Sliding mechanism for device with two keyboards
US7385150B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 28, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jun 10, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 28, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04M2250/18
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A device has a moving display that alternatively hides two keyboards. As the display is moved to expose one keyboard, the device may take on different functionality than when the other keyboard is exposed. The sliding mechanism has a back plate with two guides, onto which are mounted the two keyboards. A sliding plate engages has at least two legs that engage the guides. Electrical signals are passed from components attached to the sliding plate to components attached to the back plate through signals routed along one of the sliding plate legs. A loop of cable is able to roll beneath the keyboard when the sliding plate is moved from one position to another. A spring may also be used between the sliding plate and back plate to hold the sliding plate at either extreme of its travel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.