U.S. patent application number 09/832773 was filed with the patent office on 2002-10-10 for housing cap for a handheld computer.
Invention is credited to Hulick, Troy, Jenks, Kenneth, Shiozaki, Steven, Tsoi, May.
Application Number | 20020145572 09/832773 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25262578 |
Filed Date | 2002-10-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020145572 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hulick, Troy ; et
al. |
October 10, 2002 |
HOUSING CAP FOR A HANDHELD COMPUTER
Abstract
A housing cap is provided for a handheld computer. The housing
cap includes a structure having a length extending along a first
axis and a height extending along a second axis. The structure
includes a first exterior surface, a first strip and a second
strip. The first exterior surface extends along the first axis, the
first strip and the second strip each extending along the first
axis and having a thickness. The first strip is dimensioned to
adjoin an interior of the first exterior shell. The second strip is
dimensioned to adjoin an interior of the second exterior shell. The
structure includes an interior partially enclosed by the first
exterior surface. The first strip and the second strip form an
opening extending along the length of the housing cap opposite to
the exterior surface. The opening is dimensioned to accommodate an
antenna element and a segment of the frame for the handheld
computer.
Inventors: |
Hulick, Troy; (Saratoga,
CA) ; Jenks, Kenneth; (Capitola, CA) ;
Shiozaki, Steven; (Belmont, CA) ; Tsoi, May;
(Fremont, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HICKMAN PALERMO
TRUONG & BECKER LLP
1600 Willow Street
San Jose
CA
95125-5106
US
|
Family ID: |
25262578 |
Appl. No.: |
09/832773 |
Filed: |
April 10, 2001 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
343/872 ;
343/702 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01Q 1/243 20130101;
G06F 1/1698 20130101; H01Q 1/362 20130101; G06F 1/1656 20130101;
G06F 2200/1632 20130101; H01Q 11/08 20130101; H01Q 1/2266 20130101;
G06F 1/1626 20130101; H01Q 1/405 20130101; H01Q 1/42 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
343/872 ;
343/702 |
International
Class: |
H01Q 001/42; H01Q
001/24 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A housing cap for a handheld computer, the handheld computer
comprising a housing having a first exterior shell, a second
exterior shell, and a frame positioned between the first exterior
shell and the second exterior shell, the cap comprising: a
structure having a length extending along a first axis and a height
extending along a second axis that is orthogonal to the first axis,
the structure including a first exterior surface, a first strip and
a second strip, the first exterior surface extending along the
first axis, the first strip and the second strip each extending
along the first axis and having a thickness extending along the
second axis, the first strip being dimensioned to adjoin an
interior of the first exterior shell, the second strip being
dimensioned to adjoin an interior of the second exterior shell, the
structure including an interior partially enclosed by the first
exterior surface, the first strip and the second strip to form an
opening extending along the length of the housing cap opposite to
the exterior surface, the opening being dimensioned to accommodate
an antenna element and a segment of the frame for the handheld
computer.
2. The housing cap of claim 1, wherein the first strip and the
second strip each include a plurality of apertures to receive
fasteners that couple the housing cap to the respective first and
second exterior shells.
3. The housing cap of claim 1, wherein the structure includes a
first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion
and the second end portion extending between the first strip and
the strip, the first end portion including a partially circular
opening extending along the second axis and dimensioned to
slideably receive a stylus.
4. The housing cap of claim 3, wherein the second end portion
includes a coupling aperture to engage an extension of the frame so
as to couple the housing cap to the frame.
5. The housing cap of claim 1, wherein the first exterior surface
includes an opening for providing access to a wireless
communications mechanism.
6. The housing cap of claim 1, wherein the structure is formed from
infrared transmissive material.
7. The housing cap of claim 6, wherein the first exterior surface
is formed from an infrared transmissive material.
8. The housing cap of claim 6, wherein a portion of the first
exterior surface includes a polished portion for enabling infrared
communications.
9. The housing cap of claim 1, wherein the first exterior surface
includes an opening for a light indicator.
10. The housing cap of claim 1, wherein the first exterior surface
and an adjacent surface to the first exterior surface each include
an opening for a light indicator.
11. The housing cap of claim 1, wherein the first exterior surface
is contoured so that a depth of the interior is variable along the
length.
12. The housing cap of claim 1, wherein the first strip and the
second strip are primarily linear and uniformly spaced from one
another across the interior of the structure.
13. The housing cap of claim 1, further comprising an transparent
surface coupled to the structure provide a light indicator that can
be signaled from a diode stored within the interior of the
structure.
14. The housing cap of claim 1, wherein the structure includes a
bulbous section that extends from the first exterior surface.
15. The housing cap of claim 14, wherein the bulbous section
includes an opening for receiving an transparent surface.
16. The housing cap of claim 15, wherein the opening for the
transparent surface is formed to provide that the transparent
surface includes a first thickness along the first axis and a
second thickness along the second axis, the first thickness and the
second thickness being visible on the handheld computer.
17. An antenna cap assembly for a handheld computer, the handheld
computer comprising a housing having a first exterior shell, a
second exterior shell, and a frame positioned between the first
exterior shell and the second exterior shell, the first exterior
shell, the second exterior shell and the frame combining to house a
printed circuit board, the antenna cap comprising: a structure
having a length extending along a first axis and a height extending
along a second axis that is orthogonal to the first axis, the
structure including a first exterior surface, a first strip and a
second strip, the first exterior surface extending along the first
axis, the first strip and the second strip each extending along the
first axis and having a thickness along second axis, the first
strip being dimensioned to adjoin an interior of the first exterior
shell, the second strip being dimensioned to adjoin an interior of
the second exterior shell, the structure including an interior
partially enclosed by the first exterior surface, the first strip
and the second strip to form an opening extending along the length
of the housing cap opposite to the exterior surface, the opening
being dimensioned to accommodate an antenna element and a segment
of the frame for the handheld computer; and an antenna element
electrically coupleable to the printed circuit board and housed
within the structure.
18. The antenna cap assembly of claim 17, wherein the structure
includes a bulbous section that extends from the first exterior
surface, and the antenna element is a helical antenna.
19. The antenna cap assembly of claim 17, wherein the structure is
formed from infrared transmissive material.
20. The antenna cap assembly of claim 17, wherein the first
exterior surface is formed an infrared transmissive material.
21. The antenna cap assembly of claim 19, wherein a portion of the
first exterior surface is polished to enable infrared
communications.
22. A cap assembly for wireless communications on a handheld
computer, the handheld computer comprising a housing having a first
exterior shell, a second exterior shell, and a frame positioned
between the first exterior shell and the second exterior shell, the
first exterior shell, the second exterior shell and the frame
combining to house a printed circuit board, the cap assembly
comprising: a structure having a length extending along a first
axis and a height extending along a second axis that is orthogonal
to the first axis, the structure including a first exterior
surface, a first strip and a second strip, the first exterior
surface extending along the first axis, the first strip and the
second strip each extending along the first axis and having a
thickness along the second axis, the first strip being dimensioned
to adjoin an interior of the first exterior shell, the second strip
being dimensioned to adjoin an interior of the second exterior
shell, the structure including an interior partially enclosed by
the first exterior surface, the first strip and the second strip to
form an opening extending along the length of the housing cap
opposite to the exterior surface, the opening being dimensioned to
accommodate an antenna element and a segment of the frame for the
handheld computer, the structure being configured to enable
infrared communications; an antenna element electrically coupleable
to the printed circuit board and housed within the structure; and
an infrared communicator electrically coupleable to the printed
circuit board to extend infrared communications through the
structure.
23. A cap assembly for wireless communications on a handheld
computer, the handheld computer comprising a housing having a first
exterior shell, a second exterior shell, and a frame positioned
between the first exterior shell and the second exterior shell, the
first exterior shell, the second exterior shell and the frame
combining to house a printed circuit board, the cap assembly
comprising: a first structure having a length extending along a
first axis and a height extending along a second axis that is
orthogonal to the first axis, the first structure including a first
exterior surface, a first strip and a second strip, the first
exterior surface extending along the first axis, the first strip
and the second strip each extending along the first axis and having
a thickness along the second axis, the first strip being
dimensioned to adjoin an interior of the first exterior shell, the
second strip being dimensioned to adjoin an interior of the second
exterior shell, the first structure including an interior partially
enclosed by the first exterior surface, the first strip and the
second strip to form an opening extending along the length of the
housing cap opposite to the exterior surface, the opening being
dimensioned to accommodate an antenna element and a segment of the
frame for the handheld computer; an interior structure positioned
within the structure; an antenna element electrically coupleable to
the printed circuit board and housed within the structure; and an
infrared communicator electrically coupleable to the printed
circuit board to extend infrared communications through the first
structure and the interior structure; wherein the first structure
and the interior structure are configured to enable infrared
communications extended from the infrared communicator.
24. The cap assembly of claim 23, wherein the first structure is
formed from infrared transmissive material, and the interior
structure is clear.
25. The cap assembly of claim 24, wherein the first structure is
clear, and the interior structure is formed from infrared
transmissive material.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates to the field of handheld computers.
In particular, the invention relates to features for a housing of a
handheld computer.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] Handheld computers are becoming more diverse in function and
design. The handheld computer models that are widely used come in
established housings and designs. The components of the handheld
computer are sometimes made to match the established housings.
[0005] For wireless applications, handheld computers may be
configured to use different kinds of antennas. Each type of antenna
may plug into a different frequency or wireless transmission type.
The different kinds of antennas may require different spaces within
the housings of the handheld computers. When a handheld computer is
designed for one type of antenna, the housing of that handheld
computer may have to be modified to accommodate a new type of
antenna.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] An embodiment of the invention includes a midframe for a
handheld computer. The midframe is configured to be coupleable to
different housing caps. Each housing cap may have a different shape
and/or components. The midframe enables a housing cap to be
selected for the handheld computer.
[0007] Another embodiment of the invention includes a housing cap
that is coupleable to the handheld computer. Each housing may be
used to house components for the handheld computer, including
antennas and infrared transmitters.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0008] FIG. 1 is a frontal view of a handheld computer equipped
with a housing cap, under an embodiment of the invention.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a frontal view of a handheld computer equipped
with another housing cap, under an embodiment of the invention.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a front side view of a housing cap, under an
embodiment of the invention.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a back side view of the housing cap in FIG. 3.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a top view of the housing cap in FIG. 3.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the housing cap in FIG.
5, cut along lines A-A.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a front side view of a housing cap, under another
embodiment of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a top view of the housing cap in FIG. 7.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the housing cap cut
along lines B-B of FIG. 8.
[0017] FIG. 10 is a first isometric view of a housing cap assembly
equipped for infrared communications, under an embodiment of the
invention.
[0018] FIG. 11 is a second isometric view of the housing cap in
FIG. 10.
[0019] FIG. 12 is a front view of a midframe, under an embodiment
of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a midframe being coupled to
a housing cap, under an embodiment of the invention.
[0021] FIG. 14 is an exploded view illustrating a handheld computer
being assembled with a housing cap, under an embodiment of the
invention.
[0022] FIG. 15 is a side view of a housing cap with two printed
circuit boards, for coupling to multiple types of antenna housing
caps, under an embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 16 is a front isometric view of a housing cap being
coupled to a midframe and two printed circuit boards, under an
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] A. System Overview
[0025] Embodiments of the invention include a housing cap for a
handheld computer. The housing cap may be used to house wireless
communication mechanisms for the handheld computer, including
infrared transmitters, receivers and antennas.
[0026] In an embodiment, the housing cap may be incorporated as
part of an assembly for wireless communications. The assembly may
enable wireless communications of a particular type or
frequency.
[0027] In an embodiment, the housing cap is provided as a modular
component or assembly that may be integrated into the housing of
the handheld computer during manufacturing. Alternatively, the
housing cap may be a detachable or interchangeable assembly that
can be mounted on or removed from the handheld computer by a
user.
[0028] Under an embodiment of the invention, antenna elements
housed by caps are for enabling wireless communications that use
protocols for accessing network data. For example, the antennas may
facilitate wireless communications from a handheld computer using a
handheld computer markup language (HDML), wireless access protocol
(WAP), compact hypertext markup language (CHTML) or wireless markup
language (WML).
[0029] B. Handheld Computer with Housing Cap
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a handheld computer 10 integrated with a
housing cap 110, under an embodiment of the invention. The handheld
computer includes a display 14 and a plurality of buttons 15. The
display 14 may be touch-sensitive, and operable with a stylus 40. A
height H of the handheld computer 10 extends between a top end 22
and a bottom end 24. An accessory slot 18 extends from the top end
22 towards the bottom end 24. The accessory slot 18 is dimensioned
to slideably receive and retain stylus 40.
[0031] The housing cap 110 extends upwards from top end 22 of
handheld computer 10. The housing cap 110 may be dimensioned for
particular types of antennas and wireless receivers. In an
embodiment shown, the housing cap 110 is dimensioned to retain
smaller wireless antenna receivers. A top surface 112 of housing
cap 110 is contoured, having a first height h1 adjacent to first
lateral side 26, and a second height h2 adjacent second lateral
side 28. The contour of top surface 112 is so that h1 is less than
h2. A first end 128 of housing cap 110 may be configured to
slideably receive and retain stylus 40 in cooperation with the
accessory slot 18. The first end 128 may be configured by shaping a
contoured or partially-circular opening onto the first end 128 in
alignment with accessory slot 18.
[0032] The housing cap 110 may house a pair of chip antenna
elements. A first chip antenna element 122 is for send and
receiving wireless communications. The first chip antenna 122 is
coupled to a printed circuit board (PCB) of handheld computer 10
via a first trace element 126. A second chip antenna element 124 is
for receive only communications. The second chip antenna 124 is
coupled to the PCB via a second trace element 128.
[0033] In an embodiment, housing cap 110 is integrated with an
infrared port (IR)135, formed by a transmitter/receiver 138 in
cooperation with an IR transmissive surface 139 on housing cap 110.
Other possible features of housing cap 110 include a light
indicator to provide user-feedback on a surface of the housing cap.
The housing cap 110 may house or otherwise protect one, two or more
light emitting diodes that visually indicate status and other
feedback information.
[0034] Examples of a handheld computer for use with an embodiment
of the invention includes devices operating PALM OS, including PALM
PILOT, PALM V, and PALM VII devices, as well as devices such as the
HANDSPRING VISOR. Other examples of handheld computer include
devices operating WINDOWS CE or POCKET PC. Still further, handheld
computer 10 may be a wireless phone, such as those equipped for
wireless access protocol (WAP) communications.
[0035] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment for housing cap 210,
dimensioned for a helical antenna 220 components. The housing cap
210 includes a bulbous portion 212 to house the helical antenna
220, which is more spacious than the chip antenna elements
described with FIG. 1. A light indicator 230 is integrated into
housing cap 210 to provide visual feedback. The light pipe 232
operates in cooperation with a light pipe 232. The light indicator
230 is mounted to the PCB of the handheld computer 10, and may
comprise one or more light emitting diodes, such as red and/or
green. The extra height provided by the bulbous portion 212 may be
used to enhance the presence of the light indicator 230. A
transmissive surface 239 is provided on the top exterior surface
for enabling IR communications. A contour of bulbous portion 212
enhances the presence of light indicator 230, especially with
regard to enabling the light indicator 230 to be viewable from two
axial directions. In the example provided, the light indicator 230
is viewable from a top direction Z, and a front direction Y (out of
paper) that is normal to the Z.
[0036] In addition to light indicator 230, housing cap 210 may
enclose an infrared port. In an embodiment, housing cap 210 is
coupled to a top portion of the PCB, where light indicator 230,
helical antenna 220 and the IR port are integrated.
[0037] C. Housing Cap
[0038] FIG. 3 is a front view of housing cap 300, under an
embodiment of the invention. The housing cap 300 includes a
structure 310, preferably formed as one-piece. One or more
apertures, openings and surfaces may be formed or integrated into
structure 310 to provide for features such as IR communications and
feedback mechanisms. In the alternative, housing cap 300 combines
or otherwise integrates structure 310 with surfaces and components
for IR communications and feedback. The structure 310 includes a
length l extending along an axis X, a first height h1' and a second
height h2' extending along axis X. Due to the shape of structure
310, h1' is greater than h2'.
[0039] The front of housing cap 300 includes a first strip 302.
With reference to an orientation shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, first
strip 302 may be a portion of a first vertical face 308, extending
the structure 310 along axis Z. The remainder of first vertical
portion 308 may be contoured from first strip 302. As will be
described with FIG. 14, first strip 302 is configured to be
adjoined with a corresponding surface on a housing of handheld
computer 10. To this end, strip 302 is preferably smooth, flat and
dimensioned to be coupled to a corresponding edge piece on an
interior side of an exterior panel for the handheld computer 10.
Thus, a thickness of strip 302 measured along Z may match a
thickness allocated on the interior surface of an exterior panel
for handheld computer 10. The strip 302 may provide for fasteners.
In an embodiment, a plurality of apertures 315 for receiving
fasteners are provided for securing the strip 302 with the interior
side of the panel for handheld computer 10.
[0040] A top exterior surface 330 is contoured as it extends along
the length. A first end 332 of top exterior surface 332 is at
height h1'. A second end 334 of top exterior surface 334 at h2'[.
The resulting contour of top exterior surface 330 provides space
for housing an antenna element. In an embodiment shown, the contour
provides space for a chip antenna element extending from the PCB of
handheld computer 10, as shown and described with FIG. 1.
[0041] An opening 355 for a status light indicator 355 is provided
on first vertical face 308. As shown with FIG. 5, opening 355 for
status light indicator may also extend over top exterior surface
330. In this way, the status light indicator is viewable from two
directions (or from two axes). For example, a user can view the
light indicator when viewing housing cap 300 from the front (or in
a direction into the paper). In addition, the user can view the
light indicator when viewing top surface 330 along axis Z.
[0042] FIG. 4 is a back view of housing cap 300, illustrating a
second vertical face 318 opposing the first vertical face 308. A
second strip 312 is provided on the second vertical face 318. The
second strip 312 may be located a same distance along axis Z from
top exterior surface 330 of housing cap 300. As with the other
side, strip 312 includes a plurality of apertures 325 for receiving
fasteners to couple the housing cap 300 to an interior side of an
exterior panel for handheld computer 10.
[0043] FIG. 5 is a top view of housing cap 300, showing top
exterior surface 330 having a first opening 345 for IR
communications, and a second opening 355 for providing a light
indicator. A third opening 343 may be used for providing an audio
jack or other media outlet. A first end portion 340 of structure
310 includes a contoured or semi-circular opening 344 to receive
stylus 40 (See FIG. 1). The opening 344 aligns with accessory slot
18 of handheld computer 10. In this way, opening 344 slideably
receives stylus 40 to store a portion of it alongside handheld
computer 10. A second end portion 348 opposes first end portion 340
across length l.
[0044] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view along lines A-A of FIG. 5,
illustrating an interior space 336 of housing cap 300. The
structure 310 comprises a shell 315 formed of unitary structure,
preferably through molded plastic. An opening 346 provides access
to interior space 336 from a bottom 303 of structure 310, along
axis Z. As shown, interior space 336 is partially defined by first
vertical face 308, second vertical face 318, and top exterior
surface 330. The dimensions of interior space 336 may match the
contour of top exterior surface 330, so that a depth of interior
space 336 as measured along axis Z increases across length l.
[0045] FIGS. 7-9 illustrates a housing cap 400 including a
structure 410, under another embodiment of the invention. The
structure 410 includes a bulbous section 415. FIG. 7 is a front
view of housing cap 400. The structure 410 is configured to mount
to the top end 22 of handheld computer 10. As such, housing cap 400
is assumed to have approximately the same length l as an embodiment
described with FIGS. 4-6. Thus, either housing cap 300 (FIGS. 46)
or 400 (FIGS. 7-9) may be used with handheld computer 10. In an
embodiment, housing caps 300, 400 may be modular, or
interchangeable during the assembly or manufacturing process for
handheld computer 10. In another embodiment, the housing caps 300,
400 are interchangeable by a user of the handheld computer 10.
[0046] A first strip 402 extends the length l of structure 410. A
first vertical portion 418 includes first strip 402 and extends
along axis Z towards a top exterior surface 430. A contour of top
exterior surface 430 provides for bulbous section 415. A first end
432 of exterior surface 430 is measured to be a distance h1 from a
bottom 403. A second end 438 of exterior surface 430 is measured to
be a distance h2 from bottom 403. The bulbous portion 415 provides
h2 is greater than h1. The difference between h2 and h1 is also
larger for structure 410 than for structure 310 (FIGS. 4-6).
[0047] The strip 402 is configured to be coupled and/or adjoined to
an interior surface of an exterior panel for handheld computer 10.
Thus, strip 402 is preferably of a uniform thickness (along axis Z)
and smooth. In addition, strip 402 may include a plurality of
apertures 425 to receive fasteners that secure structure 410 to
handheld computer 10.
[0048] In an embodiment, bulbous portion 415 is coupled to a status
light 450. The status light 450 may be illuminated by one or more
diodes housed within housing cap 400, and preferably mounted onto
PCB for handheld computer 10. The status light 450 is viewable from
multiple axes or directions. For example, status light 450 may
include a portion parallel to axis X, and another portion parallel
to axis Z.
[0049] FIG. 8 is a top view of housing cap 400. As shown, status
light indicator 450 is viewable from axis Z. In an embodiment,
housing cap 400 may include a surface 445 for IR communications.
The surface 445 may be transmissive to IR communications.
Alternatively, surface 445 may be replaced by an opening, which
provides access to an interior structure for enabling IR
communications. In this embodiment, the opening may cooperate with
an internal structure that is transmissive to IR. Further
description of this embodiment is provided with FIGS. 10 and 11
.
[0050] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of housing cap 400, cut
along lines B-B of FIG. 7. An interior space 436 is extended in the
bulbous region 415, providing an extended depth for interior space
436. The enlarged depth facilitates housing a helical antenna
element for wireless communications from handheld computer 10.
[0051] D. Cap Assembly for Wireless Communications
[0052] An embodiment of the invention includes a housing cap
assembled with an interior structure for enabling IR
communications. The IR communications may be provided in addition
to an antenna element that is housed within the housing cap. The
housing cap assemblies may also include a status light indicator
for signaling feedback to users.
[0053] FIG. 10 illustrates a cap assembly 500 comprising a housing
cap 510 combined with an interior structure 520. The cap assembly
includes a light pipe 530, housed within the structure formed by
the combination of the housing cap and interior structure 520. The
housing cap 510 includes a first opening 515 for IR communications,
and a second opening (not viewable) to receive light pipe 530. The
interior structure 520 includes an IR surface 525 that aligns with
the opening 515 of housing cap 510. The IR surface 525 is
transmissive to IR signals. In addition, interior structure 520
includes an opening 528 that is aligned to receive light pipe 530,
and to extend the light pipe into cap 510.
[0054] FIG. 11 is a top isometric view of cap assembly 500. The
interior structure 520 includes an interior space for housing light
pipe 530. The confines of housing cap 510 partially enclose
interior structure 520. The interior structure 520 may be coupled
to the PCB of handheld computer 10. An IR communicator
(transmitter/receiver) may be mounted to the PCB to signal and/or
receive IR communications. To enable IR communications, surface 525
(FIG. 10) and first opening 515 (FIG. 10) are aligned over the IR
communicator on the PCB.
[0055] In an embodiment, interior structure 520 is of uniform
construction. The interior structure 520 may be formed of an IR
transmissive material. The IR communications can be extended from
the IR communicator 560 (assumed to be housed within interior
structure 520) through surface 525 and across opening 525.
[0056] Alternatively, interior structure 520 may be clear, or
surface 525 may be replaced with an opening. The housing cap 510 is
then formed at least partially from IR transmissive material. The
first opening 525 may be replaced with an IR transmissive surface
to enable IR communications to be extended through the cap assembly
500.
[0057] Still further, another embodiment may combine housing cap
510 and interior structure 520 into one structure. The structure
may be formed from IR transmissive material to enable IR
communications to be extended to the IR communicator 560.
[0058] E. Modular Housing Cap and Handheld Computer Assembly
[0059] In an embodiment, a modular housing cap is provided for a
handheld computer. The modular housing cap implies that the housing
cap is interchangeable amongst multiple designs, with a particular
housing cap being selected for integration with the handheld
computer during a manufacturing or assembly process. The housing
for the handheld computer may be configured to couple to the
housing cap during the manufacturing or assembly process. In
particular, a portion of the housing may be equipped to receive any
one of a plurality of housing caps during an assembly process.
[0060] FIG. 12 illustrates a midframe 610 as the housing segment,
configured to be attached to one of a plurality of housing caps,
such as shown by housing cap 300 (FIGS. 3-6) and 400 (FIGS. 7-9).
The midframe forms a middle peripheral section of the housing for
the handheld computer 10. That is, midframe 610 is sandwiched
between exterior shells or portions of the housing for handheld
computer 10. The midframe 610 may be of a unitary construction,
such as may be formed with molded plastic.
[0061] The midframe 610 has a top perimeter 612, a pair of lateral
sides 614, and a base 616. When assembled, midframe 610 may be
referenced with the axes X and Z, as used for describing the
housing caps. The top perimeter 612 extends a length l2 along axis
X between a first end 602 and a second end 604. The first end 602
and second end 604 in combination are configured to be coupleable
and decoupleable to a plurality housing caps. The top perimeter 612
includes features for engaging a housing cap. The first end 602
includes a hook 615. The hook 615 is positioned to couple to an
internal structure of housing cap 650 (see FIG. 13). At second end
604, a catch 625 is extended from the midframe. The catch 625 is
positioned to engage a corresponding aperture of handheld computer
100. The midframe 610 has sufficient flexure to enable lateral
sides 614 to be brought together. In this way, lateral sides 614
can be pushed towards one another to reduce the distance between
the first end 602 and second end 604.
[0062] FIG. 13 illustrates midframe 610 being aligned to be coupled
with a selected housing cap 650. The housing cap 610 includes an
interior coupling structure or surface to engage hook 615 when
lateral sides 614 are brought together. The housing cap 650 also
includes a coupling aperture 655, formed onto an exterior surface
in alignment with second end 604. The catch 625 and coupling
aperture 655 may be aligned to engage and coupe to one another. In
an embodiment, housing cap 650 is coupled to midframe 610 by
pressing lateral sides 614 together. The hook 615 is engaged and
coupled to the interior coupling structure of housing cap 650.
Then, the catch 625 is engaged and coupled to aperture 655. The
catch 625 may be extended through aperture 655 to provide an extra
range for midframe 610 to be flexed outward after being flexed
inward. In this way, midframe 610 is in a biased state housing cap
650 is mounted onto it. To decouple housing cap 650 from midframe
610 lateral sides 614 are brought together. The catch 625 is then
disengaged from aperture 655. The hook 615 is then disengaged from
housing cap 610.
[0063] FIG. 14 illustrates an assembly process for integrating a
selected housing cap 750 with a housing 710 for a handheld computer
700. The housing 710 includes a first exterior shell 720 and a
second exterior shell 730. A midframe 740 is sandwiched between
first exterior shell 720 and second exterior shell 730. The first
exterior shell 720 corresponds to a front face of the handheld
computer, and includes openings for providing a display and buttons
for operating the handheld computer. The second exterior shell 730
corresponds to a back face of the handheld computer.
[0064] To assemble the housing 710, midframe 740 is first coupled
to housing cap 750. Then, a first side 742 of midframe 740 is
positioned opposite and adjacent to an interior surface 722 of
first exterior shell 720. A second side 744 of midframe 740 is
positioned adjacent and opposite to an interior side 732 of second
exterior shell 730. Mechanical fasteners are used to couple first
exterior shell 720 to midframe 740, and second exterior shell 730
to midframe 740. Mechanical fasteners may also be used to couple
first exterior shell 720 and second exterior shell 730 to housing
cap 750.
[0065] In an embodiment, housing cap 750 includes a construction
shown by FIGS. 3-6, and FIGS. 7-9. For example, with reference to
FIG. 3, strip 302 may be positioned adjacent to interior surface
722 of first exterior shell 720. The coupling apertures 315 may be
aligned with corresponding apertures on first exterior shell 720 to
couple the housing cap to first exterior shell. With reference to
FIG. 4, strip 312 is positioned adjacent to interior surface 732 of
second exterior shell 730. Mechanical fasteners then engage the
coupling apertures 325 on this side of the housing cap to combine
the housing cap with the second exterior shell 730.
[0066] In an embodiment, the midframe 740 and housing cap 750 each
provide portions of an accessory slot. The accessory slot may be a
partial-circular opening formed in one of the lateral sides of
midframe 750, as well as one of the ends for housing cap 750. When
housing cap 750 and midframe 740 are combined, the accessory slot
is given its full length. The accessory slot may be used to receive
a stylus 40 (FIG. 1), or stylus-shaped device.
[0067] In one implementation, each housing cap that can be coupled
to midframe 610 has a different form factor, interior, or exterior.
In another implementation, the plurality of housing caps may be
assembled with different electrical components. For example, a
housing cap such as shown by FIGS. 3-6 may be used for a handheld
computer 10 having a chip antenna, while a housing cap such as
shown by FIGS. 7-9 may be used to house a helical antenna element.
As another example, one antenna cap may be equipped for use as an
IR port, while another is not.
[0068] F. Removable Housing Cap Assembly for Handheld Computer
[0069] An embodiment of the invention includes a handheld computer
that is configured to be coupleable to a housing cap. In
particular, the handheld computer may be coupleable to any one of a
plurality of housing caps. The user may select amongst housing
caps, including amongst antennas for the handheld computer, and
couple selected housing caps to the handheld computer as
desired.
[0070] FIG. 15 is a side view of a handheld computer 800, including
a housing 810 for retaining a plurality of PCBs. The housing 810
includes a first PCB 820 and a second PCB 830. A front panel 812 of
the housing 810 for the handheld computer 800 includes an opening
816 or recess for providing a display. The front panel 812 also
includes buttons 814 and other input mechanisms.
[0071] A housing cap 840 is mounted on handheld computer 800. The
first PCB 820 is for processing non-wireless functions, including
keeping records entered by the user. The second PCB 830 includes
resources for enabling wireless communications. These resources may
include leads for extending antenna signals, an infrared
communicator, and memory (see FIG. 16). A PCB connector 825
connects the first PCB 820 to the second PCB 830.
[0072] The second PCB 830 extends upwards beyond first PCB 820 so
as to extend into housing cap 840. The housing cap 840 includes an
antenna element 842 that connects to second PCB 830. In the
embodiment shown, housing cap 840 is for a chip antenna. A phantom
illustration of another housing cap 840' is provided to show use of
a helical antenna 842' within a bulbous portion of the housing cap
840'. In an embodiment, housing cap 840 and 840' may be swapped or
interchanged by a user of the handheld computer 800.
[0073] FIG. 16 is a front isometric view showing first PCB 820,
second PCB 830, and midframe 840. The remainder of the handheld
computer is excluded from the drawing. The midframe 840 includes
sufficient thickness to peripherally enclose both first PCB 820 and
second PCB 830. An IR communicator 835 is provided on second PCB
830. Antenna trace elements 838 are extended from the second PCB
830. For descriptive purposes, a housing cap 850 is shown for
alignment with the midframe 840. The housing cap 850 is shown to
include one or more antenna elements 852. The antenna elements 852
are positioned to make contact with trace elements 838. In
addition, housing cap 850 may include IR surfaces or structures to
enable IR communications to be extended from IR communicator 835.
Other features that may be provided include a light indicator for
feedback to the user.
[0074] In an embodiment, housing cap 850 is removable, and possibly
replaceable with other housing caps. Removing the housing cap 850
may enable a user to selectively reduce the size or form factor of
the handheld computer. Replacing the housing cap may enable users
to select housing caps with assemblies for particular uses. For
example, users may select housing caps for antennas that are able
to communicate at particular frequencies. For such uses, second PCB
830 may be employed.
[0075] In an embodiment, users may interchange housing caps with
different types of antennas. Users may select housing cap 850 from
amongst multiple types of housing caps, each of which may house
specific types of antennas, different form factors and other
features. This allows users to switch antennas to receive wireless
services in locations that may require different antenna
frequencies. To enable housing cap 850 to be coupleable to handheld
computer 800, one embodiment provides that coupling features of
midframe 840 be extended beyond the shells of the housing. Other
embodiments may provide biased latching mechanism to couple housing
cap 850 to the handheld computer.
[0076] Each housing cap 850 may be made to be interchangeable with
other housing caps by adopting a uniform design for positioning IR
surfaces, and leads to antenna elements housed within the housing
cap 850. Thus, each housing cap 850 may be configured to provide an
antenna signal to trace elements 838, through leads or positioning
of actual antenna elements.
[0077] G. Other Embodiments and Variations
[0078] A housing cap under an embodiment of the invention may
include an integrated light pipe coupled to a light emitting source
to provide multi-level feedback. In an embodiment, a light
indicator may be employed in combination with a plurality of
diodes, such as a red diode and a green diode. The red diode and
green diode may be coupled to the processor to receive feedback
signals. Each diode may be asserted alone or in combination through
the light pipe to convey a particular message to the user of the
handheld computer. For example, each diode may be asserted
individually, or toggled alone or together. In addition, both
diodes can be asserted simultaneously to create a third color-such
as orange by combining red and green.
[0079] Still, another embodiment may provide for a housing cap
formed of light transparent or translucent material. In this
embodiment, no aperture is required for a light indicator or light
pipe. Furthermore, no integrated transparent surface is needed for
providing the light pipe. Rather, a light source such as LEDs (red
and green) may be contained within the translucent housing. When
lighted, the LEDs are visible through the housing cap from several
angles.
[0080] H. Conclusion
[0081] 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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