PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10635141-B2
Application Number: US-201615567932-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Mandrel flex circuit routing

Abstract:
Cable assemblies for providing electrical communication between hinged sections of an electronic device are described. The cable assemblies can include a cover that covers one or more cables that run through a hinge region of the electronic device. The cable and cover can be drawn over a mandrel of the hinge region. The cover and the portions of the mandrel can be visible to a user at the hinge region of the electronic device. The cover can be sufficiently rigid to guide a path of the cable and protect the cable from bending beyond a prescribed angle during rotation of the electronic device at the hinge region. The cover can also be sufficiently rigid to prevent ceasing or folding of the cover and the cable during rotation of the electronic device at the hinge region. The cable assemblies can also include a hinged cover that can be pivoted to close a gap between two hinged sections of the electronic device.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A portable computing device, comprising:
 a cable configured to electrically couple a first electrical component attached to a first portion of the portable computing device and a second electrical component attached to a second portion of the portable computing device; 
 a hinge mechanism having a curved surface, wherein the cable is configured to bend over the curved surface; and 
 a cover at least partially in contact with a surface of the cable and having a first end and a second end; 
 a tensioning mechanism to apply tension to the second end of the cover to pull the second end into the second portion of the portable computing device. 
 
     
     
       2. The portable computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the cover hides the cable from view when the first portion and the second portion rotate with respect to each other. 
     
     
       3. The portable computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the cover is composed of a material selected from a group consisting of: glass, polyurethane, fiberglass, aramid fibers, and a composite fiber. 
     
     
       4. The portable computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the cover comprises a structural layer that is bonded between an outer layer and an abrasion resistant layer. 
     
     
       5. The portable computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the hinge mechanism comprises one or more clutch mechanisms to provide a predetermined amount of resistance when the first portion and the second portion rotate about a pivot axis associated with the hinge mechanism. 
     
     
       6. The portable computing device of  claim 1 , wherein the cover hides a portion of the curved surface of the hinge mechanism when the first portion and the second portion are rotated with respect to each other. 
     
     
       7. A method of covering a cable routed between a first portion and a second portion of an electronic device, the first portion pivotally coupled with the second portion at a hinge mechanism, the method comprising:
 electrically coupling the first portion and the second portion with the cable, the cable drawn over a curved surface of the hinge mechanism when the electronic device is rotated from a closed state to an open state; and 
 covering an exposed surface of the cable with a cover, the cover drawn over the cable and the curved surface of the hinge mechanism when the electronic device is rotated from the closed state to the open state; 
 attaching a tensioning mechanism to the cover to apply a return force to the cover. 
 
     
     
       8. The method of  claim 7 , wherein the cover is mechanically captured by the second portion. 
     
     
       9. The method of  claim 7 , wherein the cover hides the cable from view when the electronic device is in the open state. 
     
     
       10. The method of  claim 7 , wherein the cover is comprised of at least one of glass, polyurethane, fiberglass, aramid fibers, or a composite fiber. 
     
     
       11. The method of  claim 7 , wherein the cover comprises a structural layer that is bonded between an outer layer and an abrasion resistant layer. 
     
     
       12. The method of  claim 7 , wherein the cover is drawn over a greater amount of the curved surface of the hinge mechanism during the open state relative to the closed state. 
     
     
       13. The method of  claim 7 , wherein the cover is coupled to the first portion of the electronic device and the tensioning mechanism. 
     
     
       14. A hinge cover for an electronic device having a first portion pivotally coupled to a second portion via a hinge mechanism, the hinge cover comprising:
 a first side positioned proximate to a cable, the cable electrically connecting the first portion to the second portion, wherein the cable is configured to bend over a curved surface of the hinge mechanism; 
 a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side is exposed at the hinge mechanism when the electronic device is in an open state; and 
 a tensioning mechanism to pull the hinge cover into the second portion of the electronic device. 
 
     
     
       15. The hinge cover of  claim 14 , wherein the hinge cover is configured to conceal the curved surface of the hinge mechanism and the cable from being exposed to a user when the first portion is pivoted with respect to the second portion. 
     
     
       16. The hinge cover of  claim 14 , wherein the hinge cover is comprised of a flexible material. 
     
     
       17. The hinge cover of  claim 14 , wherein one or more slits are provided along the hinge cover such that a first section of the hinge cover flexes independently of a second section of the hinge cover. 
     
     
       18. The hinge cover of  claim 17 , wherein the first section of the hinge cover is configured to flex freely from the curved surface of the hinge mechanism while the second section is adhered to the curved surface of the hinge mechanism. 
     
     
       19. The hinge cover of  claim 14 , wherein the hinge cover is manufactured from a single layer of a laminated material or a woven material. 
     
     
       20. A portable computing device, comprising:
 a first housing portion containing a display assembly; 
 a second housing portion containing a circuit component, the second housing portion joined to the first housing portion by a rotatable hinge mechanism, the first and second housing portions being movable between a closed state and an open state; 
 a cable electrically coupling the display assembly to the circuit component, the cable having a first side surface configured to bend about a curved surface of the rotatable hinge mechanism and having a second side surface positioned on the cable opposite the first side surface, the first side surface configured to be positioned below the second side surface when the first and second housing portions are in the closed state; 
 a cover contacting the second side surface of the cable and extending between the first housing portion and the second housing portion; 
 a shaft coupled to a retraction spring positioned in the second housing portion, the shaft coupled with an end of the cover, the retraction spring exerting a rotational torque on the shaft to draw the cover over an outer surface of the shaft.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present national phase application claims the benefit of International Application PCT/US2016/030816 with an international filing date of May 4, 2016, entitled “MANDREL FLEX CIRCUIT ROUTING”, which claims the benefit of priority (1) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/167,848, entitled “MANDREL FLEX CIRCUIT ROUTING”, filed May 28, 2015, and (2) said PCT/US2016/030816 is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 14/704,447, entitled “ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH DYNAMIC HINGE GAP COVER,” filed May 5, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,513,672. The contents of all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to covers as part of cable assemblies for electronic devices. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to routing cable assemblies over hinged sections of electronic devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many consumer electronic devices have multiple housing sections. Often, signals must be sent from one housing section to another housing section. Electronic devices may have electronics in one housing section that receives 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 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 flex cable, around the hinge mechanism or through a center hole in a clutch assembly of the hinge. However, methods must be implemented to assure that the cables are protected from exposure to potential damage by clutch assembly and hinge mechanism. 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. 
     SUMMARY 
     This paper describes various embodiments that relate to securely routing a signal between hinged sections of an electronic device. In particular embodiments, a flex cable is routed between housing sections of an electronic device. Further, a cover moves with the flex cable to provide physical protection to the exposed flex cable. 
     According to one embodiment, a laptop computer is described. The laptop computer includes a first portion having a first electrical component. The laptop computer also includes a second portion pivotally coupled to the first portion along a pivot axis. The second portion has a second electrical component. The laptop computer further includes a flex circuit configured to electrically couple the first and second electrical components. The laptop computer additionally includes a flex circuit cover at least partially in contact with a first surface of the flex circuit and having a first end secured to the first portion and a second end that is free to move along the first surface of the flex circuit when the first and second portions rotate about the pivot axis. The flex circuit cover prevents the flex circuit from being seen when the first portion and the second portion are pivoted with respect to each other in an open configuration. 
     According to another embodiment, a cover for a mandrel as part of a hinge assembly for an electronic device is described. The cover covers a cable that would otherwise be exposed to a user of the electronic device. The cover includes a first side positioned proximate to the cable. The cable electrically connects a first portion of the electronic device pivotally coupled to a second portion of the electronic device. The cable is drawn over a curved surface of the mandrel that guides the cable though a hinge region of the electronic device. The cover also includes a second side opposite the first side. The second side is exposed at the hinge region of the electronic device when the electronic device is in an open state. 
     According to a further embodiment, a method of covering a cable routed between a first portion and a second portion of an electronic device is described. The first portion is pivotally coupled with the second portion at a hinge region of the electronic device. The method includes electrically coupling the first portion and the second portion with a cable. The cable drawn is over a mandrel within the hinge region when the electronic device is rotated from a closed state to an open state. A surface of the cable is exposed at the hinge region when the electronic device is in an open state. The method further includes covering the exposed surface of the cable with a cover. The cover is drawn over the cable and the mandrel when the electronic device is rotated from the closed state to the open state. 
     According to another embodiment, a laptop computer is described. The laptop computer can be provided with upper and lower housing portions that are separated by a gap. Hinge structures can allow the upper housing portion to rotate between a closed position in which a display in the upper housing portion is adjacent to the lower housing portion and an open position in which the display is visible to a user. 
     According to another embodiment, an electronic device is described. The electronic device can include a flexible printed circuit in the electronic device that can be coupled between components in the upper housing portion such as the display and components in the lower housing portion. The flexible printed circuit can bridge the gap. A hinge gap cover can cover the gap and can overlap the flexible printed circuit to block the flexible printed circuit from view when the upper housing portion is in the closed position. 
     According to another embodiment, a hinge gap cover for a laptop computer is described. The hinge gap cover can be formed from a radio-transparent material that is coupled to the upper housing portion with springs. An antenna in an interior portion of the housing can transmit and receive antenna signals that pass through the hinge gap housing. 
     According to another embodiment, a housing for a laptop computer is described. The housing can include an upper housing portion that can form a stop surface. When the upper housing portion is in the closed position, the stop surface can be separated from the hinge gap cover and the springs can hold the hinge gap cover in place over the gap. An inner surface in the lower housing portion can contact an edge of the hinge gap cover to prevent the hinge gap cover from rotating. When the upper housing is moved into the open position, the stop surface can contact the hinge gap cover and can push the hinge gap cover away from the lower housing and the gap. 
     According to yet another embodiment, a housing for a laptop computer is described. A hinge gap cover can be bowed inwardly towards the interior of the housing when the upper housing portion is in the closed position. The flexible printed circuit can have a surface that is adjacent to the bowed surface of the hinge gap cover when the upper housing portion is in the closed position. 
     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. 
         FIG. 1  shows a front facing perspective view of portable computing device, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a hinge portion of an electronic device with cover concealing a cable drawn over a mandrel of the electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  show cross-sectional views of a hinged electronic device in open and closed states, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  shows a cross sectional view of a laminated cover, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 5A-5E  show various views of a hinged electronic device having various spring mechanisms for providing a returning force to a cover, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 6  shows a flowchart indicating a process for protecting a cable routed between hinged portions of an electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 7-9  show various views of another embodiment of a cover that is designed to conceal a cable and a mandrel of the electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 10  shows a cross sectional view of a hinged electronic device, according to some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 11A-11D  show various views of an exemplary tensioning mechanism assembly, according to some embodiments 
         FIGS. 12A-12C  show perspective views of exemplary retaining features of a cover, according to various embodiments. 
         FIG. 13  shows a perspective view of an exemplary anchor for securing a cover, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 14A-14B  shows a cross sectional view and a magnified cross sectional view of a hinged electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 15A-15B  shows a cross sectional view and a magnified cross sectional view of a hinged electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 16A-16B  shows a cross sectional view and a magnified cross sectional view of a hinged electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 17  shows a cross sectional view of a hinged electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 18A-18B  show a perspective view and a cross sectional view of an exemplary anchor for securing a cover, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an illustrative electronic device such as a laptop computer having a lid in an open position, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative electronic device in an open position, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional side view of the illustrative electronic device of  FIG. 20  in a closed position, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 22  is a diagram of illustrative circuitry in an electronic device that is coupled together using a flexible signal path that crosses a hinge axis between housing structures, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 23  is rear perspective view of an illustrative electronic device such as the laptop computer of  FIG. 19  showing how a gap between upper and lower housings may be at least partly covered using a hinge gap cover, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 24  is a diagram of an illustrative solid hinge gap cover, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 25  is a diagram of an illustrative hinge gap cover with openings, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 26  is a diagram of an illustrative hinge gap cover with slot-shaped openings, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 27  is a rear view of an illustrative electronic device such as a laptop computer showing how a protruding portion of the lower housing of the device may cover part of a hinge gap, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 28  is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative laptop computer in a closed position in which a hinge gap cover is used in covering a housing gap, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 29  is a cross-sectional side view of the illustrative laptop computer of  FIG. 28  in an open position, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 30  is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative laptop computer that in a closed position, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 31  is a cross-sectional side view of the illustrative laptop computer of  FIG. 30  in an open position, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 32  is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative laptop computer with a hinge cover that covers a relatively large gap, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 33  is a cross-sectional side view of the illustrative laptop computer of  FIG. 32  in an open position, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 34  is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative laptop computer that has an internal housing wall that allows a hinge gap cover to be reduced in size, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 35  is a cross-sectional side view of the illustrative laptop computer of  FIG. 34  in an open position, in accordance with some embodiments. 
     
    
    
     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. 
     The following disclosure relates to covers for covering one or more cables of a hinged electronic device. In particular embodiments, the cables include a flex cable and/or a flexible printed circuit board appropriate for transmitting a signal between portions of an electronic device that are connected by a hinge. In the case of a portable computing device (e.g., laptop 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 signal 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. The mandrel can be configured to guide the path of the cable and protect the cable from bending beyond a prescribed angle. In particular embodiments, the mandrel has a curved surface to provide smooth movement of the cable. In some embodiments, the mandrel has a constant radius over which the cable is drawn. In some embodiments, the radius varies as the cable is drawn over the mandrel, while in other embodiments the radius is constant. 
     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 is 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 should also be 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 cover may include a structural layer, such as a fiberglass and polyurethane layer, giving the cover lateral rigidity. In other examples, the cover may include polyurethane infused para-aramid fibers or polyurethane infused fiberglass. The rigidity of the cover allows the lid portion to drive the cover into a cavity defined by the base portion of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the cover is visible to a user of the electronic device. Thus, one layer of the cover can be a decorative layer suitable for presentation to the user. 
     In some embodiments, the rigidity of the cover may provide some resistance to bending and thereby provide a restoring force for returning the cover to an original shape. The restoring force can cooperate with constraining elements of the housing to resist folding or creasing of the cover and/or the cable when the electronic device is moved from an open to a closed position. A cavity within the base portion of the electronic device can define an inner surface that constrains the cover during movement of the electronic device from an open position to a closed position. The rigidity of the cover and the forces constraining the cover can cooperate to control movement of the cover as it is drawn over the mandrel, thereby preventing the cover from buckling or folding. The cover can also constrain and control movement of the cable where the cover is in contact with the cable, thereby preventing the cable from being damaged due to bending or twisting. 
     In some embodiments, the cable is coupled to an electronic component within the base portion of the electronic device. The cable can be attach 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 the description below, the term “mandrel” can refer to a hinge mechanism, a cover for a hinge mechanism, a layer for a hinge mechanism, a lid for a hinge mechanism, a cylindrical shaft, a tubular shaft, a pivot and/or swivel mechanism, or a slider mechanism. The term “mandrel” can be interchangeable with the term “hinge mechanism” or a “cover (or lid) for a hinge mechanism.” 
     The cable assemblies and structures described herein are well suited for integration 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” and “upper housing portion” can both refer to a lid of a computing device. In the description below, the terms “second portion” and “lower housing portion” can both refer to a base of a computing device. Furthermore, in the description below, the terms “lower housing portion” can be interchangeable with the terms “base housing” or “main housing.” 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-35 . 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. 
     Flex Cable Cover 
       FIG. 1  shows a front facing perspective view of electronic device  100  in accordance with some embodiments. Electronic device  100  can be a laptop computer. Electronic device  100  can include base portion  102 , which can be pivotally connected to 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 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. Lid portion  104  can include display  108  and rear cover  110 . Base portion  102  can include bottom case  112  that is fastened to top case  114 . Top case  114  can be configured to accommodate various user input devices such as keyboard  116  and 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 (hidden from view), 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 . 
     Descried herein are cable assemblies 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. To illustrate,  FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a portion of electronic device  200  having a first portion  206  and second portion  208 . In some embodiments, first portion  206  corresponds to a lid portion and second portion  208  corresponds to a base portion of a portable computer. First portion  206  includes mandrel  204 , which can be part of a hinge assembly of electronic device  200 . Covers  202  and  210  can be used to cover underlying cables, such as flex cables, that electrically connect first portion  206  and second portion  208 . In some embodiments, covers  202  and  210  are in the form of sheets of material or laminated material. Covers  202  and  210  and the underlying cables are drawn over a surface of mandrel  204  as first portion  206  pivots with respect to second portion  208 . 
     Covers  202  and  210  can be visible to a user of electronic device  200  and hide the underlying cables from view. Thus, covers  202  and  210  should be aesthetically pleasing as well as durable enough to withstand wear from exposure to external environmental conditions and from opening/closing of electronic device  200 . In some embodiments, covers  202  and  210  are the same color as mandrel  204 , which can also be visible to a user. For example, covers  202 / 210  and mandrel  204  can have a matching black color such that covers  202 / 210  and mandrel appear as one piece. In other embodiments, covers  202  and  210  have a different color than mandrel  204 , providing an aesthetically pleasing contrasting effect. Any suitable color combination can be used as dictated by design requirements. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , two covers  202  and  210  are shown. However, any suitable number of covers can be used to cover any suitable number of cables. For example, covers  202  and  210  can each cover a single cable or multiple cables. In other embodiments, only one cover is used, or more than two covers are used. In some embodiments, only one of covers  202  and  210  covers cable(s) while the other of covers  202  and  210  does not cover any cable(s). In some embodiments, covers  202  and  210  are wider than the underlying cables. In some embodiments, a single cover spans an entire visible surface of mandrel  204 , presenting a continuous cover over the surface of mandrel  204  to a user. 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  show cross sectional views of a hinged electronic device  300 , in accordance with some embodiments.  FIG. 3A  shows a cross sectional view of electronic device  300  in a closed state and  FIG. 3B  shows a cross sectional view of electronic device  300  in an open state. Electronic device  300  includes a first portion  302  coupled to a second portion  304 . First portion  302  can correspond to a lid portion (or upper housing portion) and second portion  304  can correspond to a base portion (or lower housing portion) of electronic device  300 . First portion  302  and second portion  304  can share a common axis of rotation with respect to pivot line or pivot axis  306 . First portion  302  and second portion  304  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. The exact hinge mechanism may vary depending on design requirements. However the general region around pivot axis  306  can be referred to as a hinge region  301  of electronic device  300 . 
     Electronic device  300  includes cable  310 , which provides electrical communication between first portion  302  and second portion  304 . For example, cable  310  can provide electrical connection between electronic component  311  of first portion  302  and electronic component  312  of second portion  304 . Electronic component  311  can be in electrically communication with display assembly  330 , which is mounted on first housing  331 . Display assembly  330  can include any suitable type of display for use in electronic device  300 , such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) and/or organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen. Electronic component  312  can include an integrated circuit and/or a printed circuit board, and can include a timing control mechanism configured to drive display assembly  330 . Electronic component  312  is housed within cavity  308  defined by second housing  305 . In some embodiments, cable  310  provides power from a battery (not shown) within second housing  305  to display assembly  330 . Cable  310  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  302  and  304 . In some embodiments the cable  310  is a single layer flex cable, however a multiple layered flex cable may be used. A single layer flex cable  310  can be used in some cases in order to reduce the stack height of the cable  310 . Electronic device  300  can include any suitable number of cables  310 . In a particular embodiment, electronic device  300  includes two cables  310 . 
     It should be noted that cable  310  could be directly routed between first portion  302  and second portion  304  without passing through a clutch mechanism. Thus, a number of mechanisms can be used to guide the movement of cable  310  when first portion  302  is pivoted with respect to second portion  304 . For example, hinge region  301  can include mandrel  318 , which can be in the form of a cylinder-like portion of first portion  302 . As shown, when electronic device  300  is moved from a closed state in  FIG. 3A  to an open state in  FIG. 3B , cable  310  is drawn over a curved surface of mandrel  318  to keep cable  310  from bucking or folding. That is, a portion of cable  310  can take on a curved shape in accordance with the curved surface of mandrel  318  when electronic device  300  is rotated to an open configuration shown in  FIG. 3B . The curved surface of mandrel  318  has a radius R, defined with respect to a pivot axis  306 , which can be constant where cable  310  is drawn over mandrel  318 . Alternatively, the surface of mandrel  318  may have a variable radius where the cable  310  is drawn. In some embodiments, the surface of mandrel  318  is segmented to correspond to sections of the flex cable  310 . In some embodiments, mandrel  318  runs along a full width of electronic device  300 . In some embodiments, mandrel  318  has a continuous curved surface, while in other embodiments, mandrel  318  includes substantially flat segments that maintain cable  310  in a substantially flat configuration in corresponding sections of cable  310 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 3B , since cable  310  is drawn over mandrel  318 , cable  310  would be exposed at hinge region  301  to a user when electronic device  300  is in an open state. Thus, cover  322  can be used to cover and protect a side of cable  310  at hinge region  301  that would otherwise be exposed to a user. Cover  322  can be flexible, and therefore, like cable  310 , can take on a curved shape in accordance with the curved surface of mandrel  318  when electronic device  300  is rotated to an open configuration shown in  FIG. 3B . 
     In some embodiments, the radial or curved nature of the surface of mandrel  318  can impart benefits to the flex cable  310  while the electronic device  300  is rotated between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The radial/curved surface design of the mandrel  318  leverages unidirectional bending in the flex cable  310  which can promote maximizing flex cable  310  cycle life and minimize bending stresses imposed on the flex cable  310 . The flex cable  310  always bends in one direction and does not invert backwards (i.e., the flex cable  310  furls and unfurls in a coiled configuration with the curved surface of mandrel  318  helping to prescribe a minimum bend radius in the hinge region  301 ). In some embodiments, unidirectional bending can be an optimal configuration for cycle life of the flex cable  310  as opposed to bidirectional or inverse cyclical bending. A similar principal is found in effective torsion spring design where the coils of the springs always bend in only a single direction. Furthermore, the curved surface design of mandrel  318  can promote condensing the flex service loop motion into a volumetrically efficient space. Accordingly, the curved surface of mandrel  318  can exert on the flex cable  310  to be condensed into the cavity  308  of the second portion  304  while avoiding straining the flex cable  310  or imparting minimal bending stress on the flex cable  310  as it is looped in the cavity  308 . 
     In some embodiments, as the electronic device  300  is rotated between an open state (see  FIG. 3B ) and a closed state (see  FIG. 3A ), the flex cable  310  can be imparted to bend 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  308 ) can impose a greater amount of stress on the furled section of the flex cable  310 . Unidirectional bending significantly reduces the amount of stress on the flex cable  310  and promotes greater cycle life and packaging. 
     In some embodiments, the flex cable  310  is described as bending along a single direction. In some embodiments, the direction can refer to the relative position of one point with respect to another point. In some embodiments, direction can refer to translation of motion where a point (or section) of the flex cable  310  changes position in a three-dimensional space according to an x-coordinate, y-coordinate, and z-coordinate. In some embodiments, while the electronic device transitions from the open state (see  FIG. 3B ) to closed state (see  FIG. 3A ), a point or section of the flex cable  310  can be positioned even further away from the curved surface along a similar direction or vector. 
     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  310  can increase such that the curvature further deviates from a flat or linear line (as shown in  FIG. 3A ). 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  310  can decrease (as shown in  FIG. 3B ). 
     In some embodiments, an amount by which the flex cable  310  bends can be inversely related with the present angle between the first portion  302  and the second portion  304 . In some examples, the curved surface of mandrel  318  can exert a greater amount of a bend (in a single direction) on the flex cable  310  when the first portion  302  is pivoted relative to the second portion  304  by an angle of less than 90° degrees in contrast to when the angle between the first portion  302  and the second portion  304  is pivoted to greater than 90° degrees. In other words, as the angle between the first portion  302  and second portion  304  decreases and the electronic device  300  becomes progressively closer to being characterized as having a closed configuration, the amount of bend in a furled section of the flex cable  310  can increase. 
     In some embodiments, the first portion  302  and the second portion  304  can be pivoted relative to each other according to an angle between about 0° degrees to about 300° degrees. 
     In some embodiments, a section of the flex cable  310  is mechanically captured by the second portion  304 . In some embodiments, a section of the flex cable  310  is mechanically captured by the first portion  302 . The term mechanically captured can refer to enclosing or containing the section of the flex cable  310  by at least one of an enclosure, a tensioning mechanism, a hook, or a castellation of either the first portion  302  or the second portion  304 . 
     In some embodiments, when the electronic device transitions from the open state to the closed state, the furled section of flex cable  310  mechanically captured by the second portion  304  can furl even more into a coiled configuration. In some embodiments, the amount of bend exerted on a section of the flex cable  310  that is mechanically captured by the first portion  302  can be independent of the amount of bend exerted on a section of the flex cable  310  that is mechanically captured by the second portion  304 . 
     In some embodiments, a section of the flex cable  310  that is mechanically captured by the first portion  302  can be drawn over the curved surface of mandrel  318 . As shown in  FIG. 3A , the section of the flex cable  310  that is mechanically captured by the first portion  302  can have a generally linear shape. In some embodiments, subsequent to the electronic device  300  rotating from a closed configuration (see  FIG. 3A ) to an open configuration (see  FIG. 3B ), the curved surface of mandrel  318  can exert tension on the flex cable  310  so that an increased amount of bend or curvature on this section of the flex cable  310  is formed as the flex cable  310  is drawn over the curved surface of mandrel  318 . The flex cable  310  can be imparted to bend in a single direction so that the curve or bend of the flex cable  310  corresponds to the curvature of the curved surface. The curved surface of mandrel  318  has a radius R, defined with respect to a pivot axis  306 . In some embodiments, the curved surface of mandrel  318  can prescribe a minimal bend radius of the flex cable  310 . For example, the mandrel  318  can have a curved surface with a radius of 10 millimeters from the pivot axis  306 . Accordingly, the curved surface of mandrel  318  can dictate that the flex cable  310  has a minimum bend radius of at least 10 millimeters or greater while the electronic device  300  is in the open configuration. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3B , a furled section of the flex cable  310  can be mechanically captured by the second portion  304 . As the electronic device  300  transitions from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the amount by which the furled section of the flex cable  310  bends within the second portion  304  can decrease such that the flex cable becomes progressively unfurled. In the open configuration, the curved surface of mandrel  318  and the structural member  314  can cooperate to exert a greater amount of tension on the flex cable  310  such that the amount of bend decreases. For example, one side of the flex cable  310  can be exerted against a curved surface of the structural member  314  in the open configuration. This is in contrast to the closed configuration (see  FIG. 3A ) having the furled section of the flex cable  310  free of contact from the curved surface of the structural member  314 . In some embodiments, the curved surface of support member  314  can reduce an amount of abrasion exerted against the flex cable  310  when the two components come into contact to each other. 
     Furthermore,  FIG. 3B  shows that the curved surface design of mandrel  318  can promote condensing the flex service loop motion into the cavity  308 . Accordingly, the curved surface of mandrel  318  can exert on the flex cable  310  to be condensed into the cavity  308  of the second portion  304  while avoiding straining the flex cable  310  or imparting minimal bending stress on the flex cable  310  as it is looped into the cavity  308 . 
     In some embodiments, the benefits imposed upon by the curved surface of mandrel  318  on the flex cable  310  can be similarly imposed upon the cover  322 , which covers and protects a side of the cable  310  at the hinge region  301 . 
     First end  322   a  of cover  322  can be positioned within first portion  302  of electronic device  300  and second end  322   b  of cover  322  can be positioned within second portion  304  of electronic device. Since cover  322  can be exposed, cover  322  should be made a material that is durable enough to withstand wear and tear that can be accompanied with direct exposure to a user. For example, cover  322  may be encounter by objects inserted or dropped within hinge region  301 . Cover  322  should also be flexible enough to bend with cable  310  when electronic device  300  transitions between open and closed states. Cover  322  and mandrel  318  can be designed to have a particular aesthetic appeal, such as having the same or different colors, as described above with reference to  FIG. 2 . 
     Another consideration in choosing a material for cover  322  is how cover  322  moves during the opening and closing of electronic device  300 . For example, cover  322  can have an inherent rigidity and resilience that generates a resistance force when cover  322  is bent over mandrel  318  when electronic device  300  moves from closed ( FIG. 3A ) to open ( FIG. 3B ) position. This resistance force can cause cover  322  to return to its original shape when electronic device  300  is returned to a closed ( FIG. 3A ) position. This way, cover  322  will not crease or buckle at hinge region  301 . That is, if cover  322  is made of a material that is not sufficiently rigid, it could crease or crinkle at hinge region  301 . 
     The rigidity of cover  322  can also at least partially dictate the movement of cable  310 . For example, the side of cover  322  that is exposed to a user can be constrained near first end  322   a  by retention rib  307  and near second end  322   b  by anchor  309 . Retention rib  307  and anchor  309  act as retention features that keep cover  322  from shifting out of place and keep cover  322  over cable  310  when electronic device  300  rotates between closed ( FIG. 3A ) and open ( FIG. 3B ) positions. In some embodiments, anchor  309  is made of a stiff material, such as a metal material (e.g., stainless steel). First end  322   a  can be coupled to anchor  309  using, for example, adhesive and/or fastener(s) such as one or more screws. In some embodiments, retention rib  307  includes a low friction material, such as a fluoropolymer material (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene, Teflon™), that allows cover  322  to slide freely along retention rib  307  during opening and closing of electronic device  300 . That is, second end  322   b  can be untethered and free to move with respect to cable  310  and retention rib  307 . Retention rib  307  can cooperate with lip  328  at an inner surface of cavity  308  to retain second end  322   b  within cavity  308 . Lip  328  can be an integrally formed portion of second housing  305 , or can be a separate piece that is coupled to the inner surface of cavity  308 . 
     A common problem with consumer electronic devices is protecting elements within housings from user accidents such as liquid spills. Therefore, in some embodiments, seal  326  (shown in  FIG. 3B ) can be positioned at an inner surface of an opening of the cavity  308 . Seal  326  can prevent debris such as dirt, dust and liquids from entering cavity  308 . Seal  326  can be in contact with or proximate to cover  322 . Seal  326  can be made of a material having a low surface tension to prevent liquids from entering the cavity  308 , as well as low friction such that cover  322  can freely move against seal  326 . Suitable materials for seal  326  can include materials such as a fluoropolymer material (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene). In some embodiments, seal  326  may be coupled to the lip  328 , while in other embodiments the seal  326  acts as the lip  328 . In some embodiments the seal  326  is rubber or other suitable material with a low friction layer. 
     The movement of cable  310  with respect to electronic component  312  can also be important. For example, during rotation of first portion  302  with respect to second portion  304 , movement of cable  310  at connection point  313  to electronic component  312  should be minimized in order to prevent fatiguing of cable  310 . This is because over bending and fatiguing of cable  310  can cause cable  310  to fail, and connection point  313  can be especially susceptible to such fatiguing. Thus, isolating features can be used to isolation portions of cable  310  proximate to connection point  313 . Such isolating features can include support member  314 , which can support cable  310 . In some cases, support member  314  is attached to a board that is part of or proximate to electronic component  312 . Cable  310  can be routed around support member  314  and clip  316  can be used to secure cable  310  to support member  314  and isolate the length of cable from movement between clip  316  and connection point  313 . Support member  314  can have a curved surface that guides the cable  310  as cable  310  is drawn out of the cavity  308 . 
     The non-isolated section of cable  310  between clip  316  and retention rib  307  may be free to move when first portion  302  is rotated with respect to second portion  304 . However, since cable  310  is routed around support member  314 , cable  310  maintains a concave curvature, which prevents cable  310  from bending between concave and convex curvatures, and prevents cable  310  from bending below a prescribed radius, thereby reducing fatiguing of cable  310 . This wrapped configuration can allow for a relatively large length of the cable  310  for uptake during rotation of electronic device  300  while reducing the stress placed on cable  310 . That is, cable  310  can be free to “float” in the cavity  308 . Another advantage of this wrapped configuration is that this also reduces a distance between retention rib  307  and wall  334  of second housing  305  required to house cable  310 . 
     In some embodiments, electronic device  300  has ventilation gap  324  suitable for providing air flow in and out of cavity  308  and cooling electronic component  312  and other components housed within cavity  308 . Ventilation gap  324  is positioned near hinge region  301  between first portion  302  and second portion  304  of electronic device  300 . Depending on cooling requirements, ventilation gap  324  may be large enough to allow access to components within cavity  308 , including the cable  310 , particularly when electronic device  300  is in a closed position ( FIG. 3A ). Thus, blocking member  320  can be used to restrict access to cavity  308 . Blocking member  320  can an integral part of second housing  305 , or a separate piece that is coupled to second housing  305 . In some embodiments, blocking member  320  is coupled to an inner surface within cavity  308  proximate ventilation gap  324 . Blocking member  320  may have provisions such as holes to allow for further ventilation of cavity  308 . As shown, cable  310  can be routed between blocking member  320  and retention rib  307  as cable  310  exits second housing portion  304 . 
     As described above, cover  322  should be made of a sufficiently flexible material to allow bending of cover  322  over cable  310  and mandrel  318  during opening of electronic device  300 . However, cover  322  should also be rigid and resilient enough to provide a resistance force to the bending such that cover  322  returns to its original configuration when electronic device  300  is closed again. For example, the section of cover  322  between pivot axis  306  and retention rib  307  can return to substantially flat when electronic device  300  is returned to a closed state ( FIG. 3A ). Cover  322  should also be rigid enough to resist creasing when opposing forces act laterally on the cover  322 . In addition, since cover  322  can form an external surface of electronic device  300 , cover  322  should be resistant to cutting and abrasion forces. In some embodiments, cover  322  is non-electrically conductive to prevent cover  322  from electrically interfering with internal components of electronic device  300 . In some embodiments, cover  322  is made of a single sheet of material, such as a composite fiber material. For example, cover  322  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  322  is a laminated sheet that includes layers of different materials. 
       FIG. 4  shows a cross sectional view of a laminated cover  400 , in accordance with some embodiments. Cover  400  includes abrasion resistant layer  402  and structural layer  404 , which are flanked on opposing sides by optional outer layers  406  and  408 . Layers  402 ,  404 ,  406  and  408  can be directly adjacent each other, or one or more adhesive layers, such as adhesive layers  410 ,  412  and  414  can be used to couple layers  402 ,  404 ,  406  and  408  together. Cover  400  can be arranged within an electronic device such that outer layer  406  covers an underlying cable and outer layer  408  is viewable to a user. 
     Abrasion resistant layer  402  can be configured to resist cutting, puncturing, and gouging forces that may be encountered by cover  400  from direct exposure to a user. Abrasion resistant layer  402  may also have sufficient structural rigidity and resilience to create the return force necessary to return to an original configuration, as described above. In some embodiments, abrasion resistant layer  402  includes an abrasion resistant material interweaved within a base material. Interweaving an abrasion resistant material with a base material can reduce the z-height of the cover  400 . In some embodiments, abrasion resistant layer  402  includes a para-aramid synthetic fiber such as Kevlar™. 
     Structural layer  404  can be used to provide an extra rigidity to cover  400  in case abrasion resistance layer  402  is not rigid enough. Structural layer  404  can be used in conjunction with abrasion resistant layer  402  to reduce the z-height of the cover  400 . Structural layer  404  can be made of any suitable material that imparts structural rigidity to the cover  400 . For example, abrasion resistant material can be glass and/or carbon fiber material embedded within a base polymer material such as polyurethane. In some embodiments, the cover  400  includes of a number of structurally rigid layers  404 . 
     In some embodiments, the abrasion resistant layer  402  can also be sufficiently rigid to impart structural rigidity to the cover  400 . In such instances, the cover  400  can include only an abrasion resistant layer  402  that sufficiently provides structural rigidity as a cover  400 . In such an instance, both surfaces of the abrasion resistant layer  402  functions as an upper and lower layer for the cover  400 . In some embodiments, where the abrasion resistant layer  402  is combined with another layer (e.g., structural layer  404 ), the abrasion resistant layer  402  can function as an outer (upper) layer that corresponds to a visible part of the cover  400 . In some embodiments, the abrasion resistant layer  402  can function as an outer (bottom) layer that corresponds to a non-visible part of cover  400 . 
     In some embodiments, the structural layer  404  can also be made of abrasion resistant materials, such as glass and/or carbon fiber material embedded within a base polymer material. In some instances, the cover  400  can include only a structural layer  404  that imparts the flex cable (see ref.  310 ,  FIG. 3 ) with puncture-resistance from foreign particles. In such an instance, both surfaces of the structural layer  404  functions as an upper and lower layer for the cover  400 . In some embodiments, where the structural layer  404  is combined with another layer (e.g., abrasion resistant layer  402 ), the structural layer can function as an outer (upper) layer that corresponds to a visible part of the cover  400 . In some embodiments, the structural layer  404  can function as an outer (bottom) layer that corresponds to a non-visible part of cover  400 . 
     In some embodiments, the abrasion resistant layer  402  and the structural layer  404  can be combined into a single layer to form the cover  400 . For example, the single layer of the cover  400  can be composed of glass and/or carbon fiber material embedded within a base polymer material and including an abrasion resistant base material such as a para-aramid synthetic fiber to reinforce the cover  400 . 
     In some embodiments, cover  400  includes outer layers  406  and  408 . Outer layer  408  can correspond to a visible part of cover  400 , and thus can be a cosmetic layer. In some embodiments, outer layer  408  has a color that matches or contrasts with a color of a corresponding mandrel surface, imparting an aesthetically pleasing finish to the mandrel/cover assembly. Outer layer  408  can also have a predetermined texture, such as a specific smoothness, roughness, or shininess. Outer layer  406  can be used to seal and protect structural layer  404 . Outer layers  406  and  408  can be integrally formed with respective structural layer  404  and/or the abrasion resistant layer  402 . Alternatively, outer layers  406  and  408  can be adhered to the structural layer  404  and/or abrasion resistant layer  402  with adhesive layers  410  and  414 , respectively. Note that in some embodiments cover  400  includes outer layer  406  and not outer layer  408 ; while in other embodiments cover  400  includes outer layer  408  and not outer layer  406 . In particular embodiments, outer layers  406  and  408  are made of a polymer material, such as polyurethane. 
     A tensioning mechanism may be used to replace or supplement a return force of a cover. The tension provided by the tensioning mechanism may be constant or they may vary with movement of the cover. The tensioning mechanism can be used to pull the cover in a particular direction or directions. Some of these embodiments are shown at  FIGS. 5A-5C . For simplicity, the cross sectional views of  FIGS. 5A-5C  do not include cables that are covered by the covers. However, it should be understood that such cables can be included, as described above with reference to  FIGS. 3A-3B . 
       FIG. 5A  shows a cross sectional view of electronic device  501  with cover  502  having an elastic section  504  acting as a tensioning mechanism. Elastic section  504  can be coupled with second housing  516  such that when cover  502  is bent over curved surface  506  of mandrel  508 , a return force is exerted on cover  502 . The return force pulls cover  502  toward cavity  510  when the display housing  507  is rotated from an open to a closed position. 
       FIG. 5B  shows a cross sectional view of electronic device  503  with cover  502  coupled to a spiral torsion spring  512 . Spiral torsion spring  512  can be coupled to second housing  516  using one or more fasteners or adhesive. Spiral torsion spring  512  can exert a return force on the cover  502  proportional to a distance cover  502  is away from the spiral torsion spring  512 . 
       FIG. 5C  shows a cross sectional view of electronic device  505  with cover  502  coupled to coil spring  514 . Coil spring  514  can be coupled to second housing  516  such that when cover  502  is bent over curved surface  506  of mandrel  508 , a return force is exerted on cover  502 , returning cover  502  toward cavity  510  when the display housing  507  is rotated from an open to a closed position. 
       FIG. 5D  shows a cross sectional view of electronic device  505  in a closed position, and where the electronic device  505  includes a cover  502  coupled to a leaf spring  518 . Leaf spring  518  can be coupled to second housing  516  such that when cover  502  is bent over curved surface  506  of mandrel  508 , a return force is exerted on cover  502 , returning cover  502  toward cavity  510  when the display housing  507  is rotated from an open to a closed position. 
     The leaf spring  518  can refer to a spring structure having a substantially cantilevered beam as shown in  FIG. 5E .  FIG. 5E  shows a perspective view of the electronic device  505  with cover  502  coupled to the leaf spring  518  of  FIG. 5D .  FIG. 5E  shows that each end of a cover  502  is coupled to the leaf spring  518 . The leaf spring  518  can include leaf spring arms  520  and a fixed point  522 . The fixed point  522  can be positioned at a length that is halfway along the length of the leaf spring arms  520 . The leaf spring arms  520  can refer to a double leaf spring arm. As shown in  FIG. 5E , the double leaf spring arm  520  is balanced by a load on both ends of the arms  520 . The double leaf spring arm  520  can provide an amount of tension force (TF) on the cover  502  as the cover  502  is returned towards the cavity  510  when the display housing  507  is rotated from an open to a closed position. Contrarily, the leaf spring arms  520  can provide a reactionary force (RF) on the electronic device  505 , which opposes the direction of the tension force (TF). Implementation of a leaf spring tensioning mechanism in the electronic device can impart more balance in loading on the structure of the electronic device. In addition, the leaf spring tensioning mechanism can impart little to zero moment/rotation loads that would be imparted on the structure of the electronic device. 
       FIG. 5E  shows that the leaf spring arm  520  can include a single linear metal strip arm that includes two ends. Each end of the arm  520  is attached to an end of a cover  502 . In some embodiments, the leaf spring arms  520  can include a plurality of strips of linear or slightly curved metal strips that are attached or clamped together to form the leaf spring arms  520 . 
     The arms of the leaf spring  518  can be manufactured from spring steel, according to some embodiments. Spring steel refers to steel or steel alloys having a high yield strength. When spring steel is subjected to twisting or deflection forces that cause the spring steel to deviate from its original shape, the high yield strength imparts the spring steel with the capability to substantially return to its original shape. Accordingly, the spring steel can impart a return force on the cover  502  as the cover  502  is returned towards the cavity  510  when the display housing  507  is rotated from an open to a closed position. In some examples, the spring steel can have a yield strength between about 60 ksi to about 150 ksi. KSI refers to the ultimate tensile strength of any material. 1 KSI can refer to one thousand pounds per square inch. In some embodiments, the spring steel can have a high spring constant. 
     Although  FIG. 5E  illustrates that the leaf spring arm  520  can have a substantially linear configuration, in some embodiments, the arms of the leaf spring  518  can have a substantially elliptical configuration. 
     The tensioning mechanisms of  FIGS. 5A-5E  can provide a number of benefits. For example, the tensioning mechanism can keep cover  502  substantially flatly over mandrel  508  so as to provide controlled movement of cover  502  during pivotal movement of electronic device  501 . In addition, the tensioning mechanism can prevent or mitigate jamming of cover  502  from contamination material (e.g., particles, fluid, etc.) during pivotal movement of electronic device  300 . Furthermore, the tensioning mechanism can act as a retention mechanism for cover  502  by retaining cover  502  within the stepped channel that cover  502  traverses proximate to anchor  509 . It should be noted that the tensioning mechanism configurations shown in  FIGS. 5A-5E  are exemplary and any suitable mechanism or combination of tensioning mechanisms for exerting a return force to cover  502  can be used. For example, one or more extension spring, torsion spring, constant force spring, metallic spring or flexure, elastic material (e.g., woven or monolithic) and/or magnetic mechanism can be used. 
       FIG. 6  shows flowchart  600  indicating a process for protecting a cable routed between hinged portions of an electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments. At  602 , a cable is routed between a first portion and a second portion through a hinge region of the electronic device. The first portion can correspond to a lid portion having a display and the second portion can correspond to base portion of a laptop computer. The cable may electrically couple an electronic component within the first portion with an electronic component within the second portion. The hinge region can include a mandrel having a curved surface. The cable can be positioned such that the cable is drawn over a surface of the mandrel when the electronic device rotates from a closed state to an open state. A surface of the cable can be exposed at the hinge region of the electronic device when the electronic device is in an open state. The cable can include one or more flex cables. 
     At  604 , the exposed surface of the cable is covered with a cover. The cover can be positioned over the cable such that the cover is drawn over the cable and the mandrel when the electronic device is rotated from the closed state to the open state. The cover can be characterized as having a flexibility sufficient to bend with the cable over the mandrel when the electronic device is rotated from a closed to an open position, and a rigidity sufficient to provide a restoring force that returns the cover to an original configuration when the electronic device is rotated back to the closed position. The cover can cover a side of the cable that would otherwise be exposed when the electronic device is in the open state. In this way, the cover can be visible to a user of the electronic device and be exposed to external forces such as cutting and abrasive forces. Thus, the cover can also be made of a durable material that is resistant to cutting and/or abrasion. In some embodiments, the cover has multiple layers of material in order to accomplish these and other desired functionalities. In some embodiments, the cover includes a cosmetic layer that corresponds to a visible portion of the cover and that has a desired aesthetic characteristic, such as a predetermined color and/or texture. 
     Mandrel Cover 
       FIGS. 7-9  show another embodiment of a cover that is designed to conceal not only cables but also portions of the mandrel that would otherwise be exposed to a user.  FIG. 7  shows a perspective view of a hinge portion of electronic device  700  having a cover  702  that conceals underlying cables (e.g., flex circuits) and a mandrel from view of a user of electronic device  700 . Electronic device  700  includes first portion  706  that is pivotally coupled to second portion  708  of electronic device  700 . Cover includes cable-covering section  702   a , which is drawn over underlying cables, and mandrel-covering section  702   b , which is drawn over remaining portions of the mandrel. That is, mandrel-covering section  702   b  prevents the mandrel from being exposed when electronic device  700  is in the open state. In this way, cable-covering section  702   a  and mandrel-covering section  702   b  can cover substantially all portions of the underlying mandrel and cables, resulting in a cosmically consistent and appealing appearance. In some embodiments, mandrel-covering section  702   b  is coupled to and does not move with respect to the mandrel during the pivoting opening and closing action of electronic device  700 . 
       FIGS. 8A and 8B  shows plan views of cover  702  prior to assembly into electronic device  700 , in accordance with some embodiments.  FIG. 8A  shows cover  702  prior to application of adhesive  802 , and  FIG. 8B  shows cover  702  with adhesive  802  applied thereon. As shown cover  702  can include a single piece of material where cable-covering section  702   a  extends off of mandrel-covering section  702   b . Mandrel-covering section  702   b  fully or partially wraps around the mandrel while cable-covering section  702   a  extends within second portion  708  of electronic device  700 . Adhesive  802  can be used to adhere mandrel-covering section  702   b  to the mandrel. Slits  800  are cut within cover  702  to allow cable-covering section  702   a  to freely move with respect to mandrel-covering section  702   b  during pivoting movement of first portion  706  with respect second portion  708  of electronic device  700 . 
     As described above, cover  702  can be made of a flexible material (or layers of materials) that is not susceptible to creasing or crinkling during pivoting of first portion  706  relative to second portion  708  of electronic device. In addition, cover  702  can be made of a durable enough material to withstand wear and tear that can be accompanied with direct exposure to a user of electronic device  700 . One of the advantages of cover  702 , including cable-covering section  702   a  and mandrel-covering section  702   b , being made of continuous sheet of material (or layers of material) is to reduce any alignment errors that can occur compared to if cable-covering section  702   a  and cover  702  were made of separate pieces of material. In some embodiments, slits  800  are cut using a laser to assure that cable-covering section  702   a  remains tightly adjacent to mandrel-covering section  702   b  and that any gap formed between cable-covering section  702   a  and mandrel-covering section  702   b  is not visible to a user. In addition, the precision of laser cutting can assure that material of cover  702  does not fray along edge of slits  800 . 
     Note that  FIGS. 8A and 8B  show an embodiment where cable-covering section  702   a  includes two extending portions of material. It should be noted, however, that in other embodiments the cable-covering section  702   a  can include one extending portion, or more than two extending portions, as dictated by design requirements. In addition, in other embodiments, cable-covering section  702   a  is completely separated from mandrel-covering section  702   b.    
       FIG. 9  shows a cross sectional view of a portion of electronic device  700  in a closed state with cover  702  assembled therein, in accordance with some embodiments. First portion  706  of electronic device  700  is configured to pivot with respect to second portion  708  of electronic device  700  about pivot axis  902  of hinge region  904 . Cover  702  is positioned over and hides cable  910 , which enters into cavity  901  of second portion  708 . The cable  910  can provide electrical communication between first portion  706  and second portion  708 . Cable-covering section  702   a  of cover  702  covers cable  910 , while mandrel-covering section  702   b  (dashed line) covers mandrel  908  such that mandrel  908  is not visible to a user of electronic device  700  when in an open position. Mandrel-covering section  702   b  can be coupled to mandrel  908  using, for example, adhesive  802 . 
     Tensioning Mechanism for Flex Cable Cover 
     As discussed above with reference to  FIGS. 5A-5E , a tensioning mechanism, such as a spring, can exert a return force to a cover to control movement of the cover when a display housing is rotated from an open to a closed position. In some embodiments, the spring can be combined with a shaft forming tensioning mechanism  1004 .  FIG. 10  shows a cross sectional view of electronic device  1001  having a cover  1002  engaged with rotating tensioning mechanism  1004 . Tensioning mechanism  1004  can include a cylindrical shaft coupled to a retraction spring. The cylindrical shaft can be located perpendicular to cover  1002  such that cover  1002  can be drawn over an outer surface of the cylindrical shaft. The retraction spring can be designed to exert a rotational torque on the shaft, drawing cover  1002  over the surface of the cylindrical shaft and providing tension in cover  1002 . In some embodiments, the retraction spring can be a constant force spring, exerting a substantially constant rotational force on the cylindrical shaft, and thus cover  1002 . The spring can be a coil spring, or a pre-stressed flat strip of spring material which is formed into virtually constant radius coils around itself or on a drum. As display housing  1010  is rotated from an open to a closed position, tensioning mechanism  1004  can draw cover  1002  over a curved outer surface of tensioning mechanism  1004 , allowing for a compact and isolated tensioning mechanism  1004 . 
     Cover  1002  can be coupled to tensioning mechanism  1004  by engagement feature  1014  located at an end of cover  1002 . Engagement feature  1014  can be recessed into tensioning mechanism  1004  such that cover  1002  can be drawn fully around the outer surface of tensioning mechanism  1004 . In some embodiments, engagement feature  1014  can include an expanded section of cover  1002 . The expanded section of cover  1002  can retain cover  1002  within a slot in tensioning mechanism  1004 . 
     Tensioning Mechanism Assembly 
       FIGS. 11A-11B  illustrate perspective views of an electronic device  1100  having a tensioning mechanism assembly  1120 .  FIG. 11A  shows the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can be mechanically coupled to an end of the cover  1102 . The cover  1102  can be drawn over a curved surface  1106  of the mandrel  1108 . The tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can include a frame  1124 , a shaft  1128 , a spring  1130 , and large diameter bushings  1126 . The large diameter bushings  1126  can capture the shaft  1128  and spring  1130  in a position within the frame  1124 . 
     In some embodiments, the spring  1130  can refer to a coil spring, or a pre-stressed flat strip of spring material which is formed into virtually constant radius coils around itself or on a drum. In some embodiments, the spring  1130  can refer to two independently joined spring coils that are coupled to each other at their respective ends. One example of a coil spring which can be implemented as spring  1130  within the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  is a spiral torsion spring  512  (see  FIG. 5B ). 
       FIG. 11B  shows a perspective view of the individual components (e.g.,  1124 ,  1126 ,  1128 ,  1130 ,  1132 ) of the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  prior to being assembled.  FIG. 11B  shows the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can be mechanically coupled to an end of the cover  1102 . The cover  1102  can be drawn over a curved surface  1106  of the mandrel  1108 .  FIG. 11B  shows that the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can include a frame  1124  having c-cutouts  1132 . The c-cutouts  1132  can be machined from the frame  1124 . The tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can further include a spring  1130  and a shaft  1128 . Furthermore, the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can include large diameter bushings  1126 . The shaft  1128  can have a small diameter (or shape and size) which is sufficient to be fitted within the dimensions of the openings of the c-cutout  1132 . Once the shaft  1128  is fitted within the openings of the c-cutout  1132 , the shaft  1128  can be capped off and secured with a large diameter bushing  1126 . Accordingly,  FIG. 11B  illustrates that the components of the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can be assembled outside of the cavity of the electronic device. Thereafter, the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can be installed into a cavity (see ref.  510 ,  FIG. 5 ) of the electronic device  1100 . The large diameter bushings  1126  can capture (or lock) in place the shaft  1128  and spring  1130  within the c-cutouts  1132  of the frame  1124 . Accordingly, the shaft  1128  also becomes captured (or locked) into position. In some embodiments, the large diameter bushings  1126  can be captured in place of the shaft  1128  by using spring edges, snaps, light interference fits, or other retaining features. 
     By using a structural frame  1124  to include the various components of the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120 , the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can be assembled independently of the electronic device. At least one or more of the various components (e.g.,  1124 ,  1126 ,  1128 ,  1130 ,  1132 ) of the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120 ) can be small and complex such that assembling in an assembly can permit testing of the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  prior to being fitted within the electronic device  1100 . In this manner, any defects or complications regarding the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  can be detected in an isolated environment. 
       FIG. 11C  illustrates a cross sectional view of the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120 .  FIG. 11C  illustrates that once the various components (e.g.,  1124 ,  1126 ,  1128 ,  1130 ,  1132 ) of the tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  are assembled, the large diameter bushings  1126  can be captured within the frame  1124  such that the large diameter bushings  1126  cannot move outside of the structure of the electronic device  1100 . 
       FIG. 11D  illustrates a perspective view of tensioning mechanism assembly  1120  having a torsion spring tensioner implementation  1130 , according to some embodiments. The torsion spring tensioner implementation  1130  can refer to a double torsion spring. In conventional techniques, two individual springs, which are not connected, can rotate perpendicular to their coil axis as they are loaded. However, such a configuration can induce inner shaft rubbing and induce stress on the individual springs.  FIG. 11D  illustrates that the double torsion spring refers to two oppositely wound springs  1140 ,  1150  can be coupled to each other. By connecting an end of spring  1140  to an end of spring  1150 , the spring mechanism becomes more balanced and more stable by minimizing or eliminating stress on the individual springs and inner shaft rubbing. 
     Tensioning Mechanism for Flex Cable Cover 
       FIGS. 12A  thru  12 C show perspective views of exemplary retaining features of a cover.  FIG. 12A  shows cover  1201  having retaining feature  1202  that is configured to engage with tensioning mechanism  1204 . The retaining feature  1202  includes a portion having a sufficient thickness “t” such that retaining feature  1202  cannot be pulled through slot  1206  of tensioning mechanism  1204 . In some embodiments, cover  1201 , prior to the formation of retaining feature  1202 , is passed through slot  1206  in tensioning mechanism  1204 . Retaining feature  1202  having a thickness “t” is formed on a portion of cover  1201  such that cover  1201  cannot be retracted from slot  1206 . Cover  1201 , and retaining feature  1202  can be pulled back into slot  1206 , engaging retaining feature  1202  and slot  1206 . 
     Retaining feature  1202  can include first section  1210  folded over and secured to remaining section  1212  of cover  1201  forming a hem. The increased thickness “t” created of the hem prevents cover  1201  from disengaging from slot  1206  in tensioning mechanism  1204 . In some embodiments, first section  1210  can be secured to remaining section  1212  using adhesive. The adhesive can be a heat activated adhesive that is located between the stacked layers of cover material forming the hem, or retaining feature  1202 . The heat activated adhesive can be placed on the cover material and heat can be applied to the folded over section during assembly of the cover. In some embodiments, first section  1210  is secured to remaining section  1212  through stitches  1214  sewn through the stacked layers of cover material that form retaining feature  1202 . Stitches  1214  can provide increased shear strength over adhesive, particularly when surface area available for adhesive is minimal. In further embodiments, both stitches  1214  and an adhesive can be used to secure the layers of cover material. 
     Additionally, slot  1206  can include a wedged area  1217  that produces a compressive force on retaining feature  1202  when cover  1201  is pulled back through slot  1206 . This compressive force can increase shear strength between adhered layers of cover material, decreasing a likelihood of retaining feature  1202  from separating. The width of slot  1206  can be chosen to allow cover  1201 , without retaining feature  1202 , to pass through slot  1206 . In some embodiments, the width of slot  1206  can be larger than the thickness of cover  1201 . Thickness “t” of retaining feature  1202  can be chosen such that retaining feature  1202  cannot pass through slot  1206 . The desired thickness “t” of retaining feature  1202  can be chosen to prevent retaining feature  1202  from passing through slot  1206 , while allowing retaining feature  1202  to sit recessed in wedge  1216 . 
       FIG. 12B  shows cover  1203  having multiple folded sections of cover material that increase thickness “t” of retaining feature  1218 . Although two folds are shown, any number of folds can be used to achieve a desired thickness “t” of retaining feature  1218 . The increased thickness provided by multiple folded sections can decrease creep, or slippage of retaining feature  1218  within a slot in the tensioning mechanism. Folded layers can be secured using stitching or adhesive, or a combination of the two. 
       FIG. 12C  shows cover  1205  having a retaining feature  1220 , according to some embodiments. Retaining feature  1220  can include a removable enlarging element  1222 , such as a pin. Pin  1222  can placed during an assembly process of cover  1205  to set the location of retaining feature  1220  relative to a reference datum, such as an opposing mounting location of cover  1205 . A hem can be formed around pin  1222 , forming retaining feature  1220 . The hem can be secured using adhesive, stitching or any similar securing method. The use of a removable enlarging element  1222  allows retaining feature  1220  to be formed in a distinct and separate process from the assembly of cover  1205  and the tensioning mechanism. 
     Pin  1222  can be removed during assembly of cover  1205  to a tensioning mechanism. A slot in the tensioning mechanism can be sized to allow retaining feature  1220  without pin  1222  to pass through. Pin  1222  can then be installed in retaining feature  1220 , expanding retaining feature  1220  such that retaining feature  1220  cannot pass back through the slot, thus locking retaining feature  1220  to the tensioning mechanism. 
       FIG. 13  shows a perspective view of an exemplary anchor  1302  used to secure cover  1304  opposite a tensioning mechanism. Anchor  1302  can secure cover  1304  to a lid portion of an electronic device, and provide an anchor for a tensioning mechanism located on an opposing side of cover  1304 . Cover  1304  can be secured to anchor  1302  through adhesive, hooks, castellations or other mechanical interlocks. In some embodiments, anchor  1302  includes hooks  1306 . Hooks  1306  can be arranged on anchor  1302  such that hooks  1306  protrude through slits  1308  in cover  1304 , thus forming a mechanical interlock between cover  1304  to anchor  1302 . Adhesive can be used in combination with hooks  1306  and located where cover  1304  contacts the surface of anchor  1302 . Wrapping cover  1304  around anchor  1302  can increase a surface area available for adhesive to couple cover  1304  to anchor  1302 . When using a high tensile strength material for cover  1304 , the mechanical interlock between cover  1304  and anchor  1302  can provide sufficient strength to prevent cover  1304  from creeping, or slipping after installation. In some embodiments, the geometry of hooks  1306  can be chosen to resist bending under tension and balance ease of cover  1304  installation with resistance of cover  1304  to pull off of hooks  1306 . Hooks  1306  can include slits  1308 , forming castellations. Castellations can capture cover  1304  during installation, resisting cover  1304  from pulling off hooks  1306 . A hook ratio, defined as the relationship between the neck  1310  of hook  1306  and width  1313  of hook  1306  can be chosen to balance the bending strength of hooks  1306  with ease of fabric installation and resistance of cover to pull off hooks  1306 . Additionally, the height of castellation, or fabric thickness opening of castellations, can be chosen to accommodate variations in cover  1304  thickness. 
     Foreign Particle Handling Components of the Mandrel 
       FIGS. 14-17  refer to foreign particle handling components of the hinged electronic device, according to various embodiments. 
     As discussed above with reference to  FIGS. 3A-3B , a hinged electronic device can rotate from an open to a closed position.  FIGS. 14A-14B  show a cross sectional view of a hinged electronic device  1400  and an alternative cross sectional view of a portion of the mandrel of the hinged electronic device  1400 , respectively, according to some embodiments. 
       FIG. 14A  shows the hinged electronic device  1400  in a closed configuration. The hinged electronic device includes a first portion  1402  and a second portion  1404 . A cable  1410  can take on a curved shape in accordance with the curved surface of a mandrel  1418  when the electronic device  1400  is rotated from an open configuration to a closed configuration. The cable  1410  can provide electrical connection between an electrical component  1411  of first portion  1402  and an electronic component  1412  of second portion  1404 . 
     When electronic device  1400  is in an open configuration (as shown in  FIG. 3B ), foreign particles  1442  can become deposited between a bottom surface of the cover  1422  and a surface  1420  of a mandrel  1418  such that the particles  1442  become trapped or lodged. In some examples, the particles  1442  can become deposited between the cable  1410  and the upper surface of the mandrel  1418 . In some examples, foreign particles  1442  can be introduced by way of a ventilation gap  1424  or crevices of the hinged electronic device  1400 . Examples of particles  1442  can include sand, sugar, salts, debris, and other similar particles encountered during normal use of electronic device  1400 . In some cases, particles  1442  have hard and sharp surfaces, and are generally not very deformable. In some cases, the particles  1442  can range in size between about 10 micrometers to about 1 millimeter in size. Having particles  1442  deposited between the cover  1422  and the cable  1410  and/or the mandrel  1418  can be undesirable in that the particles  1442  can damage cause damage to the hinged electronic device  1400  by piercing or gouging through the cover  1422  and the cable  1410 . In some examples, when the hinged electronic device transitions from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the cable  1410  or cover  1422  can become tensioned as it wraps around the surface of the mandrel  1418 . Accordingly, the hard and sharp surfaces of the particles  1442  which are lodged between the cover  1422  and the cable  1410  and/or mandrel  1418  surface will rub against these components causing premature failure and fraying of the cover  1422  and/or cable  1410 . In addition, in some examples, frequent and repeated rotation between the first portion  1402  and the second portion  1404  of the hinged electronic device can further exacerbate the damage to the cover  1422  and the cable  1410  when the particles  1442  protrude against these components. 
     To address handling foreign particles  1442 ,  FIG. 14B  shows that the electronic device  1400  includes a mandrel  1418  that can include a channel or pathway or trough  1440  positioned along the outer surface  1420  of the mandrel  1418  (referring to  FIG. 14B ), according to some embodiments. The openings or inlets  1436  of the channels  1440  can be large enough to accommodate various sizes of different particles. In some examples, the average width of the inlets  1436  can be about 2 mm in width. In other examples, the average width of the inlets  1436  can be between 1 millimeter and 2 millimeters. In other examples, average width of the inlets  1436  can be between about 2 millimeters to about 3 millimeters. 
     In some embodiments, the surface  1420  of the mandrel  1418  can include an anti-static electricity coating or agent. The antistatic agent can reduce or eliminate buildup of static electricity on the mandrel  1418 . By applying an antistatic agent on the surface  1420  of the mandrel  1418 , can also facilitate a reduction in dust or dirt particles along the surface  1420 . 
     A distance between an exterior surface of the hinged electronic device  1400  and the ventilation gap  1424  is represented by a distance “d” which spans a dimensional value of the mandrel  1418 . 
       FIG. 14B  shows an alternate cross sectional view of the mandrel  1418  adjacent to the cable  1410  and a flex cover  1422 , according to some embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 14B , the cable  1410  is drawn against a portion of the outer surface  1420  of the mandrel. Portions of the outer surface  1420  can be cut away to provide inlets  1436  for the channels  1440 . In some embodiments, a lower surface of the cable  1410  does not obscure or block the inlets  1436  of the channels  1440 . Accordingly, particles  1442  can more readily pass through the inlets  1436 . In other embodiments, the particles  1442  can be forced into inlets  1436  by movement or a rubbing motion of the cable  1410  against the surface  1420 . In some examples, when a particle  1442  is lodged between the cable  1410  and the outer surface  1420  of the mandrel  1418 , a repeated rubbing motion between the cable  1410  and the mandrel  1418  can push or nudge the particle  1442  along the surface  1420  of the mandrel  1418  towards the inlets  1436 . Accordingly, repeatedly transitioning the hinged electronic device between an open configuration and a closed configuration can facilitate in driving the particle  1442  towards an inlet  1436 . In some embodiments, driving the particle  1442  towards the inlet  1436  can be intentional movement. In other embodiments, the driving mechanism can be random. Thereafter, the particles  1442  can pass through the pathways  1440  via gravity. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14B , a gap “G” (or division) can separate the underlying surface of the cable  1410  and the outer surface  1420  of the mandrel  1418 , according to some embodiments. The gap “G” can be sufficiently small such that particles  1442  are unable to be lodged between the cable  1410  and the outer surface  1420 , but the gap “G” can also be large enough to prevent the cable  1410  from abrading or rubbing against the surface  1420  of the mandrel  1418 . In some embodiments, the gap “G” between the cable  1410  and the outer surface  1420  of the mandrel  1418  can widen depending on the amount of slack or amount of tension in the cable  1410  while the hinged electronic device  1400  transitions between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In some embodiments, as the hinged electronic device  1400  is oriented progressively towards the open configuration, the gap “G” between the cable  1410  and the outer surface  1420  of the mandrel  1418  can progressively decrease due to the increased amount of tension in the cable  1410 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 14B , the channels  1440  are uniformly spaced apart along the surface  1420 , according to some embodiments. In other embodiments, the channels  1440  can be spaced irregularly or in a non-uniform fashion along the surface  1420 . Once particles are captured by the channels  1440 , the particles  1442  can pass from the inlets  1436  and along the length of the channels  1440  until reaching an outlet  1426 , which is positioned on another portion of the surface  1420 . In some embodiments, the outlets  1426  may be positioned adjacent to the ventilation gap  1424  such that particles  1442  can fall through the ventilation gap  1424 . In other embodiments, the particles  1442  can be aided by a fan on board the device or an air compressor to funnel particles  1442  through the channels  1440  of the mandrel  1418 . That is, channels  1440  can be connected to a forced air source such that particles  1442  are flushed out of channels  1440  via outlets  1426 . 
       FIGS. 15A-15B  illustrate another embodiment of a component for handling foreign particles deposited in a hinged electronic device  1500 .  FIGS. 15A-15B  show a perspective view and a cross sectional view of a hinged electronic device  1500 , respectively, in accordance with some embodiments.  FIG. 15A  illustrates the hinged electronic device  1500  in a closed configuration. The hinged electronic device  1500  can include a first portion  1502  and a second portion  1504 . The hinged electronic device  1500  can include a cable  1510  that can provide electrical communication between the first portion  1502  and the second portion  1504 . As shown in  FIG. 15A , when the electronic device is in the closed configuration, the cable  1510  can be drawn over a curved surface of a mandrel  1518  to keep the cable  1510  from bucking or folding. Thus, a portion of the cable  1510  can take on a curved shape in accordance with the curved surface of the mandrel  1518 . The mandrel  1518  can be positioned adjacent to a ventilation gap  1524 . 
     The mandrel  1518  can be manufactured from a soft material having a high degree of compression and having a rebounding force, according to some embodiments. When the mandrel  1518  is exposed to stress or strain energy, the material of the mandrel  1518  is capable of substantially returning to its original shape or geometry when the source of the stress is removed. The composition of the mandrel  1518  can prevent the particle from contacting the cable  1510  and cause damage or premature failure to the cable  1510 . The soft mandrel  1518  can distribute the compression forces or pressure of the particle  1542  applied against the mandrel  1518  evenly. In some embodiments, the material of the mandrel  1518  can exhibit a high degree of compression force when a particle  1542  is pressed against the surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518 . In some examples, a particle  1542  can become lodged or trapped between an outer surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518  and an underlying surface of the cable  1510 . As the particle  1542  is pressed or nudged against the surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518 , the surface of the particle  1542  becomes substantially more flush with the surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518  such that a substantially minimal portion or no portion of the particle  1542  protrudes relative to the surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518 . Accordingly, as the cable  1510  is drawn over the curved outer surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518 , the lodged particle is compressed against the outer surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518  such that the lodged particle  1542  no longer protrudes or pierces against the underlying surface of the cable  1510 . 
     In some examples, the soft material of the mandrel  1518  can have a Shore A scale of 20 for rubber hardness. The Shore A scale is one measure of a material&#39;s hardness or resistance to permanent indentation. A durometer can be used to measure Shore hardness. In one example, a durometer can measure the depth of an indentation in a material created by a given amount of force or pressure applied against the material. Generally, the Shore A scale can range between 0 to 100, where a Shore A value of 0 indicates that the material can be described generally as extra soft. In contrast, a Shore A value of 100 indicates that the material can be described generally as extra hard. By way of example, the material of the mandrel  1518  can be comprised to of one or more elastomer-like compounds, including silicone rubber, polyurethane, ethlyene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene rubber, and the like. According to some embodiments, the mandrel can be compression molded. 
     When the source of the pressure (e.g., particle  1542 ) applied against the mandrel  1518  is removed, the mandrel  1518  can be capable of “bouncing back” or “pushing back” against the pressure applied by the so that over time, the mandrel will return to substantially its original molded shape and/or form. In other embodiments, the mandrel  1518  can be made of a material which can progressively push the particle  1542  out and towards the ventilation gap  1524 . 
       FIG. 15B  shows a cross sectional view of the mandrel  1518  according to some embodiments.  FIG. 15B  illustrates a particle  1542  deposited along the outer surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518 . As the particle is pushed against the outer surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518 , the mandrel  1518  can be compressed. As shown in  FIG. 15B , the particles  1542  can be deposited along substantially across any portion of the outer surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518 . The material of the mandrel  1518  can distribute the force/pressure applied by the particle  1542  in an equal amount across the surface of the mandrel  1518 . As shown in  FIG. 15B , a gap “G” can separate the underlying surface of the cable  1510  and the outer surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518 , according to some embodiments. The gap “G” can be sufficiently small such that particles  1542  are unable to be lodged between the cable  1510  and the outer surface  1520 , in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the gap “G” between the cable  1510  and the outer surface  1520  can accommodate a particle  1542 . As the hinged electronic device  1500  transitions from a closed configuration to an open configuration, the cable  1510  can progressively wrap around the curved surface of the mandrel  1518 . As the hinged electronic device  1500  is oriented progressively towards the open configuration, the gap “G” between the cable  1510  and the outer surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518  can progressively decrease due to the increased amount of tension in the cable  1510 . As the gap “G” decreases, any foreign particles  1542  lodged in the gap “G” can be driven or nudged by the cable  1510  against the surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518 . The particle  1542  can become compressed within the outer surface  1520  and surrounded by the material of the soft mandrel  1518 . Accordingly, any repeated rubbing between the underlying surface of the cable  1510  and the mandrel  1518  will not cause the particle to pierce or gouge against the cable  1510 . After a period of time, the soft material of the mandrel can “bounce back” or push the particle  1542  out such that the outer surface  1520  of the mandrel  1518  can resume its original molded shape, according to some embodiments. 
       FIGS. 16A-16B  illustrate another embodiment of a component for handling particles deposited in a hinged electronic device  1600 .  FIGS. 16A-16B  show a perspective view and a cross sectional view of a hinged electronic device  1600 , respectively, in accordance with some embodiments.  FIG. 16A  shows the hinged electronic device  1600  in a closed configuration. The electronic device  1600  includes a cable  1610 , which provides electrical communication between the first portion  1602  and the second portion  1604 . For example, the cable  1610  can provide electrical connection between electronic component  1611  of first portion  1602  and electronic component  1612  of the second portion  1604 . The cable  1610  can be any suitable type of cable, including a cable, a flexible printed circuit board, or any suitable mechanism for transmitting an electrical signal between the portions  1602  and  1604 . The cable  1610  can be bonded to a woven laminate layer  1660  so as to form a one-piece construction. In some embodiments, the upper surface of the woven laminate layer  1660  can be bonded to the underlying surface of the cable  1610  along select portions of the cable  1610  such that both the woven laminate layer  1660  and the cable  1610  move in parallel. In some examples, the parallel movement is demonstrated as the hinged electronic device  1600  is rotated about a hinge  1606  from a closed configuration to an open configuration such that the woven laminate layer  1660  can move in parallel with the cable  1610 . In some embodiments, the woven laminate layer  1660  can extend the length of the cable such that the woven laminate layer  1660  is also tethered to a retention rib  1607  of the second portion  1604  and an anchor  1609  of the first portion  1602 . In other embodiments, the woven laminate layer  1660  can be bonded to only a portion of the cable  1610  that can be likely to contact the mandrel  1618  (i.e., along the curved surface of the mandrel). 
     The dimensions of the woven laminate layer  1660  bonded to the cable  1610  can mirror the dimensions of the cable  1610 , according to some embodiments. In some examples, the width and length of the woven laminate layer  1660  are sufficiently wide and long enough to provide a physical barrier for the entire underlying surface of the cable  1610 . The woven laminate layer  1660  can be drawn over the mandrel  1618  and bend as a result when the hinged electronic device  1600  is provided in an open configuration. In some embodiments, bonding the woven laminate layer  1660  to the cable  1610  so as to form a one-piece configuration can impart increased rigidity and resistance to fraying to the cable  1610 . 
     The woven laminate layer  1660  can have an inherent rigidity and resilience that generates resistance force when the woven laminate layer  1660  is bent over the mandrel  1618  when the electronic device  1600  is moved from a closed configuration to an open configuration. In some embodiments, as the woven laminate layer  1660  is bonded or coupled to the cable  1610 , the woven laminate layer  1660  is also prevented from buckling or folding under tension during e.g., transitioning from the closed configuration to the open configuration. 
     The woven laminate layer  1660  can be constrained near the first end  1650   a  by a connection point  1613  to the electronic component  1612  and constrained near the second end  1650   b  by an anchor  1609 . The connection point  1613  and the anchor  1609  act as retention features that keep the woven laminate layer  1660  from shifting out of place and keep the woven laminate layer in a fixed orientation relative to the cable  1610  when the electronic device  1600  rotates between closed configuration and open configuration. The second end  1650   b  can be coupled to an anchor  1609  using, for example, adhesive and/or fastener(s) such as one or more screws. In some embodiments, the anchor  1609  can be fabricated from a low friction material, such as a fluoropolymer material (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene, Teflon®), that allows the woven laminate layer  1660  to slide freely along the anchor  1609  during the opening and closing of the electronic device  1600 . The movement of the woven laminate layer  1660  with respect to the electronic component  1612  can also be important with respect to a design consideration. For example, during rotation of the first portion  1602  with respect to the second portion  1604 , the movement of the woven laminate layer  1660  where the first end  1650   a  and the second end  1650   b  are coupled to the anchor  1609  and connection point  1613  can be minimized in order to prevent fatiguing of the woven laminate layer  1660 . 
     The woven laminate layer  1660  should be abrasion resistant to be durable enough to withstand wear and tear that can be accompanied through direct exposure to the surface of the mandrel, external particles, or any other components of the electronic device that may come into contact with the woven laminate layer  1660 . The woven laminate layer  1660  can be manufactured from a material which is substantially puncture-proof or substantially tear-proof. In some examples, the woven laminate layer  1660  can be composed of materials such as polytetrafluorethylene, Teflon®, glass, fiberglass, amide fibers, para-aramid synthetic fibers (Kevlar®), carbon fiber, ripstop woven nylon, polyurethane infused fiberglass, polyurethane infused aramid fibers, ripstop woven polyester, ripstop polypropylene, ripstop cotton, ripstop silk, and the like. In some embodiments, the woven laminate layer  1660  can be made from a non-electrically conductive material (or coated with a non-electrically conductive coating) such as to prevent the woven laminate layer  1660  from electrically interfering with internal components of the electronic device  1600 . 
     In some examples, the woven laminate layer  1660  can be about 12 micrometers thick. In other examples, the woven laminate layer can be between about 2 micrometers to about 20 micrometers thick. In other examples, the woven laminate layer can be between about 5 micrometers to about 15 micrometers thick. To a certain extent, the thickness of the woven laminate layer is limited. For example, if the woven laminate layer  1660  is too thick relative to the cable  1610 , it can stress copper wires of the cable  1610 . Furthermore, making the woven laminate layer  1660  too thick relative to the thickness of the cable  1610  can affect the neutral axis of the cable  1610 . 
     In some embodiments, a non-isolated section of the woven laminate layer  1660  between the retention rib  1607  and the connection point  1613  may be free to move when the first portion  1602  is rotated with respect to the second portion  1604 . In some embodiments, since the woven laminate layer  1660  is routed around a support member  1614 , the woven laminate layer  1660  can maintain a concave curvature, which prevents the woven laminate layer  1660  from bending between concave and convex curvatures, and prevents the woven laminate layer  1660  from bending below a prescribed radius, so as to reduce fatiguing of the woven laminate layer  1660 . This wrapped configuration can allow for a relatively large length of the woven laminate layer  1660  for uptake during rotation of the electronic device  1600  while reducing the stress placed on the woven laminate layer  1660 . That is, the woven laminate layer  1660  can be free to “float” within the cavity  1608 . In addition, a clip  1616  can be provided to add support to the woven laminate layer  1660  and flex cable  1610 . 
       FIG. 16B  shows a cross sectional view of the woven laminate layer  1660  coupled (e.g., adhesively bonded) to the underlying surface of the cable  1610 , according to some embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 16B , the thickness of the woven laminate layer  1660  can be adjusted such that the woven laminate layer  1660  does not scrape or touch against the outer surface  1620  of the mandrel  1618 , according to some embodiments.  FIG. 16B  shows a gap “G” between the underlying surface of the woven laminate layer  1660  and the outer surface  1620  of the mandrel  1618 . In some embodiments, the gap “G” between the underlying surface of the woven laminate layer  1660  and the outer surface  1620  of the mandrel  1618  can be adjusted such that particles cannot be wedged or trapped against the outer surface  1620  of the mandrel  1618 . However, in such embodiments, a minimal gap “G” can cause the woven laminate layer  1660  to abrade against the surface of the mandrel  1618 . In other embodiments, the gap “G” can be sufficiently large enough to allow for particles  1642  to fit between the woven laminate layer  1660  and outer surface  1620  of the mandrel  1618 . Although the particles  1642  can have sharp and hard surfaces or edges, the woven laminate layer  1660  can act as an obstacle to prevent the particle from gouging through the cable  1610 . 
       FIG. 17  illustrates another embodiment of a component for handling particles deposited in a hinged electronic device  1700 .  FIG. 17  shows a hinged electronic device  1700  having a barrier  1760 , in accordance with some embodiments.  FIG. 17  shows a hinged electronic device  1700  in a closed configuration, where the barrier  1760  is positioned in place of the ventilation gap (see ref  324 ,  FIG. 3 ) As shown in  FIG. 17 , the barrier  1760  can be in contact with the mandrel  1718  and the blocking member  1720 . In some embodiments, a surface of the barrier  1760  may be positioned to be aligned flush against the surface of the mandrel  1718  and the blocking member  1720  such that there are no gaps between the barrier  1760  and either of the mandrel  1718  or blocking member  1720 . 
     Although  FIG. 17  shows the barrier  1760  is positioned in place of the ventilation gap  1724 , in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the barrier  1760  can also be positioned in other regions of the hinged electronic device  1700  where gaps exist between different components, according to some embodiments. In other embodiments, the barrier  1760  can supplement the ventilation gap  1724 . In other embodiments, a plurality of barriers  1760  can be positioned throughout the hinged electronic device  1700 . 
     The barrier  1760  can act as a physical barrier to prevent or reduced foreign particles  1742  from coming into contact with the cable  1710 , according to some embodiments. In other embodiments, the barrier  1760  can act as a physical barrier to prevent or reduce foreign particles from entering the cavity  1708 . In some embodiments, the barrier  1760  can fill the space between the mandrel  1718  and the blocking member  1720  to prevent or reduce any particles, debris, liquids from entering the internal housing of the hinged electronic device  1700 . 
     In some embodiments, the barrier  1760  can work in conjunction with an on-board fan or air compressor device to facilitate in funneling the particle  1742  through the opening  1726  of the barrier  1760 . 
     In some embodiments, one or more pathways can be molded within the barrier  1760 . In some embodiments, the pathway can be a “one-way” pathway such as to permit foreign particles  1742  to migrate from inside of the hinged electronic device  1700  to the outside, while also preventing foreign particles from entering the hinged electronic device  1700  via the barrier  1760 . In some embodiments, the barrier  1760  can be in the form of a gasket that can provide a seal between blocking member  1720  and mandrel  1718  and be designed to prevent both foreign particles  1742  from migrating in and/or out of the cavity  1708  via the opening  1726 . The barrier  1760  can be made of any suitable material. For example, barrier  1760  can be made of an elastomer material, such as a polymer material. In some embodiments, the gasket is combined with an elastomer material and foam, bristles, brush and/or felt. For example, barrier  1760  can be in the form of an elastomer gasket with a distal end having foam, bristles, brush or felt. In some embodiments, barrier  1760  is made of material having a low surface tension to repel and prevent liquids from entering the cavity  1708 . The low friction material can also allow barrier  1760  to move freely against the mandrel  1718 . In some embodiments, the barrier  1760  can include an anti-static electricity coating or agent. The antistatic agent can reduce or eliminate buildup of static electricity on the mandrel  1718  and/or cable  1710 . By applying an antistatic agent on at least one of the inner pathway, inner surface, or opening  1726  of the barrier  1760 , there can be a reduction in dust or dirt particles along those various surfaces. 
     In some embodiments, barrier  1760  is fixed in position between the mandrel  1718  and the blocking member  1720 . This can prevent barrier  1760  from moving when the hinged electronic device  1700  is transitioned between the closed configuration and the open configuration. 
     Although  FIGS. 14-17  illustrate hinged electronic devices according to various embodiments, two or more of these different embodiments illustrated can be combined into a single hinged electronic device housing design. For example, the physical barrier of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 17  can be combined with the flex woven laminate layer of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 16  to provide an increased measure of preventing damage to the components. In another example, the flex woven laminate layer of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 16  can be combined with the soft mandrel of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 15 . In another example, the flex woven laminate layer of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 16  can be combined with the mandrel including channels of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 14 . Combining the different embodiments shown in  FIGS. 14-17  can provide an advantage of increasing the level of protection of the flex cable from being damaged by foreign particles relative to using only a single embodiment disclosed. In addition, any suitable combination of the various embodiments provided in  FIGS. 14-17  can be combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed in other portions of this description, as suitable. 
     Over-Molded Anchor 
     As discussed above with reference to  FIG. 13 , a hinged electronic device can include an anchor for retaining a flex cover.  FIGS. 18A-18B  show a perspective view and a cross sectional view of an exemplary anchor  1800  for securing cover (see ref.  1304 ,  FIG. 13 ) opposite a tensioning mechanism, according to some embodiments. The anchor  1800  can secure the cover to a lid portion of an electronic device by anchoring the cover to a tensioning mechanism located on an opposing side of the cover.  FIG. 18  shows that the anchor  1800  can include two anchor portions ( 1880 ,  1882 ) which are each of approximately equal length, according to some embodiments. In other embodiments, the two anchor portions ( 1880 ,  1882 ) may be of non-equal length. As shown in  FIG. 18A , an over-molded assembly  1872  can be formed over the two anchor portions ( 1880 ,  1882 ). Loops  1884  can be positioned along the length of the anchor portions  1880 ,  1882  to couple to latches of a lid portion (see ref  302 ,  FIG. 3 ). As shown in  FIG. 18B , the over-molded assembly  1872  can be formed over a hook  1874   a ,  1874   b  of the anchor portion  1880 ,  1882 . By way of example, the over-molded assembly  1872  can be made from a generally flexible, resilient material. Examples of materials for the over-molded assembly include elastomers, rubber, silicone, and the like. In some embodiments, an adhesive or bonding agent can be used provide a more rigid hold between the hook  1874   a ,  1874   b  and the over-molded assembly  1872 . In some embodiments, the bonding agent can be coated over only a portion of the hook  1874   a ,  1874   b . In other embodiments, the bonding agent can be completely coated over the entire portion of the hook  1874   a  or  1874   b . Accordingly, by bonding the hook  1874   a  and  1874   b  of the anchor portions  1880 ,  1882  to the over-mold, the anchor portions  1880 ,  1882  can move in conjunction with the over-molded assembly  1872 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 18A , first anchor portion  1880  includes an end adjacent, but not directly touching an end of the second anchor portion  1882 . A gap or split “G” is indicated as separating or dividing the two anchor portions  1880 ,  1882  and their respective separated hooks  1874   a ,  1874   b . The over-molded assembly  1872  is illustrated as extending along the entire length of both anchor portions  1880 ,  1882 , while each of the anchor portions  1880 ,  1882  includes a distinct hook  1874   a ,  1874   b . In some embodiments, the over-molded assembly  1872  can extend along the entire length of both anchor portions  1880 ,  1882 . In other embodiments, the over-molded assembly  1872  can extend along only a portion of both anchor portions  1880 ,  1882 . If polyurethane material is applied only over a small portion of the anchor portions (i.e., where the anchor portion ends meet), then the elastomer material of the over-molded assembly  1872  may not be sufficient to prevent unwanted “necking” or stretching of the plastic at the gap “G.” The over-molded assembly  1872  can be aligned with a rail (not illustrated) extending along the length of the anchor portions  1880 ,  1882 . The over-molded assembly  1872  can hide the gap or split “G” between the two anchor portions  1880 ,  1882 , such that cosmetically, the over-molded assembly  1872  resembles a single integrated anchor portion. In other words, the over-mold can join two anchor portions  1880 ,  1882  to provide a degree of flexibility and stretch not previously capable. 
     In some examples, the flex “A” of the anchor  1800  in a horizontal axis can be about 1 millimeter in either direction. In other examples, the flex “A” can be between about 0.001 millimeters to about 2 millimeters. In some examples, the over-mold can be comprised of rubber, elastomer, polyurethane, and the like. In some examples, the over-molded assembly can flex in a vertical axis “S” such that the anchor  1800  stretches lengthwise at the gap “G.” In some examples, the over-molded assembly can stretch (at the split) to extend the length of the anchor  1800  between 0.001 mm-2.0 mm in length. 
     As shown in  FIG. 18B , the anchor  1800  can include a beveled or rounded top surface  1878 . In some embodiments, the beveled top surface  1878  can facilitate in wrapping a cover (see ref.  1304 ,  FIG. 13 ) around the beveled top surface  1878 . Accordingly, the beveled top surface  1878  of the anchor  1800  can facilitate in providing an anchoring or tensioning mechanism for the cover. The hooks  1874   a ,  1874   b  can be surrounded by the over-molded material. In other embodiments, the beveled top surface  1878  can further include one or more hooks having castellations (see ref.  1306  of  FIG. 13 ) on the beveled top surface. The hooks (see ref  1306  of  FIG. 13 ) can facilitate in providing an even more rigid “hold” of the cover to provide an anchoring or tensioning mechanism. In some embodiments, the castellations can hook to corresponding slits or incisions in the flex cover to facilitate the “hold” or “grab” of the cover. 
     The anchor  1800  can be applied in tolerance stackup analysis to provide allow for more variation or deviation with regard to the tolerance limits of the components. For example, the anchor  1800  can over-compensate for deviation in the manufacturing of components of the lid portion (see ref.  302 ,  FIG. 3 ). Using the anchor  1800  can allow for the assembly to seal a gap seam between two components, even when there is a deviation in manufacturing (which exceeds the tolerance limits of manufacturing. By having two anchor portions  1880 ,  1882  which can float at a gap “G,” the anchor portions can ensure that a cover (see e.g., ref  1304 ,  FIG. 13 ) is still able to anchor on or hook to the anchor portion to provide a sufficient tensioning mechanism. In other words, the over-molded assembly can provide a short tolerance loop. By having two anchor portions that can flex at a split or gap, the manufacturing process can bridge the gap in the tolerance loop by enabling the elastomer of the anchor  1800  to provide more coverage (via flex or stretch) than normally would be possible. 
     Although  FIG. 18  illustrates that the exemplary anchor  1800  can include two anchor portions ( 1880 ,  1882 ) for use in securing a cover opposite a tensioning mechanism, the embodiments shown can also be applied towards other components of the electronic device to provide allow for more variation or deviation with regard to the tolerance limits of the components. For example, the exemplary anchor  1800  can be used to secure the mandrel cover  702  to a first portion and/or second portion of the electronic device. In another example, the exemplary anchor  1800  can be used for securing the cover to an end of the electronic device having the tensioning mechanism. 
     An electronic device such as electronic device  10  of  FIG. 19  may have structures such as housing structures that move with respect to each other about a hinge axis. A gap in the housing structures may be fully or partly covered with a hinge gap cover. The hinge gap cover may be deployed using springs formed from spring-loaded shafts (e.g., shafts that rotate within pivots and that are biased by springs that are coupled to the shafts), springs that bias the hinge gap covers directly (e.g., springs that press against the hinge gap covers in configurations in which the covers are mounted to shafts that pivot within pivot structures so that the hinge gap covers open and close), or other biasing structures that allow the hinge gap cover to open and close as the housing structures are moved about the hinge axis. 
     Device  10  may be a handheld electronic device such as a cellular telephone, media player, gaming device, or other device, may be a laptop computer, tablet computer, or other portable computer, may be a desktop computer, may be a computer display, may be a display containing an embedded computer, may be a television or set top box, or may be other electronic equipment. Configurations in which device  10  has housing structures such as a housing lid and base that rotate with respect to each other about a hinge axis are sometimes described herein as an example. This is, however, merely illustrative. Device  10  may be any suitable electronic equipment. 
     As shown in the example of  FIG. 19 , device  10  may have a housing such as housing  12 . Housing  12  may be formed from plastic, metal (e.g., aluminum), fiber composites such as carbon fiber, glass, ceramic, other materials, and combinations of these materials. Housing  12  or parts of housing  12  may be formed using a unibody construction in which housing structures are formed from an integrated piece of material. Multipart housing constructions may also be used in which housing  12  or parts of housing  12  are formed from frame structures, housing walls, and other components that are attached to each other using fasteners, adhesive, and other attachment mechanisms. 
     As shown in  FIG. 19 , device  10  may have input-output devices such as track pad  18  and keyboard  16 . Device  10  may also have components such as a camera, microphones, speakers, buttons, removable storage drives, status indicator lights, buzzers, sensors, and other input-output devices. These devices may be used to gather input for device  10  and may be used to supply a user of device  10  with output. Ports in device  10  may receive mating connectors (e.g., an audio plug, a connector associated with a data cable such as a Universal Serial Bus cable, a data cable that handles video and audio data such as a cable that connects device  10  to a computer display, television, or other monitor, etc.). 
     Device  10  may include a display such a display  14 . Display  14  may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an electrophoretic display, or a display implemented using other display technologies. A touch sensor may be incorporated into display  14  (i.e., display  14  may be a touch screen display) or display  14  may be insensitive to touch. Touch sensors for display  14  may be resistive touch sensors, capacitive touch sensors, acoustic touch sensors, light-based touch sensors, force sensors, or touch sensors implemented using other touch technologies. 
     Device  10  may have housing portions that move with respect to each other. As shown in  FIG. 19 , for example, electronic device  10  may be a device such as a portable computer or other device that has a two-part housing including an upper housing portion such as upper housing  12 A that moves with respect to a lower housing portion such as lower housing portion  12 B. Upper housing  12 A may include display  14  and may sometimes be referred to as a display housing or lid. Lower housing  12 B may sometimes be referred to as a base housing or main housing. 
     Housings  12 A and  12 B may be connected to each other using hinge structures located along the junction between the upper edge of lower housing  12 B and the opposing lower edge of upper housing  12 A. For example, housings  12 A and  12 B may be coupled by hinges  26 . Hinges  26  may be located at opposing left and right edges of housing  12  along hinge axis  22  or may be located at other locations along hinge axis  22  between housing portions  12 A and  12 B. A slot-shaped opening such as gap  30  may be formed between upper housing  12 A and lower housing  12 B and may be bordered on either end by hinges  26 . 
     Gap  30  runs along hinge axis  22  and may therefore sometimes be referred to as a hinge gap. Hinges  26  may allow upper housing  12 A to rotate about axis  22  in directions  24  relative to lower housing  12 B. The plane of lid (upper housing)  12 A and the plane of lower housing  12 B may be separated by an angle that varies between 0° when the lid is closed to 90°, 140°, or more when the lid is fully opened. 
     Signal paths may extend between upper housing  12 A and lower housing  12 B. These signal paths may be formed by metal traces on a flexible printed circuit (e.g., a flexible printed circuit formed from a flexible layer of polyimide or a sheet of other flexible polymer substrate material), coaxial cables, wires, or other signal path structures. For example, signal paths formed from one or more flexible printed circuits  28  may bisect the slot formed from gap  30  as shown in  FIG. 19  or may cross gap  30  at one or more other locations along the length of gap  30  (as examples). 
     Speakers may be located within housing  12 . Housing  12  may have perforations such as circular holes or may use portions of gap  30  or other speaker openings to allow sound to exit the interior of device  10 . Openings in housing  12  and/or gap  30  may also be used to vent heated air from the interior of device  10  and may serve as antenna apertures through which antenna signals pass during wireless communications. 
     Gap  30  may have portions that are exposed to the front of device  10  (i.e., the portion of gap  30  that is visible in  FIG. 19 ) and portions that are exposed to the rear of device  10 . The rear portion of hinge gap  30  and, if desired, front portions of gap  30  may be partly or fully covered with hinge gap cover structures. A hinge gap cover may be formed from a thin sheet of material that can help cover gap  30 . When gap  30  is covered, potentially unsightly internal components may be hidden from view. The hinge gap cover may also help prevent intrusion of contaminants such as dust and moisture into the interior of device  10 . The hinge gap cover may be a movable structure that covers gap  30  when device  10  is closed and that does not cover gap  30  when device  10  is opened (as an example). 
     A cross-sectional side view of a portion of device  10  taken across gap  30  when device  10  is in an open position (i.e., when housing portion  12 A is open) is shown in  FIG. 20 . As shown in  FIG. 20 , device  10  may have an interior region such as interior region  32 . Components  34  may be mounted in interior region  32 . Components  34  may include sensors, integrated circuits, wireless transceivers and other wireless circuitry, antenna structures (e.g., impedance matching circuits, dielectric support structures for antenna resonating elements, feed structures, tuning circuits, amplifiers, etc.), batteries, input-output devices, port connectors, printed circuits, and other electrical components. As an example, component  34  of  FIG. 20  may be an antenna or part of an antenna that emits and receives antenna signals through gap  30  (e.g., a portion of gap  30  along the front of device  10  and/or a portion of gap  30  along the rear of device  10 ). 
     Hinge gap cover  36  may be used to cover gap  30 . Hinge gap cover  36  may, for example, cover gap  30  when upper housing  12 A is closed and may be pulled away from gap  30  as shown in  FIG. 20  when housing  12 B is in an opened position. When device  10  is open, gap  30  may be smaller due to the reduced size of the space between housing  12 A and  12 B and may not be visible to a user who is located in front of device  10  to view display  14 . When closed, gap  30  may become larger due to an increased spacing between housing  12 A and  12 B and may be more visible to a user (e.g., when device  10  is placed upside down on a table). By using hinge gap cover  36 , a user&#39;s view into the interior of device  10  may be fully or at least partly blocked when device  10  is in its closed position. 
     In the illustrative configuration of  FIG. 20 , hinge gap cover  36  has been mounted to upper housing  12 A using spring  38 . Spring  38  may be, for example, a torsion spring, or other flexible coupling member that causes an edge of cover  36  to press against housing  12 B when upper housing  12 A is in a closed position. Hinge gap cover  36  may be rotatably mounted to housing  12 A (e.g., by mounting hinge gap cover  36  to a shaft that rotates within pivot structures attached to housing  12 A or by mounting hinge gap cover  36  to a pivot structures that receive a shaft that is mounted to housing  12 A). In these types of arrangements, spring  38  may be a spring structure that includes a flexible sheet metal spring or other spring to bias hinge gap cover  36  directly (e.g., spring  38  may press hinge gap cover  36  into its closed position when housing  12 A is closed). If desired, spring  38  may be a spring structure with a shaft that is biased with a spring (i.e., spring  38  may be a spring-loaded shaft or other rotatable structure that is mounted to housing  12 A using pivot structures and which is rotated by a torsion spring or other spring that loads the shaft). In a spring-loaded shaft configuration, cover  36  may be attached to the spring-loaded shaft with welds, adhesive, or other fastening structures and may be rotatably coupled to housing  12 A by mounting the shaft in pivot structures attached to housing  12 A. Rotation of the shaft by the spring may rotate cover  36  against housing  12 B (e.g., the shaft of spring  38  may be loaded by a torsion spring element or other spring structure so that cover  36  is biased against housing  12 B and thereby effectively seals gap  30  to prevent intrusion of contaminants and block interior portions of device  10  from view). If desired, other types of mounting arrangement may be used. For example, cover  36  may be mounted on lower housing  12 B, may have portions that are mounted respectively on upper housing  12 A and lower housing  12 B, may be mounted to housing  12  using welds, fasteners, adhesive, or other attachment mechanisms in addition to spring  38  or instead of spring  38 , etc. The arrangement of  FIG. 20  in which hinge gap cover  36  is mounted to upper housing  12 A using spring  38  is merely illustrative. 
       FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional side view of device  10  in a configuration in which upper housing  12 A has been rotated into a closed position. Just before closing, the hinge gap cover may be in position  36 ′ and may begin to contact lower housing  12 B. As housing  12 A is rotated into its final closed position, spring  38  allows the hinge gap cover  36  to rotate about the axis of spring  38 , so that outer edge  40  of hinge gap cover  36  will contact inner surface  42  of the lower wall of housing portion  12 B. The flexibility of spring  38  may prevent hinge gap cover  36  from being overly stressed from this contact (i.e., spring  38  allows cover  36  to “give” as needed to prevent detachment of cover  36  from housing  12 A). If desired, hinge gap cover  36  may also be flexible and may deflect slightly when contacting lower housing  12 B. 
     Hinge gap cover  36  may be formed from metal, plastic, glass, ceramic, carbon-fiber composites, fiberglass, and other fiber-based composites, other material, or combinations of these materials. With one suitable arrangement, hinge gap cover  36  is formed from a thin sheet of material (e.g., material with a thickness of less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, or less than 0.5 mm) such as fiberglass or plastic that is radio transparent. By using a material that is radio-transparent (e.g., a material that is a dielectric rather than a conductor), antenna signals may pass through gap  30  even when gap  30  is covered with cover  36 . For example, component  34  (e.g., an antenna) may transmit and receive radio-frequency signals that pass through cover  36 . Configurations in which hinge gap cover  36  or portions of hinge gap cover  36  are formed from thin sheets of metal (e.g., stainless steel or other metal having a thickness of 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, or less than 0.5 mm, etc.) may also be used. 
     As shown in  FIG. 22 , components in upper housing  12 A such as display housing components  44  may be coupled to components in lower housing  12 B such as base housing components  46  by one or more flexible printed circuits such as flexible printed circuit  28  or other flexible signal paths. Display housing components  44  may include components such as a camera, display  14 , a touch sensor (e.g., a touch sensor built into display  14 ), an ambient light sensor, a light-emitting diode or other device that serves as a status indicator, and other electrical components. Base housing components  46  may include processor circuits, memory circuits, and other control circuitry, communications ports, sensors, input-output devices, track pad  18 , keyboard  16 , etc. During operation of device  10 , upper housing  12 A and lower housing  12 B may rotate relative to each other about hinge axis  22 , causing flexible printed circuit  28  to bend. To ensure that metal traces on flexible printed circuits  28  do not experience excessive stress, flexible printed circuit  28  may be provided with a looped portion that allows flexible printed circuit  28  to move back and forth to accommodate opening and closing of device  10 . 
     In configurations of the type shown in  FIG. 22  in which a signal path formed from flexible printed circuit  28  bridges hinge axis  22  (and gap  30 ), it may be desirable to mount hinge gap cover  36  in a position that overlaps flexible printed circuit  28  and thereby blocks flexible printed circuit  28  from view. As shown in the rear perspective view of device  10  in  FIG. 23 , for example, hinge gap cover  36  may be mounted in device  10  so that hinge gap cover  36  overlaps and covers flexible printed circuit  28 . In the illustrative arrangement of  FIG. 23 , hinge gap cover  36  overlaps only parts of gap  30 , so that end portions of gap  30  that are not covered by hinge gap cover  36  can serve as ports for device  10  (e.g., to permit air to flow between the interior of device  10  and the exterior of device  10 ). 
     Hinge gap cover  36  may have an elongated rectangular shape that extends along the rear edge of device  10  parallel to hinge axis  22 . Springs  38  may be located at opposing ends of hinge gap cover  36  or may be attached elsewhere along the length of cover  36 . There is one hinge gap cover  36  in the example of  FIG. 23 . If desired, there may be multiple hinge gap covers  36  in device  10  each of which covers a respective portion of gap  30 . In the  FIG. 23  configuration, hinge gap cover  36  is centered along the length of gap  30 , but cover  36  may be placed closer to one end of gap  30  than the other. Housing  12 B may have extended portions  123 . Hinges  26  ( FIG. 1 ) may be covered by portions  12 B′ and gap  30  may extend between portions  123 . If desired, housing  12 B may have a centrally located extended portion that covers flexible printed circuit  28  or may have other extended housing portions. 
     Hinge gap cover  36  may have an elongated rectangular shape as shown in  FIG. 24 . In this type of configuration, the ends of cover  36  may be recessed from hinges  26  and extended housing portions  123 , as shown in  FIG. 23 . If desired, cover  36  may have openings such as openings  50  of  FIG. 25 . Openings  50  may run along the length of cover  36  (i.e., cover  36  may have a longitudinal axis that runs parallel to hinge axis  22  and openings  50  may include a set of rectangular openings or openings  50  of other shape that extend along the longitudinal axis). When cover  36  of  FIG. 25  is installed within device  10 , openings  50  may overlap gap  30 , so that air can flow through openings  50 . As shown in the illustrative configuration of  FIG. 26 , hinge gap cover  36  may have openings such as recesses (notches)  52 . Recesses  52  may be distributed along the length of cover  36  and may overlap gap  30  to provide air passages between the interior of device  10  and the exterior of device  10 . The illustrative configurations for hinge gap cover  36  of  FIGS. 24, 25, and 26  are merely illustrative. Cover  36  may have outlines of other shapes and/or may have openings of other shapes. 
     As shown in the illustrative rear view of device  10  of  FIG. 27 , housing  12 B may have extended portions  123  at the left and right edges of device  10  and a central extended portion  123  that is centered along the rear edge of housing  12 B between the left and right extended portions  123 . Gap  30  may have uncovered portions or may be covered with hinge gap cover  36  as shown in  FIG. 27 . 
     Hinge gap cover  36  may have a curved profile that helps accommodate flexible printed circuit  28  without damaging flexible printed circuit  28 . A cross-sectional side view of device  10  in an illustrative configuration in which hinge gap cover  36  has a curved (bent) shape is shown in  FIG. 28 . As shown in  FIG. 28 , internal components  34  may be coupled to flexible printed circuit  28  within interior of device  10 . Flexible printed circuit  28  may have bends such as bend  58  and bend  60 . During movement of upper housing  12 A relative to lower housing  12 B, flexible printed circuit  28  may flex at bends  58  and  60 . Inner surface  56  of hinge gap cover  36  may have a convexly curved surface. With this arrangement, hinge gap cover  36  bows inwardly towards flexible printed circuit  28 . The curved shape of surface  56  may help reduce wear and sharp bends in flexible printed circuit  28  when flexible printed circuit  28  bears against convexly curved surface  56  of hinge gap cover  36 , as shown in  FIG. 29  (i.e., when housing  12 A has been opened so that flexible printed circuit  28  rests adjacent to hinge gap cover  36 ). If desired, hinge gap cover  36  may have other shapes (e.g., planar shapes, shapes that are bowed outwardly towards gap  30  rather than inwardly away from gap  30  towards the interior of device  10 , etc.). The configuration of  FIGS. 28 and 29  in which hinge gap cover  36  is curved inwardly and presents a convexly curved surface  56  to adjacent structures such as flexible printed circuit  28  is merely illustrative. 
       FIGS. 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, and 35  are cross-sectional side views of the housing of device  10  in various different hinge gap cover configurations. 
     The cross-sectional side view of  FIG. 30  shows how housing  12 B may have an extended portion  12 B′ that helps reduce the size of gap  30 . In the configuration of  FIG. 30 , device  10  is in its closed position and hinge gap cover  36  is covering gap  30 . Cover  36  may be bowed inwardly so that flexible printed circuit  28  is not exposed to excess wear when upper housing  12 A is rotated to place device  10  in its open position ( FIG. 31 ). 
     Housing  12 A may have a stop feature that contacts hinge gap cover  36  as device  10  is placed in its open position. As shown in  FIG. 30 , for example, portion  74  of housing  12 A may form stop surface  70 . When housing  12 A is closed, stop surface  70  is not in contact with contact (or mating) surface  72  of hinge gap cover  36 . When housing  12 A is opened, stop surface  70  will come into contact with surface  72  and will lift hinge gap cover  36  away from lower housing  12 B (i.e., cover  36  will be raised away from extended portion  12 B′ of housing  12 B, as shown in  FIG. 31 ). 
     The cross-sectional side view of  FIG. 32  shows how gap  30  may be somewhat wider in a configuration in which rear housing extended portion  12 B′ of  FIGS. 30 and 31  is not present. In the configuration of  FIG. 32 , device  10  is in its closed position and hinge gap cover  36  is covering gap  30 . In the closed position, stop surface  70  is not in contact with surface  72  of hinge gap cover  36  (i.e., the portion of cover  36  adjacent to spring  38 ). As with cover  36  of  FIGS. 30 and 31 , cover  36  of device  10  in  FIG. 32  may be bowed inwardly so that flexible printed circuit  28  is not exposed to excess wear when upper housing  12 A is rotated to place device  10  in its open position ( FIG. 33 ). When housing  12 A is opened, stop surface  70  of housing  12 A may contact surface  72  of hinge gap cover  36  and may lift hinge gap cover  36  away from housing  12 B, as shown in  FIG. 33 . 
     The cross-sectional side view of illustrative device  10  of  FIG. 34  shows how gap  30  may be reduced in size when lower housing  12 B is provided with an internal wall member such as member or structure  76 . Member  76  may be used to help hide internal components  34  from view. Member  76  may have a surface such as surface  78  that is exposed within gap  30 . Surface  78  may be recessed relative to adjacent surfaces of housing  12 B to help reduce the visibility of surface  78 . In the configuration of  FIG. 34 , device  10  is in its closed position and hinge gap cover  36  is covering gap  30 . Stop surface  70  is not in contact with contact surface  72  of hinge gap cover  36 . Cover  36  may be bowed inwardly, so that flexible printed circuit  28  is not exposed to excess wear when upper housing  12 A is rotated into its open position ( FIG. 35 ) to cause stop surface  70  to contact surface  72  of cover  36  and move cover  36  away from lower housing  12 B (and thereby uncover gap  30 ), as shown in  FIG. 35 . 
     Internal structures such as structure  76  of  FIGS. 34 and 35  that help partly cover gap  30  may be formed from metal (e.g., the same metal that is used in forming lower housing  12 B or a different metal) or may be formed from dielectric materials. As an example, structure  76  may be a plastic member that helps hide internal components from view through gap  30  while allowing antenna signals associated with an antenna in device  10  (e.g., component  34 ) to pass through the plastic member. Conductive antennas structures may, if desired, be supported by internal wall structures such as structures  76  or other internal structures adjacent to gap  30 . 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the portable computing device includes a flex circuit configured to electrically couple a first electrical component attached to a first portion and a second electrical component attached to a second portion, a hinge mechanism having a curved surface, wherein the flex circuit is configured to bend over the curved surface, and a flex circuit cover at least partially in contact with a surface of the flex circuit and having a first end secured to the first portion so that the flex circuit cover is free to move with respect to the second portion when the first and second portions rotate with respect to each other about a pivot axis associated with the hinge mechanism. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex circuit cover of the portable computing device hides the flex circuit from view when the first and the second portions rotate with respect to each other. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex circuit cover of the portable computing device is composed of a material selected from the group consisting of: glass, polyurethane, fiberglass, aramid fibers, and a composite fiber. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, wherein the flex circuit cover includes a structural layer that is bonded between an outer layer and an abrasion resistant layer. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge mechanism of the portable computing device includes one or more clutch mechanisms to provide a predetermined amount of resistance when the first and second portions rotate about the pivot axis associated with the hinge mechanism. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex circuit cover of the portable computing device hides a portion of the curved surface of the hinge to mechanism when the first and the second portions are rotated with respect to each other. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex circuit cover of the portable computing device is coupled to a tensioning mechanism of the second portion and the tensioning mechanism is configured to exert a return force on the flex circuit cover. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a method of covering a cable routed between a first portion and a second portion of an electronic device, the first portion pivotally coupled with the second portion at a hinge mechanism, the method includes electrically coupling the first portion and the second portion with the cable, the cable drawn over a curved surface of the hinge mechanism when the electronic device is rotated from a closed state to an open state and covering an exposed surface of the cable with a cover, the cover drawn over the cable and the curved surface of the hinge mechanism when the electronic device is rotated from the closed state to the open state. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, wherein the cover is mechanically captured by the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the cover hides the cable from view when the electronic device is in the open state. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the cover is comprised of at least one of glass, polyurethane, fiberglass, aramid fibers, or a composite fiber. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, wherein the cover includes a structural layer that is bonded between an outer layer and an abrasion resistant layer. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the cover is drawn over a greater amount of the curved surface of the hinge mechanism during the open state relative to the closed state. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism is configured to exert a return force on the cover when the cover is coupled to the first portion and a tensioning mechanism of the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a hinge cover for an electronic device having a first portion pivotally coupled to a second portion via a hinge mechanism, the hinge cover includes a first side positioned proximate to a cable, the cable electrically connecting the first portion to the second portion, wherein the cable is configured to bend over a curved surface of the hinge mechanism and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side is exposed at the hinge mechanism when the electronic device is in an open state. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge cover of the electronic device is configured to conceal the curved surface of the hinge mechanism and the cable from being exposed to a user when the first portion is pivoted with respect to the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge cover of the electronic device is comprised of a flexible material. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, one or more slits are provided along the hinge cover of the electronic device such that a first section of the hinge cover flexes independently of a second section of the hinge cover. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the first section of the hinge cover is configured to flex freely from the curved surface of the hinge mechanism of the electronic device while the second section is adhered to the curved surface of the hinge mechanism. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge cover is manufactured from a single layer of a laminated material or a woven material. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge mechanism includes one or more clutch mechanisms to provide a predetermined amount of resistance while transitioning the electronic device from the open state to a closed state. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge cover substantially conceals the entire curved surface of the hinge mechanism. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge cover is manufactured from a plurality of bonded layers manufactured from a laminated material or a woven material. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a segment of the hinge cover remains statically fixed to the curved surface of the hinge mechanism while the electronic device transitions between the open state and a closed state. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a housing for an electronic device, includes a first portion pivotally coupled to a second portion via a hinge mechanism, wherein the hinge mechanism includes a curved surface and a flex cover coupled to the first portion and a tensioning mechanism of the second portion, wherein the tensioning mechanism is configured to exert a return force on the flex cover upon the electronic device transitioning from an open configuration to a closed configuration. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a flex circuit of the housing is configured to bend over the curved surface of the hinge mechanism and electrically couple a first electrical component of the first portion and a second electrical component of the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism of the housing is one of an elastic section, a spiral torsion spring, a coil spring, or a leaf spring. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism of the housing is an integrated tension mechanism assembly that is configured to be fully assembled prior to being provided within an interior cavity of the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the integrated tension mechanism assembly of the housing includes a frame having a plurality of cut-outs that have a size and shape for receiving a spring and shaft. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the spring of the housing includes two independent spring coils that are coupled to each other. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism of the housing includes a cylindrical shaft coupled to a retraction spring and the retraction spring is positioned perpendicular to the flex cover. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the retraction spring of the tensioning mechanism is configured to exert rotational torque on the cylindrical shaft such as to provide tension on the flex cover. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism of the housing includes a curved outer surface and is configured to draw the flex cover over the curved outer surface as the electronic device transitions from the open configuration to the closed configuration. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex cover of the housing includes an engagement feature that is configured to fit within a recess of the tensioning mechanism. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex cover of the housing includes a retaining feature characterized by a first thickness such that when the flex cover is fitted within the recess of the tensioning mechanism, the retaining feature of the flex cover cannot be extracted from within the recess of the tensioning mechanism. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the retaining feature of the flex cover includes a first section of the flex cover that is folded over and secured to a second section of the flex cover such that the retaining feature is characterized by a second thickness greater than the first thickness. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a first section of the flex cover of the housing is secured to a second section of the flex cover via at least one of an adhesive or a stitch. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the recess of the tensioning mechanism of the housing is characterized as having a wedged area that is configured to produce a compressive force on the retaining feature when the flex cover is directed towards the hinge mechanism. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the retaining feature of the flex cover includes a removable enlarging element such that the retaining feature is characterized by a second thickness greater than the first thickness. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex cover is coupled to an anchor of the first portion of the housing that is opposite the tensioning mechanism of the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex cover is coupled to the anchor via at least one of adhesives, hooks, castellations, or a mechanical interlock. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex cover is configured to be wrapped around the anchor of the first portion of the housing. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a portable computing device, including a first portion having a first electrical component and a second portion having a second electrical component and a hinge mechanism having a curved surface that pivotally couples the first and second portions, wherein a flex cable is configured to bend over the curved surface to electrically couple the first and second electrical components. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the curved surface of the hinge mechanism of the portable computing device includes one or more pathways having a shape and size for receiving one or more foreign particles. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the one or more pathways of the curved surface of the hinge mechanism include an inlet and an outlet configured to pass the one or more foreign particles from an interior cavity of the portable computing device to outside the portable computing device. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a portion of the hinge mechanism mechanism of the portable computing device is comprised of an elastomeric material. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a woven laminate layer is bonded to an underlying surface of the flex cable of the hinge mechanism of the portable computing device and is configured to shield the underlying surface from damage by foreign particles. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a barrier is positioned at a ventilation gap that is disposed between the first portion and the second portion of the hinge mechanism of the portable computing device such that the barrier is configured to prevent foreign particles from entering an interior cavity of the portable computing device. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a housing for an electronic device, including a hinge mechanism having a curved surface that pivotally couples between a first portion of the housing and a second portion of the housing, wherein at least one of the first portion or the second portion includes a plurality of components that are separated by a gap and an anchor assembly having a size and a shape to fit within the gap, the anchor assembly including a first anchor portion that is pivotally coupled to a second anchor portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the anchor assembly includes a flexible mold that is configured to flex at a division corresponding to where the first anchor portion is separated from the second anchor portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, an enclosure for a portable computing device having a first portion and a second portion, including a hinge mechanism having a curved surface that pivotally couples the first portion and the second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion are separated by a gap that provides access to an interior cavity of the second portion and a hinge gap cover pivotally coupled to the first portion, wherein the hinge gap cover is configured to reduce a size of the gap when the enclosure transitions from an open configuration to a closed configuration. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge gap cover of the enclosure is formed from radio-transparent material. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge gap cover of the enclosure is configured to rotate about an axis associated with the hinge mechanism. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the second portion of the enclosure includes a stopping surface that is configured to contact against a mating surface of the hinge gap cover such as to inhibit rotation of the hinge gap cover towards the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the stopping surface of the second portion is free of contact from the mating surface when the enclosure is in the closed configuration. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge gap cover of the enclosure is substantially convex shaped and is bowed inwardly towards an interior cavity of the enclosure. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, wherein a flex circuit is configured to electrically couple a first electrical component attached to the first portion and a second electrical component attached to the second portion, wherein the hinge gap cover is characterized as having a curved profile, and wherein the curved profile of the hinge gap cover mirrors a bend of the flex circuit. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the first portion of the enclosure comprises a plurality of protruded extensions that are configured to reduce the size of the gap. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, one or more recesses are provided along a length of the hinge gap cover and are configured to funnel air between an interior cavity of the enclosure and outside of the enclosure. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a spring is coupled to the hinge gap cover such as to bias the hinge gap cover towards the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a method for exerting tension on a flex cover of an electronic device, the electronic device having a first portion pivotally coupled to a second portion via a hinge mechanism, including coupling the first portion to the second portion with a flex cover, wherein flex cover is drawn over a curved surface of the hinge mechanism, and wherein the flex cover is coupled to a tensioning mechanism of the second portion that is configured to exert a return force on the flex cover. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the method further includes electrically coupling the first portion and the second portion with a cable, wherein the cable is drawn over the curved surface. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism is one of an elastic section, a spiral torsion spring, a coil spring, or a leaf spring. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism is an integrated tension mechanism assembly that is configured to be fully assembled prior to being provided within an interior cavity of the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex cover is coupled to an anchor of the first portion that is opposite the tensioning mechanism of the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a method for covering a gap that provides access to an interior cavity between a first portion and a second portion of a portable computing device enclosure, the first portion being pivotally coupled to the second portion via a hinge mechanism, includes coupling a rotatable hinge gap cover to the hinge mechanism, wherein the hinge mechanism includes a curved surface, and wherein the hinge gap cover is configured to rotate towards the second portion such as to reduce a size of the gap when the enclosure transitions from an open configuration to a closed configuration. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the method further includes electrically coupling the first portion to the second portion with a flex circuit, wherein the flex circuit is drawn over the curved surface of the hinge mechanism. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge gap cover is substantially convex shaped and is bowed inwardly towards an interior cavity of the enclosure. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge gap cover is characterized as having a curved profile, and wherein the curved profile of the hinge gap cover mirrors a bend of the flex circuit. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the first portion comprises a plurality of protruded extensions that are configured to reduce the size of the gap. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, an enclosure for a portable computing device, comprises a first enclosure portion having a first electrical component, a second enclosure portion having a second electrical component, wherein the first portion and the second portion are separated by a ventilation gap that provides access to an interior cavity of the second portion, a flex circuit configured to electrically couple the first electrical component attached to the first portion and the second electrical component attached to the second portion, a hinge mechanism having a curved surface, wherein the first portion is configured to pivot relative to the second portion via the hinge mechanism, and wherein the flex circuit is configured to be drawn over the curved surface, a hinge gap cover pivotally coupled to the first portion, wherein the hinge gap cover is configured to reduce a size of the ventilation gap when the enclosure transitions from an open configuration to a closed configuration, and a flex circuit cover that is configured to be drawn over the flex circuit and that is coupled between the first portion and a tensioning mechanism of the second portion, wherein the tensioning mechanism is positioned within the interior cavity and is configured to exert a return force on the flex circuit cover upon the enclosure transitioning from the open configuration to the closed configuration. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge gap cover of the enclosure includes one or more slits that separates a first section from a second section such that a first section of the hinge gap cover flexes independently of a second section of the hinge gap cover. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, wherein a flex circuit is configured to electrically couple a first electrical component attached to the first portion and a second electrical component attached to the second portion, wherein the hinge gap cover is characterized as having a curved profile, and wherein the curved profile of the hinge gap cover mirrors a bend of the flex circuit. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a woven laminate layer is bonded to an underlying surface of the flex circuit and is configured to shield the flex circuit from damage by foreign particles. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a stopping surface is provided on the second portion that is configured to contact a mating surface of the hinge gap cover such as to inhibit rotation of the hinge gap cover towards the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a housing for an electronic device comprises a first housing portion having a first electrical component, a second housing portion having a second electrical component wherein the first portion is configured to pivot relative to the second portion, a hinge mechanism having a curved surface and providing a pivot axis for the first and second housing portions, wherein the curved surface of the hinge mechanism is comprised of elastomeric material, a ventilation gap that is disposed proximate to the hinge mechanism and is positioned between the first and second housing portions, wherein the ventilation gap provides access to an interior cavity of the second portion, a barrier positioned within the ventilation gap and having a size and shape that reduces an opening of the ventilation gap, a flex circuit cable configured to electrically couple the first electrical component of the first portion and the second electrical component of the second portion, wherein the flex circuit cable is configured to be drawn over the curved surface and the flex circuit is characterized as having a bend that is associated with the curved surface, a woven laminate layer bonded to an underlying surface of the flex circuit cable, wherein the woven laminate layer is configured to protect the flex circuit cable from foreign particles, a hinge gap cover having a curved profile that is pivotally coupled to the first portion and is configured to rotate about the pivot axis associated with the hinge mechanism, wherein the hinge gap cover is configured to reduce a size of the ventilation gap when the housing transitions from an open configuration to a closed configuration, a stopping surface provided on the second portion that is configured to contact a mating surface of the hinge gap cover such as to inhibit rotation of the hinge gap cover towards the second portion, a flex circuit cover that is configured to be drawn over the flex circuit and that is coupled between an anchor portion of the first portion and a spring-based tensioning mechanism of the second portion, wherein the anchor portion is an over-molded anchor assembly that includes a molded first anchor portion that is pivotally coupled to a second anchor portion, wherein the spring-based tensioning mechanism is positioned within the interior cavity and is configured to exert a return force on the flex circuit cover upon the housing transitioning from the open configuration to the closed configuration, and a hinge mechanism cover configured to conceal the curved surface of the hinge mechanism and the flex circuit cable from being exposed to a user when the first portion is pivoted with respect to the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the spring-based tensioning mechanism of the housing is part of a tension mechanism assembly that is configured to be fully assembled prior to being provided within an interior cavity of the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the flex circuit cover of the housing is coupled to the anchor portion via at least one of adhesives, hooks, castellations, or a mechanical interlock. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a spring is coupled to the hinge gap cover of the housing such as to bias the hinge gap cover towards the second portion. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the hinge gap cover of the housing includes one or more slits that separates a first section from a second section such that a first section of the hinge gap cover flexes independently of a second section of the hinge gap cover. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a housing for an electronic device includes a flex circuit configured to electrically couple a first electrical component attached to a first portion and a second electrical component attached to a second portion and a hinge mechanism having a curved surface that pivotally couples between the first portion and the second portion of the housing, wherein a section of the flex circuit that is drawn over the curved surface is characterized as having a bend that is associated with the curved surface. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, a radius of the curved surface dictates a minimal bend radius of the flex circuit. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the curved surface is configured to impart the section of the flex circuit to bend in a first direction while being inhibited from bending in a second direction that is opposite the first direction. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the curved surface is configured to impart the section of the flex circuit to bend further along the first direction subsequent to the housing transitioning from an open configuration to a closed configuration. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the curved surface subjects the flex circuit to minimal stress while bending. 
     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 intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary to skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20160504
Publication Date: 20200428
Grant Date: 20200428
Priority Date: 20150505
Inventors: SILVANTO, MIKAEL M.
ANDRE, BARTLEY K.
GARELLI, ADAM T.
LANCASTER-LAROCQUE, SIMON REGIS LOUIS
CAO, ROBERT Y.
MATHEW, DINESH C.
KONONIUK, Jacob S.
LOCKWOOD, ROBERT J.
POSNER, BRYAN W.
KEELER, KEVIN M.
BERG, BRUCE E.
KUO, YI-CHEN
ROBINSON, KEVIN M.
FARAHANI, HOUTAN R.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "E05D11/1028", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D11/0054", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D11/0081", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1681", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D2011/0072", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1681", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D11/1028", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D11/0081", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05D11/0054", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1681", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 57218604