| United States Patent Application |
20130088431
|
| Kind Code
|
A1
|
|
Ballagas; Rafael A.
;   et al.
|
April 11, 2013
|
Apparatus Cover with Keyboard
Abstract
An apparatus including a first section having a display; and a second
section movably connected to the first section. The second section forms
a cover for the display. The cover has a first portion and a second
portion movably connected to the first portion. The first and second
portions are configured to cover different portions of a front of the
display. The second portion is pivotably connected to the first section
by the first portion. The second portion has a keyboard thereon.
| Inventors: |
Ballagas; Rafael A.; (Palo Alto, CA)
; Horii; Hiroshi; (Pacifica, CA)
|
| Applicant: | | Name | City | State | Country | Type | Ballagas; Rafael A.
Horii; Hiroshi | Palo Alto
Pacifica | CA
CA | US
US | | |
| Assignee: |
Nokia Corporation
|
| Family ID:
|
48041769
|
| Appl. No.:
|
13/270769
|
| Filed:
|
October 11, 2011 |
| Current U.S. Class: |
345/168 |
| Current CPC Class: |
G06F 1/1626 20130101; G06F 1/1632 20130101; G06F 1/1669 20130101; G06F 3/0202 20130101; G09G 2340/04 20130101; G06F 2200/1633 20130101; G06F 2200/1634 20130101; G09G 5/00 20130101; G06F 2200/1632 20130101 |
| Class at Publication: |
345/168 |
| International Class: |
G06F 3/02 20060101 G06F003/02 |
Claims
1. An apparatus comprising: a first section comprising a display; and a
second section movably connected to the first section, where the second
section comprises a cover, where the cover comprises a first portion and
a second portion movably connected to the first portion, where the first
and second portions are configured to cover different portions of a front
of the display, where the second portion is pivotably connected to the
first section by the first portion, and where the second portion
comprises a keyboard thereon.
2. An apparatus as in claim 1 where the apparatus comprises means for
controlling display of information on the display based upon location of
the second portion relative to the first portion and based upon location
of the second section relative to the first section.
3. An apparatus as in claim 1 where the second section comprises a
connector member pivotably connecting the first portion to a middle
section of a back side of the first section.
4. An apparatus as in claim 3 where the connector member comprises a
receiving space configured to allow a stylus to be removably mounted
inside the receiving space.
5. An apparatus as in claim 1 where the second section is configured to
provide at least two typing positions of the keyboard relative to the
display, where a first one of the typing positions comprises the keyboard
generally extending forward from a bottom side of a front of the display
at an angle, where a second one of the typing positions comprises the
keyboard being located above a first portion of the front of the display
with keys of the keyboard being located at a front outward facing side of
the apparatus and a second portion of the display being located at the
front outward facing side of the apparatus.
6. An apparatus as in claim 5 further comprising a controller configured
to control display of information on the display, where the controller is
configured to display the information on only the second portion of the
display when the apparatus is in the second typing position, and where
the controller is configured to display the information on both the
second portion of the display and the first portion of the display when
the apparatus is in the first typing position.
7. An apparatus as in claim 6 where the first portion comprises a window
to allow a user to view the first portion of the display when the cover
is in a closed position over the display.
8. An apparatus as in claim 7 where the controller is configured to
display the information on only the first portion of the display when the
cover is in the closed position over the first and second portions of the
display.
9. An apparatus as in claim 1 where the second section is connected to
the first section such that the cover is adapted to be moved to a rear
side of the first section generally flat against the rear side.
10. An apparatus as in claim 1 where the cover is movable relative to the
first section from a closed position over the display, at a front side of
the first section, to an open position at a back side of the first
section, where the keyboard faces the back side of the first section in
the open position.
11. An apparatus as in claim 1 where the cover is movable relative to the
first section from a closed position over the display, at a front side of
the first section, to an open position at a back side of the first
section, where the keyboard does not face the back side of the first
section in the open position.
12. An apparatus comprising: a display; a keyboard; and a housing
configuration movably connecting the keyboard with the display, where the
housing configuration is configured to provide at least two typing
positions of the keyboard relative to the display, where a first one of
the positions comprises the keyboard generally extending forward from a
bottom side of a front of the display at an angle, where a second one of
the positions comprises the keyboard being located above a first portion
of the front of the display with keys of the keyboard being located at a
front outward facing side of the apparatus and a second portion of the
display being located at the front outward facing side of the apparatus.
13. An apparatus as in claim 12 where the housing configuration comprises
a first section having the display thereon and a second section forming a
cover adapted to cover the display, where the cover has the keyboard
thereon, and where the housing configuration is adapted to allow the
cover to be moved to a rear side of the first section to provide a tablet
configuration of the apparatus with the display completely visible on the
front side of the apparatus.
14. An apparatus as in claim 12 where the housing configuration comprises
a first section having the display thereon and a second section forming a
cover adapted to cover the display, where the second section comprises a
first portion and a second portion pivotably connected to the first
portion, where the first portion is configured to cover the first portion
of the display, and where the second portion has the keyboard thereon.
15. An apparatus as in claim 14 where the cover has the keyboard thereon,
where the first typing position comprises a side of the first section
resting on top of the second section proximate a joint between the first
and second portions of the second section.
16. An apparatus as in claim 12 where the housing configuration comprises
a first section having the display thereon and a second section forming a
cover adapted to cover the display, where the second section comprises a
first portion and a second portion pivotably connected to the first
portion, where the first and second portions are configured to
respectively cover the first and second portions of the display, and
where the second section comprises a connecting member which pivotably
connects the first portion to a middle section of a rear side of the
first section.
17. A method comprising: moving a second portion of a cover of an
apparatus relative to a first portion of the cover from a first position
to a second position to provide a first operational configuration of the
apparatus, where the first position comprises a keyboard on the second
portion facing a front of a display on a first section of the apparatus,
where the second position comprises the second portion being located on
top of the first portion with the keyboard being located at a front outer
side of the apparatus and only a portion of the front of the display
being exposed at the front outer side of the apparatus; and moving the
cover relative to the first section to a second different operational
configuration where the display is completely visible.
18. A method as in claim 17 where moving the second portion relative to
the first portion comprises pivoting the second portion at a joint with
the first portion.
19. A method as in claim 17 where moving the cover to a second
operational position comprises pivoting the cover on the first section to
a rear side of the first section, where the second operational position
comprises a tablet configuration of the apparatus with the display
completely visible on the front outer side of the apparatus.
20. A method as in claim 17 where moving the cover to a second
operational position comprises locating a side of the first section on
the second section proximate a joint between the first and second
portions of the cover.
21. A method comprising: moving a second portion of a cover of an
apparatus relative to a first portion of the cover from a first position
to a second position to provide a first operational configuration of the
apparatus, where the first position comprises the first and second
portions covering a front of a display of the apparatus, and where the
second position comprises a second portion of the display being exposed,
a first portion of the display being covered by the cover, and the first
and second portions of the cover being stacked together one above the
other; moving the cover relative to the first section to provide a second
operational configuration of the apparatus where the display is
completely uncovered; and a controller switching use of the display from
a first operational mode in the first operation configuration, where only
the second portion of the display is used, to a second operation mode in
the second operational configuration where the entire display is used.
22. A method comprising: moving a cover of an apparatus relative to a
tablet section of the apparatus from a first position at a first side of
the tablet section to a second position at a second opposite side of the
tablet section, where the first side has a display which the cover covers
in the first position, where the cover comprises a keyboard, and where
the cover comprises a window to view a portion of the display when the
cover is in the first position; and a controller switching use of the
display from a first operational mode in the first position of the cover,
where only the portion of the display is used, to a second operation mode
in the second position of the cover where the entire display is used.
23. A method as in claim 22 where the keyboard is located facing the
second opposite side of the tablet section in the second position of the
cover.
24. A non-transitory program storage device readable by a machine,
tangibly embodying a program of instructions executable by the machine
for performing operations, the operations comprising: controlling display
of information on a display of an apparatus to only a second portion of
the display when the apparatus is in a first operational configuration,
where the first operational configuration comprises a cover of the
apparatus covering a first portion of the display and the second portion
of the display not being covered by the cover; and controlling display of
information on the display of the apparatus to both the second portion
and a first portion of the display when the apparatus is in a second
operational configuration, where the second operational configuration
comprises the cover not covering the display.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Technical Field
[0002] The exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of relate generally to a
reconfigurable form factor and, more particularly, to an apparatus having
a display and a keyboard.
[0003] 2. Brief Description of Prior Developments
[0004] Tablets are becoming an increasingly popular form factor, primarily
because of its portable and comfortable form factor. People can use an
on-screen virtual keyboard on a touch screen. However, such a screen
virtual keyboard lacks the tactile feedback of physical keys to allow for
touch typing. Thus, usage of tablets has been trending towards content
consumption over content creation; primarily due to difficulties typing
with an on-screen virtual keyboard. In the past, one could not simply add
a keyboard without sacrificing portability or screen size.
SUMMARY
[0005] The following summary is merely intended to be exemplary. The
summary is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.
[0006] In accordance with one aspect, an apparatus is provided including a
first section having a display; and a second section movably connected to
the first section. The second section forms a cover for the display. The
cover has a first portion and a second portion movably connected to the
first portion. The first and second portions are configured to cover
different portions of a front of the display. The second portion is
pivotably connected to the first section by the first portion. The second
portion has a keyboard thereon.
[0007] In accordance with another aspect, an apparatus is provided
comprising a display; a keyboard; and a housing configuration movably
connecting the keyboard with the display. The housing configuration is
configured to provide at least two typing positions of the keyboard
relative to the display. A first one of the positions comprises the
keyboard generally extending forward from a bottom side of a front of the
display at an angle. A second one of the positions comprises the keyboard
being located above a first portion of the front of the display with keys
of the keyboard being located at a front outward facing side of the
apparatus and a second portion of the display being located at the front
outward facing side of the apparatus.
[0008] In accordance with another aspect, a method comprises moving a
second portion of a cover of an apparatus relative to a first portion of
the cover from a first position to a second position to provide a first
operational configuration of the apparatus, where the first position
comprises a keyboard on the second portion facing a front of a display on
a first section of the apparatus, where the second position comprises the
second portion being located on top of the first portion with the
keyboard being located at a front outer side of the apparatus and only a
portion of the front of the display being exposed at the front outer side
of the apparatus; and moving the cover relative to the first section to a
second different operational configuration where the display is
completely visible.
[0009] In accordance with another aspect, a method comprises moving a
second portion of a cover of an apparatus relative to a first portion of
the cover from a first position to a second position to provide a first
operational configuration of the apparatus, where the first position
comprises the first and second portions covering a front of a display of
the apparatus, and where the second position comprises a second portion
of the display being exposed, a first portion of the display being
covered by the cover, and the first and second portions of the cover
being stacked together one above the other; moving the cover relative to
the first section to provide a second operational configuration of the
apparatus where the display is completely uncovered; and a controller
switching use of the display from a first operational mode in the first
operation configuration, where only the second portion of the display is
used, to a second operation mode in the second operational configuration
where the entire display is used.
[0010] In accordance with another aspect, a non-transitory program storage
device is provided which is readable by a machine, tangibly embodying a
program of instructions executable by the machine for performing
operations, the operations comprising controlling display of information
on a display of an apparatus to only a second portion of the display when
the apparatus is in a first operational configuration, where the first
operational configuration comprises a cover of the apparatus covering a
first portion of the display and the second portion of the display not
being covered by the cover; and controlling display of information on the
display of the apparatus to both the second portion and a first portion
of the display when the apparatus is in a second operational
configuration, where the second operational configuration comprises the
cover not covering the display.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The foregoing aspects and other features are explained in the
following description, taken in connection with the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating some of the components of the
apparatus shown in FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 from
a different angle shown being used by a user in a first typing
configuration;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 in a
closed configuration;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 3 in a
second typing configuration;
[0017] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 5 with
the cover moved to an open position similar to a magazine page;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 6 in a
third operational configuration;
[0019] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 6 in
the third operation configuration, showing the opposite side;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating steps of an example method;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating steps of another example method;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a side view of a hinge used in the apparatus shown in
FIG. 1;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of a hinge;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a schematic side view of an alternate embodiment;
[0025] FIG. 12 is a side view of the alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 11
at a first operational configuration;
[0026] FIG. 13 is a side view of the alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 12
at a second operational configuration; and
[0027] FIG. 14 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 6A of an alternate
example embodiment where the keyboard is located against the back of the
tablet in the third operational configuration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a perspective view of an
apparatus 10 incorporating features of an example embodiment. Although
the features will be described with reference to the example embodiments
shown in the drawings, it should be understood that features can be
embodied in many alternate forms of embodiments. In addition, any
suitable size, shape or type of elements or materials could be used.
[0029] The apparatus 10 is an electronic device similar to a laptop
computer. However, features could be used in any suitable type of
electronic device such as having applications such as Internet browsing,
computer applications, etc. Referring also to FIG. 2, the apparatus 10
generally comprises a first section 12 and a second section 14. In this
example embodiment the first section 12 generally comprises a display 16,
a controller and a rechargeable battery 20. Circuitry 22 inside the first
section comprises other components such as a transmitter, a receiver, and
other components well known in laptop computers and tablet communication
devices. The display 16 is a touch screen which is adapted to be used as
an input device as well as a display device. However, in an alternate
embodiment the display might not be a touch screen. The controller 18
generally comprises at least one processor 24 and at least one memory 26.
[0030] The second section 14 comprises a keyboard 28 having keys 30. The
first and second sections 12, 14 form an overall housing for the
apparatus 10. In this example, the first section 12 has a housing section
32 which, although comprised of multiple pieces, is generally monolithic.
The housing section 32 may have, for example, the removable battery as
part of the exterior, or flaps or doors at various connectors, but the
overall perception is similar to a tablet type of handheld device.
[0031] Referring also to FIG. 3, the housing configuration of the second
section 14 includes housing members which form a first portion 34, a
second portion 36 and a connecting member 38. The second portion 36 has
the keyboard 28 thereon. The connector member 38 is pivotably connected
to a middle section of a rear side 40 of the first section 12. The first
and second portions 34, 36 are connected in series to the first section
12 by the connecting member 38. The connecting member 38 has a
substantially flat plate-like shape except at its two opposite ends; end
42 pivotably connected to the housing section 32 at the rear side of the
first section 12, and end 44 pivotably connected to an end 46 of the
first portion 34. In this embodiment the end 44 has a receiving space or
slot 48 which is sized and shaped to removably receive a stylus 50.
However, in an alternate embodiment the stylus 50 and the receiving space
48 might not be provided.
[0032] The first portion 34 has a substantially flat plate-like shape
except at its two opposite ends; end 46 pivotably connected to the end 44
of the connecting member 38, and end 52 pivotably connected to an end 54
of the second portion 36. In this example the first portion comprises a
window 56. The window 56 comprises transparent plastic. However, in an
alternate embodiment the window 56 could be open or could comprise a
transparent touch screen. In another alternate embodiment the window 56
might be replaced by a second display screen.
[0033] The second portion 36 has the keyboard 28 with the keys 30. Unlike
a virtual keyboard provided on a touch screen, the keys 30 allow tactile
feel to the user. Thus, a user can use touch typing with the keyboard.
The end 54 is pivotably connected to the end 52 of the first portion 34.
[0034] The housing configuration of the apparatus provides a variable form
factor. In other words, the apparatus 10 can be configured into different
forms or configurations. FIG. 3 shows the apparatus 10 in a first
configuration on a surface 58, such as a desktop for example. In this
first configuration the first and second portions 34, 36 can lay flat
against the surface 58. Thus, the keyboard 28 is appropriate supported by
the surface 58 for the user to type on the keyboard 28. The first section
12 is supported on the second section 14 by the connection of the
connecting member 38 against the rear side 40 and location of the side 60
of the housing section 32 on top of the second section 14 proximate the
joint of the first and second portions 34, 36. The side 60 and second
section 14 could have a suitable system, such as a disconnectable
mechanical latch or interlock, or a magnet attachment system 62 to keep
the side 60 at the position shown; at least until a user desires to
re-configure the apparatus to a different configuration. In the first
configuration shown, the keyboard 28 generally extending forward from a
bottom side of a front of the display at an angle. Stated another way,
the display 16 is angled for proper viewing by the user sitting at a
chair at the desk having the surface 58.
[0035] Referring now also to FIG. 4, the apparatus 10 is shown in a closed
configuration. The second section has been moved relative to the first
section 12 to cover the display 16. More specifically, the first and
second portions 34, 36 form a cover which each cover a respective
different portion of the display. The first portion 34 covers a first
portion 64 of the front of the display 16 and the second portion 36
covers a second portion 66 of the front of the display 16.
[0036] In this closed configuration the connecting member 38 is located
substantially flat against the rear side 40 of the first section 12
except for the end 44 which is located on a side of the first section 12.
The keyboard 28 is located facing the second portion 66 of the display
16. The window 56 is located over part of the first portion 64 of the
display 16. Thus, even though the display 16 is covered by the cover 68
(formed by the first and second sections 34, 36), the window allows a
user to view information on the display at the first display portion 64
without having to open the cover 68. The overall shape of the apparatus
10 is that of a substantially flat and rectangular tablet; similar to a
conventional tablet device. The cover 68 for the display can be
maintained in its closed position by any suitable latch system, such as
the magnet latch system 70 for example. Switching between the closed
configuration (FIG. 4) and the first operational configuration (FIGS. 1
and 3) is relatively easy with the user merely needing to pivot the
various portions/member 34, 36, 38 relative to the first section 12 and
each other; and manipulating the position retaining systems 62, 70.
[0037] Referring also to FIG. 5, the apparatus 10 has a second operational
configuration. Comparing the second operational configuration shown in
FIG. 5 to the closed configuration shown in FIG. 4, the first portion 34
and the connecting member 38 are in the same locations relative to each
other and the first section 12 in both the closed configuration and the
second operational configuration. Only the second portion 36 has been
moved. In particular, the second portion 36 has been flipped about 180
degrees relative to the first portion 34; pivoting at the junction
between the two ends 52, 54. The second section 36 is, thus, stacked on
top of the first portion 34. The second portion 66 of the display is
exposed and clearly visible to the user. The apparatus has the keyboard
28 and the second portion 66 of the display 16 on the same outward facing
side in substantially parallel planes; almost in the same plane. The
first portion 34 and the first section 12 provide a good rigid support
for use of the keyboard 28. The overall configuration of the apparatus is
still substantially flat and tablet-like. This type of configuration
provides a second typing position where a user can use the keyboard 28 to
type information into the apparatus and still see the display (at least
partially). The configuration shown in FIG. 5 is particularly well suited
for locating the apparatus 10 on a user's lap and typing into the
apparatus.
[0038] Referring also to FIG. 5A, the apparatus 10 is shown where the
cover 68 has been flipped open from the closed position shown in FIG. 4
about 180 degrees, similar to flipping open a page of a magazine. Thus,
the cover 68 does not need to be flipped 360 degrees around the tablet 12
as shown in FIG. 5. In this example, the connection 45 of the cover 68 to
the tablet 12 is a flexible connection, but any suitable connection could
be provided. In an alternate example embodiment, the connecting member 38
might not be provided. The back side of the tablet section 12 might have
a fold out stand (not shown) similar to a picture frame which could be
pivoted out to allow the tablet section 12 to stand up so a user could
type on the keyboard 28 and view the display at an upstanding inclined
angle similar to the position shown in FIG. 3.
[0039] Referring also to FIG. 6, the apparatus 10 has a third operational
configuration. Comparing the third operational configuration shown in
FIG. 6 to the closed configuration shown in FIG. 4, the connecting member
38 is in the same location relative to the first section 12 in both the
closed configuration and the third operational configuration. Referring
also to FIG. 6, the opposite side of the apparatus 10 is shown. Only the
cover 68 (both the first portion 34 and the second portion 36) has been
moved. In particular, the cover 68 has been flipped about 360 degrees
relative to the first section 12; pivoting at the junction between the
two ends 44, 46. In this third operational configuration the display 16
is now completely visible and the keyboard (on the second portion 36)
faces the rear side 40 of the first section 12. This third operational
configuration allow the apparatus 10 to be used similar to a conventional
tablet device, such as for web browsing or E-book reading for example.
The touch screen display 16 can be used as a user interface such as by
touch of the user's finger and/or by use of the stylus 50. The cover can
be retained against the rear side such as by a latch system, such as a
magnetic retaining system for example. The keyboard 28 will face downward
during tablet-like use of the display 16 by the user, but any keystrokes
can be ignored by the controller 18 based upon the sensed position of the
cover 68 in this folded configuration.
[0040] Referring also to FIG. 14, an alternate example embodiment is shown
in the configuration similar to FIG. 6A. In this example, with the cover
folded under the tablet, rather than the keyboard 28 being located at the
exterior downward facing side of the apparatus, the keyboard faces the
rear side of the tablet 12 and is protected. For this example embodiment,
in the configuration similar to FIG. 4, the keyboard 28 would be at the
exterior of the apparatus rather than facing the display 16. In this
example embodiment the cover could be folded open similar to the
configuration shown in FIG. 5A, but the second portion 36 could be
flipped on top of the first portion 34 to have the keyboard 28 facing
upward for use in typing. The back side of the tablet section 12 might
have a fold out stand (not shown) similar to a picture frame which could
be pivoted out to allow the tablet section 12 to stand up so a user could
type on the keyboard 28 and view the display 16 at an upstanding inclined
angle similar to the position shown in FIG. 3.
[0041] The example embodiment described above relates to a physical
mechanism to add a keyboard to a tablet computer. Most commonly today,
people use an on-screen virtual keyboard, which lacks tactile feedback of
physical keys to allow for touch typing. Although several keypad covers
exist on the market today for tablets, the example embodiment described
above is unique because it allows for typing in a comfort computing
scenario, e.g. in the lap.
[0042] Tablets are becoming an increasingly popular form factor, primarily
because of its portable and comfortable form factor. However, usage of
tablets has been trending towards content consumption over content
creation, primarily due to difficulties typing with an on-screen virtual
keyboard. One cannot simply add a keyboard without sacrificing
portability or screen size. The example embodiment described above
creates a novel mechanism to integrate the keyboard into the protective
cover for the tablet, making it seem like the user is not carrying
anything more than the tablet. Additionally, the example embodiment
described above provides a novel mechanism to allow for typing in both a
desktop posture, as well as a lap posture (also referred to as comfort
computing posture).
[0043] Bluetooth keyboards are widely available for tablets, however these
solutions impede portability by giving users something additional to
carry. Several commercially available covers exist that integrate a
keyboard into the tablet protective cover. These cover/keyboard
accessories focus on desktop typing. For lap typing (comfort computing),
only the on-screen keyboard is currently available in conventional
devices.
[0044] With the example embodiment described above, when the cover is
closed, the keyboard is facing down towards the display (see FIG. 4). The
notification window 56 on the cover 68 allows for users to get ambient
notifications from the tablet while the tablet is in a sleep mode. The
tablet 12 can comprise one or more sensors 72 (see FIG. 2) to sense when
the cover is closed and disable accidental keyboard input.
[0045] In the comfort computing position, a hinge down the middle of the
cover (between ends 52, 54) allows the cover to fold in half along the
keyboard edge to expose the keyboard so that the keyboard covers the
notification window and approximately half of the tablet display (see
FIG. 5). In this mode, the physical keyboard takes as much screen real
estate as a virtual on-screen keyboard. However, the keys 30 are tactile
to allow for touch typing. The tablet can sense (such as by sensor(s) 72)
the comfort computing keyboard configuration and adjusts the user
interface (UI) for keyboard entry in this mode (similar to the way a UI
is transformed for on-screen keyboard input).
[0046] In the desktop computing position, a hinge at the back of the
tablet allows the cover to be oriented almost perpendicular to the device
(see FIGS. 1 and 3). A magnet between the keyboard and notification
window can fasten the tablet in place to stabilize the device pose. The
tablet can sense (such as by sensor(s) 72) the desktop computing keyboard
position, and can adjust the UI for keyboard entry in this mode.
[0047] When the cover is completely open, it is completely wrapped around
the device positioning the keyboard to face the back of the tablet (see
FIG. 6). The tablet 12 can sense (such as by sensor(s) 72) that the
keyboard is in this mode and the controller 18 can disable physical
keyboard entry to avoid accidental key presses. Based on the keyboard
orientation, the tablet can also re-enables an on-screen keyboard
functionality and activate the on-screen keyboard on demand.
[0048] The cover 68 can also be completely removed. When no keyboard is
detected, the device can use on-screen keyboard input. With the example
embodiment described above the cover can also hold a stylus to support
pen-based input. With the example embodiment described above the cover
can be electrically connected to the tablet 12 through a connector in the
middle of the back of the device. This allows the cover to be powered
through the tablet battery and minimizes the cover thickness by removing
the requirement for a separate cover battery. Alternative implementations
could allow the cover to connect wirelessly with the tablet.
[0049] An advantage of the example keyboard cover design described above
is that it allows for touch typing (with keyboard 28) in both the desktop
computing mode as well as the comfort computing mode. This allows people
to continue to use tablets in more mobile and comfortable scenarios
without sacrificing portability and requiring users to carry a secondary
keyboard.
[0050] The example embodiment described above can provide a physical
mechanical keyboard that supports four (4) different postures:
[0051] Posture 1: Closed tablet cover
[0052] Posture 2: Comfort computing tactile keyboard
[0053] Posture 3: Desktop computing tactile keyboard
[0054] Posture 4: Cover folded behind the tablet
[0055] The example embodiment described above provides an ability to
support all four (4) of these postures in one physical tablet cover.
[0056] The example embodiment described above, thus, provides the
following configurations: [0057] FIGS. 1 and 3. Desktop computing mode.
The cover lays flat on the desk, and the tablet snaps to the middle of
the cover to stabilize this orientation through a magnetic mechanism. The
electrical connection is made through the middle of the back of the
tablet. [0058] FIG. 4. Cover in closed position. Notification window is
visible to user. The keyboard is facing down towards the display. [0059]
FIG. 5. Keyboard in comfort computing mode. The cover is folded over from
a hinge in middle to expose the keyboard as well as half of the tablet
display. The keyboard is now covering the notification window. [0060]
FIG. 6. Open cover. The cover is wrapped around the back of the device.
The keyboard is exposed facing outward towards the desk.
[0061] The example embodiment described above can provide an apparatus 10
comprising a first section 12 comprising a display 16; and a second
section 14 movably connected to the first section, where the second
section comprises a cover 68, where the cover 68 comprises a first
portion 34 and a second portion 36 movably connected to the first
portion, where the first and second portions are configured to cover
different portions 64, 66 of a front of the display 16, where the second
portion 36 is pivotably connected to the first section 12 by the first
portion 34, and where the second portion 36 comprises a keyboard 28
thereon.
[0062] The display may comprise a touch screen. The second section may
comprise a connector member 38 pivotably connecting the first portion to
a middle section of a back side 40 of the first section. The connector
member may comprises a receiving space 48 configured to allow a stylus 50
to be removably mounted inside the receiving space. The second section 14
may be configured to provide at least two typing positions of the
keyboard relative to the display, where a first one of the typing
positions comprises the keyboard generally extending forward from a
bottom side of a front of the display at an angle, where a second one of
the typing positions comprises the keyboard being located above a first
portion of the front of the display with keys of the keyboard being
located at a front outward facing side of the apparatus and a second
portion of the display being located at the front outward facing side of
the apparatus. The apparatus may comprise a controller configured to
control display of information on the display, where the controller is
configured to display the information on only the second portion 66 of
the display when the apparatus is in the second typing position, and
where the controller is configured to display the information on both the
second portion of the display and the first portion 64 of the display
when the apparatus is in the first typing position. The first portion may
comprise a window 56 to allow a user to view the first portion 64 of the
display when the cover is in a closed position over the display. The
controller 18 may be configured to display the information on only the
first portion 64 of the display when the cover is in the closed position
over the first and second portions of the display. The second section 14
may be connected to the first section 12 such that the cover is adapted
to be moved to a rear side 40 of the first section generally flat against
the rear side.
[0063] The example embodiment described above can provide an apparatus 10
comprising a display 16; a keyboard 28; and a housing configuration 32,
34, 36, 38, movably connecting the keyboard with the display, where the
housing configuration is configured to provide at least two typing
positions of the keyboard relative to the display, where a first one of
the positions comprises the keyboard generally extending forward from a
bottom side of a front of the display at an angle, where a second one of
the positions comprises the keyboard being located above a first portion
of the front of the display with keys of the keyboard being located at a
front outward facing side of the apparatus and a second portion of the
display being located at the front outward facing side of the apparatus.
[0064] The apparatus comprises means 18, 72 for controlling display of
information on the display based upon location of the second portion
relative to the first portion and based upon location of the second
section relative to the first section. The housing configuration may
comprises a first section 12 having the display thereon and a second
section 14 forming a cover adapted to cover the display, where the cover
has the keyboard thereon, and where the housing configuration is adapted
to allow the cover to be moved to a rear side of the first section to
provide a tablet configuration of the apparatus with the display
completely visible on the front side of the apparatus. The housing
configuration may comprise a first section having the display thereon and
a second section forming a cover adapted to cover the display, where the
second section comprises a first portion and a second portion pivotably
connected to the first portion, where the first portion is configured to
cover the first portion of the display, and where the second portion has
the keyboard thereon. The cover may have the keyboard thereon, where the
first typing position comprises a side of the first section resting on
top of the second section proximate a joint between the first and second
portions of the second section. The housing configuration may comprise a
first section having the display thereon and a second section forming a
cover adapted to cover the display, where the second section comprises a
first portion and a second portion pivotably connected to the first
portion, where the first and second portions are configured to
respectively cover the first and second portions of the display, and
where the second section comprises a connecting member which pivotably
connects the first portion to a middle section of a rear side of the
first section.
[0065] Referring also to FIG. 7, a method may comprise moving a second
portion of a cover of an apparatus relative to a first portion of the
cover from a first position to a second position to provide a first
operational configuration of the apparatus as indicated by block 80,
where the first position comprises a keyboard on the second portion
facing a front of a display on a first section of the apparatus, where
the second position comprises the second portion being located on top of
the first portion with the keyboard being located at a front outer side
of the apparatus and only a portion of the front of the display being
exposed at the front outer side of the apparatus; and moving the cover
relative to the first section to a second different operational
configuration as indicated by block 82 where the display is completely
visible.
[0066] Moving the second portion relative to the first portion may
comprise pivoting the second portion at a joint with the first portion.
Moving the cover to a second operational position may comprise pivoting
the cover on the first section to a rear side of the first section, where
the second operational position comprises a tablet configuration of the
apparatus with the display completely visible on the front outer side of
the apparatus. Moving the cover to a second operational position may
comprise locating a side of the first section on the second section
proximate a joint between the first and second portions of the cover.
[0067] Referring also to FIG. 8, a method may comprise moving a second
portion of a cover of an apparatus relative to a first portion of the
cover from a first position to a second position to provide a first
operational configuration of the apparatus as indicated by block 84,
where the first position comprises the first and second portions covering
a front of a display of the apparatus, and where the second position
comprises a second portion of the display being exposed, a first portion
of the display being covered by the cover, and the first and second
portions of the cover being stacked together one above the other; moving
the cover relative to the first section to provide a second operational
configuration of the apparatus where the display is completely uncovered
as indicated by block 86; and a controller switching use of the display
from a first operational mode in the first operation configuration, where
only the second portion of the display is used, to a second operation
mode in the second operational configuration as indicated by block 88
where the entire display is used.
[0068] The example embodiment described above can provide a non-transitory
program storage device, such as memory 26 or a CD-ROM for example,
readable by a machine, tangibly embodying a program of instructions
executable by the machine for performing operations, the operations
comprising controlling display of information on a display of an
apparatus to only a second portion of the display when the apparatus is
in a first operational configuration, where the first operational
configuration comprises a cover of the apparatus covering a first portion
of the display and the second portion of the display not being covered by
the cover; and controlling display of information on the display of the
apparatus to both the second portion and a first portion of the display
when the apparatus is in a second operational configuration, where the
second operational configuration comprises the cover not covering the
display.
[0069] Referring also to FIG. 9, the pivotable connection between the
first and second portions 34, 36 of the second section 14 may comprise a
hinge 90 between two substantially rigid sections of the portions 34, 36.
However, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the pivotable connection between the
first and second portions 34, 36 of the second section 14 may comprise a
living hinge 92 between two substantially rigid sections of the portions
34, 36; such as formed by a flex circuit 94 forming a substrate member
for the keyboard.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 11, an alternate embodiment is shown comprising a
first section 12', and a second section 14'. The second section 14'
comprises a first portion 34' and a second portion 36' comprising a user
input 104. The first and second portions 34', 36' are pivotably connected
to each other by a link 100. The first portion 34' is pivotably connected
to the first section 12' by a link 102. FIG. 11 shows the second section
14' functioning as a cover for the display on the first section 12' in a
closed configuration. FIG. 12 shows the second portion 36' rotated to a
stacked position on the first section 34' for a first operational
configuration. In this first operational configuration a user can input
information into the user input 104 and view a portion of the display 16.
FIG. 13 shows the second section 14' rotated at the link 102 to locate
the second section 14 under the first section 12' with the display 16 now
completely visible. This illustrates that the operational configuration
shown in FIG. 1 need not be provided, and any suitable input 104 could be
used; not necessarily a keyboard with keys, and that any suitable movable
connection between the two sections 12', 14' could be provided, and that
any suitable movable connection between the two portions 34', 36' could
be provided.
[0071] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-6 the second section 14 can be
provided with the first section or tablet 12 as an assembly when
initially sold to the consumer. However, the second section 14 or cover
68 could be sold as an accessory which can be attached after the tablet
12 is sold to the user (an aftermarket accessory). In this type of
embodiment a user enabled connection could be provided to allow the user
to attached the second section 14 or cover 68; perhaps removably connect.
The connection could provide a power connection to the battery in the
tablet 12 and/or a signal connection between the keyboard and the
circuitry in the tablet. The second section 14 or cover 68 could have its
own battery if desired. The communications link between the keyboard and
the tablet could be wireless, such as BLUETOOTH for example.
[0072] A method may comprising moving a cover 68 of an apparatus relative
to a tablet section 12 of the apparatus from a first position (FIG. 4) at
a first side of the tablet section to a second position (FIG. 6) at a
second opposite side of the tablet section, where the first side has a
display 16 which the cover 68 covers in the first position, where the
cover comprises a keyboard 28, and where the cover comprises a window 56
to view a portion 64 of the display when the cover is in the first
position; and a controller 18 switching use of the display from a first
operational mode in the first position of the cover, where only the
portion 64 of the display is used, to a second operation mode in the
second position of the cover where the entire display 64, 66 is used. The
keyboard 28 may be located facing the second opposite side of the tablet
section in the second position of the cover (FIG. 14).
[0073] It should be understood that the foregoing description is only
illustrative. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by
those skilled in the art. For example, features recited in the various
dependent claims could be combined with each other in any suitable
combination(s). In addition, features from different embodiments
described above could be selectively combined into a new embodiment.
Accordingly, the description is intended to embrace all such
alternatives, modifications and variances which fall within the scope of
the appended claims.
* * * * *