HK1160341B - Portable electronic device housing with outer glass surfaces - Google Patents

Description

Portable electronic device housing with exterior glass surface

When a prototype of Apple's iPhone 4 was stolen (to our knowledge) from an engineer of Apple at 25.3.2010, the invention to be disclosed and claimed in this application was previously and unapproved to the public. Prior to this theft to the knowledge of my parties, the U.S. priority application on which this application is based has not been filed.

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application No.61/325,801 entitled "using textiles for telecommunications DEVICES AND METHODS for" on 19.4.2010, which is incorporated herein by reference.

This application is also claimed to have priority over U.S. provisional application No.61/300,780 entitled "handover procedure DEVICES," filed 2/2010, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Background

Portable electronic devices may be constructed in a variety of different ways. For example, a "bucket" type method may be used in which a first housing part acts as a bucket into which electronic equipment components are placed and a second housing part acts as a lid for the bucket. This arrangement protects the electronic device component between the first and second housing parts. As a variation of this arrangement, some or all of the components of the electronic device may be assembled into the lid of the bucket, which may then be screwed into the bucket to close the device.

Other known portable electronic devices may be constructed by inserting components into a hollow housing element. For example, the electronic device may be constructed using a tubular structure (e.g., a flattened tube or a hollow rectangular tube) into which the electronic device components can be inserted. Electronic equipment components may be inserted into the tubular structure from one or both ends and connected within the structure. For example, one or more circuits inserted from opposite ends of a tubular structure may be connected through an opening in the structure that serves as a window. The structure may be sealed at one or both ends to ensure that the components remain fixed in the tubular structure and to provide an interface component (e.g., connector, button or port) for the device.

Unfortunately, however, as portable electronic devices continue to be made smaller, thinner, and/or more powerful, there is a continuing need to provide improved techniques and structures for providing a housing for a portable electronic device.

Disclosure of Invention

Here, the embodiments are described in the context of an electronic device housing. The housing may employ at least one external member (e.g., a cover). The outer member may be an outer glass member. For example, the housing may include one or both of a front exterior glass member as the housing front surface and a back exterior glass member as the housing back surface. The electronic device may be portable and, in some cases, hand-held.

In one embodiment, the electronic device may have one or more external members (e.g., exposed major surfaces) formed of glass, such as a front or back surface. The one or more glass surfaces may be part of an external component assembly that can be secured to other portions of the electronic device housing.

In other embodiments, apparatuses, systems, and methods are described for securely coupling a cover portion (cover portion) of an electronic device to a bottom portion (e.g., a housing portion) of the electronic device. The cover portion may generally include a frame (e.g., interface member) into which an external member (e.g., a glass member) has been inserted. A coupling member (e.g., arm, tab) may be coupled (e.g., insert molded) into the cover portion and may be arranged to sufficiently engage with the housing portion to effectively retain the cover portion with the housing portion. The coupling member may be used to secure the cover portion to the housing. Typically, the receptacle (receptacle) of the housing portion is configured to substantially capture, mate with, or otherwise engage the coupling member of the lid portion.

The present invention relates to an apparatus, system or method relating to assembling electronic devices, i.e. portable or handheld electronic devices.

The present invention may be embodied in many forms, including but not limited to, as a method, system, device, or apparatus. Some embodiments of the invention are discussed below.

As an electronic device housing, one embodiment may, for example, include at least: a front glass cover positioned and secured to provide a front surface for the electronic device housing; and a rear glass cover positioned and secured to provide a rear surface for the electronic device housing.

As an electronic device housing, another embodiment may, for example, include at least: an electronic device includes an outer peripheral member defining a side surface for an electronic device case, and a cover assembly positioned and secured relative to the outer peripheral member. The cover assembly may include at least a glass member that provides an exposed exterior surface for the electronic device case.

As an assembly, an embodiment may, for example, comprise at least a cover portion comprising at least one coupling projecting therefrom. This embodiment may also include a housing portion including at least one receptacle configured to receive the at least one coupling. The at least one receptacle may be at least partially defined on a first side of the housing portion and may be configured to capture the at least one coupling. The cover portion may engage the second side of the housing portion when the at least one coupling is captured in the at least one receptacle. This embodiment may further comprise at least one electronic component that may be placed in the interior volume defined at least by the housing portion.

As an electronic device housing, one embodiment may, for example, include at least: an outer periphery member defining a side surface for the electronic device housing, and an inner structure secured to an inner surface of the outer periphery member. The internal structure may be offset from the front and back planar boundaries of the outer periphery member. The embodiment may further include a front cover assembly positioned and secured adjacent to the front planar boundary of the outer peripheral member to provide a front surface of the electronic device housing. Also, the embodiment may further include means for securely mounting the front cover assembly to the inner structure or the outer peripheral member.

As an electronic device housing, another embodiment may, for example, comprise at least: an electronic device housing includes an outer peripheral member defining a side surface for the electronic device housing, and an inner structure secured to an inner surface of the outer peripheral member. The internal structure may be offset from the front and back planar boundaries of the outer periphery member. This embodiment may further include a coupling member, and a front cover assembly positioned and secured adjacent to a front planar boundary of the outer peripheral member using at least the coupling member, thereby providing a front surface of the electronic device case.

Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the principles of the invention.

Drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more exemplary embodiments and, together with the description of exemplary embodiments, serve to explain principles and implementations related to the description.

FIGS. 1A-1D are diagrams of electronic device structures in accordance with one embodiment.

Fig. 2A-2C are diagrams of electronic device structures according to another embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of an exemplary process of assembling an electronic device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a flow chart of a housing component alignment process in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an alignment configuration according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a housing component alignment process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 7A-7D illustrate assembly of the assembly portions according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8A is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment.

Fig. 8B is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing in accordance with another embodiment.

Fig. 8C is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing according to another embodiment.

Fig. 8D is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing in accordance with yet another embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional assembly view of the electronic device housing shown in FIG. 9A, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional assembly view of the electronic device housing shown in FIG. 11A, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing according to one embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart of an exterior component assembly process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 14 is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing.

Fig. 15A is a schematic perspective illustration of a housing with a cover assembled according to one embodiment.

Fig. 15B is a diagrammatic sectional side view illustration of the cover assembled to the housing shown in fig. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram of assembling an electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 17 is an assembly including side screws arranged to couple a cover to a housing according to one embodiment.

Fig. 18 is a diagrammatic, cross-sectional illustration of a coupling utilizing a side screw and slotted tab (slotted tab) in accordance with an embodiment.

Fig. 19 is a diagrammatic sectional illustration of an assembly including a lobster snap and an intermediate plate that cooperate to couple the cover frame to the housing in accordance with one embodiment.

Fig. 20 is a diagrammatic illustration of a housing with an intermediate plate coupled thereto in accordance with an embodiment.

Fig. 21 is a diagrammatic representation of a cover member having insert molded (insert molded) tabs and a housing having a shelf configured to receive the tabs in accordance with one embodiment.

Fig. 22 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of creating a device including a cover member having insert molded tabs, and a housing having a cradle configured to receive the tabs, according to one embodiment.

Figures 23A-23C illustrate perspective views of a rear cover assembly 2300, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 24 illustrates an assembly view of a glass member according to one embodiment.

Detailed Description

Embodiments are described herein in the context of an electronic device housing. The housing may use an external member. The external member may be aligned, protected and/or secured relative to other portions of the electronic device housing. Electronic devices may be portable and, in some cases, handheld.

According to one aspect, abutting surfaces of an electronic device housing may be mounted or arranged such that the abutting surfaces are flush with a high degree of accuracy. The edges of portable electronic devices are susceptible to impact forces, such as when dropped. According to another aspect, protective edges may be provided at the edges of the electronics housing to dissipate impact forces to reduce damage to the electronics housing. According to yet another embodiment, the electronic device housing may have one or more exposed major surfaces (e.g., front or back surfaces) formed of glass. The one or more glass surfaces may be protected by the protective edge and/or may be aligned such that an upper surface of the glass surface and the protective edge are substantially flush.

According to another aspect, apparatuses, systems, and methods are described for securely coupling a cover portion of an electronic device to a bottom portion (e.g., a housing portion) of the electronic device. The cover portion may generally include a frame (e.g., an interface member) into which an external member (e.g., a glass member) has been inserted. The coupling member (e.g., arm, tab) may be coupled (e.g., insert molded) into the cover portion and may be arranged to sufficiently engage with the housing portion to effectively retain the cover portion with the housing portion. The coupling member may be used to secure the cover portion to the housing. Typically, the receptacle of the housing portion is configured to substantially capture, mate or otherwise engage the coupling member of the cover portion.

According to another aspect, the cover assembly may be configured to support and protect the outer glass member. The cover assembly may form a portion of a housing of the electronic device. The cover assembly may further include various glass lenses, coupling members, structural supports.

According to yet another aspect, the optical lens may be formed of shaped optical cement (optical adhesive). The optical lens may be used, for example, as a lens of a camera flash of a portable electronic device. The optical lens may be disposed between the camera flash and the cover member. The mold may be used to form a lens from optical cement.

The following detailed description is exemplary only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference indicators will be used throughout the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts. It should be appreciated that the drawings are not generally drawn to scale and that at least some features of the drawings have been enlarged for easier illustration.

In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made in order to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with implementation-and business-related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. And it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

According to one aspect, a housing of an electronic device may include an outer peripheral member that forms a side of the electronic device. The outer peripheral member may define a volume in which electronic device components may be placed. To obtain the components in the device, a front cover and a back cover may be placed on the front and back surfaces of the outer periphery member.

The external peripheral member may provide a variety of attributes to the electronic device including, for example, structural, functional, decorative attributes or a combination of these. The outer peripheral member may for example form at least part of the right, left, top and bottom faces of the device. In this way, the outer peripheral member may surround a component placed in the apparatus (e.g., a component inserted into the volume defined by the outer peripheral member) from back to front, from front to back, or from intermediate to back and front. The outer peripheral member may be formed from one or more elements. These elements may be similar or different, depending on the size or shape of the device, as well as functional or structural considerations (e.g., the outer peripheral member acts as an antenna for tuning electromagnetic waves). If several elements are combined to form the outer periphery member, the elements may be connected in any suitable manner to form a single unit having suitable structural, functional or decorative properties. In some cases, the outer periphery member may be formed from several elements that are used as a single integral unit (e.g., a unitary part). For example, these elements may be integrally formed together.

In some embodiments, the outer peripheral member may define a webbing (band) forming an enclosed volume having front and rear open areas. The sidebands may define a ring-like structure that surrounds some or all of the components of the electronic device. The electronic device may comprise a variety of components, such as housing elements, electronic elements, structural members or a combination of these. In some cases, one or more structural members (e.g., an intermediate plate) may be connected to the outer peripheral member in the volume enclosed by the outer peripheral member to receive and support components or to enhance the structural properties of the outer peripheral member.

In some embodiments, the electronic device may include a front and/or rear cover assembly for enclosing a volume defined by the outer peripheral member. The cover assembly may be positioned relative to the open area of the outer peripheral member such that the front and rear cover assemblies are positioned adjacent the front and rear surfaces of the outer peripheral member, respectively. The cover assembly may include any suitable components including, for example, housing portions, access points, electronic components, structural members, aesthetic members, or combinations of these. In some cases, the cover assembly may include one or more components for securing or retaining electronic device components in the volume enclosed by the outer periphery member.

The outer peripheral member, front and back cover assemblies may provide some or all of the exterior surfaces of the device, thereby defining the peripheral form or look and feel of the electronic device. In particular, the front cover may substantially form a front surface of the device, the rear cover may substantially form a rear surface of the device, and the external peripheral members may substantially form upper, lower, left and right surfaces of the device. It will be appreciated that some or all of the cover assembly may alternatively or additionally provide a portion of the upper, lower, left or right surfaces of the device and some or all of the external peripheral members may provide a portion of the front or rear surfaces of the device.

Because the cover assembly may define the exposed surface of the electronic device, one or both of the cover assemblies may include components, coatings, or finishes for enhancing the functional, decorative, and/or aesthetic characteristics of the assembly. For example, one or both of the cover assemblies may include a transparent or translucent window through which a user can access the input/output components. For example, one output component that may be used is a display device that may present information to a user through the cover assembly. As another example, one input component that may be used is a touch sensor (e.g., a touch sensor) that may receive user input from a user through the cover assembly. As another example, one or both of the cover assemblies may include decorative features for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the device. In some embodiments, the decorative component may make the cover assembly substantially opaque in some areas (e.g., on the rear cover assembly), but transparent or translucent in other areas (e.g., on the front cover assembly through which content generated by the display device is provided). In other words, the cover assembly may include a transparent or translucent window disposed on a portion of the cover assembly. The cover assembly may also support other functional components such as camera openings, lenses, lights, sensors, and the like.

The internal components of the electronic device may be assembled using any suitable method. In some embodiments, the inner component may define one or more layers disposed in the outer peripheral member. For example, the layer may be initially located near the center of the volume defined by the outer peripheral member, and then added toward one or both of the front and back surfaces of the device. Each layer added to the device may be coupled or mounted to a layer previously inserted and attached to the device.

To further retain the component layer, the electronic device may include an internal platform that provides a structural element for the external peripheral member, and the component layer may be coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the internal platform may provide a connection point for different layers placed in the electronic device. The inner platform may be positioned within the height of the outer peripheral member such that it is substantially near the middle of the outer peripheral member (e.g., at half the height of the outer peripheral member), thereby defining a middle plate. In particular, the intermediate plate may form a substantially H-shaped cross-section with the outer peripheral member, thereby providing enhanced structural properties. Electronic device components or layers may be mounted to both the front and back surfaces of the mid-plane (e.g., the mid-plane divides the interior volume of the outer periphery member into two distinct regions or chambers). The intermediate plate may be secured to the outer periphery member (e.g., using welding), or formed or integrally manufactured with the outer periphery member. Although referred to as a plate or platform, it should be understood that the inner platform may take a variety of non-planar forms, including various configurations such as steps, offsets, curved surfaces, or combinations thereof.

FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view of an example electronic device structure along a device width direction, according to one embodiment. FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional exploded view of an example electronic device along a length of the device, according to one embodiment. FIG. 1C is a top view of an example electronic device, according to one embodiment. FIG. 1D is a bottom view of an example electronic device, according to one embodiment. Electronic device 100 may comprise any suitable type of electronic device having a display including, for example, media players, mobile phones, personal email or messaging devices, pocket-sized personal computers, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), laptops, desktops, voice recorders, video recorders, cameras, radios, medical devices, and devices combining some or all of these functionalities.

Electronic device 100 may have any suitable shape, including, for example, a shape defined by front surface 110, back surface 112, left surface 114, right surface 116, upper surface 118, and lower surface 119 (not shown in cross-section). Each surface may be substantially flat, curved, or a combination of these. The surface may include one or more grooves (chamfer), detents (detent), openings, chamfers (dip), extensions, or other features that modify the surface smoothness.

The electronic device 100 may be constructed using any suitable structure, including, for example, using the outer peripheral member 120. The outer peripheral member 120 may surround or encircle a portion or all of the electronic device such that the outer peripheral member defines an interior volume 122 in which electronic device components may be placed. For example, the outer peripheral member 120 may surround the device such that the outer surface of the outer peripheral member 120 defines the left surface 114, the right surface 116, and the upper surface 118 and the lower surface 119 of the device. To provide the user with the desired functionality, the electronic device may include several components placed in the device, for example in volume 122.

The outer peripheral member may have a particular height (e.g., height h of the device) such that the outer peripheral member encloses a volume 122 in which electronic device components may be mounted. The thickness (e.g., thickness t of the outer peripheral member), length (e.g., device length l), height (e.g., device height h), and cross-section of the outer peripheral member may be selected based on any suitable criteria, including, for example, based on structural requirements (e.g., stiffness, or resistance to bending, pressure, tension, or torsion in a particular direction). In some embodiments, the external peripheral member may serve as a structural member to which other electronic device components may be mounted. The outer peripheral member may include one or more recesses, notches, grooves, protrusions or openings for supporting components or providing structural support for the device. In some embodiments, the opening may be used to provide access to one or more internal components contained within the outer peripheral member.

The outer peripheral member 120 (or the device 100) may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the outer peripheral member 120 may have a generally rectangular cross-section. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the outer peripheral member 120 may have a cross-section of a different shape, including, for example, a circular, elliptical, polygonal, or curvilinear cross-section. In some embodiments, the shape or size of the cross-section may vary depending on the length or width of the device (e.g., an hourglass-shaped cross-section).

The electronics components may be placed in the volume 122 using any suitable method. For example, electronic device 100 includes components 130 and 132 that can be inserted into volume 122. The components 130 and 132 may each comprise individual components, or several components assembled together as a component layer or stack (stack), or several different component layers for insertion into the volume 122. In some embodiments, components 130 and 132 may each represent several components stacked along the height of the device. The component layers may be electrically coupled to each other to enable the transfer of data and energy required for proper operation of the electronic device 100. For example, the component layers may be electrically coupled using one or more of a PCB, flex circuit, solder, SMT, wire, connector, or a combination of these. The component layers may be inserted into the outer periphery member 120 using any suitable method. For example, the components 130 and 132 may be inserted entirely from the front surface 110 or from the rear surface 112 (e.g., back-to-front, front-to-rear, or front-to-front and rear from the middle). Alternatively, the components may be inserted from the front surface 110 and the rear surface 112.

In some embodiments, one or more components may be used as structural elements. Alternatively, the electronic device 100 may include a separate structural element placed in the volume 122 and coupled to the outer peripheral member 120. For example, electronic device 100 may include one or more internal components or platforms 140 that may serve as assembly points or areas for helping to secure, hold, or encapsulate one or more component layers (e.g., attaching component 130 to a back surface of internal platform 140, and attaching component 132 to a front surface of internal platform 140). The internal platform 140 may be coupled to the external peripheral member using any suitable method, including, for example, using fasteners, bending, welding, gluing, or a combination of these. Alternatively, the internal platform 140 may even be part of the outer peripheral member (e.g., machined, molded or cast, or integrally formed as a single unit). The inner platform can have any suitable dimensions, including, for example, dimensions smaller than the interior volume of the outer peripheral member 120.

The inner platform 140 can be located at any suitable height in the outer peripheral member 120, including, for example, approximately half the height of the outer peripheral member 120. The resulting structure (e.g., outer peripheral member 120 and inner platform 140) may form an H-shaped structure that provides sufficient stiffness and resistance to tension, pressure, torsion, and bending.

The interior platform, the interior surface of the outer peripheral member, or both may include one or more protrusions, recesses, shelves, notches, grooves, or other features for receiving or retaining electronic device components. In some cases, the inner platform, the outer peripheral member, or both may include one or more openings for coupling components located in the front and back regions. The size of each region may be selected based on any suitable criteria including, for example, the operational needs of the system, the number and type of electronic components in the device, manufacturing constraints of the internal platform, or a combination of these. The internal platform may be constructed as a separate component constructed of any suitable material (e.g., plastic, metal, or both) or, alternatively, defined by an existing electronics component placed in the volume defined by the external peripheral member. For example, the internal platform may be formed by a printed circuit board or chip used by the device.

In some embodiments, the internal platform 140 and/or the opening 122 may include one or more conductive elements for providing electrical connections between components. For example, the internal platform 140 and/or the opening 122 may include one or more PCBs, flexible circuits, wires, pads, cables, connectors, or other conductive mechanisms for connecting components in an electronic device.

Electronic device 100 may include a front cover assembly 150 and a back cover assembly 160 that define front and back surfaces, respectively, of electronic device 100. The front and rear cover assemblies may include one or more components, or may include at least a front member and a rear member that form part or all of the exterior front and rear surfaces of the device. The front and rear cover assemblies 150 and 160 may be flush, recessed, or protruding relative to the front and rear surfaces of the outer peripheral member 120. In some embodiments, one or both of the front and back cover assemblies 150 and 160 may include delicate or fragile components. To protect these components from damage during use or when dropped, one or both of the cover assemblies may be flush or nearly flush with the outer periphery member to prevent the edges from interfering with other surfaces. Alternatively, the one or more lid assemblies may be "raised" (e.g., protruding over an edge of the outer peripheral member). In some embodiments, one or both of the front cover assembly 150 and the back cover assembly 160 may include one or more display regions through which one or more display devices may be viewed. The one or more display regions may be defined by a bezel (bezel) that may be provided by a coating or finish applied to the front or rear member. Similarly, a coating or finish may also be applied to the front or rear member, which may provide a masking effect to hide internal components.

In some embodiments, the electronic device may be made primarily of glass. For example, at least 75% of the exterior of the portions of the electronic device housing may be glass. In one implementation, one or both of the cover assemblies may be glass, while the side surfaces are some material (e.g., metal, plastic) other than glass.

In some embodiments, the housing of the portable electronic device may be bumped or rubbed against various surfaces. When using plastic or metal housing surfaces, the surfaces may be easily scratched. On the other hand, the glass housing surface (e.g., the glass cover assembly) may be more scratch resistant. Also, glass housing surfaces may provide radio penetration, while metal housing surfaces may interfere with or impede wireless communication. In one embodiment, the electronic device housing may use glass housing members (e.g., glass cover assemblies) for the front and back surfaces of the electronic device housing. For example, the front surface formed by the glass housing member may be transparent to provide visible access to a display device located behind the glass housing member at the front surface, while the rear surface formed by the glass housing member may be transparent or opaque. The opacity may hide any internal components in the electronic device housing, if desired. In one embodiment, a surface coating or film may be applied to the glass housing member to provide opacity or at least partial translucency. Such a surface coating or film may be provided on the inner or outer surface of the glass housing member.

In some embodiments, one or both of the front and back cover assemblies 150 and 160 may provide edge protection for the front and back components. When the front member is formed of glass, the edge protection can help protect the front member from damage if subjected to impact forces. When the rear member is formed of glass, the edge protection can help protect the rear member from damage if subjected to impact forces.

In some embodiments, one or both of the front and back cover assemblies 150 and 160 may provide a coupling member that can be used to connect the front and back cover assemblies 150 and 160. For example, the front cover assembly 150 may include a coupling member to connect the front cover assembly 150 to the inner platform 140 and/or the outer peripheral member 120. The rear cover assembly 160 may include a coupling member to connect the rear cover assembly 160 to the inner platform 140 and/or the outer peripheral member 120.

In some embodiments, one or both of the front and rear members of the front and rear cover assemblies 150 and 160 may be formed of glass. The front or back member formed primarily of glass may include one or more pieces of glass. For example, different glass panes may have different configurations, optical characteristics, and/or decorative appearances.

FIG. 2A is a schematic perspective view of an example electronic device, in accordance with one embodiment. FIG. 2B is an exploded view of the electronic device of FIG. 2A, according to one embodiment. FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 2A, according to one embodiment. The electronic device of fig. 2A-2C may include some or all of the features of the electronic device of fig. 1A-1D. In particular, components having similar numbering may share some or all of the features. The outer peripheral member 220 may surround the periphery of the electronic device 200 to form a portion or all of the outermost side, upper surface, and lower surface (e.g., surfaces 210, 212, 214, 216, 218, and 219) of the electronic device. Outer periphery member 220 may have any suitable shape, including, for example, one or more elements that may combine to form a ring. The annular shape of the outer peripheral member 220 may enclose a volume 222 in which electronic device components may be mounted and retained. The shape of the outer peripheral member 220 may define the boundaries of the volume 222, and thus may be determined based on the size and type of components placed in the volume 222. The boundaries of the volume 222 (e.g., defined by the shape of the outer peripheral member 220) may have any suitable shape, including, for example, a generally rectangular shape (e.g., having straight or rounded edges or corners), a circle, an oval, a polygon, or any other closed shape that defines a volume.

Outer periphery member 220 can have any suitable dimensions, which can be determined based on any suitable criteria (e.g., aesthetic or industrial design, structural considerations, requirements for components for desired functionality, or product design). The outer peripheral member may have any suitable cross-section including, for example, a variable cross-section or a constant cross-section. In some embodiments, the cross-section of the ring may be selected based on the desired structural characteristics of the outer peripheral member. For example, the cross-section of the outer peripheral member 220 may be generally rectangular such that the height of the outer peripheral member is much greater than the width of the outer peripheral member. This may provide structural rigidity in compression, tension, and when bent.

In some embodiments, the outer peripheral member cross-section may be sized relative to the inner platform cross-section. For example, the height of the outer peripheral member may be in the range of 5 to 15 times the height of the inner platform, such as 8 to 12 times, 9 to 11 times, or about 10 times the height of the inner platform. In one implementation, the height of the outer peripheral member may be about 9mm and the height of the inner platform may be about 0.9 mm.

As another example, the width of the outer peripheral member may be in the range of 8 to 25 times the width of the inner platform, such as 12 to 20 times, 15 to 18 times, or about 16 times the width of the inner platform. For example, the width of the outer peripheral member may be 3mm, while the width of the inner member may be 50 mm. In some embodiments, the height of the inner platform may be correlated to the width of the outer peripheral member. For example, the width of the outer peripheral member may be 1 to 8 times the height of the inner platform, such as 2 to 6 times the height of the inner platform, or about 4 times. In one implementation, the height of the inner platform may be about 0.7mm and the width of the outer peripheral member may be about 2.5 mm. In some embodiments, the height of the outer peripheral member may be associated with the width of the inner platform. For example, the width of the inner platform may be 3 to 10 times the height of the outer peripheral member, such as 4 to 8 times, 5 to 7 times, or about 6 times the height of the outer peripheral member. For example, the width of the inner platform may be about 5.5mm and the height of the outer peripheral member may be about 0.9 mm.

In some embodiments, the outer peripheral member 220 may include one or more openings, knobs, extensions, flanges, grooves, or other features for receiving components or elements of the device. These features of the outer periphery member may extend from any surface of the outer periphery member, including, for example, from an inner surface (e.g., to retain an inner component or component layer), or from an outer surface. In particular, the outer peripheral member 220 may include a slot or opening 224 for receiving a card or tray in the device. The opening 224 may be aligned with one or more internal components for receiving and connecting to an inserted component (e.g., an inserted SIM card). As another example, the outer peripheral member 220 may include a connector opening 225 (e.g., a connector for 30 pins) through which a connector may engage one or more conductive pins of the electronic device 200. The outer peripheral member 220 may include openings 226 and 227 for providing audio to a user (e.g., openings near a speaker) or receiving audio from a user (e.g., openings near a microphone). Alternatively or additionally, the outer peripheral member 220 may include an opening (e.g., opening 228) for an audio connector or power source, or a feature 229 for holding and enabling a button such as a volume control or mute switch.

The various features of outer periphery member 220 may be configured at any suitable time using any suitable method. In some embodiments, these features may be constructed as part of the process of forming the outer periphery member 220 from a single piece of material that is fabricated into the final shape of the outer periphery member 220 (e.g., using a machining process). In some embodiments, several pieces of material may be separately shaped and combined into the outer peripheral member 220 instead or in addition. The different features may then be formed as part of each individual piece, or once the entire outer periphery member is assembled. Outer periphery member 220 may be constructed from any suitable material, including, for example, metal (e.g., steel or aluminum), plastic (e.g., polyurethane, polyethylene, or polycarbonate), composite materials, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the outer periphery member 220 may be constructed from a combination of several materials.

In some embodiments, the outer peripheral member 220 may have a functional use or purpose in addition to being a decorative or structural component. For example, the external peripheral member 220 may be used as part of an antenna to capture electromagnetic waves radiated as part of a communication network. In some cases, the outer periphery member 220 may be used as part of more than one antenna.

In some embodiments, one or more portions of outer periphery member 220 may be treated to provide an aesthetic component. In particular, left surface 214, right surface 216, upper surface 218, and lower surface 219 may be treated using a decorative surface treatment, such as polishing, coating (e.g., using a dye or coloring material, or a material that provides an optical effect), glazing, thin film deposition, grinding, superfinishing, or any other suitable process. In some embodiments, the front or back surface of the outer peripheral member 220 may be provided with a decorative finish (e.g., for those areas of the outer peripheral member that may not be covered by the back and front cover assemblies 250 and 260) instead or in addition.

To reduce the overall weight, size, or both of the electronic device 200, the thickness of the outer peripheral member 220 may be selected such that the outer peripheral member 220 is only minimally resistant to one or more of bending, twisting, stretching, pressure, or other deformation of the webbing. For example, outer peripheral member 220 may be more resistant to tension and compression, but less resistant to bending or twisting. To provide sufficient resistance to all types of deformation, the electronic device 200 may include structural components disposed in the volume 222. In some embodiments, one or more internal components of the electronic device may be connected to the external peripheral member and used as structural components. For example, a circuit board (with or without separate stiffening elements) may be connected to opposing portions of outer periphery member 220. Alternatively, separate and dedicated structural components may be coupled to the outer peripheral member 220. In the example of fig. 2A-2C, the electronic device 200 may include an internal platform 240 that forms a separate structural component of the electronic device. The inner platform 240 may comprise any suitable shape, including, for example, a substantially planar shape. In some embodiments, the inner platform 240 may include several different regions, such as a main region and a stepped region extending from the main region, to engage one or more features of the outer peripheral member 220.

The interior platform 240 may cover any suitable area in the volume 222. The internal platform 240 may include any suitable features to secure or connect electronic device components, such as one or more fasteners, claws, grooves, extensions, openings, access points, channels, or a combination of these. In some cases, the internal platform 240 may include one or more dedicated features to receive or secure specific electronic components, such as speakers, microphones, audio jacks, cameras, light sources, chips, or combinations of these.

The inner platform 240 may be constructed using any suitable method. In some embodiments, the inner platform 240 may be constructed from a single material or a combination of materials. For example, the inner platform 240 may include one or more metal elements (e.g., contained in an extension for connecting the inner platform 240 to the outer peripheral member 220) around which a plastic may be molded to form the inner platform 240. Portions of the metal elements of the inner platform 240 may extend beyond the edges of the plastic periphery such that the inner platform 240 may be coupled to the outer peripheral member by the metal elements. For example, the exposed metal elements may be connected to the outer peripheral member using welding, soldering, heat staking, adhesives, tape, fasteners, or any other connection mechanism. The outer peripheral member may include one or more corresponding features on an inner surface of the outer peripheral member for retaining or receiving the inner platform 240. The connection between the metal portion of the inner platform 240 and the outer peripheral member 220 may be used to ground certain electronics components (e.g., components 230 and 232).

The inner platform 240 may be coupled to any suitable portion of the outer peripheral member 220. For example, the inner platform 240 may fit within the height of the outer peripheral member 220 (e.g., based on the location of the outer peripheral member's contact point or area). The distribution of the contact points may be selected based on structural considerations, including, for example, based on a desired resistance to twisting or bending. In particular, the electronic device may include at least 4 contact points or regions distributed in the outer peripheral member 220 (e.g., near corners of the outer peripheral member). As another example, the inner platform 240 may include contact areas along straight portions of the outer peripheral member 220. As yet another example, the stepped region of the inner platform 240 may be coupled to a front or rear surface of the outer peripheral member 220 (e.g., on opposing portions of the front or rear surface).

In some embodiments, the internal platform 240 may be located within the height of the outer peripheral member 220 such that the components 230 and 232 may be placed on both the front and back surfaces of the internal platform 240. For example, member 230 may be inserted from rear surface 212 and member 232 may be inserted from front surface 210. For safety, the components 230 and 232 may be coupled to the internal platform 240 and may alternatively or additionally be electrically connected to each other through an opening in the internal platform. In some embodiments, some of the components 230 and 232 may be coupled to the back and front cover assemblies 250 and 260, respectively, prior to insertion into the volume 222 and connection to the outer peripheral member 220. In practice, the inner platform 240 may define, by its position, a back volume (or back region) and a front volume (or front region) in the volume 222 in which electronic device components may be placed. The dimensions of each cavity or region may be determined based on any suitable criteria, including, for example, the number and size of components to be placed in each region, the required position of the inner platform 240 relative to the outer peripheral member 220 (e.g., if the available position is limited due to structural requirements), or a combination of these.

To retain components in volume 222, electronic device 200 may include a front cover assembly 250 and a back cover assembly 260, providing front and back surfaces of the electronic device, respectively. The various cover assemblies may be coupled to the outer peripheral member 220 using any suitable method, including, for example, using adhesives, tapes, mechanical fasteners, hooks, tabs, or a combination of these. In some embodiments, one or both of the cover assemblies 250 and 260 may be removable, for example, to service or replace electronic device components (e.g., batteries). In some embodiments, the cover assemblies 250 and 260 may include several different portions, including, for example, a fixed portion and a movable portion. The interior surfaces of the front cover assembly 250 and the back cover assembly 260 may include any suitable features including, for example, one or more ridges, hooks, tabs, extensions, or a combination of any of these for retaining the covers or ensuring proper alignment of the covers. These features of the lid assemblies 250 and 260 may interact with corresponding features of the outer peripheral member 220 or other components of the electronic device to ensure proper placement of the lids. The front cover assembly 250 and the back cover assembly 260 may be positioned in any suitable manner relative to the outer peripheral member 220.

The rear cover assembly and the front cover assembly may be coupled to any suitable portion of the outer periphery member. In some embodiments, the back cover assembly and the front cover assembly may be connected in the same or different manners relative to the outer peripheral member. In an example of the electronic device, both the rear cover assembly and the front cover assembly may be placed on the rear surface and the front surface of the outer peripheral member, respectively. In some embodiments, one or both of the rear cover assembly and the front cover assembly may only partially cover the rear surface and the front surface, respectively. For example, one or both of the back cover assembly and the front cover assembly may be placed within the periphery of the outer periphery member (e.g., recessed within the outer periphery member).

Returning to electronic device 200 (fig. 2A-2C), back cover assembly 260 and front cover assembly 250 may be constructed from any suitable material or combination of materials. In some embodiments, each cover assembly 250 and 260 may be constructed by combining several different components. For example, one or both of the cover assemblies may include a transparent or translucent plate (e.g., a rectangular glass plate). As another example, one or both of the cover assemblies may include a base or support structure constructed from one or more metals or plastics (e.g., aluminum) to which the transparent component may be mounted. The transparent member may be assembled using any suitable method, including, for example, making one or more electronic device components visible through the transparent member (e.g., display circuitry), or receiving a signal through the transparent member (e.g., a sensor) or detecting the environment of the user. Alternatively, one or more portions of the transparent sheet may appear opaque (e.g., using ink, or by placing a support structure behind the transparent sheet) so that the transparent sheet may serve primarily as a decorative component. The various components of the various cover assemblies may be assembled using any suitable method, including, for example, using one or more of adhesives, fasteners, tape, interlocking components, overmolding or manufacturing processes, or any combination of these.

In the example of fig. 2A-2C, the front cover assembly 250 may include a support structure 252 with a glass plate 254 mounted thereon. The support structure 252 may include one or more openings, including an opening through which the display 255 may be provided. In some embodiments, the support structure 252 and the glass plate 254 may include openings for device components, such as button openings 256 and receiver openings 257. The size and shape of the opening may be selected using any suitable method, including, for example, based on the size and shape of the device components placed in or below the opening (e.g., opening 256 may be determined by the size of the button, while opening 257 may be determined by the size of the receiver and acoustic considerations that provide sufficient audio for the user).

In some embodiments, the glass plate 254 may include a decorative finish to hide the internal components of the electronic device from view. For example, an opaque layer may be applied to an area 259 around the display 255 for hiding non-display portions of the display circuitry from view. Since one or more sensors may receive signals through the glass sheet 254, the opaque layer may be selectively removed or selected to allow signals to pass through the glass sheet to the sensors behind the sheet. For example, the glass sheet 254 may include regions 259a and 259b through which a sensor (e.g., a camera, an infrared sensor, a proximity sensor, or an ambient light sensor) may receive signals.

In some embodiments, the front cover assembly 250 may support or enable an interface through which one or more users may use the electronic device. For example, the glass plate 254 may support a touch interface (e.g., a touchpad or a touchscreen) to control processing and operation of the electronic device. As another example, the front cover assembly 250 may include one or more buttons or sensors (described above) to interact with the device. In some cases, buttons, switches, or other interface elements may be incorporated into the outer peripheral member 220 or the rear cover assembly 260, alternatively or additionally. The electronic device 200 may include any other suitable interface for interacting with a user, including, for example, display circuitry, a projector (projector), audio output circuitry (e.g., a speaker or audio port), a tactile interface (e.g., a motor that generates vibrations or a power source that provides electrical stimulation), or a combination of these.

To enhance the cosmetic or aesthetic appeal of the electronic device 200, one or all of the outer peripheral member 220, the front cover assembly 250, and the rear cover assembly 260 may be finished using a suitable process. For example, one or more of polishing, coating (e.g., using dyes or colored materials, or materials that provide optical effects), glazing, thin film deposition, grinding, superfinishing, or any other suitable process may be applied to the electronic device components. In some embodiments, one or more glass surfaces (e.g., of the front cover assembly 250 or the back cover assembly 260) may be finished to provide an aesthetic appearance, for example, using one or more masks (masks), coatings (e.g., color or two-color), ink layers, or combinations of these. The particular finishes applied to the glass surfaces of the front cover assembly 250 and the back cover assembly 260 may be selected so that the front and back surfaces 214 and 216 have similar or different appearances. In some embodiments, the glass surface may be treated to resist abrasion or impact (e.g., scratch resistance), oil from touch, or any other external force applied to the device.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of an exemplary process of assembling an electronic device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Process 300 may begin at step 302, an outer peripheral member having a closed loop may be obtained. For example, one or more of the components may be combined to form a ring. At step 304, the internal platform may be connected to an external peripheral member. For example, the inner member may be inserted into the ring of webbing and connected to portions of the outer peripheral member to define the structural component. At step 306, components of the electronic device may be disposed in a volume at least partially defined by the outer peripheral member. These components may be disposed in the volume from one or both sides of the outer peripheral member. For example, the components may be coupled to both sides of the internal platform. At step 308, the lid assembly may be positioned relative to the outer peripheral member. For example, the front and back cover assemblies may be connected to the outer peripheral member such that the inserted components are contained within a housing formed by the outer peripheral member and the front and back cover assemblies. In particular, the front and rear cover assemblies may be positioned such that the display interface of the device remains visible through a window of one of the covers. Process 300 may then end after step 308.

For additional information on the ELECTRONIC device structure and component processing discussed above in fig. 1-3, see U.S. provisional application No.61/300,780 entitled "hand ELECTRONIC DEVICES" filed 2/2010, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Alignment and protection arrangements and techniques

Since some parts of the electronics housing are in a stacked arrangement, there may be a cumulative tolerance that may make the alignment less accurate. According to one aspect, abutting faces of an electronic device housing may be mounted or arranged such that the abutting faces are flush with high precision. The edges of portable electronic devices are susceptible to impact forces, such as when dropped. According to another aspect, protective edges may be provided at the edges of the electronic device housing to dissipate impact forces, thereby reducing damage to the electronic device housing. According to yet another embodiment, the electronic device housing may have one or more exposed major surfaces (e.g., front or back surfaces) formed of glass. The glass surface may be protected by a protective edge and may be aligned such that an upper surface of the glass surface and the protective edge may be substantially flush.

Fig. 4 is a flow diagram of a housing component alignment process 400 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The housing component alignment process 400 is used to allow adjacent housing components to be fastened together while providing a flush interface therebetween.

The housing member alignment process 400 provides 402 an external housing member for a device housing, i.e., an electronic device housing may be provided at an assembly area (e.g., an assembly station). Also, a protective edge structure member having a receiving plane for receiving the outer shell member may be provided 404.

The outer housing member may be placed 406 adjacent to the receiving plane of the protective edge structural member. To ensure proper alignment for high flushness, a first force is applied 408 to urge the outer housing member toward the flat reference surface. Here, the flat reference surface may be a smooth steel surface provided at the mounting region. In one implementation, the planar reference surface may be coated with a non-stick coating, such as Teflon (Teflon). Further, a second force may be applied 410 to urge the protective edge structural member toward the planar reference surface. Typically, the second force may also urge the protective edge structural member against the outer housing member. The protective edge structure member may then be secured 412 to the outer housing member. As a result, the outer housing member and the protective edge structural member, once fastened 412, may appear as an assembled portion of the device housing. Thereafter, the assembled portion may be removed 414 from the mounting area. After the assembled portions are removed 414, the housing member alignment process 400 may end.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an alignment configuration 500 according to one embodiment. The alignment configuration 500 may correspond to the alignment of adjacent housing components as discussed above, such as the housing component alignment process 400 illustrated in fig. 4. The alignment arrangement 500 includes a planar reference surface 502 that is secured in a stationary manner. Outer housing member 504 may be urged toward planar reference surface 502 by a force F1. Force F1, as shown in fig. 5, may be applied at different points on the opposing surfaces of outer shell member 504. For example, in this arrangement, the upper surface of outer housing member 504 may be pressed toward the surface of planar reference surface 502 and force F1 may be conducted onto the lower surface of outer housing member 504. The force F1 may be applied with a single structure (e.g., a spring) or multiple structures (e.g., a series of springs). The use of multiple springs may provide for a more uniform application of force on the surface of the outer housing member 504. Also, a protective edge structural member 506 may be provided adjacent at least one edge of the outer housing member 504. To place the protective edge structural member 506 in a flush manner relative to the outer housing member 504, a force F2 may be applied to urge the protective edge structural member 506 against the surface of the planar reference surface 502. The force F2 may be applied with a single structure (e.g., a spring) or multiple structures (e.g., a series of springs). This ensures that the upper surface of the protective edge structure member 506 will be positioned so that its upper surface is flush with the upper surface of the outer housing member 504. Further, if desired, a force F3 may be applied to push the protective edge structure member 506 against the edge of the outer shell member 504. Once the outer housing member 504 and the protective edge structural member 506 are biased relative to the planar reference surface 502, the outer housing member 504 and the protective edge structural member 506 may be fastened to each other. These components of the electronic device housing may be secured together in a variety of different ways. For example, the members may be held together with an adhesive (e.g., glue or epoxy) that, when cured, may remain biased with respect to the planar reference surface 502. As another example, the members may be held together by mechanical structures (e.g., screws, fasteners, tabs, retainers, etc.).

Fig. 6 is a flow diagram of a housing component alignment process 600 according to one embodiment of the invention. The housing member alignment process 600 may combine an outer housing member (i.e., an outer glass member) and a protective edge structural member for an electronic device housing. The housing component alignment process 600 is performed to align the outer surfaces of the components and then secure the components to each other.

The housing member alignment process 600 can provide 602 an exterior glass member for an electronic device housing. It is also possible to provide the protective edge structure member with a receiving plane for receiving the external glass member. A liquid adhesive may then be applied 606 to a portion of the outer glazing member and/or a portion of the protective edge structural member. The outer glazing member can then be placed 608 adjacent to the receiving plane of the protective edge structural member. To achieve precise alignment that produces high flushness, a first force is applied 610 to urge the outer glass member toward the flat reference surface. A second force may also be applied 612 to urge the protective edge structural member toward the planar reference surface. This ensures that the outer glazing component and the protective edge structural component are positioned so that their upper surfaces are closely adjacent and flush. Thereafter, the liquid adhesive is cured 614. For example, the components assembled together into an assembled part may be placed in an oven to accelerate the curing of the liquid adhesive. Once the protective edge structural member and the outer glass member are secured by the cured adhesive, the assembled parts may be removed 606 from the oven and the first and second forces may be removed. Here, the assembled part includes an exterior glass member and a protective edge structural member. Furthermore, with this way of assembling the members into an assembled part, the upper surface of the outer glass member is flush with the new upper surface of the protective edge structural member. After block 616, the housing member alignment process 600 ends.

In one embodiment, the flatness provided by the alignment process is no more than at most 80 μm compared to precision flatness. In another embodiment, the flatness provided by the alignment process is not more than at most 60 μm compared to perfect flatness. In yet another embodiment, the flatness provided by the alignment process is no more than at most 40 μm compared to precision flatness.

Fig. 7A-7D illustrate assembly of the assembly portions according to one embodiment. The assembled parts may be assembled according to the housing member alignment process 600. The assembled part may be part of a housing of the electronic device.

Fig. 7A illustrates constituent members of the assembly portion. In particular, the components include an outer glazing member 700 and a protective edge structural member 702. The protective edge structural member 702 has an upper surface 704 and a lower surface 706, the upper surface 704 being receptive to the outer glass member 700 when assembled, and the lower surface 706 providing an interior surface of the electronic device housing. The protective edge structure member 702 also includes an edge bumper (sidebumper)708 having an upper surface 710.

Fig. 7B illustrates an initial assembly step of the assembly portion. The outer glazing member 700 is held on a fixed reference structure 712. The upper surface of the outer glass member 700 is pressed against a flat reference surface provided by a fixed reference structure 712. The outer glass member 700 may be biased (i.e., pressed) against the flat reference surface by a mechanical member (e.g., one or more springs) that provides a biasing force. In addition, the protective edge structural member 702 may have a liquid adhesive 714 deposited on a portion of the upper surface 704.

Fig. 7C illustrates the next step of the assembly portion. Here, the protective edge structure member 702 with liquid adhesive 714 can be pressed onto the flat reference surface provided by the fixed reference structure 712. More specifically, the upper surface 710 of the edge bumper 708 of the protective edge structural member 702 is pressed against a flat reference surface. The protective rim structural member 702 may be biased (i.e., pressed) against the flat reference surface by a mechanical member (e.g., one or more springs) that provides a biasing pressure. The mechanical member biasing the protective edge structure member 702 is separate from the mechanical member biasing the outer glass member 700. Once the assembly is held in place by the biasing pressure, the liquid adhesive may be cured as shown in fig. 7C. In one embodiment, the adhesive may be cured using heat, for example by placing the assembled parts in an oven. The cured adhesive is used to secure the components (i.e., the outer glazing member 700 and the protective edge structural member 702) while compensating for tolerances of the components (e.g., in the component stack of components) so that the upper surface of the outer glazing member 700 and the upper surface 710 of the edge bumper 708 are flush. In one embodiment, flush means that the adjacent upper surfaces are within 60 microns of perfect flush. Once the adhesive is cured, the heat can be removed and the assembled parts assembled. In addition, the edge bumper 708 of the protective edge structural member 702 is closely adjacent to an edge (e.g., edge) of the outer glass member 700 and provides protection against impact forces at the side edges of the glass member 700.

Fig. 7D illustrates the subsequent assembly of the assembled parts. The assembly portion may be coupled to another structural component of the electronic device housing. As an example, another structural component may be an external peripheral member 716 of the electronic device housing. The outer peripheral member 716 can define a side surface for the electronic device housing. The outer peripheral member 716 may also be coupled to or integrated with an internal structure 718 (e.g., an internal platform) that provides structural rigidity to the electronic device housing. For example, the inner structure 718 can be secured to an inner surface of the outer peripheral member 716. The internal structure 718 may be placed offset from the front and back planar boundaries of the outer peripheral member 716. As shown in fig. 7D, the assembly portion may be coupled to the outer peripheral member 716 at the front planar boundary. To secure the assembled portions, the protective rim structural member 702 may further include or be coupled to a coupling arm 720. The attachment arm 720 may abut against the inner surface of the outer peripheral member 716 and be secured thereto by adhesive or mechanical means (e.g., screws, tabs, fasteners, etc.).

The assembly portion may have a glass component, a polymer component, and/or a metal component. In a particular embodiment, the outer glass member 700 is glass, such as aluminosilicate glass; the protective edge structural member 702 is a polymer, such as a polyarylamide (polyarylamide); the outer peripheral member 716, the inner structure 718, and the linkage arms can be metal, such as stainless steel.

Fig. 8A is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing 800 according to one embodiment. The partial side portion includes an outer housing member 802. The outer housing member 802 may be adjacent to the edge member 804. Also, protective edge bumpers 806 may be provided to protect otherwise exposed edges 808 of the outer housing member 802. The configuration of the protective edge buffers 806 may vary depending on the application. Typically, the thickness of protective edge bumper 806 is thin at the portion adjacent to exposed edge 808. For example, the thickness of the outer housing member 802 is 1 millimeter (mm), and the thickness of the protective edge bumper 806 may be less than 1mm, and more particularly, may be about 0.8 mm. In one embodiment, outer housing member 802 may be made of glass, protective edge bumper 806 may be made of a polymer, and edge member 804 may be made of metal.

Fig. 8B is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing 800' in accordance with another embodiment. Similar to fig. 8A, the outer housing member 802 may be adjacent to the edge member 804'. Protective edge bumpers 806 may be provided to protect an otherwise exposed edge 808 of the outer housing member 802. In this embodiment, the edge member 804' may extend slightly outward from the outer surface of the protective edge bumper 806. In one embodiment, outer housing member 802 may be made of glass, protective edge bumper 806 may be made of a polymer, and edge member 804' may be made of metal.

Fig. 8C is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing 820 according to another embodiment. The partial side portion includes an outer housing member 822. The outer housing member 820 may abut the edge member 824. In this embodiment, the edge member 824 supports the outer housing member 822 and also provides a protective edge bumper 826 to protect an otherwise exposed edge 828 of the outer housing member 822. The configuration of the guard edge buffer 826 may vary depending on the application. Typically, the thickness of the protective edge bumper 826 is thin at the portion adjacent to the exposed edge 828. For example, the thickness of the outer housing member 822 is 1 millimeter (mm), and the thickness of the protective edge bumper 826 may be less than 1mm, and more particularly, may be about 0.8 mm. The side member 824 may be coupled to the internal structure 830 to provide support for the side member 824 of the electronic device housing. In one embodiment, internal structure 830 may include an edge portion 832 embedded in edge member 824. In one embodiment, outer housing member 822 may be made of glass, side member 824 and protective side bumper 826 may be made of a polymer, and inner structure 830 (including side structure 832) may be made of a metal.

Fig. 8D is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing 840 according to yet another embodiment. The electronics housing 840 is similar to the electronics housing 820 shown in fig. 8C, but another outer housing member 842 is provided. For example, outer housing member 822 may correspond to a top cover of an electronic device housing, while outer peripheral member 842 may correspond to a bottom cover of the electronic device housing. The edge member 824' includes not only the protective edge bumper 826 but also the protective edge bumper 844.

Fig. 9A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing 900 according to one embodiment. The electronic device housing 900 includes an exterior housing member 902 supported and protected by an interface member 904. An interface member 904 that provides a protective edge member 906 (e.g., a protective edge bumper) is positioned adjacent an edge of the outer housing member 902. The interface member 904 also supports the outer housing member 902 and is used to secure the outer housing member 902 to other portions of the electronic device housing 900. In this embodiment, the interface member 904 is secured to the outer peripheral member 908. More particularly, in this embodiment, the interface member 904 includes a fastening portion 910 (e.g., a coupling arm) for fastening the interface member 904 (and thus the outer housing member 902) to the outer peripheral member 908. The electronic device housing 900 may also include another exterior housing member 912. Another outer housing member 912 may, for example, be integrated into or fastened to the edge of the outer peripheral member 908 opposite the outer housing member 902. An interior space 914 is provided within the interior of the electronic device housing 900 where various electrical components may be coupled, attached, or placed to provide electronic operation for the electronic device.

The various components, portions or assemblies of the portable electronic device 900 may be formed from any of a variety of materials, such as glass, polymer or metal. In one embodiment, the outer housing member 902 is glass, the outer peripheral member 908 is formed of metal or polymer (e.g., plastic), and the other outer housing member 912 is formed of glass, polymer (e.g., plastic), or metal. The interface member 904 may be formed from a polymer or from a combination of materials. For example, protective edge member 906 will be solid; thus, structurally reinforced polymers such as polyarylamides may be used. Also by way of example, the fastening portion 910 may be formed of metal to increase strength. The fastening portion 910, if formed of metal, may be coupled with the balance point of the interface member 904 by an over-molding process.

Fig. 9B is a cross-sectional assembly view of the electronic device housing 900 shown in fig. 9A, according to one embodiment. The outer housing member 902 has an upper surface 920 and a lower surface 922. The lower surface 922 of the outer housing member 902 may be secured to the upper surface 924 of the interface member 904. For example, the outer housing member 902 may be secured to the upper surface 924 of the interface member 904 with an adhesive. When the outer housing member 902 is secured to the interface member 904, the protective edge member 906 is located at the edge (i.e., rim) of the outer housing member 902. The protective edge member 906 provides a cushioning layer (e.g., a bumper) that attenuates impacts generated at the edge of the outer housing member 902 of the electronic device housing 900. Further, a lower surface 926 of interface member 904 is positioned on an upper surface 928 of outer peripheral member 908. The securing portion 910 of the interface member 904 may be used to secure the interface member 904 to the outer peripheral member 908.

Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing 1000 according to one embodiment. The electronic device case 1000 includes a first outer case member 1002 supported and protected by a first interface member 1004. The first interface member 1004 provides a protective edge member 1006 (e.g., a protective edge bumper) proximate to an edge of the first outer housing member 1002. The first interface member 1004 also supports the first outer housing member 1002 and is used to secure the first outer housing member 1002 to the rest of the electronic device housing 1000. In this embodiment, the first interface member 1004 is secured to the outer peripheral member 1008. More particularly, in this embodiment, the first interface member 1004 includes a first fastening portion 1010 for fastening the first interface member 1004 (and thus the first outer housing member 1002) to the outer peripheral member 1008.

The electronic device housing 1000 can also include an internal structure 1012 that is integrated with the external peripheral member 1008 or secured to the external peripheral member 1008. In one embodiment, the inner structure 1012 can be secured to the inner surface of the outer peripheral member 1008 such that it is offset from the front and back planar boundaries of the outer peripheral member 1008. As shown in fig. 10, the inner structure 1012 can be secured at a midpoint of the height of the outer peripheral member 1008. A first interior space 1014 is provided within the electronic device housing 1000 where various electrical components may be coupled, attached, or placed to provide electronic operation for the electronic device.

In this embodiment, the electronic device housing 1000 also includes similar structure on the opposite side of the electronic device housing 1000. That is, the electronic device housing 1000 may also include a second outer housing member 1016 supported and protected by a second interface member 1018. The second interface member 1018 provides a protective edge member 1020 (e.g., a protective edge bumper) adjacent to an edge of the second outer housing member 1016. The second interface member 1018 also supports the second outer housing member 1016 and serves to secure the second outer housing member 1016 to other portions of the electronic device housing 1000. In this embodiment, the second interface member 1018 may be secured to the outer peripheral member 1008 on a side opposite the first interface member 1004. More particularly, in this embodiment, the second interface member 1018 includes a second fastening portion 1022 (e.g., a coupling arm) for fastening the second interface member 1018 (and thus the second outer housing member 1016) to the outer peripheral member 1008. Also, a second interior space 1024 is provided inside the electronic device housing 1000 (between the internal structure 1012 and the second interface member 1018) where various electrical components may be coupled, attached, or placed to provide electronic operation for the electronic device.

In one embodiment, the first outer housing member 1002 may represent an outer upper surface of the portable electronic device, and the second outer surface housing 1016 may represent an outer lower surface housing. In one embodiment, both the first outer housing member 1002 and the second outer housing member 1016 may be glass (e.g., glass covers).

In fig. 9A, 9B and 10, the protective edge member (e.g., protective edge bumper) is a thin layer of material immediately adjacent to the edge of the outer housing member to cushion the impact at the edge of the outer housing member. In one embodiment, the protective edge member will be solid; thus, structurally reinforced polymers such as polyarylamides may be used. The aramid may be reinforced by including glass fibers. One source of reinforced polyarylamides is lxef Polyarylamides (PARA) from Solvay Advanced Polymers, l.l.c, which may contain glass fiber reinforcements. Further, although the protective edge member is adjacent to the edge of the outer shell member, respective materials may be used for the protective edge member and the outer shell member. In particular, the Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) of their respective materials, if not controlled, may create undesirable stresses on the sides of the outer housing member. For example, for a glass outer housing member, the CTE is approximately 10 mm/m/deg.C. Thus, ideally for this example, the CTE of the material of the protective edge member should be approximately 10 mm/m/deg.C. Although the CTE of plastic (e.g., approximately 100 mm/m/c) tends to be significantly higher than the CTE of glass, some synthetic polymers (e.g., aramid) can have a CTE (e.g., approximately 30 mm/m/c) that is substantially closer to the CTE of glass, resulting in less stress on the sides of the outer housing member if used. For example, in one embodiment, the synthetic polymer for such use can have a CTE of less than or equal to about 50 mm/m/° c, while in another embodiment, the synthetic polymer for such use can have a CTE of less than or equal to about 35 mm/m/° c. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the thickness of the protective edge member may also be very thin, for example in one embodiment the thickness may not exceed about 1 mm.

In yet another embodiment, the protective edge material may be formed from a variety of materials that may be alternated, wound, or layered. The layer of material immediately adjacent the edge of the glass outer housing member may have a CTE relatively close to that of the glass, while the outer layer may have a higher CTE, which may allow for a greater range of materials, such as polymers (e.g., plastics).

The protective edge member can be thin but not cosmetically affected. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness of the protective edge member (t1) may be less than 1mm (e.g., 0.8 mm). Also, in some embodiments, the thickness (t2) of the outer housing member may be less than 5mm (e.g., 1 mm). However, these thicknesses are exemplary and vary depending on the size of the electronic device housing and the strength required. As mentioned above, it is also advantageous to use a reinforced material for the protective edge member. However, providing a thin protective edge member for an outer housing member, such as a glass cover, helps to provide a compact and thin portable electronic device housing that is resistant to impact damage to the side edges of the outer housing member.

Fig. 11A, 11B and 12 are similar in structure to fig. 9A, 9B and 10, respectively. However, the arrangement of the protective edge member is different. The protective edge member shown in fig. 11A, 11B, and 12 forms a corner of the electronic device case, and thus is typically thicker than the protective edge member shown in fig. 9A, 9B, and 10. For example, in one embodiment, the thickness of the protective edge member approximates the thickness of the outer housing member.

Fig. 11A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing 1100 according to one embodiment. The electronic device housing 1100 includes an outer housing member 1102 that is supported and protected by an interface member 1104. The interface member 1104 provides a protective edge member 1106 (e.g., a protective edge bumper) that is proximate to an edge of the outer housing member 1102. The interface member 1104 also supports the outer housing member 1102 and serves to secure the outer housing member 1102 to the rest of the electronic device housing 1100. In this embodiment, interface member 1104 is secured to outer peripheral member 1108. More particularly, in this embodiment, the interface member 1104 includes a fastening portion 1110 (e.g., a coupling arm) for fastening the interface member 1104 (and thus the outer housing member 1102) to the outer peripheral member 1108. The electronic device housing 1100 may also include another outer housing member 1112. The other outer housing member 1112 may be integral with the outer peripheral member 1108 or fastened to the outer peripheral member 1108, e.g., on a side opposite the outer housing member 1102. An interior space 1114 is provided inside the electronic device housing 1100 where various electrical components may be coupled, attached, or placed to provide electronic operations for the electronic device.

The various components, portions or assemblies of portable electronic device 1100 may be formed from any of a variety of materials, such as glass, polymer or metal. In one embodiment, the outer housing member 1102 is glass, the outer peripheral member 1108 is formed of metal or polymer (e.g., plastic), and the other outer housing member 1112 is formed of glass, polymer (e.g., plastic), or metal. The interface member 1104 may be constructed of a polymer or combination of materials. For example, the protective edge member 1106 would be solid; thus, structurally reinforced polymers such as polyarylamides may be used. The aramid may be reinforced by including glass fibers. Also by way of example, the fastening portion 1110 may be formed of metal to increase strength. The fastening portion 1110, if composed of metal, may be combined with the balance point of the interface member 1104 by an over-molding process.

Fig. 11B is a cross-sectional assembly view of the electronic device housing 1100 shown in fig. 11A, in accordance with one embodiment. The outer housing member 1102 has an upper surface 1120 and a lower surface 1122. The lower surface 1122 of the outer housing member 1102 may be secured to the upper surface 1124 of the interface member 1104. For example, the outer housing member 1102 may be secured to the upper surface 1124 of the interface member 1104 with an adhesive. When the outer housing member 1102 is secured to the interface member 1104, the protective edge member 1106 is located at the rim (i.e., edge) of the outer housing member 1102. The protective edge member 1106 provides a cushioning layer (e.g., a bumper) that attenuates impacts generated at the edges of the outer housing member 1102 of the electronic device housing 1100. In addition, lower surface 1126 of interface member 1104 rests on upper surface 1128 of outer peripheral member 1108. Securing portion 1110 of interface member 1104 may be used to secure interface member 1104 to outer peripheral member 1108.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device housing 1200 according to one embodiment. The electronic device housing 1200 includes a first outer housing member 1202 supported and protected by a first interface member 1204. The first interface member 1204 provides a protective edge member 1206 (e.g., a protective edge bumper) proximate to an edge of the first outer housing member 1202. The first interface member 1204 also supports the first outer housing member 1202 and is used to secure the first outer housing member 1202 to other portions of the electronic device housing 1200. In this embodiment, the first interface member 1204 is secured to an outer peripheral member 1208. More particularly, in this embodiment, the first interface member 1204 includes a first fastening portion 1210 for fastening the first interface member 1204 (and thus the first outer housing member 1202) to the outer peripheral member 1208.

The electronic device housing 1200 can also include an internal structure 1212 that is integrated with the external peripheral member 1008 or secured to the external peripheral member 1208. In one embodiment, the inner structure 1212 may be secured to the inner surface of the outer peripheral member 1208 such that it is offset from the front and back planar boundaries of the outer peripheral member 1208. As shown in fig. 12, the inner structure 1212 can be secured at a midpoint of the height of the outer peripheral member 1208. A first interior space 1214 is provided within the electronic device housing 1200 where various electrical components may be coupled, attached, or placed to provide electronic operation for the electronic device.

In this embodiment, the electronic device housing 1200 also includes similar structures on the opposite side of the electronic device housing 1200. That is, the electronic device housing 1200 may also include a second outer housing member 1216 supported and protected by a second interface member 1218. The second interface member 1218 provides a protective edge member 1220 (e.g., a protective edge bumper) adjacent to an edge of the second outer housing member 1216. The second interface member 1218 also supports the second outer housing member 1216 and serves to secure the second outer housing member 1216 to other portions of the electronic device housing 1200. In this embodiment, the second interface member 1218 may be secured to the outer peripheral member 1208 on a side opposite the first interface member 1204. More particularly, in this embodiment, the second interface member 1218 includes a second securing portion 1222 (e.g., an attachment arm) for securing the second interface member 1218 (and thus the second outer housing member 1216) to the outer peripheral member 1208. Also, a second interior space 1224 is provided within the electronic device housing 1200 (between the interior structure 1212 and the second interface member 1218) where various electrical components may be coupled, attached, or placed to provide electronic operation for the electronic device.

In one embodiment, the first outer housing member 1202 may represent an outer upper surface of the portable electronic device and the second outer surface housing 1216 may represent an outer lower surface housing. In one embodiment, both the first outer housing member 1202 and the second outer housing member 1216 may be glass (e.g., glass covers).

In fig. 11A, 11B and 12, the protective edge member (e.g., protective edge bumper) is a thin layer of material immediately adjacent to the edge of the outer housing member to cushion the impact force at the edge of the outer housing member. In these embodiments, the protective edge member is rounded at the corners of the electronic device housing. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness of the protective edge member (t3) may be less than 5mm (e.g., 1 mm). Also, in some embodiments, the thickness (t4) of the outer housing member may be less than 5mm (e.g., 1 mm). However, these thicknesses are exemplary and vary depending on the size of the electronic device housing and the strength required. As mentioned above, it is also advantageous to use a reinforced material for the protective edge member. However, providing a thin protective edge member for an outer housing member, such as a glass cover, helps to provide a compact and thin portable electronic device housing that is resistant to impact damage to the side edges of the outer housing member.

Fig. 13 is a flow diagram of an exterior component assembly process 1300 according to one embodiment of the invention. In this example, the outer member is an outer glass member. The outer glazing member may be fastened 1302 to the protective edge member. As an example, the process performed to secure the outer glass member to the protective edge member may in some embodiments use the housing member alignment processes 400, 600 shown in fig. 4 and 6, respectively.

After the outer glass member has been fastened 1302 to the protective edge member, a glass assembly can be placed 1304 in the opening of the outer peripheral member. After the glass assembly has been placed, the glass assembly at the opening of the outer peripheral member can be secured 1306. The glass assembly, i.e., the outer glass member, may thus serve as an exterior surface of the electronic device housing. After block 1306, the exterior member assembly process 1300 may end.

In one embodiment, the outer glass member may represent a front (or upper) surface of the electronic device housing. In another embodiment, the outer glass member may represent the rear (or lower) surface of the electronic device housing. In general, the exterior member assembly process 1300 may represent a treatment suitable for any exposed surface of an electronic device housing formed from a glass member. In yet another embodiment, the electronic device housing may use an exterior glass member for the front surface of the electronic device housing and an exterior glass member for the back surface of the electronic device housing.

As discussed above, the electronic device housing may be made substantially of glass, for example, in fig. 10 and 13. For example, the electronic device housing may have at least 75% of its outer surface glass. In one implementation, the front and lower surfaces of the electronic device housing may be glass, while the side surfaces may be some material (e.g., metal, plastic) other than glass.

In the case of portable electronic devices, the housing impacts or rubs against various surfaces. When using plastic or metal housing surfaces, the surfaces are easily scratched. On the other hand, if a glass housing surface (e.g., a glass cover) is used, the surface is much more scratch resistant. Also, the glass housing surface provides radio penetration, while the metal housing surface interferes with or impedes wireless communication. In one embodiment, the electronic device housing may use glass housing members (e.g., glass covers) for the front and back surfaces of the electronic device housing. For example, the front surface formed by the glass housing member may be transparent to provide visible access to a display device located behind the glass housing member at the front surface, while the rear surface formed by the glass housing member may be transparent or opaque. The opacity may hide any internal components in the electronic device housing, if desired. In one embodiment, a surface coating or film may be applied to the glass housing member to provide opacity or at least partial translucency. Such a surface coating or film may be provided on the inner or outer surface of the glass housing member. The protective edge member and interface member discussed herein may optionally be used to protect and/or assemble the glass housing member.

Fig. 14 is a side view of a partial side portion of an electronic device housing 1400. The partial side portion shown includes a first interface module 1402 and a second interface module 1404. The interface components 1402, 1404 may also be referred to as interface means. The interface assembly 1402 includes a support and protection member 1406 and a coupling member 1408. Similarly, the interface assembly 1404 includes a support and protection member 1410 and a coupling member 1412. As discussed above, support and protection member 1406 may support the first outer housing member and provide a protective edge member. Similarly, therefore, as discussed above, support and protection member 1410 may support a second outer housing member and provide a protective edge member. The coupling member 1408 may be used to couple and secure the interface assembly 1402 to the side member 1414 and the coupling member 1412 may be used to couple and secure the interface assembly to the side member 1414. Coupling means 1416 (e.g., screws, bolts) may be provided to tightly secure first support and protection member 1406 relative to side member 1414. Likewise, coupling means 1418 (e.g., screws, bolts) may be provided to tightly secure the second support and protection member 1410 relative to the side member 1414.

Although only a single coupling device 1416 is shown for the coupling member 1408, it will be appreciated that generally several coupling devices may be used to securely affix the first interface assembly 1402 to the side member 1414. Likewise, although only a single coupling device 1418 is shown for the coupling member 1412, it will be appreciated that generally several coupling devices may be used to securely secure the second interface assembly 1404 to the side member 1414. Also, while the embodiment shown in fig. 14 supports the outer housing members at opposite ends, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the electronic device housing may use only a single outer housing member.

Coupling structure and technique

According to another aspect, apparatuses, systems, and methods are described for securely coupling a cover portion of an electronic device to a bottom portion (e.g., a housing portion) of the electronic device. The cover portion may generally include a frame (e.g., an interface member) into which the glass member is inserted. The coupling member (e.g., arm, tab) may be coupled (e.g., insert molded) into the cover portion and may be arranged to sufficiently engage with the housing portion to effectively retain the cover portion with the housing portion. The coupling member may be used to screw or otherwise secure the cover portion to the housing. Typically, the socket of the housing portion is arranged to substantially capture, mate or otherwise engage the coupling member of the cover portion.

In one embodiment, the cover part is held with the housing part such that the contact surfaces of the cover part meet the contact surfaces of the housing part, e.g. such that there is practically no gap between the contact surfaces. More generally, the cover portion may be retained with the housing portion such that the size of any space between the contact surface of the cover portion and the contact surface of the housing portion may be controlled. For example, to retain the cover portion with the housing portion, a protrusion that is part of or attached to the cover portion may engage a socket that is part of or attached to the housing portion.

The apparatus, systems, and methods of the present invention allow for the formation of a secure coupling between a cover of a device (e.g., a handheld electronic device) and a housing of such a device. Handheld electronic devices may generally include, but are not limited to, mobile telephones, media players, user input devices (e.g., mice, touch sensitive devices), personal digital assistants, remote controls, electronic book readers, and the like. The above-described apparatus, systems, and methods may also be used for a cover (e.g., a cover having a glass member), or a display of other relatively large electronic devices (e.g., a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a display, a monitor, a television, etc.).

Generally, devices that include a cover secured to a housing are relatively durable or secure. The secure coupling between the cover and the housing may be arranged in the inner volume of the device such that the coupling does not interfere with the appearance of the device. The aesthetic quality of the device may be improved. In one embodiment, the cover and the housing are joined together with substantially no interstitial space therebetween. More generally, the aesthetic or visual quality of the device may be substantially improved by controlling the size of the gap between the cover and the housing when the cover and the housing are assembled. Further, while the size of the gap between the cover and the housing may be substantially minimized, the profile of the device formed by the cover and the housing may also be relatively thin.

Fig. 15A is a diagrammatic perspective illustration of a housing with an assembled cover, such as a cover including a glass member held by a frame, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The assembly 1502 includes a cover 1508 that is mounted or substantially secured to the housing 1512. In one embodiment, the cap 1508 is removably coupled to the housing 1512 such that the cap 1508 tightly engages the housing 1512 when coupling is desired. However, in some embodiments, the cap 1508 is removably coupled such that the cap 1508 can be disengaged thereafter.

Figure 15B is a diagrammatic sectional side view illustration of the cover 1508 assembled to the housing 1512. As shown, the size of the cover 1508 and the size of the housing 1512 are exaggerated in comparison to fig. 15A for illustration. The cover 1508 and the housing 1512 are coupled at an interface 1530 such that a gap 1528 between the cover 1508 and the housing 1512 may be controlled. In one embodiment, the gap 1528 is substantially minimized and the surfaces of the cover 1508 and the housing 1512 may contact at or near the interface 1530. The interface 1530 may include a mechanical coupling arrangement, discussed below, that allows the cover 1508 to be mounted to the housing 1512. As shown, the interface 1530 is typically located in or near the interior volume defined by the housing 1512 and the cover 1508.

Referring to FIG. 16, a method of assembling an electronic device will be described in accordance with one embodiment. A method 1601 of assembling an electronic device begins in step 1605, where a housing, such as an outer peripheral component, is formed. Generally, one or more components may form a housing. For example, two or more components may be combined or combined to form a housing. Forming the housing may also include attaching or otherwise creating a coupling on the housing configured to assist in mounting the cover on the housing.

At step 1609, a cap is formed. Forming the cover may include, but is not limited to including, obtaining a frame and attaching a glass member to the frame. It should be appreciated that forming the cap may also include effectively attaching or otherwise creating a coupling on the cap, such as using an injection molding (injection molding) process, that is configured to assist in mounting the cap to the housing. When the coupling portion is attached to the cover using an insert molding process, the cover may be formed at least in part from a plastic material.

Once the housing and cover are formed, internal structural components, such as an internal platform that may include electronic components, may be adequately attached to the housing at step 1613. For example, the internal components may be inserted into the housing and connected to portions of the housing to define the structural component.

After the internal structural components are sufficiently connected to the housing, the components may be inserted into the housing at step 1617. For example, components (e.g., electronic components) may be inserted from both sides of the housing. The cover may then be installed on the housing at step 1621. Mounting the cover to the housing may include, but is not limited to, engaging a coupling portion of the cover with the housing. The method of assembling the electronic device can be completed after the cover is mounted to the housing.

In one embodiment, the cover may be mounted to the housing by using screws. Referring now to fig. 17, an assembly including side screws arranged to couple a cover to a housing is described, according to one embodiment. Figure 17 is a schematic side view representation of the inner surface of the assembly 1702. The assembly 1702 includes a portion of the cover 1708 and a portion of the housing 1712. The tabs 1732 are embedded in or attached to the cover 1708. In one embodiment, tabs 1732 are metal tabs that are insert molded into cover 1708 and effectively protrude from cover 1708. The metal tabs may be formed from sheet metal of any suitable thickness, for example, sheet metal of about 0.5mm thickness. Typically, the tabs 1732 include slots (slots) through which the screws 1736 may pass. In other words, tabs 1732 are typically slotted tabs. The housing 1712 includes screw receptacles (not shown), such as threaded screw holes, for receiving screws 1736.

When the screw 1736 is used to secure the tab 1732, thereby securing the cover 1708 to the housing 1712, a washer 1740 may be placed between the head of the screw 1736 and the tab 1732. The tabs 1732 are secured to the housing 1712 when the screws 1736 are threaded into screw sockets (not shown) formed in the housing 1712. The tabs 1732, as shown, are secured to a surface of the housing 1712 that is different than the surface of the housing 1712 that substantially contacts the cover 1708.

Fig. 18 is a diagrammatic, cross-sectional illustration of a coupling utilizing side screws and slotted tabs in accordance with an embodiment. The housing 1812 has an opening 1844 defined therein. In the depicted embodiment, the openings 1844 are threaded screw holes, which may be formed in the side of the housing 1812. A screw 1836 used to secure the slotted tab 1832 (i.e., the slotted tab 1832 attached to or otherwise coupled to a cover (not shown)) to the housing 1812 passes through the washer 1840 and the slot of the slotted tab and is threaded into the housing 1812. Washer 1840 is generally used to improve the thread engagement, i.e., washer 1840 allows for longer thread length of screw 1836 and provides tolerance. It should be understood that the washer 1840 may be optional.

Instead of using screws to secure the cover to the housing, other types of coupling means may be used to secure the cover to the housing. Another coupling means that may be used to mount the cover to the housing includes a shrimp clip and an internal structure (e.g., a middle plate). Fig. 19 is a diagrammatic, cross-sectional illustration of an assembly including a shrimp clip and an intermediate plate that cooperate to couple the cover frame to the housing in accordance with one embodiment. The package 1902 includes a portion of the cover 1908 and a portion of the housing 1912. A shrimp clip 1948 is mounted or otherwise attached to the cover 1908. A pincer-shaped fastener 1948, which may be formed of metal insert molded into the cover 1908, is arranged to be snapped by an intermediate plate 1952 coupled to the housing 1912. In one embodiment, the shrimp clip 1948 is formed from a compliant (compliant) metal that is arranged to deflect from a "rest" position when pushed through an opening in the middle plate 1952, and to return substantially to the rest position once inserted through the opening. The thickness of the metal used to form the shrimp clip 1948 can vary widely. In one embodiment, the shrimp clip 1948 may be formed from sheet metal having a thickness of about 0.3 mm.

Middle plate 1952, which may be formed of metal, may be coupled to housing 1912 using any suitable method. For example, middle plate 1952 may be welded into the inner surface of housing 1912. Referring now to fig. 20, a housing to which an intermediate plate is coupled, such as by welding, may be described according to one embodiment. Housing 2012, which may be formed of metal, has an outer surface (not shown) and an inner surface 2058. An intermediate plate 2052, which may be a metal sheet with at least one edge-formed notch 2056, is welded to inner surface 2058. When the middle plate 2052 is welded to the inner surface 2058, the notch 2056 and the inner surface 2058 cooperate to define an opening through which a shrimp clamp, such as shrimp clamp 1948 in fig. 19, may be inserted.

Another suitable coupling means that allows the cover to be mounted on the housing is a snap arrangement that includes a bracket configured to receive a tab. Such a bracket may be mounted on the housing and may include a compliant fastener arranged to engage a tab attached to the cover. Fig. 21 is a diagrammatic representation of a cover member having an insert molded tab and a housing having a holder configured to receive the tab in accordance with one embodiment. The assembly 2102, shown in exploded form for ease of illustration, includes a portion of the cover 2108 and a portion of the housing 2112. The lid 2108 includes a tab or hook 2160 in which an opening is provided. Tabs 2160 may be insert molded into lid 2108, and tabs 2160 may be formed from sheet metal of any suitable thickness, such as sheet metal having a thickness of about 0.5 mm. The housing 2112 has a bracket 2164 coupled thereto. The standoffs 2164, which may be formed of metal, may be welded to a surface of the housing 2112, such as an interior surface.

A compliant fastener 2168 is formed in the holder 2164 and is configured to engage the tab 2160 when the tab 2160 is inserted through an opening 2172 formed by the holder 2164 and an interior surface of the housing 2112 (e.g., a "doghouse" shaped fastener opening). Pressure is applied to tab 2160, typically by compliant fastener 2168, to secure tab 2160 in opening 2172, thereby sufficiently retaining lid 2108 to housing 2112.

Fig. 22 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of creating a device including a cover member having insert molded tabs, and a housing having a cradle configured to receive the tabs, according to one embodiment, as described above with reference to the example of fig. 21. A method 2201 of creating a device begins at step 2205, wherein the device includes a cover member that is mounted on a housing using a coupling means that includes a tab and a bracket, and in step 2205, the bracket, i.e., the bracket including the fastener component, may be welded around a perimeter of a side of the housing. The bracket may be, for example, the same or similar to bracket 2164 in fig. 21. In general, any number of brackets may be welded around the perimeter of the sides of the housing. For example, 10 brackets may be welded around the perimeter of the sides of the housing. It will be appreciated that the bracket may also be attached to the housing using methods other than welding.

Once the bracket is welded or, more generally, attached to the perimeter of the side of the housing, tabs or hooks may be insert molded to the lid support in step 2209. The glass sheet is then coupled to the cover support to form a complete cover portion at step 2213. In one embodiment, the cover support may be a frame in which the glass sheet may be secured. Any suitable method may typically be used to couple the glass sheet to the cover member.

After the full lid portion is formed, flow proceeds to step 2217 where the internal components are placed in the internal volume defined in the housing. Internal components generally include, but are not limited to including, electronic components. The entire lid portion is mounted to the housing in step 2221 such that the tabs in the lid member are fully inserted through the doghouse opening into the brackets welded to the housing. When the tab is inserted through the doghouse opening, the compliant fastener of the bracket may engage the tab to hold the entire lid portion to the housing. After the entire cover portion is assembled to the housing such that the tabs pass through the doghouse-shaped openings in the cradle, the method of creating the device is complete.

Although only a few embodiments of the present invention have been described, it should be understood that the present invention may be embodied in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. For example, the cover is generally described as being removably coupled to the housing. The screw may be screwed out to remove the cover from the housing, the fastener may be disengaged from the middle plate, and the tab may be disengaged from the fastener. The ability to substantially disengage or detach the cover from the housing may enable maintenance and repair of components housed by the housing to be performed. In some embodiments, however, the cover may be substantially non-removably coupled to the housing.

While the housing is generally described as including a cover support (e.g., frame) with a glass member attached, it will be appreciated that the cover itself may be a glass member. In embodiments where the cover itself is a glass member, the coupling portions, such as tabs and fasteners, may be bonded directly to the glass member or indirectly to the glass member. When the links are indirectly bonded to the glass member, the links may be insert molded into the plastic sheet, and the plastic sheet may be bonded or otherwise attached to the glass member.

As shown in the examples of fig. 17 and 19, the edge of the housing associated with the engagement of the lid portion tabs is different than the edge that engages (e.g., makes substantial contact with) the housing of the lid portion. That is, the edge of the housing for engaging the cover is different than the edge or surface of the housing that is substantially sealed to the cover. It will be appreciated that instead of substantially sealing the cover to the housing when the housing is engaged with the cover, there may be a gap between the housing and the cover. In one embodiment, a material, such as a compliant material, may be placed in the gap between the housing and the cover.

Any number of coupling components that enable the cover to be mounted to the housing may generally be included in the electronic device. The coupling members are generally positioned along the interior perimeter of the electronic device, and the number of coupling members in the electronic device may depend on factors including, but not limited to, the size of the electronic device and the space available inside the electronic device. In one embodiment, between about 10 and about 20 coupling members may be included in an electronic device. It should be understood that, in general, less than 10 and more than 20 coupling elements may also be included in an electronic device.

Optical lens formation

According to yet another aspect, the optical lens may be formed of a shaped optical cement. The optical lens may be used, for example, as a lens of a camera flash of a portable electronic device. A mold may be used to form the lens from an optical cement that may be cured at the time of molding. For example, the optical glue may be a liquid adhesive that is curable by Ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In one embodiment, a mold (e.g., a steel mold) having a lens configuration may be applied to the uncured optical cement and then UV radiation applied to cure the optical cement. Once cured, the mold may be removed and the optical lens formed. In a particular embodiment, the optical lens may be formed on an inner surface of a glass housing member of the portable electronic device, and curing of the optical glue used to form the optical lens may be performed by UV radiation acting on the optical glue through the glass housing member. In another particular embodiment, the optical lens may be formed on an optical substrate (e.g., a transparent plastic carrier) that is then mounted in the portable electronic device, for example, on an inner surface of a glass housing member of the electronic device.

In one embodiment, a portable electronic device having an optical lens formed from optical cement may be configured to include a housing surface having at least one opening or transparent portion. The portable electronic device may also include a camera and a camera flash element that generates light. The optical lens receives at least a portion of the light generated by the camera flash element and directs the received light through an opening or transparent portion of the housing surface. The optical lens may be formed of an optical cement that is molded and cured into a predetermined lens configuration.

Structure and assembly of cover assembly

According to yet another aspect, a cover assembly, such as a rear cover assembly, may be configured to support and protect the outer glass member. The cover assembly may form a portion of the electronic device housing. The cover assembly may also include a well-defined glass lens, a coupling member, and a structural support.

Fig. 23A-23C illustrate perspective views of a rear cover assembly 2300, according to one embodiment. The rear cover assembly 2300 may, for example, represent one implementation of the rear cover assembly 260 shown in fig. 2B. The back cover assembly 2300 may also represent the assembly shown in fig. 10 having the second outer housing member 1016 and the second interface member 1018 (having the protective edge member 1020), and/or the assembly shown in fig. 12 having the second outer housing member 1216 and the second interface member 1218 (having the protective edge member 1220).

Fig. 23A illustrates a front perspective view of a rear cover assembly 2300, according to one embodiment. The back assembly 2300 may include an interface member 2302 and a glass member 2304 (e.g., a glass plate). The interface member 2302 provides a support structure that can be fastened to a base housing (base housing). In one embodiment, the interface member 2302 may be removably secured to the base housing.

The rear cover assembly 2300 may be secured to the base housing in a variety of ways. In the embodiment of the interface member 2302 shown in fig. 23A, the interface member 2302 comprises one or more tabs 2306 and one or more hooks 2308. One or more tabs 2306 and one or more hooks 2308 are used to secure the back assembly 2300 to a base housing, such as the outer peripheral member 220 discussed above. One or more hooks 2306 can include threaded openings (e.g., holes) that can receive coupling screws for securing the back assembly 2300 to a base housing (e.g., outer peripheral member 220). The coupling screw may prevent the rear cover assembly 2300 from being separated from the base housing. However, the rear cover assembly 2300 may be removed by removing the coupling screws.

Glass member 2304 is a thin glass sheet configured to fit in the recess provided by interface member 2302. In one embodiment, the edges (e.g., edges) of glass member 2304 can be protected by protective edge structural members when it is in a recess. Glass sheets 2310 and optical fence 2312 can be coupled to glass member 2304. Glass sheet 2310 can be provided for an image capture device (e.g., a camera) disposed in an electronic device base housing. Glass sheet 2310 is separated from glass member 2304. Glass sheet 2310 may also provide optical properties that are different from the optical properties of glass member 2304. For example, glass sheet 2310 may (by itself or through a coating) provide optical filtering (e.g., infrared filtering) or amplification. In other words, glass sheet 2310 may function as a lens, a filter, or both.

The size, dimensions, and materials of the components of the electronic device housing may vary from embodiment to embodiment. In the case of a portable electronic device, the thickness of the back assembly 2300 (excluding the one or more tabs 2306 and the one or more hooks 2308 described above) may be about 5 millimeters or less. For thin portable electronic devices (e.g., handheld electronic devices), the thickness of the back assembly 2300 (excluding the one or more tabs 2306 and the one or more hooks 2308 described above) may be about 2 millimeters or less. Also, the thickness of glass member 2304 may be about 1 millimeter or less. For example, glass member 2304 may have a glass thickness of about 0.3 to 0.6 millimeters. Glass member 2304 is a glass (e.g., an aluminosilicate or soda-lime glass). However, in alternative embodiments, glass member 2304 may be replaced with a member made (in whole or in part) of a metal, ceramic, and/or plastic material.

Fig. 23B illustrates a back perspective view of the rear cover assembly 2300, according to one embodiment. The interface member 2302 extends primarily around the periphery of the rear cover assembly 2300. The interface member 2302 may be formed of a polymer. The interface member 2302 illustrates a lens holder 2314 that is used to secure the glass sheet 2310 to the interface member 2302. Interface member 2302 may also include a reinforcement plate 2316 that may be used to strengthen interface member 2302. The reinforcement plate 2316 may be formed of metal (e.g., stainless steel). The reinforcement plate 2316 is a separate piece independent of the outer peripheral support portion 2318. The reinforcement plate 2316 may be fixed to the outer peripheral support portion 2318. For example, the reinforcement plate 2316 may be inserted into an outer peripheral support portion 2318 having grooves and/or tabs in place. As another example, the outer peripheral portion 2318 may be insert molded around portions of the reinforcement plate 2316 to secure the reinforcement plate 2316 to the outer peripheral border 2318. Also, in one embodiment, one or more tabs 2306 and/or one or more hooks 2308 may be reinforced by features on reinforcement plate 2316. For example, one or more hooks 2308 may be structurally reinforced by features on reinforcement plate 2316 that may extend upward from reinforcement plate 2316 into or adjacent to the one or more hooks.

Fig. 23C illustrates an assembly view of a rear cover assembly 2300, according to one embodiment. The assembly of the rear cover assembly 2300 may provide an interface member 2302 to which an outer peripheral support portion 2318 is secured or integrated. An adhesive layer 2320 may be disposed between reinforcement plate 2316 and interface member 2302. The adhesive layer 2320 may be applied as a film, spray, tape, or coating. In addition to the adhesive layer 2320, a liquid adhesive may also be deposited in certain areas where the adhesive layer 2320 is not provided. Glass member 2304 may be pressed against adhesive layer 2320 (and liquid adhesive) such that glass member 2304 may be coupled to interface member 2302. In particular, once glass member 2304 is aligned and coupled to interface member 2302, the glass member is secured to interface member 2302 with its edges (edges) protected by outer peripheral support portion 2318. By adhering glass member 2304 to a substantial amount of its surface area, glass member 2404 is securely held so that when glass member 2304 breaks, pieces of glass member 2304 will remain secured to the adhesive and to back assembly 2300.

Additionally, the rear cover assembly may also include one or more features to facilitate image acquisition. In one embodiment, the back assembly 2300 may also include an opening 2322 for an image acquisition component in the interface member 2302. An image acquisition device (generally denoted as a camera) may be disposed in the base housing, and an opening 2322 in the interface member 2300 may be aligned with the position of the image acquisition device. In addition, glass member 2304 may include an opening 2324 for receiving glass sheet 2310 and lens holder 2314 containing glass sheet 2310. The adhesive ring 2326 may be located between the lens holder 2314 and the back of the glass member 2304 such that the adhesive ring 2316 is disposed around the opening 2324 to secure the lens holder 2314 to the back of the glass member 2304.

FIG. 24 illustrates an assembly view of glass member 2304 according to one embodiment. Although glass member 2304 is primarily a glass component formed from glass sheet 2400, other components or materials may be adhered to glass sheet 2400 to make it better suited for its intended use as a rear cover portion of an electronic device housing. In particular, Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) of a metal (e.g., aluminum) can form a mark on glass sheet 2400. The stamp may include graphics (e.g., logos) 2404 or text 2406. In this embodiment, the imprint may be provided on the inner surface of glass sheet 2400. Glass member 2304 may also include a cover layer 2408. A cover layer 2408 may also be disposed on the inner surface of the glass sheet 2400. The cover layer 2408 may be colored glass of the glass sheet 2400 that would otherwise be translucent. The cover layer 2408 may render the glass member opaque to mask or hide components behind the glass sheet 2400 from exposure. Since the indicia and masking layers 2408 are on the inside surface of the glass sheet 2400, they are protected by the glass sheet 2400 and are not easily damaged during use. Further, in one embodiment, a coating layer 2410 may be applied to the outer surface of the glass sheet 2400. The coating layer 2410 may be used to reduce the visibility of the user's fingerprint from appearing on the outer surface of the glass sheet 2400. The Coating layer 2410 can provide an Anti-fingerprint Coating (e.g., Anti-fingerprint fluorosilicate Coating), which can reduce surface staining (smudging, staining) on the glass sheet 2400 (e.g., Anti-smudging Coating).

Others

In general, the steps associated with the methods of the present invention may vary widely. Steps may be added, removed, replaced, combined, and reordered without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present invention.

The different aspects, features, embodiments or implementations of the invention described above can be used separately or combined in different ways. For example, the side screws and the shrimp-shaped members may cooperate to couple the cover to the housing.

While this specification contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosure or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of the disclosure. Certain features that are described in the context of different embodiments can also be implemented in combination. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Also, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

While embodiments and applications have been shown and described, it would be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that many more modifications than mentioned above are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein.

Claims (37)

1. An electronic device housing, comprising:

an outer peripheral member defining a side surface for the electronic device housing;

an intermediate plate secured to an inner surface of the outer periphery member, the intermediate plate being an inner planar structure offset from front and back planar boundaries of the outer periphery member; and

a cover assembly positioned and secured relative to the outer peripheral member, the cover assembly including at least a glass member providing an exposed outer surface for the electronic device case.

2. An electronic device housing as recited in claim 1, wherein the outer peripheral member comprises metal.

3. An electronic device housing as recited in claim 1, wherein the glass member serves as a front surface of the electronic device housing.

4. An electronic device enclosure as in claim 1,

wherein the cap assembly includes at least one coupling member protruding therefrom,

wherein the outer peripheral member is part of a housing portion, an

Wherein the housing portion includes at least one receptacle configured to receive the at least one coupling, the at least one receptacle at least partially defined on a first side of the housing portion, the at least one receptacle further configured to capture the at least one coupling, wherein the cover assembly engages a second side of the housing portion when the at least one coupling is captured in the at least one receptacle.

5. The electronic device enclosure of claim 4, wherein the cover assembly and the housing portion cooperate to contain at least one electronic component in an interior volume defined at least by the housing portion.

6. The electronic device enclosure of claim 4, wherein the cover assembly abuts the second side of the housing portion when the at least one coupling is captured in the at least one receptacle.

7. The electronic device enclosure of claim 4, wherein the at least one coupler is a tab.

8. The electronic device housing of claim 7, wherein the at least one receptacle is configured to receive the tab, the at least one receptacle being arranged to engage the tab.

9. The electronic device housing of claim 4, wherein the at least one coupling is a slotted tab and the housing portion includes a bracket having a compliant fastener, wherein the bracket cooperates with the first side to define the at least one receptacle.

10. The electronic device housing of claim 9, wherein the compliant fastener engages the slotted tab when the slotted tab is captured in the at least one receptacle.

11. An electronic device enclosure as recited in claim 4, wherein the cover assembly includes the glass member and a frame arranged to support the glass member.

12. The electronic device housing of claim 11, wherein the at least one coupler is formed of metal and is insert molded into the frame.

13. The electronic device case of claim 4, wherein the cover assembly is formed at least in part from a plastic material and the at least one coupler is formed from metal, the at least one coupler being insert molded into the plastic material.

14. An electronic device enclosure as in claim 1,

wherein the electronic device housing further comprises:

at least one coupling member, and

wherein the cover assembly is a front cover assembly that is positioned and secured adjacent to a front planar boundary of the outer peripheral member using at least the coupling member, thereby providing a front surface of the electronic device case.

15. An electronic device enclosure as recited in claim 14, wherein the coupling member assists in coupling the front cover assembly to the mid-plane or the outer peripheral member.

16. The electronic device enclosure of claim 15, wherein the middle plate comprises a metal plate.

17. An electronic device housing as recited in claim 14, wherein the at least one coupling member extends from the front cover assembly.

18. The electronic device enclosure of claim 14, wherein the at least one coupling member comprises a tab.

19. An electronic device enclosure as in claim 14,

wherein the coupling member assists in coupling the front cover assembly to the middle plate or the outer peripheral member, an

Wherein the outer peripheral member or the intermediate plate comprises at least one socket configured to receive the at least one coupling member.

20. The electronic device case of claim 19, wherein the at least one receptacle is at least partially defined on a first side of the outer peripheral member, the at least one receptacle further configured to capture the at least one coupling member, and the front cover assembly engages a second side of the outer peripheral member when the at least one coupling member is captured in the at least one receptacle.

21. An electronic device enclosure as recited in any of claims 14-20, wherein the front cover assembly includes a front cover member and a protective rim member, the front cover member having an exposed edge, and the protective rim member being disposed against and around the exposed edge of the front cover member.

22. The electronic device enclosure of claim 21, wherein the protective edge member comprises a polyarylamide.

23. The electronic device enclosure of claim 21, wherein the protective edge member comprises a polymer having a Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) of less than or equal to about 50 millimeters per meter per degree c.

24. An electronic device housing as recited in claim 21, wherein the protective edge member has a thickness of no more than about 1 mm.

25. An electronic device case as recited in claim 21, wherein the front cover assembly further comprises a support member that supports the front cover member and another coupling member integrated with or coupled to the support member integrated with or coupled to the protective rim member for securing the front cover assembly relative to the electronic device case.

26. An electronic device enclosure as recited in claim 21, wherein the front cover assembly further comprises a support member supporting the front cover member and a coupling member integrated with or coupled to the support member integrated with or coupled to the protective edge member, the coupling member for securing the front cover assembly relative to the edge member.

27. The electronic device housing of claim 26, wherein the electronic device housing further comprises:

a rear cover assembly positioned and secured to provide a rear surface for the electronic device case, the rear cover assembly including a rear cover member and a rear protective edge member disposed against and surrounding an edge of the rear cover member, an

Wherein the rear cover assembly further comprises a rear support member supporting the rear cover member and integrated with or coupled to the rear support member, and a rear coupling member integrated with or coupled to the rear protective rim member for securing the rear cover assembly to the rim member in phase.

28. The electronic device enclosure of claim 27, wherein the front cover member comprises glass and the back cover member comprises glass.

29. The electronic device enclosure of claim 21, wherein the front cover member comprises glass.

30. The electronic device enclosure of any one of claims 22-27, wherein the front cover member comprises glass.

31. An electronic device housing as recited in claim 29, wherein the thickness of the front cover member is no more than about 5 mm.

32. An electronic device enclosure as recited in claim 1, wherein the glass member is a front glass cover serving as a front surface of the electronic device enclosure, and

wherein the electronic device housing further comprises:

a rear glass cover positioned and secured to provide a rear surface for the electronic device housing.

33. An electronic device housing as recited in claim 32, wherein the front glass cover is provided as substantially the entire front surface of the electronic device housing and the back glass cover is provided as substantially the entire back surface of the electronic device housing.

34. The electronic device housing of claim 32, wherein the electronic device housing further comprises an edge member extending around a periphery of the electronic device housing.

35. The electronic device enclosure of claim 34 wherein the side members are primarily metal or plastic.

36. An electronic device housing as recited in claim 32, wherein the front glass cover is at least substantially transparent and the back glass cover is rendered at least substantially opaque by the coating.

37. The electronic device enclosure of any one of claims 32-36, wherein the front glass cover is no more than about 5mm thick and the back glass cover is no more than about 5mm thick.