Patent ID: 12213263

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description includes the best mode presently contemplated for practicing the described implementations. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but rather is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of the implementations. The scope of the invention should be ascertained with reference to the issued claims.

FIG.1shows an example of a system100that can include one or more processors105, memory106accessible to at least one of the one or more processors105, display circuitry107and one or more other components108, which can include electronic circuitry, instructions stored in the memory106and executable by at least one of the one or more processors105, etc.

As shown inFIG.1, the system100includes a display assembly140with a display142that may utilize one or more technologies (e.g., LED, LCD, etc.). The display assembly140can include a display side144, a back side146and a frame150where the frame150can include an interface160for a camera assembly200. The display circuitry107can be operatively coupled to at least one of the one or more processors105, for example, to receive data, instructions, etc., for rendering text, graphics, images, etc., to the display side144of the display142.

In the example ofFIG.1, the interface160can include frame magnetic material and a frame electronic interface for the camera assembly200. For example, the camera assembly200can include magnetic material and an electronic interface that can couple to the frame150via the frame magnetic material and the frame electronic interface. For example, the camera magnetic material and the frame magnetic material can generate a magnetic attraction force that can provide for coupling of the frame electronic interface and the camera electronic interface. Such a magnetic attraction force may help to assure appropriate coupling for purposes of data and/or power transmission. As an example, one or more of the electronic interfaces may include resilient contacts where a magnetic attraction force can cause elastic deformation such that robust electrical connections are established for purposes of data and/or power transmission via the electronic interfaces.

As an example, a resilient contact may be a spring-loaded pin type of contact as a type of electrical connector. A resilient contact may be robust via resilience that helps to diminish effects of mechanical shock and vibration.

A particular type of resilient contact can be a pogo pin, which may include an integrated spring that can apply a force to a mating interface (e.g., receptacle, contact plate, etc.). Such a force may help to reduce risk of intermittent electrical connection (e.g., due to vibration, shock, etc.). As to types of springs that may be employed in a resilient contact, consider a helical spring, a cantilever spring, or other type of spring.

As an example, an electronic interface may include a target, which may be a conductive land. A target may be flat, curved, etc., and static (e.g., may be without moving parts). A target may be non-resilient such that elastic deformation does not occur, for example, when contacted. As an example, a target may be resilient and apply a biasing force against another resilient component (e.g., a pogo pin, etc.).

As an example, the display circuitry107can include one or more graphics processing units (GPUs) and, for example, one or more of the one or more processors105can be a central processing unit (CPU). As an example, the display circuitry107can include input circuitry such as touch circuitry, digitizer circuitry, etc., such that the display side144is an input surface. For example, the display side144may receive input via touch, a stylus, etc. As an example, the display assembly140can include a touchscreen display where a finger, a stylus, etc., can be utilized; noting sensing as to input may occur with or without physical contact between a finger and the display side144, between a stylus and the display side144, etc., depending on the type of input circuitry utilized (e.g., resistive, capacitive, acoustic wave, infrared, optical, dispersive signal, etc.).

In the example ofFIG.1, the system100can include a base130that includes an upper surface132and an arm136that is operatively coupled to the display assembly140. For example, the arm136can extend from the base130where the display assembly140includes an arm mount that couples the arm136to the display assembly140, for example, on the back side142of the display assembly140that is opposite the display side144of the display assembly140. As an example, the base130and the arm136can be a stand for the display assembly140.

As shown in the example ofFIG.1, the display side144may be centered along a centerline of the system100and may be disposed at an angle that can be defined by the base130or a flat support surface such as a desktop, a tabletop, a countertop, etc., where the base130or the flat support surface can be planar and horizontal. As shown, the arm136rises from the base130at an angle that may be normal to the base130or the flat support surface (e.g., a 90 degree angle). As to an angle of the display side144, it may be 90 degrees, greater than 90 degrees or less than 90 degrees.

The display side144can be part of the display142that includes or is operatively coupled to the display circuitry107, which may include one or more types of touch, digitizer, etc., circuitry. As shown, the base130and the display assembly140and/or the display side144can be defined with respect to one or more coordinate systems such as, for example, one or more Cartesian coordinate systems (see, e.g., x1, y1, z1and x2, y2, z2). As shown, the display side144can be defined by a display area, which may be two-dimensional for a substantially flat (e.g., planar) display surface or which may be three-dimensional for a curved display surface, noting that such a curve may be of a relatively large radius of curvature (e.g., 50 cm or more) that gives the display a gentle curve (e.g., consider a radius of approximately the length of an extended arm of a user as traced by movement left and right from a shoulder of a user positioned in front of the display surface by an ergonomic distance). As shown, the arm136of the base130can be utilized to provide a gap or clearance between a lower edge of the display assembly140and a support surface on which the base130is supported (e.g., a desktop, tabletop, countertop, etc.). Such a gap may provide for rotation of the display142(e.g., from a landscape orientation to a portrait orientation).

In the example ofFIG.1, the frame150can include edges152,154,156and158where the edges152and154are long edges and where the edges156and158are short edges. For example, the frame150can be substantially rectangular (e.g., a rectangular form factor) and planar or rectangular and curved. The frame150may include a landscape orientation as shown inFIG.1where the long edges152and154are substantially horizontal and a portrait orientation where the long edges152and154are rotated by approximately 90 degrees to be substantially vertical. The ability to transition from one orientation to the other may provide a user with options that can be ergonomic, content dependent, etc. In the example ofFIG.1, the system100can include features that provide for transitioning the frame150between portrait and landscape orientations.

As an example, the display assembly140may include a bezel or bezels that occupy a portion of the front side (e.g., the display side144) or the display assembly140may be substantially bezel-less or completely bezel-less. In the example ofFIG.1, the display assembly140is substantially bezel-less where a lower bezel147may be included, optionally with one or more features149(e.g., switches, touch controls, indicator lights, etc.). A bezel-less display assembly can provide for a display surface dimensions that are approximately the same as frame dimensions. As an example, where a frame edge thickness is visible from a display side, the frame edge thickness may be less than approximately 0.5 cm in thickness and considered part of a substantially bezel-less approach. Where a display extends to an edge, where a frame edge thickness is not visible, such an approach can be considered part of a bezel-less approach. Bezel and bezel-less can be defined with respect to active display area as, in some display assemblies, a bezel may be internal, being disposed beneath a cover glass.

Where a display assembly is bezel-less, space does not exist for a bezel integrated front facing camera. And where a display assembly includes a bezel along at least one edge, integration of a front facing camera into a bezel region takes space and may dictate the size of the bezel and hence a ratio of display assembly area to active display area. In some instances, a camera-less display assembly may be desirable. And, where a camera is not desired, it may be easier to manufacture a display assembly that is a bezel-less.

In the example ofFIG.1, the display assembly140and the camera assembly200may be part of a kit where a user can couple the camera assembly200to the display assembly140or not. In some instances, where de-coupling is too easy, the camera assembly200may be amenable to being readily de-coupled from a display assembly and carried away, for example, by a passer-by. As an example, a kit can include a balance of features that can provide for user options. For example, consider features that make de-coupling a little more complicated or inconvenient and other features that can include a mechanical shutter that can be positioned over an aperture of a camera (e.g., to block the camera's field of view (FOV)). In such an example, the camera assembly can be coupled to the display assembly and shuttered as desired or not coupled to the display, though with a risk of being misplaced, carried away, etc.

As an example, a kit may include a stand where a camera assembly can be coupled to a display assembly or to the stand. In such an example, the stand may or may not include a cable such as, for example, a USB cable such that the camera assembly can be electronically coupled to another device (e.g., a computing device, etc.) for purposes of data and/or power transmission.

In the example ofFIG.1, the camera assembly200is positioned on the frame150, along the long edge152. As an example, the display assembly140may include another interface, for example, consider an interface along one of the edges156and158. In such an approach, the display assembly140may be rotated to a desired orientation and the camera assembly200coupled thereto along a top edge of the display assembly140.

A position of the camera assembly200can be defined, for example, using one or more of the coordinate systems shown inFIG.1. For example, a height of the camera assembly200can be determined using coordinates of the coordinate system x2, y2, and z2with reference to coordinates of the coordinate system x1, y1, and z1or, for example, the height of the camera assembly200may be defined with respect to the coordinate system x1, y1, and z1alone (e.g., a height along z1). Appropriate coordinates of either or both of the coordinate systems may be utilized for a landscape orientation or a portrait orientation of the display assembly140.

As an example, the camera assembly200can include one or more cameras that may individually or collectively define a field of view (FOV). For optical elements, cameras, etc., the field of view (FOV) can be defined by a solid angle through which electromagnetic radiation can be received. In photography, the field of view is that part of the world that is visible through a camera at a particular position and orientation in space; objects outside a FOV when an image is captured are not recorded in the image. In photography, FOV may be expressed as an angular size of a view cone, as an angle of view. For a normal lens, the diagonal field of view can be calculated FOV=2 arctan(SensorSize/2f), where f is focal length.

An angle of view can differ from an angle of coverage, which describes the angle range that a lens can image. An image circle produced by a lens or optical element assembly can be configured to be large enough to cover a photosensor, for example, with no or minimal vignetting toward edges. If the angle of coverage of the lens does not fill the photosensor, the image circle will be visible, with strong vignetting toward the edges, and the effective angle of view can be limited to the angle of coverage.

In the example ofFIG.1, the camera assembly200is positioned to provide a forward FOV such that a user of the system100can be imaged, for example, for purposes of videoconferencing. The camera assembly200can include an adjustable mount where, for example, a user positioned in front of the system100may be brought into the FOV of the camera assembly200via the adjustable mount. As an example, an adjustable mount may provide for rotation of the camera assembly200, for example, to allow for a backward facing FOV. As an example, the camera assembly200may include multiple cameras, which may include one or more front facing cameras and one or more back facing cameras. In the example ofFIG.1, the camera assembly200can include features that provide for tilting, for example, tilting down or tilting up, which may provide for adjustments where the display side144is tilted down or tilted up. As an example, the camera assembly200may be tiltable and rotatable.

FIG.2AandFIG.2Bshow perspective views of an example of the camera assembly200, where the perspective view ofFIG.2Aincludes a Cartesian coordinate system xc, ycand zc. One or more features of the camera assembly200may be defined with respect to a coordinate system or coordinate systems.

As shown in the example ofFIG.2AandFIG.2B, the camera assembly200can include a housing210with a top side housing portion211, a first side housing portion212, a second side housing portion214and a bottom side housing portion215where the top side housing portion211and the bottom side housing portion215are opposing housing portions and wherein the first side housing portion212and the second side housing portion214are opposing housing portions. The housing210may be of a polygonal shape, a curved shape or a polygonal and curved shape (e.g., consider obround, etc.). As shown, the housing210can define a front side perimeter213and a back side perimeter217where the front side perimeter213can frame a front side222and the back side perimeter217can frame a back side226. In the example ofFIG.2AandFIG.2B, the housing210may be defined by a continuous surface such as a wraparound surface that extends between the front side perimeter213and the back side perimeter217.

In the example ofFIG.2AandFIG.2B, the housing210may be defined via an aspect ratio, for example, using the xccoordinate axis and the zccoordinate axis. As shown, the aspect ratio may be greater than approximately 2:1 (e.g., length Δxcalong xcis at least twice the height Δzcalong zc). As an example, for a circular housing, an aspect ratio may be 1:1. A greater aspect ratio may provide for positioning an aperture of a camera of the camera assembly200closer to an edge of an active display area of a display assembly (e.g., consider a relatively slim camera assembly that may have a housing height Δzcless than approximately 3 cm and a housing length Δxcless than approximately 20 cm). As shown inFIG.2A, the housing210can include a depth Δycalong yc. As an example, the depth Δycof the housing210may be less than approximately 10 cm and may be less than approximately 6 cm.

As mentioned, a camera assembly can include a mount. In the example ofFIG.2AandFIG.2B, the camera assembly200includes a tilt mount270that is coupled to the housing210via an extension290as received via a socket216. As shown, the tilt mount270can include an L-shape formed by two plates272and274that join at a corner. The tilt mount270can include one or more features271-1and271-2that can help to secure the camera assembly200to a display assembly. In the example ofFIG.2B, the features271-1and271-2are shown as extensions such as pegs that can mechanically couple the tilt mount270to a display assembly (e.g., via corresponding peg receptacles). As shown, the tilt mount270can include a mount electrical interface280, which may include a series of electrical contacts such as, for example, resilient electrical contacts (e.g., pogo pins, etc.). As an example, a tilt mount may include features that provide for rotation and/or other movement in addition to tilting.

As shown in the example ofFIG.2AandFIG.2B, the tilt mount270can include one or more mount magnetic materials273,275-1and275-2. A magnetic material can be a permanent magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet such as, for example, a ferromagnetic material. Materials such as iron, nickel and cobalt become magnetized in a magnetic field and can retain some amount of magnetism when the field is removed. As an example, a display assembly may include one or more frame magnetic materials that can interact with one or more mount magnetic materials such that one or more magnetic attraction forces act to couple a camera assembly to a display assembly.

As mentioned, a magnetic attraction force may cause elastic deformation of a resilient electrical contact to enhance electrical connection in the presence of shock, vibration, etc. For example, consider one or more of the mount magnetic materials273,275-1and275-2as being capable of generating magnetic attraction force(s) that can cause elastic deformation of one or more of the electrical contacts of the mount electrical interface280.

As an example, the features271-1and272-2may provide for mechanical coupling to a display assembly with some amount of play where the amount of play provides for elastic deformation of one or more electrical contacts of the mount electrical interface280. As an example, the features271-1and272-2may be seated in respective receptacles of a display assembly such that de-coupling of the camera assembly200demands multi-directional motion. For example, consider an upward motion in combination with a reward motion. Such a multi-directional motion approach can hinder quick de-coupling by a passer-by.

In the example ofFIG.2AandFIG.2B, the camera assembly200includes a status light230and a mechanical shutter260. As shown, the status light230extends from the top side housing portion211with an approximately 90 degree wraparound over the back side perimeter217. In such an example, the status light230can be visible from at least the top side housing portion211and can be visible from the back side226of the camera assembly200. Depending on various factors (e.g., the position of a user in front of a display assembly, the size and/or orientation of the display assembly, a tilt of the tilt mount270, etc.), the status light230may not be visible. For example, the status light230can be set back a sufficient distance from the front side perimeter213such that a line-of-sight from a user's eyes does not connect directly to the status light230. In such an example, emission of light from the status light230may not distract the user while the user is in a videoconference; however, a passer-by may be able to see emission of light from the status light230to understand that the user is busy (e.g., in a videoconference).

As shown inFIG.2B, the front side222can include one or more openings223-1and223-2and/or one or more transparent portions224. For example, the one or more openings223-1and223-2may be for receipt of sound waves where the camera assembly200includes one or more microphones and the one or more transparent portions224may be for a camera or cameras and, for example, to be able to see an indicator (e.g., a marker) when the mechanical shutter260is in a closed position via movement in a direction of a slot218in the top side housing portion211. As an example, the front side222can include a glass material, a polymeric material, etc., that may include darkened portions (e.g., blacked out, etc.) and one or more transparent portions. As shown in the example ofFIG.2B, the transparent portion224is disposed between the openings223-1and223-2where the openings223-1and223-2may be for left and right microphones (e.g., consider stereo audio capture, etc.).

FIG.3AandFIG.3Bshow front side and back side views, respectively, of the camera assembly200. As shown, the status light230is more visible in the back side view ofFIG.3Bthan in the front side view ofFIG.3A. As shown, the status light230can extend a distance down from the perimeter217to cover a portion of the back side226. As an example, the status light230can be substantially L-shaped with a leg231that extends in a first direction and another leg236that extends in a second direction that is approximately orthogonal to the first direction (e.g. approximately 90 degrees, plus or minus 10 degrees). The camera assembly200can include illumination circuitry203that can include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) that can be actuated to emit light. As an example, a LED may emit red light or another color light. As an example, one or more of the legs231and236may be translucent and/or colored. For example, consider a red colored material that causes LED emission to be visible as a red light (e.g., a red status light). As an example, the illumination circuitry203can be electronically coupled to the mount electrical interface280such that signals and/or power can be received. For example, consider receiving a signal that indicates a videoconferencing session has commenced (e.g., using a videoconferencing application, etc.). In such an example, the signal can cause actuation of the status light230such that it emits visible light. When a videoconferencing session terminates, a signal may terminate and/or a termination signal may be received that causes de-actuation of the status light230.

As an example, the mechanical shutter260may be utilized without interruption or change in status of the status light230. In such an approach, a user may be in a conference using audio and not video when the mechanical shutter260is in a closed position (e.g., to physically cover an aperture of a camera, etc.). In such an example, the status light230can operate independent of the mechanical shutter260.

FIG.4AandFIG.4Bshow perspective views of examples of portions of the camera assembly200.FIG.4Ashows the mechanical shutter260with respect to a media capture unit400that can be part of the camera assembly200and disposed within the housing210of the camera assembly200. As shown inFIG.4B, the media capture unit400can include circuitry410, at least one visible light camera420with an aperture422, one or more microphones440-1and440-2, a mechanical shutter track460and an infrared camera470. The mechanical shutter260may be translatable to physically cover the aperture422of the visible light camera420.

As shown inFIG.4A, the mechanical shutter260can include a front panel261with an opening262and a marker263(e.g., a colored marker such as a red marker) and a top panel264with an extension266that can be contacted by a finger of a user to move the mechanical shutter260from an open position to a closed position and vice versa.

The circuitry410can include video circuitry and/or audio circuitry and, for example, one or more other types of circuitry (e.g., autofocus, ambient light detection, etc.). The circuitry410can be electrically coupled to the mount electrical interface280of the camera assembly200, for example, for purposes of data and/or power transmission. As an example, the circuitry410may include memory and/or one or more batteries. In such an example, the camera assembly200may be operable independent of a display assembly, for example, to capture images and/or audio with storage to the memory. In such an example, the memory may be accessible for purposes of downloading captured images and/or audio.

FIG.5shows an example of the tilt mount270as including the extension290, which can include an opening291for passage of one or more conductors299(e.g., one or more wires). The extension290can be part of a ball joint with a movable ball portion292received in a ball socket portion294where the ball joint can provide for at least tilting of the housing210on the tilt mount270. For example, the housing210may include a hollow stem208that can be received by the opening291of the extension290to thereby mechanically couple the housing210to the tilt mount270(e.g., consider a threaded connection, a bayonet connection, etc.). In such an example, the one or more conductors299can provide for electronical connection of circuitry of the housing210(e.g., the status light circuitry236, the circuitry410, etc.) and electrical contacts of the mount electronic interface280where the one or more conductors299may be flexible to allow for tilting of the housing210without loss of conduction. In the example ofFIG.5, the hollow stem208may provide for movement of the housing210via the ball portion292as received in the ball socket portion294. As explained, some amount of tilting can be provided and optionally some amount of rotation (e.g., to rotate the housing210to face forward or to face backward). In the example ofFIG.5, the hollow stem208can define an axis where the axis is movable via the ball joint.

As an example, a camera assembly may include a ball joint that includes a ball and a ball socket where the ball socket may be part of a housing of a camera head unit or may be part of a tilt mount. As an example, a camera assembly may include multiple ball joints, for example, consider a camera head unit with a ball socket that receives a ball and a tilt mount with a ball socket that receives another ball where the balls are coupled (e.g., via a shaft, etc.). As an example, a camera assembly may include a pin joint that defines an axis where a housing of the camera assembly can rotate about the axis, for example, to tilt the housing up or down if on a substantially horizontal edge or to tilt the housing left or right if on a substantially vertical edge. A pin joint can include one or more bores and one or more axles (e.g., one or more pins).

FIG.6shows a perspective view of an example of the display assembly140with respect to an example of the tilt mount270. As shown, the display assembly140includes the interface160, which includes frame magnetic material165-1,165-2and167and a frame electronic interface163for the camera assembly200. As mentioned, such an interface may be disposed along a short edge or a long edge of a display assembly with a rectangular form factor and, as an example, a display assembly may include multiple instances of such an interface.

As shown in the example ofFIG.6, the edge152of the frame150can be of a depth Δy2where at least a portion of the edge152can be cut-out or recessed. As explained, a display assembly may include one or more interfaces such as, for example, an interface along a long edge and an interface along a short edge.

In the example ofFIG.6, the interface160includes receptacles167-1and167-2that can receive the features271-1and271-2, respectively. As shown, the features271-1and271-2(e.g., prongs, etc.) can be moved into the receptacles167-1and167-2in a first direction and then moved downwardly in a second direction, which may be aided by magnetic attraction force. In such an example, the tilt mount270is not easily de-coupled from the interface160of the display assembly140by a passer-by as the passer-by would have to know the series of movements to de-couple the tilt mount270and hence the camera assembly200. Additionally, the features271-1and271-2may provide for an interference fit and/or click fit in the interface160, which may increase the amount of force required for de-coupling. As explained, the camera assembly200and the display assembly140can include mating features that act as anti-theft features to reduce risk of a passer-by de-coupling the camera assembly200from the display assembly140.

In the example ofFIG.6, the frame electronic interface163may include static electrical contacts (e.g., conductive metallic material, etc.). As explained, the mount electrical interface280can include resilient electrical contacts (e.g., pogo pins, etc.). Various features in the example ofFIG.6(see also, e.g.,FIG.2AandFIG.2B) can provide for robust electrical connection and theft deterrence.

In the example ofFIG.6, the tilt mount270can include a pin hole279that can be part of a pin hole mechanism that facilitates de-coupling of the tilt mount270from the display assembly140. For example, an end of a paper clip or other suitable tool may be inserted into the pin hole279to cause retraction of at least one the features271-1and271-2. For example, one or both of the features271-1and272-2can be part of a piece of resilient material where a tool can be inserted into the pin hole279to elastically deform the resilient material in a manner that causes one or both of the features271-1and271-2to retract or otherwise reduce force (e.g., as to an interference fit, a spring-like fit, etc.). As shown in an inset view inFIG.6, the features271-1and271-2can be part of an integral piece of material set in various guides where pushing forward of the material causes the features271-1and271-2to move inwardly and retract. In such an example, the interface160may have receptacles167-1and167-2that are closed toward the outside (e.g., the back side146).

As an example, in the instance that one or more of the features271-1and271-2breaks, the camera assembly200may still be suitably coupled to the display assembly140via magnetic attraction force. As an example, a mount such as the mount270may be suitable for attachment to a frame of a display assembly that does not include a recess where, for example, an electronic interface is exposed and cable of making an electrical connection with the mount electronic interface280.

FIG.7shows an example of a user101positioned in front of the system100as supported on a surface102where the display assembly140is operatively coupled to the arm136of the base130via an arm mount138(e.g., an arm coupling, etc.). In such an example, the angle of a display surface of the display assembly140may be adjusted.

In the example ofFIG.7, the camera assembly200is shown as having an angle α with an origin at the camera assembly200(e.g., a camera aperture with a FOV) and the user101is shown as having an angle β with an origin or origins at the user's eye or eyes. As shown, the camera assembly200can capture an image701of the user101. The image701may be transmitted via one or more networks to a remote device where the image701can be rendered to a display of the remote device or operatively coupled to the remote device. For example, one or more network interfaces of the system100can be operatively coupled to one or more networks to transmit image data of the image701(e.g., to a network address, etc.).

As an example, an optimal viewing angle for eyes may be defined according to the International Standards Organization (ISO ergonomics standards 9241-5). ISO 9241-5 states that an optimal viewing angle, or resting angle, is a −35 degree downward gaze angle from the horizon (e.g., at the level of the eyes). ISO 9241-5 also states that the optimal display placement is in a range of +/−15 degrees from the resting angle (e.g., −20 degrees to −50 degrees). Using the ISO 9241-5, a display surface may be optimally placed to be in a range of −20 degrees to −50 degrees relative to the horizon. The ISO 9241-5 range tends to be a bit lower than most users are accustomed for computer work, but is near a “normal” reading position as used by humans for many years. In this “normal” reading position, a display surface may be more appropriately called chest-height rather than head-height. As to specific upper and lower limits of ISO 9241-5, it allows for a 0 degree horizontal gaze down to a −60 degrees gaze angle; noting that the lower limit of −60 degree angle may result in some amount of neck strain.

Various standards as to viewing angles can be limited to display surfaces of a certain size. For example, as display area increases, for example, beyond an approximately 50 cm diagonal dimension, an optimal position can have the top of the display area at a level that is above eye level. For example, a display surface of the display assembly140ofFIG.7can have a diagonal dimension that is greater than 50 cm (e.g., consider approximately 70 cm or more) such that an optimal viewing angle may differ from that specified by a standard.

In the example ofFIG.7, the user may adjust the camera assembly200, for example, via tilting, to provide for a suitable capture of the user's face. As mentioned, the system100may provide for rotation of the display assembly140where, for example, the arm mount138includes a turntable. In such an example, the camera assembly200may be utilized from a substantially vertical edge in a portrait orientation of the display assembly140and from a substantially horizontal edge in a landscape orientation. Where the display assembly140includes multiple instances of the interface160(e.g., one along a long edge and another along a short edge), the user may select one of the multiple instances of the interface160for coupling of the camera assembly200(e.g., to have the camera assembly200at the top edge of the display assembly140).

As mentioned, a system can include a camera assembly with a camera such as a web cam that can be utilized for communications. For example, consider a videoconferencing application (e.g., the ZOOM application, the SKYPE application, the GO TO MEETING application, the WEBEX application, etc.) where circuitry of a camera assembly can transmit image data for images captured within the field of view of the camera.

FIG.8shows an example of a camera assembly stand800with the camera assembly200mounted on the camera assembly stand800. As shown, the camera assembly stand800can include a base810, an arm820(e.g., a telescoping arm, an articulating arm, etc.), and a coupling830that can couple to the tilt mount270of the camera assembly200. As shown, a cable805may be included such as, for example, a USB type of cable with appropriate connectors (e.g., at one end or at both ends).

As an example, a system can include a display assembly and a camera assembly where the camera assembly can be paired with the display assembly optionally in a cable-less manner. In such an example, a cable-less approach can help to reduce clutter and help to maintain a “clean” workspace. As explained, one or more magnets may be utilized (e.g., one or more permanent magnets) to couple a camera assembly and a display assembly. A magnetic attraction force may also help to make data and/or power connection robust, for example, through the use of resilient contact (e.g., consider pogo pins, etc.). As explained, various features may provide for anti-theft protection, for example, consider locking pegs (e.g., locking pins, etc.).

As an example, a camera assembly and a display assembly (e.g., a monitor) can be part of a system that can utilize pogo pins for electrical connection for data (e.g., video and/or audio) and power. In such an example, the display assembly can provide power via circuitry and can itself include circuitry for processing and/or transmitting video and/or audio data. As mentioned, one or more magnets may be built into a camera assembly mount that facilitate attachment and/or alignment of the camera assembly to a frame of a display assembly.

As explained, various features may be mechanically controlled via a pin mechanism via a pin such as an end of a paper clip. For example, where a user desires de-coupling of a camera assembly from a display assembly, the user may utilize an end of a paper clip or other tool to cause pegs (e.g., locking pegs, etc.) to retract or otherwise release such that the camera assembly can be de-coupled.

As an example, a system can include a display assembly that includes a display, a display side, a back side and a frame, where the frame includes frame magnetic material and a frame electronic interface; and a camera assembly that includes a camera and a tilt mount, where the tilt mount includes mount magnetic material and a mount electronic interface that electronically mates with the frame electronic interface via a magnetic attraction force. In such an example, the tilt mount can include a swivel mount, for example, consider a swivel mount that includes a ball joint. In such an example, one or more electrical wires (e.g., conductors) can pass through the ball joint.

As an example, a housing of a camera assembly can be rotatable about an axis of a swivel mount. For example, consider a housing that is rotatable about the axis of the swivel mount by at least 180 degrees to transition from facing a display side of a display to facing a back side of the display.

As an example, a tilt mount can include at least one peg (e.g., a locking peg) and a frame can include at least one peg receptacle (e.g., a locking peg receptacle). As an example, a tilt mount can include an L-shaped coupling.

As an example, a frame electronic interface can include a serial bus interface and a mount electronic interface can include a serial bus interface.

As an example, at least one of a frame electronic interface and a mount electronic interface can include spring loaded electrical contacts. For example, consider an approach where magnetic attraction force compresses one or more springs of the spring loaded electrical contacts.

As an example, a camera assembly can include a status light. For example, consider a status light that includes a top side housing portion and a back side housing portion.

As an example, a camera assembly can be externally cable-less. For example, consider a single electrical interface that is a mount electrical interface.

As an example, a camera assembly can include at least one microphone. For example, a camera assembly can include a microphone array with at least two microphones.

As an example, a display assembly can be a bezel-less display assembly.

As an example, a display assembly can house a processor and memory accessible to the processor. In such an example, a system that includes the display assembly can include a keyboard with depressible, mechanical keys. As an example, a display assembly may be an all-in-one computing device.

As an example, a system can include a stand such as a stand that is part of a display assembly or otherwise operatively coupled to a display assembly. As an example, a stand can include a keyboard platform.

As an example, a frame electronic interface can be a first frame electronic interface of a frame of a display assembly and the frame of the display assembly can include a second frame electronic interface. In such an example, the frame can have a rectangular form factor that includes a long edge and a short edge, where the first frame electronic interface is disposed on the long edge and where the second frame electronic interface is disposed on the short edge. In such an example, the display assembly may include features for rotation of the frame to a portrait orientation and to a landscape orientation.

As an example, a camera assembly can include a housing; a camera disposed in the housing; and a tilt mount, where the tilt mount includes mount magnetic material and a mount electronic interface. In such an example, the tilt mount can be a swivel mount. For example, consider a ball joint that can provide for movement in various degrees of freedom. As an example, a tilt mount may provide for movement such as rotational movement to tilt front to back about an axis defined by a pin joint (e.g., a pin and barrel hinge type of joint, an axle and bore joint, etc.).

As an example, a tilt mount can include an L-shaped coupling. For example, consider an L-shaped coupling that can couple to an edge of a frame of a display assembly.

As an example, a mount electronic interface can be a serial bus interface that provides for transmission of power and/or data. As an example, a mount electronic interface can include spring loaded electrical contacts.

As an example, a camera assembly can include a status light. For example, consider a status light that includes a top side housing portion and a back side housing portion.

As an example, a camera assembly can be externally cable-less. For example, such a camera assembly can be mounted to a display assembly using a mount that includes an integral electronic interface. As explained, such a mount can include one or more permanent magnets and may include one or more spring-loaded electrical contacts (e.g., pogo pins, etc.). As an example, a kit may include a camera assembly and a stand where the stand may include a cable or cable connector (e.g., for a USB cable, etc.). In such an example, the camera assembly can be utilized without a cable or with a cable via the stand.

The term “circuit” or “circuitry” is used in the summary, description, and/or claims. As is well known in the art, the term “circuitry” includes all levels of available integration, e.g., from discrete logic circuits to the highest level of circuit integration such as VLSI, and includes programmable logic components programmed to perform the functions of an embodiment as well as general-purpose or special-purpose processors programmed with instructions to perform those functions. Such circuitry may optionally rely on one or more computer-readable media that includes computer-executable instructions. As described herein, a computer-readable medium may be a storage device (e.g., a memory card, a storage disk, etc.) and referred to as a computer-readable storage medium.

While various examples of circuits or circuitry have been discussed,FIG.9depicts a block diagram of an illustrative computer system900. The system900may be a computer system sold by Lenovo (US) Inc. of Morrisville, NC (e.g., a THINKSTATION® system, etc.); however, as apparent from the description herein, a satellite, a base, a display, a computing device, a server or other machine may include one or more features and/or other features of the system900.

As an example, a monitor or display may include features such as one or more of the features included in one of the LENOVO® IDEACENTRE® or THINKCENTRE® “all-in-one” (AIO) computing devices (e.g., sold by Lenovo (US) Inc. of Morrisville, NC). For example, the LENOVO® IDEACENTRE® A720 computing device includes an Intel® Core i7 processor, a 27 inch frameless multi-touch display (e.g., for HD resolution of 1920×1080), a NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 630M 2 GB graphics card, 8 GB DDR3 memory, a hard drive, a DVD reader/writer, integrated Bluetooth® and 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi®, USB connectors, a 6-in-1 card reader, a webcam, HDMI in/out, speakers, and a TV tuner.

As shown inFIG.9, the system900includes a so-called chipset910. A chipset refers to a group of integrated circuits, or chips, that are designed to work together. Chipsets are usually marketed as a single product (e.g., consider chipsets marketed under the brands INTEL®, AMD®, etc.).

In the example ofFIG.9, the chipset910has a particular architecture, which may vary to some extent depending on brand or manufacturer. The architecture of the chipset910includes a core and memory control group920and an I/O controller hub950that exchange information (e.g., data, signals, commands, etc.) via, for example, a direct management interface or direct media interface (DMI)942or a link controller944. In the example ofFIG.9, the DMI942is a chip-to-chip interface (sometimes referred to as being a link between a “northbridge” and a “southbridge”).

The core and memory control group920include one or more processors922(e.g., single core or multi-core) and a memory controller hub926that exchange information via a front side bus (FSB)924. As described herein, various components of the core and memory control group920may be integrated onto a single processor die, for example, to make a chip that supplants the conventional “northbridge” style architecture.

The memory controller hub926interfaces with memory940. For example, the memory controller hub926may provide support for DDR SDRAM memory (e.g., DDR, DDR2, DDR3, etc.). In general, the memory940is a type of random-access memory (RAM). It is often referred to as “system memory”.

The memory controller hub926further includes a low-voltage differential signaling interface (LVDS)932. The LVDS932may be a so-called LVDS Display Interface (LDI) for support of a display device992(e.g., a CRT, a flat panel, a projector, etc.). A block938includes some examples of technologies that may be supported via the LVDS interface932(e.g., serial digital video, HDMI/DVI, display port). The memory controller hub926also includes one or more PCI-express interfaces (PCI-E)934, for example, for support of discrete graphics936. Discrete graphics using a PCI-E interface has become an alternative approach to an accelerated graphics port (AGP). For example, the memory controller hub926may include a 16-lane (×16) PCI-E port for an external PCI-E-based graphics card. A system may include AGP or PCI-E for support of graphics. As described herein, a display may be a sensor display (e.g., configured for receipt of input using a stylus, a finger, etc.). As described herein, a sensor display may rely on resistive sensing, optical sensing, or other type of sensing.

The I/O hub controller950includes a variety of interfaces. The example ofFIG.9includes a SATA interface951, one or more PCI-E interfaces952(optionally one or more legacy PCI interfaces), one or more USB interfaces953, a LAN interface954(more generally a network interface), a general purpose I/O interface (GPIO)955, a low-pin count (LPC) interface970, a power management interface961, a clock generator interface962, an audio interface963(e.g., for speakers994), a total cost of operation (TCO) interface964, a system management bus interface (e.g., a multi-master serial computer bus interface)965, and a serial peripheral flash memory/controller interface (SPI Flash)966, which, in the example ofFIG.9, includes BIOS968and boot code990. With respect to network connections, the I/O hub controller950may include integrated gigabit Ethernet controller lines multiplexed with a PCI-E interface port. Other network features may operate independent of a PCI-E interface.

The interfaces of the I/O hub controller950provide for communication with various devices, networks, etc. For example, the SATA interface951provides for reading, writing or reading and writing information on one or more drives980such as HDDs, SDDs or a combination thereof. The I/O hub controller950may also include an advanced host controller interface (AHCI) to support one or more drives980. The PCI-E interface952allows for wireless connections982to devices, networks, etc. The USB interface953provides for input devices984such as keyboards (KB), one or more optical sensors, mice and various other devices (e.g., microphones, cameras, phones, storage, media players, etc.). On or more other types of sensors may optionally rely on the USB interface953or another interface (e.g., I2C, etc.). As to microphones, the system900ofFIG.9may include hardware (e.g., audio card) appropriately configured for receipt of sound (e.g., user voice, ambient sound, etc.).

In the example ofFIG.9, the LPC interface970provides for use of one or more ASICs971, a trusted platform module (TPM)972, a super I/O973, a firmware hub974, BIOS support975as well as various types of memory976such as ROM977, Flash978, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM)979. With respect to the TPM972, this module may be in the form of a chip that can be used to authenticate software and hardware devices. For example, a TPM may be capable of performing platform authentication and may be used to verify that a system seeking access is the expected system.

The system900, upon power on, may be configured to execute boot code990for the BIOS968, as stored within the SPI Flash966, and thereafter processes data under the control of one or more operating systems and application software (e.g., stored in system memory940). An operating system may be stored in any of a variety of locations and accessed, for example, according to instructions of the BIOS968. Again, as described herein, a satellite, a base, a server or other machine may include fewer or more features than shown in the system900ofFIG.9. Further, the system900ofFIG.9is shown as optionally include cell phone circuitry995, which may include GSM, CDMA, etc., types of circuitry configured for coordinated operation with one or more of the other features of the system900. As shown, the system900may include one or more batteries997and, for example, battery management circuitry.

Although examples of methods, devices, systems, etc., have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as examples of forms of implementing the claimed methods, devices, systems, etc.