Patent Description:
There is provided a display assembly as defined in the claims. Optional features are defined in the appended dependent claims.

Some display devices are configured to rotate. Some examples of rotatable display devices include all-in-one computing devices, electronic whiteboards and other interactive collaboration devices. Such display devices may be mounted on a wall, a floor-based stand, a rolling cart, or any other suitable surface or object via a mounting assembly that enables users to rotate the display. In this manner, the users may view and interact with content on the rotating display device at any one of a plurality of display orientations, such as a portrait orientation and a landscape orientation.

In some examples, the display is configured to rotate about a center of rotation that is offset from a center of mass of the display. As the center of mass and the center of rotation of the display are offset, the weight of the display may bias the display towards one rotational orientation, such as a portrait or landscape orientation. As a result, in some examples, the display will tend to rotate towards that orientation.

Accordingly, it may be desirable to offset such biasing forces and stabilize the rotation of the display. In some examples, the rotation of the display is stabilized by applying a counterbalance force that substantially offsets the weight of the display. In this manner, the display may be rotated between the portrait orientation and the landscape orientation by applying a substantially similar amount of torque, irrespective of a current rotational orientation of the display and a direction in which the display is rotated.

In some examples, the rotation of the display device is counterbalanced using springs. However, springs capable of offsetting the weight of the device may occupy an unsuitably large volume within a housing of the device, reducing space available for wiring and other device components. Further, the housing of the device may prevent the springs from being arranged in a suitable manner to provide a desirable torque profile.

In other examples, the rotation of the display device is counterbalanced using a weighted mass, or a combination of springs and a counterweight. However, in addition to making the device heavier, this approach may also demand additional manufacturing time or expense.

Accordingly, examples are disclosed that relate to display assemblies and counterbalance mechanisms for rotatable displays that address one or more of the above issues. As described in more detail below, in some examples a counterbalance mechanism for a rotatable display includes one or more crank arms rotatably connected to a ground or to the rotatable display. The counterbalance mechanism also comprises one or more springs comprising a first end connected to a spring end of a one crank arm, and a second end connected to the ground or to the rotatable display. At least one connecting link has a first portion connected to the crank arm and a second portion connected to the rotatable display or to the ground.

Such counterbalance mechanisms may stabilize the rotation of the display, reduce or eliminate the use of counterweights within the display, and/or occupy less space. In addition, the counterbalance mechanism may be tuned to provide a desirable torque profile, and may enable other counterbalance mechanisms to be significantly reduced/simplified or eliminated.

With reference now to <FIG> and <FIG>, one example of a display assembly <NUM> is provided in the form of an electronic whiteboard. The example of the display assembly <NUM> is provided for purposes of illustration and is not intended to be limiting. Other examples to which the present disclosure may apply, such as televisions, computer monitors, and all-in-one computing devices, may have different shapes, different sizes, and different numbers and/or placements of features as compared to the display assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

The display assembly <NUM> includes a display <NUM>. In some examples the display <NUM> is a touch-sensing display that allows users to directly interact with the display <NUM> and/or visual information presented on the display <NUM>. The display <NUM> may be a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor, or any other suitable type of display.

The display <NUM> is communicatively coupled with a computing device <NUM> that provides visual information to the display <NUM>, which the display <NUM>, in turn, presents to a user. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the display assembly <NUM> includes a computing device <NUM> within a shared housing <NUM> of the display <NUM>. In other examples, the display <NUM> may be communicatively coupled to one or more separate computing devices.

As described in more detail below, the display <NUM> is rotatably coupled to a mounting assembly <NUM> such that the display <NUM> is rotatable relative to the mounting assembly <NUM>. In some examples and as shown in <FIG>, the mounting assembly <NUM> is configured to support the display <NUM> above a floor or other horizontal surface, such as via a stand <NUM>. In other examples, the display assembly <NUM> may be positioned on a rolling cart to allow the display assembly <NUM> to be easily moved. In yet other examples, the mounting assembly <NUM> may comprise a plate, bracket or other structure that is connectable to a surface (e.g. a wall), mountable inside a cabinet, or supported by any other suitable structure. For example and with reference to <FIG>, the display <NUM> may be mounted to a wall <NUM> in a room <NUM> via the mounting assembly <NUM>.

As described in more detail below, the mounting assembly <NUM> is configured to enable the display to rotate. For example, <FIG> shows the display <NUM> in a landscape orientation <NUM>. The display <NUM> may be rotated relative to the fixed mounting assembly <NUM> by applying a force or torque to a portion of the display <NUM>. For example, by applying torque in a clockwise direction as indicated at <NUM>, and with reference to <FIG>, the display <NUM> may be rotated into a portrait orientation <NUM> or any other suitable orientation. The display <NUM> may be rotated back into the landscape orientation <NUM> by applying torque in a counterclockwise direction as indicated at <NUM>. In other examples, display <NUM> may rotate from the landscape orientation <NUM> to a portrait orientation in the counterclockwise direction <NUM>.

With reference now to <FIG> and <FIG>, one example of a rotatable display assembly <NUM> is illustrated. <FIG> shows an exploded view of the display assembly <NUM> including a rotation mechanism <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, the rotation mechanism <NUM> is parallel to an X-Y plane in which the display <NUM> rotates. In this example, the rotation mechanism <NUM> includes a rail plate <NUM> that is coupled to the display <NUM> at a rear side <NUM> of the display. The rail plate <NUM> is rotatably coupled to a roller plate <NUM>, and the roller plate <NUM> is fixedly coupled to a mounting assembly <NUM>. The mounting assembly <NUM> is fixedly coupled to an anchor structure, such as a wall, mounting stand, rolling cart, or other anchor. In this example, the mounting assembly <NUM> includes four bolts <NUM> that secure the mounting assembly <NUM> to the anchor structure.

The rail plate <NUM> and the roller plate <NUM> may be coupled together via any suitable means that enables the rail plate <NUM> (and attached display <NUM>) to rotate relative to the roller plate <NUM>. For example, the rail plate <NUM> and the roller plate <NUM> may be coupled via bearings, wheels, an interlocking rail and track, or a system of gears. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, three rollers <NUM> are mounted to the roller plate <NUM> around the circumference of the roller plate <NUM>. Each of the rollers <NUM> is configured to interface with at least one rail on the rail plate <NUM> to enable the rail plate <NUM> to rotate relative to the roller plate <NUM>. In this manner, the display <NUM> and any other components of the display assembly <NUM> that are attached to the rail plate <NUM> may rotate relative to the roller plate <NUM> and the mounting assembly <NUM>.

In some examples, and with reference again to <FIG>, the display <NUM> is configured to rotate about a center of rotation <NUM> that is offset from a center of mass <NUM> of the display <NUM>. In one example, the center of mass <NUM> may be offset from the center of rotation <NUM> by approximately <NUM> along the positive x-axis and approximately <NUM> along the positive y-axis. In other examples, the center of mass <NUM> may be offset from the center of rotation <NUM> by other distances and in other orientations. As the center of mass <NUM> is offset from the center of rotation <NUM> within the X-Y plane, the display <NUM> may be gravitationally biased towards one rotational orientation, such as a portrait orientation. For example, when the display assembly <NUM> is configured in the landscape orientation <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, gravity will tend to rotate the display <NUM> in the clockwise direction <NUM> absent any countervailing forces. Accordingly, and as described in more detail below, the display assembly <NUM> may include one or more counterbalance mechanisms configured to stabilize the rotational orientation of the display.

For example, and with reference now to <FIG>, the display assembly <NUM> includes a counterbalance mechanism <NUM> configured to provide a counterbalance force to stabilize the rotational orientation of the display <NUM>. In <FIG>, the display assembly <NUM> of <FIG> is depicted in a simplified cutaway view through a front side <NUM> of the display <NUM>, as viewed from the positive z-axis looking towards the negative z-axis. In this example the display <NUM> is in a landscape orientation and rotates about a center of rotation <NUM> that is offset from a center of mass <NUM>. For ease of illustration, other components of the display assembly <NUM> are not shown.

As illustrated by example in <FIG>, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes a crank arm <NUM>. The crank arm <NUM> is located at a z-axis position between the display <NUM> and the underlying mounting assembly <NUM>. In this example and as described below, the crank arm <NUM> rotates in an X-Y plane parallel to the X-Y plane in which the display <NUM> rotates.

The crank arm <NUM> is rotatably connected to a ground. In the example of <FIG>, the crank arm <NUM> is rotatably connected to an underlying plate of the mounting assembly <NUM> via a pivot in the form of a pin <NUM> extending from the underlying plate. In some examples, as illustrated in <FIG>, the crank arm <NUM> comprises a generally triangularly shaped lever, and the pin <NUM> is located at an obtusely-angled vertex of the lever. In other examples, a variety of other shapes of crank arms may be utilized. In this example, the pin <NUM> is also located between a link end <NUM> and a spring end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM>. In other examples described below, the crank arm <NUM> may be rotatably connected to the ground at a point substantially at one end of the crank arm.

The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> further comprises a connecting link <NUM>. The connecting link <NUM> has a first portion <NUM> that is rotatably connected to the crank arm <NUM> at its link end <NUM>. In other examples, the first portion <NUM> of the connecting link <NUM> may be connected to a point between the spring end <NUM> and the link end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM>. The connecting link <NUM> also has a second portion <NUM> that is rotatably connected to the display <NUM>. In this manner and as described in more detail below, the connecting link <NUM> is configured to couple rotation of the display <NUM> to rotation of the crank arm <NUM> about the pin <NUM>.

The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> also includes at least one spring that biases the other spring end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM>. In different examples, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may utilize a single spring or multiple springs or spring elements. The spring(s) may comprise any suitable type of spring, such as a helical extension spring or a volute spring, and may comprise any suitable material, such as spring steel or an elastomer. In the example of <FIG>, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> utilizes spring <NUM> that comprises multiple individual extension springs 230A, 230B, 230C, 230D and 230E.

In the example of <FIG>, the spring 230A comprises a first end <NUM> connected to the spring end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM>. A second end <NUM> of the spring 230A is connected to the ground (e.g. to the mounting assembly <NUM>). As shown in <FIG> the other springs 230B, 230C, 230D, and 230E are connected in a similar manner.

With this configuration and as described in more detail below, rotation of the display <NUM> causes the second portion <NUM> of connecting link <NUM> to move in a corresponding circular path indicated by dotted circle <NUM>. Such motion of the connecting link <NUM> causes rotation of the crank arm <NUM> about the pin <NUM>, which causes extension or retraction of the springs <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the each of the individual springs 230A, 230B, 230C, 230D, and 230E are extension springs. Accordingly, when the display <NUM> is in the landscape orientation as shown in <FIG>, the springs <NUM> oppose the gravitational tendency of the display to rotate in a clockwise direction about its center of rotation <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the springs <NUM> provide such an oppositional force by pulling downwardly on the spring end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM> to resist the opposing downward force on the link end <NUM> of the crank arm that is received via connecting link <NUM> connected to the display. Additionally, when a user begins rotating the display <NUM> in the clockwise direction toward the portrait orientation shown in <FIG>, the springs <NUM> extend and generate a countervailing return force on the spring end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM> that is transferred via the connecting link to the display. In this manner, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> is configured to resist gravitational forces urging the display <NUM> to fall into the portrait orientation. Accordingly, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may help provide a consistent oppositional force and create a more pleasing user experience during such rotation.

<FIG> shows the display assembly of <FIG> rotated clockwise <NUM> degrees into a portrait orientation. In a similar manner, the second portion <NUM> of the connecting link <NUM> has moved in a curving direction along circular path <NUM>. Accordingly, the connecting link <NUM> is located at a lower position along the y-axis in <FIG> than in <FIG>.

As the first portion <NUM> of the connecting link <NUM> is connected to the link end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM>, rotation of the display <NUM> causes rotation of the crank arm <NUM> about the pin <NUM>. Accordingly, the link end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM> is located at a lower position along the y-axis in <FIG> than in <FIG>, and the spring end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM> is located at a higher position along the y-axis in <FIG> than in <FIG>. This movement correspondingly causes the springs <NUM> to extend along the y-axis and exert downward y-axis force on the spring end <NUM> of the crank arm <NUM>.

The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may also provide other advantages over other systems. For example, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may weigh less than a counterweight used to counteract the gravitational forces described above. The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may also occupy less space within a housing of the display assembly <NUM> than other configurations, such as springs that rotate with the display <NUM>. In some examples, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> is preconfigured as a single modular assembly, which may be more easily installed into the display assembly during manufacturing as compared to assembling a number of smaller components with greater precision. Furthermore, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may be configured to occupy a smaller footprint and to position the spring(s) <NUM> where they may have a suitable amount of room to extend within the display assembly <NUM>.

The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> also enables the torque profile of the display assembly <NUM> to be tuned to provide a desirable amount of resistance for a pleasing user experience. For example, the torque profile may be customized to provide a substantially consistent amount of resistance during rotation, or the torque profile may be adjusted to provide resistance that varies based on the angle of rotation. In different examples, the torque profile may be tuned by utilizing springs having different parameters (diameter, pitch, etc.), utilizing different sizes and/or shapes of crank arms and connecting links, and/or changing other components or locations of components within the counterbalance mechanism <NUM>.

With reference now to <FIG>, a plot <NUM> is illustrated that shows one example of a torque profile for a display assembly and counterbalance mechanism of the present disclosure, such as counterbalance mechanism <NUM>. The plot <NUM> shows the torque on the center of rotation of the display assembly as a function of the angle of rotation of the display. In the example of <FIG>, the angle of rotation of the display is <NUM> degrees when the display is in a landscape orientation, and the angle of rotation is <NUM> degrees when the display is in a portrait orientation.

<FIG> shows a first line <NUM> that represents a contribution to the torque <NUM> due to gravity. In the example of <FIG>, the first line <NUM> is positive everywhere from <NUM> to <NUM> degrees, showing that the weight of the display alone torques the display towards the portrait orientation. The dashed line <NUM> has a curved shape, indicating that the weight of the display generally provides greater torque on the display between its travel from <NUM> to <NUM> degrees than at either zero degrees or <NUM> degrees. This is due to the position of the center of mass relative to the center of rotation.

<FIG> also illustrates a second line <NUM> that represents a countervailing contribution to the torque from the counterbalance mechanism. The negative torque of the second line <NUM> shows that the counterbalance mechanism urges the display towards the landscape orientation. Solid line <NUM> shows the net torque resulting from adding the first line <NUM> and the second line <NUM>. As described further below, from <NUM> to <NUM> degrees the net torque varies from slightly negative to slightly positive.

In some examples, the counterbalance mechanism is tuned to provide a desirable net torque profile. For example, and with reference again to <FIG> and <FIG>, the force of the spring <NUM>, the angle between the crank arm <NUM> and the spring <NUM>, and any other suitable parameters may be tuned such that the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> provides a desirable amount of torque during rotation of the display. In other examples, each of the individual springs 230A, 230B, 230C, 230D, and 230E may be staggered such that the springs change length at different rates as the display <NUM> is rotated.

With reference again to <FIG>, the solid line <NUM> illustrates one example of a desirable net torque profile. As illustrated in <FIG>, the line <NUM> is slightly negative at zero degrees. In this manner, the net torque acts to urge the display to stay in the landscape orientation. As the display is rotated, the net torque may increase, such that the display more easily falls into the portrait orientation. In the example of <FIG>, when the display is rotated by <NUM> degrees or more, the net torque on the display becomes positive. In this manner, the torque profile may assist a user in rotating the display into portrait mode.

In some examples, the display assembly may also include one or more additional structures configured to tailor the torque profile. For example, and with reference again to <FIG>, the display assembly <NUM> includes a damper system <NUM>. In one example, the damper system <NUM> may have a non-circular gear that engages with a track to turn a dampening motor at different rotational rates as the display <NUM> rotates. The damper system <NUM> is configured to provide a dampening torque as a function of a rate of rotation of the display <NUM>. In this manner, the damper system <NUM> may limit and/or prevent rotation at excessive speeds.

In the example of the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> and described above, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> uses one crank arm <NUM> and one connecting link <NUM> and corresponding springs. In other examples and as described below, counterbalance mechanisms of the present disclosure may include a two or more crank arms and connecting links, along with corresponding springs configured to provide oppositional forces and create a pleasing user experience during rotation of the display.

For example, and with reference now to <FIG> and <FIG>, another example of a display assembly <NUM> is illustrated that includes a counterbalance mechanism <NUM> configured to counterbalance rotation of a display <NUM>. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes two crank arms, two springs, and two connecting links.

In <FIG>, the display assembly <NUM> is depicted in a cutaway view through a front side <NUM> of the display <NUM>. The display assembly <NUM> is viewed from the positive z-axis looking towards the negative z-axis. In this example the display <NUM> is in a landscape orientation and rotates about a center of rotation <NUM> that is offset from a center of mass <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes a first counterbalance mechanism 616A and a second counterbalance mechanism 616B. The first counterbalance mechanism 616A and the second counterbalance mechanism 616B are located on opposite sides of the center of rotation <NUM> of the display <NUM>.

As illustrated by example in <FIG>, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes a first crank arm 618A and a second crank arm 618B. Each of the first crank arm 618A and the second crank arm 618B is located at a z-axis position between the display <NUM> and mounting assembly <NUM>. The mounting assembly <NUM> may be analogous to the mounting assembly <NUM> of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG>, each of the first crank arm 618A and the second crank arm 618B rotates in a plane parallel to the X-Y plane in which the display <NUM> rotates.

Like the crank arm <NUM> in the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, each of the first crank arm 618A and the second crank arm 618B is rotatably coupled to a ground. In the example of <FIG>, the crank arm 618A is rotatably coupled to an underlying plate of the mounting assembly <NUM> via a pivot in the form of a pin 620A extending from the underlying plate. Similarly, the crank arm 616B is rotatably coupled to the underlying plate via a pin 620B extending from the underlying plate. As illustrated by example in <FIG>, the first crank arm 618A and the second crank arm 618B are generally triangularly shaped, however the first crank arm 618A is generally more obtuse and narrower than the second crank arm 618B. In other examples, the first crank arm 618A and the second crank arm 618B may have identical shapes or any other suitable combination of shapes.

The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> further comprises a first connecting link 622A and a second connecting link 622B. The first connecting link 622A has a first portion 624A that is rotatably connected to a link end 626A of the first crank arm 818A. In a similar manner, the second connecting link 622B has a first portion 624B that is rotatably connected to a link end 626B the second crank arm 618B. Each of the first connecting link 622A and the second connecting link 622B also has a second portion 628A and 628B, respectively, that is connected to the display <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the second connecting link 622B is narrower than the first connecting link 622A. In other examples, the first connecting link 622A and the second connecting link 622B may have identical shapes or any other suitable combination of shapes.

In this example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the first mechanism 616A utilizes a single spring 630A and the second mechanism 616B utilizes a single spring 630B. In different examples, the first mechanism 616A and the second mechanism 616B may utilize multiple springs or spring elements.

The spring 630A comprises a first end 632A connected to a spring end 634A of the crank arm 618A. A second end 636A of spring 630A is connected to the ground (e.g. to the mounting assembly <NUM>). In a similar manner, the spring 630B comprises a first end 632B connected to a spring end 634B of the crank arm 618B, and a second end 636B connected to the mounting assembly <NUM>. In this manner, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> is configured to couple extension of spring 630A and spring 630B to the rotation of the display <NUM>. With this configuration and as described in more detail below, rotation of the display <NUM> causes the second portion 628A of the first connecting link 622A and the second portion 628B of the second connecting link 622B to move in a corresponding circular path indicated by dotted circle <NUM>. Such motion of the connecting links 662A and 622B cause rotation of the corresponding crank arms 618A and 618B about pins 620A and 620B, which cause extension or retraction of the springs 630A and 630B, respectively.

<FIG> shows the display assembly of <FIG> rotated clockwise <NUM> degrees into a portrait orientation. In a similar manner, second portion 628A of the first connecting link 622A and the second portion 628B of the second connecting link 622B have moved in a circular manner along circular path <NUM>. Accordingly, the connecting link 622A is located at a lower position along the y-axis in <FIG> than in <FIG>, and connecting link 622B is located at a higher position along the y-axis in <FIG> than in <FIG>. This movement correspondingly causes the springs 630A and 630B to extend along the y-axis, with spring 630A exerting a downward y-axis force on the spring end 634A of the crank arm 618A, and spring 630B exerting an upward y-axis force on the spring end 634B of the crank arm 618B. In this manner, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> is configured to resist forces urging the display <NUM> to fall into the portrait orientation.

As with the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> described above, counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may also provide other advantages over other systems. For example, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may weigh less than systems using counterweight(s) to counteract the gravitational forces. The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may also occupy less space within the display assembly <NUM> than other configurations. In some examples, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may be configured to occupy a smaller footprint and to position the spring(s) 630A and 630B where they may have a suitable amount of room to extend within the display assembly <NUM>. The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> also enables the torque profile of the display assembly <NUM> to be tuned to provide a desirable amount of resistance for a pleasing user experience. For example, this configuration of two crank arms, two springs, and two connecting links may enable fine control and tuning of the torque profile, with each counterbalance mechanism 616A and 616B being individually adjustable to modify the torque profile in different manners.

It will also be appreciated that the operative connections of each of the components of the counterbalance mechanisms <NUM> and <NUM> may be arranged in any other suitable manner. For example, each of the one or more crank arms may be rotatably coupled to the rotatable display instead of the ground, each of the one or more springs may also be connected to the rotatable display instead of the ground, and each of the one or more connecting links may be connected to the ground instead of to the rotatable display. <FIG> illustrate one such example of a counterbalance mechanism <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> configured to counterbalance rotation of a display <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes two crank arms, two springs, and two connecting links. In <FIG>, the display assembly <NUM> is depicted in a cutaway view through a front side <NUM> of the display <NUM>. The display assembly <NUM> is viewed from the positive z-axis looking towards the negative z-axis. In this example the display <NUM> is in a landscape orientation and rotates about a center of rotation <NUM> that is offset from a center of mass <NUM>.

In this example a rotation mechanism includes a circular rail <NUM> to which the display <NUM> is fixedly coupled. Three rollers <NUM> are rotatably mounted to an underlying chassis <NUM> of a mounting assembly. Circular rail <NUM> is configured to engage the rollers <NUM> along its inner periphery to allow the circular rail and attached display to rotate relative to the chassis <NUM> and mounting assembly. The circular rail <NUM> is parallel to an X-Y plane of the chassis <NUM>, and is configured to rotate about a center of rotation <NUM> that is offset from a center of mass <NUM> of the display <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an angled view of the counterbalance mechanism <NUM>, the circular rail <NUM>, and the chassis <NUM>. <FIG> shows an exploded view of the counterbalance mechanism <NUM>, the circular rail <NUM>, and the chassis <NUM>.

Like the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> in the example of <FIG>, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes two crank arms, two springs, and two connecting links. The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes a first counterbalance mechanism 816A and a second counterbalance mechanism 816B. The first counterbalance mechanism 816A and the second counterbalance mechanism 816B are located on opposite sides of the center of rotation <NUM> of the rotation mechanism <NUM>.

The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes a first crank arm 818A and a second crank arm 818B. Each of the first crank arm 818A and the second crank arm 818B are parallel to the X-Y plane of the chassis <NUM> and are located at a z-axis position between the chassis <NUM> and a front surface <NUM> of the circular rail <NUM>. In this manner, the crank arms 818A, 818B and other components of the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> are configured to be located behind the display <NUM> mounted to the front surface <NUM> of the circular rail <NUM>.

The first crank arm 818A is rotatably coupled via pin 820A to an arm 821A that extends inwardly from the circular rail <NUM>. Similarly, on an opposite side of circular rail <NUM> the second crank arm 818B is rotatably coupled via pin 820B to an arm 821B that extends inwardly from the rail. With this configuration, as the rail <NUM> and attached display <NUM> rotate relative to the chassis <NUM>, the first crank arm 818A and second crank arm 818B may pivot about their respective pins 820A and 820B.

The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> further comprises a first connecting link 822A and a second connecting link 822B. The first connecting link 822A has a first portion 824A that is rotatably connected to a link end 826A of the first crank arm 818A. In a similar manner, the second connecting link 822B has a first portion 824B that is connected to a link end 826B of the second crank arm 818B. Each of the first connecting link 822A and the second connecting link 822B also has a second portion 828A and a second portion 828B, respectively. The second portion 828A of the first connecting link 822A and the second portion 828B of the second connecting link 822B are each connected to the chassis <NUM> via a plate <NUM> fixedly mounted to the chassis.

Each of the first mechanism 816A and the second mechanism 816B also includes at least one spring. In this example the first mechanism 816A comprises a first set of springs 830A and the second mechanism 816B comprises a second set of springs 830B. In other examples, the first mechanism 816A and the second mechanism 816B each comprise a single spring. Each spring in the first set of springs 830A comprises a first end connected to a spring end 834A of the crank arm 818A. A second end of each of the first set of springs 830A is connected to an arm 837A extending inwardly from the circular rail <NUM>. In a similar manner, each spring in the second set of springs 830B comprises a first end connected to a spring end 834B of the crank arm 818B. A second end of each of the second set of springs 830B is connected to an arm 837B extending inwardly from the circular rail <NUM>.

In this manner and with this configuration, a clockwise rotation of the display <NUM> and circular rail <NUM> about the center of rotation <NUM> results in counterclockwise rotation of the first crank arm 818A and the second crank arm 818B about their respective pins. Accordingly, such clockwise rotation of the display <NUM> results in extension of the first set of springs 830A and the second set of springs 830B. In this manner, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> generates a counterclockwise torque via connecting links 822A and 822B that opposes the gravitational torque urging the display <NUM> to fall into the portrait orientation.

As with the other examples of counterbalance mechanisms described above, counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may also weigh less than systems using counterweight(s) to counteract gravitational forces. The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may also occupy less space within the display assembly <NUM> than other configurations. In some examples, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may be configured to occupy a smaller footprint and to position the spring(s) 830A and 830B where they have a suitable amount of room to extend within the display assembly <NUM>. The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> also enables the torque profile of the display assembly <NUM> to be tuned to provide a desirable amount of resistance for a pleasing user experience. For example, in this configuration the dual counterbalance mechanisms 816A and 816B may enable fine control and tuning of the torque profile, with each mechanism being individually adjustable to tune the torque profile as desired.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate another configuration of a counterbalance mechanism <NUM> for a rotatable display assembly <NUM>. In this example, each crank arm is rotatably coupled to the ground at an end of the crank arm, and each connecting link is rotatably coupled to its crank arm between the corresponding spring and the ground coupling. As shown in <FIG>, the display assembly <NUM> is depicted in a cutaway view through a front side <NUM> of the display <NUM>. The display assembly <NUM> is viewed from the positive z-axis looking towards the negative z-axis. In this example the display <NUM> is in a landscape orientation and rotates about a center of rotation <NUM> that is offset from a center of mass <NUM>.

In the configuration of <FIG>, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes a first counterbalance mechanism 916A and a second counterbalance mechanism 916B. The first counterbalance mechanism 916A and the second counterbalance mechanism 916B are located on opposite sides of the center of rotation <NUM> of the display <NUM>. The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> includes a first crank arm 918A and a second crank arm 918B. Each of the first crank arm 918A and the second crank arm 918B is located at a z-axis position between the display <NUM> and mounting assembly <NUM>. The mounting assembly <NUM> may be analogous to the mounting assembly <NUM> of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG>, each of the first crank arm 918A and the second crank arm 918B rotates in a plane parallel to the X-Y plane in which the display <NUM> rotates.

Each of the first crank arm 918A and the second crank arm 918B is rotatably coupled to a ground at an end of the crank arm. In the example of <FIG>, a pivoting end of the crank arm 918A is rotatably coupled to an underlying plate of the mounting assembly <NUM> via a pin 920A extending from the underlying plate. Similarly, a pivoting end of the crank arm 916B is rotatably coupled to the underlying plate via a pin 920B extending from the underlying plate.

The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> further comprises a first connecting link 922A and a second connecting link 922B. The first connecting link 922A has a first portion 924A that is rotatably connected to an intermediate point 926A of the first crank arm 918A between a spring end 934A an opposite pivoting end 937A of the first crank arm. In a similar manner, the second connecting link 922B has a first portion 924B that is rotatably connected to an intermediate point 926B of the second crank arm 918B between a spring end 934B an opposite pivoting end 937B of the second crank arm. Each of the first connecting link 922A and the second connecting link 922B also has a second portion 928A and 928B, respectively, that is connected to the display <NUM>.

Each of the first mechanism 916A and the second mechanism 916B also includes at least one spring. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the first mechanism 916A utilizes a single spring 930A and the second mechanism 916B utilizes a single spring 930B. In different examples, the first mechanism 916A and the second mechanism 916B may utilize multiple springs or spring elements.

The spring 930A comprises a first end 932A connected to a spring end 934A of the crank arm 918A. A second end 936A of spring 930A is connected to the ground (e.g. to the mounting assembly <NUM>). In a similar manner, the spring 930B comprises a first end 932B connected to a spring end 934B of the crank arm 918B, and a second end 936B connected to the mounting assembly <NUM>. In this manner, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> is configured to couple extension of spring 930A and spring 930B to the rotation of the display <NUM>. With this configuration and as seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, rotation of the display <NUM> in a clockwise direction causes the second portion 928A of the first connecting link 922A to move upwardly with the display, and the second portion 928B of the second connecting link 922B to move downwardly with the display. Such motion of the connecting links 922A and <NUM> B causes corresponding movement of the connected crank arms 918A and 918B, which cause extension of both springs 930A and 930B.

<FIG> shows the display assembly of <FIG> rotated clockwise <NUM> degrees into a portrait orientation. Correspondingly, second portion 928A of the first connecting link 922A has moved upwardly and the second portion 928B of the second connecting link 922B has moved downwardly. This movement correspondingly causes the springs 930A and 930B to extend along the y-axis and exert opposing y-axis force on the spring ends 934A and 934B of the crank arms 918A and 918B, respectively. In this manner, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> is configured to resist forces encouraging the display <NUM> to fall into the portrait orientation.

As with the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> described above, counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may also provide other advantages over other systems. For example, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may weigh less than systems using counterweight(s) to counteract the gravitational forces. The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may also occupy less space within the display assembly <NUM> than other configurations. In some examples, the counterbalance mechanism <NUM> may be configured to occupy a smaller footprint and to position the spring(s) 930A and 930B where they may have a suitable amount of room to extend within the display assembly <NUM>. The counterbalance mechanism <NUM> also enables the torque profile of the display assembly <NUM> to be tuned to provide a desirable amount of resistance for a pleasing user experience. For example, in this configuration the dual counterbalance mechanisms 916A and 916B may enable precise control and tuning of the torque profile, with each mechanism being individually adjustable to vary the torque profile as desired.

The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application. One aspect provides a counterbalance mechanism for a rotatable display, the counterbalance mechanism comprising: at least one crank arm rotatably connected to a ground; at least one spring comprising a first end connected to a spring end of the at least one crank arm, and a second end connected to the ground; and at least one connecting link having a first portion connected to the at least one crank arm and a second portion connected to the rotatable display. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein a center of mass of the rotatable display is offset from a center of rotation of the rotatable display. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the at least one crank arm is one crank arm, the at least one spring is one spring, and the at least one connecting link is one connecting link. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the at least one crank arm comprises two crank arms, the at least one spring comprises two springs, and the at least one connecting link comprises two connecting links. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein a center of rotation of the rotatable display is substantially between a first crank arm and a second crank arm. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the at least one spring is configured to oppose rotation of the rotatable display from a landscape orientation into a portrait orientation. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the at least one crank arm is rotatably connected to the ground at a point substantially at an end of the at least one crank arm. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the at least one crank arm is rotatably connected to the ground at a point between two ends of the at least one crank arm. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the first portion of the at least one connecting link is connected to a link end of the at least one crank arm. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the first portion of the at least one connecting link is connected to a point between the spring end and a link end of the at least one crank arm.

Another aspect provides counterbalance mechanism for a rotatable display, the counterbalance mechanism comprising: at least one crank arm rotatably connected to the rotatable display; at least one spring comprising a first end connected to a spring end of the at least one crank arm, and a second end connected to the rotatable display; and at least one connecting link having a first portion connected to the at least one crank arm and a second portion connected to a ground. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein a center of mass of the rotatable display is offset from a center of rotation of the rotatable display. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the at least one spring is configured to oppose rotation of the rotatable display from a landscape orientation into a portrait orientation. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the at least one crank arm is rotatably connected to the rotatable display at a point between two ends of the at least one crank arm. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the first portion of the at least one connecting link is connected to a link end of the at least one crank arm. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the second portion of the at least one connecting link is rotatably connected to the ground. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the at least one crank arm is rotatably connected to the rotatable display between the at least one connecting link and the at least one spring. The counterbalance mechanism may additionally or alternatively include, wherein the at least one crank arm comprises two crank arms, the at least one spring comprises two springs, and the at least one connecting link comprises two connecting links.

Another aspect provides display assembly, comprising: a mounting assembly; a display rotatably coupled to the mounting assembly; and a counterbalance mechanism comprising, at least one crank arm rotatably connected to the mounting assembly, at least one spring comprising a first end connected to a spring end of the at least one crank arm, and a second end connected to the mounting assembly, and at least one connecting link having a first portion connected to the at least one crank arm and a second portion connected to the display. The display assembly may additionally or alternatively include, wherein a center of mass of the display is offset from a center of rotation of the display.

As used herein, the phrase "and/or" means any or all of multiple stated possibilities.

Claim 1:
A display assembly (<NUM>) comprising a ground (<NUM>), a rotatable display (<NUM>) rotatably coupled to the ground, a counterbalance mechanism (<NUM>) for the rotatable display (<NUM>), the counterbalance mechanism (<NUM>) comprising:
at least one crank arm (918A, 918B) rotatably connected to the ground (<NUM>) at a pivoting end (937A, 937B) of the crank arm by a pivot pin (920A, 920B);
at least one spring (930A, 930B) comprising a first end (932A, 932B) connected to a spring end (934A, 934B) of the at least one crank arm, and a second end (936A, 936B) connected to the ground (<NUM>);
and characterised in that the counterbalance mechanism (<NUM>) comprises at least one connecting link (922A, 922B) having a first portion (924A, 924B) connected to the at least one crank arm (918A, 918B) and a second portion (928A, 928B) connected to the rotatable display (<NUM>), wherein the first portion (924A, 924B) of the at least one connecting link (922A, 922B) is connected to a point (926A, 926B) between the spring end (934A, 934B) and the pivoting end (937A, 937B) of the at least one crank arm.