U.S. patent application number 09/738265 was filed with the patent office on 2001-08-16 for handheld computer configured for attachment with an external device.
Invention is credited to Hulick, Troy, Jenks, Kenneth A..
Application Number | 20010014010 09/738265 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27036452 |
Filed Date | 2001-08-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010014010 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jenks, Kenneth A. ; et
al. |
August 16, 2001 |
Handheld computer configured for attachment with an external
device
Abstract
A handheld computer is provided including a housing and a device
slot formed into the housing. The device slot is configured to
receive an elongated member. The flex member includes an internal
structure to allow the elongated member to bend, while supporting
the elongated member from yielding.
Inventors: |
Jenks, Kenneth A.;
(Capitola, CA) ; Hulick, Troy; (Saratoga,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
VAN MAHAMEDI
WILSON SONSINI GOODRICH AND ROSATI
650 PAGE MILL ROAD
PALO ALTO
CA
94304
US
|
Family ID: |
27036452 |
Appl. No.: |
09/738265 |
Filed: |
December 14, 2000 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
09738265 |
Dec 14, 2000 |
|
|
|
09502169 |
Feb 11, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
361/679.56 ;
343/700R; 361/802; 439/916 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 1/1698 20130101;
G06F 2200/1634 20130101; G06F 1/1632 20130101; G06F 1/1626
20130101; G06F 3/03545 20130101; G06F 2200/1632 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
361/686 ;
361/802; 343/700.00R; 439/916 |
International
Class: |
G06F 001/16; H05K
007/00; H05K 005/00; H05K 007/14; H05K 007/18 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A handheld computer comprising: a housing having a front face
and a back face, a top surface and a bottom surface defining a
first axis, and a first side and a second lateral side defining a
second axis; a display accessible on the front face of the housing;
an antenna element retained on or within the housing, the antenna
element being positioned relative to the first axis to be between
the display and the top surface; and a slot configured to receive
an elongated member, the slot including an entrance recessed into
the housing to receive an end of the elongated member, the entrance
extending towards the bottom surface and positioned between the
bottom surface and the antenna element along the first axis.
2. The handheld computer of claim 1, wherein the entrance is
recessed into a lateral side of the housing so that the end of the
elongated member is inserted into the entrance while being oriented
towards the bottom surface of the handheld computer, and while the
elongated member is directed towards the lateral side of the
housing.
3. The handheld computer of claim 2, wherein the entrance is a
recess formed on the first lateral side of the housing, and the
slot includes an elongated section extending from the entrance
towards the bottom surface.
4. The handheld computer of claim 1, wherein the antenna element is
a ceramic antenna chip.
5. The handheld computer of claim 3, wherein the entrance is
positioned a distance of between 6 mm to 12 mm from the top of the
antenna element, the distance being measured along the first
axis.
6. The handheld computer of claim 1, wherein the slot is configured
to receive the elongate element having a rectangular
cross-section.
7. The handheld computer of claim 6, wherein the slot includes an
exposed length formed into the housing.
8. The handheld computer of claim 7, wherein the exposed length is
dimensioned to receive a body extending from the elongated member
so as to extend the body away from the housing and the elongated
member.
9. The handheld computer of claim 8, wherein the slot and the
exposed length are configured to receive a T-shaped cross-section
formed by the elongate member and the body extending therefrom.
10. The handheld computer of claim 1, further comprising a driver
housed within the housing and positioned adjacent to the display
relative to the display.
11. The handheld computer of claim 10, wherein the slot is formed
into the housing on a first side of the display along the second
axis, and wherein the driver is positioned within the housing on a
second side of the display along the second axis.
12. The handheld computer of claim 11, wherein the display is
centrally positioned between the first lateral side and the second
lateral side.
13. A handheld computer comprising: a housing; and a slot formed
into the housing to receive an elongated member, an interior of the
slot being shaped to enable the elongated member to bend and be
supported from yielding when being inserted into the slot.
14. The handheld computer of claim 13, wherein the slot includes an
enlarged entrance formed into the housing, and an elongated section
that extends from the entrance.
15. The handheld computer of claim 14, wherein the slot is shaped
to include a plurality of discrete contact points that support the
elongated member as the elongated member is inserted into the
slot.
16. The handheld computer of claim 14, wherein the enlarged
entrance is a recess formed into the housing, and the elongated
section extends from the recess so that a majority of the
cross-section for the elongated section is formed within the
housing.
17. The handheld computer of claim 16, wherein the shape of the
housing includes a first contact point formed on the recess to
contact the elongated member from a first direction directed away
from the housing.
18. The handheld computer of claim 17, wherein the shape of the
housing includes a second contact point formed on the elongated
section.
19. The handheld computer of claim 18, wherein the second contact
point is positioned on a surface of the elongated section to
contact the elongated member from a second direction directed into
the housing.
20. The handheld computer of claim 19, wherein the shape of the
housing includes a third contact point formed on the elongated
section.
21. The handheld computer of claim 20, wherein the shape of the
housing is positioned on a surface of the elongated section to
contact the elongated member from the third direction into the
housing.
22. A handheld computer coupleable to an accessory device, the
accessory device including a spine with a portion extending
orthanormally therefrom, the handheld computer comprising: a
housing; a slot formed at least partially within the housing and
configured to receive and retain a T-shaped cross-section formed by
the spine and the portion of the accessory device extending
therefrom.
23. A handheld computer comprising: a housing; and a slot formed at
least partially within the housing to receive a spine of an
accessory device, the slot including an exposed section formed on a
surface of the housing and extending at least a portion of a length
of the slot, the slot being shaped so as to receive and retain the
spine having a rectangular cross-section, and the exposed section
receiving a portion of the accessory device extending from the
spine when the spine is inserted into the slot.
24. A detachable assembly comprising: a handheld computer
including: a display, a housing having a front face, a back face
opposing the front face, a top and a bottom, first lateral side and
a second lateral side, the front face providing access to the
display extending between the top and bottom, a slot extending
between the top and bottom of the housing, a recess in the housing
forming an entrance for the slot, and an accessory device including
a spine that is flexible about its length, the spine being
configured to flex and insert into the slot to couple the accessory
device to the handheld computer.
25. The detachable assembly of claim 24, wherein the slot is
configured to receive the spine in a flexed state.
26. The detachable assembly of claim 24, wherein the spine flexes
as it is inserted into the slot, and the slot is configured to
support the spine from yielding when flexing and inserting into the
slot.
27. The detachable assembly of claim 24, wherein the slot is
positioned on the housing so as to receive the spine at an angle of
less than ninety degrees.
28. The detachable assembly of claim 27, wherein the angle is less
than thirty degrees.
29. The detachable assembly of claim 24, wherein the device slot
has a length sufficient to be retained within the slot without
flexing.
30. The detachable assembly of claim 24, wherein a portion of the
spine is biased towards the housing when the spine is being
inserted into the slot.
31. A detachable assembly comprising:: a handheld computer
including a slot accessible from an exterior surface of the
handheld computer; an accessory device including an elongated
member configured to flex about its length while being inserted
into the slot; and wherein the slot is configured to support the
elongated member of the accessory device from yielding when flexing
and inserting into the slot.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 09/502,169, filed Feb. 11, 2000, entitled "Encasement For
a Handheld Computer"; application Ser. No. 09/451,630, filed Nov.
30, 1999, entitled "Cover For A Handheld Computer"; both of the
above-cited applications being hereby incorporated by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to the field of handheld computers.
In particular, the invention relates to an attachment mechanism for
use in coupling handheld computers to peripheral devices and
accessories.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Handheld computers may include slots for receiving stylus
and/or accessory devices. The slots may be used for carrying
styluses that can be used to operate the handheld computers. In
some handheld computers, the slots may double for purpose of
receiving accessory devices.
[0006] The slots sometimes enable the spine or stylus being
retained therein to jiggle or move about. The accessory devices and
stylus may become detached from the handheld computer as a result
of the spacing within the accessory device.
[0007] Furthermore, some handheld computers require accessory
devices, stylus and other peripherals to be inserted into slots for
retention. When these devices are inserted into handheld computers,
the movement of the devices along the longitudinal axis of the
slots may cause the devices to inadvertently jog free of the
handheld computer. For example, styluses and other devices may fall
from the handheld computer if the handheld computer is held upside
down or dropped.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Embodiments of the invention provide an attachment mechanism
for coupling an external device to a handheld computer. In one
embodiment, an external device is equipped with a spine having a
deformable layer. The spine is inserted into a device slot of the
handheld computer. The deformable layer deforms to enable the
handheld computer and accessory device to detachable couple to one
another.
[0009] In one embodiment, an external device includes a spine
having a frictional surface. The spine may be inserted into a slot
of the handheld computer so as to bind the frictional surface of
the spine to a corresponding surface of the handheld computer.
[0010] In another embodiment, a spine of an external device
includes a T-shaped cross-section to increase the retention force
of the spine within the slot of the handheld computer.
[0011] In another embodiment, a handheld computer is provided with
a slot for receiving a spine of an external device. The slot may be
configured to receive a spine having a rectangular
cross-section.
[0012] In another embodiment, the slot is configured to receive a
flexible spine that can be bent for entrance into the slot. The
slot includes an interior structure to receive the spine while
supporting the spine from yielding.
[0013] In still another embodiment, the slot may be laterally
positioned on a surface of the handheld computer and configured to
cause a bendable spine to bias as it is inserted into the slot. The
bias of the spine is directed towards moving the spine laterally
against the handheld computer concurrently with the spine being
moved into the slot.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0014] FIG. 1 is a frontal view of an accessory device including an
attachment mechanism, under an embodiment of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 2 is a frontal view of a detachable assembly, including
a handheld computer and an accessory device, under an embodiment of
the invention.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a frontal view of a handheld computer with a cover
of the accessory device extending over a front face, under an
embodiment of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the handheld computer with the
cover of the accessory device extending over a rear face, under an
embodiment of the invention.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a side view of a handheld computer for use with an
accessory device, under an embodiment of the invention.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a frontal view of a handheld computer
incorporating a device slot, under an embodiment of the
invention.
[0020] FIG. 7 is a side view of a spine for an accessory device,
under an embodiment of the invention.
[0021] FIG. 8 is a frontal view of the spine, under an embodiment
of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 9 is an isometric close-up of an end piece for the
spine, under an embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 10 is a cross-section of a spine, under an embodiment
of the invention.
[0024] FIG. 11 is a side-sectional view of the handheld computer
retaining a spine of an accessory device, under an embodiment of
the invention.
[0025] FIG. 12 is a side-sectional view of the handheld computer
receiving the spine, under an embodiment of the invention.
[0026] FIG. 13 is a top sectional view a handheld computer with a
device slot retaining a spine having a rectangular cross-section,
under an embodiment of the invention, compared with a circular
device slot used in known devices.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] A. Overview
[0028] Embodiments of the invention include an attachment mechanism
for coupling an external device to a handheld computer. The
external device may include an elongated member or spine that can
deform to insert and be retained within a slot of a handheld
computer. The deformable layer ensures a snug and secure fit. The
spine is removable from the slot of the handheld computer. The
spine and deformable layer may be integrated or coupled with an
accessory device, peripheral device, or stylus that is coupleable
with the handheld computer.
[0029] An embodiment of the invention includes an attachment
mechanism for coupling an external device to a handheld computer.
The attachment mechanism includes an elongated member having a
deformable layer. The elongated member engages a slot on the
handheld computer to detachably couple the external device to the
handheld computer. The deformable layer deforms to enable the
elongated member to insert and be retained within the slot of the
handheld computer.
[0030] The term deformable as used herein refers to a
characteristic of a member that allows a cross-section of the
member to be measurably reduced with a compressive force. Under an
embodiment of the invention, a deformable layer compresses to
reduce its cross-section by at least 1%.
[0031] As used herein, an external device includes a stylus, a
peripheral device or an accessory device. An accessory device is an
item that adds functionality to the handheld computer. The slot on
the handheld computer may include device slots, rails, or openings.
The slot may double for receiving an accessory device or a
stylus.
[0032] One advantage provided under an embodiment of the invention
is that an external device coupled to the handheld computer is
precluded or resisted from moving longitudinally with the slot of
the handheld computer. This feature may be provided by frictional
layers on the portion of the external device being inserted into
the handheld computer. The feature may also be provided by the
structure of the slot on the handheld computer, in a manner
described below. The limited longitudinal movement of the external
device provides a more secure, detachable coupling.
[0033] In another embodiment, a handheld computer includes a
housing having a front face and a back face, a top surface and a
bottom surface defining a first axis, and a first side and a second
lateral side defining a second axis. A display is provided on the
front face. The housing retains an antenna element, positioned
relative to the first axis to be between the display and the top
surface. A slot is configured to receive an elongated member. The
slot includes an entrance that extends towards the bottom surface.
The slot is positioned between the bottom surface and the antenna
element along the first axis.
[0034] In such embodiments, the handheld computer may be employed
to carry out wireless communications, while including a slot for
coupling with other devices. The slot configuration reduces the
overall size of the handheld computer, when compared to handheld
computers using stylus-shaped device slots.
[0035] Another embodiment of the invention includes a handheld
computer including a housing. A slot is formed into the housing to
receive an elongated external device. The slot is positioned so
that the elongated device has to bend to be inserted into the
housing. The slot may include an internal structure that supports
the elongated device from yielding when it is being inserted.
[0036] The resulting handheld computer is equipped to retain a
spine or elongated member of an external device in a more secure
fashion than other known handheld computers. In particular, such
handheld computers resist movement of the external devices with the
slots. As a result, the external device and handheld computer can
be detachable coupled in a more secure fashion.
[0037] B. External Device With Attachment Mechanism
[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates an accessory or other external device
configured to include an attachment mechanism, under an embodiment
of the invention. For examples provided, the attachment mechanism
is assumed to be a portion of an external device. In embodiments
described, the external device is assumed to be an accessory,
specifically a detachable cover for a handheld computer. Other
embodiments may vary the construction and function of the external
device. For example, the attachment mechanism may be used with a
housing for electrical components and circuitry. The housing of the
attached device may be shaped as a cover, or otherwise be
extendible over a surface of the handheld computer. Still further,
the attachment mechanism may be applicable to external devices such
as styluses.
[0039] In an embodiment, accessory device 100 includes a spine 105,
a flex portion 110, and a cover portion 120. The accessory device
100 is shown oriented so that the cover portion 120 extends
completely over a display of the handheld computer when the two
devices are coupled.
[0040] The spine 105 is shaped to engage a device slot 212 (FIG. 5)
of a handheld computer 220 (FIG. 2). The spine 105 includes a
bottom end piece 106 and a top end piece 108. The top end piece 108
is enlarged relative to the bottom end piece 106. A member 104
extends between the bottom end piece 106 and the top end piece 108.
As will be further described, at least the member 104 of spine 105
is deformable to facilitate accessory device 100 in detachable
coupling to handheld computer 220.
[0041] In an embodiment, cover portion 120 and flex portion 110 are
each formed from a tensile material. For example, the flex portion
110 and cover portion 120 may each be formed from leather, plastic,
vinyl, rubber, fabric or other suitable material. The flex portion
110 may be a unitary, integrated or attached extension of cover
portion 120. Flex portion 110 can be stitched or glued to cover
portion 120. Likewise, cover portion 120 may be formed as unitary,
integrated, or attached feature of spine 105, or of flex portion
110.
[0042] In an embodiment, member 104 includes a deformable material
clad around a rigid core. The rigid core may be pliable or able to
flex about its length. The deformable material is preferable
leather, rubber, or plastic. Other examples of deformable materials
for the member 104 include vinyl or fabric. Examples of materials
used for the core include metals such as aluminum, tin, or copper,
although any flexing rigid material may be suitable, such as for
example, wood. The bottom end piece 106 and top end piece 108 may
be formed from moldable materials, such as plastic.
[0043] FIG. 2 illustrates a detachable assembly 200, under an
embodiment of the invention. The detachable assembly includes a
handheld computer 220 that is detachably coupled to accessory
device 100 through spine 105. The handheld computer 220 includes a
front face 222, and a back face 242 (FIG. 4) opposing the front
face. The front face 222 spans between a top 227 and a bottom 229
of the handheld computer 200. The front face 222 provides access to
a display 224, as well as a plurality of application buttons 226
and a rocking switch 237. The handheld computer 220 also includes a
first lateral side 221 and a second lateral side 223. The first and
second lateral sides 221 and 223 extend between the front face 222
and the back face, as well as between the top 227 and bottom 229.
An antenna 230 is provided on or adjacent to the top 227 of the
handheld computer 200.
[0044] Examples of handheld computers for use with embodiments of
the invention include devices operating a Palm.RTM., Windows
CE.RTM., or Windows PocketPC.RTM. device. Other examples include
devices equipped for use as cellular phones, wireless devices
including Wireless Access Protocol (WAP) enabled devices and
wireless devices using web-browsers. Specific examples of such
devices include PalmPilot.RTM., Palm III.RTM., Palm V.RTM., and
Palm VII.RTM. electronic organizers, manufactured by Palm Inc.
[0045] In the embodiment shown, accessory device 100 engages first
device slot 212 (See FIG. 5) positioned on or adjacent to the first
lateral side 221 of handheld computer 220. The handheld computer
220 includes a second device slot 232 (shown in phantom) positioned
on or adjacent to the second lateral side 223. The second device
slot 232 includes an entrance opening 237 for receiving an external
device from top 227. Preferably, second device slot 232 is
dimensioned differently than first device slot 212. In the example
shown, second device slot 232 is used to receive a stylus 240 or
stylus type device, which may be wider and/or longer than spine
105. The stylus 240 may also have a circular or elliptical
cross-section, while spine 105 may be provided a rectangular
cross-section. The second device slot 232 may even be used for
accessory devices that have stylus-type spines, having dimensions
different than spine 105.
[0046] When coupled, the cover portion 120 of accessory device 100
includes an inside surface 122 that can be positioned to overlay
and be immediately adjacent to the front face 222. The inside
surface 122 is moveable about the connection formed by spine 105
and first device slot 212 so to be positionable on front face 222.
Preferably, the cover portion 120 has dimensions that are
sufficient to at least cover display 224, and more preferably,
application buttons 226 and rocking switch 237. The inside surface
122 may include pockets and other interior features to maximize the
utility of the accessory device 100, as described U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/451,630 (hereby incorporated by reference).
In addition, cover portion 120 may house circuitry and electrical
components to form accessorial electrical and/or computational
functions, as described U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/573,451
(hereby incorporated by reference).
[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates detachable assembly 200, with cover
portion 120 of accessory device 100 positioned to be adjacent to
front face 222 so as to extend over display 224. The cover portion
120 can be rotated about the spine 105, and preferably includes
sufficient movement to flip from the front face 222 to the back
face of the handheld computer. In one embodiment, the freedom of
motion is provided by the flexibility and length of the flex
portion 110. In other embodiment, spine 105 may be configured to be
rotatable about first device slot 212 (FIG. 5).
[0048] FIG. 4 illustrates the accessory device 100 with the cover
portion 120 flipped to be adjacent to a back face 242 of handheld
computer 220. FIG. 4 illustrates that flex portion 110 (FIG. 1) may
be used as a hinge, enabling cover portion 120 to moved from being
positioned adjacent front face 222 (See FIG. 2) to being adjacent
to back face 242. A user of handheld computer 220 may flip the
cover to be adjacent to back face 242 in order to use the device,
such as by viewing display 224 (FIG. 3) or actuating applications
buttons 226 (FIG. 3). In this way, the user may avoid detaching the
accessory device 100 from handheld computer 220 to access display
224, application buttons 220 or rocking switch 227.
[0049] C. Handheld Computer With Device Slot
[0050] FIG. 5 is a side view of handheld computer 220, illustrating
first device slot 212 positioned on a housing 260 of handheld
computer to receive spine 105 of accessory device 100. Preferably,
first device slot 212 is positioned on first lateral side 221,
between the front face 222 and back face 242 of handheld computer
220. In an embodiment, first device slot 212 is shaped to slideably
receive spine 105 as it is inserted end-first in a lengthwise
direction. The device slot 212 is accessible to spine 105 through
an entrance 234. The entrance 234 is merged with an elongated
section 233 (shown in phantom). The elongated section 233 extends
along a subsection of the housing 260, and is shaped to receive
member 104 and bottom end piece 106. The device slot 212 includes
an exposed length 262 extending with the elongated section 233. The
exposed length 262 provides a structure within device slot 212
access to extend beyond housing 260. For accessory device 100,
cover portion 120 may extend from spine 105 to cover a face of
handheld computer 220 when spine 105 is inserted in first device
slot 212.
[0051] In an embodiment, at least one cross-sectional dimension of
the elongated section 233 is sufficiently small to frictionally
receive the member 104, while another dimension of elongated
section 233 may be sufficient to allow bottom end piece 106 to pass
through. The device slot 212 extends a depth into the casing of
handheld computer 220. The entrance 234 is preferably a recess
formed into the lateral side 221 of the handheld computer 220.
[0052] The entrance 234 of device slot 212 is positioned a distance
x from the top 227. The position of device slot 212 enables spine
105 to be attached to handheld computer 220 without interfering
with radio frequency communications of handheld computer's antenna,
in a manner described with FIG. 6.
[0053] FIG. 6 is a frontal view of handheld computer 220, including
first device slot 212, under an embodiment of the invention. The
front face 222 of handheld computer 220 includes display 224. A
driver 256 (shown in phantom) is positioned within the housing
adjacent to the display 224. Preferably, device slot 212 is
positioned on or proximate to first lateral side 221. The second
lateral side 223 includes a second device slot 232, having an
opening 237 for receiving a stylus 240 (FIG. 2). Preferably,
opening 237 is formed on top 27.
[0054] For descriptive purposes, reference is made between a first
axis z1 extending the length of handheld computer 220, defined to
be between top 227 and bottom 229. A second axis z2 extends the
width of handheld computer 220, defined to be between the first
lateral side 221 and the second lateral side 223.
[0055] The first device slot 212 extends a portion of the length
along axis z1. A first antenna element 266 is retained within
housing 260 of the handheld computer 220. A second antenna element
268 may be positioned on the top 227. The first antenna element 266
may be a ceramic chip antenna for transmitting radio-frequency
signals. The antenna chip 266 is positioned along z1 to be between
top 227 and the entrance 234 to first device slot 212. Preferably,
the antenna element 266 is immediately adjacent to top 227.
[0056] In an embodiment, spine 105 (shown in FIG. 6 to be without a
body) is engageable with device slot 212 at an acute angle relative
to z1. Path C is intended to illustrate the path of a point on the
spine 105 as the spine 105 is engaged and retained by device slot
212. Preferably, the angle is less than thirty degrees. When spine
105 is engaged with device slot 212, the portion of spine 105 that
is still not inserted is acutely angled with the device slot 212,
creating a bend in spine 105. The spine 105 has sufficient flexure
properties to bend while being inserted. The flexure properties of
spine 105 create a bias that tends to direct the portion of the
spine outside of device slot 212 towards the housing 260.
[0057] When fully inserted, top end piece 108 of spine 105 is
positioned at entrance 234 of device slot 212, the distance x from
top 227 of handheld computer 220. The proximity of antenna chip 266
and spine 105 may be measured relative to a distance along axis z1.
This position of spine 105 avoids disruption to antenna element
266, especially if spine 105 includes metallic or conductive
materials. In one embodiment, the proximity between second end
piece 108 and the top 227 is between 8-12 mm, and the proximity
between spine 105 and antenna chip 266 is between 6-8 mm.
[0058] With some known devices, the driver 256 has space
requirements that preclude positioning the display 224 centrally
about first axis z1. In contrast, under an embodiment, device slot
212 occupies a smaller foot-print on the surface of handheld
computer 220. This allows device slot 212 to be positioned, between
first lateral side 221 and display 224 relative to second axis z2.
The driver 256 may then be positioned between the display 224 and
the second lateral side 223, relative to second axis z2. This
configuration enables handheld computer 220 to be symmetrical on
front face 222. In particular, display 224 is centrally positioned
relative to second axis z2. In other words, the lateral distance b
measured between each side of display 224 and the proximate lateral
side 221, 223 is about the same (preferably within 0.1 mm).
[0059] D. Attachment Mechanism
[0060] FIG. 7 is a side view of spine 105, corresponding to the
perspective of FIG. 5 for device slot 212. The member 104 includes
bottom end piece 106 and top end piece 108. The top end piece 108
is enlarged compared to bottom end piece 106. The top end piece 108
is shaped to be received and retained by entrance 234 of handheld
computer 220. The dimension of top end piece 108 shown with FIG. 7
is too large to be able to pass through entrance 234. Thus, top end
piece 108 rests in the entrance opening 134 and provides a catching
point for users to remove spine 105 from the first device slot
212.
[0061] The dimension of bottom end piece 106 shown by FIG. 7 is
thinner than top end piece 108, and sufficient to pass through
first device slot 212. The bottom end piece 106 can then be forced
down towards the bottom 229 of handheld computer 220 with member
104 sliding into position within first device slot 212. The top end
piece 108 precludes further motion of the spine 105 when it is
received in entrance 234. The first device slot 212 and spine 105
may also be dimensioned so that spine end piece 106 is obstructed
from further downward movement when spine 105 is fully inserted.
The member 104 of spine 105 includes a dimension represented by
thickness t. In an embodiment, spine 105 is clad with a deformable
layer 118 to deform along the direction of t.
[0062] FIG. 8 is a top view of spine 105, under an embodiment of
the invention. The top view corresponds to the orientation of spine
105, viewed from a direction of lateral side 221 when spine 105 is
inserted into first device slot 212. The spine 105 includes a
thickness, referred as width w.sub.1, and a length l.sub.1. The
spine 105 deforms to insert into first device slot 212, and then
expands to a relaxed position when inserted. Preferably, the
deformation and relaxation is in an orthanormal direction width w
and length l. However, some deformation may also occur along width
w, and even along length l.
[0063] FIG. 9 illustrates a construction of spine 105. A core 114
of member 104 is formed from a rigid material, such as a metal. Due
to the dimensions of core 114, the rigid member is able to flex
about its lengthwise axis. Preferably, top and bottom end pieces
106, 108 are molded onto the member 104. In FIG. 9, top end piece
108 is shown to be molded onto core 114. In a subsequent
fabrication step, a deformable layer may be clad onto core 104. For
example, leather or plastic cladding may be provided onto core 114
to enable spine member 104 to deform along the thickness shown by
w.sub.1.
[0064] In other embodiments, top and bottom end pieces 106, 108 may
be pressed on, rolled back metal, glued on etc. Still further, top
and bottom end pieces may be a unitary or integrated section of
member 104.
[0065] FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-section of member 104 comprising
core 114 clad with deformable layer 118. The member 104 is
referenced according to dimensions of width w.sub.1, and a
thickness t. In an embodiment, member 104 includes the core 114,
formed from a rigid material. Examples of rigid materials include
metals such as tin, aluminum, steel, and copper. More exotic
elements may also be used in other embodiments, such as for
example, ceramics, carbon and titanium. The deformable layer 118 is
preferably formed from resilient materials such as leather. Other
suitable materials include plastic, vinyl, rubber, fabric and
composites. As shown in FIG. 10, the deformable layer 118
preferably has the greatest amount of deformity along the thickness
t of the member 104. This corresponds to how the structure of the
device slot 212 engages member 104 upon insertion. The thickness t
of member 104 extends a depth into the casing of the handheld
computer 220. The width w.sub.1 extends laterally within first
device slot 212, which in the embodiments shown, corresponds to
extending between front face 222 and backface 242 of the handheld
computer 220 (See e.g. FIG. 13).
[0066] In other embodiments, spine 105 may be unitarily
constructed. In such embodiment, an exterior portion of member 104
may form deformable layer 118. The material of spine 105 may
include flexure properties, and be sufficiently rigid along its
thickness to allow spine 105 to be insertable in and/or removable
from device slot 212.
[0067] E. External Device Coupled To Handheld Computer
[0068] FIG. 11 is a sectional side-view of handheld computer 220,
similar to the perspective of FIG. 10, showing spine 105 inserted
into device slot 212. The first device slot 212 is formed by casing
260 and a subframe 252. The entrance 234 is formed in part by a
contour in the subframe 252 and/or casing 260, so that entrance 234
is a recess formed into first lateral side 221. In this
orientation, cover portion 120 (now shown in this figure) may
extend from first device slot 212 through the exposed length 262
(See FIG. 5). As shown, spine 105 is entered into device slot 212
along directional arrow a, corresponding to an orientation where
bottom end piece 106 (See FIG. 6) engages entrance 234 first. The
enlarged top end piece 108 forms a stop at entrance 234. The core
114 of spine 105 is clad with the deformable layer 118. The
deformable layer 118 deforms as the spine 105 is inserted into the
device slot 212. In the example shown, the deformation is primarily
in the direction of the thickness for the member 104, oriented
vertically on the paper. Furthermore, the deformation occurs at the
portion of the spine 105 that extends past entrance 234 into the
elongated section 233 of the first device slot 212. The deformable
layer 118 may remain deformed to biasely retain spine 105 in the
device slot 212. In the embodiments, the device slot 212 may
include a lip or wedge that deforms the deformable layer 118 as it
is inserted, but resists removal of the spine 105 after
insertion.
[0069] In an embodiment, entrance 234 of device slot 212 is a
recessed area of lateral side 221. FIG. 11 further illustrates that
top end piece 108 may be molded around a metallic element of spine
105, specifically of a shaped end of member 104.
[0070] FIG. 12 is a sectional side view of handheld computer 220,
showing spine 105 partially inserted into first device slot 212.
The orientation shown is intended to be represent the spine 105
inserted into device slot 212, from the perspective of viewing the
cross-section from the front face 222 or the back face 224 of
handheld computer 200. As shown, first device slot 212 is formed
into a housing or casing 260 of handheld computer 220. The device
slot 212 includes exposed length 262 (see FIG. 5) on casing 260.
The spine 105 enters device slot 212 along directional arrow a, in
an orientation where bottom end piece 106 (See FIG. 7) engages
entrance 234 first. The top end piece 108 forms a stop at entrance
234. The spine includes core 114, clad with deformable layer 118.
The core 114 is formed from rigid materials, and dimensioned so as
to be flexible about its length.
[0071] The first device slot 212 is configured to receive and
retain spine 105 from an angle so that spine 105 flexes when it is
being inserted. The first device slot 212 includes an interior
structure designed to support spine 105 when flexing. Preferably,
the interior structure prevents spine 105 from yielding when
flexing to enter first device slot 212.
[0072] In an embodiment, first device slot 212 includes a plurality
of discrete interior contact points that contact spine 105 as it is
being inserted. The discrete contact points serve to support spine
105 from yielding during insertion. This is conceptually
illustrated by the parabolic curve of spine 105. Reference is made
to first axis z1.
[0073] In one embodiment, a first contact point 241 contacts the
spine 105 so as to support the spine 105 towards an outwardly
direction relative to the housing 260. Preferably, first contact
point 241 is positioned in entrance 234, proximate to top 227. A
second contact point 243 is positioned closer to the bottom 229
(FIG. 2), relative to z1. The second contact point 243 supports
spine 105 towards an inward direction relative to housing 260. The
second contact point 243 may be offset from the first contact point
relative to lateral side 221. A third contact point 245 supports
spine 105 further along first device slot 212. The third contact
point 245 also supports spine 105 inwardly relative to housing 260.
A contact region 247 confines an inserted portion of spine 105,
limiting the spine's flexibility at that stage.
[0074] In an embodiment, the distance between the first contact
point 241 and the second contact point 243 is between 14-22 mm, and
preferably about 18-19 mm. The distance between the second contact
point 243 and the third contact point is between 6-12 mm, and
preferably about 9 mm. In addition, the first contact point 241 is
on or near lateral surface 221. The third contact point 245 is
between 1-4 mm a depth into the housing, and preferably a depth of
2 mm from the first contact point 241. The interior of first device
slot 212 is defined by a thickness of the casing 260. Preferably,
the thickness of casing 260 increases as from the second contact
point 243 to the third contact point 245. This forms an L-shaped
cross-section within first device slot 212. This cross-section
provides sufficient range of motion for spine 105, with contact
points 241, 243, and 245 positioned to support the spine 105 from
yielding.
[0075] The deformable layer 118 deforms in regions that are
supported by first contact point 241, second contact point 243, and
third contact point 245. The contact region 247 may also deform the
deformable layer 118. As a result, the interior structure of first
device slot 212 supports spine 105 from yielding, while
frictionally retaining spine 105 within first device slot 212.
[0076] FIG. 13 is a top view of handheld computer 220 with spine
105 inserted in device slot 212, under an embodiment of the
invention. A configuration of a device slot 212 and another
insertable member is shown in phantom to provide a relative
comparison of an advantage of the embodiment described. In
particular, the configuration of first device slot 212 and spine
105 allow for accessory device 100 to cover a smaller-footprint on
housing 260, relative to devices using insertable members with
circular cross-sections.
[0077] In an embodiment, device slot 212 is C-shaped, including
exposed length 262 that extends vertically (into the paper) along
the lateral side 221. As such, device slot 212 is configured to
receive spine 105, having a rectangular cross-section. The first
device slot 212 may include exposed length 262, which enables for a
body to extend from spine 105, such as described with FIGS. 1 and
2. This enables device slot 212 is to receive a T-shaped
cross-sectional member, formed by a combination of spine 105 and an
extended body (i.e. cover portion 120). Among other advantages, the
rectangular cross-section of spine 105 provides a greater resistive
force against separating from the device through exposed length
262, when compared to insertable members of known devices having
circular cross-sections.
[0078] In an embodiment, the exposed length 262 allows for flex
portion 110 to acts as a hinge. The flex portion 110 enables cover
portion 120 to flip between the front face 222 and back face 242 of
handheld computer 220. The flex portion 110 may be formed from a
tensile material such as leather, plastic, vinyl or rubber. The
tensile properties of the flex portion enables, for example, cover
portion 120 to flip between the front face 222 and the back face
242.
[0079] F. Examples and Alternative Embodiments
[0080] In an embodiment, core 114 of spine 105 is formed from
steel. The thickness of core 114 is sufficient to enable spine 105
to flex lengthwise. The core 114 is clad with leather. The leather
is stitched to flex portion 110. Preferably, flex portion 110 and
cover portion 120 are also leather, and stitched, glued or other
wise attached to one another.
[0081] While embodiments described thus far have referred to the
accessory device as being an apparatus for providing a cover on the
handheld computer 220, other embodiments may include components,
circuits, and gadgets to extend functionality. For example, cover
portion 120 may be equipped with folders and pockets, such as to
provide for business cards and pens. The cover portion 120 may also
include electronic components, such as global positioning
components, radio-frequency antennas, and other circuitry. Examples
of such accessory devices are disclosed in U.S. patent appl. Ser.
No. 09/573,451, entitled "Electronic Encasement for a Handheld
Computer", filed May 16, 2000, naming Lunsford et al. as inventors;
U.S. patent appl. Ser. No. 09/586,541, entitled "Smart Cover for a
Handheld Computer", filed May 31, 2000, naming Canova, Jr. et al.
as inventors; U.S. patent appl. Ser. No. 09/451,630, entitled
"Cover for a Handheld Computer", filed Nov. 30, 1999, naming Han et
al. as inventors; U.S. patent appl. Ser. No. 09/502,169, entitled
"Encasement for Handheld Computer", filed Feb. 11, 2000, naming
Canova, Jr. et al. as inventors; U.S. patent appl. Ser. No.
09/572,673, entitled "Keyboard for a Handheld Computer", filed May
16, 2000, naming Lunsford et al. as inventors; all of which are
hereby incorporated by reference.
[0082] Another embodiment of the invention includes a stylus housed
with the handheld computer. The stylus may be equipped with
features of spine 105, in a manner described with embodiments of
the invention. In a specific embodiment, a stylus includes an
elongated member having a length and a cross-section. The
cross-section permits the stylus to engage the device slot. The
length enables the stylus to be received and retained within the
slot. A majority of the length of the elongated member may include
a deformable layer. As used herein, majority refers to an amount
greater than 50% of the whole. The deformable layer deforms when
the stylus engages the slot to retain the stylus within the
slot.
[0083] In another embodiment, cover portion 120 extends from spine
105 without a flex member 110. The cover portion 120 may be
moveable within device slot 212 to enable cover portion 120 to move
between the front face 222 and the back face 224 of handheld
computer 100.
[0084] In still another embodiment, spine 105 may comprise the
accessory device, or alternatively form a detachable connection for
other components. For example, the spine 105 may have a connection
to couple to different types of other devices in a modular
fashion.
[0085] G. Conclusion
[0086] The foregoing description of various embodiments of the
invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and
description. It is not intended to limit the invention to the
precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and equivalent
arrangements will be apparent.
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