Patent ID: 12210393

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments, as defined by the appended claims.

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to an electronic device, such as a laptop computer, including a display portion rotatably attached or mounted to a base portion. The display portion can include a display housing that includes an enclosure which at least partially defines an internal volume and an exterior surface of the display portion. The display housing can also include a trim that can be positioned in a channel defined by the enclosure and that can define an orifice and a portion of the exterior surface of the display portion. A backlight component defining a notch can be positioned in the internal volume, and a camera module can also be positioned in the internal volume adjacent to the backlight component at the notch. A display cell can be positioned at the orifice in contact with the trim and over the backlight component and the camera module. The display cell can be secured to the enclosure, for example, with a reworkable adhesive. The trim can act as a datum and can fix the position of the display cell in one or more directions, such as in a direction normal to the orifice.

The architecture and components of the electronic devices, including display portions, described herein, can allow for configurations of an electronic device that can maximize the active area of a display or display cell in a display portion, while still providing visual access to one or more components of the device that may need to be positioned at the display portion facing a user in order to achieved desired levels of functionality. In traditional electronic device configurations, such as with traditionally designed laptops that include a user-facing camera, the display portion can include a relatively large region or bezel above the active area of the display cell that can extend across an entire width of the display portion to house the camera. Additionally, traditional laptop display portion designs can include relatively large bezels around most or all of the periphery of the display cell to hide components for mounting the display cell the display portion housing, for example, components that can fix the position of the display cell in one or more directions relative to the display housing.

Further, the need to transfer relatively large amounts of data and signals from the display cell to one or more controller in the base portion of a traditionally designed laptop can require relatively large and numerous electrical connectors to pass between the display portion and the base portion. The inability to pass fixtures or other components through these flexible connectors can mean that the bezel region at the bottom of the display portion adjacent to the display cell may need to be undesirably large.

In contrast, the components, features, and configurations described herein can allow for display portion designs that maximize the user-facing active area of the display, while minimizing or even eliminating the bezels adjacent to the display cell and maintaining the same or even improving levels of display performance. For example, the display portions described herein can have relatively small or even no bezel area around at least two edges or sides of a display cell, with a relatively small bezel or chin disposed along a bottom edge of the display cell. In some examples, the display portion can include one or more user-facing components, such as a camera and ambient light sensor, that can be positioned at an edge of the display, but that may not require a bezel or inactive region that extends across an entire dimension of the display.

In some examples, an electronic device including two portions that are moveable relative to one another can have an open position and a closed position. The electronic device can be designed to occupy space above a support surface with an edge of a display portion when in an open position. The electronic device can be considered to be in an open position when the display portion is rotated or moved away from a base portion, such that the display portion is no longer substantially parallel with the base portion, or contacting the base portion at locations other than the location or locations of attachment.

In the description herein, the terms “first portion,” “display portion,” and “upper portion” can refer to a lid portion of a computing device. Generally, a lid portion of a computing device is configured to be in a substantially upright position for a user to view a display housed in the lid portion while the device is being operated. In some examples, however, the lid portion can assume any desired position relative to the base portion. In the description below, the terms “second portion,” “main housing,” “base portion,” and “lower portion” can refer to a base of a computing device that can be moveably affixed to the lid portion, and that generally includes connections to input components for user interaction with the computing device.

These and other examples are discussed below with reference toFIGS.1-7C. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only, and should not be construed as limiting.

FIG.1shows a front-facing perspective view of an electronic device100. The electronic device100can be a laptop computer or a notebook computer, but this is merely one representative example of a device according to the present disclosure. The electronic device100can, for example, correspond to a portable media player, a media storage device, a portable digital assistant (“PDA”), a tablet computer, a computer, a mobile communication device, a GPS unit, a remote control device, and other similar electronic devices. The electronic device100can be referred to as an electronic device, or a consumer device. The electronic device100can include a housing having a base portion104, which can be moveably, pivotally, or rotatably connected or affixed to a display portion102, for example, by way of a hinge assembly103. The display portion102and the base portion104can be referred to as different sections or portions of a single housing of the electronic device100. The display portion102can pivot or otherwise move with respect to the base portion104from a closed position to an open position, and back again with the aid of the hinge assembly103. Although illustrated as being pivotally attached to the base portion104, in some examples, the display portion102can move in any manner desired relative to the base portion104. For example, the display portion102can laterally slide relative to the base portion104. In some examples, the display portion102can move in any combination of directions relative to the base portion104. For example, the display portion102can be rotated relative to the base portion104, and/or can slide laterally relative to the base portion104.

In the closed position, the display portion102can be positioned substantially on top of or over at least a portion of a top surface114of the base portion104. In some examples, the display portion102can directly contact the top surface114of the base portion104. In some examples, the display portion102can be substantially parallel to the top surface114of the base portion104when in the closed position. In the open position, the display portion102can be positioned at an angle relative to the top surface114of the base portion, for example, generally perpendicular to the top surface114of the base portion104. In some examples, in an open position, the display portion102and the base portion104can form a generally obtuse angle. In some examples, the electronic device100can still be considered to be in an open position when an angle of less than 90 degrees is formed between the display portion102and the base portion104.

In some examples, the base portion104can include various user input devices such as a keyboard118and a touchpad120, which can, for example, receive touch or other finger gesturing input from a user. In some examples, one or more of the input components118,120can at least partially define the top surface114, and can at least partially be positioned in an aperture or apertures defined by the base portion104. The base portion104and the display portion102can each define internal volumes, chambers, or cavities that house internal components of the electronic device100. The display portion102can further define an aperture or an opening, and can include a display108disposed therein. In some examples, the display portion102can include a rear housing or a rear cover110that can be disposed opposite the aperture and/or the display108. Thus, the display portion102and the base portion104can function as housings for internal components.

The display108can be any form of display, component, or device used to display visual content to a user. For example, the display108can be an LED display, an OLED display, an LCD display, or the like. In some examples, the display108can be any form of display now known in the art, or as may be developed in the future. In some examples, the display108can be a touch screen display, or can have touch detecting capabilities. In some examples, however, the electronic device can be capable of detecting a user's touch, and/or a position of an appendage of the user, by components other than the display108. In some examples, the display portion102can also include one or more user-facing components, such as a camera module112, that can be disposed at a notch defined by one or more components of the display108. Further details of the electronic device100are provided below with reference toFIGS.2A-2E.

FIG.2Aillustrates a front view of a display portion202of an electronic device. The electronic device can be substantially similar to, and can include, some or all of the features of any of the electronic devices described herein, such as electronic device100. In some examples the display portion202can include a display housing210that can at least partially define an internal volume and a display208that can be at least be partially disposed in the internal volume and affixed or secured to the display housing210. The display housing210can further include a trim209that can at least partially define an orifice and at least a portion of the exterior surface of the display portion202. The display208can be positioned at the orifice and in contact with the trim209, as described further herein.

The display housing210can also include a front wall211, otherwise referred to as a chin, that can be adjacent to the orifice and an edge of the display208. In some examples, the portion of the exterior surface defined by the front wall211can be substantially parallel to, flush, co-planar and/or aligned with the portion of the exterior surface defined by the display208. As can be seen, the active portion of the display208can make up a large majority of the user-facing surface of the display portion202, with the display portion202having relatively thin or small bezels extending around the display208, except along the edge of the display208adjacent to the front wall211. Further, the display208, or a portion thereof, can define an indentation, notch, or other feature232and one or more components or modules can be disposed or positioned at the notch232. For example, a camera module212can be positioned at the notch232. This geometry, with the active area of the display208or a component thereof at least partially surrounding a module or component, such as camera module212, can allow for the maximization of active display area while still providing room for components or modules that may need to be positioned at a user-facing surface of the display portion202.

In some examples, and as described further herein, the camera module212can include any number of components. These components can, in some examples, be positioned at a user-facing surface to achieve desired levels of functionality. For example, the camera module212can include a camera component222, a camera indicator light223, and a sensor221, such as an ambient light sensing component. Further details of the construction and architecture of the display portion202are provided below with reference toFIG.2B

FIG.2Billustrates an exploded view of the display portion202, showing the display housing210, the trim209, a backlight component230, and a display cell240. In some examples, the backlight component or components230and the display cell240can together be considered a display208. As can be seen, the display housing210can define a front wall211, and can at least partially define an internal volume213. In some examples, the display housing can include a metallic material, such as titanium, stainless steel, and/or aluminum or alloys thereof. In some examples, the display housing210can be a substantially unitary or singular component. In some examples, however, the display housing210can include multiple components that can be joined or otherwise secured together to form the display housing210. The display housing210can also be referred to as an enclosure or display enclosure, and can include sidewalls that can at least partially define the display internal volume213. In some examples, the sidewalls can further define a channel214that can at least partially surround the display internal volume213.

In some examples, and as described herein, a backlight component230can be at least partially disposed in the display internal volume213. The backlight component230can define a notch232that can be positioned along an edge of the backlight component230. In some examples, a camera module212can be at least partially disposed in the display internal volume213and positioned at the notch232. The backlight component230can also define other features, for example, that can aid in the mounting or positioning of the backlight component230with respect to one or more other components, such as the display housing210. For example, the backlight component230can define one or more apertures234that can meet with or receive features, such as posts (not shown) that are affixed to the display housing210.

In some examples, the display housing210can further include a trim or a trim component209. The trim209can at least partially define an orifice and a portion of the exterior surface of the display portion202. In some examples, the trim209can be disposed in the channel214and can at least partially surround the display internal volume213. The display portion202can further include a display cell240that can be positioned at the orifice at least partially defined by the trim209. The display cell240can be secured to the display housing210. In some examples, the display cell240can be in contact with the trim209. In some examples, the display cell240can include a liquid crystal display (LCD) cell, although any form of display cell can be used as desired, such as an LED display cell, an OLED display cell, a plasma display cell, a quantum dot display cell, and other display cells or combinations thereof. Further details of the construction and architecture of the display portion202are provided below with reference toFIG.2C.

FIG.2Cshows a cross-sectional view of a region of the display portion202shown inFIG.2A. As described with respect toFIG.2B, the display portion202can include a display housing210that can at least partially define a display internal volume213with a backlight component230disposed in the display internal volume213. In some examples, the backlight component230can be secured or affixed to the display housing210, such as a back wall of the display housing210, by an adhesive239. Further, as shown, the backlight component230can include or be formed of multiple layers or components, such as a light emitting component236, for example a light emitting diode (LED or micro-LED array). The backlight component230can also include one or more layers or components to enhance the light emitting capabilities or spectrum of the light emitting component236, such as one or more fluorescent, phosphorescent, and/or polarizing layers237. The back light component230can also include one or more diffusing layers238.

As described herein, the display housing210, for example a sidewall portion thereof, can define a channel214. In some examples, a trim209can be disposed in the channel214and can be secured or affixed to the display housing210by an adhesive215, or any other technique. The trim209can include a portion that extends beyond the exterior surface defined by the display housing210. In some examples, the trim209can have a stepped or tiered geometry defining multiple surfaces that can be offset relative to another. For example, as shown, the trim209can define a visible surface that forms a portion of the exterior surface of the display portion202, and a mounting surface that can be substantially parallel to and offset from the visible surface. In some examples, the display cell240can be in contact with the mounting surface of the trim209.

In some examples, the adhesive215and/or any of the other adhesives described herein, such as adhesive243described below, can include a reworkable adhesive. In some examples, this adhesive215can be a reworkable pressure sensitive adhesive, such as a reactive hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive. Further, the adhesive215can be applied as a single component material in a warm or heated state, whereupon it can subsequently cool and/or react with ambient moisture to fix the trim209to the housing210. In some examples, the adhesive215can include a polymer or polymers capable of one or more forms of cross-linking, and in a cooled state can include a cross-linked urethane polymer network. In some examples, the adhesive215can include polyurethane. The adhesive215can adhere to the materials of the trim209and housing210, including metals such as aluminum or stainless steel, ceramics such as glass, and plastics.

In some examples, the display cell240can be positioned at the orifice at least partially defined by the trim209and can be secured to the display housing210, for example, with an adhesive243. In some examples, the adhesive243can be in the form of a bead of adhesive material and can be positioned substantially entirely around a perimeter of the internal volume213and/or display cell240. In some example, however, the adhesive243can be positioned at one or more locations around a periphery or edge region of the display cell240. The display cell240can overlie and at least partially define the display internal volume213. In some examples, the display cell240can include multiple components or layers. For example, the display cell240can include a display layer242, such as an LCD or other display layer242, and a transparent cover241. The transparent cover241can define an exterior surface of the display cell240, and thus, a portion of the exterior surface of the display portion202. In some examples, the transparent cover can include any substantially transparent material or materials, such as plastic, glass, ceramic materials, or combinations thereof.

In some examples, the display cell240can be in contact with the mounting surface of the trim209. In some examples, this portion of the trim209can serve to fix a position of the display cell240, for example, during manufacturing of the display portion202. In some examples, the adhesive243can be dispensed onto the display housing210in a bead, and the position of the display cell240can be fixed along an axis substantially perpendicular or normal to the orifice defined by the trim209and/or the mounting surface itself. In this way, the position of the display cell240along this axis can be controlled without the need for additional components or manufacturing processes, allowing for a display portion202having thin bezels around multiple sides or edges of the display cell240. In some examples, the adhesive243can be a reworkable adhesive, such as a releasable adhesive or stretch releasable adhesive. Further, in some examples, the display housing or enclosure210can define one or more access points, such as apertures, slots, or orifices, where the adhesive243can be in communication with the ambient environment. These access points can allow for access to the adhesive from the ambient environment to physically stretch, pull, or otherwise remove the adhesive to release the display cell240from the housing210.

In some examples, the adhesive243can have a thickness of about 50 microns to about 1000 microns when the display cell240is affixed thereto. In some examples, the adhesive243can have a thickness of about 100 microns to about 500 microns, or about 150 microns to about 250 microns, for example about 250 microns. In some examples, the adhesive243can include polyurethane. In some examples, the adhesive243can have a hardness of between about 50 and 100 durometer, for example about 75 durometer.

In some examples, the trim209can have a width W1of between about 0.25 millimeters (mm) and about 10 mm, between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm, or between about mm and about 2.5 mm, for example about 1 mm. In some examples, the mounting surface of the trim209can have a width W2that can be between about one quarter and about three quarters of the width W1. In some examples, the width W2can be between about 0.1 mm and about 1 mm, for example about 0.5 mm. In some examples, the display cell240can contact substantially the entire width W2of the mounting surface. In some examples, however, the display cell240may only contact a portion of the mounting surface and there can be a gap between an edge of the display cell240and a wall or protrusion of the trim209adjacent to the mounting surface. In some examples, the gap can have a width W3between about 0 mm and about 0.5 mm, or between about 0.1 mm and about 0.3 mm. In some examples, the width W3can be about 0.2 mm.

FIG.2Dshows a cross-sectional view of an alternative configuration of the region of the display portion202shown inFIG.2A. In some examples, one or more additional components, such as the component244can be used to fix, or assist in fixing, the position of the display cell240, for example, during manufacturing of the display portion202. As described with respect toFIG.2C, and in some examples, the adhesive243can be dispensed onto the display housing210in a bead, and the position of the display cell240can be fixed along an axis substantially perpendicular or normal to the orifice defined by the trim209and/or the mounting surface itself by the component244, the trim209, or a combination of the component244and trim209. Thus, in some examples, the position of the display cell240can be fixed by the component244and may not be fixed by the trim209. In some examples, the display cell240may not contact the trim209. In some examples, however, the display cell240may contact the trim209but may not be fixed in position by the trim209. Thus, in some examples, the component244can act as a shim between a surface of the display cell240and a surface of the enclosure210to fix the position, or assist in fixing the position of the display cell240in at least one direction, and thereby, also fix a thickness of the adhesive layer243.

FIG.2Eshows a cross-sectional view of an alternative configuration of the region of the display portion202shown inFIG.2A. In some examples, a portion245of the housing210can be used to fix, or assist in fixing, the position of the display cell240, for example, during manufacturing of the display portion202. That is, the portion245of the housing210can serve to act as a datum for the display cell240. As described with respect toFIG.2C, and in some examples, an adhesive243can be dispensed onto the display housing210in a bead, and the position of the display cell240can be fixed along an axis substantially perpendicular or normal to the orifice defined by the trim209and/or the mounting surface itself by the portion245, the trim209, or a combination of the portion245and trim209. Thus, in some examples, the position of the display cell240can be fixed by the portion245and may not be fixed by the trim209. In some examples, the display cell240may not contact the trim209. In some examples, however, the display cell240can contact the trim209but may not be fixed in position by the trim209. Thus, in some examples, the portion245can act as a shim or datum between a surface of the display cell240and a surface of the enclosure210to fix the position, or assist in fixing the position of the display cell240in at least one direction, and thereby, also fix a thickness of the adhesive layer243.

In some examples, the portion245of the housing210can include an integrally formed protrusion, rim, ridge, or other feature of the housing210. In some examples, the portion245can be formed by machining or by performing any subtractive manufacturing process on the housing210at one or more desired locations. In some examples, the portion245can be formed on the housing210by an additive manufacturing process, and/or can be adhered, welded, brazed, or otherwise attached to the housing210at a desired location.

FIG.2Fshows a cross-sectional view of a region of the display portion202shown inFIG.2Aduring a manufacturing or assembly process. In this example, a component, such as a fixture250, can be used to fix, or assist in fixing the position of the display cell240during manufacturing of the display portion202. In some examples, the fixture250can be secured to a surface of the display cell240, for example, a top surface thereof. In some examples, the fixture250can be removably secured to the display cell240by any known technique, such as with a removeable adhesive, or with a suction device or a vacuum. The fixture250can include a protrusion that is designed to abut a desired surface of the display portion202, such as a surface of the enclosure210when the display cell240is in a desired position. In some examples, the fixture250can maintain the display cell240in this desired position while adhesive243that has been disposed onto the display housing210in a bead is allowed to cure, harden, or solidify. Once the adhesive243has cured or solidified so that the position of the display cell240in at least one direction is fixed, the fixture250can be removed from the display cell240.

Although one particular fixture250is shown inFIG.2F, in some examples, the fixture250can have any form or shape as desired. In some examples, multiple fixtures250can be used to fix or assist in fixing the position of the display cell240with respect to the display housing210. Additionally, the methods and components used to fix the position of the display cell240in one or more directions, such as the fixture250, portion245, component244, and/or trim209can be used in any combination as desired.

Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding engagement and retention features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of embodiments in any combination. Various embodiments of electronic devices including components having various features in various arrangements are described below, with reference toFIGS.3A-4B.

FIG.3Ashows a front view of a display portion302of an electronic device. The display portion302can be substantially similar to and can include some or all of the features of the display portions described herein, such as display portion202. As with the display portion202, the display portion302can include a display housing or enclosure310that at least partially defines an internal volume and an orifice or aperture. In some examples, this orifice or aperture can be at least partially defined by a trim component, as described herein. The display portion302can further include a backlight component330that is at least partially positioned in the internal volume. In the example illustrated inFIG.3A, the display cell, which can overlie the backlight component330at the orifice as described herein, is not shown for illustrative purposes. The display housing310can include a front wall311that can define a front surface that can be flush, in line, co-planar, or parallel with an exterior surface defined by a display cell (not shown). In some examples, the front wall311can be unitary or integral with the other portions of the display housing310. In some examples, however, the front wall311can include a separate component that is joined to the display housing310. In some examples, the front wall311can include any desired material, and can include a composite material, such as a first material embedded in a matrix of a second, different material. In some examples, the front can include a ceramic-polymer composite material. The display portion302can also include one or more flexible electronic connectors352,354that can be electrically connected to one or more components of the display portion302, for example, electronic components that can be positioned in the internal volume behind the front wall311, as described herein. Further details of the construction and architecture of the display portion302are provided below with reference toFIG.3B-3C.

FIG.3Bshows a front view of a region of the display portion302illustrated inFIG.3A. Specifically,FIG.3Bshows a close-up of a top left corner of the display portion302. In some examples, however, the features described with respect to the region illustrated inFIG.3Bcan be positioned at any location or variety of locations on the display housing310. As described herein, the display housing310can include a sidewall that can extend at least partially around the internal volume defined by the display housing310. In some examples, the sidewall of the display housing310can define one or more cavities361,363located along or adjacent to a first edge of the backlight component330. The display housing310can further define additional cavities, such as cavities365and367that are positioned along or adjacent to one or more other edges of the backlight component330. Although the cavities361,363,365, and367are illustrated as having a relatively oblong or extended shape, in some examples, a cavity can have substantially any desired shape.

FIG.3Cshows a perspective cross-sectional view of the region of the display portion302shown inFIG.3B. As with display portion202, the display portion302can include a display housing310, a backlight component330disposed in an internal volume defined by the display housing310, a trim309that at least partially defines an external surface of the display portion302and a mounting surface, and a display cell340in contact with the mounting surface of trim309and secured to the display housing or enclosure310. The cavity361defined by the display housing310can be located below at least a portion of the trim309and/or the channel defined by the display housing310in which the trim309is disposed. In some examples, the cavity361can be positioned or located directly under the trim309such that the trim309can completely obscure or occlude an aperture or orifice leading into the cavity361.

In some examples, a magnet or magnetic component362can be disposed in the cavity361. In some examples, additional magnets or magnetic components can be disposed in any other cavities defined by the display housing310, such as those shown inFIG.3B. In some examples, magnet362can be a permanent magnet, such as a bonded or sintered magnet. In some examples, the magnet362can be an electromagnet. In some examples, a top surface of the magnet362can be substantially flush, co-planar, or in-line with a bottom surface of the channel defined by the display housing310. In some examples, the magnet362can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the cavity361such that the magnet fills substantially the entire cavity361. In some examples, however, the magnet362can have substantially any desired shape and additional material or components can fill the remainder of the cavity361. The magnet362can be secured in the cavity361by any desired technique, such as by an adhesive, by a retention member, or by the trim309. Additionally, in some examples, an adhesive315can be disposed over the cavity361and magnet362to secure the trim309to the display housing310. The magnets, such as magnet362, can interact with a corresponding magnet, magnetic material, or component located in a base portion of the electronic device. In some examples, the magnet362can provide a securing force for the display portion302against the base portion when the electronic device is in a closed configuration. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnetic field generated by magnets, such as magnet362, can be detected by one or more sensors in a base portion to provide information regarding the location of the display portion302relative to the base portion. In some examples, one or more magnets, such as magnet362, can include a Halbach array.

FIG.3Dshows a perspective cross-sectional view of an alternative configuration of the region of the display portion302shown inFIG.3B. As with display portion202, the display portion302can include a display housing310, a backlight component330disposed in an internal volume defined by the display housing310, a trim309that at least partially defines an external surface of the display portion302and a mounting surface, and a display cell340in contact with the mounting surface of trim309and secured to the display housing or enclosure310. The cavity361defined by the display housing310can be located below at least a portion of the trim309and/or the channel defined by the display housing310in which the trim309is disposed. In some examples, the cavity361can be positioned or located directly under the trim309such that the trim309can completely obscure or occlude an aperture or orifice leading into the cavity361.

As with the magnetic component362described with respect toFIG.3C, the magnetic component362shown inFIG.3Dcan be disposed in the cavity361and beneath the trim309. In some examples, the magnetic component362can be secured to one or more surfaces of the housing310that define the cavity by an adhesive364. In some examples, the magnet362can be as wide as, or wider than, a width of the trim309. In some examples, the magnet362can be positioned such that a region of the magnet362can extend past one or more edges of the trim309. Further, in some examples, the magnet362can include a protrusion or protruding portion366that can be positioned near or adjacent to the trim309. This protrusion366can serve to increase the volume of magnetic material, thereby increasing the total force exerted by the magnet362, and can also serve to assist in aligning or positioning the trim309thereover. Further details of the construction, architecture, and components of the display portion302are provided below with reference toFIG.3E

FIG.3Eshows a perspective view of a region of the display portion302illustrated inFIG.3A, although the display cell is not shown. The region shown inFIG.3Ecan be referred to as a camera region or a notch region. In some examples, a camera module320can be positioned at the notch region of the display portion. In this particular example, the display cell340and backlight component330have been omitted for simplicity.

In some examples, the camera module320can include a camera component322, a camera indicator light323that can provide a visual indication of when the camera component322is in use, and one or more sensors, such as an ambient light sensor321. The ambient light sensor321can provide information to the camera component322or a processor controlling the camera component322, such as through an electrical connector331that is electrically coupled to one or more other components of the device300. For example, this information can allow a processor to adjust the exposure levels of the camera component322to obtain a desired image quality. The ambient light sensor321can also provide information that can be used, for example, by a processor, to automatically adjust the brightness of the backlight component330, based on ambient lighting conditions, to achieve a desired level of image quality.

In some examples, one or more posts335,337can be positioned adjacent or nearer to the camera module320in the notch region. In some examples, the posts335,337can be integral with, affixed to, or otherwise secured to the display housing310. As described further with respect toFIG.3F, the posts can aid in securing or fixing one or more display components, such as the backlight component330, in one or more directions.

The camera module320can include an enclosure324that can at least partially define a camera volume that can contain various components of the camera module320, such as the light sensor321, the camera component322, and/or the camera indicator light323. In some examples, and as described herein, the enclosure324can define one or more apertures or openings that are aligned with the components of the camera module, such as the light sensor321, the camera component322, and/or the camera indicator light323. In some examples, the enclosure324can include one or more protruding portions325,326. In some examples, a protruding portion325,326can define one or more apertures or openings, as shown. Although the present example includes two protruding portions325,326positioned near corners of the enclosure324, the protruding portions325,326can be positioned at any location or locations extending along some or all of a periphery of the enclosure324. In some examples, the device300can also include one or more alignment components338,339. In some examples, one or more alignment components338,339can be secured, fastened, adhered, integrated with, or otherwise attached to the display portion housing310, as shown. In some examples, the openings defined by the protruding portions325,326, can be aligned with posts or other features extending from the alignment components338,339, so that these features can pass through the openings and fix the position of the enclosure324in one or more directions relative to the display portions housing310. In some examples, the alignment components338,339can be secured or affixed to the enclosure324, for example, by an adhesive, by welding, or mechanically, such as with a threaded engagement or a press-fit engagement.

Referring now toFIG.3F, which includes the backlight component330, in some examples, a bracket328can be positioned over the camera module. In some examples, the bracket328can include a sheet of material, such as a sheet of metal, plastic, ceramic, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the bracket328can include a sheet of steel or aluminum. The bracket328can serve to protect the camera module320and further to aid in securing the camera module320in a desired location. In some examples, the bracket328can define one or more apertures or orifices that can be aligned with the components of the camera module320, such as components321,322,323, to provide visual access to the components321,322,323, as desired. The top surface of the bracket328can be positioned below a mounting surface of a trim309. In some examples, however, the top surface of the bracket328can be positioned above the mounting surface of the trim309, and the display cell340can include a recessed region or cavity, for example, a cavity defined by a bottom layer thereof, sized and positioned to correspond to the bracket328.

As described herein, the backlight component330can define a notch, cutout, indentation, or recess332that can be positioned along an edge of the backlight component330. In some examples, the notch or recess332can have substantially any desired shape, and can be rectangular, circular, triangular, or combinations thereof. For example, as shown, the notch can have a substantially trapezoidal shape. A camera module320can be positioned at the notch332in the internal volume defined by the display housing310. The camera module320can have a shape corresponding to a shape of the notch332. In some examples, the top surface of the camera module320can be substantially level, co-planar, or flush with the top surface of the backlight component330. Although the notch or cutout322is depicted as being positioned along an edge of the backlight component330and/or display cell340in this particular example, it should be understood that in some examples, the cutout, notch, or recess322can be positioned at any desired location with respect to the backlight component330and/or the display cell340. For example, the cutout332can be at least partially, or even entirely, surrounded by active areas of the backlight component330and/or display cell340. That is, the backlight component330and/or display cell340can define an opening, aperture, and/or inactive area that is surrounded by an active area of the backlight component330and/or display cell340, and the camera module320can be positioned at this opening, aperture, and/or inactive area. In some examples, the camera module320can include a number of components that utilize visual access to the ambient environment and/or visibility by a user to achieve desired levels of functionality. Accordingly, the location of the camera module320at the notch332can allow for the maximization of the active area of the backlight component330and any overlying display cell, while still providing visual access for the camera module320.

In some examples, the backlight component330can define an active area or a light-emitting area. An active area or a light emitting area is an area of the backlight component330that actively produces or emits light which can be visible through an overlying display cell. In some examples, the backlight component330can define one or more apertures334,336that can be at least partially surrounded by the active area of the backlight component330. The apertures334,336can have substantially any desired shape, such as a circular shape, rectangular shape, triangular shape, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the apertures334,336can have a non-circular shape. For example, the apertures334,336can have a substantially oblong or extended shape as shown, including a rectangular central portion with semicircular end portions. In some examples, a first post335can be disposed in the first aperture334, and a second post337can be disposed in the second aperture336. In some examples, posts335,337can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the apertures334,336. The one or more posts335,337can be integral with, affixed to, or otherwise secured to the display housing310. As the posts335,337extend through the apertures334,336, the posts335,337can secure or fix the backlight component330in one or more directions. For example, the posts335,337can fix or position the backlight component330in one or more directions perpendicular or normal to the direction that the posts extend from the back wall of the display housing310. Additionally, the posts335,337can prevent rotational movement of the backlight component330about an axis parallel to the direction that the posts335,337extend from the back wall of the display housing310.

In some examples, the first aperture334and the first post335can be positioned adjacent to a first side of the notch332, and the second aperture336and the second post337can be positioned adjacent to a second side of the notch332opposite the first side. In some examples, the apertures334,336can be positioned a substantially same or similar distance from the notch332or an edge thereof. For example, the apertures334,336can be positioned between about 1 mm and about 20 mm from an edge of the notch, such as about 5 mm. A post, such as post335, can have any desired dimensions. In some examples, a post335can have a width of between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm, or between about 0.5 mm and about 2 mm, for example about 1 mm. In some examples, a post335can have a length of between about 0.5 mm and about 10 mm, or between about 1 mm and about 5 mm, for example about 3 mm. Although the present example illustrates two posts335,337disposed in two corresponding apertures334,336, in some examples, the backlight component330can define any number of apertures at any number of locations, and the display housing310can include any number of corresponding posts disposed thereon.

Further, a bracket328can be positioned over the camera module and can extend over at least some of the active area of the backlight component330. In some examples, the bracket328can include a sheet of material, such as a sheet of metal, plastic, ceramic, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the bracket328can include a sheet of steel or aluminum. In some examples, the bracket328can at least partially extend over the apertures334,336and posts335,337. The bracket328can serve to protect the camera module320and further to aid in securing the camera module320in a desired location. In some examples, the bracket328can define one or more apertures or orifices that can be aligned with the components of the camera module320, such as components321,322,323, to provide visual access to the components321,322,323, as desired. The top surface of the bracket328can be positioned below a mounting surface of a trim309. In some examples, however, the top surface of the bracket328can be positioned above the mounting surface of the trim309and the display cell340can include a recessed region or cavity, for example, a cavity defined by a bottom layer thereof, sized and positioned to correspond to the bracket328. Further details of the construction and architecture of a camera module are provided below with reference toFIG.4A.

FIG.4Ashows a cross-sectional view of a camera module420disposed in a display portion of an electronic device, for example, a display portion substantially similar to and including some or all of the features of the display portion302. The camera module420can also be substantially similar to and can include some or all of the features of the camera modules described herein, such as camera module320.

In some examples, the camera module420can include a stiffener or base490. The base490can include any desired material or materials. In some examples, the base490can include plastic, metal, ceramic, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the base490can include a metallic material, such as steel or aluminum. The base490can be secured to a back wall of a display housing410at a desired location, for example, as shown inFIGS.3A and3D, with adhesives481,482. One or more electrical connectors, for example, flexible electrical connectors428,429can be disposed on and secured to the base490. In some examples, at least one of the flexible electronic connectors428,429can be adjacent to an edge of the base490. In some examples, one flexible electronic connector428can be adjacent to an edge of the base490and a second flexible electronic connector429may not be directly adjacent to an edge of the base490.

In some examples, the camera module420can further include an enclosure470which can also be referred to as a camera enclosure470. The camera enclosure470can be positioned over the base490and, along with the base, can at least partially define a camera volume471. In some examples, the camera enclosure470can include a first sidewall472that can be secured to the flexible electronic connector428. The sidewall472can be secured or fixed to the flexible electronic connector428by any desired technique, such as with an adhesive. In some examples, the sidewall472may not directly contact the base490and can be secured to the base490through its securement or fixture to the flexible electronic connector. In some examples, the camera enclosure470can further include a second sidewall473that can be positioned opposite the first sidewall472. In some examples, the second sidewall473can be secured to the base490by any desired technique, such as with an adhesive. In some examples, the sidewall473can be secured to the base490at a location adjacent to the flexible electronic connector429. In some examples, the sidewall473can be secured to the base490at a location such that at least some of the flexible electronic connector429is disposed in the camera volume471defined by the enclosure470.

The camera module420can be disposed in the internal volume defined by the display housing410, for example, adjacent to the back light component430at a notch defined by the backlight component430. Accordingly, the camera component422of the camera module, can be disposed near a relatively bright light-emitting component in the backlight component430. The positioning of light sensitive components such as the camera component422near a component that emits relatively bright light can present challenges with respect to light from the backlight component430undesirably entering the camera module420and/or the camera component422. The undesirable exposure of the components of the camera module to light from the backlight component430can lead to undesired reductions in image quality or noise in images captures by the camera component422. In order to reduce the amount of light from the backlight component430that can undesirably affect the camera component422, the camera enclosure470and the sidewalls472,473can include a substantially opaque or light blocking material. In some examples, the camera enclosure470can include a relatively reflective material. For example, an exterior surface of the camera enclosure470defined by one or more of the sidewalls472,473can have a relatively high reflectivity so that light from the backlight component430, illustrated inFIG.4Awith dashed arrows, can be reflected off of the enclosure470and directed away from the camera component422.

Further, in some examples, the exterior surface of the camera module420defined by the enclosure470can have a reflectivity that can be substantially similar to or the same as a reflectivity of the material of those portions of display housing410that define the internal volume in which the backlight component430and the camera module420are disposed. Accordingly, in some examples, the enclosure470, such as the exterior surface of sidewall473, can have a reflectivity that is substantially similar to or the same as the reflectivity of a machined metal, such as machined titanium, aluminum, and/or steel. In this way, light produced by the backlight component430will be reflected by the camera enclosure470with the same intensity as light reflected by the display housing410, thus providing for substantially even lighting from the backlight component430along the entire periphery thereof.

In some examples, the enclosure470can include a light reflecting material. In some examples, the enclosure470can include a matrix material including a light reflecting material disposed or dispersed therein. For example, the enclosure470can include a polymer or plastic material with light reflecting particles or dye dispersed therein, such as titanium dioxide or other ceramic particles. In some examples, some or all of the exterior surface defined by the enclosure470can include a surface coating to provide a desired reflectivity. In some examples, the surface coating can include a paint, metal layer, ceramic layer, physical vapor deposition layer, ink, dye, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the enclosure470can be produced by a double-shot molding process where a reflective material can be molded around a first material that defines the camera volume. Further, any adhesive material used in the camera module420can be opaque so as to prevent or reduce any total-internal-reflection (TIR) pathways from the exterior of the module420to the internal volume through the adhesive. For example, an adhesive used to secure the sidewall473to the base490can be substantially opaque. In some examples, the adhesive can include a dye, ink, or other material configured to provide a desired level of opacity.

In some examples, the camera enclosure470can defined an opening disposed over the camera component422located in the volume471. In some examples, the sidewalls472,473can at least partially define the opening. In some examples, some or all of the enclosure470, for example the sidewalls472,473, can be secured, joined, sealed, or otherwise attached or affixed to the display cell440at locations overlying the camera enclosure470. In some examples, an opaque gasket or other material such as foam485can be disposed between the enclosure470and the display cell440to prevent or reduce light from the backlight component430entering the volume471. In some examples, multiple layers of adhesive or other material483,484,486can be used to secure the foam485to the enclosure470and the display cell440to substantially isolate the volume471of the camera module420from substantially any light produced by the backlight component430. Further details of the camera module420are illustrated with respect toFIG.4B.

In some examples, the camera enclosure470(not shown) can extend around substantially the entire periphery of the base490. Accordingly, in some examples, additional components can be disposed in the volume471defined by the enclosure470and the base490. For example, one or more printed circuit boards402,403can be disposed on the base and can be at least partially disposed in the volume471. In some examples, a printed circuit board403can have a camera indicator light423or other component attached thereto that is disposed in the volume471. In some examples, the enclosure470, such as the sidewalls thereof, can be positioned over or secured to the base adjacent to the periphery of the printed circuit board403. The camera module420can further include a sensor, such as an ambient light sensor421, that can be electrically connected to a printed circuit board402disposed on the base. The sensor421can be connected to the printed circuit board402by a flexible connector, and in some examples, can be folded over onto the printed circuit board402so that the sensor421is also disposed in the camera volume471.

As described with respect toFIG.4A, the camera module420can include a first flexible electronic connector428secured to the base490. The first flexible electronic connector428can be in communication with one or more components, such as a processor that is also disposed on the base. The camera module420can include a second flexible electronic connector429secured to the base490. The second flexible electronic connector429can be in communication with one or more components, such as a processor that is also disposed on the base. In some examples, the flexible electronic connectors428,429can provide electronic signals between components that can be positioned on opposite sides of the base490, for example, components that are disposed on opposite sides of the camera component422. In some examples, the sidewall472(not shown) of the enclosure470can be secured to the first flexible electronic connector428at a first location492which can overlie the flexible electronic connector428. Meanwhile, the second sidewall472can be secured to the base490at a second location491that is adjacent to the second flexible electronic connector429. In some examples, the camera module420can further include one or more additional connection components, such as an electronic or board-to-board connector401, that can electrically connect the camera module420to one or more other components of the display portion and/or a device including the display portion

Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the electronic device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an electronic device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding engagement and retention features, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of embodiments in any combination. Various embodiments of electronic devices including components having various features in various arrangements are described below, with reference toFIGS.5A-6D.

FIG.5Ashows a front view of a display cell540of an electronic device. The display cell540can be substantially similar to and can include some or all of the features of the display cells described herein, such as display cell240. The display cell540can also be included in a display portion of an electronic device, as described herein, such as display portion202. As can be seen, the display cell540can have a substantially rectangular shape, although in some examples the display cell540can have substantially any shape as desired. In some examples the display cell540can include a thin film transistor (TFT) LCD display. In some examples, one or more electronic connectors561,562,563can be electrically connected to one or more components of the display cell540, such as a TFT LCD cell (not shown), to provide electronic communication and signals to and from the components of the display cell540. In some examples, the electronic connectors561,562,563can be disposed alone an edge of the display cell540, for example, a bottom or lower edge thereof. Thus, in some examples where the display cell540can be included in a display portion such as display portion202, the electronic connectors561,562,563and any components connected thereto, such as electronic component560, can be disposed in the portion of internal volume of the display portion302that is at least partially defined by the front wall311.

In some examples, the electronic connectors561,562,563can be connected to and can be in communication with an electronic component560. In some examples, the electronic component560can include a printed circuit board having one or more electronic components thereon. In some examples, the electronic component560can include a controller for the display cell540, such as a timing controller. In some examples, the electronic component560can thus include a timing controller (T-Con) board. In some examples, one or more flexible electronic connectors552,554can be electrically connected or coupled to the T-Con board and to one or more additional electronic components of the device, including the display cell540as described herein, for example one or more electronic components disposed in a base portion of an electronic device.

The components shown inFIG.5Acan be arranged in one or more different positions when disposed in a display housing such as display housing310because the flexibility of the electronic connectors561,562,563can allow for the T-Con board560to be rotated or moved relative to the display cell540.FIG.5Bshows a cross-sectional view of the display cell540including the T-Con board in a configuration as could be used when the display cell540is disposed in a display housing, such as display housing310, with the T-Con board positioned behind the front wall311.

In some examples, and as shown inFIG.5B, the T-Con board can be folded back so that it underlies or overlies at least a portion of the display cell540. The flexibility of the electronic connectors561,562,563can allow the T-Con board to assume this position while maintaining an electrical connection with the display cell540. In some examples, the T-Con board560can be disposed near, or substantially adjacent to, a surface of the display cell540. The T-Con board560can further include one or more connectors thereon, such as a board-to-board connector565that can electronically connect the T-Con board560, and thus the display cell540, to one or more electronic components, for example, components disposed in a base portion of an electronic device. In some examples, the flexible electronic connector552can be joined to the connector565to provide such a connection. This architecture, where the T-Con board can be sized and shaped to be disposed in a portion of a display volume defined by a front wall positioned along a lower edge of the display cell can allow for signal processing and timing programs to be carried out by components disposed in the display portion of an electronic device, and can thus reduce or minimize the size, width, and amount of the connectors that are required to pass from the display portion to a base portion to achieve desired levels of performance. Further details of the construction, architecture, and components of the electrical connectors of an electronic device are described below with reference toFIGS.6A-6D.

FIG.6Ashows a perspective view of an exploded region of a display portion of an electronic device, for example, the region of the display portion302indicated with a dashed circle inFIG.3A. As can be seen, the display portion can include a display cell640that can be secured to a display housing610. The display housing610can be substantially similar to and can include some or all of the features of the display housings described herein, such as display housing310. Additionally, the display cell640can be substantially similar to and can include some or all of the features of the display cells described herein, such as display cell540. As with display cell540, the display cell640can include two flexible electronic connectors652,654that are electronically coupled to the display cell640, for example, through a T-Con board or one or more other components. The display portion can further include a grounding component620that can assist in electrically grounding the flexible electronic connectors652,654, for example, to the display housing610. The grounding component620can be an elongated component that can be disposed over the flexible electronic connectors652,654and can exert a pressure on the flexible electronic connectors652,654to push the flexible electronic connectors652,654against another component to electrically ground the flexible electronic connectors. Further details of the display portion are described with respect toFIGS.6B-6D.

FIG.6Billustrates a front view of an edge region of a display portion of an electronic device, for example, a region adjacent to the region shown inFIG.6A. As shown, the edge region can be a corner region of the display portion of an electronic device and the display portion can include a hinge670that can be coupled to a corresponding base portion of the device, as described herein. Although only one hinge component670is shown, the device can include multiple hinge components670positioned along one or more edge of the display portion.

The display portion can include a display housing610, as described herein, as well as a circuit board or T-Con board (not shown) that can be electrically coupled to a display cell640. The display portion can further include a grounding component620that can assist in electrically grounding the circuit board (not shown), for example, to the display housing610. In some examples, the grounding component620can be secured to the display housing610by one or more retention components that can engage with retention features of the grounding component. For example, the grounding component620can define a retention feature, such as an aperture or orifice, and a retaining component633can pass through the feature to be received by a corresponding feature in the display housing610and can secure the grounding component620thereto.

As described herein, the display cell640can be secured or fixed in one or more directions with respect to the display housing610by a number of components or techniques. In some examples, the display housing610can define a recess, indentation, and/or trench611that can be disposed below at least a portion of the display cell640when the display cell640is fixed to the display housing610, as described herein. In some examples, an adhesive and/or a glue612can be disposed in the trench611to secure at least a portion of the display cell640to the display housing610. The adhesive612can be substantially similar to any of the adhesives or adhesive materials described herein. Further, the depth, width, and overall size of the trench611can be selected so that a desired amount of adhesive, for example, an amount that can achieve a desired bond strength between the display cell640and the display housing610can substantially fill the trench611, thereby simplifying the process for dispensing or applying the adhesive612to the display housing610.

Although shown as being located along a single edge of the display housing610inFIG.6B, the trench611and/or adhesive612can be positioned around some or all of a periphery of the display housing610and/or display cell640. In some examples, the configuration described herein with respect toFIG.6Bcan serve to prevent or reduce cracking or other damage along an edge of the display cell640during a high-force or high-stress events, such as drop events.

FIG.6Cshows a perspective cross-sectional view of the region of the display portion shown inFIG.6A, including the display housing610that at least partially defines a display internal volume. As described herein, the T-Con board660can be connected to the display cell (not shown) and can be disposed in the internal volume. A flexible electronic connector652can be connected to the T-Con board660and can extend therefrom. In some examples, the grounding component620can be secured to the display housing610by one or more retention components that can engage with retention features of the grounding component. For example, the grounding component620can define a retention feature623, such as an aperture or orifice, and a retaining component633can pass through the feature623to be received by a corresponding feature in the display housing610and secure the grounding component620thereto. This is merely one example of a retaining feature, and the grounding component620can be retained or secured in a desired position by any technique or combination of techniques as desired.

In some examples, the grounding component620can include a bracket622that can be a substantially “L” shaped or curved portion of material. In some examples, the bracket622can include sheet metal, such as a sheet of aluminum or steel that is formed into a desired “L” shape having a first portion that is at an angle, such as a right angle, to a second portion. In some examples, the retaining feature623can be defined by the bracket622. The grounding component620can also include a flexible electronic connector guide624that can serve to physically contact and direct the flexible electronic connector652as the display portion rotates or moves relative to the base portion, to ensure that the flexible electronic connector652does not interfere with or become damaged by such rotation. In some examples, the flexible electronic connector guide624can be secured to the bracket622by any desired technique. A portion of the grounding component620, such as the bracket622, can contact and press against the flexible electronic connector652at a desired location so that the flexible electronic connector652is in electrical contact with the display housing610. For example, the display housing can include a conductive gasket674that can define a surface against which the flexible electronic connector652is pressed by the grounding component620to provide electrical contact therebetween. In some examples, the conductive gasket676can include a conductive polymer and/or a polymer including conductive material dispersed throughout. In some examples, the conductive gasket674can be secured or affixed to the display housing by an adhesive, such as a conductive adhesive676.

FIG.6Dshows a perspective cross-sectional view of an alternative configuration of the region of the display portion shown inFIG.6A, including the display housing610that at least partially defines a display internal volume. Whereas the example illustrated with respect toFIG.6Ccan include a conductive gasket674, in some examples and as shown inFIG.6D, the housing610can include a bump or protrusion675that can be positioned opposite or near to the bracket622. Similar to the manner in which the bracket622can electrically contact the gasket674ofFIG.6C, the bracket622can electrically contact the protrusion675. That is, the protrusion675can define a surface against which the flexible electronic connector652is pressed by the grounding component620to provide electrical contact therebetween. Further details of examples including flexible electrical connectors and various configurations of the display portion and base portion of an electronic device are described below with respect toFIGS.7A-7C.

FIG.7Ashows a perspective cross-sectional view of a region of the display portion similar to the region illustrated inFIG.6C. As with the display portion illustrated inFIG.6C, the display portion ofFIG.7Acan include a display housing710that at least partially defines a display internal volume. A display cell and/or backlight component760can be affixed, secured to, and/or carried by the display housing710, as described herein. Although referred to as a display cell760, in some examples, the display cell760can include any combination of display cell and backlight component, as described herein. Further, a grounding component620that can include a flexible electronic connector guide that can serve to physically contact and direct the flexible electronic connectors752,754as the display portion rotates or moves relative to a base portion, to ensure that the flexible electronic connectors752,754do not interfere with or become damaged by such rotation. Further details regarding the rotation or movement of the display portion relative to the base portion are described with respect toFIGS.7B and7C.

In some examples, a component720of the display portion can include a lip or a shelf, as shown, that can be positioned adjacent or near to an edge of the display cell760. In some examples, the shelf of the component720can define a surface that is substantially parallel to an edge of the display cell760. In some examples, the shelf of the component720can be separate from an edge of the display cell760by a distance of less than about 10 mm, less than about 5 mm, less than about 3 mm, less than about 2 mm, less than about 1 mm, less than about 0.5 mm, or even less than about 0.1 mm or smaller. In some examples, an edge of the display cell760can abut the shelf of the component720. In some examples, the component720can be supported by, affixed to, and/or disposed on a portion712of the display housing710.

In use, the shelf of the component720can serve to assist in fixing or retaining the position of the display cell760in one or more desired directions with respect to the display housing710. For example, the component720can serve as a physical barrier to prevent movement of some or all of the portions or films of the display cell760from sliding or moving relative to the display housing710during high-force or high-stress events, such as drop events. Accordingly, in some examples, the component720may not contact or fix the position of the display cell710except during high-stress events or other scenarios that may cause undesirable movement of the display cell760with respect to the display housing710.

In some examples, the component720can be have additional functionality beyond acting as a barrier or stop for the display cell760. For example, the component720can include a mounting component for circuit boards, LEDs, or other components of the display portion720. Additionally, some or all of the component720can be disposed over a portion of the display cell760, such as a portion of the backlight component736, as shown.

FIG.7Bshows the display portion ofFIG.7Acoupled to a base portion714of an electronic device, as described herein. Various details, features, and components of the base portion714are not illustrated for simplicity. As can be see, the base portion714and/or the components or features thereof can define a volume or cavity716into which flexible electronic connectors752,754can extend from the display portion. The flexible electronic connectors752,754can then be electrically connected to one or more components of the base portion714, as described herein. The electronic device shown inFIG.7Bis in what can be referred to as a closed position or a closed configuration, whereby the base portion can cover or occlude all or substantially all of the active area of the display cell760. As can be seen, the display housing710and the base portion714can serve to protect the flexible electronic connectors752,754from an exterior environment when the electronic device is in the closed position.

FIG.7Cshows the display portion and base portion of the electronic device ofFIG.7Bin an open position or configuration. That is, the display portion has been rotated or moved relative to the base portion714so that the active area of the display cell760is no longer occluded by the base portion and a user can, for example, view information or content on display by the display cell760. The shape of the display housing710and the cavity716of the base portion can continue protecting the flexible electronic connectors752,754from the external environment when the device is in the open position. Further, the display portion and base portion can be shaped and oriented such that the flexible electronic connectors752,754can have one or more desired bend radii. That is, the bend radius of any portion of the flexible electronic connectors752,754can be small enough to house within the base portion, but not so small or tight that undesired crimping or folding of the flexible electronic connectors752,754may occur. In some examples, one or more portions of the flexible electronic connectors752,754can have a bend radius of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, or even less than 1 mm when in an open position, such as about 2.5 mm. In some examples, one or more portions of the flexible electronic connectors752,754can have a bend radius of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, or even less than 1 mm when in a closed position, such as about 2 mm.

While the present disclosure generally describes components and features of a display portion of an electronic device, the components and features described herein can be used in any combination or order and with any desired component or electronic device. Further, the components and features can assume any geometric shape, pattern, size, or combination of shapes, patterns, and sizes. Additionally, the features described herein can be positioned on or extend from any surface or surfaces of any desired housing and/or components.

To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use of data available from various sources can be used to improve the delivery to users of invitational content or any other content that may be of interest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID's, home addresses, data or records relating to a user's health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information.

The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefit of users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user. Accordingly, use of such personal information data enables users to calculated control of the delivered content. Further, other uses for personal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user's general wellness, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals.

The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with well-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personal information data private and secure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users, and should be updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving the informed consent of the users. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access to such personal information data and ensuring that others with access to the personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted for the particular types of personal information data being collected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US, collection of or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country.

Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to, personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of advertisement delivery services, the present technology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” of participation in the collection of personal information data during registration for services or anytime thereafter. In another example, users can select not to provide mood-associated data for targeted content delivery services. In yet another example, users can select to limit the length of time mood-associated data is maintained or entirely prohibit the development of a baseline mood profile. In addition to providing “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use of personal information. For instance, a user may be notified upon downloading an app that their personal information data will be accessed and then reminded again just before personal information data is accessed by the app.

Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect a user's privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and/or other methods.

Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use of personal information data to implement one or more various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing such personal information data. That is, the various embodiments of the present technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content can be selected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personal information, such as the content being requested by the device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery services, or publicly available information.

As used herein, the terms exterior, outer, interior, inner, top, and bottom are used for reference purposes only. An exterior or outer portion of a component can form a portion of an exterior surface of the component but may not necessarily form the entire exterior of outer surface thereof. Similarly, the interior or inner portion of a component can form or define an interior or inner portion of the component but can also form or define a portion of an exterior or outer surface of the component. A top portion of a component can be located above a bottom portion in some orientations of the component, but can also be located in line with, below, or in other spatial relationships with the bottom portion depending on the orientation of the component.

Various inventions have been described herein with reference to certain specific embodiments and examples. However, they will be recognized by those skilled in the art that many variations are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the inventions disclosed herein, in that those inventions set forth in the claims below are intended to cover all variations and modifications of the inventions disclosed without departing from the spirit of the inventions. The terms “including:” and “having” come as used in the specification and claims shall have the same meaning as the term “comprising.”

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not target to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.