Electronic device including housing component providing depth effect

Abstract

An electronic device including a housing component providing a depth effect is provided. A housing component, such as a display cover, that produces an optical effect is provided. In some cases, the optical effect provides a depth effect, such as the depth effect produced by a beveled surface. The invention further discloses an electronic equipment shell comprising the shell component and electronic equipment.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a non-provisional application of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 539,646, filed on September 21, 2023 and entitled “Electronic Device Including an Enclosure Component Providing a Depth Effect” and claims the benefit of the U.S. Provisional Patent Application, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The described embodiments generally relate to housing components that provide optical effects, such as depth effects. More specifically, the embodiments relate to housing components that include optical components that produce optical effects, and housings and electronic devices that include the housing components. Background Art

[0004] An electronic device may include a display and a cover disposed over the display. The display may have an active area including pixels and an inactive area along the periphery of the active area. Some conventional covers are formed of a transparent sheet that may be flat or may have a curved peripheral portion. Examples described herein relate to techniques for both shielding an inactive area of ​​a display and creating a particular optical effect at the periphery of the display. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present disclosure provides a housing component that produces an optical effect, such as a display cover. In some cases, the optical effect provides a depth effect to a portion of the housing component. In some examples, the optical effect can simulate an optical effect produced by a bevel. The present disclosure also provides an electronic device housing and an electronic device including the housing component described herein.

[0006] When the shell component is assembled with the rest of the shell, the depth effect can create the appearance that the shell component has a thickness variation that is not present in the actual component. As an example, the depth effect can create the appearance that the shell component defines a slope. The depth effect can also create the appearance of a boundary between a perceived sloped area and another area of ​​the shell component.

[0007] In some examples, a display cover defines a window portion above an active area of ​​the display, and creates an optical effect in a peripheral portion of the display cover surrounding the window portion. The window portion may be a central portion of the display cover. In some cases, the thickness of the peripheral portion may appear to be less than the thickness of the window portion even when the thickness of the peripheral portion is approximately equal to or greater than the thickness of the window portion. For example, the display cover may appear to have an inclined inner surface in the peripheral portion. The depth effect may be visible when the display pixels in the active area are not illuminated (i.e., when the display is turned off). This effect may also be visible when the display is turned on when the peripheral portion appears to have an inner inclined surface.

[0008] Therefore, the techniques described herein for producing a depth effect can simplify the process for manufacturing a housing component. The housing component can include a cover member, which can be a transparent cover member. For example, when the actual change in the thickness of the cover member would normally be achieved by one or more operations (such as machining, polishing, or molding), the techniques described herein can allow for the use of simpler and / or fewer operations. When the cover member is made of a brittle material, eliminating one or more machining operations can reduce the likelihood of cracks or other defects caused by the machining operations, thereby increasing the durability of the housing component.

[0009] The optical effect may be provided at least in part by an optical component disposed along an inner surface of a portion of the housing component. An external observer may perceive the optical effect at least in part due to a perceived difference in appearance between the portion of the housing component on which the optical component is disposed and another portion of the housing component. Alternatively or additionally, an external observer may perceive the optical effect at least in part due to a perceived transition (e.g., a boundary) between the appearance of the portion of the housing component and the appearance of another portion of the housing component.

[0010] An optical assembly may include a set of surface features along an inner surface of a housing component and an optical coating disposed over the set of surface features. In some examples, the surface features may be formed at the inner surface of the housing component, such as by depositing material on or over an inner surface of a cover member of the housing component. In other examples, the surface features may be formed into the inner surface of the cover member, such as by an etching process. In some cases, each of the set of surface features and the optical coating may contribute to an optical effect. Additional descriptions of surface features and optical coatings provided herein (including with respect to Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 7 The description provided) is generally applicable and is not repeated here.

[0011] The optical assembly may also include one or more light absorbing coatings that may be disposed along an inner surface of a portion of the housing component. As an example, the light absorbing coating may be disposed at or above an inner surface of a peripheral portion of a cover member of the housing component between the surface feature and another portion of the cover member. As another example, the light absorbing coating may be disposed above the optical coating. The light absorbing coating may be an ink coating that includes a pigment that absorbs light in the visible spectrum.

[0012] The present disclosure provides an electronic watch, which includes: a display; a cover; a housing coupled to the cover and at least partially surrounding the display; and a band coupled to the housing. The cover includes: a cover member defining a window portion positioned above the display; a set of surface features formed along a rear surface of the cover member; and a coating stack surrounding the window portion at the rear surface of the cover member, the coating stack including: an optical coating disposed above the set of surface features and including at least one layer having a first refractive index different from a second refractive index of the set of surface features; and a rear ink coating disposed above at least a portion of the optical coating.

[0013] The present disclosure also provides an electronic device, which includes: a display; and a housing, the housing including a cover positioned above the display, the cover including: a cover member, the cover member defining a transparent window portion; a first coating stack, the first coating stack including: a patterned transparent coating, the patterned transparent coating being disposed above a first area of ​​the rear surface of the cover member; a first portion of an optical coating, the first portion of the optical coating being disposed above the patterned transparent coating; and a first portion of a rear ink coating, the first portion of the rear ink coating being disposed above the first portion of the optical coating; and a second coating stack, the second coating stack defining a boundary around the transparent window portion at the rear surface of the cover member and including: a front ink coating, the front ink coating being disposed above a second area of ​​the rear surface surrounded by the first area of ​​the rear surface; a second portion of the optical coating, the second portion being disposed above the front ink coating; and a second portion of the rear ink coating, the second portion being disposed above the second portion of the optical coating.

[0014] The present disclosure also provides an electronic device, which includes: a display; a housing that at least partially surrounds the display; and a cover that is coupled to the housing and includes: a transparent cover member that defines a central portion positioned above an active area of ​​the display and a peripheral portion surrounding the central portion; and an optical component that is located at the peripheral portion of the transparent cover member and includes: a group of surface features that are formed along a rear surface of the transparent cover member; a first ink coating that defines a boundary around the active area of ​​the display and is disposed above the rear surface, the first ink coating being at least partially surrounded by the group of surface features; an optical coating that is disposed above the first ink coating, the group of surface features, and along at least a portion of a side surface of the transparent cover member; and a second ink coating that is disposed above a portion of the optical coating. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The present disclosure will be more readily understood through the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements.

[0016] Figure 1A A first view of an example electronic device is shown.

[0017] Figure 1B Shows Figure 1A Another view of the electronic device.

[0018] Figure 2 An example partial cross-sectional view of a sloped cover for an electronic device is shown.

[0019] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1A An example partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device.

[0020] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1A Another example partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device.

[0021] Figure 5A A first view of another example electronic device is shown.

[0022] Figure 5B Shows Figure 5A A second view of the electronic device.

[0023] Figure 6 A front view of a cover for an electronic device is shown.

[0024] Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of a cover for an electronic device is shown.

[0025] Figure 8A rear view of a cover including a set of surface features on an interior surface of a cover member is shown.

[0026] Fig. 9A An example of an enlarged view of a set of surface features is shown.

[0027] Fig. 9B Another example of an enlarged view of a set of surface features is shown.

[0028] Fig. 10A An example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features of a housing component is shown.

[0029] Fig. 10B Another example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features of a housing component is shown.

[0030] Fig.11A Another example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features formed into a cover member is shown.

[0031] Fig. 11B Another example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features formed into a cover member is shown.

[0032] Fig. 11C Another example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features formed into a cover member is shown.

[0033] Fig.11D Another example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features formed into a cover member is shown.

[0034] Fig.12 A block diagram of an example electronic device is shown.

[0035] The use of cross-hatching or shading in the drawings is generally provided to clarify boundaries between adjacent elements and also to facilitate legibility of the drawings. Thus, the presence or absence of cross-hatching or shading does not express or indicate any preference or requirement for particular materials, material properties, element proportions, element sizes, commonality of similar illustrated elements, or any other feature, attribute, or characteristic of any element shown in the drawings.

[0036] Additionally, it should be understood that the proportions and sizes (relative or absolute) of the various features and elements (and collections and groupings thereof) and the boundaries, spacings, and positional relationships presented therebetween are provided in the accompanying drawings solely to facilitate understanding of the various embodiments described herein, and therefore may not necessarily be presented or illustrated to scale and are not intended to indicate any preference or requirement for the embodiments illustrated to exclude the embodiments described in conjunction therewith. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Reference will now be made in detail to the representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a preferred specific implementation. On the contrary, the embodiments are intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents that may be included in the present disclosure and within the spirit and scope defined by the appended claims.

[0038] The following disclosure relates to housing components that produce optical effects, such as display covers. In some cases, the optical effect provides a depth effect to a portion of the housing component. In some examples, the optical effect can simulate an optical effect produced by an inclined surface. In some examples, the optical effect changes as the distance from the side surface of the housing component increases. The present disclosure also provides electronic device housings and electronic devices that include the housing components described herein.

[0039] When the shell component is assembled with the rest of the shell, the depth effect can create the appearance that the shell component has a thickness variation (alternatively, a depth variation) that is not present in the actual component. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cover member of the shell component has a substantially uniform thickness, even though the depth effect can create the appearance of a thickness variation. For example, the outer surface of a portion of the cover member can be substantially flat and substantially opposite (e.g., substantially parallel) to the substantially flat inner surface of the cover member. As an example, the depth effect can create the appearance that the shell component defines a slope. In some cases, a peripheral portion of the cover may appear to have a depth (from the front surface to the rear surface) that is less than the depth of the central portion of the cover. The depth effect can also create the appearance of a boundary between a perceived sloped area and another area of ​​the shell component.

[0040] In some examples, a display cover defines a window portion above an active area of ​​the display, and creates an optical effect in a peripheral portion of the display cover surrounding the window portion. The window portion may be a central portion of the display cover. In some cases, the thickness of the peripheral portion may appear to be less than the thickness of the window portion even when the thickness of the peripheral portion is approximately equal to or greater than the thickness of the window portion. For example, the display cover may appear to have an inclined inner surface in the peripheral portion. The depth effect may be visible when the display pixels in the active area are not illuminated (i.e., when the display is turned off). This effect may also be visible when the display is turned on when the peripheral portion appears to have an inner inclined surface.

[0041] Therefore, the techniques described herein for producing a depth effect can simplify the process for manufacturing a housing component. The housing component can include a cover member, which can be a transparent cover member. For example, when the actual change in the thickness of the cover member would normally be achieved by one or more operations (such as machining, polishing, or molding), the techniques described herein can allow for the use of simpler and / or fewer operations. When the cover member is made of a brittle material, eliminating one or more machining operations can reduce the likelihood of cracks or other defects caused by the machining operations, thereby increasing the durability of the housing component.

[0042] The optical assembly may include a set of surface features along the inner surface of the housing component and an optical coating disposed over the set of surface features. In some examples, the surface features may be formed by depositing material on or over the inner surface of a cover member of the housing component. In other examples, the surface features may be formed into the inner surface of the cover member, such as by an etching process. In some examples, the optical coating may conform to the surface features. In some cases, each of the set of surface features and the optical coating may contribute to the optical effect. The optical assembly may render inactive portions of a display and / or other internal components of an electronic device invisible. In some cases, the optical assembly may render internal features of the housing (e.g., an internal flange) invisible. Additional descriptions of surface features and optical coatings provided herein (including with respect to Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 7 The description provided) is generally applicable to this article and is not repeated here.

[0043] The optical assembly may also include one or more light absorbing coatings that may be disposed along an inner surface of a portion of the housing component. The light absorbing coating may obscure the view of one or more internal components of the electronic device and / or may contribute to the optical effect. As an example, the light absorbing coating may be disposed on or over an inner surface of a peripheral portion of the cover member between the surface feature and another portion of the cover member. As another example, the light absorbing coating may be disposed over the optical coating. The light absorbing coating may be an ink coating that includes a pigment that absorbs light in the visible spectrum.

[0044] References below Figure 1A-12 These and other embodiments are discussed. However, 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.

[0045] Figure 1A and Figure 1BAn example portable electronic device is shown. Electronic device 100 may be a wearable electronic device, such as an electronic watch (e.g., a smart watch) and / or an electronic health monitoring device. In other examples, the electronic device may have the form of a mobile phone, a notebook computing device, a tablet computing device, a desktop computing device, a display monitor, a portable media player, a smart speaker device, or another type of portable electronic device. Band 160 is attached to housing 110 and is configured to secure electronic device 100 to a user.

[0046] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the example of , the electronic device 100 includes a housing 105. The housing 105 includes a cover 122, a cover 124, and a housing 110. The cover 122 may alternatively be referred to as a front cover or a first cover, and the cover 124 may alternatively be referred to as a rear cover or a second cover.

[0047] Figure 1B The housing 105 defines an inner cavity (e.g., Figure 3 and Figure 4 301 and 401), and electronic components (such as a display) are positioned in the cavity. The display (e.g., Figure 3 372) (which may alternatively be referred to herein as a display assembly) can generate a graphical output that is transmitted through the cover 122 of the housing 105. In some cases, the display is a touch-sensitive display. The display may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an LED-backlit LCD display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, an active layer organic light emitting diode (AMOLED) display, etc. In some embodiments, the display may be attached to (or may be adjacent to) the cover 122 (e.g., Figure 3 ). The display may have an active area including pixels and an inactive area. The inactive area may define a boundary around the active area.

[0048] The electronic device 100 may also include a crown module that is at least partially positioned within an opening formed in the housing 105. The crown module may include an input member 103 (e.g., a dial) having an outer surface configured to receive a rotational user input. The crown module may be offset relative to the centerline of the housing component 110 (between the top and bottom of the housing component). The offset may be toward the top of the housing component 110 or toward its bottom. Figure 1B As shown, the electronic device 100 further includes an input member 107 (eg, a button).

[0049] Cover 122 at least partially defines front surface 102 of electronic device. As previously discussed, cover 122 can produce an optical effect. In some examples, the optical effect provides a depth effect to a portion of cover 122. In other examples, the optical effect provides a depth effect and / or a refraction effect to a portion of cover 122. In some cases, the optical effect can simulate the optical effect of a slope. Figures 2 to 4 and Figure 7 The additional descriptions of these optical effects provided are generally applicable herein and are not repeated here.In some embodiments, the cover 122 can define substantially the entirety (eg, at least 90%) of the front surface of the electronic device.

[0050] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the cover 122 is positioned above the display and may define a window portion positioned above the active area of ​​the display and a peripheral portion surrounding the window portion. The window portion of the display may be substantially transparent. In some embodiments, an optical effect is created in the peripheral portion of the cover by the optical assembly 150. For example, the cover 122 may appear to have an inclined inner surface in the peripheral portion. Each of the window portion and the peripheral portion may extend from the outer surface of the cover 122 to the inner surface. The outer surface of the cover 122 may alternatively be referred to as the front surface in this article, and the inner surface of the cover 122 may alternatively be referred to as the rear surface in this article. The window portion of the cover may be substantially transparent so that the graphic output from the display is clearly visible to the viewer. In some embodiments, the cover 122 may be positioned above one or more additional internal components of the electronic device 100.

[0051] The cover 122 includes a cover member 132. The cover member 132 may be substantially transparent. For example, the transmittance of the cover member 132 (or a transparent portion thereof) in the visible wavelength range (e.g., a visible spectrum from about 380 nm to about 780 nm) may be at least 85%, 90%, or 95%, and the haze may be less than about 5% or 1%. This transmittance value may be an average value. Although the cover member 132 may define a window portion and a peripheral portion positioned above the active area of ​​the display, each of the window portion and the peripheral portion of the cover member 132 may be transparent. In some embodiments, the cover member 132 may define substantially the entirety (e.g., at least 90%) of the outer surface of the cover 122.

[0052] The cover member 132 can be formed of a glass material, a ceramic material (e.g., sapphire, other forms of aluminum oxide, or zirconium oxide), a glass-ceramic material, a polymer material, or a combination thereof (e.g., layers of different materials). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inner surface and the outer surface of the cover member 132 have a polished texture. In some cases, the surface features can be formed along an area of ​​the inner surface, such as relative to Figure 3 to Figure 4 and Figures 6 to 11D In some embodiments, the cover member 132 may have a generally planar outer surface and an inner surface, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in the example of , and the optical effect can create the appearance that the inner surface of the cover has an inclined area or a curved area. In other embodiments, the cover member can have a contoured shape, such as a curved peripheral portion, and the optical effect can modify the appearance of the peripheral portion of the cover in other ways.

[0053] In the embodiments described herein, the cover 122 includes an optical component. The optical component produces an optical effect and includes at least one optical element. The optical effect can create an appearance difference between two portions of the cover 122. Alternatively or additionally, the optical effect can create the appearance of a transition (e.g., a boundary) between two portions of the cover 122.

[0054] In some cases, the optical effect provides a depth effect and / or a refraction effect to a portion of cover 122. As an example, the depth effect may give the impression that cover member 132 in that portion of cover 122 varies in thickness, even though the actual thickness of that portion of cover member 132 is substantially uniform. In some cases, the perceived thickness variation of cover member 132 is similar to the thickness variation caused by an inner angled surface. The depth effect and / or the refraction effect may be at least partially attributed to the portion of cover 122 appearing to reflect light similarly to a cover member 132 having an inner angled surface. In some embodiments, the refraction effect may simulate a bulk optical geometry. For example, the refraction effect may simulate a lens or non-uniform geometric bulk optical effect caused by a beveled or non-planar back surface.

[0055] In an embodiment, an optical effect is provided in a peripheral portion of the cover 122. For example, the cover member 132 may appear to have an inclined inner surface in a peripheral portion of the cover 122. The inclined inner surface may extend from an edge of the cover, Figure 2 An example of this is shown in . Alternatively or additionally, the cover member 132 may appear to have a boundary between an inclined inner surface and a flat inner surface. The depth effect may be visible when the display pixels in the active area are not illuminated (i.e., when the display is off). In some embodiments, the depth effect may also be visible when the display is on.

[0056] The optical assembly can include a set of surface features along the inner surface of the housing component, and the set of surface features can function as optical elements. In some cases, the interaction of light with the surface features can be different from the interaction of light with a smoother and more uniform surface, thereby contributing to optical effects. For example, the interaction of light with the surface features can contribute to refractive effects. As discussed in more detail below, the surface features can be formed on and / or into the inner surface of the cover member.

[0057] The optical assembly may also include an optical coating disposed over the set of surface features and functioning as an optical element. In some examples, the optical coating may conform to the surface features. The optical coating may affect the transmission and / or reflection of light at the interface between the optical coating and the set of surface features. In an embodiment, the optical coating is an interference coating comprising a plurality of layers configured to produce optical interference. When the surface features are provided along the interior surface of the housing component, the optical coating may be disposed on the side surface of the housing component and over the surface features.

[0058] In an embodiment, the set of surface features and the optical coating together contribute to an optical effect, such as a depth effect and / or a refraction effect. The combination of these two optical elements may be referred to herein as an optical structure. The optical structure may contribute to the impression that the cover member 132 in the portion of the cover 122 varies in thickness, even though the actual thickness of the portion of the cover member 132 is generally uniform. Alternatively or additionally, the optical structure may cause "bending" of at least some of the light exiting the outer surface of the cover member 132.

[0059] The optical assembly may include one or more light absorbing coatings disposed on and / or over an inner surface of a portion of the cover member 132. The light absorbing coating may be an ink coating that includes a pigment or dye that absorbs light in the visible spectrum. As an example, the light absorbing coating may be disposed on an inner surface of a peripheral portion of the cover member 132 between a surface feature of the cover member 132 and a window portion. As another example, the light absorbing coating may be disposed over an optical coating. In some cases, the light absorbing coating may help to make internal components of the electronic device invisible. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of these light absorbing coatings may also contribute to the optical effect. With respect to Figure 7 The additional descriptions provided of optical components, sets of surface features, optical coatings, and ink coatings are generally applicable herein and are not repeated here.

[0060] The cover 122 may also include one or more additional coatings. For example, the cover 122 may include an adhesive coating along the interior and / or inner surface of the cap member 132, such as with respect to Fig. 10B As another example, the cover 122 can include an anti-fouling coating, such as an oleophobic coating, along an outer surface of the cover member 132 .

[0061] The cover 124 at least partially defines the rear surface 104 of the electronic device. In some cases, the rear surface 104 of the electronic device 100 can be substantially flat, while in other cases, the rear surface 104 can define a convex outer contour that protrudes outward or toward the user's wrist when the electronic device 100 is worn. Figure 1B As shown, the cover 124 includes a cover member 134 and a cover member 136. The cover 124 may include one or more electrodes 154 positioned along the rear surface 104. In this example, the electrode 154 is positioned at the surface of the cover member 136. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the electrode 154 may be positioned along the surface of the cover member 134. The electrode 154 may contact the skin of the user wearing the device and may be operably connected to the processor and / or sensing circuit of the electronic device 100. When the electronic device 100 is worn by the user, the electrode 154 may be configured to measure or detect the voltage or other electrical characteristics of the user's skin, and the electronic device 100 may be configured to determine one or more physiological parameters of the user, including but not limited to heart rate, electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), atrial fibrillation (afib) detection, skin electrical activity (EDA sensor) and other similar skin-based or tissue-based biometrics. The cover 124 may also include an external coating, such as an oleophobic coating. The oleophobic coating may be applied to cover member 134 and / or cover member 136 in a manner similar to that previously described with respect to cover 122 .

[0062] exist Figure 1B In the example of , the cover 124 includes a cover member 134. The cover member 134 may alternatively be referred to herein as a rear cover member or a first rear member. The cover member 134 may at least partially define the rear surface 104 of the electronic device. In some cases, the cover member 134 may be formed integrally with the housing component, and in other cases, the cover member 134 may be coupled to the housing component 110. In some cases, the cover member 134 may be translucent or opaque to light in the visible spectrum. In some examples, the cover member 134 may be formed of a metallic material or a ceramic material. For example, the cover member 134 may be formed of zirconium oxide or another ceramic material. In some cases, the cover member 134 may be colored or dyed.

[0063] The cover 124 also includes a cover member 136. The cover member 136 may be alternatively referred to herein as a rear cover member, a second rear member, or a rear crystal. The cover member 136 may be positioned above at least a portion of the sensing array 170 of the electronic device 100. The cover member 136 may be substantially transparent to light in the visible and infrared spectrums. In some cases, the cover member 136 may be formed of a ceramic material (e.g., sapphire or transparent zirconium oxide), a glass ceramic material, a glass material, a polymer material, and / or a composite material. The cover member 136 may be coupled to the cover member 134 with an adhesive, a fastener, or a combination thereof.

[0064] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the example of, the cover 124 is positioned above the sensing array 170. The sensing array 170 may include one or more sensor components. In some embodiments, the sensing array 170 may include one or more optical modules. Figure 1B In the example of , the sensing array 170 includes four optical modules 182 and four optical modules 183. The optical modules (182, 183) may include at least one visible light optical module and at least one infrared light optical module. As described herein, the optical modules (182, 183) may be configured to allow the device 100 to measure one or more physiological characteristics or other biometric results of the user, including but not limited to photoplethysmography (PPG), oxygen saturation (via a pulse oximeter sensor), or heart rate. The sensing array 170 may be referred to herein as a rear sensing array because the optical modules are oriented toward the rear of the device 100 rather than the front.

[0065] In addition to the sensing array 170, the device 100 may also include one or more sensors. For example, the electronic device 100 may include one or more of a microphone, a temperature sensor, a depth gauge, an accelerometer, and a gyroscope. These sensors may be positioned within the housing 105. The housing 110 may define one or more openings or ports to allow input to the sensors and / or output from the sensors. The sensors may be relative to Fig.12 Any of the device components described.

[0066] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B In an example of the embodiment, the housing 105 further includes a shell 110. The shell 110 at least partially defines the side surface 106 of the electronic device. In an additional example, the cover 122 and / or the cover 124 may at least partially define the side surface of the electronic device. Each of the cover 122 and the cover 124 may be coupled to the shell 110.

[0067] exist Figure 1AIn the example of , the housing 110 includes an upper portion 112, a lower portion 114, and a dielectric portion 134. In an embodiment, each of the upper portion 112 and the lower portion 114 is conductive. For example, each of the upper portion 112 and the lower portion 114 may be formed of a conductive material (such as a metal material). In some examples, the overall housing member may define the upper portion 112 and the lower portion 114 and a portion bridging the upper portion 112 and the lower portion 114. In some cases, the housing 110 also includes a support plate and / or other internal structural components for supporting internal electronic circuits or electronic components.

[0068] In some embodiments, the metal portion of the housing 110 may be formed of an aluminum alloy, a titanium alloy, a magnesium alloy, or steel. The dielectric portion of the housing may be formed of a (solid) dielectric material, such as a polymer, silicon dioxide, a ceramic material such as zirconium oxide, aluminum oxide, and / or titanium dioxide, or a combination thereof (e.g., a composite of silicon dioxide and / or ceramic particles in a polymer matrix). As mentioned herein, housing parts or components formed of a particular material, such as a metallic material, may also include relatively thin coatings of different materials along one or more surfaces, such as an anodized layer, a physical vapor deposition coating, a paint coating, a primer coating (which may include a coupling agent), etc.

[0069] In addition, the electronic device 100 may include one or more device components that may be part of a wireless communication system. For example, the wireless communication system may be an RF or IR communication system. The RF communication system may operate in one or more frequency ranges in a "low frequency band" (e.g., less than 1 GHz, such as about 400 MHz to less than 1 GHz, about 600 MHz to about 900 MHz, or 600 MHz to 700 MHz), a "mid-frequency band" (e.g., about 1 GHz to about 6 GHz, such as about 1 GHz to about 2.6 GHz, about 2 GHz to about 2.6 GHz, about 2.5 GHz to about 3.5 GHz, or about 3.5 GHz to about 6 GHz) or a "high frequency band" frequency range (e.g., about 24 GHz to about 45 GHz, about 57 GHz to about 64 GHz, or about 64 GHz to about 71 GHz) or a frequency range of about 1 GHz to about 10 GHz. As previously discussed, the components of the RF communication system may include an RF antenna configured to radiate a radio frequency (RF) signal. The RF antenna may be configured to operate in one or more desired RF frequency ranges or RF frequency bands.

[0070] The electronic device 100 may include an antenna configured to communicate via one or more wireless communication protocols or standards. The wireless communication protocols and standards may include established protocols and standards such as IEEE 802.11x, GSM, LTE, CDMA, TDMA, 3G, 4G, 5G, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), ISO / IEC 18000-3, Wi-Fi, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Near Field Communication (NFC), Global Positioning System (GPS), or any other target wireless communication protocol or standard (including protocols and / or standards to be developed). In some cases, the electronic device 100 may include one or more antennas including elements configured to communicate via 5G wireless protocols (including millimeter wave and / or 6GHz communication signals), GPS standards, LTE standards, etc. For example, GPS electronics may use L1 (L1C), L2 (L2C), L5, L1+L5, and other GPS signal bands to estimate the location of the electronic device 100.

[0071] An electronic device may include one or more additional components, such as a processor, a control circuit, a memory, an input / output mechanism, a power source (e.g., a battery), a charging component (e.g., a wireless charging component), a network communication interface, etc. Fig.12 The components of the sample electronics are discussed in more detail and combined with Fig.12 The description provided generally applies to this article.

[0072] Figure 2 An example partial cross-sectional view of a cover 222 including a sloped region is shown. The cover 222 can be an example of a sloped cover that can be suitable for use over a display of an electronic device. The cover 222 includes a cover member 232 that defines a sloped region 253 and also includes a coating 250 located in a peripheral portion 225 of the cover 222. The sloped region 253 alone or in combination with the coating 250 can produce depth and / or refraction effects. Figure 2 The cross-sectional views may be along a cross section spanning the width or length of the cover.

[0073] The cover member 232 defines a planar outer surface 244 extending across the window portion 223 and a majority of the peripheral portion 225 of the cover 222. The inner surface 242 is planar and opposite (e.g., parallel) to the planar outer surface 244 across the window portion 223 of the cover. Although the inclined region 253 is also planar, the inclined region defines an oblique angle θ relative to the inner surface 242 in the window region. For example, the oblique angle θ may be in the range of 7 to 25 degrees, 10 to 20 degrees, or 7 to 15 degrees.

[0074] like Figure 2As shown, the inclined region 253 defines a thickness variation of the cover member 232. As a specific example, due to the inclined region 253, the cover member 232 has a thickness T in the peripheral portion 225 that is greater than that in the window portion 223 of the cover 222. 1 Small thickness T 2 The thickness of the cover member 232 gradually increases as the distance from the side surface 246 increases.

[0075] The coating 250 is disposed in the peripheral portion 225 of the cover 222 along the inner surface 242 of the cover member 232. In some embodiments, the coating 250 may be configured to at least partially reflect visible light transmitted through the cover member 232 and incident on the coating 250, while shielding the view of components of the electronic device positioned below the peripheral portion 225 of the cover 222. The coating 250 may include one or more ink coatings including a pigment or dye. In some embodiments, the coating 250 may also include an optical coating positioned between the inner surface 242 of the cover member 232 and the one or more ink coatings. The optical coating may extend along the inner surface 242 and along at least a portion of the side surface 246. As shown in FIG. Figure 2 The thickness of the coating 250 shown in FIG. 2 is exemplary and not limiting. The optical coating and one or more ink coatings may be similar to those of the embodiment of FIG. Figure 7 Optical coatings and ink coatings described.

[0076] When the cover 222 is positioned within the housing, an external observer can perceive a difference in appearance between the portion of the cover 222 including the sloped region 253 and another portion of the cover 222 (e.g., the window portion 223 of the cover). In an embodiment, the external observer perceives a boundary between the two portions due at least in part to a transition 255 between the sloped region 253 and the region 252 of the inner surface 242. The region 252 can be at least partially defined by the window portion 223 of the cover 222. By having the coating 250 on the sloped region 253 and not having the coating 250 on the region 252, the difference in appearance can be enhanced.

[0077] The sloped region 253 of the cover member 232 can contribute to the depth effect of the cover 222. For example, the portion of the cover member 232 including the sloped region 253 can appear less deep than the thicker window portion of the cover member 232. The coating 250 can contribute to the depth effect.

[0078] Additionally or alternatively, the inclined region 253 can contribute to the refraction effect. For example, due to the bevel angle θ, light that is perpendicularly incident on the outer surface 244 and transmitted through the cover member 232 will be incident on the inclined region 253 at an angle less than ninety degrees. When this light is reflected from the inclined region 253 toward the outer surface 244, it will not be perpendicularly incident on the outer surface 244 and may therefore leave the outer surface 244 at an angle other than ninety degrees. Thus, an external observer may perceive a difference between the reflected light leaving the peripheral portion 225 of the cover 222 and the reflected light leaving the window portion 223 of the cover 223. For example, at least some of the light leaving the peripheral portion 225 of the cover may appear to be "bent" compared to the light leaving the window portion 223 of the cover.

[0079] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1A The electronic device 300 includes a housing component and a cover 322 for providing an optical effect. Figure 3 The cross-sectional view can be seen along Figure 1A 1-1 in.

[0080] When the cover 322 is positioned within the housing 310, an external observer can perceive a difference in appearance between the portion of the cover 322 that includes the optical assembly 350 and another portion of the cover 322 (e.g., the window portion 323 of the cover). In some embodiments, the optical effect can be a depth effect and / or a refraction effect. As an example, the depth effect can give the impression that a portion of the cover member 332 varies in thickness, even though the actual thickness of that portion of the cover member 332 is substantially uniform. In some cases, the perceived thickness variation of the cover member 332 is similar to the thickness variation caused by the inner inclined surface, where the cover member 332 is substantially uniform. Figure 2 In other examples, the optical component can produce any other optical effect described herein, including relative to Figure 1A and 1B Those described.

[0081] exist Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 3 , the cover 322 includes a cover member 332 and an optical component 350 that provides an optical effect. Figure 3 As shown, the cover 322 defines a window portion 323 and a perimeter portion 325. The window portion 323 is positioned above the active area 373 of the display 372. In an embodiment, the perimeter portion 325 surrounds the window portion 323 of the cover 322.

[0082] The cover member 332 defines a planar outer surface 344 extending across the window portion 323 and a majority of the peripheral portion 325 of the cover 322. The inner surface 342 is planar and parallel to the outer surface 344 across the window portion 323 and across a majority of the peripheral portion 325 of the cover. The cover member 332 also defines a relatively small angled angle 343 between the inner surface 342 and the side surface 346. There is also an angled angle between the outer surface 344 and the side surface 346. The outer surface of the cover member 332 may alternatively be referred to herein as a front surface, and the inner surface of the cover member 332 may alternatively be referred to herein as a rear surface.

[0083] The optical assembly 350 is located in the peripheral portion 325 of the cover 322. Figure 3 As shown, the optical assembly 350 is disposed along the inner surface 342 and the side surface 346 of the cover member 332 in the peripheral portion 325. At least a portion of the cover member 332 coupled to the optical assembly 350 (at least a portion of the peripheral portion 325) has a thickness T of the window portion 323 of the cover member 332 positioned above the active area 373 of the display 372. 3 Similar Thickness. However, the optical assembly 350 may give the impression that the portion of the cover member 332 has a different thickness than the window portion 323 of the cover member 332 positioned above the active area 373 of the display 372.

[0084] Optical assembly 350 may define a closed loop that defines a frame (alternatively, a boundary) around active area 373 of display 372. Optical assembly 350 may be positioned over inactive area 375 of display 372, but not over active area of ​​display 372. Assembly 350 may be configured to render inactive area 375 of display 372 invisible as well as to provide a depth effect.

[0085] As previously compared to Figure 1A and Figure 1B As discussed, optical assembly 350 includes at least one optical element that facilitates an optical effect. Optical assembly 350 may also include a light absorbing coating disposed behind the optical structure (eg, behind the optical coating). Figure 7 An enlarged cross-sectional view of an optical assembly 750 providing an optical effect is shown, and the optical assembly and elements of the optical assembly are shown with respect to the optical assembly. Figure 7 The description provided generally applies to the disclosure herein, and those details are not repeated here.

[0086] The electronic device 300 includes a housing 305 and a display 372 positioned within an interior cavity 301 defined by the housing 305. The housing 310 defines a front opening 303 leading to the housing 305. In addition, a portion of the housing 310 extends along a side surface 346 of the cover member 332 and surrounds the cover member 332. The cover 322 is positioned above the display 372 and coupled to the housing 310. Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 3 , the cover 322 is coupled to the inner flange 311 of the housing. The adhesive may be included in the optical assembly 350 or may be provided as a separate element to facilitate coupling the cover 322 to the housing. Figure 3 The example is not limiting, and the cover 322 may be coupled to the housing in other ways. Figure 4 An example of which is shown in FIG. Cover 322 may also be coupled to display 372. For example, cover member 332 may be coupled to display 372 via adhesive 382. Adhesive 382 may be optically transparent. An outer surface 344 of the cover member may be flush with or recessed relative to the front surface of housing 310.

[0087] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1A Another example partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device. The electronic device 400 includes a housing component that provides an optical effect, a cover 422. The optical effect can be a previously Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 3 Any of the optical effects discussed. Figure 4 The cross-sectional view can be seen along Figure 1A 1-1 in.

[0088] Cover 422, lid member 432, optical assembly 450, and display 472 may be similar to cover 322, lid member 332, optical assembly 350, and display 372, and a description of these elements is not repeated here. Cover 422 is positioned above display 472 and is coupled to housing 410 via internal flange 411. Figure 4 In the example of FIG. 4 , the cover 422 is coupled to the display frame 476, which in turn is coupled to the inner flange 411 of the housing. An adhesive may be used to provide a seal with respect to the previously described seal. Figure 3 The cover 422 is coupled to the display frame 476 , the display frame 476 is coupled to the housing 410 , and / or the cover 422 is coupled to the display 472 in a manner similar to that described.

[0089] Figure 5A and Figure 5BDifferent views of another electronic device are shown. Electronic device 500 may be a mobile phone (also referred to herein as a cell phone). Electronic device 500 includes housing 505. Housing 505 includes cover 522, cover 524, and housing 510. Cover 522 may produce an optical effect as described herein due to optical assembly 550. Cover 522 may at least partially define a front surface 502 of the electronic device, and cover 524 may at least partially define a rear surface 504 of the electronic device.

[0090] like Figure 3 As shown, the cover 522 is positioned above the display and may define a window portion positioned above the active area of ​​the display and a peripheral portion surrounding the window portion. The cover 522 may include a cover member 532. In an embodiment, the cover 522 may be positioned above one or more additional internal components of the electronic device 500, such as a forward sensing array or a radio frequency (RF) antenna assembly (which may be a directional antenna assembly). The forward sensing array may include one or more camera assemblies (e.g., a camera array), one or more sensor assemblies (e.g., a sensor array), a lighting assembly, or a combination of these. The front sensing array 518 includes a forward camera assembly 544 and a forward sensor assembly 546. The front sensing array 518 may also include an ambient light sensor, which may be positioned below the display in some cases. The cover 522 may define an opening 521 above the speaker.

[0091] exist Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the example of FIG. 5 , the cover 524 is positioned above the sensing array 570. A portion 527 of the cover 524 positioned above the sensing array may be thicker than another portion 526 of the cover 524. Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, portion 527 may protrude relative to portion 526 and may therefore be referred to as a protruding portion. Cover member 534 may be thicker in portion 527 than in portion 526 of cover 526. In a specific implementation in which portion 527 of cover 524 is used to protect one or more sensor modules or components, portion 527 may be referred to as a sensor feature, a camera feature, a sensing array, a camera panel, and / or a camera bump. Portion 527 may define one or more openings for components of the sensing array. In an embodiment, cover 524 may be positioned above one or more internal components of electronic device 500, such as a radio frequency (RF) antenna assembly (which may be a directional antenna assembly), a component for an inductively coupled wireless charging system, and the like.

[0092] Sensing array 570 may include one or more camera assemblies and / or one or more sensor assemblies. In some examples, each of the camera assemblies may include an optical component, such as optical components 573, 574, 575, and 576. Optical components 573, 574, and 575 may be at least partially positioned within an opening in portion 527 and may be a camera module. Optical component 576 may be a lighting module.

[0093] Additionally or alternatively, the sensing array 570 may include one or more sensor components, such as sensor component 579. In some embodiments, the sensor component 579 may include one or more optical modules. For example, the sensor component may include a transmitter module, a receiver module, or both. In some cases, the sensor component 579 may measure the distance to the target, such as a laser radar sensor component, which is configured to illuminate the object with light and then detect the reflected light to determine or estimate the distance between the electronic device and the object (e.g., a time of flight (TOF) sensor). In some examples, the sensor component 579 may be positioned below the cover member 534 (and the cover member 534 may serve as a window of the sensor component 579). In these examples, the optical properties of the cover member 534 may be suitable for one or more optical components of the sensor component. For example, one or more optical components may operate within one or more specified wavelength ranges, and the cover member 534 may be configured to have a suitable transmittance / light transmittance within these wavelength ranges. In other examples, the cover member 534 may define an opening above the sensor component, and an additional cover member may be placed in or above the opening (and serve as a window of the sensor component).

[0094] In addition to the optical components, the electronic device 500 can also include a sensor assembly 580. For example, the sensor assembly 580 can be a microphone that can be at least partially positioned within or below an opening in the portion 527 of the cover 524.

[0095] The cover 524 may include an inner coating disposed along the inner surface of the cover member 534. The inner coating may be an ink coating including a pigment or dye. In some embodiments, the inner coating is configured to at least partially reflect visible light that is transmitted through the cover member 534 and incident on the coating. In some embodiments, as previously described with respect to Figure 1A and Figure 1B As mentioned above, an exterior coating, such as an anti-fouling coating, may be disposed along an exterior surface of the cover member 524 .

[0096] exist Figure 5A and Figure 5BIn the example of , the housing 505 also includes a shell 510, alternatively referred to as a band. The shell 510 at least partially defines the side surface 506 of the electronic device. In additional examples, the cover 522 and / or the cover 524 can at least partially define the side surface of the electronic device. Each of the cover 522 and the cover 524 can be coupled to the shell 510.

[0097] The housing 510 may include one or more components. Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the example of , the housing 510 includes a plurality of components (e.g., one or more metal segments) formed of a metal material. Specifically, the housing 510 is formed of a series of metal segments (512a, 512b, 512c, 512d, and 512e) separated by dielectric segments (514a, 514b, 514c, 514d, and 514e), which provide a certain degree of electrical isolation between adjacent metal segments (e.g., by preventing electrical conduction through the dielectric segments). For example, a polymer segment (514b) may be disposed between a pair of adjacent metal segments (512b, 512c). One or more of the metal segments may be coupled to the internal circuitry of the electronic device 500 and may be used as an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless communications. In an alternative embodiment, the housing 510 may include one or more components formed of a glass material, one or more components formed of a ceramic material, one or more components formed of a glass-ceramic material, a combination of these, or a combination of these with one or more components formed of a metal material.

[0098] The housing 510 may define one or more openings or ports, such as Figure 5A and Figure 5B . Opening 516 may allow (audio) input or output from device components such as a microphone or speaker. Opening 517 may contain an electrical port or connection.

[0099] Additionally, the electronic device 500 may include one or more input devices. Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the example of FIG. 5 , input devices 552 , 554 , 556 , and 558 are in the form of buttons and may extend through additional openings in housing 510 .

[0100] In addition, electronic device 500 may include one or more device components that may be part of a wireless communication system. The wireless communication system may be as previously described with respect to Figure 1A and Figure 1BAs provided. In addition, the electronic device 500 may include one or more antennas, which include elements configured to communicate via 5G wireless protocols (including millimeter wave and / or 6GHz communication signals). In some cases, the electronic device 500 includes one or more directional antennas (or high gain antennas). Multiple directional antennas have different main transmission directions.

[0101] Figure 6 A front view of a cover that may be included in an electronic device housing is shown. At least a portion of the cover 622 may be configured to produce an optical effect, such as a depth effect and / or a refraction effect. As shown, the cover 622 includes a window portion 623 (alternatively a central portion) and a peripheral portion 625 defining a perimeter 626. Figure 6 In the example of FIG. 6 , the outer surface 644 of the cover member 632 faces upward (outside the image plane). When the cover 622 is a display cover, the outer surface 644 may alternatively be referred to as a front surface.

[0102] In an embodiment, the peripheral portion 625 of the cover can be configured to produce an optical effect. The peripheral portion 625 of the cover 622 can also be configured to mask or obscure an inactive area of ​​the display and / or other internal components or features of the electronic device so that they are not visible. The cover 622 can be an example of a cover 122, a cover 522, or any other cover described herein. In the electronic device, the cover 622 can be coupled to the housing and positioned above the display, as previously described at least with respect to the display. Figure 1A and Figure 5A As described.

[0103] The cover 622 includes a cover member 632 and an optical component 650 configured to produce an optical effect. Figure 6 In the example of FIG. 6 , an external observer can perceive a difference in appearance between a portion of the cover 622 that includes the optical component 650 and another portion of the cover 622 (e.g., the window portion 623) that lacks the optical component 650. In an embodiment, the optical component 650 defines a closed loop that defines a frame (alternatively, a boundary) around the active area of ​​the display. The optical component 650 can be positioned above the inactive area of ​​the display and can be configured to make the inactive area of ​​the display invisible.

[0104] like Figure 6As shown, the optical component 650 includes a first portion 652 and a second portion 654. In some embodiments, the first portion 652 produces at least one optical effect that is different from the optical effect of the second portion. As an example, an external observer may perceive different intensities of reflected light, different spectra of reflected light (e.g., colors), and / or different amounts of diffusely reflected light from the portion of the cover 622 that includes the first portion 652 of the optical component as compared to the portion of the cover 622 that includes the second portion 654 of the optical component. In some embodiments, the first portion 652 of the optical component 650 is configured to optically simulate an inclined region of the cover member 632. The second region 654 may be configured to provide an opaque border (alternatively, a frame) surrounding the active area of ​​the display, and in some cases may simulate a transition between an inclined region of the inner surface of the cover member and a substantially flat region of the adjacent inner surface. The width of the first portion 652 is greater than the width of the second portion 654, also as shown Figure 7 For illustration purposes, Figure 6 The width of the second portion 654 is shown exaggerated. In some embodiments, the first portion 652 may extend along the side surface of the cover member (at Figure 7 shown in Figure 6 is not easily visible in the view). Figure 6 The example is not limiting, and in additional examples, the optical assembly 650 need not include the second portion 654 and / or the first portion 652 need not extend along a side surface of the cover.

[0105] The difference in optical effect between the first portion 652 and the second portion 654 of the optical assembly 650 may be obtained by providing different arrangements of optical assembly elements in the two portions. Figure 7 The enlarged cross-sectional views provide a detailed description of the arrangement of the elements of the optical assembly, and those details are not repeated here.

[0106] Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of the cover is shown. The cover 722 includes an optical assembly 750 configured to produce an optical effect, such as a depth effect and / or a refraction effect. The optical assembly 750 may also be configured to block viewing of some internal device components positioned below the cover. The cover 722 includes a cover member 732 that defines a window portion 733 positioned above the active area of ​​the display. The cover member 732 also defines a peripheral portion 735. The cover 722 may be an example of the cover 122, the cover 522, the cover 622, or any other cover described herein. Figure 7 An example of could be Figure 6 An example cross-sectional view of the cover 622, and the cross-sectional view can be taken along Figure 6 6-6 in.

[0107] like Figure 7 As shown in the example of , the optical component 750 includes a first portion 752 and a second portion 754. The arrangement of the elements of the optical component 750 in the two portions is different and can cause the first portion 752 to produce at least one optical effect that is different from the optical effect of the second portion 754. In some embodiments, the first portion 752 of the optical component 750 is configured to optically simulate an inclined region of the cover member 732. The second portion 754 of the optical component 750 can be configured to provide an opaque border (alternatively, a frame) around the active area of ​​the display, and in some cases can be configured to simulate a transition between an inclined region of the inner surface of the cover member and an adjacent substantially flat region of the inner surface.

[0108] The optical assembly 750 may have a lateral dimension that is small enough so that it does not extend over the active area of ​​the display. Figure 7 As shown, the width W of the first portion 752 1 Greater than the width W of the second portion 754 of the optical component 750 2 As an example, the width W of the second portion 754 is 2 In the range of 50 μm to 250 μm or 50 μm to 150 μm. In some embodiments, the smaller width W of the second portion 754 is 2 Provides a simulated transition area that is smaller than the simulated tilt area, similar to Figure 2 In some cases, the width W of the first portion 752 is 1 Can be greater than the thickness T of the cover member 7 As an example, the width W 1 It may be in the range of 1 mm to less than 5 mm or 1 mm to less than 2 mm.

[0109] The first portion 752 of the optical component 750 includes a set of surface features 762 along the inner surface 742 of the cover member 732 and an optical coating 764 disposed above the set of surface features 762. Each of the set of surface features 762 and the optical coating 764 can be used as an optical element that interacts with light that passes through the cover member and enters the optical component 750. For example, the set of surface features 762 can contribute to a refraction effect, as explained in more detail below. The optical coating 764 can be configured to modify the reflection of light back toward an external observer. The first portion 752 of the optical component 750 also includes an ink coating 766 disposed above the optical coating 764. The ink coating 766 may be alternatively referred to herein as a rear ink coating or a second ink coating. An optional varnish layer 768 may be disposed above the ink coating 764.

[0110] In an embodiment, the first portion 752 may define a first coating stack 792. When the set of surface features 762 is provided as a coating (such as a patterned coating), the first coating stack 792 may include a patterned transparent or translucent coating that defines the set of surface features 762 and is disposed above a first area 782 of the inner surface 742 of the cover member. At least a portion of the first area 782 of the inner surface 742 may be substantially coplanar with an area 786 of the surface defined by the window portion of the cover member 732. In some examples in which the cover member 732 defines an inclined angle 743, the first area 782 of the inner surface may be defined to exclude or include the inclined angle. The first coating stack 792 may include a first portion of an optical coating 764 disposed above the patterned transparent or translucent coating. The first coating stack 792 may also include a first portion of an ink coating 766 disposed above the first portion of the optical coating 764. The first coating stack 792 may optionally include a first portion of a clearcoating 768. An optional adhesion coating (e.g., similar to Fig. 10B The adhesion coating 1061) may be deposited along the inner surface 742 of the cover member 732 before forming the surface feature 762. When the adhesion coating is present, the first coating stack 792 may also include an adhesion coating. Fig. 10B The description of the adhesion coating provided generally applies herein. The first coating stack 792 may have an optical density greater than 1. Figure 7 As shown, the first coating stack 792 has a width W 3 .

[0111] When the set of surface features 762 is formed into the cover member 732, the first coating stack 792 may include a first portion of the optical coating 764 and a first portion of the ink coating 766. In this case, the first coating stack 792 may also include portions of the varnish coating 768 and / or the adhesion coating and may have an optical density greater than 1, as discussed above.

[0112] The second portion 754 of the optical assembly 750 includes an ink coating 763 disposed along the inner surface 742 of the cover member 732 and an optical coating 764 disposed above the ink coating 763. Because the ink coating 763 is positioned in front of the optical coating 764, the absorption of light by the ink coating 763 can reduce the optical effect of the optical coating 764 in the second portion 754 compared to the first portion 752. The ink coating 763 may alternatively be referred to herein as a front ink coating or a first ink coating. In some embodiments, the set of surface features 762 does not extend into the second portion 754, such that the second portion 754 is free of these surface features. In other embodiments, the ink coating 763 partially overlaps the set of surface features 762, and the second portion 754 may include some of the surface features 762. However, even though ink coating 763 partially overlaps set of surface features 762, absorption of light by ink coating 763 may reduce the optical effect of any surface features in set of surface features 762 within second portion 754 as compared to first portion 752. Second portion 754 also includes ink coating 766 disposed over optical coating 764. Optional varnish layer 768 may be disposed over ink coating 764.

[0113] The second portion 754 of the optical component 750 may define a second coating stack 794 including an ink coating 763 disposed over a second region of the inner surface 742. At least a portion of the second region of the surface may be substantially coplanar with an region of the surface defined by the window portion of the cover member 732. In some embodiments, the second region 784 of the inner surface 742 may be defined such that it lacks surface features in the set of surface features 762 (such that the second region 784 does not overlap with the first region 782 of the inner surface 742). In other embodiments, the second region 784 of the inner surface may overlap with the first region 782 (e.g., when the ink coating 763 partially overlaps with the set of surface features 762). The second coating stack 794 may also include a second portion of the optical coating 764 disposed over the ink coating 763, a second portion of the ink coating 766 disposed over the second portion of the optical coating 764, and optionally a second portion of the varnish coating 768 disposed over the ink coating 766. As previously discussed with respect to the first portion 752, the second coating stack 794 may also include an adhesion coating when an adhesion coating is present. The second coating stack 794 may have an optical density greater than one.

[0114] exist Figure 7 In the second coating stack 794 shown, the end of the optical coating 764 is slightly indented from the end of the ink coating 763, the end of the ink coating 766 is slightly indented from the end of the optical coating 764, and the end of the varnish layer 768 is slightly indented from the end of the ink coating 766. The total amount of indentation can be less than the width W 2This arrangement helps limit the visibility of layers positioned behind the ink coating 763. In some cases, one or more layers of the second coating stack 794 may be trimmed to achieve the desired positioning of the ends of the layers. One or more layers may be trimmed using a laser or by using other suitable techniques.

[0115] The third portion 756 of the optical component 750 extends along at least a portion of the side surface 746 of the cover member 732. When the cover member 732 includes the beveled corner 743, the third region 756 may also extend above at least a portion of the beveled corner. The third portion 756 includes an optical coating 764 (e.g., a third portion of the optical coating 764). Compared to the first portion 752 and the second portion 754 of the optical component 750, the third portion 756 may not have an ink coating, such as ink coating 766, disposed above the optical coating 764. In some embodiments, an adhesive coating may be disposed in front of the optical coating 764 along the side surface 746 and the beveled corner 743. With respect to Fig. 10B The description of the adhesion coating provided generally applies herein.

[0116] The surface features of the set of surface features 762 can be protruding features, recessed features, or both. The protruding features can be substantially transparent. In some cases, the interaction of light with the set of surface features can contribute to the optical effect. As an example, light reflected from the set of surface features 762 can contribute to the optical effect. Alternatively or additionally, light passing through the set of surface features can contribute to the optical effect after reflecting from the optical coating 764. Without wishing to be bound by any particular belief, at least some of the light leaving the cover 722 can appear to be refracted or "bent" after interacting with the surface features, compared to light reflected from a portion of the cover member lacking surface features (e.g., the window portion 733).

[0117] In some embodiments, the surface features may have one or more micron-scale dimensions. As an example, the lateral dimension (such as the maximum width or diameter) of the surface features may be small enough so that the individual surface features are not easily perceived by the naked eye at a typical viewing distance. In some embodiments, the surface features may have a lateral dimension, such as the maximum width or diameter, greater than the wavelength of visible light. As an example, each surface feature may have a lateral dimension in the range of 1 micron to 250 microns, 5 microns to 50 microns, or 50 microns to 250 microns. In other embodiments, each surface feature may have a lateral dimension in the range of 100nm to 800nm. In some cases, adjacent surface features are spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the center-to-center spacing between adjacent surface features may be greater than the lateral dimension of the surface features. The surface features may have a spacing in the range of 10 microns to 500 microns, 10 microns to 100 microns, or 50 microns to 200 microns. In some cases, the group of surface features may define an array of surface features, such as a regular array of surface features with substantially uniform spacing. In some examples, the surface features can have a height and / or depth in a range of 1 micron to 20 microns, 1 micron to 6 microns, or 2 microns to 10 microns. In some cases, the surface features can have a substantially uniform height. In some examples, the average height of the surface features is less than the average spacing between adjacent surface features.

[0118] In some embodiments, the spacing, lateral dimensions, and / or height or depth of the surface features can be varied to customize the optical effect. In some cases, variations in the spacing, lateral dimensions, and / or height or depth can change the interaction of light with the set of surface features. For example, variations in the size and / or spacing of the surface features can change the perceived amount of light "bending" and / or diffuse reflection resulting from the interaction of light from the surface features. In some cases, surface features near an edge of a cover member (e.g., near a corner between an interior surface 742 and a side surface 746) can be different than surface features far from the edge, and the differences in surface features can contribute to differences in optical effects. As an example, the lateral dimensions and depth of a recessed surface feature can be greater near an edge of the cover member 732 than farther from the edge to contribute to a depth effect, wherein the cover member 732 appears to have a smaller thickness near the edge than far from the edge (see Fig. 11B). Conversely, the lateral dimensions and depth of the recessed surface features may be larger near the edges of the cover member 732 to provide the effect of greater thickness near the edges of the cover. As an additional example, a reduction in the spacing between the surface features may result in a greater impact of the surface features on the way light interacts with the inner surface 742 of the cover member 732. When the density of the surface features is greater (amount of light) near the edge than away from the edge, greater diffusion of reflected light may occur near the edge rather than farther away from the edge. As referred to herein, the edge of the cover member 732 may be at least partially defined by the side surface 746.

[0119] In some embodiments, the surface features may protrude from the inner surface 742 of the cover member 732. As an example, the surface features may be disposed on the first region 782 of the inner surface 742, such as by depositing a resin on the inner surface or on an adhesive coating deposited on the inner surface. The resin may then be cured to produce a surface feature formed of a polymer-based material. The polymer-based material (which may alternatively be referred to herein as a polymer material) may be substantially transparent or translucent. The polymer-based material may have a refractive index substantially the same as that of the cover member, and may therefore be referred to as being index-matched to the cover member. For example, the magnitude (alternatively, absolute value) of the difference between the refractive index of the polymer-based material and the refractive index of the cover member may be less than or equal to 0.1. In some embodiments, the resin may be deposited by a screen printing process to form the set of surface features 762. A screen printing process using a dot screen (e.g., a halftone screen) may produce a cylindrical surface feature having a circular or elliptical cross-section. The dot screen may have a uniform dot surface density to produce a regular array of surface features, or may have a surface density that gradually increases or decreases over the width of the first region. In other embodiments, the resin may be deposited on the inner surface 742 using a nanoimprint process. The nanoimprint process may produce surface features having a variety of shapes, including but not limited to ridges, rings, cylinders, cones, frustums of cones, prisms, etc. In some cases, the surface features may have a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, or any other suitable shape. When the surface features are made using a nanoimprint process, the base of the surface features may be connected by a thin layer of a polymer-based material.

[0120] In an embodiment, the surface features may be recessed relative to the inner surface 742. For example, the surface features may be formed into the inner surface, such as by an etching process. In some cases, the etching process may be a laser etching process. If an adhesion coating is deposited on the inner surface 742, the surface features may be formed by the adhesion coating.

[0121] Although the individual surface features of the set of surface features 762 are Figure 7 Not visible in FIG. 9A to FIG. 11BAn example of an individual surface feature is shown in an enlarged view of FIG. In some embodiments, the individual surface features need not include a surface having an orientation similar to that of the simulated ramp surface. For example, the top surface or side surface of the individual protruding feature need not be oriented in the same manner as previously described with respect to FIG. Figure 2 The bevel angle described is similar to the bevel angle for tilting.

[0122] The optical coating 764 can affect the transmission and / or reflection of light at the interface between the optical coating 764 and the set of surface features 762. In some examples, the optical coating can include at least one layer having a refractive index different from the refractive index of the cover member 732. Alternatively or additionally, the optical coating 764 can include at least one layer having a refractive index different from the refractive index of the material forming the set of surface features. For example, the set of surface features can be formed of a material different from the material of the cover member, such as protruding features formed of a polymer material having a refractive index that can be different from the refractive index of the cover member. As another example, when the set of surface features are formed into a cover, the surface features can be formed of the same material as the cover member.

[0123] In some embodiments, the optical coating includes multiple layers. For example, the optical coating may include four to twelve layers. The multiple layers may be an even or odd number of layers. At least two of these layers have different refractive indices (alternatively, refractive indices). For example, the optical coating may include layers of alternating refractive indices. The thickness of the optical coating may be less than 1 micron, such as from 100nm to 500nm, from 100nm to 10 microns, from 100nm to 5 microns, from 300nm to 10 microns, or from 300nm to 5 microns.

[0124] In some embodiments, the optical coating includes multiple dielectric layers. In some embodiments, the optical coating may include a first layer formed of a first inorganic dielectric material and a second layer including a second inorganic dielectric material. The inorganic dielectric material may be an oxide, nitride, and / or oxynitride of a metal or metalloid. Suitable oxides include, but are not limited to, silicon oxide (e.g., SiO 2 ), niobium oxide (e.g., Nb 2 O 5 ), titanium oxide (e.g., TiO 2 ), tantalum oxide (e.g., Ta 2 O 5 ), zirconium oxide (e.g., ZrO 2 ), magnesium oxide (e.g., MgO), etc. Suitable nitrides include, but are not limited to, silicon nitride (e.g., SiN x 、Si 3 N 4 ), silicon oxynitride (e.g., SiO x N y) etc. The layers of the first inorganic material and the second inorganic material can be thin and can be deposited by physical vapor deposition or another vacuum deposition technique. In some embodiments, the optical coating includes alternating oxide layers and nitride layers having different refractive indices.

[0125] The optical coating 764 can be configured to modify the reflection of light back toward an external observer. For example, the optical coating can be configured to reduce the reflection of light back toward an external observer and enhance the transmission of light through the optical coating. Alternatively or additionally, the optical coating can be configured such that it preferentially reflects certain wavelengths back toward an external observer, thereby providing a color effect. In some examples, the optical coating can extend along a surface area of ​​the cover member other than along the first surface area where the surface feature is formed. Figure 7 In the example of FIG. 7 , the optical coating 764 extends from the optical assembly 750 to extend along the side surface 746 of the cover member 732 .

[0126] In an embodiment, the optical coating 764 is an interference coating including multiple layers configured to produce optical interference. As an example, the optical coating may be configured to act as a filter or optical reflector that selectively transmits some wavelengths of light in the visible spectrum. Light of other wavelengths in the visible spectrum may be reflected. The surface features may affect the selective transmission and reflection of the optical coating (e.g., when the optical coating conforms to the surface features). In some examples, the performance of the optical coating is different when it is set on the surface features compared to when the optical coating is set above a flat surface. In some cases, the optical coating selectively reflects visible light with a wavelength of about 500nm to about 800nm ​​compared to visible light with a wavelength less than about 500nm. As another example, the optical coating may be an anti-reflective coating configured to produce destructive interference of reflected light. As referred to herein, the anti-reflective coating may still reflect some light back toward an external observer.

[0127] Ink coatings 763 and 766 include pigments or dyes that absorb light in the visible spectrum. In some cases, one or more of ink coatings 763 and 766 is close to neutral in color, where each of a* and b* has a magnitude (absolute value) less than or equal to 3 or less than or equal to 5. The ink coating may have a sufficiently low L* value so that the coating appears black. The ink coating 763 and / or the ink coating 766 may have an optical density greater than 1, greater than 3, or greater than 4. Therefore, the ink coating 763 and / or the ink coating 766 may be alternatively referred to as a light absorbing coating or an opaque coating in this article. In some cases, the ink coating 763 and / or the ink coating 766 may include multiple sublayers in order to increase the optical density of the layer. The ink coating comprising a single layer may have a thickness of 2 microns to 10 microns, and the ink coating comprising multiple layers may have a thickness of 4 microns to 50 microns.

[0128] exist Figure 7 In the example of FIG. 7 , the cover member 732 defines an inclined angle 743 between the inner surface 742 and the side surface 746. The ink coating 766 of the optical component 750 extends onto the inclined angle 743, but does not extend across the inclined angle 743 to the side surface 746. In an embodiment, the distance spanned by the inclined angle 743 is less than the distance spanned by the inner surface 742, so that the optical effect produced by the optical component is mainly due to the portion of the optical component 750 that lacks a macro-scale bevel. The cover member 732 also defines an inclined angle 745 between the outer surface 744 and the side surface 746. Figure 7 The example is not limiting, and in other embodiments, the cover member need not define an inclined corner. When the cover 722 is a display cover, the outer surface 744 may alternatively be referred to as a front surface, and the inner surface 742 may alternatively be referred to as a rear surface.

[0129] exist Figure 7 In the example of , the cover member 732 defines a substantially planar outer surface 744, and at least a portion of the inner surface 742 is substantially planar and opposite to the substantially planar outer surface 744. For example, at least a portion of the region 786 of the inner surface 742 defined by the window portion 733 of the cover member 732 and the second region 784 of the inner surface 742 can be substantially planar and opposite to the substantially planar outer surface 744. In some cases, these regions can be flat (alternatively, horizontal) to within 2% rather than inclined. When recesses and / or protrusions are formed into the first region 782 of the inner surface 742, then this region of the rear surface 742 may no longer be strictly planar due to the texture. However, the base level of the textured region can be substantially planar.

[0130] In addition, the thickness of the window portion 733 can be substantially equal to the thickness of at least a portion of the cover member 732 along which the optical assembly 750 is disposed. In some cases, the thickness of the window portion 733 and the thickness of the portion of the cover member 732 along which the second portion 744 of the optical assembly is disposed can be substantially the same. In some cases, the thickness of the window portion 733 and the thickness of the portion of the cover member 732 along which the first portion 744 of the optical assembly 750 is disposed can be substantially the same. The term "substantially equal or substantially the same" takes into account relatively small variations in the thickness of the cover member 732 that may occur during the formation of the cover and when recesses and / or protrusions are formed into the rear surface 742.

[0131] Figure 8 The cover member is shown after forming a set of surface features and before applying other elements of the optical assembly. Figure 8In the example of FIG. 8 , the cover member 832 is shown with its inner surface 842 facing upward (outside of the image plane). When the cover member 832 is disposed above the display, the inner surface 842 may alternatively be referred to as a rear surface. The set of surface features 862 is formed in and extends around a peripheral portion of the cover member 832. The cover member can be similar to the cover member 132 or any other cover member described herein, and the set of surface features 832 can be similar to the set of surface features 732.

[0132] Fig. 9A An example of an enlarged view of a set of surface features is shown. Fig. 9A In the example of , the set of surface features 962a includes ridges 972. Fig. 9A In the example of FIG. 1 , the cover member is shown with its inner surface 942a facing upward and ridges 972 protruding from the inner surface 942a. Each of the ridges 972 defines a longitudinal axis. Fig. 9A The set of surface features 962a may be Figure 8 An example of an enlarged view of some of the surface features 862. However, due to Fig. 9A The view is enlarged so that the entire set of surface features 962a is not shown.

[0133] exist Fig. 9A In the view of FIG. 9 , the longitudinal axes of the ridges 972 are generally aligned and define the pitch, width, and height. Fig. 9A In the example of FIG. 9A , the ridge 972 has a flat top and may define a rectangular cross-section (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis). Fig. 10A A cross-sectional view of a surface feature having a rectangular cross-section defining a pitch P, a width W, and a height H is shown. However, this example is not limiting, and in other examples, the ridges may define other cross-sectional shapes, including but not limited to triangular cross-sectional shapes. In some cases, the ridges are generally parallel to the periphery of the cover member. Such ridges may define a series of nested rings. The pitch, width, and height of ridges 972 and the method for forming ridges 972 may be similar to that described with respect to Figure 7 Pitches and heights of surface features and methods for forming the surface features are described.

[0134] Fig. 9B Another example of an enlarged view of a set of surface features is shown. Fig. 9B In the example of FIG. 9b , the set of surface features 962b includes a cylindrical protrusion 973. In the example of FIG. 9b , the cover member is shown with its inner surface 942b facing upward and the cylindrical protrusion 973 protruding from the inner surface 942b. Fig. 9B The set of surface features 962b may be Figure 8 An example of an enlarged view of some of the surface features 862. However, due to Fig. 9BThe view is enlarged so that the entire set of surface features 962b is not shown.

[0135] The cylindrical protrusions 973 are separated from each other and define a spacing. Fig. 9B In the example of , the cylindrical protrusion 973 has a substantially circular cross-section and defines a diameter. However, this example is not limiting, and in other embodiments, the cylindrical protrusion may have an elliptical cross-section, or the surface feature may have another shape, such as a cone, a frustum of a cone, a prism, etc. The spacing, diameter, and height of the cylindrical protrusion 973 and the method for forming the cylindrical protrusion 973 may be similar to that described with respect to Figure 7 The pitches, lateral dimensions, and heights of surface features and methods for forming the surface features are described.

[0136] Fig. 10A An example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features of a housing component is shown. The set of surface features 1062a protrude from the inner surface 1042a of the cover member 1032a. Figure 7 As discussed, the set of surface features 1062a can be formed on the inner surface 1042a by depositing a material, such as a resin, on the inner surface 1042a. The set of surface features 1062a can define a patterned coating. The cover member 1032a also defines an outer surface 1044a and a side surface 1046a. Fig. 10A The cross-sectional view can be seen along Figure 8 Line 8-8 in.

[0137] exist Fig. 10A In the example of FIG. 1 , surface features 1072 in the set of surface features 1062a are protruding features that define a height H, a pitch P, and a lateral dimension W. Surface features 1072 also define a generally rectangular cross-section, and the lateral dimension W also characterizes the base width of the feature. In some cases, surface features 1072 can define ridges or cylindrical protrusions, as previously described with respect to FIG. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B In some cases, surface features 1072 may define a triangular cross-section. The pitch P, height H of surface features 1072 3 , and the lateral dimension W may be similar to that relative to Figure 7 In an additional example, the base of the surface feature 1072 may be connected by a thin layer, as previously described with respect to Figure 7 discussed.

[0138] Fig. 10B Another example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features of a shell component is shown. Fig. 10BIn the example of FIG. 1 , the adhesion coating 1061 is deposited on the inner surface 1042b of the cover member 1032b, and the set of surface features 1062b is formed on the adhesion coating 1061. The set of surface features 1062b thus protrude relative to both the inner surface 1042b and the adhesion coating 1061. The set of surface features 1062a can define a patterned coating. Fig. 10B The cross-sectional view can be seen along Figure 8 Line 8-8 in.

[0139] exist Fig. 10B In the example of the present invention, the surface feature 1073 in the set of surface features 1062b is a protruding feature. The surface feature 1073 also defines a generally rectangular cross-section. In some cases, the surface feature 1073 can define a ridge or cylindrical protrusion, as previously described with respect to Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B In some cases, surface features 1073 may define a triangular cross-section. The pitch, height, and lateral dimensions of surface features 1073 may be similar to those of Figure 7 and Fig. 10A The pitch, height, and lateral dimensions of the surface features described.

[0140] The adhesion coating 1061 can improve the adhesion between one or more layers of the optical component and the cover member 1032b. The adhesion coating 1061 can be thinner than the ink coating of the optical component. For example, the adhesion coating 1061 can have a thickness of less than 1 micron, such as a thickness from 2nm to 50nm. The adhesion coating can be transparent to visible light. In some embodiments, the adhesion coating includes or is formed of an oxide material, such as silicon oxide (e.g., SiO x ), metal oxide, or a mixed oxide including silicon and one or more metals combined with oxygen. When the cover member 1032b is formed of a sapphire material (aluminum oxide), the adhesion may be formed of a silicon oxide material or a mixed silicon oxide aluminum material. Fig. 10B As shown in the example of , the adhesion coating 1061 can be disposed over substantially the entirety of the inner surface. In other embodiments, the adhesion coating 1061 can be disposed over only a portion of the inner surface and / or can be disposed on other surfaces of the cover member 1032b, such as the outer surface 1044b or the side surface 1046b. The adhesion coating can be disposed between the cover member and any optical component described herein, and relative to Fig. 10B The descriptions provided of suitable adhesion coatings are generally applicable to the disclosure herein.

[0141] Fig.11A Another example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features formed into a cover member is shown. The set of surface features 1162a is formed into the inner surface 1142a of the cover member 1132a. Figure 7 As discussed, the set of surface features 1162a can be formed into the interior surface 1142a using an etching process.The cover member 1132a also defines a side surface 1146a. Fig.11A The cross-sectional view can be seen along Figure 8 Line 8-8 in.

[0142] exist Fig.11A In the example of , the surface features 1172 in the set of surface features 1162a are recessed features that define a depth, a pitch, and a lateral dimension. The lateral dimension can characterize the base width of the recess 1172. Fig.11A In some examples, the depth, spacing, and base width are substantially uniform. However, in other examples, the depth and / or spacing of the surface features need not be as uniform as Fig. 11B and Fig. 11C 1172 is substantially uniform as shown in the example of . Surface feature 1172 defines a generally triangular cross-section. In some cases, surface feature 1172 can define a groove or a conical or pyramidal depression. Fig.11A The cross-sectional shapes shown in are not limiting, and the features may have other cross-sectional shapes (such as Fig.11D ). The pitch, depth, and base width of the surface features 1172 may be similar to those of the Figure 7 The pitch, depth, and lateral dimensions of the surface features described.

[0143] Fig. 11B Another example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features formed into a cover member is shown. The set of surface features 1162b is formed into the inner surface 1142b of the cover member 1132b, and the recessed features 1173 have a triangular cross-sectional shape. In some cases, the surface features 1173 may define grooves or conical or pyramidal recesses. Fig. 11B The cross-sectional view can be seen along Figure 8 Line 8-8 in.

[0144] and Fig.11A 146b, the depth and spacing of the features 1173 are not substantially uniform. Instead, the depth, spacing, and base width of the features 1173 increase from right to left, with features closer to the side surface 1146b having a greater depth, spacing, and base width than features further from the side surface 1146b. The spacing, depth, and base width of the surface features 1173 may be similar to that of the surface features 1173 relative to the side surface 1146b. Figure 7 The pitch, height, and lateral dimensions of the surface features described.

[0145] Fig. 11CAnother example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features that vary in size and are formed into a cover member is shown. The set of surface features 1162c is formed into the inner surface 1142c of the cover member 1132c, and the recessed features 1174 have a triangular cross-sectional shape. Fig.11A and Fig. 11B Compared to the example of FIG. 1 , the depth, pitch, and base width of the features 1174 increase from left to right, where the features closer to the side surface 1146 c have a smaller depth, pitch, and base width than the features farther from the side surface 1146 c. The pitch, depth, and base width of the surface features 1174 may be similar to the pitch, depth, and base width relative to FIG. Figure 7 The pitch, height, and lateral dimensions of the surface features described. Fig. 11C The cross-sectional view can be seen along Figure 8 Line 8-8 in.

[0146] Fig.11D Another example of a partial cross-sectional view of a set of surface features formed into a cover member is shown. The set of surface features 1162d is formed into the inner surface 1142d of the cover member 1132d, and the recessed features 1175 have a shape with a rounded bottom. Fig.11D In the example of FIG. 1 , the depth, spacing, and base width of the recessed features 1175 are substantially uniform. The spacing, depth, and base width of the surface features 1175 may be similar to that of the surface features 1175 relative to FIG. Figure 7 The pitch, depth, and lateral dimensions of the surface features are described. Cover member 1132d also defines side surfaces 1146d. Fig.11D The cross-sectional view can be seen along Figure 8 Line 8-8 in.

[0147] Fig.12 A block diagram of an example electronic device that may include a display cover or another housing component as described herein is shown. Fig.12 The schematic diagram depicted may correspond to the Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B components of the device depicted. However, Fig.12 Other types of electronic devices that include housing components as described herein may also be more generally represented.

[0148] In an embodiment, the electronic device 1200 may include a display 1202. The display 1202 may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an LED backlit LCD display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, an active layer organic light emitting diode (AMOLED) display, an organic electroluminescent (EL) display, an electrophoretic ink display, and the like. If the display 1202 is a liquid crystal display or an electrophoretic ink display, the display 1202 may also include a backlight component that can be controlled to provide a variable display brightness level. If the display 1202 is an organic light emitting diode or organic electroluminescent type display, the brightness of the display 1202 can be controlled by modifying the electrical signal provided to the display element. In addition, information about the configuration and / or orientation of the electronic device can be used to control the output of the display, as described with respect to the input device or mechanism 1212. In some cases, the display is integrated with a touch sensor and / or a force sensor to detect a touch and / or force applied along an external surface of the device 1200.

[0149] The device 1200 also includes a processor 1204. The processor 1204 may be operably connected to a computer-readable memory 1208. The processor 1204 may be operably connected to the memory 1208 component via an electronic bus or bridge. The processor 1204 may be implemented as one or more computer processors or microcontrollers configured to perform operations in response to computer-readable instructions. The processor 1204 may include a central processing unit (CPU) of the device 1200. Additionally and / or alternatively, the processor 1204 may include other electronic circuits located within the device 1200, including application specific integrated chips (ASICs) and other microcontroller devices. The processor 1204 may be configured to perform the functions described in the above examples.

[0150] The device 1200 also includes a power supply 1206. In some embodiments, the power supply includes a battery configured to provide power to the components of the electronic device 1200. The battery may include one or more power storage cells linked together to provide an internal power supply. The battery may be operably coupled to a power management circuit configured to provide appropriate voltage and power levels for each component or group of components within the electronic device 1200. The battery may be configured to receive power from an external power source such as an AC outlet via the power management circuit. The battery may store the received power so that the electronic device 1200 can operate for an extended period of time without being connected to an external power source, which period of time may range from several hours to several days.

[0151] The memory 1208 may include various types of non-transitory computer-readable storage media, including, for example, read access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and EEPROM), or flash memory. The memory 1208 is configured to store computer-readable instructions, sensor values, and other persistent software elements.

[0152] Device 1200 also includes a sensor system 1210. Sensor system 1210 may include one or more sensors or sensor components, such as a force sensor, a capacitive sensor, an accelerometer, a barometer, a gyroscope, a proximity sensor, a light sensor, a microphone, an acoustic sensor, a light sensor (including ambient light, infrared (IR) light, ultraviolet (UV) light), an optical facial recognition sensor, a depth measurement sensor (e.g., a time of flight sensor), a health monitoring sensor (e.g., an electrocardiogram (ecg) sensor, a heart rate sensor, a photoplethysmogram (ppg) sensor, a pulse oximeter, a biometric sensor (e.g., a fingerprint sensor), or other types of sensing devices. In some cases, device 1200 includes a sensor array (also referred to as a sensing array) that The sensor array includes a plurality of sensors. For example, the sensor array may include an ambient light sensor, a lidar sensor, and a microphone. In another example, one or more camera components may also be associated with the sensor array. The sensor system 1210 is operably coupled to a processing circuit. In some embodiments, the sensor may detect a change in deformation and / or configuration of an electronic device and is operably coupled to a processing circuit that controls a display based on a sensor signal. In some specific implementations, the output from the sensor system is used to reconfigure the display output to correspond to the orientation or folding / unfolding configuration or state of the device. Exemplary sensors for this purpose include accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, and other similar types of positioning / orientation sensing devices.

[0153] The input / output mechanism 1212 may include one or more input devices and one or more output devices. An input device is a device configured to receive input from a user or environment. For example, an input device may include, for example, a push button, a touch-activated button, a capacitive touch sensor, a touch screen (e.g., a touch-sensitive display or a force-sensitive display), a capacitive touch button, a dial, a crown, etc. In some embodiments, an input device may provide a dedicated or primary function, including, for example, a power button, a volume button, a home button, a scroll wheel, and a camera button. One or more output devices include a display 1202 that presents visual information that may be generated by the processor 1204. One or more output devices may also include one or more speakers for providing audio output and / or one or more tactile devices configured to generate tactile or tactile output along the outer surface of the device 1200. The input / output mechanism may also include a communication port or communication channel. A communication channel may include one or more wireless interfaces, one or more antennas (e.g., an antenna including or using a housing component as a radiating member), a communication circuit, firmware, software, or any other component or system that is conducive to wireless communication with other devices, suitable for providing communication between the processor 1204 and an external device.

[0154] Electronic device 1200 also includes a system 1214 that communicates with elements 1202, 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, and 1210. In some examples, system 1214 includes circuits such as electronic buses and / or bridges. System 1213 may also include application specific integrated chips (ASICs) and other microcontroller devices.

[0155] As used herein, the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," "similar to," and the like are used to account for relatively small variations, such as variations of + / -10%, + / -5%, + / -2%, or + / -1%. In addition, the term "about" may be used with respect to an endpoint of a range to indicate a variation of + / -10%, + / -5%, + / -2%, or + / -1% of the endpoint value. Furthermore, disclosing a range in which at least one endpoint is described as "about" a particular value includes disclosing a range in which the endpoint is equal to the particular value.

[0156] The following discussion applies to electronic devices described herein to the extent that these devices can be used to obtain personally identifiable information data. It is understood that the use of personally identifiable information should be subject to privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized to meet or exceed industry or government requirements for maintaining user privacy. Specifically, personally identifiable information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly stated to users.

[0157] For the purpose of illustration, the foregoing description uses specific naming to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiment. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practice the embodiment. Therefore, for the purpose of illustration and description, the foregoing description of the specific embodiments described herein is presented. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the disclosed precise form. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that, in view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are feasible. Moreover, when used in this article to refer to the position of a component, the term above, below, above, below, left or right (or other similar relative position terms) does not necessarily refer to an absolute position relative to an external reference, but instead refers to the relative position of the component in the referenced figure.

Claims

1. An electronic watch, comprising: monitor; A covering member, the covering member comprising: a cover member defining a window portion positioned above the display; a set of surface features formed along a rear surface of the cover member; and a coating stack surrounding the window portion at the rear surface of the cover member, the coating stack comprising: an optical coating disposed over the set of surface features and comprising at least one layer having a first index of refraction different than a second index of refraction of the set of surface features; and a post-ink coating disposed over at least a portion of the optical coating; a housing coupled to the cover and at least partially surrounding the display; and A strap is coupled to the housing.

2. The electronic watch according to claim 1, wherein: A portion of the housing extends along a side surface of the cover member and surrounds the cover member; and The optical coating is further disposed over at least a portion of the side surface.

3. The electronic watch according to claim 2, wherein: The coating stack is a first coating stack including a first portion of each of the optical coating and the post-ink coating; and The cover also includes a second coating stack, the second coating stack including: a front ink coating disposed over the rear surface of the cover member and positioned between the set of surface features and the window portion; a second portion of the optical coating, the second portion of the optical coating being disposed over the front ink coating; and The second portion of the post-ink coating is disposed above the optical coating. 4 . The electronic watch of claim 3 , wherein the set of surface features and the coating stack together create an optical effect that simulates a bevel along the rear surface of the cover member.

5. The electronic watch according to claim 3, wherein: The optical coating selectively transmits light in the visible spectrum; and The post-ink coating absorbs light transmitted by the optical coating.

6. The electronic watch according to claim 1, wherein: The cover member comprises a sapphire material; the set of surface features being formed of a transparent polymer material coupled to the sapphire material; The set of surface features comprises an array of protruding features; and The rear surface of the cover member is substantially flat.

7. An electronic device comprising: monitor; and A housing comprising a cover positioned above the display, the cover comprising: a cover member defining a transparent window portion; A first coating stack, the first coating stack comprising: a patterned transparent coating disposed over a first region of a rear surface of the cover member; a first portion of an optical coating disposed over the patterned transparent coating; and a first portion of a post-ink coating, the first portion of the post-ink coating being disposed over the first portion of the optical coating; and a second coating stack defining a boundary around the transparent window portion at the rear surface of the cover member and comprising: a front ink coating disposed over a second area of ​​the rear surface surrounded by the first area of ​​the rear surface; a second portion of the optical coating, the second portion of the optical coating being disposed over the front ink coating; and The second portion of the post-ink coating is disposed above the second portion of the optical coating.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein: The housing further includes an outer shell defining a front opening leading to the interior cavity of the housing; the cover being positioned within the front opening; The cover member defines a planar front surface; and At least a portion of the first region of the rear surface is planar and opposite the planar front surface. 9 . The electronic device of claim 8 , wherein each of the first coating stack and the second coating stack has an optical density greater than 1.

10. The electronic device according to claim 8, wherein: The optical coating comprises a plurality of dielectric layers; A first layer of the plurality of dielectric layers has a refractive index less than a refractive index of the cover member; and A second layer of the plurality of dielectric layers has a refractive index greater than the refractive index of the cover member.

11. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: The optical coating extends over a side surface of the cover member; and The optical coating is configured to produce destructive interference for at least some wavelengths of visible light.

12. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein: The patterned transparent coating defines an array of cylindrical protrusions; and An average height of the cylindrical protrusions of the cylindrical protrusion array is smaller than an average spacing between adjacent cylindrical protrusions of the cylindrical protrusion array.

13. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein: The patterned transparent coating defines a set of protruding features; and An area density of protruding features in the set of protruding features varies across the first region and is greater near a corner between the rear and side surfaces of the cover member.

14. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the patterned transparent coating and the cover member are index matched.

15. An electronic device, comprising: monitor; a housing at least partially surrounding the display; and a cover coupled to the housing and comprising: a transparent cover member defining a central portion positioned over an active area of ​​the display and a peripheral portion surrounding the central portion; and an optical assembly located at the peripheral portion of the transparent cover member and comprising: a set of surface features formed along a rear surface of the transparent cover member; a first ink coating layer defining a boundary around the active area of ​​the display and disposed over the rear surface, the first ink coating layer being at least partially surrounded by the set of surface features; an optical coating disposed over the first ink coating, the set of surface features, and along at least a portion of a side surface of the transparent cover member; and A second ink coating layer is disposed over a portion of the optical coating layer.

16. The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein: The front surface of the cover defines a first portion of the front surface of the electronic device; The housing defines an interior flange and a second portion of a front surface of the electronic device; and The optical assembly also includes a varnish coating disposed over the second ink coating and the varnish coating is coupled to the inner flange of the housing.

17. The electronic device according to claim 16, wherein: The optical coating defines an optical filter that selectively reflects light in the visible spectrum; and The optical assembly hides an inactive area of ​​the display and the inner flange from view. 18 . The electronic device according to claim 17 , wherein the peripheral portion of the cover appears to have a depth smaller than a depth of the central portion.

19. The electronic device of claim 15, wherein the set of surface features comprises transparent protruding features deposited on the transparent cover member.

20. The electronic device of claim 15 wherein the set of surface features comprises depressions formed into the transparent cover member.

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