Patent Description:
Use of computing devices is becoming more ubiquitous by the day. Computing devices range from standard desktop computers to wearable computing technology and beyond. One area of computing devices that has grown in recent years is the hybrid computer. Hybrid computers may act as a tablet computer or a laptop computer.

Some hybrid computers are clamshell devices that are used in different orientations. For example, some hybrid computers may be oriented with a touch-sensitive surface laid flat against the table or other surfaces on which the user is operating the hybrid computer. Some hybrid computers have a keyboard in a first body of the computer and a touch-sensitive display in a second body of the computer, where the first body and the second body are connected by a hinge.

Conventional hinges have a single pivot point, limiting the geometries at which the first body and second body may be positioned. The position of the pivot point determines the range of relative positions of the first body and second body. Hybrid computers can position a touch-sensitive display or human interface device in different orientations or positions to allow a greater variety of user experiences. A hinge with a pivot point that is translatable can provide an increased range of possible orientations or positions.

<CIT> describes that a portable information handling system has lid and main portions rotationally coupled to each other with a set of hinges having motion managed by rack and pinion gears. The rack translates motion between pinions by moving outward from the housing portions during rotation of the housing portions. A flexible cover over the rack stretches in response to movement of the rack to contain the hinges within the portable information handling system structure.

In some embodiments, a hinge system has a first body and a second body rotatably connected to one another around a first pivot point. The second body has a top surface and bottom surface positioned opposite one another in a vertical direction of the
second body. A translation mechanism is connected to the second body and the first pivot point to displace the first pivot point in the vertical direction relative to the second body.

In some embodiments, a method of moving a hinge in an electronic device includes rotating a first body of the electronic device relative to a second body of the electronic device around a first pivot point, and translating the first pivot point in a vertical direction relative to the second body based upon the rotational position of the first body relative to the second body.

In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and other features of the disclosure can be obtained, a more particular description will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. For better understanding, the like elements have been designated by like reference numbers throughout the various accompanying figures. While some of the drawings may be schematic or exaggerated representations of concepts, at least some of the drawings may be drawn to scale. Understanding that the drawings depict some example embodiments, the embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:.

This disclosure generally relates to moving electronic devices between a variety of configurations. More particularly, this disclosure generally relates to a hinge and/electronic device having a hinge with a pivot point or axis that translatable transverse to the axis. The hinge connects a first body and a second body of a device and allows the first body and second body to pivot relative to one another. The first body and second body of the device are connected about the pivot point while the pivot point is translatable relative to one of the first body and second body.

A hinge for an electronic device has a translatable pivot point. The hinge may translate the pivot point in a direction transverse to the axis of rotation to move the axis of rotation relative to at least one of the first body and second body. For example, the hinge can displace the pivot point in a direction of a top surface of the first body. The movement of the pivot point relative to the first body displaces the second body relative to the first body.

By controlling the location of the pivot point, the location and relative position of a first side of the hinge and a second side of the hinge may be controlled. For example, a laptop having a translatable hinge can allow the first body and second body to nest within one another or otherwise reduce a height (i.e., thickness) of the device in a closed state. Reducing the height of the device can protect the device during transport or usage, render the device more stable by moving a center of mass lower in the device, or provide new and/or different user experiences, as will be described in more detail herein.

<FIG> is a perspective view of a hinge <NUM> that connects a first body <NUM> of an electronic device to a second body <NUM> of the electronic device. The hinge <NUM> includes a first pivot point <NUM> and translation mechanism <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first pivot point <NUM> and the translation mechanism <NUM> of the hinge <NUM> are connected by a link <NUM>. For example, the link <NUM> may be rotatably connected to the second body. As the link <NUM> rotates relative to the second body <NUM>, the link <NUM> can move the first pivot point <NUM> relative to the second body <NUM>. For example, as the link <NUM> rotates around a second pivot point of the translation mechanism <NUM> connected to the second body <NUM> (e.g., the base of the electronic device), the first pivot point <NUM> connected to the first body <NUM> (e.g., the display of the electronic device) displaces vertically relative to the second body <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a hinge <NUM> may connect a first body <NUM> of an electronic device to a second body <NUM> of the electronic device. For example, the first body <NUM> may house a display, such as a touchscreen display while the second body <NUM> may house one or more computing components, such as a CPU, a GPU, one or more storage devices, one or more input devices, a power supply, or other computing components that may be configured to communicate with (e.g., receive information from, send information to, or send power to) the display in the first body <NUM>.

The hinge <NUM> may allow the first body <NUM> and second body <NUM> to communicate data or electrical signals through the hinge <NUM>. Translation of the first pivot point <NUM> of the hinge <NUM> can allow the first body <NUM> and second body reduce the likelihood of damage to the data or electrical conduits that provide the data or electrical communication across the hinge <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the motion of the hinge <NUM> may change depending on the presence and/or position of the first body <NUM> or of another body relative to the hinge <NUM>. For example, the display may be supported by and separable from the first body <NUM>. In such embodiments, removing or moving the display of the electronic device changes the mode of the hinge <NUM>, such that the hinge <NUM> closes and/or opens differently when the display is not connected to the first body <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a hinge <NUM> behaves differently depending on a state of the first body <NUM>. For example, the hinge <NUM> may have a different height when the first body <NUM> is connected to the hinge <NUM>. In another example, the first pivot point <NUM> has a first height when a third body is connected to the first body <NUM> and a different second height with a third body is disconnected from or moved relative to the first body <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an embodiment of another electronic device with a hinge <NUM> connected to a first body <NUM> and a second body <NUM>. The first body <NUM> supports a third body <NUM>. The first body <NUM> functions as a stand for the third body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first body <NUM> provides electrical and/or data communication between the second body <NUM> and the third body <NUM>. In other embodiments, the first body <NUM> supports the third body <NUM> while the third body <NUM> and second body <NUM> communicate through a wireless data communication. For example, the third body <NUM> may include a processor in communication with a first wireless communication device, and the second body <NUM> may include a hardware storage device in communication with a second wireless communication device. The processor of the third body <NUM> may access the information stored on the hardware storage device of the second body <NUM> through the first and second wireless communication devices.

The first body <NUM> supports the third body <NUM> in the depicted "laptop configuration" with the link <NUM> in-line with the second body <NUM> and a display <NUM> oriented toward a user. When a user closes the hinge <NUM> in the laptop configuration, the first pivot point <NUM> rotates to the <NUM>° orientation illustrated (between the first body <NUM> and the link <NUM>), stops, and rotation about the second pivot point <NUM> raises the link <NUM> to a <NUM>° configuration with the second body <NUM>. The link <NUM> of the displacement mechanism <NUM> thus provides a vertical displacement <NUM> of the first body <NUM> relative to the second body <NUM> in a vertical direction to enter the clamshell configuration illustrated in <FIG>.

In some embodiments, the third body <NUM> contacts the link <NUM> in the laptop configuration. The contact between the third body <NUM> and the link <NUM> provides a physical hardstop on the rotational range of motion of the first pivot point <NUM> and forces any further rotation to be around the second pivot point <NUM> of the displacement mechanism <NUM>. In other embodiments, the presence of the third body <NUM> in the laptop configuration with the first body <NUM> actuates the displacement mechanism <NUM> in the hinge <NUM> to force any rotation to be around the second pivot point <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the vertical displacement <NUM> of the displacement mechanism <NUM> is in a range having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower values including any of <NUM> millimeters (mm), <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or any values therebetween. For example, the vertical displacement <NUM> may be greater than <NUM>. In other examples, the vertical displacement <NUM> may be less than <NUM>. In yet other examples, the vertical displacement <NUM> may be between <NUM> and <NUM>. In further examples, the vertical displacement <NUM> may be between <NUM> and <NUM>. In at least one example, the vertical displacement <NUM> is about <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side view of the electronic device of <FIG> and <FIG> in a second closed configuration. The hinge <NUM> has a second stable closed configuration in a "nested configuration" of the hinge <NUM> where the link <NUM> remains in-line with (e.g., at a <NUM>° orientation around the second pivot point <NUM> from) the second body <NUM>. The link <NUM> being in-line with the second body <NUM> does not provide the vertical displacement described in relation to <FIG> in the clamshell configuration. In some embodiments, the nested configuration allows the first body <NUM> to nest against the second body <NUM>, with a surface of the first body <NUM> sitting flush against a surface of the second body <NUM>. In the nested configuration, the first pivot point <NUM> rotates to a <NUM>° orientation (e.g., rotates and closes beyond the <NUM>° orientation described in relation to <FIG>) between the first body <NUM> and second body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the third body <NUM> is repositioned on a back surface <NUM> of the first body <NUM>, providing a nested configuration for the electronic device.

The first body <NUM> nests in the second body <NUM> with the third body <NUM> in contact with the back surface <NUM> of the first body <NUM> and with a palmrest <NUM> of the second body <NUM>. In contrast to the clamshell configuration, the display <NUM> of the third body <NUM> is oriented away from the second body <NUM> and upward toward a user for viewing, when in the nested configuration.

While the displacement mechanism <NUM> of <FIG> can allow the first pivot point <NUM> to move in a vertical direction when closed, the rotation of the link <NUM> around the second pivot point <NUM> also moves the first pivot point <NUM> in a longitudinal direction. The displacement mechanism <NUM>, therefore, changes a depth <NUM> of the electronic device while also moving the first pivot point <NUM> with a vertical displacement described in relation to <FIG>.

In other embodiments, a hinge <NUM> according to the present disclosure has vertically aligned upper and lower positions, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. For example, <FIG> illustrates the hinge <NUM> in an upper position, supporting the first body <NUM> relative to the second body <NUM>. The first pivot point <NUM> is positioned at a greater height <NUM> relative to second body <NUM> than in the lower position illustrated in <FIG>.

Referring again to <FIG>, the displacement mechanism <NUM> includes a link <NUM> that is rotatable about a second pivot point <NUM>. A first pivot point <NUM> is positioned at an opposite end of the link <NUM> as is movable in a vertical direction relative to the second body <NUM>. The link <NUM> is rotatable around the second pivot point <NUM> such that the first pivot point <NUM> is movable in an arcuate path. In some embodiments, a portion of the link <NUM> travels in a track <NUM>. For example, the first pivot point <NUM> may have a pin <NUM> or axle that protrudes from the link <NUM> and engages with the track <NUM>. The pin <NUM> can slide within the track <NUM> guiding the link <NUM> between the upper position and the lower position.

In some embodiments, the displacement mechanism <NUM> further includes a biasing element <NUM> positioned to bias the first pivot point <NUM> toward the upper position or lower position. For example, the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> includes a spring biasing element <NUM> that biases the link <NUM> or other portion of the displacement mechanism <NUM> toward the upper position. The biasing element <NUM> may support the link <NUM> and the first body <NUM> (and/or a third body) without additional support. In other examples, the pin <NUM> or axle may engage with the track <NUM> or the second body <NUM> to lock the displacement mechanism <NUM> in the upper position.

<FIG> is a side view of the hinge <NUM> in a lower position. The link <NUM> is rotated around the second pivot point <NUM> to move the first pivot point <NUM> downward in the vertical direction relative to the second body <NUM>. Moving the first pivot point <NUM> downward moves the first body <NUM> downward.

As the link <NUM> rotates and the first pivot point <NUM> moves downward, the biasing element <NUM> is placed under compression. The biasing element <NUM> applies a counteracting force to a portion of the displacement mechanism <NUM> to urge the first body <NUM> and/or the link <NUM> toward the upper position. The displacement mechanism <NUM> can be held in the lower position against the force applied by the biasing element <NUM> by the pin <NUM> or other catch mechanism engaging with one or more holes <NUM> in the second body <NUM>. In some examples, the track <NUM> includes a hole <NUM> at a top end that corresponds to the upper position and a hole <NUM> at the bottom end that corresponds to the lower position. In at least one example, the catch is a push catch that retains the link <NUM> in the lower position when pushed downward and releases the link <NUM> from the lower position when pushed again while in the lower position.

The link <NUM> or other portion of the displacement mechanism <NUM> rotates through an angle <NUM> around the second pivot point <NUM>. In some embodiments, the angle <NUM> is in a range having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower values including any of <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°,<NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, or any values therebetween. For example, the angle <NUM> may be greater than <NUM>°. In other examples, the angle <NUM> may be less than <NUM>°. In yet other examples, the angle <NUM> may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. In further examples, the angle <NUM> may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. In at least one example, the angle <NUM> is about <NUM>°.

In some embodiments, the displacement of the pivot point of the hinge is linear. For example, <FIG> illustrates an embodiment of a hinge <NUM> having a displacement mechanism <NUM> including a pinion gear <NUM>. In some embodiments, the pinion gear <NUM> is affixed to the pivot point <NUM>, such that the first body <NUM> and the pinion gear <NUM> shared a rotational axis (i.e., is coaxial with the pivot point <NUM>). In other embodiments, the pinion gear <NUM> has a parallel rotational axis to the pivot point <NUM>, does not shared a rotational axis. The rotation of the pinion gear <NUM> displaces the pivot point <NUM> linearly along the rack <NUM> affixed to the second body.

In some embodiments, the pinion gear <NUM> is rotationally independent from the first body <NUM>, allowing rotation of the pinion gear <NUM> (and associated linear displacement of the pivot point <NUM>) to be independent of the rotation of the first body <NUM> relative to the second body <NUM>.

In other embodiments, the pinion gear <NUM> is rotationally fixed relative to the first body <NUM> around the pivot point <NUM>. <FIG> is a side view of the hinge <NUM> of <FIG> with a rotationally fixed pinion gear <NUM>. As the first body <NUM> rotates around the pivot point <NUM> of the hinge <NUM> in a first rotational direction <NUM> (e.g., towards an open laptop configuration), the pinion gear <NUM> engages with the rack <NUM> of the second body <NUM> to translate the pinion gear <NUM> and pivot point <NUM> linearly in a first vertical direction <NUM>. Conversely, rotating the first body <NUM> around the pivot point <NUM> in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction <NUM> toward a closed position translates the pivot point <NUM> in a second vertical direction opposite the first vertical direction <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate a hinge <NUM> with a linear (i.e., straight) rack <NUM>. In some embodiments, the hinge has a non-linear rack or an angled rack oriented at a non-vertical direction. <FIG> is a side view of another embodiment of a hinge <NUM> with a displacement mechanism including a pinion gear <NUM> and non-linear rack <NUM>, such as a segment of an annular gear. In embodiments with a pinion gear <NUM> rotationally fixed relative to the first body <NUM>, rotation of the first body <NUM> around the pivot point <NUM> produces non-linear translation of the pivot point <NUM>.

During rotation of the first body <NUM> in the first rotational direction <NUM>, the pinion gear <NUM> engages with the non-linear rack <NUM> and applies a force to move the pivot point <NUM> in both a first vertical direction <NUM> and a first longitudinal direction <NUM>. Conversely, rotating the first body <NUM> around the pivot point <NUM> in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction <NUM> toward a closed position translates the pivot point <NUM> in a second vertical direction opposite the first vertical direction <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a non-linear rack <NUM> allows a center of mass of the first body <NUM> to move in a first longitudinal direction <NUM> when moving the first body <NUM> toward an open position. As the pivot point <NUM> moves along a non-vertical path <NUM>, the pivot point <NUM> moves in a first longitudinal direction <NUM> relative to the second body <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, moving the pivot point <NUM> of the first body <NUM> in a longitudinal direction may move the center of mass of the first body <NUM> closer to the center of mass of the second body <NUM>. For example, an electronic device having a touch-sensitive display (such as the display <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>) supported by the first body <NUM> may be more stable when a user interacts with the touch-sensitive display when the first body <NUM> is positioned closer to the second body <NUM>.

Conversely, when the first body <NUM> is rotated around the pivot point <NUM> in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction, the pivot point <NUM> follows the path <NUM> vertically downward and longitudinal rearward. The first body <NUM> can thereby nest (illustrated in dashed lines) against the second body <NUM>, which may provide additional protection and/or smaller dimensions for the electronic device during transport.

<FIG> is a side view of an embodiment of a hinge <NUM> with an electronically translatable pivot point <NUM>. In some embodiments, the hinge <NUM> includes an actuator <NUM> that moves a hinge support <NUM> in a vertical direction relative to the second body <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may, therefore, move the hinge axis <NUM> and the first body <NUM> a height <NUM> in the vertical direction. In some embodiments, the actuator <NUM> moves the hinge axis <NUM> and first body <NUM> a full height <NUM> in one motion when the first body <NUM> moves past a trigger point or position in the rotation around the hinge axis <NUM>. For example, when the first body <NUM> is rotated at least <NUM>° relative to second body <NUM> in an opening direction from the closed position, the actuator <NUM> may move the hinge axis <NUM> and the first body <NUM> through the full height <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> from a lowest position to a highest position.

In some embodiments, the actuator <NUM> moves the hinge axis <NUM> and first body <NUM> a portion of the full height <NUM> proportionally to the rotational position of the first body <NUM> around the hinge axis <NUM>. For example, when the first body <NUM> is rotated <NUM>° relative to second body <NUM> in an opening direction from the closed position, the actuator <NUM> may move the hinge axis <NUM> and the first body <NUM> to <NUM>% of the full height <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> from a lowest position toward a highest position. When the first body <NUM> is rotated <NUM>° relative to second body <NUM> in an opening direction from the closed position, the actuator <NUM> may move the hinge axis <NUM> and the first body <NUM> to <NUM>% of the full height <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> from a lowest position toward a highest position. When the first body <NUM> is rotated <NUM>° relative to second body <NUM> in an opening direction from the closed position, the actuator <NUM> may move the hinge axis <NUM> and the first body <NUM> to <NUM>% of the full height <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> from a lowest position toward a highest position.

In some embodiments, a translatable hinge axis allows the electronic device to have a slimmer profile when closed in a clamshell position. In some embodiments, the translatable hinge axis allows a display cover of the electronic device to be better protected when closed in a clamshell position.

<FIG>illustrate the range of motion of another embodiment of a hinge <NUM> with a translatable pivot point <NUM>. In some embodiments, an electronic device has a pivot point <NUM> that translates in a vertical direction in relation to the rotation position of the first body <NUM> (e.g., support for a display cover) relative to the second body <NUM> (e.g., the base) when operating in a laptop posture. The electronic device is operating in the laptop posture when a third body <NUM> connected to the first body <NUM> is oriented with a display <NUM> or other inner surface facing the second body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional view of the hinge <NUM> with a translatable pivot point <NUM> in a clamshell configuration. The clamshell configuration positions the translatable pivot point <NUM> at a top end of the pivot point's travel. This supports the first body <NUM> above the second body <NUM> to provide clearance for at least part of the third body <NUM> between the first body <NUM> and the second body <NUM>. The clamshell configuration is a closed position when the electronic device is being used in a conventional laptop posture.

In some embodiments, the hinge <NUM> converts movement in a first rotational direction <NUM> of the first body <NUM> around the pivot point <NUM> into a vertical translation in a first vertical direction <NUM> of the pivot point <NUM> through at least a portion of the rotational range of motion of the hinge <NUM>. In some embodiments, the vertical translation of the pivot point <NUM> is related to the posture of the electronic device. In some embodiments, when the electronic device is used in the laptop posture (e.g., the first body <NUM> and third body <NUM> remain flush to one another and the support hinge between the first body <NUM> and third body <NUM> remains closed with the first body <NUM> and third body <NUM> held at a <NUM>° angle relative to one another), the vertical translation of the pivot point <NUM> has a first range of motion, and, when the electronic device is used in a nested posture (e.g., the first body <NUM> and third body <NUM> are moved apart from one another and the support hinge opens to an angle greater than <NUM>°), the vertical translation of the pivot point <NUM> has a second range of motion. In some embodiments, the vertical translation range of motion is greater in the nested posture than in the laptop posture.

Referring now to <FIG>, the rotational motion of the first body <NUM> around the pivot point <NUM> in a first rotational direction also produces a vertical translation in the position of the pivot point <NUM>. For example, opening the cover of the electronic device (e.g., the first body <NUM> and attached third body <NUM>) causes the pivot point <NUM> to translate downward toward the second body <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, rotating the cover of the electronic device in a second rotational direction <NUM> opposite to the first (e.g., to close the cover) causes an associated opposite vertical motion in a second vertical direction <NUM>, raising the pivot point <NUM> upward relative to the second body <NUM>. Rotating the cover in the second direction to close the cover restores the pivot point <NUM> to the original vertical location shown in <FIG>.

Some embodiments of a hinge according to the present disclosure have a second range of motion when the electronic device is operated in a nested posture. Referring now to <FIG>, the hinge <NUM> may translate the pivot point <NUM> downward relative to the second body <NUM> when the hinge <NUM> is closed but the support hinge is open (e.g., not closed at a <NUM>° angle between the first body <NUM> and third body <NUM> and the bottom edge of the third body is swung away from the first body <NUM>).

<FIG> is a side view of the electronic device of <FIG>. The electronic device exhibits the same vertical translation of the pivot point in the first vertical direction <NUM> toward the second body <NUM> when the cover including the first body <NUM> and third body <NUM> is rotated in the first rotational direction <NUM>. As the cover opens, the pivot point <NUM> lowers through a first portion of the rotational range of motion of the hinge <NUM>. After the first portion of the rotational range of motion of the hinge <NUM>, a user opens the support hinge <NUM> to rotate the third body <NUM> relative to the first body <NUM> and move the electronic device to a nested posture as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, when the support hinge <NUM> is open, the hinge behavior changes and/or reverses.

Referring now to <FIG>, in some embodiments, rotation of the first body <NUM> around the pivot point <NUM> in the second rotational direction <NUM> (i.e., closing the hinge <NUM> with the first body <NUM> rotating toward the second body <NUM>) while in the nested posture causes the pivot point <NUM> to translate further downward in the first vertical direction <NUM> relative to the second body <NUM>. In some embodiments, the pivot point translates upward relative to the second body when the third body is rotated in the first direction (rotated toward the position shown in <FIG>). When the support hinge is closed, the first body and third body may be rotated in the second direction to close the cover to the clamshell configuration and further translate the pivot point upward to the original position shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrate an embodiment of a hinge <NUM> that exhibits the dual mode behavior described in relation to <FIG>. In some embodiments, the hinge <NUM> includes an axle <NUM> that is positioned within and rotatable within a carrier <NUM>. The carrier <NUM> is engaged with an angled guide <NUM> on the frame <NUM> of the hinge <NUM>. In some embodiments, the frame <NUM> of the hinge <NUM> is part of the housing of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the frame <NUM> of the hinge <NUM> is connected to the housing of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the frame <NUM> of the hinge <NUM> is part of the second body <NUM>.

The frame <NUM> has slots <NUM> that allow the axle <NUM> to translate in either the first vertical direction <NUM> or the second vertical direction <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM> based on the vertical position of the carrier <NUM>. The angled guide <NUM> on the frame <NUM> of the hinge <NUM> urges the carrier <NUM> vertically up and down relative to the frame <NUM> when the carrier <NUM> moves left and right in a horizontal direction <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>. It should be understood that descriptions of directions are relative to the perspective and orientation of the hinge. In some embodiments, the angled guide <NUM> is a rail or other protrusion from the frame <NUM> that engages with a notch or other recess in the carrier <NUM>. In some embodiments, the angled guide <NUM> is a groove or other recess in the frame <NUM> that engages with a rail or other protrusion from the carrier <NUM>.

The horizontal position of the carrier <NUM> is related to the rotational position of the axle <NUM> (and therefore the rotational position of the first body <NUM>). In some embodiments, the position of the axle <NUM> and carrier <NUM> are related to one another by a groove <NUM> in the axle <NUM> and a pin <NUM> protruding from the carrier <NUM> and positioned in the groove <NUM>. In some embodiments, the location of the groove <NUM> and the pin <NUM> are reversed with a pin <NUM> protruding from a surface of the axle <NUM> and positioned in a groove <NUM> on an inner surface of the carrier <NUM>. Rotation of the axle <NUM> relative to the carrier <NUM> (and frame <NUM>) around the pivot point <NUM> causes the groove <NUM> and pin <NUM> to interact and urge the carrier <NUM> horizontally relative to the frame <NUM>. As described herein, horizontal movement of the carrier <NUM> is converted into vertical movement of the carrier <NUM> by the angled guide <NUM> between the frame <NUM> and the carrier <NUM>. The vertical movement of the carrier <NUM> moves the axle <NUM> vertically relative to the frame <NUM>. In this way, rotation of the axle <NUM> around the pivot point <NUM> moves the pivot point <NUM> vertically relative to the frame <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the groove <NUM> includes, in some embodiments, at least two channels that provide the dual mode behavior of the hinge. The first channel <NUM> corresponds to the hinge motion in the laptop posture, and the second channel <NUM> corresponds to the hinge motion in the nested posture. In some embodiments, the groove <NUM> has a shared channel <NUM> that allows consistent behavior irrespective of the posture in that portion of the rotation range of motion.

<FIG> is a flat plan view of the groove <NUM> positioned in the surface of the axle. The groove <NUM> has a height <NUM> (in a rotational direction around the axle) and a width <NUM> (in a longitudinal direction of the axle). The rotational position of the axle is related to the position of the pin along the height <NUM> of the groove <NUM>. For example, as the axle rotates in the first direction, the pin <NUM> moves down the height <NUM> of the groove <NUM>. The horizontal position of the carrier (e.g., along a longitudinal direction of the axle) is related to the position of the pin <NUM> along the width <NUM> of the groove <NUM>. For example, as the pin <NUM> moves to the right on the groove <NUM>, the carrier moves downward relative to the frame, due to the angled guide.

In some embodiments, in the clamshell position, the pin <NUM> is positioned a top-left position in the groove <NUM>. Opening the hinge rotates the axle and moves the pin <NUM> downward in the first channel <NUM> of the groove <NUM> toward a junction with the second channel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first channel <NUM> and second channel <NUM> of the groove <NUM> have a split channel height <NUM> that is related to a first rotational range of motion of the hinge before the user can change postures of the electronic device. (<FIG> illustrates the first body <NUM> positioned at least at <NUM>° before the hinge behavior changes in the nested posture. ) In some embodiments, the split channel height <NUM> correlates to first rotational range of motion in a range having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower values including any of <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, or any values therebetween. In some embodiments, the first rotational range of motion is greater than <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the first rotational range of motion is less than <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the first rotational range of motion is about <NUM>°.

The shared channel <NUM> is shown as having no longitudinal dimension throughout the shared channel height <NUM>. The pin <NUM> moves through the shared channel height <NUM> as the axle rotates through a second rotational range of motion. Therefore, the pin <NUM> will not translate horizontally in the shared channel <NUM>, in the illustrated embodiment. Without horizontal translation, the carrier does not move when the pin <NUM> is riding in the shared channel <NUM>, and the pivot point does not translate while the hinge rotates within the second rotational range of motion.

As the axle rotates in the second rotational direction (e.g., closing the hinge of the electronic device), the pin <NUM> moves upward through the height <NUM> of the groove <NUM>. When the hinge is in a rotational position in the shared channel <NUM>, closing the hinge moves the pin <NUM> upward through the shared channel <NUM> toward the junction with the first channel <NUM> and second channel <NUM>. When the pin <NUM> enters into and follows the first channel <NUM>, moving the pin <NUM> upward and to the left through the split channel height <NUM> moves the carrier upward (due to the angled guide) and returns the first body to the clamshell position.

Conversely, when the pin <NUM> enters into and follows the second channel <NUM>, moving the pin <NUM> upward and to the right through the split channel height <NUM> moves the carrier downward (due to the angled guide) and moves the first body to the tablet position. In some embodiments, the hinge has a mechanism that selectively urges the pin <NUM> toward the first channel <NUM> and/or the second channel <NUM>, as will be described in relation to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates an embodiment of a groove <NUM> with symmetrical and linear channels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are longitudinally symmetrical. Symmetrical first and second channels <NUM>, <NUM> of the split channel portion of the groove <NUM> mean that the rate of horizontal translation of the carrier due to rotation of the axle is constant. In some embodiments, the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are asymmetrical with the first channel and second channel <NUM>, <NUM> having different slopes. Asymmetrical first and second channels <NUM>, <NUM> of the split channel portion of the groove <NUM> produce a rate of horizontal translation of the carrier due to rotation of the axle that is different for the laptop posture and the nested posture.

In some embodiments, the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are linear. Symmetrical first and second channels <NUM>, <NUM> of the split channel portion of the groove <NUM> mean that the rate of horizontal translation of the carrier due to rotation of the axle is constant. In some embodiments, the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are asymmetrical with the first channel and second channel <NUM>, <NUM> having different slopes. Asymmetrical first and second channels <NUM>, <NUM> of the split channel portion of the groove <NUM> produce a rate of horizontal translation of the carrier due to rotation of the axle that is different for the laptop posture and the nested posture.

In some embodiments, the angled guide is linear, as shown in <FIG> through <FIG>. In some embodiments, the angled guide is non-linear or curved, resulting in different rates of vertical translation of the carrier as the carrier most horizontally along the angled guide at a constant horizontal rate. In some embodiments, a portion of the angled guide is linear, and a portion of the angled guide is curved.

In some embodiments, the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of groove are linear relative to the rotation of the axle, as shown in <FIG> through <FIG>. In some embodiments, at least one of the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> has a non-linear or curved portion, resulting in different rates of horizontal translation of the carrier as the axle rotates relative to the carrier at a constant rotational rate. In some embodiments, a portion of at least one channels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the groove <NUM> is linear, and another portion of the at least one channel <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the groove <NUM> is curved.

By altering the linearity and the height and width of the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the horizontal movement of the carrier can be adjusted to provide the desired rate of horizontal movement of the carrier in different rotational positions of the hinge. Similarly, by altering the linearity and the height and length of the angled guide <NUM>, the vertical movement of the carrier can be adjusted to provide the desired rate of vertical movement of the carrier in different rotational positions of the hinge. Taken together, altering the size and shape of the groove <NUM> and the angled guide <NUM> can adjust the rate of vertical translation of the pivot point in different rotational positions of the hinge <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates another embodiment of a hinge <NUM> having a carrier <NUM> and angled guide <NUM>. In some embodiments, the hinge <NUM> includes a lock mechanism <NUM> that engages with a protrusion <NUM> of the carrier <NUM> to limit the horizontal movement of the carrier <NUM>. In some embodiments, the lock mechanism <NUM> limits or prevents the pin <NUM> of the carrier <NUM> entering the second channel <NUM> of the groove <NUM>. Therefore, the lock mechanism <NUM> prevents the pivot point <NUM> of the hinge <NUM> translating below the intermediate vertical position dictated by the shared channel. For example, when the lock mechanism <NUM> is engaged, the hinge <NUM> operates as described in relation to <FIG>. As the axle <NUM> rotates relative to the carrier <NUM>, the pin <NUM> of the carrier <NUM> tracks between the first channel <NUM> and the shared channel.

In some embodiments, the lock mechanism <NUM> is held in the engaged position shown in <FIG> by a first magnet <NUM> affixed to the third body <NUM>. The first magnet <NUM> applies a magnetic attraction force to a second magnet <NUM> or magnetic material on the lock mechanism <NUM>. The magnetic attraction force will maintain the lock mechanism <NUM> in the engaged position until the third body <NUM> is rotated relative to the first body <NUM> and away from the hinge <NUM> to enter a nested posture, as described in relation to <FIG>. In some embodiments, the lock mechanism <NUM> experiences a magnetic force from another magnet, such as a selectively activated electromagnetic in the hinge <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the lock mechanism <NUM> is moved and/or engaged by an electronic actuator. For example, the lock mechanism <NUM> may be moved between and engaged position and a disengaged position by an actuator that rotates the lock mechanism <NUM> away from the protrusion <NUM> of the carrier <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, and/or a linear actuator that translates the lock mechanism <NUM> away from the protrusion <NUM> of the carrier <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the lock mechanism <NUM> is moved and/or engaged by a cam mechanism in contact with the lock mechanism <NUM>. In some embodiments, the cam mechanism is associated with and/or driven by rotation of the first body around the support hinge of the electronic device. For example, rotation of the third body relative to the first body around the support hinge may move a wire or belt in the third body that connects an axle of the support hinge to a cam contacting the lock mechanism <NUM>. The cam may contact and apply a force to the lock mechanism <NUM> to rotate and/or translate the lock mechanism <NUM> away from the protrusion <NUM> of the carrier <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the embodiment of the hinge <NUM> described in relation to <FIG> with the third body moved away from the hinge <NUM> and the lock mechanism <NUM> disengaged. In some embodiments, with the lock mechanism <NUM> disengaged and moved away from the protrusion <NUM> in the carrier <NUM>, the carrier <NUM> is free to horizontally move to the right and vertically downward along the angled guide <NUM> in response to the pin <NUM> tracking in the second channel <NUM>. Therefore, with the lock mechanism <NUM> disengaged, the pivot point <NUM> of the hinge <NUM> is free to move further downward vertically.

In at least some embodiments, a hinge system for providing vertical translation of a pivot point are described according to the following sections:.

The articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements in the preceding descriptions. For example, any element described in relation to an embodiment herein may be combinable with any element of any other embodiment described herein. Numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values stated herein are intended to include that value, and also other values that are "about" or "approximately" the stated value, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art encompassed by embodiments of the present disclosure. A stated value should therefore be interpreted broadly enough to encompass values that are at least close enough to the stated value to perform a desired function or achieve a desired result. The stated values include at least the variation to be expected in a suitable manufacturing or production process, and may include values that are within <NUM>%, within <NUM>%, within <NUM>%, or within <NUM>% of a stated value.

Claim 1:
A hinge system (<NUM>) for electronic devices, the hinge system comprising:
a first body (<NUM>);
a second body (<NUM>) rotatably connected to the first body around a first pivot point (<NUM>), the second body having a top surface and bottom surface positioned opposite one another in a vertical direction of the second body; and
a translation mechanism (<NUM>) connected to the second body and the first pivot point, the translation mechanism displacing the first pivot point relative to the second body, characterized in that the translation mechanism includes a pinion gear (<NUM>) that engages with a segment of an annular gear (<NUM>) and applies a force to move the pivot point (<NUM>) in both a vertical direction (<NUM>) and a longitudinal direction (<NUM>) when the pinion gear rotates relative to the second body.