The field of invention relates generally to data processing; and, more specifically, to a compound hinge for mobile computing devices.
In many cases, when using a mobile computing device, space is a premium. For example, when using a laptop computer in an airline seat while the seat in the front has reclined, the space in which to operate the laptop on a folded down tray is very limited.
The typical mobile computer uses a simple pivot hinge situated at the rear of the computer. As illustrated in
As a result, there is a need to reduce the space needed to operate mobile computers. However, the base and display of a mobile computer typically have fixed dimensions and therefore are typically unable to be altered to reduce the space needed to operate mobile computers.
a-c present illustrations of a compound hinge for a mobile computing apparatus in partly unfolded positions, according to one embodiment.
a-b present illustrations of a compound hinge for a mobile computing apparatus, according to an alternative embodiment.
A compound hinge is described. In one embodiment, the compound hinge is provided for mobile computing devices.
In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known circuits, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure the understanding of this description.
Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In addition, as described herein, a trusted platform, components, units, or subunits thereof, are interchangeably referenced as a protected or secured.
a-3c illustrate the apparatus 200, with the compound hinge, in partly unfolded positions.
As illustrated in
Furthermore, in one embodiment, as illustrated in
a illustrates an alternative embodiment of the compound hinge. As illustrated, the first link 206 and the second link 208 are pivotally coupled to a member section 226 of the base 204. The member section 226 is pivotally coupled to the base 204 about a fifth point of axis 228, or about the same axis 210 along the first edge 218 of the base. As a result, as illustrated in
In the foregoing specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. For example, in alternative embodiments, the compound hinge as described herein could be implemented with either pairs of links at either side of the display and base, or with single links that take the form of rectangles with hinges along their opposite edges that exist independently of the sides, on or about the centerline of the notebook, or even off center. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.