Classifications

• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
  • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
  • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
  • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F3/016—Input arrangements with force or tactile feedback as computer generated output to the user
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
  • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
  • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
  • G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
  • G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
  • G06F1/1626—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with a single-body enclosure integrating a flat display, e.g. Personal Digital Assistants [PDAs]
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
  • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
  • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
  • G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
  • G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
  • G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
  • G06F1/1662—Details related to the integrated keyboard
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
  • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
  • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
  • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
  • G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
  • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
  • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
  • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
  • G06F3/023—Arrangements for converting discrete items of information into a coded form, e.g. arrangements for interpreting keyboard generated codes as alphanumeric codes, operand codes or instruction codes
  • G06F3/0233—Character input methods
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
  • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
  • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
  • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
  • G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
  • G06F3/0338—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor with detection of limited linear or angular displacement of an operating part of the device from a neutral position, e.g. isotonic or isometric joysticks
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
  • G09B—EDUCATIONAL OR DEMONSTRATION APPLIANCES; APPLIANCES FOR TEACHING, OR COMMUNICATING WITH, THE BLIND, DEAF OR MUTE; MODELS; PLANETARIA; GLOBES; MAPS; DIAGRAMS
  • G09B19/00—Teaching not covered by other main groups of this subclass
  • G09B19/12—Clock-reading
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
  • G09B—EDUCATIONAL OR DEMONSTRATION APPLIANCES; APPLIANCES FOR TEACHING, OR COMMUNICATING WITH, THE BLIND, DEAF OR MUTE; MODELS; PLANETARIA; GLOBES; MAPS; DIAGRAMS
  • G09B21/00—Teaching, or communicating with, the blind, deaf or mute
  • G09B21/001—Teaching or communicating with blind persons
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
  • G09B—EDUCATIONAL OR DEMONSTRATION APPLIANCES; APPLIANCES FOR TEACHING, OR COMMUNICATING WITH, THE BLIND, DEAF OR MUTE; MODELS; PLANETARIA; GLOBES; MAPS; DIAGRAMS
  • G09B21/00—Teaching, or communicating with, the blind, deaf or mute
  • G09B21/001—Teaching or communicating with blind persons
  • G09B21/003—Teaching or communicating with blind persons using tactile presentation of the information, e.g. Braille displays
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
  • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
  • G06F2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to G06F3/00 - G06F3/048
  • G06F2203/01—Indexing scheme relating to G06F3/01
  • G06F2203/014—Force feedback applied to GUI
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
  • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
  • H01H2215/00—Tactile feedback
  • H01H2215/05—Tactile feedback electromechanical
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
  • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
  • H01H2215/00—Tactile feedback
  • H01H2215/05—Tactile feedback electromechanical
  • H01H2215/052—Tactile feedback electromechanical piezoelectric

Definitions

• the present invention relates to products and processes for providing haptic feedback.
• Handheld electronic devices such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), pocket personal computers (PCs), gamepads, and camcorders, generally have multiple buttons that allow one to interface with the device by inputting information.
• PDAs personal digital assistants
• PCs pocket personal computers
• gamepads and camcorders
• the capabilities of these devices are increasing while the size and weight are decreasing to enhance their portability.
• mobile phones in addition to their traditional role as voice-communication devices, now include functions traditionally associated with other devices, such as electronic games, PDAs, and digital cameras.
• the handheld devices typically provide visual and aural cues or feedback.
• some of these devices attempt to enhance the effectiveness of device feedback by providing tactile cues or feedback.
• Some devices utilize structural tactile methods.
• One such example is to provide raised surfaces on the input surface, e.g., a keypad, of the device.
• Such methods are inherently static and thus cannot offer effective tactile feedback.
• Active methods of providing tactile feedback include incorporating a pager motor into handheld electronic devices. Such a method of providing haptic cues, however, generally vibrates the entire device.
• the size of the input area in a handheld device limits the area used to provide haptic feedback. Furthermore, the amount of physical contact with the input area is generally limited to a small surface of a finger while inputting information to the device. Moreover, the act of inputting information to the device involves applying pressure against the input surface, thereby attenuating the haptic feedback conducted through the button or keypad. Thus, the number and effectiveness of haptic cues that can be conveyed in such a manner is very limited.
• an apparatus comprises a switch and an actuator in communication with the rocker switch.
• the rocker switch is operable to output a first signal.
• the actuator is operable to provide haptic feedback associated with the first signal.
• Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an apparatus according to the present invention.
• Figure 2 is a perspective view of a mobile phone according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• Figure 3 is a perspective view of a surface of the mobile phone of Figure 2.
• Figure 4 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present invention.
• Figure 5 is a schematic of an alternate embodiment of an apparatus according to the present invention.
• Figure 6 shows a block diagram of an alternate embodiment of a method according to the present invention.
• Embodiments of the present invention comprise products and processes for providing haptic feedback.
• One exemplary embodiment provides haptic feedback to an input area.
• kinesthetic feedback such as, without limitation, active and resistive force feedback
• tactile feedback such as, without limitation, vibration, texture, and heat
• haptic feedback is also provided to a user, more generally known collectively as "haptic feedback.”
• Embodiments of the present invention can be used in a wide variety of devices. Examples comprise mobile phones, cordless phones, PDAs, gamepads, remote controls, joystick handles, automotive controls (radios, compact disc (CD) players, automobile functions), consumer electronic devices, personal computers, laptop computers, pocket PCs, portable gaming devices, pagers, I-pagers, audio equipment, camcorders, televisions, security or alarm systems, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), calculators, and home appliances.
• Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.
• the apparatus 1 shown in Figure 1 comprises a rocker switch 2 and an actuator 6.
• the rocker switch 2 has multiple positions for communicating a plurality of signals.
• the rocker switch 2 comprises a force sensing resistor, a strain gauge based sensor, a scroll wheel, a mini-joystick, a touchpad, or a touch screen.
• other suitable switches can be used.
• the rocker switch 2 is coupled to a platform 2a.
• Platform 2a is used to communicate with contact 3.
• the terms “communicate” and “communication” mean to mechanically, electrically, or otherwise contact, couple, or connect by either direct or indirect means.
• the contact 3 comprises first and second contacts 3a, 3b.
• a perimeter of the platform 2a extends beyond the rocker switch 2 such that an entire surface of the rocker switch 2 can rest on or be attached to the platform 2a.
• the platform 2a is a rectangular-like shape. Other suitable shapes may be used such that the platform 2 is of sufficient size and shape to communicate with both first and second contacts 3a, 3b.
• rocker switch 2 communicates with contact 3 directly, without platform 2a.
• rocker switch 2 is operable to pivot about axis I.
• the axis I is substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the rocker switch 2 pivots.
• rocker switch 2 is operable to pivot about an axis (not shown) substantially orthogonal to axis I.
• rocker switch 2 is operable to pivot about an axis (not shown) substantially oblique to axis I.
• rocker switch 2 can pivot about other suitable axes.
• first and second contacts 3a, 3b are each individual switches. In another embodiment (described in more detail below) first and second contacts 3a, 3b both comprise contacts for a single switch. Suitable switches include analog or digital switches, such as for example rubber switches, snap dome-type switches, and pressure switches.
• the contact 3 comprises an analog switch, a capacitive touch switch, a 3-way switch, a 4-way switch, or a 5-way switch.
• the contact 3 is operable to produce distinct signals.
• the contact 3 can include other suitable devices and configurations capable of communicating a signal.
• Other embodiments of switches are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 10/285,450, filed November 1, 2002, which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.
• the rocker switch 2 pivots between two positions in which the rocker switch 2 contacts and activates first and second contacts 3a, 3b.
• the contacts 3a, 3b are, in one embodiment, circular in shape. Alternatively, other suitable shapes can be used.
• compliant members 3c, 3d surround the first and second contacts 3a, 3b. In another embodiment, the compliant members 3c, 3d are disposed substantially or entirely about first and second contacts 3a, 3b. Alternatively, compliant members 3c, 3d are disposed only partially about first and second contacts 3a,
• the compliant members 3c, 3d in the embodiment shown are made of a pliable or malleable material, such as an elastomer, which allows the rocker switch 2 to continue to be displaced while being depressed.
• Suitable materials for compliant members 3c, 3d comprise those that can be physically deformed by the exertion of a human thumb or other digit against an input device or surface. Alternatively, other suitable materials can be used.
• the rocker switch 2 and the contact 3 are mounted on a first surface 4a of a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 4 to facilitate electrical communication between the rocker switch 2 and an electronic device, such as, for example, the mobile phone shown in Figure 2.
• PCB 4 comprises a second surface 4b disposed on a side opposite to first surface 4a.
• the PCB is generally shaped according to the space limitations of the device into which the apparatus 1 is placed.
• the PCB 4 also provides for secure mounting within the device by including, for example, a plurality of holes 5 to accept fasteners for securing to the electronic device.
• the rocker switch 2 can be directly connected or mounted to the electronic device.
• the apparatus 1 shown also comprises an actuator 6, which is in communication with the rocker switch 2.
• the actuator 6 is operable to provide haptic feedback, for example, distinct tactile sensations, to rocker switch 2. Suitable tactile sensations include vibrations, for example, jolts and textures, and a plurality of distinct tactile sensations can be created by varying the frequency, amplitude and waveform output by the actuator 6.
• the actuator 6 is selected to deliver the desired haptic feedback to rocker switch 2.
• the force delivered by actuator 6 to rocker switch 2 is capable of displacing rocker switch 2.
• the actuator 6 is a processor-controlled electro-mechanical actuator.
• the actuator 6 is a voice coil actuator.
• Other suitable actuators can be used, including, for example, piezo-electric actuators, electro-active polymer actuators, eccentric mass actuators, moving magnet actuators, and resistive actuators. Resistive actuators may also be referred to as passive actuators, and include, for example, friction brakes in contact with metal shafts.
• the actuator 6 can include a flexure, for example an arrangement of flexible material, coupled to the rotating shaft of a DC motor or step motor to transform the rotation of the motor shaft into vibrations or other haptic sensations.
• a flexure coupled to a motor may be used as an actuator.
• U.S. Patent Application No. 09/585,741 filed June 2, 2002 illustrates suitable arrangements of flexures and motors for use as an actuator in embodiments of the present invention.
• U.S. Patent Application No. 09/585,741, assigned to the assignee of the present invention is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.
• tactile sensations can be communicated to the rocker switch from a speaker included with an electronic device into which the apparatus 1 is placed, for example, the speaker in a mobile telephone or in a personal computer.
• FIG. 1 comprises one rocker switch 2 and one actuator 6
• other embodiments comprise a plurality of input devices, all in communication with a single actuator.
• other embodiments comprise a plurality of actuators each in communication with at least one rocker switch.
• Various arrangements of actuators in combination with input devices are suitable for use in the present invention.
• U.S. Patent Application No. 09/917,262 filed July 26, 2001, and published on March 21, 2002, as U.S. Patent Pub. No. US2002/0033795, illustrates actuators in combination with input devices that may be used in embodiments of the present invention.
• U.S. Patent Application No. 09/917,262, assigned to the assignee of the present invention, is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.
• the actuator 6 is in communication with the rocker switch 2.
• the actuator 6 is in communication with rocker switch 2 through a biasing element 7.
• the biasing element 7 comprises a first end 7a and a second end 7b.
• the first end 7a of the biasing element 7 is in communication with the rocker switch 2 and the second end 7b of the biasing element 7 is in communication with the actuator 6.
• the biasing element 7 comprises a lever arm.
• the biasing element 7 comprises a cantilevered element, such as, for example, a cantilevered beam.
• the haptic feedback, including tactile sensations, generated by the actuator 6 propagate through the biasing element 7 to the rocker switch 2.
• the biasing element 7 amplifies the effective forces of the actuator communicated to the rocker switch 2, and thus, those felt by the user. Suitable materials for the biasing element 7 are capable of transmitting or conducting resonances and tactile sensations. In one embodiment, the biasing element 7 is made of a spring steel. Alternatively, other suitable metals or other materials can be used.
• the biasing element 7 shown comprises one or more bends 8 to fit within the electronic device in which the apparatus 1 is disposed. Alternatively, no bends 8 are disposed in biasing element 7, as permitted by internal space within the electronic device. Other suitable shapes or placement of bends 8 may be used to fit the apparatus 1 within the space available in a particular electronic device. In one embodiment, the actuator 6 is disposed distally from the rocker switch 2.
• Positioning the actuator 6 distally from the rocker switch 2 can further amplify the effective forces of the actuator communicated to the rocker switch 2.
• the actuator 6 is coupled directly to the rocker switch 2 or to any other component of the rocker switch 2.
• the actuator 6 is mounted to the PCB 4 to which the input device is attached, communicating haptic feedback to the rocker switch 2 through the PCB 4.
• the actuator 6 is an existing eccentric mass motor as is used, for example, as a vibrating ringer in a pager or mobile telephone.
• the apparatus 1 also comprises a processor 9 in communication with the switch 3.
• the processor 9 is operable to receive a first signal from the switch 3 and to communicate a second signal to the actuator 6.
• the processor 9 receives additional information from the switch 3, including the position of the rocker switch 2 and the amount of pressure applied to the rocker switch 2.
• the first signal includes information related to the amount of pressure applied to the rocker switch 2, information related to the position of the rocker switch 2, or a combination of information about pressure and position.
• the processor 9 is also in communication with the actuator 6.
• the processor 9 is operable to produce and communicate a second signal to the actuator 6, which is associated with the input or first signal received by the processor 9 from the rocker switch 2.
• the haptic feedback is associated with the input or first signal.
• the processor 9 provides the actuator 6 with a different wave form, frequency and/or other magnitude as haptic feedback in relation to different pressures, modes, menus, and other functionality.
• a number of occurrences of a distinct haptic sensation such as a jolt, corresponds to an index number of a menu option within a list of menu options.
• one jolt signifies a first option
• two jolts signify a second option, etc.
• a distinct haptic sensation signifies that the user is cycling from the end of a particular menu back to the beginning, i.e., "rolling over.”
• the haptic feedback can indicate several modes from which a user can select.
• the processor 9 in a first mode, the processor 9 is operable to associate a value of a setting, such as, for example, a position or motion of the rocker switch 2.
• Haptic feedback such as force detents, are output to the rocker switch 2 to indicate the particular setting.
• the processor 9 is operable to control a rate of change of the value of the setting. For example, another force detent, a different number of force detents, or a different frequency between force detents can be output to indicate how much the particular value, such as volume, has been changed.
• Other examples of haptic cues are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 10/285,450, filed
• the processor 9 is located in a suitable location according to the needs of the device in which the apparatus 1 is placed.
• the processor is attached to the first surface 4a of PCB 4.
• Suitable processors include, for example, digital logical processors capable of processing input, execute algorithms, and generate output, as necessary to create the desired haptic effect in the rocker switch 2 in response to the inputs received from the rocker switch 2.
• processors include, for example, a microprocessor, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), and state machines.
• ASIC Application Specific Integrated Circuit
• processors include, or may be in communication with, media, for example computer readable media, which store instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the steps described herein as carried out, or assisted, by a processor.
• media for example computer readable media, which store instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the steps described herein as carried out, or assisted, by a processor.
• Other suitable structures that can communicate an actuation signal may be used.
• a suitable computer-readable medium includes an electronic, optical, magnetic, or other storage transmission device capable of providing a processor, such as the processor in a web server, with computer-readable instructions.
• suitable media include, but are not limited to, a floppy disk, CD-ROM, magnetic disk, memory chip, ROM, RAM, ASIC, operable processor, all optical media, all magnetic tape or other magnetic media, or any other medium from which a computer processor can read.
• various other forms of computer-readable media may transmit or carry instructions to a computer, including a router, private or public network, or other transmission device or channel.
• the apparatus 1 comprises a dedicated processor 9 for use specifically with the apparatus 1. This embodiment is particularly well suited for applications where the apparatus 1 is retro-fitted into an existing device.
• the processor is the microprocessor or Central Processing Unit (CPU) of the device in which the apparatus 1 is disposed.
• the apparatus 1 can also include additional circuitry such as the drive circuitry (not shown) necessary to create the haptic feedback in the actuator 6 in response to input from the processor 9 and a memory medium for storing data to be accessed by the processor 9, for example, a correlation between the tactile sensations to be produced in the actuator 6 and the input information or first signal received from the rocker switch 2.
• apparatus 1 An exemplary embodiment of apparatus 1 has been described above and with reference to Figure 1.
• the apparatus 1 is not limited to the specific arrangement and configuration described above and as shown in Figure 1.
• Other suitable arrangements and configurations can be used in alternate embodiments, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application No. 10/285,450, filed November 1 , 2002, which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.
• FIG 2 is a perspective view showing a mobile phone 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• the phone 10 comprises a first surface 11, a second surface 12, and a plurality of walls 13.
• the walls 13 define a volume 14 (shown in Figure 3). As shown in Figure 2, the walls 13 are coupled to the first surface 11 and the second surface 12.
• rocker switch 2 Disposed in the first surface 11 is rocker switch 2 and a plurality of input members 12.
• the input members 12 comprise a keypad 14 and a touch- sensitive screen 18, which is disposed in a video display screen 19.
• Other embodiments, as described above, comprise, for example, D-pads, scroll wheels, and toggle switches.
• Information - through the generation of a signal - is generally input into the phone 10 through the rocker switch 2 and the input members 12 disposed in the first surface 11. Information can be input by physically contacting the rocker switch 2 and the input members 12.
• FIG. 3 a perspective view of an internal surface of the phone 10 of Figure 2 is shown.
• the internal surface includes the volume 14.
• the apparatus 1 is disposed in the volume 14 of the phone 10.
• the apparatus 1 is secured to the internal surfaces forming the volume by fastening elements (not shown) penetrating the holes 5 of the PCB 4.
• the apparatus 1 can be secured in the volume 14 by a frictional fit.
• Other suitable methods of coupling the apparatus to the phone 10 can be used.
• Figure 4 shows an embodiment of a method 20 according to the present invention.
• the method 20 may be employed to make a device that provides haptic feedback to an input area, such as for example, the apparatus 1 for use in the phone 10 described above. Items shown in Figures 1 -3 are referred to in describing Figure 4 to aid understanding of the embodiment of the method 20 shown.
• embodiments of methods according to the present invention may be employed to make a wide variety of other devices, including, without limitation, gamepads, PDAs, pagers, and automotive structures.
• the rocker switch is operable to output a first signal.
• the switch can be as that described above with reference to Figures 1-3.
• the switch can be several switches or a single switch having several contacts. Alternatively, other suitable switches can be used.
• the rocker switch is operable to pivot about a first axis and to communicate with a contact.
• the rocker switch is operable to pivot about a second axis, which is substantially orthogonal to the first axis.
• the rocker switch is operable to pivot about a third axis, which is substantially oblique to the first axis.
• the method 20 includes disposing a compliant member proximate the rocker switch.
• the compliant member can be as that described above. Alternatively, other suitable complaint members can be used. As described above, the compliant member can be an elastomer, which is physically deformable when the rocker switch is depressed. The compliant member is operable to permit a user to continue to sense haptic feedback while continuing to depress the rocker switch.
• block 24 indicates that an actuator is disposed in communication with the rocker switch.
• the actuator is operable to provide haptic feedback associated with the first signal.
• the actuator can be as that described above with reference to Figures 1-3. Alternatively, other suitable actuators can be used.
• the haptic feedback is provided to the user through the user's contact - either direct or indirect - with the rocker switch.
• the method 20 includes providing a processor operable to communicate a second signal to the actuator.
• the processor is operable to receive the first signal.
• the processor is operable to control the haptic feedback, which is associated with the first signal.
• the processor can be as that described above with reference to Figures 1-3. Alternatively, other suitable processors can be used.
• the processor is operable to associate a value with a setting of the rocker switch in a first mode and to control a rate of change of the value in a second mode.
• the modes and settings can be similar to that described above. Alternatively, other suitable settings and modes can be used. Referring now to Figure 5, an alternate embodiment of an apparatus 30 according to the present invention is shown.
• the apparatus 30 comprises a switch 31 and an actuator.
• the switch 31 comprises an input element 32, a platform 33, first and second contact pads 34a, 34b, and first and second contacts 37a, 37b.
• the input element 32, platform 33, and first and second contact pads 34a, 34b collectively form a contact assembly.
• Suitable switches include analog or digital switches, such as, for example, rubber switches, snap dome-type switches, and pressure switches.
• the switch 31 includes an analog switch, a capacitive touch switch, a 3-way switch, a 4-way switch, or a 5-way switch.
• the switch 31 is operable to produce distinct signals.
• the switch 31 can include other suitable devices and configurations capable of communicating a signal.
• the input element 32 is mounted on a first surface 33a of the platform 33, and is adapted to correspond to a user's thumb or digit or other object, such as a stylus.
• the platform 33 extends beyond the input element 32 such that an entire surface of the input element 32 can rest on or be attached to the platform 33.
• the platform 33 is rectangular-like shaped. Other suitable shapes may be used such that the platform 33 is of sufficient size and shape to communicate first and second contact pads 34a, 34b with first and second contacts 37a, 37b.
• first and second contact pads 34a, 34b are mounted on opposite ends of the platform 33 on a second surface 33b of the platform 33.
• first and second contact pads 34a, 34b are dome-like shaped.
• other suitable shapes for first and second contact pads 34a, 34b can be used.
• First and second contacts 37a, 37b are coupled to the first surface 36a of the base 36.
• First and second contacts 37a, 37b are dome-like shaped.
• Other suitable shapes for the first and second contacts 37a, 37b can be used.
• the platform 33 is supported by a support 35.
• the support 35 includes two similarly-shaped panels disposed on opposing sides of the platform 33. One end of support 35 is coupled to a first surface 36a of a base 36.
• the support 35 includes a single columnar or block-shaped member to which platform 33 is coupled.
• the platform 33 is biased to a centered or neutral position, which is substantially parallel to the first surface 36a of the base 36.
• the base 36 is a PCB.
• the platform 33 pivots about an axis II relative to the base 36 between two positions in which one of first and second contacts 37a, 37b is activated.
• first contact 37a is activated when engaged by first contact pad 34a and second contact 37b is activated when engaged by second contact pad 34b.
• platform 33 can pivot about other suitable axes.
• compliant members are disposed substantially or entirely about first and second contacts 37a, 37b.
• compliant members are disposed only partially about first and second contacts 37a, 37b.
• the compliant members are made of a pliable or malleable material, such as an elastomer, as described in detail above. In another embodiment, there are no compliant members.
• a first terminal 38a and a second terminal 38b are disposed entirely through the base 36, i.e., from a first surface 36a and a second surface 36b of the base.
• One end of the first terminal 38a is in communication with the first contact 37a.
• An opposite end of the first terminal 38a is in communication with a ground terminal and a processor.
• One end of the second terminal 38b is in communication with the second contact 37b.
• An opposite end of the second terminal 38b is in communication with a positive terminal and the processor.
• the apparatus 30 also includes an actuator, which is in communication with the input element 32. As described above, the actuator is operable to provide a processor- controlled force to the input element 32. The actuator is selected to deliver the desired processor-controlled force to input element 32.
• the force delivered by the actuator to the input element 32 is capable of displacing the contact assembly.
• the actuator shown in Figure 5 is a voice coil actuator. As described above, other suitable actuators and arrangements of actuators can be used.
• the actuator is in communication with the input element 32 through a biasing element 33 c.
• the haptic feedback generated by the actuator propagates through the biasing element 33c to the input element 32.
• the biasing element 33c amplifies the effective forces of the actuator communicated to the input element 32, and thus, those felt by the user.
• one end of the biasing element 33c is in communication with the input element 32 and an opposite end of the biasing element 33c is in communication with the actuator.
• the biasing element 33c comprises a lever arm.
• Other suitable embodiments and configurations of the biasing element 33c can be used, such as that described above.
• the apparatus 30 also includes a processor in communication with the switch 31.
• the processor is in communication with the first and second terminals 38a, 38b.
• the processor is operable to receive a first signal from the switch 31 and to communicate a second signal to the actuator.
• the processor receives additional information from the switch 31, including the position of the input element 32 and the amount of pressure applied to the input element 32.
• the first signal includes information related to the amount of pressure applied to the input element 32, the position of the input element 32, or a combination of pressure and position.
• the processor is also in communication with the actuator.
• the processor is operable to produce and communicate a second signal to the actuator, which is associated with the input or first signal received by the processor from the input element 32.
• the processor-controlled force is associated with the input or first signal.
• the method 40 may be employed to make a device that provides haptic feedback to an input area, such as for example, the apparatus 30, as described above. Items shown in Figure 5 are referred to in describing Figure 6 to aid understanding of the embodiment of the method 40 shown. However, embodiments of methods according to the present invention may be employed to make a wide variety of other devices, including, without limitation, gamepads, PDAs, pagers, and automotive structures.
• block 42 indicates that a switch is provided.
• the switch is operable to output a first signal.
• the switch includes a first contact, a second contact, and a contact assembly operable to communicate with the first and second contacts.
• the contact assembly is similar to that described above with reference to Figure 5 - that is, a contact assembly comprising an input element, a platform, and contact pads.
• the switch is similar to that described above with reference to Figure 5.
• the method includes disposing a first compliant member proximate the first contact and a second compliant member proximate the second contact.
• the first and second compliant members can be as that described in detail above.
• block 44 indicates that an actuator is disposed in communication with the contact assembly.
• the actuator is operable to provide a processor-controlled force to the contact assembly.
• the actuator can be as that described in detail above.
• the processor-controlled force displaces the contact assembly.
• the processor-controlled force is provided to the user through the user's contact with the contact assembly.
• the method 40 includes providing a processor operable to communicate a second signal to the actuator.
• the processor is operable to receive the first signal.
• the processor is operable to control the processor- controlled force, which is associated with the first signal.
• the processor can be as that described above with reference to Figures 1-3 and 5. Alternatively, other suitable processors can be used.
• the processor is operable to associate a value with a setting of the contact assembly in a first mode and to control a rate of change of the value in a second mode.
• the modes and settings can be similar to that described in detail above. Alternatively, other suitable settings and modes can be used.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
• General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
• Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
• Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
• Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
• Educational Administration (AREA)
• Educational Technology (AREA)
• Audiology, Speech & Language Pathology (AREA)
• General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
• Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
• Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
• Entrepreneurship & Innovation (AREA)
• User Interface Of Digital Computer (AREA)
• Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
• Control Of Throttle Valves Provided In The Intake System Or In The Exhaust System (AREA)

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Cited By (19)

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• 2003
  • 2003-09-12 WO PCT/US2003/028698 patent/WO2004042693A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
  • 2003-09-12 GB GB0618203A patent/GB2428284A/en not_active Withdrawn
  • 2003-09-12 AU AU2003267170A patent/AU2003267170A1/en not_active Abandoned
  • 2003-09-12 GB GB0509761A patent/GB2410997A/en not_active Withdrawn

Patent Citations (3)

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