HK1174125B - Magnetic attachment unit - Google Patents

Description

Magnetic attachment unit

Technical Field

The described embodiments relate generally to portable electronic devices. More particularly, embodiments herein describe detachable attachment techniques well suited for portable electronic devices.

Background

Recent advances in portable computing include the pairing of ipads manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, california^TMIntroduction of handheld electronic devices and computing platforms such as tablet devices. These handheld computing devices may be configured such that a substantial portion of the electronic device takes the form of a display for presenting visual content, leaving little available space for an attachment mechanism that may be used to attach an accessory device.

Conventional attachment techniques typically rely on mechanical fasteners that typically require at least externally accessible attachment features on the electronic device to mate with corresponding attachment features on the accessory device. The presence of external attachment features may detract from the overall look and feel of the handheld computing device, and add undesirable weight and complexity, as well as detract from the appearance of the handheld computing device.

Accordingly, a mechanism for removably attaching at least two objects together is desired.

Disclosure of Invention

Various embodiments described herein relate to systems, methods, and apparatuses for forming a collaborative system using magnetic attachment.

A magnetic attachment unit for magnetically attaching together a first object and a second object to form a cooperative system is described, wherein the first object has a first magnetic attachment system and the second object has a second magnetic attachment system. The magnetic attachment unit comprises at least a magnetic attachment system arranged to provide a first activation force for activating the first magnetic attachment system and a second activation force for activating the second magnetic attachment system. The activated first and second magnetic attachment systems cooperate with the magnetic attachment system to removably secure the first object and the second object together to form a cooperating magnetic system.

A magnetic attachment unit is described for magnetically attaching together at least separate first and second electronic devices, each having an associated magnetic attachment feature, the magnetically attached electronic devices communicating with each other to form a cooperating electronic system when magnetically attached. The magnetic attachment unit includes a body having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, a first magnetic attachment system at the first side of the body including at least a first magnet configured to provide a first activation force for activating a corresponding magnetic attachment feature in the first electronic device, a second magnetic attachment system at the second side of the body including at least a second magnet configured to provide a second activation force for activating a corresponding magnetic attachment feature in the second electronic device, wherein a magnetic attachment force generated between the corresponding magnet in the magnetic attachment unit and the activated first and second magnetic attachment systems causes the separate first and second electronic devices to operate together as a cooperating electronic device.

A lid assembly is described that includes at least a hinge assembly detachably connectable to a host (host) unit and a lid assembly pivotally attached to the hinge assembly that conforms in size and shape to the host unit. The cover assembly includes at least: a cover portion pivotally attached to the hinge assembly at a first pivot; and a wing (flap) portion separate from the cover portion, the wing portion pivotally attached to the hinge assembly at a second pivot different from the first pivot such that the cover portion and the wing portion individually rotate about their respective pivot points such that the cover forms a support structure that supports a host device at an oblique angle with respect to the wing portion.

A docking station comprising at least a base portion arranged to provide support for a host device, the base portion comprising: an attachment unit arranged to detachably secure the host device and the base portion; a user input section arranged to receive a user input event; and a communication port arranged to provide a communication path between the host device and a user input portion of the base portion, wherein information associated with a user input event at the user input portion is communicated to the host device over the communication path provided by the communication port.

Other aspects and advantages of the 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 described embodiments.

Drawings

The present invention will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of an article and an electronic device that may be removably attached to one another in a desired and repeatable manner.

FIG. 2A is a simplified perspective view of an article that may be removably attached to an electronic device via a side magnetic attachment system according to one described embodiment.

FIG. 2B shows the electronic device and article of FIG. 2A attached in accordance with a side magnetic attachment system.

FIG. 3A is a simplified perspective view of a first electronic device that is removably attachable to a second electronic device via a side magnetic attachment system according to one described embodiment.

Fig. 3B shows the second electronic device and the first electronic device of fig. 3A attached according to a lateral magnetic attachment system to form one cooperating electronic system.

Fig. 4A and 4B are simplified perspective views of an article that is removably attachable to an electronic device via a magnetic attachment unit and corresponding magnetic system.

Fig. 5A and 5B are simplified perspective views of an article in the form of an electronic device that is removably attachable to the electronic device via a magnetic attachment unit.

FIG. 6A illustrates a top perspective view of electronic device 100, according to described embodiments.

Fig. 6B shows the magnetic attachment feature activated.

Fig. 7A-7B illustrate a magnetic attachment unit for magnetically attaching electronic devices to form a cooperative system.

Fig. 8A-8C illustrate various embodiments of a magnetic attachment unit that may be used to magnetically attach an electronic device to an object having a suitably configured magnetic attachment system.

Fig. 9 illustrates an arrangement formed by magnetically attaching a tablet device to a tablet device using a flexible magnetic attachment unit in an open configuration.

Fig. 10 shows the arrangement in a closed configuration, in which the tablet device is folded over one another using the flexible nature of the flexible connection.

Fig. 11A and 11B illustrate tablet devices magnetically attached to each other by magnetic attachment units.

Fig. 12A-12C illustrate tablet devices connected together by magnetic attachment units.

FIG. 13 illustrates a magnetic attachment unit for magnetically attaching a flat panel device to form a flat panel array.

Fig. 14A-14B illustrate cross-sections of a system according to an embodiment.

Figures 15-17 illustrate various embodiments of wings of the cap assembly.

FIGS. 18A-18D illustrate a fixed magnetic connection station in accordance with the described embodiments.

19A-19B illustrate a pivoting magnetic connection station according to a described embodiment.

Fig. 20A-20F illustrate various suspension attachments according to described embodiments.

Fig. 21A and 21B show a further suspension accessory according to the described embodiment.

FIG. 22A illustrates a vehicle mount according to the described embodiments.

FIG. 22B illustrates a treadmill mount according to an described embodiment.

23A-23H illustrate various accessories in accordance with the described embodiments.

Fig. 24 shows a travel container according to the described embodiment.

Fig. 25A-25B illustrate an electromagnetic disconnect mechanism.

Fig. 26A-26C illustrate a hands free approach for changing the operating state of an electronic device.

FIGS. 27A-27B illustrate a hands-free pop-up (ejection) embodiment.

28A-28B illustrate a magnetic window embodiment.

29A-29B illustrate another embodiment of a magnetic attachment feature.

FIGS. 30A-30B illustrate yet another embodiment of the magnetic attachment feature of FIGS. 29A-29B.

31A-31C illustrate the magnetic attachment features of FIGS. 30A-30B arranged to provide magnetic attachment information.

Fig. 32A illustrates an embodiment of a representative magnetic element of the magnetic attachment features of fig. 31A-31C providing a first type of information.

Fig. 32B illustrates an embodiment of a representative magnetic element of the magnetic attachment features of fig. 31A-31C providing a second type of information.

Fig. 33 shows a table of representative attachment states in accordance with the information provided by the magnetic attachment features of fig. 31A-31B.

Fig. 34 is a block diagram of an arrangement of functional modules employed by the portable media device.

FIG. 35 is a block diagram of an electronic device suitable for use with the described embodiments.

Detailed Description

Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

The following description generally relates to mechanisms that may be used to attach at least two suitably configured objects together. In one embodiment, this may be accomplished without the use of conventional fasteners. Each object may comprise an attachment feature arranged to provide a magnetic field having suitable characteristics. When the attachment features are adjacent to one another, the magnetic fields may cooperatively interact based on their respective characteristics, and may cause the objects to magnetically attach to one another in a desired and repeatable manner. For example, due at least in part to the cooperative nature of the interaction of the magnetic fields, the objects may be attached to one another in a predetermined position and relative orientation without external intervention. For example, cooperative magnetic interaction may cause the object to self-align and self-center as desired.

The object may remain in the magnetically attached state until a release force (releasing force) of sufficient magnitude to overcome the total net magnetic attraction is applied. However, in some cases it may be desirable to separate the objects in sequence (like a zipper), in which case the breakout force need only be of sufficient magnitude to overcome the net magnetic attraction of the pair of magnetic elements at a time. No connectors, such as mechanical fasteners, are required to attach the objects together. Further, to prevent undue interference with the magnetic interaction between the magnetic attachment features, at least a portion of the object in the vicinity of the magnetic attachment features may be formed of a magnetically inactive material such as plastic or a non-ferrous metal such as aluminum or non-magnetic stainless steel.

The object may take many forms and perform many functions. The objects may communicate and interact with each other while being magnetically attached to each other to form a cooperative system. The collaboration system may perform operations and provide functionality that cannot be provided independently by separate objects. In another embodiment, at least one device may be used as an accessory device. The accessory device may be magnetically attached to at least one electronic device. The accessory device can provide functions and services that can be used to improve the operability of the electronic device (or devices). For example, the accessory device can take the form of a protective case that is magnetically attachable to and encloses the electronic device. Protective cases may provide protection for certain aspects of the electronic device (e.g., the display) as well as for the electronic device as a whole. The magnetic attachment mechanism for magnetically attaching the protective case and the electronic device may ensure that the protective case may only be attached to the electronic device in a particular orientation. Furthermore, the magnetic attachment mechanism may also ensure proper alignment and positioning of the protective case and the electronic device.

In one embodiment, the first object and the second object may be magnetically attached to each other such that the first object may be configured to provide a support mechanism for the second object. The support mechanism may be mechanical in nature. For example, the first object may take the form of a stand that may be used to support the second object on a work surface such as a table. In one embodiment, the stand may take the form of an articulated stand arranged to present the second object at a plurality of angles and orientations.

In one embodiment, the first object may take the form of a docking station (dock) arranged to magnetically attach to the second object in a particular manner. The connecting station may be electronic in nature, in which case the second object is an electronic device. The docking station may provide electrical contacts that may provide power from an external power source to the electronic device. The electrical contacts may also provide a mechanism by which information may be provided to and from the electronic device. For example, the connection station may comprise an audio output device, such as a speaker arranged to broadcast sound based on audio signals received from the electronic device.

In one embodiment, the first object may take the form of a suspension device. Thus, the first object may be used to hang a second object, which may then be used as a display for presenting visual content such as visual material (visual), still images like pictures, artwork (art work), etc. The support mechanism may also serve as a handle for conveniently grasping or holding the second object. This arrangement is particularly useful where the second object may present visual content such as images (still or video), text (as in an electronic book), or have image capture capabilities, in which case the second object may be used as an image capture device such as a still or video camera, while the first object may be configured to be used as a support such as a tripod or a handle. The handle may be fixed or flexible. In one embodiment, the suspension means may take the form of a hook, suction cup or any other suitable suspension device. For example, the suspension arrangement may be used to secure the electronic device to a whiteboard. In one embodiment, a suspension device in the form of a hook may be used to secure an electronic device to a seat cushion in an automobile, airplane, or train. In this manner, the electronic device may provide visual content to a person seated in a suitable position to view the display screen.

In one embodiment, the attachment may occur between a first object and a second object, where the first object and the second object are each electronic devices. Electronic devices may be magnetically attached to each other to form a cooperating electronic system in which the electronic devices may communicate with each other. In one embodiment, the first and second electronic devices may be directly attached to each other. In one embodiment, a magnetic attachment unit may be used to magnetically attach together a first electronic device and a second electronic device. Communication between the first and second electronic devices may occur before, during, and after the magnetic attachment is completed.

As part of this communication, information may be communicated between the first and second electronic devices. Depending on the nature of the processing, this information may be processed, in whole or in part, at the first or second electronic device. In this manner, the cooperative electronic system can utilize the cooperative effect of magnetically attaching and communicating the plurality of electronic devices to each other. In one implementation, the communication may be performed wirelessly using any suitable wireless communication protocol, such as Bluetooth (BT), GSM, CDMA, WiFi, and so on.

In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit may transfer information between the first and second electronic devices. In one embodiment, information may be provided from the magnetic attachment unit and communicated to one or both of the first and second electronic devices. For example, in one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit may take the form of a magnetic binder that may be used to attach first and second electronic devices in the form of electronic books. Thus, at least one electronic device may have a display adapted to the presented visual content. Information such as book content may be transferred from the magnetic binder to the electronic device. The information may cause the electronic device to operate in a manner consistent with the information.

For example, where the information provided to the first and/or second electronic devices is associated with a particular learning guidance (e.g., mathematics, language, etc.), the information may cause one or both of the electronic devices to operate in a manner consistent with the guidance, such as presenting a course, work paper (works set), and so forth. For example, a first electronic device may present visual content consistent with the subject matter of the guidance, while a second electronic device may facilitate user interaction by presenting user input such as a virtual keyboard, touch input, and the like.

In one embodiment, the second electronic device may take the form of a peripheral device, such as a keyboard, touchpad, joystick, or the like. This embodiment may be well suited for video games presented by the first electronic device. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit may store information needed to start the video game, while in another embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit may be used as a trigger. The trigger is used to initiate a game on either or both of the first and second electronic devices.

In one embodiment, the cooperating electronic system may take the form of an array of electronic devices rigidly connected to each other by magnetic attachment units. The magnetic attachment unit may include a plurality of magnetic attachment features. Each of the plurality of magnetic attachment features may magnetically interact with a corresponding magnetic attachment feature included in a corresponding electronic device. In one embodiment, the array of electronic devices may be used as a single unified display (like a tiled pattern). In another embodiment, the array of electronic devices may provide a single or a set of functions (e.g., a virtual keyboard).

As an example, the first and second electronic devices may be magnetically coupled together by a magnetic attachment unit. The magnetic attachment unit may comprise a magnetic system. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit may be used as a trigger to activate the magnetic attachment system in each of the first and second electronic devices. In one embodiment, the activation may be the result of a keyed magnetic interaction between the magnetic system and each of the magnetic attachment systems. In one embodiment, the keyed magnetic interaction may take the form of an interaction between magnetic fields having characteristics based on the magnetic attachment system in the first and second electronic devices and the arrangement of magnetic elements in the magnetic system.

In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit may be formed of a bendable but strong (sturdy) material. In this manner, a portion of the magnetic attachment unit that is magnetically attached to the first electronic device may be bent such that the display on the first electronic device is presented to the user at a comfortable viewing angle of approximately 70 ° to 75 ° while the second electronic device remains flat on a support surface such as a table. In this manner, the second electronic device may display inputs (e.g., virtual keyboard, GUI, etc.) that may be used to enter data into the collaboration system. In one embodiment, the first electronic device may present visual content based on a current state of the collaboration system.

For example, the second electronic device may present a virtual keyboard that may be used to provide input commands and/or data, etc. to the collaboration system through the magnetic attachment of the first and second electronic devices. For example, where the magnetic attachment unit is associated with mathematical guidance, the information provided to the first and second electronic devices may cause the display of the first electronic device to present a theme (mathematical equation, problem, etc. to be solved) of virtual keyboard interaction that the student may present with the display of the second electronic device.

These and other embodiments will be discussed below with reference to fig. 1 through 35. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. For the remainder of the discussion, first and second objects each suitably configured to be magnetically attached to one another according to the described embodiments will be described. It should be noted, however, that any number and type of suitably configured objects may be magnetically attached to one another in a precise and repeatable manner. In particular, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, it is assumed for the remainder of this discussion that the first object takes the form of an electronic device, and in particular a handheld electronic device.

Fig. 1 is a simplified block diagram of an article 10 and an electronic device 12 that may be removably attached to one another in a desired and repeatable manner. More specifically, the article 10 and the electronic device 12 may be attached to one another in a predetermined position and relative orientation without external intervention and without the use of mechanical fasteners. The article 10 and the electronic device 12 may remain attached to one another until a disengagement force is applied that overcomes the engagement therebetween. However, in some cases, it may be desirable to sequentially (like a zipper) disengage the article 10 and the electronic device 12, in which case a disengagement force may be applied that can withdraw the engagement between the article 10 and the electronic device 12 at a time about one of the attachment members. For example, the attachment means may comprise a suitably matched pair of magnetic elements, one on the article 10 and the other on the electronic device 12.

The electronic device 12 may take many forms. For example, the electronic device 12 may take the form of a portable electronic device. In some examples, the portable electronic device may include a housing 15. The housing 15 may enclose and provide support for components of the portable electronic device. The housing 15 may also provide support for at least a large, prominent display occupying a substantial portion of the front face of the portable electronic device. The display may be used to present visual content. Visual content may include still images, visuals, text data, and may include graphical data for use as icons of a graphical user interface, i.e., a portion of a GUI.

In some cases, at least a portion of the display may be touch sensitive. Touch-sensitive means that an object (e.g., a finger, stylus, etc.) may be placed in contact with or adjacent to an upper surface of the display during a touch event. The details of the touch event (location, pressure, duration, etc.) may be used to provide information to the portable electronic device for processing. In some embodiments, information may be provided by the portable electronic device in a tactile manner using, for example, a haptic actuator, in addition to or instead of the information to be provided to the portable electronic device. However, it should be understood that this configuration is by way of example and not by way of limitation, as electronic devices may vary widely. In one example, the portable electronic device is an iPad such as manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif^TMThe tablet computer of (1).

The article 10 may vary widely and may take many forms, such as an accessory or accessory to the electronic device 12. As accessories, the article 10 may be configured as a cover, a stand, a docking station, a hanger, an input/output device, and the like. In a particularly useful form, the article 10 may take the form of a protective cover that may include elements such as wings that may be located on a display of a portable electronic device. Like the electronic device 12, the article 10 may also include a housing 17 that may enclose and provide support for the components of the article 10.

Either or both of the article 10 and the electronic device 12 may include an attachment feature. For example, article 10 may include attachment system 13, while electronic device 12 may include a corresponding attachment system 14. The attachment system 13 may cooperate with a corresponding attachment system 14 to removably attach the item 10 and the electronic device 12. The article 10 and the electronic device 12 may operate as a single operating unit when attached to each other. On the other hand, in the separated mode, the article 10 and the electronic device 12 may be operated separately, and if desired as two separate parts. The attachment systems 13 and 14 may be configured such that the article 10 and the electronic device 12 may be attached to each other in a desired and repeatable manner. In other words, the attachment systems 13 and 14 may repeatedly align the article 10 and the electronic device 12 together so that they are consistently located in a predetermined position relative to each other.

The attachment features may vary widely. Attachment may be provided by various types of coupling, including mechanical, electrical, static, magnetic, frictional, and the like. In one embodiment, the attachment is not visible from the exterior of the article and/or electronic device. For example, articles and devices may not include externally visible attachment features (e.g., snaps, latches, etc.) that adversely affect the look and feel or decorative appearance, but rather include attachment features that are not visible from the exterior of the article or device and thus do not affect the look and feel or decorative appearance of the article or device. By way of example, the attachment feature may be provided by a gravitational surface that does not interfere with an outer surface of the item or device. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the attachment feature utilizes magnetic attraction to provide some or all of the attachment force.

The attachment system may include one or more attachment features. If multiple features are employed, the manner in which they are secured may be the same or different. For example, in one implementation, the first attachment feature employs a first attachment means and the second attachment feature employs a second attachment means different from the first attachment means. For example, the first attachment means may employ a frictional coupling, while the second attachment means may employ magnetism. In another implementation, the first attachment feature employs a first attachment means and the second attachment feature employs the same or similar attachment means. For example, the first and second attachment means may be provided by magnets. Although the attachment means may be similar, it should be understood that the configuration of the features may be different depending on the needs of the system. Further, any number and configuration of attachment means may be employed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment systems 13 and 14 each include at least a first set of corresponding attachment features 13a/14a and a second set of corresponding attachment features 13b/14 b. The attachment feature 13a may cooperate with the corresponding attachment feature 14a to removably attach the article 10 and the electronic device. In one particular implementation, this is achieved using magnetic attraction. Further, the attachment features 13b may cooperate with the corresponding attachment features 14b to further detachably attach the article 10 and the electronic device. In one particular implementation, this is achieved using magnetic attraction. By way of example, the attachment features 13a/14a may be provided in a first position, while the attachment features 13b/14b may be provided in a second position.

In a particular example, the attachment feature 14a may cooperate with the attachment feature 13a to secure the electronic device 12 to the article 10. In another example, the attachment feature 13b may employ the attachment feature 14b to secure the article 10 to the electronic device 12. It should be noted that the attachment systems 13 and 14 in this example may be separate, or they may cooperate together to generate the attachment. If the attachment features 14a and 14b cooperate, they correspond to or match one or more of the attachment features 13a and 13 b. In any case, the attachment features in any of these examples may be achieved by mechanical attachment, static attachment, attraction, magnetic attachment, or the like.

The attachment system and the placement of the attachment features within the attachment system may vary widely. With respect to electronic device 12, attachment system 14 may be placed on a front, back, top, bottom, and/or side surface. The attachment features 14a and 14b may be placed anywhere within the attachment system 14. Thus, the attachment features 14a and 14b may be placed anywhere relative to the housing and/or display. In one example, the attachment features 14a and 14b can provide engagement along one or more sides of the housing (e.g., top, bottom, left side, right side). In another example, the attachment features 14a and 14b may provide engagement at the back of the electronic device 12. In yet another example, the attachment features 14a and 14b may provide engagement at a front face of the electronic device 12 (e.g., where the display is placed, if any). In some cases, the combination of attachment features may be located in different areas of electronic device 12, such as on the sides and front. In one embodiment, attachment system 14, including attachment features 14a and 14b, does not interfere with the surface of electronic device 12. Similarly, the attachment system 13, and in particular the attachment features 13a and 13b, do not interfere with the surface of the article 10.

According to one embodiment, the attachment feature may comprise a magnetic element. The magnetic elements may be configured to assist in positioning the article 10 in a mating arrangement with respect to the electronic device 12. The magnetic elements may further assist in securing the article 10 and the electronic device 12 into mating engagement. It should be noted that the engagement of the article 10 and the electronic device 12 may be cancelled by applying a suitable disengagement force that causes the article 10 and the electronic device 12 to separate back to a separate object. However, the magnetic elements may allow the article 10 and the electronic device 12 to be subsequently rematched for engagement without the need for any type of fastener (mechanical or otherwise). In this manner, the magnetic elements provide repeatable and consistent engagement between the article 10 and the electronic device 12.

The article 10 and the electronic device 12 may further include components 16 and 18, respectively. The components 16 and 18 generally depend on the configuration of the article 10 and the electronic device 12, and may be, for example, mechanical or structural components for providing support, or they may be operational/functional components that may provide a particular set of operations/functions. The components may be specific to their respective devices, or they may be configured for coupling (e.g., wired or wireless) with aspects of the corresponding article or device. Examples of structural components may include frames, walls, fasteners, reinforcements, moving mechanisms (hinges), and the like. Examples of operational components may include processors, memory, batteries, antennas, circuits, sensors, displays, inputs, and so forth. Depending on the desired configuration, the components may be external (i.e., exposed on the surface) and/or internal (e.g., embedded within the housing).

Fig. 2A and 2B are simplified perspective views of an article 20 that may be removably attached to an electronic device 22 via a magnetic attachment system according to one described embodiment. The article 20 and the electronic device 22 may generally correspond to those discussed with respect to fig. 1. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment system may be represented as a magnetic surface 24 (shown by dashed lines or shading), more specifically as a magnetic surface 24 at the side of the electronic device 22. The magnetic surface 24 may provide a magnetic field that may cooperate with corresponding attachment features in the article 20 when placed adjacent to one another with the article 20. The magnetic field may establish a net magnetic attraction that may pull the item 20 and the electronic device 22 together into mating engagement along the engagement surface 26, as shown in fig. 2B.

In other words, the magnetic field provided by magnetic surface 24 may have a characteristic such that a net magnetic attraction between article 20 and electronic device 22 is substantially perpendicular to engagement surface 26. Further, the magnetic field may be such that a net magnetic attraction between the item 20 and the electronic device 22 is applied uniformly along the engagement surface 26. To disengage the article 20 and the electronic device 22, a disengagement force may be applied to the two coupled objects to overcome the net magnetic attraction provided by the magnetic attachment system.

It should also be understood that while only one sidewall is shown, in some cases different sidewalls and possibly combinations of sidewalls may be employed depending on the needs of the attachment interface. It should be noted that the use of magnetic attachment eliminates the need for mechanical attachment such as fasteners. Furthermore, the lack of mechanical attachment and the uniformity of the total magnetic attraction may leave the surfaces of the item 20 and the electronic device 22 undisturbed, thereby helping to create a unified appearance by which the item 20 and the electronic device 22 may appear to be a single unified entity. The consistency in appearance may improve the overall aesthetic appeal of both the article 20 and the electronic device 22.

In one embodiment, the magnetic surface may be generated by embedding magnetically attractable elements in the form of magnetic attachment features within the electronic device 22 and/or sidewalls of the item 20. That is, the magnetically attractable element may be disposed within the item 20 and the electronic device 22, such as within a housing of the electronic device 22. In this configuration, the housing may be formed of a non-magnetic material such as plastic or a non-ferrous metal such as aluminum. In this way, the magnetic field lines may be configured to act through the walls of the enclosure. The magnetic attachment features do not interfere with the physical appearance of the outer surfaces of the article 20 and the electronic device 22. Magnetically attractable elements in the item 20 and the electronic device 22 may be arranged to generate magnetic fields that may cooperate with one another to produce a magnetic attraction that attaches the item 20 and the electronic device 22 together in mating engagement. The magnetic attraction is configured to produce a magnetic attraction orthogonal to an engagement surface 26 between the electronic device 22 and the article 20.

The magnetic attraction between the article 20 and the corresponding magnetic elements in the electronic device 22 may also be applied uniformly along the engagement surface 26. The uniformity of the total magnetic attraction along the engagement surface 26 can be a result of the uniformity of the separation distance between the article 20 and the corresponding magnetic elements in the electronic device 22. Uniformity may also be a result of the consistency of the magnetic flux density between the article 20 and the corresponding magnetic elements in the electronic device 22. The surfaces of the article 20 and the electronic device 22 that each form a good fit with respect to each other may contribute to the uniformity of the net magnetic attachment. For example, one surface may be flat or have a concave geometry, while the other surface may have a convex geometry that conforms to a match. In this form, by mating together, the separation distance between the article 20 and each of the corresponding magnetic elements in the electronic device 22 may be reduced to a minimum. Conformance of the surface shape may also improve the overall look and feel of the article 20 and electronic device 22 by reducing or eliminating the appearance of seams at the joining surface 26. This seamless nature may provide the illusion of a single entity when the article 20 and electronic device 22 are attached to one another.

In addition to improving the overall look and feel, the consistency of the separation distance between the magnetic elements may cause the attachment force between the article 20 and the electronic device 22 to be uniform along the engagement surface 26. In this manner, the engagement force may be evenly distributed across the engagement surface 26, thereby preventing buckling, weak spots, and other problems that may affect the integrity of the engagement between the article 20 and the electronic device 22.

Fig. 3A and 3B are simplified perspective views of an article 20 that may take the form of an electronic device 30, the electronic device 30 being directly and removably attachable to an electronic device 32 via a magnetic attachment system, according to one described embodiment. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment system may appear as a magnetic surface 34 (shown by dashed lines or shading), more specifically as a magnetic surface 34 at the side of the electronic device 32. The magnetic surface 34 may provide a magnetic field that may cooperate with a corresponding attachment feature in the electronic device 30 when placed adjacent to one another with the electronic device 30. The magnetic field may establish a net magnetic attraction that may pull electronic device 30 and electronic device 32 together along engagement surface 36 into mating engagement to form cooperating system 38 shown in fig. 3B.

Fig. 4A and 4B are simplified perspective views of an article 40 that is removably attachable to an electronic device 42 via a magnetic attachment unit 44 and a corresponding magnetic system 46. It should be noted that this characteristic embodiment is similar to the embodiment described in fig. 2A and 2B, except that magnetic attachment unit 44 is employed to magnetically attach item 40 and electronic device 42, which were previously directly attached to each other at their respective sidewalls. In this manner, attachment system 46 may include a plurality of magnetic attachment features arranged to provide suitable magnetic attachment to article 40 and electronic device 42, respectively.

Fig. 4B shows the item 40 and the electronic device 42 magnetically attached to each other at the engagement surfaces 47a and 47B by the magnetic attachment unit 44 to form a cooperative system 48. As part of system 48, electronic device 42 and item 40 may cooperate with one another to provide features that are not available through item 40 or electronic device 42 alone. For example, the article 40 may take the form of a hanging device, a connecting device, a mounting device, or the like, and may provide a user with features that are not available solely through the electronic device 42. In one embodiment, the item 40 may take the form of a connection system that may be magnetically attached to the electronic device 42 by a magnetic attachment unit 44. In one embodiment, the connection system may provide mechanical support to the electronic device 42. In one embodiment, a connection system may be used to provide information to the electronic device 42. In one embodiment, this information may be stored in a storage device embedded in the magnetic attachment unit 44. In one embodiment, this information may be received at item 40 (e.g., through a WiFi connection) and transferred to electronic device 42 through magnetic attachment unit 44, or vice versa.

In one embodiment, article 40 may be used to suspend electronic device 42. For example, the article 40 may include a hook, fastener, or the like, which may be used to grasp another object for support. Article 40 may be used to provide support to electronic device 42. For example, the item 40 may take the form of a joint support that is magnetically attachable to the electronic device 42. The articulated nature of the article 40 may be used to present the electronic device 42 at various angles and orientations. It should be noted that due to the detachable nature of the magnetic attachment therebetween, the magnetic attachment unit 44 and the item 40 may be easily separated when the electronic device 42 is to be used, and then reattached when desired.

Fig. 5A and 5B are simplified perspective views of an article 40 in the form of an electronic device 50 that is removably attachable to an electronic device 52 via a magnetic attachment unit 54. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in fig. 4A and 4B, wherein the magnetic attachment unit 54 may include a plurality of magnetically attractable elements. For example, magnetic elements may be placed within the magnetic attachment unit 54 such that magnetic surfaces 56a and 56b are generated that are suitable for activating magnetic attachment systems in the electronic devices 50 and 52, respectively. For example, activating a magnetic attachment system in the electronic device 52 may cause a magnetic surface 58 to be present at a sidewall of the electronic device 52. The magnetic surface 58 may be used to magnetically attach the magnetic attachment unit 54 and the electronic device 52 at the engagement surface 60 a. In one embodiment, the magnetic surfaces 56b may be generated at opposing sidewalls of the magnetic attachment unit 54. In the same manner as the electronic device 52, the magnetic surface 56B may be employed to activate a magnetic attachment system in the electronic device 50 to generate a magnetic surface suitable for magnetically attaching the magnetic attachment unit 54 to the electronic device 50 at the engagement surface 60B to form a cooperating system 62 shown in fig. 5B.

It should be noted, however, that although a side-to-side magnetic attachment between electronic devices 50 and 52 is shown, in some embodiments, the magnetic surfaces may be located on the bottom and/or top surfaces of electronic devices 50 and 52. For example, the magnetic elements of the magnetic attachment unit 54 may be embedded behind the top surface 64 of the magnetic attachment unit 54 to create a magnetic surface 66 for attachment to the back of the electronic device 50 or 52, forming a back-to-back arrangement. It should be noted that although not shown, additional magnetic elements may be embedded in the bottom surface of the magnetic attachment unit 54.

Fig. 5B shows electronic device 50 and electronic device 52 magnetically attached to each other to form a collaboration system 62. In this arrangement, electronic device 52 and electronic device 50 may cooperate with one another to provide features that are not available through electronic device 50 or electronic device 52 alone. For example, the electronic device 50 may receive information, for example in the form of input commands from a user and/or input data, for example from sensors. The electronic device 50 may process the information, in whole or in part, and pass the processed information to the electronic device 52 for further processing. In this manner, collaboration system 62 may process information in a more efficient manner, thereby saving computing resources, which provides an improved user experience beyond that desired for electronic devices 50 or 52 to operate alone.

The cooperative system 62 may be formed by placing the magnetic attachment unit 54 and the electronic devices 50 and 52 adjacent to each other such that the magnetic surfaces 56a and 56b on the sides of the magnetic attachment unit 54 activate the magnetic attachment systems in the electronic devices 52 and 50, respectively. The activated magnetic system, in turn, provides a magnetic surface (e.g., magnetic surface 58) that interacts with magnetic attachment unit 54 to generate a net magnetic attraction having a magnitude and direction sufficient to hold electronic device 50 and electronic device 52 in mating engagement to form cooperating system 62.

In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit 54 may be formed of a rigid material. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit 54 may be bendable. In one aspect, the flexible nature of the magnetic attachment unit 54 may be used to provide a user interface such as a keyboard and display that may be presented to a user at a comfortable visual angle such as 75 °.

Although the purpose of the magnetic elements is similar, i.e., attaching an item to an electronic device, and attaching an electronic device to an electronic device, it should be understood that these mechanisms may vary widely. In some cases, the magnetic field may be configured differently. By way of example, a side-mounted magnetic surface may provide a first magnetic force, while a front-facing magnetic surface may provide a second magnetic force different from the first magnetic force. This may be due in part to different retention requirements and different surface areas, i.e., available space, and their impact on the internal components of the electronic device. In one example, the side-mounted magnetic surface provides a greater holding force (i.e., it is the primary securing force) for securing the item (or electronic device) to the electronic device, while the front-facing magnetic surface is the secondary securing force.

In one example, the magnetic attachment unit 54 includes multiple portions that are semi-rigid and flex relative to each other to make the magnetic attachment unit movable and flexible. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit 54 may be folded into one or more different configurations and may be held in these configurations in some cases with a magnetic system similar to that described above. These and other embodiments are described in more detail below. Further, it should be understood that the described embodiments are not limited to those specifically described herein, and that other configurations may be employed, including, for example, accessory devices that function as suspension devices, support mechanisms for electronic devices to improve viewing of the display, and support mechanisms for inputting touch events at touch-sensitive portions of the display, among others.

Electronic devices and articles may take many forms. For the remainder of this discussion, the electronic device is described in relation to a handheld portable computing device. Thus, fig. 6 shows a top perspective view of the electronic device 100 according to the described embodiment. The electronic device 100 may process data, more specifically media data such as audio, visual material, images, etc. By way of example, the electronic device 100 may generally correspond to a device operable as a smart phone, music player, game player, video player, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), tablet computer, and the like. The electronic device 100 may also be hand-held. With respect to being handheld, the electronic device 100 may be held in one hand while being operated by the other hand (i.e., without a reference surface such as a desktop). Accordingly, the electronic apparatus 100 can be held in one hand while the operation input command can be provided by the other hand. Manipulating the input command may include manipulating a volume switch, a hold switch, or providing input to a touch-sensitive surface such as a touch-sensitive display device or a touch pad.

The electronic device 100 may include a housing 102. In some embodiments, the housing 102 may take the form of a single-piece housing formed from any number of materials, such as plastics or non-magnetic metals, that can be forged, molded, or otherwise formed into a desired shape. In those cases where the electronic device 100 has a metal housing and incorporates Radio Frequency (RF) based functionality, a portion of the housing 102 may comprise a radio transparent material, such as a ceramic or plastic. The housing 102 may be configured to enclose a number of internal components. For example, the housing 102 may enclose and support various structural and electrical components (including integrated circuit chips) to provide computing operations for the electronic device 100. The integrated circuit may take the form of a chip, chipset, or module, any of which may be surface mounted to a printed circuit board, PCB, or other support structure. For example, a Main Logic Board (MLB) may have an integrated circuit mounted thereon, which may include at least a microprocessor, a semiconductor memory (e.g., FLASH memory), and various supporting circuits, etc. The housing 102 may include an opening 104 for placement of internal components and may be sized as desired to accommodate a display assembly for presenting visual content, which is covered and protected by a protective layer 106. In some cases, the display component may be touch-sensitive, allowing for tactile input that may be used to provide control signals to electronic device 100. In some cases, the display component may be a large and prominent display area that covers a majority of the area of the front face of the electronic device.

The electronic device 100 may include a magnetic attachment system that may be used to magnetically attach the electronic device 100 to at least one other suitably configured object.

The magnetic attachment system may include a plurality of magnetic attachment features distributed within the housing 102 and in some cases connected to the housing 102. For example, the magnetic attachment system may include a first magnetic attachment feature positioned adjacent the sidewall 102a and a second magnetic attachment feature located below the cover glass 106. In one embodiment, the first magnetic attachment feature may operate in a plurality of states. For example, in the inactive state, the first magnetic attachment feature may provide a first magnetic surface M1 at the outer surface of the sidewall 102 a. The first magnetic surface M1 may represent a magnetic field that has little or no effect on a magnetosensitive device placed at the outer surface of the sidewall 102a and is not suitable for magnetic attachment. In other words, the magnetic surface M1 conforms to the magnetic flux density B at the sidewall 102 that satisfies equation (1):

B≤B_thresholdequation (1)

Wherein B is_thresholdA value of magnetic flux density B representing a value corresponding to magnetic flux leakage at the sidewall 102a is detrimental to magnetic attachment at the sidewall 102a and does not substantially affect the magneto-sensitive device at the sidewall 102 a.

However, in an active state, the first magnetic attachment feature may provide a second magnetic surface M2 at the outer surface of the sidewall 102, as shown in cross-hatching in fig. 6B. The magnetic surface M2 conforms to facilitate magnetic attachment at the outer surface of the sidewall 102, which satisfies equation (2):

B＞B_thresholdequation (2).

In one embodiment, an external magnetic field having suitable magnetic properties may cause the first magnetic attachment system to transition from an inactive state to an active state. In this manner, the magnetic surface represented at sidewall 102a may change from magnetic surface M1 (shown in FIG. 6A) to magnetic surface M2 (shown in FIG. 6B). The external magnetic field may be provided by a magnetic attachment feature external to the electronic device 100 that cooperates with the first magnetic attachment feature such that an operational state of the first magnetic attachment feature changes from inactive to active.

The second magnetic attachment feature may facilitate magnetic attachment of another device to the electronic device 100 by providing a magnetic surface M3 that satisfies equation (2). In one embodiment, the second magnetic attachment feature has an operational state that conforms to provide a magnetic surface M3.

Although not explicitly shown, it should be understood that the various magnetic attachment features of the magnetic attachment system may be located at any suitable location of the housing 102. For example, the magnetic attachment features may be located at an interior bottom surface of the housing 102, or disposed along the sides 102c and 102d of the housing 102.

As shown in fig. 7A-7B, and referring back to the discussion above with respect to fig. 5A-5B, the magnetic attachment unit 54 may be used to magnetically attach the electronic devices 100 and 120 to form a cooperating system 130 at the engagement surfaces 132a and 132B. The collaboration system 130 may utilize resources from both electronic devices 100 and 120, alone or in combination. In one embodiment, electronic device 100 may present a virtual keyboard that may respond to touch events by wirelessly transmitting corresponding information to electronic device 120. The electronic device 120 may utilize this information to provide a response. For example, the user may select one or more particular media items from a list of icons presented by the electronic device 100. The identification of the selected media item may be transferred (wirelessly or through a wired connection) to the electronic device 120. In one embodiment, the electronic device 120 can decode and present at least a portion of the selected media item.

Fig. 8A-8C illustrate various embodiments of a magnetic attachment unit 200 that may be used to magnetically attach the electronic device 100 to an object having a suitably configured magnetic attachment system. The object may take the form of an accessory device. The object may take the form of an electronic device. In some cases, the accessory device can include electronic components that can communicate with electronic device 100 and vice versa. In any case, the magnetic attachment unit 200 may include magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 connected together by a flexure 206. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 may be fixedly attached to the flexure 206. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 may be pivotally connected to the flexure 206, providing an additional degree of freedom for the magnetic attachment unit 200.

Fig. 8A shows a cross-sectional side view of the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 according to the described embodiment. In this particular illustration, the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 are magnetically attached to a portion of the housing 102 having a substantially planar surface. It should be noted, however, that the housing 102 may have a curved shape, in which case the shapes of the various components of the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 described below may take shapes that conform to the shape of the housing 102. In this manner, the separation distance between corresponding magnetic elements within the housing 102 and the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 can be minimized, thereby maximizing the net magnetic attraction.

It should be noted that in the following description, magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 have substantially the same configuration. However, in some cases, the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 may differ slightly in structure depending on the nature and form of the objects being magnetically attached together. Accordingly, for the sake of brevity, only the magnetic attachment feature 202 will be described.

The magnetic elements in electronic device 100 may magnetically interact with corresponding magnetic elements 204. In one embodiment, magnetic element 208 may have a thickness of approximately 2mm and have a shape that substantially conforms to the shape of housing 102. The magnetic interaction between magnetic elements 208 and those in electronic device 100 may generate and separate distance x_sepConsistent net magnetic attraction, separation distance x_sepApproximately equal to the sum of the thickness t of the housing 102 and the thickness "l" of the label 210. The thickness "1" may be on the order of about 0.2 mm. Label 210 may be used to protect the outer surface of housing 102 from possible scratches and other aesthetic damage that may be caused by metal-to-metal contact between magnetic element 208 and housing 102. Both tag 210 and magnetic element 208 may each be shaped to conform to the shape of housing 102. In this manner, the distance between magnetic elements 208 and the magnetic elements in electronic device 100 may be reduced to approximately the thickness t of housing 102 and the thickness l of tag 210.

Magnetic shunt 212 may adhere to and surround the portion of magnetic element 208 facing away from housing 102. The magnetic shunt 212 may be formed of a magnetically effective material such as steel or iron. The magnetically effective material may redirect the magnetic flux lines toward the housing 102 (which would otherwise be directed away from the magnetic elements in the electronic device 100), thereby increasing the overall magnetic flux density B between the magnetic attachment feature 202 and the electronic device 100. The magnetic shunt 212, in turn, may be adhered to a housing 214 of the magnetic attachment feature 202. It should be noted that to ensure that only the tag 210 contacts the housing 214 (to avoid metal-to-metal contact), the tag 210 protrudes (i.e., protrudes) out of the housing 102 by approximately the distance "d". The distance d may be nominally of the order of about 0.1 mm.

Fig. 8B illustrates an embodiment of the magnetic attachment feature 200 in which the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 are coupled to the rigid member 216. As described above, the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 may be fixedly connected to the rigid member 216. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 may be pivotally connected to the rigid member 216.

Fig. 8C shows another embodiment of a magnetic attachment unit in the form of magnetic attachment unit 220, in which magnetic attachment features 202 and 204 are incorporated within a connector 222 (which may be rigid or flexible). In this configuration, the housing 214 is not required. Thus, only the magnetic element 208, the tag 210, and the shunt 212 are required.

The remainder of this discussion will describe specific embodiments of devices that may employ a magnetic attachment system. In particular, reference will be made below to an iPad manufactured by Apple Inc., such as Cupertino, Calif^TMThe electronic device 100 is depicted as a tablet computing device.

In one embodiment, accessory device 120 can be used to improve the overall functionality of electronic device 100. For example, the accessory device 120 may be configured to function as a suspension. The accessory device 120 can be used to suspend the electronic device 100 when magnetically attached to the electronic device 100. In this manner, the electronic device 100 may be used as a display located on a wall or suspended from a ceiling for presenting visual content such as artwork, movies, photos, and the like. As a suspension device, the accessory device 120 can be used to suspend an electronic device from a wall or ceiling100. Can be controlled by simply applying sufficient force to overcome the net magnetic attraction force F_NETThe disengagement force to easily remove the electronic device 100. Accessory device 120 may be left in place and available for later reattachment of electronic device 100 (or other devices).

In one embodiment, accessory device 120 may also take the form of a retention mechanism for attaching objects that are not itself configured to magnetically attach to electronic device 100. For example, the accessory device 120 may be configured to carry a stylus or other such input device. A stylus may be used to provide input to the electronic device. In some cases, accessory device 120 may provide a signal to electronic device 100 indicating the presence of a stylus. The signal may, for example, cause the electronic device 100 to enter a stylus recognition state. More specifically, when the accessory device 120 is magnetically attached to the electronic device 100, the electronic device 100 may activate a stylus input state to identify a stylus type input. When the accessory device 120 is removed, the electronic device 100 may deactivate the stylus input state. In this way, the stylus can be conveniently attached/detached to/from the electronic device 100 when needed.

The accessory device 120 can take the form of a support that can be used to enhance the functionality of the electronic device 100. For example, the accessory device 120 may be configured to function as a display stand on which a display of the electronic device 100 may be viewed at a comfortable viewing angle, such as 75 °. In other words, accessory device 120, when placed on a horizontal surface such as a table or desk, may support electronic device 100 such that visual content presented at the display may be viewed at approximately a 75 ° viewing angle.

The accessory device 120 may also take the form of a support that may be used to enhance the functionality of the electronic device 100 in the keyboard state. In the keyboard state, the accessory device 120 can be used to present the touchpad surface at an ergonomically friendly angle. In this manner, input touch events (to, for example, a virtual keyboard) may be applied at an angle that does not unduly strain the user's wrist, hand, arm, etc.

Fig. 9 illustrates an arrangement 300 formed by magnetically attaching a tablet device 302 and a tablet device 304 using a flexible magnetic attachment unit 306 in an open configuration. Magnetic attachment unit 306 may include a flexible connection 308 arranged to connect pivoting hinge assemblies 310 and 312 to each other, where pivoting hinge assemblies 310 and 312 are each in turn magnetically connected to tablet devices 304 and 302, respectively. The hinge assembly may provide one or more pivots to allow magnetic attachment unit 306 to fold over while magnetic attachment unit 306 is magnetically attached to devices 302 and 304.

In one embodiment, the hinge assembly 310 may include a first hinge portion (also referred to as a first end lug) 314 and a second hinge portion (or referred to as a second end lug) 316 disposed opposite the first end lug. The first end ear 314 may be rigidly connected to the second end ear 316 by a connecting rod (not shown) that is incorporated into the connection 308 to provide additional pivot. The tie bars may be formed of metal or plastic strong enough to rigidly support the tablet devices 302 and 304.

The hinge span 318 may include magnetic elements. The magnetic elements may be arranged to magnetically attach the hinge span 318 to magnetic attachment features of the magnetic elements in the tablet devices 302 and 304 having a matching arrangement. More specifically, the magnetic elements within hinge span 318 may activate magnetic features in tablet devices 302 and 304 such that they can magnetically attach to hinge span 318. The hinge span 318 may be formed from a magnetically inactive material such as plastic or a non-magnetic metal such as aluminum.

The arrangement 300 may be referred to as a book, where each tablet device 302 and 304 may present visual information in a book-like manner. For example, as shown in fig. 9, in the open configuration, the arrangement 300 may resemble an open book, wherein the display 320 of the tablet device 302 may behave like a page in the open book (as may the display 322 of the tablet device 304). In one embodiment, the user may "flip" the page by simply swiping the touch-sensitive surface of tablet device 302 (or the touch-sensitive surface of tablet device 304), to flip forward, for example, with a page left-to-right gesture. On the other hand, to page back one page (or multiple pages), the user may swipe the touch-sensitive surface on the tablet device 302 or 304, for example, with a page right-to-left gesture.

In any case, in the book mode shown in fig. 9, the tablet devices 302 and 304 must communicate with each other to provide a reasonable approximation of the way books and books present information. This communication may take the form of wireless communication between tablet devices 302 and 304.

Fig. 10 shows the arrangement 300 in a closed configuration, in which the tablet devices 302 and 304 are folded one on top of the other using the flexible nature of the flexible connection 306. In one embodiment, the magnetic elements under displays 320 and 322 may be arranged such that tablet devices 302 and 304 are prevented from contacting each other. In one configuration, the magnetic elements may be arranged to interact to generate a net magnetic repulsion force between the tablet device 302 and the tablet device 304, thereby preventing contact therebetween. In one embodiment, the magnetic elements may be arranged to generate a net magnetic attraction that may lock the tablet devices 302 and 304 together. In one embodiment, the magnetic element may be arranged to provide little or no magnetic force in the closed configuration.

Fig. 11A and 11B illustrate tablet devices 302 and 304 magnetically attached to each other with a magnetic attachment unit 330. In one embodiment, magnetic attachment unit 330 may include a connector 332, connector 332 being formed of rigid portions 334 and 336 pivotally connected to one another with a hinge (or clutch tube) 338. As shown in fig. 11A, tablet device 302 may be placed on a flat support surface such as a table. Tablet device 304 may then be placed in a vertical orientation with respect to tablet device 302. In this manner, the tablet device 304 may function as a display to present visual content.

Fig. 12A shows tablet devices 302 and 304 connected together using a magnetic attachment unit 340. As shown, the magnetic attachment unit 340 does not include the hinge assembly 318, and thus is fixedly attached to the tablet devices 302 and 304. The magnetic attachment units 340 may include rigid links 342 pivotally connected to each other with clutch tubes or hinges 338. In this manner, as shown in fig. 12B, the tablet device 302 may be placed on a flat support surface such as a table, and another electronic device (e.g., tablet device 304) may be placed to serve as a display. As seen in fig. 12B and 12C, the tablet device 304 may be replaced with an electronic device 100 that need not be a tablet device. For example, the electronic device 100 may take the form of a simple display that is magnetically attachable to the magnetic attachment unit 340. In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit 340 may actually be formed as part of the electronic device 100. In this manner, magnetic attachment unit 340 may include only a single magnetic attachment feature suitable for magnetic attachment to tablet device 302.

As shown in fig. 12C, the support structure 350 may be used to provide additional support to the lifted electronic device, whether in the form of the electronic device 100 or the tablet device 304.

Fig. 13 shows magnetic attachment units 220 that magnetically attach tablet devices 302 and 304 to form a tablet array 360. Thus, tablet devices 302 and 304 may communicate with each other using a wireless connection. In one embodiment, the wireless connection may take the form of WiFi wireless communication, where the tablet devices 302 and 304 communicate directly with each other. In one embodiment, the tablet devices 302 and 304 may communicate with each other in part through external circuitry (e.g., wireless router, server computer, etc.). In one embodiment, the magnetic attachment unit 220 may provide communication resources to facilitate communication between the tablet devices 302 and 304. In one embodiment, magnetic attachment unit 220 may include processing and data storage resources that may be used to change the operating state of either or both of tablet devices 302 and 304. For example, when the magnetic attachment unit 220 includes a data storage device (e.g., FLASH memory), the data in the storage device may be transferred into either or both of the tablet devices 302 and 304. The transferred data may take the form of instructions that can be executed to change the operational state of the respective tablet device.

Fig. 14A shows a cross-section of a system 400 according to an embodiment. System 400 may include a tablet device 402 magnetically attached to a lid assembly 404 with a magnetic hinge assembly 406. The lid assembly 404 may include a segmented lid 408 pivotally attached to a hinge assembly 406 at a pivot 410. The hinge assembly 406 may be magnetically attached to the tablet device 402 using a magnetic element 412 in the hinge assembly 406 and a magnetic attachment feature 414 in the tablet device 402. The middle layer 416 may be used to prevent direct metal-to-metal contact between the hinge assembly 406 and the housing 418 of the tablet device 402.

The lid assembly 404 may also include a breakaway wing 420 pivotally attached to the hinge assembly 406 at a pivot 422. In this manner, as shown in fig. 14B, the segmented cover 408 and wings 420 can be individually rotated about their respective pivots, wherein the segmented cover 408 has been folded into the support structure 424. The support structure 424 may be triangular in shape and used to position the tablet device 402 such that the display 426 is presented at an angle of approximately 75 °.

The wing portion 420 may be formed of a flexible material such as fabric. In one embodiment, wings 420 may include various input devices. For example, as shown in fig. 15, the wing 420 may include a keyboard 430. Keyboard 430 may communicate with tablet device 402 using, for example, a wired connection. In one embodiment, the keyboard 430 may be in wireless communication with the tablet device 402. Thus, a user may transfer information to tablet device 402 by pressing various input keys of fabric keyboard 430.

It should be noted that wing 420 may be configured to include any suitable type of input device. For example, in one embodiment shown in FIG. 16, wing 420 may take the form of an input board 440. The input pad 440 may be sensitive to touch events provided by, for example, a stylus, pen, pencil, or even a human appendage such as a finger. As further shown in fig. 17, the wings 420 can include a touch pad 450, and the touch pad 450 can be used to provide information to the tablet device 402 by a user touching the touch pad 450 in a prescribed manner.

Fig. 18A-18D illustrate a magnetic connection station 500 according to a described embodiment. The magnetic connection station 500 may include a support 502 and a base portion 504. The base portion 504 may include a magnetic element 506 arranged to activate a magnetic attachment feature in the electronic device 100. Thus, placement of electronic device 100 into slot 508 of base portion 504 may cause magnetic element 506 to activate a magnetic attachment feature in electronic device 100. Activation may be such that the net magnetic attraction between magnetic element 506 and electronic device 100 is strong enough to secure electronic device 100 to connection station 500. In one embodiment shown in fig. 18B, the electronic device 100 may take the form of a tablet device 302. In one embodiment, the connection station 500 may provide power to the electronic device 100. In one embodiment, the connection station 500 and the electronic device 100 may communicate with each other wirelessly through a suitable wireless communication protocol such as WiFi, bluetooth, or the like. In one embodiment, the connection station 500 may include a connection port (or multiple connection ports) that provides a wired communication channel between the electronic device 100 and another electronic device connected to the connection station 500 or, in some cases, an input device such as a keyboard, keypad, touchpad, or the like. In the embodiment shown in fig. 18A-18D, the connection station 500 is fixed such that the electronic device 100 is presented at a substantially fixed angle and orientation relative to a support surface, such as a table or desk, on which an input device, such as a keyboard, may be located.

However, as shown in fig. 19A, the connection station 600 may pivot about a pivot point 602. In this manner, the electronic device 100 may be presented at any number of angles relative to the support surface. The pivotal connection station 600 may include a base portion 604 pivotally connected to a support 606 with a pivot point 602. In one embodiment, magnetic element 610 may activate magnetic attachment feature 612 in electronic device 100 to magnetically couple electronic device 100 to pivot connection station 600. In one embodiment, magnetic element 610 may be included in base portion 604. Fig. 19B illustrates an embodiment in which the electronic device 100 takes the form of a tablet device 302. FIG. 19B illustrates an articulation station 650 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 20A-20D illustrate various suspension attachments 700 that may be magnetically attached to tablet device 302, according to the described embodiments. It should be noted that, as shown, the suspension accessories are each formed to include a magnetic element arranged to activate a magnetic attachment feature included in tablet device 302. This integrated arrangement may reduce the number of components required. However, in one embodiment, the hanging accessory may be magnetically attached to tablet device 302 using the magnetic attachment unit described above. In any case, various hanging accessories may be used to hang or otherwise suspend tablet device 302 from any suitable surface. For example, fig. 20A and 20B illustrate a variation of a hanging accessory 700 that is well suited for hanging a tablet device 302 from a vertical wall. For example, a hook attachment 702 and a suction cup attachment 704 may be employed to suspend the tablet device 302 from a vertical wall (e.g., in an office compartment in the case of the hook attachment 702, and a refrigerator door, blackboard, or whiteboard in the case of the suction cup attachment 704 shown in fig. 20B).

Fig. 20C and 20D illustrate an embodiment of a hanging accessory 700 that may allow a user to carry the tablet device 302 around. For example, a fixed handle attachment 706 may facilitate a user holding the tablet device 302 securely in one hand, while a strap attachment 708 may allow a user to carry the tablet device 302 around in a more free-swimming manner.

Fig. 20E and 20F illustrate an embodiment of a hanging accessory 700 that may be used to hang an electronic device 100 from a vertical surface that is not suitable for a hook or other gripping accessory. Such surfaces include whiteboards, blackboards, smooth metal surfaces, wooden surfaces, and the like. Thus, the hanging accessory 710 may include a support 712 to which a suction cup 714 (or equivalent) is attached, the suction cup 714 being operable to removably affix the hanging accessory 710 to the surface. The hanging accessory 710 also includes a base portion 716, the base portion 716 including a magnetic element 718 to activate a magnetic attachment feature 720 in the electronic device 100. Fig. 20E illustrates an embodiment in which the electronic device 100 takes the form of a tablet device 302 that is attached to a whiteboard 722.

Fig. 21A-21B illustrate other embodiments of a suspension accessory 700 that may extend the usefulness and range of applications in which tablet device 302 may be employed. For example, fig. 21A shows tablet device 302 mounted to a headrest, for example, with clasps (clasps) 712 conforming to the shape of the headrest of an automobile. In some embodiments, the clasp 712 may be somewhat flexible to accommodate headrests of various shapes and sizes. In another example, fig. 21B shows a clasp 714 that may be used to suspend the tablet device 302 from, for example, an aircraft seat. It should be noted that in both cases, tablet device 302 may be magnetically attached to clasps 712 and 714 using magnetic elements embedded in base portions 716 and 718, respectively. In one embodiment, the base portions 716 and 718 may be pivotally connected to the clasps 712 and 714 to provide an adjustable viewing angle to the viewer.

In addition to hanging or otherwise mounting tablet device 302, as shown in FIG. 22A, mounting accessory 720 may also be employed to mount the tablet device directly to, for example, a dashboard of a vehicle. In one embodiment, the mounting accessory 720 may be secured to the instrument panel 724. Mounting accessory 720 may include a magnetic element that may be used to activate a magnetic attachment feature included in tablet device 302. In addition to mechanically securing tablet device 302 to the dashboard, mounting accessory 720 may also be used to port power to tablet device 302, provide connections to other electronic devices within the vehicle, and the like. For example, tablet device 302 may wirelessly transmit audio and, in some cases, video data to appropriate receiver circuitry. In this manner, media data may be streamed from tablet device 302. In one embodiment, tablet device 302 may be used in conjunction with other electronic services available to the vehicle. For example, GPS-based navigation may be displayed on tablet device 302, traffic warnings may be notified, vehicle information (gas level, power level, etc.) may be notified, and so on. In one embodiment, user input may be provided to tablet device 302. User input may be used to change operating characteristics of a vehicle, media, etc. Fig. 22B illustrates that a mounting accessory 720 may be used to mount tablet device 302 to an exercise machine, such as a treadmill 722.

Fig. 23A-23H illustrate embodiments of tablet devices 302 that are magnetically attached to various peripheral devices 800. For example, fig. 23A shows camera 802 magnetically attached to tablet device 302. Camera 802 may operate in conjunction with or separate from image capture resources included in tablet device 302. FIG. 23B shows stylus holder 804 with stylus 806. In one embodiment, operation of tablet device 302 may change to stylus recognition mode with stylus holder 804 (or with stylus 806). In the stylus recognition mode, operation of tablet device 302 may cause movement of stylus 806 on display 808 to be recognized and operated by tablet device 302.

Fig. 23C shows a card swipe 810 magnetically attached to tablet device 302. With this arrangement, a user can, for example, swipe a magnetic code card and the information is readily available to tablet device 302 for processing. Fig. 23D shows an RF antenna assembly 812 that may be used to supplement RF reception and transmission of the tablet device 302.

Fig. 23E illustrates a memory module 814 magnetically attached to tablet device 302 arranged to provide additional memory resources to tablet device 302. Fig. 23F shows a keyboard 816 magnetically attached to tablet device 302. The keyboard 816 may communicate with the tablet device 302 wirelessly or through a wired connection.

Fig. 23G shows game controller 818 magnetically connected to tablet device 302. In one embodiment, the game controller 818 may provide information to the tablet device 302. The information may include games to play, historical game information, player information and identification, and the like. Fig. 23H shows an audio output module 820 having speakers 822 for broadcasting audio content provided by the tablet device 302.

Fig. 24 shows a travel container 900 that may be used to store and transport tablet devices 902. Travel suitcase 900 may include a magnetic element 904 arranged to activate a magnetic attachment feature 906 in tablet device 902. In one embodiment, the travel container 900 may have a clam shell type arrangement, wherein the lid 908 may enclose the tablet device 902 in a closed configuration within a cavity formed by the lid 908 and the base 910. In one embodiment, the tablet device 902 may be manually disengaged by grasping and removing the tablet device 902. In one embodiment, travel container 900 may include a disengagement mechanism that may overcome the magnetic attraction between magnetic element 904 and magnetic attachment feature 906 in tablet device 902. In one embodiment, the disengagement mechanism may be mechanical in nature. In one embodiment, the disengagement mechanism can be electromechanical in nature, wherein an electromagnetic element in the travel container 900 can be energized to overcome the magnetic attraction between the magnetic element 904 and the magnetic attachment feature 906.

Fig. 25A and 25B illustrate a representative magnetic attraction between a magnetic element 920 in an object 922 and a magnetic attachment feature 924 in an electronic device that may take the form of a tablet device 926. As shown in fig. 25A, magnetic element 920 may include at least one electromagnetic element operable to provide an electromotive force. The electromotive force may be used to overcome the net magnetic attraction F between the magnetic element 920 and the magnetic attachment feature 922_net. The electromotive force may cause the object 922 to separate from the electronic device without the use of hands or other mechanical mechanisms. The electromagnetic element may be activated remotely or may be activated with an electronic device. For example, when the electronic device takes the form of tablet device 930, home button 932 may be pressed, thereby activating the electromagnetic element such that the magnetic attraction between magnetic attachment feature 922 and magnetic element 920 is overcome, thereby allowing tablet device 930 to be removed from travel case 900.

26A-26C graphically illustrate a mechanism in which a magnetic sensing circuit, such as a Hall effect sensor, can be employed to change the operating state of an electronic device. Specifically, fig. 26A shows the tablet device 1000 in an OFF (OFF) operational state. Tablet device 1000 can include a magnetic sensitive circuit, such as a hall effect sensor 1002. In one embodiment, tablet device 1000 may also include a photosensitive device 1004. In one embodiment, the photosensitive device 1004 may take the form of a background light sensor (ALS). In one embodiment, the photosensitive device 1004 may take the form of an image capture device such as a camera. It should be noted that the light sensitive device 1004 may also take the form of any combination of incorporated devices, for example, a sensor board that may include both a backlight sensor and a camera that may operate independently or in cooperation with each other.

In one embodiment, the operating state of the tablet device 1000 may be changed by an external magnetic field H. In one embodiment, the external magnetic field H may be transient in nature, meaning that the external magnetic field H may change over time and/or magnetic field strength. In one case, the external magnetic field H may be generated by a magnetic element, such as the magnetic ring 1006, that generates a substantially non-transient magnetic field that is still sensed as transient by the magneto-sensitive device 1002. For example, by moving the magnetic ring 1006 from left to right as shown in fig. 26A-26C, the hall effect sensor 1002 can detect the external magnetic field H as being transient in nature, where the strength of the external magnetic field H starts at an initial value and increases in value as the magnetic ring 1006 approaches the hall effect sensor 1002 and then decreases again as the magnetic ring 1006 moves away from the hall effect sensor 1002. Detection of the transient external magnetic field H provided by the movement of the magnetic loop 1006 may cause the hall effect sensor 1006 to provide a signal to the tablet device 1000. This signal may be interpreted by tablet device 1000 to change from a current operating state (e.g., off) to another operating state (e.g., ON), as shown in fig. 26C. In one embodiment, the change in state of tablet device 1000 may be binary in nature, and by again moving ring 1006 past hall effect sensor 1002, the signal provided by hall effect sensor 1002 may be interpreted by tablet device 1000 to change the current operating state from on to off. In one embodiment, additional sensors (e.g., ALS or backlight sensor or camera 1004) may be employed in conjunction (or separately) to provide additional inputs that may be used to additionally change the operating state of tablet device 1000.

Fig. 27A and 27B illustrate a representative embodiment of hands-free detachment of a magnetically coupled object. In particular, fig. 27A shows a magnetic attachment configuration 1100 in which a first magnetic attachment feature 1102 is magnetically attached to a second magnetic attachment feature 1104. In one embodiment, the first magnetic attachment feature 1102 may include an element 1106, the element 1106 being responsive to an externally applied voltage (or current), such as provided by a voltage (or current) source 1108, to generate a magnetic field having a polarity P1 as long as the externally applied voltage (or current) is available.

In one embodiment, element 1106 provides substantially little or no magnetic flux when no voltage or current is applied, and thus cannot support a magnetic flux based on anything aloneMagnetic attachment of the intrinsic magnetic field. In one embodiment, the second magnetic attachment feature 1104 may include a magnetic element 1110 that is aligned and adjacent to the magnetic element 1106 when the first magnetic attachment feature 1102 is placed adjacent to the second magnetic attachment feature 1104. In one embodiment, magnetic element 1110 may have an intrinsic polarity P1 that is the same as the polarity of element 1106 when an external current I or voltage V is applied, as shown in fig. 27B. In this manner, an ejection force F may be generated between the element 1106 and the magnetic element 1110 during the available duration of the voltage V or current I_ejectNet magnetic repulsion of the form. In this manner, the first and second magnetic attachment features 1102, 1104 may be separated from each other by appropriately adjusting the size, distance, magnetic properties, and electromagnetic properties. For example, in the magnetic attachment state 1100, applying a voltage V or a current I to the magnetic element 1106 may generate an ejection force F_ejectThe force forces the first magnetic attachment feature 1102 and the second magnetic attachment feature 1104 to separate at the state of separation 1112 automatically or at least without manual separation.

Fig. 28A and 28B illustrate a first magnetic attachment feature 1200 having a magnetic window 1202, the magnetic window 1202 being capable of selectively controlling magnetic flux leakage B at an outer surface 1204 of a housing 1206. In one embodiment, the magnetic window 1202 may be formed by a channel 1208 arranged to receive a magnetic fluid 1210. In one embodiment, the magnetic fluid 1210 may take the form of a ferrofluid, which is a fluid that is strongly magnetized in the presence of a magnetic field. Ferrofluids are colloidal in nature, formed from a fluid having nano-scale ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic particles suspended in a carrier fluid, typically an organic solvent or water. Each minute particle is completely covered with a surfactant to prevent aggregation from occurring. Large ferromagnetic particles can be rejected from a homogenous colloidal mixture (ripout), thereby forming separate magnetic powder clumps when exposed to a strong magnetic field. The magnetic attraction of the nanoparticles is weak enough that van der Waals (van de Waals) repulsion of the surfactant is sufficient to prevent magnetic aggregation from occurring. Ferrofluids generally do not retain magnetization in the absence of an externally applied field.

Thus, in the inactive state (i.e., satisfying equation (1)), the magnetic attachment feature 1200 may include a magnetic element 1212 embedded in or in close proximity to the housing 1206, wherein the magnetic fluid 1210 interacts with the magnetic field generated by the magnetic element 1212. The magnetic nature of the magnetic fluid 1210 prevents any magnetic flux leakage at the outer surface 1204 of the housing 1206, thereby providing the boundary conditions required to satisfy equation (1). In this manner, the magnetic element 1212 need not be moved to provide the magnetic surface M1 at the outer surface 1204. In one embodiment, the magnetic window 1202 may also include a reservoir 1214 (or multiple reservoirs) that provides sufficient volume to house the magnetic fluid 1210, as shown in fig. 28B.

In one embodiment, the second magnetic attachment feature 1216 may include a mechanism that may cause the magnetic fluid 1210 to migrate from the channel 1208 into one or both banks 1214 to expose the magnetic elements 1212. By exposing the magnetic element 1212, a magnetic surface M2 may be provided that satisfies equation (2). In one embodiment, the mechanism for migrating the magnetic fluid 1210 may take the form of a magnet 1218, the magnet 1218 having a magnetic field strength strong enough to overcome the attraction of the magnetic elements 1212. In this manner, placing second magnetic attachment feature 1216 adjacent to first magnetic attachment feature 1200 may cause magnetic window 1202 to go from the closed state (consistent with equation (1)) to the open state (consistent with equation (2)).

Fig. 29A and 29B illustrate a first magnetic attachment feature 1300 having a retaining mechanism in the form of a retaining magnet 1302. By providing the magnet 1302, valuable space can be saved. Because the strength and size of the magnet 1302 may be well defined, the size and strength of the activation magnet 1304 in the second magnetic attachment feature 1306 may also be well defined. For example, to activate the first magnetic attachment feature (i.e., satisfy equation (2)), the magnet 1308 must be moved from the inactive position X1 (magnetically attached to the magnet 1302) to the active position X2. This may be accomplished by placing the activation magnet 1304 adjacent to the magnet 1308. In one embodiment, the intrinsic magnetic strength of the magnets 1304 and 1308 may be adjusted to overcome the magnetic attraction between the magnet 1302 and the magnet 1308, such that the magnet 1308 separates from the magnet 1302 and moves toward the magnet 1304, thereby gradually generating a magnetic surface M2 (i.e., satisfying equation (2)).

Fig. 30A and 30B illustrate a first magnetic attachment feature 1300 having a channel 1310 sized to receive a moving magnet 1308 and a holding magnet 1302. In one embodiment, the moving magnet 1308 may travel smoothly and with little resistance within the channel 1310 due to a lubricant (not shown) between the moving magnet 1308 and the inner surface of the channel 1310.

Fig. 31A-31C illustrate another embodiment of the first magnetic attachment feature 1300 illustrated in fig. 30A-30B arranged to provide information based on an attachment configuration. In one embodiment, all or at least some of the magnets 1302 are electrically isolated from the chassis ground formed by the metal of the housing 1206. In one embodiment, all or at least some of the magnets 1302 may be coupled to sensing circuitry arranged to sense whether the magnet 1308 is attached to the magnet 1302. In the event that the sensing circuit senses that the magnet 1308 is attached to the magnet 1302, a first logical value ("0" or "1", either of which is deemed appropriate) may be provided. Conversely, when the sensing circuit senses that the magnet 1308 is not attached to the magnet 1302, a second logical value ("1" or "0") different from the first logical value may be provided. In one embodiment, information in the form of first and second logical values may be used to identify the magnetic attachment state. In one embodiment, the attachment status may identify the magnetically attached object (see table 1 shown in fig. 33). In one embodiment, the attachment information corresponding to the attachment state may be used to change the operational state of an electronic device, such as tablet device 1000. For example, using the information provided in table 1, if the sensing circuitry senses data {1, 0, 0, 0, 0, 1} corresponding to a stylus, the tablet device 1000 may change the current operating state to an operating state consistent with sensing the stylus on the touch screen or display.

Fig. 32A and 32B illustrate a particular embodiment of the first attachment feature 1300 illustrated in fig. 31A-31C. In one embodiment, the holding magnet 1302 may be electrically isolated from the housing 102 and include electrical contacts 1320 that electrically connect to sensing circuitry using wires 1322. As can be seen, when the holding magnet 1302 is not attached to the moving magnet 1308, there is no electrical path between the sensing circuit and the chassis ground, so there is substantially no current flow corresponding to the second logic state. On the other hand, as shown in fig. 32B, when the moving magnet 1308 is in contact with the holding magnet 1302, and more specifically with the electrical contact 1320, an electrical path 1326 is provided to allow current I to flow to/from the chassis ground. FIG. 33 shows a table of representative operational magnetic codes and operational states.

Fig. 34 is a block diagram of an arrangement 1600 of functional modules employed by an electronic device. The electronic device may be, for example, tablet device 1500. The arrangement 1600 includes an electronic device 1602 capable of outputting media for a user of a portable media device and storing and retrieving data with respect to a data store 1604. The arrangement 1600 also includes a Graphical User Interface (GUI) manager 1606. The GUI manager 1606 operates to control information provided to and displayed on the display device. The arrangement 1600 also includes a communication module 1608 that facilitates communication between the portable media device and the accessory device. Also, the arrangement 1600 includes an accessory manager 1610, the accessory manager 1610 operative to authenticate and obtain data from accessory devices that can be coupled to the portable media device.

FIG. 35 is a block diagram of an electronic device 1650 suitable for use with the described embodiments. Electronic device 1650 illustrates circuitry of a representative computing device. The electronic device 1650 includes a processor 1652, which may be a microprocessor or controller, for controlling overall operation of the electronic device 1650. Electronic device 1650 stores media data pertaining to media items in file system 1654 and cache 1656. File system 1654 is typically a storage disk or a plurality of disks. The file system 1654 typically provides high capacity storage capabilities for the electronic device 1650. However, since access times to the file system 1654 are relatively slow, the electronic device 1650 may also include a cache 1656. The cache memory 1656 is, for example, a Random Access Memory (RAM) provided by a semiconductor memory. The relative access time to the cache 1656 is much shorter than the access time to the file system 1654. However, the cache 1656 does not have the large storage capacity of the file system 1654. In addition, the file system 1654 consumes more power when active than does the cache 1656. Power consumption is typically a concern when electronic device 1650 is a portable media device and is powered by battery 1674. Electronic device 1650 may also include RAM 1670 and read-only memory (ROM) 1672. The ROM 1672 may store programs, applications, or processes to be executed in a nonvolatile manner. The RAM 1670 provides volatile data storage, such as for the cache 1656.

Electronic device 1650 also includes user input device 1658 that allows a user of electronic device 1650 to interact with electronic device 1650. For example, user input device 1658 can take a variety of forms such as buttons, keypads, dials, touch screens, audio input interfaces, visual/image capture input interfaces, input in the form of sensor data, and so forth. Also, the electronic device 1650 includes a display 1660 (screen display) that is controllable by the processor 1652 to display information to the user. A data bus 1666 may facilitate data transfer between at least the file system 1654, the cache 1656, the processor 1652, and the CODEC 1663.

In one embodiment, the electronic device 1650 is used to store a plurality of media items (e.g., songs, podcasts, etc.) in the file system 1654. When a user wishes to cause the electronic device to play a particular media item, a list of available media items is displayed on the display 1660. Then. Using user input device 1658, a user may select one of the available media items. The processor 1652, upon receiving a selection of a particular media item, provides media data (e.g., an audio file) for the particular media item to a coder/decoder (CODEC) 1663. The CODEC 1663 then generates analog output signals for a speaker 1664. The speaker 1664 can be a speaker internal to the electronic device 1650 or external to the electronic device 1650. For example, headphones or earphones that connect to the electronic device 1650 would be considered an external speaker.

Electronic device 1650 also includes a network/bus interface 1661 that couples to a data link 1662. Data link 1662 allows electronic device 1650 to be coupled to a host computer or an accessory device. The data link 1662 may be provided by a wired connection or a wireless connection. In the case of a wireless connection, the network/bus interface 1661 may include a wireless transceiver. The media items (media assets) can belong to one or more different types of media content. In one embodiment, the media items are audio tracks (e.g., songs, audio books, and podcasts). In another embodiment, the media item is an image (e.g., a photograph). However, in other embodiments, the media items may be any combination of audio, graphical or visual content. The sensor 1676 may take the form of circuitry for detecting any number of stimuli. For example, the sensors 1676 may include hall effect sensors responsive to an external magnetic field, audio sensors, light sensors such as photometers, and the like.

Various aspects, embodiments, implementations, or features of the described embodiments may be employed alone or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments may be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments may also be embodied as computer readable code on a non-transitory computer readable medium. A computer-readable medium is defined as any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching.

The advantages of the described embodiments are numerous. Different aspects, embodiments or implementations may yield one or more of the following advantages. The many features and advantages of the present embodiments are apparent from the written description and, thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the embodiments should not be limited to the exact construction and operation as illustrated and described. Accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

Claims (10)

1. A magnetic attachment unit for magnetically attaching together at least first and second separate electronic devices, wherein the first and second electronic devices each have an associated magnetic attachment feature, the magnetically attached electronic devices in communication with each other to form a cooperative electronic system when magnetically attached, the magnetic attachment unit comprising:

a body having a first side and a second side opposite the first side;

a first magnetic attachment system carried within the body at a first side of the body, the first magnetic attachment system including at least a first magnet arranged to provide a first activation force for activating a corresponding magnetic attachment feature in the first electronic device; and

a second magnetic attachment system carried within the body at a second side of the body, the second magnetic attachment system including at least a second magnet arranged to provide a second activation force for activating a corresponding magnetic attachment feature in the second electronic device,

wherein the magnetic attachment forces generated between the corresponding magnets in the magnetic attachment unit and the activated first and second magnetic attachment systems cause the separate first and second electronic devices to operate together as a cooperating electronic device,

wherein the magnetic attachment unit is capable of transferring information between the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

2. The magnetic attachment unit of claim 1, wherein the body is flexible.

3. The magnetic attachment unit of claim 1, wherein the body further comprises:

electronic circuitry arranged to provide at least a communication channel between the first and second electronic devices and a processing resource; and

a data storage unit arranged to store data.

4. The magnetic attachment unit of claim 3, wherein the data storage unit stores programming code executed by the cooperating electronic device.

5. The magnetic attachment unit of claim 3, wherein the data storage unit stores programming code executed by at least a portion of the electronic circuitry for output by the cooperating electronic device.

6. The magnetic attachment unit of claim 3, wherein the cooperating electronic device is an electronic book.

7. The magnetic attachment unit of claim 1, wherein the body further comprises:

a first portion incorporating the first magnetic attachment system;

a second portion incorporating the second magnetic attachment system; and

a flexible portion attached to the first and second portions such that the first and second electronic devices pivot relative to the flexible portion independently of one another.

8. The magnetic attachment unit of claim 7, wherein the first and second portions are each formed of a rigid material.

9. The magnetic attachment unit of claim 8, wherein the flexible portion is a clutch assembly.

10. The magnetic attachment unit of claim 9, wherein the clutch assembly is a locking clutch assembly arranged to lock the first and second electronic devices apart at approximately a 90 ° position.