PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8464417-B2
Application Number: US-201113038241-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Method for cover glass removal

Abstract:
Improved techniques are disclosed for disassembly of portable electronic devices. A portable electronic device can have a portable device housing having a cover piece. The techniques can apply controlled forces to remove the cover piece from the portable device housing. The controlled forces can include rotational and/or translational forces. The techniques allow for removal of the cover piece with little or no damage to the portable electronic device. For example, the cover piece can pertain to a glass cover member (e.g., cover glass) that forms an outer part of a portable device housing.

Claims:
What is claimed is:  
     
       1. A method for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device, comprising:
 releasably securing a fixture to the cover; 
 engaging the frame member with a companion fixture; and 
 separating the cover from the frame member by moving the fixture relative to the companion fixture. 
 
     
     
       2. A method as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the separating the cover and the frame member comprises pulling the cover from the frame member. 
     
     
       3. A method as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the separating the cover from the frame member comprises relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame member of the portable electronic device. 
     
     
       4. A method as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the separating the cover from the frame member comprises relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame about a pivot point proximate to extremities of the cover and the frame. 
     
     
       5. A method as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the separating the cover from the frame member comprises relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame about a pivot point located adjacent to a proximate adhesive bond between the cover and the frame, so as to substantially limit force applied to the proximate adhesive bond. 
     
     
       6. A method as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the separating the cover from the frame member comprises relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame about a pivot point located remote from a distal adhesive bond between the cover and the frame, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking the distal adhesive bond. 
     
     
       7. A method as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the separating the cover from the frame member comprises relative translational movement between the cover and the frame, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking a proximate adhesive bond between the cover and the frame. 
     
     
       8. A method for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device, comprising:
 inducing an angular removal force to the cover to partially break adhesive bonds between the cover and the frame member; and 
 subsequently inducing a translational removal force to the cover to completely break the adhesive bonds between the cover and the force, thereby removing the cover from the frame member. 
 
     
     
       9. A method as recited in  claim 8 , wherein, following inducing of the angular removal force, adhesive bonds at one side between the cover and the frame member are broken. 
     
     
       10. A method as recited in  claim 9 , wherein, following the subsequent inducing of the translational removal force, adhesive bonds at any remaining sides between the cover and the frame member are broken. 
     
     
       11. A method for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic, comprising:
 coupling the portable electronic device to at least one fixture; 
 rotating relative to one another the cover and the frame member about a pivot point located remote from a distal adhesive bond between the cover and the frame, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking the distal adhesive bond; and 
 translationally moving relative to one another the cover and the frame member, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking a proximate adhesive bond between the cover and the frame member. 
 
     
     
       12. A method for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device, comprising:
 coupling the portable electronic device to at least one fixture; 
 breaking a distal adhesive bond located between the cover and the frame and located remote from corresponding extremities of cover and frame member; and 
 subsequently breaking a proximate adhesive bond located between the cover and the frame and located proximate to the corresponding extremities of the cover and the frame member.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority benefit of U.S. provisional patent application 61/441,275, filed Feb. 9, 2011, and entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COVER GLASS REMOVAL,” which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to portable electronic devices and, more particularly, to systems and techniques for removal of covers from such portable electronic devices. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     The pace of innovation in portable electronic devices continues to accelerate. Through innovations in hardware and software, multipurpose functionalities such as those of a digital camera, cellular telephone and media player can all be integrated into a single device, which can provide consumers with enhanced device performance and convenience. Examples such innovative portable electronic devices, which have achieved great popularity with consumers, are the iPhone™ and iPod™ products offered by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. 
     In addition to such increases in functionality, consumers also have increasing expectations for the appearance and form factor of portable electronic devices. Consumers may want devices that are not only fully capable but also relatively thin and lightweight and perhaps fashionable. 
     Naturally, significant engineering challenges must be overcome, in order to integrate various components into thin or low profile portable electronic devices. In can be particularly challenging to find ways to integrate one or more pieces (e.g., thin sheets) of glass or plastic into such designs. Glass or plastic may be used for covering displays, touch panels, camera assemblies or the like for portable electronic devices. 
     The principles of design for manufacturing may be employed in the engineering arts for designing products in such a way that they are easy to manufacture. Accordingly, various assembly techniques may be used, to ease and simplify the integration of glass or plastic, so as to provide for manufacturability of thin, low profile portable electronic devices. While such assembly techniques may provide many advantages, further difficulties may still remain. For example, one difficulty is that it can be difficult to disassembly portable electronic devices that incorporate glass or plastic into their design. Thus, there is a need for improved approaches to disassembly of portable electronic devices. 
     SUMMARY 
     Improved techniques are disclosed for disassembly of portable electronic devices. A portable electronic device can have a portable device housing having a cover piece. The techniques can apply controlled forces to remove the cover piece from the portable device housing. The controlled forces can include rotational and/or translational forces. The techniques allow for removal of the cover piece with little or no damage to the portable electronic device. For example, the cover piece can pertain to a glass cover member (e.g., cover glass) that forms an outer part of a portable device housing. 
     The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as a system, device, apparatus or method. Several embodiments of the invention are discussed below. 
     As an apparatus for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device, one embodiment includes at least: a fixture for releasable securing to the cover; a companion fixture for engaging the frame member; and a guide member coupled with the fixture and the companion fixture for guiding relative movement between the fixture and the companion fixture in disassembling the cover from the frame member of the portable electronic device. 
     As an apparatus for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device, another embodiment includes at least: a fixture for releasable securing to the cover; a companion fixture for engaging the frame member; and a rotational guide member coupled with the fixture and the companion fixture for guiding rotation of the fixture relative to the companion fixture in disassembling the cover from the frame member of the portable electronic device. 
     As a method for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device, one embodiment includes at least the acts of: releasably securing a fixture to the cover; engaging the frame member with a companion fixture; and separating the cover from the frame member. 
     As a method for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device, another embodiment includes at least the acts of: coupling the portable electronic device to at least one fixture; rotating relative to one another the cover and the frame member about a pivot point located remote from a distal adhesive bond between the cover and the frame, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking the distal adhesive bond; and translationally moving relative to one another the cover and the frame member, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking a proximate adhesive bond between the cover and the frame member. 
     As a method for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device, another embodiment includes at least the acts of: coupling the portable electronic device to at least one fixture; breaking a distal adhesive bond located between the cover and the frame and located remote from corresponding extremities of cover and frame member; and subsequently breaking a proximate adhesive bond located between the cover and the frame and located proximate to the corresponding extremities of the cover and the frame member. 
     A method for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device, another embodiment includes at least the acts of: inducing an angular removal force to the cover to partially break adhesive bonds between the cover and the frame member; and subsequently inducing a translational removal force to the cover to completely break the adhesive bonds between the cover and the force, thereby removing the cover from the frame member. 
     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 invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention 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. 1A and 1B  are isometric views of an exemplary portable electronic device, for disassembly using one embodiment. 
         FIG. 1C  is a plan view of fixtures of one embodiment, for use in disassembly of the exemplary portable electronic device shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B . 
         FIGS. 2A-2D  are a series of partial block diagrams and simplified side views illustrating disassembly of the portable electronic device using fixtures according to one embodiment. 
         FIGS. 3A-3C  are a series of more detailed side views of the portable electronic device, further illustrating the disassembly of the portable electronic device that is shown in  FIGS. 2A-2D . 
         FIGS. 4A-4D  are a series of even more detailed views of the portable electronic device, further illustrating the disassembly of the portable electronic device that is shown in  FIGS. 2A-2D . 
         FIGS. 5A-5D  are a series of partial block diagrams and simplified side views illustrating disassembly of the portable electronic device using fixtures according to another embodiment. 
         FIGS. 6A and 6B  are detailed views of the portable electronic device, further illustrating the disassembly of the portable electronic device that is shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D . 
         FIGS. 7A-7D  are a series of partial block diagrams and simplified side views illustrating disassembly of the portable electronic device using fixtures according to yet another embodiment. 
         FIGS. 8A and 8B  are a series of more detailed side views of the portable electronic device, further illustrating the disassembly of the portable electronic device that is shown in  FIGS. 7A-7D . 
         FIGS. 9A-9E  are a series of even more detailed views of the portable electronic device, further illustrating the disassembly of the portable electronic device that is shown in  FIGS. 7A-7D . 
         FIG. 10  is a flow diagram of a process, according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 11  is a flow diagram of another process, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  is a flow diagram of yet another process, according to yet another embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     Improved techniques are disclosed for disassembly of portable electronic devices. A portable electronic device can have a portable device housing having a cover piece. The techniques can apply controlled forces to remove the cover piece from the portable device housing. The controlled forces can include rotational and/or translational forces. The techniques allow for removal of the cover piece with little or no damage to the portable electronic device. For example, the cover piece can pertain to a glass cover member (e.g., cover glass) that forms an outer part of a portable device housing. 
     Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-12 . 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. 
     Portable electronic devices may integrate one or more thin sheets of translucent glass or plastic into their designs. Glass or plastic may be used for covering displays, touch panels, camera assemblies or the like for the portable electronic devices. Various adhesives may be used in assembly techniques, to ease and simplify the integration of glass or plastic, so as to provide for manufacturability of thin, low profile portable electronic devices. While such assembly techniques may provide many advantages, re-work methodologies may require disassembly of portable electronic devices that have been assembled using adhesives. 
       FIGS. 1A and 1B  are isometric views of an exemplary portable electronic device  100 , for disassembly using one embodiment. As show in the figures, the portable electronic device  100  may comprise a frame member  102  for housing and supporting components of the portable electronic device. The frame member  102  may comprises an inner mid-plate member (not visible in the isometric view of  FIGS. 1A and 1B ) and a frame band  102 , which may be coupled proximate to a perimeter of the inner mid-plate member. 
     As particularly shown in  FIG. 1A , the portable electronic device  100  may comprise a top cover  103  of translucent glass or plastic, which may cover a touch panel arranged over a display of the portable electronic device, for use and viewing by a user of the portable electronic device  100 . The portable electronic device  100  may further comprise a bottom cover  104  of translucent glass or plastic, which may cover a camera assembly  108  and a light emitting diode (LED) flash unit  109 . 
     The portable electronic device  100  shown in  FIG. 1B  is generally similar to the portable electronic device  100  just discussed in detail with respect to  FIG. 1A . However, a careful comparison of  FIGS. 1A and 1B  reveals that the top cover  103  of the portable electronic device  100  shown in  FIG. 1A  is shown as already removed from the portable electronic device  100  in  FIG. 1B . The top cover  103  may be removed from the portable electronic device  100  prior to removing the bottom cover  104  of the portable electronic device. However, such removal of the top cover  103  from the portable electronic device  100  prior to removing the bottom cover  104  of the portable electronic device may not be strictly necessary. Nevertheless, for ease of illustration in subsequent discussions herein, with respect to disassembly of the portable electronic device  100  to remove the bottom cover  104  of the portable electronic device, the top cover  103  of the portable electronic device  100  is treated as having already been removed. 
       FIG. 1C  is a plan view of fixtures  110 ,  116  of one embodiment, for use in disassembly of the exemplary portable electronic device  100  shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B . The fixtures  110 ,  116  may comprise a first fixture  110  for releasable securing to the cover (i.e. bottom cover) of the portable electronic device, which was just discussed. In particular, the first fixture  110  for releasable securing to the cover may comprise a vacuum fixture  110 , which may have a rubberized surface  111  for provide a substantially vacuum tight seal between the cover and vacuum plate  112 ; and may further comprise vacuum orifice  114 , which may be arranged for securing a vacuum hose to the first fixture  110 , and may provide for controllable and/or releasable suction to the first fixture  110 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1C , fixtures  110 ,  116  may further comprise companion fixture  116  for engaging the frame member of the portable electronic device. The companion fixture  116  may have a central aperture  117  extending there through, for receiving the first fixture  110 . The first fixture  110  may be concentrically arranged with respect to the companion fixture  116 , as shown in  FIG. 1C . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1C , the companion fixture  116  may be particularly adapted for engaging the frame band of the frame member of the portable electronic device. Of particular note in this regard, companion fixture  116  may have a lowered ledge feature  118  (e.g. engagement member  118 ) as shown in  FIG. 1C . 
       FIGS. 2A-2D  are a series of partial block diagrams and simplified side views illustrating disassembly of the portable electronic device using fixtures according to one embodiment. As shown in  FIGS. 2A-2D , the apparatus for disassembling cover  204  from frame member  202  of portable electronic device  200  may comprise first fixture  210 , which may have rubberized surface  211 , for releasable securing to the cover  204 ; and may further comprise companion fixture  216  for engaging the frame member of the portable electronic device at lowered ledge feature  218  of the companion fixture  216 . Since the companion fixture  216  obscures view of the lowered ledge feature  218 , the lowered ledge feature  218  is depicted in the figures using phantom/dashed lines. 
     The first fixture  210  may be concentrically arranged with respect to the companion fixture  216 , as shown in  FIGS. 2A-2D . In such arrangement, view of the first fixture  210  may be obscured by the companion fixture  216 . Accordingly, in the figures the first fixture  210  or obscured portions thereof are depicted using phantom/dashed lines. Similarly, in the figures the portable electronic device  200 , or obscured portions thereof are likewise depicted using phantom/dashed lines. 
     The portable electronic device  200  may have been assembled using adhesive bonding material  205 ,  207  between the frame member  202  and cover  204  of the portable electronic device  200 . As a general matter, such adhesive bonding material  205 ,  207  is arranged internally to the electronic device, so as not to be visible in the side views of the figures. However, for ease of illustration in the figures, the adhesive bonding material  205 ,  207  is representatively illustrated in the figures by two small circles  205 ,  207 . As will be discussed in greater detail subsequently herein, adhesive bonding material  205 ,  207  may provide adhesive bonds between the frame member  202  and cover  204 , which may be broken in disassembly of the portable electronic device as illustrated in the series of  FIGS. 2A-2D . In particular, there may be breaking of a proximate adhesive bond provided by bonding material located between the cover  204  and the frame member  202  and located proximate to corresponding extremities of the cover  204  and the frame member  202 , as shown in the figures. Similarly, there may be breaking of a distal adhesive bond provided by bonding material  207  located between the cover  204  and the frame member and located remote from the aforementioned corresponding extremities of the cover  204  and the frame member  202 . In other words, there may be breaking of the proximate adhesive bond, which may be disposed near one end of the portable electronic device, and there may also be breaking of the distal adhesive bond, which may be remotely arranged, for example near, an opposing end of the portable electronic device  200 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2A-2D , the apparatus may further comprise vacuum unit  219  for providing controllable and releasable suction to the first fixture  210 , which may be coupled thereto using a vacuum hose. The apparatus may further comprise a guide member  220 , which may be coupled with the first fixture  210  and the companion fixture  216  for guiding relative movement between the first fixture  210  and the companion fixture  216  in disassembling the cover  204  from the frame member  202  of the portable electronic device  200 . 
     In the series of  FIGS. 2A-2D  illustrating disassembly,  FIG. 2A  first shows the electronic device  200  suspended above the fixtures  210 ,  216 . Next,  FIG. 5B  shows the fixtures  210 ,  216  receiving the portable electronic device  200 . Lowered ledge feature  218  of the companion fixture  216  may engage the frame band  202  as shown in  FIG. 5B . Suction of vacuum unit  219  may be activated for releasable securing of the first fixture  210  to the cover  204 . The rubberized surface  211  of the first fixture  210  may provide a substantially vacuum tight seal. 
     Next  FIG. 2C  shows the result of movement, which may be relative movement between the first fixture  210  and the companion fixture  216 , which may be guided by guide member  220 . The guide member  220  may be arranged with the first fixture  210  and the companion fixture  216  for allowing the cover  204  to be pulled from the frame member  202  of the portable electronic device  200 . Careful review of differences between  FIGS. 5B and 2C  reveals that the aforementioned adhesive bonds may be broken as the cover  204  is separated from the frame member  202 . In other words, as the cover  204  is separated from the frame member  202 , there may be breaking of the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  205 , which may be disposed near one end of the portable electronic device, and there may also be breaking of the distal adhesive bond of bonding material, which may be remotely arranged, for example near, the opposing end of the portable electronic device  200 . As representatively illustrated in  FIGS. 2C and 2D , after the adhesive bonds are broken, all or substantially all or a significant portion of the bonding material  205 ,  207  may remain with the cover  204 . 
     Next,  FIG. 2D  shows the result of further movement, which may be relative movement between the first fixture  210  and the companion fixture  216 , which may be guided by guide member  220 . The first fixture  210  may be fully withdrawn from the companion fixture  216  as shown in  FIG. 2D . To provide for retrieval of the cover  204 , for example, to provide for re-work of the cover, suction of vacuum unit  219  may be deactivated and cover  204  may be released from the first fixture  210 . Similarly, after separation from the cover  204 , a remainder portion of the electronic device, specifically frame member  202  and any associated electronic components, may be retrieved from companion fixture  216 , for example, to provide for re-work thereof. 
       FIGS. 3A-3C  are a series of more detailed side views of portable electronic device  300 , further illustrating the disassembly of the portable electronic device as shown in  FIGS. 2A-2D , which was just discussed. As shown greater detail in  FIGS. 3A-3C , the cover discussed previously may comprise a cover glass assembly  304  having one or more assembly tabs  330  extending there from. In progressive sequence,  FIGS. 3A and 3B  and  3 B show progressive separation of cover assembly  304  from frame member  302 , in accordance with disassembly using the fixtures as previously discussed with respect to  FIGS. 2A-2D . 
       FIGS. 4A-4D  are a series of even more detailed views of the portable electronic device, further illustrating the disassembly of the portable electronic device that is shown in  FIGS. 2A-2D . First, an interior view of  FIG. 4A  of frame member  402  shows adhesive bonding material  405  of the previously discussed proximate adhesive bond between tab  430  of the cover glass assembly and frame member  402 . The adhesive bonding material is highlighted in the figures using stippling. Inner mid-plate  440  of the frame member  402  may comprise metal, which may be over molded with plastic and coupled with band  402  about a perimeter of the inner mid-plate  440 . As shown in  FIG. 4A , the inner mid-plate  440  of the frame member may have one or more apertures extending there through. In some of the figures, a back surface of a camera assembly  408  is visible through one of the apertures. 
     Next,  FIG. 4B  shows partial withdrawal of the tab  430  of the cover glass assembly, as the cover glass assembly begins separating from the frame member  402  in accordance with partial disassembly using the fixtures as previously discussed with respect to  FIGS. 2A-2D . 
     Next,  FIGS. 4C and 4D  show alternative inner and outer views of the frame member  402 , after full separation of the cover glass assembly and complete disassembly using the fixtures as previously discussed with respect to  FIGS. 2A-2D . In some cases, excessive force may be used in separation. Excessive force applied to the inner mid-plate of the frame member during separation of the cover assembly from may result in substantial damage  450  as shown in  FIGS. 4C and 4D . Damage  450  may be seen in  FIGS. 4C and 4D  as possible de-lamination or possible undesired separation of the metal of the inner mid-plate  440  of the frame member from the aforementioned over molded plastic of the frame member  402 . Gap  450  shown in  FIGS. 4C and 4D  illustrates such damage to frame member  402   
     As the aforementioned proximate and distal adhesive bonds are broken, the fixtures discussed previously herein with respect to  FIGS. 2A-2D  may allow application of excessive force, for example, to the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  405 , which may in turn apply excessive force to the inner mid-plate  440  of the frame member  402 , which may cause damage  450 . As will be discussed subsequently herein, such force may be limited in other embodiments, which may limit such damage. 
       FIGS. 5A-5D  are a series of partial block diagrams and simplified side views illustrating disassembly of portable electronic device  500  using fixtures  510 ,  516  according to another embodiment. As shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D , the apparatus for disassembling cover  504  from frame member  502  of portable electronic device  500  may comprise first fixture  510 , which may have rubberized surface  511 , for releasable securing to the cover  504 ; and may further comprise companion fixture  516  for engaging the frame member of the portable electronic device at lowered ledge feature  518  of the companion fixture  516 . Since the companion fixture  516  obscures view of the lowered ledge feature  518 , the lowered ledge feature  518  is depicted in the figures using phantom/dashed lines. 
     The first fixture  510  may be concentrically arranged with respect to the companion fixture  516 , as shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D . In such arrangement, view of the first fixture  510  may be obscured by the companion fixture  516 . Accordingly, in the figures the first fixture  510  or obscured portions thereof are depicted using phantom/dashed lines. Similarly, in the figures the portable electronic device  500 , or obscured portions thereof are likewise depicted using phantom/dashed lines. 
     The portable electronic device  500  may have been assembled using adhesive bonding material  505 ,  507  between the frame member  502  and cover  504  of the portable electronic device  500 . As mentioned previously herein, such adhesive bonding material  505 ,  507  is typically arranged internally to the electronic device, so as not to be visible in the side views of the figures. However, for ease of illustration in the figures, the adhesive bonding material  505 ,  507  is representatively illustrated in the figures by two small circles  505 ,  507 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D , the apparatus may further comprise vacuum unit  519  for providing controllable and releasable suction to the first fixture  510 , which may be coupled thereto using a vacuum hose. The apparatus may further comprise a guide member  520 , which may be coupled with the first fixture  510  and the companion fixture  516  for guiding relative movement between the first fixture  510  and the companion fixture  516  in disassembling the cover  504  from the frame member  502  of the portable electronic device  500 . 
     In the series of  FIGS. 5A-5D  illustrating disassembly,  FIG. 5A  first shows the portable electronic device  500  suspended above the fixtures  510 ,  516 . Next,  FIG. 5B  shows the fixtures  510 ,  516  receiving the portable electronic device  500 . Lowered ledge feature  518  of the companion fixture  516  may engage the frame band  502  as shown in  FIG. 5B . Suction of vacuum unit  519  may be activated for releasable securing of the first fixture  510  to the cover  504 . The rubberized surface  511  of the first fixture  510  may provide a substantially vacuum tight seal. 
     Next  FIG. 5C  shows the result of movement, which may be relative rotational movement between the first fixture  510  and the companion fixture  516 , and which may be guided by a rotational guide member  522  of guide member  520 . As shown in FIG,  5 C, the rotational guide member  522  may be arranged for guiding relative rotational movement between the cover  504  and the frame member  502  about a pivot point, which may be proximate to extremities of the cover  504  and the frame member  502 . In particular, as shown in  FIG. 5C , the rotational guide member  522  may be arranged for guiding relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame member about such pivot point, which may be located adjacent to a proximate adhesive bond of bond material  505  between the cover  504  and the frame member  502 , so as to substantially limit force applied to the proximate adhesive bond of bond material  505 . 
     Limiting force applied to the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  505 , may in turn limit force applied to inner mid-plate of the frame member  502 , which may substantially limit damage to inner mid-plate of the frame member  502 . In other words, rotational guide member  522  may be arranged for guiding relative rotational movement between the cover  504  and the frame member  502  about such pivot point located adjacent to proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  505  between the cover  504  and the plate member of the frame member  502 , so as to substantially limit force applied to the inner mid-plate of the frame member  502 . 
     Careful review of differences between  FIGS. 5B and 5C  illustrates that limiting applied force at proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  505  may limit changes to the proximate adhesive bond, while sufficient force may be applied to the distal adhesive bond of bonding material  507  for breaking the distal bond. In other words, by guiding the rotation, applied force may be sufficiently limited so as to avoid breaking the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  505 , which may be disposed near one end of the portable electronic device  500  near the rotation&#39;s pivot point, while the rotation may still apply sufficient force for breaking of the distal adhesive bond of bonding material  507 , which may be remotely arranged, for example near an opposing end of the portable electronic device  500 . In  FIG. 5C  one end of the cover  504  is shown as not yet separated from the frame member  502 , while the opposing end of the cover  504  is already separated from the frame member by the rotation. Accordingly, as shown in  FIG. 5C , while limited force may be applied to the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  505 , by relative rotational movement between the first fixture  510  and the companion fixture  516  (guided by a rotational guide member  522  of guide member  520 ), sufficient force may be applied for breaking the distal adhesive bond of bonding material  507 . 
     Next,  FIG. 5D  shows the result of translational movement, which may be relative translational movement between the first fixture  510  and the companion fixture  516 , which may be guided by translational guide member  524  of the guide member  520 . The translational guide member  524  of guide member  520  may be arranged with the first fixture  510  and the companion fixture  516  for breaking the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  505  and allowing the cover  504  to be pulled from the frame member  502  of the portable electronic device  500 . Relatively more force may have been required, if both proximate and distal adhesive bonds were to have been broken at about the same time. By first breaking the distal bond of bonding material  507  by rotation, and subsequently breaking the proximate bond of bonding material  505  by translation, relatively less force may be needed for breaking the proximate bond of bonding material  505 . Limiting force needed for breaking the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  505  may in turn limit force applied to inner mid-plate of the frame member  502 , which may substantially limit damage to inner mid-plate of the frame member  502 . 
     As representatively illustrated in  FIGS. 5D , after the adhesive bonds are broken, all or substantially all or a significant portion of the bonding material  505 ,  507  may remain with the cover  504 . Once the cover  504  is separated from the frame member  502  of the electronic device  500 , the first fixture  510  may be fully withdrawn from the companion fixture  516 . To provide for retrieval of the cover  504 , for example, to provide for re-work of the cover, suction of vacuum unit  519  may be deactivated and cover  504  may be released from the first fixture  510 . Similarly, after separation from the cover  504 , a remainder portion of the electronic device, specifically frame member  502  and any associated electronic components, may be retrieved from companion fixture  516 , for example, to provide for re-work thereof. 
       FIGS. 6A and 6B  are detailed views of the portable electronic device, further illustrating aspects of the disassembly of the portable electronic device using fixtures as shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D  and as just discussed. In detailed side view in  FIG. 6A , rotation of cover glass assembly  604  is shown relative to frame member  602  of portable electronic device  600  at a limited angle of about thirteen degrees or less. 
       FIG. 6B  is a detailed interior view of frame member  602 , showing tilting of tab  660  of the cover glass assembly, resulting from the rotation of the cover glass assembly by the limited angle of about thirteen degrees or less. As shown in  FIG. 6B , excessive rotation of the cover glass assembly may cause excessive tilting of tab  660  of the cover glass assembly. With such excessive tilting, the tab  660  may encounter interference with the inner wall of the frame member  602 , which may in turn result in application of excessive force to the proximate adhesive bond. Accordingly, by limiting excessive rotation, force to the proximate adhesive bond may be limited. 
       FIGS. 7A-7D  are a series of partial block diagrams and simplified side views illustrating disassembly of the portable electronic device using fixtures  710 ,  716  according to yet another embodiment. As shown in  FIGS. 7A-7D , the apparatus for disassembling cover  704  from frame member  702  of portable electronic device  700  may comprise first fixture  710 , which may have rubberized surface  711 , for releasable securing to the cover  704 ; and may further comprise companion fixture  716  for engaging the frame member of the portable electronic device at lowered ledge feature  718  of the companion fixture  716 . Since the companion fixture  716  obscures view of the lowered ledge feature  718 , the lowered ledge feature  718  is depicted in the figures using phantom/dashed lines. 
     The first fixture  710  may be concentrically arranged with respect to the companion fixture  716 , as shown in  FIGS. 7A-7D . In such arrangement, view of the first fixture  710  may be obscured by the companion fixture  716 . Accordingly, in the figures the first fixture  710  or obscured portions thereof are depicted using phantom/dashed lines. Similarly, in the figures the portable electronic device  700 , or obscured portions thereof are likewise depicted using phantom/dashed lines. 
     The portable electronic device  700  may have been assembled using adhesive bonding material  705 ,  707  between the frame member  702  and cover  704  of the portable electronic device  700 . As mentioned previously herein, such adhesive bonding material  705 ,  707  is typically arranged internally to the electronic device, so as not to be visible in the side views of the figures. However, for ease of illustration in the figures, the adhesive bonding material  705 ,  707  is representatively illustrated in the figures by two small circles  705 ,  707 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7A-7D , the apparatus may further comprise vacuum unit  719  for providing controllable and releasable suction to the first fixture  710 , which may be coupled thereto using a vacuum hose. The apparatus may further comprise a guide member  720 , which may be coupled with the first fixture  710  and the companion fixture  716  for guiding relative movement between the first fixture  710  and the companion fixture  716  in disassembling the cover  704  from the frame member  702  of the portable electronic device  700 . 
     In the series of  FIGS. 7A-7D  illustrating disassembly,  FIG. 7A  first shows the portable electronic device  700  suspended above the fixtures  710 ,  716 . Next,  FIG. 7B  shows the fixtures  710 ,  716  receiving the portable electronic device  700 . Lowered ledge feature  718  of the companion fixture  716  may engage the frame band  702  as shown in  FIG. 7B . Suction of vacuum unit  719  may be activated for releasable securing of the first fixture  710  to the cover  704 . The rubberized surface  711  of the first fixture  710  may provide a substantially vacuum tight seal. 
     Next  FIG. 7C  shows the result of movement, which may be slight relative rotational movement between the first fixture  710  and the companion fixture  716 , and which may be guided by a rotational guide member  722  of guide member  720 . Further, as shown the figures, rotational guide member  722  may include a rotational limit member arranged for limiting relative rotational movement between the cover  704  and the frame member  702 . Accordingly, the rotational limit member may limit the rotational movement to slight rotational movement. The rotational limit member may limit the rotational movement to substantially less than thirteen degrees of movement. The rotational limit member may limit the rotational movement to approximately half a degree of movement. 
     As shown in FIG,  7 C, the rotational guide member  722  and its rotational limit member may be arranged for guiding, while also limiting relative rotational movement between the cover  704  and the frame member  702  about a pivot point, which may be proximate to extremities of the cover  704  and the frame member  702 . In particular, as shown in  FIG. 7C , the rotational guide member  722  and its rotational limit member may be arranged for guiding, while also limiting relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame member about such pivot point, which may be located adjacent to a proximate adhesive bond of bond material  705  between the cover  704  and the frame member  702 , so as to substantially limit force applied to the proximate adhesive bond of bond material  705 . 
     Limiting force applied to the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  705 , may in turn limit force applied to inner mid-plate of the frame member  702 , which may substantially limit damage to inner mid-plate of the frame member  702 . In other words, rotational guide member  722  and its rotational limit member may be arranged for guiding relative rotational movement between the cover  704  and the frame member  702  about such pivot point located adjacent to proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  705  between the cover  704  and the plate member of the frame member  702 , so as to substantially limit force applied to the inner mid-plate of the frame member  702 . 
     Careful review of differences between  FIGS. 7B and 7C  illustrates that limiting applied force at proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  705  may limit changes to the proximate adhesive bond, while sufficient force may be applied to the distal adhesive bond of bonding material  707  for breaking the distal bond. In other words, by guiding the rotation, applied force may be sufficiently limited so as to avoid breaking the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  705 , which may be disposed near one end of the portable electronic device  700  near the rotation&#39;s pivot point, while the rotation may still apply sufficient force for breaking of the distal adhesive bond of bonding material  707 , which may be remotely arranged, for example near an opposing end of the portable electronic device  700 . In  FIG. 7C  one end of the cover  704  is shown as not yet separated from the frame member  702 , while the opposing end of the cover  704  is already separated from the frame member by the rotation. Accordingly, as shown in  FIG. 7C , while limited force may be applied to the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  705 , by relative rotational movement between the first fixture  710  and the companion fixture  716  (guided by a rotational guide member  722  and its rotational limit member), sufficient force may be applied for breaking the distal adhesive bond of bonding material  707 . 
     Next,  FIG. 7D  shows the result of translational movement, which may be relative translational movement between the first fixture  710  and the companion fixture  716 , which may be guided by translational guide member  724  of the guide member  720 . The translational guide member  724  of guide member  720  may be arranged with the first fixture  710  and the companion fixture  716  for breaking the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  705  and allowing the cover  704  to be pulled from the frame member  702  of the portable electronic device  700 . Relatively more force may have been required, if both proximate and distal adhesive bonds were to have been broken at about the same time. By first breaking the distal bond of bonding material  707  by slight rotation, and subsequently breaking the proximate bond of bonding material  705  by translation, relatively less force may be needed for breaking the proximate bond of bonding material  705 . Limiting force needed for breaking the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material  705  may in turn limit force applied to inner mid-plate of the frame member  702 , which may substantially limit damage to inner mid-plate of the frame member  702 . 
     As representatively illustrated in  FIGS. 7D , after the adhesive bonds are broken, all or substantially all or a significant portion of the bonding material  705 ,  707  may remain with the cover  704 . Once the cover  704  is separated from the frame member  702  of the electronic device  700 , the first fixture  710  may be fully withdrawn from the companion fixture  716 . To provide for retrieval of the cover  704 , for example, to provide for re-work of the cover, suction of vacuum unit  719  may be deactivated and cover  704  may be released from the first fixture  710 . Similarly, after separation from the cover  704 , a remainder portion of the electronic device, specifically frame member  702  and any associated electronic components, may be retrieved from companion fixture  716 , for example, to provide for re-work thereof. 
       FIGS. 8A and 8B  are a series of more detailed side views of the portable electronic device, further illustrating the disassembly of the portable electronic device that is shown in  FIGS. 7A-7D . As shown in  FIG. 8A , cover glass assembly  804  may be slightly rotated relative to frame member  802  of the portable electronic device  800 , for breaking the distal adhesive bond of bonding material. Causing about one millimeter of separation at the opposing end of the portable electronic device may be sufficient. Next,  FIG. 8B  illustrates subsequent translational movement of cover glass assembly  804  relative to frame member  802  of the portable electronic device  800 , for breaking the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material. Causing about one millimeter of separation at the one end of the portable electronic device may be sufficient for breaking the proximate adhesive bond of bonding material. 
       FIGS. 9A-9E  are a series of even more detailed views of the portable electronic device, further illustrating the disassembly of the portable electronic device that is shown in  FIGS. 7A-7D . First, an interior view of  FIG. 9A  of frame member  902  shows adhesive bonding material  905  of the previously discussed proximate adhesive bond between tab  930  of the cover glass assembly and frame member  902 . The adhesive bonding material is highlighted in the figures using stippling. Inner mid-plate  940  of the frame member  902  may comprise metal, which may be over molded with plastic and coupled with band  902  about perimeter of the inner mid-plate  940 . As shown in  FIG. 9A , the inner mid-plate  940  of the frame member may have one or more apertures extending there through. In some of the figures, a back surface of a camera assembly  908  is visible through one of the apertures. 
     Next,  FIG. 9B  shows slight tilting of tab  930  of the cover glass assembly, which may correspond to slight rotation of the cover glass assembly relative to the frame member  902 , in accordance with the disassembly discussion previously herein with respect to  FIGS. 7A-7D . 
     Next,  FIG. 9C  shows partial withdrawal of the tab  930  of the cover glass assembly, as the cover glass assembly begins separating from the frame member  902  in accordance with partial disassembly using the fixtures as previously discussed with respect to  FIGS. 7A-7D . 
     Next,  FIGS. 9D and 9E  show alternative inner and outer views of the frame member  902 , after full separation of the cover glass assembly and complete disassembly using the fixtures as previously discussed with respect to  FIGS. 7A-7D . Limiting force applied to the inner mid-plate of the frame member during separation of the cover assembly from may result in insubstantial damage  960  as shown in  FIGS. 9D and 9E . In other words, insubstantial signs of damage  960  may be seen in  FIGS. 9D and 9E , along with avoidance of de-lamination and/or avoidance of undesired separation of the metal of the inner mid-plate  940  of the frame member from the aforementioned over molded plastic of the frame member  902 . Careful comparison of differences between  FIG. 9D  and  FIG. 4C , and careful comparison of differences between  FIG. 9E  and  FIG. 4D  highlight damage that may be avoided. 
       FIG. 10  is a flow diagram of a process  1000  for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device. The process  1000  may begin with releasably securing  1002  a fixture to the cover. The process  1000  may continue with engaging  1004  the frame member with a companion fixture. The process  1000  may continue with separating  1006  the cover and the frame member. 
     In particular, the separating  1006  the cover and the frame member may comprise pulling the cover from the frame member. The separating  1006  the cover from the frame member may comprise relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame member of the portable electronic device. The relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame may be about a pivot point proximate to corresponding extremities of the cover and the frame. The relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame may be about a pivot point located adjacent to a proximate adhesive bond between the cover and the frame, so as to substantially limit force applied to the proximate adhesive bond. The relative rotational movement between the cover and the frame may be about a pivot point located remote from a distal adhesive bond between the cover and the frame, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking the distal adhesive bond. 
     The separating  1006  the cover from the frame member may additionally comprise relative translational movement between the cover and the frame, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking a proximate adhesive bond between the cover and the frame. Once cover and the frame member have been separated, the process  1000  can end. 
       FIG. 11  is a flow diagram of another process  1100  for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic. Such process  1000  may begin with coupling  1102  the portable electronic device to at least one fixture. The process  1100  may continue with rotating  1104  relative to one another the cover and the frame member about a pivot point located remote from a distal adhesive bond between the cover and the frame, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking the distal adhesive bond. The process  1100  may continue with translationally moving relative to one another the cover and the frame member, so as to allow application of sufficient force for breaking a proximate adhesive bond between the cover and the frame member. Once the cover and the frame member have so moved translationally relative to one another, the process  1100  can end. 
       FIG. 12  is a flow diagram of yet another process  1200  for disassembling a cover from a frame member of a portable electronic device comprising. Such process  1200  may begin with coupling  1202  the portable electronic device to at least one fixture. The process  1200  may continue with breaking  1204  a distal adhesive bond located between the cover and the frame and located remote from corresponding extremities of cover and frame member. The process may continue with subsequently breaking  1206  a proximate adhesive bond located between the cover and the frame and located proximate to the corresponding extremities of the cover and the frame member. Once the proximate adhesive bond has been broken, the process  1200  can end. 
     The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different aspects, embodiments or implementations may yield one or more of the following advantages. One advantage of embodiments of the invention may be that portable electronic devices may be disassembled for re-work more quickly, easily or efficiently. Another advantage may be that during disassembly, unintended damage to portable electronic devices or their constituent components such as frame members or frame mid-plates may be substantially reduced or eliminated. 
     The many features and advantages of the present invention are apparent from the written description and, thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the invention should not be limited to the exact construction and operation as illustrated and described. Hence, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to as falling within the scope of the invention.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20110301
Publication Date: 20130618
Grant Date: 20130618
Priority Date: 20110209
Inventors: MERZ NICHOLAS G. L.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F3/041", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04103", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B23P19/04", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16B11/006", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49117", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/53274", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/53274", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49117", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 46599666