CN1912811A - Input devices and their use - Google Patents

Abstract

An IACK keypad has a substrate carrying an array of sense elements arranged to change state in response to keypad operation, a flexible cover disposed above the substrate and having an exposed surface defining an array of independent key regions, with combination key regions defined in interstices between adjacent independent key regions, and an array of discrete snap elements extending between the cover and the substrate and spacing the cover from the substrate.

Description

Input equipment and application thereof

The application be submit to May 22 calendar year 2001, international application no is PCT/US01/16461, on Dec 26th, 2002 enter the China national stage, national applications number is 01811773.2, name is called the dividing an application of application for a patent for invention of " input equipment and application thereof ".

Technical field

Present invention relates in general to be used for importing to electronic equipment the device of data, for example touch pad, keypad and speech recognition system especially relate to output is activated the button of decision by single switch activation and adjacent switch combination keypad.

Background technology

The miniaturization of electronic product is a main principle of technological development.Article one, the production line that has the success of competitive edge depends on that to a great extent company can provide successfully that function constantly strengthens, the ability of more portable product.Along with development of technology, circuit size can be done forr a short time under artificial yardstick, and the result causes interface (for example, screen, keypad, cursor control device) to become the factor of restriction portable product.Therefore, when portable product had entered this field, the size of the quality of ergonomics and their input media (for example keypad) was for the approval of product and successfully have the influence that becomes more and more important.Wherein be telephone keypad particularly significantly, because it is as the importance that means of communication had basic, economic in the world wide.For example, for the finger tip with common people adapts to, set up international standard for the smallest dimension of adjacent key switch room." button " is meant an element in from the teeth outwards the element arrays, produces the corresponding identification output signal in position with element when being knocked.As an example, term " keypad " comprises the regional area that has the behavior that is similar to button on the touch-screen, and a regional area on the keypad, and keypad forms by place a skim on a soft-touch control array." keypad " is meant a push-button array or keypad array, comprising conventional keypad (for example, be found in most phones, counter or the like), keyboard and similar touch sensitive device, the every induction device of described touch be with touch-screen or on the surface of film the border, zoning realize.Surface so all is the plane generally, but also can be curved surface.

The target of the early stage work of some of the author is the size that reduces keypad by the exploitation keypad, and wherein output key is activated by single switch and adjacent switch combination activation decision.Some are operated in my U.S. Patent No. 5,612,690 and 5,973,621 open in early days, at this by reference with full content.Claim that at this such keypad is " IACK " keypad, or independence-combination button keypad.

In the context of this article, " independent button " or " separate keypad " when being pressed separately, produce output accordingly for the zone of projection on the surface of keypad with independent graphic element (graphical elements).On the other hand, " combination button " or " combination keypad " is local zone of sinking on " IACK " keypad surface, as to one group two or more adjacent (for example, diagonal angle adjacent or " kitty corner ") result that separate keypad is simultaneously or almost simultaneously operated, produce unique output, in typical case corresponding to a central figure element.Term " combinations of definitions " refers to the combination of any independent button corresponding with Macintosh, makes an explanation by relevant equipment.On the contrary, " undefined combination " is meant when one group of independence button is pressed simultaneously, and neither one is combinations of definitions button accordingly.

Therefore, the IACK keypad is a kind of comprising separately and the keypad of combination button or keypad.The characteristics of such keypad are, for example have to use with respect to adjacent surface some the separate keypad of lip-deep graphic element sign of projection a little, and other graphic element is arranged on the described adjacent surface, are used for identification combination keypad.May design the keypad of the very little advantage of the spacing that has between adjacent separate keypad.

Wish to improve IACK keypad and the accuracy of other input media when interpreting user is intended to, and no matter use which kind of switching technique.In the implementation of the strong tactile feedback of needs, for example provide with the metal head of a nail, exist special demand to decide user's the button output that is intended that still combination independent on the IACK keypad.Also need such keyboard is improved on ergonomics, and the better algorithm that can explain input simply, for example application in occasions such as phone.

Expectation is made other improvement in design with on realizing to keypad or other input media.

Summary of the invention

Characteristics of the present invention are, improve the equipment of IACK keypad and other data input device, and they and electronic installation is integrated.

According to an aspect of the present invention, have in the phone of IACK keypad, combination keypad and separate keypad have been defined with the row of alternately arranging, the combination keypad row that keypad has comprise a plurality of sums, comprise and digital 0 to 9 corresponding numeric area, each sum comprises a plurality of numeric areas, comprises the keypad corresponding with punctuation mark at least in other row.

Preferably, phone has three sums, makes sum form the telephone key-press layout of standard jointly, and the sum in left side comprises 1,4,7, and middle sum comprises 2,5,8,0, and the sum on right side comprises 3,6,9.

In certain embodiments, but keypad use by awareness tool definition corresponding on the pliable and tough film formed exposed surface.Represent the ability that people's sense organ can be felt with " but perception ".For example, but awareness tool may comprise the projection on the surface of passing through film changes (for example using tactilely-perceptible).Under other situation,, awareness tool distinguishes but may being simple vision.Preferably, the numeric keypad is bigger than the keypad corresponding to punctuation mark significantly.

In certain embodiments, separate keypad is different with the size of combination keypad.

In some applications, separate keypad comprise jointly with alphabet (for example the alphabetical A in the English alphabet is to Z) in alphabetical corresponding keypad.

In special compact small keyboard layout, separate keypad is preferably placed apart, has to be no more than half spacing of people's finger tip width, in some cases, has relevant, a visible logotype on each keypad.The combination keypad also can be aligned to the row of different in width.

In some layout, sum shows different with one or more the listing that comprises main punctuation mark on painted, and the painted possibility alternate of each row is for example dark-shallow-dark.

In a preferred embodiment, separate keypad is arranged in six vertical row, location with key icon defines, separate keypad is arranged in the first, the 3rd, the 5th, the 7th, the 9th and the 11 vertical row, comprise the zone corresponding with letter, the columns that forms the combination of numbers keypad is the second, the 6th and the tenth vertical row, and the 4th and the 8th vertical row comprises the keypad corresponding with punctuation mark.Columns can be counted from any side of keypad.

In the structure of phone,, can represent different punctuation marks, preferably two or more relevant symbols when a keypad corresponding to punctuation mark during by continued operation twice.For example, the colon key is pressed a double quotation marks of twice expression (semi-colon), the fullstop key is pressed comma of twice expression, or the like.

According to another aspect of the present invention, be coated with an exposed surface on the IACK keypad, defined combination keypad and separate keypad on it in the row of alternately arranging, separate keypad constitutes by being higher than the salient point that makes up keypad.Between adjacent separate keypad, exposed surface has formed continuous, a smooth profile, on the shared border in the button space below between the adjacent independent button space, does not have indicia." continuous, smooth profile " expression, on the surface between the salient point, not having can be with the shared boundary marker of the independent button of tactilely-perceptible, for example at the edge of active key independently.Can (being preferred in some cases) have visible icon on continuous, the smooth profile like this, corresponding to the combination keypad relevant with this smooth surface.

In some preferred embodiment, salient point is a rhombus, and end or end points point to adjacent combination keypad.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the IACK keypad has defined combination keypad and separate keypad in the row of alternately arranging, by defined the orientation of standard in independence and the related icon of combination keypad, according to the standard orientation of keypad, the row that replace are arranged along the straight line at the angle that tilts (for example 45 degree inclination angles).

According to another aspect of the present invention, the keypad of phone comprises the keypad of arranging by row, comprises two sums, and the most keypads in the sum are corresponding to from digital by selecting 0 to 9 tabulation of forming, also comprise at least one punctuate row, the most keypads in the punctuate row are corresponding to punctuation mark.

According to another aspect of the present invention, be coated with an exposed surface on the IACK keypad, the row with row of alternately arranging and alternately arrangement on it has defined combination keypad and separate keypad.Between adjacent separate keypad, exposed surface has formed continuous, a smooth profile, between adjacent keypad, on the direction parallel with column or row, does not have the visible features of mark boundaries.

According to another aspect of the present invention, be arranged with the set of first and second buttons on the keypad.The set of first button is arranged in first group of row, in each row second group membership is arranged, and each member is the contact area with first shape and first area, and first shape and first area are few with the difference in size of staff finger tip at least.Some void area that do not taken have also been defined in the set of first button by the member in first set, element in the set of second button is in void area, have second shape and second area (for example rhombus), second area is compared much smaller with first area.

In some preferred embodiment, the contact area of each button in first set is positioned on first surface level, and the contact area of each button in second set is positioned on second surface level, and second surface level is placed on first surface level.

In some applications, keypad is the IACK keypad, and wherein each member in the set of first button is a combination button, and each member in the set of second button is independent button.

In certain embodiments, keypad also comprises a non-linear haptic feedback system that is coupled with key arrangement, and the tactile feedback that is approximated to direct ratio with the contact area of this button is provided for each button.

According to another aspect of the present invention, be coated with an exposed surface on the IACK keypad, the key-press matrix with the row formation that replaces the row of arranging and alternately arrange on it has defined combination keypad and separate keypad.Between the fourth line and fifth line of combination keypad, to have placed and can have been distinguished the border of telephone keypad in the key-press matrix outside by the salient point of tactilely-perceptible, keypad has comprised the combination keypad from first row to fourth line in the matrix.

According to an aspect of the present invention, by the visible grid that is connected with independent button in the IACK keypad of eliminating prior art, " space " character of combination button is kept by the user.In the IACK of prior art keypad, combination button realizes that with the element of the cross section that is placed on independent button edge different with it, the present invention realizes independent button with the void area of (bigger) combination button.According to another aspect of the present invention, by between character class, be listed as alternately, for example numeral, punctuate, numeral, punctuate, numeral, the IACK small keyboard layout of phone provides the 3rd function of higher degree (for example punctuate).This aspect can further be improved by the width and the color that change adjacent lines.According to an aspect of the present invention, the structure of IACK keypad rotation 45 degree, thus produce the IACK keypad that reduces width.This structure can reach higher ergonomics comfort standard so that " QWERTY " layout of standard can (for example, reach within 58 millimeters) for a short time in very narrow width.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the surface in a smooth zone that on the tactile sensing input media (for example little by dish or contact mat) exposed, a continuous definition arranged, and sensitive element grid, the area of these elements and exposed surface coextends, and pair making response with contacting of exposed surface by the operator, the operator can determine above-mentioned outstanding position in the exposed surface.Exposed surface can produce the variation of height when crossing flat site, to form a series of haptics member.

In certain embodiments, haptics member is made up of the point of projection.Preferably, salient point is expanded at least about 0.75 millimeter with respect to the close region of exposed surface.In some instances, have the icon related on the exposed surface of device with above-mentioned haptics member.Use for some, haptics member may define surperficial zone of going up corresponding to relevant alphanumeric symbol separately.

In some cases, input media is configured to, and when corresponding contact component is by continuous trigger on the surface, for example uses keypad, exports an alphanumeric character sequence.In some preferred embodiment, install keypad into IACK, haptics member is made up of the salient point of separate keypad on the definition IACK keypad.Also comprise in the preferred embodiment being applicable to when the operator passes exposed surface the interim circuit that shows alphanumeric character on screen, select the alphanumeric character that shows corresponding by the operator with position contacting on the exposed surface.

According to another aspect of the present invention, comprise on the electronic installation of IACK keypad that exposed, a continuous surface is arranged, defined separate keypad and combination keypad; Also have the sensitive element grid under keypad surface, response is made in the position of finger on keypad surface; Also have a circuit, be applicable to the signal that receives expression keypad state from the IACK keypad, and operation response person's keypad is movable and produce output.Circuit is configured to, to small part according to sensitivity to the position of finger between adjacent separate keypad center determine the expection combination button.

In certain embodiments, circuit is configured to pushing the keyswitch matrix that separate keypad is made response also to comprise one on the device, according to sensitivity to finger position and the state of the keyswitch matrix combination button of determining expection.In some cases, sensitive element grid and keyswitch matrix are shared some conductive traces on the printed circuit board (PCB).

The mesh spacing of sensitive element grid may be bigger than the spacing at adjacent separate keypad center, and this still can provide acceptable resolution.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a bottom is arranged in the electronic installation, have above first apart, the conductive trace elements array; Also have a pliable and tough overlayer that is placed on the bottom, have above second apart, the conductive trace elements array.The common system that constitutes a coordination of first and second arrays, overlayer separates with bottom by resilient, movable (collapsible) element arrays, and exposed, a continuous surface is arranged.The first and second trace elements arrays have also constituted a capacitive grid, and response is made in the operation (digit) of the operator on the cover surface.Have a circuit to be applicable to the capacitive character state of responsive grid, and according to sensitivity to the capacitive character state judge the position of above-mentioned finger.

In some preferred embodiment, continuous surface has defined the keypad of keypad, circuit to small part according to sensitivity to grid capacitive character state explain the input of desired keypad.

In some cases, the capacitive character grid is made response to overlayer towards the local offset of bottom, and movable element extends with the bottom facing surfaces with the mode of whole pressing mold, from the overlayer and forms.

In an exemplifying embodiment, device adopts the form of IACK keypad, and an exposed surface is arranged, and has defined separate keypad and combination keypad.

According to another aspect of the present invention, keypad comprises: an outer cover has exposed, a continuous surface that has defined keypad on it; Sensitive element grid under cover surface is made response to the position of finger on keypad surface; And an independent switch, change state (preferably, any keypad of keypad is depressed) when being applicable to any being pressed in the multi-functional of keypad

In certain embodiments, keypad is the IACK keypad, and exposed, continuous superficies are arranged, and has defined separate keypad and combination keypad; And an independent switch, be applicable to when separate keypad is pressed arbitrarily, to change state.Separate keypad may be given prominence on the combination keypad.

According to an aspect of the present invention, an overlayer is arranged on the input equipment, an exposed surface is arranged on it, defined and the corresponding related zone of discrete input; An and bottom under the surface.Have a variable capacitive character grid on the overlayer, have on the bottom another, vertical grid array preferably.Also have a circuit on the equipment, be applicable to when overlayer when bottom has a local offset in the position by capacitance variations identification, the big capacitance variations of explanation grid; And when producing finger travel direction surfacewise and extending, explain the little capacitance variations of grid.

According to an aspect of the present invention, an integrated measurement mechanism in the IACK keypad at a distance of certain distance.In its embodiment, measurement mechanism is used to improve the reliability and the accuracy of IACK keypad.By except or during independently with the position of related switch matrix identification finger, the error that is produced by the ambiguity of the subset of switches in the Macintosh can be eliminated.In another embodiment, measurement mechanism is placed under the IACK keypad, and " mouse " function is provided.In some preferred embodiment, the number of wires of integrated system is identical with independent IACK device.In one embodiment, placed the array of two vertical direction on different elements: one is placed on the PCB, another be placed on the IACK element below.In this embodiment, utilize variation (between the array point of crossing) adversary's fingering row location of stray capacitance, realize mouse and keypad function, yet the capacitance variations that the physical displacement of IACK keypad produces is more relative with stray capacitance wants big.Therefore, although can produce the overlapping of signal, can easily distinguish the motion of finger with the activation of button.In another embodiment, will carry out integrated at a distance of the measurement mechanism and the keypad matrix of certain distance.In another embodiment, produce haptic response with piezo ceramic element (being placed on the layer that passes through the surface perhaps discrete the placement).Haptic response also can be by being used to that the similar elements of device vibration is provided, because the location of finger is difficult to reach the frequency in this scope.

Position measuring system and IACK keypad are carried out integrated, several advantages can be provided.For example, under mouse mode, the surface of IACK keypad can provide stability for the finger under the motion state.This is a serious problem, moves because produce intrinsic constant interrupted instability at the volley.If the user ride in a bus, train, car or walking, going up accurately in very little handheld device (for example phone), the control cursor is a frustrating task.Provide reference point by position, can address this problem along placing outstanding reference salient point on the surface of touch pads or other cursor control position measuring system for finger.Reference salient point outstanding in some is implemented can provide tactile references for the user, and is little outstanding by providing one, points the position that makes the user can keep hand better with mechanically stable.When finger between salient point the time, produce by part and to support around salient point, when the center of finger on salient point, catch with the flexibility of finger and to wrap in the interior salient point of finger tripe.By making finger stable like this, the accuracy of height can be provided in movement environment, otherwise may be depressing.Device can be configured to, the user the device surperficial moveable finger the time, produce auditory tone cues (for example sending the digitized sound of letter and number) or visual cues (for example, change the character that shows, particularly may fill the most large print of screen).The implementation of sound is particularly useful to blind users, and the people a little less than to eyesight is particularly useful for the form of vision.The present invention need not mobile palm and can obtain mouse and IACK keypad function for the user provides required consistance and efficient.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a bottom is arranged in the IACK keypad, have a sensitive element array above, be arranged as keypad operation is made response and the change state; An overlayer that is placed on pliable and tough (promptly flexible) on the bottom has an exposed surface, has defined the separate keypad array, and the combination keypad that defines in the space between adjacent separate keypad; And a discrete contact element array, expansion and overlayer separated from bottom between overlayer and bottom.Each contact element is applicable to produce the elasticity compressing between two adjacent separate keypad, produces nonlinear response as the local pressure to exposed cover surface, produces the tactile feedback of keypad operation.

In some cases, contact element is placed under the combination keypad.In some cases, contact element is placed between the separate keypad of direct neighbor.The meaning of " direct neighbor " is not have direct combinations of definitions keypad between separate keypad, for example, and the adjacent independent button in an alternating matrix in the adjacent column.In some cases, contact element comprises and is placed on the contact element of combination under the keypad, and the contact element between the adjacent separate keypad between being placed directly on.

In certain embodiments, the periphery at each separate keypad and each combination keypad all is placed with contact element four correspondences, placed apart, the gap between four adjacent contact elements, corresponding keypad.Each contact element preferably is placed between the adjacent separate keypad center equidistant, and equidistant position between the adjacent Macintosh district center.

In some instances, each separate keypad has defined an exposed pressure contact zone territory, and keypad further comprises a conductive pellets (conductive pill) array between bottom and overlayer.Each conductive pellets and is extended (for example, towards an adjacent combination keypad) to the next door all under the center of the separate keypad of correspondence, exceeds the scope in the pressure contact zone territory of related with it separate keypad." contact area " means the area of the separate keypad of taking on the button effect during operation, and the pressure of transfer operation person's finger makes the bending of keypad overlayer.Such zone does not comprise that those and operator point accidental, the uncharge zone that contacts takes place.Therefore, at an independent separate keypad duration of work, almost whole (for example, 90 percent) load that the operator applied all is applied on the pressure contact zone territory.

Comprise a discrete contact element array among some embodiment, between overlayer and bottom, expand, and overlayer is separated from bottom.Each contact element is placed between two adjacent separate keypad, and as the nonlinear response to the local pressure of exposed tectal outside surface, flexible compressing produces the elasticity feedback to keyboard operation.

In some cases, separate keypad comprises the salient point of raising, and the end boundaries of its upper surface has limited their pressure contact zone territory, or the salient point of rhombus, and the support that leads between adjacent combination keypad is arranged this moment.

In some structure, three contact elements are all arranged between every pair of adjacent separate keypad, (for example, along the border that two separate keypad are separated) distributes on the line segment of the right centre of separate keypad.Preferably, three contact elements evenly distribute along line segment, and one is placed directly between a pair of separate keypad center, in the space between four adjacent separate keypad at an end place that is placed on line segment.

In some specific preferred embodiment, contact element by with the whole mold in resilient material (for example silicone) and tectal rear surface, and extend thereon and form.

In some examples, contact element is cell (frustoconical) shape.

Preferably, contact element is optimised to be arranged as: as to pressing by the reaction of separate keypad with the combination keypad, produce almost equal tactile feedback.Also have preferably, contact element is configured and is arranged as: to separate keypad and combination keypad, require vertical activation pressure much at one.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a bottom is arranged in the IACK keypad, have a sensitive element array above, be arranged as keypad operation is made response and the change state; An overlayer that is placed on pliable and tough (for example resilient material) on the bottom has an exposed surface, has defined the separate keypad array, and the combination keypad that defines in the space between adjacent separate keypad; And a discrete contact element array, expansion and overlayer separated from bottom between overlayer and bottom.Each contact element is applicable to the elasticity compressing of generation towards bottom between two adjacent separate keypad, as the nonlinear response that the local pressure to exposed cover surface produces, produce the tactile feedback of keypad operation.Each contact element all has the profile with respect to a relevant axis symmetry, and this axis is vertical with bottom, and and adjacent separate keypad between overlayer intersect.

Preferably, contact element has cellular profile, perhaps can provide the profile of identical function as hollow, volcano shape, produces Nonlinear Bending response much at one.

In some cases, contact element is with the whole mold of resilient material and overlayer, and forms from the extension of tectal rear surface.

In certain embodiments, have four corresponding contact elements in each separate keypad mesh space at least, they are placed apart around the separate keypad, and each space between four adjacent contact elements is corresponding to a keypad.Preferably, contact element is arranged as: as to pressing by the reaction of separate keypad with the combination keypad, produce almost equal tactile feedback.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an abundant smooth bottom is arranged in the IACK keypad, have a sensitive element array above, be arranged as keypad operation is made response and the change state; A pliable and tough overlayer that is placed on the bottom has an exposed surface, defined a separate keypad array by rows, in a row of keypad, on three adjacent keypads, extend the contact element of at least one continuous, elongation at least, expansion and overlayer separated from bottom between overlayer and bottom.Contact element is applicable to and produces the elasticity compressing, as the nonlinear response that the local pressure to exposed cover surface produces, produces the tactile feedback of keypad operation.

In some structure, a plurality of such contact elements are arranged on the keypad, formed the guide rail that between adjacent keypad is capable, extends.

For example, contact element may comprise a rib, plays an angle (for example 60 degree) with respect to the bottom planar support, is configured to as the response of the local pressure of exposed cover surface is produced bending.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an abundant smooth bottom is arranged in the IACK keypad, have a sensitive element array above, be arranged as keypad operation is made response and the change state; A pliable and tough overlayer that is placed on the bottom has an exposed surface, has defined a separate keypad array of arranging by row and row, the combination keypad that defines in the space between adjacent separate keypad.Overlayer also comprises a rear surface towards bottom, separates with bottom by the bent contact element between overlayer and bottom, has a conductive pellets array on the rear surface, is distributed in the below corresponding to the position of separate keypad.Each conductive pellets is passed the rear surface of bottom, side to the center of an adjacent combination keypad is extended, and distance be that percent 50 to 70 (preferably about percent 50) corresponding to the distance between the center of the separate keypad of bead are arrived at the center of adjacent combination keypad.

In some structure, conductive pellets has cross shape, and the support that extends towards a plurality of adjacent combination keypads is arranged.

Preferably, the edge of the end of the most close adjacent combination keypad of each conductive pellets is vertical with straight line corresponding to the center of the separate keypad of bead with the center that is connected adjacent combination keypad.

In some cases, bottom comprises the perimeter of the inclination that expands from bottom, and this moment, bead comprised the surface in contact towards bottom.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an abundant smooth bottom is arranged in the IACK keypad, have a sensitive element array above, be arranged as keypad operation is made response and the change state; A pliable and tough overlayer that is placed on the bottom.Overlayer has an exposed surface, has defined a separate keypad array of arranging by row and row, the combination keypad that defines in the space between adjacent separate keypad; Also comprise a rear surface, separate with bottom by the bent contact element between overlayer and bottom towards bottom.Have a conductive pellets array on the rear surface, be distributed in the below corresponding to the position of separate keypad, each bead comprises the surface in contact towards bottom, and bottom comprises the perimeter of the inclination that expands from bottom.

In some preferred embodiment, conductive pellets has cross shape, and the support that extends towards a plurality of adjacent combination keypads is arranged, and the support of conductive pellets comprises the perimeter of inclination.

Preferably, each conductive pellets is passed the rear surface of bottom, side to the center of an adjacent combination keypad is extended, lateral distance is that the center of adjacent combination keypad is to percent 40 to 99 (are preferably from percent 50 to percent 99, preferably from percent 70 to percent 80) corresponding to the distance between the center of the separate keypad of bead.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a bottom is arranged in the IACK keypad, have a sensitive element array above, be arranged as keypad operation is made response and the change state; An overlayer that is placed on pliable and tough (for example resilient material) on the bottom has an exposed surface, has defined the separate keypad array, and the combination keypad that defines in the space between adjacent separate keypad; And a discrete contact element array, expansion and overlayer separated from bottom between overlayer and bottom.Each contact element is between two adjacent separate keypad, be applicable to the elasticity compressing of generation towards bottom, as the nonlinear response that the local pressure that exposes cover surface is produced, produce the tactile feedback of keypad operation, and contact element is arranged as: as to pressing by the reaction of separate keypad with the combination keypad, produce almost equal tactile feedback.

According to another aspect of the present invention, in the novel manufacturing method of using a kind of matrix that comprises cone-type piercer, the resilient material cone be cast on the IACK element below.According to another aspect of the present invention, tactile feedback elements is placed on the mid point between the adjacent separate keypad, and may be formed by the resilient material cone that casts in below the IACK element.According to another aspect of the present invention, the tactile feedback elements of IACK keypad is realized by hardware, is stamped on the arcuate member that is positioned over the mid point between the adjacent separate keypad.

According to another aspect of the present invention, proposed to explain the method for IACK keypad input.This method comprises: sensitivity is carried out in the keypad input corresponding with the combination of stimulation of a plurality of separate keypad on the keypad, and with sensitivity to input and predefinedly compare corresponding to the independent button list entries that makes up keypad.If find sensitivity to the same a plurality of separate keypad related of input with combination button conform to, then register the input of a combination button.Do not conform to if find input with any combination button, then with sensitivity to input and the key associated of customization compare.If find sensitivity to input conform to the key associated of a customization, then according to character string of corresponding key associated registration.

In some implementations, if find sensitivity to input not with any combination button or any key associated conforming to of the customization of having write down, then produce one by sensitivity to the independent character string that determines of a plurality of separate keypad of input.In some cases, produce character string by separate keypad according to a predetermined series arrangement input.

In some applications, if find sensitivity to input not with any combination button or any key associated conforming to of the customization of having write down, but then sensitivity to input and the character string of selecting between related being deposited in the rdma read.As an example, sensitivity may define selected character string to the character that is simultaneously displayed on the display screen of input.

In certain embodiments, if find sensitivity to input do not conform to any combination button, method comprises: with sensitivity to input with sensitivity to input before the input character of last registration compare, whether the character of judging last registration is among a plurality of separate keypad of the input that sensitivity arrives, if the character of finding last registration among a plurality of separate keypad of the input that sensitivity arrives, is then deleted the character of last registration.

According to another aspect of the present invention, import the method for the Serial No. of appointment simultaneously as the user, Personal Identification Number (PIN) for example, perhaps fetcher code (telephone number for example, follow by PIN code), the electronic component of IACK keypad and the algorithm of having have realized registering simultaneously the input of a plurality of buttons.According to another aspect of the present invention, provide the algorithm of the mapping of output from the alphabet key to the numeral, as the correlationship as shown in the 12 push-button phone keyboards of standard.

In some aspects, disclosed IACK keypad detected the ability of input of the combination of any separate keypad or even non-conterminous keypad simultaneously above the present invention had utilized.The advantage of this method is, the safety and the method for input digit code apace are provided, its application examples as: access websites and other electricity consumption service and content that words are carried out are provided; The telephone number of input oneself is with access voicemail before PIN; Or the like.

According to another aspect of the present invention, phone has a keypad, has defined and independent alphabetical corresponding alphabetical keypad, with independent digital corresponding numeric keypad, and a circuit that is connected with keypad, be used to be received in the input that produces when the user activates different keypad.Circuit is configured to: according to the letter-digital corresponding relation of standard telephone keypad, with the form of numeral 2 to 9, the letter input is translated as numeral output." phone " is meant a kind of input with reception operator in a sense, and produces the device of corresponding discernible code, for example represents and import the code of related telephone number.For example, comprise and produce telephone number but the stand-alone device of access network (for example carrying out conversion) not by voice.On the narrower meaning of scope, mean access (perhaps wired or wireless) telephone network and the device that on network, communicates.

In certain embodiments, circuit is configured to: under first pattern, as to activating the response of selected alphabet key, show independent letter, under second pattern, as to activating the response of selected alphabet key, in the display digit 2 to 9 one selects the numeral that shows according to the letter-digital corresponding relation of standard telephone keypad.

In some applications, circuit is configured to: when activating relevant alphabetical keypad, register an alphabetical sequence, as the response of the additional input that the operator is sent, according to the letter-digital corresponding relation of standard telephone keypad, the alphabetical sequence of registering is transformed into telephone number.In some instances, circuit be further configured into, the response as to described additional input starts telephone relation with telephone number.

Preferably, circuit is applicable to according to the digital logarithm word output related with the numeric keypad and registers, and makes the numeral input not be subjected to the influence of conversion.

A kind of method of dialing is provided according to another aspect of the present invention.This method comprises: the alphanumeric character sequence that comprises an alphabetic character at least of importing an expectation.According to the letter-digital corresponding relation of standard telephone keypad,, produce corresponding Serial No. by alphabetic character being transformed in the numeral 2 to 9.

In some cases, method also comprises: after the input alphabet sequence, the notice phone produces corresponding Serial No..

For example, many to the national useful embodiment that speaks English in, the alphabetic character sequence of the expectation of importing on the keypad comprises at least 24 independently keypads, the letter that each keypad is corresponding different.

In certain embodiments, but the alphabetic character sequence of expectation exist with the form of sounding, and import with the mode of sounding.For example, but the alphanumeric character sequence may comprise a series of alphabetic characters that spell out the literal of sounding, for example " 1-800-FLOWERS ".These embodiment preferably realize with speech recognition algorithm, (for example " flowers ") but of numeral sounding literal (for example "; 800 ") and sounding not distinguished, and only nonnumeric literal is carried out conversion, thereby particularly when the literal interpretation with discriminating digit is the telephone number of numeral generation reasonable length and form.

According to the present invention, a kind of phone of the IACK of having keypad is provided, this keypad comprises the combination keypad of arranging according to the row that replace 3 and separate keypad 2, the row of wherein said combination keypad 3 comprise: three sums 70 and 72, they comprise and digital 0 to 9 corresponding numeric area, each sum comprises a plurality of described numeric areas, wherein, the row of described combination keypad 3 further comprise another one row 74 at least, these another one row comprise the keypad corresponding with punctuation mark, wherein, separate each other by row 74 that comprise the keypad corresponding between per two sums with punctuation mark and wherein said separate keypad 2 comprise with alphabet in the corresponding zone of letter.

The details of one or more embodiment of the present invention is introduced in accompanying drawing and following detailed description.Other characteristics of the present invention, target and advantage will be clear and definite by being able in explanation and accompanying drawing and the claim.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 and 2 is the cross sectional view that is integrated with two keypad embodiment of position measuring system.

Fig. 3 is the integrated position measurement grid and the plan view of keyswitch matrix, and four kinds of dissimilar keyswitch grids draw.

Fig. 4 represents to have doping overlayer keypad, rather than exposed bead.

Fig. 5 represents not have conventional keyswitch matrix but has the keypad of position measurement grid.

Fig. 6 represents to have the keypad of position measurement grid, and one group of trace elements is arranged on pliable and tough tectal lower surface, and one group of trace of quadrature is with it arranged on bottom.

Fig. 7 A represents to have the keypad of contact element, and contact element is formed by a piezo-electric device array that uprises type.Fig. 7 B is illustrated in the keypad that an independent piezoelectric element is arranged between overlayer and bottom.

Fig. 8 is illustrated in the keypad that a force sensing resistance is arranged between overlayer and bottom.

Fig. 9 represents to provide for switches all in the matrix with a pair of independent electrical traces the keypad bottom of contact.

Figure 10 represents to have below IACK keypad that first conductive pellets arranges tectal.Figure 11 represents among Figure 10 the cross sectional view along line 11-11.

Figure 12 represents to have below IACK keypad that second conductive pellets arranges tectal.Figure 13 represents among Figure 12 the cross sectional view along line 13-13.

Figure 14 is the side view with the solid layer of the bulged-in material formation of conductive pellets.

Figure 15 represents the switch lattice mat structure that the overlayer with Figure 12 uses.

Figure 16 represents to have below IACK keypad that the 3rd conductive pellets arranges tectal.Figure 17 represents among Figure 16 the cross sectional view along line 17-17.

Figure 18 represents to have below IACK keypad that the 4th conductive pellets arranges tectal.Figure 19 represents among Figure 18 the cross sectional view along line 19-19.

Figure 20 A and Figure 20 B represent the tectal deflection of keypad of Figure 17 and 19 respectively.

Figure 21 is the fragmentary, perspective view below the IACK keypad overlayer.

Figure 22 is illustrated in the keypad of directly placing bead under the separate keypad.

Figure 23 is the synoptic diagram of a telephone circuit of representative.

Figure 24 is the cross sectional view of two parts mould of the lower surface of keypad among casting Figure 22.

Figure 25 is the skeleton view that is used in the first tactile feedback layer under the keypad overlayer.

Figure 26 represents to have the keypad of the second tactile feedback layer.Figure 27 is the front elevation of feedback layer shown in Figure 26.

Figure 28 is the skeleton view of IACK keypad surface smooth contoured.

Figure 29 and 30 is respectively the skeleton view and the front elevation of another IACK keypad surface.

Figure 31 represents a preferable layout that is used for alphanumeric IACK keypad on the phone.

Figure 32 and 33 is respectively among Figure 31 the cross sectional view along line 32-32 and 33-33.

Figure 34 is the layout of QWERTY keypad, has the independent key columns of arranging by diagonal line.

Figure 35 represents a kind of algorithm that is used to store and discern combinatorial input.

Figure 36 represents that a kind of alphanumeric data that is used for is to the inverse mapping algorithm that produces numeral output.

Figure 37 represents the corresponding relation of standard telephone keypad letter-numeral.

Figure 38 is the skeleton view that is used in the 3rd tactile feedback layer under the keypad overlayer.

Figure 39 represents to have the keypad of the tactile feedback layer that forms with taper contact element array mold.

Figure 40 represents a kind of scanning algorithm of the IACK of being used for keypad.

Figure 41 represents a printed circuit board (PCB), and trace extends into miter angle with respect to the keyswitch matrix.

Figure 42 is illustrated in the arcuate alignment mode at the separate keypad center of adding on the straight line switch grid matrix.

Figure 43 and 44 represents to have the front elevation and the skeleton view of the mobile phone of IACK keypad respectively.

In the different figures, similarly reference marker is represented components identical.

Embodiment

At first referring to Fig. 1, the pliable and tough film 10 of keypad elements extends on printed circuit board (PCB) 12, common keyswitch matrix 5 is arranged and at a distance of the position measuring system 20 of certain distance on the circuit board.Keyswitch matrix 5 is placed on the upper surface of PCB 12, on direction perpendicular to conductive trace, the intersection point of trace forms switch lattice pad 18, by with the lower surface of film 10 on the contact of conductive pellets that carry, directly over corresponding pad 18 form of short duration conducting.Film 10 has a lumpy upper surface, has formed the separate keypad 2 of the projection of being cut apart by trough, and trough is corresponding to combination button.Conductive pellets 16 may by the solid material that injects conductive material for example carbon forms, perhaps with insulating material (for example forming the material of film 10) formation with electrically conductive ink or overcoat.In this embodiment, measuring system 20 comprises two linear array of elements that overlap each other (representing with mutually perpendicular planar array 22 and 24 at this), and each array is all as a printed layers of printed circuit board (PCB) 12.As an example, such measurement mechanism is used for touch pads and other two-dimensional position responsive computer input media.Mesh space as shown, by the independence and the input of combination keypad of the hope that helps uncertain keypad operation is interpreted as determining, the application of measuring system 20 has improved the accuracy of IACK keypad.For example, in the keypad of combination button corresponding to four independent buttons that activate simultaneously, coarse finger position only can activate two adjacent buttons (particularly in the embodiment that uses discrete keyswitch technology) usually, thereby causes ambiguity.In the keypad of combination button corresponding to two independent buttons that activate simultaneously, coarse finger position only can activate one of two independent buttons usually, thus the independent button output that leads to errors.For example, combination button may be placed on IACK keypad edge or away from the position at edge, when being arranged in when two these adjacent class independence buttons of key columns at edge are activated together, may produce the input that is associated, although can cause higher error rate in some cases.Yet,, may correctly solve the input that this precision problem also can correctly be explained expectation by judge the position of finger independently with position measuring system 20.For example, when hope produces the output of 4 buttons formation, finger will mainly be placed on the relevant space figure top corresponding with combination button, yet because the angle of finger, perhaps physically irregular of user finger, spot pressure may include only two lower switch lattice pads 18.In this case, can solve ambiguity with position measuring system 20, even only have low relatively resolution.Relatively cheap analog to digital converter can be used in provides the resolution that is equivalent to 1/4 finger width, perhaps than low about 10 to the 20 times resolution of typical commercial position measuring system.Similarly, utilize this technology, in the IACK keypad, activate an independent button and can be used to the accurately intention of interpreting user, produce positional information with position measuring system 20, the activation of any one button grid pad 18 all will produce " carrying out/do not carry out " information.This comprises unconventional keyswitch matrix 6, wherein all can produce an independent contact in any position of passing through keypad, as shown in Figure 9.

By the scanning of IACK keypad to independent PCB 12, measuring system 20 also can provide integrated " mouse " (icon control) function.In this embodiment, position measuring system 20 is operated under two kinds of patterns.Under first kind of pattern, it provides about the position location information of finger position with respect to the IACK keypad surface, improves the explanation precision push-button combination operated to 1ACK, and is the same as previously discussed.Under second kind of pattern, it is used to the icon on the screen that is connected to the product on the keypad is positioned.As an example, the user can be switched in " keypad pattern " key at " mouse mode " effectively by touching a button (not shown).The user can close the combination button function or the independent keypress function of IACK keypad selectively, and this has other advantage: for example in recreation is used, combination button can be set at the direction function; For the paralytic of muscle disorder, can be so that the easier realization of selection function; Or the like.

In some structure, the keyswitch matrix 5 of the input and output line of position measuring system 20 and routine is optimised for and binds together, thereby make the number of pins minimum, perhaps as an example, even can outside the required alone whole pins of the keypad of routine, not increase number of pins.

Referring to Fig. 2 and 3, dotted line is included in the trace within the PCB, dots, and represents with solid line at the trace on PCB surface, connects two-layer path or hole and represents with point.Integrated orthogonal array 23 is placed on the surface (in order to reduce the number of path) of PCB 12, has formed half of keyswitch matrix 5, and the orthogonal array of position measuring system.Similarly, integrated horizontal array 25 has formed second half of keyswitch matrix 5, and the horizontal array of position measuring system.In this case, array 25 is placed within the PCB 12.Switch lattice pad 18 is placed on each intersection point of array 23 and 25, each is all crossed one another to arrange by element exposed on the PCB surface and forms, therefore formed the capacitive grid element that is used for position measuring system 20, integrated half of a plurality of switch lattice pads in it.The different designs of pad 18 is shown in each tabulation among Fig. 3.The grid pad 18 that forms with the contact element switch has been shown in the tabulation of the leftmost side, is designed to use the dome contacts switching technique.Left side number secondary series is represented the intersection pad with independent path formation.First element 19 (drawing three in each grid pad) has been shown in the tabulation of the rightmost side, uses the lip-deep short perpendicular elements of PCB of the element that is placed on array 23 leftmost sides to be connected to each other, and is placed on the array 23 short perpendicular elements of the PCB inside of two elements in addition.Second element 21 and first element 19 cross one another, and are connected to each other with the hole or the path of integrated horizontal array 25 by association.In each case, the element of switch lattice pad 18 is placed with respect to the element symmetry of position measuring system, therefore signal with self-elimination ability is provided, although integrated keyswitch matrix, but can not damage the accuracy of position measuring system 20, so energy measurement goes out to be independent of finger and exports near the consistent of direction of switch.

Input 31 comprises the signal that injects integrated horizontal array 25, and output 33 comprises the signal of orthogonal array 23 receptions that are integrated.What therefore, microprocessor or analog to digital converter whole number of pins and conventional keyswitch matrix desired, that reach signal input microprocessor condition needed separately is identical.

The variation of passing through the stray capacitance of switch lattice pad 18 also can be used to detect the close or approaching of finger or conductive pellets.As an example, this can be provided for solving the additional information of ambiguity.

In keypad shown in Figure 4, there is not the conductive pellets among the embodiment that Fig. 1 represents on the IACK element 10, scribble a kind of force-sensitive material 13 but be replaced by, for example Dao Dian noncontact particle.For example, material 13 can be the material that produces quantum tunneling effect such as those, and this effect is found by the Peratech Limited of Darlington of Britain Durham prefecture.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 5, the keyswitch matrix of IACK keypad routine of no use is realized.Position measuring system 20 provides icon control and keypad input function.Any given user's of judgement that height is non-linear and equipment had of capacitance measurement ability to greatest extent, with by the measurement of nearest intersection point being judged the ability of the extension of finger, the keypad switch matrix that allows this embodiment to need not any uniqueness just can be worked.If point approaching, thereby increased the amplitude of the electric capacity of measuring, according to a relative scale, system determines the approx. dimension pointed by more adjacent intersection point.In other words,, pass a plurality of nodes, when finger does not in height take place to change fully, formed capacitance height variation range in these positions because the track of finger motion passes keypad from a position to another position.Then this scope and reference value are compared, the look-up table of absolute measure for example, formed the size of finger, and therefore definite suitable capacitance measurement level, (for example be used to measure input that identification estimates, by next keypad), this is to make according to the position of finger and the size of finger when reaching suitable expection input threshold.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 6, integrated horizontal array 25 is placed within the PCB 12, and orthogonal array 23 is placed on the lower surface of IACK element 10, and array preferably stamps electrically conductive ink.Horizontal array 25 also can be placed on the surface of PCB 12, covers with a thin non-conductive layer, and the available KAPTON material (general polyimide) such as 0.01 inch of non-conductive layer forms, and can obtain this material from DUPONT.The embodiment that the figure shows with respect to the advantage of the embodiment that Fig. 5 represents is: improved the capacitance variations of measuring on the button that activates.If (and not pressing keys) moved on the surface that finger passes IACK element 10, measurement device to parasitic capacitor variations co-ordinate position information is provided.When under the keypad pattern, pushing the character of expectation,, can cause bigger capacitance variations because the trace of capacitor array can move relative to each other.The height change of this electric capacity is different with the magnitude (order) of those stray capacitances that measure, and therefore can clearly represent the push button exciting of estimating.Then, by the parasitic capacitor variations that measured before the variation of big indicative activation, system is registered the character that identifies.Therefore, two kinds of measuring systems of use are worked in coordination, and healthy and strong especially control of (robust) icon and keypad system is provided.An attendant advantages of this design is that although additional function is provided, it can be configured to the keypad matrix needs micro processor leg still less than routine.For example, the number of array trace, layout and spacing need not to conform to the keypad of keypad among some embodiment, illustrate as the layout of the element of the rightmost side in the array 23 in the drawings.As an example, the spacing of capacitive grid can be bigger than the spacing of adjacent separate keypad.

Fig. 7 A has represented to have the keypad of contact element, and contact element is formed by piezo-electric device 30 arrays that uprise type, as at United States Patent (USP) the 5th, 781,646,5,849,123 and 5,831,371 disclosed like that, be included in this.As its inference of application, present embodiment is the tactile feedback that device has increased energy and height.Yet this embodiment can show a plurality of senses of touch related with independent combination button output and " press ".Fig. 7 B represents device 30 arrays, by placing 32 formation of an independent piezoelectric element under the entire I ACK element and on the position measuring system 20.This embodiment can provide a plurality of advantages, for example input can provide independent " pressing " to combination button, and, can provide the vibrato signal of " conversation that has received " by correctly activating position/voltage changer element 32 of introducing in detail in the prior art.

Fig. 8 for example represents to have the keypad of the force sensing resistance 32a that the Interlink of Canmarillo by California provides, and force sensing resistance is placed between IACK element 10 and the mechanical backing 33.Contact element is designed to be and is very easy to push, there are the bellows of the valve of under predetermined pressure effect, opening to replace by one, perhaps such whole being removed as shown in the figure, because tactile feedback is provided by vibrating elements 40, it has been received the output of sending from keypad by controller 42 by of short duration activation with expression.Illustrated vibrating elements 40 is vibrating motors, for example often is used to phone, paging etc., with the conversation or the paging of indicating an access.

Fig. 9 has represented the PCB 12 of an IACK keypad, contacts for switches all in the matrix provides with 69b with a pair of electrical traces 69a.

Referring now to Figure 10 and 11,, assembled conductive pellets 16 on the IACK element, have the smooth outside surface in contact 16a of cruciform shape, the end 52 of right-angled intersection medium-height trestle 17 extends towards relevant combination keypad 3.As an example, each bead 16 be placed on keypad separate keypad 2 under, on the direction of extending, extend one apart from d ₁, d ₁Be equivalent to from the center of conductive pellets 16 to the center of its combination keypad 3 that extends to apart from d ₂About percent 40.In this embodiment, each terminal edge 52 is all approximately placed along the line segment at the center that connects hithermost contact element 14.The edge of remaining conductive pellets 16 preferably shifts out half that contact element is clicked length " s " at least from each adjacent contact element, and wherein " s " is defined as contact element 14 extended vertical range outside conductive pellets 16.Contact area 67 is zones of separate keypad, serves as button in operation, and in this sense, they are the bending of keypad surface with the power transmission of operator finger, and does not comprise with those operators and point accidental, the non-loaded zone that reaches that contacts.Therefore, independent separate keypad is being carried out in the operating process, contact area 67 has transmitted almost all loads of (for example, 90 percent) that the user provides.Relation between contact area 67 and the preferred bead shape is explained with Figure 20 A and 20B.The exposed upper surface of the keypad shown in Figure 11 is corresponding with keypad profile shown in Figure 28.

Figure 12 and 13 has illustrated a kind of conductive pellets 16 of different structure.In this embodiment, each bead has formed the right-angled intersection of an extension, and the support 17 of right-angled intersection extends also far than the embodiment shown in Figure 10 and 11 to combination keypad 3.In this example, the support 17 of right-angled intersection extends a distance to adjacent combination keypad 3, be approximately from the center of conductive pellets 16 combination keypad 3 the center distance percent 75, end support edge 52 is placed on outside the adjacent contact element 14.This can be used for producing important advantage, can make an explanation to this with Figure 20.The central area 54 of each bead is smooth substantially, and with the keypad plane parallel, support 17 with respect to the plane become about 10 to 20 the degree taperings.Remaining conductive pellets edge shifts out half that click length at least from contact element 14, wherein clicks length as to defining of being discussed among top Figure 11.

Figure 14 has represented the side view of the thin layer (sheet) 58 that a kind of solid conductive material forms, and the conductive pellets 16 shown in Figure 12 and 18 can be pressed into wherein, as the alternative of printing conductive inks on the surface of the IACK element of casting 10.Thin layer 58 can be cast with extruding or alternate manner with spongy carbon coating or elastic plastic material or other typographic conductive material formation, forms illustrated one or more point of crossing with waveform surface.Then, bead is pressed into or is stamped to form from such thin layer one by one.Bulged-in bead has symmetry, makes bead can face upward or downward in manufacture process, and resilient material is deferred to the needs of adjusting, therefore manufacture process is carried out easily.

Figure 15 has illustrated to be used for switch lattice pad 18 structures of the conductive pellets 16 of embodiment shown in Figure 12, has placed light emitting diode 56 in the combination keypad 3 between the grid pad.

Referring now to Figure 16 and 17,, have the contact element 14 that is placed under the combination keypad 3 on the IACK element 10.Illustrated conductive pellets 16 is under separate keypad 2.In this example, the upper surface of keypad as shown in figure 29.Preferably, terminal turning 52 should be rendered as the flattened edge that relative combination keypad 3 separates.In this embodiment, the square turning of having selected quilt to be cut sth. askew.As an example, each bead 16 be placed on keypad separate keypad 2 under, on the line that connects adjacent keypad center, on the direction of extending, extend one apart from d ₁, d ₁Be equivalent to from the center of conductive pellets 16 to the center of its combination keypad 3 that extends to apart from d ₂About percent 40.The exposed upper surface of keypad shown in Figure 17 is corresponding with keypad profile shown in Figure 29.

With Figure 12 and 13 similar, Figure 18 and 19 expressions are extended farther bead 16 towards combination keypad 3, but the outer peripheral areas of bead tilts from PCB 12.In this case, as shown, bead 16 has a central area 54 smooth, level, but (not shown) in other embodiments, and the whole surface in contact of bead 16 is to tilt or shaped form, to produce the result of expectation.Contact element 14 is as described above.

Figure 20 A and 20B have illustrated the tectal bending of keypad, the related bead 16a of the button 2a that causes and be depressed produces and the contacting of PCB 12, and adjacent, related with another keypad 2b bead 16b has slight inclination with respect to PCB, but can not produce contact.Shown in the figure of front, the point of crossing is just on the main shaft of bead.Bead shown in Figure 20 A identical with at the embodiment shown in Figure 10 and 16, and the bead shown in Figure 20 B tilts like that according to the embodiment shown in Figure 12 and 18.If the user need be imprinted on the character of keypad 2a, she will make bead 16a contact with PCB 12; If she need be imprinted on the character of keypad 2b, she will make bead 16b contact; If she need be imprinted on the character of the combination keypad 3 between them, she will make bead 16a and 16b and PCB 12 produce significant extruding.In all examples, separate keypad 2b is by crooked slightly, and partly cause is to form necessary related that the bending of their shared film causes, partly cause is an inexactness intrinsic when normally using.Therefore, if the opposite edges to two beads that make up the keypad extension are separated too far, then very little finger tip all may cause the bending corresponding to the keypad surface of combination keypad, and need not press two beads, therefore can not register the combination keypad of expectation.On the contrary, if the opposite edges of the bead between the separate keypad of two direct neighbors are leaned on too closely, when the user only presses next independent separate keypad, may unexpectedly cause click, thereby register the input of a combination keypad mistakenly adjacent separate keypad.The embodiment of signal has solved this difficult problem by the size of making bead effectively.Shown in Figure 20 B, the stub area of the surface in contact by making bead tilts, and they can be made bigger, therefore can provide reliable operation to little or big finger.It is less relatively that this improvement also helps separate keypad 2 can be made, and it is relatively large to allow bead to remain simultaneously.

Figure 21 has illustrated an equally spaced contact element array 14 of two dimension, and each all is placed between the bead 16 related with two adjacent separate keypad 2 position near mid point.In this embodiment, contact element 14 is a cell shape, but it should be understood that the shape that is different from this special shape can provide approximately uniform non-linear by the effect of hitting.Contact element has formed an array of alternately arranging, each space between the contact element in or hold a bead 16 related with separate keypad 2, perhaps hold one with make up the related space of keypad.Each separate keypad and combination keypad are (promptly, the space of each contact element) with respect to adjacent contact element number and the configuration of their degree of closeness equality, thereby make the user realize similar haptic response, because in each operating process, pushed the contact element 14 of equal number from independent activation with the combination keypad.In this example, conductive pellets 16 is expressed as circular disk, but also can make other above-mentioned shape.

On the contrary, among the embodiment shown in Figure 22, the tactile feedback of each combination keypad 3 is provided by the adjacent contact elements of four equispaceds, and the tactile feedback of each separate keypad contact element 14 mainly relevant separately by, that be positioned under the separate keypad 2 provides.Each contact element 14 surrounds the conductive pellets 16 of an association.This arrangement mode is configured to: if special application need can provide than big four times the activating force of combination button nearly of the activating force of independent button.Yet for many application, expecting for example provides in the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 and 21 for all keypads provide similar haptic feedback response, and wherein each contact element 14 is placed on the approaching equidistant position of two adjacent independent keyswitches.In this case, contact element 14 can be a cruciform shape.

Figure 23 represents to be used to carry out the synoptic diagram of the mobile phone control circuit of function of cellular phone, is included in this those disclosed keypad control algolithm.Core at it is a telephone processor 89, for example the chip ML20xx that can obtain from the Mobile Link of Santa Clara in California.Flash memory 90, static random access memory 91 and LCDs 92 are connected on ARM RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) processor 95 of chip 89 by bus, and this processor provides user interface and protocol procedure.Lead couples together system connector 93, SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) 94 and keypad 100.An Oak digital signal processor (DSP) that is positioned on the chip 89 provides the Physical layer of processed voice by microphone 97 and loudspeaker 98, and wherein two waveband RF unit 96 sends and receives in the voice.

Referring now to Figure 24,, mould has been stipulated hole 46 to comprising a fixed head 15 among (the mold half) 44, is used for casting each contact element outside surface; And a movable plate 47, have and be approximately conical protrusion 48, form the inside surface of contact element, this mould is used for forming the lower surface of IACK keypad, has the contact element of integral mould as shown in Figure 14 on it.When resin was injected into, two mould disks were buckled together and cool off, and separated then, made the contact element of casting shift out from hole 46.Hole 48 also is provided on plate 45, in casting process, supports conductive pellets as embolus.If hole 46 drops to towards the zone of hole end perpendicular to the point of crossing of resin flow, movable plate 47 and fixed head 45 may combine forever, make to need not peel of mould to just the contact element of casting being released from their cavity.

Figure 25 has represented a kind of tactile feedback structure of keypad, has line slideway 62 arrays on the keypad, mold on common substrate 63, and with respect to substrate with near 60 the degree angles stretch out.Alternatively, guide rail 62 can be band shape or shaped form, passes the surface curvature of substrate 63 as snake.This embodiment provides nonlinear sense of touch keypad feedback on entire I ACK keypad surface.Substrate is adhered on the printed circuit board (PCB) space that hole 65 provides the bead of keypad to contact with PCB with a kind of glue.Perhaps, guide rail can form with the tectal lower surface integral mould of elastomeric keypad whole or in part.The end of guide rail is pasted (on keypad or the PCB) opposite surfaces, prevent that the center of IACK keypad under humiture changes from deforming, the end to feedback element provides stable reference simultaneously.

Figure 26 represents to have the side view of the keypad of tactile feedback elements 210, and tactile feedback elements is film formed with the stamped metal that is placed between overlayer 10 and the PCB.Film 210 be stamped form from planar extension go out arcuate segment 212, formed contact element.In this embodiment, the rear surface of film contacts face-to-face with the back of IACK element 10, and the end portion of arcuate segment is near PCB 12.As shown in figure 27, arcuate segment 212 is arranged according to row and row between the hole 214 that stamps out, and the path of conductive pellets 16 to PCB 12 is provided.

Below with reference to Figure 28, meeting on the IACK keypad 80 of friendly ergonomics has a continuous lumpy surface, will not make up the visible void that keypad 3 is expressed as separate keypad 2 significantly on the keypad.The substitute is, there be (although they still are the space) in the combination keypad with complete independent entity on function.Not having visual components either extend to indicate with any of separate keypad layout to visual combination keypad 3 gets in touch.In this embodiment, the combination keypad has smooth profile, and all there is the icon of centre in the zone on visible oval border above each.Separate keypad 2 is not depicted as, and therefore provides visually clear and simple and clear literal environment, has improved legibility, can form conventional telephone key-press layout by utilizing main graphic element.Graphic element can be pressed into gently, and/or with the manufacturing of " twin-lens " forming process, wherein the element of combinations of definitions keypad 3 (telephone layout of perhaps independent routine) is at first used a kind of color mold, and the other parts of keypad are with second kind of color mold.

Figure 29 represents an IACK keypad 82, wherein makes up keypad 3 and is maximized and is circle or elliptical region, and separate keypad 2 is formed by the rhombus in the space that is placed between them 64.As Figure 28, will not make up the intersection point that keypad is expressed as separate keypad among this embodiment.The substitute is, the combination keypad is rendered as independent entity.The circle or the elliptical region that go out in the expansion relevant with combination keypad 3 are forced out a bowl-type, and the degree of depth at their centers is approximately 0.10 to 0.50 millimeter, and measurement is to carry out from their the edge defined neutral plane of sharp-pointed relatively variation.Referring to diagram 19, the part of rising is a rhombus salient point 64, extends about 0.30 to 1.0 millimeter on neutral plane again.Therefore, whole from the top of rhombus salient point 64 to the bottom of the circle of expression combination keypad 3 or elliptical region apart from d ₃Be approximately 0.7 to 1.5 millimeter.The top of salient point 64 mainly is smooth, by the bending of a little.Assemble a pair of sense of touch location node 101 on the combination keypad 218, for example in many modular keypad, be used for designation number " 5 ".In addition, just in the keypad grid outside of combination keypad, between the 4th and the fifth line of coming from the far-end number of keypad (promptly being in line), placed the location node 103 of two annexes with the fifth line separate keypad.These location nodes can be used for assisting when using keypad in the dark or sight impaired individuals touches the location.

Lower floor's grid that Figure 30 has represented and independence is key associated, the switch matrix that is used in keypad overlayer below determine that with dashed lines shows that the operator is visible not to be described less than this function grid is carried out at exposed surface.The substitute is, the matrix that has independence and combination keypad to form on the tectal surface is with figure or the sensing unit definition for being listed in the lower net grillages.Each frame of broken lines has defined the independent button mesh space of an association.On the contrary, the combination button mesh space defines between the mesh lines that connects separate keypad.

Figure 31 to 33 represents an IACK keypad 10, has the routine call layout of the sum formation that constitutes with combination keypad 3.(be illustrated as punctuation mark with row 74 that form by incoherent character at this?, @ ,-, /) first sum 70 (have 1,4,7, *) is separated with second sum 72 (having 2,5,8,0).Between the second and the 3rd sum, with):, ' and. second punctuate of formation is listed as this pattern is carried out repetition.The width of the icon area of adjacent combination button row (for example 70 and 74) is a different size, and leniently (row 70) to narrow (row 74) change.The cross section of the separate keypad 2 (Figure 32) by direct neighbor is represented the keypad spacing of a rule, and the cross section of the combination keypad 3 (Figure 33) by direct neighbor is represented another keypad width.Preferably, the width " X " of spacing between the separate keypad 2 of expression direct neighbor be approximately the finger width half or slightly smaller, the color of icon area is used for discerning the character of row alternately, for example from secretly to bright contrast.

Figure 34 represents a kind of IACK keypad, and the row that row that the separate keypad 2 that has forms and combination keypad 3 form are along arranging with respect to user (promptly with respect to the modular keypad orientation by the definition of icon direction) deflection miter angle.With respect to some early stage keypad implementation method, the key number that can independently activate that this embodiment will be on a horizontal line (as the keypad direction definition of standard) can arrange has improved near percent 40, therefore reduced the width of keypad product significantly, particularly illustrated conventional QWERTY layout.

Figure 35 represents to be used to explain the improving one's methods of input of long character string forms (LSC), for example telephone number, password, Personal Identification Number (PIN; Be used to discern the individual and preferentially obtain visit that system provides or the code of service), or the like, even the ability of disclosed IACK keypad detects the input of the non-conterminous keypad of any separate keypad combination simultaneously above having utilized.The advantage of this method is, the safety and the method for input digit code apace are provided, its application examples as: access websites and other electricity consumption service and content that words are carried out are provided; The telephone number of input oneself is with access voicemail before PIN; Or the like.These algorithms are called as the LSC function, are applicable to satisfy following demand simultaneously: 1) produce enough complicated input so that the security of reasonable grade to be provided; 2) in a lot of different application, satisfy the minimum essential requirement of PIN fetcher code; And 3) no matter allow almost the LSC of input simultaneously, be defined by the user or by system definition.

In step 100, the electronic equipment of system scan keypad, the two or more independent button that indication is pressed at any special time.In step 102, according to system identification go out with the order of the corresponding button of combinations of definitions of responsive combination of arriving, system's character display is for example on local display screen.Preferably, the user need not separately to carry out any LSC of obtaining function tasks; For prompt system in a predetermined time obtains the LSC function, simply by the next undefined combination that forms by at least two incoherent independent buttons.If system detects a undefined combination, system proceeds step 104.If a single or combination button has just been registered by system for before the combinations of definitions identifying one, and does not register " bond bundle " (being that the user does not stop by keypad), then the previous character of system's cancellation input.

In step 106, system judges that whether undefined combination is corresponding to a LSC who has stored.If stored before this, then in step 108, system delivers to display screen with the LSC of association.If undefined before this combination is not stored as corresponding LSC, in step 110, when sensitivity during to undefined combination system's judgement have what characters to be registered into display screen.If character is registered, but lack very much (for example, one or three) for effective PIN number, then system prompt user PIN is necessary at least four character lengths, and continues the scanning keypad in step 100.

If on display screen, there is not character, then set about producing a pseudorandom LSC according to the input system that provides.In step 111, system to the input of button independently (in this embodiment, when setting up combinations of definitions, combination button is read not according to their implication) sort for sensitivity to order sequence independence, that be predetermined of independent button input.A kind of such order is an alphabet sequence.Another kind of (comprising punctuation mark) is for to sort according to the ASCII value.This order may change the order of the button that is obtained by system.In step 112, LSC string of system's generation preferably all is a numeral and be at least 8 character lengths.If the simple string that the ASCII value forms causes too short LSC, numeral can be added to together, and the result is increased.Can produce a suitable pseudorandom number sequence from a series of inputs with several different methods.If the result is oversize, can be by brachymemma.

(for example, if use when carrying out a telephone relation) by checking caller's ID, perhaps searches the identity of other group simply in the address stored book in optional step 114, and the identity of other group is judged by system.In step 110, if judge user significant LSC of input on display screen, (being four or more in this example), and then system deposits this combination for definition in internal memory, and making can provide the LSC that is associated in the future in step 108.In step 118, LSC is admitted to display screen 92, no matter is defined by the user or by system definition.Under the situation of in-system define LSC, will transmit one with reference to identification code, for example " PIN#3 ", perhaps (if having finished step 114) specific user's identification code, for example " Bank X PIN ".

Figure 36 has represented an algorithm that the embedding phone is interior, corresponding relation according to the indication of standard 12 key telephone keypads (is the letter-digital corresponding relation of standard telephone keypad, as shown in figure 37), the inverse mapping that is input to digital keys output from alphabet key is provided, this makes the task of the telephone number that the appropriation alphabetical form provides be simplified for example " 1-800-PATENTS ".Be difficult to transfer to because they remember easily, it is awkward that such number makes us always.Yet inverse mapping adapts to the IACK keypad especially, although because they provide a telephone keypad, in many examples, they are not provided at the corresponding relation of letter and number character keys.

In step 120, the user is to phone input alphabet data.This can finish with conventional keypad, IACK keypad or voice.In step 122, by by next button or say a predefined word, the user sends the signal of a telephone number of expectation " dial-out ".Step 120 and 122 can exchange sequence, particularly with under the situation of voice.In step 124 and 126, can be according to any order, phone does not transmit number with making an amendment, and the corresponding relation by standard alphabet phone shown in Figure 37 remaps to alphabetic character.For example, when " A ", " B " or " C " in any one letter be pressed, be output as numeral " 2 ".In step 128, algorithm is output as pure digi-tal, all being combined to form by numeral.

Figure 38 represents an elastomeric layer 122, provides tactile feedback in entire I ACK keypad surface with discrete elements 222, and flexible member and keypad are assembled together, and extends to form between overlayer and bottom.These elements 222 extend (as shown) on the direction vertical with respect to substrate 220,, are operated under the pattern of pure click when bottom is depressed or tilt at overlayer.Element 222 can be solid circles cylinder or vertical cylinder.

Figure 39 has represented the contact element 14 with utility layer 61 castings of separating from the IACK element.Contact element 14 is tapers, and their narrow end 230 is towards the below, away from overlayer 10.Provide additional thickness at narrow end 230, formed a block of material, improved " the some property touched " or by the clear and melodious sensation of the tactile feedback that originally provides.

Figure 40 represents a kind of scanning algorithm, can support the sweep speed that clock is slow especially, thereby has saved energy.As long as a button on the keypad is activated, scanning just is limited to adjacent button.If second keyswitch is activated in waiting time, then the row (or row) of top and following (adjacent) of the pair of switches that is activated is closely searched for by system.This process continues always, activates an independent button in the lasting time up to waiting, perhaps up to detecting opposite diagonal line.

Figure 41 represents a printed circuit board (PCB) 12, and the trace 226 that becomes miter angle with the profile of plate is arranged in the keypad net region.The trace that the dotted line representative is connected with the center ring of dome contacts switch 228.The solid line representative is connected to the trace of those switch outer shrouds.Since be positioned at adjacent backward diagonal independent by key definition combination button, this layout provides the recognizer of simplifying.This hardware has changed the redefining of software, the output of output expression combination keypad when making adjacent traces.

In Figure 42, the row that separate keypad 2 forms is according to radius " R " the arc tilt distribution of definition, thereby help to discern the position of passing through keypad that contact causes, and their corresponding key switch pads 18 are still arranged along the row of vertical distribution and row, cause a vertical skew between the center of separate keypad on the particular column 2 and their switch pad 18 " L ".In the forward view, in the row of the most left and rightmost side, separate keypad more a little, and in the row of centre, forms reverse skew on their switch pads.This makes the switch matrix spacing keep constant, and nonetheless, spacing on the diagonal line between the adjacent separate keypad is for changing.

Referring now to Figure 43 and 44,, comprised the keypad overlayer 82 shown in Figure 29 and 30 in the mobile phone 250, and the display 92 that is used to show alphabetic literal.

Although introduced a plurality of embodiment of the present invention, it will be appreciated that not deviating from the spirit and scope of the present invention and can carry out various modifications.Therefore, other embodiment falls within the scope of the invention.

Claims (4)

1. electronic installation comprises:

Have the IACK keypad on exposed, continuous surface, defined combination keypad and separate keypad on the surface;

Be placed on the sensitive element grid under the described keypad surface, the motion of finger being passed keypad surface responds; With

A circuit is applicable to the signal that receives expression keypad state from described IACK keypad, and the output that produces the activity of operation response person keypad;

Wherein said circuit is configured to, to small part according to the responsive position of finger between adjacent separate keypad center of arriving determine the combination button input estimated.

2. according to the electronic installation of claim 1, further comprise one to pushing the keyswitch matrix that separate keypad is made response, wherein said circuit is configured to, according to sensitivity to finger position and the combination button input of determining expection of the state of described keyswitch matrix.

3. according to the electronic installation of claim 2, wherein said sensitive element grid and described keyswitch matrix are shared some conductive traces on the printed circuit board (PCB).

4. according to electronic installation one of any in the claim 1 to 3, the mesh spacing of wherein said sensitive element mesh definition is wideer than the spacing between the center of adjacent separate keypad.

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