Hinged electronic device with displacement altering hinge and corresponding systems

An electronic device includes first device housing and a second device housing. The electronic device included a hinge housing with a hinge coupled to the first device housing and the second device housing such that the first device housing is pivotable about the hinge housing between an axially displaced open position and a closed position. The hinge of the hinge housing changes a displacement between the hinge housing and the first device housing and second device housing, respectively, when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge housing between the axially displaced open position and the closed position.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to hinged electronic devices.

Background Art

Portable electronic communication devices, especially smartphones, have become ubiquitous. People all over the world use such devices to stay connected. These devices have been designed in various mechanical configurations. A first configuration, known as a “candy bar,” is generally rectangular in shape, has a rigid form factor, and has a display disposed along a major face of the electronic device. By contrast, a “clamshell” device has a mechanical hinge that allows one housing to pivot relative to the other.

Some consumers prefer candy bar devices, while others prefer clamshell devices. To satisfy the latter, it would thus be desirable to have an improved hinged electronic device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the disclosure are now described in detail. Referring to the drawings, like numbers indicate like parts throughout the views. As used in the description herein and throughout the claims, the following terms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise: the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.”

Relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. As used herein, components may be “operatively coupled” when information can be sent between such components, even though there may be one or more intermediate or intervening components between, or along the connection path.

The terms “substantially”, “essentially”, “approximately”, “about” or any other version thereof, are defined as being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment the term is defined to be within ten percent, in another embodiment within five percent, in another embodiment within one percent and in another embodiment within one-half percent. The term “coupled” as used herein is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly and not necessarily mechanically. Also, reference designators shown herein in parenthesis indicate components shown in a figure other than the one in discussion. For example, talking about a device (10) while discussing figure A would refer to an element,10, shown in figure other than figure A.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an electronic device that includes at least a first device housing and a second device housing. In one or more embodiments, a hinge couples the first device housing to the second device housing so that the first device housing is pivotable about the hinge relative to the second device housing to one or more of a bent configuration, a folded configuration, or other configuration.

In one or more embodiments, a flexible display is coupled to the first device housing and the second device housing and spans the hinge. The flexible display deforms when the first device housing pivots about the hinge relative to the second device housing. In other embodiments, the first device housing and the second device housing each have coupled thereto a separate display, which may be rigid or flexible. For example, a first display may be coupled to the first device housing on one side of the hinge, while a second display is coupled to the second device housing on a second side of the hinge.

In one or more embodiments, the hinge not only facilitates the bending operation, but also works to improve the reliability and usability of the flexible display. In one or more embodiments, the hinge does this via the use of one or more support plates that are coupled to a hinge housing and are pivotable relative to the hinge housing when the first device housing pivots about the hinge relative to the second device housing.

In one or more embodiments, a first support plate is pivotally coupled to a first side of the hinge housing. The first support plate then extends distally into the first device housing from the first side of the hinge housing. Similarly, a second support plate is pivotally coupled to a second side of the hinge housing. The second support plate extends distally into the second device housing from the second side of the hinge housing.

The hinge housing and its corresponding support plates serve two functions. First, they provide mechanical support for the flexible display when the first device housing has pivoted about the hinge relative to the second device housing to an axially displaced open position. However, when the first device housing pivots about the hinge relative to the second device housing to a closed position, in which interior surfaces of the first device housing and the second device housing abut, the support plates translate along inclined planes within the first device housing and second device housing, respectively, to recede into the first device housing and second device housing. Said differently, when the first device housing pivots about the hinge relative to the second device housing to the closed position, the support plates move toward the exterior surfaces of the first device housing and the second device housing, thereby receding “outward” from the interior surfaces of the first device housing and the second device housing. This “collapse” of the first support plate and the second support plate creates a cavity in the hinge portion of the electronic device that allows the flexible display to form a service loop when the electronic device is in the closed position. The service loop prevents the flexible display from being damaged or developing memory in the folded position when the electronic device is in the closed position.

Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that bending operations occurring in a housing of an electronic device with a flexible display can present technical challenges. Illustrating by example, it can be difficult to provide uniform mechanical support beneath the flexible display when the electronic device is in the open position. It can further be difficult to limit deformation due to bending operations such that the deformation occurs within a predefined radius.

Advantageously, embodiments of the disclosure provide solutions to each one of these challenges. Specifically hinges configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure provide a solution that provides the needed system flexibility by providing support for the flexible display when in the open position, but allows for a large radius service loop of the flexible display to occur when the electronic device is in the closed position.

In one or more embodiments, each of the first device housing and the second device housing defines a support plate receiving recess at the hinged portion of the electronic device. In one or more embodiments, these support plate receiving recesses each comprise an inclined plane, which is physically separated from the hinge housing of the hinge by a predefined distance. A distal end of each support plate contacts the inclined plane to translate along the inclined plane when the first device housing pivots about the hinge relative to the second device housing. Thus, if a first side of a first support plate is coupled to the hinge housing, a second, distal side of the first support plate contacts the inclined plane in the support plate receiving recess of the first device housing. The second, distal side of the first support plate then translates along the inclined plane when the first device housing pivots about the hinge relative to the second device housing. A second support plate and support plate receiving recess can be similarly configured in the second device housing.

The distal ends of each of the first support plate and the second support plate therefore travel, in one or more embodiments, along their respective inclined planes between a first position within the first device housing and the second device housing, respectively, to a second position within the first device housing and the second device housing, respectively, when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge from an axially displaced open position to a closed position. In one or more embodiments, the support plates are closer to the flexible display when in the first position and are farther from the flexible display when in the second position. In one or more embodiments, the support plates are farther from exterior surfaces of the first device housing and the second device housing when in the first position but are closer to those outer surfaces of the first device housing and the second device housing when in the second position. This results in the second position being deeper within the first device housing and the second device housing, respectively, than the first position.

In one or more embodiments, the flexible display is positioned within a linear recess of the first device housing and the second device housing so that it—or a fascia disposed atop the flexible display—can be flush with the interior surfaces of the first device housing and second device housing, respectively. In other embodiments, the linear recess will be omitted, and the flexible display will simply sit atop planar interior surfaces of the first device housing and the second device housing. In either embodiment, when the first device housing pivots about the hinge relative to the second device housing to the axially displaced, open position, the first support plate, the hinge housing, and the second support plate bridge the linear recess (or planar interior surfaces) to provide mechanical support for the flexible display. By contrast, by receding into the housings, the first support plate, the hinge housing, and the second support plate define boundaries within which the flexible display defines a service loop when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge from the axially displaced open position to a closed position.

Embodiments of the disclosure thus provide a novel hinge mechanism that properly supports a flexible display when a hinged electronic device is in the open position. Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that the mechanical stack of the flexible display is frequently too soft or flexible to support itself. Accordingly, when the electronic device is in the axially displaced open position the support plates provide rigid support across the hinge portion of the electronic device. At the same time, the support plates receded into the housing when the electronic device is folded to allow the flexible display to form a service loop. Advantageously, the hinge housing and corresponding support plates define kinematic linkages that move when the first device housing pivots about the hinge relative to the second device housing to the closed position. As noted above, the support plates recede backwards (along the Z-axis) to provide space for the flexible display to bend into a teardrop shaped service loop.

Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that when the flexible display is fixedly coupled to the first device housing and also fixedly coupled to the second device housing, with the first device housing, hinge, and second device housing configured to cause the flexible display to extend and become substantially planar when the first device housing and second device housing are in the axially displaced open position, the path length of the mechanical mechanism defined by the first support plate, the second support plate, and the hinge housing can be different than the path length of the flexible display when each is in the closed position. Said differently, for an electronic device configured to extend a flexible display flat when in the axially displaced open position, when the electronic device is in the closed position, the length of the service loop defined by the flexible display and the mechanical boundaries defined by the first support plate, hinge housing, and second support plate may be different. In particular, to provide sufficient room for the service loop, the mechanical mechanism defined by the first support plate, the hinge housing, and the second support plate may be longer than the length of display that bends to define the service loop. This difference in length can be problematic in that it can result in either deformations in the service loop when the electronic device is in the closed position, or alternatively mechanical strain or unevenness in the flexible display when the electronic device is in the axially displaced open position.

While a spring-loaded plate can be used to apply tension to one end of the flexible display to compensate for the distance differential, experimental testing has shown that this can cause the flexible display to “feel” like its moving when a user is delivering user input to the flexible display. Advantageously, embodiments of the disclosure provide an improved hinge mechanism that eliminates the need for any spring-loaded plate. Hinges configured in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure allow for the flexible display to be fixedly connected to the first device housing and second device housing, respectively, and to fully extend when the electronic device is in the axially displaced open position, yet form a proper service loop when the electronic device is in the closed position.

Embodiments of the disclosure accomplish this by employing a hinge mechanism that changes a displacement between a hinge housing and the first device housing and second device housing, respectively, as the first device housing and second device housing pivot about the hinge housing between the axially displaced open position and the closed position. Effectively, hinges configured in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure cause the hinge housing to get closer to the first device housing and second device housing, respectively, when the electronic device is in the axially displaced open position, and farther from the hinge housing when the electronic device is in the closed position. This changing distance compensates for the difference between the bending length of the flexible display and the length of the mechanical mechanism supporting the flexible display.

In one or more embodiments, a hinge housing is coupled to a first hinge arm and a second hinge arm. In one or more embodiments, the first hinge arm is coupled to a first device housing, while the second hinge arm is coupled to a second device housing. This allows the first device housing to be pivotable about the hinge between and axially displaced open position and a closed position.

In one or more embodiments, the hinge housing comprises a first pin translating within a first slot of the first hinge arm and a second pin translating within a second slot of the second hinge arm, respectively, when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge housing between the axially displaced open position and the closed position. This translation of the first pin within the first slot and the second pin within the second slot while the hinge pivots changes a displacement between the hinge housing and the first device housing and the second device housing. In one or more embodiments, this allows an interior face of the hinge housing to be positioned farther from the first device housing and the second device housing, respectively, when the first device housing is pivoted about the hinge housing relative to the second device housing to the closed position than when the first device housing is pivoted about the hinge housing relative to the second device housing to the axially displaced open position.

In one or more other embodiments, an electronic device also comprises a first device housing and a second device housing. A hinge housing is coupled to a first hinge arm, with the first hinge arm being coupled to the first device housing. Similarly, the hinge housing is coupled to a second hinge arm, with the second hinge arm being coupled to the second device housing. This allows the first device housing to be pivotable about the hinge housing relative to the second device housing between an axially displaced open position and a closed position.

In one or more embodiments, the hinge housing comprises a first post translating within a first aperture of a first cam. In one or more embodiments, the hinge housing also comprises a second post translating within an aperture of a second cam. These translations occur when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge housing between the axially displaced open position and the closed position. In one or more embodiments, these translations change a displacement between the hinge housing and the second device housing.

In still other embodiments, the hinge housing is again coupled to a first hinge arm, which is coupled to a first device housing, and a second hinge arm, which is coupled to a second device housing, thereby allowing the first device housing to be pivotable about the hinge housing relative to the second device housing between an axially displaced open position and a closed position. In one or more embodiments, the hinge housing comprises a first post and a second post that is rotationally linked to the first post.

In one or more embodiments, the first post translates within a first aperture of a first cam, while the second post translates within a second aperture of a second cam, respectively, when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge housing between the axially displaced open position and the closed position. In one or more embodiments, this translation again changes the displacement between the hinge housing and the first device housing and the second device housing.

Regardless of which hinge configuration is used, in one or more embodiments the change in displacement between the first device housing and the hinge housing, and the second device housing and the hinge housing occurs when the first device housing and second device housing rotate relative to teach other. Effectively, the first device housing and second device housing get closer to the hinge housing when the electronic device is in the axially displaced open position and get farther away from the hinge housing when the electronic device is in the closed position. This will be shown in more detail in the figures below.

This change in displacement advantageously compensates for the distance in the bending length of the flexible display and the length of the mechanical support. This also eliminates the need for any spring-loaded plate or other tensioning mechanism to be included. Moreover, it allows ends of the flexible display to be fixedly coupled to the first device housing and second device housing, respectively, thereby providing a more rigid and stable feel for users interacting with the flexible display using touch input. Other advantages of embodiments of the disclosure will be explained below. Still others will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Turning now toFIG.1, illustrated therein is one explanatory electronic device100configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The electronic device100ofFIG.1is a portable electronic device. For illustrative purposes, the electronic device100is shown as a smartphone. However, the electronic device100could be any number of other devices as well, including tablet computers, gaming devices, multimedia players, and so forth. Still other types of electronic devices can be configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure as will be readily appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

The electronic device100includes a first device housing102and a second device housing103. In one or more embodiments, a hinge101couples the first device housing102to the second device housing103. In one or more embodiments, the first device housing102is selectively pivotable about the hinge101relative to the second device housing103. For example, in one or more embodiments the first device housing102is selectively pivotable about the hinge101between a closed position, shown and described below with reference toFIG.2, and an axially displaced open position, shown and described below with reference toFIGS.4-5.

In one or more embodiments the first device housing102and the second device housing103are manufactured from a rigid material such as a rigid thermoplastic, metal, or composite material, although other materials can be used. Still other constructs will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIG.1, the electronic device100includes a single hinge. However, in other embodiments two or more hinges can be incorporated into the electronic device100to allow it to be folded in multiple locations.

This illustrative electronic device100ofFIG.1includes a display105. The display105can optionally be touch-sensitive. In one embodiment where the display105is touch-sensitive, the display105can serve as a primary user interface118of the electronic device100. Users can deliver user input to the display105of such an embodiment by delivering touch input from a finger, stylus, or other objects disposed proximately with the display105.

In one embodiment, the display105is configured as an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display fabricated on a flexible plastic substrate, thereby making the display105a flexible display121. This allows the display105to be flexible so as to deform when the first device housing102pivots about the hinge101relative to the second device housing103. However, it should be noted that other types of displays suitable for use with the electronic device100will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Illustrating by example, as will be described in more detail with reference toFIG.69below, in other embodiments multiple displays can be used. For instance, a first rigid display can be coupled to the first device housing102, while a second, separate rigid display can be coupled to the second device housing103, with the hinge101separating the two displays.

Where a flexible display121is used, in one or more embodiments an OLED is constructed on flexible plastic substrates can allow the flexible display121to bend with various bending radii. For example, some embodiments allow bending radii of between thirty and six hundred millimeters. Other substrates allow bending radii of around five millimeters to provide a display that is foldable through active bending.

In one or more embodiments the flexible display121may be formed from multiple layers of flexible material such as flexible sheets of polymer or other materials. In this illustrative embodiment, the flexible display121is fixedly coupled to the first device housing102and the second device housing103. The flexible display121spans the hinge101in this illustrative embodiment.

Features can be incorporated into the first device housing102and/or the second device housing103. Examples of such features include a camera106or an optional speaker port107, which are shown disposed on the rear side of the electronic device100in this embodiment but could be placed on the front side as well. In this illustrative embodiment, a user interface component108, which may be a button or touch sensitive surface, can also be disposed along the rear side of the first device housing102. As noted, any of these features are shown being disposed on the rear side of the electronic device100in this embodiment, but could be located elsewhere, such as on the front side in other embodiments. In other embodiments, these features may be omitted.

A block diagram schematic110of the electronic device100is also shown inFIG.1. The block diagram schematic110can be configured as a printed circuit board assembly disposed within either or both of the first device housing102or the second device housing103of the electronic device100. Various components can be electrically coupled together by conductors or a bus disposed along one or more printed circuit boards. For example, some components of the block diagram schematic110can be configured as a first electronic circuit fixedly situated within the first device housing102, while other components of the block diagram schematic110can be configured as a second electronic circuit fixedly situated within the second device housing103. As will be described in more detail below, a flexible substrate can then span the hinge101to electrically couple the first electronic circuit to the second electronic circuit.

In one or more embodiments, the electronic device100includes one or more processors112. In one embodiment, the one or more processors112can include an application processor and, optionally, one or more auxiliary processors. One or both of the application processor or the auxiliary processor(s) can include one or more processors. One or both of the application processor or the auxiliary processor(s) can be a microprocessor, a group of processing components, one or more ASICs, programmable logic, or other type of processing device.

The application processor and the auxiliary processor(s) can be operable with the various components of the electronic device100. Each of the application processor and the auxiliary processor(s) can be configured to process and execute executable software code to perform the various functions of the electronic device100. A storage device, such as memory113, can optionally store the executable software code used by the one or more processors112during operation.

In this illustrative embodiment, the electronic device100also includes a communication circuit114that can be configured for wired or wireless communication with one or more other devices or networks. The networks can include a wide area network, a local area network, and/or personal area network. The communication circuit114may also utilize wireless technology for communication, such as, but are not limited to, peer-to-peer or ad hoc communications such as HomeRF, Bluetooth and IEEE 802.11, and other forms of wireless communication such as infrared technology. The communication circuit114can include wireless communication circuitry, one of a receiver, a transmitter, or transceiver, and one or more antennas115.

In one embodiment, the one or more processors112can be responsible for performing the primary functions of the electronic device100. For example, in one embodiment the one or more processors112comprise one or more circuits operable with one or more user interface devices, which can include the display105, to present, images, video, or other presentation information to a user. The executable software code used by the one or more processors112can be configured as one or more modules116that are operable with the one or more processors112. Such modules116can store instructions, control algorithms, logic steps, and so forth.

In one embodiment, the one or more processors112are responsible for running the operating system environment of the electronic device100. The operating system environment can include a kernel and one or more drivers, and an application service layer, and an application layer. The operating system environment can be configured as executable code operating on one or more processors or control circuits of the electronic device100. The application layer can be responsible for executing application service modules. The application service modules may support one or more applications or “apps.” The applications of the application layer can be configured as clients of the application service layer to communicate with services through application program interfaces (APIs), messages, events, or other inter-process communication interfaces. Where auxiliary processors are used, they can be used to execute input/output functions, actuate user feedback devices, and so forth.

In one embodiment, the electronic device100optionally includes one or more flex sensors117, operable with the one or more processors112, to detect a bending operation that causes the first device housing102to pivot about the hinge101relative to the second device housing103, thereby transforming the electronic device100into a deformed geometry, such as that shown inFIGS.2-3. The inclusion of flex sensors117is optional, and in some embodiment flex sensors117will not be included.

In one embodiment, the one or more processors112may generate commands or execute control operations based on information received from the various sensors, including the one or more flex sensors117, the user interface118, or the other sensors119. The one or more processors112may also generate commands or execute control operations based upon information received from a combination of the one or more flex sensors117, the user interface118, or the other sensors119. Alternatively, the one or more processors112can generate commands or execute control operations based upon information received from the one or more flex sensors117or the user interface118alone. Moreover, the one or more processors112may process the received information alone or in combination with other data, such as the information stored in the memory113.

The one or more other sensors119may include a microphone, an earpiece speaker, a second loudspeaker (disposed beneath speaker port107), and a user interface component such as a button or touch-sensitive surface. The one or more other sensors119may also include key selection sensors, proximity sensors, a touch pad sensor, a touch screen sensor, a capacitive touch sensor, and one or more switches. Touch sensors may used to indicate whether any of the user actuation targets present on the display105are being actuated. Alternatively, touch sensors disposed in the electronic device100can be used to determine whether the electronic device100is being touched at side edges or major faces of the first device housing102or the second device housing103. The touch sensors can include surface and/or housing capacitive sensors in one embodiment. The other sensors119can also include audio sensors and video sensors (such as a camera).

The other sensors119can also include motion detectors, such as one or more accelerometers or gyroscopes. For example, an accelerometer may be embedded in the electronic circuitry of the electronic device100to show vertical orientation, constant tilt and/or whether the electronic device100is stationary. The measurement of tilt relative to gravity is referred to as “static acceleration,” while the measurement of motion and/or vibration is referred to as “dynamic acceleration.” A gyroscope can be used in a similar fashion.

Other components120operable with the one or more processors112can include output components such as video outputs, audio outputs, and/or mechanical outputs. Examples of output components include audio outputs such as speaker port107, earpiece speaker, or other alarms and/or buzzers and/or a mechanical output component such as vibrating or motion-based mechanisms. Still other components will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

It is to be understood thatFIG.1is provided for illustrative purposes only and for illustrating components of one electronic device100in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure and is not intended to be a complete schematic diagram of the various components required for an electronic device. Therefore, other electronic devices in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure may include various other components not shown inFIG.1or may include a combination of two or more components or a division of a particular component into two or more separate components, and still be within the scope of the present disclosure. Illustrating by example, the electronic device100ofFIG.1includes a single flexible display105. By contrast, another embodiment shown below inFIG.36includes two separate and distinct displays, and so forth. Additionally, as will be described in more detail below, some embodiments include support plates that are pivotally coupled to a hinge housing of the hinge101. In other embodiments, these support plates will be omitted.

Turning now toFIG.2, illustrated therein is the electronic device100in a closed state. In this state, the first device housing102has been pivoted about the hinge101toward the second device housing103to a closed position200. When in the closed position200, a front surface202of the first device housing102abuts a front surface203of the second device housing103. Additionally, in this illustrative embodiment, a hinge housing201comprising the hinge101is revealed when the electronic device100is in the closed position200. In other embodiments, the hinge housing201will remain concealed when the first device housing102pivots about the hinge101relative to the second device housing103to the closed position200. Effectively, in either embodiment, the first device housing102and the second device housing103are analogous to clam shells that have been shut by the claim, thereby giving rise to the “clamshell” style of device. When the clamshell opens, the flexible display (121) is revealed.

In some embodiments, features can be included to further retain the electronic device100in the closed position200. Illustrating by example, in another embodiment, a mechanical latch can be included to retain the first device housing102and the second device housing103in the closed position200.

In still another embodiment, magnets can be incorporated into the front surface202of the first device housing102and the front surface203of the second device housing103. For instance, magnets can be placed in the first device housing102and the second device housing103to retain the first device housing102and the second device housing103in the closed position200.

In still other embodiments, frictional elements can be incorporated into the hinge101to retain the first device housing102and the second device housing103in a particular position. A stator motor could be integrated into the hinge101as well. Still other mechanical structures and devices suitable for retaining the electronic device100in the closed position200will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. As will be described below, in other embodiments retention devices can be omitted due to the fact that torsion springs used in combination with a cam having mechanical detents and a stator with mechanical protrusions are used.

Turning now toFIG.3, the electronic device100is shown being transitioned from the closed position (200) ofFIG.2to a partially open position300. Specifically, the first device housing102is pivoting about the hinge101away from the second device housing103toward an open position. The open position300shown inFIG.3is a “tent position.” In the side elevation view ofFIG.3, the hinge housing201is exposed between the first device housing102and the second device housing103.

Turning now toFIGS.4and5, illustrated therein is the electronic device100in an axially displaced open position400. In the axially displaced open position400, the first device housing102is rotated about the hinge101so as to be axially displaced 180-degrees out of phase with the second device housing103, thereby revealing the flexible display121of this embodiment. In this illustrative embodiment, this causes the hinge housing (201) to be concealed within the first device housing102and second device housing103.

In such a configuration, the first device housing102and the second device housing103effectively define a plane. Since this illustrative embodiment includes a flexible display121, the flexible display121has been elongated into a flat position.

Turning now toFIG.6, the electronic device100is shown with the flexible display (121), as well as any overlaying fascia, removed so that additional details of the hinge101can more readily be seen. As shown inFIG.6, in one or more embodiments the hinge101includes a hinge housing201, which can link the first device housing102to the second device housing103. The hinge101of the hinge housing201can further include one or more pivots allowing the first device housing102to pivot about the hinge101, which is operatively coupled to the hinge housing201, relative to the second device housing103.

Optionally, as will be described in more detail below, one or more support plates can be included to translate within the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively. The use of such support plates is advantageous when the flexible display121used in the electronic device100. However, where rigid displays are used, such as in the embodiment ofFIG.69, the support plates can be omitted.

In this illustrative embodiment, a first support plate601is pivotally coupled to a first side603of the hinge housing201. The first support plate601extends distally into the first device housing102from the first side603of the hinge housing201. A second support plate602is then pivotally coupled to a second side604of the hinge housing201. The second support plate602then extends distally into the second device housing103from the second side604of the hinge housing201.

In one or more embodiments, the first device housing102and the second device housing103each define linear recesses605,606into which a display (105)—be it a flexible display (121) or rigid display—may be positioned. In one or more embodiments where a flexible display (121) is used, the flexible display (121) is positioned within the linear recess605of the first device housing102and the linear recess606of the second device housing103so that it—or a fascia disposed atop the flexible display (121)—sits flush with the interior surface607of the first device housing102and the interior surface608of the second device housing103. Where a flexible display (121) is used, the flexible display (121) will span the hinge101by passing across the hinge housing201in such an embodiment.

By contrast, where two displays are used (as shown below inFIG.69), a first display can be positioned within the linear recess605of the first device housing102. A second display can then be positioned in the linear recess606of the second device housing103. This allows each display—or a fascia disposed atop each display—to sit flush with the interior surface607of the first device housing102and the interior surface608of the second device housing103. Where two displays are used, the hinge101and hinge housing201will separate one display from the other. The hinge housing201of such an embodiment can be made narrower than that shown inFIG.6due to the fact that it need not provide mechanical support for a display as is the case when the display is a flexible display (121).

In still other embodiments, the linear recess605,606will be omitted. The display(s), whether flexible or not, as well as any accompanying fascia, may then simply sit atop planar surfaces defined by the interior surface607of the first device housing102and the interior surface608of the second device housing103.

Where the linear recesses605,606are included and a flexible display (121) is used, the flexible display (121) can be positioned within these linear recesses605,606to span the hinge101and hinge housing201. Regardless of whether the linear recesses605,606are included, when the first device housing102pivots about the hinge101and hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103to the axially displaced open position400shown inFIG.6, the first support plate601, the hinge housing201, and the second support plate602bridge the linear recesses605,606(or planar interior surfaces in the other embodiment) to provide positive mechanical support for the flexible display (121).

Where electrical components, e.g., processors, memories, communication circuits, and other components described in the block diagram schematic (110) ofFIG.1are positioned in each of the first device housing102and the second device housing103, a flexible substrate can be included to electrically couple these components together across the hinge101and through the hinge housing201. Illustrating by example, in one or more embodiments the hinge housing201can include a crescent shaped duct through which the flexible substrate can pass. In one or more embodiments, the flexible substrate, which can bend as the first device housing102and the second device housing103pivot about the hinge101to the closed position (200) ofFIG.2, allows electrical signals to pass back and forth between circuit components disposed in the first device housing102and the second device housing103.

In one or more embodiments, one or more spring-loaded trays can be included within one or both of the first device housing102or the second device housing103. Illustrating by example, a spring-loaded and slidable tray can be disposed within the first device housing102. One example of such a solution is described in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 10,491,725 to Harmon et al., entitled “Hinged Electronic Device with Moving Support Plates for a Flexible Display and Corresponding Systems,” which is incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, the tray could be disposed in the second device housing103. Additionally, in other embodiments both the first device housing102and the second device housing103could include trays as well.

In one or more embodiments, a first end of a flexible display (121) can be fixedly coupled to the second device housing103. The second end of the flexible display (121) can then be coupled to the sliding tray. In one or more embodiments, the tray is slidably coupled to the first device housing102and is biased away from the hinge101and hinge housing201by a spring. It should be noted that while a spring is used to bias the tray away from the hinge101and hinge housing201in some embodiments, in other embodiments the spring can be replaced by a damper device or other equivalent. Where configured as a damper device, the damper device can include a spring with a nested shock damper, which can be pneumatic or hydraulic, to dampen the action of the spring. Other devices suitable for use instead of the spring will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Where a tray is included, the spring(s) can operably bias the tray away from the hinge101to flatten the flexible display (121) when the first device housing102pivots about the hinge101away from the second device housing103to the open position400. A first end of the flexible display (121) can be coupled to the second device housing103, while a second end is coupled to the tray. In one or more embodiments, the spring biases the tray away from the hinge101, and thus away from the second device housing103, to remove slack from the flexible display (121) when the first device housing102is pivoted about the hinge101toward the second device housing103to the closed position (200) ofFIG.2.

While inclusion of a spring-loaded tray works well in practice, experimental testing has shown that the inclusion of a tray, with one end of the display (105) coupled thereto, can cause a flexible display (121) to “feel” like its moving when a user is delivering user input to the flexible display (121). To eliminate this tactile artifact, and to provide for more display stability when a user is interacting with the flexible display (121) with a finger or stylus, in the illustrative embodiment ofFIG.6the hinge101is configured to alter a displacement610between the hinge housing201and the first device housing102and second device housing103, respectively, when the first device housing102and the second device housing103pivot about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position400ofFIG.6and the closed position (200) ofFIG.2. Advantageously, this changing of the displacement610eliminates the need for any spring-loaded tray, as it allows the flexible display (121) to be fixedly coupled to the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively. Moreover, the flexible display121is able to fully extend when the electronic device100is in the axially displaced open position400ofFIG.6, while still forming a proper service loop (shown, for example inFIG.9below) when the electronic device100is in the closed position (200).

Effectively, the hinge101ofFIG.6causes the hinge housing201to get closer to the interior ends of the first device housing102and second device housing103, respectively, when the electronic device100is in the axially displaced open position400, while moving the hinge housing201farther from these interior ends of the first device housing102and second device housing103, respectively, when the electronic device100is in the closed position (200). This changing distance, represented by displacement610inFIG.6, compensates for the difference between the length of the flexible display (121) that bends when the first device housing102pivots about the hinge101relative to the second device housing103to the closed position (200) and the length of the mechanical mechanism supporting the flexible display (121) that is defined by the first support plate601, the second support plate602, and the hinge housing201. This change in displacement610causes an interior surface609of the hinge housing201to be positioned farther from the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively, when the first device housing102is pivoted about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103to the closed position (200) than when the first device housing102is pivoted about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103to the axially displaced open position400. How this occurs will be illustrated in more detail below with reference to the various hinge assemblies illustrated inFIGS.16-28,FIGS.29-44, andFIGS.48-68.

Turning now toFIG.7, illustrated therein is another view of the electronic device100is shown with the first support plate (601) and the second support plate (602) removed so that additional details of the first device housing102and the second device housing103can more readily be seen. As shown inFIG.7, in one or more embodiments each of the first device housing102and the second device housing103define a first chamber701and a second chamber702, respectively.

In this illustrative embodiment, the first chamber701of the first device housing102is disposed to a first side603of the hinge housing201, while the second chamber702of the second device housing103is disposed to the second side604of the hinge housing201. The hinge housing201then separates the first chamber701defined by the first device housing102from the second chamber702defined by the second device housing103.

In one or more embodiments, the first chamber701and the second chamber702provide recessed, open space within the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively, that allows the flexible display (121) room to form a service loop when the first device housing102and the second device housing103pivot about the hinge101to the closed position (200). One example of such a service loop will be shown below with reference toFIG.9. This service loop occurs due to the fact that the flexible display (121) deforms when the first device housing102pivots about the hinge101relative to the second device housing103from the axially displaced open position400to the closed position (200).

In one or more embodiments, each of the first chamber701and the second chamber702comprises an inclined plane703,704. In this illustrative embodiment, the first chamber701defines an inclined plane703that is disposed distally a predefined distance705across a bottom surface707of the first chamber701from the hinge housing201. Similarly, the second chamber702defines an inclined plane704that is disposed distally a predefined distance706across a bottom surface708of the second chamber702from the hinge housing201.

In this illustrative embodiment, the first device housing102and the second device housing103each define linear recesses605,606into which a display (105) may be positioned. In such an embodiment, each of the first chamber701and the second chamber702is disposed between a respective linear recess605,606and the hinge101. For example, in this illustrative embodiment the first chamber701of the first device housing102is disposed between the linear recess605of the first device housing102and the hinge101. Similarly, the second chamber702of the second device housing103is disposed between the linear recess606of the second device housing103and the hinge101.

While shown as flat surfaces spanning the width of the first chamber701and the second chamber702, respectively, inFIG.7, it should be noted that the inclined planes703,704could be augmented with, or replaced by, other inclined plane structures. Illustrating by example, turning now toFIG.8, in this illustrative embodiment each of the first support plate601and the second support plate602is bounded by inclined apertures801,802,803,804within which posts extending distally from the edges of the first support plate601and second support plate602insert. This configuration latches and retains the posts within the inclined apertures801,802,803,804, thereby defining an enclosed track within which the posts may travel as the electronic device100pivots between the axially displaced open position (400) and the closed position (200).

In the illustrative embodiment ofFIG.8, the inclined apertures801,802,803,804are included in addition to the inclined planes703,704. However, in other embodiments the inclined apertures801,802,803,804will be omitted. In still other embodiments, the inclined apertures801,802,803,804will replace the inclined planes703,704. The operation of the inclined apertures801,802,803,804will be more clearly illustrated below inFIGS.16-18and27-28.

Turning now toFIG.9, illustrated therein is a partial cut away view of the electronic device100showing the mechanical mechanism facilitating support of the flexible display121during bending operations. In this illustration, the flexible display121is positioned within the first chamber701and second chamber702of the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively. As shown, the first device housing102defines the first chamber701, while the second device housing103defines the second chamber702.

As shown inFIG.9, the first device housing102and the second device housing103have been pivoted about the hinge housing201to the closed position200. In one or more embodiments, when this occurs, a distal end901,902of each of the first support plate601and the second support plate602travels along its respective inclined plane703,704between a first position (shown inFIG.10) within the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively, to a second position (shown inFIG.9) within the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively.

The distal ends901,902of each of the first support plate601and the second support plate602therefore travel, in one or more embodiments, along their respective inclined planes703,704through the first chamber701and the second chamber702between the first position ofFIG.10within the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively, to the second position ofFIG.9within the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively, when the first device housing102and the second device housing103pivot about the hinge housing201from an axially displaced open position (400) to the closed position200ofFIG.9. When this occurs, the first support plate601, the hinge housing201, and the second support plate602define boundaries within which the flexible display121defines a service loop903.

The area opened for the service loop903by the translation of the first support plate601and the second support plate602, in one embodiment, provides a radius that is sufficient to prevent the flexible display121from kinking or folding. The opened area also works to minimize mechanical memory problems when the first device housing102and the second device housing103pivot about the hinge housing201to the open position (400).

As described above, the first support plate601is pivotally coupled to a first side603of the hinge housing201. The first support plate601extends distally into the first chamber701from the first side603of the hinge housing201. Similarly, the second support plate602is pivotally coupled to a second side604of the hinge housing201. The second support plate602extends distally into the second chamber702from the second side604of the hinge housing201. The distal end901of the first support plate601and the distal end902of the second support plate602each travel along its respective inclined plane703,704between a first position within the first chamber701and the second chamber702, respectively, as shown inFIG.10, to a second position within the first chamber701and the second chamber702, respectively, as shown inFIG.9, when the first device housing102and the second device housing103pivot about the hinge housing201from the axially displaced open position (400) to the closed position200.

The translation of the first support plate601and the second support plate602along the inclined planes703,704from a shallow position (FIG.10) within the first device housing102and the second device housing103, to the deep position within the first device housing102and the second device housing103shown inFIG.9, when the first device housing102pivots about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103from the axially displaced open position (400) to the closed position200, results in the first support plate601and the second support plate602abutting the outer major face of the flexible display121when the first device housing102and the second device housing103are in the closed position200.

Turning now toFIG.10, the first device housing102and the second device housing103have been rotated about the hinge housing201to the axially displaced open position400. When this occurs, due to the action of the hinge housing201, the distal ends901,902of the first support plate601and the second support plate602translate up their respective inclined planes703,704, through the first chamber701and the second chamber702, from the second position ofFIG.9to the first position shown inFIG.10. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIG.10, when the distal ends901,902of the first support plate601and the second support plate602fully translate up their respective inclined planes703,704from the second position ofFIG.9to the first position shown inFIG.10, they sit atop ends of the inclined planes703,704.

In this position, and as shown inFIG.10, when the distal ends901,902of the first support plate601and the second support plate602fully translate up their respective inclined planes703,704from the second position ofFIG.9to the first position shown inFIG.10, the first support plate601, the hinge housing201, and the second support plate602bridge the linear recess (605) of the first device housing102and the linear recess (606) of the second device housing103when the first device housing102and the second device housing103are in an axially displaced open position400shown inFIG.10. Since the distal ends901,902of the first support plate601and the second support plate602have translated up their respective inclined planes703,704from the second position ofFIG.9to the first position shown inFIG.10, the first support plate601, the second support plate602, and the hinge housing201work in tandem to mechanically support the flexible display121.

By comparingFIGS.9and10, it can be seen that when the flexible display121is fixedly coupled to the first device housing102and also fixedly coupled to the second device housing103, with the first device housing102, hinge housing201, and second device housing103configured to cause the flexible display121to extend and become substantially planar when the first device housing102and second device housing103are in the axially displaced open position400, the path length1002of the mechanical mechanism defined by the first support plate601, the second support plate602, and the hinge housing201can be different than the path length1001of the section of the flexible display121that bends when each is in the closed position200. Said differently, where the flexible display121is configured to extend flat when in the axially displaced open position400, when the folding mechanism is in the closed position200the length1001of the service loop903defined by the flexible display121and the mechanical boundaries defined by the first support plate601, hinge housing201, and second support plate602may be different.

In particular, to provide sufficient room for the service loop903, the mechanical mechanism defined by the first support plate601, the hinge housing201, and the second support plate602may be longer than the length1001of the flexible display121that bends to define the service loop903by a predefined amount. This difference1003in length can be problematic in that it can result in either deformations in the service loop903when the mechanism is in the closed position200, or alternatively it can result in mechanical strain or unevenness in the flexible display121when the mechanism is in the axially displaced open position400.

While a spring-loaded plate can be used to apply tension to one end of the flexible display to compensate for the distance difference1003as noted above, embodiments of the disclosure provide an improved hinge mechanism that allows for the flexible display121to be fixedly connected to the first device housing102and second device housing103, respectively, as well as to fully extend when the mechanism is in the axially displaced open position400. At the same time, the hinge mechanism allows the flexible display121form a proper service loop903when the mechanism is in the closed position200.

Embodiments of the disclosure accomplish this by employing one of multiple hinge mechanisms that changes a displacement (610) between the hinge housing201and the first device housing102and second device housing103, respectively, as the first device housing102and second device housing103pivot about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position400and the closed position200. Effectively, hinges configured in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure cause the hinge housing201to get closer to the first device housing102and second device housing103, respectively, when the electronic device is in the axially displaced open position400, and farther from the hinge housing201when the electronic device is in the closed position200. This changing distance compensates for the difference between the bending length1001of the flexible display121and the length1002of the mechanical mechanism supporting the flexible display121.

Turning now toFIGS.11-12, illustrated therein is a general mechanical schematic illustrating one explanatory way this can be accomplished. Shown inFIGS.11-12is a hinge mechanism1100configured to change a displacement1101,1201between the hinge housing201and the first device housing102and second device housing103, respectively, when the first device housing102and the second device housing103pivot about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position400and the closed position200.

In one or more embodiments, the hinge housing201comprises a hinge101that couples a first device housing102of an electronic device to a second device housing103such that the first device housing102is pivotable about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103between a closed position200and an axially displaced open position400. In one or more embodiments, the hinge101changes a displacement1101,1201between the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively, when the first device housing102and the second device housing103pivot about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position400and the closed position200. This allows an interior surface609of the hinge housing201to be positioned farther from the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively, when the first device housing102is pivoted about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103to the closed position200than when the first device housing102is pivoted about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103to the axially displaced open position400.

In one or more embodiments, the hinge housing201is coupled to a first hinge arm1104, which is in turn coupled to the first device housing102. Similarly, the hinge housing201is coupled to a second hinge arm1105, which is coupled to the second device housing103. In one or more embodiments, each of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105is fixedly coupled to the first device housing102and the second device housing103, respectively, but is pivotally coupled to the hinge housing201such that the first device housing102can pivot about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103between the closed position200ofFIG.11and the axially displaced open position400ofFIG.12.

To facilitate a change in displacement between the first device housing102and the hinge housing201, and additionally between the second device housing103and the hinge housing201, in one or more embodiments a sliding mechanism is coupled between the hinge housing201and the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS.11and12, a first sliding mechanism1102is coupled between the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201, while a second sliding mechanism1103is coupled between the second hinge arm1105and the hinge housing201. The inclusion of the first sliding mechanism1102and the second sliding mechanism1103allows each of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105to translate within the first sliding mechanism1102and the second sliding mechanism1103, respectively, as the first hinge arm1104and second hinge arm1105, and accordingly the first device housing102and the second device housing103, pivot relative to the hinge housing201between the closed position200ofFIG.11and the axially displaced open position400ofFIG.12.

Illustrating by example, inFIG.11, the right most ends of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105are positioned at the left most ends of the first sliding mechanism1102and the second sliding mechanism1103. In one or more embodiments, a spring1106, motor, damping device, or other mechanism can apply a force against the first sliding mechanism1102and the second sliding mechanism1103to bias each away from the distal end (the right most end inFIG.11) of the first hinge arm1104and second hinge arm1105, respectively, when the first hinge arm1104and second hinge arm1105, and accordingly the first device housing102and the second device housing103, pivot relative to the hinge housing201to the closed position200ofFIG.11.

By contrast, inFIG.12the right most end of the second hinge arm1105and the left most end of the first hinge arm1104have situated within the right most end of the second sliding mechanism1103and the left most end of the first sliding mechanism1102, respectively, when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, and accordingly the first device housing102and the second device housing103, pivot relative to the hinge housing201to the axially displaced open position400ofFIG.12. Advantageously, the inclusion of the first sliding mechanism1102and the second sliding mechanism1103as coupling links between the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, respectively, allows the ends of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105to translate within the first sliding mechanism1102and the second sliding mechanism1103as the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105pivot between the closed position200ofFIG.11and the axially displaced open position400ofFIG.12.

WhileFIGS.11and12illustrate general embodiments demonstrating how the first sliding mechanism1102and the second sliding mechanism1103facilitate this translation to change the displacement1101,1201between the hinge housing201and the first device housing102and the second device housing103when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105pivot between the axially displaced open position400and the closed position, specific mechanisms illustrating how this translation occurs will be shown in subsequent figures.FIGS.11and12are provided to generally illustrate the concept of translation of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, with later figures illustrating examples of more specific embodiments.

Turning now toFIGS.13-15, illustrated therein is an alternate general mechanical schematic illustrating another way that a change in displacement between a first device housing and a second device housing of an electronic device and a hinge housing can occur as the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge housing between an axially displaced open position and a closed position. As with the embodiment ofFIGS.11-12, the mechanical schematic ofFIGS.13-15illustrate general embodiments demonstrating how this occurs, while subsequent figures will illustrate more specific mechanisms.FIGS.13-15are provided to generally illustrate the concept of such a change in displacement, while later figures will illustrate additional details.

Additionally, shown inFIGS.13-15is a hinge mechanism1300configured to change a displacement between the hinge housing201and the first device housing102and second device housing (103), respectively, when the first device housing102and the second device housing (103) pivot about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position400ofFIG.15and the closed position200ofFIG.13. UnlikeFIGS.11-12, in which both the first device housing102and the second device housing (103) were illustrated, it should be noted that for simplicity only half of the hinge mechanism1300is shown inFIGS.13-15. For example, the first device housing102is shown, while the second device housing (103) is not. In practice, a mirror image of the components other than the hinge housing201would appear at the top of the hinge housing201as well inFIG.13. The same is true with reference toFIG.15—in practice, a mirror image of the components other than the hinge housing201would appear on the right side of the hinge housing201, and so forth. Those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will readily recognize how, for example, the second device housing (103) couples to the hinge mechanism1100in view of the half mirror image shown inFIGS.13-15.

As before, in the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS.13-14, the hinge housing201comprises a hinge that couples a first device housing102of an electronic device to a second device housing (103) such that the first device housing102is pivotable about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing (103) between a closed position200and an axially displaced open position400. In one or more embodiments, the hinge changes a displacement between the first device housing102and the second device housing (103), respectively, when the first device housing102and the second device housing (103) pivot about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position400and the closed position200. This allows an interior surface609of the hinge housing201to be positioned farther from the first device housing102and the second device housing (103), respectively, when the first device housing102is pivoted about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103to the closed position200than when the first device housing102is pivoted about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing103to the axially displaced open position400.

In one or more embodiments, the hinge housing201is coupled to a first hinge arm1104, which is in turn coupled to the first device housing102. Similarly, the hinge housing201is coupled to a second hinge arm (1105), which is coupled to the second device housing (103). In one or more embodiments, each of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm (1105) is fixedly coupled to the first device housing102and the second device housing (103), respectively, but is pivotally coupled to the hinge housing201such that the first device housing102can pivot about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing (103) between the closed position200ofFIG.13and the axially displaced open position400ofFIG.15.

To facilitate a change in displacement between the first device housing102and the hinge housing201, and additionally between the second device housing (103) and the hinge housing201, in one or more embodiments a sliding mechanism is again coupled between the hinge housing201and the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm (1105). In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS.13-15, a first sliding mechanism1102is coupled between the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201. If the second hinge arm (1105) were shown, a second sliding mechanism (1103) would be coupled between the second hinge arm (1105) and the hinge housing201.

InFIGS.13-15, the displacement change between the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201is caused by a pin1301that travels within the first sliding mechanism1102while the hinge housing201pivots relative to the first hinge arm1104. As can be seen by comparingFIGS.13-15, when the pin1301is at the bottom of the first sliding mechanism1102, the interior surface609of the hinge housing201is farther from the first device housing102than when the pin1301is within the upper portion of the first sliding mechanism1102. This travel of the pin1301within the first sliding mechanism1102therefore changes the displacement between the hinge housing201and the first device housing102(and would between the second device housing (103) and the hinge housing201if shown) when the first device housing102and the second device housing (103) pivot between the closed position200and the axially displaced open position400.

Turning now toFIGS.16-17, illustrated therein is one hinge assembly1600implementing some of the features, functions, mechanics, and principles illustrated in the general block diagram schematics ofFIGS.11-12andFIGS.13-15. InFIGS.16-17, the first device housing (102) and second device housing (103) are not shown so that the elements of the hinge assembly1600can be more clearly seen. However, as previously described the first hinge arm1104would be fixedly coupled to the first device housing (102). Similarly, the second hinge arm1105would be fixedly coupled to the second device housing103. As the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105are pivotally coupled to the hinge housing201, the first device housing (102) can pivot about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing (103) between a closed position and an axially displaced open position.

While the components ofFIGS.16-17are shown in an exploded view for clarity, when the hinge assembly1600is assembled, as will be shown inFIGS.18-28below, the hinge housing201is pivotally coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the second device housing (103). In this illustrative embodiment, each of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105defines a slot. Illustrating by example, the first hinge arm1104defines a first slot1601, while the second hinge arm1105defines a second slot1602. In this illustrative embodiment, each of the first slot1601and the second slot1602defines an arcuate slot aperture. In one or more embodiments, each arcuate slot aperture optionally defines a ridge1603,1604along its interior to as to define a detent at one end of the first slot1601and the second slot1602, respectively, into which a pin can seat. This optional feature will be described in more detail below with reference toFIGS.18-28.

In one or more embodiments, a first pin1605and a second pin1606are provided to translate within the first slot1601and the second slot1602, respectively, as the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105pivot about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position and the closed position. As described above with reference toFIGS.13-15, travel of the first pin1605and the second pin1606in the first slot1601and the second slot1602, respectively, causes a displacement between the first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201, as well as the second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105and the hinge housing201, to change when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105pivot between the axially displaced open position and the closed position. As previously described, in one or more embodiments the displacement is shorter when the first hinge arm1104(and, accordingly, the first device housing (102)) and the second hinge arm1105(and, accordingly, the second device housing (103)), are pivoted about the hinge housing201to the axially displaced open position than when the same components are pivoted about the hinge housing201to the closed position.

In one or more embodiments, a first spring-loaded link1607is coupled between the hinge housing201and the first hinge arm1104. Similarly, a second spring-loaded link1608is coupled between the hinge housing201and the second hinge arm1105. In the illustrative embodiments ofFIGS.16-17, the first spring-loaded link1607and the second spring-loaded link1608each comprise a base member defining an aperture through which an axle1609,1610extending distally from the hinge housing201may pass to engage the component defining the first pin1605and the second pin1606, and a shaft. In one or more embodiments, one or more springs1611,1612are positioned along the shaft such that the springs1611,1612are held in a compressed state between a mechanical stop1613,1614extending distally from an interior of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, respectively, and the base member of the first spring-loaded link1607and the second spring-loaded link1608. In one or more embodiments, these springs1611,1612provide a biasing function biasing the hinge housing201away from the first device housing (102) and the second device housing (103) when the device is in the closed position, as described above with reference toFIG.11, while the first pin1605and the second pin1606translate within the first slot1601and second slot1602, respectively, which serve as sliding mechanisms as described above with reference toFIGS.13-15.

In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS.16-17, once the first spring1611is positioned about the shaft of the first spring-loaded link1607, the first spring-loaded link1607is coupled between the hinge housing201and the first hinge arm1104. Doing so pre-loads the first spring1611by biasing it between the base of the first spring-loaded link1607and the mechanical stop1613of the first hinge arm1104. Similarly, once the second spring1612is positioned about the shaft of the second spring-loaded link1608, the second spring-loaded link1608is coupled between the hinge housing201and the second hinge arm1105. This pre-loads the second spring1612by biasing the same between the base of the second spring-loaded link1608and the mechanical stop1614of the second hinge arm1105. Accordingly, the first spring-loaded link1607and the second spring-loaded link1608bias the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, respectively, toward the hinge housing201as the first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105pivot from the closed position to the axially displaced open position.

The assembled hinge assembly1800, as well as its operation, are shown inFIGS.18-28.FIG.18illustrates a first perspective view of the hinge assembly1800in the closed position, whileFIG.19provides a second perspective view thereof.FIG.20illustrates a right elevation view of the hinge assembly1800in the closed position, whileFIG.21illustrates a left elevation view thereof.FIGS.22-23illustrate left and right elevation views of the hinge assembly1800in a partially open position, whileFIGS.24-25illustrate the hinge assembly1800in the axially displaced open position.FIGS.26-28illustrate perspective views of the hinge assembly1800transitioning between the closed position, through the partially open position, to the axially displaced open position. These figures, collectively, serve to illustrate the functioning of the hinge assembly1800as the first pin1605and the second pin1606translating within the first slot1601and the second slot1602, respectively, as the first spring1611and the second spring1612compress and expand, to alter the displacement between a first device housing (102) that would be coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201, as well as between a second device housing (103) that would be coupled to the second hinge arm1105and the hinge housing201.

As shown inFIGS.18-20, when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105pivot relative to the hinge housing201from the closed position to the axially displaced open position, the first pin1605and the second pin1606translate from a first end of the first slot1601and the second slot1602, respectively, to a second end of the first slot1601and the second slot1602. As best seen inFIGS.25and28, where the ridges1603,1604are included along the interior surfaces of the first slot1601and the second slot1602, they define a detent at the end of the first slot1601and the second slot1602, respectively. Here, the end at which the detent is defined is located distally from the hinge housing201, as it is the farthest end of the first slot1601and the second slot1602, respectively, from the hinge housing201. In one or more embodiments, this detent retains the first pin1605and the second pin1606, respectively, therein when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, to which the first device housing (102) and second device housing (103) would be connected, are in the axially displaced open position.

This translation of the first pin1605and the second pin1606in the first slot1601and the second slot1602, respectively, facilitates a change in displacement between the first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201, and additionally between the second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105and the hinge housing201, as described above with reference toFIGS.13-15. This is due to the fact that the first slot1601and the second slot1602function as the sliding mechanism described with reference to those figures.

The translation of the first pin1605and the second pin1606in the first slot1601and the second slot1602also causes the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105to symmetrically rotate relative to the hinge housing201. When one of the first hinge arm1104or the second hinge arm1105rotates due to one device housing coupled to a hinge arm pivoting relative to the hinge housing201, the first pin1605and second pin1606, being coupled to a single fixed component, ensure that the other of the first hinge arm1104or the second hinge arm1105also rotates, thereby creating symmetry of rotation between the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105.

Additionally, when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105pivot about the hinge housing201to the closed position, the first spring1611and the second spring1612are unloaded. This release of compression allows the hinge housing201to bias away from the first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201, and additionally between the second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105and the hinge housing201, as described above with reference toFIG.11.

Accordingly, the embodiment ofFIGS.18-28implements the concepts described above with reference toFIGS.11-15, thereby causing a displacement between the first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201, and additionally between the second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105and the hinge housing201, when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105pivot relative to the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position and the closed position. As previously noted, in this illustrative embodiment the displacement is shorter when the first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105are pivoted about the hinge housing201to the axially displaced open position than when the first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105are pivoted about the hinge housing201to the closed position.

Turning now toFIGS.29-30, illustrated therein is an alternate hinge assembly2900implementing some of the features, functions, mechanics, and principles illustrated in the general block diagram schematics ofFIGS.11-12andFIGS.13-15. The hinge assembly2900ofFIGS.29-30eliminates the need for pins translating in slots as discussed above with reference toFIGS.13-15, and instead employs a unique asymmetrical perimeter of cams2901,2902extending from the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, respectively.

As before, the first device housing (102) and second device housing (103) are not shown so that the elements of the hinge assembly2900can be more clearly seen. Additionally, as previously described the first hinge arm1104would be fixedly coupled to the first device housing (102). Similarly, the second hinge arm1105would be fixedly coupled to the second device housing103. As the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105are pivotally coupled to the hinge housing201, the first device housing (102) can pivot about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing (103) between a closed position and an axially displaced open position. The components ofFIGS.29-30are shown in an exploded view for clarity. However, when the hinge assembly2900is assembled, as will be shown inFIGS.31-38below, the hinge housing201is pivotally coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the second device housing103.

As before, the hinge housing201is pivotally coupled to a first hinge arm1104and a second hinge arm1105. Since a first device housing (102) would be coupled to the first hinge arm1104, and since a second device housing (103) would be coupled to the second hinge arm1105, the first device housing (102) would be pivotable about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing (103) between an axially displaced open position and a closed position as previously described.

In this illustrative embodiment, the hinge assembly2900comprises a first post2903and a second post2904. In one or more embodiments, a first cam2901extends distally from an end of the first hinge arm1104toward the hinge housing201. Similarly, a second cam2902extends distally from an end of the second hinge arm1105toward the hinge housing201.

In one or more embodiments, the hinge assembly2900can optionally include interlocking gears2920that situate against corresponding gears2919positioned about the first post2903and the second post2904. In one or more embodiments, the interlocking gears2920interlock with the gears2919positioned about the first post2903and the second post2904. When one of the first post2903or the second post2904rotates due to one device housing coupled to a hinge arm pivoting relative to the hinge housing201, the interlocking gears2920ensure that the other of the first post2903or the second post2904also rotates, thereby creating symmetry of rotation between the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105.

In one or more embodiments the interlocking gears2920comprise a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel that engage a first toothed wheel positioned about the first post2903and a second toothed wheel positioned about the second post2904. The engagement of the first toothed wheel and the second toothed wheel of the interlocking gears2920with the first toothed wheel and second toothed wheel of the first post2903and the second post2904causes a symmetric angular rotation of the first device housing (102) and the second device housing (103) when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105each pivot about the hinge housing201.

In one or more embodiments, the first post2903and the second post2904are generally rectangular in cross section, as best seen inFIG.30. In this illustrative embodiment, the first post2903and the second post2904each have a chamfered rectangular cross section, which is a rectangular cross section where the corners have been chamfered to define a curved transition between minor and major faces rather than an angular one.

In one or more embodiments, the first cam2901defines a first aperture2905. Similarly, the second cam2902defines a second aperture2906. In one or more embodiments, the first cam2901and the second cam2902each define generally rectangular apertures. In this illustrative embodiment, the first cam2901and the second cam2902each define a chamfered rectangular aperture, which again is a rectangular cross section where the corners have been chamfered to define a curved transition between minor and major faces rather than an angular one.

In one or more embodiments, the chamfered rectangular apertures of the first cam2901and the second cam2902each have a major axis (horizontal axis into the page as viewed inFIG.29) that is greater in length than a corresponding major axis of the chamfered rectangular cross sections of the first post2903and the second post2904. The minor axis, oriented orthogonally with this major axis, is shorter than the major axis. This difference in major axis lengths between that of the chamfered rectangular apertures of the first cam2901and the second cam2902compared to that of the first post2903and the second post2904allows the first post2903to translate within the first aperture2905of the first cam2901when the first hinge arm1104pivots about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position and the closed position. Similarly, the second post2904translates within the second aperture2906of the second cam2902when the second hinge arm1105pivots about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position and the closed position.

In one or more embodiments, this translation causes a change in the displacement between a first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201, and a second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105. As before, and as will be illustrated withFIGS.31-38below, in one or more embodiments the displacement is shorter when the first device housing (102) and the second device housing (103) are pivoted about the hinge housing201to the axially displaced open position than when the first device housing (102) and second device housing (103) are pivoted about the hinge housing201to the closed position.

Translation of the first post2903within the first aperture2905of the first cam2901and the second post2904within the second aperture2906of the second cam2902in the hinge assembly2900ofFIGS.29-30occurs as a result of three elements. These three elements include the shape of the outer perimeter of the first cam2901and the second cam2902, the shape of the interior surface of the hinge housing201into which the first cam2901and the second cam2902are situated, and the action of a first spring2907and a second spring2908, which are situated within openings of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, respectively.

Beginning with the latter, in one or more embodiments a first spring2907and a second spring2908are positioned within openings (best seen inFIG.30) of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, respectively. The first spring2907and second spring2908are biased between ends of these openings and the first post2903and the second post2904, respectively. In this configuration, the first spring2907and the second spring2908bias the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, respectively, toward the hinge housing210as the first hinge arm1104(and accordingly a first device housing (102) coupled thereto) and the second hinge arm1105(and accordingly the second device housing (103) coupled thereto) pivot from the closed position to the axially displaced open position. This action of the first spring2907and the second spring2908is shown illustratively inFIGS.33-35,39,41, and43.

Meanwhile, the outer perimeter of the first cam2901and the second cam2902has a unique shape. In one or more embodiments, the first cam2901and the second cam2902each define an asymmetrical perimeter. As is illustrated inFIGS.36-38,40,42, and44, in one or more embodiments this asymmetrical perimeter causes a loading and compression of the first spring2907and the second spring2908as the first hinge arm1104(and accordingly a first device housing (102) coupled thereto) and the second hinge arm1105(and accordingly the second device housing (103) coupled thereto) pivot from the closed position to the axially displaced open position.

In this illustrative embodiment, the outer perimeter of each cam defines a planar top2909, a first side2910oriented substantially orthogonally with the planar top2909by a chamfered corner, and a second side2911, also oriented substantially orthogonally with the planar top2909by another chamfered corner. The first side2910extends distally from the planar top2909to an intersection2912between the first side2910and an arched rocker2913that wraps around the aperture of the cam with an increasingly greater thickness. The arched rocker2913then terminates at an indent2914. A convex arch2915then extends from the indent2914to another indent2916at a termination of the second side2911.

The interior surface of the hinge housing201into which the first cam2901and the second cam2902situate then defines a U-shaped recess. As the first cam2901and the second cam2902rotate within this U-shaped recess, the arched rocker2913, which extends distally from the first side2910by a distance less than the indent2914extends distally from the convex arch2915, changes the position of the first post2903and the second post2904within the first aperture2905and the second aperture2906, respectively, thereby altering the displacement between the first device housing (102) and the second device housing (103) as previously described. Rotation of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105to the axially displaced open position compresses the springs as the arched rocker of each cam moves the corresponding post to the end of the aperture. Rotation of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105to the closed position allows the springs to expand, thereby moving the corresponding post to the opposite end of its respective aperture. Accordingly, displacement is changed via the action of the outer perimeter shapes of the first cam2901and the second cam2902operating in tandem with the first spring2907and the second spring2908. This action is shown inFIGS.33-38andFIGS.40,42, and44.

Turning now toFIGS.31-44, the hinge assembly2900is shown in its assembled configuration.FIGS.36-38andFIGS.40,42, and44are shown in sectional view so that the action of the perimeters of the first cam2901and the second cam2902can be clearly seen.

As shown in these figures, translation of the first post2903within the first aperture2905of the first cam2901from a first end of the first aperture2905that is positioned toward the end of the first hinge arm1104and positioned closest to the major wall of the hinge housing201, as best seen inFIGS.36and40, to a second end of the first aperture2905positioned toward the center of the first hinge arm1104and positioned closest to the minor wall of the hinge housing201, as best seen inFIGS.38and44, occurs in response to the asymmetry of the outer perimeter of the first cam2901changes the displacement of a first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201. Moreover, as shown inFIGS.35and43, the asymmetry of the first cam2901also causes compression of the first spring2907when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105pivot about the hinge housing201to the axially displaced open position. When the first hinge arm1104pivots relative to the device housing102back to the closed position shown inFIGS.36and39, the first spring2907applies a loading force to the first post2903, thereby causing it to travel back to the first end of the first aperture2905of the first cam2901.

Similarly translation of the second post2904within the second aperture2906of the second cam2902from the first end of the second aperture2906that is positioned toward the end of the second hinge arm1105and positioned closest to the major wall of the hinge housing201, as again best seen inFIGS.36and40, to the second end of the second aperture2906positioned toward the center of the second hinge arm1105and positioned closest to the other minor wall of the hinge housing201, as best seen inFIGS.38and44, occurs in response to the asymmetry of the outer perimeter of the second cam2902. This asymmetry changes the displacement of a second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105and the hinge housing201. Moreover, as shown inFIGS.35and43, the asymmetry of the second cam2902also causes compression of the second spring2908when the second hinge arm1105pivots about the hinge housing201to the axially displaced open position. When the second hinge arm1105pivots relative to the device housing102back to the closed position shown inFIGS.36and40, the second spring2908applies a loading force to the second post2904, thereby causing it to travel back to the first end of the second aperture2906of the second cam2902.

As shown in these figures, as the first cam2901and the second cam2902rotate within the U-shaped recess of the hinge housing201, the arched rocker (2913) changes the position of the first post2903and the second post2904within the first aperture2905and the second aperture2906, respectively, thereby altering the displacement between the first device housing (102) and the second device housing (103) as previously described. Rotation of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105to the closed position compresses the first spring2907and the second spring2908, respectively, as the arched rocker (2913) of each of the first cam2901and the second cam2902moves the corresponding post to the end of its respective aperture. Rotation of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105to the closed position allows the springs to expand, thereby moving the corresponding post to the opposite end of its respective aperture. Accordingly, displacement is changed via the action of the outer perimeter shapes of the first cam2901and the second cam2902operating in tandem with the first spring2907and the second spring2908.

While the system ofFIGS.29-44works well in practice, embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that the inclusion of the first spring2907and the second spring2908within openings of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105can complicate assembly and increase manufacturing cost. Accordingly, turning now toFIGS.45-47, illustrated therein is still another schematic block diagram illustrating yet another hinge mechanism that eliminates the need for the first spring (2907) and the second spring (2908). In the schematic block diagram ofFIGS.45-47, a closing cam4501is added to the interior of the hinge housing201to make the “reset” function of the first spring (2907) and the second spring (2908) occurring inFIGS.33,36, and39-40unnecessary.

In this illustrative embodiment, the cams ofFIGS.29-44are again used (only one is shown inFIGS.29-44for simplicity). As before, when the first hinge arm1104pivots relative to the hinge housing201, the arched rocker2913of the first cam2901, with it's increasing thickness, causes the first post4803to translate within the first aperture2905. However, when the first hinge arm1104moves to the closed position shown inFIG.46, the inclusion of a closing cam4501abuts the intersection of the planar top2909and the first side2910of the first cam2901, thereby pushing the first hinge arm1104away from the major interior surface of the hinge housing201where the closing cam4501is positioned. This causes the first post4803to move to the distal end of the first aperture2905. A similar action occurs with reference to the second post4804.

When the first hinge arm1104then pivots back to the axially displaced open position, the indent2914then abuts the closing cam4501. As the thickness of the arched rocker2913against the minor interior wall of the hinge housing2901has decreased, the first post4803then moves back to the interior end of first aperture2905. Advantageously, the inclusion of the closing cam4501eliminates the need for a spring-loaded reset when the first hinge arm1104is in the closed position.

Turning now toFIG.48, illustrated therein is an implementation of the schematic block diagram ofFIGS.45-47. The hinge assembly4800ofFIG.48implements the features, functions, mechanics, and principles illustrated in the general block diagram schematics ofFIGS.45-47. The hinge assembly4800eliminates the need for pins translating in slots as discussed above with reference toFIGS.13-15, and instead employs a unique asymmetrical perimeter of cams4801,4802, which are variations of the first cam (2901) and second cam (2902) ofFIGS.29-30. As before, these cams4801,4802extend from the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, respectively.

As before, the first device housing (102) and second device housing (103) are not shown so that the elements of the hinge assembly4800can be more clearly seen. Additionally, as previously described the first hinge arm1104would be fixedly coupled to the first device housing (102). Similarly, the second hinge arm1105would be fixedly coupled to the second device housing103. As the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105are pivotally coupled to the hinge housing201, the first device housing (102) can pivot about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing (103) between a closed position and an axially displaced open position. The components ofFIG.48are shown in an exploded view for clarity. However, when the hinge assembly4800is assembled, as will be shown inFIGS.49-68below, the hinge housing201is pivotally coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the second device housing103. Additionally, while the exact perimeter of the cams4801,4802is obscured inFIG.48, their details, including their asymmetrical perimeter, will be readily shown in subsequent figures such asFIGS.52,55,58,61,64, and67.

As before, the hinge housing201is pivotally coupled to a first hinge arm1104and a second hinge arm1105. Since a first device housing (102) would be coupled to the first hinge arm1104, and since a second device housing (103) would be coupled to the second hinge arm1105, the first device housing (102) would be pivotable about the hinge housing201relative to the second device housing (103) between an axially displaced open position and a closed position as previously described.

In this illustrative embodiment, the hinge assembly4800comprises a first post4803and a second post4804. In one or more embodiments, a first cam4801extends distally from an end of the first hinge arm1104toward the hinge housing201. Similarly, a second cam4802extends distally from an end of the second hinge arm1105toward the hinge housing201.

In one or more embodiments, the hinge assembly4800can optionally include interlocking gears4820that situate against corresponding gears4821,4822positioned about the first post4803and the second post4804. In one or more embodiments, the interlocking gears4820interlock with the gears4821,4822positioned about the first post4803and the second post4804. When one of the first post4803or the second post4804rotates due to one device housing coupled to a hinge arm pivoting relative to the hinge housing201, the interlocking gears4820ensure that the other of the first post4803or the second post4804also rotates, thereby creating symmetry of rotation between the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105.

In one or more embodiments the interlocking gears4820comprise a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel that engage a gear4821defined by first toothed wheel positioned about the first post4803and another gear4822defined by a second toothed wheel positioned about the second post4804. The engagement of the first toothed wheel and the second toothed wheel of the interlocking gears4820with the first toothed wheel and second toothed wheel of the first post4803and the second post4804causes a symmetric angular rotation of the first device housing (102) and the second device housing (103) when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105each pivot about the hinge housing201.

In one or more embodiments, the first post4803and the second post4804are generally rectangular in cross section. In this illustrative embodiment, the first post4803and the second post4804each have a chamfered rectangular cross section, which is a rectangular cross section where the corners have been chamfered to define a curved transition between minor and major faces rather than an angular one.

Turning briefly toFIG.52, in one or more embodiments the first cam4801defines a first aperture5201. Similarly, the second cam4802defines a second aperture5202. In one or more embodiments, the first cam4801and the second cam4802each define generally rectangular apertures. In this illustrative embodiment, the first cam4801and the second cam2902each define a chamfered rectangular aperture, which again is a rectangular cross section where the corners have been chamfered to define a curved transition between minor and major faces rather than an angular one.

In one or more embodiments, the chamfered rectangular apertures of the first cam4801and the second cam4802each have a major axis (horizontal axis into the page as viewed inFIG.52) that is greater in length than a corresponding major axis of the chamfered rectangular cross sections of the first post4803and the second post4804. The minor axis, oriented orthogonally with this major axis, is shorter than the major axis. This difference in major axis lengths between that of the chamfered rectangular apertures of the first cam4801and the second cam4802compared to that of the first post4803and the second post4804allows the first post4803to translate within the first aperture5201of the first cam4801when the first hinge arm1104pivots about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position and the closed position. Similarly, the second post4804translates within the second aperture5202of the second cam4802when the second hinge arm1105pivots about the hinge housing201between the axially displaced open position and the closed position.

In one or more embodiments, this translation causes a change in the displacement between a first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201, and a second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105. As before, and as illustrated inFIGS.51-68, in one or more embodiments the displacement is shorter when the first device housing (102) and the second device housing (103) are pivoted about the hinge housing201to the axially displaced open position than when the first device housing (102) and second device housing (103) are pivoted about the hinge housing201to the closed position.

Translation of the first post4803within the first aperture5201of the first cam4801and the second post4804within the second aperture5202of the second cam4802in the hinge assembly4800ofFIGS.48-68occurs as a result of only two elements. These two elements include the shape of the outer perimeter of the first cam4801and the second cam4802and the shape of the interior surface of the hinge housing201into which the first cam4801and the second cam4802are situated. Unlike the embodiment ofFIGS.29-44, the action of a first spring (2907) and a second spring (2908) is unnecessary.

In one or more embodiments, the outer perimeter of the first cam4801and the second cam4802has a unique shape. In one or more embodiments, the first cam4801and the second cam4802each define an asymmetrical perimeter. In one or more embodiments this asymmetrical perimeter causes a translation of the first post4803and the second post4804in the first aperture5201and the second aperture5202, respectively, as the first hinge arm1104(and accordingly a first device housing (102) coupled thereto) and the second hinge arm1105(and accordingly the second device housing (103) coupled thereto) pivot from the axially displaced open position to the closed position.

In this illustrative embodiment, the outer perimeter of each cam defines a planar top5209. Situated atop the planar top5209is a closing follower5203, which follows and abuts a closing cam5204when the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105are in the closed position ofFIG.52. The closing follower5203is shown abutting the closing cam5204inFIG.52, but can be seen following the closing cam5204inFIGS.57-58and60-61. As shown in those latter figures, the closing cam5204translates across interior portions of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, namely, across portions of the closing follower5203of each of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105, respectively, as the first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105pivot from the closed position to the axially displaced open position.

In one or more embodiments, each cam of the hinge arms then defines a first side5210oriented substantially orthogonally with the planar top5209by a chamfered corner. The first side5210extends distally from the planar top5209to a second side5212, which extends distally away from the first side at an orthogonal angle. The second side then extends to a third side, oriented orthogonally therewith, and a fourth side, which also extends orthogonally therefrom to an arched rocker5213that wraps around the aperture of the cam with an increasingly greater thickness. The arched rocker5213then terminates at a bottom side of the hinge arm.

The interior surface of the hinge housing201into which the first cam4801and the second cam4802situate then defines a U-shaped recess. As the first cam4801and the second cam4802rotate within this U-shaped recess, the arched rocker4813changes the position of the first post4803and the second post4804within the first aperture5201and the second aperture5202, respectively, thereby altering the displacement between the first device housing (102) and the second device housing (103) as previously described.

Turning now briefly toFIG.53, this sectional view illustrates the gear assembly of the hinge assembly4800. As noted above, in one or more embodiments the hinge assembly4800can optionally include interlocking gears4820that situate against corresponding gears4821,4822positioned about the first post4803and the second post4804. As shown inFIG.53the interlocking gears4820include a first gear and a second gear. In one or more embodiments, the first gear rotationally engages the first post (4803) by engaging a third gear4821positioned about a perimeter of the first post (4803). In one or more embodiments, the second gear rotationally engages the second post (4804) by engaging a fourth gear4822positioned about a perimeter of the second post (4804).

Accordingly, the first gear rotationally engages the gear4821of the first post (4803) and the second gear. The second gear rotationally engages the gear4822of the second post and the first gear. As shown in the sectional views of the hinge assembly4800shown inFIGS.53,56,59,62,65, and68, when compared to the hinge assembly4800shown in the sectional views ofFIGS.52,55,58,61,64, and67, rotation of the first gear and the second gear causes translation of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105toward the hinge housing (201) as the first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105pivot from the closed position to the axially displaced open position.

Turning now toFIGS.49-50, the hinge assembly4800is shown in its assembled configuration. Turning next toFIGS.51-68, the hinge assembly4800transitioning from the closed position to the axially displaced open position is shown, withFIGS.52-53,55-56,61-62,64-65, and67-68showing sectional views of the hinge assembly4800so the operation of the cams, gears, and hinge arms can be seen.

As shown in these figures, translation of the first post4803within the first aperture5201of the first cam4801from a first end of the first aperture5201that is positioned toward the end of the first hinge arm1104and positioned closest to the major wall of the hinge housing201to a second end of the first aperture5201positioned toward the center of the first hinge arm1104and positioned closest to the minor wall of the hinge housing201occurs in response to the asymmetry of the outer perimeter of the first cam4801changes the displacement of a first device housing (102) coupled to the first hinge arm1104and the hinge housing201.

Similarly translation of the second post4804within the second aperture5202of the second cam4802from the first end of the second aperture5202that is positioned toward the end of the second hinge arm1105and positioned closest to the major wall of the hinge housing201to the second end of the second aperture5202positioned toward the center of the second hinge arm1105and positioned closest to the other minor wall of the hinge housing201occurs in response to the asymmetry of the outer perimeter of the second cam4802. This asymmetry changes the displacement of a second device housing (103) coupled to the second hinge arm1105and the hinge housing201.

As shown in these figures, as the first cam4801and the second cam4802rotate within the U-shaped recess of the hinge housing201, the arched rocker2913changes the position of the first post4803and the second post4804within the first aperture5201and the second aperture5202, respectively, thereby altering the displacement between the first device housing (102) and the second device housing (103) as previously described. Rotation of the first hinge arm1104and the second hinge arm1105to the closed position causes the closing follower5203of each hinge arm to translate across and engage the closing cam5204.

As mentioned above, however, not all electronic devices configured in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure employ flexible displays. Accordingly, in other applications it may be desirous to use the hinge mechanisms described with reference toFIGS.11-68in an electronic device having rigid displays. One such example is shown inFIG.69.

Turning now toFIG.69, illustrated therein is one embodiment where the flexible display and support plates are omitted. As shown inFIG.69, an electronic device6900includes a first device housing6902and a second device housing6903. A hinge6901, which comprises a hinge body6904, couples the first device housing6902to the second device housing6903. The first device housing6902is pivotable about the hinge6901relative to the second device housing6903between an axially displaced open position and a closed position, as previously described.

Rather than having a flexible display, in this embodiment the electronic device6900includes a first display6905coupled to the first device housing6902and a second display6906coupled to the second device housing6903. Thus, in addition to separating the first device housing6902from the second device housing6903, the hinge6901separates the first display6905from the second display6906as well.

Turning now toFIG.70, illustrated therein are various embodiments of the disclosure. The embodiments ofFIG.70are shown as labeled boxes inFIG.70due to the fact that the individual components of these embodiments have been illustrated in detail inFIGS.1-69, which precedeFIG.70. Accordingly, since these items have previously been illustrated and described, their repeated illustration is no longer essential for a proper understanding of these embodiments. Thus, the embodiments are shown as labeled boxes.

At7001, an electronic device comprises a first device housing and a second device housing. At7001, the electronic device comprises a hinge housing coupled to a first hinge arm coupled to the first device housing and a second hinge arm coupled to the second device housing such that the first device housing is pivotable about the hinge housing relative to the second device housing between an axially displaced open position and a closed position.

At7001, a first pin translates within a first slot of the first hinge arm and a second pin translates within a second slot of the second hinge arm, respectively, when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge housing between the axially displaced open position and the closed position, thereby changing a displacement between the hinge housing and the first device housing and second device housing. At7002, the displacement of7001is shorter when the first device housing and the second device housing are pivoted about the hinge housing to the axially displaced open position than when the first device housing and second device housing are pivoted about the hinge housing to the closed position.

At7003, the electronic device of7002further comprises a first spring-loaded link coupled between the hinge housing and the first hinge arm and a second spring-loaded link coupled between the hinge housing and the second hinge arm. At7004, the first spring-loaded link and the second spring-loaded link of7003biasing the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm, respectively, toward the hinge housing as the first device housing and the second device housing pivot from the closed position to the axially displaced open position.

At7005, the first slot and the second slot of7002each define a detent at an end of the first slot and the second slot located distally from the hinge housing. At7006, the detent of the first slot and the second slot of7005retain the first pin and the second pin, respectively, therein when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot to the closed position. At7007, the first slot and the second slot of7006each define arcuate slot apertures.

At7008, an electronic device comprises a first device housing and a second device housing. At7008, the electronic device comprises a hinge housing coupled to a first hinge arm coupled to the first device housing and a second hinge arm coupled to the second device housing such that the first device housing is pivotable about the hinge housing relative to the second device housing between an axially displaced open position and a closed position.

At7008, the electronic device comprises a first post translating within a first aperture of a first cam and a second post translating within second aperture of a second cam, respectively, when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge housing between the axially displaced open position and the closed position, thereby changing a displacement between the hinge housing and the first device housing and second device housing. At7009, the displacement of7008is shorter when the first device housing and the second device housing are pivoted about the hinge housing to the axially displaced open position than when the first device housing and second device housing are pivoted about the hinge housing to the closed position.

At7010, the first post and the second post of7009each have a chamfered rectangular cross section. At7010, the first aperture and the second aperture define chamfered rectangular apertures having a major axis greater than the chamfered rectangular cross section. At7011, a minor axis of the chamfered rectangular apertures of7010is shorter than the major axis.

At7012, the electronic device of7010further comprises a first spring and a second spring biasing the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm, respectively, toward the hinge housing as the first device housing and the second device housing pivot from the closed position to the axially displaced open position. At7013, each of the first cam and the second cam of7012define an asymmetrical perimeter causing a preloading of the first spring and the second spring, respectively, when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot from the axially displaced open position to the closed position.

At7014, an electronic device comprises a first device housing and a second device housing. At7014, the electronic device comprises a hinge housing coupled to a first hinge arm coupled to the first device housing and a second hinge arm coupled to the second device housing such that the first device housing is pivotable about the hinge housing relative to the second device housing between an axially displaced open position and a closed position. At7014, the hinge housing comprises a first post and a second post that is rotationally linked to the first post

At7014, the first post translates within a first aperture of a first cam and the second post translates within second aperture of a second cam, respectively, when the first device housing and the second device housing pivot about the hinge housing between the axially displaced open position and the closed position, thereby changing a displacement between the hinge housing and the first device housing and second device housing. At7015, the displacement of7014is shorter when the first device housing and the second device housing are pivoted about the hinge housing to the axially displaced open position than when the first device housing and second device housing are pivoted about the hinge housing to the closed position.

At7016, the first post and the second post of7015each have a chamfered rectangular cross section. At7016, the first aperture and the second aperture define chamfered rectangular apertures having a major axis greater than the chamfered rectangular cross section. At7017, the minor axis of the chamfered rectangular apertures of7016is shorter than the major axis.

At7018, the electronic device of7016further comprises a first gear rotationally engaging the first post and a second gear, with the second gear rotationally engaging the second post and the first gear, with rotation of the first gear and the second gear causing translation of the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm toward the hinge housing as the first device housing and the second device housing pivot from the closed position to the axially displaced open position.

At7019, the electronic device of7018further comprises a third gear positioned about a perimeter of the first post and rotationally engaging the first gear, and a fourth gear positioned about a perimeter of the second post and engaging the second gear. At7020, the hinge housing of7019comprises a closing cam translating across interior portions of a closing follower of the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm, respectively, as the first device housing and the second device housing begin to pivot from the closed position toward the axially displaced open position.