Dockable multi-purpose electronic tablet system

Abstract

This document describes techniques for a multi-purpose electronic tablet device that can be docked and undocked. These techniques enable the tablet device to be docked to a dock, which secures the tablet device for use, for example, of the display screen of the tablet device and / or for use of the speakers of the dock. The tablet device can also be electrically connected to the dock, enabling communication between the tablet device and the dock and enabling power transfer from the dock to the tablet device to charge the battery of the tablet device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 364,479, filed on May 10, 2022, entitled "DOCKABLE AND UNDOCKABLE MULTI - PURPOSE ELECTRONIC TABLET DEVICE", the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

Background Art

[0002] Electronic tablet devices have become increasingly popular due to their large display screens and touch - input capabilities. However, difficulties arise when a user wishes to continue consuming media content while interacting with the device while setting the tablet device on a surface. Due to its form factor, a tablet device is generally designed to lie flat on a flat surface, which allows the user to view the display by looking down. When a user wants to place the tablet device on a kitchen counter, for example, to view a recipe or watch a basketball game while preparing a meal, it is difficult to stabilize the device in an upright position.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] This document describes techniques for a dockable and undockable multi - purpose electronic tablet device. These techniques enable a tablet device, which is operable in a tablet - device mode, to be docked to a dock, where the dock fixes the tablet device in an upright position such that the display screen of the tablet device is substantially horizontal. The tablet device is also electrically connectable to the dock, enabling communication between the tablet device and the dock and allowing power transfer from the dock to the tablet device to charge the battery of the tablet device.

[0004] In one aspect, the tablet device includes electrical contacts (e.g., pogo pads) on the rear surface, which is opposite to the display screen of the tablet device. When docked to the dock, the electrical contacts electrically connect to the corresponding receptacle contacts of the dock, forming a robust physical connection that enables the transmission of current and electrical signals. The electrical contacts can be disposed at any suitable position on the rear surface, whereby the electrical contacts can be connected (e.g., mated) to the corresponding receptacle contacts of the dock.

[0005] The tablet device can be docked (e.g., attached, connected, fixed) to the dock via a coupling mechanism, which can include a magnetic coupling mechanism or a mechanical coupling mechanism. For example, magnets can be mounted on the dock and / or the tablet device to generate a magnetic attraction force that securely connects and holds the tablet device to the dock. With a sufficient reaction force (such as tension) applied by the user, the tablet device can be disconnected from the dock.

[0006] The tablet device and the dock together form a modular system. In one example, the dock can include an audio output device (e.g., speaker) to supply audio output from the tablet device. Digital signals can be communicated from the tablet device to the dock via the electrical contacts and the corresponding receptacle contacts, and the dock can correspondingly output an audio signal via the audio output device. In this way, the tablet device and the dock can communicate via a physical connection rather than wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth®). However, in some embodiments, the tablet device can communicate with the dock via wireless communication.

[0007] The summary of the present invention is provided to introduce a simplified concept of a docking-capable and undocking-capable multi-purpose electronic tablet device, which will be further described in the following embodiments for carrying out the invention. This "Summary of the Invention" is not intended to identify the essential structure of the claimed invention, nor is it intended to be used in determining the scope of the claimed invention.

[0008] Details of one or more aspects of a docking-capable and undocking-capable multi-purpose electronic tablet device are described in this document with reference to the following drawings. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to similar functions and components.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] This document describes a docking-capable and undocking-capable multi-purpose electronic device such as a tablet computer or a tablet device. The aspects described herein can operate as a stand-alone computing device when undocked, and can receive power from and communicate with a dock when docked to the dock, including an electronic device (e.g., a tablet device).

[0011] The tablet device can be docked while in a landscape orientation. When undocked, the tablet can be operated in either landscape or portrait orientation. The tablet device and the dock can be configured to communicate wirelessly. The tablet device includes electrical contacts (e.g., pogo pads) that are exposed to the environment and configured to physically connect to corresponding electrical contacts of the dock. Such a physical connection enables the tablet device to communicate with the dock without wireless communication and allows the tablet device to receive power from the dock. As an example, the tablet can output an audio signal to a dock that is used to generate sound through one or more speakers of the dock while power is being received from the dock by the tablet device.

[0012] The features and concepts of the described dockable and undockable multi-purpose electronic tablet device can be implemented in any number of different environments, but aspects are described in the context of the following examples.

[0013] In some embodiments, the dock includes speakers, and the dock and the tablet device form an acoustic environment in front of the speakers, and the acoustic environment is configured to appropriately transmit sound from the speakers, for example, without significant attenuation or distortion.

[0014] In some embodiments, the dock may include one or more wear feet, and the wear feet significantly reduce slidable movement on the surface when the tablet device is docked to the dock in an upright posture and the system is subjected to vibrations caused, for example, by using the speakers to generate an audio signal.

[0015] In some embodiments, either or both of the dock and the tablet device are configured to include one or more sensors that can generate a signal used to determine whether the tablet device is properly aligned with the dock. In response to determining that the tablet device is properly aligned with the dock, the dock can supply power to the tablet device at one or more electrical contacts, and the dock can communicate with the device using the one or more electrical contacts.

[0016] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of an electronic device docking system 100. The system 100 can include computing devices such as a tablet computer 102, a dock 104, a network 106, and a cloud-based server system 108. The tablet computer 102 can include a processing system 110, one or more microphones 112, an electronic display 118, and a wireless interface 120. The processing system 110 may include one or more processors, which may include a dedicated processor or a general-purpose processor that executes instructions stored using one or more non-transitory processor-readable media. The processing system 110 can include one or more processors designed to execute a machine learning (ML) model. Such processors can analyze whether speech is present or not, and in some cases may or may not be able to analyze the content of such speech, such as detecting trigger words or trigger phrases. Thus, the privacy of the speech content can be maintained unless a trigger word or phrase is spoken. The Syntiant® Neural Decision Processor™ represents one family of commercial processors that can execute a machine learning model trained to analyze speech for the presence of keywords or phrases and otherwise ignore the content of such speech. When a keyword or phrase is detected, additional processing can be performed on the speech, either locally or remotely, such as determining the command or action desired by the user who spoke the keyword or phrase.

[0017] The microphone 112 is configured to receive an audio input from a user of the tablet computer 102. One or more microphones 112 can communicate with the processing system 110. If there are multiple microphones 112, based on the difference in the arrival time of sound at the multiple microphones, the direction in which the sound such as speech occurred can be determined in relation to the SIM device. One or more microphones 112 can communicate directly only with the processing system 110 via a direct connection. Specifically, one or more microphones 112 can be electrically connected only to a processing system that executes a machine learning model that determines whether there is speech (e.g., a binary determination that speech is present or not) or scores (e.g., indicates the likelihood of the presence of speech). The processing system may not have the ability to analyze the content of the speech. In various embodiments, the tablet computer 102 can include a speaker 122 of a type known in the art that outputs audio feedback for commands.

[0018] The magnet system 124 can include one or more magnets arranged to magnetically couple with corresponding one or more magnets of the dock's magnet system 138. The magnet system 124 and the magnet system 138 can be used to align the tablet computer 102 with the dock 104 during docking. The magnet system 124 (and / or the magnet system 138) can include one or more electronically controllable magnets, one or more permanent magnets, one or more non - electronically controllable magnets, one or more magnet modules, or combinations thereof.

[0019] In some embodiments, the magnet system 124 (and / or the magnet system 138) can include one or more magnetic field sensors, such as one or more magnetic field sensors including one or more magnetometers, one or more Hall effect sensors, and / or one or more other types of sensors configured to sense the presence of a magnet or magnetic field. The magnetic field sensor can be configured to generate a signal indicating proximity to a magnet.

[0020] Wireless interface 120 communicates with processing system 110 and enables communication with various wireless networks and / or wireless devices using one or more communication protocols. Wireless interface 120 may enable communication with a Wi-Fi (registered trademark)-based wireless local area network. Wireless interface 120 can enable direct communication with other devices via Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), or some other low-power device-to-device communication protocol. In some embodiments, wireless interface 120 enables communication with the wearer's smartphone and thus enables the information collected using tablet computer 102 to be analyzed and presented using the wearer's smartphone. In some embodiments, wireless interface 120 enables communication with the wireless network interface 132 of dock 104.

[0021] In some embodiments, an electronic display 118 may be present. In various aspects, electronic display 118 may display any visual information related to any application running on tablet computer 102. Electronic display 118 may be able to directly present to the user information determined based on data collected from various sensors of tablet computer 102. For example, electronic display 118 may display information, interfaces, and / or commands associated with smart home devices, social media applications, Internet searches, weather applications, news applications, etc. For example, electronic display 118 may enable the user to control various smart home devices placed throughout the house.

[0022] The tablet computer 102 can be, or can be used with, a smart home hub device used to interact with smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, gaming devices, or various smart home devices present inside a residence. The dock 104 can be part of a smart home assistant device system. Generally, the dock 104 can include a housing (e.g., a dock housing) that houses some or all of the components of the dock 104.

[0023] The dock 104 can include a processing system 130. The processing system 130 can include one or more processors configured to perform various functions. The processing system 130 can include one or more dedicated or general-purpose processors. Such dedicated processors can include processors specifically designed to perform the functions detailed herein. Such dedicated processors can be ASICs or FPGAs, which are general-purpose components physically and electrically configured to perform the functions detailed herein. Such general-purpose processors can execute dedicated software stored using one or more non-transitory processor-readable media such as random access memory (RAM), flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), or solid state drive (SSD).

[0024] The dock 104 can include a mating system 137, embodiments of which are described in more detail elsewhere in this specification. The dock 104 can include a speaker 140 (which can represent an embodiment of the speaker 122) that outputs audio such as music and / or feedback to commands, and a wireless network interface 132 that can represent an embodiment of the wireless interface 120.

[0025] The chimeric system 137 can include a magnet system 138 and one or more magnetic field sensors 139. The magnet system 138 can include one or more magnets arranged to magnetically couple with corresponding one or more magnets of the magnet system 124 of the tablet computer 102. The magnet systems 124 and 138 can be used to align the tablet computer 102 with the dock 104 during docking. The magnet system 138 (and / or the magnet system 124) can include one or more electronically controllable magnets (e.g., electromagnets), one or more permanent magnets, one or more non-electronically controllable magnets, one or more magnet modules, or combinations thereof.

[0026] The magnetic field sensor 139 can include, for example, one or more magnetic field sensors, one or more Hall effect sensors, and / or one or more other types of sensors configured to sense the presence (and optionally magnitude) of a magnetic field. The magnetic field sensor can be configured to generate a signal indicative of proximity to a magnet.

[0027] The processing system 130 can be configured to receive a signal that can be analyzed to determine whether the tablet computer 102 is properly docked with the dock 104. The signal can be transmitted, for example, by either or both of the magnet system 124 and the magnetic field sensor 139. In response to receiving the signal, the processing system 130 can be configured to supply power and / or communication signals to the tablet computer 102 through electrical contacts of the dock 104.

[0028] In various embodiments, other sensors or components (not shown) may be located in dock 104. For example, one or more environmental sensors may be incorporated into dock 104 and may include, for example, a light sensor, a microphone for receiving audio input from a user, a temperature sensor, and the like. In some embodiments, multiple instances of some or all of these sensors may exist. A camera and / or a humidity sensor may be incorporated into dock 104 and / or tablet computer 102. As another example, an active infrared sensor may be included. In some embodiments, some data, such as humidity data, may be obtained from a nearby weather station having data available via the Internet. In some embodiments, an active acoustic sensing method may be implemented that includes, but is not limited to, sonar and ultrasonic and includes either a single or an array of acoustic sources and / or receivers. Such a configuration may be used as one or more auxiliary sensing modalities incorporated with other sensors and methods described herein.

[0029] Tablet computer 102 may include various interfaces. A display 118, which may be a touch screen, may enable the processing system 110 to present information for viewing by one or more users and receive user input that is supplied as an input to the processing system 110. A wireless network interface may enable communication using a wireless local area network (WLAN), such as a WiFi-based network. Other network-based and direct wireless communication protocols are possible, such as Bluetooth family protocols, WiFi Direct, etc. A speaker 122 may be able to output sounds such as synthesized speech. For example, a response to a spoken command received via a microphone 112 may be output via the speaker 122 and / or the display 118. The spoken command may be analyzed locally by the tablet computer 102 or transmitted via the wireless network interface to a cloud-based server system 108 for analysis. A response based on the analysis of the spoken command can be sent back to the tablet computer via the wireless network interface for output via the speaker 122 and / or the display 118. Additionally or alternatively, the speaker 122 and the microphone 112 may be collectively configured for active acoustic sensing, including ultrasonic acoustic sensing. Additionally or alternatively, other forms of wireless communication may be possible, such as using a low-power wireless mesh network radio and protocol (e.g., Thread) to communicate with various smart home devices. In some embodiments, a wired network interface, such as an Ethernet connection, may be used for communication with a network. Furthermore, the evolution to 5G and 6G standards and technologies for wireless communication brings higher throughput at lower latency, enhancing mobile broadband services. 5G and 6G technologies also bring new classes of services to vehicle networking (V2X), fixed wireless broadband, and the Internet of Things (IoT) via control and data channels.Such standards and technologies can be used for communication by the tablet computer 102.

[0030] Low-power wireless mesh network wireless and protocols can be used to communicate with power-constrained devices. Power-constrained devices can be battery-only driven devices. Such devices may rely only on one or more batteries for power and thus can keep the amount of power used for communication low to reduce the frequency of having to replace one or more batteries. In some embodiments, power-constrained devices can have the ability to communicate via a relatively high-power network (e.g., WiFi) and a low-power mesh network. Power-constrained devices can use the relatively high-power network rarely in order to conserve power. Examples of such power-constrained devices include environmental sensors (e.g., temperature sensors, carbon monoxide sensors, smoke sensors, motion sensors, presence detectors), and other forms of remote sensors.

[0031] Some embodiments of the tablet computer 102 do not have any still or video cameras. By not incorporating an on-board camera, nearby users may be made to feel less concerned about privacy. For example, the tablet computer 102 can typically be placed in a user's bedroom. For many reasons, users do not want a camera to be placed in such a private space or to face the user while the user is sleeping. In other embodiments, the tablet computer 102 can have a camera. In some of these embodiments, the lens of the camera can be covered by a mechanical lens shutter. To use the camera, the user may be required to physically open the shutter so that the camera can view the environment of the tablet computer 102. The user can ensure privacy from the camera when the shutter is closed.

[0032] The wireless network interface may enable wireless communication with network 106. Network 106 may include one or more public and / or private networks. Network 106 may include a private local wired or wireless network, such as a home wireless LAN. Network 106 may also include a public network, such as the Internet. Network 106 may enable the tablet computer 102 to communicate with a remotely located cloud-based server system 108.

[0033] The cloud-based server system 108 may additionally or alternatively provide other cloud-based services. For example, the tablet computer 102 may further function as a home assistant device. The home assistant device may respond to voice queries from the user. In response to detecting a spoken voice trigger phrase, the tablet computer 102 may record audio. The audio stream may be sent to the cloud-based server system 108 for analysis. The cloud-based server system 108 may perform a speech recognition process, understand the query from the user using a natural language processing engine, and provide a response output by the tablet computer 102 as synthesized voice, as an output presented on the display 118, and / or as a command (e.g., increasing the volume of the tablet computer 102) executed by the tablet computer 102, or sent to some other smart home device. Further, the query or command may be sent to the cloud-based server system 108 via the display 118, which may be a touch screen. For example, the tablet computer 102 may be used to control various smart home or home automation devices. Such commands may be sent directly by the tablet computer 102 to the device being controlled, or via the cloud-based server system 108.

[0034] In some embodiments, when the tablet computer 102 is docked to the dock 104, a portion of the tablet computer 102 blocks a portion of the speaker 122 of the dock 104. Even when blocked, the acoustic environment formed by the dock 104 and the tablet computer 102 appropriately transmits sound from the speaker 122, for example, without significant attenuation or distortion.

[0035] In some embodiments, the dock 104 may include one or more wear feet that significantly reduce the sliding movement of the surface on which the dock 104 is placed. For example, when the tablet computer 102 is docked to the dock 104 in an upright posture, the system receives vibrations caused, for example, by using the speaker 122 to generate an audio signal. One or more wear feet of the dock 104 can be shaped to create sufficient friction with the surface such that the possibility of sliding movement is minimized or prevented.

[0036] FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of an electronic device 200 configured to dock with a dock using magnets and, in some embodiments, electrical contacts. The electronic device 200 can be a tablet computer such as the tablet computer 102, or more specifically, a tablet computer that functions as a home assistant device or hub as detailed above. One or more magnets can be hidden inside the electronic device 200 behind the rear surface 202. The device 200 includes a plurality of conductive electrical contacts 220 (e.g., metal pads) used to transfer data to and / or obtain power from the dock when the electronic device 200 is in the docked position. As shown, there are four electrical contacts 220. In other embodiments, a greater or lesser number of electrical contacts 220 may be present. The arrangement of the electrical contacts 220 can also vary depending on the embodiment. In some embodiments, the electrical contacts comprise, for example, one or more contact pads, one or more pins, or a combination of pads and pins. Other components, such as the camera 230, may be present on or accessible through the rear surface 202.

[0037] Figure 3 shows a schematic front view of dock 300 according to some embodiments. The dock 300 may include a mating system as described in more detail elsewhere in this specification. For example, the dock 300 may have features similar or identical to those of dock 104 described above.

[0038] The mating system of dock 300 may include a magnet system and one or more magnetic field sensors. The magnet system may include one or more magnets arranged to be aligned and magnetically coupled with corresponding one or more magnets of a magnet system of an electronic device docked to the dock 300, such that the mating surface of the electronic device is held against the mating surface 304 of the dock 300 by the magnetic fields of the magnet system of the dock 300 and the magnet system of the electronic device.

[0039] The magnetic field sensors of dock 300 may include, for example, one or more magnetic field sensors, one or more magnetometers, one or more Hall effect sensors, and / or one or more other types of sensors configured to sense the presence of a magnet or magnetic field. The magnetic field sensors may be configured to generate a signal indicative of the magnitude of a magnetic field that can indicate proximity to one or more magnets.

[0040] The dock 300 may include a processing system configured to receive a signal indicating whether an electronic device is properly docked to the dock 300. The signal may be initiated, for example, by either or both of a magnetic field sensor of the dock 300 and a magnetic field sensor of the electronic device. In response to receiving the signal, the processing system may be configured to supply power and / or a communication signal to the electronic device via electrical contacts 320 of the dock 300.

[0041] In some embodiments, the dock 300 may include an internal speaker facing the speaker surface 308. The dock 300 may be configured to cause sound to be generated by the internal speaker according to data from an audio file or, for example, according to a signal from a microphone system.

[0042] In some embodiments, the dock 300 can include stabilizing feet 306, which can significantly reduce the sliding movement of the surface on which the dock 300 is placed. For example, the dock 300 may be subject to vibrations caused, for example, by the use of the speakers of the dock 300. The stabilizing feet 306 of the dock 300 can be shaped to create sufficient friction with the surface such that sliding movement is minimized or prevented.

[0043] The feet 306 can include an elastomeric material. For example, in some embodiments, the feet 306 include silicon. Further, the feet 306 can be attached to the surface of the housing 307 of the dock 300 using an adhesive. In some embodiments, the feet 306 are attached to the surface of the housing 307 by topological features of the feet 306 that protrude through holes in the surface of the housing 307. In some embodiments, the feet 306 are attached to the surface of the housing 307 using another mechanism such as a fastener.

[0044] FIG. 4 shows a schematic side view of the dock 300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the mating surface 304, speaker surface 308, and feet 306 of the dock 300 are shown. Further, a speaker 310 having speaker components 303 (magnetic posts) and 309 (spider) shown, as well as mechanical orientation and connection arrangements are also shown.

[0045] Furthermore, FIG. 4 identifies the speaker surface 312. The speaker surface 312 is defined by the speaker and faces in a direction perpendicular to the speaker surface 312. In some embodiments, the speaker includes a diaphragm that defines the speaker surface 312. For example, the diaphragm may have a substantially planar portion that moves to generate sound waves in response to an audio signal supplied to the speaker, and the planar portion of the diaphragm defines the speaker surface 312. Alternatively, the speaker surface may be defined by the perimeter of the speaker. As shown, the internal speaker surface 312 of the dock 300 faces outwardly to the speaker surface 308.

[0046] FIG. 4 also identifies the foot surface 314 defined by the feet 306. For example, when the dock 300 is placed on a surface, the portion of the feet 306 that contacts the surface may define the foot surface 314. In some embodiments, the speaker surface 312 and the foot surface 314 intersect at an angle between any of 45 degrees to 55 degrees, 55 to 65 degrees, 65 degrees to 75 degrees, 75 degrees to 85 degrees, 85 degrees to 95 degrees, 44 degrees to 48 degrees, 47 degrees to 51 degrees, 49 degrees to 53 degrees, 52 degrees to 56 degrees, 54 degrees to 58 degrees, 57 degrees to 61 degrees, 59 degrees to 63 degrees, 62 degrees to 66 degrees, 64 degrees to 68 degrees, 67 degrees to 71 degrees, 69 degrees to 73 degrees, 72 degrees to 76 degrees, 74 degrees to 78 degrees, 77 degrees to 81 degrees, 79 degrees to 73 degrees, 72 degrees to 86 degrees, 74 degrees to 78 degrees, 77 degrees to 81 degrees, 79 degrees to 83 degrees, 82 degrees to 86 degrees, 84 degrees to 88 degrees, 87 degrees to 91 degrees, 89 degrees to 93 degrees, and 92 degrees to 96 degrees.

[0047] In some embodiments, the speaker surface 312 and the foot surface 314 intersect at an angle smaller than any of 90 degrees, 85 degrees, 80 degrees, 75 degrees, 65 degrees, 60 degrees, 55 degrees, 50 degrees, 48 degrees, 45 degrees, 43 degrees, 40 degrees, 38 degrees, 35 degrees, 33 degrees, 30 degrees, 28 degrees, 25 degrees, 23 degrees, 20 degrees, 18 degrees, and 15 degrees.

[0048] In some embodiments, the speaker surface 308 and the foot surface 314 intersect at an angle between any of 45 degrees to 55 degrees, 55 to 65 degrees, 65 degrees to 75 degrees, 75 degrees to 85 degrees, 85 degrees to 95 degrees, 44 degrees to 48 degrees, 47 degrees to 51 degrees, 49 degrees to 53 degrees, 52 degrees to 56 degrees, 54 degrees to 58 degrees, 57 degrees to 61 degrees, 59 degrees to 63 degrees, 62 degrees to 66 degrees, 64 degrees to 68 degrees, 67 degrees to 71 degrees, 69 degrees to 73 degrees, 72 degrees to 76 degrees, 74 degrees to 78 degrees, 77 degrees to 81 degrees, 79 degrees to 83 degrees, 82 degrees to 86 degrees, 84 degrees to 88 degrees, 87 degrees to 91 degrees, 89 degrees to 93 degrees, and 92 degrees to 96 degrees.

[0049] In some embodiments, the speaker surface 308 and the foot surface 314 intersect at an angle less than any of 90 degrees, 85 degrees, 80 degrees, 75 degrees, 65 degrees, 60 degrees, 55 degrees, 50 degrees, 48 degrees, 45 degrees, 43 degrees, 40 degrees, 38 degrees, 35 degrees, 33 degrees, 30 degrees, 28 degrees, 25 degrees, 23 degrees, 20 degrees, 18 degrees, and 15 degrees.

[0050] Figures 5 and 6 respectively show a schematic front view and a schematic rear view of an embodiment of the dock 300 and the docked electronic device 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, either or both of the electronic device 200 and the dock 300 include a magnet or a magnet system that is similar or identical to those described elsewhere in this specification, whereby, for example, the mating surface 202 of the electronic device 200 is held in a predetermined position with respect to the mating surface 304 (not shown) of the dock 300, so that the electronic device 200 is held in a predetermined position with respect to the dock 300.

[0051] Figure 7 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of the dock 300 and the docked electronic device 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The mating surface 202 of the electronic device 200 is magnetically held in a predetermined position with respect to the mating surface 304 of the dock 300.

[0052] When the electronic device 200 is docked with the dock 300, the lowest point of the electronic device 200 is separated from the closest point of the foot surface 314 by a distance A. In some embodiments, the distance A is less than any of 30mm, 28mm, 25mm, 23mm, 20mm, 18mm, 16mm, 15mm, 14mm, 13mm, 12mm, 11mm, 10mm, 9mm, 8mm, 7mm, 6mm, 5mm, 4mm, 3mm, 2mm, 1mm. In some embodiments, the lowest point of the electronic device 200 touches the foot surface or is below the foot surface. In some embodiments, the distance A is any of less than 30mm and more than 27mm, less than 28mm and more than 25mm, less than 25mm and more than 22mm, less than 23mm and more than 21mm, less than 20mm and more than 18mm, less than 18mm and more than 16mm, less than 16mm and more than 14mm, less than 15mm and more than 13mm, less than 14mm and more than 13mm, less than 13mm and more than 12mm, less than 12mm and more than 11mm, less than 11mm and more than 10mm, less than 10mm and more than 9mm, less than 9mm and more than 8mm, less than 8mm and more than 7mm, less than 7mm and more than 6mm, less than 6mm and more than 5mm, less than 5mm and more than 4mm, less than 4mm and more than 3mm, less than 3mm and more than 2mm, less than 2mm and more than 1mm, less than 1mm and more than 0mm. In some embodiments, the lowest point of the electronic device 200 touches the foot surface or is below the foot surface.

[0053] When the electronic device 200 is docked with the dock 300, the lowest point of the electronic device 200 is separated from the closest point of the dock 300 by a distance B. In some embodiments, the distance B is less than any of 30 mm, 28 mm, 25 mm, 23 mm, 20 mm, 18 mm, 16 mm, 15 mm, 14 mm, 13 mm, 12 mm, 11 mm, 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, and 5 mm. In some embodiments, the distance B is either less than 30 mm and more than 27 mm, less than 28 mm and more than 25 mm, less than 25 mm and more than 23 mm, less than 23 mm and more than 21 mm, less than 20 mm and more than 18 mm, less than 18 mm and more than 16 mm, less than 16 mm and more than 14 mm, less than 15 mm and more than 13 mm, less than 14 mm and more than 13 mm, less than 13 mm and more than 12 mm, less than 12 mm and more than 11 mm, less than 11 mm and more than 10 mm, less than 10 mm and more than 9 mm, less than 9 mm and more than 8 mm, less than 8 mm and more than 7 mm, less than 7 mm and more than 6 mm, less than 6 mm and more than 5 mm, or less than 5 mm and more than 4 mm.

[0054] The occlusion surface 710 contacts the foremost portion of the housing of the dock 300 at or near the intersection of the surfaces defined by the speaker surface 308 and the foot surface 314, such that the speaker surface 308 is on the left side of the electronic device 200 as per the orientation of the figure and, as per the orientation of the figure, is blocked by the electronic device 200 from some or all viewpoints that are at a higher position than the occlusion surface 710. In some embodiments, the occlusion surface contacts the electronic device and the dock, such that the dock is blocked by the electronic device from viewpoints that are between the occlusion surface and the electronic device on the device front side of the electronic device. The occlusion surface 710 intersects the foot surface 314 at an angle less than any of 60 degrees, 55 degrees, 50 degrees, 48 degrees, 45 degrees, 43 degrees, 40 degrees, 38 degrees, 35 degrees, 33 degrees, 30 degrees, 28 degrees, 25 degrees, 23 degrees, 20 degrees, 18 degrees, and 15 degrees. In some embodiments, the occlusion surface 710 intersects the foot surface 314 at an angle less than but greater than 60 degrees and less than 55 degrees, less than 55 degrees and greater than 50 degrees, less than 50 degrees and greater than 45 degrees, less than 48 degrees and greater than 43 degrees, less than 45 degrees and greater than 40 degrees, less than 43 degrees and greater than 38 degrees, less than 40 degrees and greater than 35 degrees, less than 38 degrees and greater than 33 degrees, less than 35 degrees and greater than 30 degrees, less than 33 degrees and greater than 30 degrees, less than 30 degrees and greater than 27 degrees, less than 28 degrees and greater than 25 degrees, less than 25 degrees and greater than 23 degrees, less than 23 degrees and greater than 21 degrees, less than 20 degrees and greater than 18 degrees, less than 18 degrees and greater than 16 degrees, and less than 15 degrees and greater than 13 degrees.

[0055] The dock 300 can be configured to generate sound based on the data of a test audio file while the electronic device 200 is docked or not docked to the dock. For example, while the electronic device 200 is not docked to the dock 300, the dock 300 can use an internal speaker to generate a sound having reference power spectrum characteristics, and when measured at a test distance D on the left side of the dock 300 according to the orientation of the figure and in the plane of the figure, the acoustic power can be measured for each of a plurality of frequency bins. For example, for each of 2048 adjacent frequency bins with a width of 16 Hz starting from 32 Hz, the value of the acoustic power can be measured. During the measurement, the electronic device 200 can be placed at a position where the electronic device 200 does not affect the measurement. The test distance D can be, for example, any value less than 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, 35 cm, 40 cm, 50 cm, 60 cm, 75 cm, 90 cm, 100 cm, and also other distances. In some embodiments, the test distance D can be, for example, any of greater than 8 cm and less than 10 cm, greater than 12 cm and less than 15 cm, greater than 16 cm and less than 20 cm, greater than 20 cm and less than 25 cm, greater than 25 cm and less than 30 cm, greater than 30 cm and less than 35 cm, greater than 35 cm and less than 40 cm, greater than 45 cm and less than 50 cm, greater than 50 cm and less than 60 cm, greater than 60 cm and less than 75 cm, greater than 70 cm and less than 90 cm, and greater than 75 cm and less than 100 cm.

[0056] In some embodiments, while the electronic device 200 is docked to the dock 300, the dock 300 can use an internal speaker to generate a sound having test power spectrum characteristics, and when measured at the same location where the measurement was made to characterize the reference power spectrum characteristics, the value of the acoustic power can be measured for each of a plurality of frequency bins.

[0057] In some embodiments, each of the values of the acoustic power of the test power spectrum characteristics is different from the corresponding value of the acoustic power of the reference power spectrum characteristics by less than any of 10 dB, 9 dB, 8 dB, 7 dB, 6 dB, 5 dB, 4 dB, 3 dB, 2 dB, 1.8 dB, 1.5 dB, 1.3 dB, 1 dB, 0.8 dB, 0.5 dB, and 0.3 dB. Thus, when docked, the electronic device 200 affects the sound generated by the dock 300. However, the effect is less than the power value of the threshold for each of the measured frequency bins.

[0058] FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of a method 800 of operating a dock having an electronic device magnetically docked to the dock according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. This method can be performed, for example, by a dock 300 with an electronic device 200 docked as shown in any or all of FIGS. 5-7.

[0059] At 802, an electronic signal is supplied to the dock's speaker. The electronic signal can be generated based on the data of an audio file. In some embodiments, the audio file is stored in the electronic device.

[0060] In response to the electronic signal, at 804, the speaker generates an audio compression wave corresponding to the data of the audio file.

[0061] At 808, the audio compression wave propagates from the dock and passes through the electronic device. The electronic device affects the sound generated by the dock by less than the power value of the threshold for each of the plurality of frequency bins. For example, in some embodiments, the value of the acoustic power of the sound changes by less than any of 10 dB, 9 dB, 8 dB, 7 dB, 6 dB, 5 dB, 4 dB, 3 dB, 2 dB, 1.8 dB, 1.5 lb, 1.3 dB, 1 dB, 0.8 dB, 0.5 dB, and 0.3 dB. Thus, when docked, the electronic device has a minimal effect on the sound generated by the dock.

[0062] The feet of the dock, such as dock 300, may have an outward-facing portion configured to engage a support surface on which the dock is disposed. In some embodiments, the outward-facing portion of the feet is planar or substantially planar.

[0063] FIG. 9 shows a schematic plan view 910 and schematic cross-sectional views 920 and 930 of a foot 900 of a dock having a non-planar outward-facing portion 950, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Due at least in part to the structure of the foot 900, the static friction between the foot and the support surface holding the dock is sufficient to prevent the dock from sliding or moving along the support surface, for example when the dock's speaker is generating sound. Due to the sound waves generated by the dock, the dock is subject to vibration. Further, if the generated sound is at the resonant frequency of the dock, the vibration can have particularly high energy. In some situations, with the foot 900 present, the vibration causes the dock to move or slide along the support surface. This problem is particularly severe when the support surface is not horizontal.

[0064] As shown in cross-sections 920 and 930, the outward-facing portion 950 is concave. Thus, when the dock is disposed on the support surface, the outward-facing portion 950 of the foot 900 engages the support surface around the outer periphery of the foot 900. In some embodiments, the outward-facing portion 950 of the foot 900 does not engage the support surface at the central portion of the outward-facing portion 950.

[0065] In some embodiments, the peripheral portion of the foot 900 conforms to and engages the support surface. For example, the foot 900 can be formed of an elastomeric material that conforms such that the peripheral portion of the foot 900 engages the support surface. In some embodiments, the peripheral portion of the foot 900 that engages the support surface extends a distance shorter than any of 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, and 1 mm from the perimeter. In some embodiments, the peripheral portion of the foot 900 that engages the support surface extends a distance of any of less than 10 mm and more than 8 mm, less than 9 mm and more than 7 mm, less than 8 mm and more than 6 mm, less than 7 mm and more than 5 mm, less than 6 mm and more than 4 mm, less than 5 mm and more than 4 mm, less than 4 mm and more than 3 mm, less than 3 mm and more than 2 mm, less than 2 mm and more than 1 mm, less than 1 mm and more than 0.5 mm from the perimeter.

[0066] FIG. 10 shows a schematic plan view 1010 and schematic cross-sectional views 1020 and 1030 of a dock foot 1000 having an outward-facing portion 1050 that is non-planar, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Due at least in part to the structure of the foot 900, the static friction between the foot and the support surface holding the dock is sufficient to prevent the dock from sliding or moving along the support surface, for example when the dock's speaker is generating sound. Due to the sound waves generated by the dock, the dock is subject to vibration. Further, if the generated sound is at the resonant frequency of the dock, the vibration can have particularly high energy. In some situations, in the case of the foot 900, due to the vibration, the dock moves or slides along the support surface. This problem is particularly severe when the support surface is not horizontal.

[0067] As illustrated in cross-sections 1020 and 1030, the outward-facing portion 1050 has a concave central region 1002 and a planar peripheral region 1005. Thus, when the dock is placed on the support surface, the outward-facing portion 1050 of the foot 1000 engages the support surface around the peripheral region 1005 of the foot 1000 and does not engage the support surface in the concave central region 1002.

[0068] In some embodiments, the peripheral region 1005 of the foot portion 1000 extends from the periphery by a distance shorter than any of 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, and 1 mm. In some embodiments, the peripheral region 1005 of the foot portion 1000 extends from the periphery by a distance of any of less than 10 mm and more than 8 mm, less than 9 mm and more than 7 mm, less than 8 mm and more than 6 mm, less than 7 mm and more than 5 mm, less than 6 mm and more than 4 mm, less than 5 mm and more than 4 mm, less than 4 mm and more than 3 mm, less than 3 mm and more than 2 mm, less than 2 mm and more than 1 mm, less than 1 mm and more than 0.5 mm.

[0069] FIG. 11 shows a schematic plan view 1110 and schematic cross-sectional views 1120 and 1130 of a dock foot 1100 having an outward-facing portion 1150 that is non-planar, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Due at least in part to the structure of the foot 900, the static friction between the foot and the support surface holding the dock is sufficient to prevent the dock from sliding or moving along the support surface, for example when the dock's speaker is generating sound. Due to the sound waves generated by the dock, the dock is subject to vibration. Further, if the generated sound is at the resonant frequency of the dock, the vibration can have particularly high energy. In some situations, in the case of the foot 900, due to the vibration, the dock moves or slides along the support surface. This problem is particularly severe when the support surface is not horizontal.

[0070] As shown in cross-sections 1120 and 1130, the outward-facing portion 1150 has a non-planar central region 1102 and a planar peripheral region 1105. Thus, when the dock is placed on the support surface, the outward-facing portion 1150 of the foot 1100 engages the support surface around the peripheral region 1105 of the foot 1100 and does not engage the support surface in the planar central region 1102.

[0071] In some embodiments, the peripheral region 1105 of the foot portion 1100 extends from the periphery by a distance shorter than any of 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, and 1 mm. In some embodiments, the peripheral region 1105 of the foot portion 1100 extends from the periphery by a distance of any of less than 10 mm and more than 8 mm, less than 9 mm and more than 7 mm, less than 8 mm and more than 6 mm, less than 7 mm and more than 5 mm, less than 6 mm and more than 4 mm, less than 5 mm and more than 4 mm, less than 4 mm and more than 3 mm, less than 3 mm and more than 2 mm, less than 2 mm and more than 1 mm, less than 1 mm and more than 0.5 mm.

[0072] FIG. 12 shows a flowchart of a method 1200 for operating a dock according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. This method can be executed by, for example, a dock 300 having a foot portion as shown in any of FIGS. 9 to 11. The dock may have an electronic device such as an electronic device 200 docked to the dock, or may not have an electronic device docked to the dock.

[0073] At 1202, an electronic signal is supplied to a speaker of the dock disposed on the support surface such that an outer portion of the foot portion of the dock engages the support surface. The electronic signal can be generated based on data of an audio file. In some embodiments, the audio file is stored in the electronic device.

[0074] In response to the electronic signal, at 1204, the speaker generates an audio compression wave corresponding to the data of the audio file.

[0075] At 1206, since the outer portion of the foot engages with the support surface by friction, the dock does not move relative to the support service regardless of the operation of the speaker. In some embodiments, due to the frictional engagement between the foot and the support service, the frictional force between the foot and the support surface is greater than 2 ounces and less than 4 ounces, greater than 3 ounces and less than 5 ounces, greater than 4 ounces and less than 6 ounces, greater than 5 ounces and less than 7 ounces, greater than 6 ounces and less than 8 ounces, greater than 7 ounces and less than 9 ounces, greater than 8 ounces and less than 10 ounces, greater than 9 ounces and less than 11 ounces, greater than 10 ounces and less than 12 ounces, greater than 12 ounces and less than 15 ounces, greater than 14 ounces and less than 17 ounces, greater than 16 ounces and less than 20 ounces, and greater than 18 ounces and less than 24 ounces. In some embodiments, the coefficient of static friction between the foot and the support service is greater than 1 ounce / pound and less than 3 ounces / pound, greater than 2 ounces / pound and less than 4 ounces / pound, greater than 3 ounces / pound and less than 5 ounces / pound, greater than 4 ounces / pound and less than 6 ounces / pound, greater than 5 ounces / pound and less than 7 ounces / pound, greater than 6 ounces / pound and less than 8 ounces / pound, greater than 7 ounces / pound and less than 9 ounces / pound, greater than 8 ounces / pound and less than 10 ounces / pound, greater than 9 ounces / pound and less than 11 ounces / pound, greater than 10 ounces / pound and less than 12 ounces / pound, greater than 12 ounces / pound and less than 15 ounces / pound, greater than 14 ounces / pound and less than 17 ounces / pound, greater than 16 ounces / pound and less than 20 ounces / pound, and greater than 18 ounces / pound and less than 24 ounces / pound. In some embodiments, the frictional engagement between the foot and the support service prevents the movement of the dock even when the support surface is inclined 1.5 degrees from horizontal and the speaker generates an audio signal whose power is measured at any of 10 dB to 20 dB, 15 dB to 25 dB, 20 dB to 30 dB, 25 dB to 35 dB, 30 dB to 40 dB, 35 dB to 45 dB, 45 dB to 55 dB, 50 dB to 60 dB, 55 dB to 65 dB, 60 dB to 70 dB, 65 dB to 70 dB, 70 dB to 80 dB, and 75 dB to 85 dB when measured at a distance of 1 M from the dock.

[0076] Figure 13 shows a schematic front view of dock 300 according to some embodiments. Dock 300 may include a mating system as described in more detail elsewhere in this specification. For example, dock 300 may have features similar or identical to those of dock 104 described above.

[0077] The mating system of dock 300 may include a magnet system and one or more magnetic field sensors, which may be disposed, for example, inside dock 300 at one or more positions corresponding to optional placement positions 1312 of mating surface 304. In some embodiments, the magnetic field sensors are disposed at only two of the optional placement positions 1312. For example, the magnetic field sensors may be located at two lower optional placement positions 1312 according to the orientation of the figure and may not be located at two upper optional placement positions 1312 according to the orientation of the figure. In some embodiments, only two magnetic field sensors are used and are disposed at opposite corners of the optional placement positions 1312. Other numbers and configurations of magnetic sensors may be used.

[0078] The magnet system may include one or more magnets arranged to be aligned and magnetically coupled with corresponding one or more magnets of the magnet system of an electronic device docked to dock 300, such that the mating surface of the electronic device is held against the mating surface 304 of dock 300 by the magnetic fields of the magnet system of dock 300 and the magnet system of the electronic device. The magnets of dock 300 may be disposed at any position. Accordingly, the number and position(s) of the magnets are not limited, and the number and position(s) of the magnetic field sensors are not limited. In some embodiments, one or more magnetic field sensors include magnets that are magnetically coupled with corresponding one or more magnets of the magnet system of an electronic device docked to dock 300.

[0079] The magnetic field sensors of dock 300 may include, for example, one or more magnetic field sensors, one or more magnetometers, one or more Hall effect sensors, and / or one or more other types of sensors configured to sense the presence of a magnet or magnetic field. The magnetic field sensors may be configured to generate a signal indicating proximity to a magnet.

[0080] FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of an electronic device 200 configured to dock using an internal magnet system. The magnet system of the electronic device 200 may include one or more magnets disposed, for example, inside the electronic device 200 behind the rear surface 202, corresponding to an optional placement location 1412 of the mating surface 202 and also corresponding to an optional placement location 1212 of the magnetic field sensor of the dock 300. The device 200 includes a plurality of conductive electrical contacts 220 (e.g., metal pads) used to transfer data to and / or obtain power from the dock when the electronic device 200 is in the docked position. Other components such as a camera 230 may be present on or accessible through the rear surface 202.

[0081] The magnet system may also include one or more magnets aligned and arranged to magnetically couple with corresponding one or more magnets of the magnet system of the dock 300 such that the mating surface 202 of the electronic device 200 is held against the mating surface 304 of the dock 300 by the magnetic fields of the magnet systems of the dock 300 and the electronic device 200. The magnets of the electronic device 200 may be disposed at any location. Accordingly, the number and location(s) of the magnets are not limited, and the number and location(s) of the magnetic field sensors are not limited. In some embodiments, one or more magnetic field sensors include magnets that magnetically couple with corresponding one or more magnets of the magnet system of the dock 300.

[0082] The magnetic field sensors of the electronic device 200, if any are present, may include, for example, one or more magnetic field sensors, one or more magnetometers, one or more Hall effect sensors, and / or one or more other types of sensors configured to sense the presence of a magnet or magnetic field. The magnetic field sensors may be configured to generate a signal indicative of proximity to a magnet.

[0083] In some embodiments, the magnet system of either or both of the dock 300 and the electronic device 200 includes one or more magnetic modules configured to receive one or more control signals. For example, in response to a control signal generated by a processing system, each magnetic module is configured to generate a magnetic field corresponding to the received control signal. For example, the control signal can cause at least one of increasing, decreasing, substantially zeroing, and changing the N-polarity / S-polarity of the magnetic field of the magnetic module. Accordingly, the control signal can cause at least one of increasing, decreasing, substantially zeroing, and negatively causing the force between the electronic device and the dock 300 to repel.

[0084] FIG. 15 shows a flowchart of a method 1500 for operating a dock having an electronically docked electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 1500 can be performed, for example, by a dock 300 with which an electronic device 200 is docked.

[0085] At 1502, the processing system of the dock electrically deactivates the electrical contacts of the electronic device. For example, the processing system can apply a ground potential to the electrical contacts. In some embodiments, the processing system places the electrical contacts in a high-impedance condition, a tri-state condition, or an open state, as understood by those skilled in the art.

[0086] In some embodiments, the dock's processing system electrically deactivates the electrical contacts in response to determining that the electronic device is not docked. For example, one or more sensors of either or both the dock and the electronic device may generate or initiate a signal corresponding to an undocked state, and the processing system may determine, based on the generated signal, that the electronic device is not docked with the dock. For example, as described elsewhere herein, the sensor may include a magnetic sensor that generates a signal corresponding to a sensed low magnetic field indicating that the magnetic sensor and a corresponding magnet are separated by a distance greater than a particular minimum value corresponding to the undocked state. In an embodiment, when a sensor of the electronic device generates or initiates a signal, the signal may be communicated wirelessly to the dock. In some embodiments, the dock's processing system electrically deactivates the electrical contacts in response to determining that the electronic device is not docked and after a predetermined delay.

[0087] At 1504, the dock's processing system receives a signal from a sensor of either or both the dock and the electronic device, the signal corresponding to either 1) an undocked state corresponding to the electronic device not being docked with the dock, and 2) a docked state corresponding to the electronic device being docked with the dock. For example, as described elsewhere herein, the sensor may include a magnetic sensor that generates a signal corresponding to a sensed low magnetic field indicating that the magnetic sensor and a corresponding magnet are separated by a distance greater than a particular minimum distance corresponding to the undocked state, and a magnetic sensor that generates a signal corresponding to a sensed high magnetic field indicating that the magnetic sensor and a corresponding magnet are separated by a distance less than a particular maximum distance corresponding to the docked state. In an embodiment in which a sensor of the electronic device generates or initiates a signal, the signal may be communicated wirelessly to the dock.

[0088] At 1506, the processing system determines whether the electronic device is docked. For example, the processing system may receive signals indicating that each of a plurality of sensors has generated, or is generating, a signal corresponding to a docked or undocked state.

[0089] If the processing system determines that the electronic device is undocked, at 1508, the processing system responds by electrically deactivating, or continuing to keep deactivated, the electrical contacts of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the processing system electrically deactivates the electrical contacts in response to determining that the electronic device is not docked, and after a predetermined delay.

[0090] In some embodiments, at 1508, the processing system responds by changing the magnetic state of one or more magnetic modules of the dock. In some situations, changing the magnetic state of the magnet module can cause the electronic device to move relative to the dock, which can cause the electronic device to be properly aligned with the dock and become properly docked.

[0091] In some embodiments, at 1508, the processing system responds by generating an indication that the electronic device is not properly docked. For example, the processing system can cause a characteristic sound to be generated by a speaker of the dock. In some embodiments, the processing system can generate a characteristic light, light pattern, or sequence of optical signals. In some embodiments, a synthesized voice message indicating misalignment can be output by the dock.

[0092] In some embodiments, at 1508, the processing system responds by wirelessly transmitting to the electronic device a signal indicating that the electronic device is not properly docked. In response to receiving the transmitted signal, the electronic device may generate an indication that the electronic device is not properly docked to the user. For example, the electronic device may generate a characteristic sound by the dock or the speaker of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the electronic device may cause a characteristic light, a pattern of light, or a sequence of optical signals to be generated by the dock or by the electronic device. In some embodiments, the electronic device may cause a message indicating that the electronic device is not properly docked to the dock to be displayed. In some embodiments, a synthetic voice message indicating misalignment may be output by the tablet device.

[0093] In some embodiments, a message indicating correct or incorrect alignment may be output via the dock and / or the electronic device. For example, when properly aligned, a message indicating that the alignment is correct and / or that the electronic device is charging may be displayed, or an auditory signal may be output. In some embodiments, method 1500 does not include additional steps other than outputting some form of indication regarding alignment.

[0094] In some embodiments, the dock may have the ability to readjust the alignment of the electronic device without user assistance. For example, if multiple permanent magnets are present as part of the docking system, the dock may be able to reverse the polarity of the permanent magnets to adjust the alignment of the electronic device. Such adjustment may be sufficient to manipulate the electronic device into proper alignment.

[0095] At 1506, if the processing system determines that the electronic device is properly docked and aligned, at 1510, the processing system may respond by electrically activating the electrical contacts of the electronic device. For example, the processing system can activate communication with the dock via the electrical contacts and / or activate power to the electrical contacts, such that the electronic device can be powered and / or one or more of its batteries can be charged. In some embodiments, the processing system electrically deactivates the electrical contacts in response to determining that the electronic device is docked with the dock and after a predetermined delay.

[0096] Note that the methods, systems, and devices discussed above are intended to be merely examples. It must be emphasized that various embodiments can omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components as needed. For example, in alternative embodiments, it should be understood that the method can be executed in an order different from the described order, and various steps can be added, omitted, or combined. Also, the features described with respect to a particular embodiment can be combined in various other embodiments. Different aspects and elements of the embodiments can be combined in a similar manner. Additionally, technology is evolving, and thus, many of the elements are examples and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0097] Specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known processes, structures, and techniques are shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments. This description is provided only to illustrate exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the foregoing description of the embodiments will provide those of ordinary skill in the art with an enabling description for implementing the embodiments of the invention. Various changes can be made to the functions and arrangements of the elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0098] Also, note that the embodiments may be described as a process shown as a flow diagram or block diagram. Although each may describe the operations as a continuous process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or simultaneously. Also, the order of the operations can be rearranged. The process may have additional steps not included in the figures.

[0099] Although some exemplary configurations have been described, various modifications, alternative structures, and equivalents can be used without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. For example, the above elements may be components of a larger system, and other rules may take precedence over or modify the application of the present invention. Also, several steps may be performed before, during, or after the above elements are considered.

Claims

1. An electronic device docking system, comprising an electronic device, wherein the electronic device has a device front configured to display an image, and a device rear on the opposite side of the device front, the device rear including one or more device conductive elements, and includes one or more device magnetic elements, wherein the electronic device docking system further comprises a dock, wherein the dock has a dock front including one or more dock conductive elements, and includes one or more dock magnetic elements configured to be magnetically coupled with the device magnetic elements, as a result of the device magnetic elements being aligned with the dock magnetic elements, the device rear of the electronic device is at least partially held against the dock front by the attractive force generated by the dock magnetic elements and the device magnetic elements, as a result of the device magnetic elements being aligned with the dock magnetic elements, the dock conductive elements are in electrical contact with the device conductive elements, wherein the dock further includes a processing system configured to selectively supply a communication signal and power to the dock conductive elements, wherein the electronic device docking system further comprises one or more magnetic field sensors configured to generate a sensing signal, wherein the processing system of the dock determines a device state based on the sensing signal received from the one or more magnetic field sensors, and applies at least one of power and a communication signal to the electronic device via the dock conductive elements based on the device state, and is configured to perform an electronic device docking system.

2. The electronic device docking system according to claim 1, wherein the dock includes the one or more magnetic field sensors.

3. The electronic device docking system according to claim 2, wherein the device magnetic element of the electronic device is arranged on the electronic device so as to be aligned with the magnetic field sensor of the dock when the electronic device is docked with the dock.

4. The electronic device docking system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more magnetic field sensors include Hall effect sensors.

5. The electronic device docking system according to claim 1, wherein the processing system of the dock is configured such that the dock conductive element is electrically deactivated as a result of the device state corresponding to the dock magnetic element not being aligned with the device magnetic element.

6. The electronic device docking system according to claim 1, wherein the processing system of the dock is configured to generate an indication that the electronic device is not properly docked as a result of the device state corresponding to the dock magnetic element not being aligned with the device magnetic element.

7. The electronic device docking system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more magnetic field sensors include exactly two sensors.

8. The electronic device docking system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more magnetic field sensors include more than two sensors.

9. An electronic device docking system, comprising a dock, wherein the dock includes a dock front face, one or more dock magnetic elements, a speaker configured to generate a sound having power at each of a plurality of frequency bins, and feet. The electronic device docking system further includes an electronic device, The electronic device, A device front configured to display an image, A device rear on the opposite side of the device front, And one or more device magnetic elements configured to align with the dock magnetic element, wherein the device rear is at least partially held against the dock front by the gravitational force generated by the dock magnetic element and the device magnetic element, When the electronic device is docked with the dock, the speaker is configured to generate a docking sound, the docking sound having a docking sound power at a distance of 30 cm from the speaker at each of the plurality of frequency bins, and the docking sound being generated based on the data of the audio file, When the electronic device is undocked from the dock, the speaker is configured to generate an undocking sound, the undocking sound having a docking sound power at a distance of 30 cm from the speaker at each of the plurality of frequency bins, and the undocking sound being generated based on the data of the audio file, The docking sound power at each specific frequency bin is different from the undocking sound power at the specific frequency bin by less than 4 dB, An electronic device docking system.

10. The foot defines a foot surface, and a portion of the electronic device closest to the foot surface is less than 30 mm from the foot surface. The electronic device docking system according to claim 9.

11. The portion of the electronic device closest to the foot surface is less than 30 mm from the dock. The electronic device docking system according to claim 10.

12. The blocking surface contacts the electronic device and the dock, whereby the dock is blocked by the electronic device from a perspective between the blocking surface and the electronic device on the device front side of the electronic device, the electronic device dock system according to claim 9.

13. The electronic device dock system according to claim 12, wherein the foot defines a foot surface and the blocking surface intersects the foot surface at an angle of less than 50 degrees.

14. The electronic device dock system according to claim 9, wherein the foot defines a foot surface, the speaker of the dock defines a speaker surface, and the speaker surface intersects the foot surface at an angle of less than 90 degrees.

15. A dock for an electronic device dock system, wherein the dock comprises a housing, a speaker inside the housing, and a foot fixed to the housing, the foot including an outward portion, the outward portion including a first portion defining a foot surface, and a second portion between the foot surface and the housing, the dock further comprises a front element having a mating surface attached to the housing, and one or more dock magnetic elements configured to generate an attracting force for holding an electronic device against the mating surface. A dock.

16. The first portion of the foot is spaced apart from a first portion of the housing closest to the first portion of the foot by a first distance, the second portion of the foot is spaced apart from a second portion of the housing closest to the second portion of the foot by a second distance, the dock according to claim 15, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.

17. The dock according to claim 15, wherein the outward-facing portion is not planar. **Claim 18** The dock according to claim 15, wherein the outward-facing portion is concave. **Claim 19** The dock according to claim 15, wherein the outward-facing portion includes a concave portion and a planar portion. **Claim 20** The dock according to claim 15, wherein the outward-facing portion is non-planar and includes a first planar section and a second planar section.

Images