GB2566071A

GB2566071A - Reinforced stylus precision disc tip and manufacturing method thereof

Info

Publication number: GB2566071A
Application number: GB1714106.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Fan Cheng-Wei; Li Yueh-Hua
Original assignee: Adonit Co Ltd
Current assignee: Adonit Co Ltd
Priority date: 2017-09-04
Filing date: 2017-09-04
Publication date: 2019-03-06
Anticipated expiration: 2037-09-04
Also published as: GB201714106D0; GB2566071B

Abstract

A reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 and manufacturing method thereof is provided. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 comprises a reinforcing ring 220, a precision disc tip 230, a ball stud 240, and a retaining proximal layered assembly 250. The reinforcing ring has a ring body (322) and an exposed edge lip (324). The precision disc tip has a frustum receiving portion (426), wherein the frustum receiving portion comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel (427) and a surrounding ring cavity (421). The reinforcing ring 220 is integrally formed within the ring cavity (421). The ball stud has a spherical head (742) and a stud body portion (728). The retaining proximal layered assembly 250 includes a compressible conductive disc shim (952), a support conductive disc shim (954), an adhesive disc layer (956), and a conductive proximal disc layer (958) and allows electrical coupling between the conductive proximal disc layer (958) and the ball stud 240. The retaining proximal layered assembly, frustum receiving portion, and the exposed edge lip retain the spherical head in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel during rotational movement of the spherical head.

Description

REINFORCED STYLUS PRECISION DISC TIP AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention [0001] The invention relates to styli disc tips and manufacturing methods thereof, and particularly, relates to reinforced styli precision disc tips configured to operate with styli and capacitive touch sensitive devices and manufacturing methods thereof.

Description of the Related Art [0002] A stylus or a stylus pen is often used as an input device which performs various functions by touching or coming within proximity of a touch screen surface of a touch sensitive device such as a computer, mobile device, graphics tablet, and other devices. With touch sensitive devices, and particularly, capacitive touch sensitive devices, when an object touches or comes within proximity of a surface thereof, a change in capacitance can occur within the touch screen at the location of the touch or proximity following capacitive coupling. A touch-sensor controller can then process the change in capacitance such that coordinates of the object on the touch screen can be determined and orientation (e.g., azimuth angle and tilt angle) can be calculated for performing operations such as writing, drawing, painting or making selections by tapping the stylus on the screen.

[0003] Several techniques have been developed for determining coordinates to calculate orientation of a stylus. Some techniques involve detecting capacitance(s) from one or more locations of a stylus relative to a surface of a touch sensitive device, and then using the capacitance(s) to determine coordinates thereof and calculate orientation of the stylus relative to the surface. Other techniques can attach a conductive disc to a tip-end of a stylus to assure capacitive coupling between the stylus and a touch screen surface of a touch sensitive device.

[0004] For a stylus having a conductive disc, in some techniques, a pivotal connector, such as a ball stud, is used to attach the stylus to the conductive disc. This allows the conductive disc to remain flush with a touch screen surface of a touch sensitive device while a user is using the stylus.

[0005] However, often, during usage, the conductive disc is unwantingly disengaged from the ball stud; for example, when the angle of rotation of the ball stud is at its greatest during use. When this occurs, the pull-out strength of the ball stud, force in the axial/radial direction to which the ball stud can endure until it is separated from the conductive disc, is decreased. Accordingly, thereafter, unwanted disengagement occurs more and more frequently. Additionally, due to the small size of the conductive disc, and for some techniques, its clear tip point visibility to enhance user experience, when unwantingly disengaged, the conductive disc is not found. Thus, the conductive disc must be replaced, increasing costs for the user.

[0006] There is demand for a reinforced stylus precision disc tip and manufacturing method thereof to solve the aforementioned problems.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0007] Reinforced styli precision disc tips configured to operate with styli and capacitive touch sensitive devices and manufacturing methods thereof are provided.

[0008] In an embodiment, a reinforced stylus precision disc tip configured to operate with a stylus and a capacitive touch sensitive device is provided. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip is attached to the stylus at a tip-end thereof and comprises a reinforcing ring, a precision disc tip, a ball stud, and a retaining proximal layered assembly. In the embodiment, the reinforcing ring has a ring body, a top ring rim, a bottom ring rim opposite the top ring rim, an exposed edge lip extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim, a support inner protrusion, extending radially inwardly from the bottom ring rim, and a support outer protrusion opposite to the support inner protrusion, extending radially outwardly from the bottom ring rim. In the embodiment, the precision disc tip has a top flat disc surface, a bottom flat disc surface, and a frustum receiving portion extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface having an opening therethrough. The frustum receiving portion comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel having a top receiving channel edge and a bottom receiving channel edge and a ring cavity surrounding the circular crosssectional receiving channel. The reinforcing ring is integrally formed within the ring cavity and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge of the circular cross-sectional receiving channel. In an embodiment, the ring body of the reinforcing ring is perpendicular to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip. In the embodiment, the ball stud has a spherical head and a stud body portion, wherein the spherical head is inserted in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip to allow rotational movement therein, and wherein the stud body portion extends upwardly through the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip and is electrically coupled to the stylus. In the embodiment, the stud body portion of the ball stud comprises a neck portion, a tapered cone section, a cylindrical body and a shaft attachment end, wherein the neck portion is integrally formed with the spherical head and tapered cone section of the ball stud and the cylindrical body is integrally formed with the tapered cone section and shaft attachment end of the ball stud. The diameter of the neck portion is smaller than the diameter of the spherical head and tapered cone section such that the angle of rotational movement of the stud body portion relative to the center of rotation of the spherical head is at least 100° degrees. In an embodiment, the shape of the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is cylindrical such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and press fitted attached to the stylus; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Other shapes can be implemented according to other embodiments to electrically couple and attach the reinforced stylus precision disc tip to the stylus. In other embodiments, the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is threaded such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and screw attached to the stylus. In the embodiment, the retaining proximal layered assembly is mounted to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip, electrically coupled to and pressing against the spherical head of the ball stud. The retaining proximal layered assembly has a compressible conductive disc shim, a support conductive disc shim, an adhesive disc layer having a centroid adhesive layer bore therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer. The adhesive layer bonds the conductive proximal disc layer to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip and support conductive disc shim, wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer and the diameter of the centroid adhesive layer bore is dimensioned such that the compressible conductive disc shim, support conductive disc shim, and conductive proximal disc layer are electrically coupled to the ball stud. The retaining proximal layered assembly, frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip, and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring retains the spherical head of the ball stud in the circular crosssectional receiving channel during rotational movement of the spherical head, preventing unwanted disengagement of the ball stud from the precision disc tip during use.

[0009] In another embodiment, a reinforced stylus precision disc tip configured to operate with a stylus and a capacitive touch sensitive device is provided. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip is attached to the stylus at a tip-end thereof and comprises a reinforcing ring, a precision disc tip, a ball stud, and a retaining proximal layered assembly. In the embodiment, the reinforcing ring has a ring body, a top ring rim, a bottom ring rim opposite the top ring rim, an exposed edge lip extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim, a support inner protrusion, extending radially inwardly from the bottom ring rim, and a support outer protrusion opposite to the support inner protrusion, extending radially outwardly from the bottom ring rim. In the embodiment, the precision disc tip has a top flat disc surface, a bottom flat disc surface, and a frustum receiving portion extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface having an opening therethrough. The frustum receiving portion comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel having a top receiving channel edge and a bottom receiving channel edge and a ring cavity surrounding the circular crosssectional receiving channel. The reinforcing ring is integrally formed within the ring cavity and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge of the circular cross-sectional receiving channel. In an embodiment, the ring body of the reinforcing ring is angled to the center of rotation of the spherical head of the ball stud, wherein the angle is at least less than 90° such that the diameter of the bottom ring rim of the reinforcing ring is greater than the diameter of the top ring rim of the reinforcing ring. In the embodiment, the ball stud has a spherical head and a stud body portion, wherein the spherical head is inserted in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip to allow rotational movement therein, and wherein the stud body portion extends upwardly through the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip and is electrically coupled to the stylus. In the embodiment, the stud body portion of the ball stud comprises a neck portion, a tapered cone section, a cylindrical body and a shaft attachment end, wherein the neck portion is integrally formed with the spherical head and tapered cone section of the ball stud and the cylindrical body is integrally formed with the tapered cone section and shaft attachment end of the ball stud. The diameter of the neck portion is smaller than the diameter of the spherical head and tapered cone section such that the angle of rotational movement of the stud body portion relative to the center of rotation of the spherical head is at least 100° degrees. In an embodiment, the shape of the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is cylindrical such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and press fitted attached to the stylus; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Other shapes can be implemented according to other embodiments to electrically couple and attach the reinforced stylus precision disc tip to the stylus. In other embodiments, the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is threaded such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and screw attached to the stylus. In the embodiment, the retaining proximal layered assembly is mounted to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip, electrically coupled to and pressing against the spherical head of the ball stud. The retaining proximal layered assembly has a compressible conductive disc shim, a support conductive disc shim, an adhesive disc layer having a centroid adhesive layer bore therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer. The adhesive layer bonds the conductive proximal disc layer to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip and support conductive disc shim, wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer and the diameter of the centroid adhesive layer bore is dimensioned such that the compressible conductive disc shim, support conductive disc shim, and conductive proximal disc layer are electrically coupled to the ball stud. The retaining proximal layered assembly, frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip, and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring retains the spherical head of the ball stud in the circular crosssectional receiving channel during rotational movement of the spherical head, preventing unwanted disengagement of the ball stud from the precision disc tip during use.

[0010] In an embodiment, a manufacturing method of a reinforced stylus precision disc tip configured to operate with a stylus and a capacitive touch sensitive device is provided. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip is attached to the stylus at a tip-end thereof and comprises a reinforcing ring, a precision disc tip, a ball stud, and a retaining proximal layered assembly. In the embodiment, at Step S1210, the reinforcing ring, having a ring body, a top ring rim, a bottom ring rim opposite the top ring rim, an exposed edge lip extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim, a support inner protrusion, extending radially inwardly from the bottom ring rim, and a support outer protrusion opposite to the support inner protrusion, extending radially outwardly from the bottom ring rim is formed. In the embodiment, at Step S1220, the reinforcing ring is disposed in a precision disc tip mold of the precision disc tip. In the embodiment, at Step 1230, the precision disc tip having a top flat disc surface, a bottom flat disc surface, and a frustum receiving portion extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface having an opening therethrough is formed by injection-molding. The frustum receiving portion comprises a circular crosssectional receiving channel having a top receiving channel edge and a bottom receiving channel edge and a ring cavity surrounding the circular cross-sectional receiving channel. The reinforcing ring is integrally formed within the ring cavity and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge of the circular cross-sectional receiving channel. In an embodiment, the ring body of the reinforcing ring is perpendicular to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Other ring body shapes can be implemented according to other embodiments to reinforce the strength of the precision disc. In other embodiments, the ring body of the reinforcing ring is angled to the center of rotation of the spherical head of the ball stud, wherein the angle is at least less than 90° such that the diameter of the bottom ring rim of the reinforcing ring is greater than the diameter of the top ring rim of the reinforcing ring. In the embodiment, at Step 1240, the ball stud having a spherical head and a stud body portion is formed. In the embodiment, the stud body portion of the ball stud comprises a neck portion, a tapered cone section, a cylindrical body and a shaft attachment end, wherein the neck portion is integrally formed with the spherical head and tapered cone section of the ball stud and the cylindrical body is integrally formed with the tapered cone section and shaft attachment end of the ball stud. The diameter of the neck portion is smaller than the diameter of the spherical head and tapered cone section such that the angle of rotational movement of the stud body portion relative to the center of rotation of the spherical head is at least 100° degrees. In the embodiment, at Step 1250, the ball stud having the spherical head is inserted in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip to allow rotational movement therein, wherein the stud body portion extends upwardly through the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip and is electrically coupled to the stylus. In an embodiment, the shape of the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is cylindrical such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and press fitted attached to the stylus; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Other shapes can be implemented according to other embodiments to electrically couple and attach the reinforced stylus precision disc tip to the stylus. In other embodiments, the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is threaded such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and screw attached to the stylus. In the embodiment, at Step 1260, the retaining proximal layered assembly having a compressible conductive disc shim, a support conductive disc shim, an adhesive disc layer having a centroid adhesive layer bore therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer is formed. In the embodiment, at Step 1270, the conductive proximal disc layer is pressed and bonded such that the retaining proximal layered assembly is mounted to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip and electrically coupled to and pressing against the spherical head of the ball stud via the adhesive layer, wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer and the diameter of the centroid adhesive layer bore is dimensioned such that the compressible conductive disc shim, support conductive disc shim, and conductive proximal disc layer are electrically coupled to the ball stud. In the embodiment, at Step 1280, the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is heat-treated such that the retaining proximal layered assembly, frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip, and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring retains the spherical head of the ball stud in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel during rotational movement of the spherical head, preventing unwanted disengagement of the ball stud from the precision disc tip during use.

[0011] The reinforcing ring of the embodiments prevents unwanted disengagement of the ball stud from the precision disc tip during use. Additionally, since the reinforcing ring has a support inner protrusion and a support outer protrusion and is integrally formed within the ring cavity of the precision disc tip while the precision disc tip is being insert-molded, connection strength therebetween is high. Therefore, pull-out strength of the ball stud, force in the axial/radial direction to which the ball stud can endure until the spherical head thereof is separated from the precision disc tip, is improved.

[0012] A stylus precision disc can offer users a more natural and effortless feel (e.g. clear view (no blind spots), sharp tip point recognition, no lagging, wavy lines, etc.) with enhanced sensitivity for fine line output when a stylus is touching and moving along a touch screen surface of a touch sensitive device via clear tip point visibility and precise coordinate detection, thereby improving the stylus experience. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of the embodiments can be used to enhance sensitivity of a stylus for fine line output, while also extending the useable life thereof via the reinforcing ring, which prevents disengagement due to decreasing pull-out strength between the ball stud and the precision disc tip during usage over time and/or axial/radial forces being placed on the stylus precision disc tip during usage. Accordingly, replacement costs are decreased, maximized rotational angle usage is assured and disengagement is prevented, while also still achieving clear tip point visibility and precise coordinate detection.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the Detailed Description of the Invention, illustrate various embodiments of the present invention and, together with the Detailed Description of the Invention, serve to explain io principles discussed below. The drawings referred to in this Brief Description of Drawings should not be understood as being drawn to scale unless specifically noted. [0013] FIG. 1 is a sectional view illustrating a reinforced stylus precision disc tip configured to operate with a stylus and a touch sensitive device according to various embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a reinforced stylus precision disc tip according to various embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 3A is a bottom front side perspective view illustrating a reinforcing ring according to various embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view illustrating a reinforcing ring according to various embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a precision disc tip according to various embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 5A is a bottom front side perspective view illustrating another reinforcing ring according to various embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view illustrating another reinforcing ring according to various embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating another precision disc tip according to various embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective side view illustrating a ball stud according to various embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a perspective side view illustrating another ball stud according to various embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective top front side view illustrating a reinforced stylus precision disc tip according to various embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional top front side view illustrating a retaining proximal layered assembly according to various embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 11 is an exploded view illustrating a reinforced stylus precision disc tip according to various embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a manufacturing method for a reinforced stylus precision disc tip according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0027] It is understood that the following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the invention. Specific examples of devices and arrangements are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. For example, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows can include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and can also include embodiments in which additional features are formed between the first and second features, such that the first and second features are not in direct contact. In addition, the present disclosure can repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed. It is intended that the scope of the present technology be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.

[0028] Embodiments of the invention generally relate to apparatuses and methods that are used to actively control the interaction of a handheld device with a touch sensitive device, such as a graphics tablet. Embodiments of the invention provide a universal handheld device that is able to provide input to any type of capacitive touch sensitive device, regardless of the manufacturer or, in some embodiments, knowledge of the capacitive touch sensitive device manufacturer's specific capacitive touchsensing detection techniques. In general, the handheld device disclosed herein is an electronic stylus, or also referred to herein as simply a “stylus,” that a user uses to provide input to control some aspect of the touch sensitive device. In some configurations, the “stylus” includes an “active stylus” that is configured to actively alter the capacitive sensing signal generated by the touch sensing components in the capacitive touch sensitive device, so that an active portion of the active stylus, such as its tip-end area, is sensed as an input object by the capacitive touch sensitive device.

[0029] According to embodiments described herein, a reinforced stylus precision disc tip configured to operate with a stylus and a capacitive touch sensitive device and manufacturing method thereof is provided. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip comprises a reinforcing ring, a precision disc tip, a ball stud, and a retaining proximal layered assembly. The reinforcing ring has a ring body, a top ring rim, a bottom ring rim, an exposed edge lip, a support inner protrusion, and a support outer protrusion. The precision disc tip has a top flat disc surface, a bottom flat disc surface, and a frustum receiving portion. The frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel having a top receiving channel edge and a bottom receiving channel edge and a ring cavity surrounding the circular cross-sectional receiving channel. The reinforcing ring is integrally formed within the ring cavity. The ball stud has a spherical head and a stud body portion, wherein the ball stud is inserted in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip to allow rotational movement therein, and wherein the stud body portion extends upwardly through the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip and is electrically coupled to the stylus. The retaining proximal layered assembly is mounted to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip, electrically coupled to and pressing against the spherical head of the ball stud. The retaining proximal layered assembly has a compressible conductive disc shim, a support conductive disc shim, an adhesive disc layer having a centroid adhesive layer bore therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer. The retaining proximal layered assembly allows electrical coupling between the conductive proximal disc layer to the compressible conductive disc shim to the ball stud. The retaining proximal layered assembly, frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip, and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring retains the spherical head of the ball stud in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel during rotational movement of the spherical head, preventing unwanted disengagement of the ball stud from the precision disc tip during use.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a sectional view illustrating a reinforced stylus precision disc tip configured to operate with a stylus and a touch sensitive device according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 1, stylus 110 can comprise a housing 180 and a tipend 170. The tip-end 170 can be comprised of a reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 for contacting a surface of a capacitive touch sensitive device. In the embodiments, the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 can be concentric in shape; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 can also be other shapes according to other embodiments. Also, in the embodiments, the diameter of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 is smaller than the diameter of the housing 180; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The diameter of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 can also be larger according to other embodiments. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 can be made of any suitable conductive or non-conductive material, such that electrical coupling is allowed throughout the entire reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 to the tip-end 170 and housing 180 of the stylus 110. In the embodiments, the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 is replaceable. The housing 180 can be any suitable conductive material or any suitable insulating material, depending on the requirements of the stylus 110. The housing 180 can house stylus circuitry e.g., sensing elements, signal processing elements, and the like (processing system circuitry 190 and power source 195 shown), depending on the requirements of the stylus 110.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a reinforced stylus precision disc tip according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 2, in an embodiment, the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 comprises a reinforcing ring 220, a precision disc tip 230, a ball stud 240, and a retaining proximal layered assembly 250. The reinforcing ring 220, via its design and formation with the precision disc tip 230, prevents unwanted disengagement of the ball stud due to decreasing pull-out strength between the ball stud 240 and the precision disc tip 230 during usage over time and/or axial/radial forces being placed on the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 during usage.

[0032] FIG. 3A is a bottom front side perspective view illustrating a reinforcing ring according to various embodiments, FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view illustrating a reinforcing ring according to various embodiments and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a precision disc tip according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, and referring to FIG. 4, in an embodiment, the reinforcing ring 220 has a ring body 322, a top ring rim 323, a bottom ring rim 325 opposite the top ring rim 323, an exposed edge lip 324 extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim 323, a support inner protrusion 326, extending radially inwardly from the bottom ring rim 325, and a support outer protrusion 328 opposite to the support inner protrusion 326, extending radially outwardly from the bottom ring rim 325. In the embodiment, the reinforcing ring 220 has two ring-like support protrusions 326, 328, disposed opposite to the exposed edge lip 324; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The reinforcing ring 220 can also have one or more than two support protrusions, having a ring-like shape, wavy shape, jagged shape, or the like, be disposed at the bottom ring rim 325 of the ring body 322, at different positions between the bottom and top ring rims 325, 323 of the ring body 322, or any combination of support protrusions, shapes, or dispositions, or the like, such that there is clear tip point visibility, reinforcing ability is present, and coupling strength between the reinforcing ring 220 and a ring cavity 421 of the precision disc tip 230 is high. In the embodiment, the reinforcing ring 220 is made of one solid piece; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The reinforcing ring 220 can be made of more than one solid piece or have holes, or the like therein, such that there is clear tip point visibility, reinforcing ability is present, and coupling strength between the reinforcing ring 220 and ring cavity 421 of the precision disc tip is high. In the embodiments, the reinforcing ring 220 can be made of any suitable conductive or non-conductive material; preferably, stainless steel, such that the flexural modulus of the suitable conductive or non-conductive material is greater than the flexural modulus of the precision disc tip 230. The higher flexural modulus of the reinforcing ring 220, particularly, the higher flexural modulus of the exposed edge lip 324, increases the connection strength between the ball stud 240, 840 and the precision disc tip 230, such that unwanted disengagement of the ball stud 240, 840 is prevented.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 4, and referring to FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, in the embodiment, the precision disc tip 230 has a top flat disc surface 422, a bottom flat disc surface 424, and a frustum receiving portion 426 extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface 422 having an opening therethrough. In an embodiment, the precision disc tip 230 can be made of any suitable non-conductive material, such as transparent polycarbonate (PC) plastic, transparent polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), or other plastic materials according to the embodiments of the invention; preferably, transparent polycarbonate (PC) plastic. The frustum receiving portion 426 comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427 having a top receiving channel edge 428 and a bottom receiving channel edge 429 and a ring cavity 421 surrounding the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427. The reinforcing ring 220 is integrally formed with the ring cavity 421 and the exposed edge lip 324 of the reinforcing ring 220 is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge 428 of the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427. Accordingly, the shape of the ring cavity 421, including number of support protrusions and dispositions thereof, corresponds to the shape of the reinforcing ring 220 up to the exposed edge lip 324 of the reinforcing ring 220. In the embodiment, the ring body 322 of the reinforcing ring 220 is perpendicular 32IP to the bottom flat disc surface 424 of the precision disc tip 230; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the alignment of the ring body 322 of the reinforcing ring 220 can be angled 521A to the center of rotation of a spherical head, wherein the angle is at least less than 90° such that the diameter of a bottom ring rim 525 is greater than the diameter of a top ring rim 523 as in FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B and FIG. 6, or other alignments according to embodiments.

[0034] The support inner protrusion 326 and support outer protrusion 328 of the reinforcing ring 220 improves coupling strength between the reinforcing ring 220 and ring cavity 421 of the precision disc tip 230 after the precision disc tip 230 is solidified following insert-molding thereof. The bottom flat disc surface 424 of the precision disc tip 230 has a centric circular cut-out 425, wherein a support conductive disc shim 1054 of the retaining proximal layered assembly 250 is fitted therein, such that strength and stability when retaining the ball stud 240, 840, during rotational movement in the frustum receiving portion 426 of the precision disc tip 230 is increased.

[0035] FIG. 5A is a bottom front side perspective view illustrating another reinforcing ring according to various embodiments, FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view illustrating another reinforcing ring according to various embodiments and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating another precision disc tip according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, and referring to FIG. 6, in an embodiment, the reinforcing ring 520 has a ring body 522, a top ring rim 523, a bottom ring rim 525 opposite the top ring rim 523, an exposed edge lip 524 extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim 523, a support inner protrusion 526, extending radially inwardly from the bottom ring rim 525, and a support outer protrusion 528 opposite to the support inner protrusion 526, extending radially outwardly from the bottom ring rim 525. In the embodiment, the reinforcing ring 520 has two ring-like support protrusions 526, 528, disposed opposite to the exposed edge lip 524; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The reinforcing ring 520 can also have one or more than two support protrusions, having a ring-like shape, wavy shape, jagged shape, or the like, be disposed at the bottom ring rim 525 of the ring body 522, at different positions between the bottom and top ring rims 525, 523 of the ring body 522, or any combination of support protrusions, shapes, or dispositions, such that there is clear tip point visibility, reinforcing ability is present, and coupling strength between the reinforcing ring 520 and ring cavity 621 of the precision disc tip 630 is high. In the embodiment, the reinforcing ring 520 is made of one solid piece; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The reinforcing ring 520 can be made of more than one solid piece or have holes, or the like therein, such that there is clear tip point visibility, reinforcing ability is present, and coupling strength between the reinforcing ring 520 and ring cavity 621 of the precision disc tip 630 is high. In the embodiments, the reinforcing ring 520 can be made of any suitable conductive or non-conductive material; preferably, stainless steel, such that the flexural modulus of the suitable conductive or non-conductive material is greater than the flexural modulus of the precision disc tip 630. The higher flexural modulus of the reinforcing ring 520, particularly, the higher flexural modulus of the exposed edge lip 524, increases the connection strength between the ball stud 240, 840 and the precision disc tip 630, such that unwanted disengagement of the ball stud 240, 840 is prevented.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 6, in the embodiment, the precision disc tip 630 has a top flat disc surface 622, a bottom flat disc surface 624, and a frustum receiving portion 626 extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface 622 having an opening therethrough. In an embodiment, the precision disc tip 630 can be made of any suitable non-conductive material, such as transparent polycarbonate (PC) plastic, transparent polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), or other plastic materials according to the embodiments of the invention; preferably, transparent polycarbonate (PC) plastic.

The frustum receiving portion 626 comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel 627 having a top receiving channel edge 628 and a bottom receiving channel edge 629 and a ring cavity 621 surrounding the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 627. The reinforcing ring 520 is integrally formed with the ring cavity 621 and the exposed edge lip 524 of the reinforcing ring 520 is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge 628 of the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 627. Accordingly, the shape of the ring cavity 621, including number of support protrusions and dispositions thereof, corresponds to the shape of the reinforcing ring 520 up to the exposed edge lip 524 of the reinforcing ring 520. In the embodiment, the ring body

522 of the reinforcing ring 520 is angled 521A to the center of rotation of a spherical head, wherein the angle is at least less than 90° such that the diameter of the bottom ring rim 525 of the reinforcing ring 520 is greater than the diameter of the top ring rim

523 of the reinforcing ring 520; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the alignment of the ring body 522 of the reinforcing ring 520 can be perpendicular 321P to the bottom flat disc surface 424 of the precision disc tip 230 as in FIG. 3 A, FIG. 3B and FIG. 4, or other alignments according to embodiments.

[0037] The support inner protrusion 526 and support outer protrusion 528 of the reinforcing ring 520 improves coupling strength between the reinforcing ring 520 and ring cavity 621 of the precision disc tip 630 after the precision disc tip 630 is solidified following insert-molding thereof. The bottom flat disc surface 624 of the precision disc tip 630 has a centric circular cut-out 625, wherein a support conductive disc shim 1054 of the retaining proximal layered assembly 250 is fitted therein, such that strength and stability when retaining the ball stud 240, 840, during rotational movement in the frustum receiving portion 626 of the precision disc tip 630 is increased.

[0038] FIG. 7 is a perspective side view illustrating a ball stud according to various embodiments and FIG. 9 is a perspective top front side view illustrating a reinforced stylus precision disc tip according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 9, and referring to FIG. 4 and FIG. 6, as an example, and not to be limiting to other combination of embodiments, in the embodiment, the ball stud 240 has a spherical head 742 and a stud body portion 748, wherein the spherical head 742 is inserted in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427, 627 of the precision disc tip 230, 630 to allow rotational movement therein, and wherein the stud body portion 748 extends upwardly through the frustum receiving portion 426, 626 of the precision disc tip 230, 630 and is electrically coupled to the stylus. In an embodiment, the ball stud 240 can be made of any suitable conductive material, such as stainless steel, aluminum or copper, and the like; preferably, stainless steel. In the embodiment, the stud body portion 748 of the ball stud 240 comprises a neck portion 744, a tapered cone section 746, a cylindrical body 747 and a shaft attachment end 749, wherein the neck portion 744 is integrally formed with the spherical head 742 and tapered cone section 746 of the ball stud 240 and the cylindrical body 747 is integrally formed with the tapered cone section 746 and shaft attachment end 749 of the ball stud 240. The diameter of the neck portion 744 is smaller than the diameter of the spherical head 742 and tapered cone section 746 such that the angle of rotational movement 24 IR of the stud body portion 748 relative to the center of rotation of the spherical head 742 is at least 100° degrees. In an embodiment, the shape of the shaft attachment end 749 of the ball stud is cylindrical such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 is electrical coupled and press fitted attached to the stylus; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Other shapes can be implemented according to other embodiments to electrically couple and attach the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 to the stylus. FIG. 9 is a perspective side view illustrating another ball stud according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 9, in other embodiments, the shaft attachment end 849 of the ball stud 840 is threaded such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and screw attached to the stylus.

[0039] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional top front side view illustrating a retaining proximal layered assembly according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 10, and referring to FIG. 2 to FIG. 9 and FIG. 11, as examples, and not to be limiting to other combination of embodiments, in the embodiment, the retaining proximal layered assembly 250 is mounted to the bottom flat disc surface 424, 624 of the precision disc tip 230, 630, electrically coupled to and pressing against the spherical head 742, 842 of the ball stud 240, 840. The retaining proximal layered assembly 250 has a compressible conductive disc shim 1052, a support conductive disc shim 1054 having a circular raised bottom central portion 1054R, an adhesive disc layer 1056 having a centroid adhesive layer bore 1157 therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer 1058. In an embodiment, the compressible conductive disc shim 1052 can be made of any suitable compressible conductive material, such as copper or aluminum foil, or other compressible conductive material according to the embodiments of the invention. The compressibility of the compressible conductive disc shim 1052 not only allows for constant contact between the spherical head 742, 842 of the ball stud 240, 840 and the compressible conductive disc shim 1052 during use, it also allows for the largest possible contact area between the spherical head 742, 842 of the ball stud 240, 840 and the compressible conductive disc shim 1052 during rotational movement of the ball stud 240, 840 via indentation. In an embodiment, the support conductive disc shim

1052 can be made of any suitable conductive material, such as stainless steel, aluminum or copper, and the like; preferably, stainless steel. A harder conductive material is used for the support conductive disc shim 1054, as opposed to the compressible conductive disc shim 1052, such that it withstands the forces exerted on the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 during usage. In an embodiment, the conductive proximal disc layer 1058 can be made of any suitable conductive material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO) transparent conductive films or aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) transparent conductive films, and the like; preferably, ITO transparent conductive films. The adhesive layer 1056, bonds the conductive proximal disc layer 1058 to the bottom flat disc surface 424, 624 of the precision disc tip 230, 630 and support conductive disc shim 1054, wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer 1056 and the diameter of a centroid adhesive layer bore 1157 is dimensioned such that the compressible conductive disc shim 1052, support conductive disc shim 1054, and conductive proximal disc layer 1058 are electrically coupled to the ball stud 240, 840. The circular raised bottom central portion 1054R of the support conductive disc shim 1054, wherein the adhesive layer 1056 contacts exposed side surfaces thereof, increases the bonding area of the adhesive layer 1056 thereto and secures the support conductive disc shim 1054 from movement, such that strength and stability when retaining the ball stud 240, 840 during rotational movement in the frustum receiving portion 426, 626 of the precision disc tip 230, 630 is increased. The adhesive layer 1056 can be a transparent adhesive layer, or any suitable adhesive layer, according to embodiments, and the shape of the retaining proximal layered assembly 250 corresponds to the shape of the bottom flat disc surface 424, 624 of the precision disc tip 230, 630.

[0040] The retaining proximal layered assembly 250, frustum receiving portion 426, 626 of the precision disc tip 230, 630, and the exposed edge lip 324, 524 of the reinforcing ring 220, 520 retains the spherical head 742, 842 of the ball stud 240, 840 in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427, 627 of the precision disc tip 230, 630 during rotational movement of the spherical head 742, 842, preventing unwanted disengagement of the ball stud 240, 840 from the precision disc tip 230, 630 during use. [0041] FIG. 11 is an exploded view illustrating a reinforced stylus precision disc tip according to various embodiments and FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a manufacturing method for a reinforced stylus precision disc tip according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, and referring to FIG. 2 to FIG. 4, FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 to FIG. 11 as an example, and not to be limiting to other combination of embodiments, the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 comprises a reinforcing ring 220, a precision disc tip 230, a ball stud 240, and a retaining proximal layered assembly 250. In an embodiment, at Step S1210, the reinforcing ring 220 having a ring body 322, a top ring rim 323, a bottom ring rim 325 opposite the top ring rim 323, an exposed edge lip 324 extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim 323, a support inner protrusion 326, extending radially inwardly from the bottom ring rim 325, and a support outer protrusion 328 opposite to the support inner protrusion 326, extending radially outwardly from the bottom ring rim 325 is formed. In the embodiment, the reinforcing ring 220 has two ring-like support protrusions 326, 328, disposed opposite to the exposed edge lip 324; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The reinforcing ring 220 can also have one or more than two support protrusions, having a ring-like shape, wavy shape, jagged shape, or the like, be disposed at the bottom ring rim 325 of the ring body 322, at different positions between the bottom and top ring rims 325, 323 of the ring body 322, or any combination of support protrusions, shapes, or dispositions, such that there is clear tip point visibility, reinforcing ability is present, and coupling strength between the reinforcing ring 220 and ring cavity 421 of the precision disc tip 230 is high. In the embodiment, the reinforcing ring 220 is made of one solid piece; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The reinforcing ring 220 can be made of more than one solid piece or have holes, or the like therein, such that there is clear tip point visibility, reinforcing ability is present, and coupling strength between the reinforcing ring 220 and ring cavity 421 of the precision disc tip 230 is high. In the embodiments, the reinforcing ring 220 can be made of any suitable conductive or non-conductive material; preferably, stainless steel, such that the flexural modulus of the suitable conductive or non-conductive material is greater than the flexural modulus of the precision disc tip 230. The higher flexural modulus of the reinforcing ring 220, particularly, the higher flexural modulus of the exposed edge lip 324, increases the connection strength between the ball stud 240 and the precision disc tip 230, such that unwanted disengagement of the ball stud 240 is prevented. In the embodiment, at Step SI220, the reinforcing ring 220 is disposed in a precision disc tip mold (not shown) of the precision disc tip 230 which is formed in advance.

[0042] In the embodiment, at Step 1230, the precision disc tip 230 having a top flat disc surface 422, a bottom flat disc surface 424, and a frustum receiving portion 426 extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface 422 having an opening therethrough is formed by injection-molding, following preparation thereof. In an embodiment, the precision disc tip 230 can be made of any suitable nonconductive material, such as transparent polycarbonate (PC) plastic, transparent polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), or other plastic materials according to the embodiments of the invention; preferably, transparent polycarbonate (PC) plastic. The frustum receiving portion 426 comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427 having a top receiving channel edge 428 and a bottom receiving channel edge 429 and a ring cavity 421 surrounding the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427. The reinforcing ring 220 is integrally formed within the ring cavity 421 and the exposed edge lip 324 of the reinforcing ring 220 is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge 428 of the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427. Accordingly, the shape of the ring cavity 421, including number of support protrusions and dispositions thereof, corresponds to the shape of the reinforcing ring 220 up to the exposed edge lip 324 of the reinforcing ring 220. In an embodiment, the ring body 322 of the reinforcing ring 220 is perpendicular 32 IP to the bottom flat disc surface 424 of the precision disc tip 230 as in FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B and FIG. 4; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the alignment of the ring body 522 of the reinforcing ring 520 can be angled to the center of rotation of the spherical head 742, wherein the angle 521A is at least less than 90° such that the diameter of the bottom ring rim 525 of the reinforcing ring 520 is greater than the diameter of the top ring rim 523 of the reinforcing ring 520 as in FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B and FIG. 6, or other alignments according to embodiments. The support inner protrusion 326 and support outer protrusion 328 of the reinforcing ring 220 improves coupling strength between the reinforcing ring 220 and ring cavity 421 of the precision disc tip 230 after the precision disc tip 230 is solidified following insert-molding thereof. The bottom flat disc surface 424 of the precision disc tip 230 has a centric circular cut-out 425, wherein a support conductive disc shim 1054 of the retaining proximal layered assembly 250 is fitted therein, such that strength and stability when retaining the ball stud 240 during rotational movement in the frustum receiving portion 426 of the precision disc tip 230 is increased.

[0043] In the embodiment, at Step 1240, the ball stud 240 having a spherical head 742 and a stud body portion 748 is formed. In an embodiment, the ball stud 240 can be made of any suitable conductive material, such as stainless steel, aluminum or copper, and the like; preferably, stainless steel. In the embodiment, the stud body portion 748 of the ball stud comprises a neck portion 744, a tapered cone section 746, a cylindrical body 747 and a shaft attachment end 749, wherein the neck portion 744 is integrally formed with the spherical head 742 and tapered cone section 746 of the ball stud 240 and the cylindrical body 747 is integrally formed with the tapered cone section 746 and shaft attachment end 749 of the ball stud 240. The diameter of the neck portion 744 is smaller than the diameter of the spherical head 742 and tapered cone section 746 such that the angle of rotational movement 241R of the stud body portion 748 relative to the center of rotation of the spherical head 742 is at least 100° degrees.

[0044] In the embodiment, at Step 1250, the ball stud 240 having the spherical head 742 is inserted in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427 of the precision disc tip 230 to allow rotational movement therein, wherein the stud body portion 748 extends upwardly through the frustum receiving portion 426 of the precision disc tip 230 and is electrically coupled to the stylus. In an embodiment, the shape of the shaft attachment end 749 of the ball stud 240 is cylindrical such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 is electrical coupled and press fitted attached to the stylus; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Other shapes can be implemented according to other embodiments to electrically couple and attach the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 to the stylus. As shown in FIG. 9, in other embodiments, the shaft attachment end 849 of the ball stud 840 is threaded such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and screw attached to the stylus.

[0045] In the embodiment, at Step 1260, the retaining proximal layered assembly 250 having a compressible conductive disc shim 1052, a support conductive disc shim 1054 having a circular raised bottom central portion 1054R, an adhesive disc layer 1056 having a centroid adhesive layer bore 1157 therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer 1058 is formed. In an embodiment, the adhesive layer 1056 contacts exposed side surfaces of the circular raised bottom central portion 1054R. In an embodiment, the compressible conductive disc shim 1052 can be made of any suitable compressible conductive material, such as copper or aluminum foil, or other compressible conductive material according to the embodiments of the invention. The compressibility of the compressible conductive disc shim 1052 not only allows for constant contact between the spherical head 742 of the ball stud 240 and the compressible conductive disc shim 1052 during use, it also allows for the largest possible contact area between the spherical head 742 of the ball stud 240 and the compressible conductive disc shim 1052 during rotational movement of the ball stud 240 via indentation. In an embodiment, the support conductive disc shim 1054 can be made of any suitable conductive material, such as stainless steel, aluminum or copper, and the like; preferably, stainless steel. A harder conductive material is used for the support conductive disc shim 1054, as opposed to the compressible conductive disc shim 1052, such that it withstands the forces exerted on the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 during usage. In an embodiment, the conductive proximal disc layer 1058 can be made of any suitable conductive material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO) transparent conductive films or aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) transparent conductive films, and the like; preferably, ITO transparent conductive films. In the embodiment, at Step 1260, the conductive proximal disc layer 1058 is pressed and bonded such that the retaining proximal layered assembly 250 is mounted to the bottom flat disc surface 424 of the precision disc tip 230 and electrically coupled to and pressing against the spherical head 742 of the ball stud 240 via the adhesive layer 1056, wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer 856 and the diameter of the centroid adhesive layer bore 1157 is dimensioned such that the compressible conductive disc shim 1052, support conductive disc shim 1054, and conductive proximal disc layer 1056 are electrically coupled to the ball stud 240. The circular raised bottom central portion 1054R of the support conductive disc shim 1054 increases the bonding area of the adhesive layer 1056 thereto and secures the support conductive disc shim 1054 from movement, such that strength and stability when retaining the ball stud 240 during rotational movement in the frustum receiving portion 426 of the precision disc tip 230 is increased. The adhesive layer 1056 can be a transparent adhesive layer, or any suitable adhesive layer, according to embodiments, and the shape of the retaining proximal layered assembly 250 corresponds to the shape of the bottom flat disc surface 424 of the precision disc tip 230.

[0046] In the embodiment, at Step 1280, the reinforced stylus precision disc tip 160 is heat-treated such that the retaining proximal layered assembly 250, frustum receiving portion 426 of the precision disc tip 230, and the exposed edge lip 324 of the reinforcing ring 220 retains the spherical head 742 of the ball stud 240 in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel 427 of the precision disc tip 230 during rotational movement of the spherical head 742, preventing unwanted disengagement of the ball stud 240 from the precision disc tip 230 during use.

[0047] In the embodiments, the capacitance projections detected by the touch sensitive device can be in the shape of an image showing the stylus touching or coming within proximity of the touch screen surface of the touch sensitive device. Suitable image processing methods can be performed on the captured images to determine coordinates of a main central point of the main capacitance projection and an adjusted central point of the adjusted capacitance projection on the touch screen surface. Suitable image processing methods can comprise look up tables or equations, wherein one equation calculates tilt angle as a function of proximity and another equation calculates tilt direction as a function of relative position; however, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Other orientation calculation methods can be implemented according to other embodiments.

[0048] The reinforcing ring of the embodiments, help to prevent unwanted disengagement of the ball stud from the precision disc tip during use. Additionally, since the reinforcing ring has a support inner protrusion and a support outer protrusion and is integrally formed within the ring cavity of the precision disc tip while the precision disc tip is being insert-molded, connection strength therebetween is high. Therefore, pull-out strength of the ball stud, force in the axial/radial direction to which the ball stud can endure until the spherical head thereof is separated from the precision disc tip, is improved. The reinforcing ring helps to prevent the ball stud from being separated upwardly from the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip and the mounted and heat treated retaining proximal layered assembly prevents the ball stud from being separated downwardly from the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip.

[0049] A stylus precision disc can offer users a more natural and effortless feel (e.g. clear view (no blind spots), sharp tip point recognition, no lagging, wavy lines, etc.) with enhanced sensitivity for fine line output when a stylus is touching and moving along a touch screen surface of a touch sensitive device via clear tip point visibility and precise coordinate detection, thereby improving the stylus experience.

[0050] The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of the embodiments can be used to enhance sensitivity of a stylus for fine line output, while also extending the useable life thereof via the reinforcing ring, which prevents disengagement due to decreasing pullout strength between the ball stud and precision disc tip during usage over time and/or axial/radial forces being placed on the stylus precision disc tip during usage. Accordingly, replacement costs are decreased, maximized rotational angle usage is assured and disengagement is prevented, while also still achieving clear tip point visibility and precise coordinate detection.

[0051] From the foregoing it will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications can be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, where an alternative is disclosed for a particular embodiment, this alternative can also apply to other embodiments even if not specifically stated.

[0052] Additionally, although embodiments are described herein in terms of a stylus, it is to be understood that other input devices and/or pointing devices can be used according to various embodiments. Also, although embodiments are described herein in terms of capacitive touch sensitive devices, it is to be understood that other touch sensitive devices capable of sensing an object touching or coming within proximity of a touch screen surface of a capacitive touch sensitive device can be used according to various embodiments.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A reinforced stylus precision disc tip configured to operate with a stylus and a capacitive touch sensitive device, comprising:

a reinforcing ring having a ring body, a top ring rim, a bottom ring rim opposite the top ring rim, an exposed edge lip extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim, a support inner protrusion, extending radially inwardly from the bottom ring rim, and a support outer protrusion opposite to the support inner protrusion, extending radially outwardly from the bottom ring rim;

a precision disc tip having a top flat disc surface, a bottom flat disc surface, and a frustum receiving portion extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface having an opening therethrough, wherein the frustum receiving portion comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel having a top receiving channel edge and a bottom receiving channel edge and a ring cavity surrounding the circular cross-sectional receiving channel, wherein the reinforcing ring is integrally formed within the ring cavity, and wherein the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge of the circular cross-sectional receiving channel;

a ball stud having a spherical head and a stud body portion, wherein the spherical head is inserted in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip to allow rotational movement therein, and wherein the stud body portion extends upwardly through the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip and is electrically coupled to the stylus; and a retaining proximal layered assembly mounted to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip having a compressible conductive disc shim, a support conductive disc shim, an adhesive disc layer having a centroid adhesive layer bore therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer, wherein the adhesive layer bonds the conductive proximal disc layer to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip and support conductive disc shim, and wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer and the diameter 5 of the centroid adhesive layer bore is dimensioned such that the compressible conductive disc shim, support conductive disc shim, and conductive proximal disc layer are electrically coupled to the ball stud, wherein the retaining proximal layered assembly, frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip, and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring retains the spherical 10 head of the ball stud in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel during rotational movement of the spherical head.

2. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the ring body of the reinforcing ring is perpendicular to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip.

3. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the ring body of the

15 reinforcing ring is angled to the center of rotation of the spherical head of the ball stud, wherein the angle is at least less than 90° such that the diameter of the bottom ring rim of the reinforcing ring is greater than the diameter of the top ring rim of the reinforcing ring.

4. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip has a centric circular cut-out, wherein the support conductive disc shim of the retaining proximal layered assembly is fitted therein.

5. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the support conductive disc shim of the retaining proximal layered assembly has a circular raised bottom central portion, wherein the adhesive layer contacts exposed side surfaces thereof.

6. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the stud body portion of the ball stud comprises a neck portion, a tapered cone section, a cylindrical body and a shaft attachment end, wherein the neck portion is integrally formed with the spherical head and tapered cone section of the ball stud and the cylindrical body is integrally formed with the tapered cone section and shaft attachment end of the ball stud, and wherein the diameter of the neck portion is smaller than the diameter of the spherical head and tapered cone section such that the angle of rotational movement of the stud body portion relative to the center of rotation of the spherical head is at least 100° degrees.

7. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 6, wherein the shape of the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is cylindrical such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and press fitted attached to the stylus.

8. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 6, wherein the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is threaded such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and screw attached to the stylus.

9. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the compressible conductive disc shim is made of a compressible conductive material such as copper or aluminum such that a contact surface area between the compressible conductive disc shim and the spherical head of the ball stud is maintained during rotational movement of the spherical head in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip.

10. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the conductive proximal disc layer is made of a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide.

11. A manufacturing method of a reinforced stylus precision disc tip configured to operate with a stylus and a capacitive touch sensitive device, comprising:

forming a reinforcing ring having a ring body, a top ring rim, a bottom ring rim opposite the top ring rim, an exposed edge lip extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim, a support inner protrusion, extending radially inwardly from the bottom ring rim, and a support outer protrusion opposite to the support inner protrusion, extending radially outwardly from the bottom ring rim;

disposing the reinforcing ring in a precision disc tip mold of the precision disc tip;

injection-molding a precision disc tip having a top flat disc surface, a bottom flat disc surface, and a frustum receiving portion extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface having an opening therethrough, wherein the frustum receiving portion comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel having a top receiving channel edge and a bottom receiving channel edge and a ring cavity surrounding the circular cross-sectional receiving channel, wherein the reinforcing ring is integrally formed within the ring cavity, and wherein the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge of the circular cross-sectional receiving channel;

forming a ball stud having a spherical head and a stud body portion;

inserting the ball stud in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip such that rotational movement of the spherical head of the ball stud is allowed therein, wherein the stud body portion extends upwardly through the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip and is electrically coupled to the stylus;

forming a retaining proximal layered assembly having a compressible conductive disc shim, a support conductive disc shim, an adhesive disc layer having a centroid adhesive layer bore therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer;

pressing and bonding the conductive proximal disc layer to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip through the adhesive layer, wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer and the diameter of the centroid adhesive layer bore is dimensioned such that the compressible conductive disc shim, support conductive disc shim, and conductive proximal disc layer are electrically coupled to the ball stud; and heat-treating the reinforced stylus precision disc tip such that the retaining proximal layered assembly, frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip, and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring retains the spherical head of the ball stud in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel during rotational movement of the spherical head.

12. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the ring body of the reinforcing ring is perpendicular to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip.

13. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the ring body of the reinforcing ring is angled to the center of rotation of the spherical head of the ball stud, wherein the angle is at least less than 90° such that the diameter of the bottom ring rim of the reinforcing ring is greater than the diameter of the top ring rim of the reinforcing ring.

14. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip has a centric circular cutout, wherein the support conductive disc shim of the retaining proximal layered assembly is fitted therein.

15. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the support conductive disc shim of the retaining proximal layered assembly has a circular raised bottom central portion, wherein the adhesive layer contacts exposed side surfaces thereof.

16. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the stud body portion of the ball stud comprises a neck portion, a tapered cone section, a cylindrical body and a shaft attachment end, wherein the neck portion is integrally formed with the spherical head and tapered cone section of the ball stud and the cylindrical body is integrally formed with the tapered cone section and shaft attachment end of the ball stud, and wherein the diameter of the neck portion is smaller than the diameter of the spherical head and tapered cone section such that the angle of rotational movement of the stud body portion relative to the center of rotation of the spherical head is at least 100° degrees.

17. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 16, wherein the shape of the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is cylindrical such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and press fitted attached to the stylus.

18. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 16, wherein the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is threaded such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and screw attached to the stylus.

19. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the compressible conductive disc shim is made of a compressible conductive material such as copper or aluminum such that a contact surface area between the compressible conductive disc shim and the spherical head of the ball stud is maintained during rotational movement of the spherical head in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip.

5

20. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the conductive proximal disc layer is made of a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide.

19. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the compressible conductive disc shim is made of a compressible conductive material such as copper or aluminum such that a contact surface area between the compressible conductive disc shim and the spherical head of the ball stud is maintained

5 during rotational movement of the spherical head in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip.

Amendments to the claims have been file as follows

What is claimed is:

a reinforcing ring having a ring body, a top ring rim, a bottom ring rim opposite the top

5 ring rim, an exposed edge lip extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim, a support protrusion extending radially from the bottom ring rim;

a precision disc tip having a top flat disc surface, a bottom flat disc surface, and a frustum receiving portion extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface having an opening therethrough, wherein the frustum receiving portion

10 comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel having a top receiving channel edge and a bottom receiving channel edge and a ring cavity surrounding the circular cross-sectional receiving channel, wherein the reinforcing ring is integrally formed within the ring cavity, and wherein the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge of the circular cross-sectional

15 receiving channel;

a ball stud having a spherical head and a stud body portion, wherein the spherical head is inserted in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip to allow rotational movement therein, and wherein the stud body portion extends upwardly from the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip and is electrically coupled to

2 0 the stylus; and a retaining proximal layered assembly mounted to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip having a compressible conductive disc shim, a support conductive disc shim, an adhesive disc layer having a centroid adhesive layer bore therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer, wherein the adhesive layer bonds the conductive proximal disc layer to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip and support conductive disc shim, and wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer and the diameter of the centroid adhesive layer bore is dimensioned such that the compressible conductive disc shim, support conductive disc shim, and conductive proximal disc layer 5 are electrically coupled to the ball stud, wherein the retaining proximal layered assembly, frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip, and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring retains the spherical head of the ball stud in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel during rotational movement of the spherical head.

10 2. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the ring body of the reinforcing ring is perpendicular to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip.

I

3. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the ring body of the reinforcing ring is angled to the center of rotation of the spherical head of the ball stud, wherein the angle is at least less than 90° such that the diameter of the bottom ring rim 15 of the reinforcing ring is greater than the diameter of the top ring rim of the reinforcing ring.

5. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the support conductive

5 disc shim of the retaining proximal layered assembly has a circular raised bottom central portion, wherein the adhesive layer contacts exposed side surfaces thereof.

6. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the stud body portion of the ball stud comprises a neck portion, a tapered cone section, a cylindrical body and a shaft attachment end, wherein the neck portion is integrally formed with the spherical • ·· • · · • ··

10 head and tapered cone section of the ball stud and the cylindrical body is integrally formed with the tapered cone section and shaft attachment end of the ball stud, and wherein the diameter of the neck portion is smaller than the diameter of the spherical head and tapered cone section such that the angle of rotational movement of the stud body portion relative to the center of rotation of the spherical head is at least 100° 15 degrees.

8. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 6, wherein the shaft attachment end

20 of the ball stud is threaded such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and screw attached to the stylus.

10. The reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 1, wherein the conductive proximal 5 disc layer is made of a transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide.

forming a reinforcing ring having a ring body, a top ring rim, a bottom ring rim opposite the top ring rim, an exposed edge lip extending radially inwardly from the top ring rim, • ·· • · · • ··

10 a support protrusion extending radially from the bottom ring rim;

injection-molding a precision disc tip having a top flat disc surface, a bottom flat disc surface, and a frustum receiving portion extending radially upwardly from a centroid of the top flat disc surface having an opening therethrough, wherein the frustum receiving 15 portion comprises a circular cross-sectional receiving channel having a top receiving channel edge and a bottom receiving channel edge and a ring cavity surrounding the circular cross-sectional receiving channel, wherein the reinforcing ring is integrally formed within the ring cavity, and wherein the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring is exposed and flush with the top receiving channel edge of the circular cross-sectional

2 0 receiving channel;

forming a ball stud having a spherical head and a stud body portion;

inserting the ball stud in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel of the precision disc tip such that rotational movement of the spherical head of the ball stud is allowed therein, wherein the stud body portion extends upwardly from the frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip and is electrically coupled to the stylus;

forming a retaining proximal layered assembly having a compressible conductive disc shim, a support conductive disc shim, an adhesive disc layer having a centroid adhesive 5 layer bore therethrough, and a conductive proximal disc layer;

pressing and bonding the conductive proximal disc layer to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip through the adhesive layer, wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer and the diameter of the centroid adhesive layer bore is dimensioned such that the compressible conductive disc shim, support conductive disc shim, and • ·♦ • · · • ··

10 conductive proximal disc layer are electrically coupled to the ball stud; and heat-treating the reinforced stylus precision disc tip such that the retaining proximal layered assembly, frustum receiving portion of the precision disc tip, and the exposed edge lip of the reinforcing ring retains the spherical head of the ball stud in the circular cross-sectional receiving channel during rotational movement of the spherical head.

15 12. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the ring body of the reinforcing ring is perpendicular to the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip.

13. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the ring body of the reinforcing ring is angled to the center of rotation of the

2 0 spherical head of the ball stud, wherein the angle is at least less than 90° such that the diameter of the bottom ring rim of the reinforcing ring is greater than the diameter of the top ring rim of the reinforcing ring.

14. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the bottom flat disc surface of the precision disc tip has a centric circular cut45 out, wherein the support conductive disc shim of the retaining proximal layered assembly is fitted therein.

15. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the support conductive disc shim of the retaining proximal layered assembly 5 has a circular raised bottom central portion, wherein the adhesive layer contacts exposed side surfaces thereof.

16. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 11, wherein the stud body portion of the ball stud comprises a neck portion, a tapered cone section, a cylindrical body and a shaft attachment end, wherein the neck portion is

10 integrally formed with the spherical head and tapered cone section of the ball stud and the cylindrical body is integrally formed with the tapered cone section and shaft attachment end of the ball stud, and wherein the diameter of the neck portion is smaller than the diameter of the spherical head and tapered cone section such that the angle of rotational movement of the stud body portion relative to the center of rotation of the

15 spherical head is at least 100° degrees.

20 18. The manufacturing method of the reinforced stylus precision disc tip of claim 16, wherein the shaft attachment end of the ball stud is threaded such that the reinforced stylus precision disc tip is electrical coupled and screw attached to the stylus.