PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10705574-B2
Application Number: US-201916290655-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Accessory devices for portable electronic devices

Abstract:
An accessory device for an electronic device is disclosed. The accessory device may include one or more bodies, or segments, that are rotationally coupled to each other. One segment may include a keyboard used to provide an input or command to the electronic device. The accessory device may include an additional segment with a hinge assembly and a panel coupled to the hinge assembly. The panel is designed to receive and couple with the electronic device. The hinge assembly is designed to move the panel into different positions. For instance, the hinge assembly and the panel can be stored with a segment of the accessory device when not in use. The hinge assembly can subsequently deploy, and place the panel in a position to receive the electronic device such that the electronic device is positioned for use with the keyboard.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An accessory device for a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising:
 a segment comprising an opening that leads to an internal volume; 
 a panel capable of receiving the portable electronic device; and 
 a hinge assembly carried by the segment and coupled with the panel, the hinge assembly comprising:
 a first hinge component secured to the segment by a fastener, the first hinge component configured to rotate about a pivot point defined by the fastener, and 
 a second hinge component configured to rotate about the pivot point, 
 
 wherein:
 a first configuration comprises the first hinge component and the second hinge component positioned in the internal volume and covered by the panel, and 
 a second configuration comprises the second hinge component positioned at least partially out of the internal volume. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The accessory device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the first configuration comprises the first hinge component and the second hinge component located in the internal volume, and 
 the second configuration comprises the first hinge component remaining in the internal volume and the second hinge component positioned at least partially out of the internal volume. 
 
     
     
       3. The accessory device of  claim 2 , wherein the first hinge component remains parallel with respect to the segment in the first configuration and the second configuration. 
     
     
       4. The accessory device of  claim 1 , wherein the hinge assembly comprises:
 a platform coupled with the second hinge component; 
 a third hinge component configured to rotate about a second pivot point; and 
 a fourth hinge component coupled with the third hinge component and the platform, the fourth hinge component configured to rotate about the second pivot point. 
 
     
     
       5. The accessory device of  claim 1 , wherein the panel comprises magnets configured to magnetically couple with magnets in the portable electronic device. 
     
     
       6. The accessory device of  claim 1 , wherein the segment comprises a surface that surrounds the opening, and wherein the first configuration comprises the panel being co-planar with respect to the surface. 
     
     
       7. An accessory device for a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising:
 a first segment comprising a keyboard capable of communicating with the portable electronic device; 
 a second segment coupled with the first segment; 
 a panel that defines a receiving surface for the portable electronic device; and 
 a hinge assembly secured with the second segment and the panel, the hinge assembly comprising:
 a first hinge component, and 
 a second hinge component coupled to the first hinge component, the first hinge component and the second hinge component configured to rotate about a pivot point, wherein a rotation about the pivot point comprises i) the first hinge component rotating along a surface that is parallel to the second segment, and ii) the second hinge component rotating away from the surface and positioning the panel to receive the portable electronic device at the receiving surface. 
 
 
     
     
       8. The accessory device of  claim 7 , wherein during the rotation the first hinge component rotates simultaneously with the second hinge component. 
     
     
       9. The accessory device of  claim 7 , wherein:
 the second segment defines an internal volume, 
 the second hinge component is co-planar with respect to the first hinge component prior to the rotation, and 
 the second hinge component is at least partially out of the internal volume subsequent to the rotation. 
 
     
     
       10. The accessory device of  claim 9 , wherein the first hinge component remains in the internal volume subsequent to the rotation. 
     
     
       11. The accessory device of  claim 7 , wherein when the panel receives the portable electronic device such that the portable electronic device lacks contact with the second segment and the first segment. 
     
     
       12. The accessory device of  claim 11 , wherein when the panel and the hinge assembly position the portable electronic device over the keyboard. 
     
     
       13. The accessory device of  claim 7 , wherein the panel comprises magnets capable of magnetically coupling with the hinge assembly when the panel covers the hinge assembly. 
     
     
       14. An accessory device for a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising:
 a segment comprising an opening that leads to an internal volume; 
 a panel comprising magnets capable of coupling with portable electronic device magnets of the portable electronic device; and 
 a hinge assembly that rotationally couples the panel with the segment, the hinge assembly comprising:
 a first hinge component, and 
 a second hinge component rotationally coupled to the first hinge component, wherein the magnets magnetically couple with the second hinge component when the panel is in the opening, 
 
 wherein:
 in a stored configuration, the panel is positioned in the opening and the hinge assembly is positioned in the segment and covered by the panel and, 
 in a deployed configuration, the hinge assembly is at least partially out of the segment and positions the panel such that the panel is capable of receiving the portable electronic device. 
 
 
     
     
       15. The accessory device of  claim 14 , wherein the segment comprises a surface that surrounds the opening, and wherein the panel is co-planar with respect to the surface when the panel is positioned in the opening. 
     
     
       16. The accessory device of  claim 14 , wherein the first hinge component and the second hinge component are configured to rotate about a pivot point. 
     
     
       17. The accessory device of  claim 14 , further comprising:
 a fastener positioned in an opening of the first hinge component; and 
 a friction element positioned between the fastener and the first hinge component, wherein the fastener is rotationally driven to adjust an amount of friction provided to the first hinge component. 
 
     
     
       18. The accessory device of  claim 14 , wherein movement of the first hinge component and the second hinge components comprises the first hinge component being parallel to the segment and the second hinge component being non-parallel to the segment. 
     
     
       19. The accessory device of  claim 2 , wherein the second configuration further comprises the first hinge component and the fastener remaining fully within the internal volume. 
     
     
       20. The accessory device of  claim 2 , wherein the panel includes a size and shape capable of fully covering the opening.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/735,442, filed on Sep. 24, 2018, titled “ACCESSORY DEVICES FOR PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The following description relates to accessory devices. In particular, the following description relates to accessory devices for portable electronic devices. Accessory devices include a panel and a hinge assembly that allows the panel to move relative to remaining structural components of the accessory device. The panel can be stored in an opening of the accessory device, or deployed (using the hinge assembly) and removed from the opening to provide a receiving surface for a portable electronic device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Accessory devices can be used with electronic devices. An accessory device may include mechanical features used to hold an electronic device. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, an accessory device for a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a segment that includes an opening that leads to an internal volume. The accessory device may further include a panel capable of receiving the portable electronic device. The accessory device may further include a hinge assembly carried by the segment and coupled with the panel. In some instances, a first configuration includes the hinge assembly positioned in the internal volume and the panel positioned in the opening and covering the hinge assembly. Also, in some instances, a second configuration includes the hinge assembly positioned at least partially out of the internal volume and the panel out of the opening. 
     In another aspect, an accessory device for a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a first segment that includes a keyboard capable of communicating with the portable electronic device. The accessory device may further include a second segment coupled with the first segment. The accessory device may further include a panel that defines a receiving surface for the portable electronic device. The accessory device may further include a hinge assembly secured with the second segment and the panel. The hinge assembly may include a first hinge component. The hinge assembly may further include a second hinge component coupled to the first hinge component. The first hinge component and the second hinge component may be configured to rotate about a pivot point. In some instances, a rotation about the pivot point includes i) the first hinge component rotating along a surface, and ii) the second hinge component rotating away from the surface and positioning the panel to receive the portable electronic device at the receiving surface. 
     In another aspect, an accessory device for a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a segment comprising an opening that leads to an internal volume. The accessory device may further include a panel. The accessory device may further include a hinge assembly that rotationally couples the panel with the segment. The accessory device is capable of different configuration. For example, in some instances, the accessory device defines a stored configuration. In the stored configuration, the panel is positioned in the opening and the hinge assembly is positioned in the segment and covered by the panel. In some instances, the accessory device defines a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, the hinge assembly is at least partially out of the segment and positions the panel such that the panel is capable of receiving the portable electronic device. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of the accessory device shown in  FIG. 1 , showing the panel extended away from the segment; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an exploded view of the hinge assembly of the accessory device shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , showing the components of the hinge assembly; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly, showing the components assembled together; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of the accessory device, showing the hinge assembly and the panel within the segment; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly, showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a side view of the accessory device, showing the hinge assembly supporting and positioning the panel; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a side view of the accessory device, showing the accessory device carrying the portable electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of an accessory device, showing the accessory device carrying the electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of an accessory device with the hinge assembly shown in  FIG. 11 , showing the accessory device carrying the electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a cross sectional view of the hinge assembly shown in  FIG. 13 , showing the relationship between the fastener and the hinge component; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a plan view of the accessory device shown in  FIG. 13 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly shown in  FIG. 16 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly shown in  FIG. 18 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly shown in  FIG. 20 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly; 
         FIG. 22  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly shown in  FIG. 22 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly; 
         FIG. 24  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 25  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly shown in  FIG. 24 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly; 
         FIG. 26  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device, showing a panel integrated into a housing of the electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 27  illustrates an isometric view of the electronic device shown in  FIG. 26 , showing the panel extended from the housing; and 
         FIG. 28  illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     The following disclosure relates to accessories devices suitable for use with portable electronic devices, such as mobile wireless communication devices (smartphones) and tablet computer devices. Accessory devices described herein may include a hinge assembly and a panel coupled to the hinge assembly. The hinge assembly can be rotationally driven by the hinge assembly to drive the panel away from other structural components of the accessory device. The panel can subsequently provide a receiving surface for an electronic device. The panel may include magnets that magnetically couple with magnets in the electronic device. In this regard, the accessory device does not require mechanical devices (such as sidewalls that constrain the electronic device) or other interlocking devices, as the magnetic attraction between the magnets provides a sufficient coupling force. When the electronic device is no longer in use, the hinge assembly and the panel can be stored in the accessory device. 
     Traditional hinge assemblies rely upon engagement between a shaft and a clip in frictional engagement with the shaft. The shaft is rotationally driven with respect to the clip (or vice versa), and when the rotation ceases the shaft remains in the same location due to the frictional engagement. However, one drawback of the shaft-clip hinge assembly is that the amount of friction available is dependent upon the diameter of the shaft. In this regard, when the shaft-clip hinge assembly is required to hold a larger electronic device, such as a tablet computer device, the amount of frictional force must increases. This typically requires an increase in shaft diameter to increase the surface area of the shaft, as the frictional force is a function of shaft size. It is generally not desirable to increase the size of these components, particularly when the hinge assembly is located within the accessory device, as space for storing these components is limited. 
     Hinge assemblies described herein overcome these challenges by substituting shafts and friction clips with other components. For instance, a hinge assembly described herein may include a first hinge component coupled to a second hinge component by a joint. The first and second hinge components may include generally flat components, as compared to the circular friction clips and shafts. The first and second hinge components allow the hinge assembly to transition from a stored configuration to a deployed configuration, and vice versa. In the stored configuration, the first and second hinge components lie flat, i.e., the first and second hinge components are generally in line with a horizontal plane. Further, in the stored configuration, both the first and second hinge components are positioned in the accessory device. Also, in the stored configuration, the panel is positioned in an opening of the accessory device, and generally covers the first and second hinge components. In the deployed configuration, the panel is removed from the opening and supported by the hinge assembly, and in particular, the second hinge component. The panel magnets can magnetically couple with the electronic device magnets and the electronic device is in an upright position. 
     When transitioning from the stored configuration to the deployed configuration, the first hinge component rotates about a pivot point, but remains generally flat. However, the rotation of the first hinge component causes the second hinge component to move out of the flat configuration, and lifts the second hinge component into a support configuration for the panel. The second hinge component may rotate about the same pivot point as the first hinge component. Additionally, the second hinge component may rotate about an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation may lie in a plane defined by the first hinge component. The hinge assembly may include a third and fourth hinge component with features similar to those of the first and second hinge components, respectively. In the deployed configuration, the weight of the electronic device is supported by the second and fourth hinge components, which are supported by the first and third hinge components, respectively. 
     In some instances, the second and fourth hinge components are secured to the panel. However, in some embodiments, hinge assembly further a central component coupled to the panel, as well as the second and fourth hinge components. Accordingly, the central component moves in conjunction with these coupled components. 
     Hinge assemblies described offer several advantages over traditional hinge assemblies. For instance, hinge assemblies described herein do not rely upon a shaft and associated size (diameter) for frictional support, as the frictional engagement does not occur between a shaft and another elements. Rather, hinge assemblies described herein provide stability in that frictional forces lie outside the components (such as the panel that directly supports the electronic device), and are less dependent upon the size and shape of the hinge components. Also, the configuration of the hinge assemblies described herein change significantly between the stored and deployed configuration. This allows the hinge assembly to lie flat in the accessory device and hidden from view (in the stored configuration), and subsequently transition to a three-dimensional support structure to receive support the electronic device (in the deployed configuration). 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-28 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device  100 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The accessory device  100  is designed for use with portable electronic devices (not shown in  FIG. 1 ), such as mobile wireless communication devices (smartphones) and tablet computer devices. In this regard, the accessory device  100  may be referred to as a case, a cover, a protective case, a protective cover, a folding cover, or the like. As shown, the accessory device  100  includes a segment  102   a , a segment  102   b , and a segment  102   c , with the segment  102   c  being an optional segment. As indicated by the arrows, the segment  102   a  and the segment  102   c  are rotatable with respect to the segment  102   b . For example, the segment  102   a  and the segment  102   b  may fold over a front surface or a back surface (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) of the segment  102   b , with the back surface being opposite the front surface. This allows the accessory device  100  to reduce its overall profile in the X-Y plane, as shown in  FIG. 1 . Also, the segment  102   a , the segment  102   b , and the segment  102   c  may combine to define a size and shape of the portable electronic device. In some embodiments, when the segment  102   c  is not present, the segment  102   a  may combine with the segment  102   b  to define a size and shape of the portable electronic device. 
     The accessory device  100  may further include a panel  104  designed to extend from the segment  102   a  and receive a portable electronic device. In this regard, the accessory device may include a hinge assembly coupled to the panel  104 . This will be shown later. When stored, the hinge assembly is hidden in the segment  102   a  and covered by the panel  104 . In order to retain the portable electronic device, the panel  104  may include magnets  106  (shown as dotted lines) that magnetically couple with magnets in the portable electronic device. As shown, the panel  104  is stored in the segment  102   a  and is co-planar, or flush, with respect to a surface  110  of the segment  102   a . In order to lift and remove the panel  104  from the segment  102   a , the panel  104  may include a recess  108  that allows a user to engage and move the panel  104 . Accordingly, the panel  104  may move by manual means. 
     The segment  102   b  may include a keyboard  112  designed to provide inputs or commands to the portable electronic device. In this regard, the keyboard  112  may be in communication with the portable electronic device through electrical contacts (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) on the panel  104  that are in contact with electrical contacts (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) of the portable electronic device, and/or by wireless communication (such as Bluetooth® communication, as a non-limiting example). The keyboard  112  may be configured in accordance a QWERTY configuration. In some embodiments, the panel  104  is driven by a motor (not shown in  FIG. 1 ). The command to initiate movement of the panel  104  may be provided through depressing a key of the keyboard  112 , or by depressing a button that can be located on any one of the aforementioned segments. 
     Although not shown, the segment  102   c  may include an additional input device (or devices). For example, the segment  102   c  may include a touch pad and/or a display that provide a dynamic row of input keys that changes in accordance with a software application running on a display (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) of the portable electronic device. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of the accessory device  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , showing the panel  104  extended away from the segment  102   a . As shown, the accessory device  100  includes a hinge assembly  114  designed to move the panel  104  from a stored configuration (shown in  FIG. 1 ) to a deployed configuration (shown in  FIG. 2 ) to receive a portable electronic device  180 , and position the portable electronic device  180  in a user-friendly configuration. In the deployed configuration, the hinge assembly  114  extends from an internal volume within the segment  102   a . Also, in the deployed configuration, the panel  104  is moved out of an opening  116  (that leads to the internal volume) and provides a receiving surface  118  for the portable electronic device  180 . Further, in order to hold/suspend the portable electronic device  180 , magnets  106  in the panel  104  magnetically couple with magnets  186  in the portable electronic device  180 . Accordingly, when the magnets  106  magnetically couple with the magnets  186 , the portable electronic device  180  is held against the receiving surface  118  of the panel  104 . Further, the portable electronic device  180  is positioned such that a display  188  is aligned with the keyboard  112 , and the display  188  and the keyboard  112  are in a desired position for a user. 
     Referring again to the magnets  106  in the accessory device  100 , when the segment  102   a  is formed from a magnetically attractable material (such as a ferromagnetic material) or includes a magnet (not shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ), the magnets  106 , being secured with the panel  104 , are capable of magnetically coupling the panel to the segment  102   a . The resulting magnetic attraction force is used to retain the panel  104  in the segment  102   a , as shown in  FIG. 1 . This provide a flush, or co-planar, relationship between the panel  104  and a surface of the segment  102   a.    
       FIG. 3  illustrates an exploded view of the hinge assembly  114  of the accessory device  100  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , showing the components of the hinge assembly  114 . As shown, the hinge assembly  114  may include multiple (segmented) hinge components that can be joined together. For example, the hinge assembly  114  may include a hinge component  120   a  that couples with a hinge component  120   b  by a shaft  122   a  that passes through the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   b . The shaft  122   a  allows for relative movement between through the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   b . In this regard, the connection between the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   b  defines a joint. In order to secure the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   b  to a segment (such as the segment  102   a , shown in  FIG. 1 ), a fastener  124   a  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  120   a.    
     The hinge assembly  114  may further include a hinge component  120   c  that couples with a hinge component  120   d  by a shaft  122   b  that passes through the hinge component  120   c  and the hinge component  120   d . The shaft  122   b  allows for relative movement between through the hinge component  120   c  and the hinge component  120   d . In this regard, the connection between the hinge component  120   c  and the hinge component  120   d  defines a joint. In order to secure the hinge component  120   c  and the hinge component  120   d  to a segment (such as the segment  102   a , shown in  FIG. 1 ), a fastener  124   b  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  120   c.    
     The hinge assembly  114  may further include a hinge component  120   e . The hinge component  120   e  may be referred to as a central component, central hinge component, or a platform, as non-limiting examples. The hinge component  120   e  is designed to receive a panel (such as the panel  104 , shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ). The hinge component  120   e  may couple with the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   d  by a flexible member  126   a  and a flexible member  126   b , respectively. The flexible member  126   a  and the flexible member  126   b  include one or more flexible materials. Also, the flexible member  126   a  may adhesively secure with the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   e , and create a joint that allows movement between the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   e . The flexible member  126   b  may adhesively secure with the hinge component  120   d  and the hinge component  120   e , and create a joint that allows movement between the hinge component  120   d  and the hinge component  120   e . It should be noted that the flexible member  126   a  may not be required if the hinge component  120   b  is secured with the hinge component  120   e  in a manner that allows relative rotational movement between the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   e . Similarly, the flexible member  126   b  may not be required if the hinge component  120   d  is secured with the hinge component  120   e  in a manner that allows relative rotational movement between the hinge component  120   e  and the hinge component  120   e . For example, although now shown, additional shafts (similar to the shaft  122   a  and the shaft  122   b ) may be integrated into the hinge assembly  114  to replace the aforementioned flexible members. 
     The hinge components are designed to position a panel in either a stored or a deployed configuration. In the stored configuration, the hinge components generally lie flat along a plane defined by the X-Y plane. When transitioning from the stored to the deployed configuration, the components can move simultaneously. However, the hinge components may move in different directions. For example, when the hinge component  120   a  is rotated in a clockwise direction  121   a , the hinge component  120   a  remains in the plane and the hinge component  120   b  is rotated out of the plane (defined by the X-Y plane) such that the position of the hinge component  120   b  includes a three-dimension position in the X-, Y-, and Z-axes. Further, the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   b  are designed to rotate about the fastener  124   a . In this regard, the fastener  124   a  may define a common pivot axis, or common pivot point, for the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   b . During the described movement of the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   b , the hinge component  120   c  and the hinge component  120   d  are also designed to move. For example, when the hinge component  120   c  is rotated in a counter-clockwise direction  121   b , the hinge component  120   c  remains in the plane and the hinge component  120   d  is rotated out of the plane (defined by the X-Y plane) such that the position of the hinge component  120   d  includes a three-dimension position in the X-, Y-, and Z-axes, similar to the hinge component  120   b . Further, the hinge component  120   c  and the hinge component  120   d  are designed to rotate about the fastener  124   b . In this regard, the fastener  124   b  may define a common pivot axis, or common pivot point, for the hinge component  120   c  and the hinge component  120   d . Also, the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   d  can combine to move the hinge component  120   e.    
       FIG. 4  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly  114 , showing the components assembled together. As shown, the hinge assembly  114  can lie flat in a plane (or planar surface) defined by the X-Y plane when the hinge assembly  114  is assembled. The fastener  124   a  passes through an opening of the hinge component  120   a  to secure with a segment (not shown in  FIG. 4 ), and the fastener  124   b  passes through an opening of the hinge component  120   c  to secure with a segment (not shown in  FIG. 4 ). Also, the flexible member  126   a  secures with the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   e , and the flexible member  126   b  secures with the hinge component  120   d  and the hinge component  120   e.    
     As shown, the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   e  are designed such that they mate along a diagonal line. This diagonal line, when extended, intersects the fastener  124   a . The shaft  122   a  defines a linear path that, when extended, also intersects the fastener  124   a . Similarly, the hinge component  120   d  and the hinge component  120   d  are designed such that they mate along a diagonal line that, when extended, intersects the fastener  124   b . The shaft  122   b  defines a linear path that, when extended, also intersects the fastener  124   b . In this manner, the fastener  124   a  and the fastener  124   b  each define a pivot point for the hinge assembly  114 . This will be further illustrated below. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of the accessory device  100 , showing the hinge assembly  114  and the panel  104  within the segment  102   a . As shown, the panel  104  at least partially covers the hinge assembly  114 . The panel  104  may combine with the surface  110  to fully cover the hinge assembly  114  in the stored configuration, as shown in  FIG. 5 . Also, the hinge components may include a metal. Further, the hinge components of the hinge assembly  114  may include a magnetically attractable material, such as ferrite or a rare Earth magnetic material (as non-limiting examples). In this manner, the magnets  106  in the panel  104  can magnetically couple with the hinge assembly  114 . This magnetic coupling may not only provide an attraction force that assists in transitioning the panel  104  and the hinge assembly  114  to the stored configuration, but also provides a force that retains the panel  104  in a manner such that the panel  104  remains co-planar with respect to the surface  110 . As a result, the accessory device  100  provides a consistent position, and more aesthetically pleasing configuration, of the panel  104 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly  114 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly  114 . The dotted lines represent the original position of the hinge assembly  114  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). As shown, the hinge component  120   a  is rotated clockwise and the hinge component  120   c  is rotated counter-clockwise. However, the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   c  remain on, or along, the X-Y plane, and the rotation of the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   c  causes the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   d , respectively, to at least partially rotate out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. Also, the rotation of the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   d  cause the hinge component  120   e  to at least partially rotate out of the X-Y plane. Also, the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   b  rotate about the fastener  124   a , while the hinge component  120   c  and the hinge component  120   d  rotate about the fastener  124   b . Accordingly, both the fastener  124   a  and the fastener  124   b  each define a pivot point. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a side view of the accessory device  100 , showing the hinge assembly  114  supporting and positioning the panel  104 . The hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   c  remain flat or horizontal and parallel (or at least substantially parallel) with respect to the segment  102   a , while the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   d  are at least partially out of the opening  116 . Also, the panel  104  is secured to the hinge assembly  114  along the hinge component  120   e , with the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   d  providing a three-dimensional support structure. Also, the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   d  are positioned diagonally with respect to the hinge component  120   a  and the hinge component  120   c , respectively. Also, the hinge component  120   a  is in frictional engagement with the segment  102   a , and as a result, the frictional forces between the hinge component  120   a  and the segment  102   a  support the hinge component  120   b  such that the hinge component  120   b  remains in an upright position. Similarly, the hinge component  120   c  is in frictional engagement with the segment  102   a , and as a result, the frictional forces between the hinge component  120   c  and the segment  102   a  support the hinge component  120   d  such that the hinge component  120   d  remains in an upright position. In this regard, at least some frictional force are not between the hinge components of the hinge assembly  114 , but rather, with other features external to, or outside, the hinge assembly  114 . Also, the frictional forces used to maintain an upright and deployed position of the hinge assembly  114  are not dependent upon the thickness of the hinge components themselves. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates a side view of the accessory device  100 , showing the accessory device  100  carrying the portable electronic device  180 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the portable electronic device  180  is supported by the hinge assembly  114 . Also, the magnets  106  in the panel  104  are magnetically coupled with the magnets  186  in the portable electronic device  180 . Also, the hinge assembly  114  positions the portable electronic device  180  at an angle  190  with respect to the keyboard  112 . The angle  190  is approximately 100 degrees. Generally, the hinge assembly  114  can be designed to position the portable electronic device  180  such that the angle  190  is approximately in the range of 90 to 135 degrees. 
       FIGS. 9-25  illustrate alternate embodiments of hinge assemblies. The accessory device  100  (shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ) may substitute the hinge assembly  114  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) with any of the hinge assemblies shown in  FIGS. 9-25 . 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly  214 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The hinge assembly  214  may include features previously described herein for another hinge assembly. As shown, the hinge assembly  214  includes a hinge component  220   a  coupled with a hinge component  220   b  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  220   a  and the hinge component  220   b , and a hinge component  220   c  coupled with a hinge component  220   d  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  220   c  and the hinge component  220   d . In order to secure the hinge component  220   a  and the hinge component  220   b  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 9 ), a fastener  224   a  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  220   a . In order to secure the hinge component  220   c  and the hinge component  220   d  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 9 ), a fastener  224   b  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  220   c.    
     The fastener  224   a  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  220   a  and the hinge component  220   b , and the fastener  224   b  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  220   c  and the hinge component  220   d . For example, the hinge component  220   b  and the hinge component  220   e  are designed such that they mate along a diagonal line. This diagonal line, when extended, intersects the fastener  224   a . A shaft  222   a  (connecting the hinge component  220   a  with the hinge component  220   b ) defines a linear path that, when extended, also intersects the fastener  224   a . Similarly, the hinge component  220   d  and the hinge component  220   d  are designed such that they mate along a diagonal line that, when extended, intersects the fastener  224   b . A shaft  222   b  (connecting the hinge component  220   c  with the hinge component  220   d ) defines a linear path that, when extended, also intersects the fastener  224   b . In this manner, the fastener  224   a  and the fastener  224   b  each define a pivot point for the hinge assembly  214 . 
     The hinge assembly  214  may further include hinge component  220   e . The hinge component  220   e  designed to receive a panel (not shown in  FIG. 9 ) used as a receiving surface for a portable electronic device. The hinge component  220   e  may couple with the hinge component  220   b  and the hinge component  220   d  by flexible members (not shown in  FIG. 9 ) that form joints to allow movement between the hinge component  220   e  and both the hinge component  220   b  and the hinge component  220   d.    
     The hinge assembly  214  can be positioned in both a stored configuration and a deployed configuration, in a manner previously described. However, the layout of the hinge components may differ as compared the hinge assembly  114  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). For example, the hinge component  220   b  does not extend end-to-end with the hinge component  220   a , as compared to the hinge component  120   b  and the hinge component  120   a  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). Further, the hinge component  220   d  does not extend end-to-end with the hinge component  220   c , as compared to the hinge component  120   c  and the hinge component  120   d  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). Also, the hinge component  220   e  extends end-to-end with the hinge component  220   b  and the hinge component  220   c , and accordingly, the hinge component  220   e  does not extend end-to-end with the hinge component  220   a  or the hinge component  220   c . However, the hinge component  220   b  shares a common axis of rotation, defined by the fastener  224   a , with the hinge component  220   a , and the hinge component  220   d  shares a common axis of rotation, defined by the fastener  224   b , with the hinge component  220   c.    
       FIG. 10  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of an accessory device  200 , showing the accessory device  200  carrying the portable electronic device  180 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The accessory device  200  may include any features described herein for an accessory device. As shown, the portable electronic device  180  is supported by the hinge assembly  214  (shown in  FIG. 9 ). Also, the accessory device  200  includes a panel  204  that includes magnets  206  that magnetically couple with the magnets  186  in the portable electronic device  180 . Also, the hinge assembly  214  positions the portable electronic device  180  at an angle  290  with respect to a keyboard  212  located on a segment  202   b  of the accessory device  200 . The angle  290  may include any angle described for the angle  190  (shown in  FIG. 8 ). 
     The hinge assembly  214  can carry the portable electronic device  180  such that the portable electronic device  180  is suspended over a segment  202   a  of the hinge assembly  214 . In other words, the portable electronic device  180 , when engaged with the panel  204  and carried by the hinge assembly  214 , is not positioned on the segment  202   b . Also, as shown in  FIG. 10 , based on the dimensions of the hinge component  220   b  and the hinge component  220   e , the hinge component  220   b  and the hinge component  220   e  do not extend to the segment  202   a , and a space or clearance exists between the hinge assembly  214  and the segment  202   a.    
       FIG. 11  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly  314 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The hinge assembly  314  may incorporate features from other hinge assemblies described herein. As shown, the hinge assembly  314  includes a hinge component  320   a  coupled with a hinge component  320   b  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  320   a  and the hinge component  320   b , and a hinge component  320   c  coupled with a hinge component  320   d  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  320   c  and the hinge component  320   d.    
     As compared to prior embodiments, the hinge assembly  314  includes modifications. For example, the hinge component  320   a  includes a fastener  324   a  that passes through a slot  332   a  formed in the hinge component  320   a , and the hinge component  320   c  includes a fastener  324   b  that passes through a slot  332   b  formed in the hinge component  320   b . The fastener  324   a  and the fastener  324   b  may secure the hinge assembly  314  to an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 11 ). 
     Unlike prior embodiments, the fasteners shown in  FIG. 11  do not represent axes of rotation for the hinge components. Furthermore, the axes of rotation of the hinge assembly  314  lie outside the hinge components of the hinge assembly  314 . For example, based upon the geometry of the hinge component  320   b , the hinge component  320   a  and the hinge component  320   b  share an axis of rotation  328   a . Also, based upon the geometry of the hinge component  320   d , the hinge component  320   c  and the hinge component  320   d  share an axis of rotation  328   b . As shown, the axis of rotation  328   a  and the axis of rotation  328   b  lie outside the hinge assembly  314 . 
     The hinge assembly  314  may further include hinge component  320   e . The hinge component  320   e  designed to receive a panel (not shown in  FIG. 11 ) used as a receiving surface for a portable electronic device. The hinge component  320   e  may couple with the hinge component  320   b  and the hinge component  320   d  by flexible members (not shown in  FIG. 11 ) that form joints to allow movement between the hinge component  320   e  and both the hinge component  320   b  and the hinge component  320   d . During motion of the hinge assembly  314 , the dimensions of the slot  332   a  and the slot  332   b  allow the hinge component  320   a  and the hinge component  320   c , respectively, to move. The hinge component  320   a  and the hinge component  320   c  can be guided at least partially by the fastener  324   a  and the fastener  324   b , respectively. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of an accessory device  300 , showing the accessory device  300  carrying the portable electronic device  180 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The accessory device  300  may include any features described herein for an accessory device. As shown, the portable electronic device  180  is supported by the hinge assembly  314 . Also, the accessory device  300  includes a panel  304  that includes magnets  306  that magnetically couple with the magnets  186  in the portable electronic device  180 . Also, the hinge assembly  314  positions the portable electronic device  180  at an angle  390  with respect to a keyboard  312  located on a segment  302   b  of the accessory device  300 . The angle  390  may include any angle described for the angle  190  (shown in  FIG. 8 ). 
     The hinge assembly  314  can carry the portable electronic device  180  such that the portable electronic device  180  is suspended over a segment  302   a  of the hinge assembly  314 . Furthermore, the hinge assembly  314  can carry the portable electronic device  180  such that the portable electronic device  180  is suspended over the keyboard  312 . As shown, the axis of rotation  328   a  lies in the segment  302   b  and outside of the hinge assembly  314 . The axis of rotation  328   b  (not shown in  FIG. 12 ) may also lie in the segment  302   b  and outside of the hinge assembly  314 . Also, based upon the dimensions of the hinge component  320   b  and the hinge component  320   e , the hinge component  320   b  and the hinge component  320   e  do not extend to the segment  302   a , and a space or clearance exists between the hinge assembly  314  and the segment  302   a . It should be noted that the accessory device  300  may substitute other hinge assemblies described herein, such as the hinge assembly  514  shown in  FIGS. 16 and 17  below. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly  414 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The hinge assembly  414  may include features from other hinge assemblies described herein. As shown, the hinge assembly  414  includes a hinge component  420   a  coupled with a hinge component  420   b  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  420   a  and the hinge component  420   b , and a hinge component  420   c  coupled with a hinge component  420   d  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  420   c  and the hinge component  420   d . In order to secure the hinge component  420   a  and the hinge component  420   b  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 13 ), a fastener  424   a  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  420   a . In order to secure the hinge component  420   c  and the hinge component  420   d  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 13 ), a fastener  424   b  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  420   c . The fastener  424   a  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  420   a  and the hinge component  420   b , and the fastener  424   b  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  420   c  and the hinge component  420   d.    
     The hinge assembly  414  may further include hinge component  420   e . The hinge component  420   e  is designed to receive a panel (not shown in  FIG. 13 ) used as a receiving surface for a portable electronic device. The hinge component  420   e  may couple with the hinge component  420   b  and the hinge component  420   d  by flexible members (not shown in  FIG. 13 ) that form joints to allow movement between the hinge component  420   e  and both the hinge component  420   b  and the hinge component  420   d.    
     The hinge assembly  414  incorporate additional features designed to provide frictional forces. For example, the hinge component  420   a  may include a slot  432   a  and a fastener  434   a  passing through the slot  432   a , and the hinge component  420   c  may include a slot  432   b  and a fastener  434   b  passing through the slot  432   b . The fastener  434   a  and the fastener  434   b  may provide a clamping force to the hinge component  420   a  and the hinge component  420   c , respectively, thereby adding frictional forces. This may provide additional support when the hinge assembly  414  is in a deployed configuration (previously shown for other hinge assemblies) and holding a portable electronic device. Also, the slot  432   a  and the slot  432   b  can be curved to define a circular arch centered at the fastener  424   a  and the fastener  424   b , respectively, as the fasteners each represent an axis of rotation. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a cross sectional view of the hinge assembly  414  shown in  FIG. 13 , showing the relationship between the fastener  434   a  and the hinge component  420   a . As shown, the fastener  434   a  passes through the slot  432   a  (labeled in  FIG. 13 ) of the hinge component  420   a  and couples with a securing member  436 . Further, the fastener  434   a  passes through a friction element  438   a  and a friction element  438   b , each of which may include a washer. The friction element  438   a  and the friction element  438   b  engage opposing sides of the hinge component  420   a . When the hinge assembly  414  transitions from a stored to a deployed configuration (previously shown for other hinge assemblies), the hinge component  420   a  moves relative to the friction element  438   a  and the friction element  438   b . However, the friction element  438   a  and the friction element  438   b  can provide frictional forces that cause the hinge component  420   a  to remain in a static position. In this regard, the friction element  438   a  and the friction element  438   b  support the hinge component  420   a  by resisting movement when, for example, the hinge assembly  414  (and in particular, the hinge component  420   a ) is supporting the weight of a portable electronic device. As a result, the hinge component  420   a  (as well as other hinge components) need not include added thickness and can remain relatively thin. Accordingly, an accessory device carrying the hinge assembly  414  does not include increased weight due to the hinge assembly  414 . It should be noted that the hinge component  420   c  and the fastener  434   b  (shown in  FIG. 13 ) may include similar features described for the hinge component  420   a  and the fastener  434   a , respectively. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly  414  shown in  FIG. 13 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly  414 . As shown, the hinge component  420   a  is rotated clockwise and the hinge component  420   c  is rotated counter-clockwise. However, the hinge component  420   a  and the hinge component  420   c  remain on, or along, the X-Y plane. Due to the rotation of the hinge component  420   a , the hinge component  420   b  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. Also, due to the rotation of the hinge component  420   c , the hinge component  420   d  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. The hinge component  420   a  and the hinge component  420   b  rotate about the fastener  424   a , and the hinge component  420   c  and the hinge component  420   d  rotate about the fastener  424   b . Also, the rotation of the hinge component  420   b  and the hinge component  420   d  cause the hinge component  420   e  to also rotate out of the X-Y plane. The hinge component  420   a  and the hinge component  420   c  move/rotate relative to the fastener  434   a  and the fastener  434   b , respectively. In this regard, the fastener  434   a  and the fastener  434   b  provide a frictional force to the hinge component  420   a  and the hinge component  420   c , respectively. Also, in order to adjust the frictional (clamping) forces provided by the fastener  434   a  and the fastener  434   b , the fastener  434   a  and the fastener  434   b  can be rotationally driven to increase or decrease the frictional forces. 
       FIG. 16  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly  514 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The hinge assembly  514  may include features from other hinge assemblies described herein. As shown, the hinge assembly  514  includes a hinge component  520   a  coupled with a hinge component  520   b  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  220   a  and the hinge component  220   b , and a hinge component  520   c  coupled with a hinge component  520   d  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  520   c  and the hinge component  520   d . The hinge assembly  514  may further include hinge component  520   e . The hinge component  520   e  designed to receive a panel (not shown in  FIG. 16 ) used as a receiving surface for a portable electronic device. The hinge component  520   e  may couple with the hinge component  520   b  and the hinge component  520   d  by flexible members (not shown in  FIG. 16 ) that form joints to allow movement between the hinge component  520   e  and both the hinge component  520   b  and the hinge component  520   d.    
     The hinge assembly  514  may incorporate additional features designed to provide frictional forces. For example, the hinge component  520   a  may include a slot  532   a  and a fastener  534   a  passing through the slot  532   a , and the hinge component  520   c  may include a slot  532   b  and a fastener  534   b  passing through the slot  532   b . The fastener  534   a  and the fastener  534   b  may provide a clamping force to the hinge component  520   a  and the hinge component  520   c , respectively, thereby adding frictional forces. This may provide additional support when the hinge assembly  514  is in a deployed configuration (previously shown for other hinge assemblies) and holding a portable electronic device. Also, in order to adjust the frictional (clamping) forces provided by the fastener  534   a  and the fastener  534   b , the fastener  534   a  and the fastener  534   b  can be rotationally driven to increase or decrease the frictional forces. 
     Also, the hinge assembly  514  may include different pivot points. For example, the hinge component  520   a  may include a fastener  544   a  that passes through the slot  532   a , and the hinge component  520   c  may include a fastener  544   b  that passes through the slot  532   b . The fastener  544   a  and the fastener  544   b  may secure the hinge component  520   a  and the hinge component  520   c , respectively, to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 16 ). Also, the fastener  544   a  and the fastener  544   b  may define an axis of rotation for the hinge component  520   a  and the hinge component  520   c , respectively. Alternatively, the hinge assembly  514  may include an axis of rotation  528   a  and an axis of rotation  528   b , both of which lie outside the perimeter of the components of the hinge assembly  514 . In these instances, the slot  532   a  and the slot  532   b  can be curved to define a circular arch centered at the axis of rotation  528   a  and the axis of rotation  528   a , respectively. 
       FIG. 17  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly  514  shown in  FIG. 16 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly  514 . As shown, the hinge component  520   a  is rotated clockwise and the hinge component  520   c  is rotated counter-clockwise. However, the hinge component  520   a  and the hinge component  520   c  remain on, or along, the X-Y plane. Due to the rotation of the hinge component  520   a , the hinge component  520   b  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. Also, due to the rotation of the hinge component  520   c , the hinge component  520   d  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. The hinge component  520   a  and the hinge component  520   c  can rotate about the fastener  544   a  and the fastener  544   b , respectively. Also, the rotation of the hinge component  520   b  and the hinge component  520   d  cause the hinge component  520   e  to also rotate out of the X-Y plane. By adjusting (for example, rotationally driving) the fastener  534   a  and the fastener  534   b , the inclination, or tilt, of the hinge component  520   a  and the hinge component  520   c , respectively, can be controlled. Also, the fastener  544   a  and the fastener  544   b  provide centrally located pivot points for the hinge component  520   a  and the hinge component  520   c , respectively. Alternatively, when the axis of rotation  528   a  and the axis of rotation  528   b  are implemented with the hinge assembly  514 , the hinge components may rotate about the axis of rotation  528   a  and the axis of rotation  528   b.    
       FIG. 18  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly  614 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The hinge assembly  614  may include features from other hinge assemblies described herein. As shown, the hinge assembly  614  includes a hinge component  620   a  coupled with a hinge component  620   b  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  620   a  and the hinge component  620   b , and a hinge component  620   c  coupled with a hinge component  620   d  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  620   c  and the hinge component  620   d . In order to secure the hinge component  620   a  and the hinge component  620   b  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 18 ), a fastener  624   a  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  620   a . In order to secure the hinge component  620   c  and the hinge component  620   d  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 18 ), a fastener  624   b  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  620   c . The fastener  624   a  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  620   a  and the hinge component  620   b , and the fastener  624   b  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  620   c  and the hinge component  620   d . The hinge assembly  614  may further include hinge component  620   e . The hinge component  620   e  designed to receive a panel (not shown in  FIG. 18 ) used as a receiving surface for a portable electronic device. The hinge component  620   e  may couple with the hinge component  620   b  and the hinge component  620   d  by flexible members (not shown in  FIG. 18 ) that allow relative movement between the hinge component  620   e  and both hinge component  620   b  and the hinge component  620   d.    
     The hinge assembly  614  incorporate additional features designed to place the hinge assembly  614  in discrete positions. For example, the hinge component  620   a  may include a slot  632   a  and a slot  632   b . The hinge assembly  614  may include a roller element  646   a  designed to hold the hinge component  620   a , and in turn, the hinge assembly  614 , in different positions. As shown, the roller element  646   a  is in the slot  632   a , and the hinge assembly  614  is in a stored configuration. However, when the hinge assembly  614  transitions to a deployed configuration, the hinge component  620   a  rotates relative to the roller element  646   a , and the roller element  646   a  moves into the slot  632   b . Similarly, the hinge component  620   c  may include a slot  632   c  and a slot  632   d . The hinge assembly  614  may include a roller element  646   b  designed to hold the hinge component  620   c , and in turn, the hinge assembly  614 , in different positions. As shown, the roller element  646   b  is in the slot  632   c , and the hinge assembly  614  is in a stored configuration. However, when the hinge assembly  614  transitions to a deployed configuration, the hinge component  620   c  rotates relative to the roller element  646   b , and the roller element  646   b  moves into the slot  632   d.    
       FIG. 19  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly  614  shown in  FIG. 18 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly  614 . As shown, the hinge component  620   a  is rotated clockwise and the hinge component  620   c  is rotated counter-clockwise. However, the hinge component  620   a  and the hinge component  620   c  remain on, or along, the X-Y plane. Due to the rotation of the hinge component  620   a , the hinge component  620   b  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. Also, due to the rotation of the hinge component  620   c , the hinge component  620   d  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. The hinge component  620   a  and the hinge component  620   b  can rotate about the fastener  624   a , and the hinge component  620   c  and the hinge component  620   d  can rotate about the fastener  624   b . The rotation of the hinge component  620   b  and the hinge component  620   d  cause the hinge component  620   e  to also rotate out of the X-Y plane. Also, the roller element  646   a  moves into the slot  632   b , and the roller element  646   b  moves into the slot  632   d . The roller element  646   a  and the roller element  646   b  provide a force to the hinge component  620   a  and the hinge component  620   c , respectively, to maintain the hinge assembly  614  in the deployed configuration, even when the hinge assembly  614  is supporting the weight of a portable electronic device (not shown in  FIG. 19 ). 
       FIG. 20  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly  714 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The hinge assembly  714  may include features from other hinge assemblies described herein. As shown, the hinge assembly  714  includes a hinge component  720   a  coupled with a hinge component  720   b  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  720   a  and the hinge component  720   b , and a hinge component  720   c  that couples with a hinge component  720   d  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  720   c  and the hinge component  720   d . In order to secure the hinge component  720   a  and the hinge component  720   b  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 20 ), a fastener  724   a  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  720   a . In order to secure the hinge component  720   c  and the hinge component  720   d  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 20 ), a fastener  724   b  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  720   c . The fastener  724   a  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  720   a  and the hinge component  720   b , and the fastener  724   b  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  720   c  and the hinge component  720   d ._The hinge assembly  714  may further include hinge component  720   e . The hinge component  720   e  designed to receive a panel (not shown in  FIG. 20 ) used as a receiving surface for a portable electronic device. The hinge component  720   e  may couple with the hinge component  720   b  and the hinge component  720   d  by flexible members (not shown in  FIG. 20 ) that allow relative movement between the hinge component  720   e  and both the hinge component  720   b  and the hinge component  720   d.    
     The hinge assembly  714  incorporate additional features designed to place the hinge assembly  714  in discrete positions. For example, the hinge component  720   a  may include a slot  732   a  and a slot  732   b . The hinge assembly  714  may include an engagement element  748   a  designed to hold the hinge component  720   a , and in turn, the hinge assembly  714 , in different positions. As shown, the engagement element  748   a  is in the slot  732   a , and the hinge assembly  714  is in a stored configuration. However, when the hinge assembly  714  transitions to a deployed configuration, the hinge component  720   a  rotates relative to the engagement element  748   a , and the engagement element  748   a  moves into the slot  732   b . Unlike the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , the slot  732   a  and the slot  732   b  define a saw tooth slot, and the engagement element  748   a  includes a corresponding saw tooth design. Further, based upon the design orientation on the slot  732   a  and the slot  732   b , the engagement element  748   a  may promote movement from the stored configuration (shown in  FIG. 20 ) to a deployed configuration (shown below). Moreover, based upon the design orientation on the slot  732   a  and the slot  732   b , the engagement element  748   a  may impede movement from the deployed configuration (shown below) to the stored configuration shown in  FIG. 20 . As a result, the engagement element  748   a  resist rotational movement of the hinge component  720   a  in the counter-clockwise motion when the hinge assembly  714  transitions from the deployed configuration to the stored configuration. 
     Similarly, the hinge component  720   c  may include a slot  732   c  and a slot  732   d . The hinge assembly  714  may include an engagement element  748   b  designed to hold the hinge component  720   c , and in turn, the hinge assembly  714 , in different positions. As shown, the engagement element  748   b  is in the slot  732   c , and the hinge assembly  714  is in a stored configuration. However, when the hinge assembly  714  transitions to a deployed configuration, the hinge component  720   c  rotates relative to the engagement element  748   b , and the engagement element  748   b  moves into the slot  732   d . The slot  732   c  and the slot  732   d  define a saw tooth slot, and the engagement element  748   b  includes a corresponding saw tooth design. Further, based upon the design orientation on the slot  732   c  and the slot  732   d , the engagement element  748   b  may promote movement from the stored configuration (shown in  FIG. 20 ) to a deployed configuration (shown below). Moreover, based upon the design orientation on the slot  732   c  and the slot  732   d , the engagement element  748   b  may impede movement from the deployed configuration (shown below) to the stored configuration shown in  FIG. 20 . As a result, the engagement element  748   a  resist rotational movement of the hinge component  720   c  in the clockwise motion when the hinge assembly  714  transitions from the deployed configuration to the stored configuration. 
       FIG. 21  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly  714  shown in  FIG. 20 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly  714 . As shown, the hinge component  720   a  is rotated clockwise and the hinge component  720   c  is rotated counter-clockwise. However, the hinge component  720   a  and the hinge component  720   c  remain on, or along, the X-Y plane. Due to the rotation of the hinge component  720   a , the hinge component  720   b  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. Also, due to the rotation of the hinge component  720   c , the hinge component  720   d  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. The hinge component  720   a  and the hinge component  720   b  rotate about the fastener  724   a , and the hinge component  720   c  and the hinge component  720   d  rotate about the fastener  724   b . The rotation of the hinge component  720   b  and the hinge component  720   d  cause the hinge component  720   e  to also rotate out of the X-Y plane. Also, the engagement element  748   a  moves into the slot  732   b , and the engagement element  748   b  moves into the slot  732   d . The engagement element  748   a  and the engagement element  748   b  provide a force to the hinge component  720   a  and the hinge component  720   c , respectively, to maintain the hinge assembly  714  in the deployed configuration, even when the hinge assembly  714  is supporting the weight of a portable electronic device (not shown in  FIG. 21 ). The engagement element  748   a  and the engagement element  748   b  provide the hinge assembly  714  with an asymmetric force profile, as the force required to transition the hinge assembly  714  from the stored configuration to the deployed configuration (shown in  FIG. 21 ) is less than the force required to transition the hinge assembly  714  from the deployed configuration to the stored configuration. This may prevent the hinge assembly  714  from an unwanted transition (to the stored configuration) when, for example, the hinge assembly  714  is supporting the portable electronic device. 
       FIG. 22  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly  814 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The hinge assembly  814  may include features from other hinge assemblies described herein. As shown, the hinge assembly  814  is positioned over a segment  802   a . The hinge assembly  814  may include a hinge component  820   a  coupled with a hinge component  820   b  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  820   a  and the hinge component  820   b , and a hinge component  820   c  coupled with a hinge component  820   d  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  820   c  and the hinge component  820   d . In order to secure the hinge component  820   a  and the hinge component  820   b  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 22 ), a fastener  824   a  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  820   a . In order to secure the hinge component  820   c  and the hinge component  820   d  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 22 ), a fastener  824   b  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  820   c . The fastener  824   a  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  820   a  and the hinge component  820   b , and the fastener  824   b  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  820   c  and the hinge component  820   d . The hinge assembly  814  may further include hinge component  820   e . The hinge component  820   e  designed to receive a panel (not shown in  FIG. 22 ) used to engage and retain a portable electronic device. The hinge component  820   e  may couple with the hinge component  820   b  and the hinge component  820   d  by flexible members (not shown in  FIG. 22 ) that allow relative movement between the hinge component  820   e  and both the hinge component  820   b  and the hinge component  820   d.    
     The hinge assembly  814  may incorporate additional features designed to place the hinge assembly  814  in discrete positions. For example, the hinge component  820   a  may include a magnet  852   a  and a magnet  852   b . The segment  802   a  may include a magnet  854   a  and a magnet  854   b  designed to magnetically couple with the magnet  852   a  and the magnet  852   b , respectively. The segment  802   a  may further include a magnet  854   e . The magnetic coupling is designed to hold the hinge component  820   a , and in turn, the hinge assembly  814 , in different positions. As shown, the hinge assembly  814  is in a stored configuration. However, when the hinge assembly  814  transitions to a deployed configuration, the hinge component  820   a  rotates, and the magnet  852   a  in the hinge component  820   a  is aligned and magnetically coupled with the magnet  854   e  in the segment  802   a . This will be shown below. Similarly, the hinge component  820   c  may include a magnet  852   c  and a magnet  852   d . The segment  802   a  may include a magnet  854   c  and a magnet  854   d  designed to magnetically couple with the magnet  852   c  and the magnet  852   d , respectively. The segment  802   a  may further include a magnet  854   f . The magnetic coupling is designed to hold the hinge component  820   c , and in turn, the hinge assembly  814 , in different positions. As shown, the hinge assembly  814  is in a stored configuration. However, when the hinge assembly  814  transitions to a deployed configuration, the hinge component  820   c  rotates, and the magnet  852   c  in the hinge component  820   a  is aligned and magnetically coupled with the magnet  854   f  in the segment  802   a . This will be shown below. 
       FIG. 23  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly  814  shown in  FIG. 22 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly  814 . As shown, the hinge component  820   a  is rotated clockwise and the hinge component  820   c  is rotated counter-clockwise. However, the hinge component  820   a  and the hinge component  820   c  remain on, or along, the X-Y plane. Due to the rotation of the hinge component  820   a , the hinge component  820   b  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. Also, due to the rotation of the hinge component  820   c , the hinge component  820   d  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. The hinge component  820   a  and the hinge component  820   b  rotate about the fastener  824   a , and the hinge component  820   c  and the hinge component  820   d  rotate about the fastener  824   b . The rotation of the hinge component  820   b  and the hinge component  820   d  cause the hinge component  820   e  to also rotate out of the X-Y plane. Also, the magnet  852   a  in the hinge component  820   a  is magnetically coupled with the magnet  854   e  in the segment  802   a . Also, the magnet  852   c  in the hinge component  820   c  is magnetically coupled with the magnet  854   f  in the segment  802   a . The magnetic coupling between the magnets in the hinge components and the magnets in the segment  802   a  provide a magnetic attraction force to maintain the hinge assembly  814  in the deployed configuration (shown in  FIG. 23 ), even when the hinge assembly  814  is supporting the weight of a portable electronic device (not shown in  FIG. 23 ). 
       FIG. 24  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge assembly  914 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The hinge assembly  914  may include features from other hinge assemblies described herein. As shown, the hinge assembly  914  is positioned over a segment  902   a . As shown, the hinge assembly  914  includes a hinge component  920   a  coupled with a hinge component  920   b  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  920   a  and the hinge component  920   b , and a hinge component  920   c  coupled with a hinge component  920   d  by a joint that allows relative movement between the hinge component  920   c  and the hinge component  920   d . In order to secure the hinge component  920   a  and the hinge component  920   b  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 24 ), a fastener  924   a  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  920   a . In order to secure the hinge component  920   c  and the hinge component  920   d  to a segment of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG. 24 ), a fastener  924   b  may extend through an opening of the hinge component  920   c . The fastener  924   a  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  920   a  and the hinge component  920   b , and the fastener  924   b  can define a rotational axis for the hinge component  920   c  and the hinge component  920   d . The hinge assembly  914  may further include hinge component  920   e . The hinge component  920   e  designed to receive a panel (not shown in  FIG. 24 ) used to engage and retain a portable electronic device. The hinge component  920   e  may couple with the hinge component  920   b  and the hinge component  920   d  by flexible members (not shown in  FIG. 24 ) that allow relative movement between the hinge component  920   e  and both the hinge component  920   b  and the hinge component  920   d.    
     The segment  902   a  may include features that provide the hinge assembly  914  with an asymmetric force profile. For example, the segment  902   a  may include a roller assembly  956   a  that engages the hinge component  920   a . As shown, the hinge assembly  914  is in a stored configuration. However, when the hinge assembly  914  transitions to a deployed configuration, the hinge component  920   a  rotates relative to the roller assembly  956   a . Furthermore, the rotational movement of the hinge component  920   a  causes the roller assembly  956   b  to roll along a surface of the hinge component  920   a . However, when the hinge assembly  914  transitions back to the stored configuration, the roller assembly  956   a  may slide along the surface of the hinge component  920   a , rather than roll. When the roller assembly  956   a  provides frictional engagement via sliding, the movement of the hinge component  920   a  is impeded, as compared to the rolling action. In this regard, the force required to transition the hinge assembly  914  from the stored configuration to the deployed configuration is less than the force required to transition the hinge assembly  914  from the deployed configuration to the stored configuration. 
     Similarly, the segment  902   a  may include a roller assembly  956   b  that engages the hinge component  920   c . As shown, the hinge assembly  914  is in a stored configuration. However, when the hinge assembly  914  transitions to a deployed configuration, the hinge component  920   c  rotates relative to the roller assembly  956   b . Furthermore, the rotational movement of the hinge component  920   c  causes the roller assembly  956   b  to roll along a surface of the hinge component  920   c . However, when the hinge assembly  914  transitions back to the stored configuration, the roller assembly  956   b  may slide along the surface of the hinge component  920   c , rather than roll. When the roller assembly  956   b  provides frictional engagement via sliding, the movement of the hinge component  920   c  is impeded, as compared to the rolling action. In this regard, the force required to transition the hinge assembly  914  from the stored configuration to the deployed configuration is less than the force required to transition the hinge assembly  914  from the deployed configuration to the stored configuration. 
       FIG. 25  illustrates a plan view of the hinge assembly  914  shown in  FIG. 24 , showing an exemplary movement of the hinge assembly  914 . As shown, the hinge component  920   a  is rotated clockwise and the hinge component  920   c  is rotated counter-clockwise. However, the hinge component  920   a  and the hinge component  920   c  remain on, or along, the X-Y plane. Due to the rotation of the hinge component  920   a , the hinge component  920   b  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. Also, due to the rotation of the hinge component  920   c , the hinge component  920   d  is rotated out of the X-Y plane and into a third dimension defined by the Z-axis. The hinge component  920   a  and the hinge component  920   b  rotate about the fastener  924   a , and the hinge component  920   c  and the hinge component  920   d  rotate about the fastener  924   b . The rotation of the hinge component  920   b  and the hinge component  920   d  cause the hinge component  920   e  to also rotate out of the X-Y plane. Also, in the deployed configuration, the roller assembly  956   a  and the roller assembly  956   b  are located on different surface location of the hinge component  920   a  and the hinge component  920   c , respectively, as compared to the stored configuration (shown in  FIG. 24 ). Further, the roller assembly  956   a  and the roller assembly  956   b  provide a force to the hinge component  920   a  and the hinge component  920   c , respectively, to maintain the hinge assembly  914  in the deployed configuration, even when the hinge assembly  914  is supporting the weight of a portable electronic device (not shown in  FIG. 25 ). The roller assembly  956   a  and the roller assembly  956   b  provide the hinge assembly  914  with an asymmetric force profile, as the force required to transition the hinge assembly  914  from the stored configuration to the deployed configuration is less than the force required to transition the hinge assembly  914  from the deployed configuration to the stored configuration. 
       FIG. 26  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic device  1080 , showing a panel  1004  integrated into a housing  1082  of the electronic device  1080 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The electronic device  1080  may include a desktop computing device with a display assembly and processing circuitry (not shown in  FIG. 26 ) carried by the housing  1082 . Also, the electronic device  1080  may include a stand  1084  coupled to the housing  1082 . 
       FIG. 27  illustrates an isometric view of the electronic device  1080  shown in  FIG. 26 , showing the panel  1004  extended from the housing  1082 . The panel  1004  may define a handle that can be grasped by a user to pick up and move the electronic device  1080 . The panel  1004  is coupled to a hinge assembly  1014 , which may include features from any hinge assembly described herein. Accordingly, the hinge assembly  1014  and the panel  1004  may transition from a stored configuration (shown in  FIG. 26 ) to a deployed configuration (shown in  FIG. 27 ). 
       FIG. 28  illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device  1100 , in accordance with some described embodiments. At least some components shown for the electronic device  1100  in the block diagram may be incorporated into accessory devices and electronic devices described herein. 
     As shown in  FIG. 28 , the electronic device  1100  can include a processor  1102  that represents a microprocessor or controller for controlling the overall operation of electronic device  1100 . The electronic device  1100  can also include inputs  1108 . Some of the inputs  1108  allow a user of the electronic device  1100  to interact with the electronic device  1100 . For example, the inputs  1108  can take the form of a variety of user input devices, such as a button, a keypad, a dial, touch screen, audio input interface, visual/image capture input interface, input in the form of sensor data, etc. Still further, the electronic device  1100  can include a display  1110  (screen display) that can be controlled by the processor  1102  to present visual information to the user. A data bus  1116  can facilitate data transfer between at least a storage device  1140 , the processor  1102 , and a controller  1113 . The controller  1113  can be used to interface with and control different equipment (not shown in  FIG. 28 ) through an equipment control bus  1114 . The electronic device  1100  can also include a network/bus interface  1111  that couples to a data link  1112 . In the case of a wireless connection, the network/bus interface  1111  can include a wireless transceiver. 
     The electronic device  1100  also includes a storage device  1140 , which may include a single disk or multiple disks (e.g., hard drives), and includes a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within the storage device  1140 . In some embodiments, storage device  1140  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. The electronic device  1100  can also include a Random Access Memory (RAM)  1120  and a Read-Only Memory (ROM)  1122 . The ROM  1122  can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM  1120  can provide volatile data storage, and stores instructions related to the operation of the electronic device  1100 . 
     The electronic device  1100  also includes a storage device  1140 , which may include a single disk or multiple disks (e.g., hard drives), and includes a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within the storage device  1140 . In some embodiments, storage device  1140  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. The electronic device  1100  can also include a Random Access Memory (RAM)  1120  and a Read-Only Memory (ROM)  1122 . The ROM  1122  can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM  1120  can provide volatile data storage, and stores instructions related to the operation of the electronic device  1100 . 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20190301
Publication Date: 20200707
Grant Date: 20200707
Priority Date: 20180924
Inventors: ROBINSON, KEVIN M.
STRYKER, JAMES A.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H04M1/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1632", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1681", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1654", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/166", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1669", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1633", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/166", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1632", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1632", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1669", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/166", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1681", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1654", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 69884282