Grounding features of a portable computing device

摘要

A portable computing device can include one or more clutch assemblies that can include a conductive elastomer configured to contact at least a portion of the clutch assembly of the portable computing device. The conductive elastomer can be configured to also contact at least one region of the base portion of the portable computing device and can include highly conductive regions. A USB grounding plate can be attached to a portion of a case for the portable computing device and can be configured to provide a ground pathway between the case and a ground sheath of a USB connector inserted into an opening in a side wall of the case.

主权项

1. A clutch assembly system suitable for pivotally connecting a lid to a base portion of a portable computing device, comprising:
a cylindrical portion comprising:
an annular outer region, anda central bore region configured to provide support for electrical conductors between the base portion and the lid; at least one fastening region configured to couple the clutch assembly to the base portion; and an elastomer disposed on the clutch assembly configured to contact the clutch assembly and at least one region of the base portion through conductive pathways formed within the elastomer, wherein the conductive pathways form an electrical path between the clutch assembly and the at least one region of the base portion.