U.S. patent application number 12/954699 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-02 for electronic apparatus with hinge mechanism.
This patent application is currently assigned to PANASONIC CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Hirofumi ASAKURA, Hideki HARADA, Yoshihiro KAWADA, Takeshi MORI, Yoshiaki NAGAMURA, Hitoshi NAKATANI, Hisashi TANIGUCHI, Ryo YONEZAWA.
Application Number | 20110127184 12/954699 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44068027 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110127184 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KAWADA; Yoshihiro ; et
al. |
June 2, 2011 |
ELECTRONIC APPARATUS WITH HINGE MECHANISM
Abstract
An electronic apparatus includes a first case and a second case.
The electronic apparatus includes a hinge support that is located
in the vicinity of the first case and the second case, a first
hinge portion that openably and closably couples the first case and
the hinge support, and a second hinge portion that rotatably
couples the second case and the hinge support. The position where
the first hinge portion is joined to the hinge support is separated
from the position where the second hinge portion is joined to the
hinge support.
Inventors: |
KAWADA; Yoshihiro; (Osaka,
JP) ; HARADA; Hideki; (Osaka, JP) ; NAGAMURA;
Yoshiaki; (Osaka, JP) ; MORI; Takeshi; (Osaka,
JP) ; ASAKURA; Hirofumi; (Osaka, JP) ;
NAKATANI; Hitoshi; (Osaka, JP) ; TANIGUCHI;
Hisashi; (Osaka, JP) ; YONEZAWA; Ryo; (Kyoto,
JP) |
Assignee: |
PANASONIC CORPORATION
Osaka
JP
|
Family ID: |
44068027 |
Appl. No.: |
12/954699 |
Filed: |
November 26, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/320 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 1/1681 20130101;
G06F 1/1637 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/320 |
International
Class: |
B65D 85/00 20060101
B65D085/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 30, 2009 |
JP |
2009-271926 |
Nov 30, 2009 |
JP |
2009-271927 |
Feb 19, 2010 |
JP |
2010-035059 |
Claims
1. An electronic apparatus with a first case and a second case,
comprising: a hinge holding portion that is located in the vicinity
of the first case and the second case and connected to the second
case; a first hinge portion that openably and closably couples the
first case and the hinge holding portion; and a second hinge
portion that rotatably couples the second case and the hinge
holding portion, wherein the second hinge portion supports the
second case so that the second case can be rotated around a
rotation axis substantially perpendicular to a plane direction of a
principal plane of the first case that faces the second case in a
closed state in which the first case and the second case are
closed, and a position where the first hinge portion is joined to
the hinge holding portion is separated from a position where the
second hinge portion is joined to the hinge holding portion.
2. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first
hinge portion is disposed so that an opening/closing axis around
which the first case and the hinge holding portion are opened and
closed is located at a position lower than the principal plane of
the first case that faces the second case in the closed state.
3. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first
hinge portion includes a pair of hinge portions, and the second
hinge portion is disposed substantially in the middle between the
pair of hinge portions.
4. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first
case includes a first protective member on the principal plane near
the hinge holding portion, the first protective member protrudes
from the principal plane, and the first protective member is
located at a position where the second case can slide over the
first protective member when the second case is rotated around an
axis of the second hinge portion.
5. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
second case includes a second protective member at a position that
can face the first case when the second case is rotated around an
axis of the second hinge portion.
6. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
second hinge portion is disposed between a pair of hinge portions
constituting the first hinge portion, the hinge holding portion
includes a projection, the second case includes a recess in which
the projection can be fitted and from which the projection can be
separated, the projection and the recess can be fitted together
when the second case is in a position where the second case can be
opened and closed by the first hinge portion, and the projection
and the recess are located between the first hinge portion and the
second hinge portion.
7. The electronic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the
projection includes a first projection and a second projection that
have the same size, the recess includes a first recess and a second
recess in which the first projection and the second projection can
be fitted selectively, a distance from the first projection to a
rotation axis of the second hinge portion is the same as a distance
from the second projection to the rotation axis of the second hinge
portion, and a distance from the first recess to the rotation axis
of the second hinge portion is the same as a distance from the
second recess to the rotation axis of the second hinge portion.
8. The electronic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the
projection includes a first projection and a second projection that
have the same size, the recess includes a first recess and a second
recess in which the first projection and the second projection can
be fitted selectively, when the second case is rotated around a
rotation axis of the second hinge portion to a first predetermined
position, the first projection is fitted in the first recess and
the second projection is fitted in the second recess, and when the
second case is rotated around the rotation axis of the second hinge
portion to a second predetermined position, the first projection is
fitted in the second recess and the second projection is fitted in
the first recess.
9. The electronic apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the first
projection is located in the middle between the rotation axis of
the second hinge portion and one of the pair of hinge portions, the
second projection is located in the middle between the rotation
axis of the second hinge portion and the other of the pair of hinge
portions.
10. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
second case includes a rotation restraining member that can be
moved from a retracted position in the second case toward the hinge
holding portion, and the hinge holding portion includes an
engagement portion into which the rotation restraining member can
be inserted and from which the rotation restraining member can be
separated.
11. The electronic apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the
rotation restraining member can be inserted into or separated from
the engagement portion when the second case is in a position where
the second case can be opened and closed by the first hinge
portion.
12. The electronic apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the
second hinge portion is disposed between a pair of hinge portions
constituting the first hinge portion, the hinge holding portion
includes a projection, the second case includes a recess in which
the projection can be fitted and from which the projection can be
separated, the projection and the recess can be fitted together
when the second case is in a position where the second case can be
opened and closed by the first hinge portion, and the projection
and the recess are located between the first hinge portion and the
second hinge portion.
13. An electronic apparatus with a first case and a second case,
comprising: a first hinge portion that openably and closably
couples the first case and the second case; and a second hinge
portion that rotatably couples the first case and the second case,
wherein the first hinge portion controls a position of the second
case relative to the first case when an opening/closing angle
between the first case and the second case is a predetermined
opening/closing angle, and the predetermined opening/closing angle
is an opening/closing angle at which the second case is spaced from
the first case or a surface on which the electronic apparatus is
placed during rotation of the second case.
14. The electronic apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the
predetermined opening/closing angle is 90 to 100 degrees.
15. The electronic apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the
first hinge portion includes a shaft that is fixed to the second
case, a support member that is fixed to the first case and allows
the shaft to pass therethrough rotatably, and a washer that is in
contact with the support member, the support member has a concave
portion in a surface that comes into contact with the washer, the
washer has a convex portion in a surface that comes into contact
with the support member, and the concave portion and the convex
portion are formed so as to be fitted together when the
opening/closing angle between the first case and the second case is
the predetermined opening/closing angle.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Field
[0002] The present application relates to an electronic apparatus
with a hinge mechanism.
[0003] 2. Description of Related Art
[0004] Conventionally, an electronic apparatus with a hinge
mechanism has been a notebook computer, a folding portable
telephone, a portable game machine, or the like. In such an
electronic apparatus, the hinge mechanism supports a plurality of
cases openably and closably.
[0005] Moreover, an electronic apparatus with a hinge mechanism
capable of providing rotating motion as well as opening/closing
motion is coming on the market. JP 2004-094647 A discloses an
electronic apparatus that is openable, closable, and rotatable. The
electronic apparatus of JP 2004-094647 A includes a hinge mechanism
having a rotating shaft and a pair of opening/closing shafts that
are perpendicular to each other. The hinge mechanism is located in
the middle of the lower side of a housing.
[0006] In the electronic apparatus of JP 2004-094647 A, if a load
is concentrated on the rotating shaft and/or the opening/closing
shafts of the hinge mechanism, the housing supported by the hinge
mechanism is likely to swing, and there is a good chance that the
hinge mechanism will be damaged.
SUMMARY
[0007] An electronic apparatus of the present application includes
a first case and a second case. The electronic apparatus includes
the following: a hinge holding portion that is located in the
vicinity of the first case and the second case and connected to the
second case; a first hinge portion that openably and closably
couples the first case and the hinge holding portion; and a second
hinge portion that rotatably couples the second case and the hinge
holding portion. The second hinge portion supports the second case
so that the second case can be rotated around a rotation axis
substantially perpendicular to a plane direction of a principal
plane of the first case that faces the second case in a closed
state in which the first case and the second case are closed. The
position where the first hinge portion is joined to the hinge
holding portion is separated from the position where the second
hinge portion is joined to the hinge holding portion.
[0008] An electronic apparatus of the present application includes
a first case and a second case. The electronic apparatus includes
the following: a first hinge portion that openably and closably
couples the first case and the second case; and a second hinge
portion that rotatably couples the first case and the second case.
The first hinge portion controls a position of the second case
relative to the first case when an opening/closing angle between
the first case and the second case is a predetermined
opening/closing angle. The predetermined opening/closing angle is
an opening/closing angle at which the second case is spaced from
the first case or a surface on which the electronic apparatus is
placed during rotation of the second case.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a first state of a
notebook computer.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a second state of the
notebook computer.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a third state of the
notebook computer.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a fourth state of the
notebook computer.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a fifth state of the
notebook computer.
[0014] FIG. 6A is a side view of a notebook computer disclosed in
JP 2004-094647 A.
[0015] FIG. 6B is a side view of a notebook computer disclosed in
JP 2004-094647 A.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a side view showing the third state of the
notebook computer.
[0017] FIG. 8A is a plan view of an opening/closing hinge.
[0018] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Y-Y
in FIG. 8A.
[0019] FIG. 9A is a side view of a rotating hinge.
[0020] FIG. 9B is a plan view of the rotating hinge when it is
viewed from a third support member side.
[0021] FIG. 9C is a bottom view of the rotating hinge when it is
viewed from a fourth support member side.
[0022] FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Z-Z
in FIG. 9A.
[0023] FIG. 9E is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Y-Y
in FIG. 9A.
[0024] FIG. 9F is a plan view showing a state of the rotating hinge
when the notebook computer is in the third state (see FIG. 3).
[0025] FIG. 9G is a plan view showing a state of the rotating hinge
when the notebook computer is in the fourth state (see FIG. 4).
[0026] FIG. 9H is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Y-Y
(FIG. 9A) when the notebook computer is in the fourth state (see
FIG. 4).
[0027] FIG. 9I is a plan view of a support member from which some
of the sides are removed.
[0028] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a modified example of
a notebook computer.
[0029] FIG. 11A is a side view of the notebook computer shown in
FIG. 10.
[0030] FIG. 11B is a side view showing the main portion of the
notebook computer shown in FIG. 11A.
[0031] FIG. 12 is a side view of a notebook computer.
[0032] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the first state of a
notebook computer.
[0033] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the second state of
the notebook computer.
[0034] FIG. 15 is a plan view showing the main portion of a first
case.
[0035] FIG. 16 is a front view showing the first case and a second
case.
[0036] FIG. 17 is a plan view showing the main portions of a first
case and a hinge support.
[0037] FIG. 18 is a front view showing a second case and the hinge
support.
[0038] FIG. 19A is a front view showing a second case with a
rotation restraining member and a hinge support.
[0039] FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional view showing the main portion
in the vicinity of a slide lever in the second case.
[0040] FIG. 19C is a cross-sectional view showing the main portion
in the vicinity of the slide lever in the second case.
[0041] FIG. 20A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line W-W
in FIG. 19A.
[0042] FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line W-W
in FIG. 19A.
[0043] FIG. 21 is a plan view showing the main portion of an
opening/closing hinge.
[0044] FIG. 22A is a side view of a notebook computer in the second
state.
[0045] FIG. 22B is a side view of the notebook computer in the
first state.
[0046] FIG. 23A is a plan view of the opening/closing hinge when
the notebook computer is in the second state.
[0047] FIG. 23B is a plan view of the opening/closing hinge when
the notebook computer is in the first state.
[0048] FIG. 24 is a side view of a notebook computer in a third
state.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
Embodiment 1
1. Configuration of Electronic Apparatus
[0049] [1-1. Summary of Electronic Apparatus]
[0050] In the hinge mechanism disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A, if a
load is concentrated on the rotating shaft and/or the
opening/closing shafts, the housing supported by the hinge
mechanism is likely to swing, and there is a good chance that the
hinge mechanism will be damaged. Moreover, in the electronic
apparatus of JP 2004-094647 A, when the display unit is in a
position where the display surface is not parallel to the
opening/closing shafts (e.g., the position shown in FIG. 1 of JP
2004-094647 A), and then is moved in the direction in which the
display unit is closed, the corner of the display unit can hit the
keyboard, the pointing device, or the housing and damage them.
[0051] An electronic apparatus of Embodiment 1 has a configuration
that can overcome the above disadvantages of the configuration as
disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A.
[0052] FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views showing the appearance
of a notebook computer that is an example of the electronic
apparatus of this embodiment. FIG. 1 shows the notebook computer in
a first state. FIG. 2 shows the notebook computer in a second
state. This embodiment describes the notebook computer as an
example of the electronic apparatus. However, the electronic
apparatus also may be a folding portable telephone, a folding
electronic game machine, a folding electronic dictionary terminal,
or the like. There is no particular limitation to the electronic
apparatus as long as it includes at least two or more cases and a
hinge mechanism for supporting the cases openably, closably, and
rotatably.
[0053] As shown in FIG. 1, the notebook computer includes a first
case 1 and a second case 2. The first case 1 contains a circuit
board on which various electric elements are mounted, a hard disk
drive, or the like. The second case 2 is provided with a liquid
crystal display 4. Opening/closing hinges 3 support the first case
1 and the second case 2 openably and closably. The second case 2 is
a substantially box-shaped case having a front surface 2a, a lower
surface 2b, a back surface 2g, an upper surface 2h, a first side
2i, and a second side 2j. The front surface 2a and the back surface
2g are parallel and opposite to each other with a predetermined
distance between them. The upper surface 2h and the lower surface
2b are spaced at a predetermined distance from each other. The
first side 2i and the second side 2j are spaced at a predetermined
distance from each other.
[0054] The second case 2 is supported rotatably on the first case 1
by a rotating hinge 7 (as will be described in detail later). The
rotating hinge 7 is contained in a hinge support 8. The hinge
support 8 holds the rotating hinge 7. When the second case 2 is
opened and closed, the hinge support 8 is rotated together with the
second case 2. On the other hand, when the second case 2 is
rotated, the hinge support 8 is not rotated. Thus, the second case
2 can be rotated independently of the hinge support 8.
[0055] The opening/closing hinges 3 have shafts that rotatably
support the first case 1 and the second case 2. The detailed
configuration of the opening/closing hinges 3 will be described
later.
[0056] A keyboard 5 and a pointing device 6 are provided on a
principal plane (referred to as a top surface in the following) 1a
of the first case 1. The keyboard 5 allows a user to input various
characters. The pointing device 6 is fixed in the first case 1 with
its operating surface exposed on the top surface 1a of the first
case 1. The pointing device 6 allows a user to touch the operating
surface and move the cursor displayed on the liquid crystal display
4 to a desired position.
[0057] The top surface 1a of the first case 1 faces the second case
2 when the notebook computer is in the second state, as shown in
FIG. 2. The front surface 2a of the second case 2 faces the first
case 1 when the notebook computer is in the second state, as shown
in FIG. 2.
[0058] In general, when the notebook computer is used, the second
case 2 is turned in the direction of the arrow B from the second
state (see FIG. 2), and then the notebook computer assumes the
first state (see FIG. 1). When the notebook computer is folded, the
second case 2 is turned in the direction of the arrow A from the
first state (see FIG. 1), and then the notebook computer assumes
the second state (see FIG. 2). The first state in which the liquid
crystal display 4 can be seen visually is a normal operational
state of the notebook computer. The second state in which the
second case 2 is folded down over the first case 1 is a
non-operational state of the notebook computer for carrying or the
like. In FIG. 1, an angle between the top surface 1a of the first
case 1 and the front surface 2a of the second case 2 (referred to
as an opening/closing angle in the following) is about 90 degrees.
However, the second case 2 can be turned to a position where the
opening/closing angle is 90 degrees or more. Depending on the
operational state of the notebook computer, the opening/closing
angle of 90 degrees does not necessarily make it easy for a user to
see the display of the liquid crystal display 4. Therefore, it is
preferable that the second case 2 can be turned to a position where
the opening/closing angle is 90 degrees or more. Thus, the "normal
operational state of the notebook computer" includes not only the
first state in which the opening/closing angle is about 90 degrees,
as shown in FIG. 1, but also a state in which the opening/closing
angle is 90 degrees or more.
[0059] In the notebook computer of this embodiment, the second case
2 can be rotated as well as opened and closed between the first
state and the second state. This means that the notebook computer
can be changed to different states from the first state and the
second state.
[0060] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the notebook computer in a
third state. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the notebook computer
in a fourth state. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the notebook
computer in a fifth state.
[0061] In the third state shown in FIG. 3, the second case 2 is
rotated about 90 degrees in the direction of the arrow C around a
rotation axis C1 from the first state shown in FIG. 1. The second
case 2 can return to the first state when it is rotated in the
direction of the arrow D around the rotation axis C1 from the third
state. The third state is not the normal operational state of the
notebook computer, but a transition state between the first state
and the fourth state.
[0062] In the fourth state shown in FIG. 4, the second case 2 is
rotated about 90 degrees in the direction of the arrow C around the
rotation axis C1 from the third state shown in FIG. 3. That is, in
the fourth state, the second case 2 is rotated about 180 degrees in
the direction of the arrow C from the first state shown in FIG. 1.
The second case 2 can return to the third state when it is rotated
in the direction of the arrow D around the rotation axis C1 from
the fourth state.
[0063] In the fifth state shown in FIG. 5, the second case 2 is
turned about 90 degrees in the direction of the arrow A around an
opening/closing axis A1 from the fourth state shown in FIG. 4. In
the fifth state, the back surface of the second case 2 (i.e., the
side of the second case 2 opposed to the liquid crystal display 4)
faces the top surface 1a of the first case 1. Therefore, in the
fifth state, the liquid crystal display 4 can be viewed. Moreover,
in the fifth state, the second case 2 is positioned so that the
display surface of the liquid crystal display 4 is substantially
parallel to the top surface 1a of the first case 1. The second case
2 can return to the fourth state when it is turned in the direction
of the arrow B around the opening/closing axis A1 from the fifth
state.
[0064] As described above, the second case 2 can be turned around
the opening/closing axis A1 between the first state and the second
state and also between the fourth state and the fifth state.
Moreover, the second case 2 can be rotated around the rotation axis
C1 between the first state and the fourth state via the third
state.
[0065] An "opening/closing motion" indicates transitions from the
first state to the second state and from the second state to the
first state by turning at least one of the plurality of cases
(i.e., the second case 2 in this embodiment) around the
opening/closing axis. In this embodiment, the "opening/closing
motion" causes the second case 2 to be turned in the direction of
the arrow A or B around the opening/closing axis A1. The
opening/closing motion brings the second case 2 to an "open state"
in which the opening/closing angle between the first case 1 and the
second case 2 is 90 degrees or more, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4. The
opening/closing motion brings the second case to a "closed state"
in which the opening/closing angle between the first case 1 and the
second case 2 is about 0 degrees, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5. In
this case, the top surface 1a of the first case 1 and the front
surface 2a of the second case 2 are generally parallel and face
each other. When the opening/closing angle between the first case 1
and the second case 2 is 0 to 90 degrees, in general, it is
difficult to say that the notebook computer is in the normal
operational state. Therefore, in this embodiment, the
opening/closing angle in the above range is defined as a "halfway
stage between the open and closed states".
[0066] A "rotating motion" indicates a rotation of at least one of
the plurality of cases (i.e., the second case 2 in this embodiment)
around the rotation axis that is substantially perpendicular to the
opening/closing axis. In this embodiment, the "rotating motion"
causes the second case 2 to be rotated in the direction of the
arrow C or D (as will be described later) around the rotation axis
C1. In this embodiment, although the second case 2 can be opened
and closed or rotated with respect to the first case 1, the first
case 1 may be opened and closed or rotated with respect to the
second case 2.
[0067] [1-2. Characteristics of Electronic Apparatus of this
Embodiment]
[0068] The electronic apparatus of this embodiment is characterized
by the position of the opening/closing axis A1.
[0069] FIGS. 6A and 6B schematically show an electronic apparatus
disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A. In FIG. 6A, the electronic apparatus
of JP 2004-094647 A is in the third state. The electronic apparatus
shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B includes a first case 101 that is provided
with a keyboard 105 and a pointing device 106, and a second case
102 that is provided with a liquid crystal display 104. The first
case 101 and the second case 102 can be opened and closed by
turning around an opening/closing axis 103. In the electronic
apparatus shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the opening/closing axis 103 is
located at a position higher than a top surface 101a of the first
case 101 (i.e., located closer to the second case 102). Therefore,
a relatively large gap D101 is formed between the top surface 101a
of the first case 101 and a lower surface 102a of the second case
102.
[0070] If the second case 102 in the state shown in FIG. 6A is
turned accidentally in the direction of the arrow H around the
opening/closing axis 103, it is brought into a state shown in FIG.
6B. In the state shown in FIG. 6B, a corner 102b of the second case
102 is in contact with the pointing device 106. When the corner
102b comes into contact with the pointing device 106, the pointing
device 106 may be damaged. Moreover, if the corner 102b comes into
contact with the pointing device 106 during operation of the
notebook computer, the pointing device 106 may malfunction.
Depending on the turning angle of the second case 102, the corner
102b of the second case 102 can come into contact with the top
surface 101a of the first case 101. When the corner 102b comes into
contact with the top surface 101a, the first case 101 may be
damaged.
[0071] In view of this, this embodiment places the opening/closing
axis A1 at a position lower than the top surface 1a of the first
case 1, as shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of the
notebook computer in the third state of this embodiment. With this
configuration, when the notebook computer is in the first state
(see FIG. 1), the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 is
positioned slightly lower than the top surface 1a of the first case
1. Next, the second case 2 is rotated in the direction of the arrow
C around the rotation axis C1 from this state. Then, as shown in
FIG. 7, a portion of the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 that
is near the rotating hinge 7 is put on the top surface 1a of the
first case 1, and the second case 2 tilts slightly in the direction
of the arrow G. Therefore, a sufficient space is provided between a
corner 2c of the second case 2 and the top surface 1a of the first
case 1 and also between the corner 2c of the second case 2 and the
pointing device 6. This can prevent the corner 2c from coming into
contact with the top surface 1a of the first case 1 and the
pointing device 6.
[0072] Even if a force is applied to the second case 2 in the state
shown in FIG. 7 in the direction of the arrow H, since the portion
of the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 that is near the
rotating hinge 7 is put on the top surface 1a of the first case 1,
the second case 2 is not displaced significantly in the direction
of the arrow H. Should the second case 2 be displaced slightly in
the direction of the arrow H, the second case 2 is not likely to
come into contact with the first case 1 due to the presence of a
space D1 between the first case 1 and the second case 2, as shown
in FIG. 7.
2. Hinge Configuration
[0073] The electronic apparatus of this embodiment includes the
opening/closing hinges and the rotating hinge. The opening/closing
hinges support the second case 2 so that the second case 2 can be
moved from the position in the first state (see FIG. 1) to that in
the second state (see FIG. 2) and also from the position in the
second state (see FIG. 2) to that in the first state (see FIG. 1).
Moreover, the opening/closing hinges support the second case 2 so
that the second case 2 can be moved from the position in the fourth
state (see FIG. 4) to that in the fifth state (see FIG. 5) and also
from the position in the fifth state (see FIG. 5) to that in the
fourth state (see FIG. 4). The rotating hinge supports the second
case 2 so that the second case 2 can be moved from the position in
the first state (see FIG. 1) to that in the fourth state (see FIG.
4) and also from the position in the fourth state (see FIG. 4) to
that in the first state (see FIG. 1).
[0074] [2-1. Configuration of the Opening/Closing Hinges 3]
[0075] FIG. 8A is a plan view showing the main portion of the
internal structure of the opening/closing hinge 3. In FIG. 8A, for
the sake of clarity, a part of the first case 1 and the second case
2 is illustrated in a cross-sectional view. To illustrate the
configuration clearly, FIG. 8A shows a state in which the second
case 2 is turned further in the direction of the arrow B from the
first state (see FIG. 1) and forms an angle of about 180 degrees
with respect to the first case 1. FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view
taken along the line Y-Y in FIG. 8A. In FIG. 8B, for the sake of
clarity, only a shaft 11 is hatched and the other portions are
illustrated schematically.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 8A, the opening/closing hinge 3 includes a
hinge mechanism 10. The hinge mechanism 10 includes the shaft 11, a
first support member 12, a second support member 13, and a first
torque mechanism 14.
[0077] The shaft 11 can be rotated in the direction of the arrow A
or B around a line A1 in accordance with the opening/closing motion
of the second case 2 in the direction of the arrow A or B. It is
preferable that the shaft 11 is made of metal in view of resistance
to the force applied as the first case 1 or the second case 2 is
turned. In this embodiment, the shaft 11 is made of stainless steel
and has a shaft diameter of about 3 to 4 mm and a shaft length of
about 15 mm. However, the size and material of the shaft 11 are not
limited thereto.
[0078] The first support member 12 is supported rotatably by the
shaft 11. The first support member 12 is fixed to the first case 1
with screws 16. The second support member 13 is fixed to the shaft
11 with rivets or the like. The second support member 13 is fixed
to the second case 2 with screws 15. Therefore, when the second
case 2 is turned between the first state (see FIG. 1) and the
second state (see FIG. 2), the shaft 11 is rotated together with
the second case 2, and the second support member 13 also is rotated
around the axis A1 of the shaft 11 together with the second case 2.
Moreover, a first support 12a is formed integrally with the first
support member 12. The first case 1 has a through hole 1c, through
which the shaft 11 is inserted rotatably. A second support 13a is
formed integrally with the second support member 13. The second
case 2 has a through hole 2k, through which the shaft 11 can be
inserted. The shaft 11 is inserted through the through hole 2k and
fixed to the second support 13a with rivets or the like. In this
embodiment, although the configuration is viewed only from the
second support 13a side, as shown in FIG. 8B, it is similar when
viewed from the first support 12a side. It is preferable that the
first support member 12 and the second support member 13 be made of
metal in view of resistance to the force applied as the first case
1 or the second case 2 is turned. In this embodiment, the first
support member 12 and the second support member 13 are made of,
e.g., stainless steel, but the material is not limited thereto.
[0079] The first torque mechanism 14 is composed of a plurality of
disk-shaped washers or rubber sheets and fixed to the shaft 11. In
this embodiment, the first support member 12 has a through hole 12b
that allows the shaft 11 to be inserted through the washers or
rubber sheets, and the shaft 11 is press-fitted in the through hole
12b. Therefore, the first torque mechanism 14 is rotated together
with the shaft 11 as the shaft 11 is rotated in accordance with the
turning of the second case 2. Moreover, the first torque mechanism
14 is pressed into contact with the first support member 12.
Therefore, due to the friction between the first support member 12
and the first torque mechanism 14 caused by this contact, a
rotational load can be applied to the second case 2. In other
words, due to the friction between the first support member 12 and
the first torque mechanism 14, the position of the second case 2
relative to the first case 1 can be maintained at any
opening/closing angle. For example, the second case 2 can be
maintained in the position in the first state shown in FIG. 1. The
configuration of the first torque mechanism 14 of this embodiment
is merely an example, and other configurations also may be employed
as long as a load can be applied to at least the rotation of the
shaft 11 or the turning of the second case 2.
[0080] Hereinafter, the motion will be described.
[0081] When the second case 2 is turned in the direction of the
arrow A from the position in the first state (see FIGS. 1 and 8B),
the second support member 13 fixed to the second case 2 also is
rotated around the opening/closing axis A1. The shaft 11 that is
provided integrally with the second support member 13 is rotated in
the direction of the arrow A around the opening/closing axis A1 as
the second support member 13 is rotated. At this time, the first
torque mechanism 14 applies a load to the rotation of the shaft 11.
The second case 2 can be turned to the position in the second state
(see FIG. 2).
[0082] When the second case 2 is turned in the direction of the
arrow B from the position in the second state (see FIG. 2), the
second support member 13 fixed to the second case 2 also is rotated
around the opening/closing axis A1. The shaft 11 that is provided
integrally with the second support member 13 is rotated in the
direction of the arrow B around the opening/closing axis A1 as the
second support member 13 is rotated. At this time, the first torque
mechanism 14 applies a load to the rotation of the shaft 11. The
second case 2 can be turned to the position in the first state (see
FIG. 1).
[0083] FIGS. 8A and 8B show the specific configuration of one of a
pair of opening/closing hinges 3. Both of the pair of
opening/closing hinges 3 have the same configuration, and therefore
only the specific configuration of one of the opening/closing
hinges 3 is illustrated.
[0084] [2-2. Configuration of the Rotating Hinge 7]
[0085] FIG. 9A is a side view of the rotating hinge 7. FIG. 9B is a
plan view of the rotating hinge 7 when it is viewed from a third
support member 31 side. FIG. 9C is a bottom view of the rotating
hinge 7 when it is viewed from a fourth support member 32 side.
FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Z-Z in FIG.
9A. FIG. 9E is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Y-Y in
FIG. 9A.
[0086] The rotating hinge 7 includes the third support member 31,
the fourth support member 32, a shaft 33, a thrust washer 34, a
rotation restricting member 35, a torque mechanism 36, and a thrust
washer 37.
[0087] The third support member 31 is fixed in the second case 2.
The third support member 31 is substantially in the form of a box
having a bottom 31m and sides 31f, 31g, 31h, 31i, 31j, and 31k that
are provided on the periphery of the bottom 31m. The sides 31f,
31h, and 31j are formed integrally. The sides 31g, 31i, and 31k are
formed integrally. The sides 31h and 31i are joined together. The
sides 31j and 31k are joined together. The bottom 31m has a
circular hole 31a. The shaft 33 is press-fitted in the hole 31a. In
the third support member 31, a rib protrudes from the joint between
the sides 31h and 31i, and a hole 31b is formed in the rib.
Moreover, in the third support member 31, a rib protrudes from the
joint between the sides 31j and 31k, and a hole 31c is formed in
the rib. When the third support member 31 is fixed in the second
case 2, screws (not shown) are inserted through the holes 31b and
31c. It is preferable that the third support member 31 is made of
metal in view of the load applied during the rotation of the second
case 2.
[0088] The fourth support member 32 is fixed in the hinge support
8. The fourth support member 32 is substantially in the form of a
box having a bottom 32m and sides 32f, 32g, 32h, 32i, 32j, and 32k
that are provided on the periphery of the bottom 32m. The sides
32f, 32h, and 32j are formed integrally. The sides 32g, 32i, and
32k are formed integrally. The sides 32h and 32i are joined
together. The sides 32j and 32k are joined together. The bottom 32m
has a circular hole 32a. The shaft 33 is inserted rotatably through
the hole 32a. In the fourth support member 32, holes 32b and 32c
are formed in one of the four side walls adjacent to the bottom
32m. A restricting portion 35b or 35c (as will be described later)
of the rotation restricting member 35 comes into contact with the
inner wall of the hole 32b or 32c, thereby restricting the rotation
of the shaft 33 including the rotation restricting member 35. In
the fourth support member 32, a rib protrudes from the joint
between the sides 32h and 32i, and a hole 32d is formed in the rib.
Moreover, in the fourth support member 32, a rib protrudes from the
joint between the sides 32j and 32k, and a hole 32e is formed in
the rib. When the fourth support member 32 is fixed in the hinge
support 8, screws (not shown) are inserted through the holes 32d
and 32e. It is preferable that the fourth support member 32 is made
of metal in view of the load applied during the rotation of the
second case 2.
[0089] The axis of the shaft 33 coincides with the rotation axis
C1. The shaft 33 is substantially cylindrical in shape. The shaft
33 has a through hole 33a that extends in the axial direction
(i.e., the direction of the rotation axis C1). It is preferable
that the shaft 33 is made of metal in view of the load applied
during the rotation of the second case 2. Since one end of the
shaft 33 in the longitudinal direction is fixed to the third
support member 31, the shaft 33 is rotated in the direction of the
arrow E or F (see FIG. 9B) in accordance with the rotation of the
third support member 31. The other end of the shaft 33 in the
longitudinal direction is inserted through the hole 32a of the
fourth support member 32 and placed in the fourth support member
32. As shown in FIG. 9D, the fourth support member 32, the thrust
washer 34, the rotation restricting member 35, the torque mechanism
36, and the thrust washer 37 are fitted to the other end of the
shaft 33 in this order in the direction of the rotation axis C1.
The through hole 33a allows a cable to pass through it, and also
contributes to weight reduction. The first case 1 and the second
case 2 are connected spatially via the through hole 33a. Therefore,
the electrical component (e.g., the printed board) in the first
case 1 and the electrical component (e.g., the liquid crystal
display 4) in the second case 2 can be connected electrically by
the cable.
[0090] The thrust washer 34 is a disk-shaped member having a
through hole, in which the shaft 33 is fitted rotatably. The thrust
washer 34 adjusts the position of the rotation restricting member
35 in the direction of the rotation axis C1.
[0091] As shown in FIG. 9E, the rotation restricting member 35 is a
disk-shaped member having a through hole, in which the shaft 33 is
press-fitted. Thus, the rotation restricting member 35 is rotated
in accordance with the rotation of the shaft 33 in the direction of
the arrow E or F. A rib 35a with a large radius is formed in a part
of the rotation restricting member 35 in the circumferential
direction. A small rib 35d is formed on the opposite side of the
through hole 33a from the rib 35a, and continues to the restricting
portions 35b and 35c (as will be described later). The rib 35a has
the restricting portion 35b at one edge and the restricting portion
35c at the other edge in the circumferential direction. When the
second case 2 is rotated in the direction of the arrow C around the
rotation axis C1 to a predetermined position, the restricting
portion 35b comes into contact with the inner wall of the hole 32b
of the fourth support member 32 to restrict the rotation of the
shaft 33 in the direction of the arrow E. When the second case 2 is
rotated in the direction of the arrow D around the rotation axis C1
to a predetermined position, the restricting portion 35c comes into
contact with the inner wall of the hole 32c of the fourth support
member 32 to restrict the rotation of the shaft 33 in the direction
of the arrow F. FIGS. 9C and 9E show a state in which the
restricting portion 35b is in contact with the inner wall of the
hole 32b.
[0092] The torque mechanism 36 is a disk-shaped member having a
through hole, through which the shaft 33 is inserted. The torque
mechanism 36 is sandwiched between the rotation restricting member
35 and the thrust washer 37, and applies a load to the rotation of
the shaft 33 due to the friction with the rotation restricting
member 35 and the friction with the thrust washer 37. The torque
mechanism 36 preferably is an elastic body made of a material such
as rubber.
[0093] The thrust washer 37 is a disk-shaped member having a
through hole, in which the shaft 33 is press-fitted. The thrust
washer 37 prevents the thrust washer 34, the rotation restricting
member 35, and the torque mechanism 36 from dropping off the shaft
33.
[0094] Hereinafter, the rotating motion will be described.
[0095] First, when the notebook computer is in the first state (see
FIG. 1), the rotating hinge 7 is in the state shown in FIGS. 9A to
9E. That is, the longitudinal directions of the third support
member 31 and the fourth support member 32 are substantially the
same. In this case, the restricting portion 35b of the rotation
restricting member 35 is in contact with the inner wall of the hole
32b, and thus restricts the rotation of the shaft 33 and the third
support member 31 in the direction of the arrow E. In the first
state shown in FIG. 1, the rotation of the second case 2 in the
direction of the arrow D is restricted.
[0096] Next, when the second case 2 is rotated in the direction of
the arrow C around the rotation axis C1 so as to transfer the
notebook computer from the first state (see FIG. 1) to the third
state (see FIG. 3), the third support member 31, the shaft 33, the
thrust washer 34, the rotation restricting member 35, the torque
mechanism 36, and the thrust washer 37 are rotated in the direction
of the arrow E (see FIG. 9B etc.). FIG. 9F is a plan view showing
the state of the rotating hinge 7 when the notebook computer is in
the third state (see FIG. 3).
[0097] Next, when the second case 2 is rotated in the direction of
the arrow C around the rotation axis C1 so as to transfer the
notebook computer from the third state (see FIG. 3) to the fourth
state (see FIG. 4), the third support member 31, the shaft 33, the
thrust washer 34, the rotation restricting member 35, the torque
mechanism 36, and the thrust washer 37 are rotated in the direction
of the arrow E (see FIG. 9B etc.). FIG. 9G is a plan view showing
the state of the rotating hinge 7 when the notebook computer is in
the fourth state (see FIG. 4). FIG. 9H is a cross-sectional view
taken along the line Y-Y (FIG. 9A) when the notebook computer is in
the fourth state (see FIG. 4). As shown in FIG. 9H, when the
notebook computer is in the fourth state (see FIG. 4), the
restricting portion 35c of the rotation restricting member 35 is in
contact with the inner wall of the hole 32c of the fourth support
member 32. Thus, the rotation of the rotation restricting member 35
in the direction of the arrow F is restricted. Accordingly, the
rotation of the shaft 33 and the third support member 31 in the
direction of the arrow F also is restricted, which in turn
restricts the rotation of the second case 2 in the direction of the
arrow C (see FIG. 4).
[0098] The motion of the rotating hinge 7 during the transition of
the notebook computer from the fourth state (see FIG. 4) to the
first state (see FIG. 1) is simply the reverse of the above motion,
and therefore the detailed description will be omitted.
[0099] Since the rotation angle of the second case 2 is limited to
about 180 degrees by the rotation restricting member 35, the cable
(not shown) passing through the through hole 33a of the shaft 33 is
not twisted significantly. Thus, a fracture or break of the cable
(not shown) can be avoided.
[0100] Next, the reason for the use of the box-shaped third support
member 31 and fourth support member 32 will be described. For
example, if the third support member 31 and the fourth support
member 32 are not substantially in the form of a box, the rigidity
is low. FIG. 9I is a plan view of a support member (corresponding
to the third support member 31 shown in FIG. 9A etc.) from which
some of the sides are removed. The support member 131 shown in FIG.
9I has a bottom 131d and a side 131c that is provided on a part of
the periphery of the bottom 131d. Two holes 131a and 131b, into
which screws are inserted to fix the support member 131 to the
second case 2, are formed in both ends of the side 131c. In this
configuration, when the notebook computer is in the first state,
and the second case 2 is turned to change the opening/closing angle
with respect to the first case 1 or rotated from the first state
(see FIG. 1) to the third state (see FIG. 3), the second case 2 is
pressed in the direction perpendicular to the display surface of
the liquid crystal display 4, and thus a force is applied to the
support member 131 in the direction of the arrow P or Q. Then, the
portions of the support member 131 in the vicinity of the holes
131a and 131b are shifted in the direction of the arrow P or Q, so
that the side 131c tends to be distorted in the direction of the
arrow P or Q. In this case, since the support member 131 is not
substantially in the form of a box, the side 131c is distorted
easily in the direction of the arrow P or Q. Therefore, the
rotating hinge including the support member 131 has low rigidity in
the direction of the arrow P or Q, which also reduces the rigidity
of the second case 2 against the pressing force that is applied in
the direction perpendicular to the display surface of the liquid
crystal display 4.
[0101] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the third support
member 31 is substantially in the form of a box with the sides 31f
to 31k and the bottom 31m, as shown in FIG. 9B. In this
configuration, when the notebook computer is in the first state
(see FIG. 1), and the second case 2 is pressed in the direction
perpendicular to the display surface of the liquid crystal display
4, a force is applied to the third support member 31 in the
direction of the arrow P or Q. Then, the portions of the third
support member 31 in the vicinity of the holes 31b and 31c are
shifted in the direction of the arrow P or Q, so that the sides 31f
and 31g tend to be distorted in the direction of the arrow P or Q.
However, since the sides 31f and 31g are integrated with the sides
31h, 31i, 31j, and 31k and the bottom 31m, the amount of distortion
in the direction of the arrow P or Q (see FIG. 9I) can be reduced.
Therefore, the rotating hinge 7 can have high rigidity in the
direction of the arrow P or Q, which also can improve the rigidity
of the second case 2 against the pressing force that is applied in
the direction perpendicular to the display surface of the liquid
crystal display 4. Moreover, since the third support member 31 is
fixed to the second case 2, even if the notebook computer is in the
third state or the fourth state, the rigidity of the second case 2
against the pressing force that is applied in the direction
perpendicular to the display surface of the liquid crystal display
4 can be improved.
[0102] As shown in FIG. 9C, the fourth support member 32 is
substantially in the form of a box with the sides 32f to 32k and
the bottom 32m. In this configuration, similarly to the third
support member 31, since the sides 32f and 32g are integrated with
the sides 32h, 32i, 32j, and 32k and the bottom 32m, the amount of
distortion in the direction of the arrow P or Q (see FIG. 9I) can
be reduced. Therefore, the rotating hinge 7 can have high rigidity
in the direction of the arrow P or Q, which also can improve the
rigidity of the second case 2 against the pressing force that is
applied during the turning of the second case 2. Thus, it is
possible to improve the rigidity of the second case 2 as it is
opened and closed.
3. Effects of this Embodiment and Others
[0103] In this embodiment, the opening/closing hinges 3 and the
rotating hinge 7 are located independently at separate positions.
Therefore, when the second case 2 is opened and closed, the load
applied to the rotating hinge 7 can be reduced. As disclosed in JP
2004-094647 A, if a single hinge is used for both the
opening/closing motion and the rotating motion of the second case
(i.e., a two-axis hinge structure), the rotating hinge portion is
subjected to a load every time the second case is opened and
closed. Thus, the rotating hinge portion is likely to rattle. In
particular, this problem becomes more prominent as the mass of the
second case 2 increases, since the second case 2 initiates the
opening/closing motion and the rotating motion. In this embodiment,
the opening/closing hinges 3 are disposed on both ends of the
connection portion of the first case 1 and the second case 2, and
the rotating hinge 7 is disposed substantially in the middle of the
connection portion of the first case 1 and the second case 2.
Moreover, the opening/closing hinges 3 and the rotating hinge 7 are
coupled via the hinge support 8. This configuration can reduce the
load applied to the rotating hinge 7 during the opening/closing
motion of the second case 2, thereby suppressing the occurrence of
a rattle in the rotating hinge 7.
[0104] In this embodiment, the opening/closing axis A1 is located
at a position lower than the top surface 1a of the first case 1, as
shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of the notebook
computer in the third state of this embodiment. With this
configuration, when the notebook computer is in the first state
(see FIG. 1), the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 is
positioned lower than the top surface 1a of the first case 1. Next,
the second case 2 is rotated in the direction of the arrow C around
the rotation axis C1 from this state. Then, as shown in FIG. 7, a
portion of the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 that is near
the rotating hinge 7 is put on the top surface 1a of the first case
1, and the second case 2 tilts slightly in the direction of the
arrow G. Therefore, a sufficient space is provided between the
corner 2c of the second case 2 and the top surface 1a of the first
case 1. This can prevent the corner 2c from coming into contact
with the top surface 1a of the first case for the pointing device
6. Thus, this also can prevent the top surface 1a of the first case
1 and the pointing device 6 from being damaged.
[0105] In this embodiment, the hinge support 8 is provided as shown
in FIG. 7, and the opening/closing axis A1 and the rotation axis C1
are arranged so as to pass through the hinge support 8. Therefore,
a large frame width W1 of the front surface 2a of the second case 2
can be exposed uniformly over the entire length of the hinge
support 8, which can improve the rigidity of the second case 2.
When a user holds at least one of a pair of short sides of the
second case 2 and rotates the second case 2, a force applied to the
second case 2 tends to bend the long side. In the configuration
disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A, the opening/closing axis is located
at a position higher than the top surface of the main unit
(corresponding to the first case 1 of this embodiment).
Accordingly, the display unit (corresponding to the second case 2
of this embodiment) should have the hollow leg portions
(represented by 11a and 11b in JP 2004-094647 A) to arrange the
opening/closing axis. Due to the presence of the hollow leg
portions, the frame width becomes narrow in some portions of the
front surface of the display unit housing other than the opening.
Therefore, the flexural rigidity of the display unit is reduced. In
this embodiment, since the opening/closing axis A1 and the rotating
axis C1 are arranged so as to pass through the hinge support 8, the
frame width W1 of the front surface 2a of the second case 2 can be
large and uniform. Thus, the flexural rigidity of the second case 2
can be improved.
[0106] The configuration in this embodiment prevents contact
between the corner 2c of the second case 2 and the top surface 1a
of the first case 1 or the pointing device 6. The configuration
also can prevent contact between the corner 2c of the second case 2
and the keyboard 5 if the rotation angle of the second case 2 with
respect to the rust case 1 is small, if the long side of the second
case 2 is short, and/or if the keyboard 5 is provided in a portion
of the top surface 1a of the first case 1 that is closer to the
side 1b (see FIG. 1).
[0107] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a modified example of
a notebook computer of this embodiment. FIG. 11A is a side view of
the notebook computer shown in FIG. 10 when it is in the third
state. FIG. 11B is an enlarged view showing the main portion of the
notebook computer shown in FIG. 11A. The notebook computer shown in
FIG. 10 etc. includes a protective sheet 40 that is disposed on the
top surface 1a of the first case 1 in the vicinity of the rotating
hinge 7. The protective sheet 40 has a predetermined thickness so
that the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 can come into
contact with or slide over the protective sheet 40 when the
notebook computer is in the third state. Moreover, when the second
case 2 comes into contact with or slides over the protective sheet
40, the protective sheet 40 prevents the lower surface 2b of the
second case 2 from being scratched and suppresses the generation of
an unusual sound. From this point of view, the protective sheet 40
preferably is made of a flexible material. It is also desirable
that the protective sheet 40 is made of a material with surface
lubricity such as a polyacetal resin or the like. In this
embodiment, the protective sheet 40 is made of, e.g., a
polycarbonate resin. The protective sheet 40 is bonded to the top
surface 1a of the first case 1 between the rotating hinge 7 and the
keyboard 5 with a double-faced adhesive tape. As shown in FIG. 11B,
the thickness T1 of the protective sheet 40 may be determined so
that the position of the top of a surface 40a of the protective
sheet 40 bonded to the top surface 1a of the first case 1 is the
same as or higher than that of a top surface 5a of the keyboard 5.
In other words, the thickness T1 of the protective sheet 40 (i.e.,
the height from the top surface 1a of the first case 1 to the top
of the surface 40a of the protective sheet 40 bonded to the top
surface 1a), a height T2 from the lower surface 2b of the second
case 2 to the top surface 1a of the first case 1, and a height T3
from the top surface 1a of the first case 1 to the top surface 5a
of the keyboard 5 have the following relationship:
T3<T2.ltoreq.T1.
In this case, the representation of the height T2 is omitted, since
the top surface 1a is substantially flush with the lower surface
2b. Similarly, the representation of the height T3 is omitted,
since the top surface 1a is substantially flush with the top
surface 5a. By using the protective sheet 40 with this
relationship, when the notebook computer is in the third state
shown in FIG. 11A, a sufficient space can be provided between the
corner 2c of the second case 2 and the top surface 5a of the
keyboard 5. Moreover, a sufficient space also can be provided
between the corner 2c of the second case 2 and the top surface 1a
of the first case 1 or the pointing device 6.
[0108] FIG. 12 is a side view showing the configuration of a
notebook computer with a protective member 41 of this embodiment.
The protective member 41 is disposed near one end of the lower
surface 2b of the second case 2 in the longitudinal direction. The
protective member 41 serves to prevent the top surface 1a of the
first case 1, the top surface 5a of the keyboard 5, or the pointing
device 6 from being damaged when the notebook computer is in the
third state. Moreover, when the second case 2 comes into contact
with or slides over the top surface 1a of the first case 1 or the
like, the protective member 41 prevents the lower surface 2b of the
second case 2 from being scratched and suppresses the generation of
an unusual sound. From this point of view, the protective member 41
preferably is made of a flexible material. In this embodiment, the
protective member 41 is made of, e.g., a polycarbonate resin. As
shown in FIG. 12, when the notebook computer is in the third state,
and a force is applied to the second case 2 in the direction of the
arrow H, the corner 2c of the second case 2 can come into contact
with the top surface 1a of the first case 1, the top surface 5a of
the keyboard 5, or the pointing device 6. In general, the case of
the notebook computer is made of metal or cured resin. Therefore,
if the corner 2c of the second case 2 comes into contact with the
top surface 1a of the first case 1, the top surface 5a of the
keyboard 5, or the pointing device 6, they may be damaged. In the
configuration shown in FIG. 12, the protective member 41 is located
in a portion (i.e., the corner 2c) of the second case 2 that can
come into contact with the first case 1, the keyboard 5, and the
pointing device 6, thereby preventing the top surface 1a or the
like from being damaged.
[0109] When the second case 2 is rotated around the rotation axis
C1 while the opening/closing angle of the second case 2 in the
first state of the notebook computer is less than 90 degrees, the
protective member 41 also can prevent the top surface 1a of the
first case 1 or the like from being damaged by the second case 2.
That is, when the second case 2 is rotated around the rotation axis
C1 while the opening/closing angle of the second case 2 in the
first state of the notebook computer is less than 90 degrees, it is
highly probable that the corner 2c (see FIG. 11A) of the second
case 2 will slide in contact with the top surface 1a of the first
case 1 or the keyboard 5 during the rotation of the second case 2.
If the corner 2c (see FIG. 11A) of the second case 2 slides across
the top surface 1a of the first case 1 or the keyboard 5, they may
be damaged, or characters printed on the key top of the keyboard 5
may be removed. In this embodiment, the protective member 41 is
located on the corner 2c (see FIG. 11A) of the second case 2.
Therefore, even if the second case 2 is rotated around the rotation
axis C1 while the opening/closing angle of the second case 2 in the
first state of the notebook computer is less than 90 degrees, the
protective member 41 slides in contact with the top surface 1a of
the first case 1 or the keyboard 5 during the rotation of the
second case 2. Thus, it is possible to prevent damage to the top
surface 1a of the first case 1 or the keyboard 5 and the removal of
the characters printed on the key top of the keyboard 5.
[0110] The protective member 41 shown in FIG. 12 is disposed only
on one end of the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 in the
longitudinal direction. This is because the rotation direction of
the second case 2 transferred from the first state to the fourth
state is limited to the direction of the arrow C. As in the case of
this embodiment, when the rotation direction of the second case 2
transferred from the first state to the fourth state is limited to
one direction, only one end of the lower surface 2b of the second
case 2 in the longitudinal direction passes over the top surface 1a
of the first case 1 and the other end does not pass over the top
surface 1a of the first case 1 during the rotation of the second
case 2. Similarly, the rotation direction of the second case 2
transferred from the fourth state to the first state is limited to
the direction of the arrow D. Therefore, only one end of the lower
surface 2b of the second case 2 in the longitudinal direction
passes over the top surface 1a of the first case 1 and the other
end does not pass over the top surface 1a of the first case 1
during the rotation of the second case 2. Accordingly, the
protective member 41 does not need to be disposed on the other end
of the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 in the longitudinal
direction, but only needs to be disposed on one end. If a rotating
hinge is provided that allows the second case 2 to be rotated in
both directions of the arrows C and D during the transition from
the first state to the fourth state, it is preferable that the
protective members 41 are disposed on both ends of the lower
surface 2b of the second case 2 in the longitudinal direction.
[0111] The first case 1 and the second case 2 of this embodiment
are examples of the cases. The opening/closing hinge 3 of this
embodiment is an example of the first hinge portion. The rotating
hinge 7 of this embodiment is an example of the second hinge
portion. The hinge support 8 of this embodiment is an example of
the hinge holding portion. The protective sheet 40 of this
embodiment is an example of the first protective member. The
protective member 41 of this embodiment is an example of the second
protective member. The front surface 2a and the back surface 2g of
this embodiment are examples of a pair of principal planes. The
upper surface 2h and the lower surface 2b, and the first side 2i
and the second side 2j of this embodiment are examples of two pairs
of sides.
Embodiment 2
[0112] The electronic apparatus disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A does
not have a mechanism for selectively inhibiting the rotating motion
of the display unit. Therefore, e.g., if a user holds the side of
the display unit and opens or closes the display unit, the display
unit can be rotated accidentally. When the display unit is rotated
while the opening/closing angle is not large enough for the display
unit to be rotated, the corner of the display unit can come into
contact with the top surface of the main unit and damage it,
resulting in poor usability.
[0113] An electronic apparatus of Embodiment 2 has a configuration
that can overcome the above disadvantages of the configuration as
disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A.
[0114] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a
notebook computer that is an example of the electronic apparatus of
this embodiment. FIG. 13 shows the notebook computer in the first
state. FIG. 14 shows the notebook computer in the second state. In
the notebook computer shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the same components
as those of the notebook computer shown in FIG. 1 etc. are denoted
by the same reference numerals, and the detailed explanation will
not be repeated. Although not shown, the notebook computer of
Embodiment 2 can assume the third state shown in FIG. 3, the fourth
state shown in FIG. 4, and the fifth state shown in FIG. 5 in
addition to the first state shown in FIG. 13 and the second state
shown in FIG. 14. To achieve the transition between the first
state, the second state, the third state, the fourth state, and the
fifth state of the notebook computer of Embodiment 2, the second
case 2 is supported on the first case 1 by a two-axis hinge
mechanism 17. The two-axis hinge mechanism 17 is well known as
disclosed, e.g., in JP 2006-10025 A, and therefore the detailed
description will be omitted.
[0115] The notebook computer shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 differs from
the notebook computer shown in FIG. 1 etc. in that the hinge
support 8 (see FIG. 2 etc.) is removed.
[0116] This embodiment describes the notebook computer as an
example of the electronic apparatus. However, the electronic
apparatus also may be a folding portable telephone, a folding
electronic game machine, a folding electronic dictionary terminal,
or the like. There is no particular limitation to the electronic
apparatus as long as it includes at least two or more cases and a
hinge mechanism for supporting the cases openably, closably, and
rotatably.
[0117] FIG. 15 is a plan view showing the vicinity of a connection
portion of the first case 1 and the second case 2. FIG. 16 is a
front view of the notebook computer in the first state. In FIG. 15,
for the sake of clarity, the representation of the two-axis hinge
mechanism 17 is omitted. FIG. 15 shows a hole 1e, through which a
part of the two-axis hinge mechanism 17 is inserted.
[0118] As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the first case 1 includes two
projections 151 and 152. The projections 151 and 152 protrude from
the top surface 1a of the first case 1. The projections 151 and 152
are located at the positions that face the lower surface 2b of the
second case 2 when the notebook computer assumes the first state,
as shown in FIG. 13.
[0119] When the notebook computer is in the first state (see FIG.
13) or the fourth state (see FIG. 4), the projections 151 and 152
can be fitted in recesses 2d and 2e that are formed in the lower
surface 2b (see FIG. 16) of the second case 2. The projections 151
and 152 preferably are made of a resin material so as to prevent
the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 from being scratched and
suppress the generation of an unusual sound as they are fitted in
the recesses 2d and 2e. In this embodiment, the projections 151 and
152 are made of, e.g., a polycarbonate resin. The projections 151
and 152 preferably are hemispherical or conical in shape, so that
they can be fitted smoothly in the recesses 2d and 2e. In this
embodiment, the projections 151 and 152 are in the form of a
hemisphere.
[0120] The projections 151 and 152 are deformable from a protruding
position shown in FIG. 16 in the direction of the arrow I, and are
biased toward the protruding position with a biasing means (not
shown) such as a spring contained in the first case 1.
[0121] The biasing means is not essential. For example, when the
projections 151 and 152 are separated from the recesses 2d and 2e
and pressed against the lower surface 2b of the second case 2, and
the portions of the lower surface 2b in contact with the
projections 151 and 152 are made of an elastically deformable
material, the biasing means will not be necessary. In this case,
although scratches on the lower surface 2b made by the projections
151 and 152 can be reduced, the position of the second case 2 may
be unstable in the first state or the fourth state of the notebook
computer. However, by forming the projections 151 and 152 to have
the lowest possible height, if a force is applied to the
projections 151 and 152 in the horizontal direction (i.e., the
plane direction of the top surface 1 of the first case 1), their
deformations can be minimized. Therefore, the second case 2 can be
positioned stably when the projections 151 and 152 are fitted in
the recesses 2d and 2e.
[0122] As shown in FIG. 16, the projections 151 and 152 are spaced
at the same distance (L12=L13) from a rotation axis C11 of the
two-axis hinge mechanism 17. Moreover, the recesses 2d and 2e
formed in the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 are spaced at
the same distance (L12=L13) from the rotation axis C11 of the
two-axis hinge mechanism 17. With this configuration, when the
second case 2 is in the first state (see FIG. 13) or the second
state (see FIG. 14), the projection 151 can be fitted in the recess
2d and the projection 152 can be fitted in the recess 2e. On the
other hand, when the second case 2 is in the fourth state (see FIG.
4) or the fifth state (see FIG. 5), the projection 151 can be
fitted in the recess 2e and the projection 152 can be fitted in the
recess 2d.
[0123] It is preferable that the fitting positions of the
projections 151 and 152 and the recesses 2d and 2e are located in
the middle between the rotation axis C11 and one end of the second
case 2 in the width direction and between the rotation axis C11 and
the other end. As shown in FIG. 16, when a length of the long side
of the second case 2 is represented by L11, a distance between the
rotation axis C11 and the projection 151 is represented by L12, and
a distance between the rotation axis C11 and the projection 152 is
represented by L13, the ratio of the distance (L12+L13) to the
length L11 is determined by
K=(L12+L13)/L11.
It is preferable that the projections 151 and 152 are located so
that the ratio K falls in the following range:
0.4.ltoreq.K.ltoreq.0.7,
[0124] where L12=L13.
In this embodiment, K=0.6.
[0125] As described above, the fitting positions of the projections
151 and 152 and the recesses 2d and 2e are located at the distances
L12 and L13 from the rotation axis C11, respectively. Therefore,
even if there is a mechanical rattle in the two-axis hinge
mechanism 17, the rattle of the second case 2 can be suppressed,
and thus the position of the second case 2 relative to the first
case 1 can be stabilized. If the fitting positions of the
projections 151 and 152 and the recesses 2d and 2e are located so
that the distances L12 and L13 are short, i.e., the ratio K is less
than 0.4, the rattle of the second case 2 cannot be suppressed
sufficiently when the two-axis hinge mechanism 17 causes a
mechanical rattle. Accordingly, it is preferable that the fitting
positions of the projections 151 and 152 and the recesses 2d and 2e
are located so that the ratio K is 0.4 or more, as described above,
because the rattle of the second case 2 can be reduced.
[0126] Moreover, if the fitting positions of the projections 151
and 152 and the recesses 2d and 2e are located at the ends of the
second case 2 in the longitudinal direction, and the second case 2
is distorted, e.g., by the application of a large pressing force,
the projections 151 and 152 may not be fitted in the recesses 2d
and 2e. In this embodiment, the fitting positions of the
projections 151 and 152 and the recesses 2d and 2e are located so
that the ratio K is 0.7 or less. Therefore, even if the second case
2 is distorted, e.g., by the application of a large pressing force,
it is possible to reduce the chance that the projections 151 and
152 cannot be fitted in the recesses 2d and 2e.
[0127] Hereinafter, the motion will be described.
[0128] As shown in FIG. 16, when the notebook computer is in the
first state, the projections 151 and 152 are fitted in the recesses
2d and 2e formed in the lower surface 2b of the second case 2,
respectively. This can stabilize the position of the second case 2
relative to the first case 1 around the rotation axis C11.
[0129] When the second case 2 is rotated in the direction of the
arrow C around the rotation axis C11 from the first state (see FIG.
13), the projection 151 is separated from the recess 2d, pressed
against the lower surface 2b of the second case 2, and thus
deformed in the direction of the arrow I. Similarly, the projection
152 is separated from the recess 2e, pressed against the lower
surface 2b of the second case 2, and thus deformed in the direction
of the arrow I. Subsequently, when the second case 2 continues to
be rotated and reaches the position in the third state (see FIG.
3), the projections 151 and 152 are released from the pressure
applied by the lower surface 2b of the second case 2, and then are
pressed and deformed toward the protruding position with the
biasing means (not shown).
[0130] When the second case 2 is rotated in the direction of the
arrow C around the rotation axis C11 from the third state (see FIG.
3), the projections 151 and 152 are pressed against the lower
surface 2b of the second case 2 and deformed in the direction of
the arrow I (see FIG. 16). Subsequently, when the second case 2 is
rotated further and transferred to the fourth state (see FIG. 4),
the projection 151 is deformed toward the protruding position with
the biasing means (not shown) contained in the first case 1, and
then is fitted in the recess 2e. Similarly, the projection 152 is
deformed toward the protruding position with the biasing means (not
shown) contained in the first case 1, and then is fitted in the
recess 2d. Thus, the position of the second case 2 relative to the
first case 1 around the rotation axis C11 can be stabilized.
[0131] The motion of the projections 151 and 152 when the second
case 2 is rotated from the position in the fourth state (see FIG.
4) to that in the first state (see FIG. 1) is the same as described
above.
[0132] The second case 2 is opened and closed while being supported
by the two-axis hinge mechanism 17. Therefore, during the
transition from the first state to the second state, the projection
151 is separated from the recess 2d and the projection 152 is
separated from the recess 2e. Moreover, during the transition from
the fourth state to the fifth state, the projection 151 is
separated from the recess 2e and the projection 152 is separated
from the recess 2d.
[0133] In this embodiment, the projections 151 and 152 are located
in the middle between the rotation axis C11 of the two-axis hinge
mechanism 17 and one end of the second case 2 in the longitudinal
direction and between the rotation axis C11 and the other end.
Therefore, even if there is a mechanical rattle in the two-axis
hinge mechanism 17, the position of the second case 2 can be
stabilized in both the first state and the fourth state. Moreover,
even if there is a distortion such as warpage in the second case 2,
it is possible to increase the chance that the projections 151 and
152 can be fitted in the recesses 2d and 2e.
[0134] In this embodiment, the projections 151 and 152 are located
symmetrically with respect to the rotation axis C11. Therefore,
positioning can be performed when the second case 2 is located at
the position in the first state and at the position in the fourth
state. Thus, the projections 151 and 152 and the recesses 2d and 2e
can be used in both the first state and the fourth state, so that
the number of projections can be reduced.
[0135] In this embodiment, the second case 2 has the recesses 2d
and 2e, and the first case 1 has the projections 151 and 152.
However, the second case 2 may have projections corresponding to
the projections 151 and 152, and the first case 1 may have recesses
corresponding to the recesses 2d and 2e.
[0136] In this embodiment, the projections are provided in two
places and the recesses are provided in two places. However, the
projection may be provided only in one place. That is, a
configuration of this embodiment may include the projection 151 and
the recesses 2d and 2e. With this configuration, the projection 151
can be fitted in the recess 2d in the first state or the second
state of the notebook computer, and also fitted in the recess 2e in
the fourth state or the fifth state of the notebook computer.
Therefore, the positioning of the second case 2 with respect to the
first case 1 can be performed. However, in this configuration, the
distance between the projection 151 and the rotation axis C11, the
distance between the recess 2d and the rotation axis C11, and the
distance between the recess 2e and the rotation axis C11 should be
the same. The combination of the projection 152 and the recesses 2d
and 2e also functions in the same manner.
[0137] In this embodiment, the projections 151 and 152 are fitted
in the recesses 2d and 2e, thereby performing the positioning of
the second case 2. However, in this configuration, the projections
151 and 152 detach relatively easily from the recesses 2e and 2e.
Some users have little opportunity to rotate the second case 2
around the rotation axis C11. If there is little opportunity to
rotate the second case 2, it is preferable that the configuration
includes a mechanism for inhibiting the rotation of the second case
2.
Embodiment 3
[0138] The electronic apparatus disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A does
not have a mechanism for selectively inhibiting the rotating motion
of the display unit. Therefore, e.g., if a user holds the side of
the display unit and opens or closes the display unit, the display
unit can be rotated accidentally. When the display unit is rotated
while the opening/closing angle is not large enough for the display
unit to be rotated, the corner of the display unit can come into
contact with the top surface of the main unit and damage it,
resulting in poor usability.
[0139] An electronic apparatus of Embodiment 3 has a configuration
that can overcome the above disadvantages of the configuration as
disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A.
[0140] FIG. 17 is a plan view of the first case 1 and the hinge
support 8. In FIG. 17, to illustrate the configuration of the hinge
support 8 clearly, the representation of the second case 2 or the
like is omitted. FIG. 18 is a front view of the second case 2 and
the hinge support 8. In FIG. 18, a part of the second case is
illustrated in a cross-sectional view.
[0141] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the hinge support 8 includes
two projections 51 and 52. The projections 51 and 52 protrude from
an upper surface of the hinge support 8. The "upper surface of the
hinge support 8" is the surface of the hinge support 8 that faces
in the same direction as the upper surface 2h of the second case 2.
The hinge support 8 has a hole 8a, through which the shaft 33 (see
FIG. 9D) of the rotating hinge 7 is inserted.
[0142] When the notebook computer is in the first state of the
fourth state, the projections 51 and 52 can be fitted in recesses
2d and 2e that are formed in the lower surface 2b of the second
case 2. The projections 51 and 52 preferably are made of a resin
material so as to prevent the lower surface 2b of the second case 2
from being scratched and suppress the generation of an unusual
sound as they are fitted in the recesses 2d and 2e. In this
embodiment, the projections 51 and 52 are made of, e.g., a
polycarbonate resin. The projections 51 and 52 preferably are
hemispherical or conical in shape, so that they can be fitted
smoothly in the recesses 2d and 2e. In this embodiment, the
projections 51 and 52 are in the form of a hemisphere.
[0143] The projections 51 and 52 are deformable from a protruding
position shown in FIG. 18 in the direction of the arrow I, and are
biased toward the protruding position with a biasing means (not
shown) such as a spring contained in the hinge support 8.
[0144] The biasing means is not essential. For example, when the
projections 51 and 52 are separated from the recesses 2d and 2e and
pressed against the lower surface 2b of the second case 2, and the
portions of the lower surfaces 2b in contact with the projections
51 and 52 are made of an elastically deformable material, the
biasing means will not be necessary. In this case, although
scratches on the lower surface 2b made by the projections 51 and 52
can be reduced, the position of the second case 2 may be unstable
in the first state or the fourth state of the notebook computer.
However, by forming the projections 51 and 52 to have the lowest
possible height, if a force is applied to the projections 51 and 52
in the horizontal direction (i.e., the plane direction of the top
surface 1a of the first case 1), their deformations can be
minimized. Therefore, the second case 2 can be positioned stably
when the projections 51 and 52 are fitted in the recesses 2d and
2e.
[0145] As shown in FIG. 18, the projections 51 and 52 are spaced at
the same distance (L2=L3) from the rotation axis C1 of the rotating
hinge 7. Moreover, the recesses 2d and 2e formed in the lower
surface 2b of the second case 2 are spaced at the same distance
(L2=L3) from the rotation axis C1 of the rotating hinge 7. With
this configuration, when the second case 2 is in the first state
(see FIG. 1) or the second state (see FIG. 2), the projection 51
can be fitted in the recess 2d and the projection 52 can be fitted
in the recess 2e. On the other hand, when the second case 2 is in
the fourth state (see FIG. 4) or the fifth state (see FIG. 5), the
projection 51 can be fitted in the recess 2e and the projection 52
can be fitted in the recess 2d.
[0146] It is preferable that the fitting positions of the
projections 51 and 52 and the recesses 2d and 2e are located in the
middle between the rotation axis C1 and one end of the second case
2 in the width direction and between the rotation axis C1 and the
other end. As shown in FIG. 18, when a length of the long side of
the second case 2 is represented by L1, a distance between the
rotation axis C1 and the projection 51 is represented by L2, and a
distance between the rotation axis C1 and the projection 52 is
represented by L3, the ratio of the distance (L2+L3) to the length
L1 is determined by
K=(L2+L3)/L1.
It is preferable that the projections 51 and 52 are located so that
the ratio K falls in the following range:
0.4.ltoreq.K.ltoreq.0.7,
[0147] where L2=L3.
In this embodiment, K=0.6.
[0148] As described above, the fitting positions of the projections
51 and 52 and the recesses 2d and 2e are located at the distances
L2 and L3 from the rotation axis C1, respectively. Therefore, even
if there is a mechanical rattle in the rotating hinge 7, the rattle
of the second case 2 can be suppressed, and thus the position of
the second case 2 relative to the hinge support 8 can be
stabilized. If the fitting positions of the projections 51 and 52
and the recesses 2d and 2e are located so that the distances L2 and
L3 are short, i.e., the ratio K is less than 0.4, the rattle of the
second case 2 cannot be suppressed sufficiently when the rotating
hinge 7 causes a mechanical rattle. Accordingly, it is preferable
that the fitting positions of the projections 51 and 52 and the
recesses 2d and 2e are located so that the ratio K is 0.4 or more,
as described above, because the rattle of the second case 2 can be
reduced.
[0149] Moreover, if the fitting positions of the projections 51 and
52 and the recesses 2d and 2e are located at the ends of the second
case 2 in the longitudinal direction, and the second case 2 is
distorted, e.g., by the application of a large pressing force, the
projections 51 and 52 may not be fitted in the recesses 2d and 2e.
In this embodiment, the fitting positions of the projections 51 and
52 and the recesses 2d and 2e are located so that the ratio K is
0.7 or less. Therefore, even if the second case 2 is distorted,
e.g., by the application of a large pressing force, it is possible
to reduce the chance that the projections 51 and 52 cannot be
fitted in the recesses 2d and 2e.
[0150] Hereinafter, the motion will be described.
[0151] As shown in FIG. 18, when the notebook computer is in the
first state, the projection 51 and 52 are fitted in the recesses 2d
and 2e formed in the lower surface 2b of the second case 2,
respectively. This can stabilize the position of the second case 2
relative to the hinge support 8 around the rotation axis C1.
[0152] When the second case 2 is rotated in the direction of the
arrow C around the rotation axis C1 from the first state (see FIG.
1), the projection 51 is separated from the recess 2d, pressed
against the lower surface 2b of the second case 2, and thus
deformed in the direction of the arrow I. Similarly, the projection
52 is separated from the recess 2e, pressed against the lower
surface 2b of the second case 2, and thus deformed in the direction
of the arrow I. Subsequently, when the second case 2 continues to
be rotated and reaches the position in the third state (see FIG.
3), the projections 51 and 52 are released from the pressure
applied by the lower surface 2b of the second case 2, and then are
pressed and deformed toward the protruding position with the
biasing means (not shown).
[0153] When the second case 2 is rotated in the direction of the
arrow C around the rotation axis C1 from the third state (see FIG.
3), the projections 51 and 52 are pressed against the lower surface
2b of the second case 2 and deformed in the direction of the arrow
I (see FIG. 18). Subsequently, when the second case 2 is rotated
further and transferred to the fourth state (see FIG. 4), the
projection 51 is deformed toward the protruding position with the
biasing means (not shown) contained in the hinge support 8, and
then is fitted in the recess 2e. Similarly, the projection 52 is
deformed toward the protruding position with the biasing means (not
shown) contained in the hinge support 8, and then is fitted in the
recess 2d. Thus, the position of the second case 2 relative to the
hinge support 8 around the rotation axis C1 can be stabilized.
[0154] The motion of the projections 51 and 52 when the second case
2 is rotated from the position in the fourth state (see FIG. 4) to
that in the first state (see FIG. 1) is the same as described
above.
[0155] The second case 2 is opened and closed together with the
hinge support 8. Therefore, during the opening/closing motion
between the first state and the second state, the projection 51 is
fitted in the recess 2d and the projection 52 is fitted in the
recess 2e. Moreover, during the opening/closing motion between the
fourth state and the fifth state, the projection 51 if fitted in
the recess 2e and the projection 52 is fitted in the recess 2d.
[0156] In this embodiment, the opening/closing hinges 3 and the
rotating hinge 7 are located independently at separate positions.
Therefore, when the second case 2 is opened and closed, the load
applied to the rotating hinge 7 can be reduced. As disclosed in JP
2004-094647 A, if a single hinge is used for both the
opening/closing motion and the rotating motion of the second case
(i.e., a two-axis hinge structure), the rotating hinge portion is
subjected to a load every time the second case is opened and
closed. Thus, the rotating hinge portion is likely to rattle. In
this embodiment, the opening/closing hinges 3 are disposed on both
ends of the connection portion of the first easel and the second
case 2, and the rotating hinge 7 is disposed substantially in the
middle of the connection portion of the first case 1 and the second
case 2. This configuration can reduce the load applied to the
rotating hinge 7 during the opening/closing motion of the second
case 2, thereby suppressing the occurrence of a rattle in the
rotating hinge 7.
[0157] In this embodiment, the projections 51 and 52 are located in
the middle between the rotation axis C1 of the rotating hinge 7 and
one end of the second case 2 in the longitudinal direction and
between the rotation axis C1 and the other end. Therefore, even if
there is a mechanical rattle in the rotating hinge 7, the position
of the second case 2 can be stabilized in both the first state and
the fourth state. Moreover, even if there is a distortion such as
warpage in the second case 2, it is possible to increase the chance
that the projections 51 and 52 can be fitted in the recesses 2d and
2e.
[0158] In this embodiment, the projections 51 and 52 are located
symmetrically with respect to the rotation axis C1. Therefore,
positioning can be performed when the second case 2 is located at
the position in the first state and at the position in the fourth
state. Thus, the projections 51 and 52 and the recesses 2d and 2e
can be used in both the first state and the fourth state, so that
the number of projections can be reduced.
[0159] In this embodiment, the second case 2 has the recesses 2d
and 2e, and the hinge support 8 has the projections 51 and 52.
However, the second case 2 may have projections corresponding to
the projections 51 and 52, and the hinge support 8 may have
recesses corresponding to the recesses 2d and 2e.
[0160] In this embodiment, the projections are provided in two
places and the recesses are provided in two places. However, the
projection may be provided only in one place. That is, a
configuration of this embodiment may include the projection 51 and
the recesses 2d and 2e. With this configuration, the projection 51
can be fitted in the recess 2d in the first state or the second
state of the notebook computer, and also fitted in the recess 2e in
the fourth state or the fifth state of the notebook computer.
Therefore, the positioning of the second case 2 with respect to the
first case 1 can be performed. However, in this configuration, the
distance between the projection 51 and the rotation axis C1, the
distance between the recess 2d and the rotation axis C1, and the
distance between the recess 2e and the rotation axis C1 should be
the same. The combination of the projection 52 and the recesses 2d
and 2e also functions in the same manner.
[0161] In this embodiment, the projections 51 and 52 are fitted in
the recesses 2d and 2e, thereby performing the positioning of the
second case 2. However, in this configuration, the projections 51
and 52 detach relatively easily from the recesses 2d and 2e. Some
users have little opportunity to rotate the second case 2 around
the rotation axis C1. If there is little opportunity to rotate the
second case 2, it is preferable that the configuration includes a
mechanism for inhibiting the rotation of the second case 2.
[0162] FIG. 19A is a front view of the second case 2 and the hinge
support 8 in the notebook computer including a rotation restraining
member (slide lever 61). FIGS. 19B and 19C are cross-sectional
views showing the main portion in the vicinity of the rotation
restraining member in FIG. 19A. In FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C, the
portion in the vicinity of the rotation restraining member is
illustrated in a cross-sectional view. FIGS. 20A and 20B are
cross-sectional views taken along the line W-W in FIG. 19A. FIGS.
19B and 20A show a state in which the rotation restraining member
is retracted into the second case 2 (referred to as a retracted
position in the following). FIGS. 19C and 20B show a state in which
a part of the rotation restraining member is extended from the
second case 2 (referred to as an extended position in the
following).
[0163] The second case 2 includes the slide lever 61 serving as the
rotation restraining member. A part of the slide lever 61 is
exposed from a hole 2f formed in the front surface 2a of the second
case 2. The slide lever 61 is held in the second case 2 with screws
63. The slide lever 61 has long holes, and the screws 63 are
inserted through the long holes, respectively. Thus, the slide
lever 61 can be moved in the direction of the arrow M or N.
Moreover, a restraining axis 62 is provided integrally with the
slide lever 61. The restraining axis 62 is retracted into the
second case 2 when the slide lever 61 is at the retracted position,
as shown in FIGS. 19B and 20A, and is extended from the second case
2 when the slide lever 61 is at the extended position, as shown in
FIGS. 19C and 20B. The slide lever 61 is positioned with a
restraining means (not shown) such as a leaf spring at the
retracted position (see FIGS. 19B and 20A) and the extended
position (see FIGS. 19C and 20B).
[0164] Hereinafter, the motion will be described.
[0165] As shown in FIGS. 19B and 20A, when the slide lever 61 is at
the retracted position, the restraining axis 62 is retracted into
the second case 2. In this case, the second case 2 is allowed to
rotate around the rotation axis C1.
[0166] When the second case 2 is located at the position in the
first state (see FIG. 1) or at the position in the fourth state
(see FIG. 4), and the slide lever 61 slides in the direction of the
arrow M from the retracted position shown in FIGS. 19B and 20A to
the position shown in FIGS. 19C and 20B, the restraining axis 62 is
extended from the second case 2 and inserted into a hole 8b formed
in the hinge support 8. Consequently, the second case 2 is not
allowed to rotate in either of the directions of the arrows C and D
around the rotation axis C1.
[0167] As shown in FIGS. 19C and 20B, when the restraining axis 62
is inserted into the hole 8b of the hinge support 8, and the slide
lever 61 slides in the direction of the arrow N, the restraining
axis 62 is separated from the hole 8b, as shown in FIGS. 19B and
20A. Consequently, the second case 2 is allowed to rotate in both
of the directions of the arrows C and D around the rotation axis
C1.
[0168] When the slide lever 61 is moved to the retracted position
shown in FIGS. 19B and 20A, and the restraining axis 62 is extended
even slightly from the second case 2, the restraining axis 62 can
come into contact with or get caught on other parts during the
rotation of the second case 2 around the rotation axis C1. In this
embodiment, when the slide lever 61 is moved to the retracted
position shown in FIGS. 19B and 20A, the restraining axis 62 is not
extended from, but is retracted into the second case 2. Thus, the
restraining axis 62 will not come into contact with or get caught
on other parts during the rotation of the second case 2 around the
rotation axis C1.
[0169] The use of the slide lever 61 and the restraining axis 62
can prevent the problem of the corner of the second case 2 coming
into contact with the top surface of the first case 1 and damaging
the first case 1. In a structure in which the second case 2 can be
rotated easily, if the second case 2 is rotated at a small
opening/closing angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees), the corner of
the second case 2 can come into contact with the top surface 1a of
the first case 1 and damage the first case 1. In this embodiment,
the slide lever 61 and the restraining axis 62 can inhibit the
rotation of the second case 2, and thus can prevent the first case
1 from being damaged by the corner of the second case 2.
[0170] The first case 1 and the second case 2 of this embodiment
are examples of the cases. The opening/closing hinge 3 of this
embodiment is an example of the first hinge portion. The rotating
hinge 7 of this embodiment is an example of the second hinge
portion. The hinge support 8 of this embodiment is an example of
the hinge holding portion. The protective sheet 40 of this
embodiment is an example of the first protective member. The
protective member 41 of this embodiment is an example of the second
protective member. The recesses 2d and 2e of this embodiment are
examples of the first recess and the second recess. The projections
51 and 52 of this embodiment are examples of the first projection
and the second projection. The slide lever 61 and the restraining
axis 62 of this embodiment are examples of the rotation restraining
member.
Embodiment 4
[0171] In the electronic apparatus disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A,
when the display unit is rotated around the axis X1 while the
opening/closing angle between the main unit and the display unit is
less than 90 degrees (e.g., the position of the display unit
relative to the main unit as shown in FIG. 3 of JP 2004-094647 A),
the display unit comes into contact with the keyboard or the like,
and thus the display unit, the keyboard, or the like may be
damaged. To prevent the display unit from coming into contact with
the keyboard or the like during rotation, the display unit should
be rotated after being adjusted at an opening/closing angle
suitable for rotation (e.g., 90 degrees). However, it is difficult
to adjust the display unit accurately.
[0172] An electronic apparatus of Embodiment 4 includes
opening/closing hinges that can overcome the above disadvantages of
the configuration as disclosed in JP 2004-094647 A. The
configuration other than the opening/closing hinges of the
electronic apparatus of Embodiment 4 is the same as that of the
electronic apparatus of Embodiment 1 or 3, and therefore the
detailed explanation will not be repeated. Embodiment 4 is
characterized by the configuration of the opening/closing
hinges.
[0173] [1. Configuration of the Opening/Closing Hinges 3]
[0174] FIG. 21 is a plan view showing the main portion of the
internal structure of the opening/closing hinge 3. In FIG. 21, for
the sake of clarity, a part of the first case 1 and the second case
2 is illustrated in a cross-sectional view. For convenience of
description, FIG. 21 shows a state in which the second case 2 is
turned further in the direction of the arrow B from the first state
(see FIG. 1) and forms an angle of about 180 degrees with respect
to the first case 1. FIG. 22A is a side view of a notebook computer
in the second state. FIG. 22B is a side view of the notebook
computer in the first state. FIG. 23A is a plan view of the
opening/closing hinge 3 when the notebook computer is in the second
state. FIG. 23B is a plan view of the opening/closing hinge 3 when
the notebook computer is in the first state.
[0175] As shown in FIG. 21, the opening/closing hinge 3 includes a
hinge mechanism 10. The hinge mechanism 10 includes a shaft 11, a
fifth support member 112, a second support member 13, and a second
torque mechanism 114.
[0176] The shaft 11 can be rotated in the direction of the arrow A
or B around a line A1 in accordance with the opening/closing motion
of the second case 2 in the direction of the arrow A or B. It is
preferable that the shaft 11 is made of metal in view of resistance
to the force applied as the first case 1 or the second case 2 is
turned. In this embodiment, the shaft 11 is made of stainless steel
and has a shaft diameter of about 3 to 4 mm and a shaft length of
about 15 mm. However, the size and material of the shaft 11 are not
limited thereto.
[0177] The fifth support member 112 is supported rotatably by the
shaft 11. The fifth support member 112 is fixed to the first case 1
with screws 16. The second support member 13 is fixed to the shaft
11 with rivets or the like. The second support member 13 is fixed
to the second case 2 with screws 15. Therefore, when the second
case 2 is turned between the first state (see FIG. 1) and the
second state (see FIG. 2), the shaft 11 is rotated together with
the second case 2, and the second support member 13 also is rotated
around the axis A1 of the shaft 11 together with the second case
2.
[0178] A first support 112a is formed integrally with the fifth
support member 112. The first support 112a has a through hole,
through which the shaft 11 is inserted rotatably. A second support
13a is formed integrally with the second support member 13. The
second support 13a has a through hole, through which the shaft 11
can be inserted. The shaft 11 is inserted through the through hole
of the second support 13a and fixed to the second support 13a with
rivets or the like. In this embodiment, the opening/closing hinges
3 are disposed on both ends of the connection portion of the first
case 1 and the second case 2, and their internal structures are the
same. It is preferable that the fifth support member 112 and the
second support member 13 be made of metal in view of resistance to
the force applied as the first case 1 or the second case 2 is
turned. In this embodiment, the fifth support member 112 and the
second support member 13 are made of, e.g., stainless steel, but
the material is not t limited thereto.
[0179] The second torque mechanism 114 is composed of a plurality
of disk-shaped washers or rubber sheets and fixed to the shaft 11.
In this embodiment, a through hole that allows the shaft 11 to be
inserted through the washers or rubber sheets is provided, and the
shaft 11 is press-fitted in the through hole. Therefore, the second
torque mechanism 114 is rotated together with the shaft 11 as the
shaft 11 is rotated in accordance with the turning of the second
case 2. The second torque mechanism 114 includes a washer 114a, a
washer 114b, and a rubber sheet 114c. The washer 114a is pressed
into contact with the first support 112a. Therefore, due to the
friction between the fifth support member 112 and the second torque
mechanism 114 caused by this contact, a rotational load can be
applied to the second case 2. In other words, due to the friction
between the fifth support member 112 and the second torque
mechanism 114, the position of the second case 2 relative to the
first case 1 can be maintained at any opening/closing angle. The
configuration of the second torque mechanism 114 of this embodiment
is merely an example, and other configurations also may be employed
as long as a load can be applied to at least the rotation of the
shaft 11 or the turning of the second case 2.
[0180] As shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B, the first support 112a has a
concave portion 112b, and the washer 114a has a convex portion
114d. The convex portion 114d can be fitted in the concave portion
112b. The convex portion 114d and the concave portion 112b are
formed at the positions where they are fitted together when the
opening/closing angle .theta. between the first case 1 and the
second case 2 is 90 to 100 degrees, as shown in FIG. 22B. In other
words, the convex portion 114d and the concave portion 112 b can be
used to position the second case 2 when the opening/closing angle
.theta. between the first case 1 and the second case 2 is 90 to 100
degrees, as shown in FIG. 22B. If the second case 2 is rotated in
the direction of the arrow C or D shown in FIG. 1 while the
opening/closing angle .theta. between the first case 1 and the
second case 2 is less than 90 degrees, the second case 2 can hit
the top surface 1a of the first case 1 or the like. On the other
hand, if the second case 2 is rotated in the direction of the arrow
C or D shown in FIG. 1 while the opening/closing angle .theta.
between the first case 1 and the second case 2 is more than 100
degrees, the second case 2 can hit the surface of a desk or the
like, on which the notebook computer is placed. This can make it
difficult to transfer the second case 2 from the first state to the
fourth or fifth state, or can cause damage to the first case 1, the
second case 2, or the surface of the desk. To deal with this
problem, this embodiment uses the concave portion 112b and the
convex portion 114d to position the second case 2 at an
opening/closing angle of 90 to 100 degrees. Thus, the second case 2
can be positioned lightly at an opening/closing angle of 90 to 100
degrees. When the convex portion 114d is fitted in the concave
portion 112b, a tactile feedback can be given to the user's hand
holding the second case 2 by the action of an elastic restoring
force of the washer 114a. Based on this tactile feedback, the user
can recognize the opening/closing angle at which the second case 2
should be rotated. The opening/closing angle (90 to 100 degrees) at
which the convex portion 114d and the concave portion 112b are
fitted together is merely an example, and is not particularly
limited as long as the second case 2 does not hit the first case 1
or the desk surface and can be transferred from the first state to
the fourth state and vice versa at least when the second case 2 is
rotated around the rotation axis C1 (see FIG. 1).
[0181] Hereinafter, the motion will be described.
[0182] When the second case 2 is turned in the direction of the
arrow A from the position in the first state (see FIGS. 1 and 22B),
the second support member 13 fixed to the second case 2 also is
rotated around the opening/closing axis A1. The shaft 11 that is
provided integrally with the second support member 13 is rotated in
the direction of the arrow A around the opening/closing axis A1 as
the second support member 13 is rotated. At this time, the second
torque mechanism 114 applies a load to the rotation of the shaft
11. The second case 2 can be turned to the position in the second
state (see FIGS. 2 and 22A). When the second case 2 is in the
position in the second state, as shown in FIG. 23A, the convex
portion 114d is separated from the concave portion 112b and put on
the surface around the concave portion 112b of the first support
112a.
[0183] When the second case 2 is turned in the direction of the
arrow B from the position in the second state (see FIGS. 2 and
22A), the second support member 13 fixed to the second case 2 also
is rotated around the opening/closing axis A1. The shaft 11 that is
provided integrally with the second support member 13 is rotated in
the direction of the arrow B around the opening/closing axis A1 as
the second support member 13 is rotated. At this time, the second
torque mechanism 114 applies a load to the rotation of the shaft
11.
[0184] When the second case 2 is turned to the position in the
first state (see FIGS. 1 and 22B), as shown in FIG. 23B, the convex
portion 114d is fitted in the concave portion 112b. The washer 114a
vibrates by its own elastic restoring force at the time the convex
portion 114d that has been separated from the concave portion 112b
(see FIG. 23A) is fitted in the concave portion 112b (see FIG.
23B). The vibration is transmitted to the second case 2 via the
shaft 11. Moreover, the vibration is given as a tactile feedback to
the user's hand holding the second case 2. Based on this tactile
feedback, the user recognizes the opening/closing angle at which
the second case 2 should be rotated.
[0185] If the second case 2 is intended to be turned when the
convex portion 114d is fitted in the concave portion 112b, the
convex portion 114d is in contact with the inner surface of the
concave portion 112b and not separated easily from the concave
portion 112b. Therefore, the second case 2 can be positioned.
[0186] When at least a predetermined force is applied to the second
case 2 in the direction of the arrow A or B, the washer 114a is
deformed elastically so that the convex portion 114d is separated
from the concave portion 112b. Thus, the second case 2 can be
turned in the direction of the arrow A or B from the first
state.
[0187] When the second case 2 is rotated around the rotation axis
C1 (see FIG. 1 etc.) from the position in the first state where the
convex portion 114d is fitted in the concave portion 112b, as shown
in FIG. 22B, the second case 2 can be transferred to the third
state, as shown in FIG. 24. In this case, a space R1 can be
provided between the lower surface 2b of the second case 2 and a
desk surface 100. Accordingly, the second case 2 can be prevented
from hitting the desk surface 100. Moreover, a space R2 can be
provided between the corner 2c of the second case 2 and the top
surface 1a of the first case 1. Accordingly, the corner 2c of the
second case 2 can be prevented from hitting the top surface 1a of
the first case 1.
[0188] If the opening/closing angle .theta. of the second case 2 is
more than 100 degrees, the second case 2 further tilts in the
direction of the arrow G from the position shown in FIG. 24.
Therefore, there is a high probability that the second case 2 will
hit the desk surface 100. If the opening/closing angle .theta. of
the second case 2 is less than 90 degrees, the second case 2
further tilts in the direction of the arrow H from the position
shown in FIG. 24. Therefore, there is a high probability that the
corner 2c of the second case 2 will hit the top surface 1a of the
first case 1.
[0189] [2. Effects of this Embodiment and Others]
[0190] In this embodiment, the washer 114a has the convex portion
114d, the first support 112a has the concave portion 112b, and the
convex portion 114d is fitted in the concave portion 112b when the
opening/closing angle .theta. of the second case 2 is 90 to 100
degrees. With this configuration, the second case 2 can be
positioned lightly at an opening/closing angle of 90 to 100
degrees. Therefore, the second case 2 can be positioned at the
opening/closing angle that allows the second case 2 to be rotated.
Thus, the second case 2 can be prevented from hitting the first
case 1 or the desk surface during rotation.
[0191] By positioning the second case 2 at the opening/closing
angle that allows the second case 2 to be rotated, wobbling of the
second case 2 can be reduced when it is rotated. Therefore, the
second case 2 can be rotated in the stable position and prevented
from accidentally hitting the first case 1 or the desk surface
during rotation.
[0192] In this embodiment, the convex portion 114d is fitted in the
concave portion 112b when the opening/closing angle of the second
case 2 is 90 to 100 degrees. With this configuration, a user can
adjust the second case 2 at a desired opening/closing angle while
using the notebook computer. In general, it is said that the
opening/closing angle at which a user easily can see the images
displayed on the liquid crystal display 4 is 110 to 120 degrees
during operation of the notebook computer. If the opening/closing
angle at which the convex portion 114d is fitted in the concave
portion 112b is set to 110 to 120 degrees, it is difficult to make
a fine adjustment to the opening/closing angle, since the convex
portion 114d is fitted preferentially in the concave portion 112b
at an opening/closing angle of about 110 to 120 degrees. The
configuration of this embodiment in which the convex portion 114d
is fitted in the concave portion 112b at an opening/closing angle
of 90 to 100 degrees can reduce the effect on the fine adjustment
of the opening/closing angle in the range of 110 to 120
degrees.
[0193] When the convex portion 114d is fitted in the concave
portion 112b, a tactile feedback can be generated by the action of
the elastic restoring force of the washer 114a. Therefore, a user
can feel the tactile feedback with the hand holding the second case
2 and easily recognize the opening/closing angle at which the
second case 2 should be rotated. In other words, the user turns the
second case 2 until he/she feels the tactile feedback, and then
rotates the second case 2, so that the second case 2 can be
transferred to the fourth state without hitting the first case 1 or
the desk surface.
[0194] In this embodiment, the washer 114a has the convex portion
114d, and the first support 112a has the concave portion 112b. With
this configuration, the positioning of the second case 2 can be
achieved easily at low cost. Since only the shapes of the existing
washer 114a and first support 112a have to be changed, there is
neither an increase in the number of components nor a significant
rise in cost.
[0195] In this embodiment, the hinge support 8 includes the
opening/closing hinges 3 and the rotating hinge 7. When the hinge
support 8 includes the opening/closing hinges 3 and the rotating
hinge 7, the opening/closing hinges 3 and the rotating hinge 7 can
be located at separate positions. Therefore, in both the first
state (the opening/closing angle is 90 degrees) shown in FIG. 1 and
the fourth state (the opening/closing angle is 90 degrees) shown in
FIG. 4, the concave portion 112b and the convex portion 114d are
fitted together, and the positioning of the second case 2 with
respect to the first case 1 can be performed. That is, the
positioning of the second case 2 in different states of the
notebook computer can be performed using one concave portion 112b
and one convex portion 114d.
[0196] In this embodiment, the washer 114a has the convex portion
114d, and the first support 112a has the concave portion 112b.
However, the washer 114a may have a concave portion, and the first
support 112a may have a convex portion.
[0197] In this embodiment, the washer 114a has the convex portion
114d, and the first support 112a has the concave portion 112b.
However, other configurations also may be employed as long as the
second case 2 can be positioned at an opening/closing angle of 90
to 100 degrees.
[0198] In this embodiment, the opening/closing angle of the second
case 2 for positioning is 90 to 100 degrees. However, depending on
the shapes of the first case 1 and the second case 2 or the
configuration of the opening/closing hinges 3, the second case 2
may be positioned at other opening/closing angles.
[0199] In this embodiment, the second case 2 is positioned when the
opening/closing angle between the first case 1 and the second case
2 is 90 degrees. However, a further configuration may be provided
to perform the positioning of the second case 2 with respect to the
first case 1 in each of the first state (see FIG. 1), the second
state (see FIG. 2), the fourth state (see FIG. 4), and the fifth
state (see FIG. 5).
[0200] By incorporating the configuration of this embodiment in
which the second case 2 is positioned at an opening/closing angle
of 90 degrees into the configuration shown in FIGS. 19A to 19C, the
second case 2 can be turned easily to the position where the
opening/closing angle is 90 degrees, at which the slide lever 61 is
to slide.
[0201] The first case 1 and the second case 2 of this embodiment
are examples of the cases. The opening/closing hinge 3 of this
embodiment is an example of the first hinge portion. The rotating
hinge 7 of this embodiment is an example of the second hinge
portion. The concave portion 112b of this embodiment is an example
of the concave portion. The convex portion 114d of this embodiment
is an example of the convex portion.
[0202] The electronic apparatus of the present application is
useful for an apparatus including a plurality of cases and a hinge
mechanism for supporting the cases openably, closably, and
rotatably.
[0203] The invention may be embodied in other forms without
departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The
embodiments disclosed in this application are to be considered in
all respects as illustrative and not limiting. The scope of the
invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the
foregoing description, and all changes which come within the
meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be
embraced therein.
* * * * *