PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11464126-B2
Application Number: US-202017033117-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Offset control for assembling an electronic device housing

Abstract:
Housings for electronic devices are disclosed. According to one aspect, adjoining surfaces of electronic device housings can be mounted or arranged such that adjoining surfaces are flush to a high degree of precision. The electronic devices can be portable and in some cases handheld.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A portable electronic device comprising:
 a touch screen display; 
 a battery; and 
 a housing enclosing the touch screen display and the battery, the housing comprising:
 a front cover assembly comprising:
 a front glass member positioned over the touch screen display, the front glass member and the touch screen display defining a touch-sensitive surface along a substantial entirety of a front surface of the portable electronic device; and 
 a front protective side structural member formed from a first polymer material and attached to the front glass member by a first adhesive; 
 
 a back cover assembly comprising:
 a back glass member; and 
 a back protective side structural member formed from a second polymer material and attached to the back glass member by a second adhesive; and 
 
 an outer periphery member positioned between the front cover assembly and the back cover assembly, the outer periphery member coupled to the front protective side structural member and the back protective side structural member. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the front protective side structural member defines a front protective side member that is positioned along a side of the front glass member; and 
 the back protective side structural member defines a back protective side member that is positioned along a side of the back glass member. 
 
     
     
       3. The portable electronic device of  claim 2 , wherein:
 the outer periphery member defines a first portion of a side surface of the housing; 
 the front protective side member defines a second portion of the side surface of the housing; and 
 the back protective side member defines a third portion of the side surface of the housing. 
 
     
     
       4. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the outer periphery member defines an internal structure that is offset from the front and back cover assemblies. 
     
     
       5. The portable electronic device of  claim 4 , wherein the internal structure is integrally formed with a side wall of the outer periphery member. 
     
     
       6. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the portable electronic device further comprises electronic circuitry; 
 the outer periphery member is formed from a conductive metal segment; and 
 the conductive metal segment is operably coupled to the electronic circuitry and configured to operate as an antenna. 
 
     
     
       7. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the back cover assembly further comprises an ink layer coupled to an inner surface of the back glass member; and 
 the back cover assembly is rendered opaque by the ink layer. 
 
     
     
       8. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the back glass member defines a substantial entirety of a back surface of the portable electronic device. 
 
     
     
       9. An electronic device comprising:
 electronic circuitry; 
 a display; and 
 a housing enclosing the electronic circuitry and the display, the housing comprising:
 an outer periphery member defining a side exterior surface of the housing; 
 a front cover assembly including a front member formed from a first glass material and defining a display window over a substantial entirety of a front exterior surface of the housing and a front structural member formed from a first polymer material and coupling the front member to the outer periphery member; and 
 a back cover assembly including a back member formed from a second glass material and defining a back exterior surface of the housing and a back structural member formed from a second polymer material and coupling the back member to the outer periphery member. 
 
 
     
     
       10. The electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein:
 the front structural member defines a front protective side bumper that extends at least partially along a side surface of the front member; and 
 the back structural member defines a back protective side bumper that extends at least partially along a side surface of the back member. 
 
     
     
       11. The electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein:
 the housing further comprises an internal structure that is positioned between the front cover assembly and the back cover assembly; and 
 the electronic circuitry is coupled to the internal structure. 
 
     
     
       12. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein the internal structure is integrally formed with the outer periphery member. 
     
     
       13. The electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein:
 the front structural member defines an opening for the display. 
 
     
     
       14. The electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein:
 the front member is coupled to the front structural member by a first adhesive layer; and 
 the back member is coupled to the back structural member by a second adhesive layer. 
 
     
     
       15. The electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein:
 the electronic device further comprises a camera positioned inward of the front member; 
 the electronic device further comprises an infrared sensor positioned inward of the front member; and 
 the front member defines one or more regions configured to pass signals to the camera and the infrared sensor. 
 
     
     
       16. A housing for an electronic device, the housing comprising:
 a front cover assembly including a front member formed from a first glass material and defining a substantial entirety of a front exterior surface of the housing and a front structural member formed from a first polymer material, attached to the front member by a first adhesive, and defining an opening configured to receive a touch sensor extending along a substantial entirety of an interior surface of the front member; 
 a back cover assembly including a back member formed from a second glass material and defining a substantial entirety of a rear exterior surface of the housing and a back structural member formed from a second polymer material and attached to the back member by a second adhesive; and 
 an outer periphery member positioned between and coupled to the front cover assembly and the back cover assembly. 
 
     
     
       17. The housing of  claim 16 , wherein:
 the outer periphery member defines a first portion of a side surface of the housing; 
 the front cover assembly defines a second portion of the side surface of the housing; and 
 the back cover assembly defines a third portion of the side surface of the housing. 
 
     
     
       18. The housing of  claim 17 , wherein:
 the front structural member defines the second portion of the side surface; and 
 the back structural member defines the third portion of the side surface. 
 
     
     
       19. The housing of  claim 16 , wherein:
 the front structural member is coupled to the outer periphery member by a third adhesive; and 
 the back structural member is coupled to the outer periphery member by a fourth adhesive. 
 
     
     
       20. The housing of  claim 16 , wherein:
 the outer periphery member defines a conductive segment; and 
 the conductive segment is configured to operate as an antenna of the electronic device.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This application is a continuation patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/439,103, filed Jun. 12, 2019 and titled “Offset Control for Assembling an Electronic Device Housing,” which is a continuation patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/466,739, filed Mar. 22, 2017 and titled “Offset Control for Assembling an Electronic Device Housing,” now U.S. Pat. No. 10,368,457, which is a continuation patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/967,636, filed Aug. 15, 2013 and titled “Offset Control for Assembling an Electronic Device Housing,” now U.S. Pat. No. 9,606,579, which is a divisional patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/794,563, filed Jun. 4, 2010 and titled “Offset Control for Assembling an Electronic Device Housing,” now U.S. Pat. No. 8,551,283, which is a nonprovisional patent application of and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/325,801, filed Apr. 19, 2010 and titled “Housings for Electronic Devices and Methods Therefor,” and is a nonprovisional patent application of and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/300,780, filed Feb. 2, 2010 and titled “Handheld Device Enclosure,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Portable electronic devices can be constructed using a variety of different approaches. For example, a “bucket” type approach can be used in which a first housing component serves as a bucket into which electronic device components are placed, and a second housing component serves as a cover for the bucket. This arrangement secures the electronic device components between the first and second housing components. As a variation of this, some or all of the electronic device components can be assembled into the cover for the bucket, and the cover can subsequently be rotated into the bucket to close the device. 
     Other known portable electronic devices can be constructed by inserting components into a hollow housing element. For example, an electronic device can be constructed using a tubular structure (e.g., a flattened tube or a hollow rectangular tube) into which electronic device components can be inserted. The electronic device components can be inserted into the tubular structure from one or both ends, and connected within the structure. For example, one or more circuits inserted from opposite ends of the tubular structure can be connected through an opening for a window in the structure. The structure can be capped at one or both ends to ensure that the components remain fixed within the tubular structure, and to provide interface components (e.g., connectors, buttons, or ports) for the device. 
     Unfortunately, however, as portable electronic device continue to be made smaller, thinner and/or more powerful, there remains a continuing need to provide improved techniques and structures for providing housings for portable electronic devices. 
     SUMMARY 
     Embodiments are described herein in the context of housings for electronic devices. According to one aspect, adjoining surfaces of electronic device housings can be mounted or arranged such that adjoining surfaces are flush to a high degree of precision. The electronic devices can be portable and in some cases handheld. 
     The invention pertains to apparatus, systems and methods for assembling electronic devices, namely, portable or handheld electronic devices. 
     The invention may be implemented in numerous ways, including, but not limited to, as a method, system, device, or apparatus. Several embodiments of the invention are discussed below. 
     As a method for assembling a device housing of an electronic device, one embodiment can, for example, provide an outer glass member for the device housing, and provide a protective side structural member having a receptive plane that is to receive the outer glass member. A liquid adhesive can be applied to a portion of the outer glass member and/or a portion of the protective side structural member. The outer glass member can be positioned adjacent to the receptive plane of the protective side structural member. A first a first force can be applied to push the outer glass member against a planar reference surface, and a second force can be applied to push the protective side structural member against the planar reference surface. The second force is independently applied from the first force. Still further, the liquid adhesive can be cured into a solid bonding material that bonds together the outer glass member and the protective side structural member, thereby assembling the outer glass member with the protective side structural member. Subsequently, the first force and the second force can be removed. 
     As a method for assembling a device housing of an electronic device, one embodiment can, for example, provide an outer housing member for the device housing, and provide a protective side structural member. A first force can then be applied to push the outer housing member against a planar reference surface, and a second force can be applied to push the protective side structural member against the planar reference surface. The second force is independently applied from the first force. The outer housing member and the protective side structural member can then be secured together, thereby assembling a portion of the device housing including at least the outer housing member with the protective side structural member. The assembled portion of the device housing can then be removed from the planar reference surface. 
     As an electronic device enclosure, one embodiment can, for example, include at least an outer periphery member defining a side surface for the electronic device enclosure, and an internal structure secured to an inner surface of the outer periphery member. The internal structure can be offset from front and back planar boundaries of the outer periphery member. The electronic device enclosure can further include a front cover assembly placed and secured adjacent the front planar boundary of the outer peripheral boundary, thereby providing a front surface for the electronic device enclosure. The front cover assembly can include a front cover member and a protective side member, the protective side member being provided against and around the sides of the front cover member. 
     According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus includes a cover part that includes at least one attachment protruding therefrom. The apparatus also includes a housing part and at least one electronic component. The housing part includes at least one receptacle configured to receive the attachment. The receptacle is defined at least partially on a first side and is configured to capture the attachment. The cover part is interfaced with a second side of the housing part when the attachment is captured in the receptacle. Finally, the electronic component is arranged within an inner volume defined by at least the housing part. In one embodiment, the cover part is in substantially direct contact with the second side of the housing part when the attachment is captured in the receptacle. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more example embodiments and, together with the description of example embodiments, serve to explain the principles and implementations associated with the specification. 
         FIGS. 1A-1D  are views of an electronic device structure in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIGS. 2A-2C  are views of an electronic device structure in accordance with another embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a flowchart of an illustrative process for assembling an electronic device in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a flow diagram of a housing member alignment process according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a structural diagram of an alignment configuration according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  is a flow diagram of a housing member alignment process according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 7A-7D  illustrate assembly of an assembled part according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 8A  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 8B  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 8C  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 8D  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing according to still another embodiment. 
         FIG. 9A  is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 9B  is a cross-sectional assembly diagram for the electronic device housing shown in  FIG. 9A , according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 11A  is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 11B  is a cross-sectional assembly diagram for the electronic device housing shown in  FIG. 11A , according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 13  is a flow diagram of an outer member assembly process according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing. 
         FIG. 15A  is a diagrammatic perspective representation of a housing to which a cover is assembled in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 15B  is a diagrammatic cross-sectional side-view representation of a cover assembled to housing shown in  FIG. 15A . 
         FIG. 16  is a flow diagram for assembling of an electronic device in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 17  is an assembly that includes side screws arranged to couple a cover to a housing will be described in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 18  is a diagrammatic cross-sectional representation of a coupling that utilizes a side screw and a slotted tab in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 19  is a diagrammatic cross-sectional representation of an assembly that includes a lobster snap and a midplate that cooperate to couple a cover frame to a housing in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 20  is a diagrammatic representation of a housing to which a midplate is coupled in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 21  is a diagrammatic representation of a cover piece having an insert molded tab and a housing having a bracket configured to accommodate the tab in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 22  is a process flow diagram which illustrates a method of creating a device that includes a cover piece having an insert molded tab and a housing having a bracket configured to accommodate the tab in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIGS. 23A-23C  illustrate perspective diagrams of a back cover assembly  2300  according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 24  illustrates an assembly diagram for the glass member according to one embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments are described herein in the context of a housing for an electronic device. The housing can make use of an outer member. The outer member can be aligned, protected and/or secured with respect to other portions of the housing for the electronic device. The electronic device can be portable and in some cases handheld. 
     According to one aspect, adjoining surfaces of electronic device housings can be mounted or arranged such that adjoining surfaces are flush to a high degree of precision. Edges of portable electronic devices are susceptible to impact force, such as when dropped. According to another aspect, protective sides can be provided on edges of electronic device housings so to dissipate impact forces and thus reduce damage to electronic device housings. According to still another embodiment, an electronic device housing can have one or more of its exposed major surfaces (e.g., front or back surfaces) formed of glass. The glass surfaces can be protected by the protective sides and/or can be aligned so that the top surfaces of the glass surfaces and the protective sides can be substantially flush. 
     According to another aspect, apparatus, systems and methods for robustly attaching a cover portion of an electronic device to a bottom portion, e.g., a housing portion, of the electronic device are described. The cover portion may generally include a frame (e.g., interface member) into which n outer member (e.g., glass member) has been inserted. Attachment members (e.g., arms, tabs) can be coupled to, e.g., insert molded into, a cover portion, and can be arranged to substantially engage with a housing portion such that the cover portion is effectively held against the housing portion. The attachment members can be used to fasten the cover portion to the housing. In general, receptacles of the housing portion are arranged to substantially capture, mate or otherwise engage attachment members of the cover portion. 
     According to another aspect, a cover assembly can be configured to support and protect an outer glass member. The cover assembly can form part of a housing for an electronic device. The cover assembly can also include a distinct glass lens, attachment members, structural support. 
     According to still another aspect, an optical lens can be formed from a formed optical adhesive. The optical lens can, for example, be used as a lens for a camera flash of a portable electronic device. The optical lens can be provided between the camera flash and the cover member A mold can be used to form a lens from the optical adhesive. 
     The following detailed description is illustrative only, and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments will readily suggest themselves to skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to implementations as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference indicators will generally be used throughout the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts. It should be appreciated that the drawings are generally not drawn to scale, and at least some features of the drawings have been exaggerated for ease of illustration. 
     In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will, of course, be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made in order to achieve the developer&#39;s specific goals, such as compliance with application and business related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. 
     According to one aspect, a housing for an electronic device can include an outer periphery member that forms the sides of the electronic device. The outer periphery member can define a volume into which electronic device components can be placed. To obtain the components within the device, front and back covers can be placed over the front and back surfaces of the outer periphery member. 
     An outer periphery member can provide a variety of attributes to the electronic device including for example, structural, functional, cosmetic, or combinations of these. The outer periphery member may for example form at least a portion of the right, left, top and bottom sides of the device. As such, the outer periphery member may surround components that are placed in the device back to front, front to back or center to back and front (e.g., components inserted within the volume defined by the outer periphery member). The outer periphery member may be formed from one or more elements. The elements may be similar or different depending on the dimensions or shape of the device, as well as functional or structural considerations (e.g., outer periphery member elements serving as an antenna for tuning electromagnetic waves). If several elements are combined to form the outer periphery members, the elements can be connected in any suitable manner to form a single unit having adequate structural, functional, or cosmetic properties. In some cases, the outer periphery member can be formed from several elements that act as a single integral unit (e.g., a unitary part). For example, the elements can be integrally formed together. 
     In some embodiments, the outer periphery member can define a band that forms an enclosed volume having a front and back open area. The band may define a ring-like structure that wraps around some or all of the components of the electronic device. The electronic device can include a variety of components such as housing elements, electronics, structural members, or combinations of these. In some cases, one or more structural members (e.g., a mid-plate) can be connected to the outer periphery member within the volume enclosed by the outer periphery member to receive and support components, or enhance the structural properties of the outer periphery member. 
     In some embodiments, the electronic device can include front and/or back cover assemblies operative to cap the volume defined by the outer periphery member. The cover assemblies can be positioned relative to the open areas of the outer periphery member such that the front and back cover assemblies are placed adjacent to the front and back surfaces of the outer periphery member, respectively. The cover assemblies can include any suitable feature, including for example housing portions, access points, electronics, structural members, aesthetic members, or combinations of these. In some cases, the cover assemblies can include one or more features for securing or retaining electronic device components within the volume enclosed by the outer periphery member. 
     The outer periphery member and the front and back cover assemblies can provide some or all of the exterior surfaces of the device, and thus define the outer periphery form or look and feel of the electronic device. In particular, the front cover can substantially form the front surface of the device, the back cover can substantially form the back surface of the device, and the outer periphery member can substantially form the top, bottom, left and right surfaces of the device. It will be understood, however, that some or all of the cover assemblies can instead or in addition provide part of the top, bottom, left or right surfaces of the device, and that some or all of the outer periphery member can provide part of the front or back surfaces of the device. 
     Because the cover assemblies can define exposed surfaces of the electronic device, one or both of the cover assemblies can include components, coatings or finishes that enhance the functional, cosmetic and/or aesthetic characteristics of the assemblies. For example, one or both of the cover assemblies can include a transparent or translucent window through which input/output components are able to be used by the user. For example, one output component that can be used is a display device that can present information to the user via the cover assembly. As another example, one input component that can be used is a touch sensor (e.g., touch sensor) that can receive user input from the user via the cover assembly. As another example, one or both of the cover assemblies can include a cosmetic component for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the device. In some embodiments, the cosmetic component can cause the cover assembly to be substantially opaque in some areas (e.g., on a back cover assembly), yet transparent or translucent in other areas (e.g., on a front cover assembly through which content generated by the display device is provided). In other words, the cover assembly can include a transparent or translucent window that is provided on a portion of the cover assembly. The cover assemblies can also support other function features, such as a camera opening, a lens, a light, a sensor, etc. 
     Internal components of the electronic device can be assembled using any suitable approach. In some embodiments, the internal components can define one or more layers that are placed within the outer periphery member. For example, layers can initially be placed near the center of the volume defined by the outer periphery member, and subsequently be added towards one or both of the front and back surfaces of the device. Each layer added to the device can be coupled or fit to a layer previously inserted and attached to the device. 
     To further retain component layers, the electronic device can include an internal platform providing a structural element for the outer periphery member and to which component layers can be coupled. In some embodiments, the internal platform can provide attachment points for the various layers placed within the electronic device. The internal platform may be placed within the height of the outer periphery member such that it is substantially near the middle of the outer periphery member (e.g., at half the height of the outer periphery member), thus defining a mid-plate. In particular, the mid-plate can form a substantially H-shape cross-section with the outer periphery member, thus providing enhanced structural properties. Electronic device components or layers can be assembled to both the front and back surfaces of the mid-plate (e.g., the mid-plate separates the internal volume of the outer periphery member into two distinct regions or pockets). The mid-plate can be secured to the outer periphery member (e.g., using welding, or formed with or made integral with the outer periphery member. Although called a plate or platform it will be understood that the internal platform can take a variety of non-planar forms, including various formations that include steps, offsets, curved surfaces, or combinations of these. 
       FIG. 1A  is a cross-sectional view of an illustrative electronic device structure taken along the device width in accordance with one embodiment.  FIG. 1B  is an exploded cross-sectional view of an illustrative electronic device taken along the device length in accordance with one embodiment.  FIG. 1C  is a top view of an illustrative electronic device in accordance with one embodiment.  FIG. 1D  is a bottom view of an illustrative electronic device in accordance with one embodiment. Electronic device  100  can include any suitable type of electronic device having a display, including for example a media player, a mobile telephone, a personal e-mail or messaging device, pocket-sized personal computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a music recorder, a video recorder, a camera, radios, medical equipment, and devices combining some or all of this functionality. 
     Electronic device  100  can have any suitable shape, including for example a shape delimited by front surface  110 , back surface  112 , left surface  114 , right surface  116 , top surface  118  and bottom surface  119  (not shown in the cross-section). Each surface can be substantially planar, curved, or combinations of these. The surfaces can include one or more chamfers, detents, openings, dips, extensions, or other features modifying the smoothness of the surfaces. 
     Electronic device  100  can be constructed using any suitable structure, including for example using outer periphery member  120 . Outer periphery member  120  can surround or wrap some or all of the electronic device such that the outer periphery member defines an internal volume  122  into which electronic device components can be placed. For example, outer periphery member  120  can wrap around the device such that the external surfaces of outer periphery member  120  define left surface  114 , right surface  116 , as well as top surface  118  and bottom surface  119  of the device. To provide a desired functionality to a user, the electronic device can include several components placed within the device, for example within volume  122 . 
     The outer periphery member can have a particular height (e.g., the device height h) such that the outer periphery member encloses volume  122  into which electronic device components can be assembled. The thickness (e.g., outer periphery member thickness t), length (e.g., device length l), height (e.g., device height h), and cross-section of the outer periphery member can be selected based on any suitable criteria including for example based on structural requirements (e.g., stiffness, or resistance to bending, compression, tension or torsion in particular orientations). In some embodiments, the outer periphery member can serve as a structural member to which other electronic device components can be mounted. The outer periphery member can include one or more depressions, recesses, channels, protrusions, or openings for supporting components or for providing structural support for the device. In some embodiments, an opening can be used to provide access to one or more internal components contained within the outer peripheral member. 
     Outer periphery member  120  (or device  100 ) can have any suitable cross-section. For example, outer periphery member  120  can have a substantially rectangular cross-section. In some embodiments, outer periphery member  120  can instead or in addition have a cross-section in a different shape, including for example a circular, oval, polygonal, or curved cross-section. In some embodiments, the shape or size of the cross-section can vary along the length or width of the device (e.g., an hourglass shaped cross-section). 
     Electronic device components can be placed within volume  122  using any suitable approach. For example, electronic device  100  can include components  130  and  132  can be inserted into volume  122 . Each of components  130  and  132  can include individual components, or several components assembled together as a component layer or stack, or include several distinct layers of components to insert within volume  122 . In some embodiments, components  130  and  132  can each represent several components stacked along the height of the device. The component layers can be electrically coupled to each other to enable data and power transfers, as required for the proper operation of electronic device  100 . For example, the component layers can be electrically coupled using one or more of a PCB, flex, solder, SMT, wires, connectors, or combinations of these. The component layers can be inserted into outer periphery member  120  using any suitable approach. For example, components  130  and  132  can all be inserted from front surface  110  or from back surface  112  (e.g., back to front, front to back, or middle to front and back). Alternatively, the components can be inserted from both front surface  110  and back surface  112 . 
     In some embodiments, one or more of the components can serve as a structural element. Alternatively, electronic device  100  can include a distinct structural element placed within volume  122  and coupled to outer periphery member  120 . For example, electronic device  100  can include one or more internal member or platform  140 , which can serve as a mounting points or regions for helping secure, hold or pack one or more component layers (e.g., attaching component  130  to the back surface of internal platform  140 , and component  132  to the front surface of internal platform  140 ). Internal platform  140  can be coupled to outer periphery member  120  using any suitable approach, including for example using snaps, fasteners, flexures, welds, glue, or combinations of these. Alternatively, internal platform  140  may even be part of the outer periphery member (e.g., machined, extruded, or cast, or integrally formed as a single unit). The internal platform can have any suitable size, including for example a size that is smaller than the internal volume of outer periphery member  120 . 
     Internal platform  140  can be positioned at any suitable height within outer periphery member  120 , including for example substantially at half the height of outer periphery member  120 . The resulting structure (e.g., outer periphery member  120  and internal platform  140 ) can form an H-shaped structure that provides sufficient stiffness and resistance to tension, compression, torsion and bending. 
     The internal platform, inner surfaces of the outer periphery members, or both can include one or more protrusions, depressions, shelves, recesses, channels, or other features for receiving or retaining electronic device components. In some cases, the internal platform, outer periphery member or both can include one or more openings for coupling components located in the front and back regions. The size of each region can be selected based on any suitable criteria, including for example operational needs of system, numbers and types of electrical components in the device, manufacturing constraints of the internal platform, or combinations of these. The internal platform can be constructed as a distinct component constructed from any suitable material (e.g., plastic, metal or both), or instead defined from an existing electronic device component placed within the volume defined by the outer periphery member. For example, the internal platform can be formed by a printed circuit board or chip used by the device. 
     In some embodiments internal platform  140  and/or opening  122  can include one or more electrically conductive elements for providing electrical connections between the components. For example, internal platform  140  and/or opening  122  can include one or more PCB, flex, wire, solder pad, cable, connector, or other electrically conductive mechanism for connecting components within the electronic device. 
     Electronic device  100  can include front cover assembly  150  and back cover assembly  160  defining the front and back surfaces, respectively, of electronic device  100 . The front and back cover assemblies can include one or more components, or can include at least a front member and a back member that form some or all of the outer front and back surfaces of the device. Front and back cover assemblies  150  and  160  can be flush, recessed or protruding relative to the front and back surfaces of outer periphery member  120 . In some embodiments, one or both of front and back cover assemblies  150  and  160  can include delicate or fragile components. To protect the components from damage during use or when dropped, one or both of the cover assemblies can be flush or sub-flush relative to the outer periphery member to prevent edges from engaging other surfaces. Alternatively, the one or more of the cover assemblies can be “proud” (i.e., protrude above the edge of the outer peripheral member). In some embodiments, one or both of front cover assembly  150  and back cover assembly  160  can include one or more display regions through which one or more display devices can be viewed. The one or more display regions can be defined by boarders provided by coating or finish can be applied the front member or the back member. Similarly, the coating or finish can also be applied to the front member or the back member can also provide a masking effect to hide internal components. 
     In some embodiments, the electronic device can be substantially made of glass. For example, portions of the electronic device housing can have at least 75% of its exterior as glass. In one implementation, one or both of the cover assemblies can be glass while side surface are some material other than glass (e.g., metal, plastic). 
     In some embodiments, the housing a portable electronic device can be banged or rub against various surfaces. When plastic or metal housing surfaces are used, the surfaces can tend to become scratched. On the other hand, glass housing surfaces (e.g., glass cover assemblies) can be more scratch resistant. Moreover, glass housing surfaces can offer radio transparency, while metal housing surfaces can disturb or hinder radio communications. In one embodiment, an electronic device housing can use glass housing members (e.g., glass cover assemblies) for a front surface and a back surface of the electronic device housing. For example, a front surface formed from a glass housing member can be transparent to provide visual access to a display device positioned behind the glass housing member at the front surface, while a back surface formed from a glass housing member can be transparent or non-transparent. Non-transparency, if desired, can conceal any interior components within the electronic device housing. In one embodiment, a surface coating or film can be applied to the glass housing member to provide non-transparency or at least partial translucency. Such a surface coating or film can be provided on an inner surface or an outer surface of the glass housing member. 
     In some embodiments, one or both of front and back cover assemblies  150  and  160  can provide side protection for the front and back members. When the front member is formed of glass, the side protection can serve to protect the front member from damage if subjected to impact forces. When the back member is formed of glass, the side protection can serve to protect the back member from damage if subjected to impact forces. 
     In some embodiments, one or both of front and back cover assemblies  150  and  160  can provide attachment members that can serve to attach front and back cover assemblies  150  and  160 . For example, front cover assembly  150  can include attachment members to attach front cover assembly  150  to internal platform  140  and/or outer periphery member  120 . Back cover assembly  160  can include attachment members to attach back cover assembly  160  to internal platform  140  and/or outer periphery member  120 . 
     In some embodiments, one or both the front and back members of front and back cover assemblies  150  and  160  can be formed of glass. The front or back member formed primarily of glass can include one or more pieces of glass. For example, the different pieces of glass can have different configurations, optical properties, and/or cosmetic appearance. 
       FIG. 2A  is a schematic perspective view of an illustrative electronic device in accordance with one embodiment.  FIG. 2B  is an exploded view of the electronic device of  FIG. 2A  in accordance with one embodiment.  FIG. 2C  is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of  FIG. 2A  in accordance with one embodiment. The electronic device of  FIGS. 2A-2C  can include some or all of the features of the electronic device of  FIGS. 1A-1D . In particular, components having similar numbers can share some or all features. Outer periphery member  220  can surround the periphery of electronic device  200  to form some or all of the outer-most side, top and bottom surfaces (e.g., surfaces  210 ,  212 ,  214 ,  216 ,  218  and  219 ) of the electronic device. Outer periphery member  220  can have any suitable shape, including for example one or more elements that can be combined to form a ring. The ring-shape of outer periphery member  220  can enclose volume  222  in which electronic device components can be assembled and retained. The shape of outer periphery member  220  can define the boundaries of volume  222 , and therefore can be determined based on the size and type of components placed within volume  222 . The boundaries of volume  222  (e.g., determined by the shape of outer periphery member  220 ) can have any suitable shape, including for example a substantially rectangular shape (e.g., having straight or rounded edges or corners), a circular shape, an oval shape, a polygonal shape, or any other closed shape that can define a volume. 
     Outer periphery member  220  can have any suitable size, which can be determined based on any suitable criteria (e.g., aesthetics or industrial design, structural considerations, components requires for a desired functionality, or product design). The outer periphery member can have any suitable cross-section, including for example a variable cross-section or a constant cross-section. In some embodiments, the cross-section of the ring can be selected based on desired structural properties for the outer periphery member. For example, the cross-section of outer periphery member  220  can be substantially rectangular, such that the height of the outer periphery member is substantially larger than the width of the outer periphery member. This can provide structural stiffness in compression and tension, as well as bending. 
     In some embodiments, the dimensions of the outer periphery member cross-section can be determined relative to the dimensions of the internal platform cross section. For example, the outer periphery member height can be in a range of 5 to 15 times the height of the internal platform, for example 8 to 12 times, 9 to 11 times, or approximately 10 times the height of the internal platform. In one implementation, the height of the outer periphery member can be approximately 9 mm, and the height of the internal platform can be approximately 0.9 mm. 
     As another example, the width of the outer periphery member can be in a range of 8 to 25 times the width of the internal platform, for example 12 to 20 times, 15 to 18 times, or approximately 16 times the internal platform width. For example, the width of the outer periphery member can be 3 mm and the width of the internal member can be 50 mm. In some embodiments, the height of the internal platform can be related to the width of the outer periphery member. For example, the width of the outer periphery member can be 1 to 8 times the height of the internal platform, such as 2 to 6 times or approximately 4 times the height of the internal platform. In one implementation, the height of the internal platform can be approximately 0.7 mm and the width of the outer periphery member can be approximately 2.5 mm. In some embodiments, the height of the outer periphery member can be related to the width of the internal platform. For example, the width of the internal platform can be 3 to 10 times the height of the outer periphery member, such as 4 to 8 times, 5 to 7 times, or approximately 6 times the height of the outer periphery member. For example, the width of the internal platform can be approximately 5.5 mm and the height of the outer periphery member can be approximately 0.9 mm. 
     In some embodiments, outer periphery member  220  can include one or more openings, knobs, extensions, flanges, chamfers, or other features for receiving components or elements of the device. The features of the outer periphery member can extend from any surface of the outer periphery member, including for example from internal surfaces (e.g., to retain internal components or component layers), or from external surfaces. In particular, outer periphery member  220  can include a slot or opening  224  for receiving a card or tray within the device. Opening  224  can be aligned with one or more internal components operative to receive and connect to an inserted component (e.g., an inserted SIM card). As another example, outer periphery member  220  can include connector opening  225  (e.g., for a 30-pin connector) through which a connector can engage one or more conductive pins of electronic device  200 . Outer periphery member  220  can include openings  226  and  227  for providing audio to a user (e.g., an opening adjacent to a speaker), or receiving audio from a user (e.g., an opening adjacent to a microphone). Outer periphery member  220  can instead or in addition include an opening for an audio connector or power supply (e.g., opening  228 ), or features  229  for retaining and enabling a button such as a volume control or silencing switch. 
     The various features of outer periphery member  220  can be constructed using any suitable approach and at any suitable time. In some embodiments, the features can be constructed as part of a process that creates outer periphery member  220  from a single piece of material that is manufactures into the final shape of outer periphery member  220  (e.g., using a machining process). In some embodiments, several pieces of material can instead or in addition be shaped individually and combined into outer periphery member  220 . The various features can then be created as part of each individual piece, or once the entire outer periphery member has been assembled. Outer periphery member  220  can be constructed from any suitable material, including for example a metal (e.g., steel or aluminum), plastic (e.g. polyurethane, polyethylene or polycarbonate), composite material, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, outer periphery member  220  can be constructed from the combination of several materials. 
     In some embodiments, outer periphery member  220  can have a functional use or purpose in addition to serving as a cosmetic component or as a structural component. For example, outer periphery member  220  can be used as part of an antenna for capturing electromagnetic waves radiated as part of a communications network. In some cases, outer periphery member  220  can be used as parts of more than one antenna. 
     In some embodiments, one or more portions of outer periphery member  220  can be treated to provide an aesthetically pleasing component. In particular, left surface  214 , right surface  216 , top surface  218 , and bottom surface  219  can be treated using a cosmetic surface treatment such as, for example, polishing, coating (e.g., using a dye or coloring material, or a material providing an optical effect), glazing, thin film deposition, grinding, superfinishing, or any other suitable process. In some embodiments, front or back surfaces of outer periphery member  220  can instead or in addition be provided with a cosmetic treatment (e.g., for regions of the outer periphery member that may not be covered by back and front cover assemblies  250  and  260 ). 
     To reduce the overall weight, size or both of electronic device  200 , the thickness of outer periphery member  220  can be selected such that outer periphery member  220  is only minimally resistant to one or more of bending, torsion, tension, compression, or other deformation of the band. For example, outer periphery member  220  can be more resistant to tension and compression, but less resistant to bending or torsion. To provide sufficient resistance to all types of deformation, electronic device  200  can include a structural component placed within volume  222 . In some embodiments, one or more of the internal components of the electronic device can be connected to the outer periphery member and serve as a structural component. For example, a circuit board (with or without a separate stiffening element) can be connected to opposite portions of outer periphery member  220 . Alternatively, a distinct and dedicated structural component can be coupled to outer periphery member  220 . In the example of  FIGS. 2A-2C , electronic device  200  can include internal platform  240  forming a distinct structural component of the electronic device. Internal platform  240  can include any suitable shape, including for example a substantially planar shape. In some embodiments, internal platform  240  can include several distinct regions, such as a primary region and step regions extending from the primary region to engage one or more features of outer periphery member  220 . 
     Internal platform  240  can cover any suitable area within volume  222 . Internal platform  240  can include any suitable features for securing or connecting electronic device components, such as one or more snaps, prongs, chamfers, extends, openings, access points, doors, or combinations of these. In some cases, internal platform  240  can include one or more dedicated features for receiving or securing specific electrical components, such as speakers, microphones, audio jacks, cameras, light sources, chips, or combinations of these. 
     Internal platform  240  can be constructed using any suitable approach. In some embodiments, internal platform  240  can be constructed from a single material or as a combination of several materials. For example, internal platform  240  can include one or more metal elements (e.g., included in extensions used to connect internal platform  240  to outer periphery member  220 ) around which a plastic can be molded to form internal platform  240 . Some portions of the metal elements of internal platform  240  can extend beyond the edges of the plastic periphery so that the internal platform can be coupled to the outer periphery member via the metal elements. For example, the exposed metal elements can be connected to the outer periphery member using welding, soldering, heat staking, an adhesive, tape, a fastener, or any other connection mechanism. The outer periphery member can include one or more counterpart features on internal surfaces of the outer periphery member for retaining or receiving internal platform  240 . The connection between the metallic portions of internal platform  240  and outer periphery member  220  can serve to ground particular electronic device components (e.g., components  230  and  232 ). 
     Internal platform  240  can be coupled to any suitable portion of outer periphery member  220 . For example, internal platform  240  can be assembled within the height of outer periphery member  220  (e.g., based on the position of contact points or regions of the outer periphery member). The distribution of the contact points can be selected based on structural considerations, including for example based on a desired resistance to torsion or bending. In particular, the electronic device can include at least four contact points or regions distributed within outer periphery member  220  (e.g., near the corners of the outer periphery member). As another example, internal platform  240  can include contact regions along the straight portions of outer periphery member  220 . As still another example, stepped regions of internal platform  240  can be coupled to the front or back surfaces of outer periphery member  220  (e.g., on opposite portions of the front or back surfaces). 
     In some embodiments, internal platform  240  can be placed within the height of outer periphery member  220  such that components  230  and  232  can be placed on both the front and back surfaces of internal platform  240 . For example, components  230  can be inserted from back surface  212 , and components  232  can be inserted from front surface  210 . Components  230  and  232  can be coupled to internal platform  240  for security, and can instead or in addition be electrically connected to each other through an opening in internal platform  240 . In some embodiments, some components  230  and  232  can first be coupled to back and front cover assemblies  250  and  260 , respectively, before being inserted in volume  222  and coupled to outer periphery member  220 . In effect, by its position internal platform  240  can define back and front pockets or regions within volume  222  in which electronic device components can be placed. The size of each pocket or region can be determined based on any suitable criteria, including for example the number and size of components to place in each region, the required position of internal platform  240  relative to outer periphery member  220  (e.g., if available positions are limited due to structural requirements), or combinations of these. 
     To retain components within volume  232 , electronic device  200  can include front cover assembly  250  and back cover assembly  260  providing the back and front surfaces of the electronic device, respectively. Each cover assembly can be coupled to outer periphery member  220  using any suitable approach, including for example using an adhesive, tape, mechanical fastener, hooks, tabs, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, one or both of cover assemblies  250  and  260  can be removable, for example for servicing or replacing electronic device components (e.g., a battery). In some embodiments, cover assemblies  250  and  260  can include several distinct parts, including for example a fixed part and a removable part. The inner surfaces of front cover assembly  250  and back cover assembly  260  can include any suitable feature, including for example one or more ridges, hooks, tabs, extensions, or any combination thereof for retaining the covers or ensuring proper alignment of the covers. The features of cover assemblies  250  and  260  can interact with corresponding features of outer periphery member  220 ) or other components of the electronic device to ensure proper placement of the covers. Front cover assembly  250  and back cover assembly  260  can be positioned in any suitable manner relative to outer periphery member  220 . 
     Back cover assembly and front cover assembly can be coupled to any suitable portion of outer periphery member. In some embodiments, back cover assembly and front cover assembly can be connected relative to outer periphery member in the same or different manners. In the example of electronic device, both back cover assembly and front cover assembly can be positioned over the back and front surfaces, respectively, of outer periphery member. In some embodiments, one or both of back cover assembly and front cover assembly can only partially cover back surface and front surface, respectively. For example, one or both of back cover assembly and front cover assembly can be placed within the periphery of outer periphery member (e.g., recessed within the outer periphery member). 
     Returning to electronic device  200  ( FIGS. 2A-2C ), back cover assembly  260  and front cover assembly  250  can be constructed from any suitable material or combination of materials. In some embodiments, each of cover assemblies  250  and  260  can be constructed by combining several distinct components. For example, one or both cover assemblies can include a transparent or translucent plate (e.g., a rectangular plate of glass). As another example, one or both cover assemblies can include a base or support structure constructed from one or more of a metal or plastic (e.g., aluminum) onto which a transparent component can be assembled. The transparent component can be assembled using any suitable approach, including for example such that one or more electronic device components can be visible through the transparent component (e.g., display circuitry), or can receive signals or detect a user&#39;s environment through the transparent component (e.g., sensors). Alternatively, one or more portions of the transparent plate can be rendered opaque (e.g., using an ink, or by placing a support structure behind the transparent plate) such that the transparent plate can primarily serve as a cosmetic component. The different components of each cover assembly can be assembled using any suitable approach, including for example using one or more of an adhesive, fastener, tape, interlocking components, overmolding or manufacturing process, or any combination of these. 
     In the example of  FIGS. 2A-2C , front cover assembly  250  can include support structure  252  on which glass plate  254  is assembled. Support structure  252  can include one or more openings, including an opening through which display  255  can be provided. In some embodiments, support structure  252  and glass plate  254  can include openings for device components, such as button opening  256  and receiver opening  257 . The size and shape of the openings can be selected using any suitable approach, including for example based on the size and shape of the device components placed in or underneath the openings (e.g., opening  256  can determined by the size of the button, while opening  257  can be determine from the size of the receiver, and acoustic considerations for providing sufficient audio to a user). 
     In some embodiments, glass plate  254  can include a cosmetic finish hiding from view internal components of the electronic device. For example, an opaque layer can be applied region  259  surrounding display  255  to hide from view the non-display portions of the display circuitry. Because one or more sensors may receive signals through glass plate  254 , the opaque layer can be selectively removed, or selected to allow signals to pass through the glass plate to the sensor behind the plate. For example, glass plate  254  can include regions  259   a  and  259   b  through which sensors (e.g., a camera, infrared sensor, proximity sensor, or ambient light sensor) can receive signals. 
     In some embodiments, front cover assembly  250  can support or enable one or more interfaces by which a user can use the electronic device. For example, glass plate  254  can support a touch interface (e.g., a touch pad or a touch screen) for controlling electronic device processes and operations. As another example, front cover assembly  250  can include one or more buttons or sensors (described above) for interacting with the device. In some cases, buttons, switches or other interface elements can be instead or in addition incorporated in outer periphery member  220  or back cover assembly  260 . Electronic device  200  can include any other suitable interface for interacting with a user, including for example display circuitry, a projector, audio output circuitry (e.g., speakers or a an audio port), a haptic interface (e.g., a motor for creating vibrations, or a power source for providing an electrical stimulus), or combinations of these. 
     To enhance the cosmetic or aesthetic appeal of electronic device  200 , one or all of outer periphery member  220 , front cover assembly  250  and back cover assembly  260  can be finished using an appropriate process. For example, one or more of polishing, coating (e.g., using a dye or coloring material, or a material providing an optical effect), glazing, thin film deposition, grinding, superfinishing, or any other suitable process can be applied to electronic device components. In some embodiments, one or more glass surfaces (e.g., of front cover assembly  250  or of back cover assembly  260 ) can be finished to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance, for example using one or more masks, coatings (e.g., photochromatic or dichroic), ink layers, or combinations of these. The particular finishes applied to the glass surfaces of front cover assembly  250  and back cover assembly  260  can be selected so that front and back surfaces  214  and  216  have similar or different appearances. In some embodiments, a glass surface can be treated to resist wear or impacts (e.g., scratch resistance), oils from touching, or any other external force applied to the device. 
       FIG. 3  is a flowchart of an illustrative process for assembling an electronic device in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Process  300  can begin at step  302 , an outer periphery member having a closed loop can be obtained. For example, one or more components can be combined to form a loop. At step  304 , an internal platform can be connected to the outer periphery member. For example, an internal member can be inserted within the loop of the band and connected to several portions of the outer periphery member to define a structural component. At step  306 , components for the electronic device can be provided within a volume at least partially defined by the outer periphery member. The components can be provided within the volume from one or both sides of the outer periphery member. For example, components can be coupled to both sides of the internal platform. At step  308 , cover assemblies can be placed relative to the outer periphery member. For example, front and back cover assemblies can be connected to the outer periphery member such that the inserted components are contained within an enclosure formed by the outer periphery member and the front and back cover assemblies. In particular, the front and back cover assemblies can be placed such that a display interface of the device remains visible through a window of one of the covers. Process  300  can then end after step  308 . 
     For additional information on the electronic device structure and assembly processing discussed above in  FIGS. 1-3 , see U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/300,780, filed Feb. 2, 2010 and entitled “HANDHELD ELECTRONIC DEVICES,” which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     Alignment and Protection Arrangements and Techniques 
     With parts of an electronic device housing being arrangement in a stack, there can be cumulative tolerances which can make alignment less precise. According to one aspect, adjoining surfaces of electronic device housings can be mounted or arranged such that adjoining surfaces are flush to a high degree of precision. Edges of portable electronic devices are susceptible to impact force, such as when dropped. According to another aspect, protective sides can be provided on edges of electronic device housings so to dissipate impact forces and thus reduce damage to electronic device housings. According to still another embodiment, an electronic device housing can have one or more of its exposed major surfaces (e.g., front or back surfaces) formed of glass. The glass surfaces can be protected by the protective sides and can be aligned so that the top surfaces of the glass surfaces and the protective sides can be substantially flush. 
       FIG. 4  is a flow diagram of a housing member alignment process  400  according to one embodiment of the invention. The housing member alignment process  400  serves to allow adjacent housing members to secured together while providing a flush interface therebetween. 
     The housing member alignment process  400  provides  402  an outer housing member for a device housing, namely, an electronic device housing, can be provided at an assembly region (e.g., assembly station). In addition, a protective side structural member having a receptive plane for receiving the outer housing member can be provided  404 . 
     The outer housing member can be positioned  406  adjacent to the receptive plane of the protective side structural member. In order to ensure proper alignment to a high degree of flushness, a first force is applied  408  to push the outer housing member against a planer reference surface. Here, the planer reference surface can pertain to a flat steel surface provided at the assembly region. In one implementation, the planer reference surface can be coated with a non-stick coating (e.g. Teflon). Further, a second force can be applied  410  to push the protective side structural member against the planar reference surface. Typically, the second force can also push the protective side structural member against the outer housing member. The protective side structural member can then be secured  412  to the outer housing member. As a result, the outer housing member and the protective side structural member, once secured  412 , can represent an assembled portion of the device housing. Thereafter, the assembled portion can be removed  414  from the assembly region. After the assembled portion has been removed  414 , the housing member alignment process  400  can end. 
       FIG. 5  is a structural diagram of an alignment configuration  500  according to one embodiment. The alignment configuration  500  can correspond to alignment of adjacent housing members as discussed above, such as in the housing member alignment process  400  illustrated in  FIG. 4 . The alignment configuration  500  includes a planar reference surface  502  that is secured in a fixed manner. An outer housing member  504  can be pushed against the planar reference surface  502  by a force F 1 . The force F 1 , as shown in  FIG. 5 , can be applied at various points on an opposing surface of the outer housing member  504 . For example, in this arrangement, a top surface of the outer housing member  504  can be pressed against a surface of the planar reference surface  502 , and the force F 1  can be induced on a bottom surface of the outer housing member  504 . The force F 1  can be applied as a single structure (e.g., spring) or be a plurality of structures (e.g., series of springs). The use of a plurality of springs can provide more uniform application of force across the surface of the outer housing member  504 . In addition, a protective side structural member  506  can be provided adjacent to at least one side of the outer housing member  504 . To position the protective side structural member  506  with respect to the outer housing member  504 , in a flush manner, a force F 2  can operate to push the protective side structural member  506  against the surface of the planar reference surface  502 . The force F 2  can be applied as a single structure (e.g., spring) or be a plurality of structures (e.g., series of springs). This insures that the top surface of the protective side structural member  506  will be positioned such that its top surface is flush with the top surface of the outer housing member  504 . Additionally, if needed, a force F 3  can be applied to push the protective side structural member  506  against the side of the outer housing member  504 . Once the outer housing member  504  and the protective side structural member  506  are biased against the planar reference surface  502 , the outer housing member  504  and the protective side structural member  506  can be secured to one another. These members of the electronic device housing can be secured together in a variety of different ways. For example, these members can be held together by an adhesive, such as glue or epoxy, which can remained biased against the planar reference surface  502  while the adhesive cures. As another example, these members can be held together through mechanical structures (e.g. screws, snaps, tabs, detents, etc.). 
       FIG. 6  is a flow diagram of a housing member alignment process  600  according to one embodiment of the invention. The housing member alignment process  600  can combine together an outer housing member (namely, an outer glass member) and a protective side structural member for an electronic device housing. The housing member alignment process  600  operates to align external surface of these members and then secure the members to one another. 
     The housing member alignment process  600  can provide  602  an outer class member for an electronic device housing. A protective side structural member having a receptive plane for receiving the outer glass member can also be provided. A liquid adhesive can then be applied  606  to a portion of the outer glass member and/or a portion of the protective side structural member. The outer glass member can then be positioned  608  adjacent to the receptive plane of the protective side structural member. To impose accurate alignment that yields a high degree of flushness, a first force can be applied  610  to push the outer glass member against a planar reference surface. A second force can also be applied  612  to push the protective side structural member against the planar reference surface. This ensures that the outer glass member and the protective side structural member are positioned such that a top surface of both are tightly adjacent and flush. Thereafter, the liquid adhesive can be cured  614 . For example, the members being assembled together into an assembled part can be placed in an oven to accelerate the curing of the liquid adhesive. Once the protective side structural member and the outer glass member are secured by the cured adhesive, the assembled part can be removed  606  from the oven and the first and second forces can be removed. At this point, the assembled part includes the outer glass member together with the protective side structural member. Additionally, given the manner in which the members were assembled into the assembled part, the top surface of the outer glass member is flush with new top surface of the protective side structural member. Following the block  616 , a housing member alignment process  600  can end. 
     In one embodiment, the flushness provided by the alignment processing can be not more than at most 80 mm from being precisely plush. In another embodiment, the flushness provided by the alignment processing can be not more than 60 mm from being precisely flush. In still another embodiment, the flushness provided by the alignment processing can be not more than 40 mm from being precisely flush. 
       FIGS. 7A-7D  illustrate assembly of an assembled part according to one embodiment. The assembled part can be assembled in accordance with the housing member alignment process  600 . The assembled part can represent a part for an electronic device housing. 
       FIG. 7A  illustrates component members for the assembled part. Specifically, the component parts include an outer glass member  700  and a protective side structural member  702 . The protective side structural member  702  has an upper surface  704  that can received the outer glass member  700  when assembled, and a bottom surface  706  that provides an inner surface for the electronic device housing. The protective side structural member  702  also includes side bumpers  708  that having top surfaces  710 . 
       FIG. 7B  illustrates an initial assembly step for the assembled part. The outer glass member  700  is held against a fixed reference structure  712 . The top surface of the outer glass member  700  is pressed against a flat reference surface provided by the fixed reference structure  712 . The output glass member  700  can be biased (i.e., pressed) against the flat reference surface by a mechanical member (e.g., spring(s)) that provides a biasing force. Additionally, the protective side structural member  702  can have liquid adhesive  714  deposited on a portion of the upper surface  704 . 
       FIG. 7C  illustrates a subsequent step for the assembled part. Here, the protective side structural member  702  with the liquid adhesive  714  can be pressed against the flat reference surface provided by the fixed reference structure  712 . More specifically, the top surface  710  of the side bumpers  708  of the protective side structural member  702  is pressed against the flat reference surface. The protective side structural member  702  can be biased (i.e., pressed) against the flat reference surface by a mechanical member (e.g., spring(s)) that provide a biasing force. The protective side structural member  702  can be biased (i.e., pressed) against the flat reference surface by a mechanical member (e.g., spring(s)) that provide a biasing force. The mechanical member biasing the protective side structural member  702  is separate from the mechanical member biasing the outer glass member  700 . Once the assembled part is held in position, as shown in  FIG. 7C , by the biasing forces, the liquid adhesive can be cured. In one embodiment, the adhesive can be cured using heat, such as by placing the assembled part in an oven. The adhesive being cured serves to secure the parts (i.e., the outer glass member  700  and the protective side structural member  702 ) while compensating for tolerances of parts (e.g., in a component stack of parts) so that the top surface of the outer glass member  700  and the top surface  710  of the side bumpers  708  are flush. In one embodiment, flush means that the adjacent top surfaces are within 60 micrometers of being perfectly flush. Once the adhesive is cured, the heat can be removed and the assembled part is now assembled. Additionally, the side bumpers  708  of the protective side structural member  702  are tightly adjacent the sides (e.g., edges) of the outer glass member  700  and provide a barrier to impact forces at the sides of the glass member  700 . 
       FIG. 7D  illustrates a subsequent assembly for the assembled part. The assembled part can be attached to another structural component of the electronic device housing. As an example, the another structural component can pertain to an outer periphery member  716  for the electronic device housing. The outer periphery member  716  can define a side surface for the electronic device housing. The outer periphery member  716  can also attach or be integral with an internal structure  718  (e.g., internal platform) that provides structural stiffness for the electronic device housing. For example, the internal structure  718  can be secured to an inner surface of the outer periphery member  716 . The internal structure  718  can be positioned offset from front and back planar boundaries of the outer periphery member  716 . As shown in  FIG. 7D , the assembled part can be coupled to the outer periphery member  716  at the front planar boundary. To secure the assembled part, the protective side structural member  702  can further include or couple to attachment arms  720 . The attachment arms  720  can abut against an inner surface of the outer periphery member  716  and be secured thereto by adhesive or mechanical means (e.g., screws, tabs, snaps, etc.). 
     The assembled part can have parts of glass, polymer and/or metal. In one particular embodiment, the outer glass member  700  is glass, such as alumino-silicate glass; the protective side structural member  702  is polymer, such as polyarylamide; and the outer periphery member  716 , the internal structure  718  and the attachment arms can be metal, such as stainless steel. 
       FIG. 8A  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing  800  according to one embodiment. The partial side portion includes an outer housing member  802 . The outer housing member  802  can abut against a side member  804 . In addition, a protective side bumper  806  can be provided to protect an otherwise exposed side  808  of the outer housing member  802 . The configuration of the protective side bumper  806  can vary with implementation. Typically, the thickness of the protective side bumper  806  is thin at the portion adjacent the exposed side  808 . For example, where the thickness of the outer housing member  802  is 1 millimeter (mm), the thickness of the protective side bumper  806  can be less than 1 mm, more particularly the thickness can be about 0.8 mm. In one embodiment, the outer housing member  802  can be made of glass, the protective side bumper  806  can be made of a polymer, and the side member  804  can be made of metal. 
       FIG. 8B  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing  800 ′ according to another embodiment. Similar to  FIG. 8A , the outer housing member  802  can abut against a side member  804 . The protective side bumper  806  can be provided to protect an otherwise exposed side  808  of the outer housing member  802 . In this embodiment, the side member  804 ′ can extend outward slightly from the outer surface of the protective side bumper  806 . In one embodiment, the outer housing member  802  can be made of glass, the protective side bumper  806  can be made of a polymer, and the side member  804 ′ can be made of metal. 
       FIG. 8C  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing  820  according to another embodiment. The partial side portion includes an outer housing member  822 . The outer housing member  822  can abut against a side member  824 . In this embodiment, the side member  824  supports the outer housing member  822  and also provide a protective side bumper  826  can be provided to protect an otherwise exposed side  828  of the outer housing member  822 . The configuration of the protective side bumper  826  can vary with implementation. Typically, the thickness of the protective side bumper  806  is thin at the portion adjacent the exposed side  828 . For example, where the thickness of the outer housing member  822  is 1 millimeter (mm), the thickness of the protective side bumper  826  can be less than 1 mm, more particularly the thickness can be about 0.8 mm. The side member  824  can couple to an internal structure  830  to provide support for the side member  824  of the electronic device housing. The internal structure  830  can, in one embodiment, include a side portion  832  embedded in the side member  824 . In one embodiment, the outer housing member  822  can be made of glass, the side member  824  as well as the protective side bumper  826  can be made of a polymer, and the internal structure  830  (including side structure  832 ) can be made of metal. 
       FIG. 8D  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing  840  according to still another embodiment. The electronic device housing  840  is similar to the electronic device housing  820  illustrated in  FIG. 8C  but provides another outer housing member  842 . For example, the outer housing member  822  can correspond to a top cover for the electronic device housing, and the outer housing member  842  can correspond to a bottom cover for the electronic device housing. The side member  824 ′ includes not only the protective side bumper  826  but also a protective side bumper  844 . 
       FIG. 9A  is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing  900  according to one embodiment. The electronic device housing  900  includes an outer housing member  902  supported and protected by an interface member  904 . The interface member  904  providing protective side members  906  (e.g., protective side bumpers) positioned tightly adjacent sides of the outer housing member  902 . The interface member  904  also supports the outer housing member  902  and serves to secure the outer housing member  902  to other portions of the electronic device housing  900 . In this embodiment, the interface member  904  is secured to an outer periphery member  908 . More particularly, in this embodiment, the interface member  904  includes securing features  910  (e.g., attachment arms) that are used to secure the interface member  904  (and thus the outer housing member  902 ) to the outer periphery member  908 . The electronic device housing  900  can also include another outer housing member  912 . The another outer housing member  912  can, for example, be integral with or secured to the outer periphery member  908  on a side opposite the outer housing member  902 . An internal space  914  is provided internal to the electronic device housing  900  whereby various electrical components can be attached, affixed or placed so as to provide electronic operations for the electronic device. 
     The various members, parts or assemblies of the electronic device housing  900  can be formed of any of a variety of materials, e.g., glass, polymers or metal. In one embodiment, the outer housing member  902  is glass, the outer periphery member  908  is formed from metal or polymer (e.g., plastic), and the another outer housing member  912  is formed from glass, polymer (e.g., plastic) or metal. The interface member  904  can be formed of a polymer or from a combination of materials. For example, the protective side members  906  are to be strong; hence, a structurally strengthened polymer, such as polyarylamide, can be utilized. Also as an example, the securing features  910  can be formed from metal for increased strength. The securing features  910  if formed of metal can be combined with the balance of the interface member  904  by an over-molding process. 
       FIG. 9B  is a cross-sectional assembly diagram for the electronic device housing  900  shown in  FIG. 9A , according to one embodiment. The outer housing member  902  has a top surface  920  and a bottom surface  922 . The bottom surface  922  of the outer housing member  902  can be secured to a top surface  924  of the interface member  904 . For example, the outer housing member  902  can be secured to the top surface  924  of the interface member  904  using adhesive. When the outer housing member  902  is secured to the interface member  904 , the protective side members  906  are positioned at the sides (i.e., edges) of the outer housing member  902 . The protective side member  906  provides a buffer layer (e.g., bumper) that dampens impact induced at the sides of the outer housing member  902  of the electronic device housing  900 . In addition, a bottom surface  926  of the interface member  904  is placed on a top surface  928  of the outer periphery member  908 . The securing features  910  of the interface member  904  can be used to secure the interface member  904  to the outer periphery member  908 . 
       FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing  1000  according to one embodiment. The electronic device housing  1000  includes a first outer housing member  1002  supported and protected by a first interface member  1004 . The first interface member  1004  provides protective side members  1006  (e.g., protective side bumpers) positioned tightly adjacent sides of the first outer housing member  1002 . The first interface member  1004  also supports the first outer housing member  1002  and serves to secure the first outer housing member  1002  to other portions of the electronic device housing  1000 . In this embodiment, the first interface member  1004  is secured to an outer periphery member  1008 . More particularly, in this embodiment, the first interface member  1004  includes first securing features  1010  that are used to secure the first interface member  1004  (and thus the first outer housing member  1002 ) to the outer periphery member  1008 . 
     The electronic device housing  1000  can also include an internal structure  1012  that is integral with or secured to the outer peripheral member  1008 . In one embodiment, the internal structure  1012  can be secured to an inner surface of the outer periphery member  1008  such that it is offset from front and back planar boundaries of the outer periphery member  1008 . As shown in  FIG. 10 , the internal structure  1012  can be secured at the mid-point of the height of the outer periphery member  1008 . A first internal space  1014  is provided internal to the electronic device housing  1000  whereby various electrical components can be attached, affixed or placed so as to provide electronic operations for the electronic device. 
     In this embodiment, the electronic device housing  1000  also includes similar structure on an opposite side of the electronic device housing  1000 . Namely, the electronic device housing  1000  can further include a second outer housing member  1016  supported and protected by a second interface member  1018 . The second interface member  1018  provides protective side members  1020  (e.g., protective side bumpers) positioned tightly adjacent sides of the second outer housing member  1016 . The second interface member  1018  also supports the second outer housing member  1016  and serves to secure the second outer housing member  1016  to other portions of the electronic device housing  1000 . In this embodiment, the second interface member  1018  can be secured to the outer periphery member  1008  on the opposite side from the first interface member  1004 . More particularly, in this embodiment, the second interface member  1018  includes second securing features  1022  (e.g., attachment arm) that are used to secure the second interface member  1018  (and thus the second outer housing member  1016 ) to the outer periphery member  1008 . Further, a second internal space  1024  is provided internal to the electronic device housing  1000  (between the internal structure  1012  and the second interface member  1018 ) whereby various electrical components can be attached, affixed or placed so as to provide electronic operations for the electronic device. 
     In one embodiment, the first outer housing member  1002  can represent a top outer surface for the portable electronic device, and the second outer surface housing  1016  can represent a bottom outer surface housing. In one embodiment, both the first outer housing member  1002  and the second outer housing member  1016  are glass (e.g., class covers). 
     In  FIGS. 9A, 9B and 10 , the protective side members (e.g., protective side bumpers) are thin layer of material positioned tightly adjacent sides of the outer housing member, thereby buffering impact at the sides of the outer housing members. In one embodiment, the protective side members are to be strong; hence, a structurally strengthened polymer, such as polyarylamide, can be utilized. The polyarylamide can be strengthened by containing glass fibers. One source of strengthened polyarylamide is Ixef polyarylamide (PARA) from Solvay Advanced Polymers, L.L.C which can contain glass fiber reinforcement. Additionally, since the protective side members are tightly adjacent sides of the outer housing member, the respective materials used for the protective side members and the outer housing member. Specifically, the Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) of the respective materials, if not controlled, can produce undesired stress on the sides of the outer housing member. For example, with an outer housing member of glass, its CTE is about 10 millimeters/meter/.degree. C. Hence, ideally, for this example the CTE of the material for the protective side members would be about 10 millimeters/meter/.degree. C. Although plastics tend to have CTE&#39;s (e.g., roughly 100 millimeters/meter/.degree. C.) that are dramatically higher than that of glass, some manufactured polymers, such as polyarylamide, can have CTE&#39;s (e.g., roughly 30 millimeters/meter/.degree. C.) that are substantially closer to that of glass and thereby would, if used, induce less stress on the sides of the outer housing member. For example, in one embodiment, a manufactured polymer for such use could have a CTE less than or equal to about 50 millimeters/meter/.degree. C., and in another embodiment, a manufactured polymer for such use could have a CTE less than or equal to about 35 millimeters/meter/.degree. C. Also, as noted above, the thickness of the protective side member can be thin, for example, the thickness can be not more than about 1 mm in one embodiment. 
     In still other embodiments, the protective side materials can be formed from multiple materials that can be alternated, intertwined or layered. The later of material against the edges of the outer housing member of glass can have a CTE relatively close to that of glass while an outer layer can have a higher CTE can permit a greater range of material, such as polymers (e.g., plastics). 
     The protective side members are able to be thin yet be cosmetically unintrusive. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness (t1) for the protective side member can be less than 1 mm (e.g., 0.8 mm). Also, in some embodiments, the thickness (t2) of the outer housing member can be less than 5 mm (e.g., 1 mm). However, these thicknesses are exemplary and vary with the size of the electronic device housing and with desired strength. Using a strengthened material for the protective side members as noted above can also be advantageous. Nevertheless, the provisioning of thin protective side members for outer housing members, such as glass covers, facilitates providing portable electronic device housings that are compact and thin yet resistant to side impact damage to the outer housing members. 
       FIGS. 11A, 11B and 12  are structurally similar to  FIGS. 9A, 9B and 10 , respectively. However, the configuration of the protective side members is different. The protective side members illustrated in  FIGS. 11A, 11B and 12  form corners for the electronic device housing and, therefore, are typically thicker than the protective side members illustrated in  FIGS. 9A, 9B and 10 . As an example, in one embodiment, the thickness of the protective side member is approximately the thickness of the outer housing member. 
       FIG. 11A  is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing  1100  according to one embodiment. The electronic device housing  1100  includes an outer housing member  1102  supported and protected by an interface member  1104 . The interface member  1104  providing protective side members  1106  (e.g., protective side bumpers) positioned tightly adjacent sides of the outer housing member  1102 . The interface member  1104  also supports the outer housing member  1102  and serves to secure the outer housing member  1102  to other portions of the electronic device housing  1100 . In this embodiment, the interface member  1104  is secured to an outer periphery member  1108 . More particularly, in this embodiment, the interface member  1104  includes securing features  1110  (e.g., attachment arms) that are used to secure the interface member  1104  (and thus the outer housing member  1102 ) to the outer periphery member  1108 . The electronic device housing  1100  can also include another outer housing member  1112 . The another outer housing member  1112  can, for example, be integral with or secured to the outer periphery member  1108  on a side opposite the outer housing member  1102 . An internal space  1114  is provided internal to the electronic device housing  1100  whereby various electrical components can be attached, affixed or placed so as to provide electronic operations for the electronic device. 
     The various members, parts or assemblies of the electronic device housing  1100  can be formed of any of a variety of materials, e.g., glass, polymer or metal. In one embodiment, the outer housing member  1102  is glass, the outer periphery member  1108  is formed from metal or polymer (e.g., plastic), and the another outer housing member  1112  is formed from glass, polymer (e.g., plastic) or metal. The interface member  1104  can be formed of a polymer or from a combination of materials. For example, the protective side members  1106  are to be strong; hence, a structurally strengthened polymer, such as polyarylamide, can be utilized. The polyarylamide can be strengthened by containing glass fibers. Also as an example, the securing features  1110  can be formed from metal for increased strength. The securing features  1110  if formed of metal can be combined with the balance of the interface member  1104  by an over-molding process. 
       FIG. 11B  is a cross-sectional assembly diagram for the electronic device housing  1100  shown in  FIG. 11A , according to one embodiment. The outer housing member  1102  has a top surface  1120  and a bottom surface  1122 . The bottom surface  1122  of the outer housing member  1102  can be secured to a top surface  1124  of the interface member  1104 . For example, the outer housing member  1102  can be secured to the top surface  1124  of the interface member  1104  using adhesive. When the outer housing member  1102  is secured to the interface member  1104 , the protective side members  1106  are positioned at the sides (i.e., edges) of the outer housing member  1102 . The protective side member  1106  provides a buffer layer (e.g., bumper) that dampens impact induced at the sides of the outer housing member  1102  of the electronic device housing  1100 . In addition, a bottom surface  1126  of the interface member  1104  is placed on a top surface  1128  of the outer periphery member  1108 . The securing features  1110  of the interface member  1104  can be used to secure the interface member  1104  to the outer periphery member  1108 . 
       FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing  1200  according to one embodiment. The electronic device housing  1200  includes a first outer housing member  1202  supported and protected by a first interface member  1204 . The first interface member  1204  provides protective side members  1206  (e.g., protective side bumpers) positioned tightly adjacent sides of the first outer housing member  1202 . The first interface member  1204  also supports the first outer housing member  1202  and serves to secure the first outer housing member  1202  to other portions of the electronic device housing  1200 . In this embodiment, the first interface member  1204  is secured to an outer periphery member  1208 . More particularly, in this embodiment, the first interface member  1204  includes first securing features  1210  that are used to secure the first interface member  1204  (and thus the first outer housing member  1202 ) to the outer periphery member  1208 . 
     The electronic device housing  1200  can also include an internal structure  1212  that is integral with or secured to the outer peripheral member  1208 . In one embodiment, the internal structure  1212  can be secured to an inner surface of the outer periphery member  1208  such that it is offset from front and back planar boundaries of the outer periphery member  1208 . As shown in  FIG. 12 , the internal structure  1212  can be secured at the mid-point of the height of the outer periphery member  1208 . A first internal space  1214  is provided internal to the electronic device housing  1200  whereby various electrical components can be attached, affixed or placed so as to provide electronic operations for the electronic device. 
     In this embodiment, the electronic device housing  1200  also includes similar structure on an opposite side of the electronic device housing  1200 . Namely, the electronic device housing  1200  can further include a second outer housing member  1216  supported and protected by a second interface member  1218 . The second interface member  1218  provides protective side members  1220  (e.g., protective side bumpers) positioned tightly adjacent sides of the second outer housing member  1216 . The second interface member  1218  also supports the second outer housing member  1216  and serves to secure the second outer housing member  1216  to other portions of the electronic device housing  1200 . In this embodiment, the second interface member  1218  can be secured to the outer periphery member  1208  on the opposite side from the first interface member  1204 . More particularly, in this embodiment, the second interface member  1218  includes second securing features  1222  (e.g., attachment arms) that are used to secure the second interface member  1218  (and thus the second outer housing member  1216 ) to the outer periphery member  1208 . Further, a second internal space  1224  is provided internal to the electronic device housing  1200  (between the internal structure  1212  and the second interface member  1218 ) whereby various electrical components can be attached, affixed or placed so as to provide electronic operations for the electronic device. 
     In one embodiment, the first outer housing member  1202  can represent a top outer surface for the portable electronic device, and the second outer surface housing  1216  can represent a bottom outer surface housing. In one embodiment, both the first outer housing member  1202  and the second outer housing member  1216  are glass (e.g., class covers). 
     In  FIGS. 11A, 11B and 12 , the protective side members (e.g., protective side bumpers) are thin layer of material positioned tightly adjacent sides of the outer housing member, thereby buffering impact at the sides of the outer housing members. In these embodiments, the protective side members are rounded at corners of the electronic device housing. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness (t 3 ) for the protective side member can be less than 5 mm (e.g., 1 mm). Also, in some embodiments, the thickness (t 4 ) of the outer housing member can be less than 5 mm (e.g., 1 mm). However, these thicknesses are exemplary and vary with the size of the electronic device housing and with desired strength. Using a strengthened material for the protective side members as noted above can also be advantageous. Nevertheless, the provisioning of thin protective side members for outer housing members, such as glass covers, facilitates providing portable electronic device housings that are compact and thin yet resistant to side impact damage to the outer housing members. 
       FIG. 13  is a flow diagram of an outer member assembly process  1300  according to one embodiment of the invention. In this example, the outer member is an outer glass member. The outer glass member can be secured  1302  to a protective side member. As an example, the processing performed to secure the outer glass member to the protective side member can, in certain embodiments, use the housing member alignment process  400 ,  600  illustrated in  FIGS. 4 and 6 , respectively. 
     After the outer glass member has been secured  1302  to the protective side member, the glass assembly can be positioned  1304  in an opening of an outer periphery member. After the glass assembly has been positioned, the glass assembly at the opening of the outer periphery member can be secured  1306 . The glass assembly, namely, the outer glass member, can thus operate as an outer surface for the electronic device housing. Following the block  1306 , the outer member assembly process  1300  can end. 
     In one embodiment, the outer glass member can represent a front (or top) surface of the electronic device housing. In another embodiment, the outer glass member can represent a back (or bottom) surface of the electronic device housing. In general, the outer member assembly process  1300  can represent processing suitable for any exposed surface of an electronic device housing that is formed of a glass member. In still another embodiment, the electronic device housing may utilize an outer glass member for a front surface of the electronic device housing and may utilize an outer glass member for a back surface of the electronic device housing. 
     As discussed above, such as in  FIGS. 10 and 13 , an electronic device housing can be substantially made of glass. For example, an electronic device housing might have at least 75% of its exterior as glass. In one implementation, front and bottom surfaces of an electronic device housing can be glass while side surface are some material other than glass (e.g., metal, plastic). 
     In the case of portable electronic devices, housings are banged against or rub against various surfaces. When plastic or metal housing surfaces are used, the surfaces tend to become scratched. On the other hand, with glass housing surfaces (e.g., glass covers), the surfaces are much more scratch resistant. Moreover, glass housing surfaces offer radio transparency, while metal housing surfaces disturb or hinder radio communications. In one embodiment, an electronic device housing can use glass housing members (e.g., glass covers) for a front surface and a back surface of the electronic device housing. For example, a front surface formed from a glass housing member can be transparent to provide visual access to a display device positioned behind the glass housing member at the front surface, while a back surface formed from a glass housing member can be transparent or non-transparent. Non-transparency, if desired, can conceal any interior components within the electronic device housing. In one embodiment, a surface coating or film can be applied to the glass housing member to provide non-transparency or at least partial translucency. Such a surface coating or file can be provided on an inner surface or an outer surface of the glass housing member. The protective side members and the interface members discussed herein can be optionally used to protect and/or assembly the glass housing members. 
       FIG. 14  is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing  1400 . The partial side portion illustrates includes a first interface assembly  1402  and a second interface assembly  1404 . The interface assemblies  1402 ,  1404  can also be referred to as interface members. The interface assembly  1402  includes a support and protection member  1406  and an attachment member  1408 . Similarly, the interface assembly  1404  includes a support and protection member  1410  and an attachment member  1412 . The support and protection members  1406  can support a first outer housing member and provide a protective side member therefore as discussed above. Similarly, the support and protection members  1410  can support a second outer housing member and provide a protective side member therefore as discussed above. The attachment member  1408  can serve to attach and secure the interface assembly  1402  to a side member  1414 , and the attachment member  1412  can serve to attach and secure the interface assembly to the side member  1414 . An attachment device  1416  (e.g., screw, bolt) can be provided to tightly secure the first support and protection member  1406  with respect to the side member  1414 . Likewise, an attachment device  1418  (e.g., screw, bolt) can be provided to tightly secure the second support and protection member  1410  with respect to the side member  1414 . 
     Although only a single attachment device  1416  is shown for the attachment member  1408 , it should be understood that several attachment devices would ordinarily be used to reliable secure the first interface assembly  1402  to the side member  1414 . Likewise, although only a single attachment device  1418  is shown for the attachment member  1412 , it should be understood that several attachment devices would ordinarily be used to reliable secure the second interface assembly  1404  to the side member  1414 . Also, although the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 14  supports outer housing member at opposite ends, it should be understood that in other embodiments the electronic device housing may only use a single outer housing member. 
     Attachment Structures and Techniques 
     According to another aspect, apparatus, systems and methods for robustly attaching a cover portion of an electronic device to a bottom portion, e.g., a housing portion, of the electronic device are described. The cover portion may generally include a frame (e.g., interface member) into which a glass member has been inserted. Attachment members (e.g., arms, tabs) can be coupled to, e.g., insert molded into, a cover portion, and can be arranged to substantially engage with a housing portion such that the cover portion is effectively held against the housing portion. The attachment members can be used to screw or otherwise fasten the cover portion to the housing. In general, receptacles of the housing portion are arranged to substantially capture, mate or otherwise engage attachment members of the cover portion. 
     In one embodiment, the cover portion is held against the housing portion such that a contact surface of the cover portion interfaces with a contact surface of the housing portion, e.g., such that there is effectively no gap between the contact surfaces. More generally, the cover portion may be held against the housing portion such that the size of any space between the contact surface of the cover portion and the contact surface of the housing portion may be controlled. For example, to hold the cover portion against the housing portion, a protrusion that is a part of or is otherwise attached to the cover portion can be engaged with a receptacle that is a part of or is otherwise attached on the housing portion. 
     The apparatus, systems, and methods of the present invention allow for the formation of a robust coupling between a cover of a device, such as a handheld electronic device, and a housing of such a device. Handheld electronic devices may generally include, but are not limited to including, mobile phones, media players, user input devices (e.g., mouse, touch sensitive devices), personal digital assistants, remote controls, electronic book readers, etc. The apparatus, systems, and methods may also be used for covers (e.g., covers with glass members), or displays for other relatively larger form factor electronic devices such as portable computers, tablet computers, displays, monitors, televisions, etc. 
     In general, a device that includes a cover which is securely held to a housing is relatively durable or robust. A secure coupling between the cover and the housing may be arranged in an interior volume of a device such that the coupling does not interfere with the exterior of the device. The aesthetic qualities of a device can be enhanced. In one embodiment, a cover and a housing interface together with substantially no gap space therebetween. More generally, the aesthetic or visual qualities of a device may be substantially improved by controlling the size of a gap between a cover and a housing when the cover and the housing are assembled. In addition, when the size of a gap between a cover and a housing may be substantially minimized, the profile of a device formed from the cover and the housing may be relatively thin. 
       FIG. 15A  is a diagrammatic perspective representation of a housing to which a cover, e.g., a cover which includes a glass member held by a frame, is assembled in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. An assembly  1502  includes a cover  1508  which is mounted or substantially secured to a housing  1512 . In one embodiment, cover  1508  is removably attached to housing  1512  such that although cover  1508  is securely engaged to housing  1512  when a coupling is desired. However, in some embodiments, the cover  1508  is removably attached such that cover  1508  can be subsequently disengaged. 
       FIG. 15B  is a diagrammatic cross-sectional side-view representation of a cover  1508  assembled to housing  1512 . As shown, the size of cover  1508  and the size of housing  1512  as compared to  FIG. 15A , are exaggerated for purposes of illustration. Cover  1508  and housing  1512  are coupled at an interface  1530  such that a gap  1528  between cover  1508  and housing  1512  may be controlled. In one embodiment, gap  1528  is essentially minimal, and surfaces of cover  1508  and housing  1512  may come into contact at and near interface  1530 . Interface  1530  may include mechanical coupling arrangements, as will be discussed below, that allow cover  1508  to be mounted to housing  1512 . As shown, interface  1530  is typically located in or near an inner volume defined by housing  1512  and cover  1508 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 16 , one method of assembling an electronic device will be described in accordance with one embodiment. A method  1601  of assembling an electronic device begins at step  1605  in which a housing, e.g., an outer periphery member, is formed. In general, one or more components may form the housing. For example, two or more components may be joined or otherwise combined to form the housing. Forming the housing may also include attaching or otherwise creating attachment features on the housing that are configured to facilitate mounting a cover on the housing. 
     In step  1609 , a cover is formed. Forming a cover may include, but is not limited to including, obtaining a frame, and attaching a glass member to the frame. It should be appreciated that forming a cover may also include effectively attaching or otherwise creating attachment features, as for example using an injection molding process, to the cover that are configured to facilitate mounting the cover to the housing. When attachment features are attached to the cover using an insert molding process, cover can be formed at least partially from a plastic material. 
     Once the housing and the cover are formed, internal structural components, e.g., an internal platform that can include electronic components, can be substantially connected to the housing in step  1613 . For example, an internal member may be inserted within the housing and connected to several portions of the housing to define a structural component. 
     After the internal structural components are substantially connected to the housing, components may be inserted in step  1617  into the housing. For example, components, such as electrical components may be inserted from both sides of the housing. The cover may then be mounted on the housing in step  1621 . Mounting the cover on the housing may include, but is not limited to including, engaging attachment features of the cover and the housing. The method of assembling an electronic device can be completed once the cover is mounted on the housing. 
     In one embodiment, a cover may be mounted on a housing through the use of screws. Referring next to  FIG. 17 , an assembly that includes side screws arranged to couple a cover to a housing will be described in accordance with one embodiment.  FIG. 17  is a diagrammatic side-view representation of an interior surface of an assembly  1702 . Assembly  1702  includes a portion of a cover  1708  and a portion of a housing  1712 . Tabs  1732  are inserted in or otherwise attached to cover  1708 . In one embodiment, tabs  1732  are metal tabs that are insert molded into cover  1708  and effectively protrude from cover  1708 . Metal tabs may be formed from sheet metal of any suitable thickness, as for example a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm. Typically, tabs  1732  include slots through which screws  1736  may be inserted. In other words, tabs  1732  are generally slotted tabs. Housing  1712  includes screw receptacles (not shown), e.g., threaded screw holes, which are arranged to accommodate screws  1736 . 
     When screws  1736  are used to secure tabs  1732  and, thus, cover  1708  to housing  1712 , washers  1740  may be positioned between heads of screws  1736  and tabs  1732 . Tabs  1732  are secured to housing  1712  when screws  1736  are screwed into screw receptacles (not shown) created in housing  1712 . Tabs  1732 , as shown, are secured to a surface of housing  1712  that is different from a surface of housing  1712  that essentially comes into contact with cover  1708 . 
       FIG. 18  is a diagrammatic cross-sectional representation of a coupling that utilizes a side screw and a slotted tab in accordance with one embodiment. A housing  1812  has an opening  1844  defined therein. In the described embodiment, opening  1844  is a threaded screw hole that may be formed into a side of housing  1812 . A screw  1836  which is used to secure a slotted tab  1832 , i.e., a slotted tab  1832  that is attached to or otherwise coupled to a cover (not shown), to housing  1812  passes through a washer  1840  and a slot in slotted tab  1832 , and is screwed into housing  1812 . Washer  1840  is generally used to promote thread engagement, i.e., washer  1840  enables a longer threaded length of screw  1836 , and provides tolerances. It should be appreciated that washer  1840  may be optional. 
     In lieu of using screws to robustly mount a cover to a housing, other types of couplings may be used to robustly mount a cover to a housing. Another coupling that may be used to mount a cover to a housing includes a lobster snap and an internal structure (e.g., midplate).  FIG. 19  is a diagrammatic cross-sectional representation of an assembly that includes a lobster snap and a midplate that cooperate to couple a cover frame to a housing in accordance with one embodiment. An assembly  1902  includes a portion of a cover  1908  and a portion of a housing  1912 . A lobster snap  1948  is mounted in or otherwise attached to cover  1908 . Lobster snap  1948 , which may be formed from a metal that is insert molded into cover  1908 , is arranged to be engaged by a midplate  1952  coupled to housing  1912 . In one embodiment, lobster snap  1948  is formed from a compliant metal that is arranged to deflect from a “rest” position when being pushed through an opening defined in midplate  1952 , and to substantially return to the rest position once inserted through the opening. The thickness of the metal used to form lobster snap  1948  may vary widely. In one embodiment, lobster snap  1948  may be formed from a sheet metal with a thickness of approximately 0.3 mm. 
     Midplate  1952 , which may be formed from metal, may be coupled to housing  1912  using any suitable method. By way of example, midplate  1952  may be welded into an interior surface of housing  1912 . Referring next to  FIG. 20 , a housing to which a midplate is coupled, e.g., by welding, can be described in accordance with one embodiment. A housing  2012 , which may be formed from metal, has an exterior surface (not shown) and an interior surface  2058 . A midplate  2052 , which may be a piece of sheet metal with at least one cut-out  2056  defined at an edge, is welded to interior surface  2058 . When midplate  2052  is welded to interior surface  2058 , cut-out  2056  cooperates with interior surface  2058  to define an opening through which a lobster snap, e.g., lobster snap  1948  of  FIG. 19 , may be inserted. 
     Another suitable coupling that allows a cover to be mounted on a housing is a snap arrangement that includes a bracket configured to accommodate a tab. Such a bracket may be mounted on a housing, and may include a complaint snap which is arranged to engage a tab coupled to a cover.  FIG. 21  is a diagrammatic representation of a cover piece having an insert molded tab and a housing having a bracket configured to accommodate the tab in accordance with one embodiment. An assembly  2102 , which is shown in a disassembled form for ease of illustration, includes a portion of a cover  2108  and a portion of a housing  2112 . Cover  2108  includes a tab or a hook  2060  in which an opening is defined. Tab  2160 , which may be formed from a sheet metal of any suitable thickness, e.g., a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm, may be insert molded into cover  2108 . Housing  2112  has a bracket  2164  coupled thereto. Bracket  2164 , which may be formed from a metal, may be welded to a surface, e.g., an interior surface, of housing  2112 . 
     A compliant snap  2168  is formed in bracket  2164 , and is configured to engage with tab  2160  when tab  2160  is inserted through an opening  2172 , e.g., a “doghouse” snap opening,” defined by bracket  2164  and an interior surface of housing  2112 . A compressive force is generally applied by compliant snap  2168  against tab  2160  to secure tab  2160  within opening  2172  and, thus, to hold cover  2108  substantially against housing  2112 . 
       FIG. 22  is a process flow diagram which illustrates a method of creating a device that includes a cover piece having an insert molded tab and a housing having a bracket configured to accommodate the tab, as for example described above with respect to  FIG. 21 , in accordance with one embodiment. A method  2201  of creating a device that includes a cover piece which is mounted to a housing a coupling that includes a tab and a bracket begins at step  2205  in which brackets, i.e., brackets which include a snap component, can be welded around the perimeter of the sides of a housing. Brackets may, for example, be same or similar to bracket  2164  of  FIG. 21 . Any number of brackets may generally be welded around the perimeter of the sides of a housing. By way of example, ten brackets may be welded around the perimeter of the housing. It should be appreciated that brackets may also be attached to the housing methods other than welding. 
     Once brackets are welded or, more generally, attached to the perimeter of the sides of the housing, tabs or hooks can be insert molded to cover support in step  2209 . Then, in step  2213 , a glass piece is coupled to the cover support to form an overall cover part. In one embodiment, the cover support may be a frame within which the glass piece may be secured. Any suitable method may typically be used to couple the glass piece to the cover piece. 
     After the overall cover part is formed, process flow moves to step  2217  in which internal components are placed within an interior volume defined within the housing. The internal components generally include, but are not limited to including, electronic components. The overall cover part is assembled against the housing in step  2221  such that the tabs in the cover piece are substantially inserted through doghouse openings in the brackets welded to the housing. When tabs are inserted through doghouse openings, complaint snaps of the brackets may engage the tabs to hold the overall cover part against the housing. Upon assembling the overall cover part against the housing such that tabs go through doghouse openings in brackets, the method of creating a device is completed. 
     Although only a few embodiments of the invention have been described, it should be understood that the invention may be embodied in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present invention. By way of example, a cover has generally been described as being removably coupled to a housing. Screws may be unscrewed to remove a cover from a housing, snaps may be disengaged from a midplate, and tabs may be disengaged from a snap. The ability to substantially disengage or decouple a cover from a housing may enable maintenance and repairs to be performed on components held by the housing. In some embodiments, however, cover may be substantially irremovably coupled to a housing. 
     While a cover has generally been described as including a cover support (e.g., frame) to which a glass member is attached, it should be appreciated that the cover itself may be a glass member. In an embodiment in which the cover itself is a glass member, attachment features such as tabs and snaps may be glued directly to the glass member or indirectly to the glass member. When attachment features are glued indirectly to the glass member, the attachment features may be insert molded into pieces of plastic, and the pieces of plastic may be glued or otherwise attached to the glass member. 
     As shown for example in  FIGS. 17 and 19 , the side of a housing which is associated with the engagement of a tab of a cover part is not the same as the side of the housing which interfaces with, e.g., comes substantially into contact with, the cover part. That is, the side of a housing that is used to engage a cover is different from the side or surface of the housing that is substantially sealed against the cover. It should be appreciated that in lieu of the housing substantially being sealed against the cover when the housing engages the cover, there may instead be a gap between the housing and the cover. In one embodiment, a material such as a compliant material may be placed in the gap between the housing and the cover. 
     Any number of coupling arrangements that allow a cover to be mounted to a housing may generally be included in an electronic device. Coupling arrangements are generally arranged along an interior periphery of an electronic device, and the number of coupling arrangements in an electronic device may be dependent upon factors including, but not limited to including, the size of the electronic device and the space available in the interior of the electronic device. In one embodiment, between approximately ten and approximately twenty coupling arrangements may be included in an electronic device. It should be appreciated, however, that fewer than ten and more than twenty coupling arrangements may generally be included in an electronic device. 
     Optical Lens Formation 
     According to still another aspect, an optical lens can be formed from a formed optical adhesive. The optical lens can, for example, be used as a lens for a camera flash of a portable electronic device. A mold can be used to form a lens from an optical adhesive that can be cured while being molded. For example, the optical adhesive can be a liquid adhesive that can be cured by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In one embodiment, a mold (e.g., steel mold) having a lens configuration can be applied to the uncured optical adhesive, and then UV radiation applied to cure the optical adhesive. Once cured, the mold can be removed and the optical lens has been formed. In one particular embodiment, the optical lens can be formed on an inner surface of a glass housing member for a portable electronic device, and the curing of the optical adhesive to form the optical lens can be performed by UV radiation that is directed to the optical adhesive through the glass housing member. In another particular embodiment, the optical lens can be formed on an optical substrate (e.g., clear plastic carrier), and then the optical substrate can later be mounted in a portable electronic device, such as on an inner surface of a glass housing member for the portable electronic device. 
     In one embodiment, the portable electronic device having the optical lens formed from the optical adhesive can be configured to include a housing surface that has at least an opening or transparent portion. The portable electronic device can also include a camera and a camera flash light element for producing light. The optical lens receives at least a portion of light produced by the camera flash light element, and directs the received light through the opening or transparent portion of the housing surface. The optical lens can be formed from an optical adhesive that is molded and cured into a predetermined lens configuration. 
     Cover Assembly Structure and Assembly 
     According to still another aspect, a cover assembly, such as a back cover assembly, can be configured to support and protect an outer glass member. The cover assembly can form part of a housing for an electronic device. The cover assembly can also include a distinct glass lens, attachment members, and structural support. 
       FIGS. 23A-23C  illustrate perspective diagrams of a back cover assembly  2300  according to one embodiment. The back cover assembly  2300  can, for example, represent one implementation of the back cover assembly  260  illustrated in  FIG. 2B . The back cover assembly  2300  can also represent the assembly of the second outer housing member  1016  and the second interface member  1018  (with the protective side members  1020 ) illustrated in  FIG. 10 , and/or the assembly of the second outer housing member  1216  and the second interface member  1218  (with the protective side members  1220 ) illustrated in  FIG. 12 . 
       FIG. 23A  illustrates a front perspective diagram for the back cover assembly  2300  according to one embodiment. The back cover assembly  2300  can include an interface member  2302  and a glass member  2304  (e.g., glass plate). The interface member  2302  provides a support structure that can be secured to a base housing. In one embodiment, the interface member  2302  can be removably secured to the base housing. 
     The back cover assembly  2300  can be secured to the base housing in any of a variety of ways. In the embodiment of the interface member  2302  illustrated in  FIG. 23A , the interface member  2302  includes one or more tabs  2306  and one or more hooks  2308 . The one or more tabs  2306  and the one or more hooks  2308  are used to secure the back cover assembly  2300  to the base housing, such as the outer periphery member  220  discussed above. The one or more hooks  2308  can include threaded openings (e.g., holes) that can receive attachment screws, which serve to firmly secure the back cover assembly  2300  to the base housing (e.g., the outer periphery member  220 ). The attachment screws can prevent removal of the back cover assembly  2300  from the base housing. However, by removal of the attachment screws, the back cover assembly  2300  can then be removed. 
     The glass member  2304  is a thin glass sheet that is configured to fit within a recess provided by the interface member  2302 . In one embodiment, while within the recess, the sides (e.g., edges) of the glass member  2304  can be protected by protective side structural members. A glass piece  2310  and an optical barrier  2312  can be coupled to the glass member  2304 . The glass piece  2310  can be provided for an image acquisition device (e.g., camera) that is provided within the base housing for the electronic device. The glass piece  2310  is separate from the glass member  2304 . The glass piece  2310  can also provide different optical properties than those of the glass member  2304 . For example, the glass piece  2310  may (itself or via a coating) provide optical filtering (e.g., infrared filtering) or magnification. In other words, the glass piece  2310  can act as a lens, a filter or both. 
     The size, dimensions and materials for the components of the housing for the electronic device can vary with different embodiments. In the case of portable electronic devices, the thickness of the back cover assembly  2300  (excluding the one or more tabs  2306  and the one or more hooks  2308 ) can be about 5 millimeters or less. For thin, portable electronic devices (such as handheld electronic devices), the thickness of the back cover assembly  2300  (excluding the one or more tabs  2306  and the one or more hooks  2308 ) can be about 2 millimeters or less millimeters. Moreover, the thickness of the glass member  2304  can be about 1 millimeter or less. For example, the thickness of the glass of the glass member  2304  can be about 0.3 to 0.6 micrometers. The glass member  2304  is glass (e.g., alumina silicate or soda lime glass). However, in alternative embodiments, the glass member  2304  could be replaced by a member that is made (in whole or in part) of metal, ceramic and/or plastic material. 
       FIG. 23B  illustrates a rear perspective diagram for the back cover assembly  2300  according to one embodiment. The interface member  2302  primarily extends around a periphery of the back cover assembly  2300 . The interface member  2302  can be made from a polymer. The interface member  2302  illustrates a lens holder  2314  to secure the glass piece  2310  to the interface member  2302 . The interface member  2302  can also include a reinforcement plate  2316  that serves to strengthen the interface member  2302 . The reinforcement plate  2316  can be formed of metal, such as stainless steel. The reinforcement plate  2316  is a separate piece from an outer periphery support portion  2318 . The reinforcement plate  2316  can be secured to the outer periphery support portion  2318 . For example, the reinforcement plate  2316  can be inserted into the outer periphery support portion  2318  had held in place with slots and/or tabs. As another example, the outer periphery portion  2318  can be insert molded around portions of the reinforcement plate  2316  to secure the reinforcement plate  2316  to the outer periphery boundary  2318 . Additionally, in one embodiment, the one or more tabs  2306  and/or the one or more hooks  2308  can be strengthened by features of the reinforcement plate  2316 . For example, the one or more hooks  2308  can be structurally reinforced by features of the reinforcement plate  2316  that can extend upward from the reinforcement plate  2316  into or adjacent the one or more hooks. 
       FIG. 23C  illustrates an assembly diagram for the back cover assembly  2300  according to one embodiment. The assembly of the back cover assembly  2300  can provide the interface member  2302  having the outer periphery support portion  2318  secured or integral thereto. A layer of adhesive  2320  can be provided between the reinforcement plate  2316  and the interface member  2302 . The layer of adhesive  2320  can be applied as a film, spray, tape or coating. Besides the layer of adhesive  2320 , liquid adhesive can also be deposited in certain areas where the layer of adhesive  2320  is not present. The glass member  2304  can be pressed against the layer of adhesive  2320  (and liquid adhesive) so that the glass member  2304  can be attached to the interface member  2302 . Specifically, the glass member  2304  once aligned and attached to the interface member  2302  is not only secured thereto but also has its sides (edges) protected by the outer periphery support portion  2318 . By adhering the glass member  2304  to a substantial amount of its surface area, the glass member  2404  is reliably secured, such that in the event of breakage of the glass member  2304 , pieces of the glass member  2304  will remain secured to the adhesive and this the back cover assembly  2300 . 
     Additionally, a back cover assembly can also include one or more features to facilitate image acquisition. In one embodiment, the back cover assembly  2300  can also include an opening  2322  in the interface member  2302  for image acquisition components. Within the base housing there can be provided an image acquisition device (generally, denoted as a camera), and the opening  2322  in the interface member  2302  can be aligned with the position of the image acquisition device. Additionally, the glass member  2304  can include an opening  2324  for receiving the glass piece  2310  as well as the lens holder  2314  that contains glass piece  2310 . An adhesive ring  2326  can be imposed between the lens holder  2314  and the rear side of the glass member  2304  such that the adhesive ring  2326  is disposed around the opening  2324  so as to secure the lens holder  2314  against the rear side of the glass member  2304 . 
       FIG. 24  illustrates an assembly diagram for the glass member  2304  according to one embodiment. Although the glass member  2304  is primarily a glass component form from a piece of glass  2400 , other components or materials can be adhered to the piece of glass  2400  to make it better suited for its intended use as a back cover portion of housing for an electronic device. Specifically, physical vapor deposition (PVD) of metal (e.g., aluminum) can provide marking on the piece of glass  2400 . The marking can include graphic (e.g., logos)  2404  or text  2406 . In this embodiment, the marking can be provided on an inside surface of the piece of glass  2400 . The glass member  2304  can also include a masking layer  2408 . The masking layer  2408  can also be provided on the inside surface of the piece of glass  2400 . The masking layer  2408  can color the otherwise translucent glass of the piece of glass  2400 . The masking layer  2408  can render the glass member opaque so as to obscure or hide the appearance of components behind the piece of glass  2400 . Because the marking and the masking layer  2408  are on the inside surface of the piece of glass  2400 , they are protected by the piece of glass  2400  and this unlikely to be damaged during use. Additionally, in one embodiment, a coating layer  2410  can be applied to an outer surface of the piece of glass  2400 . The coating layer  2410  can serve to reduce visibility of finger marks of a user from appearing on the outer surface of the piece of glass  2400 . The coating layer  2410  can provide an anti-fingerprinting coating (e.g., Anti-fingerprint Fluorosilicate Coating) that can reduce surface contamination (smudging, staining) on the piece of glass  2400 . 
     Miscellaneous 
     In general, the steps associated with the methods of the present invention may vary widely. Steps may be added, removed, altered, combined, and reordered without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present invention. 
     The various aspects, features, embodiments or implementations of the invention described above may be used alone or in various combinations. For example, side screws and lobster snaps may cooperate to attach a cover to a housing. 
     While this specification contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosure or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiment of the disclosure. Certain features that are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination. 
     While embodiments and applications have been shown and described, it would be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that many more modifications than mentioned above are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20200925
Publication Date: 20221004
Grant Date: 20221004
Priority Date: 20100202
Inventors: PAKULA, DAVID
DINH, RICHARD HUNG MINH
MYERS, SCOTT
TAN, TANG YEW
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H04N23/51", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0202", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/03", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B29L2031/3481", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T156/10", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B7/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1637", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0266", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/14", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0086", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T156/10", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B13/001", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1658", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1658", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0202", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1658", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0202", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/03", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B29L2031/3481", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/0266", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T156/10", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/2252", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0086", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B13/001", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B7/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1637", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/14", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 44340644