Display device

Abstract

To provide a display device that can be simply used.SOLUTION: A display device forms a foldable display structure. Each display unit 1 comprises a display screen with user input capability, a battery, a wireless transceiver, and a mount unit that is adapted to receive and hold the display units when the display units are folded within the mount unit 2 and that further comprises a power arrangement configured to recharge the battery of the display units, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceiver of each of the display units, and a communication arrangement for communication via a communication network. The display unit can be removed from within the mount unit for use separated from the mount unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device. [Background technology]

[0002] Display devices are used in a wide range of devices, including portable devices such as mobile phones, tablet computing devices, etc. A challenge for portable device designers is to design display devices that are lightweight, battery efficient, and easy to use. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] The present invention provides a display device including a plurality of display units each hinged to one another to form a foldable display structure, each of the display units including a display screen with user input capability, a battery and a wireless transceiver; and a mounting unit adapted to receive and hold the display units when the display units are folded within the mounting unit, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge the battery of the display units when the display units are received and held within the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceivers of each of the display units, and a communications arrangement for communicating via a communications network, wherein the display units are removable from within the mounting unit for use separately from the mounting unit.

[0004] The present invention also provides a display device comprising at least one display unit, the display unit including a display screen with user input capabilities, a battery and a wireless transceiver; a display frame structure for receiving and supporting at least a peripheral portion of the display unit; and a mounting unit configured to receive and hold the display frame structure within the mounting unit, the mounting unit further comprising a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display unit when the display unit is received within the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceiver of the display unit, and a communications arrangement for communicating via a communications network, wherein the display unit is removable from the mounting unit for use separately from the mounting unit.

[0005] The present invention also provides a display device comprising: a plurality of display units, each of the display units including a display screen with user input capability, a battery and a wireless transceiver; and a mounting unit including a display frame structure for receiving and supporting at least a peripheral portion of each of the display units, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge the battery of the display unit when the display unit is received by the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceiver of the display unit, and a communications arrangement for communicating over a communications network, wherein the display units are removable from the mounting unit for use separately from the mounting unit.

[0006] The present invention also provides a display device comprising: a plurality of display units, each of the display units including a display screen with user input capability, a battery and a wireless transceiver; and a mounting unit including a hinge region and a plurality of frames hingedly connected to the hinge region, each of the frames configured to receive and hold a display unit, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge the battery of the display unit when the display unit is received by the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceiver of the display unit, and a communications arrangement for communicating over a communications network, wherein the display units are removable from within the mounting unit for use separately from the mounting unit.

[0007] The present invention also provides a display device comprising at least one display unit, the display unit including a display screen with user input capabilities, a battery and a wireless transceiver, and a mounting unit, the mounting unit receiving and holding the display unit housed therein, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display unit when the at least one display unit is housed, received and held in the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceiver of the at least one display unit, and a communications arrangement for communicating over a communications network, wherein the at least one display unit is removable from within the mounting unit for use separately from the mounting unit.

[0008] The present invention also provides a display device comprising a plurality of display units, each of the display units comprising a detector arrangement for detecting when at least one other display is positioned adjacent to the display unit, a wireless transceiver for communicating display synchronization information to at least one adjacent display unit, and a display controller configured to control the display units to display information comprising consecutive information portions and to cause the adjacent display units to display the information portions as consecutive information portions.

[0009] The present invention also provides a display unit comprising: a first display on a first side; a second display on a second side; a detection arrangement for detecting when the display unit has been flipped over so that the first display or the second display faces upward; and a display controller for controlling the first display and the second display in response to detection by the detection arrangement to cause a first information portion of consecutive information portions to be displayed on one of the first display or the second display when the first display or the second display faces upward, and to cause a second information portion that is incremented or decremented relative to the first information portion to be displayed on the other of the first display and the second display. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device in which the flexible display unit is partially folded and bent along a vertical direction. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the exemplary display device of FIG. 2 with the flexible display unit further folded. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the exemplary display device of FIG. 3 with the flexible display unit further folded. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the exemplary display device of FIG. 4 with the flexible display unit further folded. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a side view of the example display device of FIGS. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side view of the example display device of FIGS. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the mount unit of the display device of FIGS. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the rear of the exemplary display device of FIGS. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device in which the flexible display unit is partially folded along the horizontal direction. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating the exemplary display device of FIG. 10 with the flexible display unit further folded. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the exemplary display device of FIG. 11 with the flexible display unit further folded. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device in which the flexible display unit is partially folded along a diagonal direction. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device including a display device and a protective cover fitted in a mounting unit. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing the front of an exemplary display device with a built-in display on the rear of the mounting unit. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a side view of the exemplary display device of FIGS. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a side view of the exemplary display device of FIGS. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing the rear of the exemplary display device of FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing the front of an exemplary display device with the removable front and rear display units removed. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing the rear of the exemplary display device of FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a side view of the exemplary display device of FIG. 19 with the display unit removed. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a side view of the exemplary display device of FIG. 20 with the display unit removed. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the mount unit of the display device of FIGS. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram showing a front view of the exemplary display device of FIGS. 19-22 with the display unit within the mounting unit. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing the rear of the exemplary display device of FIGS. 19-22 with the display unit within the mounting unit. [Figure 26] 26 is a side view of the exemplary display device of FIG. 19 with the display unit within the mounting unit. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a side view of the exemplary display device of FIG. 20 with the display unit within the mounting unit. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device having a frame for receiving and supporting a display unit. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device having a frame for receiving and supporting a display unit which can be received and held within a mounting unit. [Diagram 30]FIG. 30 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example display device having a foldable display unit that can be received and held within a mounting unit. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device having a display unit that can be received and held within a mounting unit. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device having a display unit that can be received and held within a mounting unit. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device having a display unit that can be received and held within a mounting unit. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device having a hinged, two-part mounting unit for receiving and holding a display unit. [Diagram 35] FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device having a hinged mounting unit that includes two pairs of hinged portions for receiving and holding a display unit. [Diagram 36] FIG. 36 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device having a hinged mounting unit for receiving and holding a display unit. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a schematic diagram showing the electronic components of an exemplary display unit. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a schematic diagram showing the electronic components of an example mounting unit. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary electronic display device including multiple display units that detects the proximity of adjacent display units for control of the display of information. [Diagram 40] FIG. 40 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary electronic display device including multiple display units that detects the proximity of adjacent display units for control of the display of information. [Diagram 41]FIG. 41 is a schematic diagram showing multiple display units detecting the proximity of adjacent display units for controlling the display of information. [Diagram 42] FIG. 42 is a schematic diagram showing multiple display units detecting the proximity of adjacent display units for controlling the display of information. [Diagram 43] FIG. 43 is a schematic diagram showing multiple display units detecting the proximity of adjacent display units for controlling the display of information. [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 is a schematic diagram showing the electronic components of an exemplary display unit. [Diagram 45] FIG. 45 is a schematic diagram showing communication of information by an exemplary electronic display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this application and which show by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the present subject matter may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice them, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. Although such embodiments of the present subject matter may be individually and / or collectively referred to under the term "invention," this is merely for convenience and is not intended to limit the scope of the present application to any one invention or inventive concept when more than one is actually disclosed.

[0012] The following description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the inventive subject matter is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0013] In the following embodiments, similar components are given similar reference numbers.

[0014] Some embodiments implement the functions in two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices with associated control and data signals communicated between them via modules, or as part of an application specific integrated circuit. Thus, the exemplary process flows are applicable to software, firmware and hardware implementations. A generalized embodiment provides a display device including at least one display unit, the play unit including a display screen with user input capabilities, a battery and a wireless transceiver, and a mount unit adapted to receive and hold the at least one display unit. The present invention is suitable for, but not limited to, portable display devices.

[0015] In one example, the mount is part of a non-portable device, such as a desktop computer or machine controller, such that one or more displays can be removed from the mount for use or can be used while in or attached to the mount. For example, the mount may be fixed to or part of a machine, such as a computer numerically controlled machine, and each display may be removable for use in controlling the machine.

[0016] In a fixed configuration, the communication arrangement of the mount unit may be wireless or wired to provide communication to a communication network. The communication network may be part of the device to which the mount unit is fixed or remote, i.e., the Internet, a WAN or a LAN. In a fixed configuration, the device may have two or more mounts that are fixed to the device or integrated into the device.

[0017] In one example, the mount unit may be portable, handheld, or fixed. The communication arrangement of the mount unit may include a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, and the first wireless transceiver of the mount unit and the wireless transceiver of the display unit may be of a shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

[0018] Having the mounting unit portable or handheld has the advantage that when one or more display units are attached to the mounting unit, the display device can be used as portable or handheld. When the display device is portable or handheld, the user can carry the display device and, when the user wishes to use the display units separately, the mounting unit can be set aside so that the user can use only one or more display units, which are smaller in size and lighter in weight than the entire display device.

[0019] When a low power / short range wireless transceiver is used in each display unit and the mounting unit, each display unit needs to be within range of the mounting unit to communicate with the mounting unit. The low power / short range communication protocol used may be Bluetooth. Each display unit may pair with the mounting unit using the Bluetooth protocol for secure communication between the mounting unit. The high power / long range wireless communication protocol used by the higher power / long range transceiver in the mounting unit may be WIFI, WiMAX, CDMA, GSM, GPRS, wireless local loop or WAN. Thus, each display unit may communicate with the mounting unit and also with a communication network such as the Internet via the mounting unit using a low power / short range communication link and a higher power / long range communication link. In this way, the power requirements and weight of each display unit are reduced.

[0020] In addition to acting as a proxy or hub for communication between the communications network and each display unit, the mounting unit provides physical support to house each display unit and provides a means for recharging the battery in each display unit while the display unit is mounted in or on the mounting unit. Recharging of the battery in each display unit may be by contactless or contact arrangements, such as an electromagnetic induction charging arrangement. To provide the necessary power for the portable mounting unit, the mounting unit may itself include a battery to store the necessary power to enable recharging of the batteries of one or more display units. The mounting unit battery may be charged using a charging adapter if a connection to a mains power source is available.

[0021] In any of the above described embodiments, the transceiver in each display unit may use a higher power / longer range communication wireless communication protocol such as WIFI, WiMAX, CDMA, GSM, GPRS, wireless local loop or WAN.

[0022] In one embodiment, a portable display device having a mount and one or more removable display units can provide a user with a portable or handheld device that can be carried and used as a unit when at least one of the display units is usable while held within the mounting unit, or can allow the use of one or more display units separately from the mounting unit by separating one or more display units from the mounting unit. While the user is using one or more display units, the mounting unit can be kept separate and stored, for example, in the user's handbag, laptop bag or backpack. This reduces the bulk of the device that the user needs to carry. Also, when multiple display units are separated from the mounting unit, the display area and flexibility available to the user is greater than that available from conventional display devices.

[0023] In one example, the complexity and processing power of each display unit can be reduced by offloading some of the processing requirements to a processor housed within the mounting unit, conserving battery and processing requirements and reducing weight and cost. In this manner, the processor of the display unit and the processor of the mounting unit cooperate or share the processing of information for display by the display units. Information for processing, processed information, and commands for collaborative processing can be communicated between the display unit and the mounting unit, for example, using a low power and short range communication protocol, such as Bluetooth.

[0024] Each display unit may be a rigid or flexible display, or in the case of multiple display units, a mix of flexible and rigid display units. The flexible display may be, for example, a flexible LCD or OLED display. If the display unit is flexible, the mounting unit may provide a rigid or semi-rigid support platform to house the display unit when not in use. Also, the mounting unit may provide rigid support for the flexible display unit in use when the display unit is visible while mounted on the mounting unit, for example by mounting the display unit to one side of the mounting unit. A flexible display unit may house the main electronic components, such as a processor, memory, graphics driver, and Bluetooth transceiver, along one edge of the display screen, allowing the display unit to be flexible in areas of the display screen away from that one edge, for example by rolling or folding the flexible display unit towards the end housing the electronic components.

[0025] In one example, the mounting unit may also be flexible, but to a lesser extent than one or more display units that are attached within or to the mounting unit.

[0026] In one example, the display screen may include a touch-sensitive display to allow for user input as well as output of information. In an alternative embodiment, a camera may be provided within the display unit to allow for user input via gesture recognition. The display unit may also allow for the connection of peripheral input devices such as a keyboard or pointer device via low power / short range communication, for example using Bluetooth®.

[0027] In one example, multiple display units can be hinged together to provide a foldable display structure. The display units can be detached for separate use. The display units can be folded and the display units in the folded configuration can be attached to a mounting unit to receive and hold the display units.

[0028] In one example, a display frame structure is provided to receive and support at least a peripheral portion of one or more display units. The display units within the display frame structure can then be attached to a mounting unit. In one example, the display frame structure receives and supports a plurality of display units and includes a frame for each display unit. The frames are hinged together to form a foldable frame structure. The frames can be removably coupled together such that the frames can be separated. This allows the display units to be used within the frame. The frames provide support for the display units. This is particularly applicable to flexible display units.

[0029] The mounting unit can hold each display unit in a variety of ways: the mounting unit can hold the displays on one or more surfaces, or, in another example, the mounting unit can hold each display unit internally, whereby each display unit is inserted into the mounting unit via one or more slots or by opening a lid or door on the mount's case.

[0030] In one example, the mounting unit includes a hinge region and a number of frames hingedly connected to the hinge region, each frame configured to receive and hold a display unit or two display units, one on each of its sides.

[0031] In one example, the mounting unit includes an adjustable mounting arrangement for mounting one or more display units, the adjustable mounting arrangement being adjustable to accommodate different sized display units therein.

[0032] In one example, a display unit may include a detector arrangement that detects when at least one other display is positioned adjacent in a side-by-side configuration, a wireless transceiver that communicates display synchronization information to the at least one adjacent display unit, and a display controller that controls the display output such that the adjacent display units cooperatively display the display information.

[0033] When display units are used side-by-side, the information displayed by the display units can be coordinated with each other to display the information as a contiguous portion of information (i.e., contiguous information from a source, such as, for example, consecutive pages of text or images).

[0034] When adjacent display units are repositioned relative to each other, the display controller is configured to control the display output to cause the adjacent display units to display the information as incremented successive portions of information, i.e., when the display units are moved in a manner similar to turning the pages of a book, the displayed information is updated to reflect this and increment the displayed pages.

[0035] The display units may include any conventional method of detecting proximity, such as optical detection, magnetic coupling, e.g., Hall switches, physical contact, or RF communication, etc. In one example, RF communication may include short-range communication between adjacent display devices.

[0036] A display unit providing this improved collaborative information display capability may be used in conjunction with a mounting unit in a configuration as described above.

[0037] Each display unit may be provided with a protective screen.

[0038] In one example, the mounting unit, in addition to mounting each display unit, can include one or more built-in displays that are not removable.

[0039] Each display unit can operate as a lightweight, low power and flexible tablet computing device that can access the Internet or any computer network (local or wide area) via the mounting unit.

[0040] Specific embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings.

[0041] FIG. 1 illustrates a display device, showing a display unit 1 separated from a mounting unit 2. In this example, the display unit 1 includes a generally rectangular, thin, rigid or flexible display device for processing and displaying information. The mounting unit 2 is a generally rectangular body housing electronic components, as described below with reference to FIG. 36. The mounting unit 2 has a peripheral edge 2a that is larger in size than the display unit 1 and surrounds a concave surface 2b that has dimensions slightly larger than those of the display unit 1. The concave edge 2c is perpendicular to the concave surface 2b and has a depth larger than the depth of the display unit 1, so that the display unit 1 can be recessed relative to the concave surface 2b.

[0042] To maintain the display unit in the recess, the recessed edge may be provided with a resilient arrangement to grip an edge of the display unit. To enable the display unit 1 to be detached or separated from the mount unit 2, the peripheral area 2a is provided with a recessed area 2d, allowing a user to pry the display unit 1 away from the mount unit 1.

[0043] Figures 2-5 show an example of a display device like that of Figure 1, in which the display unit 1 is a flexible display unit. Figures 1-5 show the flexible display unit 1 folded to various degrees along a vertical axis. In this example, the vertical end of the display unit 1 houses electronic devices, allowing the remainder of the display unit to be folded.

[0044] 6 and 7 are side views of the display device of FIGS. 1 to 5, showing the display unit 1 and the mount unit 2 separated from each other.

[0045] 8 is a cross-sectional view through a peripheral edge 2a of the mounting unit 2. Such view shows a resilient arrangement 2e that engages with an edge of the display unit 1 to hold the display unit 1 within a recess in the mounting unit 2.

[0046] FIG. 9 is a rear view of the display device, showing a state in which the mount unit 2 and the display unit 1 are separated.

[0047] Figures 10-12 show an example of a display device like that of Figure 1, in which the display unit 1 is a flexible display unit. Figures 10-12 show the flexible display unit 1 folded to various degrees along a horizontal axis. In this example, electronic devices are housed at the horizontal end of the display unit 1, and the remaining part of the display unit can be folded.

[0048] FIG. 13 shows an example of a display device like that of FIG. 1, in which the display unit 1 is a flexible display unit that can be folded along a diagonal axis.

[0049] 1-13, the display unit 1 attached to the mounting unit 2 can be accessed and used by the user even when the display unit 1 is attached to the mounting unit 2. Thus, in the attached configuration, the display device is still usable by the user.

[0050] Figure 14 shows an example of a display unit arrangement such as that of Figure 1 in which the display unit 1 is mounted within a mounting unit 2 and a protective cover 3 is provided for attachment to the mounting unit 1 to protect the display when mounted to the mounting unit 2. The protective cover 3 may be attached to a peripheral edge 2a of the mounting unit 2 using, for example, a clip or a magnetic arrangement.

[0051] 15-18 show another example of a display device like that of FIG. 1, but differing in that the display screen 4 is integrated into the rear surface of the mounting unit 2. This allows a user to remove the display unit 1 from the mounting unit 2 and use the display unit 1 together with the display screen 4 of the mounting unit 2.

[0052] 19-27 show another exemplary display device having two display units la, 1b, each similar to the display unit 1 of Figs. 1-18, and a mounting unit 20. The mounting unit 20 is somewhat similar to the mounting unit 2 of Figs. 1-8, except that it is double-sided so that two display units la, lb can be attached to either side of the mounting unit 20. Figs. 19 and 20 show the front and back of the mounting unit 20 with the display units la and lb separated. Figs. 21 and 22 are side views of the display device with the display units la and lb separated from the mounting unit 20. Figs. 24 and 25 show the front and back of the mounting unit 20 with the display units la and lb attached. Figs. 26 and 27 are side views of the display device with the display units la and lb attached to the mounting unit 20. Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view through the peripheral portion 2a of the mounting unit 20. This figure shows a resilient arrangement 2e that engages with the ends of the display units 1a and 1b to retain them within the recesses of the mounting unit 20. Like reference numbers in Figures 19-27 refer to like features in Figures 1-8.

[0053] 19-27, the two display units 1a and 1b mounted on the mounting unit 20 can be accessed and used by the user even when the display units 1a and 1b are mounted on the mounting unit 20. Thus, in the mounted configuration, the display device is still usable by the user.

[0054] In any of the examples of Figures 1-27, the mounting unit 2 or 20 can include an adjustable mounting arrangement to allow for holding and mounting display units of different sizes. Such an adjustable arrangement can include, for example, flexible resilient arms that press against the sides of the display unit to push the adjustable arrangement wider for larger display units. Alternatively, the inner edge of the recess 2c can include a sliding element that slides translationally to engage the side of the display unit.

[0055] Fig. 28 is a schematic diagram showing an example display device having a frame 30 for receiving and supporting a display unit 1 of the above-mentioned form. In this example, the frame 30 receives and holds the display unit 1 to form a mounting unit. Each frame is similar to the mounting unit 2 described with reference to Figs. 1 to 8, and the display unit 1 is mounted on only one side of the frame 30, or, similar to the mounting unit 20 described with reference to Figs. 19 to 27, the display unit 1 is mounted on both sides of the frame 30.

[0056] Each frame 30 is hinged to an adjacent frame 30 to form a series of frames 30 that can be folded into a stacked configuration, for example, into an alternating folded configuration as shown by the arrows in FIG. 28. In this example, the hinge connections 31 are formed at either end of a long side of the frame 30. The hinge connections 31 allow the frames 30 to be folded onto one another into a stacked configuration. Fasteners 32 can be provided to fasten the frames together so that they are folded into a stacked configuration. Thus, in this example, the mounting unit comprises stacked frames 30. In alternative examples, the hinge connections can extend along some or all of the sides of the frames.

[0057] Although not shown in FIG. 28, the edges of the frame can be thinned so that when the display unit is held, it appears substantially borderless. FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram showing an example display device having a frame 30 similar to that of the example display device of FIG. 28 for receiving and supporting a display unit 1, which can be received and held in a mounting unit 40 as housed in a mounting unit 50. In this manner, the mounting unit 40 provides a protective enclosure for the display unit 1. The mounting unit 40 can include an ejection mechanism for ejecting the stacked frames 30 from the mounting unit 40. The stacked frames 30 can be inserted into the mounting unit 40 and held by a resilient arrangement in the mounting unit 40, which can be released to eject the stacked frames 30 by the ejection mechanism.

[0058] In this example, once frame 30 is folded into a stacked configuration, frame 30 can be inserted into slots 41 in the side of mounting unit 40. In this example, frame 30 may simply support display unit 1 and not include electronic components, or may include electronic components or connectors to cooperate with components and connectors of mounting unit 40.

[0059] In the examples of Figures 28 and 29, the frame 30 provides support for the display units 1. As such, these examples are suitable for use with flexible display units. The frame supports the display units and allows them to conform to a planar shape for ease of storage within the frame 30 alone or within the mounting unit 40. In one example, the frame 30 is removable and can be disconnected and reconnected to the series of frames 30 such that the frames 30 can be used separately. The display units can be used when separated from or within the frames, when the frames are connected to each other or disconnected in any combination.

[0060] In the examples of Figures 28 or 29, the frame 30 can include an adjustable mounting arrangement that allows for holding and mounting display units of different sizes. Such an adjustable arrangement can include, for example, flexible resilient arms that can press against the sides of the display unit such that the adjustable arrangement is pressed wider for larger display units. Alternatively, the inner edge of a recess in the frame can include a sliding element that slides translationally to engage the side of the display unit.

[0061] The frame can include the mounting unit and therefore the electronics of the mounting unit, including one or more processors, such as one per frame, memory, and battery recharging arrangements for the display unit. Also, in the embodiment of Figure 29, the frame can include the electronics of the mount, such as at least a charging component. If the frame includes the electronics of the mounting unit, the frame can provide an attachment function when the frame is in an extended or deployed configuration or when the frames are separated.

[0062] 30 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example display device having a foldable display unit 1 that can be received and held within a mounting unit 50. In this example, the display units 1 are generally rigid and do not require a frame to support them.

[0063] Each display unit 1 is hingedly connected to adjacent display units 1 to form a series of display units 1. In this example, the hinge connections 1c are formed at either end of the long sides of the display units 1, but they can extend along any or all of the sides of the display units. The hinge connections 1c allow the display units 1 to fold over one another to be stacked. When the display units 1 are folded into a stacked configuration, they can be inserted into slots 51 in the sides of the mounting unit 50 to be housed within the mounting unit 50. In this way, the mounting unit 50 provides a protective enclosure for the display units 1. The mounting unit 50 can include an ejection mechanism for ejecting the stacked display units 1 from the mounting unit 50. The stacked display units 1 can be inserted into the mounting unit 50 and held by a resilient arrangement within the mounting unit 40, which can be released to eject the stacked display units 1 by the ejection mechanism.

[0064] In one example, the display unit 1 is detachable from and reconnectable to the series of display units 1 so that the display units 1 can be used separately.

[0065] 31 is a schematic diagram showing an example display device having display units 1 that can be received and held within a mounting unit 60. In this example, the display units can be individually inserted into slots 61 in the side of the mounting unit 60 such that all of the display units 1 can be housed within the mounting unit 60. In this configuration, the display units 1 are not accessible for use when they are installed within the mounting unit 60. The mounting unit 60 can include an ejection mechanism for ejecting each display unit 1 from the mounting unit 50 separately or together. The display units 1 can be inserted within the mounting unit 60 and held within the mounting unit 40 by a resilient arrangement that can be released to eject the display units 1 individually or together by the ejection mechanism.

[0066] FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram of an example display device having display units 1 that can be received and held within mounting unit 70 via slots 71 in the side of mounting unit 70, similar to the example of FIG. 31, but in addition to the example of FIG. 31, the display device has recesses 72 provided in the face of mounting unit 70 for receiving and holding one of the display units 1. The display units 1 are attached to recesses 72 in a manner similar to the way the display units are attached to mounting unit 2 in the examples of FIGS. 1-8. In this example, even when all of the display units 1 are attached to mounting unit 70, one of the display units can still be accessed and used.

[0067] Figure 33 is a schematic diagram showing an example display device having a display unit 1 that can be received and held within a mounting unit 80 via a slot 81 at the end of the mounting unit 80, in a manner similar to the example of Figure 32, and is otherwise similar to the example of Figure 31.

[0068] 34 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary display device having a display unit 1 that can be received and held within a mounting unit 300 and housed and protected within the mounting unit 300. In this embodiment, the mounting unit 300 includes two parts 301 and 302 that are hinged to allow the mounting unit to open and receive the display unit in order to accommodate the display unit 1. The two parts can be fastened together in a closed configuration and the fasteners can be released to open the mounting unit 300.

[0069] Each display unit 1 is hingedly connected to an adjacent display unit 1 to form a series of display units 1. In this example, the hinge connections lc are formed at either end of the long sides of the display unit 1, but they can extend along any or all of either sides of the display unit. The hinge connections 1c allow the display units 1 to fold back on each other to be stacked. When the display units 1 are folded into a stacked configuration, they can be inserted into the mounting unit 300 to be housed within the mounting unit 300. In this way, the mounting unit 300 provides a protective housing for the display units 1.

[0070] In this embodiment, the two parts 301, 302 of the mounting unit are shown hinged, but they can be separated or connected to each other in any configuration to allow for insertion of the display unit 1 and storage of the display unit 1. Also, although a hinged display unit 1 is shown, one or more separate display units can be inserted into the two part mounting unit. At least one display unit can be fitted into a frame before being inserted into the mounting unit.

[0071] The two parts 301, 302 may be partially folded back to expose one of the display units or fully folded back so that the outer surfaces of the parts 301, 302 are in contact. When a display unit is mounted within and held by the two parts 301, 302, one or more display units may be held by one or more of the parts 301, 302 such that the displays face inward relative to one another when the parts 301, 302 are closed and face outward when the parts 301, 302 are opened relative to one another, such that one or more displays or each of the one or more display units appears to a user as one or two outer surfaces of a display device that includes the mounting unit and the one or more display units. This allows one or two of the display units to be operated and used by the user while being held by the mounting unit. For example, one display unit may fit into a recess in the part 301 or 302, and when the parts are opened, the display unit can be accessed and used. Similarly, when two display units are fitted into recesses in parts 301 and 302, respectively, both display units can be accessed and used when parts 301 and 302 are opened. The two parts can be partially opened at an angle, for example approximately at a right angle, or fully opened, and folded back such that the outer faces of parts 301, 302 are in a flat configuration when parts 301, 302 are closed and in contact.

[0072] In any of the examples of Figures 30-34, the mounting units 60, 70, 80 may include an adjustable mounting arrangement to allow for holding and mounting display units of different sizes. Such an adjustable arrangement may include, for example, flexible resilient arms that may press against the sides of the display unit when the display unit is inserted into the slots 61, 71, 81 such that the adjustable arrangement is pressed to be wider for larger display units.

[0073] FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram showing an example display device having a hinged mounting unit 400 for receiving and holding a display unit 1. The hinged mounting unit 400 includes a plurality of hinged parts 401, 402, 403, and 404 that can be freely hinged about a pivot member 405 (hinge region). Each of the hinged parts 401, 402, 403, 404 is configured to receive the display unit 1 as a pair of hinged parts (i.e., two pairs of hinged parts 301, 302 in the embodiment of FIG. 34). In this example, the first pair of hinged parts 401 and 402 receives, holds, and houses one or more display units (two are shown in this example) when the hinged parts 401, 402 are closed around the display unit 1. The second pair of hinged parts 403 and 404 receives, holds and houses one or more display units (two are shown in this example) when the hinged parts 403, 404 encircle the display unit 1. Thus, in this example, there are two separate housing areas provided by the mount 400.

[0074] Thus, in this example, mounting unit 400 mounts display unit 1 to multiple (in this example, two) storage areas when hinged to a closed position that can also be opened like the pages of a book. Mounting unit 400 thus allows display unit 1 to be removed for separate use, but also allows it to be used while attached in a manner similar to the pages of a book. This configuration allows display unit 1 to be protectively held and stored within mounting unit 400.

[0075] In the example of Fig. 35, the hinged parts 401, 402, 403, and 404 can include adjustable mounting arrangements to allow for holding and mounting display units of different sizes. Such adjustable configurations can include, for example, flexible resilient arms that can press against the sides of the display unit such that the adjustable arrangement is pressed wider for larger display units. Alternatively, the inner edges of the recesses in the hinged parts 401, 402, 403, and 404 can include slidable elements that slide translationally to engage the sides of the display unit.

[0076] Although two pairs of hinged parts are shown in Figure 35, in one embodiment, there may be a merger between the pairs into a single common part. For example, parts 402 and 403 may be common. This reduces the number of moving parts while still providing multiple separate housing areas for one or more display units.

[0077] In any of the embodiments of Figures 29-35, the mounting unit can be configured to receive one or more frames that receive the display units individually or as a group, or hold one or more display units in one or more slots, racks, or grooves with physical charging connectors or wireless charging capabilities. Physical connectors can also be provided for data communication between the display units or between the display units and the mount via each frame. Alternatively, the display units can communicate with the mounting unit using short-range wireless communication. The display units can be flexible display units, rigid display units, or display units of a combination of types.

[0078] In all of the above examples, the display unit may include a touch screen and / or a camera to allow for user gesture control.

[0079] FIG. 36 is a schematic diagram showing an example display device having a hinged mount unit 90 for receiving and holding a display unit 1. The hinged mount unit 90 includes a plurality of hinged frames 91, 92, 93, and 94 that are freely hinged about pivot members 95 (hinge regions). Each of the hinged frames 91, 92, 93, and 94 is similar to the frame 30 of the example shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. Each of the frames 91, 92, 93, and 94 is configured to receive the display unit 1 in a manner similar to receiving the display unit 1 in the mount unit 2 in the example of FIGS. 1-8 when the frames 91, 92, 93, and 94 receive the display unit on only one side thereof in a manner similar to receiving the display unit in the mount 20 in the example of FIGS. 19-27. Alternatively, the display unit 1 can be received and held on both sides to provide a two-sided information display.

[0080] Thus, in this example, mounting unit 90 mounts display units 1 to a number of frames 91, 92, 93, 94 that can be in a stacked configuration when hinged in a closed position, but can also be opened like pages of a book. Mounting unit 90 thus allows the display units to be removed for separate use, but also allows the display units to be used like pages of a book while attached. This configuration allows the display units to be held and housed within mounting unit 90 in a protective manner.

[0081] In the example of Fig. 36, frames 91, 92, 93 and 94 can include adjustable mounting features to allow for holding and mounting display units of different sizes. Such adjustable features can include, for example, flexible resilient arms that can press against the sides of the display unit such that the adjustable arrangement is pressed wider for larger display units. Alternatively, the inner edge of a recess in the frame can include a slidable element that slides translationally to engage the side of the display unit.

[0082] In all of the above examples, the display unit may include a touch screen and / or a camera to allow user gesture control, and the frames 91, 92, 93, 94 may be detachable from the pivot member 95.

[0083] FIG. 37 is a schematic diagram showing the electronic components of an example display unit 1 as used in the examples above.

[0084] The processor 100 is connected to a static memory 102 which stores code, such as operating system code, used by the processor, as well as storing data in a non-volatile manner. Volatile memory 103 is provided for storing application code and data and information for display. A graphics driver 104 is provided for control of a display screen 105, which may be a touch screen to provide user input responsive to the displayed information. A battery 107 powers the electronics, and a mount power input 108 is provided to allow the battery 107 to be recharged when the display unit 1 is attached to a mounting unit. The mount power input 108 may include a physical coupling to display power output 205 of the mounting unit. Alternatively, an inductive coupling may be used.

[0085] A short-range / low-power transceiver 101 is connected to the processor 100 for short-range and low-power communication with a short-range and low-power transceiver in the mount unit. This communication link can be used to exchange data, information and control between the display unit and the mount unit. This allows the display unit to access a communication network such as the Internet through the mount unit. This also allows the processor of the mount unit and the processor of the display unit to collaborate or share information processing required by the display unit to reduce the processing power requirements of the processor 100 in the display unit. The low-power / short-range communication protocol used may be Bluetooth. The display unit can be paired with the mount unit using the Bluetooth protocol for secure communication between the display unit and the mount unit.

[0086] Optionally, the display unit may include a module for detection of neighboring display units, which in this example may include a near-field communication module 106.

[0087] FIG. 38 is a schematic diagram showing the electronic components of an example mounting unit that may be used in any of the described examples.

[0088] The processor 200 is connected to static memory 202 which stores code used by the processor, such as operating system code, as well as storing data in a non-volatile manner. Volatile memory 203 is provided for storing application code and data and information for display.

[0089] A short-range / low-power transceiver 201 is connected to the processor 200 for short-range and low-power communication with short-range and low-power transceivers in one or more display units. This communication link can be used to exchange data, information and control between the display unit and the mount unit. As described above, this allows the display unit to access a communication network such as the Internet via the mount unit, and allows the mount unit processor and the display unit processor to collaborate or share information processing required by the display unit to reduce the processing power requirements of the processor 100 in the display unit. The low-power / short-range communication protocol used may be Bluetooth. The display unit can be paired with the mount unit using the Bluetooth protocol for secure communication between the display unit and the mount unit.

[0090] A longer range, higher power transceiver 204 is provided for RF communication with a communication network. The longer range, higher power communication protocol used by the mounted unit's longer range, higher power transceiver 204 can be WIFI, WiMAX, CDMA, GSM, GPRS, wireless local loop, or WAN.

[0091] The display power output 205 provides power to the mount power input 108 of each display unit and can include a physical connection, or alternatively an inductive connection can be used. The power input 206 provides power from the power connection to the mount unit and to the display power output 205.

[0092] The mounting unit may optionally include a built-in display screen 209 with an associated display driver 208 .

[0093] A battery 207 may be provided to power the electronics when the mounting unit is in a portable configuration and not connected to a power source. The battery 207 may provide power to the display power output 205 when a power source is not connected to the power input 206. The power input 206 may provide power to recharge the battery 207 when the mounting unit is not connected to a power source.

[0094] 39 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example electronic display device including multiple display units 1 that detect the proximity of adjacent (e.g., side-by-side) display units 1 to control the display of information. The display units may include any of the display units described above for the example display device.

[0095] Fig. 39 shows a pair of display units 1 placed next to each other in three successive movements. In the top configuration, the pair of display units display successive information portions A and B of a set of information. For example, the information portions can be successive portions of a series of information, e.g. successive images in a library or pages of text. When the user wishes to read the next successive information portion, portion C, he moves one of the display units to switch the relative positions of the display units. As the arrows indicate, a second configuration of the pair of display units is reached. A detection arrangement in the display units detects the change in the relative positions of the display units, and the processor 100 acting as a display controller updates the information portions displayed such that the right display unit displays information portion C. The display panel displaying information portion B, which was on the right, is now on the left.

[0096] When the user wishes to read the next successive information portion, portion D, the user moves one of the display units to switch the relative positions of the display units, as the arrows indicate, to a third configuration of the pair of display units. The detection arrangements in the display units detect the change in the relative positions of the display units, and the processor 100, functioning as a display controller, updates the information portions displayed such that the right hand display unit displays information portion D. The display panel that displayed information portion C, which was on the right hand side, is now on the left hand side.

[0097] The operation of switching the displays shows incrementing the displayed information portion by moving the display units from left to right, but the reverse operation also applies. To decrement the displayed information portion, the user can move the right display to the left of the left display. Therefore, the arrows shown in FIG. 37 can be reversed. Since the end position of the relative positions of the display units after the increment or decrement operation is the same, the detection arrangements in the display units detect which of the display units has been moved relative to the other in order to identify whether the operation is an instruction to increment or decrement the display of the information portion. For example, if the left display unit is lifted and moved relative to the right display unit, this can be detected by the detection arrangement of the left display unit, and the left display unit can be controlled to increment the displayed information portion, for example from part A to part C. If the right display unit is lifted and moved relative to the left display unit, this can be detected by the detection arrangement of the right display unit, and the right display unit can be controlled to decrement the displayed information portion, for example from part C to part A.

[0098] Because the display units in this example are lightweight display units, users can handle them in a similar manner to paper, a medium with which they are accustomed. Using two display units side-by-side is thus similar to an open book or magazine where two pages are shown at once. Traditionally, to view the next page, the user turns the page. In this example, the user "turns" the display units by moving the left display unit to the right or the right display unit to the left, whichever direction the user reads depending on the language and which the user feels more comfortable with.

[0099] As such, the embodiment shown in Figure 38 includes a method of using the display unit as described and illustrated above.

[0100] FIG. 40 is a schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary electronic display device including multiple display units that detects the proximity of adjacent display units to control the display of information.

[0101] In this example, one or both of the display units 1 include dual-sided display units having displays on both sides of the display unit, so that in this example, "turning" the pages as described in the previous examples is enhanced by lifting and rotating the right display, similar to turning the pages of a book or magazine, as shown by the rotation arrow and arrows that move the right display unit in each configuration.

[0102] In the top configuration, the pair of display units display successive information portions A and B of a set of information. For example, the information portions can be successive pages of text. When the user wishes to read the next successive information portion, portion C, the user moves the right display unit to the left of the left display unit and flips over the right display unit as indicated by the arrow which transitions to a second configuration of the pair of display units. A detection arrangement in the display units detects the change in the relative positions of the display units and the processor 100 acting as a display controller updates the information portions displayed such that the left display unit displays information portion C and the right display unit displays information portion D. In this example, two new information portions, for example text pages, are displayed.

[0103] When the user wishes to read the next successive information portion, portion E, the user moves the right display unit to the left of the left display unit and flips the right display unit over as indicated by the arrow leading to a third configuration of the pair of display units. Detection arrangements in the display units detect the change in the relative positions of the display units and processor 100, functioning as a display controller, updates the displayed information portions such that the left display unit displays information portion E and the right display unit displays information portion F.

[0104] The movement of the right display unit combined with the turning action provides the user with the intuitive feeling of turning the pages of a book or magazine.

[0105] In this example, the information portion can also be decremented by the opposite action shown in FIG. 40, for example by lifting the left display unit and rotating it, for example, in the opposite direction.

[0106] This embodiment shows an example where the language of the text is read from left to right. If the language of the text is read from right to left, the operations are reversed.

[0107] As such, the embodiment shown in FIG. 39 includes a method of using the display unit as described and illustrated above.

[0108] 41-43 are schematic diagrams showing a dual sided display unit having displays on both sides which are operated to display successive portions of a series of information such as images in a series of images such as a library or pages of text.

[0109] In Fig. 41, a sequence of operations for incrementing the display of information portions is shown: A first display of the display unit first displays information portion 1 on one side display. Then, when the display unit is lifted and rotated or flipped in a first direction as shown by the arrow, the second display of the display unit detects that it is now facing up and displays the next information portion, portion 2. Then, when the display unit is lifted and rotated or flipped again in the first direction as shown by the arrow, the first display of the display unit detects that it is now facing up and displays the next information portion, portion 3.

[0110] In Fig. 42, a sequence of operations for decrementing the display of an information portion is shown. The first display of the display unit first displays information portion 3 on one side display. Then, when the display unit is lifted and rotated or flipped in a second direction as shown by the arrow, the second display of the display unit detects that it is now facing up and displays the previous information portion, portion 2. Then, when the display unit is lifted and rotated or flipped again in the second direction as shown by the arrow, the first display of the display unit detects that it is now facing up and displays the previous information portion, portion 1.

[0111] In Fig. 43, a sequence of operations for incrementing and decrementing the display of information portions is shown. The first display of the display unit first displays information portion 1 on one side display. Then, when the display unit is lifted and rotated or flipped in a first direction as shown by the arrow, the second display of the display unit detects that it is now facing up and displays the next information portion, portion 2. Then, when the display unit is lifted and rotated or flipped again in a second direction as shown by the arrow, the first display of the display unit detects that it is now facing up and displays the previous information portion, portion 1.

[0112] This operation of the dual-sided display unit provides an intuitive reading action similar to turning the pages of a book.

[0113] As such, the embodiments illustrated in Figures 41-43 include methods of using the display units described and illustrated above.

[0114] FIG. 44 is a schematic diagram illustrating the electronic components of an exemplary display unit used in the examples described above with reference to FIGS.

[0115] The processor 300 is connected to a static memory 102 which stores code such as operating system code used by the processor, as well as storing data in a non-volatile manner. A volatile memory 303 is provided for storing application code and data and information for display. An orientation detector 301 is provided to detect changes in orientation when the display unit is rotated, and optionally to detect the direction of rotation to allow both incremental and decremental changes in the portion of information displayed. A graphics driver 304 is provided for control of two display screens 305, 306. The two display screens 305, 306 may be touch screens to provide user input responsive to the displayed information.

[0116] The double-sided display unit of this embodiment can be used as any of the display units of the previously described embodiments.

[0117] FIG. 45 is a schematic diagram showing communication of information by an exemplary electronic display device.

[0118] This diagram shows a configuration of a display device in communication with a communication network such as the Internet or a local network. This is applicable to any of the above example display devices. One or more display units 1 (two display units 1 in this example) communicate with the mount unit 300 using a low-power short-range communication protocol such as Bluetooth®. The range can be limited to less than 10m. The mount unit 300 can communicate with the Internet 500 using a longer-range and higher-power communication protocol such as GSM or GPRS via a cellular network, or with the router 400 using WIFI for connection to a computer network (which may be the Internet 500).

[0119] By using a mounting unit and high power long distance transmission, multiple display units can use the same communications link, while the display units can use a low power short distance link to the mounting unit, reducing the power consumption requirements of the display unit 1.

[0120] In any of the above examples, the display unit may be, for example, a flexible, e.g., OLED or flexible LED display, or a rigid display, e.g., an LED display, or a combination of flexible and rigid displays. Any display unit may be a touch panel (possibly in conjunction with a processor in the mounting unit) to provide a means for a user to provide input for processing by a processor in the display unit.

[0121] Although the figures and accompanying description illustrate and describe a portable device, in other examples, the mounting apparatus may be fixed to or be part of a fixed or non-portable device, such as a large or desktop computer, a machine such as a CNC machine, or may be incorporated into a vehicle such as an automobile or an aircraft, in which the mounting apparatus is fixed and the display unit is removable for use. For example, a passenger or a driver or pilot may remove the display unit from the mounting unit to interact with the display unit. A passenger may use each display unit for entertainment purposes, whereas a driver or pilot may use each display unit for vehicle control or monitoring purposes. In such a fixed configuration, communication from the mounting unit to the communication network may be wired or wireless. If wireless, the wireless transceiver may be of higher power and longer range than the transceiver used for communication between the display unit and the mounting unit.

[0122] The mounting unit or frame may be portable, but may also be part of the fixed apparatus such that it can be used with the fixed apparatus or be separable and replaceable from the fixed apparatus, such that the portable display device can be associated with the fixed apparatus as part of the fixed apparatus and removed for ease of transport.

[0123] In a fixed configuration, in which the mount is fixed or part of the device, the device may include one or more other fixed displays.

[0124] In any of the described examples, multiple display units can be used by multiple people since each display unit can operate independently. Thus, a mounting unit containing multiple display units can be detached from the mounting unit to provide a display unit that can be used by multiple people independently or in networked cooperation. Since the display units have their own memory and processor, they can store and process information and data separately and independently. Also, the display units can share stored information and data. Also, the display units can share information with an external processor, such as a PC to which the mount is attached or a processor connected remotely over a network.

[0125] The display unit in the above example can be used like a tablet computing device, separate from the mounting unit, and can function like a networked computing device, connecting over a low power, short range communications link via a hub to other devices connected to a computer / communications network.

[0126] In the above examples, the display units have been described as being rechargeable when they are attached to the mounting unit. In another example, the display units may also be rechargeable independent of the mount. For example, if the display units are wirelessly charged while in the mount, they may be wirelessly charged by a separate wireless charging pad separate from the mounting unit. If a physical connection is used to charge the wireless units, in one example, a separate charging device may be provided that has the necessary physical mating connections to charge the display units separate from the mounting unit.

[0127] In any of the above examples, if the display unit has a screen on both sides, the display unit can be flipped over to view the information on both sides. Similarly, if the mount unit can hold the display unit on both sides with the screens visible, the mount can be flipped over to view the information on both sides, for example as described with reference to Figures 39-41.

[0128] The mounting unit provides a structure for safe storage and physical protection of the display unit, particularly when the display unit is inserted and housed within the mounting unit.

[0129] The display unit may include a camera, commonly known as a webcam, to provide video capabilities, one or more loudspeakers for audio output, and one or more microphones for audio input.

[0130] In any of the described embodiments, the display unit can be used when separated from the mounting unit or display frame structure. The display unit can also be used while within the mounting unit or display frame structure. In any of the embodiments of the mounting unit, at least one display unit can be attached to the frame prior to installation within the mounting unit.

[0131] In the embodiments of Figures 1-36, 39-43 and 45 the display unit is shown as a simplified schematic diagram in the form of a rectangular unit. The display unit can take any form in which the display portion constitutes the entire front or front and rear face or in which the display portion can be surrounded by a frame. The display unit can be in a rigid, flexible, malleable or foldable form or, if more than one is used, a combination of rigid, flexible, malleable or foldable display units.

[0132] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the mounting unit, frame or display unit may be rigid, foldable, flexible or malleable.

[0133] In the above-described embodiments, the display unit may include, for example, a keyboard or other component that is foldable and carried on the display unit, and the display unit with the keyboard or other foldable component may be inserted into the mounting unit. Generalized embodiment The following numbered examples are embodiments.

[0134] 1) A display device comprising: a plurality of display units each hinged to one another to form a foldable display structure, each of the display units including a display screen with user input capability, a battery and a wireless transceiver; and a mounting unit adapted to receive and hold the display units when the display units are folded within the mounting unit, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge the battery of the display units when the display units are received and held within the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceivers of each of the display units, and a communications arrangement for communicating over a communications network, wherein the display units are removable from within the mounting unit for use separately from the mounting unit.

[0135] 2) The display device of Example 1, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

[0136] 3) The display device described in Example 1 or 2, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, and the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit have a shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

[0137] 4) A display device as described in any of the preceding examples, wherein the display screen with user input capability includes a touch screen display.

[0138] 5) A display device according to any of the preceding examples, comprising at least three display units hinged to one another, the display units being foldable into a stacked configuration.

[0139] 6) The display device of example 5, wherein the display units are foldable into an alternating folded configuration.

[0140] 7) A display device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the display units are detachably connected to each other.

[0141] 8) A display device as described in any of the preceding examples, wherein the mounting unit includes a slot along a side of the mounting unit for receiving and holding the display unit such that the display unit is housed within the mounting unit.

[0142] 9) The display device according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the display device is portable and handheld.

[0143] 10) A display device described in any of the preceding examples, wherein at least one of the display units is a flexible display unit, and the mounting unit has rigidity to provide firm support when the at least one flexible display unit is received and held within the mounting unit.

[0144] 11) The display device of Example 11, wherein at least one of the display units includes the battery, the first wireless transceiver, a display processor and other electronic components in a rigid configuration along one edge of the display unit.

[0145] 12) The display device of any one of Examples 1 to 9, further comprising a display frame structure for receiving and holding at least a peripheral portion of at least one of the display units, the display frame structure being configured to be hingedly connected to each other and / or to at least one other of the display units.

[0146] 13) A display device comprising: at least one display unit, the display unit including a display screen with user input capabilities, a battery, and a wireless transceiver; a display frame structure for receiving and supporting at least a peripheral portion of the display unit; and a mounting unit configured to receive and hold the display frame structure within the mounting unit, the mounting unit further comprising: a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display unit when the display unit is received within the mounting unit; a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceiver of the display unit; and a communications arrangement for communicating over a communications network, wherein the display unit is removable from within the mounting unit for use separate from the mounting unit.

[0147] 14) The display device of Example 13, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and the wireless transceiver of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

[0148] 15) The display device described in Example 13 or 14, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, and the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and the wireless transceiver of the display unit have a shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

[0149] 16) A display device described in any one of Examples 13 to 15, wherein the display frame structure includes a plurality of frames, each for receiving and supporting a display unit, and which are hingedly connected to each other to form a foldable frame structure.

[0150] 17) The display device of Example 16, comprising at least three display frames hinged to one another, the frames being foldable into a stacked configuration to be received and held within the mounting unit.

[0151] 18) The display device of example 17, wherein the frame is foldable into an alternating folded configuration.

[0152] 19) The display device according to any one of Examples 16 to 18, wherein the frames are detachably connected to each other.

[0153] 20) A display device described in any one of Examples 13 to 19, wherein the mounting unit includes a slot along a side of the mounting unit to receive and hold the display frame structure within the mounting unit.

[0154] 21) The display device of any one of Examples 13 to 20, wherein the display frame structure includes an adjustable mounting arrangement that is adjustable to accommodate at least one differently sized display unit therein.

[0155] 22) The display device of any one of Examples 13 to 21, wherein at least one of the at least one display unit is a flexible display, and the display frame structure supports the flexible display to maintain a flat shape.

[0156] 23) A display device comprising: a plurality of display units, each of the display units including a display screen with user input capability, a battery, and a wireless transceiver; and a mounting unit including a display frame structure for receiving and supporting at least a peripheral portion of each of the display units, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display units when the display units are received by the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceiver of the display units, and a communications arrangement for communicating over a communications network, wherein the display units are removable from the mounting unit for use separate from the mounting unit.

[0157] 24) The display device of Example 23, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

[0158] 25) A display device as described in Example 23 or 24, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, and the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit have a shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

[0159] 26) The display device described in any one of Examples 23 to 25, wherein the display frame structure includes a plurality of frames, each for receiving and supporting a display unit, and which are hingedly connected to each other to form a foldable frame structure.

[0160] 27) The display device of Example 26, comprising at least three display frames hinged to one another, the frames being foldable into a stacked configuration.

[0161] 28) The display device of example 27, wherein the frame is foldable into an alternating folded configuration.

[0162] 29) The display device according to any one of Examples 26 to 28, wherein the frames are detachably connected to each other.

[0163] 30) The display device of any one of Examples 23 to 29, wherein the display frame structure includes an adjustable mounting arrangement that is adjustable to accommodate different sized display units therein.

[0164] 31) The display device according to any one of Examples 23 to 30, wherein at least one of the at least one display units is a flexible display, and the display frame structure supports the flexible display to maintain a flat shape.

[0165] 32) A display device comprising: a plurality of display units, each of the display units including a display screen with user input capability, a battery, and a wireless transceiver; and a mounting unit including a hinge region and a plurality of frames hingedly connected to the hinge region, each of the frames configured to receive and hold a display unit, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display unit when the display unit is received by the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceiver of the display unit, and a communications arrangement for communicating over a communications network, wherein the display units are removable from within the mounting unit for use separate from the mounting unit.

[0166] 33) The display device of Example 32, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

[0167] 34) A display device as described in Example 32 or 33, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, and the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit have a shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

[0168] 35) The display device of any one of Examples 32-34, wherein at least one of the multiple frames is adjustable to accommodate display units of different sizes therein.

[0169] 36) The display device of any one of Examples 32 to 35, wherein at least one of the at least one display units is a flexible display, and at least one of the frames supports the flexible display to maintain a flat shape.

[0170] 37) The display device of any one of Examples 32 to 36, wherein at least one of the frames is detachable from the hinge region.

[0171] 38) A display device comprising: at least one display unit, the display unit including a display screen with user input capabilities, a battery, and a wireless transceiver; and a mounting unit, the mounting unit receiving and holding the display unit housed therein, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display unit when the at least one display unit is housed and received and held in the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with the wireless transceiver of the at least one display unit, and a communications arrangement for communicating over a communications network, wherein the at least one display unit is removable from within the mounting unit for use separate from the mounting unit.

[0172] 39) The display device of Example 38, wherein the mounting unit includes at least one slot along a side of the mounting unit for inserting the display unit into the mounting unit.

[0173] 40) The display device of Example 38, wherein the mounting unit includes a first part and a second part, the first part and the second part being separable for inserting the display unit into the mounting unit.

[0174] 41) A display device described in any one of Examples 38 to 40, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and the wireless transceiver of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

[0175] 42) A display device described in any one of Examples 38 to 41, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, and the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and the wireless transceiver of the display unit have a shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

[0176] 43) A display device according to any one of claims 38 to 42, wherein the display device is portable and handheld.

[0177] 44) The display device described in any one of Examples 38 to 43, wherein the mounting unit includes an ejection mechanism for ejecting the at least one display unit housed therein.

[0178] 45) The display device of any one of Examples 38 to 44, comprising a display frame structure for receiving and holding at least a peripheral portion of at least one of the at least one display unit.

[0179] 46) The display device of Example 45, wherein the display frame structure includes at least one frame for supporting each display unit.

[0180] 47) The display device of Example 45 or 46, wherein the display frame structure includes an adjustable mounting arrangement, which is adjustable to accommodate different sized display units therein.

[0181] 48) The display device of Example 46, wherein at least one of the at least one display units is a flexible display, and one of the at least one display frames supports each flexible display to maintain a flat shape.

[0182] 49) A display device, the display device including a plurality of display units, each of the display units including a detector arrangement for detecting when at least one other display is positioned adjacent, a wireless transceiver for communicating display synchronization information to at least one adjacent display unit, and a display controller configured to control the display units to display information including successive information portions and to cause the adjacent display units to display the information portions as successive information portions.

[0183] 50) A display device as described in Example 49, wherein the detector arrangement of each of the display units is configured to detect adjacent repositioning of an adjacent display unit relative to the display unit, and the display controller is configured to control the display units to display information portions and to cause the adjacent display units to display information as successive information portions that are incremented or decremented.

[0184] 51) A display device according to example 49 or 50, comprising two display units.

[0185] 52) A display device described in any one of Examples 49 to 52, wherein the display units are positioned adjacent to each other and, when a first display unit is moved from one side of a second display unit to the opposite side of the second display unit, a display controller of the first display unit is configured to control the first display unit to change the displayed information portion from an information portion preceding the information portion displayed by the second display unit to an information portion following the information portion displayed by the second display unit.

[0186] 53) A display device as described in any one of Examples 49 to 51, wherein the display units are positioned adjacent to each other and when a first display unit is moved from one side of a second display unit to the opposite side of the second display unit, a display controller of the second display unit is configured to control the second display unit to increment a displayed information portion of the successive information portions and a display controller of the first display unit is configured to control the first display unit to change the displayed information to an information portion following the incremented information portion displayed by the second display unit.

[0187] 54) A display device as described in any one of Examples 49 to 51, wherein at least one of the display units is double-sided and configured to display information on an upwardly facing surface of either of the two surfaces of the double-sided display unit, the at least one of the display units includes a detection arrangement for detecting a change in the upwardly facing surface of the display unit, and a display controller of the at least one double-sided display unit is configured to control the double-sided display unit to display an incremented or decremented portion of information in response to detection by the detection arrangement.

[0188] 55) The display device of Example 54, wherein the display units are positioned side by side, and when the second dual-sided display unit is moved from one side of the first display unit to the opposite side of the first display unit and flipped over, the display controller of the second display unit is configured to control the second display unit to display on the upward facing side a portion of information following the portion of information displayed on the other side, and the display controller of the first display unit is configured to change the portion of information being displayed from a portion of information preceding the portion of information being displayed by the second display unit to a portion of information following the portion of information currently being displayed by the second display unit.

[0189] 56) A display device according to any one of Examples 49 to 55, wherein the display controller is configured to control the display units to display successive pages of information on adjacent display units.

[0190] 57) A display unit comprising: a first display on a first side; a second display on a second side; a detection arrangement for detecting when the display unit is turned over so that the first display or the second display faces upward; and a display controller for controlling the first display and the second display in response to detection by the detection arrangement to display a first information portion of consecutive information portions on one of the first display or the second display when the first display or the second display faces upward, and to display a second information portion that is incremented or decremented relative to the first information portion on the other of the first display and the second display.

[0191] 58) The display unit of Example 57, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a direction in which the display unit is rotated, and the display controller is configured to display the second portion incremented when the detection unit detects that the display unit has been rotated in a first direction, and to display the second portion decremented when the detection unit detects that the display unit has been rotated in a second direction.

[0192] 59) The display unit of example 58, wherein the first direction and the second direction are opposite directions.

[0193] It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes may be made in the details, materials and arrangements of parts and method steps that have been described and illustrated to explain the principles of the inventive subject matter without departing from the principles and scope of the inventive subject matter as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. a plurality of display units each hinged to one another to form a foldable display structure, each of the display units including a display screen with user input capability, a battery, and a wireless transceiver; a mounting unit adapted to receive and hold the display unit when the display unit is folded within the mounting unit, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display unit when the display unit is received and held within the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with a respective wireless transceiver of the display unit, and a communication arrangement for communicating over a communication network; A display device comprising: A display device, wherein the display unit is removable from within the mounting unit for use separate from the mounting unit.

2. 10. The display device of claim 1, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

3. 3. The display device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, and the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit have a shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

4. 4. A display device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the display screen with user input capability comprises a touch screen display.

5. 5. A display device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising at least three display units hinged to one another, the display units being foldable into a stacked configuration.

6. The display device of claim 5 , wherein the display units are foldable into an alternating folded configuration.

7. 7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the display units are detachably connected to each other.

8. 8. The display device of claim 1, wherein the mounting unit includes a slot along a side thereof for receiving and holding the display unit such that the display unit is housed within the mounting unit.

9. 9. The display device of claim 1, wherein the display device is portable and handheld.

10. 10. The display device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the display units is a flexible display unit, and the mounting unit has a rigidity to provide firm support when the at least one flexible display unit is received and held within the mounting unit.

11. 11. The display device of claim 10, wherein at least one of the display units includes the battery, the first wireless transceiver, a display processor and other electronic components in a rigid configuration along one edge of the display unit.

12. 10. A display device according to claim 1 , comprising a display frame structure for receiving and holding at least a peripheral portion of at least one of the display units, the display frame structure being configured to be hingedly connected to each other and / or to at least one other of the display units.

13. at least one display unit, the display unit including a display screen with user input capabilities, a battery, and a wireless transceiver; a display frame structure for receiving and supporting at least a peripheral portion of the display unit; a mounting unit configured to receive and hold the display frame structure therein, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display unit when the display unit is received within the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with a wireless transceiver of the display unit, and a communications arrangement for communicating over a communications network; A display device comprising: the display unit is removable from within the mounting unit for use separate from the mounting unit; A display device, wherein the display frame structure includes a plurality of frames, each frame for receiving and supporting a display unit, and the frames are hinged to each other to form a foldable frame structure.

14. 14. The display device of claim 13, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and the wireless transceiver of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

15. 15. A display device as described in claim 13 or 14, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and the wireless transceiver of the display unit being of shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

16. 14. The display apparatus of claim 13, comprising at least three display frames hinged to one another, the frames being foldable into a stacked configuration to be received and retained within the mounting unit.

17. 17. The display device of claim 16, wherein the frame is foldable into an alternating folded configuration.

18. 18. The display device according to claim 13, wherein the frames are detachably connected to each other.

19. 19. The display device of claim 13, wherein the mounting unit includes slots along sides thereof for receiving and retaining the display frame structure within the mounting unit.

20. 20. The display device of claim 13, wherein the display frame structure includes an adjustable mounting arrangement, the adjustable mounting arrangement being adjustable to accommodate at least one different sized display unit therein.

21. 21. The display device of claim 13, wherein at least one of the at least one display units is a flexible display, and the display frame structure supports the flexible display to maintain a flat shape.

22. a plurality of display units, each of the display units including a display screen with user input capability, a battery, and a wireless transceiver; a mounting unit including a display frame structure for receiving and supporting at least a peripheral portion of each of the display units, the mounting unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display units when the display units are received by the mounting unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with a wireless transceiver of the display units, and a communication arrangement for communicating over a communication network; A display device comprising: the display unit is removable from the mounting unit for use separate from the mounting unit; A display device, wherein the display frame structure includes a plurality of frames, each frame for receiving and supporting a display unit, and the frames are hinged to each other to form a foldable frame structure.

23. 23. The display device of claim 22, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

24. 24. A display device as described in claim 22 or 23, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit being of shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

25. 23. The display device of claim 22, comprising at least three display frames hinged to one another, the frames being foldable into a stacked configuration.

26. 26. The display device of claim 25, wherein the frame is foldable into an alternating folded configuration.

27. 27. The display device of claim 22, wherein the frames are detachably connected to each other.

28. 28. A display device according to any one of claims 22 to 27, wherein the display frame structure includes an adjustable mounting arrangement, the adjustable mounting arrangement being adjustable to accommodate different sized display units therein.

29. 29. The display device of claim 22, wherein at least one of the plurality of display units is a flexible display, and the display frame structure supports the flexible display to maintain a flat shape.

30. a plurality of display units, each of the display units including a display screen with user input capability, a battery, and a wireless transceiver; a mount unit including a hinge area and a plurality of frames hingedly connected to the hinge area, each of the frames configured to receive and hold a display unit, the mount unit further including a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display unit when the display unit is received by the mount unit, a first wireless transceiver for communicating with a wireless transceiver of the display unit, and a communication arrangement for communicating over a communication network; A display device comprising: A display device, wherein the display unit is removable from within the mounting unit for use separate from the mounting unit.

31. 31. The display device of claim 30, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

32. 32. A display device as described in claim 30 or 31, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and each of the wireless transceivers of the display unit being of shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

33. 33. The display device of any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein at least one of the frames is adjustable to accommodate different sized display units therein.

34. 34. The display device of claim 30, wherein at least one of the plurality of display units is a flexible display, and at least one of the frames supports the flexible display to maintain a flat shape.

35. 35. A display device according to any one of claims 30 to 34, wherein at least one of the frames is detachable from the hinge region.

36. at least one display unit, the display unit including a display screen with user input capability, a battery, and a wireless transceiver; a mount unit for receiving and holding the display unit housed therein, the mount unit further comprising: a power arrangement configured to recharge a battery of the display unit when the at least one display unit is housed and received and held in the mount unit; a first wireless transceiver for communicating with a wireless transceiver of the at least one display unit; and a communication arrangement for communicating over a communication network; A display device comprising: the at least one display unit is removable from within the mounting unit for use separate from the mounting unit; A display device, wherein the mounting unit includes a first part and a second part, the first part and the second part being separable for inserting the display unit into the mounting unit.

37. 37. The display device of claim 36, wherein the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and the wireless transceiver of the display unit are short-range wireless transceivers.

38. 38. A display device as described in claim 36 or 37, wherein the communication arrangement includes a second wireless transceiver for wireless communication, the first wireless transceiver of the mounting unit and the wireless transceiver of the display unit being of shorter range than the second wireless transceiver.

39. 39. A display device according to any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the display device is portable and handheld.

40. 40. The display device of claim 36, wherein the mounting unit includes an ejection mechanism for ejecting the at least one display unit housed therein.

41. A display device as described in any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein the mounting unit includes a display frame structure for receiving and holding at least a peripheral portion of at least one of the at least one display unit.

42. 42. The display device of claim 41, wherein the display frame structure includes at least one frame for supporting each display unit.

43. 42. The display apparatus of claim 41, wherein the display frame structure includes an adjustable mounting arrangement, the adjustable mounting arrangement being adjustable to accommodate different sized display units therein.

44. 43. The display device of claim 42, wherein at least one of the at least one display units is a flexible display, and one of the at least one frame supports each flexible display to maintain a flat shape.

Images