PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11079810-B2
Application Number: US-201916444764-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Flexible cable durability

Abstract:
Apparatuses and systems can mitigate the ingress of debris such as small foreign particles or fluids passing into a joint of an electronic device. Some aspects of the systems prevent particles from passing between a flexible cable and a mandrel surface used to limit bending of the cable. Other aspects provide particle relief features including gaps, grooves, or reduced-size sections of the mandrel so that particles can pass into them and thereby cause no damage or pass out of the electronic device. Another aspect provides a protective layer configured to limit pressure applied to the cable by particles or other contaminants. These apparatuses and systems can improve the life and durability of the mandrel and cable, thereby improving the reliability of operating the electronic device.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A portable computing device, comprising:
 an upper housing portion containing a first electronic component, the upper housing portion having a curved surface; 
 a lower housing portion pivotally connected to the upper housing portion, the lower housing portion containing a second electronic component, the upper and lower housing portions configured to pivot relative to each other between an open position and a closed position; 
 a cable connecting the first and second electronic components, the cable configured to bend over and contact the curved surface when the upper and lower housing portions are in the open position; and 
 a particle relief feature positioned between the curved surface and the cable, the particle relief feature comprising at least one channel having a curved floor, the particle relief feature configured to reduce pressure applied to the cable by a particle positioned between the cable and the curved surface. 
 
     
     
       2. The portable computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one channel comprises a set of channels recessed into the curved surface. 
     
     
       3. The portable computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the particle relief feature further comprises a gap between the curved surface and the cable when the upper and lower housing portions are in the closed position. 
     
     
       4. The portable computing device of  claim 1 , further comprising a barrier contacting the curved surface. 
     
     
       5. The portable computing device of  claim 4 , wherein the barrier is rotatable with the curved surface. 
     
     
       6. The portable computing device of  claim 4 , wherein the barrier is configured to slide against the curved surface as the upper and lower housing portions are pivoted between the open and closed positions. 
     
     
       7. The portable computing device of  claim 1 , further comprising a protective layer positioned between the cable and the curved surface comprising a material that is relatively rigid in bending along a width dimension of the cable and that is relatively flexible in bending along a length dimension of the cable. 
     
     
       8. A laptop computer, comprising:
 a housing having a display portion and a base portion, at least one of the display and base portions having a mandrel surface; 
 an electronic display in the display portion of the housing; 
 a set of computing components in the base portion of the housing; and 
 a cable connecting the set of computing components and extending between the electronic display and the set of computing components, the cable bending over the mandrel surface when the display portion and the base portion are in an open position, the mandrel surface being at least partially spaced away from the cable when the display portion and the base portion are in a closed position; 
 the mandrel surface comprising:
 a covered portion configured to be covered by the cable and having a first radius, the covered portion comprising at least one channel having a floor at a second radius; and 
 an uncovered portion having a third radius, the third radius being greater than either the first radius or the second radius. 
 
 
     
     
       9. The laptop computer of  claim 8 , wherein the at least one channel comprises a set of channels, wherein the mandrel surface is at least partially spaced away from the cable within one of the channels of the set of channels. 
     
     
       10. The laptop computer of  claim 8 , wherein the set of channels are oriented parallel to a length dimension of the cable. 
     
     
       11. The laptop computer of  claim 8 , wherein the first radius, the second radius and the third radius are measured from a mandrel surface pivot axis. 
     
     
       12. The laptop computer of  claim 8 , wherein the mandrel surface at least partially touches the cable when the display portion and the base portion are in the open position. 
     
     
       13. The laptop computer of  claim 8 , wherein the mandrel surface is at least partially spaced away from the cable when the display portion and the base portion are in a closed position. 
     
     
       14. A computing device, comprising:
 a first housing assembly having a mandrel, the mandrel having a curved surface; 
 a second housing assembly movably connected to the first housing assembly; 
 a cable extending between the first and second housing assemblies, the cable configured to at least partially wrap around the curved surface as the first housing and the second housing move relative to each other; 
 wherein the mandrel comprises a debris relief portion to block or capture debris between the curved surface and the cable, the debris relief portion comprising a circumferential groove having a curved floor. 
 
     
     
       15. The computing device of  claim 14 , wherein the debris relief portion comprises a convex recess in the mandrel to collect debris between the mandrel and the cable. 
     
     
       16. The computing device of  claim 14 , wherein the debris relief portion comprises a reduced radius portion of the curved surface. 
     
     
       17. The computing device of  claim 14 , further comprising a compressible barrier extending from the curved surface. 
     
     
       18. The computing device of  claim 14 , further comprising a protective layer configured to primarily distribute force concentrations caused by debris positioned between the curved surface and the cable along a distribution axis, the distribution axis being parallel to an axis of rotation of the first housing assembly relative to the second housing assembly.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to cable assemblies for electronic devices. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to routed cable assemblies through hinged sections of electronic devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many consumer electronic devices have multiple housing sections. Often, electronic signals must be sent from one housing section to another housing section. Electronic devices may have electronics in one housing section that receive a signal from another housing section. For example, a laptop computing device may have a display mounted in a display housing section that receives signals from a timing controller mounted in another housing section. The display housing section may also rotate or be movable in relation to another housing section through a hinge. For example, many laptop computers have a display housing section that rotates around a hinge assembly to facilitate viewing of the display at various viewing angles and to allow access to user input controls located on a main housing assembly. 
     One challenge associated with a hinged electronic device enclosure is securely routing a signal from one housing section to another housing section. Some electronic devices route a signal transfer mechanism, such as a flexible ribbon-like cable, around the hinge mechanism or through a center hole in a clutch assembly of the hinge. However, these cables must be protected from exposure to users and from over-bending caused by the actuation of the clutch assembly, hinge mechanism, and relative movement of other computer components. As electronic devices get smaller and thinner, the amount of space available for clutch assemblies, hinges and cables is constrained, making it more difficult to provide room for and properly protect the cables. There is therefore a constant need for improvements to cables and hinge assemblies for electronic devices. 
     SUMMARY 
     An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a portable computing device, which can comprise an upper housing portion containing a first electronic component, with the upper housing portion having a curved surface. The device can also comprise a lower housing portion pivotally connected to the upper housing portion by a hinge, with the lower housing portion containing a second electronic component and with the upper and lower housing portions being relatively pivotable between an open position and a closed position. A cable can connect the first and second electronic components, with the cable being bendable along the curved surface when the upper and lower housing portions are in the open position. A particle relief feature can be positioned between the hinge and the cable to reduce pressure applied to the cable by a particle positioned between the cable and the curved surface. 
     In some embodiments, the particle relief feature can comprise a set of channels recessed into the curved surface or a gap between the curved surface and the cable when the upper and lower housing portions are in the closed position. The particle relief feature can comprise a barrier contacting the curved surface. The barrier can be rotatable with the curved surface or slidable against the curved surface as the upper and lower housing portions are pivoted between the open and closed positions. The particle relief feature can comprise a material that is relatively rigid in bending along a width dimension of the cable and that is relatively flexible in bending along a length dimension of the cable. 
     Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a laptop computer comprising a housing having a display portion and a base portion, with at least one of the display and base portions having a mandrel surface, an electronic display in the display portion of the housing, a set of computing components in the base portion of the housing, and a cable connecting the set of computing components and extending between the electronic display and the set of computing components, with the cable being bendable over the mandrel surface and with the mandrel surface being at least partially spaced away from the cable when the display portion and the base portion are in an open position. 
     In some embodiments, the mandrel surface can comprise a set of channels. The mandrel surface can be at least partially spaced away from the cable within one of the channels of the set of channels. The set of channels can be oriented parallel to a length dimension of the cable. The mandrel surface can comprise multiple different radii, with the multiple different radii being measured from a mandrel surface pivot axis. In some arrangements, each of the multiple different radii are perpendicular to the cable at different points of rotation of the mandrel surface about the mandrel surface pivot axis. The multiple different radii can comprise a first radius and a second radius, with the first radius being smaller than the second radius and with the first radius being positioned at a top end of the mandrel surface when the display portion and the base portion are in a closed position. The mandrel surface can at least partially touch the cable when the display portion and the base portion are in the open position. The mandrel surface can be at least partially spaced away from the cable when the display portion and the base portion are in a closed position. 
     Yet another aspect of the disclosure relates to a computing device comprising a first housing assembly having a mandrel, with the mandrel having a curved surface, a second housing assembly movably connected to the first housing, and a cable extending between the first and second housing assemblies, with the cable being at least partially wrappable around the curved surface as the first and second housings move relative to each other. The mandrel can comprise a debris relief portion to block or capture debris between the curved surface and the cable. 
     The debris relief portion can comprise a recess in the mandrel to collect debris between the mandrel and the cable. The debris relief portion can also comprise a reduced radius portion of the curved surface or a compressible barrier. The debris relief portion can be configured to primarily distribute force concentrations caused by debris positioned between the curved surface and the cable along a distribution axis, with the distribution axis being parallel to an axis of rotation of the first housing assembly relative to the second housing assembly. These and other embodiments will be described in detail below. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure 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: 
         FIG. 1  shows an isometric view of a computing device. 
         FIG. 2A  shows a side section view of a hinge region of a closed computing device of  FIG. 1  as taken through section lines  2 - 2  in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 2B  shows a side section view of the hinge region of  FIG. 2A  with the computing device in an open configuration. 
         FIG. 2C  shows a front section view of the hinge region of  FIG. 2A  as taken through section lines  2 C- 2 C in  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 2D  shows an isometric view of a mandrel of the hinge region of the computing device of  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 3  shows a side section view of an embodiment of a hinge region of a closed computing device. 
         FIG. 4  shows a side section view of an embodiment of a hinge region of a closed computing device. 
         FIG. 5A  shows a side section view of an embodiment of a hinge region of a closed computing device. 
         FIG. 5B  shows an isometric view of a protective layer of the computing device of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5C  shows a side section view of the protective layer of the computing device of  FIG. 5A  as taken through section lines  5 C- 5 C in  FIG. 5B . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     Hinged electronic devices can have one or more cables connecting the parts of the devices through or across their hinges. In particular embodiments, the cables include a flex cable and/or a flexible printed circuit board appropriate for transmitting an electrical signal between portions of an electronic device that are connected by a hinge. In the case of a portable computing device (e.g., a laptop computer or notebook computer), one portion of the electronic device may correspond to a lid portion having a display and another portion may correspond to a base portion that includes electronics in communication with the display via the cable(s). The cable(s) can be routed through a hinge region to transmit electrical signals between components within the lid and base portions. 
     In some embodiments, the cable is drawn over a section of the lid portion referred to as a mandrel or a mandrel portion. The mandrel can be configured to guide the path of the cable and protect the cable from bending beyond a prescribed angle as the lid portion and base portion of the computer pivot relative to each other. In particular embodiments, the mandrel has a curved surface to provide smooth movement of the cable and to limit cable bending. This surface can be referred to as a mandrel surface or a cable contacting surface. In some embodiments, the mandrel surface has a constant radius (as measured from the pivot axis) against which the cable is drawn. In some embodiments, the radius varies as the cable is drawn over the mandrel or the radius is different at different points of contact on the mandrel. 
     In further embodiments, a cover is drawn over the cable in order to prevent the cable from being directly exposed to a user of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the cover can be a sheet of material or materials having particular physical properties, such as a certain rigidity and resilience that allows for a prescribed movement of the cover and the cable when the electronic device moves between open and closed positions. The cover can also have sufficient durability to withstand wear and tear during the service life of the electronic device. The cover can have multiple layers of material in order achieve these and other desirable physical properties. The rigidity of the cover can allow the lid portion to drive the cover into a cavity defined by the base portion of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the cover can be visible to a user of the electronic device. 
     In some embodiments, the cable is coupled to an electronic component within the base portion of the electronic device. The cable can be attached to electronics such as an integrated circuit or printed circuit board with timing control suitable for driving a display assembly. The cable may be circumferentially routed around a support member located within the base portion in a wrapped configuration. A clip located on the guiding member can secure the cable, isolating one or more sections of the cable that attaches to the electronic component and preventing movement of portions of the cable when the lid portion is rotated relative to the base portion. The other end of the cable can be coupled to an electronic component, such as a display assembly, within the lid portion. In some embodiments, the electronic component in the lid portion can be a touchscreen panel (e.g., a capacitive or resistive touchscreen display), a camera, a light source, an antenna, or another type of electronic component, and the cable can be configured to provide electrical communication between a component of the base portion and the component of the lid portion. Accordingly, the electronic component in the lid portion does not necessarily need to be a display, and the cable may carry signals different from, or in addition to, display driving signals. 
     The mandrel can be part of a hinge mechanism and can include a cylindrical shaft, a tubular shaft, a pivot and/or swivel mechanism, or a slider mechanism. In some devices, the cable and the curved surface of the mandrel come into close proximity as the electronic device is used, such as when the cable wraps against or otherwise moves into contact with the curved surface. Portions of the mandrel can be positioned lateral to the curved surface, such as portions that are positioned at different points along the pivot axis of the electronic device, and they can be out of contact with, or not covered by, a flex cable or cover. 
     The devices can also have a vent opening or gap between the lid and base portions of the housing. When dust and other foreign debris or particulate matter passes through the gap, it can become trapped or lodged in a crevice between the mandrel-facing surface of the cable and the curved surface of the mandrel. If not mitigated, these particles can apply pressure to the cable and mandrel in a manner that undesirably and negatively affects cable and mandrel performance, such as by penetrating, rubbing, or scratching the cable in a manner that can cause premature failure and fraying. Frequent and repeated rotation between the first portion and the second portion of the hinged electronic device can further exacerbate the damage to the cable when the particles protrude against these components. Examples of such foreign particles can include sand, sugar, salts, debris, and other similar particles encountered during normal use of electronic device. In some cases, particles have hard and sharp surfaces, and are generally not very deformable. In some cases, the particles can range in size between about 10 micrometers to about 1 millimeter in size. 
     Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure relate to features for relieving pressure on cables that is caused by the presence of foreign particles, removing foreign particles from sensitive areas of the electronic device, and preventing foreign particles from entering those sensitive areas. In some embodiments, the mandrel can have a curved surface with a set of channels or grooves formed therein and configured to allow particles positioned between the cable and curved surface to be lodged in or pass through the channels. Thus, the particles can be trapped in a position where they apply little or no pressure to the cable, or they can pass to a position where they can exit the electronic device. 
     In some embodiments, the curved surface of the mandrel can have a variable surface curvature and multiple radii from the axis of rotation so that a gap can form between the cable and the curved surface when the electronic device is in at least one open or closed configuration. The formation of the gap can allow particles trapped between the cable and the curved surface to be loosened or drop away from the cable and out of the device when the device is in the predetermined configuration. The curvature can also include a support portion configured to contact the cable and limit cable bending when the electronic device is in at least one of the open or closed configurations. The variable surface curvature can be configured so that the gap is positioned where the highest pressure would be applied by a particle or at a deep position relative to a particle ingress point (i.e., where particle removal would be the most difficult and unlikely to happen automatically due to the size of the crevice or the amount of pressure applied to the cable by a particle in that spot). Thus, movement of the mandrel to a first position provides an open space between the cable and the curved surface, and movement of the mandrel to a second position provides contact (or an increased surface area of contact) between the cable and the curved surface. 
     In some embodiments, a flexible barrier is provided in the electronic device that physically prevents ingress of particles between the cable and the curved surface. The barrier can be attached to the curved surface or to the cable and can be compressible in a manner that limits the amount of pressure it applies to the cable if it is compressed between the cable and mandrel during movement of the curved surface. The barrier can also comprise a flexible tape or similar layer of material positioned between the curved surface and the cable that has directional rigidity. The flexible tape can have a composite construction that axially distributes force concentrations caused by foreign particles and therefore reduces local forces applied to the cable. 
     The cable assemblies and structures described herein can be integrated into consumer products. For example, the cable assemblies and structures described herein can be used in electronic devices, such as computers, portable electronic devices, wearable electronic devices and electronic device accessories, such as those manufactured by Apple Inc., based in Cupertino, Calif. 
     In the description below, the terms “first portion,” “display portion,” and “upper housing portion” can refer to a lid portion of a computing device. Generally, a lid portion of a computing device is configured to be in a generally upright position for a user to view a display while the device is being operated. In the description below, the terms “second portion,” “base portion,” and “lower housing portion” can refer to a base of a computing device that is connected to the lid portion and generally includes connections to devices for user interaction with the computing device. Furthermore, in the description below, the terms “lower housing portion” can be interchangeable with “main housing.” 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  shows a front-facing perspective view of an electronic device  100  in accordance with some embodiments. Electronic device  100  can be a laptop computer, notebook computer, or other similar portable computing device. Electronic device  100  can include a housing having a base portion  102 , which can be pivotally connected to a lid portion  104  by way of hinge assembly within hinge region  106 . Lid portion  104  and base portion  102  can be referred to as different sections or portions of a housing of electronic device  100 . Lid portion  104  can pivot with respect to base portion  102  with the aid of a hinge assembly within hinge region  106  from a closed position to remain in an open position and back again. In the closed position, the lid portion  104  can be positioned substantially on top of and parallel to the top case  114  of the base portion  102 . 
     The lid portion  104  can include a display  108  and a rear housing or rear cover  110 . The base portion  102  can include a bottom case  112  that is fastened to a top case  114 . The top case  114  can be configured to accommodate various user input devices such as a keyboard  116  and a touchpad  118 , which can be configured to receive finger gesturing input from a user. Base portion  102  and lid portion  104  can each define internal chambers or cavities that house internal components of electronic device  100 . Thus, lid portion  104  and base portion  102  can function as housings for internal components. Cables, such as flex cables (see  FIGS. 2A-2B ), can electrically couple internal components within base portion  102  and lid portion  104 . The cables can provide communication between the internal components within base portion  102  and lid portion  104  and/or provide power to internal components within base portion  102  and/or lid portion  104 . 
     Cable assemblies are described herein that can be used in conjunction with hinged electronic devices, such as electronic device  100 . The cable assemblies can include covers that protect and guide the cables during movement of the hinged electronic devices. In some embodiments, the covers are visible to a user of the electronic device. For instance, the covers can be visible at the hinge region  106  of the electronic device  100 . 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  show cross-sectional views of a hinged electronic device  200 . The section views are taken along section line  2 A- 2 A in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 2A  shows a cross sectional view of electronic device  200  in a closed state and  FIG. 2B  shows a cross sectional view of electronic device  200  in an open state. Electronic device  200  includes a first portion  202  (i.e., first housing portion) coupled to a second portion  204  (i.e., second housing portion). First portion  202  can correspond to a lid portion (or display portion or upper housing portion) and second portion  204  can correspond to a base portion (or lower housing portion) of electronic device  200 . 
     First portion  202  and second portion  204  can share a common axis of rotation with respect to pivot line or pivot axis  206 . First portion  202  and second portion  204  can be pivotally coupled to each other via a suitable hinge mechanism. For example, the hinge mechanism can include one or more clutch mechanisms that provide a predetermined resistance to opening and closing forces applied by a user and by the weight of the portions  202 ,  204  of the electronic device  200 . The exact hinge mechanism may vary depending on design requirements. The general region around pivot axis  206  can be referred to as a hinge region  201  of electronic device  200 . 
     Electronic device  200  includes cable  210  to provide electrical communication between first portion  202  and second portion  204 . For example, cable  210  can provide electrical connection between electronic component  211  of first portion  202  and electronic component  212  of second portion  204 . Electronic component  211  can be in electrical communication with display assembly  230 , which is mounted on first housing  231 . Display assembly  230  can include any suitable type of display for use in electronic device  200 , such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) and/or organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen. The first housing  231  and its attached components (e.g., display assembly  230  and mandrel  218 ) can be referred to as a first housing assembly. 
     Electronic component  212  can include an integrated circuit and/or a printed circuit board, and can include a timing control mechanism configured to drive display assembly  230 . Electronic component  212  is housed within cavity  208  defined by second housing  205 . In some embodiments, cable  210  provides power from a battery (not shown) within second housing  205  to display assembly  230 . The second housing  205  and its attached components (e.g., electronic component  212  or the battery) can be referred to as a second housing assembly. The first and second housing assemblies are movably connected to each other at the hinge region  201 . 
     Cable  210  can be any suitable type of cable, including a flex cable, a flexible printed circuit board, or any suitable mechanism for transmitting an electrical signal between the portions  202  and  204 . In some embodiments the cable  210  is a ribbon-like, single-layer flex cable, however a multiple-layered flex cable can be used. A single-layer flex cable  210  can be used to reduce the stack height (i.e., vertical thickness) of the cable  210 . Electronic device  200  can include any suitable number of cables  210 . In a particular embodiment, electronic device  200  includes two, laterally spaced cables  210 . 
     The cable  210  can be directly routed between first portion  202  and second portion  204  without passing through a clutch mechanism and without passing through the pivot axis  206 . Thus, a number of mechanisms can be used to guide the movement of cable  210  when first portion  202  is pivoted with respect to second portion  204 . For example, hinge region  201  can include mandrel  218  which can be in the form of a cylinder-like portion of first portion  202  that extends along the pivot axis  206 . 
     When electronic device  200  is moved from a closed state in  FIG. 2A  to an open state in  FIG. 2B , cable  210  is drawn over a curved surface  242  (see  FIG. 2C ) of mandrel  218  to keep cable  210  from bucking or folding. The curved surface can be referred to as a mandrel surface, a cable support surface, a cable-contacting surface, a cable-facing surface, an outer hinge surface, a cable-bend-limiting surface, or a curved mandrel surface. A portion of the cable  210  can take on a curved shape in accordance with the curved surface of mandrel  218  when electronic device  200  is rotated to an open configuration, as shown in  FIG. 2B . 
     The curved surface of mandrel  218  can have a radius R defined with respect to a pivot axis  206  (i.e., an axis of rotation of the hinge region  201 ). The radius R can be constant for the curved surface where the cable  210  contacts mandrel  218 . Alternatively, the surface of mandrel  218  may have a variable radius where the cable  210  is drawn. See, e.g.,  FIG. 3  and accompanying description below. In some embodiments, the surface of mandrel  218  is segmented to correspond to sections of the flex cable  210 . Different parts of the axial length (i.e., the length extending along, or generally parallel to, the pivot axis  206 ) of the mandrel surface can have different radii. In some embodiments, the mandrel  218  has an axial length that extends across substantially the entire width of electronic device  200 . In some embodiments, the mandrel  218  has a curved surface with continuous curvature, while in other embodiments, mandrel  218  includes substantially flat segments that maintain the cable  210  in a substantially flat configuration at certain sections of the cable  210 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2B , when the electronic device  200  is in an open state, a cover can be used to conceal and protect a top side of cable  210  between the portions  202 ,  204  at hinge region  201 . The surface of the cable  210  contacting the cover  222  can be referred to as a cover-facing surface, a top surface, a user-exposed surface, or a user-viewable surface. That surface is positioned on the cable  210  opposite a mandrel-facing surface of the cable  210 . Cover  222  can be flexible, and can therefore, like cable  210 , take on a curved shape of the mandrel  218  when electronic device  200  is rotated to an open configuration, as shown in  FIG. 2B . 
     In some embodiments, the radial or curved nature of the surface of mandrel  218  can impart benefits to the flex cable  210  while the electronic device  200  is rotated between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The curved surface design of the mandrel  218  ensures unidirectional bending in the flex cable  210  which can promote maximizing the cycle life and minimizing bending stresses for flex cable  210 . The flex cable  210  can be configured to always bend in one direction without inverting backwards (i.e., the flex cable  210  can furl and unfurl in a coiled configuration with the curved surface of mandrel  218  helping to prescribe a minimum bend radius in the hinge region  201 ). In some embodiments, unidirectional bending can be an optimal configuration for cycle life of the flex cable  210  as opposed to bidirectional or inverse cyclical bending. Furthermore, the curved surface design of mandrel  218  can promote condensing the flex service loop motion into a volumetrically efficient space. Accordingly, the curved surface of mandrel  218  can exert a force on the flex cable  210  to condense it into the cavity  208  of the second portion  204  while avoiding straining the flex cable  210  and while imparting minimal bending stress on the flex cable  210  as it is looped in the cavity  208 . 
     In some embodiments, as the electronic device  200  is rotated between an open state (see  FIG. 2B ) and a closed state (see  FIG. 2A ), the flex cable  210  can be bent in only a single direction. In contrast, a flex cable that is designed to bend in multiple directions and is condensed into a volumetrically efficient space (e.g., cavity  208 ) can impose a greater amount of stress on the furled section of the flex cable  210 . Unidirectional bending significantly reduces the amount of stress on the flex cable  210  and promotes greater cycle life. 
     In some embodiments, the flex cable  210  is described as bending along a single direction or has unidirectional bending. In some embodiments, the direction can refer to the relative position of one point with respect to another point. In some embodiments, the direction can refer to translation of motion where a point (or section) of the flex cable  210  changes position in a three-dimensional space according to an x-coordinate, y-coordinate, and z-coordinate. Using this convention, the positive z-direction points upward in  FIG. 2A , the positive Y-direction points into the page in  FIG. 2A , and the positive X-direction points to the right in  FIG. 2A . 
     In some embodiments, curvature can refer to an amount by which a point (or a section) of the flex cable deviates from a flat or linear line. For example, while the electronic device transitions from the open state to closed state, an amount of curvature formed along a furled section of the flex cable  210  can increase such that the curvature further deviates from a flat or linear line near the mandrel  218  (as shown in  FIG. 2A ). Similarly, while the electronic device transitions from the closed state to the open state, an amount of curvature formed along the furled section of the flex cable  210  near electronic component  212  can decrease (as shown in  FIG. 2B ). 
     In some embodiments, an amount by which the flex cable  210  bends can be inversely related with the present angle between the first portion  202  and the second portion  204 . In some examples, the curved surface of mandrel  218  can exert a greater amount of a bend (in a single direction) on the flex cable  210  when the first portion  202  is pivoted relative to the second portion  204  by an angle of less than 90 degrees in contrast to when the angle between the first portion  202  and the second portion  204  is pivoted to greater than 90 degrees. In other words, as the angle between the first portion  202  and second portion  204  decreases and the electronic device  200  becomes progressively closer to being characterized as having a closed configuration, the amount of bend in a furled section of the flex cable  210  can increase. In some embodiments, the first portion  202  and the second portion  204  can be pivoted relative to each other according to an angle between about 0 degrees to about 200 degrees. 
     In some embodiments, a section of the flex cable  210  is mechanically captured by the second portion  204 . In some embodiments, a section of the flex cable  210  is mechanically captured by the first portion  202 . The term mechanically captured can refer to enclosing or containing the section of the flex cable  210  by at least one of an enclosure, a tensioning mechanism, a hook, or a castellation of either the first portion  202  or the second portion  204 . 
     In some embodiments, when the electronic device transitions from the open state to the closed state, the furled section of flex cable  210  mechanically captured by the second portion  204  can furl even more into a coiled configuration. In some embodiments, the amount of bend exerted on a section of the flex cable  210  that is mechanically captured by the first portion  202  can be independent of the amount of bend exerted on a section of the flex cable  210  that is mechanically captured by the second portion  204 . 
     In some embodiments, a section of the flex cable  210  that is mechanically captured by the first portion  202  can be drawn over the curved surface of mandrel  218 . As shown in  FIG. 2A , the section of the flex cable  210  that is mechanically captured by the first portion  202  can have a generally linear shape in the closed configuration. Subsequent to the electronic device  200  rotating from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the curved surface of mandrel  218  can exert tension on the flex cable  210  so that an increased amount of bend or curvature on this section of the flex cable  210  is formed as the flex cable  210  is drawn over the curved surface of mandrel  218 . The flex cable  210  can be imparted to bend in a single direction so that the curve or bend of the flex cable  210  corresponds to the curvature of the curved surface. The curved surface of mandrel  218  has a radius R defined with respect to a pivot axis  206 . In some embodiments, the curved surface of mandrel  218  can prescribe a minimal bend radius of the flex cable  210 . For example, the mandrel  218  can have a curved surface with a radius of 10 millimeters from the pivot axis  206 . Accordingly, the curved surface of mandrel  218  can dictate that the flex cable  210  has a minimum bend radius of at least 10 millimeters or greater while the electronic device  200  is in the open configuration. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2B , a furled section of the cable  210  can be mechanically captured by the second portion  204 . As the electronic device  200  transitions from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the amount by which the furled section of the flex cable  210  bends within the second portion  204  can decrease such that the flex cable becomes progressively unfurled. In the open configuration, the curved surface of mandrel  218  and the structural member or support member  214  can cooperate to exert a greater amount of tension on the flex cable  210  such that the amount of bend decreases. For example, one side of the flex cable  210  can be held against a curved surface of the support member  214  in the open configuration. This is in contrast to the closed configuration (see  FIG. 2A ) wherein that portion of the flex cable  210  is free of contact from (or has significantly less contact with) the curved surface of the support member  214 . In some embodiments, the curved surface of support member  214  can reduce an amount of abrasion exerted against the flex cable  210  when the two components come into contact to each other. 
     Furthermore,  FIG. 2B  shows that the curved surface design of mandrel  218  can promote condensing the flex service loop motion into the cavity  208 . Accordingly, the curved surface of mandrel  218  can exert on the flex cable  210  to be condensed into the cavity  208  of the second portion  204  while avoiding straining the flex cable  210  or imparting minimal bending stress on the flex cable  210  as it is looped into the cavity  208 . 
     In some embodiments, the benefits imposed upon by the curved surface of mandrel  218  on the flex cable  210  can be similarly imposed upon the cover  222 , which covers and protects a side of the cable  210  at the hinge region. 
     First end  222   a  of cover  222  can be positioned within first portion  202  of electronic device  200  and second end  222   b  of cover  222  can be positioned within second portion  204  of electronic device. Since cover  222  can be exposed, cover  222  can be made with a material that is durable enough to withstand wear and tear that can be accompanied with direct exposure to a user. For example, cover  222  may encounter objects inserted or dropped within hinge region  201 . Cover  222  can also be flexible enough to bend with cable  210  when electronic device  200  transitions between open and closed states. Cover  222  and mandrel  218  can be designed to have a particular aesthetic appearance, such as each having the same or different colors, or each having the same or different surface appearances. 
     Another consideration in choosing a material for cover  222  is how cover  222  moves during the opening and closing of electronic device  200 . For example, cover  222  can have an inherent rigidity and resilience that generates a resistance force when cover  222  is bent over mandrel  218  when electronic device  200  moves from closed ( FIG. 2A ) to open ( FIG. 2B ) position. This resistance force can cause cover  222  to return to its original shape when electronic device  200  is returned to a closed ( FIG. 2A ) position. This way, cover  222  will not crease or buckle at hinge region  201 . That is, if cover  222  is made of a material that is not sufficiently rigid, it could crease or crinkle at hinge region  201 . 
     The rigidity of cover  222  can also at least partially dictate the movement of cable  210 . For example, the side of cover  222  that is exposed to a user can be constrained near first end  222   a  by anchor  209  and near second end  222   b  by retention rib  207 . Anchor  209  and retention rib  207  can act as retention features that keep cover  222  from shifting out of place and keep cover  222  over cable  210  when electronic device  200  rotates between closed and open positions. In some embodiments, anchor  209  is made of a stiff material, such as a metal material (e.g., stainless steel). First end  222   a  can be coupled to anchor  209  using, for example, adhesive and/or fastener(s) such as one or more screws. In some embodiments, retention rib  207  and seal  226  can include a low friction material, such as a fluoropolymer material (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene or TEFLON™), that allows cover  222  to slide freely during opening and closing of electronic device  200 . In other words, second end  222   b  can be untethered and free to move with respect to cable  210  and seal  226 . The second end  222   b  can therefore be free to slide along the top surface of the cable  210  and within the second housing  205 . Retention rib  207  can cooperate with lip  228  (see  FIG. 2A ) at an inner surface of cavity  208  to retain second end  222   b  within cavity  208 . Lip  228  can be an integrally formed portion of second housing  205 , or it can be a separate piece that is coupled to the inner surface of cavity  208 , such as part of seal  226 . 
     The cable  210  can move with respect to electronic component  212 . For example, during rotation of first portion  202  with respect to second portion  204 , movement of cable  210  at connection point  213  to electronic component  212  can be minimized in order to prevent fatiguing of cable  210 . Over-bending and fatiguing of cable  210  can cause cable  210  to fail, and connection point  213  can be susceptible to such fatiguing. Thus, isolating features can be used to isolate portions of cable  210  proximate to connection point  213 . Such isolating features can include support member  214 , which can support cable  210 . In some cases, support member  214  is attached to a board that is part of or proximate to electronic component  212 . Cable  210  can be routed around support member  214  and clip  216  can be used to secure cable  210  to support member  214  and isolate the length of cable from movement between clip  216  and connection point  213 . Support member  214  can have a curved surface that guides the cable  210  as cable  210  is drawn out of the cavity  208 . 
     The non-isolated section of cable  210  extending between clip  216  and retention rib  207  may be free to translate within cavity  208  when first portion  202  is rotated with respect to second portion  204 . However, since cable  210  is routed around support member  214 , cable  210  maintains a concave curvature, which prevents cable  210  from bending between concave and convex curvatures, and prevents cable  210  from bending below a prescribed radius, thereby reducing fatiguing of cable  210 . This wrapped configuration can allow for a relatively large length of the cable  210  for uptake during rotation of electronic device  200  while reducing the stress placed on cable  210 . That is, cable  210  can be free to “float” in the cavity  208 . In other words, the cable  210  can be configured to be out of contact with any other components along the length of the cable  210  positioned between the support member  214  and the retention rib  207  or cover  222 . Another advantage of this wrapped configuration is that this can also reduce a distance between retention rib  207  and wall  234  of second housing  205  required to house cable  210 . 
     In some embodiments, electronic device  200  has ventilation gap  224  suitable for providing air flow in and out of cavity  208  and cooling electronic component  212  and other components housed within cavity  208 . Ventilation gap  224  is positioned near hinge region  201  between first portion  202  and second portion  204  of electronic device  200 . Depending on cooling requirements, ventilation gap  224  can have a size sufficiently large enough to allow access to components within cavity  208 , including the cable  210 , when electronic device  200  is in a closed position. Thus, the blocking member  220  (i.e., the vent opening wall or housing barrier) can be used to limit access to cavity  208 . Blocking member  220  can an integral part of second housing  205  or a separate piece that is coupled to second housing  205 . In some embodiments, blocking member  220  is coupled to an inner surface within cavity  208  proximate ventilation gap  224 . Blocking member  220  can have provisions such as through-holes or apertures to allow for further ventilation of cavity  208 . As shown, cable  210  can be routed between blocking member  220  and lip  228  as cable  210  exits second housing portion  204 . 
     As described above, the cover  222  should be made of a sufficiently flexible material to allow bending of the cover  222  over the cable  210  and the mandrel  218  during opening of electronic device  200 . However, the cover  222  should also be rigid and resilient enough to provide a resistance force to the bending such that the cover  222  returns to its original configuration when electronic device  200  is closed again. For example, the section of cover  222  between pivot axis  206  and retention rib  207  can return to a substantially flat shape when electronic device  200  is returned to a closed state (as shown in  FIG. 2A ). In some embodiments, cover  222  is non-electrically conductive to prevent cover  222  from electrically interfering with internal components of electronic device  200 . In some embodiments, cover  222  is made of a single sheet of material, such as a composite fiber material. For example, cover  222  can be made of a single sheet of glass and/or carbon fiber material embedded within or infused with a polymer, such as polyurethane. In some embodiments, cover  222  is a laminated sheet that includes layers of different materials. 
     The electronic device  200  can comprise a mandrel  218  having a curved surface that comes into close contact with, or in close proximity to, the mandrel-facing surface of the cable  210  as the device  200  is moved between the open and closed positions. In some instances, the size of the ventilation gap  224  can permit particles or other unwanted foreign material to pass between the first portion  202  and the second portion  204  and become stuck to the curved surface of the mandrel  218 , stuck to the cable  210 , or lodged between the mandrel  218  and the cable  210 . These particles are often hard and angular in a manner that can apply a localized high pressure to the cable  210  that can cause cable  210  failures or other malfunctions, especially when the device  200  is in an open condition and the cable  210  is closely held against the mandrel  218 . Accordingly, some embodiments employ a particle relief feature positioned in the hinge region  201  between the hinge/pivot axis and the cable  210  such as a mandrel  218  with a debris relief portion. The particle relief feature can limit damage or disturbance to operation of the electronic device  200  caused by particle ingress between the mandrel  218  and cable  210 . 
     In one embodiment, the mandrel  218  comprises at least one channel  240  or groove configured to help capture or expel particles between the mandrel  218  and cable  210 . In some embodiments, a set or series of channels can be formed in the mandrel  218  to permit expulsion of particles across a length dimension of the mandrel  218 .  FIGS. 2A-2D  show features of the channels  240 .  FIG. 2C  is a front section view of the cable  210 , cover  222 , and mandrel  218  as indicated by section lines  2 C- 2 C in  FIG. 2A .  FIG. 2D  is an isometric view of a cable-facing portion of the mandrel  218 . 
     The channels  240  can be recessed into the curved surface  242  of the mandrel  218 , wherein the channels  240  each comprise a reduced radius S (as measured from the axis of rotation  206 ) as compared to the radius R of the adjacent curved surface  242 . See  FIGS. 2A-2C .  FIG. 2C  also shows that lateral or uncovered portions  246  of the mandrel  218  can have a greater radius T than the covered portion  244  positioned under the cover  222  or cable  210 . The mandrel  218  can comprise multiple covered portions  244 , such as, for example, one covered portion  244  for each cable  210  or cover  222  in the electronic device  200 . 
     The channels  240  can be formed along at least one covered portion  244  of the mandrel  218  that is covered or contacted by the cable  210  or cover  222 . Portions of the curved surface  242  between the channels  240  (e.g., intermediate portion  248 ) can have equal radii (e.g., radius R) and surface curvature in a manner that allows them to provide equal support to the cable  210  between the gaps caused by the presence of the channels  240  on the mandrel  218 . Thus, the number of channels  240 , their individual widths W, and their placement in the covered portion  244  can be configured to be sufficient to receive a predetermined size of particle between the channel  240  and the cable  210  while also being small enough to limit cable sagging or increased pressure against the cable  210  by the intermediate portions (e.g.,  248 ) of the curved surface  242 . In some embodiments, three channels  240  are implemented, and in some cases, more or fewer channels can be used. In some embodiments, the width W of the channels  240  can be about equal to the width of the intermediate portions (e.g.,  248 ) of the curved surface  242  as measured parallel to the pivot axis  206 . 
     The channels  240  can have a cross-sectional profile that is roughly rectangular or square, as shown in  FIG. 2C . Thus, the channels  240  can comprise two opposing sidewalls  250  that meet at a base surface  252  at right angles. As shown in  FIG. 2D , the channels  240  can also comprise a perpendicular end wall  254 . Each end of a channel can have an end wall  254 . In some arrangements, the cross-sectional profile of each channel  240  can comprise a half-circle, half-ellipse, triangle, or a curved base surface  252 . Further, the depth of a channel  240  can taper down or curve to the curved surface  242  rather than forming an end wall  254 . A shape profile having any of these characteristics can be selected based on the expected types of particles or other foreign material that the designer expects the surface  242  to encounter. For example, the shape of the channels  240  can be selected to be large enough to prevent static attraction or surface tension from stopping particles or fluid drops of a certain size or composition from exiting the channels  240 . 
     The channels  240  can have a circumferentially-measured length (i.e., an arc length measured relative to the pivot axis  206 ). This length can be measured along the base surface  252  from a first end wall  254  to an opposite end wall in the same channel  240 . The length can extend around at least a portion of the circumferential length of the curved surface  242  of the mandrel  218 . As shown in  FIGS. 2A-2B  in dashed lines, the channels  240  can have a length extending across about a 120 degree arc on the curved surface  242 . In some embodiments, an about 90 degree arc, an about 180 degree arc, or an arc extending across an angle between about 60 degrees and about 270 degrees can be used. The length of the arc can be selected to ensure that the channels  240  coincide with portions of the curved surface  242  and cable  210  that are most susceptible to damage or disturbance when a particle is positioned between them. For example, the length of the arc can be selected to cover the entire range of possible contact between the cable  210  and the curved surface  242  or across the entire curved surface  242 . The length of the arc can also be proportionally related to the maximum relative rotation between the first and second portions  202 ,  204 . In some embodiments, the channels  240  are configured to be adjacent to the cable  210  and extend away from the cable  210  when the electronic device  300  is in the closed position, as shown in  FIG. 2A , since that is a position where particles are more exposed and able to exit the channels  240  through the ventilation gap  224 . 
     A particle passing between the mandrel  218  and the cable  210  can pass into the channels  240  where there is more space between the channel surfaces and the cable  210  rather than being positioned between the curved surface  242  and the cable  210  where it could rub against or otherwise apply pressure to the cable  210 . Thus, the channels  240  can form a series of gaps between the mandrel  281  and the cable  210  or cover  222 . Additionally, the length of the channels  240  can allow particles in the channel to move circumferentially around the mandrel  218  to fall out of the ventilation gap  224 . For example, this particle movement can occur as the first and second portions  202 ,  204  are rotated relative to each other, as the electronic device  200  is moved and reoriented as a whole, or when a fluid (e.g., compressed air) passes into the channels  240  in a manner that dislodges any particles therein. 
       FIG. 3  shows a side section view of another embodiment of a particle relief system for an electronic device  300 . Elements having corresponding numbering in  FIGS. 2A and 3  correspond in their features and functions. Some elements have been omitted for clarity. The electronic device  300  can comprise a tensioning mechanism  356  (i.e., a retraction mechanism or tension assistance device) attached to an end  322   b  of the cover  322 . In some embodiments, the end  322   b  of the cover  322  can be configured to wrap around and be positioned within the tensioning mechanism  356 . The tensioning mechanism  356  can comprise a biasing member (e.g., a coil spring) to provide a tension force that keeps the cover  322  in tension. This can be beneficial when the electronic device  300  is transitioning from the open state to a closed state, and the cover  322  is passing into the second portion  304 . The force applied to the cover  322  can be oriented in a direction roughly parallel to a flat portion of the cable  310  and into the cavity  308  of the second portion  304 . The tensioning mechanism  356  can help prevent bunching, folding, or other unwanted bending of the cover  322  as it moves into the second portion  304 . Keeping the cover  322  smooth can also help keep the cable  310  smooth as it moves. A smooth cable  310  can move more predictably and potentially with less pressure against the surface of the mandrel  318 . The reduced force between the mandrel  318  and cable  310  can help reduce the chance that a particle between the cable  310  and mandrel  318  will become trapped or cause damage. 
     In some embodiments, the tension in the tensioning mechanism  356  can be optimized so that it is high enough to ensure the cover  322  retracts smoothly into the second portion  304  while being low enough to not impart undue pressure from the cover  322  to the cable  310 . In this manner, if a foreign object is positioned between the cable  310  and the mandrel  318 , the tension in the cover  322  is low enough to allow the cable  310  to move slightly away from the mandrel  318  as the mandrel  318  moves, thereby reducing the chance that the foreign object will be trapped in the electronic device  300 . Accordingly, a particle relief feature of the electronic device  300  can include a calibrated tensioning mechanism  355  configured to permit displacement of the cable  310  away from the surface of the mandrel  318  while applying a retracting tension to the cover  322 . 
     The mandrel  318  can comprise a curved surface  342  having variable curvature along its circumferential length. As shown in  FIG. 3 , the pivot axis  306  can be positioned closer to some portions of the curved surface  342  than other portions thereof. When the electronic device  300  is in the closed position, the curved surface  342  can comprise a first circumferential length portion  358  generally facing toward the cable  310  and a second circumferential length portion  360  generally facing in other directions (e.g., parallel to or away from the cable  310 ). As shown in  FIG. 3 , the first circumferential length portion  358  can be generally closer to the pivot axis  306  than the second circumferential length portion  360 . The curved surface  342  can comprise a reduced radial thickness (i.e., thickness relative to the pivot axis  306 ) at a first portion as compared to a second portion. A distance between the curved surface  342  and the cable  310  can decrease as the electronic device  300  is opened and can increase as the electronic device  300  is closed. 
     Accordingly, a gap  362  can be formed between the mandrel  318  and the cable  310  while the electronic device  300  is in a closed configuration. The gap  362  can allow any foreign matter at the mandrel  318  to fall out the ventilation gap  324  or fall away from the cable  310  as the mandrel  318  rotates out of contact with the mandrel-facing surface of the cable  310 . As the electronic device  300  is opened, the mandrel  318  can rotate to a position wherein the second circumferential length portion  360  contacts the mandrel-facing surface of the cable  310  and thereby limits the bending radius of cable  310  where it contacts the mandrel  318 . The second circumferential length portion  360  can have a radius from the pivot axis  306  equal to the radius R of mandrel  218 , and the first circumferential length portion  358  can have one or more radii from the pivot axis  306  less than radius R. Thus, the mandrel  318  can have multiple different radii, including a first radius (directed from pivot axis  306  toward the cable  310 ) that is smaller than a second radius (R), and the first radius can face the cable  310  when the device  300  is in a closed configuration. The first radius can be referred to as being a reduced radius portion of the curved surface  342  of mandrel  318 . 
     The curved surface  342  having variable curvature can extend along a length of the pivot axis  306 . For example, the curved surface  342  can extend along a portion of the mandrel  318  covered by the cable  310  or cover  322  (e.g., similar to portion  244 ). Other portions of the outer surface of the mandrel can have a different curvature or surface profile (e.g., similar to portions  246 ). In some embodiments, the curved surface  342  can comprise a section having consistent or non-varied curvature (e.g., similar to intermediate portion  248 ) and at least one additional section having the inconsistent curvature shown in  FIG. 3 . For example, a base surface of a channel or groove in the mandrel  318  (e.g., similar to base surface  252 ) can have the variable curvature profile of curved surface  342 . 
       FIG. 4  shows a side section view of another embodiment of an electronic device  400 . Elements having corresponding numbering in  FIGS. 2A, 3, and 4  correspond in their features and functions. Some elements have been omitted for clarity. In this embodiment, the mandrel  418  has a curved surface contacting a barrier  464 . The barrier  464  can be positioned on the curved surface  442  where the body of the barrier  464  extends radially away from the curved surface  442  between the mandrel  418  and the cable  410  when the electronic device  400  is in the closed configuration (as shown in  FIG. 4 ). Due to the size and positioning of the barrier  464 , it can physically block movement of a particle that enters the ventilation gap  424  from passing into a crevice between the mandrel  418  and the cable  410 . 
     The barrier  464  can move with the rotation of the mandrel  418 . Accordingly, the barrier  464  can be between the mandrel  418  and the cable  410  as the electronic device  400  is opened. The barrier  464  can therefore comprise an elastically compressible material such as a light foam. Due to having high compressibility, the barrier  464  can be configured to exert minimal pressure on the cable  410  as when it is compressed between the cable  210  and the mandrel  418 . As the mandrel  418  moves, the barrier  464  can remain in contact with the mandrel  418  and with the cable  410  throughout its cycle of movement, thereby ensuring that no gaps form between the barrier  464  and the cable  410  or between the barrier  464  and the mandrel  418 . 
     In various embodiments, the barrier  464  can be attached to the mandrel  418 , the cable  410 , or the blocking member  420 . For example, the barrier  464  can be attached to the cable  410  at the position shown in  FIG. 4 . In some embodiments, a barrier can be positioned between the curved surface  442  and the blocking member  420  (i.e., housing wall), as shown in broken lines as barrier  465 . In this manner, the barrier  465  can provide a seal that prevents ingress of debris past the blocking member  420  (e.g., into cavity  408 ) as well as preventing passage of debris between the mandrel  418  and the cable  410 , at least while the electronic device  400  is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the barrier  464 / 465  can be configured to brush, wipe, or sweep debris on the curved surface  442  or the cable  410  as the mandrel  418  turns so that the debris does not pass deeper into the electronic device  200 . The barrier  464 / 465  can slide against curved surface  442 . 
       FIG. 5A  is a side section view of another embodiment of an electronic device  500 . Elements having corresponding numbering in  FIGS. 2A, 3, 4, and 5  correspond in their features and functions. Some elements have been omitted for clarity. In this case, the cable  510  can comprise a protective layer  566  configured to contact the mandrel  518  and to face the ventilation gap  524 . The protective layer  566  can therefore be positioned on the cable  510  opposite the cover  522 . The protective layer  566  generally faces in a downward direction near the mandrel  518  as compared to the upward-facing orientation of the cover  522 . The protective layer  566  can extend along at least a portion of the overall length of the mandrel-facing side of the cable  510 . As used herein, the curved surface  542  of the mandrel  518  “touches” or “is in contact with” the cable  510  when it contacts a layer covering and moving with the cable  510 , including protective layer  566 , which covers and moves with the cable  510 . 
     The protective layer  566  can reinforce and strengthen the cable  510 . For example, the protective layer  566  can comprise a durable material (e.g., rubber or plastic) that is resilient against pressure applied by small, hard particles (e.g., sand or salt grains). Therefore, when debris passes between the mandrel  518  and the protective layer  566 , the protective layer  566  can absorb and distribute the pressure applied by the debris to either prevent the cable  510  from being locally bent by the debris or to enlarge the area of deformation caused by the debris so that the area as a whole encounters less concentrated pressure (and associated deformation) than if the protective layer  566  were omitted. 
     In some embodiments, the mandrel  518  can comprise a durable or compressible material. For example, the curved surface  542  of the mandrel  518  can be compressible in a radially inward direction. Thus, a particle between the mandrel  518  and the cable  510  can be accommodated by compression of the mandrel  518  and thereby can apply a reduced pressure or less deformation to the cable  510 . In some embodiments, the protective layer  566  and curved surface  542  are both compressible to provide additional flexibility and pressure/deformation reduction. 
     The protective layer  566  can be configured to help expel debris positioned between the cable  510  and the mandrel  518 . In some embodiments, the protective layer  566  can have a series of grooves and ridges extending parallel to the pivot axis  506 , as shown in the isometric view of the mandrel-facing surface  568  of the protective layer  566  and cable  510  shown in  FIG. 5B . The grooves  570  and ridges  572  can alternate along at least portions of the length of the protective layer  566 . A particle passing between the mandrel-facing surface  568  and the mandrel  518  can be caught in one of the grooves  570  or blocked by one of the adjacent ridges  572  rather than passing deeper into the crevice between the mandrel  518  and the cable  510  as the electronic device  500  is operated. Additionally, the curvature of the protective layer  566  can change as it moves against and away from the curved surface  542  in a manner that can help break loose particles contacting protective layer  566 , particularly if they are being held in place by a groove  570  and adjacent ridges  572 . A small gap can be preserved between the protective layer  566  and the curved surface  542  to permit larger particles to be rolled off of the curved surface  542  by the movement of the protective layer  566 . 
     The protective layer  566  can also comprise structural reinforcements and directional rigidity. As shown in the side section view of  FIG. 5C , which is taken from section lines  5 C- 5 C in  FIG. 5B , a set of reinforcement fibers  574  can extend through the protective layer  566 . The reinforcement fibers  574  can be positioned within a more flexible and bendable connective material  576 . The reinforcement fibers  574  can be unidirectional aligned, having lengths extending substantially parallel to the pivot axis  506  of the electronic device  500 . In this manner, the protective layer  566  can have increased resistance to bending along the axes of the reinforcement fibers  574  while the connective material  576  still allows the protective layer  566  to bend around the pivot axis  506 . In other words, as shown in  FIG. 5B , the protective layer  566  can have significantly more flexibility in bending about an axis  578  parallel to the reinforcement fibers  574  as compared to bending about an axis  580  perpendicular to the reinforcement fibers  574 . The protective layer  566  can therefore be referred to as having a “bamboo roller”-like flexibility profile. With this flexibility profile, when a particle applies a concentrated pressure P to a small area on the bottom of the protective layer  566  (see  FIG. 5B ), the pressure P can deform the protective layer  566  across a greater length along a direction parallel to axis  578  more than along axis  580 , as indicated by region PA. Thus, the pressure P is distributed across a wider surface area of the cable  510  than if no protective layer  566  were implemented, but the protective layer  566  is still highly pliable while bending around the mandrel  518 . The material of the protective layer  566  can therefore be referred to as being relatively rigid in bending along a width dimension of the cable  510  (e.g., along the pivot axis  506 ) and being relatively flexible in bending along a length dimension of the cable  510  (e.g., across  FIG. 5A ). The protective layer  566  can also be referred to as a barrier attached to the cable  510  or as a barrier layer of the cable  510 . 
     Increasing the surface area of deformation caused by concentrated pressure P in this manner can help limit damage to the cable  510  or limit how much the pressure P impedes the movement of the cable  510 . Also, the reinforcement fibers  574  can all be parallel to the pivot axis  506  rather than some fibers being parallel to axis  580  so that the protective layer  566  can bend more freely as it wraps against the mandrel  518 . 
     In some embodiments, a protective layer  566  can comprise sets of reinforcement fibers that extend parallel to both axes  578 ,  580  and perpendicular to each other. For example, the fibers can be in a substantially perpendicular configuration such as a weave or lattice pattern. In this case, the fibers can spread deformation caused by a concentrated pressure P to an even larger area. This crossed-fiber configuration can be beneficial for parts of the protective layer  566  that are subjected to less bending than others, such as parts of the protective layer  566  that do not come into contact with the mandrel  518  as the electronic device  500  is opened and closed. 
     To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use of data available from various sources can be used to improve the delivery to users of invitational content or any other content that may be of interest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID&#39;s, home addresses, data or records relating to a user&#39;s health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information. 
     The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefit of users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user. Accordingly, use of such personal information data enables users to calculated control of the delivered content. Further, other uses for personal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user&#39;s general wellness, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals. 
     The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with well-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personal information data private and secure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users, and should be updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving the informed consent of the users. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access to such personal information data and ensuring that others with access to the personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted for the particular types of personal information data being collected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US, collection of or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country. 
     Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to, personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of advertisement delivery services, the present technology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” of participation in the collection of personal information data during registration for services or anytime thereafter. In another example, users can select not to provide mood-associated data for targeted content delivery services. In yet another example, users can select to limit the length of time mood-associated data is maintained or entirely prohibit the development of a baseline mood profile. In addition to providing “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use of personal information. For instance, a user may be notified upon downloading an app that their personal information data will be accessed and then reminded again just before personal information data is accessed by the app. 
     Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect a user&#39;s privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and/or other methods. 
     Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use of personal information data to implement one or more various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing such personal information data. That is, the various embodiments of the present technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content can be selected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personal information, such as the content being requested by the device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery services, or publicly available information. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not target to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20190618
Publication Date: 20210803
Grant Date: 20210803
Priority Date: 20190618
Inventors: BIR, KARAN
GARELLI, ADAM T.
POSNER, BRYAN W.
ENDISCH, DENIS H.
LANCASTER-LAROCQUE, SIMON R.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "E05Y2800/43", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1637", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1681", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D11/0081", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D11/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05Y2900/606", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D11/0081", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1637", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05Y2800/43", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D11/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05Y2999/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05Y2999/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 73654303