Patent Grant
9496102
Modern tablet computers not only provide convenience to users in terms of portability, but are also capable of various enhanced functionalities. Users may rely on tablet computers to perform their day-to-day functions, such as e-mailing, word processing, Web browsing, media playing, image and audio editing, etc. The virtual keyboard or physical keypads available on the table computers are often difficult to manipulate and can be difficult to get accustomed to. While portable keyboards can be connected to tablet computers, they are often bulky and rigid. Portable keyboards with a more flexible shell and with smaller form factors often provide poor tactile feedback such that the user's desire to type on the portable keyboards extensively would be minimal. Further, it can be difficult to produce good color contrast and high resistance to abrasion for letters and numbers on keycaps.
In certain embodiments, a protective cover for an input device includes a housing having an outer portion and an inner portion, with the inner portion including a first end and a second end. The protective cover can further include a plurality of keys disposed in an area at the first end of the inner portion of the housing. A holder can be configured to receive and secure an input device with at least a portion of the holder (e.g., upper half of back side, etc.) coupled to the second end of the inner portion of the housing. The housing can be configurable in a plurality of positions including: a closed configuration, where the holder is configured to be flush against the second end of the inner portion of the housing and the housing is folded such that the first end and second end of the inner portion are opposite and adjacent to each other; an open configuration, where the holder is configured to be flush against the second end of the inner portion of the housing; and a first active configuration, where a portion of the holder is configured to rest above the plurality of buttons at the first end of the inner portion of the housing such that the holder is configured at an obtuse angle relative to the first end of the inner portion of the housing. The protective cover can further include a plurality of magnets coupled to the housing and configured to secure the housing in one or more of the closed, open, and active configurations. The input device can be a tablet computer, a mini-tablet computer, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant, or other computing device.
In some embodiments, the plurality of magnets can include a top holder magnet(s) disposed at a top of the second end of the inner portion of the housing, and a media mode magnet(s) disposed below the plurality of buttons at the first end of the inner portion of the housing, the top holder and media mode magnets being magnetically attracted to one another when the housing is configured in the closed configuration. The top holder and media mode magnets can be configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of the closed position, the retention strength being related to an amount of force required to change the configuration of the housing from the closed configuration. The top holder and media mode magnets can be configured to provide a magnetic force of a magnitude such that the retention strength of the housing in the closed position is greater than a combined weight of the protective cover and the input device.
In further embodiments, the plurality of magnets can include a first holder detaching magnet disposed at a bottom of the second end of the inner portion of the housing, and a second holder detaching magnet disposed at a bottom of the holder, the first holder magnet and second holder configured to secure the holder to the inner portion of the housing. The first holder and second holder detaching magnets are configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of magnetic bond between the holder and the housing, where the retention strength being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing. In some aspects, the first holder and second holder detaching magnets provide a magnetic force of a magnitude such that the retention strength is greater than a combined weight of the protective cover and the input device.
In yet further embodiments, the plurality of magnets can include an active mode magnet disposed at a bottom of the second end of the housing, and a typing mode magnet disposed at the first end of the inner portion of the housing and above the plurality of keys, the active mode magnet and the typing mode magnet configured to secure the holder in the first active configuration. In some cases, the active mode and typing mode magnets are configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the first active configuration, the retention strength being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the first active configuration. The active mode and typing mode magnets can be configured to provide a magnetic force of a magnitude such that the retention strength is greater than a combined weight of the protective cover and the input device. The protective cover can further include a second active configuration, where the portion of the holder is configured to rest below the plurality of buttons at the first end of the inner portion of the housing such that the holder is configured at an obtuse angle relative to the first end of the inner portion of the housing, the obtuse angle for the second active configuration being larger than the obtuse angle for the first active configuration. The protective cover can also further include an active mode magnet disposed at a bottom of the second end of the housing, and a media mode magnet disposed at the first end of the inner portion of the housing and below the plurality of keys, the active mode magnet and the media mode magnet configured to secure the holder in the second active configuration. In some implementations, the active mode and media mode magnets are configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the second active configuration, the retention strength being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the second active configuration. The active mode and media mode magnets can be configured to provide a magnetic force of a magnitude such that the retention strength is greater than a combined weight of the protective cover and the input device.
In certain embodiments, an apparatus comprises a housing having an outer portion and an inner portion, the inner portion including a first end and an second end, a plurality of keys disposed in an area at the first end of the inner portion of the housing, and a holder configured to receive and secure an input device, an upper half of the holder coupled to the second end of the inner portion of the housing. In some aspects, the housing is configurable in a plurality of positions including: a closed configuration, where the holder is configured to be flush against the second end of the inner portion of the housing and the housing is folded such that the first end and second end of the inner portion are opposite and adjacent to each other; an open configuration, where the holder is configured to be flush against the second end of the inner portion of the housing; a first active configuration, where a portion of the holder is configured to rest above the plurality of buttons at the first end of the inner portion of the housing such that the holder is configured at an obtuse angle relative to the first end of the inner portion of the housing; and a second active configuration, where the portion of the holder is configured to rest below the plurality of buttons at the first end of the inner portion of the housing such that the holder is configured at an obtuse angle relative to the first end of the inner portion of the housing, the obtuse angle for the second active configuration being larger than the obtuse angle for the first active configuration. The apparatus can further include a plurality of magnets coupled to the housing and configured to secure the housing in one or more of the closed, open, and active configurations.
In some implementations, the plurality of magnets can include an active mode magnet disposed at a bottom of the second end of the housing, a typing mode magnet disposed at the first end of the inner portion of the housing and above the plurality of keys, the active mode magnet and the typing mode magnet configured to secure the holder in the first active configuration, and a media mode magnet disposed at the first end of the inner portion of the housing and below the plurality of keys, the active mode magnet and the media mode magnet configured to secure the holder in the second active configuration. In some aspects, the active mode and typing mode magnets are configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the first active configuration, and the active mode and media mode magnets are configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the second active configuration, the retention strength being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing.
In certain embodiments, both a combination of the active mode and media mode magnets or the active mode and typing mode magnets provide a magnetic force of a magnitude such that the retention strength is greater than a combined weight of the protective cover and the input device. The plurality of magnets can further include a top holder magnet disposed at a top of the second end of the inner portion of the housing, a media mode magnet disposed below the plurality of buttons at the first end of the inner portion of the housing, the top holder and media mode magnets being magnetically attracted to one another when the housing is configured in the closed configuration, a first holder detaching magnet disposed at a bottom of the second end of the inner portion of the housing, and a second holder detaching magnet disposed at a bottom of the holder, the first holder magnet and second holder configured to secure the holder to the inner portion of the housing. In some cases, the top holder and media mode magnets can be configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of the closed position, the retention strength between the top holder and media mode being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing. The first holder and second holder detaching magnets can be configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of a magnetic bond between the holder and the housing, the retention strength between the first holder and second holder being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing. In certain embodiments, both the combination of the top holder and media mode magnets and the combination of the first holder and second holder detaching magnets provide a magnetic force of a magnitude such that the retention strength of each combination is greater than a combined weight of the protective cover and the input device.
In some embodiments, an apparatus comprises a housing having an outer portion and an inner portion, the inner portion including a first end and an second end, a plurality of keys disposed in an area at the first end of the inner portion of the housing, and a holder configured to receive and secure an input device, a portion of the holder coupled to the second end of the inner portion of the housing. The housing can be configurable in a plurality of positions including: a closed configuration, where the holder is configured to be flush against the second end of the inner portion of the housing and the housing is folded such that the first end and second end of the inner portion are opposite and adjacent to each other; an open configuration, where the holder is configured to be flush against the second end of the inner portion of the housing; a first active configuration, where a portion of the holder is configured to rest above the plurality of buttons at the first end of the inner portion of the housing such that the holder is configured at an obtuse angle relative to the first end of the inner portion of the housing; and a second active configuration, where the portion of the holder is configured to rest below the plurality of buttons at the first end of the inner portion of the housing such that the holder is configured at an obtuse angle relative to the first end of the inner portion of the housing, the obtuse angle for the second active configuration being larger than the obtuse angle for the first active configuration. The apparatus can further include a plurality of retention devices coupled to the housing and configured to secure the housing in one or more of the closed, open, and active configurations. The retention devices can include magnets, hook and loop fasteners, latches, pins, adhesive, electro-magnets, or any suitable retention device that would be known by one of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure, and any combination thereof.
Various embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, in which:
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a folio-style protective case for a tablet computing device. In some embodiments, the protective case can include a flexible fabric keyboard that can be constructed by a set of molded key caps to a fabric skin layer. The molded key caps can be made from polyurethane (PU). A flexible fabric keyboard with molded key caps made from a combination of PU and other materials can provide flexibility while preserving structural integrity such that an optimal typing force for a user can be achieved.
Some embodiments use PU material in assembling a tablet folio and/or a keyboard. In some embodiments, the PU resin is a mixture of aliphatic and aromatic polyol reacting with isocyanate. In certain embodiments, PU can be used in the frame fabric and/or in the key caps themselves. By using a laser marking process that includes using a right laser source, lasering parameters, in combination with the right PU formula with laser additives of the right concentration, some embodiments can achieve the desired font color, or the optimal color contrast for glyphs and characters on the key cap. The laser marking process can facilitate font printing with the right color contrast on PU key caps while ensuring the longevity of the font color printed on the key caps.
Folio Tablet Cover Construction
A number of steps and processes are involved in forming the structure of folio tablet cover 100 in
Magnet 615 can be configured to help hold the tablet computer 105 in an upright and active configuration when the folio tablet cover 100 and the tablet computer 105 are configured as shown in
Switch 620 can be used to detect when the tablet computer 105 is configured in the upright and active configuration, as shown in
In some embodiments, a battery 630, the main printed circuit board (PCB) 640, and universal serial bus (USB) PCB 645 can also be disposed in/on mid-case 600. Although the embodiment shown in
Once the mid-case components are assembled, the final portions of folio tablet cover 100 are coupled together and the folio tablet cover 100 is fully assembled. In some cases, the final portions include sealing mid-case 600 between inner layer (e.g., fabric layer) 200 and outer layer 400. It should be understood that this is only one method of manufacturing and more or less steps can be performed to achieve the same result. It should be understood that additional layers, components, and features can embedded within folio tablet cover 100, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure.
Keys, Keycaps, and Key Frames
In some embodiments, a flexible fabric keyboard can include a set of molded keycaps and a flexible fabric layer. The flexible fabric layer can serve as a key frame and can be easily bonded to key caps comprised of PU without using high heat or glue in some embodiments. In some embodiments, a set of molded key caps can be formed by infusing PU clay into a molding tool. The set of molded key caps can be bonded against the flexible fabric by applying pressure and by pressing the flexible fabric against the set of molded key caps. Some embodiments may facilitate the bonding by applying hot-press techniques where heat can be applied to the flexible fabric when the key caps are being pressed against the flexible fabric. The molded key caps can be shaped in a manner such that it appears to be protruding from the key frame (or the flexible fabric). The molding tool can cause the key caps to be molded in different shapes. Depending on the type of key frame module to place beneath and couple to the flexible fabric keyboard, the key caps can be molded of a different height, width, or shape.
As described, the fabric layer 900 (also referred to as inner fabric) can be a key frame that surrounds the various key caps disposed thereon. In some embodiments, key caps 950 are attached (coupled) to the fabric layer 900 by the application of a combination of heat and pressure. In some cases, the key caps 950 can be completely sealed to the fabric layer 900 such that air, dirt, debris, etc., cannot enter underneath the key caps 950 (e.g., via the edges). As described above, the key caps 950 can be composed of molded PU. Alternatively, the key caps 950 can be transfer print silicon, transfer print PU, silicon rubber or any suitable rubber or plastic compound, such as, but not limited to, ABS plastic, neoprene, nylon, or any suitable material. Molded PU material can be flexible and soft to a user's touch while being sufficiently hard that makes it appropriate to combine with the fabric layer 900 in accordance with some embodiments.
In some embodiments, the flexible fabric keyboard as shown in
Key cap 950 can be a molded PU layer, transfer print silicon, transfer print PU, rubber, silicon, or the like. Key cap 950 can be similar to key cap 950 of
In some embodiments, a second key cap (inner key cap 1030) is coupled to the underside of key frame 900. Inner key cap 1030 can be coupled to the underside of key frame 900 by any suitable adhesive, hardware, pressure/heat, or the like. In an exemplary embodiment, inner key cap 1030 is coupled to the underside of key frame 900 by a glue dot 1040. Glue 1040 can be deposited as a small dot (e.g., 4˜5 mm in diameter) in the center of the top of the inner key cap 1030. Using only a small glue dot in the middle of inner key cap 1030 provides for a better typing feeling, better elongation, and uniform stretching of key frame 900 between keys 1000. By depositing a small glue dot at the center of the inner key cap 1030 lessens the stress at the edges of the fabric layer 900 beneath the key caps 950 when the key 1005 is depressed or actuated. It should be noted that glue 1040 surface area in
In certain embodiments, inner key cap 1030 may be coupled to a rubber dome structure 1020 to provide a restoring force when the key 1005 is depressed. Any suitable structure can perform the restoring force including a scissor structure, metal dome structure, plunger structure, etc. In some cases, the rubber dome structure 1020 can be configured to sit above a metal plate 1010. In certain embodiments, the keycaps 950 and key frame 900 may provide a waterproof, water resistant, and/or submergible barrier that can protect the components disposed under key frame 900 (e.g., inner key cap 1030, metal plate 1010, electronic components (as shown in
Key Support—Scissor and Dome Structures
Keycap With Metal Dome Structure
Some embodiments can provide a rubber keyframe with a metal dome array. In some embodiments, a rubber skin (e.g., silicon rubber skin) can be placed over a key cap (e.g., a plastic key cap) to provide improved tactile feedback while ensuring soft touch against the user's fingers.
While the plastic key cap 1310 and the frame 1320 are shown to be made of plastic in this example, other types of material can be used in different embodiments. While the dome 1325 and support plate 1335 are made of metal in this example, different embodiments can use plastic, rubber, or other suitable material to provide support for key 1300. In an exemplary embodiment, the silicon rubber skin 1305 is 0.6 mm, the plastic key cap 1310 is 0.9 mm thick, the metal dome 1325 is 0.7 mm, the membrane 1330 is 0.2 mm, and the metal support plate 1335 is 0.6 mm.
The travel distance of the key from an unpressed state to a fully pressed state can be 0.3˜0.4 mm. The pitch of the key 1300 can be 16˜19 mm, depending on the design and application. The module thickness (i.e., distance from the metal support base 1335 to the top of the plastic key cap 1310) can be 2.0˜3.0 mm. The module thickness including the rubber skin 1305 (and possibly an additional PU key cap) can be 2.5˜3.5 mm. It should be noted that the dimensions provided are merely exemplary embodiments and other dimensions, sizes, characteristics (e.g., travel distance, pitch, etc.) can be used. Specifications of an exemplary embodiment can be shown in
As described, the rubber skin 1305 can be made of silicone or a blend with PU material. The silicon rubber skin 1305 can provide a key surface that is soft to the user's touch. The flexibility and softness features of the material can provide protection to the screen of the tablet computer when the cover is folded over the tablet computer. Further, in addition to its lightness in weight, the material can permit water and soil resistance.
In some embodiments, the bonded assembly can be formed by molding an additional key cap (e.g., a PU key cap) directly over the rubber skin 1405. In certain embodiments, instead of an additional key cap, the portions of the rubber skin 1405 that are above a key structure can be thickened to indicate that those are the areas for actuation. In other embodiments, additional material may be placed between the silicon rubber skin 1405 and the key cap 1410 such that the skin 1405 may appear smooth and uniform against the key cap 1410.
In some embodiments, the rubber skin 1405 can be coupled to the key frame 1410 by placing glue over portions of the plastic frame 1410. The glue can be applied on top of the plastic frame 1410 by applying a roller over a grid pattern of the plastic frame 1410. In certain embodiments, additional glue may be posited in an area between the rubber key caps (or the rubber skin 1405) and the plastic key caps 1415. For instance, additional glue can be posited at the center of the plastic key caps 1415 to facilitate partial bonding of the rubber skin 1405 against the plastic key caps 1415. As such, the stress at the edges of the rubber skin 1405 right above the plastic key caps 1415 is minimized and elongation is increased.
In some embodiments, the plastic key caps 1415, the metal domes 1425, the membrane 1430, the metal support plate 1435 can be coupled using various adhesive techniques, including glue or pressure and heat, to form a metal dome keyframe module (also referred to as a metal dome array). The bonded structure of the silicon rubber skin 1405 and the plastic frame 1410 may then be positioned and applied against the metal dome array (also referred to as the keyframe module) e.g., using force and heat or via glue on the plastic frame 1410 to form the flexible keyboard. In one embodiment, the rubber keyframe structure can be assembled by coupling the rubber skin 1405, the plastic frame 1410, the plastic key cap 1415, the actuator layer 1420, the metal dome layer 1425, the membrane 1430, and the metal support plate 1435, in this order.
In certain embodiments, the plastic frame 1410 forms a closed boundary (e.g., a rectangle, an oval) around each key and can be bounded against the bonded assembly that includes the silicon rubber skin and the plastic key cap. When the key 1400 is actuated (i.e., pressed down, depressed), the edges of the silicon rubber skin 1405 above the plastic key cap 1415 can be stretched. As such, elasticity in these portions are important. As gluing the bonded assembly against the key frame may impact the force, a snap-in model may be utilized in some embodiments.
In some embodiments, a metal dome can be used in traditional keys where the plastic keycap is visible on the top and the key does not have a layer of rubber skin that can serve as protection or that can be soft to a user's touch. In certain embodiments, the top surface of the key cap can be higher than the surrounding frame. This ensures that the user can position the fingers easily and improve the typing speed by being able to quickly identify the keys. Providing the key caps at a plane higher than the surrounding frame produces tension on the keys. By having tensions on the keys, the keys may be more stabilized and not move sideways or feel loose when it is in an unactuated position.
Some embodiments may maximize the elongation area of the hinges (the flexible area between the frame and the key cap) for each key using a number of ways. In some embodiments, the elongation area can be increased by applying glue within a restricted area (e.g., the center) of the plastic key cap. For example, by applying a small dot of glue on the bottom and in the center of the bonded assembly of the rubber skin and the plastic key cap may maximize the elongation across most of the surface area in some embodiments. As described, some embodiments may use a snap-in feature (e.g., using magnetic force) instead of gluing the bonded assembly against the metal dome.
Keycap with Metal Dome Plus Hinge and Axis
Some embodiments can provide an ultra-slim keyframe with a metal dome. By adding a hinge on the top key cap, traveling can be ensured to be in one direction (or close to one direction). This can improve the typing feel and the typing speed.
In some embodiments, a flexible skin layer (not shown) can be molded over the key 1500. The flexible skin layer can be a silicon rubber skin or a flexible fabric layer made of polyester. The silicon rubber skin can be made of silicone, PU, or other suitable material (e.g., with flexible properties). In some embodiments, instead of a silicon rubber skin, a flexible fabric layer made of polyester, PU, or a PU mixture can be molded over key 1500. Further, some embodiments may mold an additional PU key cap (not shown) over the flexible skin layer to provide further improved tactile feedback and a softer touch. While rubber skin is usable over a key structures including the scissors key structure, some embodiments may opt for a fabric skin layer over the various key structures (e.g., the scissors key structure, the dome key structure) as the fabric skin layer may be lighter compared to the rubber skin, thereby lessening the force impact and ensuring better tactile feedback.
While the plastic key cap 1510 and the frame 1515 are shown to be made of plastic in this example, other types of material can be used in different embodiments. While the dome 1525 and support plate 1535 are made of metal in this example, different embodiments can use plastic, rubber, or other suitable material to provide support for key 1500. In an exemplary embodiment, the plastic key cap 1510 is 1.4 mm thick, the actuator 1520 is 0.3 mm thick, the metal dome 1525 is 0.7 mm, the membrane 1530 is 0.3 mm, and the metal support plate 1535 is 0.6 mm. The thickness of the various components may vary from embodiment to embodiment.
The travel distance of the key 1500 from an unpressed state to a fully pressed state can be 0.5˜0.8 mm. The pitch of the key 1500 can be 16˜19 mm, depending on the design and application. The module thickness (i.e., distance from the metal support base 1535 to the top of the plastic key cap 1510) can be 2.5˜3.5 mm. It should be noted that the dimensions provided are merely exemplary embodiments and other dimensions, sizes, characteristics (e.g., travel distance, pitch, etc.) can be used. Specifications of an exemplary embodiment can be shown in
Some embodiments provide a key 1500 with a hinge 1540 coupled to the top key cap 1510 to provide a more consistent and nearly uni-directional movement of the of the key when it is actuated. This type of structure keeps the key from traveling in different directions when a user presses down on the key, regardless of the direction from which force is being applied. The typing feeling can be consistent and the typing speed can be increased. In one embodiment, the key travel distance for the rubber keyframe can be 0.6˜0.8 mm.
In some embodiments, the location of the metal dome 1525 (and the actuator on top of the metal dome) can be closer or farther from the hinge structure 1540. Depending on the placement of the metal dome 1525, the key travel distance can be increased when the force is applied from the center or from the edge that is opposite from the hinge 1540. For example, when the placement of the metal dome 1525 and actuator 1520 are closer to the hinge 1540, the structure can have a longer traveling distance. The bottom edge of the key cap (sitting opposite from the hinge) may travel farther and bottom out at membrane, whereas the top edge of the key cap 1510 may travel very little.
Some embodiments provide a metal dome with low force (e.g., 60˜80 grams force) that provides consistency and less force impact typing when used in a keyboard. By using a plastic hinge to facilitate the depression of the low force metal dome, the traveling of the key is more stable and less wobbly regardless of the angle at which the key is being depressed. Further, by placing the dome structure (e.g., metal dome, rubber dome) off-center or farther away from the hinge, the swing of the key cap is lessened and a shorter travel is achieved. In some embodiments, a shorter travel can be achieved by using a rubber dome instead of a metal dome.
In some embodiments, the top surface of the key cap 1510 can be higher than the surrounding frame 1515 and the hinge axis 1540. Some embodiments place the key cap 1510 at a threshold distance above the plane of the hinge 1540. The key 1500 may not physically travel a great distance, however, this structure provides the user the sensation that the user is getting a full key stroke (or using a normal keyboard) when the key 1500 is depressed.
The hinge 1540 produces a swinging-type movement and enables stable and consistent travel of the key. In some embodiments, a flexible skin (not shown) such as a rubber skin layer or a fabric skin layer can be placed over the structure. By fastening the key cap with a flexible skin such as a rubber skin layer on top allows the keyframe to have added stability. The key cap may be prevented from flipping up or springing back up beyond its neutral state. In addition, without any portion of the flexible skin floating over the key cap, the skin may appear smooth and uniform against the key cap. The added skin can produce a sleeker look while rendering the hinge less visible. Some embodiments may couple a stopper to the edge of the plastic frame that is opposite of the hinge in order to stop the key cap from flipping beyond its neutral planar (or near planar) state.
In some embodiments, the bonded assembly is formed in a manner such that the rubber skin 1705 is molded directly over the key cap 1710 and without any portion of the rubber skin 1705 floating over the key cap 1710. As such, the skin 1705 may appear smooth and uniform against the key cap 1710. In other embodiments, additional material may be placed between the silicon rubber skin 1705 and the key cap 1710. In some embodiments, a PU key cap can be molded over the rubber skin 1705 above the plastic key cap 1710, e.g., via pressure and heat, if desired. As describe, some embodiments may use a flexible fabric layer such as flexible polyester or a PU mixture to form the bonded assembly with the key cap instead of silicone rubber. As such, a PU key cap can be easily bonded to the flexible fabric layer without requiring the application of high heat, which may potentially distort the materials.
In some embodiments, the bonded structure (including the rubber skin 1705 and the plastic key cap 1710) is coupled to the remaining keyframe structure by placing glue over the plastic frame 1715. The glue may be applied on top of the plastic frame 1715 by applying a roller over a grid pattern of the plastic frame 1715. In certain embodiments, additional glue may be posited in an area between the key cap and the plastic frame to help improve the impact force, the travel distance of the key, and the critical ratio. The bonded structure of the silicon rubber skin 1705 and the plastic key cap 1710 may then be positioned and applied against the metal dome array (also referred to as the key frame) with force and heat. The plastic key cap 1710 may be floating over the key frame in some embodiments. In one embodiment, the ultra-slim keyframe structure can be assembled by coupling the rubber skin layer 1705, the plastic frame 1715, the plastic key cap layer 1710, the mylar hinge layer 1740, the actuator layer 1720, the metal dome layer 1725, the membrane 1730, and the metal support plate 1735, in this order.
Misc Key Structures
Additional key structures can be provided for some embodiments of the invention.
In an exemplary embodiment, the plastic key cap 1810 is 1.2 mm thick, the rubber dome 1825 is 1.2 mm, the membrane 1830 is 0.3 mm, and the metal support plate 1835 is 0.6 mm. The thickness of the various components may vary from embodiment to embodiment. The module thickness (i.e., distance from the metal support base 1835 to the top of the plastic key cap 1810) can be approximately 3.3 mm.
The assembly process for the ultra-slim keyframe structure 1800 can be similar to that shown in
The placement of metal dome 1925 on the membrane in
In some embodiments, a flexible skin (not shown) such as a silicon rubber skin or a fabric skin can be molded over the key 1900. The flexible skin can be made of PU material or other suitable material (e.g., with flexible properties). Some embodiments may mold an additional PU key cap (not shown) over the flexible skin to provide further improved tactile feedback and a soft touch.
In one embodiment, the ultra-slim keyframe structure 1900 can be assembled by coupling the plastic frame 1905, the plastic key cap 1910, the mylar hinge layer 1940, the metal dome layer 1925, the membrane 1930, and the metal support plate 1935, in this order. In some embodiments, the key cap 1910 can be attached to a flexible skin (not shown) to form a bonded assembly. In addition to a flexible skin made of either rubber or fabric, the flexible skin can have a PU key cap molded over the flexible skin, e.g., by using pressure and heat, in some embodiments.
Magnets
Magnets A and F make up a latching system for folio tablet cover 2000, according to an embodiment of the invention. Magnet A can be disposed in a tablet holder 2015 (e.g., similar to holder 650 of
Magnets B and C make up a detaching system for folio tablet cover 2000, according to an embodiment of the invention. Magnets B and C can be disposed on the bottom of the north side 2010, as shown in
Magnets D and F make up a media mode system (e.g., second active configuration) for folio tablet cover 2000, according to an embodiment of the invention. In the media mode, the tablet computer 105 is positioned such that the edge is resting against the south side 2020 and just below keyboard 2030, such that keyboard 2030 is obscured by the tablet computer 105 when viewed from the front. Magnet D can be disposed in a tablet holder 2015 of the folio tablet cover 2000, as shown in both
Magnets D and E make up a typing mode system (e.g., a first active configuration) for folio tablet cover 2000, according to an embodiment of the invention. Magnet D can be disposed in a tablet holder 2015 of the folio tablet cover 2000, as shown in both
In some embodiments, the magnets (e.g., A-F) can be configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of the various operating positions described above. For example, a top holder (e.g., magnet A) and a media mode (e.g, magnet F) magnet(s) can be configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of the closed position, the retention strength in this example being between the top holder and media mode being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing. Furthermore, the first holder (magnet B) and second holder (magnet C) detaching magnets can be configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of a magnetic bond between the holder and the housing, the retention strength between the first holder and second holder being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing. In certain embodiments, both the combination of the top holder and media mode magnets and the combination of the first holder and second holder detaching magnets provide a magnetic force of a magnitude such that the retention strength of each combination is greater than a combined weight of the protective cover and the input device.
In some aspects, an active mode (e.g., magnet D) and typing mode (e.g, magnet E) magnets are configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the first active configuration (e.g., typing mode), the retention strength in this example being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the first active configuration. The active mode and typing mode magnets can be configured to provide a magnetic force of a magnitude such that the retention strength is greater than a combined weight of the protective cover and the input device. The protective cover can further include a second active configuration (e.g., media mode), where the portion of the holder is configured to rest below the plurality of buttons at the first end of the inner portion of the housing such that the holder is configured at an obtuse angle relative to the first end of the inner portion of the housing, the obtuse angle for the second active configuration being larger than the obtuse angle for the first active configuration. The protective cover can also further include an active mode magnet disposed at a bottom of the second end of the housing, and a media mode magnet (e.g., magnet F) disposed at the first end of the inner portion of the housing and below the plurality of keys, the active mode magnet and the media mode magnet configured to secure the holder in the second active configuration. In some implementations, the active mode and media mode magnets are configured to provide a magnetic force operable to increase a retention strength of magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the second active configuration, the retention strength in this case being related to an amount of force required to break the magnetic bond between the holder and the housing in the second active configuration. The active mode and media mode magnets can be configured to provide a magnetic force of a magnitude such that the retention strength is greater than a combined weight of the protective cover and the input device.
In certain embodiments, alternative types of retention devices can be used in addition to or in lieu of the magnets (e.g., A-F) described above, to secure the housing in one or more of the closed, open, and active configurations (e.g., media mode, typing mode, etc.). The retention devices can include additional magnets, hook and loop fasteners, latches, pins, adhesive, electro-magnets, or any suitable retention device that would be known by one of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure, and any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the retention strength of the magnets described herein can be reduced when the input device is moved past a threshold angle from the closed or active modes of operation.
Reed Switches
Reed relays or switches (2160, 2162, 2164) are configured to detect a magnetic field created by the magnet 2130 in the holder 2180. The magnetic field causes the reed relay to close, which in turn can cause a local processor to select the current mode of operation of the folio tablet cover, such as that shown in
According to certain embodiments, when holder 2180 is positioned at the “typing” location (i.e., first location or position), similar to the tablet cover 100 of
In some aspects, when holder 2180 is positioned at what may be considered as the “music” location (i.e., second location or position), the holder 2180 and tablet computer 105 are arranged in an upright position of approximately 35 degrees (i.e., 145 degrees from keyboard to plane of tablet housing) and configured to operate the keyboard in a second mode of operation. In the second mode of operation, the keyboard is configured to provide various media control capabilities and power saving features. For example, the bottom-most row of keys on the keyboard can be operational and configured to provide wireless media control functions to the tablet computer (e.g., volume control, play/pause, record, fast forward, rewind, next, previous, mute, play picture slideshow, show/hide virtual keyboard, and the like). The remaining keys above the bottom-most row may be rendered inoperable, which may help to conserve power and improve the battery life of the overall system, or could help reduce inadvertent inputs. For example, a user may accidentally press a covered key, or the tablet housing may rest on a number of covered keys, which could result in a stuck key that may drain power or override other key commands, etc. In some embodiments, media keys (not shown) disposed elsewhere on the tablet folio may be activated when holder 2180 is placed in the “music” configuration.
In some embodiments, when holder 2180 is positioned at what may be considered the “movie” location (i.e., third location or position), the keyboard is arranged in an upright position of approximately 25 degrees (i.e., 155 degrees from keyboard to plane of tablet housing) and configured to operate the keyboard in a third mode of operation. In the third mode of operation, some or all of the buttons on the keyboard may be rendered inoperable. In some embodiments, removing the holder 2180 from either the first or second position may turn off the keyboard, or put it into a lower power mode, similar to the third mode of operation. It should be noted that certain embodiments may only utilize two positions and/or two modes of operation. For example, some embodiments may include a typing mode (i.e., first mode) and a music mode (i.e., second mode). Furthermore, the functionality described herein can be supplemented or altered as required. For instance, the “music” mode can be configured to assign any functionality to the first row of keys (e.g., document editing tools, etc.). Further still, different receiving site locations may be used. For example, a particular receiving site location may be configured to provide two user accessible rows of keys with a particular assigned functionality. Other configurations may be implemented as required by the given application. It should be noted that the various mode settings, system functions (e.g., enabling/disabling various features), etc., can be controlled by a system processor, such as processor 2710, as shown in
Backlight Illumination
Backlighting allows light to pass up and out of a key to illuminate, for example, a character or glyph printed thereon for easy key identification in dimly lit areas. In some embodiments, a backlit key can include a transparent/translucent internal core (PU), plus an external painted shell. In some cases, the shell material can be laser etched away or masked (pad printed), to allow light to shine through from the inner core. Some embodiments generate holes through the fabric in locations where each key may be located. Backlight can be shined through the translucent PU at the fabric opening area. Several fabric processes can be applied to produce the illuminated key on fabric skin. A first process is where you burn the top black paint on a translucent PU (Polyurethane) key by laser etching. A second process is to pad print the key color on transparent TPU file with a contrast white paint for showing character and for light to shine through. Back lighting by laser etching actually burns the paint or ink layer away. This achieves a good result when there is a reflective layer (white or mirror) below the etched layer. The reflective layer can help prevent the laser from burning the layer below.
Laser Marking Letters and Numbers on a Flexible Key Cap
Various methods and processes can be used in marking keycaps with characters. Some embodiments provide a laser marking process that can engrave or mark an object such as a keycap using a laser beam. By incorporating laser additives (e.g., dyes) into raw PU, the laser applied on the PU key cap can react with the special additive and cause the physical and/or chemical structure of the PU key cap to be modified. The modified properties of the material in turn causes a color change at the portions of the PU key cap where the laser has been applied. The color change (also referred to as the new color as a result of the laser marking process) can be a combination of the resin's original color and the new additive color activated by the UV laser in some embodiments.
The laser marking process can be tuned to produce the desired color contrast on a keycap surface. By tuning the amount of laser additive to be mixed with raw PU, a mixture of a desired consistency can be obtained. Some embodiments can pour the mixture into a molding tool to form molded keycaps and pre-cure the molded keycaps. After the keycaps are pre-cured or solidified, a fabric layer can be placed over the tool surface with the molded keycaps. A thermal pressing device can press the fabric layer against the tool surface such that the molded keycaps bond against the fabric layer. The keycaps bond against the fabric layer to form a flexible fabric keyboard. After aging the flexible keyboard, some embodiments perform a laser marking process on the flexible keyboard. The laser marking process modifies properties of the material in the keycap at the portions where the laser touches the keycap and thereby causes a color change in those “marked” portions.
PU material can provide a balance between flexibility and strength when incorporated into a fabric layer or a keycap such that an optimal typing force can be enabled in some embodiments. As described, PU can be used in the mixture used to form the keycaps on the fabric keyboard. In order to produce the desired color contrast on PU keycaps and the durability of the printed fonts, a tuned amount of laser additive can be mixed with raw PU. The laser marking process performed upon the molded mixture of the laser additive and PU can produce the desired color and printed font that cannot be easily worn off.
As the laser (e.g., UV laser, fiber UV, IR laser) is applied against the PU keycaps, the characteristics and/or chemical structure of the areas where the laser has “marked” the PU key caps can change, thereby rendering a color change. In some embodiments, laser marking applied on a black PU surface can produce a white or yellow color change at the “marked” portions. Laser marking applied on a white PU surface can produce a black color at the “marked” portions. Laser marking applied on yellow PU surface can produce a black color change at the “marked” areas. Different amounts of the UV additive incorporated into the PU can cause the color change to vary when the PU is UV marked.
To cause characters, glyphs, and/or icons to be printed on the PU key caps, different laser marking processes can be used. In some embodiments, laser additive (also referred to as specified laser marking additives) can be added into PU to create a mixture. Some embodiments can create a PU key cap by pouring the mixture (e.g., in liquid form) into a mold similarly to the process described in
In order to properly bound the PU key caps onto the fabric layer (made of PU or other fabrics), the temperature of the process needs to be below a threshold temperature level in some embodiments. Using other materials, such as ABS, PCS/ABS, HiPS or silicone rubber, on the other hand, would require a much higher temperature, thereby rendering those materials inappropriate for this process. Due to the intrinsic nature and characteristics of the PU material, the PU key cap can be bounded to the flexible fabric cover (e.g., fabric layer 900 in
After the PU key caps are formed (i.e., solidified and cured against a fabric layer), a laser marking process can be used to generate the letters and the numbers on the PU key caps. Some embodiments can apply the laser against the PU key caps. The process in applying the laser against the PU key caps can be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. Some embodiments may modify the parameters in applying the laser against the PU key caps based on the characters, the size of the characters, and the distance between the characters. As described, when the laser is applied to the PU key cap (e.g., a black PU key cap), the energy from the laser can change the properties of the PU and cause a color change (e.g., from black to white).
By laser marking the homogenous mixture of materials that includes PU and UV additives, the areas in the PU cap (e.g., at the top of the keys) where the laser is applied can change in color. As described, the laser etching process changes the properties of the mixed material and thereby changes the color. In some embodiments, although a laser-etching process can also be employed, laser marking can cause the color change without requiring the removal of any material from the PU key cap.
The laser marked key caps can be fairly robust and the abrasion rate can be minimized (i.e., the laser marked key caps can be rub-away resistant after many uses). In some embodiments, the abrasion level can withstand more than 1200 times abrasion while rendering little damage to the marked key caps. Additional procedures in hardening the top of the key cap may not be necessary. In some embodiments, the mixture of materials that includes PU and UV additives can be tuned in order to reach the desired color combination (also referred to as the desired color contrast) when UV laser is applied against the mixture.
As described, some embodiments include laser additives into PU and perform a laser marking process to improve the abrasion rate. The combination of applying the laser marking process to the PU key caps, the PU laser marking, the mixture of the PU resin and the laser additives, the appropriate laser source, operating conditions, and parameters including a power level for the laser can enable the laser marking process to produce an effective and highly reliable way to mark the letters and numbers on the key caps. The laser marking conditions (laser source, power, pulse, energy etc.) can be defined in a window, which produce the optimal color contrast (to the keycap PU resin color) and freshness, with clear edge. The desired contrast and coloring can be achieved while improving an overall the abrasion rate for the letters and numbers on the key caps. A contrast against other types of letter printing techniques can be found in
Icon Sideview—Pyramid/Trapezoidal Shape
Some embodiments can design and construct the folio table cover (e.g., protective cover 100 in
Dual Hinged Folio Tablet Cover
In some embodiments, the folio tablet cover may be a dual hinged folio tablet cover. In some embodiments, the folio tablet cover may be a hard shell case with stiff hinges. In some embodiments the folio tablet cover may be made of a plastic material. The folio tablet cover may be configured to hold a top portion of a tablet computer, while a bottom portion of the tablet computer may be disengaged from the folio tablet cover. In other embodiments, the folio tablet cover may be configured to hold the bottom portion of a tablet computer, while the top portion of the tablet computer may be disengaged from the folio tablet cover.
One of the benefits of some embodiments of the invention is the ability to orient the protective cover into a variety of different positions such that a screen of the tablet computer can be visible to the user. In such embodiments, the user can adjust the position and angle of the protective cover rather than having to adjust their own position to get a better angle on the screen.
System Level
In certain embodiments, the processor 3310 comprises one or more microprocessors (μCs) and is configured to control the operation of system 3300. Alternatively, the processor 3310 may include one or more microcontrollers (MCUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or the like, with supporting hardware/firmware (e.g., memory, programmable I/Os, etc.), as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The processor 3310 can be configured to operate the protective cover systems (or more generally, an input device) described herein. In some embodiments, the processor controls and communicates with the reed switches of
In certain embodiments, the power management system 3320 of system 3300 is configured to manage power distribution, recharging, power efficiency, and the like. The power management system 3320 can control the power distribution by the batteries 3340 and photovoltaic (PV) panel 3330. The PV panel 3330 can provide energy to the batteries (e.g., 2 AAA cells) when submitted to a light source. It should be noted that any number of management features may be used as required and would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.
The communications system 3370 is configured to provide wireless communication between the various protective cover systems described herein and a mobile input device (e.g., tablet computer), according to an embodiment of the invention. The communications system 3370 can be controlled by the processor 3310 and configured to provide radio-frequency (RF) communication with any of a wide variety of wireless communication protocols including, but not limited to, Bluetooth, WiFi and infra-red wireless systems. The various protective cover systems may optionally comprise a hardwired connection to their associated input devices. For example, the system 3300 may provide a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable to provide electronic communication to the attached input device or other external devices. Other embodiments of the invention may utilize different types of cables or connection protocol standards to effectuate a hardwired communication with outside entities. In one non-limiting example, a USB cable can be used to provide power to a protective cover to charge the batteries 3340 and simultaneously support data communication between the system 3300 and the input device.
In some embodiments, the processor 3310 integrates processing and RF communication functions, in addition to scanning and controlling the keyboard matrix 3360 and/or other input devices, monitoring configuration detection mechanisms 3380 (e.g., the relay switches, etc., used to detect keyboard modes, media button modes, closed configurations, etc.), controlling LEDs (not shown) and the like. The keyboard matrix 3360 can include a mechanical keyboard disposed in the protective cover. User inputs to the keyboard matrix can be wirelessly coupled to the tablet computer by way of the processor 3310 and communication system 3370. The keyboard 3360 can include a key frame disposed therein (not shown) including a means of configuration detection. For example, relay switches (not shown) can be activated by a protective cover frame to determine when the keyboard is configured in the various operations modes of operation, as further described below. Alternatively, the keyboard matrix 3360 may be configured in a non-conventional format (e.g., number pad, application-specific key arrangements, or other grouping of a number of buttons). The individual keys may be mechanical (e.g., scissor keys, plunger keys, etc.), soft keys on a display, or other suitable type of input interface.
The above description is illustrative and is not restrictive. Many variations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the disclosure. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but instead should be determined with reference to the pending claims along with their full scope or equivalents.
It is to be understood that the examples and embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application and scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the above description should not be understood as limiting the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.
The present non-provisional application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §120 of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/699,856, filed on Sep. 11, 2012, and entitled “Protective Cover for a Mobile Input Device,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/802,238, filed on Mar. 15, 2013, and entitled “A Folio for a Tablet Computing Device,” both of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes. The following non-provisional U.S. patent applications (including this one) are being filed concurrently, and the entire disclosure of the other applications are incorporated by reference into this application in their entirety for all purposes: Application No. 13/854,118, filed Mar. 31, 2013;Application No. 13/854,112, filed Mar. 31, 2013;Application No. 13/854,125, filed Mar. 31, 2013;Application No. 13/854,123, filed Mar. 31, 2013; andApplication No. 13/854,120, filed Mar. 31, 2013.
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