PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9277661-B2
Application Number: US-201414185875-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Magnetic latch

Abstract:
Magnetic latch mechanisms are provided. The latch mechanisms may be employed to releasably hold a portable computing device in a closed configuration. The latch mechanism may include first and second magnetic members that may be respectively coupled to the base and lid of the portable computing device. One of the magnetic members may be moveable. Accordingly, when the moveable magnetic member is moved, the position of the magnetic members relative to one another changes, which alters a magnetic interaction therebetween. For example, attractive portions of the magnetic members may be moved away from one another. Additionally, repulsive portions of the magnetic members may be moved into proximity. Thus, opening of the lid of the portable computing device may be facilitated.

Claims:
What is claimed is:  
     
       1. A latch mechanism, comprising:
 a first magnetic member carried by a first housing portion proximate an edge thereof; and 
 a second magnetic member carried by a second housing portion, the second magnetic member being moveable relative to the edge of the first housing portion such that a magnetic interaction between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member is altered, wherein the second magnetic member is configured to translate away from the edge of the first housing portion and to move toward the first housing portion while translating away from the edge of the first housing portion. 
 
     
     
       2. The latch mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein the second magnetic member is configured to pivot with respect to the first housing portion. 
     
     
       3. The latch mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein one of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member comprises a first magnet and a second magnet, the first magnet and the second magnet defining opposing polarities. 
     
     
       4. The latch mechanism of  claim 3 , wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are positioned at differing distances from an edge of the first housing portion. 
     
     
       5. The latch mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein one of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member comprises a permanent magnet and one of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member is not a permanent magnet. 
     
     
       6. A portable computing device, comprising
 a housing comprising a lid and a base, the lid and the base being coupled to one another at a hinge; and 
 a latch mechanism coupled to the housing opposite from the hinge and configured to releasably retain the lid and the base in a closed configuration, the latch mechanism comprising:
 a first magnetic member engaged with the lid proximate an edge thereof; and 
 a second magnetic member engaged with the base, the second magnetic member being moveable relative to the edge of the lid such that a magnetic interaction between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member is altered, wherein the edge of the base is configured to retract from the edge of the lid during movement of the second magnetic member such that the edge of the lid is exposed. 
 
 
     
     
       7. The portable computing device of  claim 6 , wherein the second magnetic member is configured to pivot with respect to the lid. 
     
     
       8. The portable computing device of  claim 7 , wherein the base comprises a moveable portion configured to move with respect to a remainder of the base, the second magnetic member being engaged with the moveable portion of the base. 
     
     
       9. The portable computing device of  claim 6 , wherein the second magnetic member is configured to translate away from the edge of the lid. 
     
     
       10. The portable computing device of  claim 9 , wherein the second magnetic member is configured to move toward the lid while translating away from the edge of the lid. 
     
     
       11. The portable computing device of  claim 6 , wherein an edge of the base is configured to substantially align with the edge of the lid prior to movement of the second magnetic member. 
     
     
       12. A method for assembling a latch mechanism:
 coupling a first magnetic member to a first housing portion proximate an edge thereof; 
 coupling a second magnetic member to a second housing portion, the second magnetic member being moveable relative to the edge of the first housing portion such that a magnetic interaction between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member is altered, wherein coupling the second magnetic member to the second housing portion comprises coupling the second magnetic member to the second housing portion such that the second magnetic member may pivot with respect to the first housing portion, wherein coupling the second magnetic member to the second housing portion comprises coupling the second magnetic member to a moveable portion of the second housing portion and coupling the moveable portion to a remainder of the second housing portion such that the moveable portion may move with respect to the remainder of the second housing portion. 
 
     
     
       13. The method of  claim 12 , further comprising hingedly coupling the first housing portion to the second housing portion. 
     
     
       14. The method of  claim 13 , wherein hingedly coupling the first housing portion to the second housing portion comprises substantially aligning an edge of the second housing portion with an edge of the first housing portion in a closed configuration. 
     
     
       15. The method of  claim 12 , wherein coupling the first magnetic member to the first housing portion comprises coupling the first magnetic member to a lid of a portable computing device; and
 wherein coupling the second magnetic member to the second housing portion comprises coupling the second magnetic member to a base of the portable computing device. 
 
     
     
       16. A portable computing device, comprising
 a housing comprising a lid and a base, the lid and the base being coupled to one another at a hinge; and 
 a latch mechanism coupled to the housing opposite from the hinge and configured to releasably retain the lid and the base in a closed configuration, the latch mechanism comprising:
 a first magnetic member carried by the lid proximate an edge thereof; and 
 a second magnetic member carried by the base, the second magnetic member being moveable relative to the edge of the lid such that a magnetic interaction between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member is altered, wherein the second magnetic member is configured to translate away from the edge of the lid, wherein the second magnetic member is configured to move toward the lid while translating away from the edge of the lid. 
 
 
     
     
       17. The portable computing device of  claim 16 , wherein an edge of the base is configured to substantially align with the edge of the lid prior to movement of the second magnetic member.

Description:
FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to latches, and more particularly to magnetic latches which may be employed to releasably secure portable computing devices in a closed configuration. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Devices such as portable computing devices may include two housing portions. For example, the housing portions may comprise a lid and a base. In this regard, by way of further example, a laptop computer may include a base with a keyboard and a lid with a display. 
     The lid may be configured to pivot with respect to the base. In an open configuration, both the display and the keyboard may be exposed such that a user may interact with the keyboard and the display during use of the laptop. Further, in a closed configuration, the display and the keyboard may be protected. In this regard, the keyboard and the display may fold toward one another, such that only outer protective portions of the housing are exposed. Further, the laptop may define a relatively thin profile in the closed configuration, which may facilitate transport thereof. 
     A latch may be employed to releasably retain the laptop in the closed configuration. Use of a latch may provide additional protection for the laptop. In this regard, accidental opening of the laptop may be substantially averted. 
     In some embodiments the latch may comprise a mechanical mechanism employing interference fit or other mechanical interaction to releasably retain the laptop in a closed configuration. However, mechanical mechanisms may be prone to failure during drop events or may experience wear over time which may detrimentally affect functionality of the latch. Alternatively the latch may comprise a magnetic mechanism. However, magnetic mechanisms may provide an unsatisfactory user experience in terms of the release forces involved. Accordingly, improved latch mechanism configured to address these and other problems may be desirable. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present application relates to latch mechanisms which may be employed to releasably hold a portable computing device such as a laptop computer or other device in a closed configuration. Such portable computing devices may include a lid and a base. A hinge may couple the lid and the base such that the portable computing device is moveable between open and closed configurations. 
     The latch mechanism may be coupled to the portable computing device opposite from the hinge. The latch mechanism may be a magnetic latch mechanism. In this regard, the latch mechanism may include first and second magnetic members. 
     The first magnetic member may be coupled to the lid and the second magnetic member may be coupled to the base. The second magnetic member may be moveable such that magnetic interaction with the first magnetic member is altered. For example, the base may comprise a moveable portion and a remainder portion, wherein the second magnetic member is coupled to the moveable portion of the base. Accordingly, when the moveable portion of the base is moved, the second magnetic member may be shifted relative to the first magnetic member. 
     This movement may release an attractive force between the magnetic members due to the attracted portions thereof moving away from one another. In some embodiments movement of the second magnetic member may additionally cause the magnetic members to repulse one another. In this regard, portions of the magnetic members defining similar polarities may be brought into proximity, such that the lid is pushed away from the base. Accordingly, opening of the lid may be facilitated. 
     Other apparatuses, methods, features and advantages of the disclosure will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the disclosure, and be protected by the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The included drawings are for illustrative purposes and serve only to provide examples of possible structures and arrangements for the disclosed apparatuses, assemblies, methods, and systems. These drawings in no way limit any changes in form and detail that may be made to the disclosure by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of the portable computing device in a closed configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates the portable computing device of  FIG. 1  in an open configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a bottom perspective view of a top case of a base of the portable computing device of  FIG. 1  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a bottom view of the portable computing device of  FIG. 1  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a portable computing device including a latch mechanism in an open configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a front perspective view of the portable computing device of  FIG. 5  in a closed configuration; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a sectional view through the portable computing device of  FIG. 6  along line A-A in an embodiment in which a moveable portion of the latch mechanism is configured to pivot, the latch mechanism illustrated in an engaged configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates the portable computing device of  FIG. 7  in a released configuration in which portions of the latch mechanism repulse one another; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a sectional view through the portable computing device of  FIG. 6  along line A-A in an embodiment in which a moveable portion of the latch mechanism is configured to translate, the latch mechanism illustrated in an engaged configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates the portable computing device of  FIG. 9  in a released configuration in which portions of the latch mechanism repulse one another; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a sectional view through the portable computing device of  FIG. 6  along line A-A in an embodiment in which a moveable portion of the latch mechanism is configured to translate toward a lid, the latch mechanism illustrated in an engaged configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates the portable computing device of  FIG. 11  in a released configuration in which portions of the latch mechanism repulse one another; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a force curve associated with opening and closing the portable computing devices of  FIGS. 7-12  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a sectional view through the portable computing device of  FIG. 6  along line A-A in an embodiment in which a moveable portion of the latch mechanism is configured to pivot, the latch mechanism illustrated in an engaged configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates the portable computing device of  FIG. 14  in a released configuration in which magnetic attraction between portions of the latch mechanism is relieved; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a sectional view through the portable computing device of  FIG. 6  along line A-A in an embodiment in which a moveable portion of the latch mechanism is configured to translate, the latch mechanism illustrated in an engaged configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates the portable computing device of  16  in a released configuration in which magnetic attraction between portions of the latch mechanism is relieved; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a sectional view through the portable computing device of  FIG. 6  along line A-A in an embodiment in which a moveable portion of the latch mechanism is configured to translate toward a lid, the latch mechanism illustrated in an engaged configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 19  illustrates the portable computing device of  18  in a released configuration in which magnetic attraction between portions of the latch mechanism is relieved; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a force curve associated with opening and closing the portable computing device of  FIGS. 14-19  according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a method for assembling a latch mechanism according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; and 
         FIG. 22  schematically illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Representative applications of systems, apparatuses, computer program products and methods according to the presently described embodiments are provided in this section. These examples are being provided solely to add context and aid in the understanding of the described embodiments. It will thus be apparent to one skilled in the art that the presently described embodiments can be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the presently described embodiments. Other applications are possible, such that the following examples should not be taken as limiting. 
     As described in detail below, the following relates to magnetic latches. Embodiments of the disclosure may be employed in housings for a variety of devices including, for example, electronic devices. By way of more specific example, the magnetic latches may be employed in laptop computers. However it should be understood that various other embodiments of devices may include the magnetic latches in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     In one embodiment a portable computing device can include a multi-part housing having a top case and a bottom case joining at a reveal to form a base. The portable computing device can have an upper portion (or lid) that can house a display screen and other related components whereas the base can house various processors, drives, ports, battery, keyboard, touchpad and the like. The top case and the bottom case can each be joined in a particular manner at an interface region such that the gap and offset between top and bottom cases are not only reduced, but are also more consistent from device to device during the mass production of devices. 
     In a particular embodiment, the lid and base can be pivotally connected with each other by way of what can be referred to as a clutch assembly. The clutch assembly can include at least a cylindrical portion that in turn includes an annular outer region, and a central bore region surrounded by the annular outer region, the central bore suitably arranged to provide support for electrical conductors between the base and electrical components in the lid. The clutch assembly can also include a plurality of fastening regions that couple the clutch to the base and the lid of the portable computing device with at least one of the fastening regions being integrally formed with the cylindrical portion such that space, size and part count are minimized. 
     The top case can include a cavity, or lumen, into which a plurality of operational components can be inserted during an assembly operation. In the described embodiment, the operational components can be inserted into the lumen and attached to the top case in a “top-bottom” assembly operation in which top most components are inserted first followed by components in a top down arrangement. For example, the top case can be provided and shaped to accommodate a keyboard module. The keyboard module can include a keyboard assembly formed of a plurality of keycap assemblies and associated circuitry, such as a flexible membrane on which can be incorporated a switching matrix and protective feature plate. Therefore, following the top-bottom assembly approach, the keyboard assembly is first inserted into the top case followed by the flexible membrane and then the feature plate that is attached to the top case. Other internal components can then be inserted in a top to bottom manner (when viewed from the perspective of the finished product). 
     In one embodiment, the keyboard module can be configured in such a way that a keycap assembly can be used to replace a power switch. For example, in a conventional keyboard each of a top row of keycaps can be assigned at least one function. However, by re-deploying one of the keycaps as a power button, the number of operational components can be reduced by at least eliminating the switch mechanism associated with the conventional power button and replacing it with the already available keycap assembly and associated circuitry. 
     In addition to the keyboard, the portable computing device can include a touch sensitive device along the lines of a touch pad, touch screen, etc. In those embodiments where the portable computing device includes a touch pad the touch pad can be formed from a glass material. The glass material provides a cosmetic surface and is the primary source of structural rigidity for the touchpad. The use of the glass material in this way significantly reduces the overall thickness of the touchpad compared to previous designs. The touchpad can include circuitry for processing signals from a sensor associated with the touchpad. In one embodiment, the circuitry can be embodied as a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB can be formed of material and placed in such a way that it provides structural support for the touchpad. Thus, a separate touchpad support is eliminated. 
     In one embodiment, the top case can be formed from a single billet of aluminum that is machined into a desired shape and size. The top case can include an integrated support system that adds to the structural integrity of the top case. The integrated support system can be continuous in nature in that there are no gaps or breaks. The integrated support system can be used to provide support for individual components (such as a keyboard). For example, the integrated support system can take the form of ribs that can be used as a reference datum for a keyboard. The ribs can also provide additional structural support due to the added thickness of the ribs. The ribs can also be used as part of a shield that helps to prevent light leaking from the keyboard as well as act as a Faraday cage that prevents leakage of extraneous electromagnetic radiation. 
     The continuous nature of the integrated support system can result in a more even distribution of an external load applied to the multi-part housing resulting in a reduced likelihood of warping, or bowing that reduces risk to internal components. The integrated support system can also provide mounting structures for those internal components mounted to the multi-part housing. Such internal components include a mass storage device (that can take the form of a hard disk drive, HDD, or solid state drive, SSD), audio components (audio jack, microphone, speakers, etc.) as well as input/output devices such as a keyboard and touch pad. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-4 . 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. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a portable computing device  100  in the form of a laptop computer in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure. More particularly,  FIG. 1  shows a front facing perspective view of the portable computing device  100  in a closed configuration. As illustrated, the portable computing device  100  may include a housing  102  comprising a base  104  and a lid  106 , which may also be referred to as a first housing portion and a second housing portion. In the closed configuration, the lid  106  and the base  104  form what appears to be a uniform structure having a continuously varying and coherent shape that enhances both the look and feel of the portable computing device  100 . In some embodiments the portable computing device  100  may include a logo  108  at a rear case  110  of the lid  106  of the housing  102 . In one embodiment, the logo  108  can be illuminated by light emitted from a display  112  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 2 ). 
     The base  104  can be pivotally connected to the lid  106  by way of a hinge that may include a clutch assembly in some embodiments. The base  104  may include an inset portion  114  suitable for assisting a user in lifting the lid  106  by, for example, a finger. Accordingly, the lid  106  of the housing  102  can be moved with respect to the base  104  of the housing with the aid of the clutch assembly from a closed configuration (see, e.g.,  FIG. 1 ) to an open configuration (see, e.g.,  FIG. 2 ). 
       FIG. 2  shows a front facing perspective view of the portable computing device  100  in the open configuration. The display  112  may be coupled to the rear case  110  of the lid  106  such that the display is provided with structural support. In this regard, the lid  106  can be formed to have uni-body construction provided by the rear case  110  that can provide additional strength and resiliency to the lid which is particularly important due to the stresses caused by repeated opening and closing. In addition to the increase in strength and resiliency, the uni-body construction of the lid  106  can reduce overall part count by eliminating separate support features, which may decrease manufacturing cost and/or complexity. 
     The lid  106  may include a mask (also referred to as display trim)  116  that surrounds the display  112 . The display trim  116  can be formed of an opaque material such as ink deposited on top of or within a protective layer of the display  112 . Thus, the display trim  116  can enhance the overall appearance of display  112  by hiding operational and structural components as well as focusing attention onto the active area of the display. 
     The display  112  can display visual content such as a graphical user interface, still images such as photos as well as video media items such as movies. The display  112  can display images using any appropriate technology such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, etc. Further, the portable computing device  100  may include an image capture device  118 . In one embodiment the image capturing device  118  may be located on a transparent portion of the display trim  116 . The image capture device  118  can be configured to capture both still and video images in some embodiments. 
     The base  104  may comprise a top case  120  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 3 ) fastened to a bottom case  122  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 4 ). As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the top case  120  can be configured to accommodate various user input devices such as a keyboard  124  and a touchpad  126 . The keyboard  124  can include a plurality of low profile keycap assemblies  128 . In one embodiment, an audio transducer (not shown) can use selected portions of keyboard  124  to control output audio signals such as music. One or more microphones  130  can be located on the lid  106 . The microphones  130  may be spaced apart to improve frequency response of an associated audio circuit. 
     Each of the plurality of keycap assemblies  128  can have a symbol imprinted thereon for identifying the key input associated with the particular key pad. The keyboard  124  can be arranged to receive a discrete input at each keycap assembly  128  using a finger motion referred to as a keystroke. In the described embodiment, the symbols on each keycap assembly  128  can be laser etched thereby creating an extremely clean and durable imprint that will not fade under the constant application of keystrokes over the life of portable computing device  100 . In order to reduce component count, one of the keycap assemblies  128  can be re-provisioned as a power button. In this way, the overall number of components in the portable computing device  100  can be commensurably reduced. 
     The touchpad  126  can be configured to receive finger gesturing. A finger gesture can include touch events from more than one finger applied in unison. The gesture can also include a single finger touch event such as a swipe or a tap. The gesture can be sensed by a sensing circuit in the touchpad  126  and converted to electrical signals that are passed to a processing unit for evaluation. In this way, the portable computing device  100  can be at least partially controlled by touch. 
     One or more data ports  132 ,  134 ,  136  can be used to transfer data and/or power between an external circuit(s) and the portable computing device  100 . The data ports can include, for example, an input slot  132  that can be used to accept a memory card (such as a FLASH memory card), whereas the remaining data ports  134 ,  136  can be used to accommodate data connections such as USB, FireWire, Thunderbolt, and so on. Further, in some embodiments, one or more speaker grids  137  can be used to output audio from an associated audio component enclosed within base  104  of the housing  102 . 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective bottom view of the top case  120  of the base  104  of the housing  102 . As illustrated, the top case  120  may comprise a major wall  138  and an outer rim  140  extending therefrom. A plurality of vents  142  may be defined in the top case  120 . For example, the vents  142  are defined in the outer rim  140  in the illustrated embodiment. The vents  142  may be configured to provide a flow of outside air that can be used to cool internal components by allowing air to enter or exit therethrough. For example, the vents  142  in the outer rim  140  may comprise intake vents and a plurality of vents  144  defined in a rear wall  146  may comprise exhaust vents. In another embodiment the vents  142  in the outer rim  140  can act as a secondary air intake subordinate to primary air intake vents or the vents in the outer rim may comprise exhaust vents. 
     The vents  142  in the outer rim  140  can also be used to output audio signals in the form of sound generated by an audio module. Accordingly, the vents  142  can be used to output sound at a selected frequency range in order to improve quality of an audio presentation by the portable computing device  100 . Additionally, the vents  142  in the outer rim  140  can be part of an integrated support system for the top case  120 . In this regard, internal ribs  148  may be positioned within the vents  142  and/or external ribs  150  may be positioned between the vents to provide additional structural support to the portable computing device  100 . In some embodiments the vents  142  may be machined from the material defining the top case  120  with the ribs  148 ,  150  comprising retained material. 
     The cadence and size of the vents  142  can be used to control air flow into portable computing device  100  as well as control emission of radio frequency (RF) energy in the form of electromagnetic interference (EMI) from the portable computing device. In this regard, the internal ribs  148  can separate an area within the vents  142  to produce an aperture sized to reduce passage of RF energy. The size of an aperture defined by each of the vents  142  may dictate the wavelength of RF energy that can be “trapped” by the aperture. In this case, the size of vents  142  is such that a substantial portion of RF energy emitted by internal components can be trapped within the portable computing device  100 . Furthermore, by placing vents  142  at a downward facing outer surface of the top case  120 , the aesthetics of portable computing device  100  can be enhanced since views of internal components from an external observer are eliminated during normal use. 
     As illustrated, the rear wall  146  may extend from the major wall  138 . The rear wall  146  may be configured to hide the clutch at the hinge between the base  104  and the lid  106  of the housing  102 . A plurality of inner sidewalls  152   a - d  may also extend from the major wall  138 . The inner sidewalls  152   a - d  may divide an interior space defined by the base  104  into a plurality of compartments  154   a - d.    
     As schematically illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the portable computing device  100  may include a plurality of electronic components  156 , which may be received in one or more of the compartments  154   a - d . As may be understood, by way of example, the electronic components  156  may include a mass storage device (e.g., a hard drive or a solid state storage device such as a flash memory device including non-transitory and tangible memory that may be, for example, volatile and/or non-volatile memory) configured to store information, data, files, applications, instructions or the like, a processor (e.g., a microprocessor or controller) configured to control the overall operation of the portable electronic device, a communication interface configured for transmitting and receiving data through, for example, a wired or wireless network such as a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), and/or a wide area network (WAN), for example, the Internet, a fan, a heat pipe, and one or more batteries. However, various other electronic components may additionally or alternatively be received in the housing  102  of the portable electronic device as may be understood by one having skill in the art. 
       FIG. 4  shows an external view of the bottom of the bottom case  122  of the base  104  of the housing  102 . One or more fasteners  158  may be positioned at the bottom case  122  of the base  104  of the housing  102 . The fasteners  158  may be configured to secure the bottom case  122  to the top case  120  to enclose the above-described electronic components  156 . 
     Additionally, in some embodiments the portable computing device  100  may include one or more bumpers. Bumpers may serve a variety of purposes. In this regard, in the illustrated embodiment the portable computing device  100  includes bumpers in the form of feet  160  coupled to an outer surface  162  of the bottom case  122  of the base  104  of the housing  102 . 
     However, it may be desirable to provide portable computing devices and other devices employing a housing with a latch. In this regard, embodiments of a magnetic latch mechanism are described hereinafter. Note that while the latch mechanism is generally described as being employed to releasably couple a lid to a base of a portable computing device, the latch mechanism may be engaged with, and configured to releasably couple a first housing portion and a second housing portion of substantially any device. Accordingly, the description related to usage of the latch mechanism with a portable computing device is provided for example purposes only. 
     However, by way of example,  FIG. 5  illustrates an example embodiment of a portable computing device  200 . The portable computing device  200  may include some or all of the features of the portable computing device  100  described above. Briefly, however, the portable computing device may include a housing  202  comprising a base  204  and a lid  206 . The base  204  may include a keyboard  208 . Further, the lid  206  may include a display  210 . 
     The lid  206  and the base  204  may be coupled to one another at a hinge  212 . The hinge  212  may be configured to allow for pivoting of the lid  206  relative to the base  204  between an open configuration (see,  FIG. 5 ) and a closed configuration (see,  FIG. 6 ). The hinge  212  may comprise a clutch assembly in some embodiments, which may be configured to affect the force required to move the lid  206  relative to the base  204  between the open and closed configurations. 
     As further illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the portable computing device may additionally include a latch mechanism  214 . The latch mechanism  214  may comprise a first magnetic member  216  configured to engage and engaged with the lid  206  and a second magnetic member  218  configured to engage and engaged with the base  204 . In some embodiments the first magnetic member  216  may be positioned proximate an edge  220  of the lid  206 . Similarly, the second magnetic member  218  may be positioned proximate an edge  222  of the base  204 . More particularly, the first magnetic member  216  and the second magnetic member  218  may be respectively positioned proximate edges  220 ,  222  of the lid  206  and the base  204  opposite from the hinge  212 . In this regard, the latch mechanism  214  may be positioned opposite from the hinge  212  such that the moment arm associated with the latch mechanism is relatively large. Accordingly, the latch mechanism  214  may prevent accidental opening of the portable computing device  200 . 
     Various embodiments of the latch mechanism  214  are described hereinafter. In each of the embodiments, one of the magnetic members  216 ,  218  is configured to move. In the embodiments described hereinafter, the second magnetic member  218  is configured to move. However, it should be understood that the first magnetic member  216  may additionally or alternatively be configured to move. Further movement of the magnetic members may be relative to one or both of the edges  220 ,  222  of the housing  202 , or portions thereof, opposite from the hinge  212 . As described below, such movement may alter a magnetic interaction between the first magnetic member  216  and the second magnetic member  218 . By altering the magnetic interaction between the first magnetic member  216  and the second magnetic member  218 , simplified release of the latch mechanism and/or other benefits described below may be provided. 
       FIGS. 7-12  illustrate cross-sectional views through embodiments of the portable computing device  200  along line A-A from  FIG. 6 . In this regard,  FIGS. 7 and 8  illustrate a first embodiment of the portable computing device  200 A. In the latch mechanism  214 A illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the second magnetic member  218 A comprises a magnet  224 A. In some embodiments the magnet  224 A and/or the other magnets disclosed herein may comprise a permanent magnet, which may be formed from a material such as neodymium. In this regard, neodymium may produce a relatively strong magnetic field. Further, in some embodiments the magnets disclosed herein may comprise electromagnets which are connected to a power supply. A controller may provide current from the power supply to the magnet so as to produce magnetic attraction and/or repulsion as described hereinafter. 
     Further, the first magnetic member  216 A comprises a first magnet  226 A and a second magnet  228 A, wherein the first magnet  226 A is positioned closer to the edge  220 A of the lid  206 A than the second magnet  228 A. Thus, the first magnet  226 A and the second magnet  228 A may be positioned at differing distances from the edge  220 A of the lid  206 A. The first magnet  226 A and the second magnet  228 A of the first magnetic member  216 A define opposing polarities. Further, the magnet  224 A of the second magnetic member  218 A and the first magnet  226 A of the first magnetic member  216 A define opposing polarities. 
     Accordingly, in the closed configuration illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the first magnet  226 A of the first magnetic member  216 A and the magnet  224 A of the second magnetic member  218 A are attracted to one another due to their opposing polarities. Thus, the latch mechanism  214 A holds the base  204 A and the lid  206 A in the closed configuration. Thereby, accidental opening of the portable computing device  200 A may be averted. 
     The latch mechanism  214 A may be configured to release to allow pivoting of the lid  206 A with respect to the base  204 A. In this regard, in one embodiment the magnetic members may be relatively weak so as to facilitate release thereof. However, use of relatively weak magnetic members may also lead to inadvertent opening of the housing. Accordingly, relatively strong magnetic members may be employed. However, use of relatively strong magnetic members may make moving the lid from the closed configuration to the open configuration difficult. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may include features configured to facilitate moving the lid relative to the base from the closed configuration to the open configuration. 
     In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 8 , the second magnetic member  218 A may be configured to pivot with respect to the lid  206 A. More particularly, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the base  204 A comprises a moveable portion  230 A configured to move with respect to a remainder  232 A of the base. For example, the moveable portion  230 A and the remainder  232 A of the base  204 A may be connected by a hinge  234 A. The second magnetic member  218 A may be engaged with the moveable portion  230 A of the base  204 A. 
     Accordingly, when a user pushes up on the moveable portion  230 A of the base  204 A (e.g., with a finger  236 A), the moveable portion may pivot with respect to the remainder  232 A of the base  204 A. As the moveable portion  230 A pivots, the moveable portion and/or the user&#39;s finger  236 A may lift the lid  206 A. Further, pivoting of the moveable portion  230 A may cause the magnet  224 A of the second magnetic member  218 A to retract from the first magnet  226 A of the first magnetic member  216 A, which may reduce the magnetic attraction therebetween. Further, the pivoting movement of the moveable portion  230 A may cause the magnet  224 A of the second magnetic member  218 A to angle toward the second magnet  228 A of the first magnetic member  216 A. Due to the magnet  224 A of the second magnetic member  218 A and the second magnet  228 A of the first magnetic member  216 A defining the same or similar polarities, the latch mechanism  214 A may switch from holding the lid  206 A to the base  204 A to forcing the lid away from the base. Accordingly, the latch mechanism  214 A may facilitate release of the lid  206 A from the base  204 A when a user presses on the moveable portion  230 A of the base  204 A. 
     Further, as illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the edge  222 A of the base  204 A may substantially align with the edge  220 A of the lid  206 A prior to movement of the second magnetic member  218 A. In this regard, alignment of the edges  220 A,  222 A of the housing  202 A may provide a pleasing appearance. However, the edge  222 A of the base  204 A may be configured to retract from the edge  220 A of the lid  206 A during movement of the second magnetic member  218 A such that the edge of the lid is exposed, as illustrated in  FIG. 8 . By exposing the edge  220 A of the lid  206 A, a user may more easily open the lid. Further, by allowing for movement of the moveable portion  230 A in the manner described above, the edge  220 A of the lid may be exposed without requiring use of an inset portion (see, e.g., inset portion  114  in  FIG. 1 ). In this regard, use of an inset portion may adversely affect the appearance of the portable computing device and/or require additional machining. 
       FIGS. 9 and 10  illustrate a second embodiment of the portable computing device  200 B. In the latch mechanism  214 B illustrated in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the second magnetic member  218 B comprises a magnet  224 B. Further, the first magnetic member  216 B comprises a first magnet  226 B and a second magnet  228 B, wherein the first magnet  226 B is positioned closer to the edge  220 B of the lid  206 B than the second magnet  228 B. The first magnet  226 B and the second magnet  228 B of the first magnetic member  216 B define opposing polarities. Further, the magnet  224 B of the second magnetic member  218 B and the first magnet  226 B of the first magnetic member  216 B define opposing polarities. 
     Accordingly, in the closed configuration illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the first magnet  226 B of the first magnetic member  216 B and the magnet  224 B of the second magnetic member  218 B are attracted to one another due to their opposing polarities. Thus, the latch mechanism  214 B holds the base  204 B and the lid  206 B in the closed configuration. Thereby, accidental opening of the portable computing device  200 B may be averted. 
     The latch mechanism  214 B may be configured to release to allow pivoting of the lid  206 B with respect to the base  204 B. In this regard, in one embodiment the magnetic members may be relatively weak so as to facilitate release thereof. However, use of relatively weak magnetic members may also lead to inadvertent opening of the housing. Accordingly, relatively strong magnetic members may be employed. However, use of relatively strong magnetic members may make moving the lid from the closed configuration to the open configuration difficult. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may include features configured to facilitate moving the lid relative to the base from the closed configuration to the open configuration. 
     In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the second magnetic member  218 B may be configured to translate away from the edge  220 B of the lid  206 B. More particularly, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the base  204 B comprises a moveable portion  230 B configured to move with respect to a remainder  232 B of the base. For example, the moveable portion  230 B may define a protrusion  234 B received in a slot  238 B. The second magnetic member  218 B may be engaged with the moveable portion  230 B of the base  204 B. 
     Accordingly, when a user pushes in on the moveable portion  230 B of the base  204 B (e.g., with a finger  236 B), the moveable portion may move toward the remainder  232 B of the base  204 B. As the moveable portion  230 B moves toward the remainder  232 B of the base  204 B, the user may lift the lid  206 B (e.g., using his or her finger  236 B). Further, translation of the moveable portion  230 B may cause the magnet  224 B of the second magnetic member  218 B to move away from the first magnet  226 B of the first magnetic member  216 B, which may reduce the magnetic attraction therebetween. Additionally, the translational movement of the moveable portion  230 B may cause the magnet  224 B of the second magnetic member  218 B to come into proximity with the second magnet  228 B of the first magnetic member  216 B. Due to the magnet  224 B of the second magnetic member  218 B and the second magnet  228 B of the first magnetic member  216 B defining the same or similar polarities, the latch mechanism  214 B may transition from holding the lid  206 B to the base  204 B to forcing the lid away from the base. Accordingly, the latch mechanism  214 B may facilitate release of the lid  206 B from the base  204 B when a user presses on the moveable portion  230 B of the base  204 B. 
     Further, as illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the edge  222 B of the base  204 B may substantially align with the edge  220 B of the lid  206 B prior to movement of the second magnetic member  218 B. In this regard, alignment of the edges  220 B,  222 B of the housing  202 B may provide a pleasing appearance. However, the edge  222 B of the base  204 B may be configured to retract from the edge  220 B of the lid  206 B during movement of the second magnetic member  218 B such that the edge of the lid is exposed, as illustrated in  FIG. 10 . By exposing the edge  220 B of the lid  206 B, a user may more easily open the lid. Further, by allowing for movement of the moveable portion  230 B in the manner described above, the edge  220 B of the lid may be exposed without requiring use of an inset portion (see, e.g., inset portion  114  in  FIG. 1 ). In this regard, use of an inset portion may adversely affect the appearance of the portable computing device and/or require additional machining. 
       FIGS. 11 and 12  illustrate a third embodiment of the portable computing device  200 C. In the latch mechanism  214 C illustrated in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , the second magnetic member  218 C comprises a magnet  224 C. Further, the first magnetic member  216 C comprises a first magnet  226 C and a second magnet  228 C, wherein the first magnet  226 C is positioned closer to the edge  220 C of the lid  206 C than the second magnet  228 C. The first magnet  226 C and the second magnet  228 C of the first magnetic member  216 C define opposing polarities. Further, the magnet  224 C of the second magnetic member  218 C and the first magnet  226 C of the first magnetic member  216 C define opposing polarities. 
     Accordingly, in the closed configuration illustrated in  FIG. 11 , the first magnet  226 C of the first magnetic member  216 C and the magnet  224 C of the second magnetic member  218 C are attracted to one another due to their opposing polarities. Thus, the latch mechanism  214 C holds the base  204 C and the lid  206 C in the closed configuration. Thereby, accidental opening of the portable computing device  200 C may be averted. 
     The latch mechanism  214 C may be configured to release to allow pivoting of the lid  206 C with respect to the base  204 C. In this regard, in one embodiment the magnetic members may be relatively weak so as to facilitate release thereof. However, use of relatively weak magnetic members may also lead to inadvertent opening of the housing. Accordingly, relatively strong magnetic members may be employed. However, use of relatively strong magnetic members may make moving the lid from the closed configuration to the open configuration difficult. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may include features configured to facilitate moving the lid relative to the base from the closed configuration to the open configuration. 
     In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 12 , the second magnetic member  218 C may be configured to translate away from the edge  220 C of the lid  206 C. More particularly, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , the base  204 C comprises a moveable portion  230 C configured to move with respect to a remainder  232 C of the base. For example, the moveable portion  230 C may define a protrusion  234 C received in a slot  238 C. The second magnetic member  218 C may be engaged with the moveable portion  230 C of the base  204 C. 
     Accordingly, when a user pushes in on the moveable portion  230 C of the base  204 C (e.g., with a finger  236 C), the moveable portion may move toward the remainder  232 C of the base  204 C. Further, the moveable portion  230 C and the second magnetic member  218 C may move toward the lid  206 C while translating away from the edge  220 C of the lid. In this regard, as illustrated, the slot  238 C may angle toward the lid  104 C in the closed configuration. As the moveable portion  230 C moves toward the remainder  232 C of the base  204 C, the user may lift the lid  206 C (e.g., using his or her finger  236 C). The angle of the slot  238 C may assist in the opening movement by causing the user&#39;s finger  236 C to originally angle upwardly while moving the moveable portion  230 C. Thus, the user&#39;s finger may smoothly transition to the pivoting movement associated with moving the lid  206 C relative to the base. Note that a gap  240 C (see,  FIG. 11 ) between the moveable portion  230 C of the base  204 C and the lid  206 C in the closed configuration may facilitate the angled translational movement of the moveable portion. 
     Translation of the moveable portion  230 C may cause the magnet  224 C of the second magnetic member  218 C to move away from the first magnet  226 C of the first magnetic member  216 C, which may reduce the magnetic attraction therebetween. Further, the translational movement of the moveable portion  230 C may cause the magnet  224 C of the second magnetic member  218 C to come into proximity with the second magnet  228 C of the first magnetic member  216 C. Due to the magnet  224 C of the second magnetic member  218 C and the second magnet  228 C of the first magnetic member  216 C defining the same or similar polarities, the latch mechanism  214 C may switch from holding the lid  206 C to the base  204 C to forcing the lid away from the base. Accordingly, the latch mechanism  214 C may facilitate release of the lid  206 C from the base  204 C when a user presses on the moveable portion  230 C of the base  204 C. 
     Further, as illustrated in  FIG. 11 , the edge  222 C of the base  204 C may substantially align with the edge  220 C of the lid  206 C (in terms of extension away from the hinge) prior to movement of the second magnetic member  218 C. In this regard, alignment of the edges  220 C,  222 C of the housing  202 C may provide a pleasing appearance. However, the edge  222 C of the base  204 C may be configured to retract from the edge  220 C of the lid  206 C during movement of the second magnetic member  218 C such that the edge of the lid is exposed, as illustrated in  FIG. 12 . By exposing the edge  220 C of the lid  206 C, a user may more easily open the lid. Further, by allowing for movement of the moveable portion  230 C in the manner described above, the edge  220 C of the lid may be exposed without requiring use of an inset portion (see, e.g., inset portion  114  in  FIG. 1 ). In this regard, use of an inset portion may adversely affect the appearance of the portable computing device and/or require additional machining. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates a graph of force (vertical axis) versus distance (horizontal axis) associated with the latch mechanisms  214 A-C described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 7-12 . Note that minor variations in the forces caused by the latch mechanism  214 A-C due to variations in the designs thereof may exist. Accordingly, the graph illustrated in  FIG. 13  should be understood to represent only a generic illustration of the forces involved in employing the latch mechanisms  214 A-C. 
     Line  302  in  FIG. 13  schematically illustrates forces between the lid  206 A-C and the base  204 A-C caused by the above-described latch mechanisms  214 A-C during movement of the portable computing device  200 A-C between the closed configuration and the open configuration. As illustrated by line  302 , prior to moving the moveable portion of the base, the lid and the base may attract one another. Thereafter, as further illustrated by line  302 , as the moveable portion of the base moves, interaction between the magnetic members of the latch mechanism may switch from attraction to repulsion, which facilitates opening the lid. Line  304  schematically illustrates forces between the lid and the base caused by a latch mechanism during movement of the portable computing device from the open configuration to the closed configuration. As illustrated, as the lid and base are moved from the open configuration toward the closed configuration, the magnetic members may attract one another (due to the moveable portion of the base being in the initial undisplaced position), such that the lid and base are held shut in the closed configuration. 
     Note that in the embodiments of the portable computing devices described above, the latch mechanisms employed magnets defining opposing polarities in the lid which moved from an attractive configuration to a repulsive configuration based on movement of a magnet in the base. In an alternate embodiment, the lid may include a single magnet and the base may include magnets defining opposing polarities, with substantially the same functionality. As a result of the above-described configuration of magnets, the lid may pop away from the base during release of the lid from the base due to the repulsive forces between the magnets. Additionally, various other numbers of magnets may be employed to provide similar functionality 
     Further, in other embodiments, alternate configurations of magnetic members may be employed. In this regard,  FIGS. 14-19  illustrate cross-sectional views through additional embodiments of the portable computing device  200  along line A-A from  FIG. 6 .  FIGS. 14 and 15  illustrate a fourth embodiment of the portable computing device  200 D. In the latch mechanism  214 D illustrated in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the first magnetic member  216 D comprises an attractor plate  226 D. The attractor plate  226 D may comprise a ferromagnetic material, such as steel. In this regard, the magnetic members described herein may not each comprise a permanent magnet in all embodiments. 
     Further, the second magnetic member  218 D may comprise a magnet  224 D (e.g., a permanent magnet). In the illustrated embodiment the second magnetic member  218 D further comprises first and second shunts  242 D,  244 D. The shunts  242 D,  244 D may comprise a piece of low carbon steel or other ferromagnetic material. The shunts  242 D,  244 D may be configured to divert and directionalize a magnetic field produced by the magnet  224 D in a desired direction. In this regard, the shunts  242 D,  244 D may be configured to direct the magnetic field produced by the magnet  224 D toward the attractor plate  226 D when the lid  206 D is in the closed configuration. Accordingly, the magnetic field produced by the second magnetic member  218 D may attract the attractor plate  226 D of the first magnetic member  216 D while limiting the amount of magnetic field extending in other directions. Thereby, for example, issues with respect to flux leakage outside of the housing  202 D or into a mass storage device in the portable computing device  200 D may be avoided. Additionally, the particular illustrated configuration of the second magnetic member  218 D with the shunts  242 D,  244 D on opposing sides of the second magnetic member  218 D may produce a relatively strong magnetic field at short distances which drops off quickly at longer distances. 
     Accordingly, in the closed configuration illustrated in  FIG. 14 , the attractor plate  226 D of the first magnetic member  216 D and the magnet  224 D of the second magnetic member  218 D are attracted to one another due to the magnet being attracted to the ferromagnetic material of the attractor plate. Thus, the latch mechanism  214 D holds the base  204 D and the lid  206 D in the closed configuration. Thereby, accidental opening of the portable computing device  200 D may be averted. 
     The latch mechanism  214 D may be configured to release to allow pivoting of the lid  206 D with respect to the base  204 D. In this regard, in one embodiment the magnet may be relatively weak so as to facilitate release thereof. However, use of relatively weak magnets may also lead to inadvertent opening of the housing. Accordingly, relatively strong magnets may be employed. However, use of relatively strong magnets may make moving the lid from the closed configuration to the open configuration difficult. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may include features configured to facilitate moving the lid relative to the base from the closed configuration to the open configuration. 
     In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 15 , the second magnetic member  218 D may be configured to pivot with respect to the lid  206 D. More particularly, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the base  204 D comprises a moveable portion  230 D configured to move with respect to a remainder  232 D of the base. For example, the moveable portion  230 D and the remainder  232 D of the base  204 D may be connected by a hinge  234 D. The second magnetic member  218 D may be engaged with the moveable portion  230 D of the base  204 D. 
     Accordingly, when a user pushes up on the moveable portion  230 D of the base  204 D (e.g., with a finger  236 D), the moveable portion may pivot with respect to the remainder  232 D of the base  204 D. As the moveable portion  230 D pivots, the moveable portion and/or the user&#39;s finger  236 D may lift the lid  206 D. Further, pivoting of the moveable portion  230 D may cause the magnet  224 D of the second magnetic member  218 D to retract from the attractor plate  226 D of the first magnetic member  216 D, which may reduce the magnetic attraction therebetween. Accordingly, the latch mechanism  214 D may release of the lid  206 D from the base  204 D when a user presses on the moveable portion  230 D of the base  204 D. 
     Further, as illustrated in  FIG. 15 , the edge  222 D of the base  204 D may substantially align with the edge  220 D of the lid  206 D prior to movement of the second magnetic member  218 D. In this regard, alignment of the edges  220 D,  222 D of the housing  202 D may provide a pleasing appearance. However, the edge  222 D of the base  204 D may be configured to retract from the edge  220 D of the lid  206 D during movement of the second magnetic member  218 D such that the edge of the lid is exposed, as illustrated in  FIG. 15 . By exposing the edge  220 D of the lid  206 D, a user may more easily open the lid. Further, by allowing for movement of the moveable portion  230 D in the manner described above, the edge  220 D of the lid may be exposed without requiring use of an inset portion (see, e.g., inset portion  114  in  FIG. 1 ). In this regard, use of an inset portion may adversely affect the appearance of the portable computing device and/or require additional machining. 
       FIGS. 16 and 17  illustrate a fifth embodiment of the portable computing device  200 E. In the latch mechanism  214 E illustrated in  FIGS. 16 and 17 , the first magnetic member  216 E comprises an attractor plate  226 E. Further, the second magnetic member  218 E may comprise a magnet  224 E. In the illustrated embodiment the second magnetic member  218 E further comprises first and second shunts  242 E,  244 E. Thus, the first and second magnetic members  216 E,  218 E may be substantially similar to the first and second magnetic members  216 D,  218 D of the portable computing device  200 D illustrated in  FIGS. 14 and 15 . 
     Accordingly, in the closed configuration illustrated in  FIG. 16 , the attractor plate  226 E of the first magnetic member  216 E and the magnet  224 E of the second magnetic member  218 E are attracted to one another. Thus, the latch mechanism  214 E holds the base  204 E and the lid  206 E in the closed configuration. Thereby, accidental opening of the portable computing device  200 E may be averted. 
     The latch mechanism  214 E may be configured to release to allow pivoting of the lid  206 E with respect to the base  204 E. In this regard, in one embodiment the magnetic members may be relatively weak so as to facilitate release thereof. However, use of relatively weak magnetic members may also lead to inadvertent opening of the housing. Accordingly, relatively strong magnetic members may be employed. However, use of relatively strong magnetic members may make moving the lid from the closed configuration to the open configuration difficult. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may include features configured to facilitate moving the lid relative to the base from the closed configuration to the open configuration. 
     In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 17 , the second magnetic member  218 E may be configured to translate away from the edge  220 E of the lid  206 E. More particularly, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 16 and 17 , the base  204 E comprises a moveable portion  230 E configured to move with respect to a remainder  232 E of the base. For example, the moveable portion  230 E may define a protrusion  234 E received in a slot  238 E. The second magnetic member  218 E may be engaged with the moveable portion  230 E of the base  204 E. 
     Accordingly, when a user pushes in on the moveable portion  230 E of the base  204 E (e.g., with a finger  236 E), the moveable portion may move toward the remainder  232 E of the base  204 E. As the moveable portion  230 E moves toward the remainder  232 E of the base  204 E, the user may lift the lid  206 E (e.g., using his or her finger  236 E). Further, translation of the moveable portion  230 E may cause the magnet  224 E of the second magnetic member  218 E to move away from the attractor plate  226 E of the first magnetic member  216 E, which may reduce the magnetic attraction therebetween. Accordingly, the latch mechanism  214 E may facilitate release of the lid  206 E from the base  204 E when a user presses on the moveable portion  230 E of the base  204 E by reducing the magnetic attraction between the base and the lid. 
     Further, as illustrated in  FIG. 17 , the edge  222 E of the base  204 E may substantially align with the edge  220 E of the lid  206 E prior to movement of the second magnetic member  218 E. In this regard, alignment of the edges  220 E,  222 E of the housing  202 E may provide a pleasing appearance. However, the edge  222 E of the base  204 E may be configured to retract from the edge  220 E of the lid  206 E during movement of the second magnetic member  218 E such that the edge of the lid is exposed, as illustrated in  FIG. 17 . By exposing the edge  220 E of the lid  206 E, a user may more easily open the lid. Further, by allowing for movement of the moveable portion  230 E in the manner described above, the edge  220 E of the lid may be exposed without requiring use of an inset portion (see, e.g., inset portion  114  in  FIG. 1 ). In this regard, use of an inset portion may adversely affect the appearance of the portable computing device and/or require additional machining. 
       FIGS. 18 and 19  illustrate a third embodiment of the portable computing device  200 F. In the latch mechanism  214 F illustrated in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , the first magnetic member  216 F comprises an attractor plate  226 F. Further, the second magnetic member  218 F may comprise a magnet  224 F. In the illustrated embodiment the second magnetic member  218 E further comprises first and second shunts  242 F,  244 F. Thus, the first and second magnetic members  216 E,  218 E may be substantially similar to the first and second magnetic members  216 D,  218 D of the portable computing device  200 D illustrated in  FIGS. 14 and 15 . 
     Accordingly, in the closed configuration illustrated in  FIG. 18 , the attractor plate  226 F of the first magnetic member  216 F and the magnet  224 F of the second magnetic member  218 F are attracted to one another. Thus, the latch mechanism  214 F holds the base  204 F and the lid  206 F in the closed configuration. Thereby, accidental opening of the portable computing device  200 F may be averted. 
     The latch mechanism  214 F may be configured to release to allow pivoting of the lid  206 F with respect to the base  204 F. In this regard, in one embodiment the magnetic members may be relatively weak so as to facilitate release thereof. However, use of relatively weak magnetic members may also lead to inadvertent opening of the housing. Accordingly, relatively strong magnetic members may be employed. However, use of relatively strong magnetic members may make moving the lid from the closed configuration to the open configuration difficult. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may include features configured to facilitate moving the lid relative to the base from the closed configuration to the open configuration. 
     In this regard, as illustrated in  FIG. 19 , the second magnetic member  218 F may be configured to translate away from the edge  220 F of the lid  206 F. More particularly, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , the base  204 F comprises a moveable portion  230 F configured to move with respect to a remainder  232 F of the base. For example, the moveable portion  230 F may define a protrusion  234 F received in a slot  238 F. The second magnetic member  218 F may be engaged with the moveable portion  230 F of the base  204 F. 
     Accordingly, when a user pushes in on the moveable portion  230 F of the base  204 F (e.g., with a finger  236 F), the moveable portion may move toward the remainder  232 F of the base  204 F. Further, the moveable portion  230 F and the second magnetic member  218 F may move toward the lid  206 F while translating away from the edge  220 F of the lid. In this regard, as illustrated, the slot  238 F may angle toward the lid  104 F in the closed configuration. As the moveable portion  230 F moves toward the remainder  232 F of the base  204 F, the user may lift the lid  206 F (e.g., using his or her finger  236 F). The angle of the slot  238 F may assist in the opening movement by causing the user&#39;s finger  236 F to originally angle upwardly while moving the moveable portion  230 F. Thus, the user&#39;s finger may smoothly transition to the pivoting movement associated with moving the lid  206 F relative to the base. Note that a gap  240 F between the moveable portion  230 F of the base  204 F and the lid  206 F in the closed configuration may facilitate the angled translational movement of the moveable portion. 
     Translation of the moveable portion  230 F may cause the magnet  224 F of the second magnetic member  218 F to move away from the attractor plate  226 F of the first magnetic member  216 F, which may reduce the magnetic attraction therebetween. Accordingly, the latch mechanism  214 F may facilitate release of the lid  206 F from the base  204 F when a user presses on the moveable portion  230 F of the base  204 F. 
     Further, as illustrated in  FIG. 18 , the edge  222 F of the base  204 F may substantially align with the edge  220 F of the lid  206 F (in terms of extension away from the hinge) prior to movement of the second magnetic member  218 F. In this regard, alignment of the edges  220 F,  222 F of the housing  202 F may provide a pleasing appearance. However, the edge  222 F of the base  204 F may be configured to retract from the edge  220 F of the lid  206 F during movement of the second magnetic member  218 F such that the edge of the lid is exposed, as illustrated in  FIG. 19 . By exposing the edge  220 F of the lid  206 F, a user may more easily open the lid. Further, by allowing for movement of the moveable portion  230 F in the manner described above, the edge  220 F of the lid may be exposed without requiring use of an inset portion (see, e.g., inset portion  114  in  FIG. 1 ). In this regard, use of an inset portion may adversely affect the appearance of the portable computing device and/or require additional machining. 
       FIG. 20  illustrates a graph of force (vertical axis) versus distance (horizontal axis) associated with the latch mechanisms  214 D-F described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 14-19 . Note that minor variations in the forces caused by the latch mechanism  214 D-F due to variations in the designs thereof may exist. Accordingly, the graph illustrated in  FIG. 20  should be understood to represent only a generic illustration of the forces involved in employing the latch mechanisms  214 D-F. 
     Line  402  in  FIG. 20  schematically illustrates forces between the lid  206 D-F and the base  204 D-F caused by the above-described latch mechanisms  214 D-F during movement of the portable computing device  200 D-F between the closed configuration and the open configuration. As illustrated by line  402 , prior to moving the moveable portion of the base, the lid and the base may attract one another. However, as a result of relative movement of the magnetic members  216 D-F,  218 D-F, the magnetic attraction may rapidly drop off during pivoting of the lid  206 D-F relative to the base  204 D-F. Line  404  schematically illustrates forces between the lid and the base caused by a latch mechanism during movement of the portable computing device from the open configuration to the closed configuration. As illustrated, as the lid and base are moved from the open configuration toward the closed configuration, the magnetic members may attract one another (due to the moveable portion of the base being in the initial undisplaced position), such that the lid and base are held shut in the closed configuration. Note that the magnetic attraction may be relatively stronger during closing of the lid as a result of the moveable portion of the base being returned to the initial position. 
     A method for assembling a latch mechanism is also provided. As illustrated in  FIG. 21 , the method may include coupling a first magnetic member to a first housing portion proximate an edge thereof at operation  402 . Further, the method may include coupling a second magnetic member to a second housing portion, the second magnetic member being moveable relative to the edge of the first housing portion such that a magnetic interaction between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member is altered at operation  404 . 
     In some embodiments of the method, coupling the second magnetic member to the second housing portion at operation  404  may comprise coupling the second magnetic member to the second housing portion such that the second magnetic member may pivot with respect to the first housing portion. Further, coupling the second magnetic member to the second housing portion at operation  404  may comprise coupling the second magnetic member to a moveable portion of the second housing portion and coupling the moveable portion to a remainder of the second housing portion such that the moveable portion may move with respect to the remainder of the second housing portion. The method may additionally include hingedly coupling the first housing portion to the second housing portion. Hingedly coupling the first housing portion to the second housing portion may comprise substantially aligning an edge of the second housing portion with an edge of the first housing portion in the closed configuration. Further, coupling the first magnetic member to the first housing portion at operation  402  may comprise coupling the first magnetic member to a lid of a portable computing device and coupling the second magnetic member to the second housing portion at operation  404  may comprise coupling the second magnetic member to a base of the portable computing device. 
       FIG. 22  is a block diagram of an electronic device  700  suitable for use with the described embodiments. In one example embodiment the electronic device  700  may be embodied in or as a controller configured for controlling the latch mechanism assembly operations as disclosed herein. In this regard, the electronic device  700  may be configured to control or execute the above-described latch mechanism assembly operations. 
     The electronic device  500  illustrates circuitry of a representative computing device. The electronic device  500  may include a processor  502  that may be microprocessor or controller for controlling the overall operation of the electronic device  500 . In one embodiment the processor  502  may be particularly configured to perform the functions described herein relating assembling a portable computing device or other device including a latch mechanism. The electronic device  500  may also include a memory device  504 . The memory device  504  may include non-transitory and tangible memory that may be, for example, volatile and/or non-volatile memory. The memory device  504  may be configured to store information, data, files, applications, instructions or the like. For example, the memory device  504  could be configured to buffer input data for processing by the processor  502 . Additionally or alternatively, the memory device  504  may be configured to store instructions for execution by the processor  502 . 
     The electronic device  500  may also include a user interface  506  that allows a user of the electronic device  500  to interact with the electronic device. For example, the user interface  506  can take a variety of forms, such as a button, keypad, dial, touch screen, audio input interface, visual/image capture input interface, input in the form of sensor data, etc. Still further, the user interface  506  may be configured to output information to the user through a display, speaker, or other output device. A communication interface  508  may provide for transmitting and receiving data through, for example, a wired or wireless network such as a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), and/or a wide area network (WAN), for example, the Internet. 
     The electronic device  500  may also include a latch assembly module  510 . The processor  502  may be embodied as, include or otherwise control the latch assembly module  510 . The latch assembly module  510  may be configured for controlling or executing the operations relating to assembling the latch mechanisms discussed herein. 
     In this regard, for example, in one embodiment a computer program product comprising at least one computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program code portions stored therein is provided. The computer-executable program code portions, which may be stored in the memory device  504 , may include program code instructions for performing the latch assembly operations disclosed herein. 
     Although the foregoing disclosure has been described in detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be recognized that the above described disclosure may be embodied in numerous other specific variations and embodiments without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the disclosure. Certain changes and modifications may be practiced, and it is understood that the disclosure is not to be limited by the foregoing details, but rather is to be defined by the scope of the appended claims.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20140220
Publication Date: 20160301
Grant Date: 20160301
Priority Date: 20140220
Inventors: ANDRE BARTLEY K.
LIGTENBERG CHRISTIAAN A.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "Y10T29/49826", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0221", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05C19/16", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T292/11", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1679", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05B65/0067", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05B17/0033", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T292/11", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49826", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1616", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49826", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0221", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T292/11", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05B17/0033", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05C19/16", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1679", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "E05B65/0067", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 53799405