Portable computer housing and assembly methods

Abstract

A portable computer includes a first housing having a first wall defining a first opening and a surface surrounding the opening and having an inside periphery. A first component is removably received within the opening and defines a body with an outer periphery that is inset with respect to the inner periphery of the opening. A first locking member is removably attached within the opening. The first locking member defines an outer periphery extending along the inner periphery of the first opening of the housing. The first locking member also defines a second opening having an inner periphery that is inset with respect to the outer periphery of the first component body such that a portion of the first locking member overlies a first portion of the first component body. A second portion of the first component is exposed within the opening of the first locking member.

1 . A portable computing device, comprising:
 a housing including a first wall surface defining a first opening and a channel disposed within the first wall surface, the first opening having an interior perimeter;   a component removably received within the first opening, the component defining a body with an upper surface and an outer perimeter that is inset with respect to the interior perimeter of the first opening; and   a locking member comprised of a resiliently-flexible material, the locking member having a frame defining a second opening and extending at least partially around the interior perimeter of the housing, the locking member overlying the component,   wherein the locking member is configured to be removed and reengaged with the channel of the housing, such that when the locking member and channel are engaged with one another, the locking member secures the body of the component within the first opening of the housing and the upper surface of the body is exposed through the first and second openings.