Instrument-activated sub-surface computer buttons and system and method incorporating same

The present technique provides a system and method for providing instrument-activated buttons having a sub-surface mechanism for triggering a desired function upon interaction with an above-surface electronic/digital user device, such as a digitizing pointing device. The instrument-activated buttons may be disposed in a display device, a tablet computing device, or any other suitable electronic device. A user navigates a housing surface of the electronic device until a signal identifies the sub-surface button, which may then be activated by performing an instrument-based activation event. The activation event may be a button click, a tip movement, or any other suitable trigger on the electronic/digital user device. A wireless communication is then transmitted between the sub-surface mechanism and the electronic/digital user device to initiate the function associated with the instrument-activated button.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present technique relates generally to computer systems and, more particularly, to user input buttons for a portable computing device. The present technique provides a system and method for providing instrument-activated buttons having a sub-surface mechanism for triggering a desired function upon interaction with an above-surface electronic/digital user device, such as a digitizing pointing device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Computer systems and other electronic devices often have one or more buttons to initiate a desired function. For example, computer systems generally have a keyboard, a number keypad, and a plurality of special function buttons. All of these buttons are activated by physical contact, such as a vertical displacement by a fingertip. In portable computers and electronics, buttons are relatively vulnerable to accidental physical contact due to the compact dimensions of the devices and, also, due to the relatively small size and tightly packed arrangement of the buttons. In many portable computer systems, system critical buttons are disposed in a recess, a slot, or an area remote from the user input devices (e.g., keyboard). For example, a system reset button may be recessed within a small slot, such as a pen hole. However, these system buttons remain vulnerable to accidental physical contact.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present technique provides a system and method for providing instrument-activated buttons having a sub-surface mechanism for triggering a desired function upon interaction with an above-surface electronic/digital user device, such as a digitizing pointing device. The instrument-activated buttons may be disposed in a display device, a tablet computing device, or any other suitable electronic device. A user navigates a housing surface of the electronic device until a signal identifies the sub-surface button, which may then be activated by performing an instrument-based activation event. The activation event may be a button click, a tip movement, or any other suitable trigger on the electronic/digital user device. A wireless communication is then transmitted between the sub-surface mechanism and the electronic/digital user device to initiate the function associated with the instrument-activated button.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

The present technique is directed toward a tablet computer system and, more specifically, systems and methods for automatically switching viewing orientations of a display in response to physical rotation of the display.FIG. 1is a perspective view of an exemplary tablet computer system10of the present technique. In this exemplary embodiment, the tablet computer system10comprises a tablet computing device12, a multi-attachable keyboard14, a digitizing pointing device16, and a multi-configurable docking assembly18. The foregoing components are intended to provide a relatively flexible and multi-configurable computing system, which allows multiple angular, elevational, and orientational positions of the various components of the table computing system10. Accordingly, a user may select the desired components and adapt the tablet computing system10to a desired environment, such as a variety of home, work, and mobile environments. Although not illustrated, the tablet computer system10also may comprise a variety of additional components and peripherals, such as a printer, a scanner, a digital camera, an external monitor, and various other input/output devices.

As illustrated, the tablet computing device12has a housing20, which has a display screen assembly22disposed in a top side24of the housing20, a plurality of computing components and circuitry disposed within the housing20, and the multi-attachable keyboard14removably coupled to a bottom side26of the housing20. The display screen assembly22may comprise any suitable flat panel display screen technology, including a variety of screen enhancement, antireflective, protective, and other layers. The display screen assembly22also may have touch panel technology, digitizer panel technology, and various other user-interactive screen technologies. As discussed in detail below, the digitizing pointing device16interacts with a digitizing panel disposed in the top side24of the tablet computing device12. The digitizing panel may be disposed below, within, or adjacent the display screen assembly22. In this exemplary embodiment, the digitizer panel extends to a peripheral area of the display screen assembly22, where the tablet computing device12defines digitizer-activated buttons for desired computing functions. The tablet computing device12also may comprise a variety of user interaction circuitry and software, such as speech-to-text conversion software (i.e., voice recognition) and writing-to-text conversion software (e.g., for the digitizing pointing device16). Accordingly, a user may interact with the tablet computing device12without a conventional keyboard or mouse.

The computing components disposed within the tablet style housing20may comprise a processor, a motherboard, volatile and nonvolatile memory (e.g., a hard drive, RAM, ROM, flash memory, cache memory, etc.), network circuitry (e.g., a modem, a network card, etc.), wireless communications circuitry (e.g., IR, RF, optical, blue tooth, and other technologies), input/output ports, audio/video circuitry, and various other circuitry, components, and component receptacles/bays. For example, the tablet computing device12and the multi-attachable keyboard14may comprise wireless communications circuitry, such as RF circuitry, such that a user may interact with the tablet computing device12remotely. Moreover, the tablet computing system10may comprise a wireless microphone or wireless voice recognition headset to facilitate wireless user-interaction.

The multi-attachable keyboard14is attachable/detachable to the tablet computing device12in a variety of operable and storage locations, such as the storage location illustrated byFIG. 1. In each operable and storage location, the multi-attachable keyboard14also may be attachable/detachable in multiple orientations, which may be positionally securable or movable by a linear or rotational positioning assembly. However, the present technique provides a variety of attachment alignment structures to prevent undesirable or destructive coupling, or movement, of the tablet computing device12and the multi-attachable keyboard14. In the storage attachment configuration ofFIG. 1, the multi-attachable keyboard14may be coupled to the bottom side26of the tablet computing device12in a variety of configurations, such as keyboard-side facing inward or outward from the bottom side26. However, in this exemplary embodiment, the tablet computing device12and the multi-attachable keyboard14comprise intercoupling structures to position and align the multi-attachable keyboard14such that the keyboard-side faces inward toward the bottom side26. Accordingly, buttons and other physically movable user-interaction components of the multi-attachable keyboard14are protected in the stored keyboard position illustrated byFIG. 1. In operable configurations, the keyboard-side of the multi-attachable keyboard14is accessible during user-interaction with the display screen assembly22of the tablet computing device12.

The tablet computing device12and the multi-attachable keyboard14are jointly or separately attachable to the multi-configurable docking assembly18at a support section28, which is movably coupled to a base section30. As described below, the support section28is movable to a variety of angles, elevations, and orientations to enhance the user's interaction with the tablet computing device12. For example, the support section28is rotatable between portrait and landscape orientations and between horizontal and upright orientations. The tablet computer system10also comprises a screen orientation switching mechanism, which may operate automatically or manually to switch the display orientation of the display screen assembly22between portrait and landscape orientations. Accordingly, as discussed in further detail below, the multi-configurable docking assembly18may trigger a display orientation switch automatically upon moving the support section28between the portrait and landscape orientations, while the tablet computing device12is disposed in the docked configuration. This automatic switching mechanism reduces the user's tasks and ensures that text/images are always displayed in an upright/readable orientation for the user regardless of the physical orientation of the tablet computing device12.

The tablet computing device12is further illustrated with reference toFIGS. 2-5. As illustrated byFIGS. 2a-2f, the tablet computing device12has a variety of computing components and circuitry, input/output ports, functional buttons, status indicators, security mechanisms, component attachment mechanisms, component receptacles, and expansion slots. Although specific features and components are described in detail below, the present technique may utilize any suitable technology or components.

FIG. 2ais a bottom view of the tablet computing device12. As illustrated, the bottom side26has a plurality of component bays, such as bays32,34, and36, which may house a battery, a hard drive, memory (e.g., RAM), or any other desired devices. The tablet computing device12also may have one or more device lock/release mechanisms to secure internal and external devices, such as the multi-attachable keyboard14, a display screen cover assembly (seeFIGS. 21-23), a carrying handle, a battery, removable memory, or other such components. As illustrated, the tablet computing device12has an internal device lock/release mechanism38for one or more of the components disposed within the bays32,34, and36. The tablet computing device12also has an external device lock/release mechanism40, which is operable to lock and release the multi-attachable keyboard14, a protective display screen cover (seeFIGS. 21-23), and other desired devices with external device mounting structures on the tablet computing device12. Component test buttons and status indicators also may be provided to analyze one or more components, such as the components internally or externally secured to the tablet computing device12via the mechanisms38and40. For example, the tablet computing device12has a component test button42and status buttons44and46, which may be configured for analyzing the battery, the keyboard14, or any other desired device.

As mentioned above, the computing device12is configured for a stand-alone or a docked configuration in a plurality of orientations, such as portrait and landscape orientations in various angles relative to a support surface. For example, the computing device12comprises a plurality of feet to mount the computing device12onto a desired surface, such as a desktop, a wall, a user's lap, or any other support surface. In this exemplary embodiment, the tablet computing device12comprises rubber feet48and50and adjustable feet52and54, which may comprise any suitable height adjustment and locking mechanism (e.g., a flip-up mechanism with a slot-tab securement structure). For a docked configuration, the tablet computing device12comprises a docking connector56and a docking latch structure58, which are intercoupleable with mating connector and latch structures on the multi-configurable docking assembly18. As noted above, the tablet computing device12also may comprise one or more mounting alignment structures, such as docking alignment slots60and62, which are intercoupleable in a single alignment orientation with mating alignment structures on the multi-configurable docking assembly18. Similarly, alignment structures64and66may be disposed on the bottom side26of the tablet computing device12to align the keyboard14, or other face-mountable devices, in a proper mount orientation with the tablet computing device12. Moreover, the keyboard14or other face-mountable devices may be removably intercoupled with the bottom side26via the docking latch structure58or an edge-based latch mechanism.

FIG. 2bis a side view of the tablet computing device12illustrating such an edge based latch mechanism. As illustrated, the tablet computing device12has external device mount structures68and70, which may comprise elongated slots having internal latch mechanisms. For example, the external device lock/release mechanism40may be moved to position slot-housed hook members between released and latched positions. Again, the tablet computing device12may have one or more attachment alignment mechanisms, such as alignment structures72,74, and76, to ensure the proper attachment orientation of the external device, such as the multi-attachable keyboard14or a protective display cover. Accordingly, the alignment structure72is paired with the external device mount structure68and the alignment structures74and76are paired with the external device mount structure70, such that a single mount orientation is supported. The tablet computing device12also may have one or more input/output ports, such as communications port78, in an accessible position relative to the external device mount structures68and70. Accordingly, an external device mounted to the tablet computing device12is able to communicate with the tablet computing device12via the communications port78, which may comprise any suitable port. For example, the port78may be a serial port, a parallel port, a USB port, a wireless port, an optical port, or any other desired port. The port78also may comprise hot-plugging technology to facilitate attachment and detachment during operation of the tablet computing device12.

The tablet computer system10also may comprise a variety of security devices, such as one or more Kensington locks, for physically securing the various components to a desired fixture. For example, each of the components illustrated byFIG. 1may comprise a security slot, which is intercoupleable with a cable lock. Moreover, the components of the present technique may comprise multi-stage locks that provide an option to intercouple the components jointly or separately to a desired fixture using a single lock mechanism. As illustrated byFIG. 2b, the tablet computing device12has a lock mechanism80, such as a Kensington lock slot. The multi-attachable keyboard14, the digitizing pointing device16, and the multi-configurable docking assembly18may have similar lock mechanisms.

As illustrated byFIG. 2c, the tablet computing device12also comprises a plurality of audio circuitry, such as audio ports82,84, and86and speakers88and90. For example, the audio ports82,84, and86may comprise a headphone port, a cell phone port, and a microphone port, respectively. The tablet computing device12also may comprise a variety of video circuitry, such as a video input port, a video output port, and video processing circuitry for display on the display screen assembly22or an external monitor.

The tablet computing device12also may have one or more communications port panels, which may be exposed or concealable by a removable port panel cover. For example, as illustrated byFIG. 2d, the tablet computing device12has a flexible port panel door92, which is rotatable away from the tablet computing device12to provide access to one or more communications ports or devices, such as serial, parallel, USB, or other ports. The flexible port panel door92also has a tool free latch mechanism94, which removably couples a movable portion of the door92to the tablet computing device12.

As illustrated byFIG. 2d, the tablet computing device12also may have a variety of edge-based component bays or receptacles, such as component receptacles96,98,100, and102. For example, the component receptacle96may house a PCMCIA device, such as a network card or an audio/video card. The component receptacle98may support a memory card, such as flash memory or other desired memory. In the illustrated embodiment, the component receptacle100houses a desired attachment for the digitizing pointing device16, which is removably storable in the component receptacle102. For example, a tether attachment may be removably disposed in the component receptacle100.

The tablet computing device12also has a variety of power control and management features. As illustrated byFIG. 2d, the tablet computing device12may have one or more external power connectors, such as power connector104, to support AC or DC power sources. The tablet computing device12also may have one or more power control buttons, such as power button106, which may provide on/off, reset, and other power functionality. A power status and battery level indicator also may be incorporated into the tablet computing device12. Moreover, one or more of the digitizer buttons described below may be associated with power management functions and software.

As mentioned above, a user may interact with the tablet computing device12without a conventional keyboard or mouse. As illustrated byFIG. 2e, the tablet computing device12may have a variety of control buttons, menu scroll and select mechanisms, and integral pointing devices to facilitate user interaction without an external user-interaction device. For example, as illustrated, the tablet computing device12comprises a jog dial108and functional buttons110,112,114, and116. The jog dial108may be used to scroll through a software menu, pages of text, or other displayed media. The functional buttons110-116may have default hardware or software functions, which the user may program to perform any desired hardware or software task. For example, the functional buttons110-116may operate as an ESC key, a TAB key, a CRL-ALT-DEL key combination, a RETURN key, a mouse key, or any standard or special key.

In this exemplary embodiment, one of the functional buttons110-116triggers a personal information manager, while another one of the functional buttons110-116triggers a quick utilities menu. The personal information manager may comprise a variety of user information and user settings, such as a personal calendar, a phone/address book, an e-mail system and log, a phone system and log, user configuration settings, a user document folder, a personal diary, and any other default or user-selected personal information. The quick utilities menu (i.e., “Q” Utilities) provides access to a variety of software and hardware settings in a quick, or short, menu-based format. Accordingly, the quick utilities menu may list hardware and software items, such as wireless functionality, video output, volume control, mute control, brightness control, contrast control, display orientation functionality (e.g., option to switch between portrait and landscape orientations), power properties, quick menu properties, properties of the tablet computing device12, properties of the keyboard14, properties of the digitizing pointing device16, properties of the docking assembly18, and a variety of functional buttons, such as PrintScreen, Alt+PrintScreen, and Clt+Alt+Del. The foregoing personal information manager and quick utilities menu also may be triggered by an icon displayed on the display screen assembly22, by one of the digitizer buttons described below, by a button on the digitizer pointing device16, by a button on the keyboard14, by wireless control, by voice commands, or by any other suitable user interaction mechanism.

As illustrated byFIG. 2f, the display screen assembly22generally consumes the top side24of the tablet computing device12. However, the tablet computing device12may have a variety of status indicators and user interaction devices disposed about the perimeter of the display screen assembly22. In the illustrated embodiment, the tablet computing device12has status indicators118,120, and122, which may comprise LED illuminable icons corresponding to the desired devices. For example, the status indicators118,120, and122may correspond to wireless activity, an AC or DC power source, a low battery level, network connectivity, a system error, processor activity, or any other desired status or activity. The illustrated embodiment also has a microphone124disposed in a peripheral portion of the housing20. Moreover, as described in detail below, the tablet computing device12comprises a plurality of digitizer-activated buttons, such as digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130, which are activated by the digitizing pointing device16. The foregoing digitizer-activated buttons may be associated with any desired hardware or software functions, such as a screen rotation function, a system status change function (i.e., on/off, reset, logoff, standby, etc.), a dock/undock function, a user-interaction mode (e.g., keyboard, voice recognition, digitizer write-to-text conversion, etc.), a software execution function, a hardware configuration function, or any other such functions. For example, the foregoing digitizer-activated buttons may trigger one or both of the personal information manager or the quick utilities menu described above.

FIG. 3is a top view of the tablet computing device12illustrating interaction between the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130and the digitizing pointing device16. As illustrated, the digitizing pointing device16has a tip132and one or more buttons, such as select button134, to facilitate user interaction with the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130. The operation of the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130and the digitizing pointing device16is illustrated with reference toFIGS. 4-6.FIG. 4is an internal perspective view of the tablet computing device12illustrating the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130. As illustrated, a digitizer panel136is disposed below, within, or integral with the display screen assembly22.

The digitizing pointing device16interacts with the digitizer panel132throughout the dimensions of the display screen assembly22for coordination, selection, writing, and other user-interaction with software displayed on the display screen assembly22. The digitizer panel132and the digitizing pointing device16may comprise any suitable digitizer technology, such as electric field, ultrasonic, radio frequency, infrared, electrostatic, electromagnetic, or any other existing or emerging technologies. The digitizer panel132and the digitizing pointing device16may operate by one-way or two-way signal transmissions, in either direction, between the digitizer panel132and the digitizing pointing device16. In this exemplary embodiment, the digitizing pointing device16may transmit a wireless signal, which is sensed by the digitizer panel132to coordinate the location of the digitizing pointing device16. The digitizing pointing device16also may transmit one or more secondary signals to trigger a select function or any other desired function. For example, a click of the tip132or the button134may transmit a secondary signal, which triggers a desired function.

The digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130are provided in a peripheral region138of the digitizer panel136, which has active button regions140,142,144defined for each of the buttons126,128, and130, respectively. Each of these active button regions140,142, and144is associated with a desired hardware/software function, such as a default or user-defined function. The digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130also may comprise indicators, such as LEDs146,148, and150, which may be illuminated upon triggering or close proximity of the digitizing pointing device16. For example, one of the LEDs146-150may light up when the tip132of the digitizing pointing device16is near a desired one of the active button regions140-144, such that a subsequent triggering event will activate the desired button. The digitizer panel136and the indicators146-150communicate with a motherboard152of the tablet computing device12via connectors154and156, respectively.

In operation, the digitizing pointing device16may trigger one of the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130by touching the top side24of the housing20above the desired active button region. Again, the indicators146-150may light up when the digitizing pointing device is close enough to activate the desired button. Alternatively, the desired active button region may be selected by engaging a switch mechanism in the tip132of the digitizing pointing device16(e.g., by tapping the tip132), while the tip132is disposed above the desired active button region. The desired active button region also may be triggered by depressing a button, such as button134, on the digitizing pointing device16. The digitizing pointing device16also may have a separate button for each of the digitizer activated buttons126,128, and130, such that the desired button may be activated remotely simply by depressing the appropriate button on the pointing device16. Any other suitable button-triggering mechanism is also within the scope of the present technique.

As described above, the functional components of the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130are disposed within the housing20, such that the triggering mechanism is entirely remote from such functional components. As such, the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130are relatively more durable and long lasting than conventional buttons, which require physical contact directly on the buttons. Moreover, the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130are not subject to accidental activation by a user, such as with conventional physical buttons or touch panel buttons.

FIG. 5is a partial cross-sectional view of the tablet computing device12in the housing region of the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130. As illustrated, the display screen assembly22comprises a transparent cover panel158, which extends over a bezel-structure of the housing20between the cover panel158and the active button regions140-144and LEDs146-150. As mentioned above, the LEDs146-150illuminate button icons, or other insignia, in the transparent cover panel158upon triggering or active-positioning of the digitizing pointing device16relative to the respective active button regions140-144. Accordingly, the transparent cover panel158may be back-painted with one or more materials, such as antireflective or AR coatings, while the button icons or insignia are differentiated to define the digitizer-activated buttons126,128, and130.

FIGS. 6aand6bare cross-sectional views of the digitizing pointing device16illustrating internal switch mechanisms for the tip132and the button134. As illustrated, the digitizing pointing device16comprises an elongated housing160having a threaded end cap162, a threaded battery section164coupled to the cap162, and a threaded electronics section164coupled to the battery section164. The threaded electronics section164comprises electronic circuitry168, which is powered by a battery170that is biased against the electronic circuitry168by a spring172. As illustrated, the electronic circuitry168comprises a printed circuit board174having digitizing communications circuitry, a switch176for the button134, and a spring-loaded switch178for the tip132.

In this exemplary embodiment, the digitizing pointing device16generates a signal that is received and processed by the digitizer panel136. For example, the digitizing pointing device16may be a digitizer pen produced by FinePoint Innovations, Inc. of Tempe, Ariz. In operation, the signal transmitted from the digitizing pointing device16identifies the location of the tip132relative to the display screen assembly22(and subsurface digitizer panel136), thereby facilitating pointer movement and drawing functions on the display screen. The digitizing pointing device16also may be used to select items, to interact with system software, to activate virtual buttons on the screen, to activate digitizer buttons, or to perform a variety of other functions. For example, one or more special signals may be transmitted from the digitizing pointing device16upon activating the switch176or the spring-loaded switch178. Although the illustrated digitizing pointing device16is described as a signal-generating digitizer device, any suitable pen and panel digitizer system is within the scope of the present technique. For example, the signal may arise in the digitizer panel136rather than the digitizing pointing device16.

The multi-attachable keyboard14is further illustrated with reference toFIGS. 7-9, which illustrate various features and mounting structures of the keyboard14.FIG. 7is a perspective view of the tablet computing device12exploded from a tablet mounting assembly180of the multi-attachable keyboard14. As illustrated, the tablet mounting assembly180comprises a mounting bar182having a pair of protruding latch members184and186, which are intercoupleable with the external device mount structures68and70of the tablet computing device12. The latch members184and186and the mount structures68and70may comprise any suitable interlock and release mechanisms. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the protruding latch members184and186are oriented in a common direction, such that the latch members184and186and the mount structures68and70are intercoupleable in a single mount orientation. The mounting bar182also has a communications connector188that is connectable with the communications port78of the tablet computing device12. In operation, the communications port78and connector188transmit communications between the tablet computing device12and the keyboard14. However, the tablet computing device12and the keyboard14also may communicate via a wireless communications system, such as a radio frequency communications system. In either communications configuration, the foregoing unidirectional orientation of the latch members184and186ensures that the tablet computing device12and the multi-attachable keyboard14are intercoupled in the proper orientation.

The tablet mounting assembly180also comprises a tablet positioning assembly190, which may have a rotatable disk structure192movably disposed within a top side194of the multi-attachable keyboard14. As illustrated, the mounting bar182is coupled to an outer portion of the rotatable disk structure192, such that the mounting bar182is rotatable with the rotatable disk structure192between a rear portion196and an interior portion198of the multi-attachable keyboard14. The interior portion198is advantageously disposed adjacent a user input section200of the keyboard14. The user input section200may comprise keyboard buttons, a pointing device, and a variety of other user-interactive features. Accordingly, the tablet computing device12is rotatable to the interior portion198, such that the display screen assembly22faces the user input section200for simultaneous use of both the tablet computing device12and the keyboard14, as illustrated byFIG. 8.

The mounting bar182is also hingedly coupled to the rotatable disk structure192, such that the tablet computing device12is pivotal between an upright orientation and a parallel orientation relative to the keyboard14. In the parallel orientation, as illustrated byFIG. 1, the user input section200is disposed between the keyboard14and the bottom side26of the tablet computing device12. However, the present technique also may provide a reverse attachment mechanism, which positions the display screen assembly22toward the user input section201in one or both of the upright and parallel orientations. In the upright orientation, the tablet computing device12is pivotal to the desired viewing orientation, as illustrated byFIG. 8.

The multi-attachable keyboard14is further illustrated with reference toFIGS. 9a-9e, which are top and side views of the keyboard14. As illustrated by the bottom view ofFIG. 9a, the keyboard14has a plurality of support members, such as rubber feet202,204,206, and208. The keyboard14also has a plurality of dock mount structures to facilitate mounting of the keyboard14with the multi-configurable docking assembly18. The following dock mount structures may comprise any suitable male/female guide mechanism, latch mechanism, color coding, labeling, or other features to ensure that the user assembles components of the tablet computer system10properly.

In this exemplary embodiment, the keyboard14has a dock mount orientation slot210and pass through slots212,214,216, and218, which allow the keyboard14to rest deeper within the support section28than the tablet computing device12. In a docked configuration, the dock mount orientation slot210is positioned about a dock mount orientation structure220, which protrudes from the support section28illustrated byFIG. 1. The dock mount orientation structure220also has a docking connector222, which is communicatively coupleable with the docking connector56of the tablet computing device12in the docked configuration. Accordingly, the dock mount orientation features210and220ensure that the keyboard14, or an attached assembly of the keyboard14and the tablet computing device12, docks with the multi-configurable docking assembly in the proper orientation. The dock mount orientation slot210also allows the docking connectors56and222to pass through the keyboard14and connect.

In the docked configuration, the pass through slots212,214,216, and218of the keyboard14are positioned about docking guide tabs224,226,228, and230(e.g., rubber tabs), respectively. The present technique provides additional guides for the tablet computing device12, which has the docking alignment slots60and62illustrated byFIGS. 2a-2e. The tablet computing device12does not have pass through slots for the docking guide tabs224-230. Accordingly, the docking guide tabs224-230operate as positional offsets for the tablet computing device12. In the docked configuration, the docking alignment slots60and62of the tablet computing device12pass through docking guide tabs232and234of the support section28, as illustrated byFIG. 1. The asymmetrical positioning of the docking alignment slots60and62and the docking guide tabs232and234ensures a proper docking orientation of the tablet computing device12.

Returning now toFIG. 9a, the multi-attachable keyboard14also may have one or more lock/release mechanisms, such as those described with reference to the tablet computing device12ofFIGS. 2a-2e. For example, the keyboard14may have an external device lock/release mechanism236, which may be moved to either engage or disengage one or more device interlock structures. As illustrated byFIG. 9b, interlock structures238and240may be disposed along an edge of the keyboard14for releasable attachment with an external device, such as a protective display screen cover (seeFIGS. 24-26). The keyboard14also may have attachment orientation guides, such as guides242,244, and246, to facilitate a proper attachment orientation of the external device to the keyboard14. For example, as described above with reference toFIG. 2b, the foregoing guides242,244, and246may be disposed asymmetrically relative to the interlock structures238and240to limit attachment to a single orientation. Accordingly, the guides242-246prevent undesirable or destructive attachment orientations.

FIGS. 9c-9eare top and side views of the keyboard14further illustrating features of the keyboard14and functionality of the tablet mounting assembly180. As illustrated byFIG. 9c, the mounting bar182is pivotally coupled to the keyboard14via a hinge assembly248, which may comprise any suitable pivotal or rotatable mechanism. Wiring for the communications connector188extends through the hinge assembly248, such that the wiring twists about an axis of the hinge assembly248rather than actively bending. Referring toFIG. 9d, the wiring then enters an inner receptacle of the rotatable disk structure192, which is limited to a desired range of angular rotation (e.g., 180 degrees between the rear portion196and the interior portion198of the keyboard14). Accordingly, the present technique prolongs the life of the wiring by minimizing bending of the wiring in the hinge assembly248and the rotatable disk structure192.

As illustrated byFIG. 9d, the user input section200of the keyboard14comprises an array of keyboard buttons250, a pointing device252, select buttons254and256for the pointing device252, and a plurality of status indicators, such as a caps lock LED258and a number lock LED260. The keyboard14also may have one or more keyboard lock/release mechanisms, such as lock/release mechanism262. The lock/release mechanism262is disposed on a front edge264of the keyboard14, as illustrated byFIGS. 9dand9e. The lock/release mechanism262is operable to engage or disengage latches266and268with mating latch mechanisms on an external device, such as the tablet computing device12. For example, the latches266and268are intercoupleable with mating latch structures270and272on the bottom side26of the tablet computing device12, as illustrated byFIG. 2a. Accordingly, the latch members266-272secure the keyboard14to the tablet computing device12in the closed storage configuration illustrated byFIG. 1. The edge-mounting of the lock/release mechanism262facilitates disengagement of the foregoing latch members266-272from the closed storage configuration ofFIG. 1. Any suitable latch and release mechanism is within the scope of the present technique.

As discussed above, the multi-attachable keyboard14and the tablet computing device12are dockable jointly or independently with the multi-configurable docking assembly18, which is further illustrated with reference toFIGS. 10-20.FIGS. 10a-10care side views illustrating an exemplary process of docking the tablet computing device12to the multi-configurable docking assembly18without the multi-attachable keyboard14. As illustrated byFIG. 10a, the multi-configurable docking assembly18comprises an orientation adjustment arm274for the support section28. The orientation adjustment arm274is rotatably coupled to the base section30via a hinge assembly276, which may comprise any suitable clutch or positional securement assembly for holding the orientation adjustment arm274in the desired angular orientation. Similarly, the orientation adjustment arm274is rotatably coupled to the support section28via a hinge assembly278, which may comprise any suitable clutch or positional securement assembly for holding the support section28in the desired angular orientation. The hinge assemblies276and278also may comprise any suitable electrical conductor routing structure that prevents undesirable bending and fatigue of the electrical wiring extending between the base section30and the docking connector222for the tablet computing device12. For example, as described above with reference to the hinge assembly248of the keyboard14, the hinge assemblies276and278may route the electrical wiring along the hinge axis, such that the electrical wiring twists over an axial distance rather than actively bending at a point. This distributed twisting mechanism substantially reduces the wear and fatigue of the wiring.

FIG. 10bis a side view illustrating the tablet computing device12in the process of docking with the support section28of the multi-configurable docking assembly18. As illustrated, the present technique ensures the proper docking orientation by guiding the user to align the docking alignment slots60and62of the tablet computing device12with the docking guide tabs232and234of the support section28, respectively. After aligning the docking alignment slots60and62with the docking guide tabs232and234, the tablet computing device12may be lowered onto the support section28into a docked configuration, as illustrated byFIG. 10c. AlthoughFIG. 10billustrates a pivotal docking motion about the docking guide tabs232and234, the tablet computing device12may be lowered vertically straight onto the support section28. As the tablet computing device12approaches the dock mount orientation structure220, the docking connectors56and222engage and provide a communications connection between the tablet computing device12and the multi-configurable docking assembly18. As mentioned above, the dock mount orientation structure220and the docking guide tabs224-230also operate to offset the bottom side26of the tablet computing device12from an interior bottom side280of the support section28. The foregoing offset between the bottom side26and the interior bottom side280accommodates the multi-attachable keyboard14, as discussed below.

The tablet computing device12is securable and releasable from the support section28by any suitable lock/release assembly, which may have a release switch disposed on either one or both of the tablet computing device12and the multi-configurable docking assembly18. Moreover, the foregoing lock/release assembly may comprise an electrical/mechanical latch mechanism, which may be controlled via an automatic or user-interactive hardware and software control system.

FIGS. 11a-11care side views illustrating an exemplary process of docking a tablet-keyboard assembly282of the tablet computing device12and the keyboard14to the multi-configurable docking assembly18. As discussed above, the support section28has the docking guide tabs232and234to facilitate proper docking orientation of the tablet computing device12. The support section also has the dock mount orientation structure220and the docking guide tabs224-230to facilitate proper docking orientation of the keyboard14. The tablet-keyboard assembly280is jointly dockable with the support section28by aligning the dock mount orientation structure220with the dock mount orientation slot210of the keyboard14. The docking guide tabs224-230also facilitate proper docking alignment by guiding the user to position the pass through slots212-218of the keyboard14over the docking guide tabs224-230.

As illustrated byFIG. 11b, the tablet-keyboard assembly282may be docked with the support section28by engaging the docking alignment slots60and62with the docking guide tabs232and234and by engaging the pass through slots212and216with the docking guide tabs224and228. After aligning the foregoing slots and tabs, the tablet-keyboard assembly282may be lowered onto the support section28into a docked configuration, as illustrated byFIG. 11c. AlthoughFIG. 11billustrates a pivotal docking motion about the docking guide tabs, the tablet-keyboard assembly282may be lowered vertically straight onto the support section28. As the tablet-keyboard assembly282approaches the dock mount orientation structure220, the dock mount orientation slot210of the keyboard14passes around the dock mount orientation structure220. The docking connectors56and222then engage to provide a communications connection between the tablet-keyboard assembly282and the multi-configurable docking assembly18. In the joint tablet-keyboard docked configuration ofFIG. 11c, the keyboard14rests on the interior bottom side280of the support section28, while the bottom side26of the tablet computing device12rests on the keyboard14, the dock mount orientation structure220, and the docking guide tabs224-230.

Similar to the docking configuration illustrated byFIGS. 10a-10c, the joint tablet-keyboard docked configuration ofFIG. 11cmay utilize any suitable lock/release assembly. For example, the lock/release assembly may comprise a hook and latch assembly, a friction-based securement assembly, a spring-based system, a compressive fit between the tablet-keyboard assembly282and the support section28, or any other suitable electrical or mechanical securement mechanism. Moreover, the lock/release assembly may have a release switch disposed on either one or both of the tablet-keyboard assembly282and the multi-configurable docking assembly18. The foregoing lock/release assembly also may comprise an automatic or user-interactive hardware/software control system. Accordingly, the user may initiate a docking or undocking sequence by pressing a key, by dictating a voice command, by touching the digitizing pointing device16on a digitizer button or screen icon, by moving a mechanical switch, or by any other suitable activation mechanism.

FIG. 12is a front perspective view of the tablet computing device12docked to the multi-configurable docking assembly18in a portrait orientation. As discussed in further detail below, the multi-configurable docking assembly18may be manipulated to change the orientation of the docked tablet computing device12between portrait and landscape orientations, between horizontal and upright orientations, and between a variety of other storage and user-interactive positions. For example, the orientation adjustment arm274and the support section28may be rotated about hinge assemblies276and278to position the support section28in a substantially horizontal orientation, which may be particularly advantageous for user-interaction with the display screen assembly22using the digitizing pointing device22.

FIG. 13illustrates a side view of the multi-configurable docking assembly18in a horizontal configuration having the support section28disposed in a portrait orientation. As illustrated, an upper rear portion284of the support section28rests on a top portion286of the base section30in this horizontal-portrait configuration. A lower rear portion288of the support section28rests on the mounting surface for the multi-configurable docking assembly18. The multi-configurable docking assembly18also may provide one or more flexible support members (e.g., rubber pads) at the lower rear portion288and at the support interface between the upper rear portion284and the top portion286. Accordingly, these flexible support members soften the mounting interface and provide a frictional holding force to secure the multi-configurable docking assembly18in the desired position.

As illustrated byFIGS. 13 and 14, the base section30of the multi-configurable docking assembly18has a plurality of expansion ports, bays, and components for the tablet computing device12. As illustrated byFIG. 13, the base section30has a modular bay290for a modular computing component292, which may comprise a floppy disk drive, a CD/DVD drive, a hard drive, a battery, a processor, a communications module, or any other desired circuitry or device. In this exemplary embodiment, the modular bay290is configured to allow swapping of modular components, such that the user may select the desired component for a particular application. The modular computing component292is removable and swappable with another component by engaging a component eject latch294, as illustrated byFIG. 14.

FIG. 14is a rear perspective view of the multi-configurable docking assembly18illustrating a plurality of communications ports and other device slots, such as PCMCIA slots. For example, the base section30has a security slot296(e.g., a Kensington lock slot), ventilation openings298, and communication ports300-312. The communication ports300-312may comprise any desired input/output data ports, such as a monitor port, a PS/2 port, a USB port, a serial port, a parallel port, a wireless communications port, a game port, a network/Ethernet port, a modem port, an audio port, or any other desired port. The base section30also may comprise a variety of internal circuitry and computing components, such as a processor and memory. In the support section28, the multi-configurable docking assembly18also has a handle314and a rotational adjustment assembly316, which is pivotally coupled to the orientation adjustment arm274via the hinge assembly278.

The handle314may be used to carry the multi-configurable docking assembly18with or without the tablet computing device12and/or keyboard14in a docked configuration. The handle314also may be coupled to an internal latch/release mechanism, which allows docking and release of the tablet computing device12and the keyboard14. For example, inward movement of the handle314may trigger a release of the tablet computing device12, while an outward movement of the handle314may lock the latch/release mechanism to secure the tablet computing device12in the docked configuration.

The rotational adjustment assembly316is provided to facilitate rotational adjustment of the support section28and the docked tablet computing device12. For example, the user may rotate the support section28between the illustrated portrait orientation and a landscape orientation, as discussed below with reference toFIG. 17.FIG. 15is a partial cross-sectional side view of the multi-configurable docking assembly18illustrating the hinge assemblies276and278and the rotational adjustment assembly316. As illustrated, a communications conductor bundle318extends between the support and base sections28and30through the hinge assembly276, through the orientation adjustment arm274, through the hinge assembly278, and through the rotational adjustment assembly316to the docking connector222. In each of the hinge assemblies276and278, the communications conductor bundle318extends along the rotational axis of the hinge assemblies to distribute motion of the bundle318along the axis and prolong the life of the bundle318. The rotational adjustment assembly316also minimizes motion of the bundle318by providing a wiring slot320, which extends through the rotational adjustment assembly316over a desired rotational range, such as 90 or 180 degrees. For example, the wiring slot320illustrated byFIG. 16extends over a 180 degree rotational range. Accordingly, the rotational adjustment assembly316does not subject the communications conductor bundle318to undesirable bending or twisting.

As illustrated byFIG. 15, the rotational adjustment assembly316is disposed in a rear housing322of the support section28, such that the communications conductor bundle318can be routed to the docking connector222. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotational adjustment assembly316comprises a disk-shaped structure324, which is rotatably disposed in circular openings326and328in front and rear sides330and332of the rear housing322, respectively. The disk-shaped structure324is aligned and secured within the openings326and328by ring-shaped lips334and336, which extend around the disk-shaped structure324at opposite sides for a recessed and movable fit within the circular openings326and328, respectively.

FIG. 16is a cross-sectional face view of the disk-shaped structure324illustrating routing of the communications conductor bundle318, a rotational catch mechanism, and a display orientation switching/sensing mechanism. As discussed above, the communications conductor bundle318extends axially along the hinge assembly278to an end opening352, which routes the bundle318into an interior portion354of the disk-shaped structure324. The bundle318then passes through the wiring slot320, which extends around an angular portion of the disk-shaped structure324such that the bundle318does not bend during angular movement of the support section28.

The rotational catch mechanism illustrated byFIG. 16comprises a spring clip snap338, which is springably securable in one of a plurality of angular orientation recesses within the disk-shaped structure324. For example, the illustrated disk-shaped structure324has angular orientation recess340and342, which correspond to landscape and portrait viewing orientations (e.g., horizontal and upright orientations). Any other suitable angular securement mechanism is also within the scope of the present technique.

As illustrated inFIG. 16, the display orientation switching/sensing mechanism comprises a switch engagement tab344on the disk-shaped structure324and a switch assembly346secured within the rear housing322, as illustrated byFIG. 15. For example, the switch assembly346may include a rotational stop member348and an electrical switch350, which may be switched during contact with the switch engagement tab344. Upon removal of the switch engagement tab344, the electrical switch350returns to its default state. However, any suitable switching or angular sensing mechanism is within the scope of the present technique. In operation, the switch engagement tab344rotates with the disk-shaped structure324as the user rotates the support section28between landscape and portrait orientations. For example, the switch engagement tab344and the switch assembly346may be oriented such that the switch assembly346is activated at the landscape orientation, while it is deactivated as the support section28is moved back to the portrait orientation.

The display orientation switch mechanism also may comprise a variety of software and hardware circuitry to change the displayed viewing orientation on the display screen assembly22in response to a physical change in the angular orientation of the support section28and docked tablet computing device12. For example, if the state of the electronics switch350is changed in response to a physical rotation of the support section28and tablet computing device12, then software and/or hardware may automatically execute a display orientation change between landscape and portrait modes of the display screen assembly22. In the illustrated embodiment, the orientation change sensed by the switch assembly346is communicated to the tablet computing device12, which then initiates an automatic display orientation change to accommodate the physical orientation change without user intervention. Although not illustrated, the present technique may use any suitable angular sensing or switching mechanism to trigger the foregoing change in the display orientation on the tablet computing device12. For example, one or more angular position switches or sensors may be disposed on one or both of the tablet computing device12and the multi-configurable docking assembly18. For example, the present technique may use optical technology, wireless technology, and/or electrical/mechanical technology to sense a critical angular position, which triggers one or more display mode changes or operational mode changes of the tablet computing device12. Moreover, the tablet computing device12may have an override mechanism or a configuration mechanism for the foregoing mode switching, sensing, and altering mechanisms. For example, a user interface may be provided for adjusting the display properties associated with the foregoing display orientation change.

One or both of the hinge assemblies276and278of the docking assembly18may have angular sensing or switch assemblies, such as that described above with reference to the rotational adjustment assembly316. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 15, an electronic switch356may be disposed adjacent the hinge assembly276to sense an orientation change between upright and horizontal configurations of the orientation adjustment arm274and the attached support section28. Again, the orientation change sensed by the switch assembly356is communicated to the tablet computing device12, which then initiates a desired function associated with the physical orientation change. For example, engagement of the switch assembly356may trigger a change in operating system modes for the tablet computing device12. In a horizontal configuration, the operating mode may correspond to a user-interactive handwriting mode using the digitizing pointing device16. The switch assembly356also may start a desired program, such as a personal diary or a writing-to-text conversion program. Although not illustrated, the tablet computer system10also may have a variety of other switch mechanisms that trigger desired software or hardware features in response to physical transformations of the system10. For example, the rotatable disk structure192of the keyboard14may have an automatic viewing orientation switching mechanism, which changes the display orientation to landscape upon interconnection or rotation between the tablet computing device12and the keyboard14. Again, as described above, the present technique may use optical technology, wireless technology, and/or electrical/mechanical technology to sense a critical position, which triggers one or more operational mode changes or functions of the tablet computing device12.

Various configurations of the multi-configurable docking assembly18are illustrated with reference toFIGS. 17-20. In each of these configurations, the tablet computing device12and the keyboard14may be separately or jointly docked with the multi-configurable docking assembly18. Moreover, the various orientations may be switched manually or automatically via suitable switching/sensing mechanisms, which ensure that the text/images are readable in the present physical orientation of the tablet computing device12.FIGS. 17 and 18are rear and front perspective views of the multi-configurable docking assembly18illustrating an upright landscape configuration of the support section28. Again, the switching assembly346triggers an automatic change in the display orientation to a landscape display orientation upon rotating the support section28, such that the tab344engages the electronic switch350. The support section28may then be pivoted downward about the orientation adjustment arm274to a substantially horizontal landscape configuration, such as illustrated byFIGS. 18 and 19. As mentioned above, this horizontal configuration is particularly well-suited for writing applications using the digitizing pointing device16. In this horizontal landscape configuration, a rear portion358of the support section28rests on the orientation adjustment arm274. The rear portion358may comprise a flexible material, such as rubber, to provide a cushioned support interface between the support section28and the orientation adjustment arm274. A foot member, such as a rubber foot, also may extend from a rear portion of the support section28to provide a cushioned and relatively high-friction interface for mounting the support section28on a desired mounting surface.

As mentioned above with reference toFIGS. 2 and 9, the tablet computer system10also may comprise a protective display cover that may be attachable to either the tablet computing device12or to the multi-attachable keyboard14.FIGS. 21-26are perspective views illustrating an exemplary protective display cover360, which has reversible coupling structures362and364that provide different dimensional offsets to accommodate its attachment to the tablet computing device12or to the tablet-keyboard assembly282. Although the protective display cover360may comprise any suitable protective material, the illustrated cover360comprises a flexible material having a transparent inner window366surrounded by an opaque border368. Accordingly, if the protective display cover360is disposed over display screen assembly22, the user may continue to interact with the tablet computing device12through the transparent inner window366. Alternatively, the protective display cover360may be entirely transparent, entirely opaque, or a may have a plurality of the separate transparent windows.

As illustrated inFIGS. 21-23, the protective display cover360may be hingedly coupled to the tablet computing device12by releasably coupling the reversible coupling structures362and364with a side of the tablet computing device12. The reversible coupling structures362and364have intermediate U-shaped sections370and372, which are rotatably disposed in hinge structures374and376of the protective display cover360, respectively. In this exemplary embodiment, the hinge structures374and376are also flexible, such that the protective display cover360may bend flexibly around the edge of the tablet computing device12. The reversible coupling structures362and364also have latch structures378and380and guide structures382and384, which extend perpendicularly from opposite ends of the intermediate U-shaped sections370and372, respectively. The reversible coupling structure364also has an orientation guide structure381, which is disposed adjacent the latch structure380to facilitate proper mounting of the protective display cover360with the tablet computing device12. For engagement with the tablet computing device12, the intermediate U-shaped sections370and372are rotated inwardly about the hinge structures374and376, such that the latch structures378and380and guide structures381,382, and384are positioned at an intermediate section of the hinge structures374and376, respectively. Accordingly, the intermediate positioning of the latch structures378and380and guide structures381,382, and384accommodates the relatively thinner structure of the tablet computing device12without the multi-attachable keyboard14.

The protective display cover360is releasably attachable to the tablet computing device12by inserting the latch structures378and380into the external device mount structures68and70, while the guide structures381,382, and384are inserted into the alignment structures74,72, and76, respectively.FIG. 22is a perspective view of the protective display cover360releasably attached to the tablet computing device12. As described above with reference toFIG. 2b, the latch structures378and380are releasable from the external device mount structures68and70by engaging the external device lock/release mechanism40, which is disposed on the bottom side26of the tablet computing device12. Again, the latch structures378and380may comprise asymmetrical hook members or other latch mechanisms (e.g., unidirectional latches) to ensure the proper mount orientation of the protective display cover360. The arrangement of the alignment structures72,74, and76relative to the guide structures382,381, and384also facilitates the proper mount orientation of the protective display cover360, as illustrated by the top view ofFIG. 23. The protective display cover360also has a latch structure386on an opposite side from the hinge structures374and376for securing the protective display cover360over the display screen assembly22. The latch structure386is releasably coupleable with a mating latch structure387, which is disposed on the tablet computing device12.

As illustrated byFIGS. 24-26, the protective display cover360may be hingedly coupled to the tablet-keyboard assembly282by releasably coupling the reversible coupling structures362and364with a side of the keyboard14. In this assembled configuration of the tablet computing device12and keyboard14, the external device mount structures68and70of the tablet computing device12are intercoupled with the protruding latch members184and186of the keyboard14. Accordingly, the latch structures378and380and guide structures381,382, and384of the reversible coupling structures362and364are coupleable with the keyboard14rather than the tablet computing device12.

For engagement with the keyboard14of the tablet-keyboard assembly282, the protective display cover360is flipped over and the intermediate U-shaped sections370and372are rotated outward about the hinge structures374and376, such that the latch structures378and380and guide structures381,382, and384are positioned at an offset from the hinge structures374and376, respectively. Accordingly, the offset positioning of the latch structures378and380and guide structures381,382, and384accommodates the relatively thicker structure of the tablet-keyboard assembly282, which now has the multi-attachable keyboard14coupled to the tablet computing device12. The protective display cover360is releasably attachable to the keyboard14by inserting the latch structures378and380into the interlock structures238and240, while the guide structures381,382, and384are inserted into the guides244,242, and246, respectively.

FIG. 25is a perspective view of the protective display cover360releasably attached to the keyboard14of the tablet-keyboard assembly282. As described above with reference toFIG. 9b, the latch structures378and380are releasable from the interlock structures238and240by engaging the external device lock/release mechanism236, which is disposed on the bottom side of the keyboard14. Again, the latch structures378and380may comprise asymmetrical hook members or other latch mechanisms (e.g., unidirectional latches) to ensure the proper mount orientation of the protective display cover360. The arrangement of the guides242,244, and246relative to the guide structures382,381, and384also facilitates the proper mount orientation of the protective display cover360, as illustrated by the top view ofFIG. 26. Again, the latch structure386is releasably coupleable with the mating latch structure387on the tablet computing device12for securing the protective display cover360over the display screen assembly22.