PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10551722-B2
Application Number: US-201816141028-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Fused opaque and clear glass for camera or display window

Abstract:
Apparatus, systems and methods for windows integration with cover glass and for processing cover glass to provide windows for electronic devices are disclosed. Transparent windows such as a transparent camera window, a transparent illuminator window and/or a transparent display window can be integrated into the cover glass. The apparatus, systems and methods are especially suitable for cover glasses, or displays (e.g., LCD displays), assembled in small form factor electronic devices such as handheld electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, media players, personal digital assistants, remote controls, etc.). The apparatus, systems and methods can also be used for cover glasses or displays for other relatively larger form factor electronic devices (e.g., portable computers, tablet computers, displays, monitors, televisions, etc.).

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electronic device comprising:
 a housing; 
 a display positioned at least partially within the housing; 
 a camera positioned at least partially within the housing; 
 a glass cover attached to the housing and having a dark glass region that extends from an outer cover surface of the glass cover glass to an inner cover surface of the glass cover glass, the glass cover defining an aperture that extends through the dark glass region; and 
 a transparent window positioned in the aperture and bonded to the dark glass region, the transparent window defining an outer window surface and an inner window surface opposite to the outer window surface, the inner cover surface being coplanar with the inner window surface. 
 
     
     
       2. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein: the aperture defines an inner wall; and
 the transparent window is fusion bonded to the inner wall of the aperture. 
 
     
     
       3. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the inner cover surface and the inner window surface define a smooth continuous interior surface. 
     
     
       4. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the outer cover surface and the outer window surface are coplanar and define a smooth continuous exterior surface of the electronic device. 
     
     
       5. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein: the glass cover defines a transparent glass region; and the transparent glass region is positioned over the display. 
     
     
       6. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein: the aperture is a camera aperture; the glass cover further comprises an illuminator aperture that extends through the glass cover; an illuminator window is positioned within the illuminator aperture; and the electronic device further comprises an illuminator component positioned below the illuminator window. 
     
     
       7. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein both the glass cover and the transparent window are chemically strengthened. 
     
     
       8. An electronic device comprising:
 a housing; 
 a display positioned at least partially within the housing; 
 a cover positioned over the display and defining a transparent glass region and a dark glass region that extends from an outer cover surface to an inner cover surface, the display viewable through the transparent glass region, the dark glass region defining a sensor aperture that extends through the dark glass region; 
 a glass window positioned within the sensor aperture and bonded to the dark glass region, the glass window defining an inner window surface that is aligned with the inner cover surface; and 
 an optical sensor positioned within the housing and below the glass window. 
 
     
     
       9. The electronic device of  claim 8 , wherein: the sensor aperture defines an inner wall surface; and the glass window is directly bonded to the inner wall surface of the sensor aperture. 
     
     
       10. The electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein the glass window is fusion bonded to the inner wall surface of the sensor aperture. 
     
     
       11. The electronic device of  claim 8 , wherein:
 the cover further defines an illuminator aperture that extends through the cover; 
 an illuminator window is positioned within the illuminator aperture; and 
 the electronic device further comprises an illuminator positioned below the illuminator window. 
 
     
     
       12. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein the dark glass region reduces light produced from the illuminator from being transmitted through the cover to the optical sensor. 
     
     
       13. The electronic device of  claim 11 , wherein: the optical sensor is a camera; and the illuminator is an optical flash. 
     
     
       14. A method of forming a glass cover for an electronic device, the method comprising:
 forming a camera aperture through a dark glass portion of a glass sheet; 
 forming an illuminator aperture through the glass sheet; 
 positioning a camera window in the camera aperture; 
 bonding the camera window to a first inner glass wall that defines the camera aperture; 
 positioning an illuminator window in the illuminator aperture; 
 bonding the illuminator window to a second inner glass wall that defines the illuminator aperture to define the glass cover; and 
 after the camera window is bonded, a lower side of the glass sheet and a lower side of the camera window are lapped to create a lower planar surface. 
 
     
     
       15. The method of  claim 14 , wherein:
 the camera window is fusion bonded to the first inner glass wall of the camera aperture; and 
 the illuminator window is fusion bonded to the second inner glass wall of the illuminator aperture. 
 
     
     
       16. The method of  claim 14 , wherein: bonding the camera window to the first inner glass wall comprises: heating the camera window to a temperature of 600 degrees Celsius or greater; and pressing the camera window into the camera aperture. 
     
     
       17. The method of  claim 14 , wherein:
 the camera window is bonded to the first inner glass wall by fusion bonding; 
 the lower planar surface is a first smooth surface; 
 after the camera window is bounded, an upper side of the glass sheet and an upper side of the camera window are lapped to create a second smooth surface. 
 
     
     
       18. The method of  claim 17 , wherein after the upper and lower sides of the glass sheet are lapped, the glass sheet and the camera window are chemically strengthened in an ion exchange process. 
     
     
       19. The method of  claim 14 , wherein the method further comprises:
 chemically strengthening the glass sheet, the camera window, and the illuminator window; and 
 bonding an inner surface of the glass sheet to a housing to define an exposed exterior surface of the electronic device.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/492,620, filed Jun. 8, 2012 and titled “Fused Opaque and Clear Glass for Camera or Display Window,” which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/347,430, filed Jan. 10, 2012 and titled “Integrated Camera Window,” now U.S. Pat. No. 8,684,613, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to processing glass. More particularly, the present invention relates to processing cover glass used in portable electronic devices. 
     Glass surfaces have become increasingly popular for use in consumer electronic products, such as handheld electronic devices. Since such devices often include displays, glass surfaces can be used as protective outer surfaces for such displays. Although plastic may be used instead of glass, glass tends to provide a better protective barrier given its strength and scratch resistance. 
     Further, rapid improvements in size and cost of digital camera technology have lead to integration of one or more digital cameras into various portable electronic devices. While such integration provides convenience in having camera functionality available, often quality of images or video captured by such integrated cameras suffers. Moreover, although images or video of dark scenes could benefit from a flash or other illumination, for various reasons including integration difficulties, flash or other illumination are often omitted from portable electronic devices. 
     Thus, in electronic devices there is a continuing need for improved approaches for camera integration with glass cover arrangements. 
     SUMMARY 
     Apparatus, systems and methods for windows integration with cover glass and for processing cover glass to provide windows for electronic devices are disclosed. Transparent windows such as a transparent camera window, a transparent illuminator window and/or a transparent display window can be integrated into the cover glass. The apparatus, systems and methods are especially suitable for cover glasses, or displays (e.g., LCD displays), assembled in small form factor electronic devices such as handheld electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, media players, personal digital assistants, remote controls, etc.). The apparatus, systems and methods can also be used for cover glasses or displays for other relatively larger form factor electronic devices (e.g., portable computers, tablet computers, displays, monitors, televisions, etc.). 
     The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as a method, system, device or apparatus. Several embodiments of the invention are discussed below. 
     As a method for assembling an electronic product, one embodiment includes at least the acts of: providing a cover glass having at least a portion that is dark or opaque, forming a first aperture in the dark or opaque portion of the cover glass, and disposing a transparent camera window in the first aperture of the dark or opaque portion of the cover glass. Additionally, if desired, the method can further include the act of subsequently attaching the cover glass to a housing for the electronic product. 
     As another method for assembling an electronic product, one embodiment includes at least the acts of: providing a ceramic cover having at least a portion that is dark or opaque, forming a first aperture in the dark or opaque portion of the ceramic cover, and disposing a transparent camera window in the first aperture of the dark or opaque portion of ceramic cover. Additionally, if desired, the method can further include the act of subsequently attaching the cover glass to a housing for the electronic product. 
     As a consumer electronic product, one embodiment can include at least a transparent camera window, a cover formed of glass or ceramic, the cover being integrated with the transparent camera window, wherein the glass or ceramic cover has a substantially smooth exterior surface even across the transparent camera window, a housing coupled with the glass or ceramic cover, and electrical components disposed at least partially internal to the housing, the electrical components including at least a camera. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIGS. 1A-1D  show views of one or more embodiments of a consumer electronic product. 
         FIGS. 2A-4B  show embodiments for processing glass material of cover glass or ceramic material of a ceramic cover. 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  are simplified cross sectional views illustrating embodiments for processing glass material of cover glass or ceramic material of ceramic cover. 
         FIG. 5D  is a simplified cross sectional view of a consumer electronic product. 
         FIG. 6  is a diagram showing a detailed partial cross sectional view of chemical strengthening of exposed surface portions of a cover. 
         FIGS. 7A and 7B  are simplified cross sectional views illustrating embodiments for chemical strengthening of a cover glass or ceramic cover. 
         FIG. 7C  is a simplified cross sectional view of another embodiment of a consumer electronic product. 
         FIG. 8  is a flow diagram illustrating an assembly process according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 9  is a flow diagram illustrating an assembly process according to another embodiment. 
     
    
    
     It should be noted that  FIGS. 1-9  are not necessarily drawn to scale. Instead, these figures are enlarged so that features are more readily visible. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     Apparatus, systems and methods for windows integration with cover glass and for processing cover glass to provide windows for electronic devices are disclosed. Transparent windows such as a transparent camera window, a transparent illuminator window and/or a transparent display window can be integrated into the cover glass. The apparatus, systems and methods are especially suitable for cover glasses, or displays (e.g., LCD displays), assembled in small form factor electronic devices such as handheld electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, media players, personal digital assistants, remote controls, etc.). The apparatus, systems and methods can also be used for cover glasses or displays for other relatively larger form factor electronic devices (e.g., portable computers, tablet computers, displays, monitors, televisions, etc.). 
     Since handheld electronic devices and portable electronic devices are mobile, they are potentially subjected to various different impact events and stresses that stationary devices are not subjected to. As such, the invention is well suited for implementation of displays for handheld electronic device or a portable electronic device that are designed to be thin. 
     Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1A-9 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. 
       FIGS. 1A-1D  show views of one or more embodiments of a consumer electronic product. Electronic device  100  may, for example, be embodied as a portable or handheld electronic device having a thin form factor (or low profile). The electronic device  100  can, for example, correspond to a media player, a media storage device, a Portable Digital Assistant (PDA), a tablet PCs, a computer, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a GPS unit, a remote control, and the like. 
       FIG. 1A  shows a perspective view of electronic device  100  according to one embodiment.  FIG. 1B  shows a detailed perspective view of a corner portion of the electronic device  100 . The electronic device  100  may include a housing  102  that serves as part of an outer surface for the electronic device  100 . Electrical components (not shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B ) may be disposed within the housing  102 . The electrical components may include, but are not limited to, a controller (or processor), memory, battery, display, camera, and illuminator such as a flash. 
     Additionally, glass or ceramic may be used in covering front and/or back surfaces of the electronic device  100 . For example, the electronic device  100  may have at least one cover glass  104  or may have at least one ceramic cover  104 . Accordingly, in some embodiments cover glass  104  may comprise glass material, while in other embodiments ceramic cover  104  may comprise ceramic material and may be used in place of cover glass  104 . 
     The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may serve as an external surface, i.e., front or back surface, for the electronic device  100 . The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may also resist scratching and therefore may provide a substantially scratch-resistance surface for the front or back surface of the housing  102  for the electronic device  100 . The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be coupled to the housing  102 , for example, using an adhesive and/or mechanical means. 
     The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be provided over a camera area. The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may comprise a transparent camera window  106  at or adjacent the camera area. In one example, the camera area may comprise at least a camera such as a digital camera for capturing images or video. At or adjacent the camera area, the transparent camera window  106  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be substantially transparent to the camera, for capturing images or video through the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). 
     The camera area may extend within the housing  102  of the electronic device  100 . A first minority region of cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) adjacent to the camera may extend over the camera area. The first minority region of cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) adjacent to the camera may comprise the transparent camera window  106 . The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ), and more particularly the transparent camera window  106  can substantially overlap the camera. In one embodiment, a peripheral region of the cover glass  104  or ceramic cover  104  (more particularly the transparent camera window  106 ) may be adjacent to the camera and may extend over the camera area. 
     Similarly, the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be provided over an illuminator area. The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may comprise a transparent illuminator window  108  at or adjacent the illuminator area. In one example, the illuminator area may comprise at least an illuminator such as a light emitting diode (LED) or electronic flash tube for illuminating dark scenes. At or adjacent the illuminator area, the transparent illuminator window  108  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be substantially transparent to the illuminator. The transparent illuminator window  108  may be arranged so that illumination from the illuminator may project outwardly through the transparent illuminator window and outwardly from the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). 
     The illuminator area may extend within the housing  102  of the electronic device  100 . A second minority region of cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) adjacent to the illuminator may extend over the illuminator area. The second minority region of cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) adjacent to the illuminator may comprise the transparent illuminator window  108 . The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ), and more particularly the transparent illuminator window  108  can substantially overlap the illuminator. In one embodiment, another peripheral region of the cover glass  104  or ceramic cover  104  (more particularly the transparent illuminator window  108 ) may be adjacent to the illuminator and may extend over the illuminator area. 
     Additionally, in some embodiments the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be provided over a display area. A transparent display window  114  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be arranged adjacent to the display area so that a display of the display area can be viewed through the transparent display window  114  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). In some embodiments, the display area may be disposed within the housing  102  of the electronic device  100 . In some embodiments, the electronic device  100  may include a full view or substantially full view display area that consumes a majority of the front surface of the electronic device  100 . The display area may be embodied in a variety of ways. In one example, the display area may cover at least the display, such as a flat panel display and more particularly an LCD display. 
     The display area may alternatively or additionally include a touch sensing device positioned over a display screen. For example, the display area may include one or more glass layers having capacitive sensing points distributed thereon. Each of these components may be separate layers or they may be integrated into one or more stacks. In one embodiment, the transparent display window  114  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may act as the outer most layer of the display area. 
     In some embodiments, the electronic device  100  may include a display region (e.g., the display area) that includes various layers. The various layers may include at least the display, and may additionally include a sensing arrangement disposed over the display. In some cases, the layers may be stacked and adjacent one another, and may even be laminated thereby forming a single unit. In other cases, at least some of the layers are spatially separated and not directly adjacent. 
     For example, the sensing arrangement may be disposed above the display such that there is a gap therebetween. By way of example, the display may include a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) that includes a Liquid Crystal Module (LCM). The LCM generally includes at least an upper glass sheet and a lower glass sheet that at least partially sandwich a liquid crystal layer therebetween. The sensing arrangement may be a touch sensing arrangement such as those used to create a touch screen. 
     For example, a capacitive sensing touch screen may include substantially transparent sensing points or nodes dispersed about the transparent display window  114  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). The transparent display window  114  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may serve as an outer protective barrier for the display region. Typically, transparent display window  114  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be adjacent to the display region. However, the transparent display window  114  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may also be integrated with the display region, such as another layer (outer protective layer) for the display region. 
     The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may extend across the entire top surface of the housing  102 . In such a case, the edges of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be aligned, or substantially aligned, with the sides of the housing  102 . 
     Given that the thickness of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be rather thin (i.e., typically less than a few millimeters), the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) if not carefully arranged can be susceptible to cracking or breaking if a significant force is imposed thereon, such as by a drop event where the electronic device  100  is accidentally dropped. 
     In embodiments that employ cover glass  104 , the glass material for the cover glass  104  may be selected from available glass that is stronger. For example, alumino silicate glass (e.g., DVTS from Corning) is one suitable choice for the glass material for the cover glass  104 . Other examples of glass materials include, but are not limited to, soda lime, borosilicate, and the like. In other embodiments that employ ceramic cover  104  in place of cover glass  104 , the ceramic material for the ceramic cover  104  may be selected from available ceramics that are stronger. For example, zirconia ceramics may be suitable choices for the ceramic material for the ceramic cover  104 . Other examples of ceramic materials include, but are not limited to, alumina ceramics, and the like. 
     Transparent camera window  106  and/or transparent illuminator window  108  and/or transparent display window  114  can be integrated into the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). Transparent camera window  106  and/or transparent illuminator window and/or transparent display window  114  may comprise glass. However, in some embodiments, transparent camera window  106  and/or transparent illuminator window  108  and/or transparent display window  114  may comprise plastic. 
     The edges of the cover glass pieces (or in some embodiments, ceramic cover pieces) can be configured to correspond to a particular predetermined geometry. By machining the edges of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) to correspond to the particular predetermined geometry, the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) can become stronger and thus less susceptible to damage. 
     Moreover, as will be discussed in greater detail subsequently herein, the cover glass  104  can be selectively chemically treated for further strengthening. One suitable chemical treatment is to selectively expose one or more surface portions of the cover glass in a chemical bath containing potassium (e.g., KNO3) for a period of time (e.g., several hours) at an elevated temperature. The selective chemical treatment can desirably result in higher compression stresses at the selectively exposed surface portions of the cover glass. The higher compression stresses may be the result of ion exchange wherein K+ ions effectively replacing some Na+ ions at or near the selectively exposed surface portions of the cover glass  104 . 
     Similarly, some ceramics can be chemically strengthened. In embodiments using ceramic cover  104  in place of cover glass  104 , if ceramic material of ceramic cover  104  can be chemically strengthened, then ceramic cover  104  may be chemically strengthened. 
     Furthermore, it should be understood that reducing veiling glare may improve quality of images or video captured by a camera through transparent camera window  106 . The cover glass  104  can comprise transparent camera window  106  and the glass region proximate thereto is dark or opaque. The camera can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window  106 . The glass region of the cover glass  104  proximate to the transparent camera window  106  can be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially reducing veiling glare at the camera via the cover glass  104 . 
     Similarly, in embodiments using ceramic cover  104  in place of cover glass  104 , the ceramic cover  104  can comprise transparent camera window  106  and the ceramic region proximate thereto is dark or opaque. As just discussed, the camera can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window  106 . The ceramic region of the ceramic cover  104  proximate to the transparent camera window  106  can be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially reducing veiling glare at the camera via the ceramic cover  104 . 
     Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may substantially reduce veiling glare, substantially inhibiting such diffuse stray light from reaching the image plane of the camera. Veiling glare might otherwise reduce contrast and resolution of images or video captured by the camera. 
     Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for providing substantial optical isolation of the transparent camera window  106  from the transparent illuminator window  108 . Similarly, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for providing substantial optical isolation of the transparent camera window  106  from the transparent display window  114 . The foregoing optical isolation may substantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminator and/or display at the camera. 
     For example, as illumination from the illuminator projects outwardly through the transparent illuminator window  108 , some stray light rays from the illuminator may be substantially attenuated as they encounter dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ). Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially attenuating stray light rays from the illuminator, which in turn may provide substantial optical isolation of the transparent camera window  106  from the transparent illuminator window  108 . The foregoing may substantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminator at the camera. 
     Accordingly, it should be understood that dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may be disposed within the cover glass  104  (or within the ceramic cover  104 ) between the camera associated with transparent camera window  106  and the illuminator associated with transparent illuminator window  108 . The dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may serve to substantially reduce light from the illuminator from coupling into the camera by way of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). More specifically, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may serve to substantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminator from coupling into the camera by way of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). 
     As another example, as light from the display projects outwardly through the transparent display window  114 , some stray light rays from the display may be substantially attenuated as they encounter dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ). Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially attenuating stray light rays from the display, which in turn may provide substantial optical isolation of the transparent camera window  106  from the transparent display window  114 . The foregoing may substantially reduce veiling glare from the display at the camera. In other words, the adjacent glass or ceramic region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially reducing veiling glare at the camera via the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 .) 
     Accordingly, it should be understood that dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may be disposed within the cover glass  104  (or within the ceramic cover  104 ) between the camera associated with transparent camera window  106  and the display associated with transparent display window  114 . The dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may serve to substantially reduce light from the display from coupling into the camera by way of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). More specifically, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may serve to substantially reduce the display&#39;s veiling glare from coupling into the camera by way of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). 
     As shown by shading in the figures (and as particularly shown by shading in detailed view in  FIG. 1B ), the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) can have a substantially smooth exterior surface comprising the transparent camera window  106 . The transparent camera window  106  may have a perimeter that is substantially encircled by a first bonding interface  110 A for substantially securing the perimeter of the transparent camera window  106  to the cover glass  104  (or to the ceramic cover  104 ). The exterior surface of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) can be lapped to be planar over the transparent camera window  106 , the first bonding interface  110 A and the adjacent region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). 
     As discussed in greater detail subsequently herein, the first bonding interface  110 A may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent camera window  106  to substantially similar or substantially different glass material of the cover glass  104 . In embodiments where the ceramic cover  104  is used in place of the cover glass  104 , the first bonding interface  110 A may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent camera window  106  to ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 . 
     The camera can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window  106  and within the first bonding interface  110 A. The first bonding interface  110 A can be interposed within the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) between the camera and an adjacent region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). More particularly, the first bonding interface  110 A can be interposed within the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) between the transparent camera window  106  and an adjacent region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). 
     Similarly, the transparent illuminator window  108  may have a perimeter that is substantially encircled by a second bonding interface  1108  for substantially securing the perimeter of the transparent illuminator window  108  to the cover glass  104  (or to the ceramic cover  104 ). The exterior surface of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) can be lapped to be planar over the transparent illuminator window  108 , the second bonding interface  1108  and the adjacent region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). As discussed in greater detail subsequently herein, the second bonding interface  1108  may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent illuminator window  108  to substantially similar or substantially different glass material of the cover glass  104 . In embodiments where the ceramic cover  104  is used in place of the cover glass  104 , the second bonding interface  1108  may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent illuminator window  108  to ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 . 
     The illuminator can be arranged adjacent to the transparent illuminator window  108  and within the second bonding interface  1108 . The second bonding interface  1108  can be interposed within the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) between the illuminator and an adjacent region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). More particularly, the second bonding interface  1108  can be interposed within the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) between the transparent illuminator window  108  and an adjacent region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). 
     Similarly, the transparent display window  114  may have a perimeter that is substantially encircled by a third bonding interface  110 C for substantially securing the perimeter of the transparent display window  114  to the cover glass  104  (or to the ceramic cover  104 ). The exterior surface of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) can be lapped to be planar over the transparent display window  114 , the third bonding interface  110 C and the adjacent region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). As discussed in greater detail subsequently herein, the third bonding interface  110 C may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent display window  114  to substantially similar or substantially different glass material of the cover glass  104 . In embodiments where the ceramic cover  104  is used in place of the cover glass  104 , the third bonding interface  110 C may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent display window  114  to ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 . 
     The display can be arranged adjacent to the transparent display window  114  and within the third bonding interface  110 C. The third bonding interface  110 C can be interposed within the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) between the display and adjacent region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). More particularly, the third bonding interface  110 C can be interposed within the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) between the transparent display window  114  and adjacent region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). 
     First bonding interface  110 A and second bonding interface  1108  and third boding interface  110 C may be thin, and may be difficult to see with the unaided eye. For ease of illustration in the figures, visual depictions of first bonding interface  110 A and second bonding interface  1108  and third boding interfaced  110 C are show as greatly exaggerated. 
     As shown in simplified cross sectional view in  FIG. 1C , the electronic device  100  may include housing  102  (shown greatly simplified in  FIG. 1C ). Electrical components  103  may be disposed within housing  102 . As mentioned previously herein the electrical components may include, but are not limited to, a controller (or processor), memory, battery, display, camera, and illuminator such as a flash. The cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be coupled to the housing  102 , for example, using adhesive  105 . For ease of illustration, in cross sectional views relative thickness of cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) is shown as greatly exaggerated. As shown in cross sectional view in  FIG. 1C , the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) can have a substantially smooth exterior surface comprising the transparent camera window  106 , substantially encircled by first bonding interface, and transparent illuminator window  108 , substantially encircled by second bonding interface. The first bonding interface can be interposed within the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) between the transparent camera window  106  and adjacent region  111  of the cover glass. 
     In  FIG. 1D , a portion of the electronic device  100  is shown simplified in cross sectional view, so as to illustrate operation of dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) in reducing veiling glare at camera  107  of the electronics of device  100 . Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for providing substantial optical isolation of the transparent camera window  106  from the transparent illuminator window  108 . This optical isolation may substantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminator at the camera. In  FIG. 1D , notional dashed line arrows are used to depict light rays. 
     Illumination from the illuminator  109  is shown in  FIG. 1D  as projecting outwardly through the transparent illuminator window  108 . This illumination L 1  is depicted in  FIG. 1D  by notional dashed line arrow L 1 . As illumination L 1  from the illuminator  109  projects outwardly through the transparent illuminator window  108 , some stray light rays L 2  from the illuminator (as depicted by notional dashed line arrow L 2 ) may be substantially attenuated as they encounter dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ). That is, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially attenuating stray light rays L 2  from the illuminator (as depicted by notional dashed line arrow L 2 ). This in turn may provide substantial optical isolation of the transparent camera window  106  from the transparent illuminator window  108 . The foregoing may substantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminator  109  at the camera  107 . Accordingly, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) is shown in  FIG. 1D  as substantially blocking the notional dashed line arrow L 2 , so as to depict such substantial reduction in veiling glare from illuminator  109 . 
     Accordingly, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may be disposed within the cover glass  104  (or within the ceramic cover  104 ) between the camera  107  associated with transparent camera window  106  and the illuminator  109  associated with transparent illuminator window  108 . The dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may serve to substantially reduce stray light rays L 2  from the illuminator from coupling into the camera by way of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). More specifically, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may serve to substantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminator  109  from coupling into the camera  107  by way of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ). 
     In other words, in  FIG. 1D  the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) can comprise transparent camera window  106  and an adjacent glass or ceramic region  111  that may be dark or opaque. The camera  107  can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window  106  so that the camera  107  to receive intended light rays L 3  through transparent camera window  106 . By receiving intended light rays L 3  through transparent camera window  106 , the camera  107  may capture images or video. 
     The adjacent glass or ceramic region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) can be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially reducing veiling glare at the camera  107  via the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 .) Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) may substantially reduce veiling glare, substantially inhibiting such diffuse stray light from reaching the image plane of the camera. Such veiling glare might otherwise reduce contrast and resolution of images or video captured by the camera  107 . 
     The illuminator  109  has already been discussed in detail as one possible source of veiling glare, which may arise from within the electronic device  100 . As already discussed, some stray light rays L 2  from the illuminator (as depicted by notional dashed line arrow L 2 ) may be substantially attenuated as they encounter dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ). However, the display of the electronic device  100  may be another possible source of veiling glare, which may arise from within the electronic device  100 . As already discussed, the adjacent glass or ceramic region  111  of the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 ) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially attenuating stray light rays from the display, which in turn may provide substantial optical isolation of the transparent camera window  106  from the display via the transparent display window  114 , and may provide substantial reduction in veiling glare at the camera  107  via the cover glass  104  (or ceramic cover  104 .) 
     Further, there may also be other possible sources of veiling glare, which may arise from outside the electronic device  100 . Additional stray light rays L 4  are shown in  FIG. 1D  as arising from outside the electronic device (and are depicted in  FIG. 1D  by notional dashed line arrow L 4 ). Such additional stray light rays L 4  arising from outside the electronic device may be substantially attenuated and/or reduced as they encounter dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ). Accordingly, dark or opaque glass material of at least a portion of the cover glass  104  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) is shown in  FIG. 1D  as substantially blocking the notional dashed line arrow L 4 , so as to depict such substantial reduction in veiling glare arising from outside electronic device  100 . 
       FIGS. 2A-4B  show embodiments for processing glass material of cover glass or ceramic material of ceramic cover. 
       FIG. 2A  shows a perspective view of cover glass  204 , which may be singulated from sheet glass. In embodiments that process ceramic cover  204  in place of cover glass  204 , the ceramic cover  204  may be singulated from ceramic sheet.  FIG. 2B  shows a detailed view of the peripheral region of cover glass  204  or ceramic cover  204 . 
       FIG. 3A  shows a perspective view of processed cover glass  304  (or processed ceramic cover  304 ) after first, second and third apertures  312 A,  312 B,  312 C have been formed in the cover glass  304  (or in ceramic cover  304 .) The apertures  312 A,  312 B,  312 C may be formed in various ways, for example by drilling, cutting, milling or other machining methods.  FIG. 3B  shows a detailed view of the peripheral region of processed cover glass  304  (or processed ceramic cover  304 ) with first and second apertures  312 A,  312 B. 
       FIG. 4A  shows a perspective view, and  FIG. 4B  shows a detailed view, of a further processed cover glass  404  (or further processed ceramic cover  404 ). As shown, transparent camera window  406  has been disposed in first aperture  412 A, which may extend through the cover glass  404  (or through ceramic cover  404 ). Transparent illuminator window  408  has been disposed in second aperture  412 B, which likewise may extend through the cover glass  404  (or through ceramic cover  404 ). Transparent display window  414  has also been disposed in third aperture  412 C, which likewise may extend through the cover glass  404  (or through ceramic cover  404 ). 
     The transparent camera window  406 , transparent illuminator window  408  and transparent display window  414  can be formed as suitably sized glass plugs, pegs or pieces, and may be hot pressed in place at a suitable temperature, for example approximately six hundred (600) to approximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius (° C.). Such heat may be applied for securing the transparent camera window  406 , the transparent illuminator window  408  and the transparent display window  414  to the cover glass  404  (or to the ceramic cover  404 ). 
     As shown by shading in the figures (and as particularly shown by shading in detailed view in  FIG. 4B ), the cover glass  404  (or ceramic cover  104 ) can have a substantially smooth exterior surface comprising the transparent camera window  406 . The transparent camera window  406  may have a perimeter that is substantially encircled by first bonding interface  410 A for substantially securing the perimeter of the transparent camera window  406  to the cover glass  404  (or to the ceramic cover  404 ). The exterior surface of the cover glass  404  (or ceramic cover  404 ) and/or the transparent camera window  406  can be lapped to be planar over the transparent camera window  406 , the first bonding interface  410 A and the adjacent region  411  of the cover glass  404  (or ceramic cover  404 ). 
     The first bonding interface  410 A may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent camera window  406  to substantially similar or substantially different glass material of the cover glass  404 . Such fusion bond  410 A may be formed by the heating discussed previously herein for securing the transparent camera window  406  to the cover glass  404 . 
     In embodiments where the ceramic cover  404  is used in place of the cover glass  404 , the first bonding interface  410 A may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent camera window  406  to ceramic material of the ceramic cover  404 . Such fusion bond  410 A may be formed by the heating discussed previously herein for securing the transparent camera window  406  to the ceramic cover  404 . 
     Similarly, the transparent illuminator window  408  may have a perimeter that is substantially encircled by a second bonding interface  410 B for substantially securing the perimeter of the transparent illuminator window  408  to the cover glass  404  (or to the ceramic cover  404 ). The exterior surface of the cover glass  404  (or ceramic cover  404 ) and/or the transparent illuminator window  408  can be lapped to be planar over the transparent illuminator window  408 , the second bonding interface  410 B and the adjacent region  411  of the cover glass  404  (or ceramic cover  404 ). 
     The second bonding interface  410 B may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent illuminator window  408  to substantially similar or substantially different glass material of the cover glass  404 . Such fusion bond  4108  may be formed by the heating discussed previously herein for securing the transparent illuminator window  408  to the cover glass  404 . 
     In embodiments where the ceramic cover  404  is used in place of the cover glass  404 , the second bonding interface  410 B may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent illuminator window  408  to ceramic material of the ceramic cover  404 . Such fusion bond  4108  may be formed by the heating discussed previously herein for securing the transparent illuminator window  408  to the ceramic cover  404 . 
     Similarly, the transparent display window  414  may have a perimeter that is substantially encircled by a third bonding interface  410 C for substantially securing the perimeter of the transparent display window  414  to the cover glass  404  (or to the ceramic cover  404 ). The exterior surface of the cover glass  404  (or ceramic cover  404 ) and/or the transparent display window  414  can be lapped to be planar over the transparent display window  414 , the third bonding interface  410 C and the adjacent region  411  of the cover glass  404  (or ceramic cover  404 ). 
     The third bonding interface  410 C may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent display window  414  to substantially similar or substantially different glass material of the cover glass  404 . Such fusion bond  410 C may be formed by the heating discussed previously herein for securing the transparent display window  414  to the cover glass  404 . 
     In embodiments where the ceramic cover  404  is used in place of the cover glass  404 , the third bonding interface  410 C may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparent display window  414  to ceramic material of the ceramic cover  404 . Such fusion bond  410 C may be formed by the heating discussed previously herein for securing the transparent display window  414  to the ceramic cover  404 . 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  are simplified cross sectional views illustrating embodiments for processing glass material of cover glass  504 , or ceramic material of ceramic cover  504 .  FIG. 5A  shows a cross sectional view of cover glass  504  (or processed ceramic cover  504 ) after first and second apertures  512 A,  512 B have been formed in the cover glass  504  (or in ceramic cover  504 .) A third aperture for receiving the transparent display window is not shown in  FIGS. 5A-5C . As mentioned previously, apertures may be formed in various ways, for example by drilling, cutting, milling or other machining techniques. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5A , the glass material of the cover glass  504  (or the ceramic material of the ceramic cover  504 ) can be dark or opaque, as representatively illustrated by right to left hatching. 
       FIG. 5B  shows a cross sectional view of the dark or opaque cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ) after an elongated/thickened transparent camera window  506 A and elongated/thickened transparent illuminator window  508 A have been disposed within first and second apertures  512 A,  512 B extending through the dark or opaque cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ). Similarly, an elongated/thickened transparent display window may be disposed in within a third aperture (not shown in  FIG. 5B ). 
     The transparent camera window  506  and transparent illuminator window  508  and transparent display window can be formed as a suitably sized glass plugs or pegs or pieces, and may be hot pressed in place at a suitable temperature, for example approximately six hundred (600) to approximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius (° C.). Such heat may be applied for securing any of the transparent camera window  506 , the transparent illuminator window  508  and the transparent display window to the cover glass  504  (or to the ceramic cover  504 .) 
     In other words, the elongated/thickened transparent camera window  506 A and the elongated/thickened transparent illuminator window  508 A and the elongated/thickened transparent display window can be formed as elongated/thickened glass plugs, pegs or pieces, and can be hot pressed in place at a suitable temperature, for example approximately six hundred (600) to approximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius (° C.). As will be discussed next, the elongated/thickened transparent camera window  506 A, the elongated/thickened transparent illuminator  508 A and the elongated/thickened transparent display window can be lapped down, using a suitable abrasive slurry (e.g., comprising cesium oxide), so that the exterior surface of the dark opaque cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ) can be planar. 
     For example, as shown in cross sectional view in  FIG. 5C , the dark or opaque cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ) can have a substantially smooth exterior surface comprising the transparent camera window  506 B and the transparent illuminator window  508 B. The transparent display window is not shown in  FIG. 5C . The resulting exterior surface of the dark or opaque cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ) can be planar over the transparent camera window  506 B, the transparent illuminator  508 B, and the transparent display window as well as over adjacent region  511  of the dark or opaque cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ). 
       FIG. 5D  is a simplified cross sectional view of a consumer electronic product  500 . The consumer electronic product  500  can comprise a housing and electrical components disposed at least partially internal to the housing. The electrical components can include at least a camera  507  and illuminator  509 . 
     The consumer electronic product  500  can include the cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ) coupled to a housing. The cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ) can include the transparent camera window  506 B, the transparent illuminator window  508 B and adjacent region  511  (glass or ceramic) that is dark or opaque. The transparent display window is not shown in  FIG. 5D . The camera  507  can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window  506 B. The illuminator  509  can be arranged adjacent to the transparent illuminator window. The adjacent region  511  can be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially reducing glare at the camera  507  via the cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover.) 
     The cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ) can have a substantially smooth exterior surface extending over the transparent camera window  506 B, the transparent illuminator window  508 B, the transparent display window and the adjacent region  511 . The cover glass  504  (or ceramic cover  504 ) can have an exterior surface that is lapped to be planar over the transparent camera window  506 B, the transparent illuminator window  508 B, the transparent display window and the adjacent region  511 . 
       FIG. 6  is a diagram showing a detailed partial cross sectional view of chemical strengthening of exposed surface portions of a cover, such as cover glass  604 .  FIG. 6  diagrammatically illustrates a chemical treatment process of submerging the cover glass  604  in a heated potassium bath  616  (for example a molten KNO3 bath), for chemically strengthening the cover glass  604 . When the cover glass  604  is submerged or soaked in the heated potassium bath  616 , diffusion and ion exchange can occur at exposed surface portions of the cover glass  604 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , Na +  ions  615  which are present in cover glass  604  can diffuse into potassium bath  616 , while K +  ions  617  in potassium bath  616  can diffuse into cover glass  604  such that a compressive surface layer  619  can be formed. In other words, K +  ions  617  from potassium bath  616  can be exchanged with Na +  ions  615  to form compressive surface layer  619 . The K +  ions  617  can provide a compressive stress surface stress (CS) of the compressive surface layer  619 , which chemically strengthens the compressive surface layer  619  of the cover glass  604 . Compressive surface layer  619  is highlighted using cross hatching. 
     Cover glass  604  is shown in  FIG. 6  as having a thickness (t). By controlling chemical treatment parameters such as the length of time of chemical strengthening treatment and/or the concentration of K +  ions  617  in potassium bath  616 , a depth (d) of compressive surface layer  619  and compressive stress surface stress (CS) of the compressive surface layer  619  may be substantially controlled. In some cases, K +  ions  617  may not diffuse into a center portion  621  of the cover glass  604 . In  FIG. 6 , the center portion  621  is shown without cross hatching. The central portion  621  of the cover glass  604  can have a central tension (CT) in response to the compressive stress surface stress (CS) of the compressive surface layer  619 . 
     Such chemical strengthening can strengthen glass material of the transparent camera window, the transparent illuminator window and the transparent display window, as well as adjacent regions of the cover glass. Further, some ceramics can be chemically strengthened. In embodiments using the ceramic cover in place of the cover glass, if ceramic material of ceramic cover can be chemically strengthened, then the ceramic cover may be chemically strengthened. In such case, chemical strengthening can strengthen adjacent regions of the ceramic cover. 
       FIGS. 7A and 7B  are simplified cross sectional views illustrating embodiments for chemical strengthening of a cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ).  FIG. 7A  shows the cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ) prior to any chemical strengthening.  FIG. 7B  shows the cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ) after chemical strengthening. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , the cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ) can have a substantially smooth exterior surface comprising transparent camera window  706  and transparent illuminator window  708 . Transparent display window is not shown in  FIGS. 7A and 7B . The exterior surface of the cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ) can be lapped, for example prior to chemical strengthening, to be planar over the transparent camera window  706 , the transparent illuminator window  708 , the transparent display window and an adjacent region  711  of the cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ). 
     After chemical strengthening,  FIG. 7B  shows a chemically strengthened surface  719 A of the glass material of the transparent camera window  706 .  FIG. 7B  also shows a chemically strengthened surface  719 B of the glass material of the transparent illuminator window  708 . A chemically strengthened surface of the transparent display window is not shown in  FIG. 7B . However,  FIG. 7B  also shows a chemically strengthened surface  719 C of the adjacent region  711  of the cover glass  704 . In embodiments where ceramic cover  704  is used in place of the cover glass  704 , and where the ceramic cover  704  may be chemically strengthened, such chemical strengthening can strengthen adjacent regions  711  of the ceramic cover  704 . In the figures, chemical strengthening of surfaces is representatively illustrated using cross hatching. 
       FIG. 7C  is a simplified cross sectional view of another embodiment of a consumer electronic product  700  comprising a housing and electrical components disposed at least partially internal to the housing, wherein the electrical components include at least a camera  707  and illuminator  709 . The cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ) can be coupled to the housing. 
     The cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ) can comprise the transparent camera window  706  having the chemically strengthened surface, the transparent illuminator window  708  having the chemically strengthened surface, and the transparent display window having the chemically strengthened surface. The cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ) can comprise the adjacent region  711  having chemically strengthened surface. The camera  707  can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window  706 . The illuminator  709  can be arranged adjacent to the transparent illuminator window  709 . Although not shown in  FIG. 7C , the display can be arranged adjacent to the transparent display window. 
     Illumination from the illuminator  709  is shown in  FIG. 7C  as projecting outwardly through the transparent illuminator window  108  and its chemically strengthened surface. This illumination L 1  is depicted in  FIG. 7C  by notional dashed line arrow L 1 . As illumination L 1  from the illuminator  709  projects outwardly through the transparent illuminator window  708 , some stray light rays L 2  from the illuminator (as depicted by notional dashed line arrow L 2 ) may be substantially attenuated as they encounter dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  704  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  704 ). Accordingly, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  704  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  104 ) is shown in  FIG. 7C  as substantially blocking the notional dashed line arrow L 2 , so as to depict substantial reduction in veiling glare from illuminator  709 . 
     The camera  707  can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window  706 , and the camera  707  can receive intended light rays L 3  through transparent camera window  706  and its chemically strengthened surface. By receiving intended light rays L 3  through transparent camera window  706 , the camera  707  may capture images or video through the cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ). 
     The adjacent region  711  of the cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ) can be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially reducing veiling glare at the camera  707  via the cover glass  704  (or ceramic cover  704 ). Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  704  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  704 ) may substantially reduce veiling glare, substantially inhibiting such diffuse stray light from reaching the image plane of the camera. Such veiling glare might otherwise reduce contrast and resolution of images or video captured by the camera  707 . 
     The illuminator  709  has already been discussed in detail as one possible source of veiling glare, which may arise from within the electronic device  700 . However, there may be other possible sources of veiling glare, which may arise from outside the electronic device  700 . Additional stray light rays L 4  are shown in  FIG. 7C  as arising from outside the electronic device (and are depicted in  FIG. 7C  by notional dashed line arrow L 4 ). Such additional stray light rays L 4  arising from outside the electronic device may be substantially attenuated and/or reduced as they encounter dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  704  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  704 ). Accordingly, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass  704  (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover  704 ) is shown in  FIG. 7C  as substantially blocking the notional dashed line arrow L 4 , so as to depict such substantial reduction in veiling glare arising from outside electronic device  700 . 
       FIG. 8  is a flow diagram illustrating an assembly process  800  according to one embodiment. The assembly process  800  may begin by forming  802  one or more apertures in a cover glass. For example, a first aperture may be formed for receiving a transparent camera window, a second aperture may be formed for receiving a transparent illuminator window, and a third aperture may be formed for receiving a transparent display window. The apertures may be formed in various ways, for example by drilling, cutting, milling or other machining. 
     The process  800  may continue by disposing  804  windows in the cover glass. For example, the transparent camera window may be disposed in the first aperture, which may extend through the cover glass. The transparent illuminator window may be disposed in the second aperture, which likewise may extend through the cover glass. The transparent display window may be disposed in the third aperture, which likewise may extend through the cover glass. 
     The process  800  may continue by securing  806  one or more windows, such as securing the transparent camera window in the first aperture of the cover glass, securing the transparent illuminator window in the second aperture of the cover glass, and securing the transparent display window in the third aperture of the cover class. For a tight fit, the windows can be heated (i.e., to become compliant) and pressed into place within the apertures. 
     In securing  806  the windows, such windows may be sufficiently heated so that the glass material of the windows may be substantially compliant and may be pressed into place in the apertures. In securing the windows  806 , the windows may be sufficiently heated for fusion bonding glass material of the windows to glass material of the cover glass. Such heating at a suitable temperature may be used, for example approximately six hundred (600) to approximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius (° C.). 
     For example, a first bonding interface may be formed comprising a fusion bond of glass material of a perimeter of the transparent camera window to substantially similar or substantially different glass material of the cover glass. A second bonding interface may be formed comprising a fusion bond of glass material of a perimeter of the transparent illuminator window to substantially similar or substantially different glass material of the cover glass. A third bonding interface may be formed comprising a fusion bond of glass material of a perimeter of the transparent display window to substantially similar or substantially different glass material of the cover glass. 
     The process  800  may continue with lapping  808  the transparent camera window and transparent illuminator window and transparent display window such that the transparent camera window and the transparent illuminator window and the transparent display window and an adjacent glass region of the cover glass yield a planar exterior surface of the cover glass. 
     The process  800  may continue with strengthening  810  the cover glass. For example, chemical strengthening may strengthen glass material of the transparent camera window and of the transparent illuminator window and of the transparent display window, as well as adjacent glass regions of the cover glass. 
     The process  800  may continue with disposing  812  windows adjacent to components or an electronic product. For example, the transparent camera window may be disposed adjacent to a camera of the electronic product. The transparent illuminator window may be disposed adjacent to an illuminator of the electronic product. The transparent display window may be disposed adjacent to a display of the electronic product. The process  800  may continue with subsequently attaching  812  the cover glass to a housing for the electronic product. Once the cover glass has been attached to the housing, the assembly process  800  can end. 
       FIG. 9  is a flow diagram illustrating an assembly process  900  according to another embodiment. The assembly process  900  may begin by forming  902  one or more apertures in a ceramic cover. For example, a first aperture may be formed for receiving a transparent camera window, a second aperture may be formed for receiving a transparent illuminator window and a third aperture may be formed for receiving a transparent display window. The apertures may be formed in various ways, for example by drilling, cutting, milling or other machining. 
     The process  900  may continue by disposing  904  windows in the ceramic cover. For example, the transparent camera window may be disposed in the first aperture, which may extend through the ceramic cover. The transparent illuminator window may be disposed in the second aperture, which may likewise extend through the ceramic cover. The transparent display window may be disposed in the third aperture, which may likewise extend through the ceramic cover. 
     The process  900  may continue by securing  906  one or more windows, such as securing the transparent camera window in the first aperture of the ceramic cover, securing the transparent illuminator window in the second aperture of the ceramic cover and securing the transparent display window in the third aperture of the ceramic cover. For a tight fit, the windows can be heated (i.e., to become compliant) and pressed into place within the apertures. 
     In securing  906  the windows, the windows may be sufficiently heated so that the glass material of the windows may be substantially compliant and may be pressed into place in the apertures. In securing the windows  906 , the windows may be sufficiently heated for fusion bonding glass material of the windows to ceramic material of the ceramic cover. Such heating at a suitable temperature may be used, for example approximately six hundred (600) to approximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius (° C.). 
     For example, a first bonding interface may be formed comprising a fusion bond of glass material of a perimeter of the transparent camera window to ceramic material of the ceramic cover. A second bonding interface may be formed comprising a fusion bond of glass material of a perimeter of the transparent illuminator window to ceramic material of the ceramic cover. A second bonding interface may be formed comprising a fusion bond of glass mater of a perimeter of the transparent display window to ceramic material of the ceramic cover. 
     The process  900  may continue with lapping  908  the transparent camera window, the transparent illuminator window and the transparent display window such that the transparent camera window, the transparent illuminator window, the transparent display window and an adjacent ceramic region of the ceramic cover yield a planar exterior surface of the ceramic cover. 
     The process  900  may continue with strengthening  910 . For example, chemical strengthening may strengthen glass material of the transparent camera window and of the transparent illuminator window and of the transparent display window. Some ceramic materials may be chemically strengthened. Where ceramic material of the ceramic cover may be chemically strengthened, such chemical strengthening can strengthen adjacent ceramic regions of the ceramic cover. 
     The process  900  may continue with disposing  912  windows adjacent to components or an electronic product. For example, the transparent camera window may be disposed adjacent to a camera of the electronic product. The transparent illuminator window may be disposed adjacent to an illuminator of the electronic product. The transparent display window may be disposed adjacent to a display of the electronic product. The process  900  may continue with subsequently attaching  912  the ceramic cover to a housing for the electronic product. Once the ceramic cover has been attached to the housing, the assembly process  900  can end. 
     Embodiments of the invention are well suited for portable, battery-powered electronic devices, and more particularly handheld battery-powered electronic devices. Examples of portable, battery-powered electronic devices can include laptops, tablet computers, media players, phones, GPS units, remote controls, personal digital assistant (PDAs), and the like. 
     The various aspects, features, embodiments or implementations of the invention described above can be used alone or in various combinations. 
     The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different aspects, embodiments or implementations may (but need not) yield one or more of the following advantages. One advantage of the invention is that cover glass (or ceramic cover) can be strengthened, even at a camera window region and/or illuminator window region, to protect from damage that would otherwise result from a drop event. Another advantage is efficiency and/or pleasing appearance in integrating a transparent camera window and transparent illuminator window into the cover glass or ceramic cover. Another advantage is improved image or video quality, which may result from substantially reducing veiling glare. 
     The many features and advantages of the invention are apparent from the written description and, thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the invention should not be limited to the exact construction and operation as illustrated and described. Hence, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to as falling within the scope of the invention.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20180925
Publication Date: 20200204
Grant Date: 20200204
Priority Date: 20120110
Inventors: PILLIOD, MICHAEL K.
RUSSELL-CLARKE, Peter N.
Weber, Douglas J.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G03B17/02", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B2215/0503", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "C03B23/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B17/02", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B15/05", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B2215/0503", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "C03B23/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B15/05", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/55", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/55", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B15/05", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B2215/0503", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/2254", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B17/02", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "C03B23/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 48743690