Magnetic docking

Abstract

A tablet computer system includes a docking seat and a tablet computer removably dockeable with the docking seat. The tablet computer includes a first plurality of magnets formed in an arrangement including at least four magnet groups on a first lateral side of the housing in a mirroring configuration with at least four magnet groups on a second lateral side of the housing. At least three of the magnet sets on each lateral side of the housing are oriented horizontally and the fourth magnet set is oriented vertically. The three magnet sets on each lateral side of the housing include alternating north and south polarities across the three magnet sets, and the two innermost magnet sets include matching north and south polarities across the two innermost magnet sets.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This PCT patent application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 364,479, filed on May 10, 2022, entitled “DOCKABLE AND UNDOCKABLE MULTI-PURPOSE ELECTRONIC TABLET DEVICE,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Background Art

[0003] Electronic tablet devices have become increasingly popular devices due to their larger display screens and touch input capabilities. However, challenges arise when a user places a tablet device on a surface but wishes to continue to interact with the device to consume media content. Tablet devices are typically designed to lie on a flat surface due to their form factor, which enables the user to view the display by looking down. If a user wishes to place the tablet device on a kitchen counter, for example, to view a recipe or watch a basketball game while preparing a meal, the challenge that arises is stabilizing the device in an upright position so that the display screen is substantially vertical relative to the counter.

[0004] A tablet computing device, sometimes referred to as a tablet or tablet computer, is typically a flat, lightweight device that includes a touch screen display. The tablet is battery powered and can be plugged into a power source to recharge the tablet's battery. Summary of the invention

[0005] This document describes technologies for a dockable and undockable multi-purpose electronic tablet device. These technologies enable a tablet device operable in a tablet device mode to be docked to a base that secures the tablet device in an upright position to enable a substantially horizontal viewing of a display screen of the tablet device. The tablet device may also be electrically coupled to the base to enable communication between the tablet device and the base, and to enable power transfer from the base to the tablet device for charging a battery of the tablet device.

[0006] In various aspects, the tablet device includes electrical contacts (e.g., spring pads) located on a rear surface that is opposite the display screen of the tablet device. When docked to the base, the electrical contacts are electrically coupled to corresponding socket contacts on the base, thereby forming a secure physical connection that enables the transmission of electrical current and electrical signals. The electrical contacts can be positioned at any suitable location on the rear surface that enables the electrical contacts to couple to (e.g., mate with) corresponding socket contacts on the base.

[0007] The tablet device can be docked (e.g., mounted, coupled, fixed) to the base via a coupling mechanism, which can include a magnetic coupling mechanism or a mechanical coupling mechanism. For example, magnets can be implemented in the base and / or the tablet device to generate a magnetic attraction that securely connects and holds the tablet device to the base. The tablet device can be decoupled from the base when a user applies a sufficient reaction force (e.g., a pulling force).

[0008] The tablet device and the base together form a modular system. In one example, the base can include an audio output device (e.g., a speaker) to provide audio output from the tablet device. Digital signals can be transmitted from the tablet device to the base via electrical contacts and corresponding socket contacts, and the base can output audio signals correspondingly via the audio output device. In this way, the tablet device and the base can communicate via a physical connection rather than via wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth™). However, in some implementations, the tablet device can communicate with the base via wireless communication.

[0009] According to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, a tablet computer system includes a docking station and a tablet computer that can be removably docked with the docking station. The tablet computer includes an electronic display and a housing that accommodates the electronic display. The tablet computer includes a first plurality of magnets that are arranged to be magnetically coupled with a second plurality of magnets of the docking station. The first plurality of magnets are formed in an arrangement that includes at least four magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing. The at least four magnet groups on the first lateral side of the housing are in a mirror configuration with the at least four magnet groups on the second lateral side of the housing. At least three of the magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing are oriented horizontally, and the fourth magnet group on each lateral side of the housing is oriented vertically. The three magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing include alternating north and south polarities across the three magnet groups, and the two innermost magnet groups include matching north and south polarities across the two innermost magnet groups.

[0010] The tablet computer system may optionally include at least some of the following embodiments. The tablet computer system may also include a shunt coupled to one or more magnets to guide a magnetic field associated with one or more magnets. When the tablet computer is docked to the docking station, the gap between the first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets may be in the range of 1.65 millimeters (mm) to 2.5 mm. The tablet computer system may also include a stimulation magnet on the housing for detecting the tilt of the tablet computer. The tablet computer system may also include an additional magnet group arranged along the longitudinal axis of the housing. The additional magnet group may be magnetically coupled with a third plurality of magnets that replace the docking station. Each magnet group may include two magnets. The magnets in each magnet group may be arranged to have relative north and south polarities. The magnets in each magnet group may be arranged so that the relative poles are oriented toward each other.

[0011] According to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, a tablet computer includes an electronic display and a housing that houses the electronic display. The tablet computer includes a first plurality of magnets that are arranged to magnetically couple with a second plurality of magnets of a docking station. The first plurality of magnets are formed in an arrangement that includes at least four magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing. The at least four magnet groups on the first lateral side of the housing are in a mirrored configuration with the at least four magnet groups on the second lateral side of the housing. At least three of the magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing are oriented horizontally, and the fourth magnet group on each lateral side of the housing is oriented vertically. The three magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing include alternating north and south polarities across the three magnet groups, and the two innermost magnet groups include matching north and south polarities across the two innermost magnet groups.

[0012] The tablet computer may optionally include at least some of the following embodiments. The tablet computer may also include a shunt coupled to one or more magnets to direct a magnetic field associated with the one or more magnets. When the tablet computer is docked to the docking station, the gap between the first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets may be in the range of 1.65 mm to 2.5 mm. The tablet computer may also include a stimulation magnet on the housing for detecting a tilt of the tablet computer. The tablet computer may also include an additional magnet group disposed along the longitudinal axis of the housing. The additional magnet group may be magnetically coupled to a third plurality of magnets that replace the docking station. Each magnet group may include two magnets. The magnets within each magnet group may be arranged to have relative north and south polarities.

[0013] According to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, a docking station includes a docking station housing and a panel. The panel is removably coupled to a tablet computer. The docking station includes a first plurality of magnets, wherein the first plurality of magnets are arranged to magnetically couple with a second plurality of magnets of the tablet computer. The first plurality of magnets are formed in an arrangement including at least four magnet groups on each lateral side of the panel. The at least four magnet groups on the first lateral side of the panel are in a mirror configuration with the at least four magnet groups on the second lateral side of the panel. At least three of the magnet groups on each lateral side of the panel are oriented horizontally, and the fourth magnet group on each lateral side of the panel is oriented vertically. The three magnet groups on each lateral side of the panel include alternating north and south polarities across the three magnet groups, and the two innermost magnet groups include matching north and south polarities across the two innermost magnet groups.

[0014] The docking station may optionally include at least some of the following embodiments. The docking station may also include a shunt coupled to one or more magnets to direct a magnetic field associated with the one or more magnets. When the tablet computer is docked to the docking station, the gap between the first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets may be in the range of 1.65 mm to 2.5 mm. Each magnet group may include two magnets. The magnets within each magnet group may be arranged to have relative north and south polarities.

[0015] This Summary is provided to introduce simplified concepts of a dockable and undockable multi-purpose electronic tablet device further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The nature and advantages of various embodiments may be further understood with reference to the following figures. In the accompanying drawings, similar components or features may have the same reference numeral. In addition, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference numeral with a dash and a second reference numeral that distinguishes the similar components. If only the first reference numeral is used in the specification, the description applies to any similar component having the same first reference numeral, regardless of the second reference numeral.

[0017] Figure 1 An example implementation of a dockable and undockable multi-purpose electronic tablet device is shown.

[0018] Figure 2 Shown from Figure 1 Front elevation view of an electronic device.

[0019] Figure 3A Shown from Figure 1 A top plan view of an electronic device.

[0020] Figure 3B Shown from Figure 1 Bottom plan view of an electronic device.

[0021] Figure 4 Shown from Figure 1 Rear elevation view of an electronic device.

[0022] Figure 5A Shown from Figure 1 Left front view of the electronic device.

[0023] Figure 5B Shown from Figure 1 Right front view of the electronic device.

[0024] Figure 6 A side view of an embodiment of a device magnetically docking with a docking station is shown, according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 7A is a top cross-sectional view of an electronic device having a magnet arrangement according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 7B A magnet arrangement according to some implementations of the present disclosure is shown.

[0027] Figure 7C A magnet arrangement according to some implementations of the present disclosure is shown.

[0028] Fig. 8A is a top perspective cross-sectional view of a docking station having a magnet arrangement according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 8B A magnet arrangement according to some implementations of the present disclosure is shown.

[0030] Fig. 9A A side view of an embodiment of a device magnetically docking with a docking station is shown, according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig. 9B is a top cross-sectional view of a docking station having a magnet arrangement according to some implementations of the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.10 is a flow chart of a method according to some implementations of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Various embodiments are described in connection with an electronic device and a docking station. The electronic device and the docking station have corresponding magnet groups arranged to optimize magnetic docking and undocking of the electronic device (e.g., a tablet computer) with the docking station. The electronic device may include a first magnet group. The first magnet group is arranged to magnetically couple with a second magnet group of the docking station.

[0034] Magnets can be used to couple a tablet computer to a charging dock and align the charging dock. Magnets can be used to couple two devices, such as coupling a tablet computer and a docking station as described in detail herein. The attraction between the magnets in the tablet computer and the magnets in the docking station may need to be strong enough to couple the tablet computer to the docking station and prevent undesirable decoupling when the electronic device is accidentally hit or the surface on which the docking station rests is accidentally hit. For example, the magnets can be arranged and designed to offset any shock pulses generated in the surface supporting the tablet docking station system. The attraction of the magnets may also need to be strong enough to resist the tilting of the tablet computer and the docking station or the undesirable undocking of the tablet computer from the docking station when the user interacts with the docked tablet computer.

[0035] When the tablet computer is mounted to the docking station, a first plurality of magnets included in the tablet computer can be magnetically coupled with a second plurality of magnets present in the docking station. The magnets can be used to not only hold the tablet computer in place on the docking station, but also to align a plurality of contact pads of the tablet computer with contact pins of the docking station. The contact pads allow for the exchange of electrical signals (which may include data), power, or both, between the docking station and the tablet computer.

[0036] The embodiments described in detail herein focus on an electronic device and a docking station having a magnet arrangement for achieving coupling of the electronic device with the docking station. In some embodiments, the electronic device is a tablet computer, which is a component of a tablet computer system. Specifically, the tablet computer can be used as a home assistant device and / or a hub to manage smart home devices in an environment. The tablet computer may be able to record video, communicate with a remote server system, and interact with a user via verbal communication. For example, a home assistant device can provide automatic control or voice control of devices, appliances, and systems such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ("HVAC") systems, lighting systems, home theaters, entertainment systems, and security systems. A smart home network may include a control panel that a person can use to input settings, preferences, and schedule information for the smart home network to provide automatic control of various devices, appliances, and systems in a home. For example, a person can enter a schedule indicating when he or she will leave home, and the smart home network uses this information and information obtained from various devices in the home to detect unauthorized entry when the user leaves. The tablet computer can remain docked with the docking station to charge the tablet computer's battery and use other features of the docking station, such as integrated speakers. The tablet computer can be removed from the docking station for use or display at another location. When not in use (whether docked, undocked, or both), photos or albums selected by the user can be presented by the tablet.

[0037] Many other types of electronic devices may benefit from the optimized magnet arrangements described herein. For example, smart phones, gaming devices, e-readers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), digital paper tablets, and smart photo frames may benefit from various embodiments of the battery housing as described in detail herein. Additionally, the electronic device may be an assistant device (e.g., Google Assistant). ® Nest ® Hub; Google ® Nest ® Hub Max); home automation controllers (e.g., controllers for alarm systems, thermostats, lighting systems, door locks, electric doors, etc.); gaming devices (e.g., gaming systems, game controllers, data gloves, etc.); communication devices (e.g., smartphones such as Google ® Pixel ® Phone, cellular phone, mobile phone, wireless phone, portable phone, radiotelephone, etc.); and / or other computing devices (e.g., tablet computer, tablet computer, notebook computer, laptop computer, etc.).

[0038] This document describes a dockable and undockable multi-purpose electronic tablet device. The technology described herein includes an electronic device (e.g., a tablet device) that can operate as a standalone computing device when undocked and as a virtual assistant device when undocked and when docked to a base.

[0039] For docking purposes, the tablet device can be a landscape-first tablet such that the tablet device is oriented in a landscape orientation when docked with the base. Thus, the tablet device can have a feature arrangement that is landscape-first oriented. The tablet device includes electrical contacts (e.g., spring pads) that are exposed to the environment and configured to physically connect with corresponding socket contacts on the base. Such a physical connection enables the tablet device to communicate with the base without wirelessly pairing with the base. In addition, the tablet device can include wear-resistant feet that significantly reduce slidable movement on the surface, particularly when the tablet device is docked to the base in an upright position (e.g., a substantially vertical position relative to a substantially horizontal surface).

[0040] While the features and concepts of the described technology for a dockable and undockable multi-use electronic tablet device may be implemented in any number of different environments, various aspects are described in the context of the following examples.

[0041] Example Systems and Apparatus

[0042] Figure 1 An example implementation of a system 100 having a dockable and undockable multi-purpose tablet device is shown. In the example shown, the system 100 includes an electronic device 102 and a base 104 that can be coupled to each other. The base 104 not only supports the electronic device 102 in an upright position to achieve a substantially horizontal user viewing angle, but the base 104 also provides additional functionality to the electronic device 102. For example, the base 104 can be a battery charger for the electronic device 102, a speaker for the electronic device 102, a keyboard for the electronic device 102, a stand for the electronic device 102, a handheld controller for the electronic device 102, etc.

[0043] The electronic device 102 includes various components that enable the electronic device 102 to operate as a mobile computing device, including a battery 106, one or more processors 108, a touch-sensitive display device 110 (e.g., an electronic display), and an operating system 112 and applications 114. The electronic device 102 also includes electrical contacts 116 that enable the electronic device 102 to physically connect with another device (e.g., the base 104). In some aspects, the electrical contacts 116 are exposed through a housing 118 of the electronic device 102 to enable coupling without requiring a user to first remove a covering. However, in some implementations, the electrical contacts 116 can have a covering for protection from the environment and the elements, including dust and water intrusion.

[0044] Battery 106 may be any suitable rechargeable battery. An example battery 106 is a lithium-ion battery. Touch display device 110 is a touch-sensitive display configured to receive and detect touch input from a user. Touch display device 110 is used to render digital content including media content (e.g., images, videos).

[0045] The base 104 includes additional electrical contacts (e.g., corresponding socket contacts 120) that are configured to couple to the electrical contacts 116 on the electronic device 102 to provide a physical electrical connection for communication and power transfer. This physical connection between the electrical contacts 116 on the electronic device 102 and the corresponding socket contacts 120 on the base 104 enables the electronic device 102 and the base 104 to communicate with each other without requiring a user to connect (e.g., plug in) a cable between the electronic device 102 and the base 104, and without requiring a wireless connection to be established between the electronic device 102 and the base 104.

[0046] The base 104 can be connected to an external power source 122 (e.g., direct current provided via an outlet) via one or more wires (e.g., a power cord 124). The application 114 and / or operating system 112 are implemented as computer-readable instructions on a computer-readable medium (e.g., a storage medium) and can be executed by the processor 108 to provide some or all of the functionality described herein. The computer-readable medium provides a data storage mechanism to store various device applications 114, operating systems 112, memory / storage, and other types of information and / or data related to the operational aspects of the electronic device 102. For example, the operating system 112 can be maintained as a computer application within a computer-readable medium and executed by the processor 108 to provide some or all of the functionality described herein. The device application 114 may include a device manager, such as any form of control application, software application, or signal processing and control module. The device application 114 may also include a system component, engine, or manager to implement technology for a dockable and undockable multi-purpose electronic tablet device. The electronic device 102 may also include or have access to one or more machine learning systems.

[0047] The base 104 may also include an audio output device 126 (e.g., a speaker) configured to provide audio output by the electronic device 102. When the electronic device 102 is docked to the base 104, the electronic device 102 may output audio via the audio output device 126 without being wirelessly paired with the base 104 and / or the audio output device 126 (or having previously been wirelessly paired).

[0048] In various aspects, the base 104 includes circuitry for implementing a voice-activated virtual assistant 128 that is capable of processing audio input from a user to recognize a query or command and initiate a corresponding function, including providing an audio output in response to the query or command. The virtual assistant 128 can be used to perform a variety of tasks, including searching the Internet, scheduling events and alarms, controlling home automation, controlling Internet of Things (IoT) devices, etc. The electronic device 102 operates as a display of a user interface associated with the virtual assistant 128 when docked to the base 104.

[0049] In an implementation, the electronic device 102 and the base 104 form a modular system. For example, when the electronic device 102 is docked, the system operates as a virtual assistant, where a user interface is displayed via the electronic device 102 and audio is output by the base 104. When the electronic device 102 is undocked, the electronic device 102 operates as a standalone tablet device.

[0050] The electronic device 102 may also be configured to communicate with one or more devices or servers via a network, such as network 130. By way of example and not limitation, the electronic device 102 may transmit data via a local area network (LAN), a wireless local area network (WLAN), a personal area network (PAN), a wide area network (WAN), an intranet, the Internet, a peer-to-peer network, a point-to-point network, or a mesh network.

[0051] Figure 2 Shown from Figure 1 1. A front elevation view 200 of an electronic device 102. As shown, the electronic device 102 includes a touch display device 110. The touch display device 110 defines a front surface 202 of the electronic device 102, which is substantially planar. The housing 118 includes a frame surrounding the touch display device 110. The electronic device 102 also includes a first camera 204 (e.g., a front camera), which is positioned within (interior) the housing 118 and faces a direction substantially perpendicular to the front surface 202. In addition, the electronic device 102 is shown as having a longitudinal axis 206 (e.g., an x-axis), a transverse axis 208 (e.g., a y-axis), and a normal axis (e.g., a z-axis). In various aspects, the first camera 204 is aligned with the transverse axis 208 (e.g., centered on the transverse axis) and offset from the longitudinal axis 206, so that when the electronic device 102 is in a transverse orientation, the first camera 204 is centered at the "top" of the front surface 202.

[0052] Figure 3A Shown from Figure 1 1. A top plan view 300 of the electronic device 102 is shown. The top plan view 300 shows a side (e.g., a "top" side) of the electronic device 102 that is located to the side of the front surface 202 and intersecting the lateral axis 208 (and parallel to the longitudinal axis 206). In various aspects, the electronic device 102 can include one or more input mechanisms (e.g., microphone ports 302, volume control buttons 304, power button 306) disposed on the top side of the electronic device 102. Each microphone port 302 can be aligned with an audio sensor (e.g., a microphone) disposed within the housing of the electronic device 102 and configured to detect voice input from a user.

[0053] Figure 3B Shown from Figure 1 The bottom plan view 310 of the electronic device 102 is shown. The bottom plan view 310 shows the other side (eg, the "bottom" side) of the electronic device 102, which is located to the side of the front surface 202 and is opposite to the front surface 202. Figure 3A, relative to the top side shown in . In some aspects, when the electronic device 102 is positioned in a horizontal orientation and coupled to a base or leaning object, the bottom side rests on a surface. In order to reduce and / or prevent the electronic device 102 from sliding on the surface, the electronic device 102 includes one or more wear-resistant feet 312. The wear-resistant feet 312 protrude from the outer surface of the electronic device 102. In addition, the wear-resistant feet 312 include a high friction material to reduce slidable movement along the surface. In various aspects, the wear-resistant feet 312 are arranged in a row parallel to the longitudinal axis 206 of the electronic device 102.

[0054] Figure 4 Shown from Figure 1 400 of a rear elevation view of an electronic device 102. The illustrated example shows a rear surface 402 of the electronic device 102, which is opposite to the front surface 202 defined by the touch display device 110. The rear surface 402 includes an opening for a second camera 404 (e.g., a rear camera). The second camera 404 is disposed within the housing of the electronic device 102 and faces a direction parallel to the normal axis (e.g., the z-axis). In addition, the electrical contacts 116 are exposed via the rear surface 402. In some aspects, the electrical contacts 116 include a row of electrical connector mechanisms (e.g., spring pads). The electrical contacts 116 can be arranged in any suitable pattern, including one or more rows substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 206 and one or more columns substantially parallel to the transverse axis 208. The electrical contacts 116 are arranged in a suitable manner so as to correspond to corresponding socket contacts (e.g., electrical contacts 120) on the base. In some implementations, the electrical contact 116 is positioned at a location on the rear surface 402 that is centered relative to the lateral axis 208 and offset from the longitudinal axis 206 by an offset distance (e.g., 4 centimeters (cm), 5 cm, 6.25 cm, 7.3 cm, 8 cm). In various aspects, the electrical contact 116 can be offset from the bottom side of the electronic device 102 by a predefined distance (e.g., 2.5 cm, 3 cm, 3.75 cm, 5 cm).

[0055] Figure 5A Shown from Figure 1 500 is a left elevation view of the electronic device 102. The illustrated example shows one side (e.g., relative to Figure 2 206 ), which is located on the side of the front surface 202 and intersects the longitudinal axis 206. The electronic device 102 includes one or more openings 502-1 for a speaker to output audio. The electronic device 102 may also include a port 504 for an audio sensor (e.g., a microphone) on the left side of the device. In this way, the electronic device 102 can include audio sensors on both the top side and the left side (and / or right side).

[0056] Figure 5B Shown from Figure 1 510 of a right elevation view of the electronic device 102. The illustrated example shows the other side (e.g., relative to the Figure 2 ), which is located to the side of the front surface 202 and is in contact with Figure 5A The electronic device 102 may include one or more openings 502-2 on the right side for a speaker to output audio. The electronic device 102 may also include an input / output port (e.g., a universal serial bus type-c (USB-C) port 506) or any other suitable I / O port for cable attachment for power transmission and electronic communication.

[0057] Because the electronic device 102 is a landscape-first orientation device, the top and bottom sides are longer than the shorter left and right sides. As mentioned, the front camera is centered on the electronic device 102 relative to the landscape orientation and is disposed near the top side. The top side also includes a microphone port 302 for an audio sensor for detecting the user's voice and / or other sounds. The microphone port 302 is disposed on the top side to reduce the possibility of being blocked by an object when the electronic device 102 has been docked or otherwise placed on a surface and leaning against another surface in a landscape orientation. In addition, as mentioned, the electronic device 102 has openings 502-1 and 502-2 on the left and right sides, respectively, which are aligned with speakers for outputting audio toward both the left and right sides of the electronic device 102. In addition, as mentioned, wear-resistant feet 312 are disposed on the bottom side of the electronic device 102 and are used to reduce or prevent slidable movement of the bottom side on a surface, such as, for example, when the electronic device 102 is placed on one surface and leaning against another surface. As described herein, the specific arrangement of features of the electronic device 102 provides a landscape-preferentially oriented feature arrangement.

[0058] Unless the context dictates otherwise, the use of the word "or" herein may be viewed as the use of an "inclusive or" or a term that permits the inclusion or application of one or more items connected by the word "or" (e.g., the phrase "A or B" may be interpreted as permitting only "A", only "B", or both "A" and "B"). In addition, as used herein, a phrase referring to "at least one" of a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including single members. For example, "at least one of a, b, or c" may encompass a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, and abc, as well as any combination with multiples of the same element (e.g., aa, aaa, aab, aac, abb, acc, bb, bbb, bbc, cc, and ccc, or any other ordering of a, b, and c). In addition, the items represented in the drawings and the terms discussed herein may indicate one or more items or terms, and thus may refer interchangeably to the items and terms in the written description in singular or plural form.

[0059] Although implementations for a dockable and undockable multi-purpose electronic tablet device have been described with language specific to certain features and / or methods, the subject matter of the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods described. Rather, specific features and methods are disclosed as example implementations for a dockable and undockable multi-purpose electronic tablet device, and other equivalent features and methods are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. Additionally, various different aspects are described, and it should be understood that each described aspect may be implemented independently or in combination with one or more other described aspects.

[0060] Figure 6 A side view of a system 600 including an embodiment of an electronic device attached to a docking station is shown. From the side view, it can be seen that the electronic device 602 is docked with the docking station 604. Area 606 indicates where the rear surface 608 of the electronic device 602 contacts the docking station 604.

[0061] Within region 610, a first plurality of magnets are present within electronic device 602. In corresponding locations within region 606, a second plurality of magnets are present within docking station 604. The magnets are arranged so that when brought into proximity, the magnets of electronic device 602 attract the magnets of docking station 604 to help properly position and align docking station 604 against electronic device 602 and hold electronic device 602 in a correct position on docking station 604. In other embodiments, regions 606 and 610 may extend further upward on docking station 604 and / or extend the length of docking station 604 that contacts electronic device 602. For example, regions 606 and 610 may be of any size and located at any location on electronic device 602 and / or docking station 604.

[0062] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the arrangement of magnets at the connection between an electronic device and a docking station has been optimized. For example, it has been found that the user "feel" of docking and undocking an electronic device with a docking station varies significantly based on the placement of magnets arranged on the electronic device and the docking station. Therefore, the arrangement of magnets described throughout the present disclosure has been optimized to reduce the number of "false docking" (e.g., misalignment incidents) when a user docks an electronic device to a docking station and tilting incidents when a user interacts with an electronic device docked on a docking station.

[0063] Referring now to FIG. 7 , a cross-sectional view of an electronic device 700 is shown. The electronic device 700 may be a tablet computer configured to dock with a docking station using magnets, and may removably dock with the docking station using magnets. Specifically, the electronic device 700 may be a smart home auxiliary device as previously described in detail. The electronic device 700 includes a plurality of magnets 702 arranged to be magnetically coupled with a plurality of additional magnets of the docking station. The plurality of magnets 702 are formed in an arrangement having at least four groups 704 on a first lateral side 706 and a second lateral side 108 of the housing 710 of the electronic device 700 (more specifically, a housing 710 of the electronic device 700). In various embodiments, the at least four groups 704 on the first lateral side 706 are mirrored with the at least four groups 704 on the second lateral side 708. For example, the size and position of the at least four magnet groups 704 are symmetrical across the longitudinal axis 712 of the electronic device 700.

[0064] In various embodiments, multiple magnets 702 are grouped (e.g., arranged) in pairs, as shown. For example, the magnet pairs in the multiple magnets 702 have relative north and south orientations in the plane relative to the surface of the electronic device 700. For example, the magnets in each magnet group are arranged so that the relative poles are oriented toward each other. Such relative pole arrangement can concentrate the magnetic field to promote the alignment of the electronic device 700 when docking to the docking seat, and prevent the misalignment of the electronic device 700 with the docking seat. In other embodiments, multiple magnets 702 are arranged in groups of three. Multiple magnets 702 in pairs can have polarity so that they magnetically attract the corresponding magnets in the docking seat. For example, the magnets in the multiple magnets 702 are oriented in the electronic device 700 so that the corresponding magnets in the docking seat have polarity relative to the magnets in the multiple magnets 702. Such an arrangement allows the first multiple magnets (e.g., magnets 702) in the electronic device 700 to be attracted to the second multiple magnets of the docking seat. The arrangement and quantity of multiple magnets 702 can vary. For example, the electronic device 700 shows 16 magnets in the plurality of magnets 702. Therefore, the second plurality of magnets can include 16 magnets corresponding to the plurality of magnets 702. In other embodiments, any number of magnets can be grouped together. For example, one magnet, three magnets, two pairs of magnets, etc. can form a group. In yet another example, the number of magnets in a group can vary (e.g., one magnet in one group, and two magnets in a second group, etc.).

[0065] The electronic device 700 may also include an additional magnet group 714 disposed generally along the longitudinal axis of the electronic device 700. As shown, the additional magnet group 714 is arranged in two columns, one column on each side of the longitudinal axis. Each column includes three magnets, but the additional magnet group 714 or each column of the additional magnet group may include any number of magnets. The additional magnet group 714 may be configured to magnetically couple with different multiple magnets of an alternative docking station. For example, in various applications, a smaller docking station may be desired as a backup charger or alternative docking station within a user's home. Alternatively, the smaller docking station may be in conjunction with a larger primary docking station (such as Figure 6 In various embodiments, the electronic device 700 does not include an additional magnet set 714.

[0066] The electronic device 700 may also include one or more stimulation magnets 716 located on the electronic device 700 for detecting the tilt of the electronic device 700. For example, the stimulation magnet 716 may be part of a tilt sensor, or otherwise configured in a manner that will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to send a signal indicating the tilt when the electronic device 700 is tilted. In some embodiments, the stimulation magnet 716 is used to pair with a Hall effect sensor on the electronic device 700 to detect whether the electronic device 700 is close to a docking station to enable charging.

[0067] In at least some embodiments, at least one stimulation magnet 716 is located on each side of the longitudinal axis 712 of the electronic device 700 to detect tilt and ensure that charging occurs only when the electronic device 700 is placed on the docking station within a predetermined tilt. For example, the electronic device 700 may include a series of contact pads 717 (such as the electrical contacts 116 and corresponding socket contacts 120 described above for providing power and signals from the docking station to the electronic device 700, and vice versa), and charging occurs only when the tilt is within a predetermined range and the series of contact pads 717 are engaged. For example, if only one stimulation magnet 716 on each side of the longitudinal axis 712 of the electronic device 700 is within the predetermined tilt range but the four pins are substantially aligned, charging will not occur. Providing a predetermined tilt for each of the stimulation magnets 716 reduces the shorting that may occur in the corresponding socket contacts (e.g., spring-loaded pins) when the contact pads 717 are misaligned (e.g., aligning a spring-loaded pin configured to provide power with a spring-loaded pin configured to provide data may cause a shorting of the material within one of the spring-loaded pins).

[0068] In some embodiments, any of the magnets described with respect to the electronic device 700 may include a shunt (not shown) coupled to the magnet for directing a magnetic field associated with one or more magnets. For example, the magnetic field of the magnet must at least pass through the housing 710 of the electronic device 700 to magnetically couple (e.g., attract) to a corresponding magnet on the docking station. The shunt can be used to help further define the direction of the magnetic field to optimize the magnetic force and the user experience of docking / undocking the electronic device 700 with the docking station. For example, when the force of the magnet is amplified by an additional shunt implemented with the magnet, the user can be more confident that the electronic device 700 is docked to the docking station.

[0069] In various embodiments, the gap between magnet 702 and the corresponding magnet in the docking station is optimized. When the electronic device is docked to the docking station, the gap is in the range of 1.65 mm to 2.5 mm. The gap is optimized to further guide and strengthen the magnetic force between the corresponding plurality of magnets in the electronic device 700 and in the docking station.

[0070] Reference now Figure 7B , showing that Fig. 7A , wherein for simplicity, other components of the electronic device 700 are removed. The magnet arrangement within the electronic device 700 is optimized to improve the user experience when docking and undocking the electronic device 700 with the docking station. According to various embodiments described herein, the magnet arrangement optimally includes an alternating polarity arrangement of the outermost three magnet 702 groups 720 on the first lateral side 706 and the second lateral side 108 along the longitudinal axis 712. The at least four groups 704 are arranged horizontally, as will be described in further detail below. In addition, the magnet arrangement includes: two vertically oriented magnet 702 groups (e.g., the fourth group 722) include matching north and south polarities across the two groups, as will be described in further detail below.

[0071] As about Fig. 7A As depicted, the at least four magnets 702 groups 704 on the first lateral side 706 are in a mirrored configuration with the at least four magnets 702 groups 704 on the second lateral side 708, as shown. The mirrored configuration advantageously prevents or significantly reduces the number of "false alignments" (e.g., when a user brings the electronic device close to the docking station, false alignment occurs when the electronic device is attracted to the wrong magnet on the docking station and the electronic device is temporarily misaligned with the docking station before being re-centered).

[0072] According to the embodiments described herein, at least three of the at least four groups 704 on the first lateral side 706 and the second lateral side 708 (e.g., the outermost three groups 720) are oriented horizontally, and the fourth group 722 is oriented vertically. Orienting the majority of the magnet groups on each side of the electronic device in a horizontal direction provides stability to the system, especially during button presses. For example, a button press may include a user pressing a button along the top edge of the electronic device 700 (such as described with respect to FIG. 1 ). Figure 3AThe horizontally oriented groups increase the magnetic strength in the y direction so that any tilting due to interaction with the top edge or corner of the electronic device is minimized. The outermost three groups 720 on the first lateral side 706 and the second lateral side 108 include alternating north and south polarities across (e.g., from left to right) the three outermost three groups 720, as indicated by an "N" for the north polarity. By reducing the number of available magnets that are in close proximity to each other in the correct orientation (e.g., such that the magnets will attract each other), the alternating polarity further prevents false alignment from occurring and misalignment of the electronic device with the docking station. The resulting docking experience is a smooth movement of the electronic device close to the docking station and the magnetic coupling of the electronic device with the docking station. The smooth docking movement can be substantially in the horizontal direction because most of the magnets placed in the horizontal direction guide the electronic device across the surface of the docking station to the final docking position of the electronic device.

[0073] The vertically oriented groups of magnets (e.g., the fourth group 722) facilitate alignment of the electrical contact pads of the electronic device 700 with the pins of the dock (e.g., the electrical contacts 116 and pins described above for providing power and signals from the dock to the electronic device 700, and vice versa). The vertically oriented groups of magnets (e.g., the fourth group 722) further guide the electronic device 700 vertically into position on the surface of the dock, such as when the electronic device 700 is brought slightly above or below the magnet arrangement (specifically, the horizontally aligned outermost three groups 720).

[0074] In various embodiments, the two innermost magnet groups 724 include matching north and south polarities across the two innermost magnet groups 724. In other words, the two innermost groups 724 have the same polarity oriented toward the longitudinal axis 712. When the electronic device 700 is docked to the dock and the user is interacting with a button along the top edge of the electronic device 700 (such as described in connection with FIG. Figure 3A This "L-shaped" or "arc-shaped" polarity provides support for the electronic device when the user interacts with the volume control buttons 304 and / or power button 306 described above. For example, when a user presses the volume or power button, the user applies a force downward from the top edge of the electronic device. The magnets must be arranged to counteract this downward force so that the electronic device is not accidentally released from the docking station. When the user interacts with the buttons on the top edge of the electronic device, the arc-shaped polarity created by the inward-facing matching polarity serves to resist any rocking motion that will be experienced by the docked electronic device.

[0075] Reference now Figure 7C, shows a magnet arrangement with optimized distances according to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. All distances shown have a tolerance of ±0.1 mm (inclusive). For example, a distance of 1.0 mm between a set of magnets is understood to include 0.9 mm and 1.1 mm and any integer therebetween. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Like numbers in FIG. 8 have similar definitions as those described above with respect to other figures.

[0076] A plurality of magnets 702 are arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. The plurality of magnets 702 are mirrored on a first lateral side 706 and a second lateral side 108 of a longitudinal axis 712, and it is assumed that the distances shown on the first lateral side 706 of the plurality of magnets 702 are the same as the distances between corresponding magnets on the second lateral side 708. Starting from the first lateral side 706, d1 is 42.72 mm, d2 is 9.64 mm, d3 is 9.5 mm, d4 is 11.14 mm, d5 is 9.57 mm, d6 is 20.93 mm, d7 is 75.86 mm, d8 is 10.00 mm, d9 is 1.4 mm, and d 10 is 1.0 mm.

[0077] Reference now Fig. 8A , showing a top cross-sectional view of a docking station 800. The docking station 800 can be a docking station configured to be magnetically coupled with an electronic device (such as the electronic device 700 or any tablet computer described herein). Specifically, the docking station 800 can be used with the electronic device as part of a smart home auxiliary device as previously detailed. The docking station 800 includes a plurality of magnets 802 arranged to be magnetically coupled with another plurality of magnets of the electronic device. The plurality of magnets 802 are formed in an arrangement having at least four groups 804 on a first lateral side 806 and a second lateral side 808 of the docking station 800 (more specifically, a panel 810 of the docking station 800). In various embodiments, the at least four groups 804 on the first lateral side 806 are mirrored with the at least four groups 804 on the second lateral side 808. For example, the size and position of the at least four magnet groups 804 are symmetrical across the longitudinal axis 812 of the docking station 800, similar to the at least four magnet groups 704 described with respect to the electronic device 700.

[0078] In various embodiments, multiple magnets 702 are grouped (e.g., arranged) in pairs, as shown. For example, the magnet pairs in the multiple magnets 802 have relative north and south orientations in the plane relative to the surface of the docking seat 800. Such relative pole arrangement can concentrate the magnetic field to facilitate the alignment of the electronic device when docked to the docking seat 800. In other embodiments, multiple magnets 802 are arranged in groups of three. Multiple magnets 802 in pairs can have polarity so that they magnetically attract corresponding magnets in the electronic device, as previously described in detail. For example, the magnets in the multiple magnets 802 are oriented in the docking seat 800 so that the corresponding magnets in the electronic device have polarity relative to the magnets in the multiple magnets 802. Such an arrangement allows the first multiple magnets (e.g., magnets 802) in the docking seat 800 to be attracted to the second multiple magnets of the electronic device. The arrangement and quantity of multiple magnets 802 can vary. For example, docking seat 800 shows 16 magnets in multiple magnets 802. Thus, the second plurality of magnets can include 16 magnets corresponding to the plurality of magnets 802. In other embodiments, any number of magnets can be grouped together. For example, one magnet, three magnets, two pairs of magnets, etc. can form a group. In yet another example, the number of magnets within a group can vary (e.g., one magnet within one group, and two magnets in a second group, etc.).

[0079] In some embodiments, any of the magnets described with respect to docking station 800 may include a shunt (not shown) coupled to the magnet for directing a magnetic field associated with one or more magnets. For example, the magnetic field of the magnet must at least pass through panel 810 of docking station 800 to magnetically couple (e.g., attract) to a corresponding magnet on an electronic device. The shunt can be used to help further define the direction of the magnetic field to optimize the magnetic force and docking / undocking of the electronic device with docking station 800, as described in detail above with respect to the shunt of electronic device 700.

[0080] In various embodiments, the gap between magnet 802 and the corresponding magnet in the electronic device is optimized. When the electronic device is docked to the docking station, the gap is in the range of 1.65 mm to 2.5 mm. The gap is optimized to further guide and strengthen the magnetic force between the corresponding multiple magnets in the electronic device and in the docking station 800.

[0081] Reference now Figure 8B , showing that Fig. 8A800 , wherein other components of the docking station 800 are removed for simplicity. The magnet arrangement within the docking station 800 is optimized to improve the user experience when docking or undocking an electronic device with the docking station 800. According to various embodiments described herein, the magnet arrangement optimally includes an alternating polarity arrangement of outermost three groups 820 of magnets 802 on a first lateral side 806 and a second lateral side 808 along a longitudinal axis 812, wherein at least four groups 804 are arranged horizontally, as will be described in further detail below. In addition, the magnet arrangement includes: two vertically oriented groups of magnets 802 (e.g., the fourth group 822) include matching north and south polarities across the two groups, as will be described in further detail below. As will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, the arrangement of the multiple magnets 802 is substantially similar to that described with respect to FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Thus, a similar arrangement may be provided for similar reasons, in that both the plurality of magnets 802 on the docking station and the plurality of magnets on the electronic device (such as the plurality of magnets 702 on the electronic device 700) are optimized to provide improved magnetic coupling and docking between the electronic device and the docking station.

[0082] As about Fig. 8A As depicted, the at least four magnets 802 groups 804 on the first lateral side 806 are in a mirrored configuration with the at least four magnets 802 groups 804 on the second lateral side 808, as shown. The mirrored configuration advantageously prevents or significantly reduces the number of "false registrations" (e.g., when a user brings the electronic device close to the docking station, false registrations occur when the electronic device is attracted to the wrong magnet on the docking station and the electronic device is temporarily misaligned with the docking station before being re-centered).

[0083] According to the embodiments described herein, at least three groups (e.g., outermost three groups 820) on at least first lateral side 806 and second lateral side 808 are oriented horizontally, and fourth group 822 is oriented vertically. Orienting the majority of magnet groups on each side of the electronic device in a horizontal direction provides stability to the system, especially when the user is interacting with buttons along the top edge of dock 800 (such as those described above). Figure 3AHorizontally oriented groups increase the magnetic strength in the y-direction so that any tilt due to interaction with a top edge or corner of the electronic device is minimized. The outermost three groups 820 on the first lateral side 806 and the second lateral side 808 include alternating north and south polarities across (e.g., from left to right) the outermost three groups 820, as indicated by an "N" for the north polarity. The alternating polarity further prevents false placements and misalignment of the electronic device with the docking station by reducing the number of available magnets that are in close proximity to each other in the correct orientation (e.g., such that the magnets will attract each other).

[0084] In various embodiments, the two innermost magnet groups 824 include matching north and south polarities across the two innermost magnet groups 824. In other words, the two innermost groups 824 have the same polarity facing the longitudinal axis 812. When the docking station 800 is docked to the docking station and the user is interacting with a button along the top edge of the docking station 800 (such as the one described above) Figure 3A The "L-shaped" or "arc-shaped" polarity provides support for the docking station 800 when interacting with the volume control button 304 and / or power button 306 described above, as described with reference to FIG. Figure 7B Descriptive.

[0085] Fig. 9A A side view of a system 900 is shown, which includes an embodiment of an electronic device and a Figure 6 Attaches to alternative docking station designs that differ from those shown in other figures. Unless otherwise noted, FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B The docking station described operates substantially the same as the other docking stations described herein, and differs only in size and configuration as detailed herein. In addition to the relatively large main docking station design as shown throughout the present invention, the relatively smaller docking station design can also be suitable for additional docking stations in the user's home. In other embodiments, the user may desire a smaller design for any other reason.

[0086] As can be seen from the side view, the electronic device 902 is docked with the docking station 904. Area 906 indicates where the rear surface 908 of the electronic device 902 contacts the docking station 904. Within area 910, a first plurality of magnets are present within the electronic device 902. In corresponding positions within area 906, a second plurality of magnets are present within the docking station 904. The magnets are arranged so that when brought into proximity, the magnets of the electronic device 902 attract the magnets of the docking station 904 to help properly position and align the docking station 904 against the electronic device 902, and to keep the electronic device 902 in the correct position on the docking station 904. In other embodiments, the areas 906 and 910 can extend further upward on the docking station 904 and / or extend the length of the docking station 904 that contacts the electronic device 902. For example, the areas 906 and 910 can be of any size and located at any position on the electronic device 902 and / or the docking station 904.

[0087] Reference now Fig. 9B , a top cross-sectional view of a docking station 904 having an arrangement of magnets 920 is shown. The arrangement of magnets 920 may be suitable for magnetic coupling with a magnet group on an electronic device (such as an additional magnet group 714 of electronic device 700). In various embodiments, the arrangement of magnets 920 is arranged in two groups of three magnets each, as shown. The arrangement of magnets 920 may have polarities such that they magnetically attract corresponding magnets in the electronic device, as previously detailed. For example, the magnets in the arrangement of magnets 920 are oriented within the docking station 904 so that the corresponding magnets in the electronic device have polarities opposite to the magnets in the arrangement of magnets 920. Such an arrangement allows the arrangement of magnets 920 in the docking station 904 to be attracted to a second plurality of magnets of the electronic device. The arrangement and number of the arrangement of magnets 920 may vary. For example, docking station 904 shows 6 magnets in the arrangement of magnets 920. In other embodiments, any number of magnets may be grouped together. For example, one magnet, three magnets, two pairs of magnets, etc. may form a group in the arrangement. In yet another example, the number of magnets within a group may vary (eg, one magnet in one group, and two magnets in a second group, etc.).

[0088] In some embodiments, any magnet in the magnet described about docking station 904 may include shunt 924, which is coupled to the magnet for guiding the magnetic field associated with one or more magnets. For example, the magnetic field of the magnet must at least pass through the panel 922 of docking station 904 to magnetically couple (e.g., attract) the corresponding magnet on the electronic device. The shunt can be used to help further define the direction of the magnetic field to optimize the magnetic force and the docking / undocking of the electronic device and docking station 904. As shown, shunt 924 is coupled to each magnet pair in the bottom magnet pair in the magnet arrangement. Each shunt can be 1.0 mm thick. In various embodiments, these magnets are stronger and / or thicker relative to the top magnet in the magnet arrangement. For example, in some embodiments, a relatively thicker magnet can be 4.0 mm thick. In other embodiments, a relatively thicker magnet can be 2.5 mm thick. In contrast, other magnets (such as magnets located on corresponding electronic devices) can be 0.6 mm thick. For example, because docking station 904 is relatively small and has a lower pivot point and center of gravity (making it easier for the dock to tilt when interacting with an electronic device), stronger magnets are used closer to bottom surface 926 of docking station 904 to increase the stability of the tablet computer system.

[0089] In various embodiments, the gap between magnet 920 and the corresponding magnet in the electronic device is optimized. When the electronic device is docked to the docking station, the gap is in the range of 1.65 mm to 2.5 mm. As described above, the air gap is optimized to further guide and strengthen the magnetic force between the corresponding multiple magnets in the electronic device and in the docking station 904.

[0090] Fig.101 is a flow chart of a method 1000 for docking and undocking an electronic device with a docking station. Step 1002 includes providing an electronic device having a first plurality of magnets to a proximity of a docking station having a second plurality of magnets. The electronic device and the docking station may include any of the embodiments described herein, including any of the magnet arrangements described herein. For example, the electronic device may include at least four magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing, wherein the at least four magnet groups on the first lateral side of the housing are in a mirrored configuration with the at least four magnet groups on the second lateral side of the face of the housing. In addition, at least three of the magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing may be oriented horizontally, and the fourth magnet group on each lateral side of the face of the housing may be oriented vertically. In addition, the three horizontally oriented magnet groups on each side of the housing may include alternating north and south polarities across the three magnet groups from left to right across the housing, and the two innermost magnet groups include matching north and south polarities across the two groups from left to right across the housing. The docking station includes a corresponding magnet arrangement with a second plurality of magnets so that the electronic device is magnetically coupled to the docking station, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure. Step 1004 includes magnetically coupling the electronic device to the docking station, wherein the first plurality of magnets are aligned with the second plurality of magnets to dock the electronic device to the docking station. Step 1006 may include undocking the electronic device from the docking station by applying a force opposite to the magnetic force that magnetically couples the electronic device to the docking station. For example, the user may pull or pivot the electronic device away from the docking station so that the force applied by the user interrupts the magnetic coupling that previously secured the electronic device to the docking station. In some embodiments, the user pivots the electronic device downward and away from the docking station to undocking the electronic device from the docking station so as to reduce the undesirable tilting of the docking station once the electronic device is uncoupled from the docking station. For example, in some cases, when the electronic device is pulled away from the docking station, the magnets of the electronic device are still attracted to the magnets of the docking station, and the docking station and the electronic device may be carried away a short distance. Certain pulling and pivoting mechanisms employed by the user may be used to counteract these effects.

[0091] It should be noted that the methods, systems and devices discussed above are for example only. It must be emphasized that various embodiments may omit, replace or add various programs or components as needed. For example, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the method may be performed in an order different from the order described, and various steps may be added, omitted or combined. In addition, in various other embodiments, the features described with respect to certain embodiments may be combined. Different aspects and elements of the embodiments may be combined in a similar manner. In addition, it should be emphasized that technology is constantly evolving, so many elements are examples and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0092] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. For example, in order to avoid blurring the embodiments, known processes, structures and techniques have been shown without unnecessary details. This description only provides example embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the present invention. Instead, the above description of the embodiments will provide a feasibility description for implementing embodiments of the present invention to those skilled in the art. Various changes may be made to the functions and arrangements of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0093] In addition, it is worth noting that the embodiments can be described as processes depicted in flowcharts or block diagrams. Although each flowchart or block diagram describes the operations as sequential processes, many operations can be performed in parallel or simultaneously. In addition, the order of the operations can be rearranged. The process can have additional steps not included in the figure.

[0094] Having described several embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the above elements may be merely components of a larger system, in which other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of the present invention. In addition, some steps may be taken before, during, or after considering the above elements. Therefore, the above description should not be considered to limit the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A tablet computer system, comprising: Docking station; A tablet computer capable of removably docking with the docking station, the tablet computer comprising: Electronic displays; a housing housing the electronic display; and a first plurality of magnets, wherein the first plurality of magnets are arranged to magnetically couple with a second plurality of magnets of the docking station, The first plurality of magnets is formed in an arrangement comprising: at least four magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing, wherein: The at least four magnet groups on the first lateral side of the housing are in a mirror image configuration with the at least four magnet groups on the second lateral side of the housing, At least three of the magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing are oriented horizontally and a fourth magnet group on each lateral side of the housing is oriented vertically, the three magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing comprising alternating north and south polarities across the three magnet groups, and The two innermost magnet sets include matching north and south polarities across the two innermost magnet sets. 2 . The tablet computer system of claim 1 , further comprising a shunt coupled to the one or more magnets to direct a magnetic field associated with the one or more magnets. 3 . The tablet computer system of claim 1 , wherein when the tablet computer is docked to the docking station, a gap between the first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets is in a range of 1.65 mm to 2.5 mm. 4 . The tablet computer system of claim 1 , further comprising a stimulation magnet on the housing for detecting a tilt of the tablet computer.

5. The tablet computer system of claim 1, further comprising an additional set of magnets disposed along a longitudinal axis of the housing, the additional set of magnets configured to magnetically couple with a third plurality of magnets of an alternative docking station.

6. The tablet computer system of claim 1, wherein each magnet group includes two magnets.

7. The tablet computer system of claim 1, wherein the magnets within each magnet group are arranged with opposing north and south polarities.

8. The tablet computer system of claim 1, wherein the magnets within each magnet group are arranged so that opposing poles are oriented toward each other.

9. A tablet computer, comprising: Electronic displays; a housing housing the electronic display; as well as a first plurality of magnets, wherein the first plurality of magnets are arranged to magnetically couple with a second plurality of magnets of the docking station, The first plurality of magnets is formed in an arrangement comprising: at least four magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing, wherein: The at least four magnet groups on the first lateral side of the housing are in a mirror image configuration with the at least four magnet groups on the second lateral side of the housing, At least three of the magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing are oriented horizontally and a fourth magnet group on each lateral side of the housing is oriented vertically, the three magnet groups on each lateral side of the housing comprising alternating north and south polarities across the three magnet groups, and The two innermost magnet sets include matching north and south polarities across the two innermost magnet sets. 10 . The tablet computer of claim 9 , further comprising a shunt coupled to the one or more magnets to direct a magnetic field associated with the one or more magnets.

11. The tablet computer of claim 9, wherein when the tablet computer is docked to the docking station, a gap between the first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets is in a range of 1.65 mm to 2.5 mm. 12 . The tablet computer of claim 9 , further comprising a stimulation magnet on the housing for detecting a tilt of the tablet computer.

13. The tablet computer of claim 9, further comprising an additional set of magnets disposed along a longitudinal axis of the housing, the additional set of magnets configured to magnetically couple with a third plurality of magnets of an alternative docking station.

14. The tablet computer of claim 9, wherein each magnet group includes two magnets.

15. The tablet computer of claim 9, wherein the magnets within each magnet group are arranged with opposing north and south polarities.

16. A docking seat, comprising: docking station housing; a panel removably coupled to the tablet computer; as well as a first plurality of magnets, wherein the first plurality of magnets are arranged to magnetically couple with a second plurality of magnets of the tablet computer, The first plurality of magnets is formed in an arrangement comprising: At least four magnet groups on each lateral side of the panel, wherein: The at least four magnet groups on the first lateral side of the panel are in a mirror image configuration with the at least four magnet groups on the second lateral side of the panel, at least three of the magnet groups on each lateral side of the panel are oriented horizontally and a fourth magnet group on each lateral side of the panel is oriented vertically, the three magnet groups on each lateral side of the panel comprising alternating north and south polarities across the three magnet groups, and The two innermost magnet sets include matching north and south polarities across the two innermost magnet sets.

17. The docking station of claim 16, further comprising a shunt coupled to the one or more magnets to direct a magnetic field associated with the one or more magnets.

18. The docking station of claim 16, wherein when the tablet computer is docked to the docking station, a gap between the first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets is in a range of 1.65 mm to 2.5 mm.

19. The docking station of claim 16, wherein each magnet set comprises two magnets.

20. The docking station of claim 16, wherein the magnets within each magnet set are arranged with opposing north and south polarities.

Images