly 816. In some examples, the display assembly 816 may also include a rigid plate to provide structural support and rigidity to the display assembly 816.

[0073] The display layer 807 may extend beyond the force-sensitive layer 809 and define a curved portion 811 connected to the tail portion 813. The electronic device 800 may also include a first material 821 covering the surface of the display layer 807. The first material 821 may include an encapsulation material that supports the display layer 807. Specifically, the first material 821 may resist external forces or stresses to enhance or support the curved portion 811 of the display layer 807. In order to provide the first material 821, a needle (not shown in Figure 8A8) may be inserted into a position within the curved area of ​​the display layer 807. The needle or other deposition component may disperse the material when it is pulled out of the electronic device 800. In some examples, the first material 823 is deposited before the display layer 807 is bent.

[0074] Potting material 821 can have a modulus of about 180 MPa to about 300 MPa, or about 200 MPa to about 280 MPa. In some examples, display assembly 816 includes a strain neutralization layer 814 located on the exterior of curved portion 811, such that curved portion 811 is positioned between strain neutralization layer 814 and potting material 821. In some examples, strain neutralization layer 814 covers an area of ​​tail portion 813 and / or a portion of display panel 807 before curved portion 811.

[0075] In some examples, potting material 821 is pre-cured, such as by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. For example, potting material 821 can be applied to display layer 807 before the display layer 807 is bent. (UV) light can then be used to pre-cure potting material 821 to partially cure potting material 821 and increase adhesion of potting material 821 to display layer 807.

[0076] In some examples, potting material 821 may undergo a final moisture curing stage. After display layer 807 is bent, potting material 821 may be moisture cured, resulting in potting material 821 being positioned within bend 811. In some examples, a gap exists adjacent to potting material 821 to allow moisture to cure potting material 821. In some examples, potting material 821 may be formulated to adhere to polyimide. Potting material 821 may be configured to adhere to at least stainless steel, glass-filled nylon, acrylic resin, and pressure-sensitive adhesive. In some examples, any other curing or hardening technique may be used as desired.

[0077] The display layer 807 may also include a second material or filler material 823 covering the surface of the display layer 807. The second material 823 can provide compression to the metal traces in the display layer 807 and prevent tension from acting on the metal traces, thereby preventing damage to the display layer. The second material 823 can provide rigidity and structural support to the display layer 807. The filler material 823 can be positioned between the curved portion 811 and the frame 802. The filler material 823 can be deposited along the entire curved portion 811. In some examples, the filler material 823 is positioned around substantially the entire perimeter of the frame 802 and the display assembly 816.

[0078] Thus, in contrast to conventional technology, the disclosed electronic device 800 includes filler material 823 positioned in a volume that would normally be empty or used as wiggle room. In some examples, no air gap is allowed between the display assembly 816 and the frame without filler material 823 positioned in the air gap. In some examples, filler material 823 inhibits wiggle or movement of the display assembly 816 relative to the frame 802. As such, the disclosed electronic device 800 has improved durability compared to conventional devices.

[0079] The second or filling material 821 may be a two-part epoxy designed to behave like a soft rubber with low shrinkage. In some examples, the filling material 823 may have a relatively low modulus so as not to transmit loads to the display assembly 816. For example, the filling material 823 may have a modulus of approximately 18 MPa to approximately 28 MPa, or approximately 17 MPa to approximately 22 MPa. In some examples, the filling material 823 has a modulus of approximately 20 MPa. This allows the filling material 823 to act as a shock absorber. The filling material 823 may be sufficiently hard to allow curing and avoid compromising display reliability. In some examples, when the display assembly 816 comprises polyimide, the filling material 823 may be formulated to adhere to the display assembly 816, such as polyimide. The filling material 823 may be configured to adhere to at least stainless steel, glass-filled nylon, acrylic resin, and pressure-sensitive adhesive. The filling material 823 may be formulated to be non-reactive to moisture. In some examples, the first material 821 and the second material 823 may be the same material.

[0080] In some examples, filler material 823 has a non-uniform thickness. For example, the thickness of filler material 821 can vary based on the width of the gap separating frame 802 and display assembly 816. The amount and thickness of filler material 823 can vary depending on the needs and space available for internal components of electronic device 800. In some examples, the minimum gap between display layer 807 and frame 802 is the space between the edge of bend 811 and the corner of frame 802. Therefore, this location can also be the minimum filler material thickness along frame 802. In some examples, the minimum bead width of filler material 823 is about 0.3 mm to about 0.4 mm. In some examples, the average bead width of filler material 823 is about 0.6 mm.

[0081] In some examples, in addition to serving as a support or reinforcing bumper, second material 823 can also serve as an additional adhesive coupling display assembly 816, cover glass 818, and frame 802. In some examples, second material 823 is the primary coupling mechanism between at least two of display assembly 816, cover glass 818, frame 802, and backplate.

[0082] An additional advantage is that conventional methyl methacrylate adhesives can evaporate when exposed to air, which can produce a weak adhesive, however, evaporation of methyl methacrylate adhesives (e.g., as used in display assembly 816) is prevented by adding filler material 823. More details of the filler material are provided below with reference to FIG8B.

[0083] As in Figure 8BAs can be seen in FIG, in some examples, filler material 823 can improve water resistance by acting as a seal and providing an increased leak path 628 between the surrounding environment and display assembly 816. In some examples, filler material 823 can define a longer, more tortuous leak path that moisture will need to travel before reaching sensitive electronic components, thereby reducing the likelihood of water or moisture entering the interior volume of the device, and in particular, entering display assembly 816. In this way, filler material 823 can simultaneously provide more structural integrity and increased water resistance to the internal components of electronic device 800.

[0084] Any number or type of components in any configuration described herein may be included in an input device. Components may include any combination of features described herein and may be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an input device having a housing with the structure described herein and defining an interior volume, as well as the concepts regarding input components, filler materials, and display assemblies, may be applied not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Figures 9 to 11B Various examples of electronic devices are described that include components having various features in various arrangements.

[0085] Figure 9 Frame 902 is shown. Frame 902 can be substantially similar to any of the frames described herein, such as electronic devices 100-800, and can include some or all of the features of any of the frames. In some examples, frame 902 can define an injection hole or port 927 and a vent 928. Port 927 and / or vent 928 can be machined into frame 902 or can be molded into frame 902 while frame 902 is being formed. Port 927 can be configured to receive packaging material ( Figure 9 927 and vent 928 have a diameter of about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm. In some examples, the port 927 and vent 928 have a diameter of about 1 mm. The diameter of any given port 927 or vent 928 may vary depending on its position. The number and position of the ports may be determined based on the geometry of the frame 902 and the position of the internal components relative to the frame 902. In some examples, the number, position, and size of the ports 927 may be based on the characteristics of the packaging material. For example, a filler with low viscosity may require fewer or smaller ports 927 because the filler can flow more freely between the frame 902 and the internal components of the electronic device. On the other hand, a filler with high viscosity may require more ports 927 with larger orifices to allow the high viscosity filler to reach the desired location. In some examples, the viscosity of the epoxy or filler is low enough to flow between the display panel curved portion.

[0086] In some examples, when the filler is injected into the desired location, it is necessary to allow the expelled air to escape or be discharged. Therefore, in some examples, the vents 928 can be configured to allow air or gas to be discharged into the environment. The vents 928 can be positioned at preselected locations to optimize the ventilation process. In some examples, the number and position of the vents 928 are proportional to the number and position of the ports 928. In some examples, the number, position and size of the vents depend on the injection process, for example, the speed at which the filler is injected. In some examples, the filler material is deposited directly on the surface of the frame 902 before the display assembly 716 is coupled to the frame 902. In this way, there is no need for ports 928 because the filler material is deposited on the frame 902 before being coupled to the display assembly 716.

[0087] like Figure 10 As shown, an injection device or needle 1029 can be used to inject the filler material ( Figure 10 928). Figure 11A and Figure 11B Further details of exemplary electronic devices are provided.

[0088] Figure 11AA cross-sectional side view of electronic device 1100 is shown. Electronic device 1100 may be substantially similar to any electronic device described herein, such as electronic devices 800 and 900, and may include some or all of the features of any of the electronic devices. In some examples, electronic device 1100 includes a display assembly 1116, which includes a display layer 1107 and a contact member (not shown), such as a flexible connector, in electrical communication with display layer 1107. In some examples, a coating 1131 may at least partially cover display layer 1107 and the contact member. Coating 1131 may conform to the general external shape of the display assembly and / or the contact member. In some examples, coating 1131 may define an orifice positioned at the contact area of ​​the contact member. In some examples, coating 1131 may include parylene-N. Coating 1131 may enable display assembly 1116 to be submerged in water without damaging display assembly 1116.

[0089] Likewise Figure 11B As shown, the conformal coating 1131 may at least partially cover the protective epoxy or filler material 1123. In some examples, the coating 1131 is applied by a vapor deposition process such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The coating 1131 may have a thickness of about 1 micron to about 5 microns, or about 2 microns to about 3 microns. In some examples, the coating 1131 has a thickness greater than 5 microns. In some examples, the coating 1131 has a thickness of 1 micron or less. In some examples, a mask is applied to areas where the coating 1131 is not desired. In this way, the masked area prevents the coating 1131 from being applied to the masked area. In some examples, the mask is applied to at least one of a decorative surface, a user interface side of the protective glass, a flexible attachment interface, or a board-to-board connector. Reference is made below Figure 12 An exemplary process flow diagram is provided.

[0090] Figure 12 A process 1200 for improving the robustness of an electronic device according to one example is shown. At block 1202, holes are formed in a frame. The holes may include an injection port for depositing a potting material (e.g., epoxy) and a vent port for venting expelled air. As described above, the holes may be machined into the frame or may be manufactured simultaneously with the formation of the frame itself. The number, size, and location of the holes may depend on the properties of the potting material and the geometry of the electronic device.

[0091] At block 1204, the frame may be coupled to the display assembly. The coupling of the frame and the display assembly may be achieved in a variety of ways, such as by adhesion or mechanical fastening. At block 1206, an encapsulant or filler material may be injected into the shaped holes in the frame. In some examples, the injection occurs sequentially, filling only one hole at a time. In other examples, the injection of the filler material may be performed simultaneously at multiple locations. The amount of encapsulant or filler deposited at any given location may depend on the internal components and volume proximate to the fill location. At block 1208, a coating material may be applied to at least one of the frame, the display assembly, or the filler. The coating material may be parylene deposited by chemical vapor deposition (CVD).

[0092] To the extent applicable to the present technology, the collection and use of data from various sources can be used to improve the delivery of inspirational content or any other content that may be of interest to users. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, the collected data 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, phone numbers, email addresses, ID, home address, data or records related to the user's health or fitness level (e.g., vital sign measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information.

[0093] This disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data within the present technology can be used to benefit users. For example, this personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content of particular interest to the user. Thus, the use of such personal information data enables users to exercise planned control over the content delivered. Furthermore, this disclosure contemplates other uses of personal information data that can benefit users. For example, health and fitness data can be used to provide insights into a user's overall health or as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue health goals.

[0094] This disclosure contemplates that entities responsible for collecting, analyzing, disclosing, transmitting, storing, or otherwise using such personal information will adhere to established privacy policies and / or 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. Such policies should be easily accessible to users and updated as the collection and / or use of data changes. Personal information collected from users should be used for the entity's legitimate and reasonable purposes and not shared or sold beyond those legitimate uses. Furthermore, such collection / sharing should be conducted with the user's informed consent. Furthermore, such entities should consider taking any necessary steps to safeguard and secure access to such personal information and ensure that others with access to the personal information adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Furthermore, such entities may subject themselves to third-party assessments to demonstrate compliance with widely accepted privacy policies and practices. Furthermore, policies and practices should be tailored to the specific type of personal information collected and / or accessed and to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdictional considerations. For example, in the United States, the collection or access of certain health data may be governed by federal and / or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas 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.

[0095] Regardless of the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates implementation schemes in which users selectively block the use or access of personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates providing hardware elements and / or software elements to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, with respect to an advertising delivery service, the technology of the present invention may be configured to allow a user to choose to "opt in" or "opt out" to participate in the collection of personal information data at any time during or after registration for the service. In another example, a user may choose not to provide emotion-related data to a targeted content delivery service. In another example, a user may choose to limit the length of time that emotion-related data is retained, or to completely prohibit the development of underlying emotional conditions. In addition to providing "opt-in" and "opt-out" options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications related to access or use of personal information. For example, a user may be notified that their personal information data will be accessed when downloading an application, and then reminded again just before the personal information data is accessed by the application.

[0096] Furthermore, it is an object of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting data collection and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, 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 by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at the city level rather than the address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data on users), and / or other methods, where appropriate.

[0097] Thus, while the present disclosure broadly covers the use of personal information data to implement one or more of the various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that various embodiments may be implemented without access to such personal information data. That is, various embodiments of the present technology will not be unable to function properly due to the absence of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content may be selected and delivered to a user by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or an absolute minimum amount of personal information, such as content requested by a device associated with the user, other non-personal information available to a content delivery service, or publicly available information.

[0098] For illustrative purposes, the foregoing description uses specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required to practice the embodiments. Therefore, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for illustration and description purposes. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, in view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are possible.

Claims

1. An electronic device comprising: a frame defining an aperture; a display member positioned in the aperture and configured to present visual information, the display member defining a curved region; A filler material at least partially surrounds a perimeter of the display member, the filler material contacting the curved region and contacting a portion of the frame defining the aperture. The electronic device according to claim 1 , wherein the filling material comprises epoxy resin. 3 . The electronic device of claim 1 , further comprising a housing at least partially defining an interior volume, wherein the frame is secured to the housing and the filler material defines a seal between a surrounding environment and the interior volume.

4. The electronic device of claim 1 , further comprising a housing at least partially defining an interior volume, wherein the frame is secured to the housing and the filler material defines a tortuous leakage path between an ambient environment and the interior volume. 5 . The electronic device according to claim 1 , further comprising a parylene coating covering at least one of the display component or the filling material. 6 . The electronic device of claim 1 , further comprising a housing at least partially surrounding and secured to the frame. 7 . The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the frame defines a port for injecting the filling material between the frame and the display member. The electronic device according to claim 1 , wherein the filling material is curable.

9. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the curved region defines a curved surface; and The fill material includes a potting material positioned in the curved region and in contact with the curved surface. 10 . The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the filler material has a modulus of 10 MPa to 20 MPa.

11. A display assembly comprising: a frame including sidewalls defining the port and the aperture; a display member defining a curved region, the display member configured to display information and positioned in the aperture, the display member and the frame at least partially defining a volume; A flowable filler material at least partially surrounds a perimeter of the display component and is positioned in the volume, the filler material contacting the curved region and contacting one of the sidewalls.

12. The display assembly of claim 11, wherein the filler material has a non-uniform thickness.

13. The display assembly of claim 11, wherein the filler material is attached to the frame. The display assembly of claim 11 , wherein the filler material occupies the volume.

15. The display assembly of claim 11, wherein the filler material is non-reactive to moisture.

Images