electronic machinery

Abstract

The aim is to provide an electronic device that offers a large screen exceeding the apparent size limitations of the main unit and display enclosure, is simple to use, lightweight, and can be used in confined spaces. [Solution] The display housing 12H is configured to open and close between a stacked state in which the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22, connected by their respective bent edges 23, are stacked, and an unfolded state in which they are unfolded to form a single surface. It has a flap 25 that is stretched between the first non-display surface 21b of the first display unit 21 and the second non-display surface 22b of the second display unit 22. Depending on the unfolding operation of the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22, one end 25a of the flap 25 is configured to tilt and slide relative to the first non-display surface 21b, and the other end 25b is configured to tilt relative to the second non-display surface 22b. The first display unit 21 is rectangular, with the side along the connecting edge 12a being the longer side, and the bent edge 23 is along the upper edge opposite the connecting edge 12a.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device configured to foldably arrange a first display unit and a second display unit of a display.

Background Art

[0002] A so-called clamshell-type notebook computer has a configuration in which a main body housing and a display housing are connected via a hinge, and is generally small and lightweight considering portability. Further, since the main body housing and the display housing are the same size in terms of configuration, the size of the display provided in the display housing is also subject to this limitation, while on the other hand, there is a demand for a larger screen with a larger area.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses the application of a roll-up display, which is wound around a predetermined axis when not in use and pulled out when in use. Since the display of the device of Patent Document 1 is expanded so as to protrude upward when placed on a table, it can be suitably used in a place where there is no room for lateral expansion.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] When the roll-up display of Patent Document 1 is applied to a clamshell-type notebook computer, it may be considered that a compact form can be obtained when not in use and a large screen can be obtained when in use.

[0006] However, the method described in Patent Document 1 requires a large force to wind up and unwind the display, necessitating the inclusion of a motor and support mechanism, which ultimately prevents it from being made compact and lightweight. Furthermore, depending on the usage, it may be desirable for a notebook computer to be usable in locations where there is no room for expansion on the sides.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and aims to provide an electronic device that can obtain a large screen that exceeds the apparent size limitations of the main unit housing and display housing, is simple and lightweight, and can be used in confined spaces. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the objective, an electronic device according to an aspect of the present invention is an electronic device in which a main body housing equipped with an input device and a display housing are rotatably connected to each other by a connecting edge, wherein the display housing is configured to be openable and closable between a stacked state in which a first display unit and a second display unit connected by their respective bent edges are stacked and an unfolded state in which they are unfolded to form the same surface, and has a flap that is stretched between the first non-display surface of the first display unit and the second non-display surface of the second display unit, wherein one end of the flap is configured to be tiltable and slidable with respect to the first non-display surface in accordance with the unfolding operation of the first display unit and the second display unit, and the other end is configured to be tiltable with respect to the second non-display surface, the first display unit is rectangular, the side along the connecting edge is the longer side, and the bent edge is along the upper edge of the first display unit that is opposite to the connecting edge. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the objective is to provide an electronic device that can obtain a large screen exceeding the apparent size limitations of the main unit housing and display housing, is simple to use, lightweight, and can be used in confined spaces. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the electronic device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of an electronic device in which the first display unit and the second display unit of a display are stacked, as seen from above. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of an electronic device with its first and second display units in an unfolded state, viewed from above. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the display enclosure. [Figure 5] Figure 5 illustrates the unfolding operation of the electronic device according to the first embodiment, where (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the unfolded state. [Figure 6] Figure 6 illustrates the unfolding operation of the electronic device according to the first embodiment on the back surface of the display housing, where (a) is a schematic diagram of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic diagram of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic diagram of the unfolded state. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the mechanism according to the comparative example, where (a) shows the stacked state and (b) shows the unfolded state. [Figure 8] Figure 8 illustrates the unfolding operation of an electronic device according to the second embodiment, where (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the unfolded state. [Figure 9] Figure 9 illustrates the unfolding operation of the electronic device according to the second embodiment on the back surface of the display housing, where (a) is a schematic diagram of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic diagram of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic diagram of the unfolded state. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the display housing of the electronic device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 illustrates the unfolding operation of an electronic device according to the third embodiment, where (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the unfolded state. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the deployment operation in the electronic device according to the third embodiment on the back surface of the display housing 12C. (a) is a schematic diagram of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic diagram during the transition, and (c) is a schematic diagram of the deployed state. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the deployment operation in the electronic device according to the fourth embodiment. (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view during the transition, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the deployed state. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view of an electronic device in which the first display portion and the second display portion of the display of the electronic device according to the fifth embodiment are in a stacked state, as viewed from above. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view of an electronic device 10E in which the first display portion and the second display portion of the display of the electronic device according to the fifth embodiment are in a deployed state, as viewed from above. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining the deployment operation in the electronic device according to the fifth embodiment. (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view during the transition, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the deployed state. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic plan view of an electronic device in which the first display portion and the second display portion of the display of the electronic device according to the sixth embodiment are in a deployed state, as viewed from above. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to the seventh embodiment in a stacked state. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device according to the seventh embodiment in a state during the transition. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a schematic plan view of an electronic device according to the eighth embodiment in which the first display portion and the second display portion of the display are in a stacked state, as viewed from above. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a schematic plan view of an electronic device according to the eighth embodiment in which the first display portion and the second display portion of the display are in a deployed state, as viewed from above. [Figure 22]FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the deployment operation of the electronic device according to the eighth embodiment, (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view in a stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view in the middle of transition, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view in a deployed state.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the electronic device according to the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited by this embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device 10A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the electronic device 10A when the first display portion 21 and the second display portion 22 of the display 16 are in a stacked state, viewed from above. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the electronic device 10A when the first display portion 21 and the second display portion 22 of the display 16 are in a deployed state, viewed from above. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the display housing 12A.

[0013] The electronic device 10A is a clamshell-type notebook PC. The electronic device 10A has a configuration in which the main body housing 11 and the display housing 12A are relatively rotatably connected by a hinge 14. In this embodiment, the electronic device 10A of the notebook PC is exemplified, but the electronic device may be other than a notebook PC, for example, a tablet PC (see FIG. 18), a smartphone, or a portable game machine. The display housing 12A mounts the display 16.

[0014] The hinges 14, for example, are installed near both sides and rotatably connect the connecting edge 11a of the main housing 11 and the connecting edge 12a of the display housing 12A. The hinges 14 have a torque application function that utilizes friction, allowing the display housing 12A to stop at any angle. The main housing 11 and the display housing 12A can rotate up to, for example, 180 degrees, with the state in which they are folded over each other (see Figure 1) as the reference 0 degrees. The main housing 11 is a thin, flat box. The top surface 11b of the main housing 11 faces a keyboard device (input device) 18 and a touchpad (input device) 19.

[0015] In the following description of the main unit housing 11 and the display housing 12A, the operator's posture when operating the keyboard device 18 will be used as the reference point. The width direction (left and right) of the main unit housing 11 will be the X direction, the left side in Figure 1 will be the X1 direction, the opposite right side will be the X2 direction, and the direction perpendicular to the X direction in Figure 1 will be the Y direction. The thickness direction of the display housing 12A will be the Z direction. These directions are defined for the convenience of explanation and may naturally change depending on the usage state or installation posture of the electronic device 10A.

[0016] The keyboard unit 18 is located on the side of the main casing 11 closest to the connecting edge 11a, extending almost the entire width in the X direction. A pointing device 18a, which moves the cursor by tilting, is located between the G, H, and B keys on the keyboard unit 18. The touchpad 19 is located on the side of the main casing 11 furthest from the connecting edge 11a, approximately in the center in the X direction. The center of the touchpad 19 and the pointing device 18a are approximately aligned in the X direction. Inside the main casing 11 are electronic and mechanical components such as a motherboard, battery unit, various module cards, and storage devices. The motherboard controls the electronic equipment 10A.

[0017] The display housing 12A has a front surface 12b on the side facing the main housing 11 when folded over with the main housing 11, and a back surface 12c on the opposite side. The display housing 12A is a thin, flat, box-shaped housing, and electronic devices 20 such as a camera and microphone are provided on the edge opposite the connecting edge 12a.

[0018] The display 16 is, for example, a flexible, pliable OLED (organic electro-luminescence) and has a first display section 21 and a second display section 22. The first display section 21 and the second display section 22 are connected by their respective bent edges 23 and are configured to be deployable between a stacked state (see Figure 2) and an unfolded state (Figure 3) where they are unfolded to form a single surface. In the stacked state, the first display section 21 and the second display section 22 are folded back in a U-shape at the bent portion 23. The process of unfolding the first display section 21 and the second display section 22 from the stacked state to the unfolded state is called the unfolding operation. For the second display section 22, the part connected to the first display section 21 is the bent edge 23, and the upper and lower rotating edges 22c and 22d rotate relative to the bent edge 23. The part opposite the bent edge 23 is called the end edge 22e.

[0019] The first display surface 21a of the first display unit 21 is on the surface 12b. The second display surface 22a of the second display unit 22 is on the back surface 12c in the stacked state and on the surface 12b in the unfolded state. The first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 do not necessarily have to be a continuous, integrated unit and may be independent in configuration. The first non-display surface 21b opposite to the first display surface 21a, and the second non-display surface 22b opposite to the second display surface 22a, are provided with a back plate 24 that can be bent at a bending edge 23. In the stacked state, the first display unit 21 occupies almost the entire surface 12b.

[0020] The curved edge 23 runs along the Y direction at the boundary between the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22, and corresponds to the X1 side edge of the first display unit 21. The first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 have equal width in the Y direction and form a continuous rectangle in the X direction when unfolded. In other words, the second display unit 22 is positioned to extend the first display unit 21 in the X1 direction when unfolded. Since the second display unit 22 extends beyond the width of the main unit housing 11 compared to the first display unit 21, the display content of the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 may be distinguished. For example, the first display unit 21 may display the same information as a conventional laptop, while the second display unit 22 may display additional information such as assistant functions. The X-direction width of the second display unit 22 is half that of the first display unit 21, but this is not limited to this; for example, the X-direction width may be the same. In Figure 3, the range of the second display unit 22 is shown by a dashed line. In the electronic device 10A, the second display unit 22 is positioned to extend to the left relative to the first display unit 21 when unfolded, but of course, if the configuration of the display housing 12A is reversed vertically, it will extend to the right.

[0021] The display housing 12A is further provided with a flap 25, a bezel 26, a base portion 27, a slider 28, and a retaining member 29.

[0022] The bezel 26 is composed of a fixed bezel 30 and a slidable frame 31, and in a stacked state, it surrounds the first display unit 21. The fixed bezel 30 has a rectangular U-shape with an opening in the X1 direction, and covers the upper and lower edges and the X2 side edge of the first display unit 21. In the electronic device 10A, the fixed bezel 30 constitutes a connecting edge 12a and is rotatably connected to the main housing 11 by a hinge 14. The first display unit 21 and the fixed bezel 30 are integral and do not move relative to each other. In other words, the first display unit 21 is rotatably connected to the main housing 11 via the fixed bezel 30 and the connecting edge 12a.

[0023] The frame 31 has a rectangular U-shape with an opening on the X2 side and consists of an upper frame 31a, a lower frame 31b, and a vertical frame 31c on the X1 side. The base portion 27 is integrally formed with the frame 31. The frame 31 is designed to displace relative to the first display unit 21 in conjunction with the unfolding operation. The upper frame 31a covers a part of the upper edge and the rotating edge 22c of the first display unit 21 in the stacked state, and covers the rotating edge 22c in the unfolded state. The lower frame 31b covers a part of the lower edge and the rotating edge 22d of the first display unit 21 in the stacked state, and covers the rotating edge 22d in the unfolded state. The vertical frame 31c covers the bent edge 23 in the stacked state and covers the end edge 22e in the unfolded state, providing protection in each case. The end edge 22e in the stacked state is protected by facing the edge of the rear cover 32, as will be described later. In other words, the bent edge 23, rotating edges 22c, 22d, and end edge 22e of the second display section 22 are covered and protected by the frame 31 and rear cover 32 in both the stacked and unfolded states.

[0024] The flap 25 is a moderately rigid plate-like member that spans between the first non-display surface 21b and the second non-display surface 22b. One end 25a of the flap 25 is connected to the base portion 27 and is configured to tilt and slide relative to the first non-display surface 21b in accordance with the deployment operation. The other end 25b is connected to approximately the middle of the second non-display surface 22b in the X direction and is configured to tilt in accordance with the deployment operation. The one end 25a and the other end 25b are living hinges or flip hinges, etc., and do not include friction elements, but may have a torque-applying function like the hinge 14 depending on the design conditions. This allows the second display unit 22 to be held at an arbitrary angle, and for example, the second display unit 22 can be used as a small standalone display unit when tilted.

[0025] The base portion 27 (see also Figure 6) is integrally formed with respect to the frame 31 on the X2 side. The base portion 27 and the frame 31 are configured to be slidable in the X direction relative to the first display portion 21 and the fixed bezel 30. When viewed from the back, the base portion 27 is frame-shaped, with the upper and lower frames 27a and 27b being extensions of the upper and lower frames 31a and 31b, the left frame 27c separating it from the frame 31, and the right frame 27d being in a stacked state that coincides with the right end of the display housing 12A. The upper and lower frames 27a and 27b have protrusions 27e (see Figure 4) that project toward the opposite side. One end 25a of the flap 25 is connected to the left frame 27c or its vicinity, thereby allowing it to slide relative to the first non-display surface 21b.

[0026] The back of the base portion 27 is covered by the rear cover 32, and the inside of the frame is not visible. A space S is secured between the rear cover 32 and the back plate 24, and a display board 33 is provided there. The display board 33 controls the display of the display 16. The rear cover 32 has a suitable thickness and, in the stacked state, faces and protects the edge 22e of the second display portion 22. In the stacked state, the back surface 12c of the display housing 12A is occupied by the second display portion 22 on the X1 side and by the rear cover 32 on the X2 side.

[0027] The slider 28 has two vertically separated legs 28a and an engaging piece 28b that is supported by the legs 28a and extends in the Y direction. The legs 28a are fixed to the back plate 24 and the first non-display surface 21b of the first display unit 21. Both ends of the engaging piece 28b overlap and engage with the projection 27e in the Z direction. In other words, the slider 28 and the base unit 27 are configured to slide relative to each other in the X direction. The two legs 28a are in close contact with the end faces of the projection 27e, so that the base unit 27 does not wobble in the Y direction.

[0028] Figure 5 illustrates the unfolding operation of the electronic device 10A, where (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the unfolded state. Figure 6 illustrates the unfolding operation on the back surface of the display housing 12A, where (a) is a schematic diagram of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic diagram of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic diagram of the unfolded state. The rear cover 32 is omitted in Figures 6 and 9.

[0029] The retaining member 29 is composed of 10 magnets 29a to 29m, as shown in Figure 5. Hereafter, the retaining member 29 will also be referred to as magnet 29. Magnets 29a to 29g are provided on the back plate 24 from the first display section 21 to the second display section 22. Magnets 29h and 29i are provided on the base section 27. Magnet 29k is provided near one end 25a of the flap 25. Magnet 29m is provided near the other end 25b of the flap 25. Multiple magnets 29a to 29k may be provided along the Y direction. The magnetic force of magnets 29a to 29k and the other magnets described later is not excessively strong, and they can be separated manually from their attracted state.

[0030] As shown in Figure 5(a), in the stacked state, magnets 29a and 29h are attracted to each other, magnets 29b and 29i are attracted to each other, magnets 29c and 29j are attracted to each other, magnets 29d, 29k and 29g are attracted to each other, and magnets 29e and 29f are attracted to each other, defining the relative positions of the first display unit 21, the second display unit 22, the flap 25 and the base unit 27, and stably maintaining the stacked state.

[0031] As shown in Figures 5(a) and 6(a), in the stacked state, the slider 28 is located near the X1-side end of the base portion 27. To unfold from the stacked state, the end edge 22e of the second display portion 22 is pulled out. This releases it from the attraction between the magnets 29, and as shown in Figures 5(b) and 6(b), the second display portion 22 rotates around the bent edge 23. The other end 25b is temporarily pulled out, causing the flap 25 to tilt and displace in the X1 direction. Since the base portion 27 and frame 31 are slidable in the X direction relative to the first display portion 21 and slider 28, they slide in the X1 direction when pulled by one end 25a.

[0032] As shown in Figures 5(c) and 6(c), in the unfolded state, the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 are arranged to form the same plane. The frame 31 moves so that the vertical frame 31c covers and protects the end edge 22e facing it. In the unfolded state, the slider 28 moves to the vicinity of the X2 side end of the base unit 27.

[0033] In the deployed state, magnets 29c and 29h attract each other, magnets 29d and 29i attract each other, magnets 29e and 29j attract each other, and magnets 29f and 29k attract each other, defining the relative positions of the first display unit 21, the second display unit 22, the flap 25, and the base unit 27, and stably maintaining the deployed state. In addition, each magnet 29 can be detected by a Hall element or the like, making it possible to identify the stacked state, the state in the transition, and the deployed state.

[0034] Returning from the unfolded state to the stacked state can be done by performing the reverse operation. The slider 28 does not appear to slide, but it slides relative to the base portion 27. In this way, in the electronic device 10A, the second display portion 22 rotates around the bent edge 23, and one end 25a of the linking flap 25 slides, displacing the frame 31 and the base portion 27, resulting in a mechanism similar to a slider-crank mechanism.

[0035] Incidentally, when an OLED is applied to the display 16, it has a certain degree of rigidity due to its properties, so the bent edge 23 takes the shape of a circular arc with length L, as shown in Figure 5(a). In the unfolding operation, the second display unit 22 rotates around the bent edge 23, but since the bent edge 23 has no mechanical parts, there are no constraints whatsoever. Therefore, as shown in Figure 5(c), when it is in the unfolded state, the part corresponding to the bent edge 23, that is, the area extending from the first display unit 21 to the second display unit 22, becomes a continuous plane.

[0036] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the mechanism according to the comparative example, where (a) shows the stacked state and (b) shows the unfolded state. In the mechanism according to this comparative example, a back plate 24a is provided on the first non-display surface 21b of the first display unit 21, and a back plate 24b is provided on the second non-display surface 22b of the second display unit 22, and the ends of the back plates 24a and 24b are connected by a short hinge link 34. In such a mechanism, as shown in Figure 7(b), there is a concern that in the unfolded state, sagging due to excess length will occur in the part corresponding to the bent edge 23 due to the constraint of the hinge link 34. In contrast, in the electronic device 10A according to this embodiment, there is no special mechanism for the bent edge 23, so such inconvenience does not occur, and a mechanism that allows the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 to be unfolded between the stacked state and the unfolded state can be constructed simply and inexpensively.

[0037] Furthermore, in the electronic device 10A, the flap 25 overlaps with the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 in a stacked state, and overlaps with the second display unit 22 in an unfolded state. Therefore, the magnets 29j and 29k provided on the flap 25 attract each other with other magnets 29, allowing the stacked or unfolded state to be suitably maintained. However, in the comparative example shown in Figure 7, there is no component equivalent to the flap 25, making it difficult to maintain the state using magnets.

[0038] In this embodiment, the electronic device 10A has a display 16 that unwinds and unwinds, and is basically manual rather than retractable. OLEDs are relatively stiff and require a high-output motor or support mechanism for winding and unwinding, but these are unnecessary in this embodiment, resulting in a compact and lightweight design.

[0039] In the electronic device 10A, the bent portion 23 is exposed to the X1 side when stacked. This bent portion 23 is also part of the display surface and is protected by the vertical frame 31c of the frame 31. The frame 31 is displaced relative to the first display portion 21 in conjunction with the unfolding operation, so there is no interference with the unfolding operation, and in the unfolded state, the vertical frame 31c protects the end edge 22e.

[0040] Next, the electronic device 10B according to the second embodiment will be described. In the following embodiments, components that are the same as those in the electronic device 10A or between embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions will be omitted. The electronic device 10B has a display housing 12B instead of the display housing 12A described above.

[0041] Figure 8 illustrates the unfolding operation of the electronic device 10B, where (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the unfolded state. Figure 9 illustrates the unfolding operation of the electronic device 10B on the back surface of the display housing, where (a) is a schematic view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic view of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic view of the unfolded state.

[0042] In the electronic device 10A described above, the first display unit 21 is rotatably connected to the main housing 11 via a fixed bezel 30 and a connecting edge 12a, whereas in the electronic device 10B, the frame 31 and base portion 27 are rotatably connected to the main housing 11 via a hinge 14 and a connecting edge 12a. In other words, the frame 31 and base portion 27 are immovable relative to the main housing 11.

[0043] Electronic devices 10A and 10B are the same in that the frame 31 and the base portion 27 are integrated and displace relative to the first display unit 21. In electronic device 10A, the first display unit 21 is configured not to displace relative to the main housing 11, and the frame 31 and base portion 27 displace in the X1 direction relative to the main housing 11, whereas in electronic device 10B, the frame 31 and base portion 27 are configured not to displace relative to the main housing 11, and the first display unit 21 displaces in the X2 direction relative to the main housing 11. In electronic device 10B, when unfolded, the second display unit 22 is reversed front to back but does not displace in the X direction, and the first display unit 21 is positioned to extend to the right. However, if the configuration of the display housing 12B is reversed upside down, it will of course extend to the left.

[0044] Next, the electronic device 10C according to the third embodiment will be described. The electronic device 10C has a display housing 12C instead of the display housing 12A described above.

[0045] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the display housing 12C. Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the unfolding operation in the electronic device 10C, where (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view during the transition, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the unfolded state. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the unfolding operation on the back surface of the display housing 12C, where (a) is a schematic diagram of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic diagram during the transition, and (c) is a schematic diagram of the unfolded state. Figure 10 corresponds to the transition in the unfolding operation, i.e., the states in Figure 11(b) and Figure 12(b). The main housing 11 is omitted in Figure 11.

[0046] In the electronic device 10C, the base portion 27 occupies approximately half of the X1 side of the first non-display surface 21b of the first display unit 21, and is sandwiched between the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 in a stacked state. The rear cover 32 covers approximately half of the X2 side of the first non-display surface 21b. In other words, the rear cover 32 and the base portion 27 are adjacent in the X direction and occupy almost the entire surface of the first non-display surface 21b in a stacked state. The base portion 27 is integrally fixed to the first non-display surface 21b. In other words, in this embodiment, the base portion 27 and the first display unit 21 do not move relative to each other.

[0047] The base portion 27 is composed of an upper frame 31a, a lower frame 31b, and a vertical frame 31c, similar to the example above (see Figure 4). However, while the projection 27e in the example above is located at an intermediate height between the upper and lower frames 27a and 27b, in the electronic device 10C, it protrudes from the ends of the upper and lower frames 27a and 27b.

[0048] The slider 35 has a connecting piece 35a exposed from an opening in the base portion 27 and an engaging piece 35b extending in the Y direction. Both ends of the engaging piece 35b overlap and engage with the projection 27e in the Z direction. In other words, the slider 35 and the base portion 27 are configured to be slidable relative to each other in the X direction. The connecting piece 35a protrudes a short distance from the engaging piece 35b, and one end 25a of the flap 25 is connected to it. In other words, one end 25a is tiltable and slidable in the X direction in accordance with the deployment operation. A guide groove 36 is formed between the projection 27e and the first display portion 21. In other words, the first non-display surface 21b is provided with a slider 35 guided by the guide groove 36, and one end 25a of the flap 25 is tiltably connected to the slider 35.

[0049] Both ends of the connecting piece 35a are in close contact with the end face of the projection 27e, and both ends of the engaging piece 35b are in close contact with the upper and lower frames 27a and 27b, so that the flap 25 does not rattle in the Y direction. The display housing 12C has magnets 29c, 29e, 29f, 29g, 29j, and 29k, but their positions may differ slightly from the example above. The slider 35 is provided with a magnet 29m.

[0050] As shown in Figure 11(a), in the stacked state, magnets 29c and 29m are attracted to each other, and magnets 29g and 29i are attracted to each other, defining the relative positions of the first display unit 21, the second display unit 22, the flap 25, and the base unit 27, and the stacked state is stably maintained.

[0051] As shown in Figures 11(a) and 12(a), in the stacked state, the slider 35 is located near the X2 side end of the base portion 27. To unfold from the stacked state, the end edge 22e of the second display portion 22 is pulled out. This releases the attraction between the magnets 29, and as shown in Figures 11(b) and 12(b), the second display portion 22 rotates around the bent edge 23. The other end 25b is temporarily pulled out, causing the flap 25 to tilt and displace in the X1 direction. Since the base portion 27 is fixed to the first display portion 21, the slider 35 is pulled by one end 25a and slides in the X1 direction.

[0052] As shown in Figures 11(c) and 12(c), in the unfolded state, the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 are arranged to form the same plane. In the unfolded state, the slider 35 moves to the vicinity of the X1 side end of the base unit 27.

[0053] In the deployed state, magnets 29e and 29m attract each other, magnets 29f and 29k attract each other, defining the relative positions of the first display unit 21, the second display unit 22, the flap 25, and the base unit 27, and stably maintaining the deployed state.

[0054] The electronic device 10D according to the fourth embodiment will now be described. The electronic device 10B has a display housing 12D instead of the display housing 12A described above.

[0055] Figure 13 illustrates the unfolding operation of the electronic device 10D, where (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the unfolded state. The main casing 11 is omitted in Figure 13.

[0056] In the display housing 12D, a slide board 37 is added to the display housing 12C (see Figure 11). The slide board 37 is a plate-shaped slider, and its width in the X direction, width in the Y direction, and thickness are approximately the same as, for example, the flap 25. The X1 side end of the slide board 37 is connected to one end 25a of the flap 25 and the slider 35. In other words, one end 25a is tiltably connected to the slider 35 and the slide board 37. The slide board 37 can also be considered as part of the slider 35.

[0057] The rear cover 32 has a layered gap 38 that opens on the X1 side and runs along the first non-display surface 21b. The X2 side portion of the slide board 37 is inserted into the gap 38 and can move in and out of the gap 38. The gap 38 is designed so that the slide board 37 fits snugly into it, and the slide board 37 is guided in the X direction without rattling.

[0058] In the electronic device 10D and the display housing 12D, not only the slider 35 but also the slide board 37 slides one end 25a of the flap 25, so that the one end 25a can operate stably. If the slide board 37 is strong enough not to cause bending, the slider 35 may be omitted.

[0059] The electronic device 10E according to the fifth embodiment will now be described. The electronic device 10E has a display housing 12E instead of the display housing 12A described above.

[0060] Figure 14 is a schematic plan view of the electronic device 10E, with the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 of the display 16 stacked, as seen from above. Figure 15 is a schematic plan view of the electronic device 10E, with the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 of the display 16 unfolded, as seen from above.

[0061] The electronic device 10E is similar to the above embodiments in that, in the stacked state, the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 overlap, and in the unfolded state, the second display unit 22 is positioned to extend the first display unit 21 in the X direction. In the above embodiments, either the first display unit 21 or the second display unit 22 protrudes in the X1 direction or the X2 direction, whereas in the electronic device 10E, when transitioning from the stacked state to the unfolded state, the first display unit 21 slides in one direction in the X direction (in this case, the X2 direction), and the second display unit 22 unfolds in the opposite direction (in this case, the X1 direction).

[0062] In its unfolded state, the X-direction center C0 of the entire display 16, which combines the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22, coincides with the physical X-direction center C1 of the main casing 11. In other words, the display 16 is centered so that the left and right overhang widths W1 and W2 relative to the edge of the main casing 11 are equal. This allows the user to view the display 16 with good left-right balance, and also provides good weight balance.

[0063] The X-direction center C0 of the display 16 may coincide with the X-direction center C2 of the pointing device 18a and the touchpad 19. C1 is the physical center, while C2 is the operational center. This allows the user to balance viewing the display 16 with input operations.

[0064] The center C0 may be located between centers C1 and C2. The F keys 18b and J keys 18c of the keyboard device 18 (see Figure 2) often have protrusions or recesses that indicate the home position. That is, the area between the "F" key and the "J" key can be considered the approximate center of operation, so the center C0 may be set within this range. Furthermore, if the keyboard device 18 has a numeric keypad, the physical center C1 will be located slightly to the right of the center of operation C2. Including these, in the unfolded state, the center C0 of the display 16, in which the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 are aligned on the same plane, is preferably located between the left F key 18b and the right J key 18c or the physical center C1. However, it may be located in positions other than these depending on the design philosophy.

[0065] Figure 16 illustrates the unfolding operation of the electronic device 10E, where (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the transition in progress, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the unfolded state.

[0066] In the display housing 12E, the fixed bezel 30 is rotatably connected to the main housing 11 by a hinge 14 at a connecting edge 12a. The base portion 27 is integrally formed with the fixed bezel 30 and cannot be displaced. The first display unit 21 is separate from the fixed bezel 30 and is slidable relative to it in the X direction. In this case, the fixed bezel 30 does not have a right edge frame. The display housing 12E does not have a frame 31, but the basic structure other than these is the same as that of the display housing 12B.

[0067] As shown in Figure 16(a), in the stacked state, the arrangement of the first display unit 21, the second display unit 22, the flap 25, the base unit 27, and the slider 28 is the same as the corresponding components in the display housing 12B (see Figure 8(a)).

[0068] In the electronic device 10E, similar to the electronic device 10B, the base portion 27 is configured to be immovable relative to the main body housing 11, and the first display portion 21 is displaced in the X2 direction relative to the main body housing 11, with a portion of it protruding by a width W1 beyond the right end of the main body housing 11. On the other hand, the second display portion 22 rotates around the bent edge 23 and unfolds so that a portion of it protrudes by a width W2 beyond the left end of the main body housing 11.

[0069] The widths W1 and W2 are determined by the distance La from the bent edge 23 of the second display section 22 to the connection point of the other end 25b of the flap 25. Mathematically, W1 = La × 2. Since W1 + W2 is a constant, W1 and W2 increase and decrease in opposite directions. Electronic equipment 10B corresponds to the case where W2 = 0.

[0070] According to the electronic device 10E, the arrangement of the display unit and the main body housing 11 or input devices such as the keyboard device 18 can be optimized in both the stacked state and the unfolded state.

[0071] The electronic device 10F according to the sixth embodiment will now be described. The electronic device 10B has a display housing 12F instead of the display housing 12A described above.

[0072] Figure 17 is a schematic plan view of the electronic device 10F, with the first display section 21 and the second display section 22 of the display 16 in an unfolded state, viewed from above. The display housing 12F is the same as the display housing 12A (see Figures 2 to 6) in that it has the first display section 21, the second display section 22, and a base section 27 that can slide in the X direction relative to the first display section 21.

[0073] The display housing 12F has a configuration in which a rotatable connecting member 42 is added to the display housing 12A. That is, in the display housing 12A, the first display unit 21 and the fixed bezel 30 are rotatably connected to the main housing 11, whereas in the display housing 12F, the rotatable connecting member 42 forms a connecting edge 12a and is rotatably connected to the main housing 11 by a hinge 14. Furthermore, the first display unit 21 and the fixed bezel 30 are configured to slide in the X direction relative to the rotatable connecting member 42.

[0074] In the electronic device 10F, as shown by the solid line in Figure 17, when transitioning from a stacked state to an unfolded state, the second display unit 22 is displaced in the X1 direction as it unfolds, while the first display unit 21 remains displaced. Subsequently, as shown by the dashed line, the user can use the device by sliding the display 16, fixed bezel 30, and frame 31 together in the X2 direction, thereby aligning the center C0 of the display 16 with the physical center C1 or operating center C2 of the main housing 11. This sliding mechanism may be provided with a positioning index mechanism, a locking mechanism, a friction-applying mechanism, etc.

[0075] Although not shown in the diagram, a rotatable connecting member 42 may be provided to the above-mentioned display housing 12B (see Figure 8) as a modified example. In the display housing 12B, the base portion 27 is rotatably connected to the main housing 11, whereas in the modified example, the rotatable connecting member 42 forms a connecting edge 12a and is rotatably connected to the main housing 11 by a hinge 14, and the base portion 27 is configured to slide in the X direction relative to the rotatable connecting member 42.

[0076] As a result, when transitioning from the stacked state to the unfolded state, the first display unit 21 is displaced in the X2 direction, while the second display unit 22 reverses its front and back sides as it unfolds but does not displace. Subsequently, the user can use the device by sliding the display 16, fixed bezel 30, and frame 31 together in the X1 direction, aligning the center C0 of the display 16 with the physical center C1 or operation center C2 of the main housing 11.

[0077] The electronic device 10G according to the seventh embodiment will now be described. The electronic device 10G is tablet-type and does not have a main body housing 11. Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view of the electronic device 10G in a stacked state. Figure 19 is a schematic perspective view of the electronic device 10G in an intermediate transition state. In Figure 19, the rear cover 32 has been removed. Similar to the display housing 12E of the electronic device 10F, the electronic device 10G has a base portion 27 and a rear cover 32 that can slide in the X direction relative to the first display portion 21, and is configured such that when the second display portion 22 is deployed in the X1 direction, the first display portion 21 slides in the opposite X2 direction. Because the first display portion 21 and the second display portion 22 are displaced in opposite directions relative to the base portion 27 and rear cover 32 of the electronic device 10G, the weight balance is good, and stable deployment is possible, for example, while holding the base portion 27 and rear cover 32 with one hand. In the electronic device 10G, a control board 43 and a battery are provided in the space S.

[0078] The electronic device 10H according to the eighth embodiment will now be described. The electronic device 10H has a display housing 12H instead of the display housing 12A described above.

[0079] Figure 20 is a schematic plan view of the electronic device 10H, with the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 of the display 16 stacked, as seen from above. Figure 21 is a schematic plan view of the electronic device 10H, with the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22 of the display 16 unfolded, as seen from above. Figure 22 is a diagram illustrating the unfolding operation in the electronic device 10H, where (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stacked state, (b) is a schematic cross-sectional view during the transition, and (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the unfolded state.

[0080] In each of the embodiments described above, the first display unit 21 is rectangular, with the longer side being in the X direction along the connecting edge 12a and the shorter side being in the Y direction perpendicular to it, and the second display unit 22 is positioned to extend the X direction of the first display unit 21 when unfolded. In contrast, the display housing 12H of the electronic device 10H has the same shape as the first display unit 21, but the second display unit 22 is positioned to extend upward along the Y direction of the first display unit 21 when unfolded.

[0081] In this case, the second display unit 22 has the same X width as the first display unit 21, and its Y width is about half that of the first display unit 21. The curved edge 23 follows the upper edge opposite the connecting edge 12a of the first display unit 21. In the stacked state, the upper half of the back surface 12c of the display housing 12H is occupied by the second display surface 22a of the second display unit 22, and the lower half is occupied by the rear cover 32. In the unfolded state, the front and back of the second display unit 22 are reversed, and it unfolds upwards, with the end edge 22e becoming the upper piece.

[0082] The flap 25 is stretched between the first non-display surface 21b of the first display unit 21 and the second non-display surface 22b of the second display unit 22. In the above embodiment, one end 25a and the other end 25b connected to the first non-display surface 21b and the second non-display surface 22b extend in the Y direction, whereas in the display housing 12H, it extends in the X direction. As in the above example, one end 25a is configured to tilt and slide relative to the first non-display surface 21b, and the other end 25b is configured to tilt relative to the second non-display surface 22b, in accordance with the deployment of the first display unit 21 and the second display unit 22.

[0083] In the display housing 12H, the bezel 26 is composed of a fixed bezel 40 and a slidable frame 41, and in a stacked state, it covers the periphery of the first display unit 21. The fixed bezel 40 is a component equivalent to the fixed bezel 30 described above, but has a different shape; it is a rectangular U-shape with an open top, and covers the lower edge and left and right edges of the first display unit 21. In the electronic device 10H, the fixed bezel 40 constitutes a connecting edge 12a and is rotatably connected to the main housing 11 by a hinge 14.

[0084] Frame 41 is a component equivalent to frame 31 described above, but has a different shape; it is a rectangular U-shape with an open bottom, and consists of a left frame 41a, a right frame 41b, and an upper horizontal frame 41c. The base portion 27 is integrally constructed with frame 41. Frame 41 is designed to displace relative to the first display unit 21 in conjunction with the unfolding operation. In the stacked state, the left frame 41a covers a part of the left edge and the rotating edge 22c of the first display unit 21, and in the unfolded state, it covers the rotating edge 22c. In the stacked state, the right frame 41b covers a part of the right edge and the rotating edge 22d of the first display unit 21, and in the unfolded state, it covers the rotating edge 22d. In the stacked state, the horizontal frame 41c covers the bent edge 23, and in the unfolded state, it covers the end edge 22e.

[0085] Such an electronic device 10H provides a large screen that exceeds the apparent size limitations of the main body casing 11 and the stacked display casing 12H when unfolded. Furthermore, because the second display unit 22 unfolds upward, the width is reduced, making it usable in confined spaces. It is also suitable for placing separate speakers on either side.

[0086] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be freely modified without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0087] 10A,10B,10C,10D,10E,10F,10G,10H Electronic equipment 11 Main unit 11a, 12a Connecting edge 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E, 12F, 12H Display enclosure 14 Hinge 16 displays 18. Keyboard device (input device) 20 Electronic Devices 21 1st display section 21a 1st display surface 21b 1st hidden surface 22 2nd display section 22a 2nd display surface 22b 2nd hidden surface 22c, 22d Rotating edge 22e End edge 23 Bent edge 24, 24a, 24b Backplate 25 Flap 25a one end 25b Other end 26 Bezel 27 Base section 28, 35 Slider 29 Retaining member 29a, 29b, 29c, 29d, 29e, 29f, 29g, 29h, 29i, 29j, 29k, 29l, 29m Magnets 30, 40 Fixed bezel 31,41 frames 32 Rear Cover 36 Guide grooves 37 Slide board 42 Rotating connecting member

Claims

1. An electronic device in which a main housing equipped with an input device and a display housing are rotatably connected to each other by a connecting edge, The display housing is configured to be openable and closable between a stacked state in which the first display unit and the second display unit, connected by their respective bent edges, are stacked, and an unfolded state in which they are unfolded to form a single surface. The first display unit has a first non-display surface and the second non-display surface of the second display unit has a flap that is stretched between them. In accordance with the deployment operation of the first display unit and the second display unit, one end of the flap is configured to be tiltable and slidable relative to the first non-display surface, and the other end is configured to be tiltable relative to the second non-display surface. The first display section is rectangular, with the longer side being the side along the connecting edge. The aforementioned bent edge is along the upper edge of the first display portion that is opposite to the connecting edge. An electronic device characterized by the following features.

2. In the electronic device described in claim 1, The first display unit and the second display unit are linked to the unfolding operation and have a frame that is displaced relative to the first display unit, The frame covers the bent edge where the first display unit and the second display unit are connected in the stacked state, and covers the end edge facing the bent edge in the unfolded state. An electronic device characterized by the following features.

3. In the electronic device according to claim 2, It has a base portion that can slide relative to the first display portion, The first display unit is rotatably connected to the main body housing by the connecting edge, The frame and the base portion become one and displace relative to the first display portion. An electronic device characterized by the following features.

Images