WO1994023476A1

WO1994023476A1 - Hinge assembly for electronic devices

Info

Publication number: WO1994023476A1
Application number: PCT/US1994/003543
Authority: WO
Inventors: Khalil S. Zaidan
Original assignee: Zaidan Khalil S
Priority date: 1993-03-26
Filing date: 1994-03-24
Publication date: 1994-10-13
Also published as: AU6496594A; US5494447A

Abstract

A hinge assembly (8) for interconnecting and supporting the parts of an electronic device (10) while enhancing the adjustability of the device's parts. The hinge assembly provides for lineal adjustment of each device part, in one embodiment, using a shaft (52) secured to the part, a sleeve (54) and a clamp (56) controlling the resistance of the sleeve and, in another embodiment, using tracks (552) forming a channel (557), an insert element (550) in the channel and, in some cases, a clamp. The hinge assembly further provides joints (90) for rotational adjustment of each device part about an axis parallel to the part's horizontal axis and about a rotation axis parallel to the part's latitudinal axis. An electrical connector (60) is included in each joint to pass electrical signals regardless of rotational position.

Description

HINGE ASSEMBLY FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Background of the Invention

This invention relates to hinges for electronic devices, particularly hinge assemblies for electronic devices having two or more device parts that interconnect and stably support the device parts while providing enhanced adjustability in the three-dimensional positioning of each device part relative to the other device parts, so as to enhance comfort, efficiency and effectiveness in using the electronic device. Two-part electronic devices are common. They include personal computers of various categories such as desk-top, laptop, notebook, and palm-top computers, as well as pen-based tablet computers. Two-part electronic devices also include personal organizers and other electronic devices. For two-part electronic devices, one device part typically is a video display. For example, portable computers typically have a flat panel display screen (the "display part"), e.g., an LCD or gas plasma display. The second device part typically is a base that holds, among other things, the bulk of the device's electronic hardware, such as disk drives (the "base part"). In portable computers, the base part also commonly holds a keyboard that may or may not be detachable from the base part. Broadly, the display and base parts can be described as typically being, in shape, rectangular prisms, having outside and inside surfaces and right, left, front and back sides.

In using two-part electronic devices, it is generally desirable to be able to adjust the relative positions of the two device parts through three dimensions substantially without restriction, while stably supporting both parts. For example, in portable computers the user may desire to adjust the vertical viewing angle of the display by rotating the display part horizontally relative to the base part. The user may desire to swivel the display part relative to the base part in order to allow a second person to view the display while not encumbering the user's access to the keyboard. The user may desire to position the display a shorter or longer distance from the user's eyes, with or without adjusting the viewing angle or the position of the keyboard. The user may desire to place the display part flat against the base part with the display exposed and the keyboard either (i) covered by the display part, for example, when input is to be pen- based, or (ii) uncovered by the display part, for example, when using the device's keyboard in conjunction with an external monitor rather than the integral display. Moreover, the user may desire to adjust the relative positions of the two device parts in these and other ways in sequence or in combination, depending on the type of electronic device and the nature of its use.

Hinge mechanisms that connect two-part electronic devices are known. They have a variety of forms, each having significant limitations, particularly by undesirably restricting the adjustability of one device part relative to the other device part. In one conventional form, the hinge mechanism is fixedly mounted to each of the device parts at or near respective sides of the parts. The hinge mechanism provides a single-axis about which both device parts rotate and does not allow translational movement of either part relative to the other. Examples of this conventional form of hinge mechanism are shown in Matsuda et al. U.S. Patent No. 4,852,032 and Hosoi U.S. Patent No. 5,166,893. A second conventional form is shown in Blonder U.S. Patent No. 5,103,376 ("Blonder") which discloses an interconnection mechanism between a keyboard portions and a display portion of a computer wherein the position of the keyboard and display portions can be reversed. The interconnection mechanism provides rotational capability about two axes, one disposed at respective back sides of the computer portions and the second disposed at respective front sides of the computer portions. However, Blonder's positioning adjustability is undesirably limited in that it allows neither translational movement of one portion relative to the other nor independent rotation about both axes. Blonder also fails to provide positioning adjustability about an axis perpendicular to either or both of the above- identified axes.

A third conventional form is shown in Malgouires U.S. Patent No. 5,107,402 ("Malgouires") which discloses a portable terminal having a screen part and a central unit wherein the screen part is fixed to the central unit by at leas^'t one lever, the lever having at least two articulations, one disposed at the connection between the screen part and the lever and the other disposed at the connection between the lever and the central unit. The articulations provide off¬ set, parallel axes about which the screen part may be positionally adjusted relative to the central unit. Malgouires is subject to significant limitations in positioning adjustability in that it provides neither translational movement of either the screen part or the central unit relative to the other nor an axis perpendicular to the above-identified axes about which the screen part and central unit may be rotated relative to each other.

A fourth conventional form is shown in Ohgami et al. U.S. Patent No. 5,168,423 ("Ohgami") which discloses a portable computer having a base unit and a flat panel display unit wherein the base unit has a turntable rotatably connected to the base unit in a horizontal direction. A display support, at one end, is fixed to the turntable and, at the other end, is pivotally connected to the flat panel display unit. Ohgami provides positioning adjustability of the flat panel display unit relative to the base unit about the vertical axis of the turntable and about the horizontal axis of the pivotal connection, said axes being perpendicular to each other. Ohgami fails to provide, however, translational movement of either unit relative to the other and does not permit one unit to be elevated relative to the other.

Because conventional hinge - echanisms for electronic device cases, such as in laptop, notebook and palm-top computers, have inherent shortcomings, a need exists for an improved hinge mechanism.

Summary of the Invention The present invention fulfills the need for an improved hinge mechanism for electronic devices, overcomes the shortcomings of prior art hinge mechanisms and provides certain advantages not heretofore available in such mechanisms, by providing a hinge assembly that interconnects and stably supports one device part relative to another while enhancing the three-dimensional adjustability of the position of each device part relative to one or more other device parts. In a preferred embodiment used with an electronic device having display and base parts, the hinge assembly comprises a first shaft secured at its ends to a side of the display part, with its longitudinal axis parallel to the side of the display part. A first sleeve is slidably attached to the first shaft so that the position of the display part may be lineally adjusted by sliding the first shaft within the first sleeve. The first sleeve has a neck that extends away from the longitudinal axis of the first shaft and is rotatably attached to a first segment of a knuckle, the first segment having an axis about which the display part may be adjustably rotated. The knuckle has a second segment having an axis disposed substantially at a right angle to the axis of the first segment. The second segment of the knuckle is rotatably attached to one end of an arm so that the display part may be adjustably rotated about the axis of the second segment. The hinge assembly further comprises a second shaft secured at its ends to a side of the base part, with its longitudinal axis parallel to the side of the base part. A second sleeve is slidably attached to the second shaft so that the position of the base part may be lineally adjusted by sliding the second shaft within the second sleeve. The second sleeve has a neck that extends away from the longitudinal axis of the second shaft and is rotatably attached to the second end of the arm. The second end of the arm has an axis about which the base part may be adjustably rotated. The second end's axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitude of the arm. In another embodiment, the hinge assembly comprises first tracks forming a channel therebetween and having a longitudinal axis parallel to a side of the display part. A first insert assembly is slidably attached to the first tracks so that the position of the display part may be lineally adjusted by sliding the first insert assembly relative to the first tracks. The first insert assembly has an insert element that is removably inserted in the channel of the first tracks, and has a neck having a longitudinal axis that extends away from and is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first tracks. The neck of the first insert assembly is rotatably attached to a first connection element so that the display part may be adjustably rotated about the axis of the neck. The first connection element is attached to one end of an arm having a longitudinal axis disposed substantially perpendicularly to the axis of the neck, so that the display part may be adjustably rotated about the longitudinal axis of the arm.

The hinge assembly further comprises second tracks forming a channel therebetween having a longitudinal axis parallel to that side. A second insert assembly is slidably attached to the second tracks so that the position of the base part may be lineally adjusted by sliding the second insert assembly relative to the second tracks. The second insert assembly has an insert element that is removably inserted in the channel of the second tracks, and has a neck having a longitudinal axis that extends away from and is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second tracks. The neck of the second insert assembly is rotatably attached to a second connection element so that the base part may be adjustably rotated about the axis of the neck. The second connection element is attached to the second end of the arm so that the base part may be adjustably rotated about the longitudinal axis of the arm, the arm's axis being disposed substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the neck.

In the invention, the base and display parts are interconnected by the arm disposed between (i) the neck associated with the base part and (ii) in the first embodiment, the second segment associated with the display part or, in the second embodiment, the neck associated with the display part. So interconnected, the base part may be adjustably rotated about the axis, in respective embodiments, of the display part's second segment or of the arm.^" Moreover, in this manner, the hinge assembly provides interconnection, stable support and enhanced adjustability of the two parts relative to each other. The hinge assembly can be used to interconnect, support and adjust positions of parts in electronic devices having more than two parts. In such devices, each added device part is interconnected to the adjacent device part (i) using one or more tracks, inserts, necks, connection elements and arms, or (ϋ) using a shaft, sleeve and knuckle, or equivalent, and an arm, wherein the second segment of the added part's knuckle is rotationally attached to one end of the arm and the second end of the arm is rotationally attached to the neck of the adjacent device. In one embodiment, the second end of the arm is also rotationally attached to a second arm that interconnects the adjacent part to a third part. In the alternative, each added device part is interconnected to the adjacent part using a separate hinge assembly attached to such device parts on a side other than that on which the adjacent part has a hinge assembly interconnecting it to the other part or parts of the electronic device.

In each embodiment, the hinge assembly can provide electrical connection between the device parts through the elements of the assembly so as to maintain connection regardless of the positional adjustment of the parts. In addition, the hinge assembly is detachable from one or more device parts.

Accordingly, it is a principal object of the present invention to provide a novel and improved hinge assembly for interconnecting two or more parts of an electronic device.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a hinge assembly that provides enhanced adjustability of the position of one electronic device part relative to other device parts.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a hinge assembly that enhances comfort, efficiency and effectiveness in using an electronic device having two or more parts whose positions are adjustable relative to one another.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a hinge assembly that accommodates a broad range of uses for multiple-part electronic devices with which hinge mechanisms are currently used.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a hinge assembly that accommodates trans ormation of the relative positions of multiple parts of an electronic device from positions suitable for one function to positions suitable for another function.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a hinge assembly that broadly frees the designer in designing the electronic device, and the user in using the device, from restrictions conventionally imposed by hinge mechanisms. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a hinge assembly for a multiple-part electronic device that provides electro-rotational interconnections between the two parts of a hinged multiple-part device.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a versatile hinge assembly that provides generally for stable support of each part of a multiple-part electronic device throughout its adjustment range.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a hinge assembly that is light and compact, simple in design, easy to manufacture, easy to incorporate in multiple-part electronic device, and easy to use.

The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be more readily understood upon consideration of the following detailed description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a hinge assembly according to the present invention, attached to a two-part electronic device. Figure 2 is a front, partial cross-section of the hinge assembly of Figure 1 taken along line 2-2 thereof, with the shell of the electronic device partially cut away.

Figure 3 is a front, partial cross-section of the hinge assembly of Figure 1 taken along the line 3-3 thereof, with the shell of the electronic device partially cut away.

Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of Figure 2 which shows an exemplary joint end having an annular notch for insertion in an aperture having an annular member and insertion notch. Figure 5 is a partial cross-section of a portion of

Figure 2 taken along line 5-5 thereof showing one embodiment of an electro-rotational connector.

Figure 6 is a preferred embodiment of the electro- rotational connector of Figure 2. Figure 7 is a cross-section of a portion of Figure 6 taken along line 7-7 thereof.

Figure 8 is a front, partial cross-section of an alternative embodiment of the hinge assembly according to the present invention. Figure 9 is a first sequence of side views of two parts of an electronic device connected by the hinge assembly of Figure 1 and placed in various relative positions.

Figure 10 is a second sequence of side views of two parts of an electronic device connected by the hinge assembly of Figure 1 and placed in various relative positions.

Figure 11 is a third sequence of side views of two parts of an electronic device connected by the hinge assembly of Figure 1 and placed in various relative positions.

Figure 12 is a fourth sequence of side views of two parts of an electronic device connected by the hinge assembly of Figure 1 and placed in various relative positions. Figure 13 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the lineal adjustment portion of the hinge assembly according to the present invention.

Figure 14 is another alternative embodiment of the lineal adjustment portion of the hinge assembly according to the present invention.

Figure 15 is a front view a of three-part electronic device wherein the parts are interconnected by two hinge assemblies according to the present invention. Figure 16 is a front view of a three-part electronic device wherein the parts are interconnected by an alternative embodiment of the hinge assembly of the present invention.

Figure 17 is a perspective view of a detachable embodiment of a hinge assembly according to the present invention, separated from the parts of a two-part electronic device.

Figure 18 is a perspective view of one end of the detachable embodiment of the hinge assembly shown in Figure 17. Figure 19 is a front, partial cross-section of one end of an alternative embodiment of the hinge assembly according to the present invention, attached to one part of a two-part electronic device.

Figure 19A is top, partial cross-section of the hinge assembly of Figure 19 taken along line 19A-19A thereof, showing a gate mechanism in respective open and closed positions.

Figure 20 is a front, partial cross-section of a second end of an alternative embodiment of the hinge assembly according to the present invention, attached to the second part of a two-part electronic device.

Figure 21 is a top, partial cross-section of the hinge assembly of Figure 19 taken along the line 21-21 thereof.

Figure 22 is a cross-section of an alternative embodiment of an insert assembly and associated tracks according to the present invention. Figure 23 is a cross-section of an alternative embodiment of an insert assembly and associated tracks according to the present invention.

Figure 23A is a cross-section of an alternative embodiment of an insert assembly and associated tracks according to the present invention.

Figure 24 is a partial cross-section of another embodiment of an electro-rotational connector.

Figure 25 is a cross-section of the electro-rotational connector of Figure 24 taken along line 25-25 thereof.

Detailed Description of the Invention

A preferred embodiment of the hinge assembly 8 in accordance with the present invention is shown in Figure 1 attached to a two-part electronic device 10. The device 10, a portable computer in this exemplary case, includes a display part 12 and a base part 14. The display part 12 has an outside surface 16, an inside surface 18, a right side 20, a left side 22, a front side 24 and a back side 26. The display part 12 has a longitudinal axis 27, a latitudinal axis 28, and an elevational axis 29, the axes 27, 28 and 29 being mutually perpendicular. The base part 14 has an outside surface 30, an inside surface 32, a right side 34, a left side 36, a front side 38 and a back side 40. The base part 14 has a longitudinal axis 41, a latitudinal axis 42 and an elevational axis 43, the axes 41, 42 and 43 being mutually perpendicular. The exemplary display part 12 has a flat panel display 44 mounted to form part of the inside surface 18. The base part 14 has a keyboard 46 mounted to form part of the inside surface 32. Although in the embodiment shown the display part 12 holds the display 44 and base part 14 holds the keyboard

46, it is to be recognized that the hinge assembly may be used with various kinds of multiple-part electronic devices whether or not displays or keyboards are used, without departing from the principles of the invention. Referring to Figure 1, as well as Figures 2 and 3, the hinge assembly 8 has a first end 48 and a second end 448, and an arm 59 extending between the two ends. At each respective end 48 and 449, the assembly has end connectors 50 and 450, shafts 52 and 452, sleeves 54 and 454, and clamps 56 and 456. The end connectors 50 and 450 attach the hinge assembly at or adjacent the right sides 20 and 34 of the display part 12 and the base part 14. End connectors 50 are mounted respectively to the front side 24 and back side 26 of the display part 12, adjacent the right side 20 of the display part 12. End connectors 450 are mounted respectively to the front side 38 and back side 40 of the base part 14, adjacent the right side 34 of the base part 14. Each end connector 50 and 450 is a plate having a predetermined thickness, width and depth, and having respective fastener apertures 62 and 462 disposed through the connector adjacent two respective sides thereof. The end connectors 50 and 450 are secured to respective device parts 12 and 14 by insertion of fasteners 64 and 464 through fastener apertures 62 and 462 into the device parts 12 and 14. Preferably, the fasteners 64 and 464 are threaded fasteners such as screws that, when inserted, are flush to the end connectors 50 and 450. Although in the embodiment shown, the hinge assembly is attached to the right sides of the device parts, it is to be recognized that the hinge assembly may be attached to one or more other corresponding sides of the electronic device without departing from the principles of the invention. Each end connector 50 and 450 seats one end of a respective shaft 52 or 452 in a shaft aperture 66 or 466 disposed in the connector substantially in the middle thereof. Each seated shaft 52 and 452 is secured in the respective shaft aperture 66 or 466 using a fastener 68 or 468 that is tightened onto the shaft through a lateral aperture 70 or 470 disposed in the side of the connector. Each shaft aperture 66 and 466 extends approximately three-quarters of the way into the respective end connector 50 and 450 rather than fully through the depth thereof so that, when the respective shaft 52 or 452 is seated in the shaft aperture 66 or 466, the shaft cannot slide through the end connectors 50 or 450 if the fastener 68 or 468 fails. Preferably, the fasteners 68 and 468 are set screws. Each shaft 52 and 452 is slidably attached within a respective sleeve 54 and 454 and clamp 56 or 456. To provide for sliding within respective sleeve 52 and clamp 56, the shaft 52 of the display part 12 has its longitudinal axis parallel to and offset by a predetermined, constant distance XI from the right side 20 of the display part 12. Similarly, to provide for sliding within respective sleeve 452 and clamp 456, respective shaft 452 of the base part 14 has its longitudinal axis parallel to and offset by a predetermined, constant distance X2 from the right side 34 of the base part 14. Distances XI and X2 provide clearance for respective sleeves 54 and 454 and clamps 56 and 456. Distances XI and X2 need not be equal. The shafts 52 and 452, sleeves 54 and 454 and clamps 56 and 456 for each part are disposed so as to provide clearance in the directions of the respective outside surfaces 16 and 30, inside surfaces 18 and 32 and left sides 22 and 36.

Each sleeve 54 and 454 includes a cylindrical sleeve shell 72 or 472 and a cylindrical washer 74 or 474, disposed over and coaxial with respective shaft 52 or 452. Each sleeve shell 72 or 472, at one end, has an annular member 76 or 476 directed from the sleeve shell 72 or 472 toward the surface of the respective shaft 52 or 452, so as to fit closely to that shaft 52 or 452. Each sleeve shell 72 and 472, at the other end, is open. Each sleeve shell 72 and 472 has a clinch slot (not shown) along its full length, the clinch slot being cut fully through the thickness of the sleeve shell 72 or 472.

Each washer 74 and 474 is disposed between the respective sleeve shell 72 or 472 and shaft 52 or 452, and has a thickness substantially equal to the difference between the inside diameter of the sleeve shell 72 or 472 and the diameter of the shaft 52 or 452. Each washer 74 and 474 has a length substantially equal that of the respective sleeve shell 72 or 472 less the width of the sleeve annular member 76 or 476 so as to extend from the sleeve annular member 76 or 476 thereof to the open end of that sleeve shell 72 or 472. Each washer 74 and 474 has a clinch slot (not shown) along its full length, the clinch slot being cut fully through the washer's thickness.

Each clamp 56 and 456 has a cylindrical clamp shell 78 or 478 having an inside diameter slightly larger than the outside diameter of the sleeve shell 72 or 472 of the respective sleeve 54 or 454. Each clamp shell 78 and 478 is coaxial with the respective shaft 52 or 452, sleeve shell 72 or 472 and washer 74 or 474. Each clamp shell 78 and 478, at one end, has a clamp annular member 80 or 480 directed from the clamp shell 78 or 478 toward the surface of the respective shaft 52 or 452, so as to fit closely to that shaft 52 or 452. Each clamp shell 78 and 478, at the other end, is open. Each clamp 56 and 456 is seated over the open end of the respective sleeve 54 or 454 so that the clamp shell 78 or 478 fits over that sleeve shell 72 or 472 and the clamp annular member 80 or 480 closes the open end of that sleeve shell 72 or 472 to hold the respective washer 74 or 474 in position between that sleeve shell 72 or 472 and the respective shaft 52 or 452. Each clamp 56 and 456 includes a tightening mechanism. Each tightening mechanism has an elongate screw 82 or 482 inserted into a threaded holder 84 or 484 that is attached to the respective clamp shell 78 or 478 centered on a bore (not shown) therethrough. Each screw 82 and 482 extends away from respective clamp 56 or 456 and, at its free end, has a head 86 or 486 accessible to the user on the outside of the device part. Each clamp 56 and 456 is adjusted for tightness by the user turning the head 86 or 486 to tighten or loosen the screw 82 or 482 against the respective sleeve shell 72 or 472. The screws 82 and 482 preferably cannot be fully unscrewed from the respective threaded holder 84 or 484. Although in the embodiment shown each tightening mechanism comprises the screw 82 or 482, holder 84 or 484 and bore, it is to be recognized that the tightening mechanism may be provided by other ε cture without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, the tightening mechanism may be provided by a screw, holder and bore wherein the screw either does not have a head with which the user may adjust the clamp's tightness, or has a head that is not accessible to the user; in such case, the clamp has a predetermined tightness that cannot be adjusted by the user.

Each clamp 56 and 456 preferably is adjusted to tighten the respective sleeve shell 72 or 472 and washer 74 or 474 so that the respective shaft 52 or 452 cannot slide within that sleeve 54 or 454 unless urged by the user. The washers 74 and 474 are made of a material, such as plastic, that provides frictional contact between the sleeves 54 and 454 and the shafts 52 and 452 such that, when the clamps 56 and 456 are properly adjusted, the sliding movement of the shafts 52 and 452 within the sleeves 54 and 454 is smooth and controlled. When the clamps 56 and 456 are tightened, the shells 72 and 472 and washers 74 and 474 are compressed by taking up their respective clinch slots. With its clamp 56 properly adjusted, the display part 12 may be lineally adjusted relative to its sleeve 54 by urging the display part 12 so that the shaft 52 attached to the display part 12 slides within that sleeve 54. The lineal adjustment is in the direction of the display part's latitudinal axis 28, though that axis 28 may vary in orientation relative to the axes 41, 42 and 43 of the base part 14 as a result of rotational adjustments described herein. Similarly, with its clamp 456 properly adjusted, the base part 14 may be lineally adjusted relative to its sleeve 454 by urging the base part 14 so that the shaft 452 attached to the base part 14 slides within that sleeve 454. The lineal adjustment is in the direction of the base part's latitudinal axis 42, though that axis 42 may vary in orientation relative to the axes 27, 28 and 29 of the display part 12 as a result of rotational adjustments described herein.

Although in the embodiment shown the shafts 52 and 452 have circular cross-sectional shapes perpendicular to each shaft's longitudinal axis, and the sleeves 54 and 454 (having respective shells 72 and 472 and washers 74 and 474) and the clamps 56 and 456 (having respective shells 78 and 478) have annular cross-sectional shapes, it is to be recognized that each set of shafts, sleeves and clamps may have some other cross-sectional shapes, without departing from the principles of the inven, on, provided slidable movement of the shaft within the respective sleeve and clamp is maintained.

It is also to be recognized that the shafts 52 and 452 need not have a common cross-sectional shape. For example, in a hinge assembly interconnecting a two-part electronic device, one shaft, sleeve and clamp set may have circular cross- sectional shapes as shown, while the other shaft, sleeve and clamp may have polygonal cross-sectional shapes, such as squares. It is to be further recognized that, although in the embodiment shown each sleeve 54 and 454 has one cylindrical washer 74 or 474, each washer 74 or 474 may comprise two or more sections that together substantially form a cylinder and, in such case, a clinch slot is obviated, without departing from the principles of the invention. Moreover, if the shaft 52 or 452 has a polygonal cross-sectional shape, the washers 74 or 474 may comprise two or more rectangular parts, again obviating a clinch slot. It is also to be recognized that washers 74 and 474 may be omitted without departing from the principles of the invention, provided smooth, controlled movement of the shafts 52 and 452 within the sleeves 54 and 454 is achieved. For example, such movement may be achieved without washers 74 or 474 by properly selecting the materials from which the sleeve 54 or 454 and respective shaft 52 or 452 are made or by properly selecting a lubricant or coating on the contact surfaces of sleeve 54 or 454 and shaft 52 or 452, or both.

Referring to Figures 2, 3 and 4, each sleeve 54 and 454 has a neck 88 or 488 extending from the substantial middle of the sleeve shell 72 or 472 away from the right side of respective part 12 or 14. Each neck 88 and 488 is disposed substantially at a right angle to the longitudinal axis of its sleeve 54 or 454 and has a predetermined length. Each neck 88 and 488 has a joint end 90 or 490, that has a substantially circular cross-section of predetermined diameter. Each joint end 90 or 490 has a predetermined length and an annular notch 92 or 492 disposed at a predetermined distance from the tip of the joint end. Each annular notch 92 and 492 has a predetermined width, depth and shape. Although in the embodiment shown each notch 92 and 492 has a squared cross- sectional shape and each neck 88 and 488 has a circular cross- sectional shape, it is to be recognized that each notch 92 or 492 may have other cross-sectional shapes and each neck 88 or 488 may have other cross-sectional shapes without departing from the principles of the invention. Moreover, it to be recognized that the predetermined lengths, diameters, distances, widths, depths and shapes of the necks 88 and 488, joint ends 90 and 490, and annular notches 92 and 492 need not be the same for all sleeves 54 and 454.

Referring to Figures 1, 2, and 4, the display part 12 has a knuckle 58, having a first segment 94 and a second segment 96. The first segment 94 has a rotation aperture 98 and an inwardly-directed annular member 100 at the open end of the aperture 98. The annular member 100 has a width and cross- sectional shape corresponding to the width and cross-sectional shape of the annular notch 92 of respective joint end 90. When the joint end 90 is inserted in the aperture 98, it is locked in place by the annular member 100, which fits into the corresponding annular notch 92. The rotation aperture 98 is cylindrical, and has a predetermined length and diameter.

The second segment 96 of the display part 12 has a rotation aperture 102 and an inwardly-directed annular member 104 at the open end of the aperture 102. The second segment's rotation aperture 102 is cylindrical, has a predetermined length which may or may not be equal to the length of rotation aperture 98, and has a predetermined diameter which may or may not be equal to the diameter of rotation aperture 98. The second segment 96 of the knuckle 58 is connected to the arm 59 (as further described below) . To control the stress on the connection imparted by adjusting positions of the parts 12 and 14, the length of the display part's second segment 96 is substantially minimized. It is to be recognized, however, that the length of the second segment could be greater than the minimum without departing from the principles of the invention, provided that the stress on the connection between second segment 96 and arm 59 is controlled. Referring to Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, the arm 59 has a first portion 95 and a second portion 97. The first portion 95 has a rotation aperture 99 and an inwardly-directed annular member 101 at the open end of the aperture 99. The annular member 101 has a width and cross-sectional shape corresponding to the width and cross-sectional shape of the annular notch 492 of respective joint end 480 of the base part's neck 488. When the joint end 480 is inserted in the arm's rotation aperture 99, the joint end 480 is locked in place by the annular member 101, which fits into the corresponding annular notch 492. The rotation aperture 99 is cylindrical, and has a predetermined length and diameter.

The arm's second portion 97 has a joint end 106 having an annular notch 108. The joint end 106 has a substantially circular cross-section of predetermined diameter and has a predetermined length. The annular notch 108 is disposed at a predetermined distance from the tip of the joint end 106. The annular notch 108 has a predetermined width, depth and shape. The portions 95 and 97 of arm 59 have predetermined lengths, preferably selected to optimize the positioning adjustability of the device parts 12 and 14 relative to each other.

The knuckle 58 of the display part 12 is constructed so that its rotation apertures 98 and 102 have respective rotational axes 112 and 114 that are disposed substantially at a right angle to each other. The arm 59 is constructed so that its rotation aperture 99 has a rotational axis 116, and its joint end 106 has a rotational axis 118, the axes being disposed substantially at a right angle to each other. The respective rotational axes 114 and 118 of the knuckle 58 and arm 59 are at least parallel, and preferably are coaxial. The respective rotational axes 112 and 116 of the knuckle 58 and arm 59 are parallel and separated by a predetermined distance to enhance the relative positioning adjustability of the parts 12 and 14.

Referring to Figure 4, the rotation aperture 98 has an insertion slot 120. The insertion slot 120 has a first part 122 cut substantially co-directional with the respective rotational axis 112 fully through both the respective segment 94 and annular member 100 to the rotation aperture 98. The first part 122 is cut substantially the full length of the rotation aperture 98. The insertion slot 120 has a second part 124 cut substantially perpendicular to the first part 122 at the end thereof opposite the respective rotation 'aperture' s open end. The second part 124 is cut to a depth given by the substantial midpoint of the respective rotation aperture' s diameter. The insertion slot 120 allows insertion of the joint end 90 past the annular member 100 into the rotation apertures 98 by allowing the respective segment 94 to flex open and then close. Although not separately shown, it is to be recognized that rotation apertures 99 and 102 have structure substantially similar to the insertion slot 120 of rotation aperture 98, so as to allow insertion of respective joint ends 490 and 106 past the annular members 101 and 104 by allowing the respective arm portion 95 or knuckle segment 96 to flex open and then close.

The insertion slots are disposed in the respective segment or arm portion, so that, when the device 10 is in use, any torque effects imparted to the rotatable attachment by gravity or adjustment by the user will tend not to be directed to the insertion slots. For example, when the display part 12 is disposed vertically, the insertion slot 120 in the first segment 94 of the display part's knuckle 58 has its first part 122 directed toward or away from the user so that gravity tends to apply torque to the joint end 90 against uncut parts of the first segment 94.

Each sleeve's joint end 90 and 490 inserts in the rotation aperture 98 or 99 of the respective first segment 94 of knuckle 58 or first portion 95 of arm 59. The length of the rotation aperture 98 or 99 is substantially the same as the length of the respective joint end 90 or 490 so that, when the joint end 90 or 490 is inserted, the respective annular member 100 or 101 fits in the joint end's annular notch 92 or 492 preventing the sleeve 54 or 454 from separating from the knuckle 58 or arm 59. So inserted, each sleeve's joint end 90 and 490 substantially fills the length of the rotation aperture 98 or 99 minimizing any free play in the connection. The diameter of each rotation aperture 98 or 99 is slightly less than the diameter of the inserted joint end 90 or 490 so that, with the joint 90 or 490 inserted in the rotation aperture 98 or 99, the frictional force between the joint end 90 or 490 and respective first segment 94 or first ^'portion 95 is sufficient, depending on the relative weights and dimensions of the elements of the hinge assembly and the device 10, to prevent rotation of the joint end 90 or 492 relative to the first segment 94 or first portion 95, unless rotation is urged by the user.

With the display part's joint end 90 inserted in the first segment's rotation aperture 98, the sleeve 54 is rotatably connected to the first segment 94 such that the display part 12 may be adjustably rotated relative to the first segment 94. The rotation is about rotational axis 112 provided by the first segment 94. The adjustment about rotational axis 112 effects a rotation about the display part's longitudinal axis 27, or parallel thereto if the axis 27 has been adjusted lineally as shown in Figure 2, by sliding its shaft 52 within the respective sleeve 54 as previously described herein. With the base part's joint end 480 inserted in the first portion's rotation aperture 99, the sleeve 454 is rotatably connected to the first portion 95 such that the base part 14 may be adjustably rotated relative to first portion

95. The rotation is about the rotational axis 116 provided by the first portion 95. The adjustment of the base part 14 about rotation axis 116 effects a rotation about the base part's longitudinal axis 41, or parallel thereto if the axis 41 has been adjusted lineally as shown in Figure 3 by sliding its shaft 452 within the respective sleeve 454, as previously described herein.

Referring to Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, the knuckle 58 and arm 59 are rotatably connected to each other by their respective second segment 96 and second portion 97, by inserting the joint end 106 of the second portion 97 in the rotation aperture 102 of the second segment 96 of the display part's knuckle 58. The length of the rotation aperture 102 is substantially the same as the length of the joint end 106 so that, when the joint end 106 is inserted, the annular member 104 of the knuckle's second segment 96 fits in the joint end's annular notch 108 preventing the knuckle 58 and arm 59 from separating. So inserted, the joint end 106 substantially fills the length of the rotation aperture 102 minimizing any free play in the attachment. The diameter of the rotation aperture 102 is slightly less than the diameter of the joint end 106 so that, with the joint end 106 inserted in the rotation aperture 102, the frictional force between the joint end 106 and the second segment 96 of the display part's knuckle 58 is sufficient, depending on the relative weights and dimensions of the elements of the hinge assembly and the device 10, to prevent rotation of the joint end 106 relative to the display part's second segment 96, unless rotation is urged by the user.

With the knuckle 58 and arm 59 rotatably connected, the display part 12 and base part 14 may be adjustably rotated relative to the connection. For the display part 12, the second segment 96 of the display part's knuckle 58 provides the rotational axis 114. For the base part 14, the second portion 97 of the arm 59 provides the rotational axis 118. The rotational axes 114 and 118 are coaxial, thence rotation of one part 12 or 14 about respective rotational axis 114 or 118 is equivalent to rotating the other part 14 or 12 about the other rotational axis 118 or 114, but in the opposite direction.

The rotational adjustment of the display part 12 about the rotational axis 114 of the second segment 96 is in the direction of a vector combination of the display part's latitudinal axis 28 and elevation axis 29, depending on the orientation of the axes 28 and 29 due to rotation about rotational axis 112 of its first segment 94, and to lineal adjustment of the display part 12. The rotational adjustment of the base part 14 about rotation axis 118 is in the direction of a vector combination of the base part' s latitudinal axis 42 and elevation axis 43, depending on the orientation of the axes 42 and 43 due to rotation about the rotational axis 116 of the first portion 95 of arm 59 and to lineal adjustment of the base part 14.

The shafts 52 and 452, sleeves 54 and 454, clamps 56 and 456, knuckle 58 and arm 59 may be cast aluminum or other material or may be constructed of other conventional materials, such as machine steel. The material should be flexible. If any hardening process is used, its effects on tolerances between elements and on flexibility of the materials should be controlled. Although in the embodiment shown the shafts 52 and 452, the clamps 56 and 456, and the sleeves 54 and 454 are used to provide lineal adjustment of the display and base parts 12 and 14, it is to be recognized that other structure may be used to provide lineal adjustment without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, a detent column and insert element combination (not shown) may be used. The detent column has two ridged walls, the ridges of one wall being directed toward the ridges of the other wall. The insert element has a ball end disposed in the detent column, and a neck extending from the ball end away from the detent column. The neck is disposed substantially at a right angle to the longitudinal axis of the detent column, has a predetermined length, and has a joint end having substantially equivalent shape and structure as the joint ends 90 and 490 of the sleeves 54 and 454.

To adjust a device part 12 or 14 having a detent column, the user urges the ball end up or down the detent column, forcing the ridged walls of the detent column apart so that the ball end can move along the column. Once the user selects a position, the walls of the detent column grasp the ball end, thereby holding the device part 12 or 14 in that lineal position. The detent column and insert element combination restricts the lineal adjustments to the detent positions rather than providing continuous sliding positions, but does not effect the rotational adjustments of the preferred embodiment.

In addition, lineal adjustment may be provided by a detent shaft mechanism or either a screw mechanism, a rack and pinion mechanism (not shown) or other gearing mechanisms (not shown) without departing from the principles of the invention. The detent shaft mechanism restricts the lineal adjustments to the detent positions rather than providing continuous sliding positions, but does not effect the rotational adjustments of the preferred embodiment. The gearing mechanisms provide the rotational adjustments of the preferred embodiment and continuous lineal adjustment, albeit not a slidable adjustment. Referring to Figure 13, a detent shaft mechanism 600 is shown which may be used to provide lineal adjustment of the display and base parts 12 and 14 (not shown) in place of the shafts 52 and 452, the clamps 56 and 456, and the sleeves 54 and 454. The detent shaft mechanism 600 has an elongate shaft 610 having a plurality of detent apertures 612 disposed on opposite sides of the shaft 610 along the shaft's entire length. The shaft 610 is seated at each end thereof in respective shaft apertures 602, each aperture 602 being disposed in an end connector 604 and secured therein using a fastener 606 inserted through a lateral aperture 608 in the side of the end connector 604. The end connectors 604, the shaft apertures 602, the fasteners 606 and the lateral apertures 608 are substantially the same as respective end connectors 50 and 450, shaft apertures 66 and 466, fasteners 68 and 468 and lateral apertures 70 and 470, and attach the hinge assembly to display parts 12 and 14 (not shown) in substantially the same way as such respective end connectors 50 and 450, shaft apertures 66 and 466, fasteners 68 and 468 and lateral apertures 70 and 470. The detent shaft mechanism 600 has a sleeve 614 and a clamp 620. The sleeve 614 has a sleeve shell 616 disposed over the shaft 610, the sleeve shell 616 having a slot along the length thereof and holding a plurality of spring-loaded detent ball assemblies 618, such assemblies being well-known in the art. The clamp 620 has a clamp shell 622 seated over the sleeve shell 616 to enclose the spring-loaded detent ball assemblies 618 within the sleeve shell 616. The clamp 620 includes a tightening mechanism having an elongate screw 624 inserted into a threaded holder 626 attached to the clamp shell 622 centered on a bore 623 that extends through the clamp shell 622. The screw 624 extends away from the clamp 620 and, at its free end, has a head 628. The clamp 620 is adjusted by turning the head 628 to tighten or loosen the screw 624 against a biasing element 630. The screw 624 preferably cannot be fully unscrewed from the threaded holder 626.

The clamp 620 preferably is adjusted to tighten or loosen the sleeve shell 616 so as to adjust the biasing element 630 and, thereby bias the spring-loaded detent ball assemblies 618 with respect to the detent apertures 612. Properly adjusted, the biasing element 630 allows the spring-loaded detent ball assemblies 618 and detent apertures 612 to control the sliding resistance of the sleeve 614 over the shaft 610, preferably so that the shaft 610 cannot slide within the sleeve 614 unless urged by the user.

With the clamp 620 properly adjusted, the device part to which the detent shaft mechanism 600 is attached may be lineally adjusted relative to its sleeve 614 by sliding the shaft 610 within the sleeve 614. The lineal adjustment is in the direction of the part's axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 610, though that axis of the part may vary in orientation relative to the axes of the other device parts as a result of rotational adjustments, as described hereinabove.

The detent shaft mechanism 600 also has a neck 632 extending from the substantial middle of the sleeve shell 616, disposed substantially at a right angle to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve 614. It is to be recognized that the neck 632 is substantially the same as the necks 88 and 488 in structure and shape, and is connected to a rotational adjustment portion of the hinge assembly as discussed hereinabove. It is to be recognized that the shaft 610, the sleeve 614 (having sleeve shell 616), the clamp 620 (having clamp shell 622) and the biasing element 630 may have various cross- sectional shapes, without departing from the principles of the invention, provided controlled slidable movement of the shaft within the sleeve is maintained. If the cross-sectional shape of the shaft 610 is circular, it is preferred that the detent apertures 612 comprise annular grooves disposed in planes substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 610. It is also to be recognized that the sleeve shell 616 and the clamp shell 622 preferably have dimensions and shapes substantially similar to the dimensions and shapes of respective sleeve shells 72 and 472 and clamp shells 78 and 478. It is also to be recognized that the tightening mechanism may be provided by structure other than the screw 624, the threaded holder 626 and the bore 623 without departing from the principles of the invention. Moreover, the tightening mechanism may or may not be accessible to the user, without departing from the principles of the invention.

Referring to Figure 14, a screw mechanism 650 is shown which may be used to provide lineal adjustment of the display and base parts 12 and 14 (not shown) in place of the shafts 52 and 452, the clamps 56 and 456, and the sleeves 54 and 454. The screw mechanism 600 has an elongate shaft 652 having a continuous spiral groove 654 disposed along the shaft's entire length. The shaft 652 is rotatably seated at each end thereof in respective shaft apertures 656, each aperture 656 being disposed in an end connector 658 and secured therein using a housing 660. The end connectors 658 and the shaft apertures 656 are substantially the same as respective end connectors 50 and 450 and shaft apertures 66 and 466, and attach the hinge assembly to display and base parts 12 and 14 (not shown) in substantially the same way as such respective end connectors 50 and 450 and shaft apertures 66 and 466. Housing 660 preferably contains bearings, or provides a seal holding lubricant within the shaft apertures 656, or otherwise assists the rotation of the shaft 652 in shaft apertures 656. It is to be recognized that the housing 660 may be omitted without departing from the principles of the invention.

The screw mechanism 650 has a sleeve 662 and a clamp 664. The sleeve 662 has a sleeve shell 666 disposed over the shaft 652, the sleeve shell 666 having a plurality of pawls 668 preferably disposed along its inside surface at intervals corresponding to the distance between spirals of the spiral groove 654. The pawls 668 are of a predetermined number and extend a predetermined distance from the inside of the sleeve shell 666 toward the shaft 652. The clamp 664 has a clamp shell 670 seated over the sleeve shell 666. The clamp 664 includes a tightening mechanism having an elongate screw 672 inserted into a threaded holder 674 attached to the clamp shell 670 centered on a bore 675 that extends through the clamp shell 670. The screw 672 extends away from the clamp 664 and, at its free end, has a head 676. The clamp 664 is adjusted by turning the head 676 to tighten or loosen the screw 672 against the sleeve shell 666. The screw 672 preferably cannot be fully unscrewed from the threaded holder 674.

The clamp 664 preferably is adjusted to tighten or loosen the sleeve shell 666 so that the sleeve shell 666 biases the pawls 668 in the spiral groove 654. Properly adjusted, the sleeve shell 666 allows the pawls 668 to slide in the spinal groove 654. It is to be recognized that, although adjustment of the clamp 620 may contribute to controlling the sliding resistance of the sleeve 662 over the shaft 652, preferably the sliding resistance is controlled by using a spiral groove 654 having a predetermined spacing between grooves along the length of the shaft 652 and a predetermined angle of spiral relative to the shaft' s longitudinal axis.

Preferably, the sliding resistance provides that the shaft 652 cannot rotate and thereby move lineally within the sleeve 662 unless the user applies a force urging lineal movement of the sleeve 662 relative to the shaft 652. When the user applies such force, for example, by urging the device piece to which the shaft 652 is attached, the shaft 652 rotates about its longitudinal axis within the shaft apertures 656 causing the spiral groove 654 to corkscrew within the sleeve 662. Assuming that the sleeve 662 remains stationary, the rotation of the shaft 652, and resulting corkscrewing of the spiral groove 654, allows lineal motion of the shaft 652 within the sleeve 662. The lineal adjustment is in the direction of the device part's axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 652, though that axis of the part may vary in orientation relative to the axes of the other device parts as a result of rotational adjustments, as described hereinabove.

It is to be recognized that the shaft 652 preferably has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape and that the sleeve shell 666 and clamp shell 670 preferably have annular cross-sectional shapes. It is also to be recognized that the tightening mechanism may be provided by structure other than the screw 672, the threaded holder 674 and the bore 675 without departing from the principles of the invention. Moreover, the tightening mechanism may or may not be accessible to the user, without departing from the principles of the invention.

The screw mechanism 650 also has a neck 678 extending from the substantial middle of the sleeve shell 666, disposed substantially at a right angle to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve 662. It is to be recognized that the neck 678 is substantially the same as the necks 88 and 488 in structure and shape, and connects to a rotational adjustment portion of the hinge assembly as discussed hereinabove.

Another preferred embodiment of the hinge assembly 8 in accordance with the present invention is shown in Figures 19, 20 and 21, attached to a two-part electronic device 10. The hinge assembly 8 has a first end 548 and a second end 948, and an arm 559 extending between the two ends 548 and 948. The arm 559 has a longitudinal axis 588. The ends 548 and 948 preferably are attached, respectively, to the display part 12 and the base part 14, such attachment being at or adjacent the right sides 20 and 34 of such parts. As is discussed further below, the hinge assembly 8 may be constructed so as to be detachable from the parts 12 and 14 of the electronic device 10. Although in the embodiment shown the hinge assembly 8 is attached to the right side of the respective device parts, it is to be recognized that the hinge assembly may be attached to other sides of the electronic device without departing from the principles of the invention. Each of the ends 548 and 948 has respective tracks 552 or 952 disposed to form a channel 551 or 951 therebetween. Each set of tracks 552 and 952 is secured to the respective end 548 or 948 using one or more fasteners (not shown) . The fasteners preferably are threaded fasteners, such as screws, or are adhesives, cements, rivets, welds or the like. It is to be recognized, however, that the tracks 552 and 952 may be integral to the ends 548 and 948, respectively, without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, if the ends 548 and 948 are fabricated using molding, casting, extruding or other processes, the tracks 552 or 952 may be fabricated in the process as an integral part of the respective end 548 or 948, such that fasteners are not used. Each end 548 and 948 has an associated insert assembly 550 and 950. The insert assemblies 550 and 950 comprise respective insert element 554 or 954, clamp 556 or 956, and neck 558 or 958. The insert elements 554 and 954 have respective contact surfaces 557 and 957. Preferably, each insert element 554 or 954 and respective neck 558 or 958 are one piece. It is to be recognized, however, that the insert elements 554 and 954 and respective neck 558 or 958 may be separate pieces that are attached to each other using screws, bolts, welds, adhesive, or the like, without departing from the principles of the invention. Each insert assembly 550 and 950 is slidably attached to the respective tracks 552 or 952 so that the position of the respective device parts 12 and 14 may be lineally adjusted by sliding the insert assemblies 550 and 950 relative to the respective tracks 552 or 952. Preferably, the insert assembly 550 or 950 is slidably attached by removably inserting the insert element 554 or 954 in the channel 551 or 951 of the respective tracks 552 or 952. To provide for such removable insertion, the tracks 552 and 952 preferably have respective gate mechanisms 560 and 960. The gate mechanisms 560 and 960 preferably are disposed adjacent a selected end of the respective tracks 552 or 952. It is to be recognized, however, that the gate mechanisms 560 and 960 may be otherwise disposed, e.g., mid-track, without departing from the principles of the invention. As shown in Figure 19A, the gate mechanisms 560 and 960, in operation, have an open position 561 providing for insertion or removal of the insert elements 554 and 954 in the respective channels 551 and 951 of the tracks 552 and 952, and have a closed position 563 providing for substantially smooth and controlled sliding movement of the insert elements 554 and 954 in the respective channels 551 and 951 along the tracks 552 and 952.

Each of the channels 551 and 951 of the respective tracks 552 and 952 have a longitudinal axis 553 or 953, each axis 553 and 953 preferably being substantially parallel to and adjacent a side 562 or 962 of the respective end 548 or 948. The tracks 552 and 952 have inside surfaces 570 and 970 and outside surfaces 572 and 972. In addition, as described more fully below, the tracks 552 and 952 have cross-sectional shapes preferably selected so that the respective channels 551 and 951 have cross-sectional shapes corresponding to the respective cross-sectional shapes of the insert elements 554 and 954, thereby accommodating lineal adjustment of the respective insert elements 554 and 954 therein.

Each clamp 556 and 956 preferably comprises a screw 564 or 964 and a washer 566 or 966, disposed over the neck 558 or 958. As shown, the necks 558 and 958 are threaded to provide for tightening and loosening the respective screw 564 or 964. Each screw 564 and 964, at its free end, has a head 565 or

965. Preferably, the head 565 or 965 is accessible to the user for selectably adjusting the tightness of the clamps 556 and 956. In particular, each clamp 556 and 956 is adjusted for tightness by turning the head 565 or 965 so as to tighten or loosen the screw 564 or 964, and associated washer 566 and

966, against the respective outside surface 572 or 972 of the tracks 552 and 952, thereby drawing the contact surfaces 557 and 957 of the insert elements 554 and 954 against the respective inside surfaces 570 or 970 of the tracks 552 and 952.

The insert elements 554 and 954 have selected dimensions and cross-sectional shapes. The insert elements 554 and 954 have lengths that are selected based on several factors, including adjustment stability and range. The insert elements 554 and 954 preferably have cross-sectional shapes selected so as to provide, as the case may be, both for smooth and controlled slidable movement and for substantially immobile positioning of the respective insert assembly 550 or 950 relative to the tracks 552 and 952. Preferably, the cross- sections of the insert elements 554 and 954 are substantially wedge-shaped. When the insert elements 554 and 954 have such cross-sectional shapes, the inside surfaces 570 and 970 of the tracks 552 and 952 preferably are angled so that the respective channels 551 and 951 have cross-sections that are wedge-shaped and correspond substantially to the cross- sectional shape of the respective insert element 554 or 954. These corresponding cross-sectional shapes not only provide for adjusting tightness, but also provide, when the clamps 556 and 956 are properly adjusted, for smooth and controlled slidable movement of the respective insert assembly 550 or 950 relative to the respective tracks 552 or 952 while also precluding detachment of the assemblies from the respective tracks.

The insert elements 554 and 954 preferably have substantially planar extensions 555 and 955 disposed along the length of the elements 554 and 954, on the side of the elements 554 and 954 opposite the associated tracks' inside surfaces 570 and 970. The extensions provide additional adjustment stability while protecting from overtightening the clamps 556 and 956, that is, the extensions 555 and 955 protect from drawing the contact surfaces 557 and 957 of the insert elements 554 and 954 so tightly against the respective inside surfaces 570 or 970 of the tracks 552 and 952 that subsequent loosening of the respective surfaces may be difficult.

Although the insert elements 554 and 954 and the channels 551 and 951, as shown in Figures 19, 20 and 2. have cross- sections that are substantially wedge-shaped, it is to be recognized that each insert element 554 or 954 and its associated channel 551 and 951 may have other cross-sectional shapes without departing from the principles of the invention. provided slidable movement of the respective insert element 554 or 954 in the channel 551 or 951 along the tracks 552 or 952 is provided and appropriate tightness therebetween may be maintained. For example, as shown in Figures 22 and 23, the insert elements 554 and 954 may have T- or H-shaped cross- sections, such that the tracks 552 and 952 have squared inside surfaces 570 and 970 and the channels 551 and 951 have square or rectangular cross-sections. It is also to be recognized that the insert element 554 and its associated tracks 552 need not have the same cross-sectional shapes as the insert element 954 and its associated tracks 952. It is also to be recognized that the clamps 556 and 956 and associated structure, such as the threads of the necks 558 and 958, or component elements, such as the washers 566 and 966, may be omitted without departing from the principles of the invention, provided that appropriate tightness may be maintained. For example. Figure 23 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the insert assembly 500 comprising an insert element 502 having an H-shaped cross-sectional shape and a neck 504. The insert assembly 500 omits a clamp and associated threads on the neck. In this embodiment, slidable movement is provided, and appropriate tightness between the insert element 502 and associated tracks 552 or 952 is maintained, by the relative shapes and dimensions of the insert element 500 and the associated tracks, as well as by appropriate selection of materials. Similarly, Figure 23A illustrates an alternative embodiment of the insert assembly 500 comprising an insert element 502 having a rectangular cross-sectional shape and a neck 504. The insert assembly 500 of Figure 23A also omits a clamp and associated threads on the neck. In this embodiment, slidable movement is provided, and appropriate tightness between the insert element 502 and associated tracks 552 or 952 is maintained, by the relative shapes and dimensions of the insert element 500 and the associated tracks, particularly by selected tolerances therebetween, as well as by appropriate selection of materials. In this case, the tracks are shown integral to the end 548, 948. The insert elements 554 and 954 and the tracks 552 and 952 preferably are made of materials, such as stainless steel, ceramic or plastic, alone or in combination, that provide for smooth and controlled slidable movement of the insert assembly 550 or 950 relative to the tracks 552 or 952 when urged by the user. The materials preferably also accommodate immobilization of the insert assemblies 550 and 950 relative to the tracks 552 or 952, when a stationary position is desired. Although the inside surfaces 570 and 970 of the tracks

552 and 952 and the contact surfaces 557 and 957 of the insert elements 554 and 954, as shown, are substantially smooth, it is to be recognized that the surfaces may be textured in various ways known in the art (e.g., fish-scales, scallops or the like) so as to provide selected friction or tactile feedback (e.g., ratchet-like operation), or both, without departing from the principles of the invention.

The respective parts 12 and 14 of the two-part electronic device 10 may be lineally adjusted relative to the respective insert assembly 550 or 950 by urging part 12 or 14 so that the associated insert element 554 or 954 slides along the respective tracks 552 or 952 in the respective channel 551 or 951. The lineal adjustment is in the direction of the latitudinal axis 28 or 42 of the respective part 12 or 14, though that axis 28 or 42 may vary in orientation relative to the axes of the other part 14 or 12 as a result of rotational adjustment described herein.

Each neck 558 and 958 extends away from the respective insert element 554 or 954, preferably from the element's approximate mid-length. It is to be recognized, however, that either neck 558 or 958, or both, may extend from some other location of the respective insert element 554 or 954 without departing from the principles of the invention. Each neck 558 and 958 has a respective longitudinal axis 586 or 986 and is disposed so that the axis 586 or 986 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 553 or 953 of the respective tracks 552 or 952. The neck 558 is rotatably attached to a first connection element 574, and the neck 958 is rotatably attached to a second connection element 974. Each neck 558 and 958 has a respective joint end 576 or 976, and each associated connection element 574 and 974 has an aperture 578 and 978 for receiving respective joint end 576 or 976. Each joint end 576 and 976 has a selected length and shape. Each aperture 578 and 978 has a selected length and shape, preferably corresponding to the length and shape of the associated joint end 576 or 976. For example, as shown, the joint ends 576 and 976 are substantially frustum shaped, and the apertures 578 and 978 have corresponding frustum shapes. It is to be recognized, however, that the joint end 576 and its associated aperture 578 or the joint end 976 and its associated aperture 978, or both, may be other than substantially frustum shaped without departing from the principles of the invention.

The joint ends 576 and 976 are secured in the respective aperture 578 or 978 of the connection elements 574 and 974 using respective securing mechanisms 580 and 980. The securing mechanisms 580 and 980 provide sufficient frictional force between the joint ends 576 and 976 and the respective aperture 578 or 978 so as to prevent rotation of the respective joint ends 576 or 976, unless rotation is urged by the user. The securing mechanisms 580 and 980 preferably comprise a screw 583 or 983, the screw being disposed through a wall 584 or 984 of the respective connection element 574 or 974 opposite the respective neck 558 or 958, and into the respective joint end 576 or 976. In such case, a screw adhesive, such as LOCTITE manufactured by Loctite Corporation of Hartford, Connecticut, preferably is used to prevent undesirable loosening of the screws 583 and 983.

Although the securing mechanism 580 or 980 as shown in Figure 21 comprises the screw 583 or 983, it is to be recognized that other securing mechanisms may be used without departing from the principles of the invention, provided the joint ends 576 and 976 are secured in the respective apertures 578 and 978. For example, a split ring spring may be fastened in a groove disposed around the periphery of the joint end 576 or 976 as is known in the art. Rivetting or pressing may also be used.

The securing mechanisms 580 and 980 preferably comprise respective biasing mechanisms 582 and 982. The biasing mechanisms 582 and 982 preferably include respective spring washers 585 and 985 and flat washers 587 and 987. Preferably, each of the pairs of washers 585 and 587, and 985 and 987, comprise the same material. It is to be recognized that either biasing mechanism 582 or 982, or both, may employ structure other than either the spring washers 585 and 985 or the flat washers 587 and 987, or both, without departing from the principles of the invention. However, the structure employed preferably biases the joint ends 576 and 976 in the apertures 578 and 978 both to provide smooth and controlled rotation of the necks 558 and 958 relative to the respective connection element 574 or 974 and to counteract wear that tends to loosen the joint end-to-aperture connection provided by the securing mechanisms 580 and 980.

When the joint ends 576 and 976 are received in the respective apertures 578 and 978 of the connection elements 574 and 974, each of the insert assemblies 550 and 950 is rotatably connected to the respective connection element 574 or 974, such that the respective device parts 12 and 14 may be adjustably rotated relative to the respective neck 558 or 958. The rotation is about the longitudinal axis 586 or 986 of the respective neck 558 or 958. That is, the necks' respective longitudinal axes 586 and 986 provide rotational axes about which the respective parts 12 and 14 may be selectably adjusted. In providing that adjustment, rotation is effected about the respective device parts' longitudinal axes 27 and 41, or parallel thereto if either axis 27 or 41 has been lineally adjusted. These rotational adjustments are substantially the same as the rotational adjustments previously described with respect to the preferred embodiment of Figures 2 and 3.

As shown in Figures 19, 20 and 21, the first connection element 574 is integral to one end of the arm 559. That is, the first connection element 574 and the arm 559 form one piece. So constructed, the longitudinal axis 588 of the arm 559 is disposed substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 586 of the neck 558 that is rotatably attached to the first connection element 574. The other end of the arm 559 is rotatably attached to the second connection element 974. So attached, the longitudinal axis 58"8 of the arm 559 is disposed substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 986 of the neck 958 that is also rotatably attached to the element 974. The rotatable attachment of the second end of the arm 559 to the second connection element 974 preferably is provided using substantially the same structure as described above with respect to the rotatable connections of the necks 558 and 958 to the respective connection elements 574 and 974. That is, the second end of the arm 559 preferably has a joint end 590 and the second connection element 974 has an associated aperture 992 for receiving the joint end 590 of the arm 559. The joint end 590 preferably has a selected length and shape, and the aperture 992 preferably has a selected length and shape corresponding to the length and shape of the joint end 590. For example, as shown, the joint end 590 is substantially frustum shaped, and the aperture 992 has a corresponding frustum shape. The joint end 590 is secured in the aperture 992 using a securing mechanism 994, including a biasing mechanism 996. The securing mechanism 994 and the biasing mechanism 996 preferably are substantially the same as previously described. In addition, so as to provide access to the securing mechanism 994, the second connection element 574 preferably comprises an access aperture 993. With the first connection element 574 integral to the first end of the arm 559 and the second connection element 974 rotatably attached to the second end of the arm 559, the display part 12 and the base part 14 may be adjustably rotated relative to the longitudinal axis 588 of the arm 559. As described above with respect to the preferred embodiment of

Figures 2 and 3, rotation of one part 12 or 14 about a common rotational axis, in this case the longitudinal axis 588 of the arm 559, is equivalent to rotating the other part 14 or 12 about that rotational axis, but in the opposite direction. Moreover, as again described above with respect to the preferred embodiment of Figures 2 and 3, the rotational adjustment of the display part 12 about the longitudinal axis 588 of the arm 559 is in the direction of a vector combination of the display part's latitudinal axis 28 and elevation axis 29, depending on the orientation of the axes 28 and 29 due to rotation about the longitudinal axis 586 of the neck 558, and to lineal adjustment of the display part 12. Similarly, the rotational adjustment of the base part 14 about the longitudinal axis 588 of the arm 559 is in the direction of a vector combination of the base part's latitudinal axis 42 and elevation axis 43, depending on the orientation of the axes 42 and 43 due to rotation about the longitudinal axis 986 of the neck 958, and to lineal adjustment of the base part 14.

Although in the embodiment shown in Figures 2, 3 and 4, the two device parts 12 and 14 are interconnected by connecting knuckle 58 and arm 59 to each other by respective second segment 96 and second portion 97, it is to be recognized that the two device parts 12 and 14 may be otherwise connected without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, each part may have a knuckle equivalent to the knuckle 58, so that the parts 12 and 14 may be interconnected by means of an intermediate rod (not shown) having, at each end thereof, structure corresponding to the structure of the respective knuckles. That is, the intermediate rod, at one end, has a joint end for insertion in the rotation aperture of the display part' s second segment and, at the other end, has a joint end for insertion in the rotation aperture of the base part's second segment. By using the intermediate rod, there are two rotational connections, one for each part's second segment and respective rotational axis. Accordingly, the display part 12 may be adjustably rotated relative to the intermediate rod independently of the base part being adjustably rotated relative to the intermediate rod.

Similarly, although in the embodiment shown in Figures 19 and 20 the two device partr 12 and 14 are interconnected by rotatably attaching the respective necks 558 and 958 to first and second connection elements 574 and 974 and rotatably attaching the arm 559 to the second connection element 974, it is to be recognized that the two device parts 12 and 14 may be otherwise connected without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, the arm 559 may be rotatably attached to the first connection element 574 while being either rotatably attached to the second connection element 974 as shown or fixedly attached thereto or integral therewith. In addition, the arm 559 may comprise two portions of selected relative lengths, either or both being rotatably attached to a third connection element (not shown) disposed between the first and second connection elements 574 and 974.

The intermediate rod of the first preferred embodiment may be telescopic. It is also to be recognized that the second portion 97 of the arm 59 or the second segment 96 of the knuckle 58 may have telescopic structure without departing from the principles of the invention. Similarly, in the second preferred embodiment, the arm 559, or any portion thereof, may be telescopic.

Although in the embodiment shown in Figures 2, 3 and 4 the necks 88 and 488 of the sleeves 54 and 454 and the second portion 97 of the arm 59 have respective joint ends 90, 490 and 106, and the segments 94 and 96 of the display part's knuckle 58, and the first portion 95 of the arm 59, have respective rotation apertures 98, 102 and 99, it is to be recognized that necks 88 and 488 and the second portion 97 may have rotation apertures in place of the respective joint ends 90, 490 and 106, and the segments 94 and 96 and the first portion 95 may have joint ends in place of the respective rotation apertures 98, 102 and 99, without departing from the principles of the invention, provided the elements of the hinge assembly are rotatably connected to provide the rotational axes 112, 114, 116 and 118. It is to be further recognized that, although rotational axes 112, 114, 116 and 118 of Figures 2, 3 and 4 are achieved using joint ends and rotation apertures in the preferred embodiment, other structure may be used to achieve such axes without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, ball-and- socket assemblies, as well as axle-and-bearing assemblies may be used. Similar structures may be used in the embodiment shown in Figures 19 and 20, without departing from the principles of the invention.

It is also to be recognized that, although as shown in the preferred embodiments both parts 12 and 14 have structure providing lineal adjustment thereof, the hinge assembly in some applications may be connected to a device part omitting lineal adjustment structure. For example, for a two-part electronic device as shown in Figure 3, the base part's shaft 452, sleeve 454 and clamp 456 may be replaced by a rigid arm (not shown) fixedly mounted to the base part 14 and rotatably connected to arm 59. Alternatively, the first portion 95 of the arm 59 may be rotatably mounted directly to the base part 14 by (i) replacing the first portion's rotation aperture 99 with a joint end having structure substantially similar to the arm's joint end 106 and (ii) providing a rotation aperture in the base part 14 in which the first portion's joint end is inserted. In this alternative, the first portion has an annular notch and the base part' s rotational aperture has an annular member, or the elements have some equivalent structure, so that when the joint end is inserted in the rotational aperture, the joint end is locked in the aperture. The hinge assembly of the present invention preferably provides for detaching adjacent device parts. To provide for detaching device parts, a connector and jam nut assembly (not shown) , as is well-known in the art, is used as part of the arm's second portion 97. The hinge assembly of the present invention provides for electrical connection for lineal and rotational adjustment elements in the assembly. The electrical connection respecting the lineal adjustment elements of either device part 12 or 14 generally can be accomplished by using a flexible length of cable approximately equal in length to the respective shaft 52 or 452 or the respective tracks 552 or 952. It is to be recognized, however, that the cable may have a shorter length depending on its connection points. It is also to be recognized that the electrical connection may be accomplished using other structure, e.g., connections to traces disposed adjacent the lineal adjustment elements, without departing from the principles of the invention. The electrical connection respecting each rotational connection of hinge assembly elements, preferably should not use 'a flexible cable because repeated rotations could either snap one or more of the cable's leads, tear the cable from its connections or otherwise result in circuit failure. Accordingly, each rotational connection requires an electro-rotational connector 60, 91, 460, 506, 906 or 960 that resists circuit failure due to rotational adjustment. Although in the embodiment shown in Figure 2 , the rotational connection between the arm 59 and knuckle 58 shows only the location of an electro-rotational connector 91, it is to be understood that the electro- rotational connector is substantially the same as connectors 60. It is also to be understood that the electro-rotational connector 460 is substantially the same as the electro- rotational connector 60. Similarly, it is to be understood that the electro-rotational connectors 506, 906 or 960 are substantially the same as the electro-rotational connector 60. Referring to Figures 2 and 5, one exemplary embodiment of the electro-rotational connector 60 of the present invention is shown connecting the display part's neck 88 and the first segment 94 of the knuckle 58. The electro-rotational connector 60 has, mounted to the first segment 94, an outer cylinder 200 that houses an inner cylinder 202 mounted to the neck 88. The cylinders 200 and 202 are annular and rotate about rotational axis 112 of the first segment 94. The cylinders 200 and 202 are mounted respectively to the first segment 94 and the neck 88, such that all lineal movement between the cylinders 200 and 202 is substantially eliminated and all lineal and rotational movement of the cylinders 200 and 202 relative to respective first segment 94 and neck 88 is substantially eliminated. The cylinders 200 and 202 are insulators.

Insulated wires 204 carrying electrical signals are directed through the inside of the inner cylinder 202, between the neck 88 and the inside surface of the cylinder 202. The inner cylinder 202 has an inside diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the neck 88 plus twice the diameter of a characteristic wire 204 so that the inner cylinder 202 fits over the neck 88 and wires 204. The inner cylinder 202 has annular grooves 206 spaced along its outside surface adjacent the inside surface of the outer cylinder 200. The grooves 206 may have variable widths depending, for example, on the current of the signal. Each groove 206 fixedly seats a conductive ring 208 at the bottom thereof to which one of the wires 204 is electrically connected via an aperture (not shown) connecting the groove's bottom and the inside surface of the inner cylinder 202.

The outer cylinder 200 has insulated wires 210 directed along its outside surface, each wire 210 corresponding to a wire 204. The outer cylinder 200 has an inside diameter slightly greater than the outside diameter of the inner cylinder 202 so that the inner cylinder 202 may be housed within the outer insulative cylinder 200 and the cylinders 200 and 202 may rotate freely with respect to each other.

The outer cylinder 200 has annular grooves 212 spaced along its outside surface, aligning with the corresponding annular grooves 206 of the inner cylinder 202. The grooves

212 have variable widths corresponding to the variable widths of the annular grooves 206 of the inner cylinder 202. At their bottom, each groove 212 has two opposed apertures 213 connecting the groove 212 to the inside surface of the outer cylinder 200. Preferably, the apertures 213 are diametrically opposed. To complete a circuit, one of the wires 210 is directed into an annular groove 212 of the outer cylinder 200, a portion of the wire 210 is stripped of its insulation and passed through one aperture 213 therein, is directed into an annular groove 206 of the inner cylinder 202, wrapped around the inner cylinder 202 until encountering the second aperture

213 of the original annular groove 212 of the outer cylinder 200, is passed through that second aperture to the outside surface of the outer cylinder 200 and terminated in the original groove 212. Electrical contact is made between the wires 204 and corresponding wires 210 when the wires 210 are directed into the annular grooves 206 of the inner cylinder 202 wherein the wires 210 make contact with the conductive rings 208. To force such contact, the annular grooves 206 of the inner cylinder 202 have depths substantially eq"ual to the thickness of the conductive rings 208 plus the diameter of the stripped wire 210.

Referring to Figures 2, 6 and 7, a second exemplary embodiment of the electro-rotational connector 60 of the present invention is shown having a plurality of paired conducting washers 218 and 219 disposed over neck 88 of the display part's sleeve 54. Each conducting washer 218 has a conducting annular face (not shown) disposed flat against a conducting annular face (not shown) of the paired conducting washer 219, the washers 218 and 219 being sandwiched between insulative washers 220. Although the conducting washers 218 and 219 as shown are annular rings, it is to be recognized that the washers 218 and 219 may be annular sections of rings, provided that the respective sections of each washer 218 and 219 in a pair of washers maintain electrical connection regardless of their relative rotational positions. It is also to be recognized that the washers 218 and 219 may have other shapes without departing from the principles of the invention, provided the washers 218 and 219 maintain electrical connection regardless of their relative rotational positions. Each conducting washer 218 has an inside connection tab 222 disposed on the washer's inside surface, and each conducting washer 219 has an outside connection tab 224 disposed on the washer's outside surface. The conducting washers 218 and the insulative washers 220 are fixedly mounted on the neck 88 by an adhesive, a tight fit or other means. The conducting washers 219 are rotatably mounted to the neck 88. In fixing the conducting washers 218 to the neck 88, it is preferred that the inside connection tabs 222 are disposed at regular intervals around the periphery of the neck 88. The neck 88 is insulated from the conducting washers 218 by an insulating coating, sleeve, or other means (not shown) . Insulated wires 226 carrying electrical signals are directed through the inside diameter of the washers 218, 219 and 220, between the neck 88 and the inside surface of the washers 218, 219 and 220. So that the wires 226 may be so directed, the washers 218, 219 and 220 have an inside diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the neck 88 plus twice the diameter of a characteristic wire 226 or thickness of inside connection tab 222 whichever dimension is greater. Each insulated wire 226 is electrically connected to one of the inside connection tabs 222. Each of a plurality of insulated wires 228 are electrically connected to one of the outside connection tabs 224.

To complete a circuit, a signal is directed from an insulated wire 228 to a conducting washer 219 of a pair of conducting washers 218 and 219 which is in electrical contact with the pair's second conducting washer 218 at their respective annular faces, so that the signal is directed to one of the coated wires 226 to be carried further in the circuit. The signal is isolated from other signals by the conducting washers 218 and 219 being sandwiched between insulative washers 220.

The electro-rotational connector preferably has a cover 230 for rotating the conducting washers 219 and holding the conducting washers 219 away from insulated wires 226 so as to reduce stress on insulated wires 226 and 228. The cover 230 is fixedly mounted to the first segment 94 of the knuckle 58 and preferably has a plurality of apertures 232 disposed along the surface of the cover 230 directed toward the outside surface of the washers 218, 219 and 220. The inside surface of the cover 230 preferably is close to, but not in contact with, the outside surface of the washers 218, 219 and 220. In order to be moved by the cover 230, each conducting washer 219 has a rotation tab 234 disposed on the outside surface of the washer 218 so as to be seated and held in a respective aperture 232 of the cover 230. When the display part 12 is rotated about rotational axis 112, the cover 230 being fixedly mounted to the first segment 94 of the knuckle 58 remains stationary such that the rotation tabs 234 being seated in the cover's apertures 232 also remain stationary, thereby rotate forcing respective conducting washers 219 to remain stationary relative to axis 112. However, conducting washers 218 being fixedly mounted to the display part's neck 88 rotate relative to axis 112 and thereby relative to the stationary conducting washers 219. In this relative rotation, the electrical connection is maintained because each conducting washer of a pair remain in contact. Although the cover 230 as shown is an elongate annular segment, it is to be recognized that the cover 230 may have other shapes without departing from the principles of the invention.

Referring to Figures 24 and 25, the plurality of paired conducting washers 218 and 219 may be nested within a plurality of paired conducting outer washers 218A and 219A. The outer washers 218A and 219A preferably have electrical connections substantially the same as described above for conducting washers 218 and 219, including insulating wires 226A and 228A connected to respective paired outer washers 218A and 219A. The outer washers 218A and 219A preferably also have respective connection tabs 222A and 224A disposed on respective ends of the electro-rotational connection 60 so as to receive from, and communicate electric signals to, the respective insulating wires 226A and 228A. It is to be recognized that the conducting washers 218 and 219, as shown in Figures 24 and 25, may also have respective connection tabs 222A and 224A.

The conducting washers 218 and 219 are insulated from the neck 88 using an insulating coating, sleeve or the like 516, and are insulated from the outer washers 218A and 219A using at least one insulating coating, sleeve or the like 517.

Preferably, two such coatings or sleeves, or the like, 517A and 517B are used so as to provide for rotation in opposite directions among the conducting washers 218, 219 and the outer washers 218A, 219A. An outside insulating coating, sleeve or the like 518 preferably is used over the outer washers 218A and 219A. The wires 226 and 228 preferably are embedded in respective insulating coatings 516, 517A, 517B and 518 so as to insulate the wires. The hinge assembly provides a plurality of independent rotational and lineal adjustments for fixing the relative positions of the parts of an electronic device. With reference to the two part electronic device 10 of Figures 1, 2 and 3 and assuming the base part 14 remains stationary, the display part 12 may be moved by sliding the shaft 52 within the sleeve 54 of the display part 12. After the lineal position is adjusted, the display part's sleeve 54 and clamp 56 hold the part in its selected position relative to the base part 14. The display part 12 may also be rotated about the rotation axis 112 of the first segment 94 of the display part's knuckle 58. After that rotational adjustment, the display part 12 is held in place by frictional forces between the joint end 90 and the first segment 94. Similarly, the display part 12 may be rotated about the rotation axis 114 of the second segment 96 of the display part's knuckle 58. After that adjustment, the display part 12 is held in place by frictional forces between the second segment 96 and, in the preferred embodiment, the joint end 106 of the arm 59. Moreover, the position of the display part 12 may be adjusted by rotating the display part about the rotational axis 116 of the first portion 95 of the arm 59. In addition, the lineal position of the display part 12 may be further adjusted relative to the stationary base part 14 by sliding base part's sleeve 454 over its shaft 452. Again, frictional forces hold the display part 12 in place after such adjustments. These lineal and rotational adjustments may be effected largely independently of each other such that a wide variety of sequential and combinational adjustments may be accomplished for both parts 12 and 14.

With reference to the two-part electronic device 10 of Figures 1, 19 and 20 and assuming the base part 14 remains stationary, the display part 12 may be moved by sliding the insert assembly 550 along the associated tracks 552 in the channel 551. After the lineal position is adjusted, the display part's clamp 556 holds the part in its selected position relative to the base part 14. The display part 12 may also be rotated about the longitudinal axis 586 of the neck 558. After that rotational adjustment, the display part 12 is held in place by frictional forces between the joint end 576 of the neck 558 and the aperture 578 of the first connection element 574. Similarly, the display part 12 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis 588 of the arm 559. After that adjustment, the display part 12 is held in place by frictional forces between the joint end 590 of the arm 559 and the aperture 992 of the second connection element 574. Moreover, the position of the display part 12 may be adjusted by rotating the display part about the longitudinal axis 986 of the neck 958 associated with the base part 14. In addition, the lineal position of the display part 12 may be further adjusted relative to the stationary base part 14 by sliding the insert assembly 950 associated with the base part 14 along the tracks 992 in the channel 951. Again, frictional forces hold the display part 12 in place after such adjustments. These lineal and rotational adjustments made by effected largely independently of each other such that a wide variety of sequential and combinational adjustments may be accomplished for both parts 12 and 14.

Figures 9, 10, 11 and 12 show four different sequences of positions of the display part 12 relative to the base part 14. In the Figures, reference letters D and K indicate, respectively, the exposed surfaces of the display 44 and of the keyboard 46. It is to be understood that these Figures show only to a limited degree the rotational and lineal adjustments provided by the hinge assembly.

Referring to Figure 9, the sequence of positions starts with position 236 wherein the display part 12 is seated flat on the base part 14 so that the display faces toward and covers the keyboard. Although the rotational adjustments are described with reference to the axes 112, 114 and 116 of Figures 2 and 3, it is to be recognized that the description would be substantially the same if referenced to the axes 586, 588 and 986 of Figures 19 and 20.

Positions 237 and 238 show the display part 12 being rotated about axes 112 and 116 of the parts 12 and 14 as indicated by respective arrows 242 and 244, to a position having the display 44 facing the user with the keyboard 46 exposed for use. From that relative position 238, the display part 12 is progressively rotated and translated until, as shown by position 241, the display part 12 rests flat on the base part 14 with both the display 44 and keyboard 46 exposed for use. From position 241, the display part 12 may be further translated in the direction of arrow 246 so as to fully cover the inside surface of base part 14 which position (not shown) is useful when the electronic device is to be used solely for pen-based input.

In Figure 10, the sequence of positions 248-255 further illustrate the flexibility of the hinge assembly in selecting the relative positions of the display part 12 and the base part 14. In Figure 11, the sequence of positions 260-269 start with the base part 14 seated flat on the display part 12 so that the keyboard 46 is exposed for use and the display 44 is covered. Positions 260-269 show the rotation and translation of the base part 14 to achieve a position wherein the display is exposed for use and the keyboard faces toward and is covered by the outside surface of the display part 12.

In Figure 12, the sequence of positions illustrates the rotation of display part 12 about rotational axis 114 of second segment 96 of the display part's knuckle 58. In the preceding paragraphs, the description of the adjustments in the relative positions of first and second parts of an electronic device reflect the assumption that the base part remains stationary, as if on a desk top, on one's lap or the like. However, it is to be recognized that the hinge assembly does not require one part to remain stationary in adjusting the relative positions of the device's parts.

Although the invention is described in the context of and adapted for a two-part electronic device, it is to be understood that the hinge assembly could also be used with electronic devices having more than two parts without departing from the principles of the invention. Referring to Figure 15, hinge assemblies 400 and 402, each having structure substantially the same as the embodiments of the hinge assembly 8 described above, are used to interconnect a three- part electronic device. Hinge assembly 400 interconnects a first part 404 and a second part 406, and the hinge assembly 402 interconnects the second part 406 and a third part 408. The hinge assemblies 400 and 402 preferably are disposed on opposite sides of the paired parts 404, 406 and 406, 408. Referring to Figure 16, device parts 404, 406 and 408 are interconnected using hinge assembly 410. Referring to Figure 8, the hinge assembly 410 has a "T" element 300 having a first segment 302, a second segment 304 and an extension 306. First segment 302 and second segment 304 of the element 300 have shape and structures substantially similar to the first segment 94 and second segment 96 of knuckle 58. The extension 306 has shape and structure substantially similar to the second portion 97 of the arm 59 having at its end disposed away from first and second segments 302 and 304 a joint end (not shown) . The joint end of the extension 306 rotatably connects to the first part 404 of the electronic device, in a manner substantially as described above for the connection between the knuckle 58 and the arm 59. The first segment 302 rotatably connects to the second part 406, in a manner substantially as described above for the connection between the knuckle 58 and the neck 88 of the display part 12. The second segment 304 rotatably connects to the third part 408, in a manner substantially as described above for the connection between the knuckle 58 and the arm 59. It is to be recognized that, although this description substantially employs the structure of the embodiment of Figures 2 and 3, the structure of the embodiment of Figures 19 and 20 may be similarly adapted, without departing from the principles of the invention.

Although, as shown, the part 404 has a display, the second part 406 has a keyboard and the part 408 has a printer, scanner and cellular phone, it is to be recognized that the hinge assemblies 400, 402 and 410 may be used with various kinds of multiple-part electronic devices, that is, whether or not displays, keyboards, printers, scanners or cellular phones are used, without departing from the principles of the invention. In addition, one of the hinge assemblies 400, 402 or 410 can provide removable connection and stable support between a two part device and a substantially permanent installation, such as an airplane seat. In addition, it is to be understood that, while the two- part electronic device of the description is interconnected using one hinge assembly attached to corresponding sides of the two device parts, more than one hinge assembly may be used or the hinge assembly may be attached to two different sides or surfaces of the device parts without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, in a two-part electronic device, two hinge assemblies as described above may interconnect the device parts, one hinge assembly being attached to the respective right sides of the parts and the other hinge assembly being attached to the respective left sides of the parts. Although this configuration inhibits rotation about the respective rotational axes of the second segments of the knuckles and the second portions of the arms, this configuration provides robust support between the parts. Moreover, one or more of the hinge assemblies may be detachable as described above so as to allow selective rotation about a rotation axis of a second segment of a knuckle or second portion of an arm, as the case may be. In a second example, the hinge assembly may be attached to the one part along a side thereof while being attached to the other part along a centrally disposed line at or adjacent the outside surface thereof.

It is also to be understood that the hinge assembly may be constructed so as to be detachable from the parts of the electronic device without departing from the principles of the invention. Referring to Figures 17 and 18, a detachable embodiment of a hinge assembly 700 is shown separated from the parts of a two-part electronic device 702 to which the hinge assembly 700 may be releasably attached. The hinge assembly 700 has a first end 704 that may be releasably attached to a display part 706, and has a second end 708 that may be releasably attached to a base part 710. The first end 704 and second end 708 of the hinge assembly 700 are interconnected by an arm 716. It is to be recognized that the hinge assembly 700 is substantially the same as hinge assembly 8 hereinabove described with reference to Figures 2 and 3, except the end connectors (not shown) of hinge assembly 700 attach first end 704 and second end 708 to respective first case 712 and second case 714 rather than directly to the parts of the e'lectronic device 702.

The first end 704 and the second end 708 of the hinge assembly 700 are enclosed within respective first and second cases 712 and 714. The first case 712 and second case 714 have a plurality of attachment elements 718 extending a predetermined distance from the respective first case 712 and second case 714. Although in the embodiment shown, the attachment elements 718 are four in number and are disposed substantially at right angles from the respective first case 712 and second case 714, it is to be recognized that the attachment elements 718 may be other than four in number and may be disposed at some other angle relative to the cases 712 and 714 without departing from the principles of the invention.

The display part 706 and base part 710 have a plurality of apertures 720, equal in number to the number of attachment elements 718 of the associated first case 712 and second case 714. The apertures 720 have dimensions and shapes corresponding to the dimensions and shapes of respective attachment elements 718 so that the attachments elements 718 may be removably inserted in the apertures 720 and, thereby, releasably attach the hinge assembly 700 to the parts of the electronic device 702. Each attachment element 718 has an indentation 722 disposed at a predetermined location along the length thereof, and each aperture 720 has a spring-loaded ball detent mechanism (not shown) disposed therein at a location along the length of the aperture 720 corresponding to the location of the indentation 722. When the attachment elements 718 are inserted in apertures 720, the spring-loaded balls of the detent mechanisms disposed within the apertures 720 seat in indentations 722 of the elements 718, so that the hinge assembly 700 may not be detached from the electronic device 702 unless so urged by the user. Such spring-loaded ball detent mechanism are well-known in the art. Although in the embodiment shown, indentations 722 and spring-loaded ball detent mechanisms are used to releasably attach the hinge assembly 700 to the electronic device 702, it is to' be recognized that other structure may be used to provide such attachment without departing from the principles of the invention. For example, each attachment element 718 may have an annular notch cut at a predetermined location along its length and each aperture 720 may have a split ring spring disposed at a location along the length of the aperture 720 corresponding to the location of the annular notch of the attachment element 718, so that the split ring spring seats in the annular notch when the attachment element 718 is inserted in the aperture 720. In addition, the attachment elements 718 may comprise screw mechanisms 510 or level mechanisms 910, as shown respectively in Figures 19 and 20, without departing from the principles of the invention. It is also to be recognized that, although in the embodiment shown the attachment elements 718 have circular cross-sectional shapes, the attachment elements 718 may have other cross-sectional shapes without departing from the principles of the invention. The first case 712 and second case 714 have electrical connectors 724 and the display part 706 and base part 710 have electrical connectors 726. The respective electrical connectors 724 and 726 are at corresponding locations on respective ends 704 and 708 of the hinge assembly 700 and parts 706 and 710 of the electronic device 702 so that, when the hinge assembly 700 is attached to the electronic device 702, the respective electrical connectors 724 and 726 make electrical connection. The electrical connectors 724 and 726 may be of any type well-known in the art. For example, an edge connector 512 may be used, as shown in Figures 19 and 20. The terms and expressions which have been employed in the foregoing specification are used therein as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, it being recognized that the scope of the invention is defined and limited only by the claims which follow.

Claims

I claim:

1. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

first lineal adjustment means, connected to said first part, for selectively adjusting the lineal position of a portion of the hinge assembly relative to said first part in the direction of the latitudinal axis of said first part;

first rotational adjustment means, connected to said lineal adjustment means so that its lineal position relative to said first part may be adjusted, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said first part; and

second rotational adjustment means, connected to said first rotational adjustment means and to said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said second part.

2. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein said first lineal adjustment means comprises:

a shaft fixedly connected at each end thereof to said first part;

a sleeve slidably connected to said shaft; and a clamp connected to said sleeve, said clamp being adjustable so as to control the resistance of said sleeve with respect to said shaft.

3. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein said first lineal adjustment means comprises:

one or more tracks; and

an insert assembly slidably attached to said track and having a selected slidable resistance with respect to each of said tracks.

4. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein said first rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having a substantially cylindrical aperture and an annular member, said cylindrical aperture having an inside periphery and a longitudinal axis about which said aperture is formed, said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture being said rotational axis of said first rotational adjustment means, said annular member being disposed at a predetermined location along the length of said aperture, having a predetermined cross-sectional shape and extending a predetermined distance from said inside periphery of said aperture toward said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture; and

a second element having a substantially cylindrical end and an annular notch, said cylindrical end having predetermined dimensions so that said cylindrical end inserts in said cylindrical aperture of said first element so as to rotate about said rotational axis, said annular notch being disposed at a predetermined location along the length of said cylindrical end and having a predetermined cross- sectional shape so that, when said cylindrical end is inserted in said cylindrical aperture, said annular member of said first element fits in said annular notch whereby said first element is attached to said second element.

5. The hinge assembly of claim 4, wherein said second rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having a substantially cylindrical aperture and an annular member, said cylindrical aperture having an inside periphery and a longitudinal axis about which said aperture is formed, said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture being said rotational axis of said second rotational adjustment means, said annular member being disposed at a predetermined location along the length of said aperture, having a predetermined cross-sectional shape and extending a predetermined distance from said inside periphery of said aperture toward said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture; and

a second element having a substantially cylindrical end and an annular notch, said cylindrical end having predetermined dimensions so that said cylindrical end inserts in said cylindrical aperture of said first element so as to rotate about said rotational axis, said annular notch being disposed at a predetermined location along the length of said cylindrical end and having a predetermined cross- sectional shape so that, when said cylindrical end is inserted in said cylindrical aperture, said annular member of said first element fits in said annular notch whereby said first element is attached to said second element. 6. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein said first rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having an aperture of selected length and shape;

a second element having a longitudinal axis and an end, said longitudinal axis being said rotational axis of said first rotational adjustment means, said end having selected length and shape corresponding to said length and shape of said aperture of said first element; and

securing means for securing said end of said second element in said aperture of said first element and providing selected rotational resistance between said end and said aperture, so that said second element is rotatable about said longitudinal axis by overcoming said rotational resistance.

7. The hinge assembly of claim 6, wherein said second rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having an aperture of selected length and shape;

a second element having a longitudinal axis and an end, said longitudinal axis being said rotational axis of said second rotational adjustment means, said end having selected length and shape corresponding to said length and shape of said aperture of said first element; and

8. The hinge assembly of claim 1, further comprising third rotational adjustment means, interconnected between said first part and said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to a plane in which lies the latitudinal axis of at least one of said first and said second parts.

9. The hinge assembly of claim 8, wherein said third rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having a substantially cylindrical aperture and an annular member, said cylindrical aperture having an inside periphery and a longitudinal axis about which said aperture is formed, said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture being said rotational axis of said third rotational adjustment means, said annular member being disposed at a predetermined location along the length of said aperture, having a predetermined cross-sectional shape and extending a predetermined distance from said inside periphery of said aperture toward said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture; and

10. The hinge assembly of claim 8, wherein said third rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having an aperture of selected length and shape;

a second element having a longitudinal axis and an end, said longitudinal axis being said rotational axis of said third rotational adjustment means, said end having selected length and shape corresponding to said length and shape of said aperture of said first element; and

11. The hinge assembly of claim 1, further comprising second lineal adjustment means, disposed between said second rotational adjustment means and said second part, for selectively adjusting the lineal position of said second part relative to said first part.

12. The hinge assembly of claim 11, wherein said second lineal adjustment means comprises:

a shaft fixedly connected at each end thereof to said second part;

13. The hinge assembly of claim 11, wherein said second lineal adjustment means comprises:

one or more tracks; and

14. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein said first rotational adjustment means and said second rotational adjustment means each include electro-rotational connection means for maintaining electrical connection between said first part and said second part regardless of the rotational position of said first part relative to said rotational axis of said first rotational adjustment means or said rotational axis of said second rotational adjustment means.

15. The hinge assembly of claim 14, wherein said electro- rotational connection means comprises:

at least one pair of conducting washers, one of said conducting washers being in electrical connection with one of said parts and the other of said conducting washers being in electrical connection with the other of said parts, each of said conducting washers of said pair being adapted to rotate relative to the other of said conducting washers, and each of said conducting washers having a conducting face; and

said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of the conducting washers relative to each other, so that an electrical signal applied to one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said first part and said second part regardless of the rotational position of said first part relative to said rotational axis of said first rotational adjustment means or said rotational axis of said second rotational adjustment means.

16. The electro-rotational connector of claim 15, wherein said pair of washers is nested within a pair of conducting outer washers, one of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the inputs and the other of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the outputs, each of said outer washers being adapted to rotate relative to the other, and each of said outer washers having a conducting face, said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of each of the outer washers relative to the other, so that an electrical signal present on one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said input and said output regardless of the relative rotational positions of said outer washers.

17. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of said first lineal adjustment means, said first rotational adjustment means and said second rotational adjustment means includes connector means for releasably connecting the hinge assembly to one of the parts of the electronic device.

18. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

first lineal adjustment means, connected to said first part, for selectively adjusting the lineal position of a portion of the hinge assembly relative to said first part in the direction of the latitudinal axis of the first part;

second rotational adjustment means, connected to said first rotational adjustment means and to said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to a plane in which lies the latitudinal axis of at least one of said first and said second parts.

19. The hinge assembly of claim 18, wherein said first lineal adjustment means comprises:

a shaft fixedly connected at each end thereof to said first part;

a sleeve slidably connected to said shaft; and

a clamp connected to said sleeve, said clamp being adjustable so as to control the resistance of said sleeve with respect to said shaft.

20. The hinge assembly of claim 18, wherein said first lineal adjustment means comprises: one or more tracks; and

21. The hinge assembly of claim 18, wherein said first rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having an aperture of selected length and shape;

22. The hinge assembly of claim 18, wherein said first rotational adjustment means comprises:

23. The hinge assembly of claim 18, wherein said second rotational adjustment means comprises:

24. The hinge assembly of claim 18, wherein said second rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having an aperture of selected length and shape;

25. The hinge assembly of claim 18, further comprising second lineal adjustment means, disposed between said second rotational adjustment means and said second part, for selectively adjusting the lineal position of said second part relative to said first part. 26. The hinge assembly of claim 25, wherein said second lineal adjustment means comprises:

a shaft fixedly connected at each end thereof to said second part;

a sleeve slidably connected to said shaft; and

27. The hinge assembly of claim 25, wherein said second lineal adjustment means comprises:

one or more tracks; and

28. The hinge assembly of claim 18, wherein said first rotational adjustment means and said second rotational adjustment means each include electro-rotational connection means for maintaining electrical connection between said first part and said second part regardless of the rotational position of said first part relative to said rotational axis of said first rotational adjustment means or said rotational axis of said second rotational adjustment means.

29. The hinge assembly of claim 28, wherein said electro- rotational connection means comprises:

30. The electro-rotational connector of claim 29, wherein said pair of washers is nested within a pair of conducting outer washers, one of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the inputs and the other of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the outputs, each of said outer washers being adapted to rotate relative to the other, and each of said outer washers having a conducting face, said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of each of the outer washers relative to the other, so that an electrical signal present on one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said input and said output regardless of the relative rotational positions of said outer washers.

31. The hinge assembly of claim 18, wherein at least one of said first lineal adjustment means, said first rotational adjustment means and said second rotational adjustment means includes connector means for releasably connecting the hinge assembly to one of the parts of the electronic device.

32. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

first lineal adjustment means, connected to said first part, for selectively adjusting the lineal position of said first part relative to said second part in the direction of the latitudinal axis of said first part; and

second lineal adjustment means, connected to said second part and to said first lineal adjustment means, for selectively adjusting the lineal position of said second part relative to said first part in the direction of the latitudinal axis of said second part.

33. The hinge assembly of claim 32, wherein said first and second lineal adjustment means each comprise:

a shaft fixedly connected at each end thereof to respective said first and second parts;

a sleeve slidably connected to said shaft; and

34. The hinge assembly of claim 32, wherein said first and second lineal adjustment means comprise: one or more tracks; and

35. The hinge assembly of claim 32, further comprising rotational adjustment means, disposed between said first lineal adjustment means and said second lineal adjustment means, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to a plane in which lies the latitudinal axis of at least one of said first and said second parts.

36. The hinge assembly of claim 35, wherein said rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having a substantially cylindrical aperture and an annular member, said cylindrical aperture having an inside periphery and a longitudinal axis about which said aperture is formed, said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture being said rotational axis of said rotational adjustment means, said annular member being disposed at a predetermined location along the length of said aperture, having a predetermined cross-sectional shape and extending a predetermined distance from said inside periphery of said aperture toward said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture; and

37. The hinge assembly of claim 35, wherein said rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having an aperture of selected length and shape;

a second element having a longitudinal axis and an end, said longitudinal axis being said rotational axis of said rotational adjustment means, said end having selected length and shape corresponding to said length and shape of said aperture of said first element; and

38. The hinge assembly of claim 35, wherein said rotational adjustment means comprises electro-rotational connection means for maintaining electrical connection between said first part and said second part regardless of the rotational position of said first part relative to the rotational axis of said rotational adjustment means.

39. The hinge assembly of claim 38, wherein said electro- rotational connection means comprises: at least one pair of conducting washers, one of said conducting washers being in electrical connection with one of said parts and the other of said conducting washers being in electrical connection with the other of said parts, each of said conducting washers of said pair being adapted to rotate relative to the other of said conducting washers, and each of said conducting washers having a conducting face; and

said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of the conducting washers relative to each other, so that an electrical signal applied to one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said first part and said second part regardless of the rotational position of said first part relative to said rotational axis of said rotational adjustment means.

40. The electro-rotational connector of claim 39, wherein said pair of washers is nested within a pair of conducting outer washers, one of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the inputs and the other of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the outputs, each of said outer washers being adapted to rotate relative to the other, and each of said outer washers having a conducting face, said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of each of the outer washers relative to the other, so that an electrical signal present on one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said input and said output regardless of the relative rotational positions of said outer washers. 41. The hinge assembly of claim 32, wherein at least one of said first lineal adjustment means and said second lineal adjustment means includes connector means for releasably connecting the hinge assembly to one of the parts of the electronic device.

42. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

rotational adjustment means, disposed between said first part and said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part relative to said second part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the latitudinal axis of said second part; and

electro-rotational connection means, disposed within said rotational adjustment means, for maintaining electrical connection between said first part and said second part regardless of the rotational position of said first part relative to said second part.

43. The hinge assembly of claim 42, wherein said rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having a substantially cylindrical aperture and an annular member, said cylindrical aperture having an inside periphery and a longitudinal axis about which said aperture is formed, said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture being Ad rotational axis of said rotational adjustment means, said annular member

element is rotatable about said longitudinal axis by overcoming said rotational resistance.

45. The hinge assembly of claim 42, wherein said electro- rotational connection means comprises:

at least one pair of conducting washers, one of said conducting washers being in electrical connection with one of said parts and the other of said conducting washers being in electrical connection with the other of said parts, each of said conducting washers of said pair being adapted to rotate relative to the other of said conducting washers and each of said conducting washers having a conducting face; and

said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of the conducting washers of the pair relative to each other, so that an electrical signal applied to one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said first part and said second part regardless of the rotational position of said first part relative to said rotational axis of said rotational adjustment means.

46. The electro-rotational connector of claim 45, wherein said pair of washers is nested within a pair of conducting outer washers, one of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the inputs and the other of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the outputs, each of said outer washers being adapted to rotate relative to the other, and each of said outer washers having a conducting face, said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of each of the outer washers relative to the other, so that an electrical signal present on one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said input and said output regardless of the relative rotational positions of said outer washers.

47. The hinge assembly of claim 42, wherein said rotational adjustment means includes connector means for releasably connecting the hinge assembly to one of the parts of the electronic device.

48. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

first rotational adjustment means, connected to said lineal adjustment means so that its lineal position relative to said first part may be adjusted, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to a plane in which lies the latitudinal axis of at least one of said first and said second parts; and

second rotational adjustment means, connected to said first rotational adjustment means and to said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of said second part. 49. The hinge assembly of claim 48, wherein said first lineal adjustment means comprises:

a shaft fixedly connected at each end thereof to said first part;

a sleeve slidably connected to said shaft; and

50. The hinge assembly of claim 48, wherein said first lineal adjustment means comprises:

one or more tracks; and

51. The hinge assembly of claim 48, wherein said first rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having a substantially cylindrical aperture and an annular member, said cylindrical aperture having an inside periphery and a longitudinal axis about which said aperture is formed, said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture being said rotational axis of said first rotational adjustment means, said annular member being disposed at a predetermined location along the length of said aperture, having a predetermined cross-sectional shape and extending a predetermined distance from said inside periphery of said aperture toward said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture; and a second element having a substantially cylindrical end and an annular notch, said cylindrical end having predetermined dimensions so that said cylindrical end inserts in said cylindrical aperture of said first element so as to rotate about said rotational axis, said annular notch being disposed at a predetermined location along the length of said cylindrical end and having a predetermined cross- sectional shape so that, when said cylindrical end is inserted in said cylindrical aperture, said annular member of said first element fits in said annular notch whereby said first element is attached to said second element.

52. The hinge assembly of claim 48, wherein said first rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having an aperture of selected length and shape;

53. The hinge assembly of claim 48, wherein said second rotational adjustment means comprises: a first element having a substantially cylindrical aperture and an annular member, said cylindrical aperture having an inside periphery and a longitudinal axis about which said aperture is formed, said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture being said rotational axis of said second rotational adjustment means, said annular member being disposed at a predetermined location along the length of said aperture, having a predetermined cross-sectional shape and extending a predetermined distance from said inside periphery of said aperture toward said longitudinal axis of said cylindrical aperture; and

54. The hinge assembly of claim 48, wherein said second rotational adjustment means comprises:

a first element having an aperture of selected length and shape;

securing means for securing said end of said second element in said aperture of said first element and providing selected rotational resistance^' between said end and said aperture, so that said second element is rotatable about said longitudinal axis by overcoming said rotational resistance.

55. The hinge assembly of claim 48, further comprising second lineal adjustment means, disposed between said second rotational adjustment means and said second part, for selectively adjusting the lineal position of said second part relative to said first part.

56. The hinge assembly of claim 55, wherein said second lineal adjustment means comprises:

a shaft fixedly connected at each end thereof to said second part;

a sleeve slidably connected to said shaft; and

57. The hinge assembly of claim 55, wherein said second lineal adjustment means comprises:

one or more tracks; and

an insert assembly slidably attached to said track and having a selected slidable resistance with respect to each of said tracks. 58. The hinge assembly of claim 48, wherein said first rotational adjustment means and said second rotational adjustment means each include electro-rotational connection means for maintaining electrical connection between said first part and said second part regardless of the rotational position of said first part relative to said rotational axis of said first rotational adjustment means or said rotational axis of said second rotational adjustment means.

59. The hinge assembly of claim 58, wherein said electro- rotational connection means comprises:

60. The electro-rotational connector of claim 59, wherein said pair of washers is nested within a pair of conducting outer washers, one of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the inputs and the other of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the outputs, each of said outer washers being adapted to rotate relative to the other, and each of said outer washers having a conducting face, said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of each of the outer washers relative to the other, so that an electrical signal present on one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said input and said output regardless of the relative rotational positions of said outer washers.

61. The hinge assembly of claim 48, wherein at least one of said first lineal adjustment means, said first rotational adjustment means and said second rotational adjustment means includes connector means for releasably connecting the hinge assembly to one of the parts of the electronic device.

62. In an electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, a hinge assembly adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, comprising:

lineal adjustment means for selectively adjusting the lineal position of the first part of the electronic device relative to the second part of the electronic device in the direction of the latitudinal axis of one of the parts of the electronic device; and

connector means, attached to said lineal adjustment means, for releasably connecting said lineal adjustment means to one of the parts of the electronic device.

63. The hinge assembly of claim 62, wherein said hinge assembly comprises a first end, said first end including said lineal adjustment means and said connector means, said connector means including one or more attachment elements, said attachment elements connecting said first end to said part of said electronic device.

64. The hinge assembly of claim 62, wherein said connector means comprises a gate mechanism and said lineal adjustment means comprises a sliding element and a guiding element to which said sliding element is slidably connected, said gate mechanism providing selectable disconnection of said sliding element from said guiding element.

65. In an electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, a hinge assembly adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, comprising:

first rotational adjustment means for selectively adjusting the position of the first part of the electronic device about a rotational axis relative to the second part of the electronic device, said rotational axis being parallel to an axis of one of the parts of the electronic device; and

connector means, attached to said rotational adjustment means, for releasably connecting said rotational adjustment means to one of the parts of the electronic device.

66. The hinge assembly of claim 65, wherein said hinge assembly comprises a first end, said first end including said rotational adjustment means and said connector means, said connector means including one or more attachment elements, said attachment elements connecting said first end to said part of said electronic device. 67. The hinge assembly of claim 65, wherein said connector means comprises a gate mechanism and a connector element connecting said rotational adjustment means to said part, said gate mechanism providing selectable disconnection of said connector element from said part.

68. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

first lineal adjustment means, connected to said first part, for selectively adjusting the lineal position of a portion of the hinge assembly relative to said first part in the direction of the latitudinal axis of said first part; and

first rotational adjustment means, connected to said first lineal adjustment means and to said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to a plane in which lies the latitudinal axis of at least one of said first and said second parts.

69. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

first rotational adjustment means, connected to said first lineal adjustment means and to said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said first part, said first rotational adjustment means being disposed a predetermined distance from said second part so that said first part may be adjusted about said rotational axis substantially unrestricted relative to said second part.

70. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

first rotational adjustment means, connected to said first lineal adjustment means and to said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said second part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said second part, said first rotational adjustment means being disposed a predetermined distance from said first part so that said second part may be adjusted about said rotational axis substantially unrestricted relative to said first part.

71. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

first rotational adjustment means, connected to said first part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part relative to said second part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said first part; and

second rotational adjustment means, connected to said first rotational adjustment means and to said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said second part relative to said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said second part, said second rotational adjustment means being disposed a predetermined distance from said first rotational adjustment means so that each of said first and second parts are adjustable in position about respective rotational axes substantially unrestricted relative to the other of said parts.

72. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising: first rotational adjustment means, connected to said first part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said first part;

second rotational adjustment means, connected to said second part, for selectively adjusting the position of said second part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said second part; and

third rotational adjustment means, connected to said first rotational adjustment means and said second rotational adjustment means, for selectively adjusting the position of at least one of said first and second parts about a rotational axis substantially parallel to a plane in which lies the latitudinal axis of at least one of said first and said second parts.

73. A hinge assembly for an electronic device, the electronic device having a first part and a second part, the first part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes and the second part having longitudinal, latitudinal and elevational axes, the hinge assembly being adapted to interconnect the first part with the second part, the hinge assembly comprising:

first rotational adjustment means, connected to said first part, for selectively adjusting the position of said first part about a rotational axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of said first part; and

second rotational adjustment means, connected to said first rotational adjustment means, for selectively adjusting the position of at least one of said first and second parts about a rotational axis substantially parallel to a plane in which lies the latitudinal axis of at least one of said first and said second parts.

74. Electro-rotational connector, having one or more inputs and one or more outputs, comprising:

at least one pair of conducting washers, one of said conducting washers being in electrical connection with one of more of the inputs and the other of said conducting washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the outputs, each of said conducting washers of said pair being adapted to rotate relative to the other of said conducting washers, and each of said conducting washers having a conducting face; and

said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of the conducting washers relative to each other, so that an electrical signal present on one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said input and said output regardless of the relative rotational positions of said washers.

75. The electro-rotational connector of claim 73, wherein said pair of washers is nested within a pair of conducting outer washers, one of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the inputs and the other of said outer washers being in electrical connection with one or more of the outputs, each of said outer washers being adapted to rotate relative to the other, and each of said outer washers having a conducting face, said conducting faces being disposed flat against and in electrical contact with each other regardless of the rotation of each of the outer washers relative to the other, so that an electrical signal present on one of said conducting faces is communicated to the other of said conducting faces in maintaining electrical connection between said input and said output regardless of the relative rotational positions of said outer washers.