Computing device

Abstract

A computing device may include a processor; a memory accessible by the processor; a display housing including a display operably coupled to the processor; a base housing including a base side, a top side, a front edge, a rear edge, a left edge, and a right edge; a hinge assembly coupling the base housing and the display housing; and a strip mountable to the base side of the base housing, where the strip includes one or more legs and an adjustable port end, the adjustable port end including one or more ports.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter disclosed herein relates generally to techniques for computing devices. Background Art

[0002] The computing device may include two parts that may be coupled via a hinge assembly, where, for example, the two parts may include a base portion and a display portion that may be rotatable via the hinge assembly. In such an example, the computing device may be a clamshell computing device that can be transformed from a closed position to an open position. The computing device may include, for example, one or more ports for data, power, or power and data. Summary of the invention

[0003] The computing device may include: a processor; a memory accessible by the processor; a display housing including a display operably coupled to the processor; a base housing including a base side, a top side, a front edge, a rear edge, a left edge, and a right edge; a hinge assembly coupling the base housing and the display housing; and a bar mountable to the base side of the base housing, wherein the bar includes one or more feet and an adjustable port end, the adjustable port end including one or more ports. Various other devices, systems, methods, etc. are also disclosed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] Features and advantages of the described implementations may be more readily understood by reference to the following description taken by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0005] Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C is a diagram of an example of a computing device;

[0006] Figure 2A and Figure 2B is a perspective diagram of an example of a computing device;

[0007] Figure 3A and Figure 3B is a side view of an example of a computing device;

[0008] Figure 4A and Figure 4B is a perspective view of an example of a bar that may be mounted to a computing device;

[0009] Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C is a plan view of an example of a portion of a computing device;

[0010] Fig. 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C and Fig.6Dare diagrams of various examples of components of a computing device;

[0011] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an example of a bar that may be mounted to a computing device; and

[0012] Figure 8 is a diagram of an example of a system that includes one or more processors. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] The following description includes the best mode currently expected to be used to practice the described implementation. This description should not be considered restrictive, but is made only for the purpose of describing the overall principles of various implementations. The scope of the present invention should be determined with reference to the disclosed claims.

[0014] Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C An example of a computing device 100 (e.g., a computing system) is shown that includes a base housing 120 and a display housing 140 that are pivotable relative to each other via movement about one or more hinge assemblies 130. The computing device 100 may be a system such as, for example, a computing system (e.g., an information handling device, an information processing system, etc.).

[0015] As an example, computing device 100 may include one or more processors 112, memory 114 (e.g., one or more storage devices), one or more network interfaces (NIs) 116, and one or more power cells 118. Such components may be housed, for example, within base housing 120, within display housing 140, or within both base housing 120 and display housing 140.

[0016] As shown, the base housing 120 includes a base side 121, a top side 123, a front edge 122, a rear edge 124, a right edge 126, and a left edge 128, where the left and right can be defined by the left and right hands of the user when the front edge 122 is closest to the user. As shown, the display housing 140 includes a rear side 141, a display side 143, a front edge 142, a rear edge 144, a right edge 146, and a left edge 148, where the left and right can be defined by the left and right hands of the user when the front edge 122 of the base housing 120 is closest to the user. As shown, the display housing 140 can include a front edge unit 190 that can be used for one or more purposes.

[0017] Figure 1AA Cartesian coordinate system is shown having an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis, which can be used to define x, y, and z coordinates of various features of computing device 100. As shown, various widths can be defined via the x-axis, various depths can be defined via the y-axis, and various thicknesses and / or heights can be defined via the z-axis. As shown, computing device 100 can include a width dx, a depth dy, and a thickness dz.

[0018] As an example, the computing device 100 can be defined using two or more coordinate systems, for example, consider a first coordinate system that can be used to define the base housing 120 and a second coordinate system that can be used to define the display housing 140. In such an example, the first Cartesian coordinate system can have a width along the x-axis (x1), a depth along the y-axis (y1), and a height or thickness extending outward along the z-axis (z1) in a direction away from the top side 123 of the base housing 120, where the top side 123 can be a keyboard side of a keyboard with keys (e.g., consider a QWERTY keyboard). As for the second Cartesian coordinate system, it can be used to define the display housing 140 and includes a width along the x-axis (x2), a depth along the y-axis (y2), and a height or thickness extending outward along the z-axis (z2) in a direction away from the display side 143 of the display housing 140. As an example, the coordinate system can be right-handed or left-handed. Although various Cartesian coordinate systems are mentioned, cylindrical coordinate systems or other types of coordinate systems may be used, for example, consider a cylindrical coordinate system having a longitudinal axis aligned with the pivot axis of the hinge assembly 130, noting that the hinge assembly may include multiple pivot axes (e.g., consider a two-axis hinge).

[0019] like Figure 1B As shown, the display housing 140 can be pivoted relative to the base housing 120 via one or more hinge assemblies 130, so that there is an angle φ between the base housing 120 and the display housing 140. As shown, the opening angle of the display housing 140 relative to the base housing 120 can be greater than 0 degrees and at least 110 degrees. As an example, the opening angle can be as large as 180 degrees or more. As an example, the angle φ can be an azimuth coordinate of a cylindrical coordinate system, wherein the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical coordinate system coincides with the pivot axis of the one or more hinge assemblies.

[0020] As shown, the computing device 100 may include a bar 200 mountable to the base side 121 of the base housing 120, wherein the bar 200 includes one or more feet and an adjustable port end 216, the adjustable port end 216 including one or more ports 222 and 224. As an example, the adjustable port end 216 may be part of a translatable unit 210 that may be translated generally in the direction of the pivot axis of the hinge assembly 130. As shown, the translatable unit 210 may include a base side 211, a front side 212, and a rear side 214.

[0021] like Figure 1A As shown, the strip portion 200 may be installed at a distance dy1 from the front edge 122 of the base housing 120 and at a distance dy2 from the rear edge 124 of the base housing 120. Figure 1C As shown, the strip 200 may have a depth dyb between the front side 202 and the back side 204, and the depth dyb may be sufficient to accommodate one or more of the one or more ports 222 and 224. Figure 1C As shown, the strip 200 can have a thickness dzb, which can be sufficient to accommodate one or more of the one or more ports 222 and 224. As shown, the base housing 120 can include a thickness dz2, and the display housing 140 can include a thickness dz4, where, for example, dzb can be greater than dz2, and dz2 can be greater than dz4. For example, consider dzb>dz2>dz4.

[0022] like Figure 1BAs shown, the strip 200 can provide a gap relative to the display housing 140. For example, the strip 200 can be displaced from the rear edge 124 of the base housing 120 by a distance dy2, wherein the strip 200 is configured to raise the rear edge 124 from the support surface by a certain distance (see, for example, dz2 and dzb), wherein, by raising the rear edge 124, the display housing 140 can be rotated around the rotation axis 131 (which can be a hinge assembly axis) so that when the display housing 140 is rotated from about 0 degrees (e.g., a closed clamshell) to about 180 degrees (e.g., an open flat clamshell), the rear edge 144 of the display housing 140 does not contact the support surface. As an example, one or more hinge assemblies 130 can include one or more shafts and one or more holes or bushings. For example, the display housing 140 can include a portion of a hinge assembly, which can include a hole or bushing 133 that can define the rotation axis 131. As an example, the base housing 120 may include one or more shafts that can be accommodated by such a hole or bushing 133, noting that more than one hole or bushing may be included as part or parts of one or more hinge assemblies 130, which may be part of the display housing 140 (e.g., integral with and / or coupled to the display housing 140).

[0023] In various examples, the thickness of the computing device can be the sum of the thickness of the keyboard housing and the thickness of the display housing. Typically, the display housing can have a thickness less than the thickness of the keyboard housing. In such a method, various types of components can be accommodated in the keyboard housing, wherein the volume and mass of the keyboard housing exceed the volume and mass of the display housing. In such a method, when the display housing is positioned at an open angle, the keyboard housing can help stabilize the computing device. For example, at an open angle of about 110 degrees of the display housing relative to the keyboard housing, the mass of the keyboard housing can be sufficient to prevent the computing device from tilting backwards.

[0024] Whether the computing device is stable at a particular opening angle may depend on various factors. For example, consider the center of mass of the base housing 120 and / or the angle at which the base housing 120 is supported on a support surface (e.g., a tabletop, a desktop, a work surface, etc.), which may be substantially horizontal. In such an example, when the display housing 140 is opened relative to the base housing 120, an increase in the angle in which the rear edge 124 is higher than the front edge 122 can provide increased stability. Although an option may be to move the center of mass of the base housing 120 toward the front edge 122 to create a longer lever arm to counteract the torque caused by the gravity of the opened display housing 140, such an approach may make the computing device 100 relatively unbalanced when carried by a user. For example, when the computing device 100 is in a closed position (e.g., an angle φ of approximately 0 degrees), the user may wish to carry the computing device 100 by holding the rear edge 124 of the base housing 120 and the rear edge 144 of the display housing 140 with his hands. In such an example, when the center of mass is closer to rear edges 124 and 144 (eg, the center of mass of base housing 120 is closer to rear edge 124 than to front edge 122 ), computing device 100 may be more stable in the hand of a user.

[0025] As an example, strip 200 may be removably or integrally mounted to base housing 120, whereby the mass of strip 200 moves the center of mass of base housing 120 (e.g., together with strip 200) toward rear edge 124. Additionally, strip 200 may function as a finger grip that may further stabilize computing device 100 when held in a user's hand (e.g., cupped within the hand with rear edges 124 and 144 resting in the palm and / or in multiple fingers near the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints of the hand).

[0026] As an example, when the computing device 100 is positioned on a support surface (e.g., a horizontal support surface, etc.), the strip 200 can be configured to raise the base housing 120 near the rear edge 124 of the base housing 120. As an example, the strip 200 can provide multiple functions that can make the computing device 100 more stable when positioned on a support surface and / or when carried in the user's hand. As an example, including the strip 200 can allow the base housing 120 to be thinner along one or more portions, which can help to reduce the mass of the computing device 100 as a whole. As an example, the base housing 120 can have approximately the same thickness as the display housing 140 at one or more locations along the y coordinate. For example, consider that the two housings 120 and 140 have approximately the same thickness along the distance dy1. In such an example, the thicknesses can be within about 20% of each other, about 15% of each other, about 10% of each other, about 5% of each other, about 1% of each other, etc.

[0027] like Figure 1C As shown, one or more ports 222 and 224 may include one or more serial ports. For example, consider one or more USB type ports. As shown, port 222 may be a USB-C type port, and port 224 may be a different type of serial port, which may be a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) port or an Ethernet port (e.g., RJ45, etc.); note that one or more other USB type ports (e.g., USB-A, USB-B, USB-mini, USB-micro, etc.) may be utilized. Both the HDMI port and the DisplayPort, which may be included as a type of port, are serial interfaces for transmitting at least digital video; note that analog interfaces (e.g., VGA, S-video, RGB, etc.) may be included as types of ports.

[0028] As an example, the thickness of the base housing 120 along the display distance dy1 can be less than the thickness of one or more types of serial ports. For example, a plug or male HDMI connector (e.g., type A) can have an outer dimension of 1.39 cm×0.445 cm, while a female port can have an inner dimension of 1.4 cm×0.455 cm.

[0029] As another example, consider a USB-A type connector that may be specified as having a length of 1.4 cm and a height of 0.65 cm. Thus, a port (e.g., a receptacle) may be expected to have a height greater than 0.65 cm. Figure 1C In the example of FIG. 1 , the height dzb of the strip portion 200 may be greater than about 0.85 cm to accommodate the port, which may be a USB-A type port that can accommodate a USB-A type connector.

[0030] Regarding a USB-C type port or receptacle, it may be approximately 0.84 cm wide, approximately 0.26 cm high, and approximately 0.665 cm deep. As an example, a USB-C type connector may be usable in one of two orientations (e.g., a symmetrical connector); however, a USB-A type connector may be usable in a single orientation (e.g., an asymmetrical connector). As mentioned, port 222 may be a USB-C port, which may have a thickness of approximately 0.26 cm.

[0031] As an example, the base housing 120 can be made thinner along other portions by locating one or more ports in the strip 200. As an example, the strip 200 can be customized via selection of the translatable unit 210 from a variety of translatable units and / or can be selected from one or more types of strips having different features, which can include different ports, arrangements of ports, etc.

[0032] As an example, the strip 200 may be configured to accommodate one or more types of features that may include circuit systems, which may include battery circuit systems (e.g., one or more batteries as a type of circuit system) and / or other circuit systems. As described, the strip 200 may be configured to be used for input and / or output (I / O) of the computing device 100. As described, such an approach may allow I / O not to be included on the side edges of the base housing 120, so that the base housing 120 may be made thinner along various portions. As an example, the strip 200 may be configured to be used for the arrangement of the mass of various components distributed in an improved manner for one or more purposes. As an example, the strip 200 may have a height that can accommodate various types of I / O (e.g., ports, etc.). As an example, the strip 200 may be configured to accommodate a motherboard of the computing device 100 and / or a daughterboard of the computing device 100. As described, the translatable unit 210 may be selected from a group of different translatable units having one or more different features. As an example, the translatable unit 210 may be a type of dongle that may include, for example, one or more security features (e.g., security keys, security circuitry, etc.). As an example, the translatable unit 210 may include one or more memory components and / or ports for one or more memory components (e.g., an SD card port, etc.).

[0033] As illustrated, the computing device 100 may include: one or more processors 112, a memory 114 (e.g., as accessible by at least one of the one or more processors 112); a display housing 140, which includes a display (e.g., a display circuit system operably coupled to at least one of the one or more processors 112); a base housing 120, which includes a base side 121, a top side 123, a front edge 122, a rear edge 124, a left edge 128, and a right edge 126; a hinge assembly 130, which couples the base housing 120 and the display housing 140; and a strip 200, which may be mounted to the base side 121 of the base housing 120, wherein the strip 200 may include one or more feet and an adjustable port end 206, wherein the adjustable port end 206 includes one or more ports 222 and 224, which may be one or more types of ports.

[0034] Figure 2A and Figure 2B FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a computing device 100 including a bar 200. As shown, the bar 200 extends from the rear side 121 of the base housing 120 of the computing device 100. Figure 2B , the strip 200 is shown to include a base side 201, a front side 202, a rear side 204, an insertion end 206, an opposite end 208, and one or more legs 207-1 and 207-2. As illustrated, the strip 200 can include and / or can removably accommodate a translatable unit 210, the translatable unit 210 including a front side 212, a rear side 214, and a base side 211. For example, the insertion end 206 of the strip 200 can include one or more features for accommodating the translatable unit 210, the translatable unit 210 can provide one or more ports 222 and 224. In Figure 2B In the example of, one or more legs 207-1 and 207-2 may include one or more legs positioned proximate to the insertion end 206. For example, consider one or more legs that may be positioned at or within approximately 3 cm of the insertion end 206. Figure 2B In an example of the present invention, one or more of the feet 207-1 and 207-2 can be positioned at a substantially common distance from the edge of the base housing 120, which can provide a more balanced support of the base housing 120. For example, the substantially common distance can be measured from the left side of the corresponding left foot and the right side of the corresponding right foot. With respect to the substantially common distance, these distances can be within plus or minus 15% of each other.

[0035] exist Figure 2B In the example of FIG. 1 , the translatable unit 210 having the adjustable port end 216 is shown as a right feature, while the opposite end 208 of the strip 200 is shown as a left feature. As an example, the strip can include a right adjustable port end and / or a left adjustable port end.

[0036] As an example, the back side 121 may include various features 127 and 129 that may provide one or more of mechanical strength, improved grip, support, and enhanced heat transfer. For example, the back side 121 of the base shell 120 may include one or more ribs or other structural features that may provide one or more of mechanical strength, improved grip, support, and enhanced heat transfer. For example, the back side 121 may include a plurality of ribs extending along the width direction and / or along the length direction. As an example, one or more forward-most ribs may be designed for support, for example, as one or more feet for supporting the base shell 120 on a support surface.

[0037] like Figure 2B As shown, feature 129 can be the front-most feature, which can act as one or more feet for supporting the base housing 120 on the support surface. As an example, the base housing 120 can be supported on the support surface via one or more feet 207-1 and 207-2 and feature 129. As illustrated, the strip 200 can have a thickness greater than the thickness of the base housing 120. In such an approach, when positioned on the support surface, the base housing 120 can be arranged at an angle where the distance the rear edge 124 is raised is greater than the distance the front edge 122 is raised. As illustrated, when the display housing 140 is in an open position at an open angle, such an angle can help stabilize the computing device 100. And, for example, the angle can provide improved ergonomics for utilizing one or more features of the base housing 120 by one or more hands of a user (e.g., considering a touchpad, keyboard, etc. using the base housing 120).

[0038] As an example, the strip 200 can be removably mounted to the base housing 120 of the computing device 100. For example, the base housing 120 can include a latch 180, which can be a tool-free manually operable latch, or a tool-based latch, for example, where a tool such as a pin, a screwdriver, a wrench, etc. can be used to release the latch 180 and / or actuate the latch 180. Figure 2B In the example of FIG. 1 , the latch 180 is positioned proximate the front side 202 of the strip 200 , for example, approximately midway between the right edge 126 and the right edge 128 of the base housing 120 ; note that the latch 180 may be located at other locations.

[0039] As illustrated, the display housing 140 may include a front edge unit 190 that may be used for one or more purposes. For example, the unit 190 may be used as a finger grip for opening the computing device 100 to position the display housing 140 at a desired opening angle relative to the base housing 120. As an example, the unit 190 may include one or more media-related features, such as, for example, one or more cameras (e.g., front-facing and / or rear-facing), one or more microphones, one or more lights (e.g., a flash, a video light, etc.), and the like. In such an approach, the thickness of the display housing 140 may be made thinner because various components may be at least partially housed in the unit 190, which may provide a greater thickness for the display housing 140 within the range of the unit 190 (e.g., consider a greater thickness of 105% to 200% for the dz4). Referring to Figure 1BIn an example of a base housing 120, the unit 190 may have a thickness configured to support the display housing 140 in a generally horizontal position when the display housing 140 is opened to approximately 180 degrees relative to the base housing 120 (e.g., note that the base housing 120 may be slightly tilted downward from the rear edge 124 to the front edge 122). In such an example, the unit 190 may operate as a foot and / or bumper that may protect the display housing 140. As an example, the surface of the unit 190 may be made of a material that provides shock absorption, anti-skid, etc. For example, the unit 190 may be at least partially made of an elastomeric material (e.g., a polymer, etc.), which may provide one or more of shock absorption, finger grips, anti-skid on the support surface, etc.

[0040] Figure 3A and Figure 3B An example of a computing device 100 is shown, wherein the bar 200 includes an adjustable port end 216 as the right end and an end 208 as the left end of the bar 200 as another port end 208. As shown, the computing device 100 can be arranged on a support surface at an angle via feature 129 and one or more legs 207-1 and 207-2. For example, an angle in the range of about 0.5 degrees to about 5 degrees is considered. As mentioned, in the open position of about 180 degrees of the display housing 140, the base housing 120 may be slightly tilted downward (e.g., in the range of about 0.5 degrees to about 5 degrees). As shown, the height of one or more legs 207-1 and 207-2 can provide a gap between the bar 200 and the support surface. In such a method, the bar 200 may not contact the support surface and therefore will not be damaged (e.g., worn, scratched, etc.) by the support surface. In such an approach, the height of the features 129 can be sufficient to help ensure that clearances (e.g., gaps) are provided at or near the corners of the front side 202 and the base side 201 of the strip 200. Similarly, clearances (e.g., gaps) can be provided to move the translatable unit 210 while the base housing 120 is supported on a support surface. For example, if the corners at the front side 212 and the base side 211 of the translatable unit 210 contact the support surface, such contact may impede movement and / or cause wear (e.g., damage) to the translatable unit 210.

[0041] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3BIn the embodiment of the present invention, the strip portion 200 and the unit 210 may have a cross-sectional profile including one or more straight portions and / or one or more curved portions. As an example, the cross section may be substantially rectangular, circular, elliptical, etc. As an example, the cross section may be a portion of a circle, a portion of an ellipse, etc. For example, consider a semicircular cross section, a semi-elliptical cross section, etc. As an example, the cross section may be defined by one or more dimensions that can accommodate at least one port, wherein, for example, multiple ports (if present) may be aligned (e.g., side by side) along one of these dimensions. Depending on the cross-sectional shape and one or more dimensions, multiple ports (if present) may be stacked and / or side by side. For example, consider a semicircular cross-sectional profile in which a smaller port (e.g., USB-C) is located at the bottom and a larger port (e.g., HDMI) is stacked above the smaller port.

[0042] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B , front edge unit 190 is shown extending outwardly and rearwardly from rear side 141 of display housing 140, and is shown extending forwardly and outwardly from front edge 142 of display housing 140. As illustrated, unit 190 can provide a finger grip, which can facilitate opening of display housing 140 of computing device 100. Also, as illustrated, one or more components can be at least partially housed in unit 190.

[0043] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A perspective view of the bar portion 200 translating relative to the translatable unit 210 is shown, and the translatable unit 210 can translate outward and inward, for example, a distance dxb2, wherein when fully translated inward, the bar portion 200 can have a width of dxb. Therefore, the bar portion 200 with the translatable unit 210 can have a width of dxb to dxb plus dxb2.

[0044] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A plan view of a portion of an example of a computing device 100 having a bar 200 translated relative to a translatable unit 210, wherein a connector 510 is inserted into one of the one or more ports 222 and 224, and Figure 5C A portion of an example of computing device 100 is shown without bar 200 , noting that one or more interfaces may be present as part of computing device 100 to operably couple circuitry of bar 200 and circuitry of base housing 120 .

[0045] As an example, due to space limitations, the connector may have a thickness that does not allow the connector to move inwardly with the translatable unit 210. As an example, the connector may have a thickness that allows the connector to move inwardly with the translatable unit 210. For example, an HDMI video connector may be relatively thick (e.g., due to overmolding support, etc.) and require that the translatable unit 210 be in an extended position so that there is space to accommodate the HDMI video connector; however, for example, a USB-C type connector may be thinner and accommodated by a port of the translatable unit 210 in either the extended position or the retracted position.

[0046] like Figure 5C As shown, the base housing 120 may include a recess 125 that can accommodate at least a portion of the strip 200, wherein the recess 125 may include, for example, an interface 185 near the latch 180. As an example, the interface 185 may be an electrical contact interface that may utilize one or more features, such as a spring-loaded contact (e.g., a pogo pin, etc.). As an example, the interface 185 may be actuated via the position of the latch 180, such that, for example, the interface 185 makes electrical contact with an interface of the strip 200 depending on the position of the latch 180 (e.g., consider an electrical contact interface, etc.).

[0047] Fig. 6A A series of illustrations of a computing device 100 are shown with a bar 200 and without a translatable unit 210 (left), with the translatable unit 210 in an extended position (center), and with the translatable unit 210 in a retracted position (right). As shown, in the extended position, the adjustable port end 216 can be substantially flush with the right edge 126 of the base housing 120; however, in the retracted position, the adjustable port end 216 is recessed a distance from the right edge 126 of the base housing 120. Fig. 6A As shown, without the translatable unit 210, the end 206 of the strip 200 may include one or more connection features 209-1 and 209-2 that may provide one or more of power and data on a port-by-port or other basis relative to one or more ports 222 and 224 of the translatable unit 210. As an example, a multiplexer circuit system may be provided where, for example, a single connection feature may be operable to service multiple ports.

[0048] As an example, in the extended position, the translatable unit 210 can provide space for accommodating an HDMI connector and / or a USB-A type connector, each of which can have a surrounding housing (e.g., molded plastic, etc.) that secures the electronic components of such types of connectors. As an example, the surrounding housing can be an overmold type of surrounding material that effectively increases one or more dimensions of at least a portion of the connector. In such an example, the translatable unit can be configured to translate outward in a manner that provides space to accommodate the overmold of the connector.

[0049] Figure 6B A perspective view is shown as an example of a translatable unit 210 including one or more connection features 219-1 and 219-2 that may mate with one or more connection features 209-1 and 209-2 of strip 200. As an example, the connection features may be USB-C type features.

[0050] Figure 6C and Fig.6D A perspective view of an example of a translatable unit 210 is shown, which may include one or more ports 222 and 224, which may be of one or more types, one or more combinations, etc. For example, in Figure 6C , port 222 is shown as a USB-C type port and port 224 is shown as an HDMI type port, while in Fig.6D , port 222 is shown as a cylindrical pin port (eg, an audio port, a power port, etc.) and port 224 is shown as a USB-A type port.

[0051] Figure 7A perspective view of a strip 200 is shown having various features such as, for example, one or more vents 250-1, 250-2, ..., 250-N, one or more components 270-1, 270-2, ..., 270-N, an interface and / or a latch component 285. As an example, the one or more vents 250-1, 250-2, ..., 250-N can provide heat transfer (e.g., cooling). With respect to one or more components 270-1, 270-2, ..., 270-N, these components may include one or more of the following: one or more processors 710, memory 712, one or more batteries 714, one or more fans 716, wireless circuitry 718, stylus 720 (e.g., removably disposed), trusted platform module (TPM) 722, driver 724, AC / DC circuitry 728, one or more GPUs, one or more display converters 732, one or more magnets 734, one or more pogo pin interfaces 738, one or more intermediate connectors, and / or one or more other components 744. As an example, Figure 7 One or more of the components or features in the examples may be present in the strip and / or may be present in a unit that may be coupled to the strip. For example, a unit may include one or more processors (e.g., CPU, GPU, etc.), memory, one or more batteries, one or more fans, wireless circuitry, TPM, conversion circuitry, etc. As an example, a computing device may be customizable via one or more strips and / or one or more units that may be attached to one or more of the strips.

[0052] As an example, the wireless circuitry may include one or more types of wireless circuitry, such as, for example, cellular circuitry, satellite circuitry, WiFi circuitry, Bluetooth circuitry, etc. As an example, the strip and / or a unit that may be coupled to the strip may include one or more subscriber features, such as, for example, cellular, satellite, etc., subscriber features (e.g., consider a SIM card, etc.).

[0053] As an example, the strip can include features for coupling to multiple units, which can be at opposite ends of the strip and / or stacked at one end of the strip. With respect to the latter, consider a unit that can be coupled to the strip on one side and can accommodate another unit on another opposite side (e.g., consider USB-C type port / connector coupling, etc.). In such an example, the additional unit can extend outward from the side edge of the computing device and / or one or more of the strips and / or units can be configured for translation so that the end of the additional unit can move inward and / or outward, optionally moving inward to be flush and / or recessed from the edge of the computing device.

[0054] As an example, the interface and / or latch component 285 can be configured to interact with the latch 180 of the base housing 120 and / or the interface 185 of the base housing 120. As an example, the latch 180 can be configured to secure the strip 200 in the recess 125 of the base housing 120 and, for example, operably couple the circuit system of the strip 200 and the circuit system of the base housing 120.

[0055] With respect to the one or more magnets 734, considering, for example, a computing device including a base housing and a bar portion, one or more magnets may be used to couple the base housing and the bar portion via magnetic attraction. As an example, the bar portion and the adjustable port end may include one or more magnets. For example, consider a bar portion having an adjustable port end that may be translatable and / or removably attached, wherein the translation, attachment, and / or separation may be facilitated by one or more magnetic forces that may include one or more of attractive and repulsive forces. As an example, the removably attached adjustable port end may include one or more magnets and / or one or more ferromagnetic materials that may generate a magnetic attraction with the end of the bar portion that includes the one or more ferromagnetic materials and / or the one or more magnets.

[0056] As an example, a computing device may include: a processor; a memory accessible by the processor; a display housing including a display operably coupled to the processor; a base housing including a base side, a top side, a front edge, a rear edge, a left edge, and a right edge; a hinge assembly coupling the base housing and the display housing; and a bar portion mountable to the base side of the base housing, wherein the bar portion includes one or more legs and an adjustable port end, the adjustable port end including one or more ports. In such an example, the adjustable port end is slidably adjustable in a direction toward and away from one of the left edge and the right edge of the base housing.

[0057] As an example, the adjustable port end may be slidably adjusted a distance less than 6 cm and greater than 0.2 cm.

[0058] As an example, the adjustable port end is slidably adjustable from a flush position flush with one of the left and right edges of the base housing to a recessed position recessed from the one of the left and right edges of the base housing.

[0059] As an example, the adjustable port end can be footless (eg, without feet). In such an example, the adjustable port end can be movable without contacting a support surface on which the computing device is positioned.

[0060] As an example, an adjustable port end as a unit can be adjusted alternately with a different adjustable port end as another different unit. For example, consider a unit selected from a plurality of different units, wherein a user can select one of the units to customize a computing device, such as with respect to one or more ports and / or one or more other features. As an example, an adjustable port end as a unit can include one or more concave features and / or one or more convex features. In such an example, one end of the unit is considered to include at least one convex feature in a socket (e.g., a port) that can be inserted into a bar, and the opposite end is considered to include at least one concave feature of a socket (e.g., a port) that can be a connector. In such an example, one or more of data and / or power can be sent from one end of the unit to the other end, wherein, for example, the unit can include a circuit system that changes data and / or power and / or does not change data and / or power. As an example, a unit can include a circuit system that receives data and / or power according to one standard and sends data and / or power according to another standard (e.g., HDMI to other standards, DisplayPort to other standards, Ethernet to other standards, etc.).

[0061] As an example, the strip can include a fixed end opposite the adjustable port end, where, for example, the fixed end can include one or more ports. As an example, the fixed end can be substantially flush with one of the right edge and the left edge of the base housing. With respect to substantially flush, the fixed end can be within about 1 cm of the edge, or, for example, within about 0.5 cm of the edge.

[0062] As an example, a processor can be disposed in a cavity of a strip. For example, a processor of a computing device can be disposed in a strip that can be removable from a base housing of the computing device via one or more mechanisms (e.g., mechanical latches, magnetic attraction, etc.). In such an example, the computing device can be customized by selecting a strip from a plurality of different strips having different processors and / or different numbers of processors.

[0063] As an example, the strip may include at least one vent. In such an example, the vent may provide heat transfer, for example, via the flow of air. In such an example, the flow of air may be carried out via natural convection and / or via an air mover such as, for example, one or more fans.

[0064] As an example, the computing device may include at least one magnet, wherein the strip is mounted to a base housing of the computing device via magnetic attraction.

[0065] As an example, a computing device may include an interface including a base housing portion and a strip portion, the base housing portion and the strip portion electrically coupling the circuitry of the strip to the circuitry of the base housing. In such an example, the interface may be or include an electrical contact interface and / or the interface may be or include a wireless interface.

[0066] As an example, a computing device may include one or more batteries. As an example, a base housing of a computing device may include a base housing battery, and the strip may include a strip battery, which may be within the strip and / or via a removable component of the strip, which may be removable from an end of the strip and may include one or more ports. In such an example, the removable component may be a unit that can be charged via one or more ports. As an example, such a unit may be removable and may be used to power one or more other devices (e.g., consider an auxiliary battery for a cellular phone, etc.).

[0067] As an example, the strip can be selected from a plurality of different strips. In such an example, each of the plurality of different strips can include a different circuit system (eg, a different at least one type of circuit system).

[0068] As an example, the strip portion may include: at least one intermediate serial bus connector that is inaccessibly covered when connected to the adjustable port end (e.g., as a unit). As described, the adjustable port end may be a unit that is attachable and detachable from the strip portion that is mounted to the computing system. As described, the strip portion may include a fixed end and an adjustable port end, the fixed end may include one or more ports, the adjustable port end may include one or more ports, or the strip portion may include, for example, two adjustable port ends, each of which includes one or more ports. As described, the adjustable port end may be the end of a unit that is removably attached to the strip portion and / or otherwise translatable relative to the strip portion.

[0069] As an example, a computer program product may include instructions to instruct a computing device, a computing system, etc. to perform one or more methods.

[0070] The term "circuit" or "circuitry" is used in the Summary of the Invention, the Detailed Description and / or the Claims. As is known in the art, the term "circuitry" includes all levels of available integration (e.g., from discrete logic circuits to the highest level of circuit integration, such as VLSI, and including programmable logic components programmed to perform the functions of the implementation and general or special processors programmed to have instructions to perform these functions), all levels of available integration include at least one physical component, such as at least one hardware. The processor can be a circuit system. The memory can be a circuit system. The circuit system can be based on a processor, accessible to a processor, operably coupled to a processor, etc. The circuit system can optionally rely on one or more computer-readable media including computer-executable instructions. As described herein, a computer-readable medium can be a storage device (e.g., a memory chip, a memory card, a storage disk, etc.) and is referred to as a computer-readable storage medium, which is non-transient, rather than a signal or carrier.

[0071] Although various examples of circuits or circuit systems have been discussed, Figure 8 A block diagram of an illustrative computer system 800 is depicted. System 800 may be a computer system such as the Lenovo(USA) sold by Lenovo Corporation of Morrisville, North Carolina. or A series of personal computers, or a workstation computer system such as the Lenovo (USA) sold by the company Morrisville, North Carolina However, as apparent from the description herein, a system or other machine may include other features or only some of the features of system 800.

[0072] like Figure 8 As shown, system 800 includes a so-called chipset 810. A chipset refers to a group of integrated circuits or chips that are designed (e.g., configured) to work together. Chipsets are typically sold on the market as a single product (e.g., consider the etc.).

[0073] exist Figure 8 In the example of , the chipset 810 has a specific architecture, which may vary to some extent depending on the brand or manufacturer. The architecture of the chipset 810 includes a core and a memory control group 820 and an I / O controller hub 850 that exchange information (e.g., data, signals, commands, etc.) via, for example, a direct management interface or direct media interface (DMI) 842 or a link controller 844. Figure 8 In the example shown, DMI 842 is a chip-to-chip interface (sometimes referred to as the link between a "north bridge" and a "south bridge").

[0074] The core and memory control group 820 includes one or more processors 822 (e.g., single-core or multi-core processors) and a memory controller hub 826 that exchange information via a front-side bus (FSB) 824. As described herein, various components of the core and memory control group 820 can be integrated onto a single processor die, for example, to create a chip that replaces a conventional "North Bridge" style architecture.

[0075] The memory controller hub 826 interfaces with the memory 840. For example, the memory controller hub 826 can provide support for DDR SDRAM memory (e.g., DDR, DDR2, DDR3, etc.). Typically, the memory 840 is a random access memory (RAM) type. It is often referred to as "system memory."

[0076] The memory controller hub 826 also includes a low voltage differential signaling interface (LVDS) 832. The LVDS 832 may be a so-called LVDS display interface (LDI) for supporting a display device 892 (e.g., a CRT, a flat panel, a projector, etc.). Box 838 includes some examples of technologies that may be supported via the LVDS interface 832 (e.g., serial digital video, HDMI / DVI, display port). The memory controller hub 826 also includes, for example, one or more PCI-express interfaces (PCI-E) 834 for supporting a discrete graphics card 836. Dedicated graphics cards using a PCI-E interface have become an alternative to accelerated graphics port (AGP). For example, the memory controller hub 826 may include a 16-channel (x16) PCI-E port for an external PCI-E-based graphics card. The system may include AGP or PCI-E for supporting a graphics card. As described herein, the display may be a sensor display (e.g., configured to receive input using a stylus, finger, etc.). As described herein, a sensor display may rely on resistive sensing, optical sensing, or other types of sensing.

[0077] The I / O hub controller 850 includes various interfaces. Figure 8Examples include a SATA interface 851, one or more PCI-E interfaces 852 (optionally one or more legacy PCI interfaces), one or more USB interfaces 853, a LAN interface 854 (more generally a network interface), a general purpose I / O interface (GPIO) 855, a low pin count (LPC) interface 870, a power management interface 861, a clock generator interface 862, an audio interface 863 (e.g., for a speaker 894), a total operating cost (TCO) interface 864, a system management bus interface (e.g., a multi-master serial computer bus interface) 865, and a serial peripheral flash memory / controller interface (SPI flash memory) 866, which is shown in FIG. Figure 8 Examples include BIOS 868 and boot code 890. Regarding network connectivity, the I / O hub controller 850 may include integrated Gigabit Ethernet controller circuitry multiplexed with the PCI-E interface port. Other network features may operate independently of the PCI-E interface.

[0078] The interfaces of the I / O hub controller 850 are configured for communication with various devices, networks, and the like. For example, the SATA interface 851 is configured to read, write, or read and write information on one or more drives 880 such as an HDD, an SDD, or a combination of an HDD and an SDD. The I / O hub controller 850 may also include an Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI) to support one or more drives 880. The PCI-E interface 852 allows wireless connection 882 to devices, networks, and the like. The USB interface 853 is configured for input devices 884, such as a keyboard (KB), one or more light sensors, a mouse, and various other devices (e.g., a microphone, a camera, a phone, a storage device, a media player, etc.). One or more other types of sensors may optionally rely on the USB interface 853 or another interface (e.g., I 2 C, etc.). Regarding microphones, Figure 8 The system 800 may include hardware (eg, a sound card) appropriately configured to receive sounds (eg, user voice, ambient sounds, etc.).

[0079] exist Figure 8In the example of , LPC interface 870 is provided for use with one or more ASIC 871, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 872, Super I / O 873, Firmware Hub 874, BIOS support 875, and various types of memory 876 such as ROM 877, Flash 878, and Non-Volatile RAM (NVRAM) 879. With respect to TPM 872, the module may be in the form of a chip that may be used to authenticate software and hardware devices. For example, the TPM may be capable of performing platform authentication and may be used to verify that the system seeking access is the intended system.

[0080] The system 800 may be configured to execute boot code 890 for BIOS 868, as stored in SPI flash memory 866, upon power-up, and thereafter process data under the control of one or more operating systems and application software (e.g., those stored in system memory 840). The operating system may be stored in any of a variety of locations and may be accessed, for example, according to instructions of BIOS 868. Likewise, as described herein, a satellite, base station, server, or other machine may include more than one operating system and application software. Figure 8 The system 800 has fewer or more features than those shown in the system 800. In addition, Figure 8 System 800 is shown as optionally including cellular telephone circuitry 895, which may include GSM, CDMA, etc. type circuitry configured to operate in conjunction with one or more of the other features of system 800. Figure 8 Also shown is a battery circuit system 897 that can provide one or more features associated with a battery, power, etc. (e.g., optionally to indicate one or more other components of the system 800). As an example, the SMBus can be capable of communicating via LPC (e.g., see LPC interface 870), via I 2 C interface (see for example SM / I 2 C interface 865) etc. for operation.

[0081] Although examples of methods, devices, systems, etc. have been described using language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features and acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as examples of forms of implementing the claimed methods, devices, systems, etc.

Claims

1. A computing device, comprising: processor; a memory accessible by the processor; a display housing including a display operably coupled to the processor; a base housing including a base side, a top side, a front edge, a rear edge, a left edge, and a right edge; a hinge assembly coupling the base housing and the display housing; as well as A bar portion is mountable to the base side of the base housing, wherein the bar portion includes one or more feet and an adjustable port end, the adjustable port end including one or more ports.

2. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The adjustable port end is slidably adjustable in a direction toward and away from one of the left edge and the right edge of the base housing.

3. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The adjustable port end can be slidably adjusted a distance less than 6 cm and greater than 0.2 cm.

4. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The adjustable port end is slidably adjustable from a flush position with one of the left edge and the right edge of the base housing to a recessed position recessed from the one of the left edge and the right edge of the base housing.

5. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The adjustable port end is footless.

6. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The adjustable port end can be alternatively adjusted using a different adjustable port end.

7. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The strip portion includes a fixed end opposite the adjustable port end.

8. The computing device of claim 7, wherein: The fixed end includes one or more ports.

9. The computing device of claim 7, wherein: The fixed end is substantially flush with one of the right edge and the left edge of the base housing.

10. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The processor is disposed in the cavity of the strip portion.

11. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein: The strip-shaped portion includes at least one vent.

12. The computing device of claim 1, comprising at least one magnet, wherein: The strip portion is mounted to the base housing via magnetic attraction.

13. The computing device of claim 1, comprising an interface including a base housing portion and a strip portion, the base housing portion and strip portion electrically coupling circuitry of the strip to circuitry of the base housing.

14. The computing device of claim 13, wherein: The interface comprises an electrical contact interface.

15. The computing device of claim 13, wherein: The interface comprises a wireless interface.

16. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The adjustable port end includes an end of a unit that is removably attached to the strip.

17. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The base housing includes a base housing battery, and wherein the strip includes a strip battery.

18. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The strip-shaped portion can be selected from a plurality of different strip-shaped portions.

19. The computing device of claim 18, wherein: Each of the plurality of different strips includes a different circuit system.

20. The computing device of claim 1, wherein: The strip portion includes at least one intermediate serial bus connector that is inaccessibly covered when connected to the adjustable port end.

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