Computing system

Abstract

A computing system may include: a base housing including a base side and an opposing cell recess side, the cell recess side including a cell recess; a display housing comprising a rear side and an opposing display side, the display side comprising a display; a hinge assembly coupling the base housing and the display housing; and a unit receivable in the unit recess, where the unit includes a physical keyboard side including a physical keyboard and an opposite auxiliary display side including an auxiliary display.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] A computing device may include a housing, wherein one housing is coupled to another housing via one or more hinge assemblies. For example, consider a notebook computing device, which may have a clamshell configuration of a keyboard housing and a display housing that may be closed and opened via one or more hinge assemblies. Summary of the invention

[0003] A computing system may include: a base housing including a base side and an opposite unit recess side, the unit recess side including a unit recess; a display housing including a rear side and an opposite display side, the display side including a display; a hinge assembly coupling the base housing and the display housing; and a unit receivable in the unit recess, wherein the unit includes: a physical keyboard side including a physical keyboard and an opposite auxiliary display side including an auxiliary display. 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 1 is a diagram of an example of a computing device;

[0006] Figure 2 is a diagram of an example of a computing system;

[0007] Figure 3 is a diagram of an example of a computing system;

[0008] Figure 4 is a diagram of an example of a computing system;

[0009] Figure 5 is a diagram of an example of a unit;

[0010] Figure 6 is a diagram of an example of a unit;

[0011] Figure 7 is a series of diagrams of examples of computing systems;

[0012] Figure 8 is a diagram of an example of the method;

[0013] Fig. 9 is a diagram of an example of the method;

[0014] Fig.10is a diagram of an example of the method;

[0015] Fig.11 is a diagram of an example of a unit;

[0016] Fig.12 is a diagram of an example of a method; and

[0017] Fig.13 is a diagram of an example of a system that includes one or more processors. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The following description includes the best mode currently contemplated for practicing the described implementations. This description should not be considered limiting, but is made only for the purpose of describing the general principles of various implementations. The scope of the present invention should be determined with reference to the issued claims.

[0019] Figure 1 An example of a computing device 100 (e.g., a computing system) is shown that includes a keyboard housing 120 and a display housing 140 that can pivot relative to each other via movement about one or more hinges 132-1 and 132-2 (e.g., a hinge assembly). The computing device 100 can be a system such as, for example, a computing system (e.g., an information processing device, etc.).

[0020] As an example, computing device 100 may include one or more processors 112, memory 114 (e.g., one or more memory devices), one or more network interfaces (NIs) 116, and one or more batteries 118. Such components may be housed within keyboard housing 120, display housing 140, or both, for example.

[0021] like Figure 1 As shown in the example of , the keyboard housing 120 includes a keyboard 124 having keys 125, and the display housing 140 includes a display 144, and may include a camera 141 mounted in a bezel area of ​​a bezel surrounding the display 144. In such an example, the keyboard 124 is defined in a first Cartesian coordinate system as having a width along the x-axis (x1), a depth along the y-axis (y1), and a height or thickness extending along the z-axis (z1) in a direction extending outwardly away from a touch surface of the keys 125 of the keyboard 124, and the display 144 is defined in a second Cartesian coordinate system as having a width along the x-axis (x2), a depth along the y-axis (y2), and a height or thickness extending along the z-axis (z2) in a direction extending outwardly away from a viewing surface of the display 144. As an example, the coordinate system may be a right-handed coordinate system or a left-handed coordinate system.

[0022] like Figure 1As shown in the example of , one or more hinges 132-1 and 132-2 can pivotally connect the keyboard housing 120 and the display housing 140 to orient the display housing 140 relative to the keyboard housing 120. For example, the orientation can include an orientation that can be defined relative to an axis (e.g., or multiple axes) such as axis ζ and an angle Φ about the axis.

[0023] Figure 1 Some examples of orientations 101, 103, 105, 107, and 109 are shown. Orientations 101, 103, 105, 107, and 109 may correspond to orientations of clamshell computing systems. Orientation 101 may be a notebook orientation, where angle Φ is about 90 degrees or greater (e.g., or optionally slightly less than about 90 degrees depending on the user's position, etc.). As shown, for orientation 101, a user may use one or more fingers of one or both hands to press keys 125 of keyboard 124 (e.g., touch typing), for example, while viewing information presented to display 144 of display housing 140 (e.g., using one or more processors 112, memory 114, etc., which may be included in keyboard housing 120, display housing 140, or both).

[0024] As an example, keyboard housing 120 may include front surface 122 and may include touch input surface 123 (e.g., a touch input device such as a touch pad). As an example, keyboard 124 may include one or more other input devices (e.g., a joystick, etc.). As an example, front surface 122 may be a surface suitable for resting one or more palms of one or more hands. For example, as Figure 1 As shown, the touch input surface 123 can be defined by an x ​​dimension and a y dimension, wherein a left palm rest surface is to the left of the touch input surface 123, and wherein a right palm rest surface is to the right of the touch input surface 123. In such an example, the left palm rest surface and the right palm rest surface can be defined by respective x dimensions and y dimensions and the spacing therebetween. In the case where the system does not include a touch input surface such as the touch input surface 123, the front surface 122 can extend in the y direction approximately from the left side of the keyboard housing 120 to the right side of the keyboard housing. Such surfaces can be left palm rest surfaces and right palm rest surfaces.

[0025] The palm rest surface can enable a user to rest one or more palms while the user can type (e.g., touch typing) using the keys of a keyboard that is part of the keyboard housing. For example, a user can rest a palm on the palm rest surface while using one or more fingertips (e.g., or finger pads) to touch a key, thereby indicating that the computing device receives an input instruction. In such an example, the keys of the keyboard can be depressible keys. The depressible key can include a spring mechanism that enables the key to be pressed a certain distance in the z direction of the Cartesian coordinate system of the keyboard housing in response to a force applied by a finger to reach a level that can be a maximum level of depression, wherein, when the force is released, the key can then subsequently return to an undepressed level.

[0026] Regarding orientation 103, it may correspond to a display orientation for viewing display 144, wherein keyboard 124 faces downward and computing device 100 is supported by keyboard housing 120 (e.g., by an edge surrounding keyboard 124, front surface 122, etc.). Regarding orientation 105, it may correspond to a "tent" orientation, wherein display 144 faces outward on one side of the tent for viewing, and keyboard 124 of keyboard housing 120 faces outward on the other side of the tent.

[0027] Orientation 107 can be a tablet orientation in which angle Φ is approximately 360 degrees, such that a normal outward vector N1 of keyboard 124 of keyboard housing 120 and a normal outward vector N2 of display 144 of display housing 140 are oriented in opposite pointing directions and thereby point away from each other; however, in contrast, for a closed orientation of computing device 100 (e.g., in which angle Φ is approximately 0 degrees), vectors N1 and N2 will point toward each other.

[0028] In orientation 107, keys 125 of keyboard 124 point outward in the direction of vector N1. In the case where key 125 is a depressible key, key 125 may be contacted by one or more hands of the user when the user grasps computing device 100. The user may consider the elasticity of key 125 to be somewhat undesirable. For example, an elastic key may interfere with the user's ability to understand or sense the force sufficient to grasp computing device 100, which may cause the user to grasp too lightly or grasp too strongly, which may affect the integrity of the key (e.g., spring, spring mechanism, contact, etc.). In contrast, a surface without such depressible keys may have a more uniform feel to the user and may be less distracting. An arrangement that allows such a surface may include a single hinge that enables the keyboard housing to pivot relative to the display housing so that the keys of the keyboard housing can be oriented to face the back side of the display housing (the side opposite the display). In such an approach, a user can rotate the keyboard housing 180 degrees about a central axis of a single hinge (e.g., an axis orthogonal to axis z), and then rotate the keyboard housing so that the keys face the back side of the display in the folded orientation. In such an example, a single centrally located hinge provides symmetry so that the computing system can be aligned in the clamshell closed orientation and the tablet orientation, optionally with the keys of the keyboard housing facing the back side of the display of the display housing in the tablet orientation.

[0029] Orientation 109 may be a planar orientation in which angle Φ is approximately 180 degrees such that a normal outward vector N1 of keyboard 124 of keyboard housing 120 and a normal outward vector N2 of display 144 of display housing 140 are oriented in substantially the same pointing direction.

[0030] Various computing systems, such as laptop computers or notebook computing devices, may be characterized at least in part by their footprint. For example, Figure 1 The computing device 100 may be characterized at least in part by an x-dimension and a y-dimension about the keyboard housing 120 and / or about the display housing 140. As an example, the footprint may be represented by Figure 1 The area is defined by the plane in the x and y directions of the Cartesian coordinate system shown in FIG.

[0031] Figure 2 and Figure 3An example of a computing system 200 is shown that includes a base housing 220 including a base side 223 and an opposing unit recess side 221, the unit recess side 221 including a unit recess 225; a display housing 240 including a rear side 243 and an opposing display side 241, the display side 241 including a display 245; a hinge assembly 230 connecting the base housing 220 and the display housing 240; and a unit 300 that can be accommodated in the unit recess 225, wherein the unit can include a physical keyboard side 320 including a physical keyboard 325 and an opposing auxiliary display side 340 including an auxiliary display 345.

[0032] As shown, the base housing 220 may include a front edge 222, a rear edge 224 (e.g., a hinged side edge), and opposite side edges 226 and 228 (e.g., a left edge and a right edge). As shown, the display housing 240 may include a front edge 242, a rear edge 244 (e.g., a hinged side edge), and opposite side edges 246 and 248 (e.g., a left edge and a right edge). In a clamshell configuration, the display housing 240 may be opened by lifting the front edge 242 of the display housing 240 away from the front edge 222 of the base housing 220, wherein the base housing 220 and the display housing 240 are coupled at or near the rear edges 224 and 244 via one or more hinge assemblies 230. As an example, an opening angle may be defined between the base housing 220 and the display housing 240 via the axis of the one or more hinge assemblies 230 (e.g., note that the hinge assembly may include one or more axes such as for a two-axis hinge assembly, etc.).

[0033] like Figure 3 As shown, the unit 300 may include a front edge 302, a rear edge 304 (e.g., a hinged side edge), and opposing side edges 306 and 308. As shown, the unit 300 may be at least partially positioned in the unit recess 225 to function as a physical keyboard or as a display, depending on which side faces upward in the unit recess 225 of the base housing 220.

[0034] As an example, the unit 300 can be accommodated in the unit recess 225 in one of a plurality of orientations. As an example, the orientation can correspond to the function of one or more features of the unit 300. For example, consider that the display side 340 can be accommodated with the front edge 302 closer to the front edge 222 of the base housing 220 to provide one function, and can be accommodated with the front edge 302 closer to the rear edge 224 of the base housing 220 to provide another function. In such an example, the detection circuit system can provide automatic detection of the orientation, whether it is one or more auxiliary display orientations, one or more keyboard orientations, etc. As an example, consider a first auxiliary display orientation that enables the auxiliary display 345 to be used as a touchpad and a second auxiliary display orientation that enables the auxiliary display 345 to be used as a display. In such an example, the touchpad orientation can provide lower power consumption and can be operated as a digitizing tablet, for example, using an active and / or passive stylus. As an example, the detection circuit system can utilize one or more interfaces, which can be, for example, engaged or otherwise sensitive to the orientation of the unit 300 in the unit recess 225. For example, consider an interface that is physically keyed for one or more corresponding functions (eg, a display, a touch screen display, a digitizer, a touchpad, an electronic paper display, etc.).

[0035] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the example of , it is possible to be relative to one or more coordinate systems (see also e.g. Figure 1 ) to describe one or more features. For example, consider a Cartesian coordinate system having x, y, and z coordinates that can be defined by coordinate axes (e.g., an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis). As an example, the x-axis can be used to define width, the y-axis can be used to define depth (e.g., a distance orthogonal to and away from the front edge), and the z-axis can be used to define thickness.

[0036] As an example, the base housing 220 may include a width dxb, a depth dyb, and a thickness dzb, and the display housing 240 may include a width dxd, a depth dyd, and a thickness dzd, for example. As shown, the base housing 220 and the display housing 240 may have substantially similar widths and depths, such that when the display housing 240 is in a closed position (e.g., 0 degrees) relative to the base housing 220, the housings 220 and 240 overlap. Figure 3 As shown, unit 300 may include a width dxu, a depth dyu, and a thickness dzu.

[0037] As an example, the footprint of computing system 200 can be defined by the extent (e.g., width and depth) of base housing 220. As an example, various dimensions of features of computing system 200 can be defined with respect to one or more sides, one or more edges, etc. For example, width dxb can be defined as the distance between side edges 226 and 228 of base housing 220.

[0038] Figure 4 A perspective view of an example of a computing system 200 is shown in which a unit 300 is not disposed in a unit recess 225. As shown, the unit recess 225 can have an extent (e.g., a footprint) that is smaller than an extent of the base housing 220. For example, the unit recess 225 can have a width dxr, a depth dyr, and a thickness dzr, where dxr is less than or equal to dxb, dyr is less than or equal to dyb, and dzr is less than dzb. As an example, an area of ​​the unit recess 225 defined as the product of dxr and dyr can be less than an area of ​​the base housing 220 defined as the product of dxb and dyb.

[0039] As an example, various dimensions of the unit 300 may be sized to fit in the unit recess 225. For example, the depth dyu of the unit 300 may be substantially the same as the depth dyr of the unit recess 225. With respect to thickness, the thickness dzu of the unit 300 may be substantially the same as the thickness dzr of the unit recess 225. In such an example, the unit 300 may be located in the unit recess 225 in a relatively flush manner relative to the surface of the recess side 221 of the base housing 220. In such an example, when the display housing 240 is in a closed position relative to the base housing 220, the unit 300 may not contact the display 245 of the display housing 240. In such an example, the keyboard 325 of the unit 300 may not contact the display 245 of the display housing 240, so as not to leave marks on the display 245 (e.g., display surface glass, laminate, plastic, etc.). As an example, the maximum thickness of the unit 300 may be the distance between the display surface of the display 345 and the keys of the keyboard 325. As illustrated, keyboard 325 may include physical keys that may be depressible and spring loaded. As an example, unit 300 may be located in unit recess 225 with display 345 facing upwards, while the keys of keyboard 325 are not in a depressed state.

[0040] exist Figure 4In the example of the base housing 220, the base housing 220 is shown to include a latch 227 that can be used to secure the unit 300 in the unit recess 225. For example, consider a mechanical and / or magnetic latch, where the latch 227 can be finger-operated, and where once the unit 300 is received in the unit recess 225, the latch 227 can be automatically actuated to secure the unit 300 (e.g., consider a spring-loaded latch that automatically latches). As an example, the base housing 220 can include a finger entry recess 252, which can facilitate removal of the unit 300 from the unit recess 225. As an example, the base housing 220 can include one or more finger entry features and / or one or more latches.

[0041] As an example, the unit 300 and / or the unit recess 225 may include one or more stop surfaces that may be asymmetric in that the display side 340 may be located deeper in the unit recess 225 than the keyboard side 320, such that the keys of the keyboard 325 may be in an undepressed state (e.g., unstressed), which may help maintain the integrity of the keyboard 325 when in place and not in use. For example, consider one or more extension surfaces 254-1 and 254-2 in the unit recess 225, when the display side 340 is downward, the one or more extension surfaces 254-1 and 254-2 can be located in one or more corresponding recesses of the unit 300 (e.g., one or more pins and keyway pairs); however, when the display side 340 is upward, the one or more extension surfaces (e.g., one or more pins) can contact one or more surfaces of the unit 300 (e.g., perimeter, bezel, space between keys, etc.) to prevent it from being placed further downward, thereby providing a protective distance to keep the keys of the keyboard 325 in an unpressed state. In such an example, the perimeter of the unit 300 can include one or more recesses (e.g., keyways) that can accommodate the one or more extension surfaces (e.g., pins), where, for example, such features are configured to accommodate the unit 300 in one or more orientations (e.g., with the display side facing downward).

[0042] As illustrated, unit 300 may include an auxiliary display side 340 that includes an auxiliary display 345. In such an example, auxiliary display 345 may have an area that is less than the area of ​​display 245 of display housing 240. As an example, auxiliary display 345 may have an aspect ratio that is the same as or different from the aspect ratio of display 245. Figure 3In an example of, the aspect ratio of the auxiliary display 345 is defined by a width greater than the depth. As an example, the auxiliary display 345 may have an aspect ratio corresponding to one or more standard aspect ratios of the display. In such an example, the computing system 200 may include a plurality of display circuit systems that may set a first aspect ratio of the display 245 and a second aspect ratio of the auxiliary display 345, the second aspect ratio may be different from the first aspect ratio. As an example, one or more applications may include features for presenting graphics, content, etc. to one or more displays. In such an example, consider that the auxiliary display 345 is used to present one or more menu graphics, and the display 245 may be used to present content that can be controlled, edited, adjusted, etc. using one or more optional menu items of the menu graphics.

[0043] exist Figure 4 In the example of , the base housing 220 is shown to include one or more interfaces 229-1, 229-2, ... 229-N, which can be positioned at one or more surfaces of the walls forming the unit recess 225. For example, the unit recess 225 can include a base wall (e.g., a bottom plate), a front wall, an opposing rear wall, and opposing side walls.

[0044] As an example, the interface may be symmetrical or asymmetrical with respect to the unit recess and / or the unit. For example, if the interface is centered, it may be suitable for use as an interface for keyboard functions of keyboard 325 of unit 300 and suitable for use as an interface for display functions of display 345 of unit 300. As for non-centered interfaces or other types of asymmetrical interfaces, they may be used with unit 300 in one orientation in unit recess 225 but not in another orientation of unit 300 in unit recess 225. For example, in Figure 4 In an embodiment, interfaces 229-1 and 229-N may be asymmetric interfaces, where one of the interfaces mates with an interface of unit 300 in one orientation (e.g., a keyboard orientation) and another of the interfaces mates with an interface of unit 300 in another orientation (e.g., a display orientation). In such an example, one of the interfaces may be configured to detect and use unit 300 as a keyboard (e.g., via keyboard 325) and another of the interfaces may be configured to detect and use unit 300 as a display (e.g., via auxiliary display 345).

[0045] As described, although one or more interfaces 229-1, 229-2, ... 229-N are Figure 4 In the example shown on the front wall of the unit recess 225, one or more interfaces may be on the same wall or another wall of the unit recess.

[0046] Figure 5An example of a unit 300 is shown with a keyboard 325 facing upward, wherein the unit 300 includes one or more interfaces 309-1, 309-2, ... 309-N; note that additionally or alternatively, one or more interfaces may be located on the other side of the unit 300. Figure 5 In the example of , the unit 300 may include a border surface 327, which may be an area adjacent to the keypad 325, wherein the border surface 327 may exist along one or more of the edges 302, 304, 306, and 308 of the unit 300, such as along at least a portion of the perimeter of the unit 300. Figure 5 As shown in the example of , interface 309-1 can be a display interface and interface 309-N can be a keyboard interface, where each of these two interfaces can be mated with a common interface of unit recess 225. For example, interface 209-N of unit recess 225 is considered a common interface, so that interface 309-N can be mated with interface 209-N, and, for example, the unit 300 is flipped over and interface 309-1 can be mated with interface 209-N. As illustrated, a centered interface can be utilized (e.g., interfaces 209-2 and 309-2 are considered suitable for mating with the keyboard orientation and display orientation of unit 300 in unit recess 225). As an example, multiple interfaces of a unit and / or unit recess can be utilized, such as for one or more of power and data transmission / reception.

[0047] As an example, the base housing 220 may include one or more magnets and / or ferromagnetic materials. For example, consider one or more magnets and / or ferromagnetic materials at one or more positions of one or more interfaces 229-1, 229-2, ... 229-N and / or at one or more other positions. In such an example, the unit 300 may include one or more magnets and / or ferromagnetic materials at one or more positions of one or more interfaces 309-1, 309-2, ... 309-N and / or at one or more other positions. Given such features, the unit 300 can be fixed in the unit recess 225 of the base housing 220 using magnetic attraction. As an example, the magnetic attraction can promote the matching of the interface so that the force applied to the unit 300 does not cause matching instability. For example, consider that the user uses a certain amount of force to use the keyboard 325 for touch typing, touch display 345, etc.

[0048] As illustrated, unit 300 may include one or more notches. Figure 5, a notch 354 is shown, which may be on the perimeter, bezel, etc. of the unit 300, wherein the notch 354 may be a pin slot that may accommodate a pin, which may be one of the one or more extended surfaces 254-1 and 254-2 of the base housing 220. As an example, another notch may be located on the opposite side of the unit 300 (e.g., considering the notches for the extended surfaces 254-1 and 254-2). As illustrated, in such an example, when the unit 300 is located in the unit recess 225, the keys of the keyboard 325 may be arranged at a certain level so that when the display housing 240 is in a closed position (e.g., a closed clamshell) relative to the base housing 220, the keys of the keyboard 325 do not contact the surface of the display 245 of the display housing 240. In addition, in such an example, when the display 345 of the unit 300 faces upward, the keys of the keyboard 325 may be in an unpressed position because the one or more extended surfaces 254-1 and 254-2 may provide support for the unit 300 along the perimeter, bezel, etc. For example, contact may occur between one or more of the extension surfaces 254-1 and 254-2 and the bezel surface 327. By providing a positioning of the unit 300 without pressing the keys of the keyboard 325 when the keyboard 325 is facing downward, the life of the keys of the keyboard 325 may be extended (e.g., considering maintaining the spring of a spring-loaded key in an extended state rather than a compressed state, which may place greater stress on the spring). In various examples, one or more interfaces may provide an appropriate fit whether the keyboard 325 is used facing up or the display 345 is used facing up. As an example, using a pin-pin slot approach may effectively help maintain the thickness of the unit 300 in the unit recess 225, so that when the keyboard 325 is facing up, the tops of the keys of the keyboard 325 are substantially flush with the surface of the recess side 221 of the base housing 220, and so that when the display 345 is facing up, the surface of the display side 340 is substantially flush with the surface of the recess side 221 of the base housing 220.

[0049] Figure 6 An example of a unit 300 is shown with the auxiliary display 345 facing upward, wherein the unit 300 includes one or more interfaces 309-1, 309-2, ... 309-N. As illustrated, the unit 300 and / or the unit recess 225 of the base housing 220 may include one or more interfaces that may be symmetrical or asymmetrical, noting that a combination of symmetrical interfaces and asymmetrical interfaces may be included. Figure 6In the example of, notch 354 is shown, note that unit 300 may include another notch 356, as described, notch 354 and notch 356 can be used as pin slots for extension surfaces 254-1 and 254-2, and extension surfaces 254-1 and 254-2 can be used as pins. As an example, the unit and the recess may include one or more pin and pin slot pairs, which may, for example, be associated with one or more interfaces and / or act as one or more interfaces. For example, the pin may include one or more electrical contacts, and the pin slot may include one or more electrical contacts. In such an example, the contacts may cooperate to provide transmission of one or more of power and data. As an example, the cooperation of the interface may provide detection of the orientation of the unit in the unit recess of the base housing.

[0050] Figure 7 An example of a computing system 200 in a closed position and an open position is shown, where, for example, the base housing 220 includes a latch 227 that can releasably secure a unit 300 in a unit recess 225 of the base housing 220. As shown, the computing system 200 can be transformed from the closed position to the open position, and the unit 300 can be oriented in one of a plurality of orientations for accommodating the unit 300 in the unit recess 225 of the base housing 220 of the computing system 200. As an example, the latch 227 can be a hand-actuated latch, which can be a tool-free latch that can be released at least by using a finger of a user's hand. As illustrated, the computing system can include a circuit system that can provide detection of the orientation of the unit in the unit recess, which can provide for configuring the computing system to use the unit (e.g., one or more functions of the unit). As shown, the base housing 220 can also include one or more ports 280, which can be, for example, a serial port (e.g., a USB type port). As an example, one or more of power and data can be transmitted via the one or more ports 280. As an example, the one or more ports 280 of the base housing 220 can be electrically coupled (e.g., directly and / or indirectly) to one or more interfaces of the unit recess 225. As an example, the one or more ports 280 can be disposed on the end of a stem or foot portion of the base housing 220, which can be used to make one or more other portions of the base housing 220 thinner.

[0051] exist Figure 7In the example of, the unit 300 is shown to include a bracket 380, which may include components on two opposite sides and / or a U-shaped component extending from one side to the other while passing through the middle side. As an example, the bracket 380 may be deployable to support the unit 300 on a support surface (e.g., a table, a desktop, a work surface, etc.) when the keyboard side 320 faces up or the auxiliary display side 340 faces up. As an example, the bracket 380 may be configured to be assembled in the peripheral space of the unit 300 so that it can be substantially flush with the periphery of the unit 300. For example, the unit 300 may include a U-shaped recess, which may house the U-shaped member of the bracket 380. As an example, in the case where the bracket 380 includes a U-shaped member, it may also be used as a handle 380 for carrying the unit. For example, consider inserting a user's hand into the space between the U-shaped member and one of the keyboard side 320 or the auxiliary display side 340.

[0052] Figure 8 An example of a method in which the unit 300 can be received in the unit recess 225 of the base unit 220 to form an assembly in which the unit 300 can be used as a keyboard is shown. For example, a user can position the unit 300 in the unit recess 225 and then utilize the unit 300, wherein, for example, the detection circuit system can detect the orientation of the unit 300 to adapt the unit 300 to the user.

[0053] Fig. 9 An example of a method in which a unit 300 can be housed in a unit recess 225 of a base unit 220 to form an assembly in which the unit 300 can be used as a display (e.g., an auxiliary display) is shown. For example, a user can position the unit 300 in the unit recess 225 and then utilize the unit 300, where, for example, the detection circuit system can detect the orientation of the unit 300 to adapt the unit 300 to the user.

[0054] Fig.10An example of a method is shown in which the base unit 220 includes a stylus recess 260 for accommodating a stylus 600. For example, the stylus 600 can be at least partially inserted into the stylus recess 260 for storage, charging, etc. As illustrated, the unit 300 may include circuitry that provides for the stylus to be used with, for example, a touchpad, a digitizing tablet, etc. As an example, one or more displays of the computing system 200 may include associated circuitry that can be used with the stylus, for example, for input to draw, select objects, select menu items, etc. As an example, the stylus may include one or more power storage circuits that can be charged wirelessly and / or in a wired manner. As an example, the base housing 220 of the computing system 200 may include one or more types of charging circuitry that can charge the stylus. As an example, the stylus 600 may be fixed in the stylus recess 260 via, for example, a magnetic attraction provided by one or more magnets.

[0055] Fig.11 A block diagram of unit 1100 is shown of various examples of features of unit 1100 that may be a unit such as unit 300. As shown, unit 1100 may include one or more of the following: keyboard 1110, display 1120 (e.g., auxiliary display), one or more other human input devices 1130, one or more processors 1140, memory 1150, one or more interfaces 1160, audio circuitry 1170, power circuitry 1180 (e.g., one or more batteries, one or more types of charging circuitry, etc.), and one or more other types of features 1190 (e.g., orientation circuitry (e.g., gyroscope, accelerometer, gravity direction sensor, etc.), physical features, circuitry, magnetic and / or ferromagnetic materials, etc.). As an example, a unit may include one or more types of circuitry, which, as mentioned, may include LED circuitry, electronic paper circuitry, touch sensing circuitry, digitizer circuitry, keyboard circuitry, etc. As an example, a unit may include one or more navigation features, such as, for example, a trackpoint feature that may include a nub key located within the keyboard area that may be used for input, moving a cursor, and the like.

[0056] As an example, unit 1100 and / or unit 300 may include a stand that can be used to be positioned on a support surface. For example, consider a stand that can be oriented in one or more directions to support the unit on a support surface for use as a keyboard and / or display.

[0057] As an example, the computing device 200 may include one or more types of charging circuit systems, wherein, for example, the unit 300 may be charged via wired and / or wireless technologies. As an example, the unit 300 may include one or more of wired and / or wireless technologies for power and / or data. As an example, the unit 300 may be used when not placed in a unit recess such as a unit recess 225 of the base housing 220. For example, a user may remove the unit 300 from the unit recess 225 and use the unit 300 as a display device, a keyboard device, etc. As an example, the unit 300 may operate in an independent manner and / or a subordinate manner, such as being operably connected to a computing system, a computing device, etc. via wired and / or wireless technologies. As an example, the unit 300 may be configured to mirror the content of the display 245 presented to the display housing 240 and / or provide one or more user interfaces for controlling the content of the display 245 presented to the display housing 240 (e.g., considering controlling videos, slides, etc.).

[0058] Fig.12 An example of a method 1200 is shown, which may include a detection block 1210 for detecting a unit in a unit recess of a housing, a configuration block 1220 for automatically configuring a circuit system of the housing, an execution block 1230 for performing one or more actions using the unit in the unit recess of the housing, and a detection block 1240 for detecting a change of the unit relative to the unit recess of the housing. For example, consider that a user removes a unit from the unit recess of the housing and redirects the unit and positions the unit in the redirected position in the unit recess of the housing. In such an example, the first orientation may be a keyboard orientation, and the second orientation may be a display orientation; note that one or more other orientations may be possible (e.g., a touchpad, a digitizer, etc.). As illustrated, the detection circuit system may provide detection of presence and / or detection of orientation, wherein, for example, the orientation may be used to determine the function of the unit.

[0059] As an example, a unit may include different sides corresponding to different functions. For example, consider a display side and a keyboard side. In such an example, a user may select a side of the unit to use, where the circuitry of one or more housings of the computing device or system may be configured or configurable for such use.

[0060] As an example, an easily removable keyboard can provide ease of servicing of the computing system and / or the keyboard. As an example, an easily removable keyboard can provide enhanced flexibility of a clamshell computing system. For example, a user can place the base housing on a support surface and remove the keyboard as a unit for use on the support surface and / or on another support surface (e.g., lap, etc.).

[0061] As an example, the display may include one or more types of display circuitry, which may be LED-based (e.g., OLED, etc.) or based on one or more other technologies. As illustrated, the display may include touch sensing circuitry, which may include digitizer circuitry (e.g., operable using a stylus, etc.). As an example, the display may include electronic paper (e.g., e-paper) type display circuitry.

[0062] As an example, a computing system may include a top-loading keyboard that is relatively easy to remove for maintainability, remote use, etc., which can be flipped to provide a display that can be loaded back into the housing to create a dual display experience for note taking, sketching, numeric keypad input, etc., and / or remote use (e.g., as a mobile display device, etc.). As illustrated, a user may choose to flip the unit to a keyboard side or a display side, where, for example, the display side may be a multi-orientation and / or multi-function display side (e.g., used as a display, touchpad, digitizing tablet, armrest, etc.). As an example, the keyboard side of the unit may have a single orientation in the unit recess, while the display side of the unit may have one or more orientations in the unit recess. As an example, the display side of the unit may have multiple orientations in the unit recess, where each of the orientations provides at least one function, where, for example, the functions may differ depending on the orientation.

[0063] As an example, a computing system may include: a base housing including a base side and an opposite unit recess side, the unit recess side including a unit recess; a display housing including a rear side and an opposite display side, the display side including a display; a hinge assembly connecting the base housing and the display housing; and a unit that can be accommodated in the unit recess, wherein the unit includes: a physical keyboard side including a physical keyboard and an opposite auxiliary display side including an auxiliary display. In such an example, the unit recess can be a substantially rectangular opening, and wherein the unit includes a substantially rectangular perimeter. As an example, the unit recess can include one or more curved corners and / or the unit can include one or more curved corners. For example, rounded corners are considered as well as straight edges, wherein, for example, the straight edges can extend along at least 80% of the edge distance (e.g., for curved corners, up to 99.5% is considered).

[0064] As an example, the base housing may include an interface, and the unit may include a mating interface. In such an example, the mating interface may be centered along an edge of the unit.

[0065] As an example, the base housing may include an interface, and the unit may include a first mating interface for a physical keyboard of the unit and a second mating interface for an auxiliary display of the unit.

[0066] As an example, a computing system may include a latch that releasably secures a unit in a unit recess of a base housing of the computing system.

[0067] As an example, a secondary display of a unit may include touch sensing circuitry. In such an example, the touch sensing circuitry may operate in combination with the display circuitry, or, for example, it may operate without the display circuitry, which may provide a lower power mode of operation, wherein, for example, the touch sensing circuitry may be used as a touch pad, digitizing tablet, etc.

[0068] As an example, a computing system may include a detection circuit system that automatically detects the orientation of a unit in a unit recess of a base housing of the computing system. In such an example, the computing system may include a processor that selectively receives instructions from a physical keyboard or sends instructions to an auxiliary display in response to the detection of the orientation of the unit in the unit recess by the detection circuit system. In such an example, the processor may execute an application to present information to the display and simultaneously present the information to the auxiliary display. In such an example, the information presented to the auxiliary display may include at least one navigation graphic. As an example, the information presented to the auxiliary display may include a graphical keyboard. In such an example, the unit may include a physical keyboard and a display that may present a graphical keyboard. In such an example, a user may have the option of orienting the unit in the unit recess to utilize one of the physical keyboard and the graphical keyboard.

[0069] As an example, the unit can be completely located within the unit recess of the base housing of the computing system. In such an example, in a closed position of the display housing of the computing system relative to the base housing, neither the physical keyboard nor the auxiliary display side contacts the display of the display housing. In such an approach, the display of the display housing can be protected from contact that may cause damage, scratches, etc. (e.g., due to vibration, force, etc.).

[0070] As an example, a computing system may include a wireless communication circuit system that operably couples the circuit system of a unit to the circuit system of a base housing and / or the circuit system of a display housing. In such an example, the circuit system of a unit may be operably coupled to the circuit system of a base housing and / or a display housing, and the unit is not placed in a unit recess. For example, a unit may operate as a mobile unit that optionally communicates with or does not communicate with the circuit system of a base housing and / or a display housing. As described, a unit may be a relatively lightweight device with its own power supply (e.g., battery), processor, and memory, wherein, for example, it may be used as a media device, a keyboard device, etc. As described, a unit may include an electronic paper circuit system so that, for example, it may operate as a reader device for text, etc. As an example, a unit may include a drawing circuit system so that notes, graffiti, drawings, etc. may be input via a display side, wherein, for example, a touch performed using a finger and / or a stylus may be used to generate input and presentation.

[0071] As an example, the unit may include a stand for positioning the unit on a surface. As described, such a stand may include one or more features, such as, for example, a U-shaped member that may provide for expansion in one or more directions to support the unit in one or more orientations (e.g., auxiliary display side up or keyboard side up).

[0072] As an example, a computing system may include two or more units, which may be differently configured and selected to be accommodated in a unit recess.

[0073] As an example, a computing system may include a unit recess of a base housing and a unit, the unit recess including one or more extended surfaces, the unit including one or more recesses for accommodating one or more extended surfaces via the auxiliary display side of the unit. In such an example, compared with no such feature, the key of the keyboard side of the unit can be positioned lower in the unit recess. For example, the top of the key can be positioned substantially flush with the surface of the base housing or slightly lower, so that in the closed position of the base housing and the display housing of the computing system, the top of the key does not contact the surface of the display of the display housing. In such an example, when the keyboard side is oriented to face downward in the unit recess, when the unit is positioned in the unit recess, the key of the keyboard of the keyboard side can be in an uncompressed (e.g., unpressed) state, which can help maintain the integrity of the key. When the auxiliary display side is upward, such a method can also provide to make the auxiliary display side of the unit more stable rather than "elastic". For example, when the keyboard side is downward, if the key is depressible, the auxiliary display side may move when a force is applied. However, if the keyboard side is supported in a manner that does not allow keys to be depressed, the auxiliary display side will be more stable in the event that a user touches the auxiliary display side with a finger and / or a stylus.

[0074] As an example, a method may include: automatically detecting the orientation of a unit in a computing system; and configuring the computing system in response to the detection, the computing system including: a base housing including a base side and an opposite unit recess side, the unit recess side including a unit recess; a display housing including a rear side and an opposite display side, the display side including a display; a hinge assembly connecting the base housing and the display housing; and a unit that can be accommodated in the unit recess, wherein the unit includes: a physical keyboard side including a physical keyboard and an opposite auxiliary display side including an auxiliary display. As an example, the method may provide: detecting the orientation even if the unit is used outside the unit recess (e.g., as a portable display and / or portable keyboard). For example, the unit may include one or more types of directional circuit systems, which may include, for example, one or more of a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a gravity direction sensor, an ambient light sensor, and the like.

[0075] As an example, one or more non-transitory computer-readable media may include processor-executable instructions to instruct a computing system to: automatically detect an orientation of a unit in the computing system; and configure the computing system in response to the detection, the computing system comprising: a base housing comprising a base side and an opposing unit recess side, the unit recess side comprising a unit recess; a display housing comprising a rear side and an opposing display side, the display side comprising a display; and a hinge assembly coupling the base housing and the display housing, wherein the unit may be accommodated in the unit recess and comprising: a physical keyboard side comprising a physical keyboard and an opposing auxiliary display side comprising an auxiliary display.

[0076] As an example, a computer program product may include instructions to instruct a computing device, computing system, etc. to perform one or more methods.

[0077] The term "circuit" or "circuitry" is used in the abstract, specification, and / or 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 scheme 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, operatively connected 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.

[0078] Although various examples of circuits or circuit systems have been discussed, Fig.13 A block diagram of an illustrative computer system 1300 is depicted. System 1300 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 1300.

[0079] like Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 1 , system 1300 includes a so-called chipset 1310. 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.).

[0080] exist Fig.13 In the example of , the chipset 1310 has a specific architecture, which may vary to some extent depending on the brand or manufacturer. The architecture of the chipset 1310 includes a core and a memory control group 1320 and an I / O controller hub 1350 that exchange information (e.g., data, signals, commands, etc.) via, for example, a direct management interface or direct media interface (DMI) 1342 or a link controller 1344. Fig.13 In the example shown, DMI 1342 is a chip-to-chip interface (sometimes referred to as the link between a "north bridge" and a "south bridge").

[0081] The core and memory control group 1320 includes one or more processors 1322 (e.g., single-core or multi-core processors) and a memory controller hub 1326 that exchange information via a front side bus (FSB) 1324. As described herein, the various components of the core and memory control group 1320 can be integrated onto a single processor die, for example, to create a chip that replaces the conventional "North Bridge" style architecture.

[0082] The memory controller hub 1326 interfaces with the memory 1340. For example, the memory controller hub 1326 can provide support for DDR SDRAM memory (e.g., DDR, DDR2, DDR3, etc.). Typically, the memory 1340 is a random access memory (RAM). The memory 1340 is often referred to as "system memory."

[0083] The memory controller hub 1326 also includes a low voltage differential signaling interface (LVDS) 1332. The LVDS 1332 may be a so-called LVDS display interface (LDI) for supporting a display device 1392 (e.g., a CRT, a flat panel, a projector, etc.). Box 1338 includes some examples of technologies that may be supported via the LVDS interface 1332 (e.g., serial digital video, HDMI / DVI, display port). The memory controller hub 1326 also includes, for example, one or more PCI-express (PCI-E) interfaces 1334 for supporting discrete graphics 1336. Discrete graphics using the PCI-E interface have become an alternative to accelerated graphics ports (AGP). For example, the memory controller hub 1326 may include a 16-lane (x16) PCI-E port for an external PCI-E-based graphics card. The system may include AGP or PCI-E for supporting graphics. 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.

[0084] The I / O hub controller 1350 includes various interfaces. Fig.13Examples include a SATA interface 1351, one or more PCI-E interfaces 1352 (optionally one or more legacy PCI interfaces), one or more USB interfaces 1353, a LAN interface 1354 (more generally a network interface), a general purpose I / O interface (GPIO) 1355, a low pin count (LPC) interface 1370, a power management interface 1361, a clock generator interface 1362, an audio interface 1363 (e.g., for a speaker 1394), a total operating cost (TCO) interface 1364, a system management bus interface (e.g., a multi-master serial computer bus interface) 1365, and a serial peripheral flash memory / controller interface (SPI flash memory) 1366, which is shown in FIG. Fig.13 Examples include BIOS 1368 and boot code 1390. Regarding network connectivity, I / O hub controller 1350 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.

[0085] The interfaces of the I / O hub controller 1350 provide communication with various devices, networks, and the like. For example, the SATA interface 1351 is configured to read, write, or read and write information on one or more drives 1380 such as an HDD, an SDD, or a combination of an HDD and an SDD. The I / O hub controller 1350 may also include an Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI) to support one or more drives 1380. The PCI-E interface 1352 allows wireless connection 1382 to devices, networks, and the like. The USB interface 1353 is configured for input devices 1384, such as a keyboard (KB), one or more optical 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 1353 or another interface (e.g., I 2 C, etc.). Regarding microphones, Fig.13 The system 1300 may include hardware (eg, an audio card) appropriately configured to receive sounds (eg, user voice, ambient sounds, etc.).

[0086] exist Fig.13In the example of , LPC interface 1370 is provided for use with one or more ASIC 1371, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1372, Super I / O 1373, Firmware Hub 1374, BIOS support 1375, and various types of memory 1376 such as ROM 1377, Flash 1378, and Non-Volatile RAM (NVRAM) 1379. With respect to TPM 1372, 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.

[0087] The system 1300 may be configured to execute boot code 1390 for BIOS 1368, as stored in SPI flash memory 1366, 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 1340). The operating system may be stored in any of a variety of locations and may be accessed, for example, according to instructions of BIOS 1368. Likewise, as described herein, a satellite, base station, server, or other machine may include more than one operating system and application software. Fig.13 The system 1300 has fewer or more features than those shown in the system 1300. In addition, Fig.13 System 1300 is shown as optionally including cellular telephone circuitry 1395, which may include GSM, CDMA, etc. type circuitry configured to operate in coordination with one or more of the other features of system 1300. Fig.13 Also shown is a battery circuit system 1397 that can provide one or more features associated with a battery, power source, etc. (e.g., optionally to indicate one or more other components of the system 1300). As an example, the SMBus can be capable of being connected via LPC (e.g., see LPC interface 1370), via I 2 C interface (see SM / I 2 C interface 1365) etc.

[0088] 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 or 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 system comprising: a base housing including a base side and an opposing unit recess side, the unit recess side including a unit recess; a display housing including a rear side and an opposing display side, the display side including a display; a hinge assembly coupling the base housing and the display housing; as well as A unit receivable in the unit recess, wherein the unit comprises a physical keyboard side comprising a physical keyboard and an opposing auxiliary display side comprising an auxiliary display.

2. The computing system of claim 1, wherein: The cell recess comprises a substantially rectangular opening, and wherein the cell comprises a substantially rectangular perimeter.

3. The computing system of claim 1, wherein: The base housing includes an interface, and wherein the unit includes a mating interface.

4. The computing system of claim 3, wherein: The mating interface is centered along an edge of the unit.

5. The computing system of claim 1, wherein: The base housing includes an interface, and the unit includes a first mating interface for the physical keyboard and a second mating interface for the auxiliary display. 6 . The computing system of claim 1 , comprising a latch that releasably secures the unit in the unit recess.

7. The computing system of claim 1, wherein: The auxiliary display includes touch sensing circuitry.

8. The computing system of claim 1, comprising detection circuitry that automatically detects an orientation of the cell in the cell recess.

9. The computing system of claim 8, comprising a processor that selectively receives instructions from the physical keyboard or sends instructions to the auxiliary display in response to the detection circuitry detecting the orientation of the cell in the cell recess.

10. The computing system of claim 9, wherein: The processor executes an application to present information to the display and simultaneously present information to the auxiliary display.

11. The computing system of claim 10, wherein: The information presented to the secondary display includes at least one navigation graphic.

12. The computing system of claim 10, wherein: The information presented to the secondary display includes a graphical keyboard.

13. The computing system of claim 1, wherein: The cell is completely located within the cell recess.

14. The computing system of claim 13, wherein: In the closed position of the display housing relative to the base housing, neither the physical keyboard nor the auxiliary display side contacts the display of the display housing.

15. The computing system of claim 1, comprising wireless communications circuitry operably coupling circuitry of the unit to circuitry of the base housing.

16. The computing system of claim 15, wherein: The circuitry of the unit is operably coupled to the circuitry of the base housing without the unit being seated in the unit recess.

17. The computing system of claim 1, wherein: The unit includes a bracket for positioning the unit on a surface.

18. The computing system of claim 1, comprising two or more of said units.

19. The computing system of claim 1, wherein: The unit recess comprises one or more extended surfaces, and wherein the unit comprises one or more recesses for accommodating the one or more extended surfaces via the auxiliary display side of the unit.

20. A method comprising: Automatically detecting an orientation of a unit in a computing system, the computing system comprising: a base housing including a base side and an opposing unit recess side, the unit recess side including a unit recess; a display housing including a rear side and an opposing display side, the display side including a display; a hinge assembly coupling the base housing and the display housing; and the unit receivable in the unit recess, wherein the unit includes a physical keyboard side including a physical keyboard and an opposing auxiliary display side including an auxiliary display; and The computing system is configured in response to the detecting.

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