PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-12093075-B2
Application Number: US-202217940930-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Magnetic attachment system for input device

Abstract:
A tablet computing system may include a display, and an enclosure enclosing the display. An exterior surface of the enclosure may define a stylus charging region, a stylus attachment region, and an interior surface opposite the exterior surface. The tablet computing system may further include a magnetic attachment mechanism positioned along the interior surface opposite the stylus attachment region and configured to releasably couple a stylus to the tablet computing system. The magnetic attachment mechanism may include a frame structure, and a magnet positioned in a recess of the frame structure and configured to move from a rest position in the frame structure to an attachment position proximate the interior surface of the housing member in response to the stylus being positioned on the stylus attachment region of the exterior surface of the housing member.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A tablet computing system comprising:
 a display; 
 an enclosure enclosing the display and comprising:
 a cover positioned over the display and defining a front exterior surface of the enclosure; and 
 a housing member coupled to the cover and defining:
 an exterior surface defining a stylus charging region and a stylus attachment region; and 
 an interior surface opposite the exterior surface; and 
 
 
 a magnetic attachment mechanism positioned along the interior surface opposite the stylus attachment region and configured to releasably couple a stylus to the tablet computing system, the magnetic attachment mechanism comprising:
 a frame structure; and 
 a magnet positioned in a recess of the frame structure and configured to:
 move from a rest position in the frame structure to an attachment position proximate the interior surface of the housing member in response to the stylus being positioned on the stylus attachment region of the exterior surface of the housing member; and 
 move from the attachment position to the rest position in response to the stylus being removed from the stylus attachment region. 
 
 
 
     
     
       2. The tablet computing system of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the magnetic attachment mechanism further comprises a magnetic return component configured to attract the magnet to the rest position; and 
 a magnetic attraction between the magnet and a magnetic component in the stylus when the magnet is in the rest position is greater than a magnetic attraction between the magnet and the magnetic return component when the magnet is in the rest position. 
 
     
     
       3. The tablet computing system of  claim 1 , wherein the magnet comprises an array of permanent magnets. 
     
     
       4. The tablet computing system of  claim 1 , wherein the magnet moves from the rest position to the attachment position due to magnetic attraction between the magnet and a magnetic component in the stylus. 
     
     
       5. The tablet computing system of  claim 4 , wherein the magnet moves from the attachment position to the rest position due to magnetic attraction between the magnet and a magnetic return component coupled to the frame structure. 
     
     
       6. The tablet computing system of  claim 5 , wherein:
 the magnet comprises a first array of permanent magnets; 
 the magnetic component in the stylus is a second array of permanent magnets; and 
 the magnetic return component is a ferromagnetic material. 
 
     
     
       7. The tablet computing system of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the exterior surface defines an additional stylus attachment region; and 
 the tablet computing system further comprises:
 an additional magnetic attachment mechanism positioned along the interior surface opposite the additional stylus attachment region, the magnetic attachment mechanism comprising: 
 an additional frame structure; and 
 an additional magnet positioned in a recess of the additional frame structure and configured to:
 move from an additional rest position in the additional frame structure to an additional attachment position proximate the interior surface of the housing member in response to the stylus being positioned on the additional stylus attachment region of the exterior surface of the housing member; and 
 move from the additional attachment position to the additional rest position in response to the stylus being removed from the additional stylus attachment region. 
 
 
 
     
     
       8. The tablet computing system of  claim 7 , wherein the stylus charging region is positioned between the stylus attachment region and the additional stylus attachment region. 
     
     
       9. A portable electronic device comprising:
 an enclosure comprising:
 a front cover defining a front exterior surface of the enclosure; and 
 a housing member coupled to the front cover and comprising a wall defining an exterior surface of the housing member; 
 
 a magnetic attachment mechanism positioned along an interior surface of the wall opposite the exterior surface and configured to magnetically retain a stylus to the exterior surface, the magnetic attachment mechanism comprising a movable magnet configured to be:
 magnetically retained, via magnetic attraction to a magnetic component in the stylus, in an attachment position when the stylus is positioned on the exterior surface; and 
 magnetically retained in a rest position different from the attachment position when the stylus is removed from the exterior surface, wherein the rest position is a greater distance away from the interior surface of the housing member than the attachment position; and 
 
 a wireless charging system positioned along the interior surface of the housing member opposite the exterior surface and configured to wirelessly charge the stylus when the stylus is magnetically retained to the exterior surface. 
 
     
     
       10. The portable electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein:
 the magnetic attachment mechanism comprises a frame structure defining a recess; and 
 the movable magnet is positioned in the recess and is configured to move within the recess. 
 
     
     
       11. The portable electronic device of  claim 10 , wherein:
 the magnetic attachment mechanism comprises a magnetic return component coupled to the frame structure; and 
 the movable magnet is magnetically retained in the rest position due to magnetic attraction between the movable magnet and the magnetic return component. 
 
     
     
       12. The portable electronic device of  claim 10 , wherein the movable magnet is configured to slide along a surface of the recess when moving between the rest position and the attachment position. 
     
     
       13. The portable electronic device of  claim 12 , wherein the surface of the recess includes a coating. 
     
     
       14. The portable electronic device of  claim 10 , wherein a distance between the attachment position and the rest position is between about 0.25 mm and about 0.75 mm. 
     
     
       15. A portable electronic device comprising:
 a display; 
 wireless communication circuitry; 
 a battery; 
 an enclosure enclosing the display, the wireless communication circuitry, and the battery, the enclosure defining, along an accessory attachment surface of an exterior surface of the enclosure:
 an accessory charging region; and 
 an accessory attachment region; 
 
 a wireless charging system positioned along an interior surface of the enclosure opposite the accessory charging region and configured to wirelessly transfer power between the portable electronic device and an accessory attached to the exterior surface of the enclosure over the accessory charging region; and 
 a magnetic attachment mechanism positioned along the interior surface of the enclosure opposite the accessory attachment region and configured to attach the accessory to the accessory attachment surface, the magnetic attachment mechanism comprising:
 a magnet; and 
 a magnetic return component, the magnet configured to:
 move from a rest position to an attachment position proximate the interior surface of the enclosure due to magnetic attraction to a magnetic component in the accessory; and 
 return from the attachment position to the rest position due to magnetic attraction to the magnetic return component in response to the accessory being removed from the accessory attachment surface. 
 
 
 
     
     
       16. The portable electronic device of  claim 15 , wherein:
 the enclosure comprises a wall defining the accessory attachment surface; and 
 the wall is between the accessory and the magnetic attachment mechanism when the accessory is attached to the accessory attachment surface. 
 
     
     
       17. The portable electronic device of  claim 15 , wherein:
 the battery is a first battery; 
 the accessory is a removable charging accessory comprising a second battery; and 
 the wireless charging system is configured to charge the first battery with power from the second battery. 
 
     
     
       18. The portable electronic device of  claim 15 , wherein the magnet is a Halbach array including a plurality of permanent magnets. 
     
     
       19. The portable electronic device of  claim 15 , wherein:
 the magnetic attachment mechanism comprises a frame structure defining a recess; and 
 the magnet is configured to slide within the recess between the rest position and the attachment position. 
 
     
     
       20. The portable electronic device of  claim 19 , wherein the accessory is a stylus.

Description:
FIELD 
     The subject matter of this disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly, to magnetic attachment systems for attaching accessories to electronic devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Modern consumer electronic devices take many shapes and forms, and have numerous uses and functions. Tablet computing systems, for example, may include touch-sensitive displays, speakers, cameras, microphones, and batteries, as well as sophisticated processors and other electronics. These and other subsystems may be integrated into compact, handheld products that provide myriad functions while being reliable and capable of withstanding daily use. 
     SUMMARY 
     A tablet computing system may include a display and an enclosure enclosing the display. The enclosure may include a cover positioned over the display and defining a front exterior surface of the enclosure, and a housing member coupled to the cover. The housing member may define an exterior surface defining a stylus charging region and a stylus attachment region, and an interior surface opposite the exterior surface. The tablet computing system may further include a magnetic attachment mechanism positioned along the interior surface opposite the stylus attachment region and configured to releasably couple a stylus to the tablet computing system. The magnetic attachment mechanism may include a frame structure and a magnet positioned in a recess of the frame structure and configured to move from a rest position in the frame structure to an attachment position proximate the interior surface of the housing member in response to the stylus being positioned on the stylus attachment region of the exterior surface of the housing member, and move from the attachment position to the rest position in response to the stylus being removed from the stylus attachment region. 
     The magnetic attachment mechanism may further include a magnetic return component configured to attract the magnet to the rest position. A magnetic attraction between the magnet and a magnetic component in the stylus when the magnet is in the rest position may be greater than a magnetic attraction between the magnet and the magnetic return component when the magnet is in the rest position. The magnet may include an array of permanent magnets. 
     The magnet may be moved from the rest position to the attachment position due to magnetic attraction between the magnet and a magnetic component in the stylus. The magnet may be moved from the attachment position to the rest position due to magnetic attraction between the magnet and a magnetic return component coupled to the frame structure. The magnet may be a first array of permanent magnets, the magnetic component in the stylus may be a second array of permanent magnets, and the magnetic return component may be a ferromagnetic material. 
     The exterior surface may define an additional stylus attachment region and the tablet computing system may further include an additional magnetic attachment mechanism positioned along the interior surface opposite the additional stylus attachment region, the magnetic attachment mechanism comprising an additional frame structure and an additional magnet positioned in a recess of the additional frame structure. The additional magnet may be configured to move from an additional rest position in the additional frame structure to an additional attachment position proximate the interior surface of the housing member in response to the stylus being positioned on the additional stylus attachment region of the exterior surface of the housing member, and move from the additional attachment position to the additional rest position in response to the stylus being removed from the additional stylus attachment region. The stylus charging region may be positioned between the stylus attachment region and the additional stylus attachment region. 
     A portable electronic device may include an enclosure including a front cover defining a front exterior surface of the enclosure and a housing member coupled to the front cover and comprising a wall defining an exterior surface of the housing member. The portable electronic device may further include a magnetic attachment mechanism positioned along an interior surface of the wall opposite the exterior surface and configured to magnetically retain a stylus to the exterior surface, the magnetic attachment mechanism comprising a movable magnet configured to be magnetically retained, via magnetic attraction to a magnetic component in the stylus, in an attachment position when the stylus is positioned on the exterior surface, and magnetically retained in a rest position different from the attachment position when the stylus is removed from the exterior surface, wherein the rest position is a greater distance away from the interior surface of the housing member than the attachment position. The portable electronic device may further include a wireless charging system positioned along the interior surface of the housing member opposite the exterior surface and configured to wirelessly charge the stylus when the stylus is magnetically retained to the exterior surface. 
     The magnetic attachment mechanism may include a frame structure defining a recess, and the movable magnet may be positioned in the recess and is configured to move within the recess. The magnetic attachment mechanism may include a magnetic return component coupled to the frame structure, and the movable magnet may be magnetically retained in the rest position due to magnetic attraction between the movable magnet and the magnetic return component. The movable magnet may be configured to slide along a surface of the recess when moving between the rest position and the attachment position. The surface of the recess may include a coating. A distance between the attachment position and the rest position may be between about 0.25 mm and about 0.75 mm. 
     A portable electronic device may include a display, wireless communication circuitry, a battery, and an enclosure enclosing the display, the wireless communication circuitry, and the battery. The enclosure may define, along an accessory attachment surface of an exterior surface of the enclosure, an accessory charging region and an accessory attachment region. The portable electronic device may further include a wireless charging system positioned along an interior surface of the enclosure opposite the accessory charging region and configured to wirelessly transfer power between the portable electronic device and an accessory attached to the exterior surface of the enclosure over the accessory charging region, and a magnetic attachment mechanism positioned along the interior surface of the enclosure opposite the accessory attachment region and configured to attach the accessory to the accessory attachment surface. The magnetic attachment mechanism may include a magnet and a magnetic return component, the magnet configured to move from a rest position to an attachment position proximate the interior surface of the enclosure due to magnetic attraction to a magnetic component in the accessory, and return from the attachment position to the rest position due to magnetic attraction to the magnetic return component in response to the accessory being removed from the accessory attachment surface. 
     The enclosure may include a wall defining the accessory attachment surface, and the wall may be between the accessory and the magnetic attachment mechanism when the accessory is attached to the accessory attachment surface. The battery may be a first battery, the accessory may include a second battery, and the wireless charging system may be configured to charge the first battery with power from the second battery. The magnet may be a Halbach array including a plurality of permanent magnets. The magnetic attachment mechanism may include a frame structure defining a recess, and the magnet may be configured to slide within the recess between the rest position and the attachment position. The frame structure may further define a barrier wall between the magnet and the magnetic return component. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIGS.  1 A- 1 B  depict an example electronic device and accessory; 
         FIGS.  2 A- 2 D  depict partial cross-sectional views of the example electronic device and accessory of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 B ; 
         FIG.  3    depicts an example magnetic attachment mechanism; 
         FIG.  4    depicts another example magnetic attachment mechanism; 
         FIGS.  5 A- 5 B  depict an example computing component and accessory; 
         FIGS.  6 A- 6 B  depict partial cross-sectional views of an example computing component and accessory, illustrating an example latching mechanism; 
         FIGS.  7 A- 7 B  depict partial cross-sectional views of an example computing component and accessory, illustrating another example latching mechanism; 
         FIGS.  8 A- 8 B  depict partial cross-sectional views of an example computing component and accessory, illustrating another example latching mechanism; 
         FIGS.  9 A- 9 B  depict partial cross-sectional views of an example computing component and accessory, illustrating another example latching mechanism; and 
         FIG.  10    depicts a schematic diagram of an example electronic device. 
     
    
    
     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. 
     Modern computer systems are increasingly usable with wireless accessories that increase or otherwise improve the functionality or usability of the device. For example, wireless headphones may be communicatively coupled to devices such as tablet computers and mobile phones to provide audio output to a user. As another example, an input device, such as a stylus, may be used to provide inputs to a tablet computer or other device with a touch-sensitive display. In some cases, certain accessories may magnetically attach or mount to a device, such as to help retain the accessory in a convenient location for storage and access. In some cases, devices and associated accessories may send and/or receive electrical power between them when the accessory is mounted on the device. For example, a stylus with a rechargeable battery may be wirelessly charged by a tablet computer when the stylus is attached to a particular attachment location of the tablet computer. 
     Magnetic attachment systems may be used to removably or magnetically couple an accessory to a device. However, attachment magnets can produce magnetic fields that extend outside of the devices in which they are positioned. Such external magnetic fields can be inconvenient, as they may attract unwanted objects such as keys or other objects, or they may interfere with speakers or other electronic devices. These effects may be reduced or mitigated by selecting less powerful magnets (or by positioning the magnets further inside the device and away from the exterior surfaces), but these approaches also reduce the strength of the magnetic attachment between the accessory and the device, and can lead to accidental detachment of the accessory and generally reduce the effectiveness of the system. 
     Described herein are magnetic attachment mechanisms that use movable magnets to provide a high degree of magnetic attraction to an accessory when the accessory is coupled to a device, while also reducing the magnetic field outside of the device when the accessory is decoupled from the device. For example, a magnetic attachment mechanism within a device such as a tablet computer may include a movable magnet that is movable between an attachment position and a rest position. When an accessory is positioned on an attachment surface of the device, the movable magnet may move from the rest position, where it is magnetically retained to a magnetic component within the device, to an attachment position that is nearer the attachment surface. In this way, when the movable magnet is in the attachment position, a greater amount of magnetic flux may be allowed to exit the device, thereby providing a strong attachment force to the accessory. When the accessory is removed and the movable magnet retracts back to the rest position (e.g., within the device and further away from the device housing), the amount of magnetic flux that is allowed to exit the device is lower, thereby reducing the potential for inadvertent magnetic attraction or other magnetic interference with other objects or devices. Accordingly, the magnetic attachment mechanisms described herein provide a higher attachment force without a resulting increase in the magnetic flux outside the device when the accessory is detached. 
       FIG.  1 A  shows an example electronic device  100  embodied as a tablet computing system, also referred to as a tablet computer. While the device  100  is shown as a tablet computer, the concepts presented herein may apply to any appropriate electronic devices, including portable electronic devices, laptop computers, handheld gaming devices, mobile phones, desktop computers, or the like. Accordingly, any reference to an “electronic device” encompasses any and all of the foregoing.  FIG.  1 A  also shows an example accessory  110 , embodied as a stylus for providing inputs to the device  100 . While the accessory  110  is shown as a stylus, the concepts presented herein may apply equally to other accessories, including supplemental batteries (e.g., for charging or powering the device  100 ), headphones, wallet accessories, earbuds, keyboards, trackpads or other touch-sensitive input devices, or the like. The accessory  110  may be referred to as a stylus  110  for simplicity, though it will be understood that the associated discussions may apply to other accessories as well. 
     The electronic device  100  includes an enclosure  101  including a cover  102  and a housing member  104 . The cover  102  (e.g., a front cover) may define a front exterior surface of the enclosure  101 . The cover  102  may be positioned over a display  103  and may define an input surface on which touch inputs may be applied. As described herein, touch inputs may include inputs from one or more fingers, a stylus, or other input devices or implements. The cover  102  may be formed from glass, glass-ceramic, ceramic, plastic, sapphire, or other substantially transparent material, component, or assembly. The cover  102  may be formed as a monolithic or unitary sheet. The cover  102  may also be formed as a composite of multiple layers of different materials, coatings, and other elements. 
     The display  103  may be at least partially positioned within the enclosure  101  (e.g., the enclosure  101  may at least partially enclose the display  103 ). The display  103  may be coupled to the cover  102 , such as via an adhesive or other coupling scheme. The display  103  may include a liquid-crystal display (LCD), light-emitting diode display, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an active layer organic light emitting diode (AMOLED) display, organic electroluminescent (EL) display, electrophoretic ink display, or the like. The display  103  may be configured to display graphical outputs, such as graphical user interfaces, that the user may view and interact with. 
     The display  103  may include or be associated with one or more touch- and/or force-sensing systems. In some cases, components of the touch- and/or force-sensing systems are integrated with the display stack. For example, electrode layers of a touch- and/or force-sensor may be provided in a stack that includes display components (and is optionally attached to or at least viewable through the cover  102 ). The touch- and/or force-sensing systems may use any suitable type of sensing technology, including capacitive sensors, resistive sensors, surface acoustic wave sensors, piezoelectric sensors, strain gauges, or the like. The outer or exterior surface of the cover  102  may define an input surface (e.g., a touch- and/or force-sensitive input surface) of the device. While both touch- and force-sensing systems may be included, in some cases the device  100  includes a touch-sensing system and does not include a force-sensing system. The device  100 , using the touch- and/or force-sensing systems, may be configured to detect inputs applied to the cover  102 . Such inputs include, for example, touch inputs applied by one or more fingers, a stylus, or another implement. Touch-based inputs applied using fingers, styli, or other implements may include touches, taps, single- or multi-finger gestures (e.g., swipes, pinching gestures, etc.), handwriting inputs, drawing inputs, or the like. In some cases, force-sensing systems detect an amount of force associated with a touch-based input. 
     The housing member  104  may define exterior surfaces of the enclosure  101  (and of the electronic device  100 ), including the side exterior surface  106 . The stylus  110  may be configured to magnetically attach to the side exterior surface  106  (or another exterior surface of the device). For example, the housing member  104  may define, along the side exterior surface  106 , a stylus charging region  108  and one or more stylus attachment regions  107 . The stylus charging region  108  corresponds to the location of a wireless charging module  118  within the device  100 , which is aligned with a wireless charging module  112  within the stylus  110 . As described herein, the wireless charging modules  112 ,  118  may wirelessly transfer power (e.g., transmit and/or receive power), such that the device  100  can charge a battery of the stylus  110  or otherwise power the stylus  110  (or other magnetically attached accessory), and/or such that an accessory can charge a battery of the device  100  or otherwise power the device  100 . 
     The stylus attachment regions  107  may correspond to the locations of magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  within the device  100 . The magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  may magnetically attach to corresponding magnetic components  114  (e.g., magnets and/or magnetic materials) within the stylus  110  (or other accessory). As described herein, the magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  may include movable magnets that retract away from the stylus attachment regions  107  when the stylus  110  is not attached to the side exterior surface  106  of the housing, and move towards the stylus attachment regions  107  when the stylus  110  is placed on or in close proximity to the side exterior surface  106 . 
     The stylus attachment regions  107  and the stylus charging region  108  may be regions of a continuous exterior surface of the enclosure  101 . For example, the side exterior surface  106  may be substantially flat and may lack moving parts or mechanisms, and the stylus  110  may include a complementary flat mounting surface that mates with or contacts the side exterior surface  106 . 
     In some cases, the side exterior surface  106  is defined by a single piece of material, such as a polymer or metal member of the housing member  104 . In cases where the side exterior surface  106  is defined by a metal or conductive material and the device includes a wireless charging module to wirelessly charge a stylus or other accessory through the housing member  104 , the housing member may include a window of a dielectric or nonconductive material, such as a polymer, ceramic, glass, or the like, to facilitate wireless charging (e.g., by reducing interference with or resistance to inductive or other electromagnetic coupling between the wireless charging module and the accessory). The window may be aligned with the wireless charging module  118  and may be within (or may define) the stylus charging region  108 . Similarly, the housing member may include a window of a dielectric, nonconductive, or nonmagnetic material, such as a polymer, ceramic, glass, or the like, aligned with the magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  to facilitate the magnetic flux passing through the side exterior surface  106 . 
       FIG.  1 B  illustrates the device  100  with the stylus  110  attached to the side exterior surface  106 . In this configuration, the magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  magnetically retain the stylus  110  to the side exterior surface  106  by magnetically coupling to the magnetic components  114  in the stylus. Additionally, wireless charging may occur between the device  100  and the stylus  110  when the stylus is attached as shown in  FIG.  1 B . For example, the device  100  may provide power to the stylus  110  to charge a battery of the stylus. In other examples, such as where the accessory is a removable charging accessory (e.g., a battery accessory) or is otherwise configured to provide power to the device  100 , the accessory may provide power to the device  100  to power the device and/or charge the battery of the device  100 . 
     The magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  and the corresponding magnetic components  114  may be configured so that the stylus  110  can be releasably coupled to the device  100  in a limited number of predefined orientations. For example, the magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  and the corresponding magnetic components  114  may attract to one another (and thereby retain the stylus  110  to the device  100 ) when the stylus  110  is positioned with its tip facing in a first direction (e.g., as shown in  FIG.  1 B ), as well as when the stylus  110  is positioned with its tip facing in a second direction opposite the first direction). The magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  and the corresponding magnetic components  114  may be configured to produce substantially the same attraction force between the stylus  110  and the device  100  regardless of which direction the stylus  110  is facing when attached to the device  100 . 
     As described herein, the magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  may include movable magnets that are movable between a rest position and an attachment position. More particularly, the movable magnet may be retained in a rest position when the stylus  110  is not attached to the device  100 , such as depicted in  FIG.  1 A . In the rest position, the movable magnet may be positioned further inward (e.g., towards a middle of the device or otherwise further away from the side exterior surface  106 ), such that the magnetic flux exiting the device  100  may be reduced. The movable magnet may move to and be retained in an attachment position when the stylus  110  is placed on the side exterior surface  106 , as shown in  FIG.  1 B . For example, the magnetic components  114  may magnetically attract the movable magnets in the magnetic attachment mechanism towards the side exterior surface  106 . The magnetic attraction overcomes a retention force that retains the movable magnet in the rest position, thereby causing the movable magnet to move to the attachment position and ultimately increasing the magnetic flux that exits the device and contributes to the magnetic attachment between the magnetic attachment mechanisms  117  and the magnetic components  114 . 
       FIGS.  2 A- 2 B  illustrate a partial cross-sectional view of the device  100  and the stylus  110 , viewed along line  2 A- 2 A in  FIG.  1 B .  FIG.  2 A  corresponds to  FIG.  1 A , in which the stylus  110  is not attached to the side exterior surface  106  of the device  100  and a movable magnet  208  of the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  is in a rest position, while  FIG.  2 B  corresponds to  FIG.  1 B , in which the stylus  110  is positioned on (e.g., in contact with) the side exterior surface  106  of the device and the movable magnet  208  is in the attachment position. 
       FIGS.  2 A- 2 B  illustrate an example magnetic attachment mechanism  117  positioned within the device  100 . The magnetic attachment mechanism  117  is positioned along an interior surface  218  of a wall  217  of the housing member  104 . The wall  217  may also define the side exterior surface  106 . 
     The magnetic attachment mechanism  117  includes a frame structure  206 , a movable magnet  208 , and a magnetic return component  210 . The movable magnet  208  may include one or more permanent magnets. In some cases, the movable magnet may be a Halbach array, or other array that includes multiple permanent magnets (and optionally other components such as shunts, nonmagnetic materials, structural components and/or motion guides, or the like). The frame structure  206  may define a recess  209 , and the movable magnet  208  may be positioned (and movable within) the recess  209 . The frame structure  206  may optionally include a barrier wall  212  positioned between the movable magnet  208  and the magnetic return component  210 . The frame structure  206  may also optionally include outer walls  214  and  216 , which may define at least partially enclosed (and optionally fully enclosed) chambers for the movable magnet  208  and the magnetic return component  210 . The frame structure  206  may also include (or be coupled to) a cover  215 , which may enclose the chambers and retain the movable magnet  208  and the magnetic return component  210  to the frame structure  206 . In some cases, the frame structure  206  may have a different configuration. For example, the frame structure  206  may not include the wall  214 , and instead the wall  217  may enclose the chamber containing the movable magnet  208 . In such cases, the movable magnet  208  may be able to contact the interior surface  218  of the wall  217  in the attachment position. 
     In some cases, the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  does not include a frame structure. In such cases, the movable magnet  208  may be positioned in a recess or other retention feature of the housing member  104 . For example, the wall  217  may include a recess or other retention feature integrally formed with the wall  217  (e.g., machined or otherwise formed in the material of the housing member itself). 
     The magnetic return component  210  may be coupled to the frame structure  206 , or otherwise positioned such that the movable magnet  208  (also referred to simply as magnet  208 ) is attracted to the magnetic return component  210  when the stylus  110  is not in contact with or in close proximity to (e.g., within about 1.0 cm) the side exterior surface  106 . Under these conditions, the magnet  208  moves to and/or is retained in the rest position. In some cases, the frame structure  206  defines (or the magnetic attachment mechanism otherwise includes) a barrier wall  212  between the magnetic return component  210  and the magnet  208 . In such cases, the magnet  208  may contact (and be retained against) the barrier wall  212  when the magnet  208  is in the rest position. The barrier wall  212  may be formed from or include a material that reduces or minimizes audible clicks or other noises when the magnet  208  is returned to the rest position and contacts the barrier wall  212 . For example, the barrier wall  212  may be formed from a polymer material, and/or may include a coating along the surface that contacts the magnet  208  and/or the surface that contacts the magnetic return component  210 . Example coating materials include polymer coatings, elastomer coatings, and paint. 
       FIG.  2 B  illustrates the state of the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  when the stylus  110  is positioned on the side exterior surface  106 . In particular, when the stylus  110  is moved towards the side exterior surface  106 , the magnetic attraction between the magnet  208  and the magnetic component  114  in the stylus  110  overcomes the magnetic attraction between the magnet  208  and the magnetic return component  210 , resulting in the magnet  208  moving from the rest position ( FIG.  2 A ) to the attachment position ( FIG.  2 B ). In the attachment position, the magnet  208  is closer to the interior surface  218  of the wall  217  than when it is in the rest position. By moving closer to the wall  217 , a greater amount of magnetic flux from the magnet  208  may exit the device  100 , thereby resulting in greater magnetic attraction between the magnet  208  and the magnetic component  114  in the stylus (as compared to the force that would be possible if the magnet  208  were fixed in the rest position, for example). 
     When the stylus  110  is removed from the side exterior surface  106 , the magnetic attraction between the magnetic component  114  and the magnet  208  is reduced and ultimately ceases. Once the magnetic attraction to the magnetic component  114  is lower than the magnetic attraction to the magnetic return component  210 , the magnet  208  will move from the attachment position ( FIG.  2 B ) to the rest position ( FIG.  2 A ), thus reducing the magnetic flux that exits or can be detected outside of the device  100 . 
     Because the magnet  208  can move to a rest position that is further away from the wall  217 , a stronger magnet may be used (and thus a stronger magnetic attraction may be achieved) without resulting in an undesirable leakage of magnetic flux. More particularly, magnetic flux exiting a device may be inconvenient, as it can attract unintended objects or interfere with other objects or devices (e.g., speakers). For these purposes, minimizing the magnetic flux that exits the device  100  may be advantageous. However, minimizing the magnetic flux also reduces the attraction force of the magnet and can lead to accidental detachment of the stylus or other accessory. Accordingly, because the movable magnet  208  is retained at a greater distance away from the interior surface  218  of the wall  217  (e.g., in the rest position) when the stylus  110  is not on the side exterior surface  106  (or in close proximity to the side exterior surface  106 , such as within about 1.0 cm), a magnet that produces a target magnetic attraction force may be used while also producing less external flux than would otherwise be produced by that same magnet. In some cases, the magnetic attachment mechanisms described herein may be configured to produce less than a certain target leakage flux when measured at the surface of the device. The target leakage flux may be less than about 2500 Gauss, less than about 2200 Gauss, less than about 2000 Gauss, less than about 1800 Gauss, or another suitable value or range. 
     The distance between the attachment position ( FIG.  2 B ) and the rest position ( FIG.  2 A ) of the magnet  208  may be between about 2.0 mm and about 0.5 mm, or between about 0.15 mm and about 1.0 mm, or between about 0.25 mm and about 0.75 mm. Other travel distances are also contemplated. 
       FIGS.  2 A- 2 B  also illustrate an example configuration of the stylus  110  and arrangement of the magnetic component  114  in the stylus. For example, the stylus  110  may include a housing  220  defining an attachment surface  222 . The attachment surface  222  may be substantially flat (e.g., planar), and may be configured to mate to the substantially flat (e.g., planar) side exterior surface  106  of the wall  217 . The magnetic component  114  may be positioned against or proximate an interior surface of the wall  217  opposite the attachment surface  222 . 
     The frame structure  206  may be formed from any suitable material(s), such as polymer, metal, composites, carbon fiber, or the like. In some cases, the frame structure  206  may be nonmagnetic or nonmetallic, such that the material of the frame structure  206  does not substantially interact with or change the magnetic flux of the magnetic components of the system (e.g., the movable magnet  208 , the magnetic return component  210 , and the magnetic component  114 ). In some cases, at least some parts of the frame structure operate as magnetic shunts to change, guide, or otherwise affect the magnetic flux around the magnetic attachment mechanism  117 . For example, the wall  216  may be formed from a metal or other suitable material to shunt magnetic flux from the movable magnet  208  (and/or the magnetic return component  210 ) to reduce the amount of magnetic flux that enters the device  100 . 
     The frame structure  206  may include coatings to reduce friction or otherwise facilitate smooth movement of the movable magnet  208  within the recess  209 . For example, one or more surfaces of the recess  209  may include a polymer coating (e.g., Polytetrafluoroethylene) or the like. In some cases, the friction between the movable magnet  208  and the surfaces of the recess  209  may be sufficiently low to prevent or mitigate binding, sticking, or other misalignments of the movable magnet  208  within the recess  209 . 
     The operation of the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  may be achieved with various combinations of magnets and magnetic components. In particular, the properties of the magnets and magnetic components (e.g., material, size, magnetic strength, travel distance of the movable magnet, etc.) may be selected so that the attraction force between the accessory and the movable magnet when the movable magnet is in the rest position is greater than the attraction force between the movable magnet and the magnetic return component. These properties may also be selected so that the attraction force between the movable magnet and the magnetic return component when the movable magnet is in the attachment position (but the accessory is not nearby) is greater than any residual or incidental magnetic attraction between the movable magnet and any other components or objects in the device  100 . In this way, the performance of the movable magnet, and the magnetic attachment mechanism as a whole, described above may be achieved. 
     For example, the magnet  208  may be formed from one or more permanent magnets, such as a single permanent magnet, or an array (e.g., a Halbach array or other arrangement) of permanent magnets. The magnetic component  114  of the accessory may be a permanent magnet or a ferromagnetic material (or other material that is magnetically attracted to a permanent magnet). The magnetic return component  210  may be a permanent magnet or a ferromagnetic material (or other material that is magnetically attracted to a permanent magnet). In some cases, the magnetic return component  210  may be omitted, and the frame structure  206  (or a portion of the frame structure  206 , such as the wall  216 ) may be formed from a permanent magnet or ferromagnetic material and may provide the functionality of the magnetic return component  210 . Further, while the magnet  208  is described as a permanent magnet, the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  may also use a movable magnetic shunt instead of a movable magnet in order to vary the amount of magnetic flux that exits the device  100  when the accessory is not present. 
       FIGS.  2 C- 2 D  illustrate an example of how the movable magnet  208  of the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  may result in less magnetic flux exiting the device  100  while allowing a strong attraction force. In particular,  FIG.  2 C  illustrates the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  when the magnet  208  is in the rest position (e.g., attracted to the magnetic return component  210 ).  FIG.  2 D  illustrates the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  when the magnet  208  is in the attachment position (e.g., attracted to a magnetic component of an accessory, not shown in  FIG.  2 D ). As shown, a greater amount of magnetic flux  224  from the magnet  208  exits the device  100  when the magnet  208  is in the attachment position ( FIG.  2 D ) than when it is in the rest position ( FIG.  2 C ).  FIGS.  2 C- 2 D  are for illustration only, and do not necessarily represent the shape, size, or strength of the magnetic flux of the movable magnet  208 . 
     While the figures illustrate an example in which the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  (with the movable magnet  208 ) is positioned in the device  100 , other configurations are also possible. For example, the magnetic attachment mechanism  117  may be positioned in the accessory (e.g., in place of the magnetic components  114 ). In such cases, the device  100  may include a magnetic component (such as a permanent magnet or ferromagnetic material), and/or it may include an additional magnetic attachment mechanism  117 . In the latter case, the magnetic attachment mechanisms of the accessory and the device may be configured so that the attraction force on the movable magnets when the accessory and the device are brought into proximity with each other overcomes the retention force of the magnets in their rest position, thereby causing them both to move to their respective attachment positions and retain the accessory to the device. 
       FIG.  3    illustrates a partial view of the magnetic attachment mechanism  117 . This example may represent a magnetic attachment mechanism with a cap or cover (e.g., the cover  215 ) removed, or an example magnetic attachment mechanism that does not include a cap or cover that is coupled to the frame structure  206 . As shown, the frame structure  206  defines a recess  209  in which the magnet  208  is positioned, as well as a recess  211  in which the magnetic return component  210  is positioned. In this example, the magnet  208  may be free to move within the recess  209 . 
     In this example, the magnet  208  is a Halbach array, including a plurality of permanent magnet segments  301  having different magnetic field orientations (as indicated by the arrows on each segment). The magnet  208  may be positioned in the frame structure  206  so that the maximum magnetic field and/or flux is facing a desired direction. For example, the maximum magnetic flux (e.g., the side of the magnet  208  having the strongest potential magnetic attraction) may be facing away from the magnetic return component  210  (e.g., towards the wall  214  of the frame structure, and ultimately towards the accessory). This arrangement may also orient the side with the lowest flux (e.g., lowest potential magnetic attraction) towards the magnetic return component  210 , which may help ensure that the attraction force between the magnet  208  and the accessory is greater than the attraction force between the magnet  208  and the magnetic return component  210 . 
     As described herein, one or more surfaces of the frame structure  206  and/or the magnet  208  may include a low-friction coating or surface to facilitate free movement of the magnet  208  between the attachment and rest positions. For example, a coating of a low-friction material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, may be applied to interfacing surfaces of the magnet  208  and/or the frame structure  206  (e.g., the surfaces that contact one another and/or slide against one another during operation of the magnetic attachment mechanism). As another example, the interfacing surfaces of the magnet  208  and the frame structure  206  are impregnated with a low-friction material such as graphite. As yet another example, the interfacing surfaces may be coated with an oil, grease, graphite powder, or other lubricant to reduce friction. 
       FIG.  4    depicts another example magnetic attachment mechanism  400 . The magnetic attachment mechanism  400  includes a frame structure  402  that defines recesses  407  and  409 . A magnetic return component  410  is positioned in the recess  407 , and a movable magnet  404  is positioned in the recess  409 . The frame structure  402 , magnetic return component  410 , and movable magnet  404  may be embodiments of or otherwise similar to the corresponding components described with respect to  FIGS.  2 A- 3   . 
     In the example of  FIG.  4   , the movable magnet  404  and the frame structure  402  may define complementary guide structures to guide the movable magnet  404  along a predefined path when it is moved between an attachment position and a rest position. For example, the frame structure  402  defines channels  408  and the movable magnet  404  defines flanges  406  that extend into the channels  408 . The channels  408  and flanges  406  may cooperate to guide the magnet along a substantially linear path between the attachment position, shown in  FIG.  4   , and a rest position in which the movable magnet  404  is retained to the magnetic return component  410  (e.g., against a barrier wall  417 ). The channels  408  and flanges  406  may also inhibit binding, racking, or other misalignments of the movable magnet  404  within the frame structure  402 . 
     The engagement between the channels  408  and flanges  406  may also prevent or limit motion of the movable magnet  404  in other directions (e.g., direction  415 ). Accordingly, the channels  408  and flanges  406  may retain the movable magnet  404  to the frame structure  402  by preventing it from decoupling or becoming detached from the frame structure  402 . 
     While  FIG.  4    illustrates the movable magnet  404  defining flanges and the frame structure  402  defining channels, in other examples these features may be swapped. For example, the movable magnet  404  may define channels, and the frame structure  402  may define flanges or other features that extend into the channels to guide and retain the movable magnet  404  as described. Other complementary features may also be defined or included in the frame structure  402  and the movable magnet  404 . 
     As described with respect to  FIG.  3   , one or more surfaces of the frame structure  402  and/or the movable magnet  404  may include a low-friction coating or surface to facilitate free movement of the movable magnet  404  between the attachment and rest positions. For example, a coating of a low-friction material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, may be applied to interfacing surfaces of the movable magnet  404  and/or the frame structure  402 , including interfacing surfaces of the channels  408  and flanges  406  (or other surfaces that contact one another and/or slide against one another during operation of the magnetic attachment mechanism). As another example, the interfacing surfaces of the movable magnet  404  and the frame structure  402  are impregnated with a low-friction material such as graphite. As yet another example, the interfacing surfaces may be coated with an oil, grease, graphite powder, or other lubricant to reduce friction. 
     While  FIGS.  1 A- 4    illustrate the magnetic attachment system being used to releasably secure a stylus to a tablet computer, this is merely one example application for the magnetic attachment systems described herein, and the magnetic attachment systems may be used to magnetically secure other components or devices together. For example, the magnetic attachment systems may be used to releasably secure a lid of a notebook computer in a closed position. As another example, the magnetic attachment mechanisms may be used to releasably secure a charging cable or wireless charging system to a device (e.g., notebook computer, mobile phone, tablet computer, watch). As another example, the magnetic attachment mechanisms may be used to releasably secure a lid or cover (e.g., a cover of a protective case) to a device (e.g., to a tablet computer, phone, etc.). Other applications are also contemplated. 
     Movable magnets that move between a rest and an attachment position, as described herein, may also be employed to releasably attach or retain various different devices, components, and/or accessories to one another. In some cases, the movable magnets and associated techniques and structures may be used with or as part of latch mechanisms that provide a mechanical latching or engagement function between two devices, components, or accessories. In such cases, the movable magnets may operate to release and/or engage physical latch mechanisms, as described herein. 
       FIGS.  5 A- 5 B  illustrate an example computing system  500  that may employ a magnetically actuated latch mechanism. The computing system  500  may include a computing component, illustrated as a tablet computer  501 , and an accessory, illustrated as a keyboard accessory  502  with a movable keyboard structure. While the example computing component and accessory are shown as a tablet computer  501  and a keyboard accessory  502 , other types of computing components and accessories are also contemplated. For example, the computing component may be a smartphone, a watch, a notebook computer, or the like, and the accessory may be a charging dock, a trackpad accessory, a gaming accessory, or the like. 
     The keyboard accessory  502  may include a stationary portion  504  and a movable portion  506 . The movable portion  506  may include a keyboard  512 . The keyboard accessory  502  may receive typing inputs via the keyboard  512 , and communicate the inputs to the tablet computer  501  (e.g., via a wired or wireless communication interface). In some cases, the keyboard accessory  502  includes other types of input devices instead of or in addition to the keyboard, such as a trackpad, directional pad, microphone, or the like, and may communicate inputs received at those input devices to the tablet computer  501  via a wired or wireless communication interface. 
     The movable portion  506  may also define an accessory retention slot  508  that is configured to receive at least a portion of the tablet computer  501  therein. The slot  508  may include or be defined in part by a mounting surface  510 . A side of the tablet computer  501  may contact the mounting surface  510  when the tablet computer  501  is positioned in the accessory retention slot  508  (also referred to simply as a slot  508 ). 
     The movable portion  506  may be movable relative to the stationary portion  504 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  5 B , the movable portion  506  may be movable along a direction  514  to allow a user to position the movable portion  506 , and thus the keyboard  512 , at a different position relative to the user. Thus, the keyboard accessory  502  may accommodate different hand or arm positions of a user, or otherwise allow more flexibility in the positioning of the keyboard  512 . 
     In the example shown, the tablet computer  501  is configured to attach to the movable portion  506 , and thus the tablet computer  501  moves in conjunction with the movable portion  506 . In other examples, the tablet computer  501  couples to the stationary portion  504 , such that the movable portion  506  moves separately from the tablet computer  501 . In such cases, the slot  508  (and the mounting surface  510 ) may be positioned on the stationary portion  504 . 
     The movable portion  506  of the accessory  502  may be positioned in a docked position and in a locked or latched condition when the tablet computer  501  is decoupled from the accessory  502 , as shown in  FIG.  5 A . When the tablet computer  501  is coupled to the accessory  502 , as shown in  FIG.  5 B , the movable portion  506  of the accessory  502  may become unlocked or unlatched so that it can be moved to a desired position relative to the stationary portion  504 . While  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B  illustrate an example in which the movable portion  506  and the keyboard  512  are exposed and/or accessible in the docked position, in other cases, the movable portion  506  is hidden or stowed when in the docked position, and the unlocking or unlatching operation that occurs when the tablet computer  501  is attached to the accessory allows the movable portion  506  to be slid or moved into an accessible location relative to the stationary portion  504 . 
       FIGS.  6 A- 6 B  illustrate partial cross-sectional views of the computing system  500  of  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B , viewed along line  6 A- 6 A in  FIG.  5 B , illustrating an example latching mechanism that can be selectively latched and unlatched to alternatively retain the movable portion  506  in a docked position or allow the movable portion  506  to move relative to the stationary portion  504 . As described herein,  FIG.  6 A  illustrates the latching mechanism in a latched or locked configuration, in which the movable portion  506  is retained in a particular position (e.g., the docked position, and  FIG.  6 B  illustrates the latching mechanism in an unlatched or unlocked configuration, in which the movable portion  506  is movable relative to the stationary portion  504 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  6 A , the latching mechanism of the accessory  502  includes a latch member  602 . The latch member  602  may be movable between a latched configuration ( FIG.  6 A ) and an unlatched configuration ( FIG.  6 B ). The latch member  602  may be pivotally coupled to the movable portion  506  via a pivot mechanism  604 . 
     In the latched configuration, a latch feature  608  of the latch member  602  engages a retention feature  610  (e.g., a wall, lip, flange, or other feature) of the stationary portion  504 . The engagement between the latch feature  608  and the retention feature  610  prevents or inhibits the movable portion  506  from moving relative to the stationary portion  504  (at least in one direction, such as to the right as oriented in  FIG.  6 A ). 
     A magnet  600  may be coupled to the latch member  602  and may interact with a magnet  612  ( FIG.  6 B ) in the tablet computer  501  to disengage the latching mechanism. For example, the magnet  600  and the magnet  612  may repel each other when the tablet computer  501  is placed in the retention slot  508  on the mounting surface  510 . For example, the magnets  600 ,  612  may be oriented in their respective devices so that the same magnetic poles are facing one another when the tablet computer  501  is in the retention slot  508 . The repulsion between the magnets  600 ,  612  forces the latch member  602  to move in a manner that disengages the latch feature  608  from the retention feature  610 . As shown in  FIGS.  6 A- 6 B , for example, the repulsion forces between the magnets cause a first side of the latch member  602  to be forced downward, causing the latch member  602  to pivot or rotate, thereby moving (e.g., lifting) the latch feature  608  out of engagement with the retention feature  610 . The magnets  600 ,  612  may produce a repulsion force that biases the latch member  602  in the unlatched configuration as long as the tablet computer  501  is positioned in the retention slot  508 . In this manner, the movable portion  506  of the accessory can move relative (e.g., slide horizontally, as oriented in  FIGS.  6 A- 6 B ) to the stationary portion  504 . 
     The latch member  602  may be biased into the latched or engaged orientation, such that upon removal of the tablet computer  501  from the retention slot  508 , the latch member  602  will reengage the retention feature  610  when the movable portion  506  is positioned in the docked position. The latch member  602  may be biased into the latched orientation (shown in  FIG.  6 A ) via a spring, such as a torsion spring, coil spring, elastomer or polymer member, leaf spring, or the like. In some cases, the latch member  602  may be biased into the latched orientation via magnetic forces. For example, the magnet  600  may be magnetically attracted to an optional magnetic portion  614  of the movable portion  506 . The magnetic portion  614  may be a magnetic material from which the movable portion  506  is formed, or a magnet and/or ferromagnetic material that is coupled to the movable portion  506 . As another example, the magnet  600  may be magnetically repelled by an optional magnet  616  positioned in the stationary portion  504 , which repels the magnet  600  and thereby biases the latch member  602  into the latched or engaged position. Regardless of how the latch member  602  is biased into the latched or engaged position, the repulsion force between the magnets  600 ,  612  may be sufficient to overcome the biasing force and disengage the latch member  602 . 
       FIGS.  7 A- 7 B  illustrate another example latching mechanism that may be used in the computing system  500 . In this example, a movable magnet  710  may be moved between an engaged position ( FIG.  7 A ) and a disengaged position ( FIG.  7 B ). In the engaged position, the movable magnet  710  may inhibit movement of the movable portion  506  relative to the stationary portion  504 . For example, the movable magnet  710  may be positioned in a recess  714  in the movable portion  506  (or otherwise movably attached to the movable portion  506 ) such that the movable magnet  710  can move between the engaged position in which the movable magnet  710  overlaps a retention feature  716  (e.g., a wall, lip, flange, or other feature) in the stationary portion  504 , and the disengaged position in which the movable magnet  710  does not overlap the retention feature  716 . Thus, when the movable magnet  710  is in the engaged position, the overlap between the movable magnet  710  and the retention feature  716  (as well as the movable magnet  710  being at least partially captured in the recess  714 ) prevents the movable portion  506  of the accessory from moving. 
     The movable magnet  710  may be retained in the engaged position via a magnetic return component  718 . The magnetic return component  718  may be an embodiment of the magnetic return component  210  described above, and the discussion of the magnetic return component  210  may apply equally or by analogy to the magnetic return component  718 . For example, the magnetic return component  718  may be a permanent magnet or a ferromagnetic material (or other material that is magnetically attracted to a permanent magnet). In some cases, the magnetic return component  718  may be omitted, and the stationary portion  504  (or a portion thereof) may be formed from a permanent magnet or ferromagnetic material and may provide the functionality of the magnetic return component  718 . 
     When the tablet computer  501  is positioned in the retention slot  508 , the movable magnet  710  may be magnetically attracted to a magnetic component  720  in the tablet computer  501 . The magnetic attraction between the movable magnet  710  and the magnetic component  720  overcomes the magnetic attraction between the movable magnet  710  and the magnetic return component  718 , such that the movable magnet  710  detaches from the magnetic return component  718  and moves to the disengaged position. Thus, when the tablet computer  501  is removed from the retention slot  508  and the movable portion  506  is returned to its docked position, the movable magnet  710  is again attracted to the magnetic return component  718  and moves to (and is magnetically retained in) the engaged position. 
       FIGS.  8 A- 8 B  illustrate another example latching mechanism that may be used in the computing system  500 . In this example, a magnet  808  on a spring member  806  may be moved between an engaged position ( FIG.  8 A ) and a disengaged position ( FIG.  8 B ). In the engaged position, the spring member  806  may inhibit movement of the movable portion  506  relative to the stationary portion  504 . For example, the spring member  806  may be biased into an engaged position in which a latching portion  810  of the spring member  806  overlaps or otherwise engages with a retention feature  814  (e.g., a wall, lip, flange, or other feature). The engagement between the latching portion  810  and the retention feature  814  inhibits motion of the movable portion  506 . 
     When the tablet computer  501  is positioned in the retention slot  508 , the magnet  808  may be magnetically attracted to a magnetic component  820  in the tablet computer  501 . The magnetic attraction between the magnet  808  and the magnetic component  820  overcomes the biasing force of the spring member  806 , such that the spring member  806  is deflected or otherwise moved in order to disengage the latching portion  810  from the retention feature  814  (as shown in  FIG.  8 B ). When the tablet computer  501  is removed from the retention slot  508 , the biasing force of the spring member  806  biases the latching portion  810  towards its engaged configuration. Thus, when the tablet computer  501  is removed from the retention slot  508  and the movable portion  506  is returned to its docked position, the latching portion  810  engages the retention feature  814  to inhibit motion of the movable portion  506 . 
       FIGS.  9 A- 9 B  illustrate another example latching mechanism that may be used in the computing system  500 . In this example, a latching structure  918  with a magnet  912  may be moved between an engaged position ( FIG.  9 A ) and a disengaged position ( FIG.  9 B ). In the engaged position, the latching structure  918  may inhibit movement of the movable portion  506  relative to the stationary portion  504 . For example, the latching structure  918  may be biased into an engaged position in which a latching portion  910  of the latching structure  918  overlaps or otherwise engages with a retention feature  916  (e.g., a wall, lip, flange, or other feature). The engagement between the latching portion  910  and the retention feature  916  inhibits motion of the movable portion  506 . 
     The latching structure  918  may be biased into the engaged position (shown in  FIG.  9 A ) via a spring, such as a torsion spring, coil spring, elastomer or polymer member, leaf spring, or the like. In some cases, the latching structure  918  may be biased into the engaged position via gravity (e.g., gravity causes the latching structure  918  to fall into the recess defined in the stationary portion  504 ). In some cases, the latching structure  918  may be biased into the engaged position via magnetic forces. For example, the magnet  912  may be magnetically attracted to an optional magnetic portion in the stationary portion  504 . As another example, the latching structure  918  may be magnetically repelled by an optional magnet positioned in the movable portion  506 , which repels the magnet  912  and thereby biases the latching structure  918  into the engaged position. Regardless of how the latching structure  918  is biased into the engaged position, the attraction force between the magnet  912  and the magnetic component  922  may be sufficient to overcome the biasing force and disengage the latching structure  918 . 
     When the tablet computer  501  is positioned in the retention slot  508 , the magnet  912  may be magnetically attracted to a magnetic component  922  in the tablet computer  501 . The magnetic attraction between the magnet  912  and the magnetic component  922  overcomes the biasing force acting on the latching structure  918 , such that the latching structure  918  is deflected or otherwise moved in order to disengage the latching portion  910  from the retention feature  916  (as shown in  FIG.  9 B ). As shown in  FIG.  9 B , the latching structure  918  may be withdrawn into a cavity  908  in the movable portion  506 . When the tablet computer  501  is removed from the retention slot  508 , the biasing force acting on the latching structure  918  biases the latching structure  918  towards its engaged configuration. Thus, when the tablet computer  501  is removed from the retention slot  508  and the movable portion  506  is returned to its docked position, the latching portion  910  engages the retention feature  916  to inhibit motion of the movable portion  506 . 
     While the example latching mechanisms are described with respect to a keyboard accessory for use with a tablet computer, this is merely one example in which the latching mechanisms may be used. For example, the latching mechanisms described with respect to  FIGS.  5 A- 9 B  may be used to secure a stylus in a stowed position. As another example, the latching mechanisms may be used to secure a charging cable to a device, or to secure a lid of a notebook computer in a closed position. Other uses are also contemplated. 
       FIG.  10    depicts an example schematic diagram of an electronic device  1000 . The electronic device  1000  may be an embodiment of or otherwise represent the device  100 , the tablet computing component  501  (or any other device(s) described herein). The device  1000  includes one or more processing units  1001  that are configured to access a memory  1002  having instructions stored thereon. The instructions or computer programs may be configured to perform one or more of the operations or functions described with respect to the electronic devices described herein. For example, the instructions may be configured to control or coordinate the operation of one or more displays  1008 , one or more touch sensors  1003 , one or more force sensors  1005 , one or more communication channels  1004 , one or more audio input systems  1009 , one or more audio output systems  1010 , one or more positioning systems  1011 , one or more sensors  1012 , and/or one or more haptic feedback devices  1006 . 
     The processing units  1001  of  FIG.  10    may be implemented as any electronic device capable of processing, receiving, or transmitting data or instructions. For example, the processing units  1001  may include one or more of: a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or combinations of such devices. As described herein, the term “processor” is meant to encompass a single processor or processing unit, multiple processors, multiple processing units, or other suitably configured computing element or elements. The processing units  1001  may be coupled to a circuit board. 
     The memory  1002  can store electronic data that can be used by the device  1000 . For example, a memory can store electrical data or content such as, for example, audio and video files, images, documents and applications, device settings and user preferences, programs, instructions, timing and control signals or data for the various modules, data structures or databases, and so on. The memory  1002  can be configured as any type of memory. By way of example only, the memory can be implemented as random access memory, read-only memory, Flash memory, removable memory, or other types of storage elements, or combinations of such devices. 
     The touch sensors  1003  may detect various types of touch-based inputs and generate signals or data that are able to be accessed using processor instructions. The touch sensors  1003  may use any suitable components and may rely on any suitable phenomena to detect physical inputs. For example, the touch sensors  1003  may be capacitive touch sensors, resistive touch sensors, acoustic wave sensors, or the like. The touch sensors  1003  may include any suitable components for detecting touch-based inputs (e.g., from a finger, stylus, or other touch-based input device) and generating signals or data that are able to be accessed using processor instructions, including electrodes (e.g., electrode layers), physical components (e.g., substrates, spacing layers, structural supports, compressible elements, etc.), processors, circuitry, firmware, and the like. The touch sensors  1003  may be integrated with or otherwise configured to detect touch inputs applied to any portion of the device  1000 . For example, the touch sensors  1003  may be configured to detect touch inputs applied to any portion of the device  1000  that includes a display (and may be integrated with a display). The touch sensors  1003  may operate in conjunction with the force sensors  1005  to generate signals or data in response to touch inputs, and/or inputs from a stylus or other touch-based input device. A touch sensor or force sensor that is positioned over a display surface or otherwise integrated with a display may be referred to herein as a touch-sensitive display, force-sensitive display, or touchscreen. 
     The force sensors  1005  may detect various types of force-based inputs and generate signals or data that are able to be accessed using processor instructions. The force sensors  1005  may use any suitable components and may rely on any suitable phenomena to detect physical inputs. For example, the force sensors  1005  may be strain-based sensors, piezoelectric-based sensors, piezoresistive-based sensors, capacitive sensors, resistive sensors, or the like. The force sensors  1005  may include any suitable components for detecting force-based inputs and generating signals or data that are able to be accessed using processor instructions, including electrodes (e.g., electrode layers), physical components (e.g., substrates, spacing layers, structural supports, compressible elements, etc.), processors, circuitry, firmware, and the like. The force sensors  1005  may be used in conjunction with various input mechanisms to detect various types of inputs. For example, the force sensors  1005  may be used to detect presses or other force inputs that satisfy a force threshold (which may represent a more forceful input than is typical for a standard “touch” input). Like the touch sensors  1003 , the force sensors  1005  may be integrated with or otherwise configured to detect force inputs applied to any portion of the device  1000 . For example, the force sensors  1005  may be configured to detect force inputs applied to any portion of the device  1000  that includes a display (and may be integrated with a display). The force sensors  1005  may operate in conjunction with the touch sensors  1003  to generate signals or data in response to touch- and/or force-based inputs. 
     The device  1000  may also include one or more haptic devices  1006 . The haptic device  1006  may include one or more of a variety of haptic technologies such as, but not necessarily limited to, rotational haptic devices, linear actuators, piezoelectric devices, vibration elements, and so on. In general, the haptic device  1006  may be configured to provide punctuated and distinct feedback to a user of the device. More particularly, the haptic device  1006  may be adapted to produce a knock or tap sensation and/or a vibration sensation. Such haptic outputs may be provided in response to detection of touch and/or force inputs, and may be imparted to a user through the exterior surface of the device  1000  (e.g., via a glass or other surface that acts as a touch- and/or force-sensitive display or surface). 
     The one or more communication channels  1004  may include one or more wireless interface(s) that are adapted to provide communication between the processing unit(s)  1001  and an external device (including, for example a stylus, keyboard, or other input accessory). The one or more communication channels  1004  may include antennas, communications circuitry, firmware, software, or any other components or systems that facilitate wireless communications with other devices. In general, the one or more communication channels  1004  may be configured to transmit and receive data and/or signals that may be interpreted by instructions executed on the processing units  1001 . In some cases, the external device is part of an external communication network that is configured to exchange data with wireless devices. Generally, the wireless interface may communicate via, without limitation, radio frequency, optical, acoustic, and/or magnetic signals and may be configured to operate over a wireless interface or protocol. Example wireless interfaces include radio frequency cellular interfaces (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G, 4G long-term evolution (LTE), 5G, GSM, CDMA, or the like), fiber optic interfaces, acoustic interfaces, Bluetooth interfaces, infrared interfaces, USB interfaces, Wi-Fi interfaces, TCP/IP interfaces, network communications interfaces, or any conventional communication interfaces. The one or more communication channels  1004  may also include ultra-wideband (UWB) interfaces, which may include any appropriate communications circuitry, instructions, and number and position of suitable UWB antennas. 
     As shown in  FIG.  10   , the device  1000  may include a battery  1007  that is used to store and provide power to the other components of the device  1000 . The battery  1007  may be a rechargeable power supply that is configured to provide power to the device  1000 . The battery  1007  may be coupled to charging systems (e.g., wired and/or wireless charging systems) and/or other circuitry to control the electrical power provided to the battery  1007  and to control the electrical power provided from the battery  1007  to the device  1000 . 
     The device  1000  may also include one or more displays  1008  configured to display graphical outputs. The displays  1008  may use any suitable display technology, including liquid crystal displays (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays, active-matrix organic light-emitting diode displays (AMOLED), or the like. The displays  1008  may display graphical user interfaces, images, icons, or any other suitable graphical outputs. The display  1008  may correspond to the display  103 . 
     The device  1000  may also provide audio input functionality via one or more audio input systems  1009 . The audio input systems  1009  may include microphones, transducers, or other devices that capture sound for voice calls, video calls, audio recordings, video recordings, voice commands, and the like. 
     The device  1000  may also provide audio output functionality via one or more audio output systems (e.g., speakers)  1010 . The audio output systems  1010  may produce sound from voice calls, video calls, streaming or local audio content, streaming or local video content, or the like. 
     The device  1000  may also include a positioning system  1011 . The positioning system  1011  may be configured to determine the location of the device  1000 . For example, the positioning system  1011  may include magnetometers, gyroscopes, accelerometers, optical sensors, cameras, global positioning system (GPS) receivers, inertial positioning systems, or the like. The positioning system  1011  may be used to determine spatial parameters of the device  1000 , such as the location of the device  1000  (e.g., geographical coordinates of the device), measurements or estimates of physical movement of the device  1000 , an orientation of the device  1000 , or the like. 
     The device  1000  may also include one or more additional sensors  1012  to receive inputs (e.g., from a user or another computer, device, system, network, etc.) or to detect any suitable property or parameter of the device, the environment surrounding the device, people or things interacting with the device (or nearby the device), or the like. For example, a device may include temperature sensors, biometric sensors (e.g., fingerprint sensors, photoplethysmographs, blood-oxygen sensors, blood sugar sensors, or the like), eye-tracking sensors, retinal scanners, humidity sensors, buttons, switches, lid-closure sensors, or the like. 
     To the extent that multiple functionalities, operations, and structures described with reference to  FIG.  10    are disclosed as being part of, incorporated into, or performed by the device  1000 , it should be understood that various embodiments may omit any or all such described functionalities, operations, and structures. Thus, different embodiments of the device  1000  may have some, none, or all of the various capabilities, apparatuses, physical features, modes, and operating parameters discussed herein. Further, the systems included in the device  1000  are not exclusive, and the device  1000  may include alternative or additional systems, components, modules, programs, instructions, or the like, that may be necessary or useful to perform the functions described herein. 
     It is well understood that the use of personally identifiable information should follow privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy of users. In particular, personally identifiable information data should be managed and handled so as to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly indicated to users. 
     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 targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. Also, when used herein to refer to positions of components, the terms above, below, over, under, left, or right (or other similar relative position terms), do not necessarily refer to an absolute position relative to an external reference, but instead refer to the relative position of components within the figure being referred to.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20220908
Publication Date: 20240917
Grant Date: 20240917
Priority Date: 20220908
Inventors: RUSCHER, JOEL N.
ZHANG, GUANGTAO
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F3/03545", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1669", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1632", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1607", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1632", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1607", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 90142145