PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8111505-B2
Application Number: US-58092209-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Computer housing

Abstract:
A multipart computer housing is described. The multipart computer housing includes at least a structural support layer and a body. The body includes at least an outer layer formed of lightweight flexible material and an inner layer attached to the outer layer. The inner layer is connected to the support layer forming a load path between the inner layer and the structural support layer. A load applied to the multipart computer housing is transferred by way of the load path to the support layer without substantially affecting the outer layer.

Claims:
1. A computing device, comprising:
 a single piece, seamless housing formed of a lightweight, flexible material, the seamless housing comprising: 
 a top portion, and 
 a body portion integrally formed with the top portion; 
 a movable top cover pivotally connected to the single piece seamless housing, the movable top cover and the seamless housing shaped to create an appearance of a single continuous shape when the movable top cover is closed and in contact with the top portion; and 
 a bottom cover, the bottom cover arranged to provide structural support for the computing device such that a load applied at the housing is passed to the bottom cover without substantially affecting the housing. 
 
     
     
       2. The computing device as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the top portion includes at least one user interface, and wherein the housing is formed of plastic. 
     
     
       3. The computing device as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the housing encloses and supports a computer assembly, the computer assembly includes a plurality of components operable to provide a set of defined functions for the computing device. 
     
     
       4. The computing device as recited in  claim 3 , wherein the body portion has at least one unreinforced opening having a wide span sized to accommodate a connector used to access at least one of the operable components. 
     
     
       5. The computing device as recited in  claim 4 , wherein the connector is a USB connector. 
     
     
       6. A multipart computer housing comprising
 a structural support layer; and 
 a single, seamless body having no visible fasteners, the single seamless body comprising: 
 an outer layer formed of lightweight flexible material, and 
 an inner layer attached to the outer layer adapted to transfer and distribute a load applied to the computer housing, wherein the inner layer is physically connected to the support layer such that the load is transferred from the inner layer to the support layer without substantially affecting the outer layer. 
 
     
     
       7. The multipart computer housing as recited in  claim 6 , wherein the inner layer is attached to the outer layer using an adhesive that buffers the outer layer from a load on the inner layer. 
     
     
       8. The multipart computer housing as recited in  claim 6 , wherein the multipart computer housing has a substantially continuous cross sectional shape. 
     
     
       9. The multipart computer housing as recited in  claim 6 , wherein the inner layer includes a plurality of structural members conformally attached to an inside surface of the outer layer. 
     
     
       10. The multipart computer housing as recited in  claim 9 , wherein the inner layer includes at least a load bearing component attached to at least one of the plurality of structural members, the load bearing component acting in concert with the inner layer to transfer and distribute the load. 
     
     
       11. The multipart computer housing as recited in  claim 10 , wherein the inner layer includes at least a non-load bearing component, the non-load bearing component being attached to at least one of the plurality of structural members by way of load buffering connectors that buffer the non-load bearing component from the load. 
     
     
       12. The multipart compute housing as recited in  claim 6 , wherein the multipart computer housing is formed of plastic that includes PCABS. 
     
     
       13. A method of organizing internal components of a portable computer, comprising:
 providing a computer housing formed of substantially non-load bearing material, the computer housing configured to enclose a plurality of operational components at least one of which is a load bearing operational component; 
 attaching at least one structural member to an inside surface of the computer housing; 
 attaching the load bearing operational component to the at least one structural member; and 
 forming a load path by coupling a structural support layer to the at least one structural member and the load bearing operational component, the load path providing a path by which a load applied to the computer housing is transferred to the structural support layer without substantially affecting the computer housing. 
 
     
     
       14. The method as recited in  claim 13 , wherein the at least one structural member has a shape that conforms to an inside surface of the computer housing. 
     
     
       15. The method as recited in  claim 14 , wherein the at least one structural member is attached to the inside surface of the computer housing using an adhesive. 
     
     
       16. The method as recited in  claim 15 , wherein the adhesive buffers the outer layer from the inner layer. 
     
     
       17. The method as recited in  claim 13 , wherein the computer housing is plastic. 
     
     
       18. A portable computer, comprising:
 a housing, the housing formed of non-load bearing material, the housing having an aesthetically appealing shape and aesthetically appealing surface features; 
 a load distributing and load transferring endoskeleton attached to an interior surface of the housing; 
 a structural support layer mechanically coupled to the endoskeleton, the structural support layer formed of metal, the structural support layer providing structural support for the portable computer and an electrical ground, wherein a load applied to the housing is passed by the endoskeleton to the structural support layer without substantially affecting the housing; 
 a protective layer attached to an exterior surface of the structural support layer, the protective layer having an appearance in conformity with the housing, the protective layer forming a junction with the housing that protects the appearance of the housing; 
 a top cover having a supporting inner frame; 
 a display supported by the inner frame, the inner frame pivotally connected to the endoskeleton by way of a hinge arrangement; and 
 a hinge arrangement enclosure arranged to enclose the hinge arrangement, wherein the hinge arrangement enclosure comprises: 
 a back portion, the back portion being visible to a user when the top cover is in a close state, the back portion being integrally formed from the top cover, and 
 a cover portion, the cover portion being removably attached to the back portion by way of a zipper lock arrangement such that when the cover portion and the back portion are joined, a resulting seam is not visible by the user when the top cover is in a closed position, and where the resulting seam aligns with a seam formed by the protective layer and the housing when the top cover is in the open position. 
 
     
     
       19. The portable computer as recited in  claim 18 , wherein the housing is formed of plastic that includes PCABS. 
     
     
       20. The portable computer as recited in  claim 18 , wherein the endoskeleton includes at least a frame member and a load bearing operational component, the load bearing operational component arranged to distribute and transfer the load without substantially affecting the operational or structural characteristics of the load bearing operational component. 
     
     
       21. The portable computer as recited in  claim 20 , wherein the load bearing operational component is attached to the frame member such that the load applied to the housing is transferred by the frame member to the load bearing operational component that, in turn, transfers the load to the structural support layer. 
     
     
       22. A lightweight portable computer, comprising
 a housing body, comprising 
 an outer layer formed of lightweight and aesthetically pleasing material, and 
 an inner layer attached to the outer layer; 
 a structural support layer, wherein the inner layer is configured to transfer and distribute a load applied to the portable computer to the structural support layer without substantially affecting the outer layer; and 
 a top portion pivotally connected to the inner layer, the top portion comprising: 
 an inner frame, and 
 an aesthetically pleasing outer shell attached to the inner frame, wherein the inner frame transfers a load applied at the top portion to the structural support layer by way of the inner layer. 
 
     
     
       23. The lightweight portable computer as recited in  claim 22 , further comprising:
 a protective layer applied to an outer surface of the structural support layer. 
 
     
     
       24. The lightweight portable computer as recited in  claim 23 , wherein the housing body, the top portion, and the protective layer are harmoniously arranged such that the portable computer appears to have a substantially continuous and curved profile. 
     
     
       25. The lightweight portable computer as recited in  claim 22 , wherein the housing body comprises:
 a plurality of wide spanned openings supported only by the inner layer. 
 
     
     
       26. The lightweight portable computer as recited in  claim 22 , wherein the housing and the top portion are formed of the same lightweight material that includes PCABS.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This patent application is related to and incorporates by reference in their entireties, for all purposes, the following co-pending patent applications as follows: 
     (i) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/580,914, filed Oct. 16, 2009, entitled “PORTABLE COMPUTER DISPLAY HOUSING” by Bergeron et al.; 
     (ii) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/580,985, filed Oct. 16, 2009, entitled “PORTABLE COMPUTER ELECTRICAL GROUNDING AND AUDIO SYSTEM ARCHITECTURES” by Thomason et al.; 
     (iii) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/580,946, filed Oct. 16, 2009, entitled “PORTABLE COMPUTER HOUSING” by Casebolt et al.; 
     (iv) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/580,934, filed Oct. 16, 2009, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR POLISHING A CURVED EDGE” by Lancaster et al. that takes priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/249,200, entitled “COMPLEX GEOGRAPHICAL EDGE POLISHING” by Johannessen filed Oct. 6, 2009, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety; 
     (v) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/580,881, filed Oct. 16, 2009, entitled “SELF FIXTURING ASSEMBLY TECHNIQUES” by Thompson et al.; 
     (vi) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/580,976, filed Oct. 16, 2009, entitled “BATTERY” by Coish et al. which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/549,570, filed Aug. 28, 2009; 
     (vii) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/580,886, filed Oct. 16, 2009, entitled “PORTABLE COMPUTER DISPLAY HOUSING” by Bergeron et al.; and (viii) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/580,927, filed Oct. 16, 2009, entitled “COMPUTER HOUSING” by Raff et al. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The described embodiments relate generally to portable computing devices. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to enclosures of portable computing devices and methods of assembling portable computing devices. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     The outward appearance of a portable computing device, including its design and its heft, is important to a user of the portable computing device, as the outward appearance contributes to the overall impression that the user has of the portable computing device. At the same time, the assembly of the portable computing device is also important to the user, as a durable assembly will help extend the overall life of the portable computing device and will increase its value to the user. 
     One design challenge associated with the portable computing device is the design of the enclosures used to house the various internal components. This design challenge generally arises from a number conflicting design goals that includes the desirability of making the enclosure lighter and thinner, the desirability of making the enclosure stronger and making the enclosure more aesthetically pleasing. The lighter enclosures, which typically use thinner plastic structures and fewer fasteners, tend to be more flexible and therefore they have a greater propensity to buckle and bow when used while the stronger and more rigid enclosures, which typically use thicker plastic structures and more fasteners, tend to be thicker and carry more weight. Unfortunately, increased weight may lead to user dissatisfaction, and bowing may damage the internal parts. 
     Furthermore, in most portable computing devices, the enclosures are mechanical assemblies having multiple parts that are screwed, bolted, riveted, or otherwise fastened together at discrete points. For example, the enclosures typically have included an upper casing and a lower casing that are placed on top of one another and fastened together using screws. These techniques typically complicate the housing design and create aesthetic difficulties because of undesirable cracks, seams, gaps or breaks at the mating surfaces and fasteners located along the surfaces of the housing. For example, a mating line surrounding the entire enclosure is produced when using an upper and lower casing. Not only that, but assembly is often a time consuming and cumbersome process. For example, the assembler has to spend a certain amount of time positioning the two parts and attaching each of the fasteners. Furthermore, assembly often requires the assembler to have special tools and some general technical skill. 
     Another challenge is in techniques for mounting structures within the portable computing devices. Conventionally, the structures have been laid over one of the casings (upper or lower) and attached to one of the casings with fasteners such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc. That is, the structures are positioned in a sandwich like manner in layers over the casing and thereafter fastened to the casing. This methodology suffers from the same drawbacks as mentioned above, i.e., assembly is a time consuming and cumbersome. 
     Therefore, it would be beneficial to provide a housing for a portable computing device that is aesthetically pleasing and lightweight, durable and yet environmentally friendly. It would also be beneficial to provide methods for assembling the portable computing device. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DESCRIBED EMBODIMENTS 
     This paper describes various embodiments that relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for providing a lightweight, visually seamless housing suitable for use in portable computing applications. 
     A computing device is disclosed. The computing device includes at least a single piece, seamless housing formed of a lightweight, flexible material. The seamless housing includes a top portion on which is located at least one user interface and a body portion integrally formed with the top portion. The computing device also includes a movable top cover pivotally connected to the single piece seamless housing. In the described embodiment, the movable top cover and the seamless housing are shaped to create an appearance of a single continuous shape when the movable top cover is closed and in contact with the top portion. 
     A multi-part computer housing is disclosed. The multipart computer housing includes at least a structural support layer and a single, seamless body. The single seamless body having no visible fasteners. The body includes at least an outer layer formed of lightweight flexible material and an inner layer attached to the outer layer adapted to transfer and distribute a load applied to the computer housing. In the described embodiment, the inner layer is physically connected to the support layer such that the load applied to the computer housing is transferred from the inner layer to the support layer without substantially affecting the outer layer. 
     In one aspect, the multipart computer housing is a plastic such as PCABS. 
     In another embodiment, a method is disclosed for organizing internal components of a portable computer. The method can be carried out by performing at least the following: providing a computer housing formed of substantially non-load bearing material, the computer housing configured to enclose a plurality of operational components at least one of which is a load bearing operational component, attaching at least one structural member to an inside surface of the computer housing, attaching the load bearing operational component to the at least one structural member, and forming a load path by coupling a structural support layer to the at least one structural member and the load bearing operational component, the load path providing a path by which a load applied to the computer housing is transferred to the structural support layer without substantially affecting the computer housing. 
     In one aspect, at least a portion of the inner frame is formed of metal that includes at least aluminum, magnesium, or alloys thereof. 
     A portable computer is disclosed. The portable computer includes at least a housing formed of compliant non-load bearing material and having an aesthetically appealing shape and aesthetically appealing surface features. A load distributing and load transferring endoskeleton attached to an interior surface of the housing, a structural support layer mechanically coupled to the endoskeleton formed of metald and providing structural support for the portable computer and an electrical ground, such that load applied to the housing is passed by the endoskeleton to the structural support layer with substantially affecting the housing, a protective layer attached to an exterior surface of the structural support layer, the protective layer having an appearance in conformity with the housing, the protective layer forming a junction with the housing that protects the appearance of the housing. The portable computer also includes a top cover having a supporting inner frame, a display supported by the inner frame pivotally connected to the endoskeleton by way of a hinge arrangement and a hinge arrangement enclosure arranged to enclose the hinge arrangement. In the described embodiment, the hinge arrangement enclosure includes at least the following: a back portion being visible to a user when the top cover is in a close state integrally formed from the top cover, and a cover portion being removeably attached to the back portion by way of a zipper lock arrangement such that when the cover portion and the back portion are joined, a resulting seam is not visible by the user when the top cover is in a closed position, and where the resulting seam aligns with a seam formed by the protective layer and the housing when the top cover is in the open position. 
     A lightweight portable computer is also disclosed. The lightweight portable computer includes at least a housing body. The housing body, in turn, can include an outer layer and an inner layer attached to the outer layer. In the described embodiment, the outer layer can be formed of lightweight and aesthetically pleasing material. The portable computer can also include a structural support layer attached to the inner layer in such a way that the inner layer transfers a load applied to the portable computer to the structural support layer without substantially affecting the outer layer. The portable computer also includes a top portion having an inner frame pivotally connected to the housing body at the inner layer such that a top portion load is transferred by the inner frame to the structural support layer by way of the inner layer. The top portion having an aesthetically pleasing outer shell attached to the inner frame. 
     In one aspect, the portable computer also includes a protective layer attached on an exterior surface of the structural support layer. The top portion, the housing body, and the protective layer being harmoniously arranged such that the portable computer appears to have a continuous profile shape without any visible fasteners. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the described embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the described embodiments. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The embodiments will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIGS. 1-6  show representative views of a multipart housing suitable for supporting a portable computer in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 7  shows a right side front facing perspective view of a portable computing device in an open state. 
         FIG. 8  shows left side views of a portable computing device in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIGS. 9 and 10  show a top view and a front view, respectively, of a portable computing device in a closed state. 
         FIG. 11  shows an interior view of the portable computing device shown in  FIGS. 7-10 . 
         FIG. 12  shows a representation of top sub-assembly of portable computing device in accordance with the described embodiments 
         FIGS. 13-14  show a detailed view of load absorbing attachment features in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIGS. 15-17  show a cross section view of clutch barrel assembly in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 18  shows an embodiment of status indicator light (SIL). 
         FIG. 19 . shows an embodiment of magnetic power module (MPM). 
         FIG. 20  shows a top view of camera assembly in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 21  shows a cross sectional view of assembled display with aligned camera assembly. 
         FIG. 22  shows a Hall Effect sensor in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 23  shows a location of the Hall Effect sensor shown in  FIG. 22  on a representative main logic board. 
         FIG. 24  shows a location of the Hall Effect sensor shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23  in a representative portable computing system. 
         FIG. 25  shows a flowchart detailing a process for organizing internal components of a portable computer system in accordance with the described embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED EMBODIMENTS 
     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 may be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     The following relates to a multi-part housing suitable for a portable computing device such as a laptop computer, netbook computer, tablet computer, etc. The multi-part housing can include a structural support layer. The structural support layer can be formed of a strong and durable yet lightweight material. Such materials can include composite materials and or metals such as aluminum. Aluminum has a number of characteristics that make it a good choice for the structural support layer. For example, aluminum is a good electrical conductor that can provide good electrical ground and it can be easily machined and has well known metallurgical characteristics. Furthermore, aluminum is not highly reactive and non-magnetic which can be an essential requirement if the portable computer has RF capabilities, such as WiFi, AM/FM, etc. In order to both protect the structural support layer and provide an aesthetically appealing finish (both visual and tactile), a protective layer can be placed on an external surface of the structural support layer. The protective layer can extend up and around an edge of the structural support layer to both enhance the aesthetic appeal of the housing and to protect the appearance of the portable computer. The protective layer can be formed of, for example, thermoplastic elastomer such as TPU. 
     The multi-part housing can also include a body. The body can include a outer layer supported by an inner layer that can provide support for a computer assembly as well as transfer and distribute loads applied to the portable computing device. The outer layer can be formed of lightweight yet durable materials. Such materials can include, for example, blends of poly-carbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), also known as PCABS that exhibit high flow, toughness and heat resistance well suited for portable applications. The inner layer can be formed of composite materials, plastic, or metal such as magnesium or magnesium alloy. The inner layer can be connected directly to the structural support layer forming a load path between the inner layer and the structural support layer. In this way, a load applied to the portable computing device can be distributed across the inner layer and transferred along the load path to the structural support layer without substantially affecting the outer layer. Since the outer layer does not have to be load tolerant, the outer layer can be formed of flexible, but aesthetically pleasing materials such as plastic that would otherwise be unsuitable for use with a conventional portable computer housing. 
     In the embodiments where inner layer is metallic or at least electrically conductive, the inner layer and the structural support layer can, taken together, provide a good electrical ground plane or electrical ground. This can be especially important due to the fact that by selecting plastic or other non-conducting material for the outer layer, the outer layer cannot provide a ground. Moreover, due to the close proximity of the operational components to one another in the portable computing device, it is highly desirable to isolate sources of significant RF radiation (such as a main logic board, or MLB) from those circuits, such as wireless circuits, highly sensitive to RF interference. In this way, the inner layer can include a metal frame that can, in combination with the structural support layer, be used to electromagnetically isolate the MLB from other components in the computer assembly sensitive to RF interference such as a WiFi circuit. 
     Since the outer layer is essentially load isolated, the choice of materials that can be used to form the outer layer can be widely varied. In this way, a product designer can create a look and feel for the portable computer well beyond anything realistically possible with a conventional computer housing. For example, the outer layer can be formed of light weight plastic and molded into any shape (such as an undercut shape). Since the outer layer does not provide much, if any, structural support for the portable computer, the shape of outer layer can also be widely varied. For example, the outer layer can present a continuous spline profile so as to appear to an observer to be a single unified shape with substantially no discontinuities. Moreover, since there is no need for external fasteners that would detract from the overall appearance of the portable laptop computer, the overall look and feel presented by the outer layer can be one of a simple continuous shape. 
     Again, since the outer layer does not carry any substantial loads, the outer layer can include a number of openings having wide spans that do not require additional support structures. Such openings can take the form of ports that can be used to provide access to internal circuits. The ports can include, for example, data ports suitable for accommodating cables (USB, Ethernet, FireWire, etc.) connecting external circuits. The openings can also provide access to an audio circuit, video display circuit, power input, etc. 
     The portable computer can also include a movable cover. The movable cover can include an inner frame supporting a outer layer. The inner frame can in much the same way as the inner layer of the body, distribute and transfer a load applied to the movable cover. In the described embodiments, the inner frame can be formed of materials that are strong, lightweight and electrically conductive. Such materials can include, for example, magnesium and/or magnesium alloys. By connecting the inner frame to the inner layer of the body, the inner frame can become part of the load path to the structural support layer. In this way, any load applied to or created by the movable cover can be distributed across the inner frame and transferred to the structural support layer by way of the inner layer of the housing. For example, the movable cover can take the form of a lid that can be opened to reveal a portion of the body and closed to hide the portion of the body. By connecting the inner frame to the inner layer of the body using connectors, such as hinges, the inner frame can become part of the load path. In this way, a load imparted to the lid such as when the lid is opened (or closed), for example, can be transferred along the load path from the lid to the structural support layer. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-25 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. 
       FIGS. 1-5  show various configurations of multi-part housing  100  (hereinafter referred to as simply housing) in accordance with the described embodiments. Housing  100  can be used to enclose and support a computer assembly. The computer assembly can include a plurality of operational components, such as a main logic board (MLB), hard disc drive (HDD), optical disc drive (ODD) and so on used in the operation of a computing system. The computing system can be a desktop or portable, however, for the remainder of this discussion, the described embodiments relate to a portable computing system without any loss of generality. 
     Housing  100  can include structural support layer  102 . Structural support layer  102  can be formed of materials such as metal (such as aluminum formed in a stamping operation) or composite materials. Housing  100  can also include body  104 . Body  104  can, in turn, include load transferring and load distribution inner layer  106  attached to outer layer  108 . Outer layer  108  can be formed of material that is chosen for its aesthetic appeal and less for its ability to withstand stress or any significant loads. It is for at least this reason that inner layer  106  can be designed to carry substantially any and all loads applied to housing  100 . Accordingly, inner layer  106  and outer layer  108  can be attached to each other in such a way that inhibits the transfer of a load from inner layer  106  to outer layer  108 . For example, inner layer  106  and outer layer  108  can be attached together using adhesive  110 , such as glue. It should be noted that the choice of adhesive should be such that the adhesive bond formed does not interfere with the load transferring and load distribution characteristics of inner layer  106 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , inner layer  106  can be mechanically coupled with structural support layer  102 . In this way, inner layer  106  can provide a load path to structural support layer  102  such that substantially any load applied to inner layer  106  can be transferred to structural support layer  102  without unduly loading outer layer  108 . Accordingly, outer layer  108  can be considered to be load isolated in that substantially all loads applied to housing  100  can be transferred by way of load path  112  to structural support layer  102  bypassing and isolating outer layer  108 . Protective layer  114  can be placed on an external surface of structural support layer  102 . Protective layer  114  can be formed of resilient material such as TPE that can include, for example, TPU that is corrosion resistant and pleasing to the eye as well as to the touch. Protective layer  114  can extend over an edge of structural support layer  102 . When structural support layer  102 /protective layer  114  is mechanically connected to inner layer  106 , a junction can be formed between protective layer  114  and outer layer  108  that can protect the integrity of the appearance of housing  100 . 
       FIG. 3  shows an embodiment of housing  100  having body  104  and integrally formed top portion  116  forming enclosure  118  suitable for accommodating a computer assembly. The computer assembly can correspond to operational components adapted for a laptop computer or other portable computing device. In the context of a laptop computer, as shown in  FIG. 4 , movable lid  120  can be pivotally attached to enclosure  118  by pivoting connectors  122 . In this way, top surface  124  of enclosure  118  can be viewed when lid  120  is in an open state (revealing features on top surface  124  such as a keyboard and/or touch pad) and hidden from view when lid  120  is in a closed state. In the embodiment shown, lid  120  can include load transferring inner frame  126  that can support cosmetic exterior  128 . Inner frame  126  can be particularly useful in those situations where lid  120  incorporates a display device such as an LED, LCD, etc. By being mechanically connected to inner layer  106 , any load at lid  120  (such as opening or closing lid  120  in relation to enclosure  118 ) can be transferred along load path  112  from lid  120  to structural support layer  102  without substantially loading outer layer  108 . 
       FIG. 5  shows a representation of enclosure  118  in an orientation suitable for receiving components during an assembly operation. In this orientation, structural support layer  102  is not present and components can be placed into enclosure  118  and secured to and/or become part of inner layer  106 . Inner layer  106  can be attached to outer layer  108  by way of substantially non-load transferring adhesive  110 . During assembly, various operational components can be inserted into enclosure  118  through opening  130  and mounted to inner layer  106 . It should be noted that the functional layout of the portable computing device can be used to optimize the ability of inner layer  106  to transfer and distribute loads within enclosure  118 . In one embodiment, enclosure  118  can be apportioned into a number of regions that can be based upon the operational components and their respective structural characteristics included therein. For example, if enclosure  118  corresponds to a laptop computer, then enclosure  118  can be thought of as having front portion  132  suitable for accommodating features such as a user interface along the lines of a touch or track pad. The user interface, can in turn, be structurally supported by corresponding frame structure  134  mounted within an opening provided in top surface  124  for the touch pad. In order to adequately support the user interface, frame structure  134  can be formed of strong, rigid material such as metal that can take the form of aluminum, magnesium, and/or magnesium alloy. By incorporating frame structure  134  into front frame  136  of inner layer  106 , the intrinsic stiffness and strength of frame structure  134  can be used to augment the overall stiffness of front portion  132  as well as augment the load transferring capability of front frame  136 . Similarly, enclosure  118  can be thought as having rear portion  138  that can accommodate other features, such as a keyboard that can be incorporated into an opening in top surface  124  using a heat stake process, for example, whereby heat sensitive posts are melted to form a bond between the keyboard and rear frame  140  described in more detail below. However, since the keyboard is visible to the user, the keyboard is typically formed of material similar to that of outer layer  108  therefore being unsuitable for transferring or distributing loads. Accordingly, the design and construction of rear frame  140  must take into account the fact that the keyboard cannot be relied upon to carry or transfer a load of any substantial magnitude. 
     After assembly, structural support layer  102  can be used to cover the components assembled into enclosure  118  by, for example, placing structural support layer  102  in contact with inner layer  106 . In this way, load path  112  can be formed by connecting inner layer  106  to structural support layer  102  at a plurality of connecting points  142  by way of fasteners that can include screws, rivets, etc. It should be noted that there can be any number and/or combination of types of fasteners used depending upon, of course, the particular design. By securely fastening inner layer  106  to structural support layer  102 , the fasteners at connecting points  142  can be used to transfer component of load L in the Z direction (i.e., load component L Z )from inner layer  106  “up out of the paper” to structural support layer  102  by way of load path  112  without substantially loading outer layer  108 . 
     Therefore, by taking into consideration the load carrying or load transferring characteristics as well as the inherent or otherwise enhanced stiffness of components installed in enclosure  118 , the ability of inner layer  106  to transfer and/or distribute loads can be enhanced. For example,  FIG. 6  shows an embodiment of enclosure  118  having inner layer  106  enhanced for both transferring and distributing loads in accordance with a particular set of operational components, some of which are load bearing and others non-load bearing. Front frame  136  can be configured to include touch pad frame  134 . In order to provide structural support for a touch pad, touch pad frame  134  can be rigidly attached to outer layer  108  (using glue, for example) and as part of front frame  136 , touch pad frame  134  can facilitate the transfer loads in enclosure  118 . In this way the inherent stiffness of touch pad frame  134  can be added to the stiffness of outer layer  108  without adding any more weight than would be otherwise be required. Moreover, as part of front frame  136 , touch pad frame  134  can act in conjunction with attachment feature  144  (also part of front frame  136 ) using bridge feature  146  to hand off load L between attachment feature  144  (used to attach non-load bearing component  148  to outer layer  108 ) and load bearing component  150 . Non-load bearing component  148  can be coupled to attachment feature  144  using load isolating connectors  152  that can substantially isolate non-load bearing component  148  from loads on either front frame  136  (such as load L) or rear frame  140 . In a particular embodiment described in more detail below, load isolating connectors  152  can take the form of a slot and pin arrangement. Moreover, since attachment feature  144  can be connected to structural support layer  102  by way of fasteners at connection points  142 , attachment feature  144  can in addition to transferring loads in the XY plane transfer z component L z  of load L directly to structural support layer  102 . 
     Load bearing component  150  can be attached directly to structural support layer  102  as well as to front frame  136  in essence becoming part of front frame  136 . Load bearing component  150  can also be connected to rear frame  140  at load transferring connectors  154 . In the described embodiment, rear frame  140  can take the form of a weight reduced metal plate located in rear portion  138  that can be used to provide at least mechanical support for components, such as the MLB that cannot tolerate flexion. Rear frame  140  can be attached directly to enclosure  118  using adhesives such as glue. It should be noted that rear frame  140  can be used to provide support to the keyboard by providing posts onto which heat stakes can be melted during installation of the keyboard into enclosure  118 . Since load bearing component  150  can be connected directly to structural support layer  102  and rear frame  140 , load bearing component  150  can spatially distribute loads in X, Y, and Z directions. For example, load L can be divided into its three constituent spatial components, {L x  L y  L z } each of which can be transferred independent of the others. In this way, load component L x  can be transferred independent of load component L y  by load bearing component  150 . For example, load component L y  can be transferred to rear frame  140  by way of connectors  154  independent of load component L x . Similarly, load component L z  can be transferred to structural support layer  102  by way of fasteners  142  independent of either load components L x  or L y . 
     Rear frame  140  can be formed of strong and rigid material such as metal in the form of magnesium or magnesium alloy. Rear frame  140  can provide support for components, such as the main logic board, or MLB, that do not tolerate much flexion. Rear frame  140  can distribute loads received from load bearing component  150  such by way of connectors  154  as well as support the load isolating function of connectors  152 . In some embodiments, rear frame  140  can be configured to provide support to external features fabricated in outer layer  108 . For example, openings  156  in outer layer  108  can be used to provide access to data ports, power ports and so on, some of which may be required to have relatively large spans. By providing local bypass structure  158 , openings  156  can be protected from loading thereby removing any need for reinforcement of outer layer  108 . 
     Additional support for rear portion  138  can be provided by rear bracket  160  separate from rear frame  140 . Rear bracket  160  can serve many purposes not the least of which is to provide additional support for enclosure  118 . In the described embodiment, this additional support can be achieved by the fact that rear bracket  158  can act as a cantilever beam. Accordingly, rear bracket  160  can be formed of strong, lightweight, and resilient materials such as metal along the lines of magnesium or magnesium alloy. In addition, rear bracket  160  can aid in the distribution of high concentration loads that if applied to rear frame  140  without dissipation could adversely affect the bond between rear frame  140  and enclosure  118 . For example, lid  120  can be coupled to inner layer  106  at connector  162  as part of rear bracket  160  that can extend out from the main body of rear bracket  160 . This extension can have the effect of dissipating and distributing high concentration loads received when li  1920  is opened or closed. Rear bracket  160  can be attached to rear frame  140  at a number of points using load transferring type connector  154  as well as to structural support layer  102  at connecting points  142  using suitable fasteners. In this way, rear bracket  160  can act to minimize the concentration of loads, aid in the distribution of loads within enclosure  118 , and provide added stiffness to enclosure  118 . 
       FIGS. 7-8  show various open perspective views of portable computing device  200  whereas  FIGS. 9 and 10  show various closed views of portable computing device  200 . 
       FIG. 7  shows a right side front facing perspective view of portable computing device  200  in an open state. Portable computing device  200  can include a body having outer layer  202  and top cover  204  having display  206  with protective layer  207 . Top cover  204  can be moved with the aid of display clutch (not shown) by a user from a closed position to remain in an open position and back again. Display  206  can display visual content such as a graphical user interface, still images such as photos as well as video media items such as movies. Display  206  can display images using any appropriate technology such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), OLED, etc. Portable computing device  200  can also include image capture device  208  located on top cover  204 . Image capture device  208  can be configured to capture both still and video images. 
     Display trim (or bezel)  210  formed of suitable compliant material can be supported by structural components (not shown) within top cover  204  but attached to cosmetic rear cover  211 . By not attaching display trim  210  directly to a structural component provides for good registration between the cosmetic rear cover  211  and display trim  210 . Display trim  210  can enhance the overall appearance of display  206  by hiding operational and structural components as well as focusing a user&#39;s attention onto the active area of display  206 . Top cover  204  can be coupled to outer layer  202  using a hinge assembly also referred to as display clutch assembly (hidden by a clutch barrel) that in turn can be connected by way of a load path to structural support layer  212 . Structural support layer  212  can be formed of composite material or metal such as aluminum. Structural support layer  212  can be covered by protective layer  214  formed of protective yet durable material that is both attractive to the eye and the touch. Protective layer  214  can be formed of TPU that extends up and over an edge of structural support layer  212  to form TPU seam  215  with outer layer  202 . TPU seam  315  can preserve an appearance of continuity in the shape of outer layer  202 . 
     Outer layer  202  can include a number of user input devices such as touch pad  216  and keyboard  218 . Keyboard  218  can include a plurality of key pads  220  each having a symbol imprinted thereon for identifying to a user the key input associated with the particular key pad. Keyboard  218  can be arranged to receive a discrete user input at each keypad using a finger motion referred to as a keystroke. In the described embodiment, the symbols on each key pad can be laser etched thereby creating an extremely clean and durable imprint that will not fade under the constant application of keystrokes over the life of the portable computing device  200 . Touch pad  216  can be configured to receive a user&#39;s finger gesturing. A finger gesture can include touch events from more than one finger applied in unison. The gesture can also include a single finger touch event such as a swipe or a tap. 
     Outer layer  202  can also include power button  222  arranged to assist the user in turning on and turning off portable computing device  200 . Audio input device  224  can be used to receive audible input such as speech. Status indictor light (SIL)  226  can be used to provide a user with information. Such information can be related to, for example, an operational status of portable computing device  200 . Since outer layer  202  can be formed of semi-translucent plastic material that can transmit a noticeable portion of light (referred to as light bleed), SIL  226  can be configured to substantially eliminate all light except that confined by the geometric confines of a light emitting transparent portion of SIL  226 . Outer layer  202  can also include openings used for accessing operational circuits mounted within housing  202 . For example, disc slot  228  can be used for inserting disc media such as compact discs (CDs) and or digital versatile discs (DVDs). As a convention, outer layer  202  can be considered to be divided into front portion  230  and rear portion  232  as viewed by a user when operation portable computing device. In this way, touch pad  216  can be considered to be located in front portion  230  and keyboard  218  can be considered to be located in rear portion  232 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 8  showing left side views of portable computing device  200  and especially a more detailed view of a number of ports  234 . Due to the fact that outer layer  202  does not carry any substantial loads, the openings in housing  202  used to accommodate the ports can have a relatively wide span without requiring additional support structures. For example, opening  236  formed in outer layer  202  used to accommodate an Ethernet cable connected to Ethernet port  238  must have a relatively large size in order to accommodate a standard Ethernet cable adapter. The same can be said for opening  240  used to accommodate power connector receptacle  242 . It should be noted that opening  240  must have a high aspect ratio in order to accommodate power connector receptacle  242 . This is especially true since power connector adapter receptacle  242  includes a relatively large platform  244 , or mesa, that allows a power plug to more easily align to power connector receptacle  242 . Other openings can include openings  246  and  248  used to accommodate USB cable adapter connected to USB ports  250  and  252 , respectively. Audio jack  254 , FireWire™ port  256 , video port  258 , and optional port  260  can also included. In some cases, optional port  260  can be used as a lock port suitable for receiving a locking key along the lines of a Kensington lock well known in the art. In any case, in order to prevent an outside observer from being able to view inside portable computing device  200  using optional port  260 , a cap formed of resilient material such as rubber can be mounted inside of optional port  260  to obscure any such views. 
       FIGS. 9 and 10  show a top view and a front view, respectively, of portable computing device  200  in a closed state. More specifically,  FIG. 8  illustrates the uniformity of shape of portable computing device  200 . This continuity in shape is evident by the continuous lines between top cover  204 , outer layer  202 , and structural support  212  and protective layer  214 . 
       FIGS. 11-12  show various views of portable computing system  200 . More specifically,  FIG. 11  shows portable computing system  200  oriented along the lines shown in  FIG. 6  revealing the layout of various operational and structural components and their relationship to each other. Accordingly, non-load bearing component  148  can take the form of hard disc drive (HDD)  1102  connected to outer layer  202  by way of attachment feature  144 . Attachment feature  144  can be coupled to load bearing component  150  by way of bridge structure  146 . In the described embodiment load bearing component  150  can take the form of embedded battery assembly  1104 . Battery assembly  1104  can include pull tab  1106  used to assist in removing battery assembly  1104  from enclosure  118 . In order to provide additional stiffness to outer layer  202 , battery body  1108  (used to enclose and support battery cells associated with battery assembly  1104 ) can have a form and composition that can be mechanically coupled to and thereby add to the stiffness of outer layer  202 . Battery body  1108  can have a shape that can conform to the shape an interior surface of body  202  presenting a tighter, more integrated fit and cleaner more appealing appearance when structural support layer  102  is removed. 
     At least some of holes  1110  are suitable for receiving fasteners (that correspond to connectors  142  of  FIG. 6 ) that can connect to structural support layer  102  by way of attachment feature  1112 . Battery body  1108  can include holes  1114  that can accommodate fasteners (that correspond to load transferring connectors  154  shown in  FIG. 6 ) that can couple battery assembly  1104  to rear frame  1116 . Attachment feature  1112  can also include holes  1118  arranged to accept fasteners that can secure battery assembly  1104  to inner layer  106  by way of attachment feature  1112  (along the lines of fastener  142  shown in  FIG. 6 ). In this way, battery assembly  1104  can facilitate the transfer and distribution of load L in any spatial coordinate. For example, battery assembly  1104  can transfer load L having spatial coordinates {L x , L y , L z } to structural support layer  102  (L z ), or inner layer  106  (L x ), or rear frame  1116  (L y ). It should be noted that specific details of battery assembly  1104  can be found in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/549,570, filed Aug. 28, 2009, entitled “BATTERY” by Coish et al. “Battery”, by Coish et al. incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
     Rear frame  1116  can be formed of lightweight, electrically conductive material such as aluminum, magnesium or magnesium alloy. The weight of rear frame  1116  can be further reduced by forming a plurality of holes  1120  in rear frame  1116  using any number of techniques such as stamping. The plurality of holes  1120  can reduce the weight of rear frame  1116  without substantially affecting the strength of rear frame  1116  or its ability to provide support for components that have little or no tolerance for flex. Such components can include main logic board (MLB)  1122 . Due to the relatively large number of individual components on MLB  1120  that are surface mounted or are otherwise susceptible to being damaged by flexion, MLB  1122  must be firmly supported. Other components mounted to and supported by rear frame  1116  can include fan  1124 , optical disc drive  1126 , and integrated audio/wireless card  1128  electrically connected to MLB  1122  by way of flex  1130 . It should be noted that, integrated wireless audio card  1128  in the embodiment shown is not mounted directly to rear frame  1116  but rather rests on a metallic platform that is part of ODD  1126  used to accommodate optical media such as optical disc  1132 . In addition to providing support, the metal platform can provide an electrical ground to which display grounding wires  1134  can be connected. Grounding pins (sometimes referred to as pogo pins)  1136  can be used to make electrical contact with structural support layer  102 . In this way, an RF shield can be formed that can contain RF energy generated by various components on MLB  1122 . Moreover, the RF shield can also protect circuits such as integrated wireless/audio card  1128  from RF leakage and interference that can seriously impact the wireless performance of integrated wireless/audio card  1128 . 
     Rear bracket  1138  can be formed of lightweight and strong metal such as magnesium or magnesium alloy and as such can be coupled to rear frame  1116  and structural support layer  102 . Rear bracket  1138  can also function along the lines of a cantilever beam providing additional mechanical support to outer layer  202 . Furthermore, rear bracket  1138  can be formed to include vent like structures that can facilitate the transfer of air between enclosure  118  and the external environment while at the same time obscuring an interior view of enclosure  118  from the outside. Rear bracket  1138  can be part of inner layer  106  and as such can transfer loads from top cover  204  by way of a display clutch (not shown) at connectors  1140  (that correspond to connectors  154  in  FIG. 6 ) to rear frame  1116  and connector  1110 . In the described embodiment, rear bracket  1138  can include an extended portion  1144  that can act as a cantilever beam by connecting rear bracket  1138  by way of connector  1146  (corresponding to connector  162  of  FIG. 6 ) directly to rear frame  1116 . In this way, high concentrated loads, such as those generated when cover  210  is opened or closed, can be distributed over a wider area of rear frame  1116  than would otherwise be the case. This distributing of these high concentrated loads can result in reducing the likelihood of adversely affecting the adhesive bond between rear frame  1116  and outer layer  202  to which it is attached. Rear bracket  1138  can also attach to rear frame  1116  at connectors  1148  (corresponding to connectors  154  of  FIG. 6 ). Rear frame  1138  can also include electrical contacts  1150  that can provide a ground path to structural support layer  102 . 
     In order to enhance the aesthetic appeal of portable computing device  200  in conjunction with providing a structural sound product, visible seams are generally deemed to be undesirable. Besides being a visual distraction, seams can attract dirt and dust and potentially create structural integrity problems. Therefore, attempts to eliminate or at least reduce the visual impact of seams can include implementing display clutch barrel  1152  in such a way that in a closed state, display clutch seam  1154  cannot be normally seen by a user. Moreover, display clutch seam  1154  can be aligned with TPU seam  215 . In this way, display clutch seam  1154  and TPU seam  215  provide an appearance of continuity when portable computing device  200  is seen in a bottom view. Clutch barrel  1152  can include circuits that can support other components. For example, clutch barrel  1152  can include an RF antenna used by integrated wireless/audio card  1128 . In order to provide easy access to these circuits, clutch barrel  1152  can include clutch barrel cover  1156  that can be removed and attached in a zipper like action. It should be noted that clutch barrel  1152  is described in more detail below. 
     Portable computing device  200  can also include other attachment features, such as restricted Z stack attachment feature  1158  that can attach a component, such as ODD  1126 , in such a way as to restrict any motion in the Z direction but providing ample motion in the XY plane for post insertion adjustments. Load absorbing attachment feature  1160  (more specific example load absorbing attachment feature  152  shown in  FIG. 6 ) can be used in conjunction with load absorbing attachment feature  152  to attach non-load bearing components such as HDD  1102  to rear frame  1116  and inner layer  106 , respectively. 
       FIG. 12  shows a representation of top sub-assembly  1200  of portable computing device  200  in accordance with the described embodiments that includes installation pads  1202  suitable for placement of piezo-electric audio transducers and attraction plate  1204 . 
       FIGS. 13 and 14  show load absorbing attachment feature  1160  and  152  in accordance with the described embodiments. As discussed above, load absorbing attachment features can be used to attach non-load bearing components such as HDD  1102  to inner layer  106 . In this regard, attachment feature  152  can include opening  1302  arranged to receive a mounting post attached to the non-load bearing component. In order to isolate and or absorb any shocks, opening  1302  can be surrounded by support structure  1304  arranged to support the mounting post in a firm manner. Support structure  1304  can be formed of material, such as hard plastic, arranged to transfer and distribute a point load originating at opening  1302  (from, for example, the mounting post). The point load can be distributed out from support structure  1304  and into load (or shock) absorbing material  1306  that can take the form of soft plastic. In this way, the point load received at support structure  1304  can be dispersed and absorbed by load absorbing material  1306 . 
     In order to install the non-load bearing component as shown in  FIG. 14 , installation posts  1308  on one side of the non-load bearing component are fully inserted into openings  1302 . The non-load bearing component can then be lowered down onto receiving portions  1310  of attachment feature  1160 . In the described embodiment, receiving portions  1310  can be formed of essentially the same material as attachment feature  152  having an upward facing semi-circular support portion  1312  within load, or shock, absorbing portion  1314  and sized to receive installation post  1308  placed on the other side of the non-load bearing component. Once installation post  1308  is placed within support portion  1312 , upper locking portion  1316  having complementary shaped locking portions  1318  can be placed upon receiving portions  1310 . Once properly placed onto receiving portions  1310 , locking portion  1316  can lock installation pin  1308  into place. In this way, installation posts are substantially locked in place and any shocks or loads (that can take the form of a point load) at the receiving portion can be “spread out” by the locking portion  1314 . 
       FIGS. 15-17  show various views of top cover  204  and, in particular, specific embodiments of display clutch assembly  1500 .  FIG. 15  shows front view of top cover  204  highlighting display  206  (display protective cover  207  being more clearly shown in “A” cross section), and bezel  209 . Display clutch assembly  1500  can be associated with connectors  1502  that can connect display inner frame to rear brace  1138  and rear frame  1116  at connectors  1140  and  1110  (discussed above with reference to  FIG. 11 ). Display clutch assembly  1500  can be partially enclosed within extended portion  1504  of rear cover  211 . Display clutch assembly  1500  can thereafter be fully enclosed by joining extended portion  1504  and clutch barrel  1506  using a number of connectors forming a seam referred to as clutch barrel reveal  1508 . Adding to the aesthetic look of feel, reveal  1508  cannot be readily seen by a user when top cover  204  is in the closed position. Furthermore, when top cover  204  is in the open position, reveal  1508  can align with seam  215  giving the impression of continuity even in those areas not expected to be readily seen by a user in normal operational use. 
     As shown in more detail in  FIG. 16 , display clutch assembly  1500  can enclose and therefore hide from view a number of electrical components (such as an RF antenna). Furthermore, extended portion  1504  can provide for a longer uninterrupted span for top cover  204 . In this way, the beam height “h” of top cover  204  can be increased by about δh providing additional stiffness to top cover  204 . Clutch barrel  1506  can include a number of snap connectors  1512  that can be used in conjunction with pass throughs  1514  on extended portion  1504  to secure clutch barrel  1506  to top cover  204 . For example, clutch barrel  1506  can be anchored to display bezel  206  by attaching lip  1516  to support  1508  and then secured to extended portion  1504  by inserting snap connector  1512  into pass through  1514 . 
       FIG. 17  shows a detailed view of clutch barrel  1506  and in particular a close up, interior view of pass through  1514  on clutch barrel  1506  used in combination with snap connector  1512  on extended portion  1504  to secure clutch barrel  1506  to top cover  204 . Clutch barrel  1506  can include plurality of pass-throughs  1514  each of which can accept a corresponding snap connector  1512 . In this way, clutch barrel  1506  can be securely connected to top cover  204  and yet, as with a zipper, easily removed when necessary by merely “unzipping” clutch barrel  1506  from top cover  204 . This unzipping can be accomplished by pulling and serially releasing a snap connector from the corresponding pass through. In this way, when top cover  204  and clutch barrel  1506  are joined, the strength of that joining is about equal to the strength of a single connection multiplied by the total number of such connections. Therefore, the relatively large number of such connections can result in a strong joint far surpassing the strength of a single connection. However, as with a zipper, clutch barrel  1506  can be removed simply and easily by serially undoing each connection one at a time. 
       FIG. 18  shows an embodiment of SIL  226 . SIL  226  can take the form of laminate structure  1800  having first layer of clear plastic  1802  and second layer of clear plastic  1804  each being capable of transmitting substantially all light incident thereon. Light filtering medium  1806  can be placed between the layers of plastic. Light filtering medium  1806  can take the form of ink having a color corresponding to the desired color of the light emitted by SIL  226 . In the described embodiment, the ink can be a color in keeping with the overall look of portable computing device  200 . Ink  1806  can color filter the light passing between the first and the second layers of plastic such that all light transmitted by the second layer of plastic is essentially the same color as the ink, which in this case is substantially white. Ink  1806  can also act to bond the layers of plastic together. Third layer of ink  1808  can be placed on the sides of laminate structure  1800 . The third layer of ink being substantially the same color as layer  1806 . The third layer of ink providing a uniform appearance of the light emitted by SIL  226  when viewed by a user. In order to prevent light from escaping to outer layer  202 , fourth layer  1810  of light absorbing material can be placed on top of the third layer of ink. The fourth layer can be gray, for example or any appropriate color that will absorb light without becoming noticeable to the user. 
       FIG. 19  shows magnetic power module (MPM)  1900  suitable for use with portable computing device  200 . In order to avoid damaging outer layer  202  when repeatedly coupling a power cable to portable computing device  200 , power connector  224  can be shaped to include an alignment portion that can also support a plurality of power connectors. The power connectors being used to conduct power from an external power supply to portable computing device  200 . In the described embodiment, alignment feature  1902  allows the power connector  244  to guide the power adapter&#39;s complementary connector as it is moved towards the power connector  244  in order to make a connection. This guidance causes the power connector  244  to align with the power adapter to aid the connection of the two. An example of an alignment feature  1902  is the chamfered edges of the pedestal  1904 . The combination of the force exerted towards the power connector  244  (by the user and the by the magnetic attraction of the opposing magnetic connectors) and the chamfered edges of the pedestal  1904  cause the connector on the power adapter to properly align with the pedestal  1904 . Therefore the electrical connectors  1906  from both the power connector  244  and the power adapter connector are also properly aligned. 
       FIG. 20  is a perspective view of camera module  2000  in accordance with the described embodiments. Camera module  2000  can include camera printed circuit board (PCB)  2002 , lens holder  2004 , camera lens  2006 , camera LED indicator  2008 , and data transmission connector  2010 . Alignment features  2012  can have a chamfered interior shape that can aid in aligning and receiving alignment pins. Also shown are support pads  2014  having one side formed of foam other suitable material which are in contact with the bottom of PCB  2002  and another side in contact with a supporting structure, such as inner frame of top cover  204 . Support pads  2014  can aid in the movement of camera assembly  2000  within a camera assembly recess formed in the supporting structure. 
       FIG. 21  shows cut away side view of camera assembly  2000  incorporated into top cover  204 . In the described embodiment, frame  2102  can be formed of magnesium or magnesium alloy arranged to support housing  2104  that can be formed of plastic. Camera assembly  2000  can be placed within recess  2106  formed in frame  2102  having a size and location to accommodate camera assembly  2000 . In order to install and properly align camera assembly  2000 , in particular, camera lens  2008  to lens opening  2108  in bezel  2110 , bezel to housing alignment posts  2112  located on an inside surface of bezel  2110  can be placed into and coupled with corresponding receiver assembly  2114 . In the described embodiment, receiver assembly  2114  can have a tube like body  2116  originating at housing  2104  and sized to receive alignment post  2112 . During assembly, housing  2104  can be mounted to frame  2102  by inserting body  2116  into frame alignment holes  2118 . Once housing  2104  is securely mounted to frame  2102 , bezel  2110  can be mounted to frame  2102  but registered to housing  2104  by inserting alignment posts  2112  into the corresponding open end of receiver assembly  2114  and into body  2116 . It should be noted, however, that alignment post  2112  can be longer than bezel to camera alignment post  2120 . In this way, alignment post  2112  can engage receiver assembly  2114  prior to the engagement of alignment post  2120  and alignment feature  2012 . Due to the chamfered nature of alignment feature  2012 , the engagement of alignment post  2120  with  2012  can have the effect of moving camera assembly  2000  if there is any mis-alignment between camera lens  2006  and lens opening  2122  in bezel  2110 . In this way, any mis-alignment between camera lens  2006  and lens opening  2122  can be eliminated efficiently and easily. 
       FIG. 22  shows a full and cut away perspective views of Hall effect sensor (HES) assembly  2200  in accordance with the described embodiments. HES assembly  2200  can include Hall effect sensor  2202 , PCB assembly  2204 , and electrical connectors  2206 . Compression molded boot  2208  can encapsulate most of Hall effect sensor  2200  leaving a top portion of PCB assembly  2204  exposed as well as enough of electrical connectors  2206  for electrically connecting HES assembly  2200  to electrical connectors on a motherboard. In the described embodiment, HES assembly  2200  can be surface mounted directed to a motherboard, or other such PCB, using adhesive layer  2210  that can take the form of double side adhesive tape. Moreover, HES assembly  2200  can be electrically connected to components on the motherboard by way of electrical connectors  2206  without the need for flex or other indirect connectors. In this way, the cost of and the time consumed in assembly can be reduced. 
       FIG. 23  is a full view of representative motherboard  2300  (along the lines of MLB  1116 ) in accordance with the described embodiments. HES  2200  can be mounted to motherboard  2300  by way of riser board  2302 . Riser board  2302  can be generally inexpensive to assemble and parts or modules may be attached to it relatively easily. In one embodiment, HES assembly  2200  can be attached to riser board  2302  by use of connector  2206 . Using connector  2206  to attach HES assembly  2200  to motherboard  2300  is more efficient and less costly than soldering HES assembly  2200  on to motherboard  2300  or use flex circuitry. Boot  2208  and adhesive  2210  can act together to maintain HES assembly  2200  securely in place. In addition to easing assembly, riser board  2302  is closer to the top surface of the main housing making HES assembly  2200  more sensitive to detection of the magnet in the display housing. 
       FIG. 24  shows a translucent side view of representative portable computer  2400  in a closed position illustrating the proximity of source magnet  2402  and Hall effect sensor  2202  in accordance with the described embodiments. By elevating the position of Hall effect sensor  2202  relative to motherboard  2300 , the distance between source magnet  2402  and Hall effect sensor  2202  can be reduced over conventionally mounted Hall effect sensors. By reducing the distance between source magnet  2402  and Hall effect sensor  2202 , Hall effect sensor  2202  can have improved relative sensitivity without resorting to a sensor that is more sensitive and therefore more costly and/or a stronger source magnet. 
       FIG. 25  shows a flowchart detailing process  2500  in accordance with the described embodiments. Process  2500  can provide for enhanced load distribution and transference in systems having a housing formed of substantially non-load bearing material. Such material can include, for example, plastic along the lines of PCABS well known for use in portable computers such as laptops. However, process  2500  can describe a computer framework that can provide for load isolating the non-load bearing housing by utilizing an inner layer adapted to both distribute a load and transfer the load to a structural support layer without substantially affecting the housing. 
     Process  2500  can be carried out by performing at least the following. At  2502 , a computer housing can be received. The computer housing can be formed of material, such as PCABS, that is substantially non-load bearing. As such, housing  2502  can have a shape that is widely varied and can have a number of openings that facilitate access to internal circuits such as an audio circuit, a USB circuit, and so on. At  2504 , based upon the computer assembly to be installed within the computer housing, internal components that are load bearing and non-load bearing are identified. By load bearing, it is meant that the internal component can accept a load without substantially affecting either its structural or operational integrity. For example, an embedded battery having a shape that is stiff and resistant to flexing can be considered to be load bearing. By non-load bearing, it is meant that the internal component cannot accept the load without substantially affecting its structural or operational integrity. A hard disc drive (HDD) although relatively stiff and resistant to flexing, can be considered to be an example of a non-load bearing component due to the potential deleterious effects of loads being applied to the drive, in particular, the R/W circuitry for non-solid state type memory. Furthermore, some components can be considered to be intolerant of being flexed and therefore must be supported in such as way as to avoid any flexing. Such components can include assemblies of components a number of which are surface mounted to a printed circuit board, or PCB, that can include, for example, a main logic board, or MLB. 
     Once the non-load bearing and load bearing internal components are identified (as well as the flex intolerant components), an internal layer can be configured at  2506 . The internal layer can be used to distribute and transfer a load without substantially affecting the housing. In the described embodiment, the load can be distributed within the internal layer in order to, for example, dissipate high concentration loads that could have an adverse impact on components or parts of the inner layer. For example, a high concentrated load received from the opening and closing of a display cover can cause an adhesive bond between a support structure and the housing to be damaged. At  2508 , the inner layer can be attached to the housing. Typically, the inner layer can be attached using an adhesive such as glue that does not facilitate the transfer of the load from the inner layer to the housing nor should it substantially affect the load transferring and distribution properties of the inner layer. 
     At  2510 , the inner layer is connected to a structural support layer. The structural support layer can be formed of metal such as aluminum. In this way, any load received at  2512  can be distributed by the inner layer and transferred to the structural support layer without substantially affecting the housing at  2514 . 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling assembly operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line used to fabricate housings. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, DVDs, magnetic tape, optical data storage devices, and carrier waves. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20091016
Publication Date: 20120207
Grant Date: 20120207
Priority Date: 20091016
Inventors: RAFF JOHN
ANDRE BARTLEY K.
DEFOREST LAURA
DIFONZO JOHN C.
GAO ZHENG
GOLDBERG MICHELLE
HAMEL BRADLEY J.
HIBBARD TIMOTHY S.
HOPKINSON RON
LEGGETT WILLIAM F.
LIGTENBERG CHRIS
REID GAVIN J.
SCHWALBACH CHARLES A.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H05K5/0243", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49826", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1633", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1637", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49826", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1658", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1658", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 43879134