HK1021577B - Flexibly interfaceable portable computing device - Google Patents

Description

Portable computing device with flexible interface

This application contains subject matter related to applications assigned to the same assignee as the present application. The following applications are cited in the present application as references for the present application:

an application having application number 08/747,735 entitled "METHOD DS, SYSTEMS AND PRODUCTS PERTAINING FOR USE IN PAPER BASED RECORD MAKING SYSTEMS", filed by Clary et al AND 1996, 11/12/11/1996.

The present invention relates generally to portable computers, and more particularly to interfaces for use in portable computers that include a display, a keyboard, and a handwriting recording unit.

Computerized recording units for digitizing text while handwriting so as to be able to process the handwritten text as data are known. For example, such digitizing devices can utilize a digitizing tablet to generate data representing the coordinates of the electronic stylus on the tablet. In the system described in the above-referenced assigned application, the digitizing tablet is capable of generating position information by detecting a first radio frequency emitted from the stylus. The stylus also includes an electronic ink tip (e.g., a pressure sensor) located therein for generating a second radio frequency when the stylus is in contact with the writing surface. By monitoring these first and second radio frequencies along a radio-sensitive grid, the digitizing tablet is capable of generating a data stream representing stylus strokes. That is, text written on the surface of the digitizing tablet can be recorded as "stroke" data. In addition, the tip of the stylus also has the ability to actually write, which can simultaneously mark, on paper placed on a digitizing tablet. In such a recording unit, the recognition process can convert "stroke" data into a character string. In addition, image data may be generated based on "stroke" data for the purpose of image display of the strokes (e.g., on an LCD screen of a prescribed size).

It would be desirable to be able to provide an additional user interface to a laptop or notebook computer using such a recording unit, paper, and stylus. Commercially available laptop or notebook computers typically allow a user to interact through a keyboard and display connected to a processor. However, in many cases, it is a more desirable, familiar and easy way for a user to take notes or enter data using a stylus and paper, rather than through a keyboard. Such situations include when attending an office meeting or group discussion, lecture, visit, and dining session, possibly with a presentation. In such an environment, tapping the keyboard can be disruptive, distracting, and inconvenient. Furthermore, it is often necessary to keep an actual copy of the record, for example for photocopying, faxing or circulation. In addition, it is desirable to allow easy access to electronic copies of recorded content (e.g., during breaks in business activities) and switching or selecting between handwriting and keyboard entry for the purposes of reproduction, distribution, modification, processing and archiving of information and the attachment of integrated information to data already resident on a disk or other storage of a computer.

Thus, for a laptop or notebook computer having a display, it is desirable to allow the user to select whether access is via a keyboard or via a recording unit, a markable surface, and a stylus; there is also a need for the ability to allow selective connection to the recording unit and/or keyboard; there is also a need for devices that achieve these characteristics to be portable and to be conveniently and compactly packaged.

In accordance with the present invention, the deficiencies of the prior art are overcome and additional advantages are provided by the flexible interface and portability feature of the computing device. A display is coupled to a processor that is selectively coupled to either a keyboard and a handwriting recording unit or one of the keyboard and the handwriting recording unit. The display and keypad provide a first user interface to the processor. The recording unit includes a work surface thereon. The working surface is superposed with a movable markable surface. When the work surface overlaps the markable surface, the user can mark the markable surface with the stylus. The stylus provides a stroke signal and a stroke marker. The stroke signal transmits a piece of information to the recording unit and the stroke mark transmits the piece of information to the markable surface. The recording unit, the markable surface and the stylus provide a second user interface to the processor. Optionally, the display may also be used to provide a second user interface to the processor.

In another aspect of the invention, a logic design implementing portion coupled to the processor allows a user to switch viewing modes of the display. The observation mode includes a longitudinal mode and a transverse mode.

In another aspect of the invention, a logic design implementing portion coupled to the processor is configured to switch a viewing mode of the display. The logic design implementation portion is capable of switching the viewing mode based on one or more states of the keyboard and the recording unit.

The observation mode includes a longitudinal mode and a transverse mode. The logic design implementation switches to the portrait mode when the recording unit is coupled to the processor and in use. While the keyboard is coupled to the processor and in use, the logic design implementation can switch to landscape mode.

The recording unit may comprise a second display. The processor may be regarded as a first processor and the recording unit may comprise a second processor. The first and second processors may be coupled with first and second logic design implementing portions, respectively, for synchronizing information between the first and second processors.

A recording unit is selectively coupleable to the first processor. The first and second logic design implementing portions may be used to synchronize information between the first and second processors when the recording unit is coupled to the first processor.

In another aspect of the invention, a housing is coupled to the display, the keyboard, and the writing recording unit. The display, keyboard and writing unit are contained in this housing, forming a relatively elongated cross-section.

The handwriting recording unit may be selectively separated from other devices for individual use. The recording unit may also be coupled to the processor (e.g., the first processor) via an optical, electrical, wireless, infrared, radio frequency, mechanical, and/or other coupling. Likewise, the keyboard may be coupled to the processor (e.g., the first processor) via an optical, electrical, wireless, infrared, radio frequency, mechanical, and/or other coupling.

The display is pivotally connected to a hinge that is attached to the housing. The keyboard is also pivotally connected to a hinge that interfaces with the housing. The recording unit is also pivotally connected to a hinge attached to the case. Preferably, they may share a given hinge or similar mechanism.

The case may have one or more pockets therein. A portion of the bin may be constructed of aluminium and the texture of the outer surface of the bin may be leather and/or the like.

The display may comprise a touch screen. And the touch screen may provide a user interface to the processor. The stylus may provide selectable first and second modes of operation. Further, the first mode of operation may be used to provide stroke signals and stroke markings. Furthermore, the second mode of operation may provide a stroke signal for pointing to and/or drawing on the display. There is a wireless connection between the stylus and the device. A microphone may be included on the stylus. And the microphone can provide a user interface to the processor.

In another aspect of the invention, a portable computer system includes a display, a keyboard, and a plurality of thick elements. The displays, keypads and thick elements are encapsulated and/or placed into an overall thickness to present an elongated cross-section, the overall thickness being substantially equal to the sum of the first thickness of the display plus the second thickness of the keypad.

In one aspect, the system is comprised of first and second (e.g., transverse) sections. The display and keyboard are encapsulated and/or disposed in the first portion, while the thick element may be disposed in the second portion. These thick components may include a battery, a hard drive (hard file), a PCMCIA slot, a connector, a heat sink, a processor and/or a cooling fan. In one example, a first portion of one support arm is pivotally coupled to one location of the system, while a second portion of the support arm is pivotally coupled to the display.

Thus, the present invention advantageously provides a first adaptable user interface for interfacing with a processor and display via a keyboard, and a second adaptable user interface for interfacing with the processor and display via a recording unit, markable surface and stylus. The use of these interfaces is familiar and easy for the user. Also, the present invention reduces the volume and increases convenience in manufacturing, transportation, and use of electronics and physical records.

The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be readily understood from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a computing device incorporating the flexible interface and portable features of the present invention, showing a display pivotally lifted from a keyboard;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the computing device shown in FIG. 1, further illustrating the keyboard being raised in a pivoting manner to expose one of the recording units and the markable surface;

FIG. 3 is similar to FIG. 2 and shows the registration unit and markable surface pivoted up and the keyboard pivoted down;

FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of components of the computing device shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the recording unit and markable surface shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 illustrates a block diagram of components of the recording unit shown in FIG. 2 in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the computing device of the present invention showing the display pivotally lifted from the keyboard;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the computing device of the present invention showing the display pivotally lifted from the keyboard and the recording unit and markable surface separated from the display and keyboard;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the computing device of the present invention showing the display pivotally lifted from the recording unit and markable surface and the keyboard pulled out of a slot located therebelow;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a computing device of the present invention including a stylus, showing a recording unit located on the back of the display;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the computing device shown in FIG. 10 along line 11-11;

FIG. 12 is a diagram of the computing device shown in FIG. 10 illustrating the display being lifted from the keyboard in a pivoting manner;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a computing device of the present invention including a stylus, showing the display pivotally lifted from the keyboard and the recording unit and markable surface beside the display and keyboard;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the computing device shown in FIG. 13, illustrating a packaged condition suitable for shipping in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 15 depicts one logical example of the computing device of the present invention for accomplishing information synchronization and switching between landscape and portrait modes;

FIG. 16 is a side view of the computing device shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 17 is a side view of a seventh embodiment of the computing device of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of one example of a subsystem of the computing device shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the subsystem shown in FIG. 18, shown after packaging;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another example of a subsystem of the computing device shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the subsystem shown in FIG. 20, shown after packaging;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of a desktop computing device of the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the desktop computing device shown in FIG. 22, showing the display in a raised position;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view from the rear of the desktop computing device shown in FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the desktop computing device shown in FIG. 22, illustrating another position of the display;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of another example of the desktop computing device shown in FIG. 22, showing the display positioned in a portrait orientation;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the desktop computing device shown in FIG. 26, showing the display in a raised position;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the desktop computing device shown in FIG. 26, showing another position of the display;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of another example of the desktop computing device shown in FIG. 22, showing a larger display positioned in portrait;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the desktop computing device shown in FIG. 29, showing the display in a raised position;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the desktop computing device shown in FIG. 29, illustrating another position of the display;

FIG. 32 is a sequential side view of a ninth embodiment of the computing device of the present invention;

FIG. 33 is a plan view of a subsystem of the computing device shown in FIG. 32;

FIG. 34 is a side view of the subsystem shown in FIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is a plan view of the computing device shown in FIG. 32 including a stylus;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the computing device shown in FIG. 32 including a stylus;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the computing device shown in FIG. 32;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the computing device shown in FIG. 32 including a stylus, showing the display in a raised position;

FIG. 39 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken along line 39-39 of FIG. 33;

fig. 40 is a package design of the computing device shown in fig. 17, 22, and/or 32.

In accordance with the principles of the present invention, a flexibly-interfaced portable computing device is provided in which a user interface with a processor and/or display is alternatively, concurrently or independently accessible via a keyboard and/or via a recording unit, a markable surface and a stylus.

An embodiment of a flexible-interface portable computing device incorporating and utilizing the novel features of the present invention is illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed description.

In a first embodiment, a flexible-interface portable computing device 100 (fig. 1-4) includes a processor or controller 420 (fig. 4), a display (e.g., an LCD or a thin film transistor "TFT" active panel or display) 202, a keyboard (e.g., QWERTY style) 204, a recording unit 101 (fig. 1-6), a markable surface 150 (fig. 2-3 and 5), a stylus 152 (fig. 10-11 and 13), a frame or case 208 (fig. 1-3 and 14), and first and second hinges 210 and 212.

A portion of the housing 208 is constructed of aluminum or other durable light metal. The exterior surface of the housing 208 is textured with leather or leather-like material, such as is known from the SANTOFRENE products. Optionally, the case may also include a plurality of packets or pockets 960 (FIG. 1) of any size, type, style, and/or style for holding the stylus 152, documents (not shown), and/or business cards (not shown), etc. The housing 208 also preferably includes a closure or fastening mechanism 970 (FIG. 14), such as a strap, clasp, snap, or zipper.

As shown in fig. 1-3, a first hinge 210 pivotally interconnects the display 202, the recording unit 101 (described below), and the housing 208. And a second hinge 212 pivotally interconnects the keyboard 204 and the housing 208. Preferably, the hinges 210 and 212 may allow a user 154 (fig. 11) to select the relative positions of the display, keyboard, and recording unit. In particular, pivoting can readily enable the display 202 to be used with a keyboard or recording unit, as described below.

Referring to FIG. 4, the device 100 further includes a plurality of data storage devices 422, 424, and 429, a logic design implementation 436 (described in further detail below), a real-time clock 421, a software selection 426, an infrared transceiver 428, a serial transceiver (e.g., RS-232, USB, and/or IEEE 1394 serial ports) 430, a power source 434, and buttons or switches 406.

Fig. 4 is a block diagram illustrating one interconnection between components of device 100. In particular, the processor 420 is coupled to a real time clock 421, volatile and non-volatile memory devices 422, 424 and 429, the display 202, and an I/O interface that functions through a software selection 426 and includes an infrared receiver 428 and a serial receiver 430 (e.g., RS-232, USB and/or IEEE 1394 serial ports). Processor 420 interfaces with buttons and switches 406 and manages the operation of the various components using software stored in a memory device.

Referring to fig. 4 and 6, in one aspect, in any suitable embodiment of the invention, a (e.g., communication) connection (e.g., port 428, 430, 128, and/or 130), such as for an internal and/or external (e.g., system) connection, can include a serial port and/or a parallel port, can also include a wireless port, such as an infrared ("IR") port and/or a radio frequency ("RF") port, and can also be used to accommodate standards and/or protocols such as RS-232, universal serial bus ("USB"), and/or IEEE 1394. In one example, referring to FIG. 4, the keyboard 204 and the processor 420 have a wireless (e.g., RF) connection therebetween, thereby enabling communication without a mechanical connection.

Still referring to fig. 4, typically the processor 420 and its associated components (e.g., real time clock 421 and memories 422, 424 and 429) may be located below the keyboard 204, as shown in fig. 11 in connection with the device 500 to be discussed later. The memories 422, 424 and 429 may include, for example, a hard file, a hard disk, a removable storage medium, a CD-ROM, a floppy disk drive, a flash memory Card (CD), a floppy disk and/or the like. The processor 420 may be implemented in software, such as WINDOWS developed by microsoft corporation^*95 and/or WINDOWS^*The CE is a software product sold under the trademark, and operates. Other standard PC components 990 coupled to the processor 420 typically include typical components used in a standard laptop or notebook computer.

As shown in fig. 1, the power source 434 may be comprised of one or more "round" or "cylindrical" batteries housed in the first hinge 210. As a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 illustrates a power supply 434 comprised of one or more "flat" batteries 434 mounted adjacent to the keys in the keyboard 204 of the flexible-interface portable computing device 200. Similar to the device 100, the device 200 has a first hinge that pivotally interconnects the display 202, the recording unit 101, and the housing 208. The second hinge pivotally interconnects the keyboard 204 and the housing 208.

Specific features of the recording unit 101 are explained below. As shown in fig. 5, the recording unit 101 includes a work surface 103. The markable surface 150 overlies the working surface 103. In one example, the markable surface may be located on top of the work surface. In another example, the markable surface may be provided as a top or middle page of a stack of sheets (e.g., a writing pad) 160 (FIG. 11) in a paper holder extending outwardly from the work surface. Moreover, the recording unit can be adjusted in direction arbitrarily. The markable surface may lie flat and/or be fixed to the work surface and/or be fastened to and/or in contact with the work surface.

Referring to fig. 5-6, recording unit 101 includes a housing 102, a digitizing tablet or digitizer 105 (fig. 11), a plurality of buttons (e.g., "soft") or switches 106, a display (e.g., LCD)108, a plurality of indicators 110 and/or 112, a processor or microcontroller 120, a plurality of data storage devices 122 and 124, a logic design implementing portion 136, a real-time clock 121, a software selecting portion 126, an infrared receiver 128, a serial receiver (e.g., RS-232, USB, and/or IEEE 1394 serial port) 130, and a power supply 134. Also, the microcontroller 120 is connected to a digitizer subsystem 132. Optionally, a PCMCIA slot may be connected to the processor 120 and used to connect peripheral devices such as a modem and/or secondary memory.

Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing a connection relationship of electronic components of the recording unit 101. In particular, the processor or microcontroller 120 is coupled to a real time clock 121, volatile and non-volatile memory devices 122 and 124, the display 108, the indicators 110 and 112, and an I/O interface that functions through the software selection portion 126 and includes an infrared receiver 128 and a serial receiver 130 (e.g., RS-232, USB and/or IEEE 1394 serial ports). And the microcontroller 120 is connected to a digitizer subsystem 132 that includes a digitizer chipset and an electromagnetic sensor. The microcontroller 120 utilizes software stored in a memory device to manage the operation of the components such that a data stream is generated by the digitizer 105 for processing, synchronization and/or recording based on the strokes made by the ink stylus 152. Some description of the operation of these components is given herein, and a more detailed description of the operation of these components is provided in the above-referenced application 08/747,735.

Although the number, type, layout and connection of the components in the recording unit 101 may differ from that shown in fig. 6, the preferred embodiment of the pointer 110 is a "pen down" LED 110 that illuminates when the stylus 152 (fig. 10-11 and 13) and markable surface 150 come into contact or engagement. The markable surface may include a sheet of paper or a writing book 160 (fig. 11) stacked on the work surface 103 of the recording unit. In order to make the recording unit relatively thin, the power source 134 is preferably a cylindrical battery. Specifically, a columnar battery is manufactured using a known battery technology that makes the battery relatively flat, thereby reducing the cross section of the recording unit as much as possible. This serves to enhance the portability of the device 100 and to make the device 100 more slim in cross-section when fully encased in the housing 208, as shown in fig. 14 in relation to the device 600 to be discussed later.

Referring to fig. 4 and 6, in one aspect, various components for the recording unit 101 (e.g., power supply 134) and various components for the apparatus 100 (e.g., power supply 434) have various interrelationships and/or integration approaches, e.g., for flexibility and/or conservation purposes. In one example, the recording unit has its own power supply 134. In another example, power source 434 may include power source 134, and/or vice versa (e.g., power source 434 and/or power source 134 are used for the recording unit and other components of device 100). In another example, power sources 434 and/or 134 may be located in the spine and/or hinge of the device.

Still referring to fig. 4 and 6, on the other hand, in certain embodiments of the present invention, the coupling (decoupling) and/or connection (separation) relationships between the various components may be selectable. And it is not necessary for power supply 434 to serve recording unit 101, processors 420 and 120 simultaneously; i.e. they can be controlled individually. In one example, the recording unit may be separate from device 100 (e.g., at a hinge) with a single cable maintained as a connection (e.g., a USB connection) between processor 120 and power source 434 and/or processor 420. And this connection (e.g., USB connection) allows the recording unit to be detached and separated from the device 100 for independent operation. Furthermore, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, this connection enables a power source to distinguish between the recording unit and the device for use with the recording unit.

The structure and operation of the recording unit 101 and the stylus 152 (fig. 10-11 and 13) are further explained below. Digitizer 105 (fig. 11) preferably includes an active area capable of receiving a plurality of electromagnetic signals (e.g., a plurality of radio frequency signals) from, for example, a pen or stylus 152. The digitizer monitors the signal using a radiation sensitive grid. Preferably, the recording unit 101 is capable of distinguishing between "pen down", "pen up near", and "pen up far" positions, conditions and/or states of the stylus, as discussed in the above-referenced application 08/747,735. The digitizer enables its active area to be adaptable to 8.5 x 11 inch paper, a4 paper, and/or any standard or non-standard size and/or shape of paper, which may include any number, configuration, and/or variety of papers. In addition, display 108 can provide prompts and/or communication information to user 154.

With respect to the work surface 103 (fig. 5), the button 106 is a "soft button" formed as an area of the work surface 103 superimposed over the digitizer 105. For example, the button 106 is an area: when a stimulus is detected at this button, it is intended to send a specific input signal to the recording unit 101. That is, a soft button corresponds to a digitizer area predetermined to indicate a specific input value when stroke information is detected on the area. This general type of soft button is disclosed in the above-referenced application 08/747,735. Also, the button 106 may be located in a specific area or position of the recording unit. For example, the configuration of the buttons may be specified by default or by a dedicated program. Optionally, an icon may be attached to a given button 106 to indicate the function of that button.

The electronic inking stylus 152 (fig. 10-11 and 13) preferably includes electronic (e.g., integrated) circuitry, a battery, and an ink cartridge, and transmits or resonates at a first radio frequency. To this end, this first radio frequency may be used as a "tracking" signal or a "close-up pen" signal. In one example, digitizer 105 emits a field (at a particular frequency) towards the core of the stylus. The stylus is capable of producing a resonance in the field (at the frequency). In this way, the stylus, by being sufficiently close to the recording unit 101, can provide a tracking signal to the recording unit without powering any electronics of its own.

Further, the stylus 152 preferably includes a switch or a pressure sensor (not shown) for generating a second radio frequency (e.g., a different signal and/or an additional signal) when the tip of the stylus engages, such as contacts or presses against, a surface. This second radio frequency may be used as a "touch" signal or a "pen down" signal that is transmitted to digitizer 105. For example, a "pen down" signal may replace the "pen up" signal described above, or the signal may be transmitted in addition. Alternatively, the "pen down" signal may be sent via a dedicated line (not shown).

Also, the tip of the stylus 152 has the ability to actually ink. For example, a "pen down" signal may be activated by writing text and/or marking 946 (FIG. 10) on the markable surface 150 that overlaps the digitizer 105. Also, the "close-lift" signal may be activated simply by hovering a stylus over the recording unit 101, for example over the paper 150 at the top of the digitizer. Moreover, despite the lack of direct physical contact, the recording unit is able to detect "pen down" and "close up" signals, such as when the user 154 manipulates a stylus on one or more sheets of paper that are spaced from the work surface 103 by multiple or more sheets (e.g., the tablet 160) of paper and/or other items.

Digitizer 105 generates a data stream (e.g., "stroke" data) representing strokes of stylus 152 controlled by user 154. The "stroke" data may include text and/or any number of marks, lines, and/or curves 946 (FIG. 10) written on or proximate to the working surface 103 of the recording unit 101. For example, digitizer 105 monitors and/or samples the "short stroke" signal and/or the "pen down" signal via a receiver such as a radiation sensitive grid (not shown) to generate "stroke" data. As described above, the actual inking capability of the stylus tip also enables the formation of physical indicia 946 on paper 150 stacked on the work surface.

The recording unit 101 is thus used for generating and recording a data stream representing handwritten text. A user 154 may utilize a recording unit with multiple sheets of paper 150 by simply placing and/or pressing the sheets of paper against the work surface 103 of the recording unit. As depicted at reference 946 in FIG. 10, the data stream generated by the recording unit can be used to represent the strokes made by the stylus 152 on the paper. For example, the data stream is recorded while the handwritten strokes are received, thereby generating an electronic record of the handwritten record 946.

Data recording is typically accomplished by detecting strokes and "events". For example, an event may be an event having a predetermined meaning. Various events are defined to facilitate recording and/or processing of a data stream.

In particular, the events are sorted according to a principle, either automatically generated by the recording unit 101 or invoked by the user 154, as discussed in the above-referenced application 08/747,735. That is, automatically generated events may occur and be detected and/or recorded without user specific input. When a predetermined event (e.g., a close-up pen event) is detected, a unique data string identifying the event is recorded. The recording unit 101 then records a time and date stamp indicating the time and date of the event occurrence. Recording the time and date stamp associated with each event can facilitate later processing and/or synchronization of stroke and event data (as described below).

Examples of user invocation events include a "page change" event (e.g., for identifying a particular page of a writing medium onto which subsequent strokes will be written) and a "stroke property" event (e.g., for indicating that certain strokes share a common property, and/or for marking previously recorded data as a special type). Also, the user may invoke the event using the soft buttons 106 and/or "boundary strokes" described above. That is, an event such as an activation switch or soft button 106 may be defined to have a particular meaning.

In a preferred embodiment, a pen-down event is defined to indicate that the stylus 152 has contacted the markable surface 150. A pen-up event is defined to indicate that the stylus has left the markable surface. Furthermore, the recording unit 101 is also able to provide additional information relating to a stylus that is not in contact with the markable surface, i.e. whether the stylus is close to the markable surface (a "close up" event) or far from the markable surface (a "far up" event).

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the present invention provides a number of options in design that can be set by the user 154 and/or the manufacturer, retailer, and/or maintenance department.

In accordance with the principles of the present invention, device 100 also includes a logic design implementation 436 (FIG. 4) coupled to processor 420. Furthermore, the recording unit 101 also includes a logic design implementing portion 136 (fig. 6) coupled with the microcontroller 120. These measures facilitate the operation of the device 100 and the synchronization of the information used. Design implementation portions 436 and 136 may include software (e.g., code instructions and/or program statements) and/or hardware (e.g., gates and/or devices), as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. For example, the logic portion may include a finite state machine, Boolean algebra, and/or "fuzzy" logic. Logic designs also include digital logic, machine language, assembly language, and/or high-level languages (e.g., C, FORTRAN and/or LISP) including object-oriented high-level languages (e.g., C + + and/or "JAVA").

Returning now to fig. 1-3, the use and operation of the device 100 is further described. As shown in fig. 1, the device 100 may be used in a typical laptop or notebook computer aspect or configuration. For example, a user 154 may sit with the housing 208 on his or her knees (or a table or desk 2280 as shown in FIGS. 22-31) to facilitate the user's tapping the keyboard 204 and viewing the display 202. Also, as shown in fig. 2, the user can lift the keyboard (connected to the second hinge 212) in a pivoting manner to expose the recording unit 101. Further, with the keyboard still raised, the user can lift the recording unit (connected to the first hinge 210) in a pivoting manner. The user can then raise the recording unit by lowering the keyboard about the pivot as shown in figure 3. Then, in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the user pivots the recording unit down over the keyboard to facilitate use of the recording unit. Preferably, the user 165 is able to select to use the keyboard and/or recording unit with the display 202, as described herein.

Further, after using the recording unit 101, the user 154 can conveniently select to use the keyboard 204. That is, the user can raise the recording unit connected to the first hinge 210 centering on the pivot, raise the keyboard connected to the second hinge 212 opposite to the first hinge centering on the pivot, lower the recording unit centering on the pivot, and finally lower the keyboard centering on the pivot. Such an operation is shown in the sequence of fig. 3, 2 and 1.

The first and second hinges 210 and 212 serve to allow the display 202 and keyboard 204 to fold into the housing 208 and the overall device to be more slim and portable, as shown in FIG. 14 with respect to device 600 (described below). To enhance the user's visual appearance, the display 202 may also optionally include a foldable stand or post (e.g., support arm 2464 shown in FIG. 24) on its back for partial, full or auxiliary support.

The apparatus 100 is preferably constructed such that: the recording unit 101 is mounted on the outside of the second hinge 212 to prevent the recording unit from pressing keys on the keyboard when positioned over the keyboard 204. Furthermore, a side rail or bezel (not shown) around or adjacent to the keyboard can prevent the keys from contacting the recording unit by its supporting action. Alternatively, these side rails or rims can also be formed (e.g., integrally) on the back of the recording unit. Alternatively, retractable legs or struts may be located on the back of the recording unit. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, these facilities function to maintain gaps between the recording unit and the keys on the keyboard.

Fig. 8 shows an alternative connection of a third embodiment of the present invention, namely a flexible-interface portable computing device 300. In particular, the recording unit 101 can be selectively coupled/connected to and/or selectively decoupled/disconnected from the device 300, such as by optical, electrical, wireless, infrared, radio frequency, and/or mechanical ports, connections, or connectors 428 and/or 430 (FIG. 4) and ports, connections, or connectors 128 and/or 130 (FIG. 6).

A hinge 215 pivotally interconnects the display 202 and the keyboard 204 so that the user 154 can swing the display 202 freely to open or close from the keyboard. Alternatively, the first hinge pivotally interconnects the display 202, the recording unit 101 and the housing, and the second hinge pivotally interconnects the keyboard 204 and the housing, corresponding to the hinges 210 and 212 shown in FIGS. 1-3, respectively.

Preferably, the user 154 is able to use the recording unit and the keyboard 204 and display 202 independently or simultaneously, as shown in FIG. 8. For example, user 154 may take device 300 with him to attend a meeting. When participating in a conference, the user can carry only the recording unit 101 and conveniently remove the recording unit from the apparatus 300. Any of the recording units 101 discussed in the embodiments of the present invention are selectively connected to and separated from other components. For such use, information synchronization and updating, such as between processors 420 and 120, will be discussed in the description of FIG. 15 below.

Any display 202 can operate in an appropriate or selected viewing mode for the positioning of the recording unit 101 and/or the keyboard 204 in accordance with the principles of the present invention. For the device 100 (fig. 1-3), the display 202 may operate in, for example, landscape or portrait mode, as now discussed and as shown in fig. 15 below.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in landscape mode, the graphics and/or text of the display 202 are oriented along the shorter of the two coordinate axes of the display 202 shown in FIG. 1. That is, in the landscape mode, the direction of "from top to bottom" is defined as "from top to bottom" indicated by an arrow L of the display 202, equivalent to a front view (eleventionview). Generally, the user 154 prefers to select the landscape mode of the display 202 when using the keyboard 204. In particular, landscape mode is generally applicable to application software such as word processing and spreadsheets.

Conversely, the user 154 may generally prefer to select a portrait mode of the display 202 when using the recording unit 101, wherein the graphics and/or text of the display 202 are oriented along the longer of the two coordinate axes of the display 202 shown in FIG. 1. That is, in portrait mode, the direction "from top to bottom" is defined as "from right to left" (or "from left to right"), generally referred to as "landscape," as indicated by arrow P of display 202. The portrait mode of the display 202 is generally suitable for use when a user writes on plain, generally quality linerboard 150.

The processors 420, 120 with their respective logic design implementations 436, 136 are capable of providing user real-time input (e.g., indicia 946 on paper 150 stacked on the recording unit 101 or content entered using the keyboard 204) to any graphics and/or text desired in a given display mode of the display 202. For example, user 154 may draw on markable surface 150 based on the electronic images appearing on display 202 to perform a desired interactive activity. In addition, any other or separate information (e.g., information stored in memory) may also be provided on the display 202 as assistance, auxiliary or reference information to the user or operator of the recording unit 101 or keyboard 204.

Preferably, the logic design implementation parts 436, 136 are capable of switching between display modes, as described in FIG. 15. In one example, the landscape mode is automatically switched when the keyboard 204 is activated, and the portrait mode is automatically switched when the recording unit 101 is activated and connected to the device 100 (without explicit selection by the user). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, this automatic switching is accomplished by activating a pin. In another example, the user 154 may explicitly select the display mode, such as by operating the button 406 (fig. 4), the button(s) 106 (fig. 5 and 6), and/or a key on the keyboard 204.

FIG. 15 illustrates a logical process for completing the synchronization of information and switching between landscape and portrait modes, in accordance with the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, the logic is part of a loop implemented using logic design implementation 436, preferably in conjunction with logic design implementation 136, as understood by those skilled in the art. For example, a loop begins at step 700. The loop is used to determine and respond to the status of the recording unit 101 or associated with the recording unit 101.

After the loop has started from step 700, query 702 determines whether recording unit 101 is docked. For example, the determination may be made based on the optical, electrical, wireless, infrared, radio frequency, and/or mechanical connection of ports 428, 430, and 128, 130, and possibly along with sensors (not shown) and/or logic design implementing portions 436 and 136. In another example, query 702 determines whether the keyboard 204 is not exposed, as discussed herein.

A negative result of decision query 702 results in switching display 202 to landscape mode at step 740. That is, it has been judged that the recording unit 101 is not used together with the display 202. And concludes that the keyboard 204 is used with the display 202. Thus, as described above, the landscape mode is the most appropriate display mode at step 740.

The query 702 described above applies to the device 100 shown in fig. 1. In another configuration, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a negative result of the determination inquiry 702 may instead be a positive result indicating that the keypad is actually used with the display 202, so the landscape mode is the most appropriate display mode at step 740. This alternative form of query 702 is applicable to device 400 (FIG. 9) described below.

After step 740 in fig. 15, the loop ends at step 760, and there is a possibility to continue the loop, e.g. via step 700 and step 702. For example, this loop may extend throughout the entire efficient operation of a flexibly interfaceable portable computing device formed in accordance with the present invention. Alternatively, the user 154 may select whether the loop is to be activated. Additionally, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the user may forgo the default display mode and/or provide additional or additional display modes.

Returning to query 702, a positive determination results in synchronization of information between processors 420 and 120 and associated memories 422, 424, 429 and 122, 124 at step 710. As described above with reference to fig. 8, the user 154 can conveniently operate the recording unit 101 in a selectable separated state. For example, the user may store the recorded notes 946 in a separate recording unit while attending a presentation. After such a separate use of the recording unit, the user simply reconnects the recording unit to recouple the processors 420 and 120 to facilitate information synchronization between them. That is, any new information input into recording unit 101 as a separate unit can be updated and reconciled with information previously used for processor 420, and vice versa.

In one example, a decoupled recording unit 101 electronically receives new information. Upon re-coupling, the processor 420 reads new information from the recording unit. The time and date stamp facilitates the synchronization process. For example, if information has been entered or modified after the last synchronization, the information is categorized as new information. That is, after each data transfer is successfully completed, the time and date may be written to one data stream on the recording unit. Specifically, after successfully receiving the information, processor 420 may send a receipt notification to processor 120. In another example, the user 154 or other entity may configure the recording unit 101 to transmit only information that was entered since the last data transmission to the processor 420.

In another aspect of the invention, the user 154 can connect the processor 420 coupled or decoupled with the recording unit 101 to a server or network for information synchronization with a database, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Similarly, the processor 120 may be coupled to a server or network to couple the recording unit 101 to the processor 420 for generating information synchronization in accordance with the present invention. The server or network may be accessible by other users, such as peers, clients, supervisors, and/or administrators. Also, other users have different levels of access. Various priority, update, validation, and/or conflict resolution schemes may also be employed.

After synchronization at step 710, query 720 determines whether recording unit 101 is in use. The determination that the logging unit is not in use results in switching the display 202 to landscape mode and inferring that the keyboard 204 is in use with the display 202 at step 740. Otherwise, if query 720 determines that the recording unit is indeed in use, display 202 is switched to portrait mode at step 730. As described above, the portrait mode is the best default display mode when the display 202 is used with a recording unit. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a given user, service person or manufacturer may alter, modify or supplement the illustrated display modes.

After step 730, an application (e.g., a graphics or calendar) for use by the recording unit 101 is initiated at step 750. This is a natural extension of the determination that has been made to reach step 750, i.e., the determination that the recording unit is in use is made at query 720. Finally, as described above, the loop may continue through step 760.

For step 750, the enabled application will be used with the recording unit 101. In addition, the application is not required by the recording unit to be used and separate from the display 202.

As shown in fig. 9, a fourth embodiment of a flexible-interface portable computing device 400 has a hinge 219 for pivotally connecting the display 202 and the recording unit 101. The keyboard 204 is placed in a slot 940 formed in a support structure 942 of the recording unit. In this way, the user 154 can switch from using the logging unit to using the keyboard by pulling the keyboard out of the slot and placing the keyboard on the logging unit or an optional markable surface. The keyboard has a tongue or handle 950 attached to the keyboard for easy or convenient removal of the keyboard from the slot. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, when the keyboard is positioned above the recording unit and/or the markable surface, an optical or infrared connection 428 (fig. 4) may be mounted on the hinge 219 for communication with the optical or infrared connection 128 mounted behind the keyboard. Alternatively, connections 428 and 128 may comprise pinned connections.

To use the keyboard, the user 154 is also able to raise and remove the keyboard 204 from the recording unit 101 and/or the markable surface 150. In addition, the user can push the keyboard into the slot 940 and pivot the display 202 down so that the device 400 becomes oblong, easy to carry, as shown in FIG. 14.

In a fifth embodiment, a flexible-interface portable computing device 500 (FIGS. 10-12) has a recording unit 101 mounted behind a display 202. That is, as shown in FIG. 11, digitizer 105 is packaged within the recording unit such that the recording unit and display 202 share a structural member 944. Also, the working surface 103 faces outward from the rear of the display 202. Thus, as shown in FIG. 10, a workbook 160 of pages 150 is stacked on the face of the recording unit, allowing the user 154 to mark the paper with the stylus 152 while folding or otherwise drawing the display 202 toward the keyboard 204.

Also, as shown in FIG. 12, the user may choose to use both the display 202 and the keyboard 204 by pivoting the display 202 up, wherein the hinge 220 pivotally connects the display 202 and the keyboard. The housing 208 includes a soft leather cover for the tablet 160 during transport of the device 500 in the folded, elongated condition, as described above.

The recording unit 101 and display 202, sharing a structural member 944 (fig. 11), increase the elongated cross-section of the device 500 after folding. However, in another example, the recording unit can be located on the back of the display 202, as in the device 500, and the recording unit can still be selectively and removably attached and coupled to the back of the display 202. The concept of selectable connection and selectable coupling of recording units has been explained above in the description of the apparatus 300 (fig. 8).

In a sixth embodiment, a flexible interface portable computing device 600 (FIGS. 13-14, 16) has first and second regions 601 and 602 shown in FIG. 13. The first region 601 has the display 202 pivotally connected thereto by the first hinge 216. The first region 601 also includes a keyboard 204 mounted thereon or therein. Also, the second area 602 includes the recording unit 101 located thereon or therein. The second hinge 218 is used to connect the first and second regions about a pivot axis.

Referring to fig. 13, the paper 150 is stacked on the recording unit 101. Along with the display 202, the user 154 is able to use the recording unit and the keyboard 204 simultaneously without having to handle, connect/disconnect, attach/detach, and/or couple/decouple the recording unit of the device 600. Thus, at any time or for any purpose, the user can utilize one or both of the recording unit and the keyboard to input information to the processor 420 (FIG. 4) and activate the display 202.

Also, the second area 602 is preferably sized to hold a tablet 160 of approximately 8.5 inches by 11 inches of paper 150. In addition, the first area 601 is approximately the same size as the second area, thus allowing the device 600 to be folded into its case 208 to form the desired oblong box, as shown in FIG. 14.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in any embodiment of the present invention, the recording unit 101 can be selectively coupled, as shown in fig. 8, and/or the keyboard 204 can be selectively coupled, as shown in fig. 9. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 1, in any embodiment of the present invention, the recording unit 101 may be permanently coupled and/or the keyboard 204 may be permanently coupled. Furthermore, in any embodiment of the present invention, any recording unit 101 and/or any keyboard 204 may be pivotally connected. Further, a hinge or similar structure may be mounted, attached, fastened or connected to the housing 208, or merely positioned or disposed therein, thereon or at the back thereof. Alternatively, a given hinge or the like may be shared.

Referring to FIG. 16, the device 600 includes system electrical or logic 1660 that is mostly enclosed in a base, occupying at least a portion of the space beneath the keyboard 204. In contrast, in the seventh embodiment a flexible interface portable computing device 1700 (FIGS. 17-21), the system electrical components 1660 are not housed beneath the keyboard 204. As shown in fig. 17, the first hinge 1710 serves as a pivot for the display 202.

In device 1700, referring to FIG. 17, the overall system thickness is substantially limited to the thickness of keyboard 204 plus the thickness of display 202, plus a selected thickness of housing 208 (e.g., associated plastic or metal cover). The thinner components of the system electrical devices 1660, such as a printed circuit board (e.g., motherboard) and solid state components (e.g., memory), may be packaged at the same layer of the keyboard, but behind the keyboard and below the display, for example. On the other hand, a thicker component 1662 (e.g., a battery, hard file, large connector, and/or stacked PCMCIA socket) can be placed in the back of the display and keyboard. In this position, the thicker component either takes up the total thickness of the keyboard plus display, or is located above a thinner component such as a printed circuit board. By encapsulating all of the thickest devices so that they are co-located with the keyboard and/or display in a layer, the overall thickness of the computer subsystem can be limited to the thickness of the encapsulated combination of keyboard and display, in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Additional explanation regarding these features of the present invention will appear from the description below with reference to fig. 40.

If the computer system shown in fig. 17 is separated from the recording unit 101 for independent use (e.g., at or near the hinge 2218 shown in fig. 22), this will be shown in fig. 18 (on) and fig. 19 (off). In one example, referring to FIG. 18, the computer system has an overall width B1 of about 10 inches and an overall length or depth D1 of about 12-13 inches. These exemplary dimensions substantially match the size of a recording unit corresponding to the paper size, while being able to easily change these dimensions without changing the basic packaging design of the system. In another example, as shown in device 1700' in FIG. 20, the computer system has an overall width B2 of about 12 inches and an overall length or depth D2 of about 10-11 inches. For example, the system can be widened to accommodate the size of a notebook computer keyboard and a wider than normal display (e.g., 16: 9 format for high definition television) while reducing the depth of the machine to fit more properly into a briefcase or computer case. Fig. 21 illustrates such a computing device in a closed state.

In the devices 1700 and 1700' shown in fig. 17-21, the display 202 may be opened as a clamshell is opened whenever the user 154 needs to access computer information. In contrast, in the flexible-interface portable computing device 1800 (FIG. 22) of the eighth embodiment, the display 202 has the effect of paging relative to the orientation of the display 202 in the devices 1700 and 1700', such that its active display surface is visible when the system is folded flat, as shown in FIG. 22.

By exposing the display 202 and providing touch screen sensors thereon (prior art), the device 1800 allows the user 154 to access computer functions whenever such a briefcase structure is opened, as shown in FIG. 22. Types of touch screens include capacitive and resistive cover layers. In addition, surface acoustic waves, infrared beams, strain gauges, and other techniques may also be employed. These and other designs can be applied to various embodiments of the present invention. Referring to fig. 22, since the display is visible as soon as the briefcase is opened, the user can conveniently manipulate and operate the computer or processor 420 using the touch screen without having to additionally pivot and/or raise the display.

Also, in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the user 154 is able to operate the computer or processor 420 using the stylus 152 and recording unit 101 as is known with a pointer in the form of a "tablet".

As described above for devices 1700 and 1700', the system electrical components are packaged underneath the keyboard 204 in device 1800 (fig. 23). A portion of the thinner components are encapsulated at the rear of the keyboard and below the display 202, while preferably all of the thicker components are encapsulated at the rear of the display and keyboard.

Referring to fig. 23, the display 202 may be raised to be proximate to the keyboard 204. In one example, the display can be secured to the support arm 2464, as shown in fig. 24. One end of the support arm is hinged to the base 2466 at hinge 2468 and the other end is hinged to the back of the display at hinge 2470. The position of the hinge 2470 is preferably selected so that the hinge 2470 does not interfere with the keyboard when the system is closed. In this configuration, the bottom edge of the display is placed in a track extending along one side of the keyboard, wherein the track may have a detent position that restrains the bottom of the display to prevent the display from slipping. The combination of the support arm in contact with the bottom surface of the display and the base provides a rigid and stable support for the display, ideally to prevent movement or shaking of the display when the touch screen is in use. By positioning the hinges 2468 and 2470, the display can be placed at various viewing angles by simply sliding the bottom edge of the display between the rear edge of the keyboard and the beginning edge of the thicker component enclosure. The range of display positions and angles are shown in fig. 23-25. Other viewing positions, such as configurations where the display lies flat without completely covering the keyboard, may also be achieved in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

In the device 1800, the support arm 2464 is preferably provided with space below the display 202 and in the direction of the rear of the device (FIG. 24). In one example, the thinner system components are positioned behind the keyboard 204 in such a way that: the support arm is mounted between the system component and the back of the display. That is, in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the support arms and the thinner system components are co-located on a layer of placement determined by the thickness of the keyboard.

Referring to fig. 24, in the area near the hinge 2468, the support arm 2464 and the taller or thicker system components are preferably co-located in a layer defined by the combined thickness of the display 202 and the keyboard 204. However, it should be noted that the thickness of the support arm itself may be non-uniform. In one example, the support arm is thinner in the middle and thicker at the edges. In addition, the layout of the system components can be accomplished with variations in the thickness of the support arm, with the thinnest component being positioned under or without components positioned under the thicker portion of the support arm, and the thicker component being positioned under the thinner portion of the support arm, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. If it is not desired that the support arms "share" the thickness for the system components, the support arms can be positioned along the left and right sides of the display periphery.

In another example, the display 202 may be mounted vertically, as shown for the device 1800' in FIGS. 26-28. On the one hand, the apparatus 1800' may provide less space for taller system components if it is desired to maintain the overall system dimensions consistent with those of the apparatus 1800 (shown in fig. 22-25). However, if electronic space is sufficiently available, the device 1800' allows for the use of a larger display 202. For example, the diagonal length of the landscape display shown in fig. 22-25 is about 10.4 inches, while the diagonal length of the portrait display shown in fig. 26-28 is about 11.3 inches.

In another example, as described for the device 1800' shown in FIGS. 29-31, if a larger portrait display is desired, the adjustment may be made by using the display 202 to be pushed to one side. For example, the device 1800 "shown in FIGS. 29-31 may have a portrait display with a diagonal length of 12.1 inches. Referring to fig. 30-31, a portion of a thicker electrical device may be located in an area behind the keypad 204 and below the right side of the display in accordance with the principles of the present invention. If it is possible to package all of the system components below a display having an acceptable overall system thickness, then the display 202 may be made to cover substantially the entire surface of its associated panel, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

In a ninth embodiment, a flexible interface portable computing device 1900 (FIGS. 32-39) may be positioned just behind the rear edge of the display 202 using the hinge 3268 for the support arm 2464, as shown in FIGS. 32-34. Thus, the display can be moved to different positions, as shown in FIGS. 32 and 36-38. In one example, the display is raised such that the lower edge of the display no longer contacts the tracks along the sides of the keyboard 204. This provides greater flexibility for the user 154 to ergonomically position the display. Referring to fig. 32, hinges 3268 and 3270 on the support arm allow a user to shift the viewing angle of the display and the average distance from the display (e.g., the distance measured from the user's eye to the display) within a certain range in accordance with the principles of the present invention. In addition, the above adjustments may be made differently from individual to individual, such as when the display is positioned in a normal or general viewing area. To ensure that the display remains fixed at any selected position and angle, it is desirable to provide sufficient frictional and/or resilient counterbalancing forces at hinge 3268 and/or hinge 3270.

Referring to fig. 33-34, hinge 3270 is positioned in a common area with a portion of keyboard 204. This is done, in accordance with the principles of the present invention, without causing interference in actual operation, because the small pivot elements that make up hinge 3270 are located, for example, in the last row of the keyboard where there are no keys, as shown in fig. 33 and 38. This keyboard layout allows hinge 3270 to be close to the optimal position, such as near the middle of display 202, as shown in fig. 32.

Referring to fig. 32, 34, and 39, the support arm 2464 is preferably located below the display 202, e.g., extending in a common layer with the keyboard 204. To minimize the impact on the electronic package, in one example, the support arms are designed to be mostly thin and have thicker edges to provide sufficient stiffness and strength, as shown in fig. 39. The thicker edge of the support arm is preferably secured in a recess in the area of the electrical device behind the keyboard as shown in fig. 38-29.

For purposes of illustration, the overall thickness of the packaged device according to the present invention is discussed below. The concept of the package (enfold) can be understood by combining fig. 14 with other figures. In one example, the package thickness of an apparatus 100 as shown in FIGS. 1-3 is approximately in the range of 25 to 35 millimeters plus the additional thickness of the housing 208 (e.g., approximately 1 to 3 millimeters on a side). In another example, a device 1900 such as shown in FIGS. 32-39 may be packaged to a thickness approximately in the range of 20 to 23 millimeters plus the additional thickness of the housing 208.

As shown in fig. 40, relatively larger and/or thicker (e.g., logical) components 1662, 1664 may be positioned outside of the keyboard 204 (e.g., at the rear of the keyboard 204). In one example, no significant system elements are packaged under the keyboard. As can be appreciated from FIG. 40, for example, the thickness of the system 2000 is substantially determined by the thickness of the keyboard after packaging (typically about 5-10mm) plus the thickness of the display 202 (typically in the approximate range of 5-10 mm). Certain relatively thin logic or "system" components 1664 may be packaged beneath the display, e.g., in areas not occupied by the keyboard, since the keyboard is smaller than the display, as is typically measured from front to back, as shown in FIG. 40. In addition, thicker or "higher" logic or "system" components 1662 (e.g., batteries, hard files, stacked PCMCIA slots, I/O connectors, processors, heat sinks, and/or fans) are preferably packaged around the periphery of the display and keyboard where these components freely (e.g., either alone or in combination) occupy the overall thickness of the keyboard and display, in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

Referring to fig. 40, in accordance with the principles of the present invention, display 202 may be mounted in a variety of ways without substantially departing from this example or basic packaging design or scheme. In one example, as shown for devices 1700 and 1700' (fig. 17-21), the display can be mounted at or near "higher element" 1662 (fig. 40) with an active surface of the display 202 such as one hinge 1710 (fig. 17-21) and pointing or facing toward the keyboard 204. In another example, as shown in devices 1800, 1800', and 1800 "(fig. 22-31), a non-active surface (e.g., a back surface) of the display can face the keyboard, and as shown in fig. 24, the display is mounted to a support arm 2464 by hinges 2468 and 2470. For purposes of illustration, fig. 24 shows the support arm hinge 2468 located near the outermost end of the machine, and the support arm hinge 2470 generally along the back surface of the display. In another example, as shown in device 1900 (FIGS. 32-39), hinge 3268 of the support arm is positioned in front of the perimeter of the display and hinge 3270 is positioned near a middle position of the rear of the display, in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

In another aspect of the invention, the user 154 is able to operate a stylus 152 as a pointing device by providing a convenient mechanism or way of switching modes. For example, a particular mode for the stylus may have its position sent to the processor 120, 420 in real time (rather than being stored for later transmission). Also, in this mode, the stylus may be prevented from making marks on the paper 150, but rather the stylus is used to position a cursor on the display 202, in accordance with the principles of the present invention. One way to accomplish this is to provide a slide switch or button 3554 (FIG. 35) in the stylus as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. When the user presses this switch, the switch may modify a signal sent from the pen to the recording unit 101 so that the stroke may be treated as a cursor positioning (e.g., a "mouse") command. In addition, reactivation of the switch or button prevents marking on the paper by retracting the ink tip or extending the non-ink tip. Thus, the user can easily transition from "inking mode" to "cursor or graphical input pad mode" simply by activating a button or switch and then continuing to move the stylus over the upper surface of the paper. In one example, movement of the stylus in this mode may directly control the position of the cursor (in an "absolute" or "relative" manner), preferably without leaving a visual record of the stylus movement on the marking surface. Such dual mode pens are well known in the art of tablets and are sometimes designed as pens with two active ends. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, such a pen may be inverted or inverted and the second active end used to send a different signal to the recording unit to enable the computer to treat the incoming data stream differently. In a typical case, the second end of the pen may be used as an electronic "eraser" so that whenever the pen is inverted by the user, a (e.g. graphical) program may translate the strokes into "electronic eraser strokes" instead of "electronic ink strokes". Another method of use of such a dual stylus may allow a user to flip the pen to switch from an actual inking mode to an un-inked cursor positioning mode. Regardless of how the mode transition is accomplished, the computer "select" task that is typically performed by, for example, clicking a mouse (left) button is replaced by, for example, touching the pen sufficiently to activate the "pen down" function or by clicking a separate button on the pen.

In another aspect of the invention, the stylus 152 is configured to include a small battery and other electronic functions may be added, such as a wireless microphone 3556 (FIG. 35). In accordance with the principles of the present invention, a wireless microphone function is provided by attaching a microphone to the non-inked end of the stylus, and a wireless transmitter in the stylus and a suitable receiver in the system. Such wireless transmission connections may be analog or digital and may use, for example, infrared light, radio frequency transmission, or near field capacitance or inductive coupling. Such wireless microphones may satisfy an important need because many applications of speech recognition require the use of a "close-talking" microphone to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of captured speech relative to background noise. Since previous portable PC devices have the microphone placed directly on the device body (i.e., located relatively far from the user's mouth), they cannot be used to provide voice functions with the highest performance. In one embodiment, the present invention may facilitate placing a microphone in a system component, such as a stylus that is often held in the hand of a user and includes a battery and simple electrical components. It is very natural for a user to move the stylus close to his or her mouth and speak into one end of the stylus. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, the microphone signal is then transmitted (e.g., via an analog IR signal) to the system unit where voice recognition and/or recording functions are performed. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the microphone and wireless transmission circuitry may be activated, for example, by a button on the pen (such as button 3554 shown in fig. 35).

With respect to the system electrical components, different kinds of computer operating programs are packaged into suitable embodiments of the present invention. In one example, processor 420 together with a hard drive and other memory may comprise a complete "personal computer". In an alternative embodiment, the system may comprise a "network computer" or a WINDOWS^*CE machines, which typically do not require a hard drive. Features such as dedicated I/O connectors, docking connectors, PCMCIA slots, and/or memory extensions may or may not be included depending on, for example, market and/or application goals. In addition, the type of display 202 may be variable (e.g., TFT-LCD and/or DSTN-LCD), as may the size, layout, and/or key movement of the keyboard 204.

The invention has a number of alternative embodiments. Markable surface 150 may have any form and/or include any constituent material. Further, the stylus 152 may be operated by a plurality of signals translated by the recording unit 101 and/or the device 100 in a plurality of ways. In one example, the stylus 152 has a physical (e.g., cable) connection with the recording unit 101 and/or the device 100.

The flow diagrams depicted herein are just examples. These flowcharts or steps (or operations) may be modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the steps may be performed in a differing order, or steps may be added, deleted or modified. All such modifications are considered a part of this invention.

Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that various modifications, additions, substitutions and the like can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention and these are therefore considered to be within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims (44)

1. A flexible-interface portable computing device comprising:

a first processor;

a display coupled to said first processor and a keyboard adapted to be coupled to said first processor, wherein said display and said keyboard provide a first user interface for interfacing with said processor;

a recording unit including a work surface thereon, and said recording unit including a second processor;

the working surface may overlap a removable markable surface;

a stylus for allowing a user to mark on said work surface when said work surface overlaps said markable surface, said stylus providing a stroke signal and a stroke mark, said stroke signal conveying a piece of information to said recording unit and said stroke mark conveying said piece of information to said markable surface; and

the recording unit adapted to be coupled to the processor, wherein the recording unit, the markable surface and the stylus provide a second user interface with the first processor interface.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the coupling of the recording unit to the processor is selective.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the second user interface further comprises the display.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a logic design implementation coupled to the first processor, wherein the logic design implementation allows a user to switch a viewing mode of the display.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the viewing modes include a portrait mode and a landscape mode.

6. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a logic design implementation coupled to the second processor, wherein the logic design implementation is to switch a viewing mode of the display.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the logic design implementing portion switches the viewing mode based on one or more states of the keyboard and the recording unit.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the observation mode includes a portrait mode and a landscape mode, wherein the logic design implementation portion switches to the portrait mode when the recording unit is coupled with the first processor and in the use state, and switches to the landscape mode when the keyboard is in the use state.

9. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein said recording unit includes a second display.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the second user interface further comprises the display, the device further comprising:

a logic design implementation portion coupled to the processor, wherein the logic design implementation portion is configured to switch the viewing mode of the display based on one or more states of the keyboard and the recording unit, wherein the viewing mode includes a portrait mode and a landscape mode, the logic design implementation portion switching to the portrait mode when the recording unit is in a use state, and the logic design implementation portion switching to the landscape mode when the keyboard is in a use state.

11. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second processors are coupled to first and second logic design implementing portions, respectively, for synchronizing information between the first and second processors.

12. A device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the display comprises a touch screen and the touch screen provides a third user interface for interfacing with the first processor.

13. A device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the stylus provides selectable first and second modes of operation, wherein the first mode of operation is for providing the stroke signal and the stroke mark, and the second mode of operation is for providing a stroke signal for pointing to and/or drawing on a display.

14. A device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that there is a wireless connection between the stylus and the device.

15. A device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the stylus includes a microphone thereon, and wherein the microphone provides a third user interface for interfacing with the processor.

16. A flexible-interface portable computing device comprising:

a first processor;

a display coupled to said first processor and a keyboard adapted to be coupled to said first processor, wherein said display and said keyboard provide a first user interface to said first processor;

a recording unit including a work surface thereon;

the working surface may overlap a removable markable surface;

a stylus for allowing a user to mark on said work surface when said work surface overlaps said markable surface, said stylus providing a stroke signal and a stroke mark, said stroke signal conveying a piece of information to said recording unit and said stroke mark conveying said piece of information to said markable surface;

a recording unit adapted to be coupled to the first processor, wherein the recording unit, the markable surface and the stylus provide a second user interface with the first processor interface; and

the recording unit having a second processor, wherein the first and second processors are coupled to first and second logic design implementing portions, respectively, for synchronizing information between the first and second processors.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the second user interface further comprises the display.

18. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the recording unit is selectively coupled to the first processor, and wherein the first and second logic design implementing portions are to perform a synchronization process of the information when the recording unit is coupled to the first processor.

19. The device of claim 16, wherein said display comprises a touch screen, and wherein said touch screen provides a third user interface for interfacing with said first processor.

20. A device as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that the stylus provides selectable first and second modes of operation, wherein the first mode of operation is for providing the stroke signal and the stroke mark, and the second mode of operation is for providing a stroke signal for pointing to and/or drawing on a display.

21. The device of claim 16, wherein there is a wireless connection between the stylus and the device.

22. The device of claim 16, wherein said stylus includes a microphone thereon, and wherein said microphone provides a user interface with at least one of said first processor and said second processor.

23. A flexible-interface portable computing device comprising:

a case;

a display connectable to said housing, said display coupled to said first processor;

a keyboard connectable to said housing, said keyboard adapted to couple to said first processor, wherein said display and said keyboard provide a first user interface with said first processor interface;

a recording unit connectable to said housing and adapted to be coupled to said first processor, said recording unit including a work surface thereon, and said recording unit including a second processor, said work surface being overlappable by a removable markable surface;

a stylus for allowing a user to mark on said work surface when said work surface overlaps said markable surface, said stylus providing a stroke signal and a stroke mark, said stroke signal conveying a piece of information to said recording unit and said stroke mark conveying said piece of information to said markable surface, wherein said recording unit, said markable surface and said stylus provide a second user interface with said processor interface; and

wherein said display, said keyboard and said recording unit are enclosed in said housing to form an elongated cross-section.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the second user interface further comprises the display.

25. The device of claim 23, wherein the recording unit is coupled to the processor using one or more of optical, electronic, wireless, infrared, radio frequency, and mechanical connections.

26. The device of claim 23, wherein the keyboard is coupled to the first processor using one or more of optical, electronic, wireless, infrared, radio frequency, and mechanical connections.

27. The apparatus of claim 23 wherein said display is pivotally connected to said housing by a hinge.

28. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said keyboard is pivotally connected to said housing by a hinge.

29. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said registration unit is pivotally connected to said housing by a hinge.

30. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said housing includes one or more pockets.

31. The apparatus of claim 23 wherein a portion of said housing is constructed of aluminum.

32. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the outer surface of the housing is made of leather.

33. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the outer surface of the housing is made of a leather-like material.

34. The device of claim 23, wherein said display comprises a touch screen, and wherein said touch screen provides a third user interface for interfacing with said first processor.

35. A device as claimed in claim 23, characterized in that the stylus provides selectable first and second modes of operation, wherein the first mode of operation is for providing the stroke signal and the stroke mark, and the second mode of operation is for providing a stroke signal for pointing to and/or drawing on a display.

36. The device of claim 23, wherein there is a wireless connection between the stylus and the device.

37. The device of claim 23 wherein said stylus includes a microphone thereon, and wherein said microphone provides a third user interface with said first processor.

38. A method of enhancing interface flexibility of a portable computing device having a display connectable to a case and a keyboard connectable to said case, said display coupled to a first processor and said keyboard adapted to be coupled to said first processor, wherein said display and said keyboard provide a first user interface for interfacing with said first processor, said method comprising:

connecting a recording unit having a second processor to the housing, the recording unit adapted to couple to the first processor, the recording unit including a work surface thereon, the work surface being overlappable by a removable markable surface; and

marking said markable surface with a stylus while said work surface is overlapping said markable surface, said stylus providing a stroke signal and a stroke mark, said stroke signal conveying a piece of information to said recording unit, and said stroke mark conveying said piece of information to said markable surface, wherein said recording unit, said markable surface and said stylus provide a second user interface with said first processor interface.

39. The method of claim 38, further comprising the step of coupling the display, the keyboard, and the recording unit with the housing such that the display, the keyboard, and the recording unit can be enclosed in the housing.

40. The method of claim 38, wherein at least one of the keyboard and the recording unit is removably attached to the housing.

41. The method of claim 38, wherein said display comprises a touch screen, and wherein said touch screen provides a third user interface for interfacing with said first processor.

42. A method as recited in claim 38, wherein said stylus provides selectable first and second modes of operation, wherein said first mode of operation is for providing said stroke signal and said stroke indicia and said second mode of exposure is for providing a stroke signal for pointing to and/or drawing on a display.

43. The method of claim 38, wherein there is a wireless connection between the stylus and the device.

44. The method of claim 38, wherein said stylus includes a microphone thereon, and wherein said microphone provides a third user interface with said first processor.