PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9733670-B2
Application Number: US-201213627814-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Computer display or cover glass/cell attachment to frame

Abstract:
The described embodiments relate generally to computing devices including liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and more particularly to methods for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing while minimizing an amount of stress transferred through the cover glass layer to the LCD module. A continuous and compliant foam adhesive can be used to bond the cover glass layer to a structural. The compliant bond can absorb and distribute local stress concentrations caused by structural loads, mismatched surfaces and differing thermal expansion rates between various structures and cover glass layer. This can reduce stress concentrations in the cover glass layer that can lead to stress induced birefringence in the LCD cell. In other embodiments, the cover glass layer can be attached using magnets or a tongue and groove design.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A computing device, comprising:
 a housing comprising a support structure; 
 a display cover adhered to the support structure by an adhesive layer; and 
 a bracket fastened to the support structure, wherein the bracket is magnetic, wherein 
 the adhesive layer is positioned between the bracket and the display cover, and wherein a magnetic field of an external magnet placed in proximity to the display cover near the bracket exerts a force on the bracket that pulls the bracket toward the display cover and compresses the adhesive layer. 
 
     
     
       2. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein a portion of the support structure is positioned between the bracket and the adhesive layer. 
     
     
       3. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the adhesive layer comprises a pressure sensitive foam adhesive. 
     
     
       4. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the adhesive layer maintains a uniform gap between the support structure and the display cover. 
     
     
       5. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the bracket is mechanically coupled to the support structure. 
     
     
       6. The computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the display cover is positioned within a groove of the support structure. 
     
     
       7. A computing device comprising:
 a structural housing forming an exterior surface of the computing device; 
 a cover glass layer; 
 a chin structure disposed along a bottom edge of the structural housing, wherein the structural housing and the chin structure form an opening; 
 a support block coupled to the structural housing and disposed along a periphery of the opening, wherein the support block comprises:
 a first surface supporting the cover glass layer, and a second surface coupled to the structural housing; 
 
 a pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material coupled to the cover glass layer and the support block that maintains a uniform gap between the structural housing and the cover glass layer; and 
 a magnetically responsive material within the structural housing arranged such that the pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material is positioned between the magnetically responsive material and the support block, wherein the magnetically responsive material exerts a force on and activates the pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material in response to a magnetic field of an external magnet. 
 
     
     
       8. The computing device defined in  claim 7 , wherein:
 the cover glass layer is bonded to an LCD cell using an optically clear adhesive, the LCD cell further comprising a thin film transistor glass layer, liquid crystals and a color filter; 
 the chin structure is integrally coupled to the structural housing, and the structural housing and the chin structure cooperate to form the opening for the cover glass layer; 
 the first surface of the support block is substantially parallel to a front surface of the computing device and supports an interior surface of the cover glass layer, and the second surface is coupled to an interior surface of the structural housing; 
 the pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material reduces an amount of point loads that can be transferred from the structural housing to the cover glass layer; and 
 the magnetically responsive material exerts the force on and activates the pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material in response to the magnetic field of the external magnet placed in proximity to the cover glass layer near the magnetically responsive material. 
 
     
     
       9. The computing device defined in  claim 7  wherein the pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material includes a foam adhesive. 
     
     
       10. The computing device defined in  claim 9  wherein the foam adhesive further comprises a foam layer with adhesive tape bonded to opposing surfaces of the foam layer. 
     
     
       11. The computing device defined in  claim 7 , wherein the cover glass layer is coupled to the structural housing using:
 at least one magnet coupled to the support block; and 
 at least one magnetic plate bonded to an interior surface of the cover glass layer, wherein the at least one magnetic plate is aligned with the at least one magnet coupled to the support block. 
 
     
     
       12. The computing device defined in  claim 11 , wherein the at least one magnet comprises a continuous magnet disposed on the first surface of the support block around the periphery of the opening for the cover glass layer. 
     
     
       13. The computing device defined in  claim 11 , wherein the at least one magnetic plate comprises a continuous magnetic plate disposed along a periphery of the cover glass layer, the continuous magnetic plate aligned with the at least one magnet. 
     
     
       14. A method for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing while reducing an amount of stress imparted to the cover glass layer, comprising:
 coupling a chin structure to a structural housing that forms an exterior surface of a computing device, the chin structure coupled along a bottom edge of the structural housing, wherein the structural housing and the chin structure combine to form an opening for the cover glass layer; 
 coupling a first surface of a support block to the structural housing along a periphery of the opening for the cover glass layer; 
 machining a second surface of the support block so that the second surface is substantially parallel to a front surface of the computing device and supports an interior surface of the cover glass layer; 
 bonding the cover glass layer to an LCD cell using an optically clear adhesive, the LCD cell further comprising a thin film transistor glass layer, liquid crystals and a color filter; 
 coupling the cover glass layer to the support block using a pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material reducing an amount of point loads that can be transferred from the structural housing to the cover glass layer and maintain a uniform gap between the structural housing and the cover glass layer; and 
 positioning a magnetically responsive material within the structural housing such that the pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material is positioned between the magnetically responsive material and the support block, wherein the magnetically responsive material exerts a force on and activates the pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material in response to a magnetic field of an external magnet placed in proximity to the cover glass layer near the magnetically responsive material during an assembly process. 
 
     
     
       15. The method as recited in  claim 14 , wherein the pressure sensitive compliant adhesive material includes a foam adhesive. 
     
     
       16. The method as recited in  claim 15 , wherein the foam adhesive further comprises a foam layer with pressure sensitive adhesive disposed on opposing surfaces of the foam layer. 
     
     
       17. The method as recited in  claim 14 , wherein machining the second surface of the support block further comprises:
 sensing the position of an edge of the structural housing; and 
 machining the second surface of the support block to be a uniform distance from the edge of the structural housing, wherein the uniform distance allows a constant gap to exist between the cover glass layer and the structural housing after assembly. 
 
     
     
       18. The method as recited in  claim 14 , wherein coupling the cover glass layer to the support block further comprises:
 bonding a plurality of magnets along the second surface of the support block; 
 bonding a plurality of magnetic plates to an interior surface of the cover glass layer, wherein the plurality of magnetic plates align with the plurality of magnets; and 
 coupling the cover glass layer to the second surface of the support block by aligning the plurality of magnets with the plurality of magnetic plates. 
 
     
     
       19. The method as recited in  claim 18 , wherein the plurality of magnetic plates are bonded to the second surface of the support block and the plurality of magnets are bonded to the interior surface of the cover glass layer.

Description:
FIELD OF THE DESCRIBED EMBODIMENTS 
     The described embodiments relate generally to computing devices including liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and more particularly to methods for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing while minimizing an amount of stress transferred to the cover glass layer. 
     BACKGROUND 
     LCD modules are commonly used in a variety of consumer electronics devices including televisions, computer monitors, laptop computers and mobile devices. A typical LCD module can include an LCD cell, backlight and electronics. Many devices including LCD modules can protect the LCD cell by placing a layer of cover glass in front of the LCD module. For cosmetic reasons, it can be advantageous for the cover glass layer to extend to an edge of a front face of the device. Moreover, space limitations can favor designs in which the LCD module and cover glass are as thin as possible, resulting in a reduced overall thickness for the device. 
     Conventional devices containing LCD modules can leave an air gap between the LCD module and the cover glass layer. There can be several advantages to eliminating this air gap by bonding the LCD cell directly to the cover glass layer. Elimination of the air gap can reduce the thickness of the LCD module, resulting in an overall decreased thickness for the device in which it is contained. Additionally, bonding the LCD cell to the cover glass layer can improve front of screen performance. For example, an image produced by the LCD cell can be brought closer to the front of the device. Furthermore, reflections can be reduced and a likelihood of foreign material or condensation collecting between glass layers can be decreased. However, a mechanical coupling between the LCD cell and cover glass layer can allow stresses imparted on the cover glass to result in unwanted stress on the LCD cell. The LCD cell can operate by selectively rotating an angle of incidence of polarized light as the light passes through two polarizers oriented at 90° to one another. When stress is imparted on liquid crystals within the LCD cell, the angle at which light is rotated as it passes through the liquid crystals can change in a process known as stress induced birefringence. This change in angle can locally increase or decrease an amount of light being emitted by a region of the LCD cell, causing a visible distortion in an image produced by the LCD cell. 
     When the LCD cell is bonded to the cover glass layer, any stresses imposed on the cover glass layer can be transmitted to the LCD cell, increasing the risk that stress induced birefringence can occur. This can be particularly true when the LCD module is large, such as those used in desktop computers, computer monitors and televisions. Larger devices can weigh more and require the cover glass layer to sustain loads over longer distances. This can increase localized stress on the cover glass layer at points where the cover glass layer is attached to other structures. Moreover, when the cover glass layer is extended to an edge of a device, the cover glass layer itself can become a structural member in the housing of the device, further increasing the likelihood that stress induced birefringence will occur. 
     Therefore, what is desired is a method for attaching a cover glass layer with a bonded LCD cell to a device housing and backlight assembly while minimizing the amount of localized stress concentrations imparted to the cover glass and LCD cell. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DESCRIBED EMBODIMENTS 
     In one embodiment, a computing device is described. The computing device can include a structural housing forming an exterior surface of the computing device. The structural housing can be integrally coupled to a chin structure located along a bottom edge. Furthermore, the structural housing and the chin structure can include an opening surrounded by a support block. The support block can include a first surface configured to couple to a cover glass layer and a second surface coupled to the structural housing. The cover glass layer can then be coupled to the support block using a cover glass attachment mechanism. In one embodiment, the cover glass attachment mechanism can include a compliant foam adhesive configured to reduce an amount of point loads that can be transferred from the structural housing to the cover glass layer. In another embodiment, the cover glass attachment mechanism can include magnets coupled to the support block and magnetic material coupled to the cover glass layer. 
     In another embodiment, an alternative computing device is described. The computing device can include a structural housing forming an exterior surface of the computing device. The structural housing can be integrally coupled to a chin structure located along a bottom edge. Furthermore, the structural housing and the chin structure can include an opening surrounded by a support block. The support block can include a first surface configured to couple to a cover glass layer, a second surface coupled to the structural housing, and a groove along an interior surface of one side. A cover glass layer can be configured to fit within the opening and bonded to one or more tongues that are configured to engage with the groove in the support block. The cover glass layer and tongues can then be aligned with the groove and the cover glass layer can rotate down to rest on a foam pad bonded to the first surface of the support block. The cover glass layer can be fastened to the chin structure to prevent movement. 
     In still another embodiment, a method for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing using a cover glass attachment mechanism is described. The method can be carried out by performing at least the following operations: receiving a structural housing coupled to a chin structure and including a front opening, coupling a first surface of the support block to the structural housing, machining a second surface of the support block to provide a surface to support the cover glass layer, and coupling the cover glass layer to the support block using a cover glass attachment mechanism. The cover glass attachment mechanism can be configured to reduce an amount of point loads that can be transferred from the structural housing to the cover glass layer. In one embodiment, the cover glass attachment mechanism can include a compliant foam adhesive configured to reduce an amount of point loads that can be transferred from the structural housing to the cover glass layer. In another embodiment, the cover glass attachment mechanism can include magnets coupled to the support block and magnetic material coupled to the cover glass layer. 
     In still another embodiment, a method for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing using a cover glass attachment mechanism is described. The method can be carried out by performing at least the following operations: receiving a structural housing coupled to a chin structure and including a front opening, coupling a first surface of the support block to the structural housing, machining a second surface of the support block and bonding the second surface to a foam pad, creating a groove along an interior surface of one side of the support block, bonding one or more tongues to the cover glass layer, inserting the tongues into the groove so the cover glass layer can rotate down and rest on the foam pad, and fastening the cover glass layer to the chin structure. The foam pad can reduce an amount of point loads that can be transferred from the structural housing to the cover glass layer. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the invention 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 described embodiments may be better understood by reference to the following description and the accompanying drawings. Additionally, advantages of the described embodiments may be better understood by reference to the following description and accompanying drawings. These drawings do not limit any changes in form and detail that may be made to the described embodiments. Any such changes do not depart from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 1  shows a cross-sectional view of a prior art LCD module and cover glass assembly. 
         FIG. 2A  shows a front view of a computing device in which the present disclosure can be implemented and provides context for  FIGS. 2B-2E . 
         FIG. 2B  shows a cross-sectional view along an edge of a computing device including an LCD module. 
         FIG. 2C  shows a cross-sectional view of a computing device including an LCD module along an edge containing driver circuits for the LCD module. 
         FIG. 2D  shows a cross-sectional view of driver circuits for an LCD module passing through a mounting bracket. 
         FIG. 2E  shows a cross-sectional view of a computing device including an LCD module along an edge containing an illumination source and structural supports. 
         FIG. 2F  shows a cross sectional view of an upper edge of a computing device showing another embodiment for attaching cover glass layer to the computing device. 
         FIG. 2G  shows a cross sectional view of an upper edge of computing device showing yet another embodiment for attaching cover glass layer to computing device. 
         FIG. 3A  shows a plan view of a mounting bracket attached to a cover glass layer. 
         FIG. 3B  shows a plan view of a segmented mounting bracket attached to a cover glass layer. 
         FIG. 4  shows a cross-sectional view along an edge of a computing device including an LCD module in which rigid plates attached to a cover glass layer support a backlight assembly. 
         FIG. 5  shows a plan view of rigid plates attached to a cover glass layer. 
         FIG. 6  shows a plan view of a mounting bracket and rigid plates attached to a cover glass layer. 
         FIG. 7  shows a flow chart describing a process for attaching a backlight assembly to a cover glass layer using a foam adhesive. 
         FIG. 8  shows a flow chart describing a process for attaching a backlight assembly to a cover glass layer using rigid plates. 
         FIG. 9  shows a flow chart describing a process for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing using a foam adhesive. 
         FIG. 10  shows a flow chart describing a process for activating a pressure sensitive foam adhesive using a magnetic force. 
         FIG. 11  shows a flow chart describing a process for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing using magnets. 
         FIG. 12  shows a flow chart describing a process for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing using a tongue and groove design. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED EMBODIMENTS 
     Representative applications of methods and apparatus according to the present application are described in this section. These examples are being provided solely to add context and aid in the understanding of the described embodiments. It will thus be apparent to one skilled in the art that the described embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the described embodiments. Other applications are possible, such that the following examples should not be taken as limiting. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting; such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     LCD modules can be used in a large number of devices in the consumer electronics industry including computer monitors, laptop computers, mobile phones, handheld video game systems, navigation systems and televisions. LCD modules can include an LCD cell, backlight assembly, and electronics. As devices containing LCD modules become smaller, it can be advantageous to decrease the thickness of the LCD module to reduce the overall thickness of the device. Conventional LCD modules can include multiple air gaps in between components such as the light guide, LCD cell and a cover glass layer. These gaps can increase a number of air to glass interfaces within the LCD module, which can lead to higher levels of reflection and refraction. Moreover, air gaps can increase the thickness of the LCD module, resulting in a larger device. Therefore, designs that decrease the number of air gaps and reduce the thickness of the LCD module can improve device performance and enhance the user experience. 
     One approach to reducing the thickness of the LCD module can be to attach components of the LCD module directly to the cover glass layer. The LCD cell can be bonded directly to the cover glass layer and the backlight assembly can be attached either to the LCD cell or to the cover glass layer around the LCD cell. This approach can reduce module thickness and decrease the number of air gaps. However, attachment of the LCD cell to the cover glass layer can negatively impact operation of the LCD cell if sufficient stress imparted on the cover glass layer is transmitted to the LCD cell. The LCD cell can operate by selectively rotating an angle of incidence of polarized light as the light passes through two polarizers oriented at 90° to one another. When stress is imparted on liquid crystals within the LCD cell, the angle at which light is rotated as it passes through the liquid crystals can change in a process known as stress induced birefringence. This change in angle can locally increase or decrease an amount of light being emitted by a region of the LCD cell, causing a visible distortion in an image produced by the LCD module. 
     One solution to this problem can be attaching the cover glass layer to the backlight assembly and a structural housing using a continuous and compliant foam adhesive. The foam adhesive can absorb and distribute local stress concentrations caused by structural loads, mismatched surfaces and differing thermal expansion rates. In another embodiment, rigid plates can be attached to the cover glass layer and include all attachment points for the backlight assembly. The rigid plates can evenly distribute any point loads applied from the backlight assembly across the cover glass layer, reducing the risk that an area of the LCD cell can experience stress induced birefringence. 
       FIG. 1  shows a cross-sectional view of prior art device  100 , including an LCD module and a cover glass layer. Cover glass layer  102  can be formed from any optically clear and robust material such as glass, plastic, or various polymer-based materials. Cover glass layer  102  can be supported on structural frame  118  and is not mechanically attached to the LCD module. Structural frame  118  can represent an exterior housing or an interior structural support to device  100 . The LCD module can be supported by support frame  110 . Support frame  110  can be made from metal such as aluminum or any suitable rigid material. 
     Illumination source  112  can be coupled to support frame  110  and can represent any suitable light source, including light emitting diodes (LEDs), fluorescent lamps, incandescent light bulbs, and electroluminescent panels. Illumination source  112  can supply light to light guide  108  which, in turn, can diffuse the light across the LCD module and direct the light through optical films  106 . Light guide  108  and optical films  106  can be held in place by backlight bracket  116 . LCD cell  104  can be fixed in place by an upper surface of backlight bracket  116  and LCD cell bracket  114 . LCD cell  104  can include liquid crystals, a thin film transistor (TFT) glass layer for directing signals to and activating the liquid crystals, a color filter, and an upper polarizer layer. A gap can be included in LCD cell bracket  114  to accommodate flex cable  122 . Flex cable  122  can send signals from LCD driver integrated chip (IC)  120  to the TFT glass layer. Driver IC  120  can be attached to support frame  110  or any other suitable location. 
     The lack of a mechanical connection between cover glass layer  102  and LCD cell  104  can prevent any stress imparted on cover glass  102  from producing stress induced birefringence in LCD cell  104 . However, device  100  can have air gaps between cover glass layer  102 , LCD cell  104 , and optical films  106 . These air gaps can increase the thickness of the LCD module, and the overall thickness of device  100 . Moreover, multiple air to glass transitions can cause increased reflections and refractions that can degrade the user experience. Therefore, it can be desirable to develop a method for reducing the number of air gaps in device  100  and decreasing the thickness of the LCD module while continuing to prevent stress in cover glass  102  from affecting the performance of LCD cell  104 . 
       FIG. 2A  shows a front view of computing device  200 , incorporating methods included in the present disclosure. However, the included methods can be used in devices other than desktop computers and the present disclosure includes other types of devices using LCD modules such as laptop computers and televisions. Cover glass layer  202  can form a front surface for much of computing device  200  and can extend to an edge of computing device  200  on a top edge and two side edges. Extending cover glass layer  202  to an edge of computing device  200  can enhance the user experience by providing an aesthetically pleasing look and maximizing use of available space for viewing. However, the extension of cover glass layer  202  to an edge of computing device  200  is not required and the present disclosure can include devices in which cover glass layer  202  extends to none or any number of edges. LCD cell  206  can be located behind cover glass layer  202  and provide a visible viewing area for the LCD module. Views B-B, C-C, D-D, and E-E provide reference for  FIGS. 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E  respectively. 
       FIG. 2B  shows a cross-sectional view of computing device  200  along a side edge as is shown in  FIG. 2A , view B-B. Cover glass layer  202  can extend to an edge of computing device  200  and can be formed from any optically clear and robust material such as glass, plastic, or various polymer-based materials. LCD cell  206  can be bonded to cover glass layer  202  using optically clear adhesive (OCA)  224 . OCA  224  can represent an optically clear tape, liquid OCA such as acrylic or silicone, or any other suitable transparent adhesive. LCD cell  206  can include liquid crystals, a thin film transistor (TFT) glass layer for directing signals to and activating the liquid crystals, a color filter, and an upper polarizer layer. There can be several advantages to bonding LCD cell  206  directly to cover glass layer  202 . First, bonding LCD cell  206  can remove an air gap in the LCD module and can eliminate the need for LCD cell bracket  114  shown in  FIG. 1 . This can reduce the thickness of the LCD module, leaving more space for other components or allowing for computing device  200  to have a smaller size. Second, the removal of the air gap between LCD cell  206  and cover glass layer  202  can reduce an amount of reflections visible to a user of computing device  200  by decreasing the number of air to glass transitions that light must pass through. Finally, the removal of the air gap can prevent foreign materials or particles from entering a space between cover glass  202  and LCD cell  206 . When foreign materials such as dust enter this space, a distortion can be created on a viewing surface of the LCD module. By bonding cover glass layer  202  and LCD cell  206  together in a clean environment, a risk of foreign particles entering the space can be reduced. 
     A backlight assembly can include optical films  208 , light guide  210 , and support frame  212 . Light guide  210  can be formed from a plastic and configured to diffuse light from an illumination source across the LCD module. Optical films  208  can condition the light from the light guide before passing the light through to LCD cell  206 . Support frame  212  can provide a rigid support for light guide  210  and optical films  208 , and can be formed from any robust material. In one embodiment, support frame  212  can be formed from an electrically and thermally conductive material such as aluminum. Then, support frame  212  can also function as an EMI shield and heat sink for the LCD module. 
     The backlight assembly can be coupled to cover glass layer  202  by mounting bracket  214 . Mounting bracket  214  can extend around a periphery of LCD cell  206 . Furthermore, mounting bracket  214  can be formed from any suitably rigid and robust material. However selecting a material with a similar coefficient of thermal expansion as cover glass  202  can be advantageous for reducing stress concentrations in cover glass layer  202 . In one embodiment, a glass fiber reinforced plastic material can be used to closely match the thermal expansion properties of cover glass layer  202 . Mounting bracket  214  can be bonded to cover glass layer  202  using foam adhesive  222 . Foam adhesive  222  can form a continuous and compliant bond along a periphery of the backlight assembly. 
     There can be several advantages to using foam adhesive  222  to bond mounting bracket  214  to cover glass layer  202 . First, foam adhesive  222  can be selected to have sufficient compliance to absorb any unevenness or difference in shape between cover glass layer  202  and mounting bracket  214 , reducing a likelihood of stress concentrations. Second, foam adhesive  222  can distribute any loads applied through mounting bracket  214  over a large area of cover glass layer  202 . Finally, foam adhesive  222  can compensate for any remaining difference in thermal expansion rates between cover glass layer  202  and mounting bracket  214 , further reducing stress concentrations that can affect the performance of LCD cell  206 . 
     Foam adhesive  222  can be made from any compliant adhesive. In one embodiment, a layer of foam impregnated with an adhesive can be used. In another embodiment, a layer of foam with adhesive tape affixed to both surfaces can be used as well. When selecting a material for foam adhesive  222 , it can be important to balance compliance and reliability requirements for a particular device or application. For example, a device with low tolerances on a bonding surface or high disparities in thermal expansion rates may need a higher degree of compliance in foam adhesive  222 . However, a device in which foam adhesive  222  can support a significant amount of weight may require a lower degree of compliance to prevent shear forces from deforming foam adhesive  222  over time. 
     Mounting bracket  214  can be coupled to support frame  212  using any robust means. However, it can be advantageous for rework and repair of the LCD module to attach mounting bracket  214  to support frame  212  using an easily reversible process. For example, a common problem requiring rework can be removing foreign materials or dust particles from light guide  210 . By making support frame  212  easily detachable from mounting bracket  214 , the backlight assembly can be quickly removed from computing device  200  to address the problem. In one embodiment, support frame  212  can be fastened to mounting bracket  214  using fasteners  218  spaced evenly around a periphery of support frame  212 . Fasteners  218  can be quickly and easily removed to access the LCD module if necessary for rework or repair. 
     In addition to mounting bracket  214 , foam adhesive  220  can be used to bond cover glass layer  202  to structural housing  204 . Structural housing  204  can form a main structural support for computing device  200 . In one embodiment, structural housing  204  can form an exterior surface of computing device  200  along the sides and back. In another embodiment, structural housing  204  can be an internal structural component. 
     Support block  216  can be used to provide a surface to bond to cover glass layer  202  to structural housing  204 . Support block  216  can be disposed around the periphery of structural housing  204 . In one embodiment, a periphery of exterior housing  204  and support block  216  can be machined at the same time during manufacturing to provide a uniform plane for supporting cover glass layer  202 . In another embodiment, a stepped cutter can be used to cut a face of support block  216  with respect to an edge of structural housing  204 . In this manner, a cosmetic gap  275  can be well controlled by controlling the height of support block  216  with respect to an edge of structural housing  204 . 
     Support block  216  can be formed from any robust material. In one embodiment, support block  216  can be formed from glass fiber reinforced plastic material to closely match the thermal expansion properties of cover glass  202 . For example, a material such as Ixef polyarylamide which typically contains about 50-60% glass fiber reinforcement can closely mimic the thermal expansion properties of many cover glass materials. Furthermore, support block  216  can coupled to structural housing  204  using any technically feasible method such as bonding with an adhesive, welding (when the support block  216  is formed from metal or a metal alloy) or support block  216  can be drilled and tapped and held in place with one or more screws inserted through structural housing  204 . Foam adhesive  220  can operate similarly to foam adhesive  222 , providing compliance to reduce any transfer of stress from structural housing  204  to cover glass layer  202 . This can include reductions in stress concentrations due to uneven mating surfaces, structural loads, and varying thermal expansion rates. By reducing stress concentrations in cover glass layer  202 , the likelihood that stress induced birefringence will occur in LCD cell  206  can be reduced. 
       FIG. 2C  shows a cross-sectional view of computing device  200  along an edge that includes driver integrated circuits (ICs)  232  and flexible cables  228  for coupling driver ICs  232  to LCD cell  206 . As depicted in  FIG. 2A , driver ICs  232  can be located along a top edge of an LCD module. However, in another embodiment, driver ICs  232  can be located on any edge or multiple edges of the LCD module. Thus, the present disclosure is not limited to embodiments in which driver ICs  232  are located along the top edge of the LCD module. Driver ICs  232  can be mounted to support frame  212  or any suitable location. In another embodiment, driver ICs  232  can be included on the TFT glass layer included in LCD cell  206 . In yet another embodiment, driver ICs  232  can be mounted on a different structural support such as structural housing  204 . 
     When driver ICs  232  are mounted in an area outside of the LCD module, a modification of mounting bracket  214  can be needed to allow flexible cables  228  to pass through. Mounting bracket  214  can be shortened to allow clearance for flexible cables  228 . Furthermore, spacer  226  can be bonded to cover glass layer  202  to create a pass-through space for flexible cables  228  between mounting bracket  214  and spacer  226 . Spacer  226  can be formed from similar materials to mounting bracket  214  and can be bonded to cover glass layer  202  with the same foam adhesive  222  as mounting bracket  214 . Any unfilled space between mounting bracket  214  and spacer  226  after passing through flexible cables  228  can be filled by gasket  230 . Gasket  230  can be formed from foam or any other compliant material that can avoid imparting wear damage on flexible cables  226 . A seal from gasket  230  can prevent foreign materials and particles from collecting near light guide  210  or optical films  208 . More detail regarding the interface between spacer  226 , mounting bracket  214 , and flexible cables  228  can be seen in cross sectional view D-D, shown in  FIG. 2D . 
       FIG. 2D  shows a cross-sectional view of computing device  200  showing how flexible cables  228  can pass through mounting bracket  214  when the backlight assembly is coupled to cover glass layer  202 . Multiple flexible cables  228  can extend from LCD cell  206  to driver ICs  232  mounted outside of the LCD module. In one embodiment, flex cables  228  can be spaced evenly along an edge of the LCD module. Spacer  226  can be bonded to cover glass layer  202  using foam adhesive  222 , forming one side of a pass through space for flexible cables  228 . Mounting bracket  214  can be coupled to support frame  212  using fasteners or any other suitable means and can form another side of the pass through space. Foam gaskets  230  and adhesive  232  can alternatively be placed along the pass through space to seal the LCD module from foreign materials and particles. In one embodiment, a specialized tape with alternating sections of adhesive and foam gasket can be used to aid in an assembly process. In another embodiment, plastic spacers can be used in place of adhesive  232 . In yet another embodiment, spacer  206  or mounting bracket  214  can be configured to have sections that extend outward and replace adhesive  232 . Foam adhesive  222  can absorb and distribute local stress concentrations caused by structural loads, mismatched surfaces and differing thermal expansion rates between spacer  226  and cover glass layer  202 . This can reduce stress concentrations in cover glass layer  202  that can lead to stress induced birefringence in LCD cell  206 . 
       FIG. 2E  shows a cross-sectional view of computing device  200  along an edge that includes illumination source  240  and various structural supports. As depicted in  FIG. 2A , illumination source  240  can be located along a bottom edge of an LCD module. However, in another embodiment, illumination source  240  can be located on any edge or multiple edges of the LCD module. Thus, the present disclosure is not limited to embodiments in which illumination source  240  is located along the bottom edge of the LCD module. Illumination source  240  can be coupled to support frame  212  and can represent any suitable light source, including light emitting diodes (LEDs), fluorescent lamps, incandescent light bulbs, and electroluminescent panels. In one embodiment, support frame  212  can be formed from a thermally conductive material such as aluminum, steel, or graphite to act as a heat sink for illumination source  240 . In another embodiment, illumination source  240  and support frame  212  can also be thermally coupled to chin structure  234 , providing an additional heat sink for illumination source  240 . 
     Mounting bracket  214  can be shaped differently along an edge that includes illumination source  240  to accommodate variations in support frame  212 . However, mounting bracket  214  can still be attached to cover glass layer  202  using foam adhesive  222  to mitigate stress concentrations in cover glass layer  202 . In addition, mounting bracket  214  can attach to support frame  212  along a side to leave space for illumination source  240  if necessary. Furthermore, mounting bracket  214  can be coupled to support frame  212  using any mechanically robust means. In one embodiment, mounting bracket  214  can be fastened to support frame  212  by fasteners  248 . Using fasteners can be advantageous if rework or repair of the LCD module may be required. 
     When the cross section depicted in  FIG. 2E  is located along a bottom edge of an LCD module, additional support structures can be included to support the weight of cover glass layer  202  and the backlight assembly. Chin structure  234  can be located below cover glass layer  202  and form a forward surface of computing device  200  along a bottom edge of the device. Chin structure  234  can be formed from aluminum, steel, hi-strength thermoplastics, or a similar material. Chin structure  234  can be attached to cover glass layer  202  using adhesive  236 . Adhesive  236  can be formed from any suitable adhesive, including foam adhesive and pressure sensitive foam adhesive. Adhesive  236  can form a continuous and compliant bond along a bottom edge of cover glass layer  202 . Furthermore, adhesive  236  can absorb and distribute local stress concentrations caused by structural loads, mismatched surfaces and differing thermal expansion rates between chin structure  234  and cover glass layer  202 . This can reduce stress concentrations in cover glass layer  202  that can lead to stress induced birefringence in LCD cell  206   
     In one embodiment, adhesive  236  can represent a pressure sensitive adhesive configured to form a bond when placed under sufficient pressure. When manufacturing computing device  200 , force can be applied to cover glass layer  202  above pressure sensitive adhesive  236  to form a bond between chin structure  234  and cover glass layer  202 . This force can be transmitted through cover glass layer  202  and into chin structure  234 . However, in some embodiments, chin structure  234  can provide insufficient structural support to withstand a load necessary to activate pressure sensitive adhesive  236 . One method for overcoming this problem can be to use magnet  250  to pull chin structure  234  upwards into cover glass layer  202 . A magnetic material can be placed in or on chin structure  234  and magnet  250  can be placed above pressure sensitive adhesive  236  and configured to apply enough force to sufficiently bond cover glass layer  202  to chin structure  234 . In one embodiment, L-bracket  242  can be formed from a magnetic material such as steel and positioned against chin structure  234  in an area below pressure sensitive adhesive  236 . When magnet  250  is introduced during an assembly process, magnetic forces acting on L-bracket  242  can push chin structure  234  upwards into cover glass layer  202 , applying a force adequate to activate pressure sensitive adhesive  236 . See  FIG. 10  for a flow chart detailing a process for activating pressure sensitive adhesive  236  using magnet  250 . In another embodiment, suction cups or a vacuum can be used to exert an upward force sufficient to activate pressure sensitive adhesive  236 . 
     In addition, chin structure  234  can provide vertical support to cover glass layer  202 . When computing device  200  is placed in an upright position, chin structure  234  can be configured so that a bottom edge of cover glass layer  202  rests on a ledge forming a surface of chin structure  234 . Thus, chin structure  234  can support the weight of cover glass layer  202 . This can reduce an amount of shear stress that is placed on foam adhesives  236  and  220  from supporting the weight of cover glass layer  202 . Due to the compliance of these foam adhesives, constant shear stress can cause cover glass layer  202  to drift downwards over time if adequate support is not provided by chin structure  234  or a similar structure. 
     Structural supports can also be provided for the backlight assembly. L-bracket  242  can be mechanically coupled to chin structure  234 . In one embodiment, L-bracket  242  can be fastened to chin structure  234  by fasteners  246 . In another embodiment, L-bracket  242  can be bonded to chin structure  234  with an adhesive. In yet another embodiment, L-bracket  242  and chin structure  234  can be integrated into one part. L-bracket  242  can be formed in shapes other than an angle extrusion. For example, if more stiffness is required, L-bracket  242  can be formed from a solid square bar or any other suitable shape. L-bracket  242  can be coupled to mounting bracket  214  and support frame  212  by gasket  238 . In one embodiment, gasket  238  can be an EMI shielding gasket for providing local protection from electromagnetic fields. Furthermore, conductive fabric  244  can be provided to create a conductive path from support frame  212  to gasket  238 . When L-bracket  242  is made from a conductive material such as steel, this can provide a conductive path between support frame  212  and chin structure  234 . In another embodiment, chin structure  234  can act as a thermal heat sink, especially when illumination sources  240  are positioned near by chin structure  234 , and chin structure  234  can be formed from a material that can conduct heat away from illumination sources.  240 . 
     In another embodiment, a load bearing shim  241  can be included to share, in part, the load imparted by cover glass layer  202  to chin structure  234 . Measurements can be made to determine a distance from a lower face of mounting bracket  214  to chin structure  214 , and more particularly to undercut portion of chin structure  235 . The load bearing shim  24   l  can be sized to fill a gap between undercut portion of chin structure  235  and mounting bracket  214  such that the weight of the backlight assembly is supported by chin structure  234 , cover glass layer  202  and mounting bracket  214 . This can reduce an amount of shear stress that is placed on foam adhesive  222  from supporting the weight of the backlight assembly. Due to the compliance of these foam adhesives, constant shear stress can allow the backlight assembly to drift downwards over time if adequate support is not provided by chin structure  234  and L-bracket  242  or a similar structure. 
       FIG. 2F  shows a cross sectional view of an upper edge of computing device  200  showing another embodiment for attaching cover glass layer  202  to computing device  200 . Structural housing assembly  204  can include a support block  252  with a groove  254  formed into one of the edges. As described above, support block  252  can be formed from a plastic resin, or from metal such as steel or aluminum. Support block  252  can be attached to structural housing  204  with any technically feasible method such as bonding with an adhesive, welding (when the support block  252  is formed from metal or a metal alloy) or support block  252  can be drilled and tapped and held in place with one or more screws inserted through the structural support block  252 . In one embodiment, support block  252  can only be attached to housing  204  along one surface (along the spline curve of housing  204  as shown). By providing a gap between housing  204  and support block  252 , differential expansion and contraction rates can be supported, particularly when support block  252  is formed from a different material than housing  204 . In one embodiment, a foam pad  258  can be disposed on support block  252 . 
     A simplified version of the LCD module is shown in  FIG. 2F . Some elements related to the LCD module have been removed from this view to simplify the view. In one embodiment, tongue  256  can be attached to mounting bracket  214 . Support frame  212  can support light guide  210  and optical films  208  as described above. Foam adhesive can attach tongue  256  and mounting bracket  214  to cover glass layer  202 . In another embodiment, tongue  256  can be formed integral to mounting bracket  214 . 
     To attach cover glass layer  202  to housing  204 , tongue  256  can be positioned into groove  254 . In one embodiment, a lower portion of cover glass layer  202  can be tilted away from the housing  204  to facilitate the entry of tongue  256  into groove  254 . After tongue  256  is positioned at least partially into groove  254 , then the lower portion of the cover glass layer  202  can be moved into a final position. Referring back to  FIG. 2E , additional fasteners can be used to attach one or more fasteners through L-bracket  242  to at least a portion of the mounting bracket  214 . The position of fastener  248  can show an exemplary position of these additional fasteners. 
     A stepped cutter can cut a face of support block  252  with respect to one edge of housing  204 . In one embodiment, the stepped cutter can help provide a well defined association between the one edge of housing  204  and the face of support block  252  such that the face of the support block  252  in cooperation with foam pad  258  can provide a well controlled cosmetic gap  275 . 
       FIG. 2G  shows a cross sectional view of an upper edge of computing device  200  showing yet another embodiment for attaching cover glass layer  202  to computing device  200 . This embodiment, although similar to the foam adhesive  220  approach of  FIG. 2B , can use magnets and steel plates to secure cover glass layer  202  to housing  204 . As described above, cover glass layer  202  can include mounting bracket  214 , and support frame  212  where light guide  210  and optical film  208  can be disposed thereon. 
     Support block  216  can be attached to housing  204  in any manner as described above. In this embodiment, one or more magnets  262  can be attached to support block  216 . Magnets  262  can be formed from any technically feasible means. In one embodiment, magnets  262  can be neodymium magnets. One or more steel plates  260  can be attached to cover glass layer  202  and positioned so that the cover glass layer  202  can be aligned with respect to housing  204  when the magnets  262  are brought into position with steel plates  260 . In other embodiments, steel plates  260  can be replaced with any other objects including enough ferrous content to be attracted to magnets  262 . 
     Support block  216  can be disposed about the periphery of housing  204 . Magnets  262  can be disposed along support block  216  spaced by a distance d such that single point loads from individual magnets  262  to the cover glass layer  202  are minimized thus mitigating stress concentrations in cover glass  202 . A height of the magnets  262 , steel plates  260  and support block  216  can cooperatively control the cosmetic gap  275 . 
       FIG. 3A  shows cover glass assembly  300 , demonstrating how mounting bracket  214  and spacer  226  can be bonded to cover glass layer  202  prior to installation of the backlight assembly. Cover glass layer  202  is shown with a rear surface facing upwards. Spacer  226  and mounting bracket  214  can be bonded to cover glass layer  202  using foam adhesive  222 . Foam adhesive  222  can be applied in a constant path along a bottom surface of mounting bracket  214  and spacer  226  to minimize stress transferred to cover glass layer  202  from mounting bracket  214  and spacer  226 . Spacer  226  can include mounting posts  302  for aligning spacer  226  with mounting bracket  214 . Enlarged view  304  shows how mounting bracket  214  can be inserted over mounting posts  302  to align mounting bracket  214  with spacer  226 . In one embodiment, mounting posts  302  can be used for other purposes as well, such as lining up a camera with a viewing hole in cover glass layer  202 . Mounting posts  302  can exist in any number or shape. In one embodiment, no mounting posts can be provided and mounting bracket  214  can be aligned to spacer  226  using a tool or automated assembly process. 
       FIG. 3B  shows another embodiment in which mounting bracket  214  is split into four pieces. Breaking mounting bracket  214  into multiple pieces can decrease an amount of stress transferred to cover glass layer  202  due to differences in thermal expansion between mounting bracket  214  and cover glass layer  202 . Mounting bracket  214  can be split in many locations and it is not necessary that the splits be in corners. Moreover, the number of resulting pieces of mounting bracket  214  can be more or less than four. When gaps are left between segments of mounting bracket  214 , foam gaskets can be inserted in the gaps to prevent leakage of light from the LCD module. 
       FIG. 4  shows a cross-sectional view of computing device  400 , demonstrating an alternative means of attaching the backlight assembly to cover glass layer  202 . Rather than bonding mounting bracket  408  to cover glass layer  202 , a series of rigid plates  402  can be bonded to cover glass layer  202  using adhesive  404 . Rigid plates  402  can be formed from any hi-strength, rigid material. In one embodiment, steel plates can be used. Rigid plates  402  can include standoffs with threaded inserts placed at regular intervals. Support frame  212  can be fastened to rigid plates  402  using fasteners  406 , and mounting bracket  408  can include slots for the standoffs in rigid plates  402  to pass through. Stresses applied from the backlight assembly can be distributed over a larger area due to the resilience of rigid plates  402  before being transmitted to the cover glass layer. By reducing stress concentrations in cover glass layer  202 , the likelihood that stress induced birefringence will occur in LCD cell  206  can be reduced. 
       FIG. 5  shows cover glass assembly  500 , demonstrating how rigid plates  402  can be bonded to cover glass layer  202  prior to installation of mounting bracket  408  and the backlight assembly. Cover glass layer  202  is shown with a rear surface facing upwards. Rigid plates  402  can be bonded directly to cover glass layer  202  using an adhesive. Standoffs  502  can be incorporated into rigid plates  402  and spaced at regular intervals. Rigid plates  402  can be split into multiple sections to reduce an amount of stress transferred to cover glass layer  202  due to differences in thermal expansion between rigid plates  402  and cover glass layer  202 . Rigid plates  402  can be split in many locations and the splits can be in locations other than the corners. Moreover, the number of resulting pieces of rigid plate  402  can be more or less than four. When gaps are left between segments of rigid plates  402 , foam gaskets can be inserted in the gaps to prevent leakage of light from the LCD module. 
       FIG. 6  shows cover glass assembly  600  with mounting bracket  408  included. Mounting bracket  408  can include a combination of holes and slots to allow standoffs from rigid plates  402  to pass through. If rigid plates  402  and mounting bracket  408  are made from different materials, slots can be strategically located to minimize stress due to varying thermal expansion rates. Locating hole  602  can be provided in an area where tighter tolerances are required. For example, a camera placed near locating hole  602  can require higher tolerances to line up with a corresponding hole in cover glass layer  202 . All of the remaining slots  604  in mounting bracket  408  can then be oriented towards locating hole  602  so that any uneven thermal expansion will occur along a direction commensurate with slots  604 . In this manner, cover glass layer  202  can avoid stress created from unequal thermal expansion between rigid plates  402  and mounting bracket  408 . 
       FIG. 7  shows process  700  for attaching a backlight assembly to a cover glass layer using a foam adhesive. In step  702 , a cover glass layer can be received. In step  704 , an LCD cell can be bonded to the cover glass layer using an optically clear adhesive. In step  706 , a mounting bracket can be bonded to the cover glass layer in an area around the LCD cell using a foam adhesive. The foam adhesive can form a constant and compliant bond along the length of the mounting bracket. The compliant bond can absorb and distribute local stress concentrations caused by structural loads, mismatched surfaces and differing thermal expansion rates between the mounting bracket and the cover glass layer. This can reduce stress concentrations in the cover glass layer that can lead to stress induced birefringence in the LCD cell. Finally, in step  708 , a backlight assembly can be attached to the mounting bracket using fasteners or an adhesive. The backlight assembly can include an illumination source, light guide, optical films, and a support frame. 
       FIG. 8  shows process  800  for attaching a backlight assembly to a cover glass layer using a rigid plate assembly. In step  802 , a cover glass layer can be received. In step  804 , an LCD cell can be bonded to the cover glass layer using an optically clear adhesive. In step  806 , one or more rigid plates can be bonded to the cover glass layer in an area around the LCD cell using an adhesive. Stresses applied from the backlight assembly can be distributed over a larger area due to the resilience of rigid plates  402  before being transmitted to the cover glass layer. The rigid plates can include standoffs threaded to receive one or more fasteners. Finally, in step  808 , a backlight assembly can be attached to the rigid plates by using fasteners to engage the threaded standoffs. The backlight assembly can include an illumination source, light guide, optical films, and a support frame. In another embodiment, a mounting bracket can be placed over the rigid plates before installing the backlight assembly. The mounting bracket can include holes or slots to accommodate the threaded standoffs, and can be used to retain optical films or other components of the LCD module. 
       FIG. 9  shows process  900  for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing while minimizing an amount of stress imparted to the cover glass from the structural housing. In step  902 , a structural housing including an opening for an LCD module can be received. The structural housing can form an exterior surface of a device or be an internal structural feature. In step  904 , a chin support can be mechanically coupled to the structural housing along a lower edge. The chin support can be configured to support the weight of a cover glass layer along a lower edge of the cover glass layer. In another embodiment, the chin structure and structural housing can be integrated into one part. In step  906 , a support block can be mechanically coupled to the structural housing around a periphery of the opening for the cover glass layer. The support block can be coupled by any robust means, including adhesives, adhesive tape, fasteners, or welding. The support block can provide a surface for a later bonding operation. If the structural housing has sufficient thickness around the periphery of the opening for the cover glass layer to form a bonding surface, then steps  906  and  908  can be omitted. In step  908 , a face of the support block can be machined to provide a uniform surface for bonding. An edge of the structural housing can be used as a reference for the machining operation. This can create a uniform gap along an edge of the device, enhancing the user experience. The face of the support block can be machined to sit slightly below the edge of the structural housing to allow room for an adhesive. In step  910 , a cover glass layer can be positioned so that a bottom edge of the cover glass rests on the chin support. Finally, in step  912 , the cover glass layer can be bonded to the support block using a continuous and compliant foam adhesive. In one embodiment, double sided foam adhesive tape can be used and a roller mechanism can apply a uniform pressure to the cover glass layer along the bonding path to seal the bond. The foam adhesive can absorb and distribute local stress concentrations, reducing an amount of stress transferred to the cover glass layer. 
       FIG. 10  shows process  1000  for activating a pressure sensitive adhesive used to bond a cover glass layer to a structural housing. In step  1002 , a structural housing can be received. In step  1004 , a magnetic material can be placed inside the structural housing. The magnetic material can be placed in an area below a surface on which a pressure sensitive adhesive is to be applied. In one embodiment, a structural member within the structural housing can be made from a magnetic material such as steel. In step  1006 , a pressure sensitive adhesive can be placed on a surface of the structural housing above the magnetic material. The pressure sensitive adhesive can be configured to bond adequately when a pre-defined force is applied normal to the pressure sensitive adhesive. In step  1008 , a cover glass layer can be placed over the pressure sensitive adhesive. Finally, in step  1010 , a magnet can be applied externally along a surface of the cover glass layer above the pressure sensitive adhesive. The magnet can be configured and oriented to impart a force on the magnetic material, pulling the magnetic material upwards and providing the force necessary to activate the pressure sensitive adhesive. 
       FIG. 11  shows process  1100  for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing using magnets. In step  1102 , a structural housing including an opening for an LCD module can be received. The structural housing can form an exterior surface of a device or be an internal structural feature. In step  1104 , a support block can be mechanically coupled to the structural housing around a periphery of the opening for the cover glass layer. The support block can be coupled by any robust means, including adhesives, adhesive tape, fasteners, or welding. The support block can provide a surface for a later bonding operation. If the structural housing has sufficient thickness around the periphery of the opening for the cover glass layer to form a bonding surface, then steps  1104  and  1106  can be omitted. In step  1106 , a face of the support block can be machined to provide a uniform surface for bonding. An edge of the structural housing can be used as a reference for the machining operation. This can create a uniform gap along an edge of the device, enhancing the user experience. The face of the support block can be machined to sit slightly below the edge of the structural housing to allow room for magnets. In step  1108 , a plurality of magnets can be bonded to the machined face of the support block. The magnets can be spaced evenly along the support block and separated from each other by a distance d. Distance d can be configured to adjust a degree to which point loads can be transferred from the support block to a cover glass layer. For example, a smaller distance d can allow for greater distribution of loads applied a cover glass layer from the support block. In step  1110 , a cover glass layer can be received and bonded to one or more metal plates. The magnetic plates can be formed from any magnetic material, such as nickel or steel. Furthermore, the magnetic plates can be configured to align with the magnets bonded to the support block. Finally, in step  1112 , the cover glass layer can be attached to the supporting block by aligning the magnets on the supporting block with the magnetic plates on the cover glass layer. 
       FIG. 12  shows process  1200  for attaching a cover glass layer to a structural housing using a tongue and groove design. In step  1202 , a structural housing including an opening for an LCD module can be received. In step  1204 , a support block can be mechanically coupled to the structural housing using means similar to step  1104  in process  1100 . The support block can have a groove configured to receive one or more tongues along an interior face of one edge of the opening for the LCD module. In step  1206 , a face of the support block can be machined using means similar to step  1106  in process  1100 . In step  1208 , a foam pad can be bonded to the machined face of the support block. In step  1210 , a cover glass layer can be received and one or more tongues can be bonded to the cover glass layer along one edge. In another embodiment, the tongues can be bonded or fastened to a mounting bracket coupled to the cover glass layer. In step  1212 , the tongues can be aligned to enter the groove in the support block and the cover glass layer can be rotated down to rest on the foam pad. Finally, in step  1214 , an end of the cover glass layer opposite the tongues can be fastened to the structural housing. 
     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 manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. 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, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. 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. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the described embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20120926
Publication Date: 20170815
Grant Date: 20170815
Priority Date: 20120926
Inventors: MATHEW DINESH C.
COOPER EDWARD J.
DEGNER BRETT W.
HENDREN KEITH J.
RUNDLE NICHOLAS ALAN
TARKINGTON DAVE
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H05K13/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1601", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1612", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1637", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1607", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/16", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/64", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1609", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/64", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1612", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1637", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K13/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1609", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1607", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/16", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1612", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1637", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1601", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/64", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1601", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 50338619