Microsoft patented a cool multi-axis or multi-pivot hinge (armadillo hinge) for computing devices. The patented hinge rotatably secure portions of the computing device. This is a flexible, articulated hinge that stabilizes the entire device, allowing it to recline and fold forward like a regular laptop, and fold backward to a comfortable angle.

Hinge cover portions are provided over the multi-pivot hinges to protect the hinges from foreign objects and/or protect a user of the computing device from being pinched by the multi-pivot hinges during rotation.

The patented hinge includes a quick attach/detach assembly can allow the user to be able to detach a first portion and a second portion of a computing device to use either portion independent of the other. For example, the first portion may be operated as a stand-alone tablet device, and then may be attached to second portion via armadillo hinge assembly to form a device more akin to a laptop device.

A user may also be able to exchange first portion or second portion for application-specific devices. For example, an individual second portion may include a keyboard and/or a touchscreen. In certain scenarios, the user may attach a first touchscreen as the first portion and a second touchscreen as second portion, and utilize the device like a book. In other scenarios, a user may attach a touchscreen as the first portion and an input device, comprising a keyboard and trackpad, as the second portion, and utilize the device like a laptop. Other configurations and implementations are contemplated.

Patent Information

Publication number: US 20160132075

Patent Title: COVERED RADIUS HINGE

Publication date: 12 May 2016

Filing date: 11 Nov 2014

Inventors: Errol Mark TAZBAZ;

Applicant: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC

US20160132075