Electronic device
The electronic device's hinge mechanism with retractable legs and extensions ensures stable placement on diverse surfaces by expanding support, addressing stability issues on soft, uneven, or inclined surfaces.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-09-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-09
AI Technical Summary
Existing electronic devices struggle to maintain stability when placed on varied surfaces, including soft, uneven, or inclined surfaces, leading to unstable positions.
The electronic device features a hinge mechanism connecting two housings, with retractable legs and extensions that can protrude rearward and outward, allowing for stable placement on diverse surfaces by expanding the support range in both rearward and widthward directions.
The device achieves stable mounting on various surfaces by absorbing applied forces and maintaining position through extended support, facilitating easy carrying and storage.
Smart Images
Figure JP2025034673_09072026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Electronic device
[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device.
[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an electronic device including a first housing having a display unit, a second housing having an operation unit, and legs that can protrude from a rear side of a second side portion of the second housing in the second housing. When the electronic device described in Patent Document 1 places the second housing on a placement surface such as a desk and rotates the first housing with respect to the second housing to a raised state, the legs can be protruded from the second side portion to the rear of the second side portion so that the electronic device can be placed on the placement surface.
[0003] International Publication No. 2016 / 103580
[0004] In recent years, there has been a demand for an electronic device that can be stably placed.
[0005] The electronic device of the present disclosure includes a first housing, a second housing having an operation surface and a placement surface located on the opposite side of the operation surface, a hinge unit that connects a first side portion located on the rear side in the depth direction in the first housing and a second side portion located on the rear side in the depth direction in the second housing so that the first housing and the second housing can rotate relative to each other, legs located on the second side portion of the second housing and capable of protruding rearward from the second side portion, and the legs include a leg body extending in the width direction of the second housing and at least one extension portion extending outward in the width direction from the leg body. [[ID=Q16]]
[0006] In view of the above problems, the present disclosure provides an electronic device that can be stably placed.
[0007] Perspective view of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Front view of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Front view of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Rear view of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Rear view of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Perspective view of the rear side of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Perspective view of the rear side of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Enlarged plan view of the interior of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Enlarged plan view of the interior of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Enlarged perspective view of the interior of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic device shown in Figure 5 cut along line A-A Enlarged perspective view of the rear side of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Side view of an example of an electronic device according to Embodiment 1 Rear view of the electronic device of Modified Example 1
[0008] (Background to this disclosure) Patent document 1 describes an electronic device comprising a first housing having a display unit, a second housing having an operating unit, and a hinge portion connecting a first rear side portion in the depth direction of the first housing and a second side portion of the second housing. The second housing of the electronic device in Patent document 1 is provided with legs that can protrude from the rear of the second side portion.
[0009] In recent years, electronic devices are not only placed on relatively hard, flat surfaces like desks, but are also placed in a variety of locations. In the case of the electronic device described in Patent Document 1, the device may not be able to be placed stably depending on where it is placed when in use. For example, the electronic device described in Patent Document 1 may not be able to maintain a stable position when placed on a relatively soft, uneven, or inclined surface. Specifically, when the second housing of the electronic device described in Patent Document 1 is placed on the knees and the first housing is rotated relative to the second housing to raise it, the legs may end up in the gap between the knees, resulting in an unstable position.
[0010] Therefore, in order to solve the above problems, the present inventors investigated an electronic device that can be stably mounted regardless of the mounting location when using the electronic device, and have arrived at this disclosure.
[0011] The embodiments relating to this disclosure will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. In addition, in each drawing, the elements are exaggerated to facilitate the explanation.
[0012] (Embodiment 1) Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example of an electronic device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 1 shows the external appearance of the electronic device 1 in an open state. Figures 2 and 3 are front views of an example of an electronic device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 shows the state in which the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are connected. Figure 3 shows the state in which the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are separated. Figures 4 and 5 are rear views of the electronic device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 4 shows the state in which the legs 50 are stored. Figure 5 shows the state in which the legs 50 are extended. In this disclosure, the state in which a part of the legs 50 is positioned in the recess 21 of the second housing 20 is referred to as the leg-stored state, and the state in which the legs 50 protrude rearward from the second housing 20 is referred to as the leg-extended state. A detailed explanation of the leg-stored state and the leg-extended state will be given later. In the following explanation, for convenience, the depth direction of electronic device 1 will be referred to as "front" and "rear," the thickness direction as "top" and "bottom," and the width direction as "left" and "right."
[0013] Electronic device 1 is a laptop computer. As shown in Figure 1, electronic device 1 comprises a first housing 10, a second housing 20, a hinge portion 30, and a leg portion 50. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, electronic device 1 is configured so that the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 can be separated. For example, the first housing 10 can be used in a state separated from the second housing 20.
[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the first housing 10 has a first main surface 10a. A display unit 110 is provided on the first main surface 10a of the first housing 10. The display unit 110 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL display. The display unit 110 may also be a touch panel capable of receiving user touch operations. For example, the first housing 10 may have a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or other arithmetic processing unit, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an SSD (Solid State Disk) or other storage device (recording device), and a battery built inside. For example, the first housing 10 may be made of a metal such as a magnesium alloy or a resin.
[0015] The second housing 20 has an operating surface 20a and a mounting surface 20b located on the opposite side of the operating surface 20a. The operating surface 20a is the upper main surface of the second housing 20 in the thickness direction. An operating section 200 is provided on the operating surface 20a of the second housing 20. The operating section 200 includes a keyboard 210, a touchpad 220, and a plurality of operating buttons 230, etc. The mounting surface 20b is the lower main surface of the second housing 20 in the thickness direction. The mounting surface 20b is the surface that faces the mounting surface when the electronic device 1 is placed on the mounting surface. For example, the second housing 20 may be made of a metal such as a magnesium alloy or a resin.
[0016] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the second housing 20 has a recess 21 that extends forward from the second side portion 20S. The recess 21 is located on the rear side in the depth direction of the second housing 20. Part of the leg portion 50 can be placed in the recess 21. The recess 21 has a first defining wall 21a and a second defining wall 21b facing the first defining wall 21a. The length from the first defining wall 21a to the second defining wall 21b in the width direction decreases in the direction toward the front in the depth direction from the opening of the recess 21.
[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the hinge portion 30 rotatably connects the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. The hinge portion 30 connects the first side portion 10S located on the rear side in the depth direction of the first housing 10 and the second side portion 20S located on the rear side in the depth direction of the second housing 20, so that the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 can rotate relative to each other. The hinge portion 30 comprises a plurality of hinges 35 and a socket 40.
[0018] Multiple hinges 35 rotatably connect the second housing 20 and the socket 40. That is, the second housing 20 and the socket 40 are connected via multiple hinges 35, and the socket 40 is rotatable relative to the second housing 20 around the multiple hinges 35.
[0019] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the socket 40 is matable with the first side portion 10S of the first housing 10. The socket 40 has a concave shape with an open top. When the first housing 10 is mated with the socket 40, the first housing 10 is rotatable relative to the second housing 20 around a plurality of hinges 35. The socket 40 has a slide switch 41. The slide switch 41 is located in the center of the width direction of the socket 40. By sliding the slide switch 41, the first housing 10 can be removed from the socket 40, as shown in Figure 3. Once the first housing 10 is removed from the socket 40, it can be used as a tablet computer.
[0020] Figures 6 and 7 are rear perspective views of an example of the electronic device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 6 shows the legs 50 in a retracted state. Figure 7 shows the legs 50 in an extended state.
[0021] As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the leg portion 50 is located on the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20. A portion of the leg portion 50 is located behind the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20. As shown in Figures 5 and 7, the leg portion 50 can project rearward from the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20. As shown in Figure 4, a portion of the leg portion 50 can be positioned within the recess 21 of the second side portion 20S. When the leg portion 50 is retracted, a portion of the leg portion 50 is positioned within the recess 21 of the second side portion 20S. When the leg portion 50 is retracted, a portion of the leg portion 50 can contact the defining wall that defines the recess 21 of the second side portion 20S. As shown in Figure 5, the leg portion 50 can project rearward from the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20. The leg portion 50 can project rearward beyond the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20. When the leg portion 50 is extended, the leg portion 50 protrudes rearward from the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20.
[0022] As shown in Figure 4, the length of the legs 50 in the width direction is smaller than the length of the second housing 20 in the width direction. For example, the length of the legs 50 in the width direction is smaller than the length of the second housing 20 in the width direction by 2 mm to 100 mm. Preferably, the length of the legs 50 in the width direction is smaller than the length of the second housing 20 in the width direction by 3 mm to 50 mm. More preferably, the length of the legs 50 in the width direction is smaller than the length of the second housing 20 in the width direction by 5 mm to 30 mm.
[0023] Figures 8 and 9 are enlarged plan views of the interior of an example of the electronic device 1. Figure 8 shows the legs 50 in a retracted state. Figure 9 shows the legs 50 extended. Figure 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the interior of an example of the electronic device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic device 1 shown in Figure 5, cut along the line A-A.
[0024] As shown in Figure 5, the leg portion 50 comprises a pair of left and right link members 51, a leg body 52, and a plurality of extensions 61, 62.
[0025] As shown in Figure 8 or Figure 9, the link member 51 switches the leg portion 50 between a retracted state and an extended state. The left and right pair of link members 51 are rod-shaped members. The left and right pair of link members 51 are rotatably connected to the second housing 20 and the leg body 52. The other end of one link member 51 is slidably connected to one end (first end 52E) of the leg body 52 in the longitudinal direction of the leg body 52. The other end of the other link member 51 is slidably connected to the other end (second end 53E) of the leg body 52 in the width direction of the leg body 52. The link member 51 has protrusions 51a formed on the upper and lower sides, respectively, in the thickness direction of the electronic device 1, at the end facing the leg body 52.
[0026] As shown in Figure 9, the screen body 52 has two frame-shaped members 54. The two frame-shaped members 54 have a long, flat shape along the width direction of the screen body 52. One of the two frame-shaped members 54 is provided between the central portion of the screen body 52 in the width direction and one end of the screen body 52 in the width direction (first end 52E). The other of the two frame-shaped members 54 is provided between the central portion of the screen body 52 in the width direction and the other end of the screen body 52 in the width direction (second end 53E). As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the frame-shaped member 54 constitutes a groove 55 into which the protrusions 51a of a pair of left and right link members 51 can be fitted. With the protrusions 51a fitted into the groove 55 in the frame-shaped member 54, the end of the link member 51 on the screen body 52 side is movable along the groove 55 in the frame-shaped member 54.
[0027] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the second housing 20 includes a rotating shaft portion 22. The link member 51 is rotatable about the rotating shaft portion 22 while moving along the groove 55 in the frame-shaped member 54. As shown in Figure 11, the rotating shaft portion 22 includes screw receiving bosses 22a and 22b. The screw receiving boss 22a is provided on the inner surface of the first main wall portion 20A that constitutes the operating surface 20a and faces in a direction perpendicular to the operating surface 20a. The screw receiving boss 22b is provided on the inner surface of the second main wall portion 20B that constitutes the mounting surface 20b and faces in a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 20b.
[0028] The link member 51 has a through hole 51b that penetrates in the thickness direction at the end on the second side portion 20S side. The through hole 51b is inserted into the screw receiving bosses 22a and 22b.
[0029] Figure 12 is an enlarged rear perspective view of an example of the electronic device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 13 is a side view of an example of the electronic device 1 according to Embodiment 1, showing the electronic device 1 placed on a relatively hard and relatively flat mounting surface S1.
[0030] As shown in Figure 4, the stalk 52 extends in the width direction of the second housing 20. The stalk 52 can be placed in a recess 21 of the second housing 20. The stalk 52 is a rod-shaped and plate-shaped member in the width direction of the electronic device 1. The stalk 52 has a first end 52E and a second end 53E located on the opposite side of the first end 52E. When the stalk 52 is placed in the recess 21, the first end 52E faces the first defining wall 21a, and the second end 53E faces the second defining wall 21b. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the stalk 52 has a first rib 71 protruding from the first end 52E and a second rib 72 protruding from the second end 53E. As shown in Figure 8, with the script body 52 positioned in the recess 21, the first rib 71 can contact the first defining wall 21a, and the second rib 72 can contact the second defining wall 21b.
[0031] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the stand body 52 has an upper surface 52a located on the operating surface 20a side of the second housing 20, and a lower surface 52b located on the mounting surface 20b side of the second housing 20 and opposite to the upper surface 52a. The stand body 52 has protrusions 56 that project downward from the lower surface 52b toward the lower surface 52b from the upper surface 52a toward the lower surface 52b. As shown in Figure 12, the stand body 52 has a plurality of protrusions 56. The plurality of protrusions 56 are arranged with spacing between them in the width direction. As shown in Figure 13, when the electronic device 1 is placed on a relatively hard and relatively flat mounting surface S1 such as a desk, the plurality of protrusions 56 come into contact with the mounting surface S1. For example, the plurality of protrusions 56 may be made of resin.
[0032] As shown in Figure 12, on the lower surface 52b side of the screen body 52, the screen body 52 has an inclined surface C1 on the front side in the depth direction of the screen body 52. The inclined surface C1 is inclined in the depth direction of the screen body 52 toward the front, moving from the lower surface 52b toward the upper surface 52a.
[0033] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the plurality of extensions 61 and 62 include a first extension 61 and a second extension 62. The plurality of extensions 61 and 62 extend outward in the width direction from the screen body 52. In the width direction, the plurality of extensions 61 and 62 extend from portions closer to the ends 52E and 53E of the screen body 52 than to the central portion of the screen body 52. The plurality of extensions 61 and 62 extend from a third side portion 52S located on the rear side in the depth direction of the screen body 52. In the width direction, the first extension 61 extends to the right in the width direction of the second housing 20 from a portion closer to the first end 52E of the screen body 52 than to the central portion of the screen body 52. The second extension 62 extends to the left in the width direction of the second housing 20 from a portion closer to the second end 53E of the screen body 52 than to the central portion of the screen body 52. The first extension 61 and the second extension 62 extend in directions that are separated from each other in the width direction of the second housing 20.
[0034] As shown in Figure 8, the multiple extensions 61 and 62 extend inclined from the main body 52 toward the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20. The multiple extensions 61 and 62 extend inclined toward the front from the main body 52. The multiple extensions 61 and 62 extend along the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20.
[0035] The length of the script body 52 in the width direction is greater than the length of each of the multiple extensions 61, 62 in the width direction.
[0036] As shown in Figure 13, the multiple extensions 61 and 62 are positioned in a direction from the lower surface 52b to the upper surface 52a of the script body 52, relative to the convex surface of the convex portion 56. In other words, the first extension 61 and the second extension 62 are positioned above the convex surface of the convex portion 56.
[0037] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, in the width direction, the ends of the first extension 61 that are further away from the main body 52 at both ends are defined as the "first extension end 61E". Also, in the width direction, the ends of the second extension 62 that are further away from the main body 52 at both ends are defined as the "second extension end 62E".
[0038] As shown in Figure 8, at the extension end 61E of the first extension 61 and the extension end 62E of the second extension 62, the first extension 61 has a first corner R1 and a second corner R2 which is located closer to the second housing 20 than the first corner R1 in the depth direction. The first corner R1 and the second corner R2 are rounded. When viewed in the direction from the operating surface 20a to the mounting surface 20b of the second housing 20, the radius of the first corner R1 is larger than the radius of the second corner R2.
[0039] Each of the multiple extensions 61 and 62 has a third rib 73. The third rib 73 of the first extension 61 protrudes forward from a fourth side portion 61S located on the front side in the depth direction of the first extension 61. The third rib 73 of the second extension 62 protrudes forward from a fifth side portion 62S located on the front side in the depth direction of the second extension 62. Each of the third ribs 73 of the first extension 61 and the second extension 62 is capable of contacting the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20. When the script body 52 is positioned in the recess 21 of the second housing 20, the third rib 73 is capable of contacting the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20. A portion of the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20 that the third rib 73 can contact is made of metal.
[0040] As shown in Figure 12, the first extension 61 has an upper surface 61a located on the operating surface 20a side of the second housing 20, and a lower surface 61b located on the mounting surface 20b side of the second housing 20, opposite to the upper surface 61a. The first extension 61 has a recess 65 that extends from the lower surface 61b toward the upper surface 61a. The second extension 62 has a lower surface 62b located on the mounting surface 20b side, and an upper surface 62a located on the operating surface 20a side. The second extension 62 has a recess 66 that extends from the lower surface 62b toward the upper surface 62a. The recesses 65 and 66 are recessed upward from the lower surface 62b.
[0041] The length of the leg body 52 in the thickness direction of the electronic device 1 is not less than the length of the first extension portion 61 in the thickness direction. Preferably, the length of the leg body 52 in the thickness direction is not less than 1.2 times and not more than 3 times the length of the first extension portion 61 in the thickness direction. More preferably, the length of the leg body 52 in the thickness direction is not less than 1.5 times and not more than 2 times the length of the first extension portion 61 in the thickness direction.
[0042] The operation of the electronic device 1 will be described.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 13, the electronic device 1 is opened, and with the legs 50 of the electronic device 1 protruding rearward, it is placed on the placement surface S1. When the electronic device 1 is placed on a placement surface S1 that is relatively firm and has a relatively flat surface, a part of the second housing 20 and the convex surfaces of the plurality of convex portions 56 come into contact with the placement surface S1. Since the plurality of extension portions 61, 62 are positioned in a direction from the lower surface 52b to the upper surface 52a of the leg body 52 rather than the convex surfaces of the plurality of convex portions 56, they do not come into contact with the placement surface S1.
[0044] When the electronic device 1 is placed on a relatively soft location, the plurality of extension portions 61, 62 can come into contact with the placement location. For example, when the electronic device 1 is placed on a relatively soft placement location such as a knee or a futon, at least a part of the plurality of extension portions 61, 62 comes into contact with the placement location.
[0045] When the electronic device 1 is placed on a sloped location, the plurality of extension portions 61, 62 can come into contact with the placement surface. For example, when the electronic device 1 is placed on a sloped location, at least a part of the plurality of extension portions 61, 62 comes into contact with the placement location.
[0046] When the electronic device 1 is placed on a placement location having unevenness and / or a protruding portion, a part of the placement location can be caught in the recesses 65, 66 of the plurality of extension portions 6: For example, when the electronic device 1 is placed on a placement location having unevenness such as on grass or on the ground, a part of the placement location is caught in the recesses, 65, 66 of the plurality of extension portions 61, 62.
[0047] In addition, when the electronic device 1 is closed, the user can pull out the leg portion 50 of the electronic device 1 from the second housing 20 and carry the electronic device 1 while holding the leg portion 50. For example, the user may hold and carry the electronic device 1 by grasping the leg body 52 of the leg portion 50, or may hold and carry the electronic device 1 by grasping the first extension portion 61.
[0048] Also, when the user takes out the electronic device 1 from a storage place such as a bag or a case, the user may hold the first extension portion 61 or the second extension portion 62. The user may hook a finger in the recess 65 of the first extension portion 61 or the recess 66 of the second extension portion 62 and take out the electronic device 1 from a storage place such as a bag or a case.
[0049] The effects of the electronic device 1 will be described.
[0050] The electronic device 1 includes a first housing 10, a second housing 20, a hinge portion 30, and a leg portion 50. The second housing 20 has an operation surface 20a and a placement surface 20b located on the opposite side of the operation surface 20a. The hinge portion 30 connects a first side portion 10S located on the rear side in the depth direction in the first housing 10 and a second side portion 20S located on the rear side in the depth direction in the second housing 20 so that the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 can rotate relative to each other. The leg portion 50 is located on the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20 and can project rearward from the second side portion 20S. The leg portion 50 includes a leg body 52 and a plurality of extension portions 61 and 62. The leg body 52 extends in the width direction. The plurality of extension portions 61 and 62 extend outward in the width direction from the leg body 52.
[0051] With this configuration, the electronic device 1 can be stably mounted. The electronic device 1 can be stably mounted when the second housing 20 is placed on the mounting surface S1 and the first housing 10 is rotated relative to the second housing 20 and raised. The electronic device 1 can be stably mounted because the support range of the electronic device 1 can be expanded in the rearward and widthward directions by having legs 50. The support range of the electronic device 1 can be expanded rearward by legs 50 that can protrude rearward from the second housing 20. In addition, the support range of the electronic device 1 in the widthward direction can be expanded by first extensions 61 that extend outward in the widthward direction from the leg body 52. For example, when the second housing 20 of the electronic device 1 is placed on the knee, even if the leg body 52 is positioned in the gap between the knees, the electronic device 1 can be stably mounted on the knee because the multiple extensions 61, 62 come into contact with the knee. Furthermore, even if a force is applied to the first housing 10 toward the rear or toward the width direction, the load can be absorbed by the legs 50 and the multiple extensions 61 and 62.
[0052] The multiple extensions 61 and 62 include a first extension 61 and a second extension 62. The first extension 61 and the second extension 62 extend in directions that are separated from each other in the width direction of the second housing 20.
[0053] With this configuration, the electronic device 1 can be mounted even more stably. The first extension 61 and the second extension 62 extend in directions away from each other in the width direction of the second housing 20, thereby further widening the support range of the electronic device 1 in the width direction.
[0054] The first extension 61 has an upper surface 61a located on the operating surface 20a side of the second housing 20, and a lower surface 61b located on the mounting surface 20b side of the second housing 20, opposite to the upper surface 61a. The first extension 61 has a recess 65 that is recessed in the direction from the lower surface 61b toward the upper surface 61a.
[0055] With this configuration, the electronic device 1 can be placed stably. For example, when the electronic device 1 is placed on a surface with irregularities, the protruding parts of the surface to be placed catch on the recesses 65. The electronic device 1 can be placed stably because the protruding parts of the surface to be placed catch on the recesses 65.
[0056] Furthermore, the presence of a recess 65 in the first extension 61 makes it easier for the user to remove the electronic device 1 from a storage place such as a bag or case. For example, when removing the electronic device 1 from a storage place, the user's fingers can easily catch on the recess 65 of the first extension 61, making it easier for the user to remove the electronic device 1 from a storage place such as a bag or case.
[0057] The multiple extensions 61 and 62 extend in the width direction from portions closer to the ends 52E and 53E of the screen body 52 than from the central portion of the screen body 52.
[0058] This configuration allows the support range for the electronic device 1 to be further expanded in the width direction. As a result, the electronic device 1 can be mounted more stably.
[0059] Multiple extensions 61 and 62 extend from a third side portion 52S located on the rear side in the depth direction of the script body 52.
[0060] This configuration allows the support range of the electronic device 1 to be further extended to the rear. As a result, the electronic device 1 can be mounted more stably.
[0061] Multiple extensions 61 and 62 extend inclined toward the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20.
[0062] This configuration allows the electronic device 1 to be made compact. By making the electronic device 1 compact, it can be made easy to carry.
[0063] Multiple extensions 61 and 62 extend along the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20.
[0064] This configuration makes it easier to store the electronic device 1 in a bag, case, or other storage space.
[0065] The length of the leg portion 50 in the width direction is smaller than the length of the second housing 20 in the width direction.
[0066] This configuration makes it easier to store the electronic device 1 in a bag, case, or other storage space.
[0067] The length of the script body 52 in the width direction is greater than the length of each of the multiple extensions 61, 62 in the width direction.
[0068] This configuration makes it easier for the user to grip the handle 52 when the electronic device 1 is closed and the legs 50 are protruding from the second housing 20. This makes it easier for the user to grip the handle 52, reducing the likelihood of dropping the electronic device 1 when carrying it.
[0069] The length of the screen body 52 in the thickness direction of the electronic device 1 is greater than or equal to the length of the first extension 61 in the thickness direction.
[0070] This configuration allows for a reduction in the weight of the electronic device 1 while ensuring the strength of the first extension 61.
[0071] Each of the extension ends 61E, 62E of the multiple extensions 61, 62 has a first corner R1 and a second corner R2 located closer to the second housing 20 than the first corner R1 in the depth direction. The first corner R1 and the second corner R2 are rounded. When viewed from the operating surface 20a toward the mounting surface 20b, the radius of the first corner R1 is greater than the radius of the second corner R2.
[0072] With this configuration, if the electronic device 1 falls, damage to the multiple extensions 61 and 62 due to the impact of the fall of the electronic device 1 can be suppressed. When viewed in the downward direction, the radius of the first corner R1 is larger than the radius of the second corner R2, which makes it easier for the impact of the fall of the electronic device 1 to escape from the legs 50.
[0073] The leg body 52 has an upper surface 52a located on the operating surface 20a side of the second housing 20, and a lower surface 52b located on the mounting surface 20b of the second housing 20, opposite to the upper surface 52a. The leg body 52 has a protrusion 56 that projects from the lower surface 52b in the direction from the upper surface 52a to the lower surface 52b. The multiple extensions 61, 62 are located in the direction from the lower surface 52b to the upper surface 52a of the leg portion 50, rather than on the convex surface of the protrusion 56.
[0074] With this configuration, the electronic device 1 can be stably mounted. When the electronic device 1 is mounted on a relatively hard and relatively flat surface, the multiple extensions 61 and 62 of the electronic device 1 do not come into contact with the hard and relatively flat surface. However, for example, when the electronic device 1 is mounted on a relatively soft or uneven surface, one of the multiple extensions 61 and 62 of the electronic device 1 will come into contact with the surface. The electronic device 1 can be stably mounted because one of the multiple extensions 61 and 62 of the electronic device 1 comes into contact with the surface.
[0075] Furthermore, the electronic device 1 is compatible with peripheral devices of electronic devices that do not have multiple extensions 61, 62. For example, by making the position of the protrusion on the leg body 52 of the electronic device 1 the same as the position of the protrusion on the leg body of an electronic device that does not have multiple extensions 61, 62, the electronic device 1 is compatible with peripheral devices of electronic devices that do not have multiple extensions 61, 62. In addition, in the electronic device 1, the multiple extensions 61, 62 are positioned in the direction from the lower surface 52b to the upper surface 52a of the leg portion 50, rather than the convex surface of the protrusion 56, thereby preventing the multiple extensions 61, 62 from coming into contact with peripheral devices of electronic devices that do not have multiple extensions 61, 62.
[0076] The second housing 20 is recessed forward from the second side portion 20S and has a recess 21 in which the script body 52 can be placed. The recess 21 has a first defining wall 21a and a second defining wall 21b facing the first defining wall 21a. When viewed in the direction from the operating surface 20a of the second housing 20 toward the mounting surface 20b, the length from the first defining wall 21a toward the second defining wall 21b decreases in the direction toward the front from the opening of the recess 21.
[0077] This configuration makes it easier to place the script body 52 in the recess 21 of the second housing 20. It also makes it easier to pull out the script body 52 once it is placed in the recess 21.
[0078] The second housing 20 is recessed forward from the second side portion 20S and has a recess 21 in which the script body 52 can be placed. The recess 21 has a first defining wall 21a and a second defining wall 21b facing the first defining wall 21a. The script body 52 has a first end portion 52E, a second end portion 53E, a first rib 71, and a second rib 72. The second end portion 53E is located on the opposite side of the first end portion 52E in the width direction of the script body 52. The first rib 71 protrudes from the first end portion 52E. The second rib 72 protrudes from the second end portion 53E. When the script body 52 is placed in the recess 21, the first end portion 52E faces the first defining wall 21a, and the second end portion 53E faces the second defining wall 21b.
[0079] This configuration makes it possible to prevent damage to the electronic device 1 if it is dropped. When the leg portion 50 is inserted into the recess 21 of the second housing 20, the leg portion 50 moves in the width direction, and the recess 21 and the first rib 71 and / or second rib 72 of the leg portion 50 come into contact with each other. This contact between the recess 21 and the first rib 71 and / or second rib 72 of the leg portion 50 makes it easier for the leg portion 50 to remain inserted into the recess 21. Therefore, when the electronic device 1 is dropped with the leg portion 50 inserted into the recess 21 of the second housing 20, it is possible to prevent the leg portion 50 from protruding from the recess 21, and thus prevent damage to the leg portion 50 due to the impact of the fall.
[0080] Multiple extensions 61 and 62 each have a third rib 73. The third rib 73 protrudes forward from a fourth side portion 61S located on the front side in the depth direction of the first extension 61. The third rib 73 protrudes forward from a fifth side portion 62S located on the front side in the depth direction of the second extension 62. The third rib 73 can contact the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20.
[0081] This configuration makes it possible to mitigate the impact on the multiple extensions 61 and 62 when the electronic device 1 is dropped. Because the multiple extensions 61 and 62 have a third rib 73, when the electronic device 1 is dropped, the third rib 73 comes into contact with the second housing 20, thus preventing each of the multiple extensions 61 and 62 from directly contacting the second housing 20. In other words, the third rib 73 mitigates the impact on the multiple extensions 61 and 62 when the electronic device 1 is dropped. As a result, it is possible to prevent the multiple extensions 61 and 62 from breaking when the electronic device 1 is dropped.
[0082] A portion of the second side 20S of the second housing 20, which can be contacted by the third rib 73, is made of metal.
[0083] By making the portion of the second housing 20 that contacts the first extension 61 out of metal, the second housing 20 can suppress wear caused by contact between the first extension 61 and the second housing 20.
[0084] In this embodiment, the electronic device 1 is described as being configured to be separable from the first housing 10 and the second housing 20, but the electronic device 1 does not necessarily have to be configured to be separable from the first housing 10 and the second housing 20.
[0085] Although the first enclosure 10 was described as having a built-in arithmetic processing unit, storage device (recording device), and battery, etc., it is not limited to this. For example, the second enclosure 20 may have a built-in arithmetic processing unit, storage device (recording device), and battery, etc.
[0086] Although the operating unit 200 has been described as including a keyboard 210, a touchpad 220, and multiple operation buttons 230, it is not limited to this. For example, the operating unit 200 does not have to include a touchpad 220 and multiple operation buttons 230.
[0087] Although an example in which the second housing 20 has a recess 21 has been described, the invention is not limited to this. For example, the second housing 20 may have mounting holes in the second side portion 20S. Also, the leg body 52 may be insertable into the mounting holes.
[0088] It has been explained that the length from the first defining wall 21a to the second defining wall 21b of the second housing 20 decreases in the direction toward the front in the depth direction from the opening of the recess 21, but this is not limited to this. For example, the length from the first defining wall 21a to the second defining wall 21b of the second housing 20 may increase in the direction toward the front from the opening of the recess 21, when viewed in the direction toward the mounting surface 20b of the second housing 20.
[0089] Although it was explained that the hinge portion 30 includes a socket 40, the hinge portion 30 does not necessarily have to include a socket 40.
[0090] Although it was explained that the first housing 10 can be removed from the socket 40, it is not necessary for the first housing 10 to be removed from the socket 40. For example, the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 may be connected by multiple hinges 35.
[0091] Although it has been explained that the leg portion 50 comprises multiple extensions 61 and 62, it is not limited to this. For example, the leg portion 50 may comprise one first extension 61. For example, when an electronic device 1 comprising one first extension 61 is placed on the knee, the electronic device 1 may be stably placed by the contact between one knee and the mounting surface 20b of the second housing 20, and the contact between the lower surface 61b of the first extension 61 and the other knee.
[0092] Although it has been explained that the length of the legs 50 in the width direction is smaller than the length of the second housing 20 in the width direction, this is not limited to this. For example, the length of the legs 50 in the width direction may be larger than the length of the second housing 20 in the width direction.
[0093] Although the screen body 52 has been described as a rod-shaped and plate-shaped member in the width direction of the electronic device 1, it is not limited to this. For example, the screen body 52 may be rod-shaped in the width direction of the electronic device 1.
[0094] Although it has been explained that the script body 52 has a first rib 71 and a second rib 72, it is not limited to this. For example, the script body 52 does not have to have a first rib 71 and a second rib 72.
[0095] Although it has been explained that the screen body 52 has multiple protrusions 56, the screen body 52 does not have to have multiple protrusions 56. For example, the screen body 52 may have only one protrusion 56. The single protrusion 56 may be provided in the central part of the screen body 52 in the width direction.
[0096] It has been explained that when the electronic device 1 is placed on a relatively hard and relatively flat surface S1 such as a desk, the multiple protrusions 56 come into contact with the surface S1, but this is not limited to that. For example, the multiple protrusions 56 do not need to come into contact with the surface S1.
[0097] Although it was explained that the screen body 52 has an inclined surface C1 on the lower surface 52b side, the screen body 52 does not necessarily have to have an inclined surface C1. For example, the lower surface 52b side of the screen body 52 may be flat.
[0098] In this example, the screen body 52 and the multiple extensions 61 and 62 are formed as a single unit, and the screen body 52 has an inclined surface C1 on the front side in the depth direction on the lower surface 52b of the screen body 52. However, the screen body 52 and the multiple extensions 61 and 62 may be formed separately. For example, the multiple extensions 61 and 62 may be rotatably connected to the screen body 52 so that they can be housed in the screen body 52.
[0099] It has been explained that the multiple extensions 61 and 62 extend from portions closer to the ends 52E and 53E of the script body 52 than to the central portion of the script body 52 in the width direction of the second housing 20, but this is not limited to this. For example, the multiple extensions 61 and 62 may extend outward in the width direction from the central portion of the script body 52 in the width direction of the second housing 20.
[0100] Although it was explained that the length of the script body 52 in the width direction is greater than the length of each of the multiple extensions 61 and 62 in the width direction, the length of the script body 52 in the width direction may be smaller than the length of each of the multiple extensions 61 and 62 in the width direction.
[0101] It has been explained that, when viewed from the operating surface 20a of the second housing 20 toward the mounting surface 20b, the radius of the first corner R1 is larger than the radius of the second corner R2, but this is not limited to this. For example, when viewed from the operating surface 20a of the second housing 20 toward the mounting surface 20b, the radius of the first corner R1 may be smaller than the radius of the second corner R2.
[0102] Although it has been explained that a portion of the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20 that the third rib 73 can contact is made of metal, this is not limited to metal. For example, a portion of the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20 that the third rib 73 can contact may be made of resin.
[0103] Although it has been explained that the first extension 61 has a recess 65 and the second extension 62 has a recess 66, this is not limited to this. The first extension 61 does not have to have a recess 65, and the second extension 62 does not have to have a recess 66.
[0104] Although it has been explained that the length of the casing 52 in the thickness direction of the electronic device 1 is equal to or greater than the length of the first extension 61 in the thickness direction, this is not limited to this. For example, the length of the casing 52 in the thickness direction of the electronic device 1 may be less than the length of the first extension 61 in the thickness direction.
[0105] <Modification Example 1> Figure 14 is a rear view of the electronic device 1A of Modification Example 1.
[0106] The electronic device 1A of the modified example 1 differs from the embodiment 1 in that the multiple extensions 61A and 62A extend inclined toward a direction away from the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20.
[0107] As shown in Figure 14, the multiple extensions 61A and 62A extend inclined from the main body 52 toward the second side portion 20S of the second housing 20. The multiple extensions 61A and 62A extend inclined toward the rear from the main body 52.
[0108] With this configuration, the electronic device 1 can be mounted more stably. The electronic device 1A can be mounted more stably on the mounting surface because its support range can be extended further rearward by the multiple extensions 61A and 62A.
[0109] <Modification 2> In Modification 2, the electronic device 1 has a leg portion 50 in which the main body 52 and the multiple extensions 61 and 62 are formed separately. The multiple extensions 61 and 62 can be housed inside the main body 52. The multiple extensions 61 and 62 are rotatable relative to the main body 52. By rotating the multiple extensions 61 and 62 relative to the main body 52, they may be pulled out from or housed in the main body 52.
[0110] Since multiple extensions 61 and 62 can be stored inside the main body 52, the electronic device 1 can be made relatively compact by storing the multiple extensions 61 and 62 inside the main body 52. This makes it easier to store the electronic device 1 in a bag, case, or other storage place.
[0111] In this specification, terms such as “First,” “Second,” etc., are used for illustrative purposes only and should not be understood as expressing or implying relative importance or ranking of technical features. Features designated as “First” and “Second” express or imply that they include one or more such features.
[0112] (Outline of Embodiments) (1) The electronic device of the present disclosure comprises a first housing, a second housing, a hinge portion, and a leg portion. The second housing has an operating surface and a mounting surface located opposite the operating surface. The hinge portion connects a first side portion located on the rear side in the depth direction of the first housing and a second side portion located on the rear side in the depth direction of the second housing, so that the first housing and the second housing can rotate relative to each other. The leg portion is located on the second side portion of the second housing and is projectable rearward from the second side portion. The leg portion comprises a leg body extending in the width direction of the second housing and at least one extension portion extending outward in the width direction from the leg body.
[0113] (2) In the electronic device of (1), at least one extension may have an upper surface located on the operating surface side of the second housing and a lower surface located on the mounting surface side of the second housing and opposite to the upper surface. At least one extension may have a recess that is recessed in the direction from the lower surface toward the upper surface.
[0114] (3) In either (1) or (2), at least one extension may extend in the width direction from a portion closer to the end of the screen body than from the central portion of the screen body.
[0115] (4) In any one of the electronic devices described in (1) to (3), at least one extension may extend from a third side located on the rear side in the depth direction of the screen body.
[0116] (5) In any one of the electronic devices described in (1) to (4), at least one extension may extend inclined from the main body toward the second side of the second housing.
[0117] (6) In the electronic device of (5), at least one extension may extend along the second side of the second housing.
[0118] (7) In any one of the electronic devices described in (1) to (6), the length of the legs in the width direction may be less than the length of the second housing in the width direction.
[0119] (8) In the electronic device of (7), the length of the script body in the width direction may be greater than the length of at least one extension in the width direction.
[0120] (9) In any one electronic device according to (1) to (8), at least one extension may have a first corner and a second corner located closer to the second housing than the first corner in the depth direction at the extension end of at least one extension. The first and second corners may be rounded. When viewed from the operating surface toward the mounting surface, the radius of the first corner may be greater than the radius of the second corner.
[0121] (10) In any one electronic device of (1) to (9), the saddle may have an upper surface located on the operating surface side of the second housing and a lower surface located on the mounting surface side of the second housing and opposite to the upper surface. The saddle may have a protrusion projecting from the lower surface in the direction from the upper surface to the lower surface. At least one extension may be located in the direction from the lower surface to the upper surface of the saddle more than the convex surface of the protrusion.
[0122] (11) In any one electronic device of (1) to (10), the second housing is recessed from the second side toward the front and may have a recess in which a script body can be placed. The recess may have a first defining wall and a second defining wall facing the first defining wall. The script body may have a first end, a second end located opposite the first end, a first rib protruding from the first end, and a second rib protruding from the second end. When the script body is placed in the recess, the first end may face the first defining wall and the second end may face the second defining wall.
[0123] (12) In any one electronic device of (1) to (11), at least one extension may have a third rib projecting forward from a fourth side located on the front side in the depth direction of at least one extension. The third rib may be in contact with the second side of the second housing.
[0124] (13) In the electronic device of (12), a portion of the second side of the second housing that the third rib can contact may be made of metal.
[0125] The electronic device relating to this disclosure can provide a stable and mountable electronic device, and is therefore suitable for use in this type of industrial field.
[0126] 1, 1A Electronic device 10, 20 Housing 10a Main surface 20A, 20B Main wall 20a Operating surface 20b Mounting surface 20c, 20d Surface 10S, 20S, 52S, 61S, 62S Side 21 Recess 21a, 21b Defining wall 22 Rotating shaft 22a, 22b Boss 30 Hinge 35 Hinge 40 Socket 41 Slide switch 50 Leg 51 Link member 51a Protrusion 51b Through hole 52 Leg body 52a, 52b, 61a, 61b, 62a, 62b Surface 52E, 53E End 54 Frame-shaped member 55 Groove 56 Protrusion 61, 62, 61A, 62A Extension 61E, 62E Extension ends 65, 66 Recesses 71, 72, 73 Ribs 110 Display unit 200 Operation unit 210 Keyboard 220 Touchpad 230 Operation buttons C1 Inclined surface R1, R2 Corner S1 Mounting surface
Claims
1. Electronic device comprising: a first housing; a second housing having an operating surface and a mounting surface located opposite to the operating surface; a hinge portion connecting a first side portion located on the rear side in the depth direction of the first housing and a second side portion located on the rear side in the depth direction of the second housing so that the first housing and the second housing can rotate relative to each other; and a leg portion located on the second side portion of the second housing and projecting rearward from the second side portion, wherein the leg portion comprises a leg body extending in the width direction of the second housing and at least one extension portion extending outward in the width direction from the leg body.
2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one extension has an upper surface located on the operating surface side of the second housing and a lower surface located on the mounting surface side of the second housing and opposite to the upper surface, and has a recess that is recessed in the direction from the lower surface toward the upper surface.
3. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one extension extends in the width direction from a portion closer to the end of the screen body than to the central portion of the screen body.
4. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one extension extends from a third side portion located on the rear side in the depth direction of the screen body.
5. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one extension extends inclined from the main body toward the second side of the second housing.
6. The electronic device according to claim 5, wherein the at least one extension extends along the second side of the second housing.
7. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the length of the leg portion in the width direction is smaller than the length of the second housing in the width direction.
8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the length of the screen body in the width direction is greater than the length of the at least one extension in the width direction.
9. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at the extension end of the at least one extension, the at least one extension has a first corner and a second corner located closer to the second housing than the first corner in the depth direction, the first corner and the second corner are rounded, and the radius of the first corner is greater than the radius of the second corner when viewed in the direction from the operating surface toward the aforementioned mounting surface.
10. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the script body has an upper surface located on the operating surface side of the second housing, and a lower surface located on the mounting surface side of the second housing and opposite to the upper surface, and has a protrusion projecting from the lower surface toward the lower surface, and the at least one extension is located in the direction toward the upper surface of the script body more than the convex surface of the protrusion.
11. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the second housing is recessed forward from the second side and has a recess in which the saddle body can be placed, the recess has a first defining wall and a second defining wall facing the first defining wall, the saddle body has a first end, a second end located on the opposite side of the first end, a first rib protruding from the first end, and a second rib protruding from the second end, and when the saddle body is placed in the recess, the first end faces the first defining wall and the second end faces the second defining wall.
12. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the at least one extension has a third rib projecting forward from a fourth side located on the front side in the depth direction of the at least one extension, and the third rib is in contact with the second side of the second housing.
13. The electronic device according to claim 12, wherein a portion of the second side of the second housing, to which the third rib can make contact, is made of metal.