PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11889647-B2
Application Number: US-202016997665-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Display panel bend reinforcement

Abstract:
An electronic device includes a housing that defines an aperture, and a display assembly positioned in the aperture. The display assembly can include a display layer having a first portion, and a second portion bending at least partially below the first portion. The first portion and the second portion can define a bend volume, and a potting material can be disposed in the bend volume, such that the potting material contacts the first portion and the second portion. An internal enclosure can be contoured to the display assembly.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electronic device comprising:
 a housing at least partially defining an aperture and an internal volume; 
 a display assembly positioned in the aperture, the display assembly comprising:
 a display layer including pixels, the display layer comprising a first portion, a bend portion, and a second portion disposed at least partially below the first portion; 
 the bend portion and a plane extending between the first portion and the second portion at least partially defining a bend volume; 
 a potting material disposed in the bend volume and contacting a surface of the bend portion; 
 a display integrated circuit positioned directly on the second portion of the display layer; 
 a supportive material surrounding and contacting the display integrated circuit; and 
 a flexible circuit electrically coupled to the display layer; and 
 
 an enclosure disposed in the internal volume adjacent to the display assembly, the enclosure having a shape corresponding to a shape of the display assembly. 
 
     
     
       2. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the potting material comprises a curable polymer. 
     
     
       3. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the potting material has a modulus of about 150 megapascals to about 300 megapascals. 
     
     
       4. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the display assembly comprises a strain-neutralization layer; and 
 a portion of the display layer is positioned between the strain-neutralization layer and the potting material. 
 
     
     
       5. The electronic device of  claim 4 , wherein the strain-neutralization layer comprises an epoxy. 
     
     
       6. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the potting material comprises an ultraviolet light curable material. 
     
     
       7. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the potting material comprises a moisture curable material. 
     
     
       8. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the potting material conforms to a surface of the bend portion. 
     
     
       9. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the display layer and the potting material define a gap. 
     
     
       10. An electronic device comprising:
 a housing defining an aperture; 
 a display assembly positioned in the aperture, the display assembly comprising:
 a display layer comprising:
 a plurality of pixels; 
 a first portion; 
 a bend portion; and 
 a tail portion; and 
 
 a display integrated circuit directly positioned on the tail portion; and 
 
 a supportive material contacting and conforming to a perimeter of the display integrated circuit and structurally supporting the display integrated circuit on the tail portion. 
 
     
     
       11. The electronic device of  claim 10 , wherein the display assembly further comprises a stiffener plate positioned in-plane with the display integrated circuit. 
     
     
       12. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein the stiffener plate has a thickness of about 50 microns to about 90 microns. 
     
     
       13. The electronic device of  claim 10 , wherein the supportive material comprises a potting compound. 
     
     
       14. The electronic device of  claim 10 , wherein the display assembly further comprises:
 an internal enclosure; and 
 a foam positioned between the display integrated circuit and the internal enclosure. 
 
     
     
       15. The electronic device of  claim 14 , wherein the foam is positioned between the first portion and the tail portion. 
     
     
       16. A display assembly, comprising:
 a display layer comprising:
 an active area including a plurality of illuminable pixels; 
 a tail portion; and 
 a bend portion connecting the active area and the tail portion, the bend portion defining a first curved surface and a second curved surface opposite the first curved surface; 
 
 a potting material disposed on the first curved surface; 
 a strain-neutralization layer overlaying at least a portion of the second curved surface; 
 a display integrated circuit positioned directly on the tail portion; 
 a stiffener plate positioned in-plane with the display integrated circuit; and 
 a supportive material positioned between the stiffener plate and the display integrated circuit. 
 
     
     
       17. The display assembly of  claim 16 , wherein the potting material is adhered to the display layer. 
     
     
       18. The display assembly of  claim 16 , wherein the display layer comprises polyimide. 
     
     
       19. The display assembly of  claim 16 , wherein the tail portion is disposed below the active area.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to improved robustness of an electronic device. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to filler material that improves the robustness and water resistance of a mobile display. 
     BACKGROUND 
     In use, modern electronic devices are subject to a wide range of hazardous conditions such as forces from drop and fall events or stresses caused by compression. These considerations can be particularly relevant to portable electronic and mobile device applications, where sensitive control and display components may be commonly exposed to stress events and undesirable environmental conditions. 
     A number of possible solutions have been developed to address these concerns, but these solutions typically involve bulky isolation components that isolate and protect components, but typically drastically increase the size of a device and can negatively impact device performance and user experience. Accordingly, there remains a need for improved robustness of advanced consumer electronics and other digital device applications that do not undesirably increase the size of the device or impact performance. In particular, there is a need for increased impact protection and resistance to environmental exposure suitable for modern electronic devices. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to some examples of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes a housing that defines an aperture, and a display assembly positioned in the aperture. The display assembly can include a display layer having a first portion, and a second portion bending at least partially below the first portion. The first portion and the second portion can define a bend volume, and a potting material can be disposed in the bend volume such that the potting material contacts the first portion and the second portion. An internal enclosure can be contoured to the display assembly. 
     In some examples, the potting material can be deposited on the display layer before the display layer is bent. The potting material can have a modulus of about 150 megapascals to about 300 megapascals. In some examples, a strain-neutralization layer can be included on an exterior of the display layer, opposite the bend volume, such that the display layer is positioned between the strain-neutralization layer and the potting material. 
     In some examples, the potting material is pre-cured. The potting material can be pre-cured with ultraviolet light before the display layer is bent. In some examples, the potting material is moisture cured. For example, the potting material can be moisture cured after the display layer is bent. In some examples a gap exists adjacent the potting material, the gap can allow for moisture to cure the potting material. 
     According to some examples, an electronic device includes a housing defining an aperture, and a display assembly positioned in the aperture. The display assembly can include a display layer that is bent to define a bend region and a tail portion. A display integrated circuit can be coupled to the display layer, and supportive materials can be bonded to the display assembly. 
     In some examples, the display integrated circuit is attached to the tail portion. The supportive materials can include a stiffener plate that is positioned in-plane with the display integrated circuit. The stiffener plate can have a thickness of about 50 microns to about 90 microns. In some examples, the supportive materials include a potting compound that at least partially surrounds the display integrated circuit. The supportive materials can include foam positioned between the display integrated circuit and an internal enclosure. In some examples, the supportive materials are positioned between an active region of the display assembly and the tail portion. 
     According to some examples, a display assembly includes a display layer having an active area, a tail portion bending adjacent the active area, and a bend region connecting the active area and the tail portion. The bend region can define a first curved surface and a second curved surface opposite the first curved surface. A potting material can be disposed in the first curved surface. A strain-neutralization layer can overlay at least a portion of the second curved surface, and a display integrated circuit can be attached to the bend region. 
     In some examples, the potting material adheres to polyimide. The potting material can be injected into the first curved surface of the bend region. In some examples, the bend region is about a 180 degree fold in the display layer. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG.  1    shows a perspective view on an electronic device. 
         FIG.  2    shows an exploded view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  3    shows a perspective view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  4    shows an exploded view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  5    shows an isolated perspective view of components of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  6    shows a partially exploded view of a display assembly. 
         FIG.  7    shows a side cross-sectional view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  8    shows a side cross-sectional view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  9    shows a side cross-sectional view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  10    shows a side cross-sectional view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  11    shows a process flow diagram of a process for depositing a potting material. 
         FIG.  12    shows a side cross-sectional view of an electronic device. 
         FIG.  13    shows a process flow diagram of a process for reinforcing a display integrated circuit. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments, as defined by the appended claims. 
     The following disclosure relates to electronic devices with improved robustness and durability. The electronic devices described herein offer several enhancements over traditional devices. For example, the electronic devices as described herein can include shock absorbing filler materials that protect sensitive components, such as display layers and display integrated circuits, from drop and impact stresses. 
     The electronic devices described herein can be mobile wireless communication devices, such as a smartphones or smartwatches. In a particular example, an electronic device can include a housing that defines an aperture. The housing can include a display frame defining an interior portion of the housing and a device enclosure defining an exterior portion of the housing. The display frame can be attached to internal electronic components of the electronic device, such as a display assembly. The device enclosure can surround and can be secured to the display frame. In some examples, the display frame and/or device enclosure can be made from a composite of metal and plastic, such as steel and plastic. 
     A display assembly can be positioned in the aperture defined by the frame such that the housing borders or rings a periphery of the display component. In some examples, the display assembly can include a display panel or layer that includes a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) that relies upon backlighting to present the visual information. In some examples, the display layer includes an organic light emitted diode (“OLED”) display designed to selectively illuminate individual pixels. 
     The display layer can be bent or folded to define a bend region or a panel bend. The panel bend can define a curved surface or portion of the display panel. The bend region can define a first curved surface and a second curved surface opposite the first curved surface. As described herein, a potting material can be disposed in the first curved surface to improve the robustness of the panel bend region. In some examples, a strain-neutralization layer can be included on an exterior of the display layer, opposite the bend volume, such that the display layer is positioned between the strain-neutralization layer and the potting material. 
     The display layer can have an active area and a tail portion bending adjacent the active area, with bend region connecting or bridging the active area and the tail portion. In some examples, a display integrated circuit can be coupled or attached to the display layer, specifically to the tail portion of the display layer. The display integrated circuit can be attached to the tail portion by any number of adhesives, fasteners, engagement features, or any other suitable securing system, material, or components. As described herein, various support materials can be used to improve the robustness of the electronic device, specifically by protecting the bend region and the display integrated circuit. 
     The support materials described herein can act as stiffening or shock absorbing materials to improve the robustness of the electronic device, and specifically, to protect, isolate, and or reduce the exposure of the display layer, the panel bend region, and the display integrated circuit from impacts or stress. 
     In some examples, at least one of the support materials is in direct physical contact with a display component, such as the display layer. In some examples, a support material is in direct physical contact with the housing. In some examples, a support material is in direct physical contact with the display integrated circuit. In some examples, a support material is in direct physical contact with the display component and the housing. 
     The support materials can include at least a stiffener plate, foam, and potting material. For example, the stiffener plate can be positioned in-plane with the display integrated circuit and have a thickness of about 50 microns to about 90 microns. A stiffener plate can be positioned between an active region of the display assembly and the tail portion. In some examples, a potting compound at least partially surrounds the display integrated circuit. Further, foam can be deposited at various locations, for instance, shock absorbent foam can be positioned between the display integrated circuit and an internal enclosure. Foam can also be placed between the display layer and the internal enclosure and between an active region of the display layer and the tail portion. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 13   . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG.  1    illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an electronic device  100 . The electronic device  100  shown in  FIG.  1    is a mobile wireless communication device, such as a smartphone. The smartphone of  FIG.  1    is merely one representative example of a device that can be used in conjunction with the systems and methods disclosed herein. Electronic device  100  can correspond to any form of wearable electronic device, a portable media player, a media storage device, a portable digital assistant (“PDA”), a tablet computer, a computer, a mobile communication device, a GPS unit, a remote control device, or other electronic device. The electronic device  100  can be referred to as an electronic device, a consumer device, or simply as a device. 
     The electronic device  100  can have a housing that includes a band  102  that defines an outer perimeter of the electronic device  100 . The band  102 , or portions thereof, can be formed using additive manufacturing processes or can be machined. In some examples, the band  102  can define one or more sidewall components of the electronic device  100 . In some examples, the band  102  defines a non-continuous perimeter of the electronic device  100 . That is, the band  102  can be formed with gaps or spaces therein. 
     In some examples, the band  102  includes an antenna assembly (not shown in  FIG.  1   ). As a result, a non-metal material, or materials, can separate the sidewall components of the band  102  from each other in order to electrically isolate the sidewall components. For example, separating materials  112 ,  114  can be position between sections of the band  102 . The aforementioned materials can include an electrically inert, or insulating, material(s), such as plastics and/or resin, as non-limiting examples. As discussed in greater detail below, the separating materials  112 ,  114  can be formed using similar manufacturing techniques as the band  102 . For instance, the separating materials  112 ,  114  can be formed using an additive manufacturing process. 
     The electronic device  100  can further include a display assembly  116  (shown as a dotted line) that is covered by a protective cover  118 . The display assembly  116  can include multiple layers, with each layer providing a unique function. The display assembly  116  can be partially covered by a border  120  that extends along an outer edge of the protective cover  118  and partially covers an outer edge of the display assembly  116 . In some examples, the border  120  can be a portion of the band  102 , being formed along with the band  102 . The border  120  can be positioned to hide or obscure any electrical and mechanical connections between the layers of the display assembly  116  and flexible circuit connectors. Also, the border  120  can exhibit a uniform thickness. For example, the border  120  can include a thickness that generally does not change in the X- and Y-dimensions. 
     Also, as shown in  FIG.  1   , the display assembly  116  can include a notch  122 , representing an absence of the display assembly  116 . The notch  122  can allow for a vision system that provides the electronic device  100  with information for object recognition, such as facial recognition. In this regard, the electronic device  100  can include a masking layer with openings (shown as dotted lines) designed to hide or obscure the vision system, while the openings allow the vision system to provide the object recognition information. Also, the protective cover  118  can be formed from a transparent material, such as glass, plastic, sapphire, or similar transparent materials. In this regard, the protective cover  118  can be referred to as a transparent cover, a transparent protective cover, or a cover glass (when the protective cover  118  includes glass). As shown in  FIG.  1   , the protective cover  118  can include an opening  124 , which can represent a single opening of the protective cover  118 . The opening  124  can allow for transmission of acoustical energy (in the form of audible sound) into the electronic device  100 , which can be received by a microphone (not shown in  FIG.  1   ) of the electronic device  100 . Further, the opening  124  can allow for transmission of acoustical energy (in the form of audible sound) out of the electronic device  100 , which can be generated by an audio module (not shown in  FIG.  1   ) of the electronic device  100 . 
     In some examples, the band  102  can define a port  126  designed to receive a connector of a cable assembly. The port  126  allows the electronic device  100  to communication data information (send and receive), and also allows the electronic device  100  to receive electrical energy to charge a battery assembly. Accordingly, the port  126  can include terminals that electrically couple to the connector. The port  126  can be formed as part of the additive manufacturing process to form the band  102  or can be formed by subsequent processing. 
     Furthermore, the band  102  can define several openings. For example, the band  102  can define openings  128  that allow an additional audio module (not shown in  FIG.  1   ) of the electronic device to emit acoustical energy out of the electronic device  100 . The band  102  can further define openings  132  that allow a microphone of the electronic device to receive acoustical energy. The band  102  can define holes to receive fasteners. For instance, the electronic device  100  can also include a first fastener  134  and a second fastener  136  designed to be fastened to a rail that is coupled to the protective cover  118 . In this way, the first fastener  134  and the second fastener  136  can be designed to couple the protective cover  118  with the band  102 . As discussed in greater detail below, the band  102  can define holes for injecting an encapsulant or filler material between the band  102  and the display assembly  116 . These various openings can be formed as part of a 3D printing process in conjunction with formation of the band  102 . In some examples, the openings are machined into the band  102  after the band  102  has been formed. 
     The electronic device  100  can include several control inputs designed to provide a command to the electronic device  100 . For example, the electronic device  100  can include a first control input  142  and a second control input  144 . The aforementioned control inputs can be used to adjust the visual information presented on the display assembly  116 , and/or the volume of acoustical energy output by an audio module, as non-limiting examples. The controls can include one of a switch, a sensor, or a button designed to generate a command to a processor circuit. The control inputs can at least partially extend through openings in the sidewall components. For example, the second sidewall component  106  can include an opening  146  that receives the first control input  142 . Further details of the electronic device  100  are provided below with reference to  FIG.  2   . 
       FIG.  2    illustrates an exploded view of an electronic device  200 . The electronic device  200  can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of the features of any of the electronic devices discussed herein, such as electronic device  100 . As shown, the band  202  at least partially defines an exterior portion, such as an outer perimeter of the electronic device. The band  202 , can include one or more features to receive or couple to other components of the device  200 , such as feature  221 . For example, the band  202  can include any number of features such as apertures, cavities, indentations, bosses, protrusions, and other mating features configured to receive and/or attach to one or more components of the device  200 . In some examples, the feature  221  can be printed onto the band  202  by an additive manufacturing process, as described herein. Further, in some examples, the feature  221  can include a metallic material different than the metallic material of the band  202 . In some examples, both the band  202  and feature  221  can be formed by one or more additive manufacturing processes. In some examples, as with the band  102 , the band  202  can include multiple portions that can be electrically isolated from one another by a separating material  214 . 
     The electronic device  200  can include a display assembly  216  that is covered by a protective cover  218 . The display assembly  216  can include multiple layers, with each layer providing a unique function, and can include a frame (not shown) that can serve to fix, join, or attach the display assembly to the band  202 , as described further herein. 
     The electronic device  200  can include internal components such as processors, memory, circuit boards, batteries, and sensors. Such components can be disposed within an internal volume defined, at least partially, by the band  202 , and can be affixed to the band  202 , via internal surfaces, attachment features such as feature  221 , threaded connectors, studs, posts, and/or other fixing features, that are formed into, defined by, or otherwise part of the band  202 . 
     The device  200  can include internal components, such as a system in package (SiP), including one or more integrated circuits such as a processors, sensors, and memory. The device  200  can also include a battery  224  housed in the internal volume of the device  200 . The device  200  can also include one or more sensors, such as optical or other sensors, that can sense or otherwise detect information regarding the environment exterior to the internal volume of the device  200 . Additional components, such as a haptic engine, can also be included in the device  200 . In some examples, the display assembly  216  can be received by and/or attached to the band  202  by one or more attachment features. 
     The electronic device  200  can further include a chassis  220  that can provide structural support. The chassis  220  can include a rigid material, such as a metal, or can include a composite construction. The chassis  220  can also be coupled to the band  202 . In this manner, the chassis  220  can provide an electrical grounding path for components electrically coupled to the chassis. The electronic device can alternatively or additionally include a back plate  230  having cladding layers and/or other attachment features such that one or more components of the electronic device  200  can be attached to the back plate  230 , for example, via welding. The back plate  230  can form conductive pathways for connecting components of the electronic device  200 . In some examples, the back plate  230  can be attached to the band  202  of the device  200  by one or more attachment features. In some examples, the band  202 , the chassis  220 , and the back plate  230  are jointed together after individual manufacture, or they can be integrally formed with one another in any combination as a sectioned element by an additive manufacturing process. 
     An exterior surface of the electronic device  200  can further be defined by a back cover  240  that can be coupled with the band  202 . In this regard, the back cover  240  can combine with the band  202  to form an enclosure or a housing of the electronic device  200 , with the enclosure or housing (including band  202  and back cover  240 ) at least partially defining an internal volume. The back cover  240  can include a transparent material, such as glass, plastic, sapphire, or another transparent material. As discussed below, the back cover  240  can be formed together with the band  202  using any number of manufacturing methods, including additive manufacturing processes. 
     The housing, including the band  202 , can be conformable to interior dimensional requirements, as defined by the internal components. For example, the structure of the housing including a band  202  can be defined or limited exclusively or primarily by the internal components the housing is designed to accommodate. That is, because a housing including a band  202  can be extremely light and strong, the housing can be shaped to house the interior components in a dimensionally efficient manner without being constrained by factors other than the dimensions of the components, such as the need for additional structural elements. In some examples, these formation processes discussed herein can allow for the housing and/or band  202  to have a detailed shape or design that is tailored specifically to satisfy one or more needs, such as internal dimensional requirements, without the need for additional features to reinforce the structure of the housing. Additionally, artifacts of the manufacturing process of the housing can be eliminated. Further details of the electronic devices are provided below with reference to  FIG.  3   . 
       FIG.  3    shows another example of an electronic device  300 . The electronic device shown in  FIG.  3    is a watch, such as a smartwatch. The smartwatch  300  of  FIG.  3    is merely one representative example of a device that can be used in conjunction with the components and methods disclosed herein. As described with respect to electronic device  100 , electronic device  300  can correspond to any form of wearable electronic device, a portable media player, a media storage device, a portable digital assistant (“PDA”), a tablet computer, a computer, a mobile communication device, a GPS unit, a remote control device, and other devices. The electronic device  300  can be referred to as an electronic device, or a consumer device. Further details of a watch are provided below with reference to  FIG.  4   . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  4   , the electronic device  400  can include a housing  402 , and a cover  418  attached to the housing. The housing  402  can substantially define at least a portion of an exterior surface of the device  400 . The cover  418  can include glass, plastic, or any other substantially transparent material, component, or assembly. Although in some examples, the cover  418  can include a material or materials that are not transparent. The cover  418  can cover or otherwise overlay a display assembly  416 . The display assembly  416  can include multiple layers, with each layer providing a unique function. Accordingly, the cover  418  can be, or be a part of, an interface component. The cover  418  can define a front exterior surface of the device  400  and, as described herein, this exterior surface can be considered an interface surface. In some examples, the interface surface defined by the cover  418  can receive inputs, such as touch inputs, from a user. 
     A back cover  430  can also be attached to the housing  402 , for example, opposite the cover  418 . The back cover  430  can include ceramic, plastic, metal, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the back cover  430  can include an electromagnetically transparent portion  432 . The electromagnetically transparent portion  432  can be transparent to any desired wavelength of electromagnetic radiation, such as visible light, infrared light, radio waves, or combinations thereof. Together, the housing  402 , cover  418  and back cover  430  can substantially define an internal volume and external surface of the device  400 . 
     The housing  402  can be a substantially continuous or unitary component, and can include one or more openings  404 ,  406  to receive components of the electronic device  400  and/or to provide access to an internal portion of the electronic device  400 . In some examples, the device  400  can include input components such as one or more buttons  426  and/or a crown  428  that can be disposed in the openings  404 ,  406 . In some examples, a material can be disposed between the buttons  426  and/or crown  428  and the housing  402  to provide an airtight and/or watertight seal at the locations of the openings  404 ,  406 . As discussed in greater detail below, the housing  402  can define holes for injecting an encapsulant or filler material between the housing  402  and the display assembly  416 . 
     The electronic device  400  can further include a strap  460 , or another component designed to attach the device  400  to a user, or to provide wearable functionality. In some examples, the strap  460  can be a flexible material that can comfortably allow the device  400  to be retained on a user&#39;s body at a desired location. Further, the housing  402  can include a feature or features that can provide attachment locations for the strap  460 . In some examples, the strap  460  can be retained on the housing  402  by any desired techniques. For example, the strap  460  can include any combination of magnets that are attracted to magnets disposed within the housing  402 , and/or retention components that mechanically retain the strap  460  against the housing  402 . 
     The device  400  can also include internal components, such as a haptic engine  424 , a battery  422 , and a system in package (SiP), including one or more integrated circuits, such as processors, sensors, and memory. The SiP can also include a package. The internal components, such as one or more of components  422 ,  424  can be disposed within the internal volume defined at least partially by the housing  402 , and can be affixed to the housing  402  via internal surfaces, attachment features, threaded connectors, studs, posts, or other features, that are formed into, defined by, or otherwise part of the housing  402  and/or the cover  418  and/or back cover  430 . 
       FIG.  5    shows an exploded view of an electronic device  500  including a display assembly  516 , a cover  518 , a frame  502 , and a housing  501 . The electronic device  500  can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of the features of any of the electronic devices discussed herein, such as electronic devices  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400 . Various components of the electronic device  500  have been removed for clarity. In some examples, the display assembly  516  can be attached to the frame  502  by various attachment systems, materials, or mechanisms, such as adhesion, welding, or mechanical attachment. In some examples, the frame  502  be made from a composite of steel and plastic. The frame  502  can act as an interface between the display assembly  516  and an outer shell or housing  501 . In this manner, the frame  502  can act as a protective barrier to the periphery of the display assembly  516 . 
     Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the input device. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an input device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding input components, filler materials, and display assemblies, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Various examples of electronic devices including components having various features in various arrangements are described below, with reference to  FIGS.  6 - 13   . 
       FIG.  6    illustrates a partial exploded view of an electronic device  600 . The electronic device  600  can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of the features of the electronic devices discussed herein, such as electronic devices  100 - 300 . Several features of the electronic device  600  are not shown for simplicity. A first protective layer  618 , such as a cover glass, can overlay a display assembly  616 . The first protective layer  618  can be adhesively secured to the display assembly  616  with an adhesive layer (not shown) or by any other desired technique. 
     The display assembly  616  can include a touch sensitive layer  603  designed to receive a touch input, a display layer  607  designed to present visual information, and a force sensitive layer  609  designed to detect an amount of force applied to, or exerted on, the display layer  607  by way a force applied to at least one of the first protective layer  618 , the touch sensitive layer  603 , and the display layer  607 . Although not shown, the display assembly  616  can include adhesive layers to adhesively secure the touch sensitive layer  603  with the display layer  607 , and to adhesively secure the display layer  607  with the force sensitive layer  609 . 
     The touch sensitive layer  603  is designed to receive a touch input when, for example, a user can exert pressure the first protective layer  618 . The touch sensitive layer  603  can include capacitive touch-sensitive technology. For example, the touch sensitive layer  603  can include a layer of capacitive material that holds an electrical charge. The layer of capacitive material is designed to form a part of multiple capacitive parallel plates throughout a location corresponding to the display layer  607 . In this regard, when a user touches the first protective layer  618 , the user forms one or more capacitors. Moreover, the user causes a volt drop across the one or more capacitors, which in turns causes the electrical charge of the capacitive material to change at a specific point (or points) of contact corresponding to a location of the user&#39;s touch input. The capacitance change and/or voltage drop can be measured by the electronic device  600  to determine the location of the touch input. The touch sensitive layer  603  can include an edge region  615 . The edge region  615  can include electrical connectors. 
     In some examples, the display layer  607  includes a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) that relies upon backlighting to present the visual information. In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  6   , the display layer  607  includes a light emitting diode (LED) and/or organic light emitted diode (“OLED”) display designed to illuminate individual pixels, when needed. When the display layer  607  includes OLED technology, the display layer  607  can include a reduced form factor as compared to that of an LCD display. In this regard, the display assembly  616  can include a smaller footprint and/or thickness, thereby creating more space for other components in the internal volume, such as a battery assembly. In some examples, the display layer  607  can be curved or bent without causing damage to the display layer  607 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  6   , the display layer  607  includes or defines a bend or a bend region  611 . The bend region  611  can be a 180-degree bend, or approximately a 180-degree bend. In some examples, the bend  611  can be at any angle and/or radius of curvature as desired, and can be at least about a 90-degree bend, at least about a 120-degree bend, at least about a 135-degree bend, at least about a 150-degree bend, at least about a 180-degree bend, at least about a 220-degree bend, at least about a 235-degree bend, or at least about a 270-degree bend or more. In some examples, the bend  611  allows the display layer  607  to bend or curve around at least a portion of the force sensitive layer  609 , as shown in  FIG.  6   . In some examples, the bend  611  can extend along a length or a width of the electronic device. In some examples, the display layer  607  includes multiple bends  611  on various edges of the display layer  607 . For example, the display layer  607  can define two bends on opposing ends of the display layer  607  that run along substantially all of a length of the electronic device  600 . 
     The display layer  607  can include an edge region or tail portion  613  that includes a connector (not shown) used to electrically and mechanically couple the display layer  607  with a flexible circuit (not shown) that electrically couples with a circuit board assembly (shown below), with flexible circuit placing the display layer  607  in communication with the circuit board assembly. In some examples, the display layer  607  can include an active matrix organic light emitting diode (“AMOLED”) display. The edge region  615  of the touch sensitive layer  603  can be parallel, or at least substantially parallel, with respect to the edge region or tail portion  613  of the display layer  607 , even when the display layer  607  includes the bend  611 . 
     The force sensitive layer  609  can operate by determining an amount of force or pressure applied to the first protective layer  618 , the touch sensitive layer  603 , and/or the display layer  607 . In this regard, the force sensitive layer  609  can distinguish between different amounts of force applied to the electronic device  100 . The different amounts of force can correspond to different user inputs. The force sensitive layer  609  can include multiple parallel capacitor plate arrangements, with one plate of each capacitor plate arrangement having an electrical charge. When a force to the first protective layer  618  causes the distance between one or more pairs of parallel plate capacitors to reduce, a change in capacitance between the one or more pairs of parallel plate capacitors can occur. The amount of change in capacitance corresponds to an amount of force exerted on the first protective layer  618 . 
     Further, in order to support the first protective layer  618  and the display assembly  616 , and facilitate assembly of the first protective layer  618  and the display assembly  616 , the electronic device  600  can include a frame  602  that receives and secures with the first protective layer  618  and display assembly  616 . Accordingly, the frame  602  can include a size and shape in accordance with that of the first protective layer  618  and/or the display assembly  616 . In some examples, the frame  602  can at least partially define an exterior surface of the electronic device  600 . In some examples the electronic device  600  further includes a band or a housing (not shown in  FIG.  6   ) that defines an exterior shell or surface of the electronic device  600  and couples to the frame  602 . The frame  602  can be formed from a polymeric material, such as plastic, and can also include a metal ring (not shown) that is partially embedded in the polymeric material during an insert molding operation. In this regard, the frame  602  can structurally support the first protective layer  618 , as well as one or more components of the display assembly  616 . Further details of a display assembly are provided below with reference to  FIG.  7   . 
       FIG.  7    illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example of an electronic device  700 , showing the electronic device  700  with a housing  701  and a frame  702  coupled with the housing  701 . The electronic device  700  can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of the features of the electronic devices discussed herein, such as electronic devices  100 - 600 . Several features of the electronic device  700  are not shown for simplicity. In some examples, the frame  702  is integrally formed with the housing  701 . The housing  701  can be formed from a metal, such as aluminum or an alloy that includes aluminum. In some examples, the housing  701  is a ceramic. A ceramic material can provide a robust enclosure while also minimizing the effects of RF interference with an antenna assembly (not shown) of the electronic device  700 . 
     The housing  701  and/or frame  702  can receive and support a protective cover  718 . In some examples, the frame  702  includes a notch or a groove  756  designed to receive bending regions  711  of a display assembly  716 . The notch  756  can extend circumferentially around the display assembly  716 . In some examples, the notch  756  is designed to run parallel with the bend regions  711  of the display assembly  716 , and/or have a shape corresponding thereto. The bend  711  can extend along a length or width of the electronic device  700 . In some examples, the display assembly  716  includes multiple bends  711 . For example, the display layer  707  can define two bends or bend regions on opposing ends of the display layer  707  that run along substantially all of a length of the electronic device  700 . Further details of the display assembly are discussed below with reference to  FIG.  8   . 
       FIG.  8    illustrates a cross-sectional view of the electronic device  800  including a display assembly  816 . The electronic device  800  can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of the features of the electronic devices discussed herein, such as electronic devices  100 - 700 . Several features of the electronic device  800  are not shown for simplicity. Although not shown, the display assembly  816  can include adhesive layers to adhesively secure various layers and components of the display assembly  816  to one another and/or to other components of the device  800 . 
     A connector  822  can be located on an edge region that can be substantially similar to the edge region  415  shown in  FIG.  4   . As described above, a display layer  807  can bend or curve to define a bend region and a tail portion. Further, a first flexible circuit  812  can bend or curve around the display layer  807 . 
     A frame  802  can be secured to a housing  801  and can include design considerations that accommodate the display assembly  816 . For example, the frame  802  can include a notch  856 , or an undercut region, designed to at least partially receive the first flexible circuit  812  and/or the display layer  807 . As shown in  FIG.  8   , the notch  856  includes a size and shape to receive a bent/curved region of both the display layer  807  as well the first flexible circuit  812 . While the notch  856  includes a curvature generally corresponding to that of the first flexible circuit  812  and the display layer  807 , other shapes, including straight edges, are possible for the notch  856 . Also, the notch  856  can be formed during a molding operation of the frame  802 . Alternatively, the notch  856  can be formed subsequent to a molding or other formation operation by, for example, by a subtractive manufacturing process, such as a cutting operation. 
     In some examples, the frame  802  is adhesively secured with the first protective layer  818  by adhesive  866 . In some examples, the frame  802  can include a supporting element  858  partially embedded in the frame  802 . The supporting element  858  includes a ring formed from a metal material that continuously or non-continuously extends around the display assembly  816  in accordance with the frame  802 . In some examples, the supporting element  858  is discontinuous, and is selectively embedded in the frame  802 . As shown, the supporting element  858  can extend along the frame  802  to support the display assembly  816  and the first protective layer  818 . Also, the first flexible circuit  812  can be adhesively secured with the supporting element  858  by an adhesive layer. 
       FIG.  8    further shows some components of the display assembly  816  coupled with the flexible circuits at one location while other components are not. For example, the touch sensitive layer  803  is electrically and mechanically coupled with the first flexible circuit  812  by the connector  822 , and the display layer  807  is electrically and mechanically coupled with a second flexible circuit  812  by a connector  824 , with the connector  822  and the connector  824 . Further details of a display assembly are discussed below with reference to  FIG.  9   . 
       FIG.  9    illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an electronic device  900 . The electronic device  900  can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of the features of any of the electronic devices discussed herein, such as electronic devices  100 - 800 . 
     Similar to other examples described herein, the electronic device  900  can include a display assembly  916  that includes a touch sensitive layer  903  designed to receive a touch input, a display layer  907  designed to present visual information, and a force sensitive layer  909  designed to detect an amount of force applied to, or exerted on, at least one of the touch sensitive layer  903 , the display layer  907 , or a protective cover  918  that overlays the display assembly  916 . 
     The display layer  907  can extend beyond the force sensitive layer  909  and can define a bend or a bend region  911  that connects to a tail portion  913 . The electronic device  900  can further include a potting material  921  in contact with a surface of the display layer  907 . The potting material  921  can support the display layer  907 . Specifically, the potting material  921  can reinforce or bolster the bend  911  of the display layer  907 , against external forces or stresses. In order to supply the first material  921 , a needle (not shown) can be inserted into a location within the bend region of the display layer  907 . The needle or other deposition component can disperse the material while being pulled out of the electronic device  900 . In some examples, the potting material  921  is injected from both open ends of the bend  911 . 
     The potting material  921  can have a modulus of about 180 megapascals to about 300 megapascals, or of about 200 megapascals to about 290 megapascals. In some examples, the potting material  921  can have a modulus of about 500 to about 800 megapascals. The potting material  921  can be similar to Henkel 25t-10 or 25t-31/32. In some examples, the display assembly  916  includes a strain-neutralization layer (SNL)  914  disposed on and/or in contact with an exterior surface of the bend  911 , such that the bend  911  is positioned between the strain-neutralization layer  914  and the potting material  921 . In some examples, the strain-neutralization layer  914  covers a region of the tail portion  913  and/or some of the display panel  907  before the bend  911 . The strain-neutralization layer  914  can include a polymeric material, and in some examples, can be an epoxy. 
     In some examples, the potting material  921  can be formulated to adhere and/or bond to the material or materials including the display layer  907 . For example, the potting material  921  can adhere and/or bond to a polymeric material, such as polyimide. The potting material  921  can be configured to adhere to at least metallic materials such as stainless steel, composite materials such as glass-filled nylon, polymeric materials such as acrylic, and/or pressure sensitive adhesives. In some examples, the potting material  921  can be provided to a desired location in a moldable or flowable form and then hardened or cured as desired. In some examples, any curing or hardening techniques can be used as desired. In some examples, the potting material  921  can thus include a curable material, such as a curable polymer. In some examples, the potting material  921  is an ultraviolet light and/or moisture curable polymer. 
     When depositing the potting material  921 , it can be advantageous to nominally fill some or all of the bend region with the potting material  921  to avoid the potting material  921  behaving like rigid body that can undesirably transfer forces to the display assembly  916 . Therefore, the potting material  921  can defined one or more gaps or open volumes, for example to avoid direct translation of forces. Gaps around the potting material  921  can also be utilized to provide moisture to cure the potting material  921 . 
     In some examples, the potting material  921  is deposited prior to the formation of the bend  911  of the display layer  907 . As shown in  FIG.  10   , potting material  921  can be deposited on the display layer  907  at a time when the display layer  907  is substantially flat, for example, at a stage during the assembly of the device  900 . The position of the potting material  921  can be selected based on the geometry of the display layer  907  in its final, assembled form. For example, the potting material  921  can be positioned on a portion of the display layer  907  that will define the bend region  911  when assembled into the electronic device  900 . 
     In some examples, the potting material  921  is pre-cured prior to bending the display layer  907 , such as with exposure to ultra-violet (UV) light. The potting material  921  can have a pre-cure modulus of about 0.1 megapascals. During or after pre-curing, the potting material  921  can have a modulus of between about 0.05 megapascals and about 0.5 megapascals, or between about 0.05 megapascals and about 0.25 megapascals. The pre-curing process can cause the potting material  921  to partially solidify and increase the adhesion of the potting material  921  to the display layer  907 . By partially solidifying the potting material  921  before the display layer  907  is bent, the potting material can maintain its general shape and location during subsequent processes, such as bending of the display layer  907 . 
     Once the potting material  921  has been pre-cured on the unbent display layer  907 , for example using ultraviolet light, the display layer  907  can be bent or folded such that the potting material  921  is positioned in the curved bend region  911 . In some examples, the potting material  921  can remain viscous enough to conformally deform into a volume at least partially defined by the bend region  911 . 
     In some examples, the potting material  921  can undergo a final curing phase, such as a final moisture-based curing phase. The potting material  921  can be moisture cured after the display layer  907  is bent, resulting in the potting material  921  being positioned in the bend  911 . In some examples, a gap can exist adjacent the potting material  921  to allow for moisture to cure the potting material  921 . In some examples, the gap can be defined by the potting material  921  and one or more portions or components of the display assembly  916 . 
       FIG.  11    shows a process  1100  for at least partially forming a display assembly including a display layer. At block  1102 , potting material can be deposited onto the display layer at one or more desired locations. The position of the potting material on the display layer can be preselected as desired and can be at least partially based on the geometry of the display layer in a final or assembled configuration. For example, the potting material can be placed at one or more locations that can subsequently be bent to define a bend region, as discussed below. 
     At block  1104 , the potting material can be pre-cured, for example, with electromagnetic radiation, such as ultraviolet light. For example, the potting material can be pre-cured with ultraviolet light before the display layer is bent. Pre-curing the potting material can increase adhesion of the potting material to the display layer. Further, pre-curing can cause the potting material to at least partially solidify, and/or to increase the viscosity of the potting material to ensure the potting material maintains its general shape and location during subsequent processes. 
     At block  1106 , after the potting material has been pre-cured on the unbent display layer, for example using ultraviolet light, the display layer is bent or folded such that the potting material is positioned in the volume at least partially defined by the bend region. In some examples, the potting material is positioned in one or more preselected locations that are bent at block  1106 . In some examples, the pre-cured potting material can have a low enough viscosity to at least partially deform or move with the surface of the display layer being bent, thereby remaining in a desired location and conforming to the shape of the bend region. 
     At block  1108 , the potting material can undergo a final curing phase, for example a moisture curing phase. The potting material can be cured after the display layer is bent, resulting in the cured potting material being positioned in the bend. In some examples, a gap can exist adjacent the potting material to allow for moisture to cure the potting material. In some examples, the potting material can be formulated to adhere and/or bond to the material or materials including the display layer. For example, the potting material can adhere and/or bond to a polymeric material, such as polyimide. The potting material can be configured to adhere to at least metallic materials such as stainless steel, composite materials such as glass-filled nylon, polymeric materials such as acrylic, and/or pressure sensitive adhesives. 
     Any number or variety of components in any of the configurations described herein can be included in the display assembly. The components can include any combination of the features described herein and can be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The structure and arrangement of components of an input device having a housing with structures described herein, and defining an internal volume, as well as the concepts regarding input components, potting materials, and display assemblies, can apply not only to the specific examples discussed herein, but to any number of examples in any combination. Various examples of electronic devices including support materials having various features in various arrangements are described below, with reference to  FIGS.  12 - 13   . 
       FIG.  12    illustrates a cross-sectional view of an electronic device  1200 . The electronic device  1200  can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of the features of any of the electronic devices discussed herein, such as electronic devices  100 - 900 . In some examples, the electronic device  1200  includes a display integrated circuit (DIC)  1227 . The DIC  1227  can be positioned directly on a tail portion  1213  of the display layer  1207  (i.e., post bend). Placing the DIC  1227  directly on the tail portion  1213 , rather can allow for the DIC to be supported by the tail portion  1213  and/or components that support the display layer  1207 , thereby obviating the need for separate components to support the DIC and allowing for that volume to be used by other modules or components of the device. 
     During use, the display assembly  1216  and the DIC  1227  can be subjected to constrained high energy dynamic events caused by concentrated deflection, or unconstrained dynamic events such as a drop event. Various measures can be employed to improve durability and robustness of the display assembly  1216  and the DIC  1227  in response to the forces exerted by these events. For example, support materials can be used to improve the durability of the display assembly  1216 . It will be understood that the following examples can be used separately or in any combination. 
     The display assembly  1216  can include various support materials that cover surfaces and components of the display assembly  1216 . The support materials can provide stiffness and structural support to the display layer  1207  and the DIC  1227 . The support materials can be positioned along some or substantially all of the length of the frame  1202  and display assembly  1216 . 
     In some examples, the support materials occupy spaces between the display assembly  1216  and the frame  1202  such that substantially no air gaps are present between the display assembly  1216  and the frame  1202 . In some examples, the supportive materials can inhibit sway or movement of the display assembly  1216  relative to the frame  1202 . In this manner, the described electronic device  1200  has improved durability over conventional devices. 
     The supportive materials can be polymeric materials, such as two-part epoxies that are designed to behave like a soft rubber with low levels of shrinkage. In some examples, the supportive materials can include a relatively low modulus so as to not transmit load to the display assembly  1216 . In some examples, the supportive materials can include rigid material. 
     In some examples, the support materials can include a stiffener plate  1241 , such as a metal plate, positioned in a common plane (in-plane) with the DIC  1227 . In some examples, the stiffener plate  1241  can be offset from the DIC, for instance adjacent or abutting each other. The stiffener plate  1241  can fully or partially surround the DIC  1227 . In some examples, the stiffener plate  1241  can included several individual pieces that are positioned around the DIC  1227 . In some examples, the stiffener plate  1241  can be positioned between active regions of the display layer  1207  and the tail portion  1213 . In some examples, the stiffener plate has a thickness of between about 20 microns and about 100 microns, for example about 70 microns. In some examples, the stiffener plate  1241  has a thickness of about 50 microns and a PSA positioned on the stiffener plate  1241  is about 20 microns thick. 
     In some examples, the support materials include a potting compound  1237  positioned on the display tail  1213  and at least partially around the DIC  1227 . The potting compound  1237  can be positioned between the stiffener plate  1241  and the DIC  1227 . In some examples, the potting compound is positioned on the stiffener plate  1241 . The potting material  1237  can be conformal to a perimeter of the DIC  1227 . In some examples, the potting material  1237  bridges from the stiffener plate  1241  to the DIC  1227 . The potting material  1237  can be the same material as the potting material  1221  disposed in the panel bend  1211 . In some examples, the potting material  1237  is made from the same material as the strain-neutralization layer  1214 . 
     In some examples, the support materials can include foam. Foam  1233   a  can be positioned between an active region of the display layer  1207  and the tail portion  1213 . In some examples, foam  1233   b  can be positioned between the DIC  1227  an internal enclosure  1231 . The internal enclosure  1231  can be contoured to the display assembly  1216 , specifically, the internal enclosure  1231  can be contoured to the DIC  1227 . In some examples, foam  1233   c  can be positioned between the display layer  1207  and the internal enclosure  1231 . The foam  1233   c  can be adhered to the internal enclosure  1231 . In some examples, foam (not shown) can be positioned between the DIC  1227  and the tail portion  1213  of the display layer  1207 . 
     The foam  1233   a ,  1233   b ,  1233   c  (collectively  1233 ) can distribute load that is applied to various location on the electronic device  1200 . In some examples, the foam  1233  can accommodate between about 5% and about 50% compression, for example about 20% compression. The foam  1233  can have a thickness of between about 0.1 mm and about 2 mm, for example about 0.3 mm. A uniform distance between the internal enclosure  1231  and other components disposed in the internal volume of the device  1200 , colloquially known as the system skyline, can be maintained. Such a uniform distance can prevent hot spots from developing in the device  1200 . In some examples, a uniform gap is maintained adjacent the DIC  1227  on the tail portion  1213 . Any of the above described supportive materials can be used independently or in any combination with one another. 
     The support materials can further include potting material  1221  that is deposited in the panel bend region  1211 . The potting material  1221  can be substantially similar to the potting material  921  discussed above with reference to  FIGS.  9  and  10   . 
     In some examples, construction of the electronic device  1200  can be accomplished by progressively and chronologically building layers onto one another. For instance, the cover glass  1218  can be provided. The display assembly  1216  can then be coupled with the cover glass  1218 . The display layer  1207  can then be bent to define the bend region  1211 . Potting can be added to the bend region  1211  before or after the display layer  1207  is bent. A stiffener plate  1241  can then be coupled to the display layer  1207 . The DIC  1227  can then be coupled to the tail portion  1213  and potting material  1237  disposed around the DIC  1227 . Thereafter the frame  1202  can be attached to the display assembly  1216 . 
       FIG.  13    shows a process flow diagram of a process  1300  for improving the durability of a display integrated circuit on a display panel tail. At block  1302 , a display integrated circuit (DIC) is positioned on a display panel, for example at the tail. The DIC can be secured to the display panel tail by any appropriate means, including adhesives and/or fasteners. 
     At block  1304 , support or reinforcement materials are deposited around and/or adjacent to the DIC. As discussed above, such supportive materials can include a stiffener plate adjacent to the DIC, and/or between active regions of the display layer and the tail portion, a potting compound positioned on the display tail and around the DIC, foam positioned between the display layer and the DIC, foam positioned between an active region of the display layer and the tail portion, foam positioned between the display layer an internal enclosure, and foam positioned between the DIC and the internal enclosure. Any of the above described supportive materials can be used independently or in any combination with one another. 
     To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use of data available from various sources can be used to improve the delivery to users of invitational content or any other content that may be of interest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID&#39;s, home addresses, data or records relating to a user&#39;s health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information. 
     The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefit of users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user. Accordingly, use of such personal information data enables users to calculated control of the delivered content. Further, other uses for personal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user&#39;s general wellness, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals. 
     The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with well-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personal information data private and secure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users, and should be updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving the informed consent of the users. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access to such personal information data and ensuring that others with access to the personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted for the particular types of personal information data being collected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US, collection of or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country. 
     Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to, personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of advertisement delivery services, the present technology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” of participation in the collection of personal information data during registration for services or anytime thereafter. In another example, users can select not to provide mood-associated data for targeted content delivery services. In yet another example, users can select to limit the length of time mood-associated data is maintained or entirely prohibit the development of a baseline mood profile. In addition to providing “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use of personal information. For instance, a user may be notified upon downloading an app that their personal information data will be accessed and then reminded again just before personal information data is accessed by the app. 
     Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect a user&#39;s privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and/or other methods. 
     Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use of personal information data to implement one or more various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing such personal information data. That is, the various embodiments of the present technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content can be selected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personal information, such as the content being requested by the device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery services, or publicly available information. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not target to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20200819
Publication Date: 20240130
Grant Date: 20240130
Priority Date: 20200819
Inventors: AHMED, Izhar Z.
BAKER, JOHN J.
WU, Bulong
JARVIS, DANIEL W.
FOURNIER, DOUGLAS G.
BATES, ERIC W.
DONG, Hao
Gueble, Isabel S
LAW, JASON C.
XU, JINGJING
BURNHAM, KIKUE S.
LEUTHEUSER, PAUL U.
TRABIA, SARAH
COHEN, SAWYER I.
YANG, SHAORUI
Qin, Shaowei
AVACHAT, SIDDHARTH
ZHANG, Yaocheng
WANG, YING-CHIH
ZHANG, ZHEN
POPE, BENJAMIN R.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H05K5/064", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1652", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K1/028", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K3/284", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02F1/1333", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/064", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02F1/133308", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H10K59/40", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H10K59/12", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1652", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1637", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1658", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K1/189", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1652", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K1/028", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K3/284", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 80269063