Advanced paper imitation

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention provide an active pen stylus that mimics a paper feel for a user of the active pen stylus. An active stylus pen includes a writing shaft that receives a physical force generated when a user uses the stylus pen. The active stylus pen also includes a force sensor that receives a force from the writing shaft, the force sensor configured to convert the received force into an electronic signal. The writing spring receives the force from the force sensor and reflects a reaction force mimicking the feeling of the paper back to the user. The writing spring compresses and undergoes geometric deflection, thereby creating a reaction force that mimics the feel of the paper. Geometric deflection generated by the writing spring is caused by deformation of the writing spring due to the received force.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a pointing device suitable for various coordinate input devices (such as digitizers or tablets) that provide input to various types of computing systems. In particular, embodiments of the invention relate to a pen-stylus that provides the user with the feel of writing on a regular paper pad when used on a glass display with a plastic pen-stylus. Background Technology

[0002] Mobile phones, tablets, PCs, car entertainment systems, white goods, and many other devices are typically equipped with interactive displays. These interactive displays combine a screen (such as an LCD, OLED, plasma display, or electrophoretic display (EPD)) with an input system (such as a touch input system or a pen-stylus input system). The input system recognizes the presence of an input object (such as a touch or a pen-stylus near the screen). The device typically responds to such input by performing one or more functions, which may include changing the content displayed on the screen.

[0003] A stylus (or simply "pen" or "pen") is typically a pen- or pencil-shaped tool whose position on a computer monitor (e.g., the tip position) can be detected electronically or physically. A stylus enables users to perform tasks such as drawing or making selections on a computing device. While devices with touchscreens (such as some computers, mobile devices (smartphones and PDAs), game consoles, and graphics tablets) can generally be operated with fingertips, styluses typically offer more accurate and controlled input. Essentially, a stylus functions similarly to a mouse or touchpad as a pointing device, but allows for much more precise input for certain drawing tasks. Using a stylus is sometimes referred to as "stylus computing."

[0004] A typical stylus pen is configured to detect "pen placement" information in addition to coordinate information on the pointing device. This placement information typically occurs when the stylus tip contacts the digitizer's panel. Typically, placement information is detected by a force (e.g., pressure) sensitive device that detects the vertical force applied to the stylus tip, and / or through an electrical connection between the stylus pen and the digitizer's panel. The position data can be smoothed and / or denoised, and then used to estimate the velocity and / or acceleration of the input object. This smoothing and / or denoising can be accomplished using appropriate techniques—for example, by applying a recurrent Bayesian filter or a smoothing method (such as a Kalman filter) to the position data.

[0005] An active stylus (also known as an "active pen" or "digital stylus") includes digital components and / or a circuitry system within the stylus that communicates with a digitizer on a touch device. This communication allows for advanced features such as force (e.g., pressure sensitivity), tilt detection, programmable buttons, palm detection; eraser tip, memory settings, and write data transfer.

[0006] Active styluses typically employ different protocols from various manufacturers to communicate with the digitizers of graphics tablets or multi-touch devices. For an active stylus to function correctly, its digital component protocol must typically be compatible with the digitizer technology in the touchscreen it interacts with. Therefore, the stylus's digital protocol must be compatible with the device's digitizer; otherwise, input from the stylus will not be recorded on the device. Active styluses are typically powered by removable or rechargeable batteries.

[0007] The performance of a stylus pen is typically measured by four characteristics: 1) comfort, 2) resistance, 3) balance and overall weight, and 4) accuracy. "Accuracy" can sometimes be a vague characteristic, so it is often described by further characteristics such as: 1) responsiveness and speed, 2) jitter, 3) tilt, 4) force (e.g., pressure) level), and 5) palm protection or detection. This last accuracy element can prevent the touch device from recording or marking the screen when the hand or palm rests on the screen surface. Effective operation likely relies on a combination of stylus pen technology, operating system software, and screen digitizer technology.

[0008] Despite significant advancements in stylus technology in recent years, further improvements are still possible. Furthermore, specific use cases for styluses may demand levels of accuracy and additional functionality unattainable by conventional devices. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention provide an active stylus that mimics the feel of paper for the user. The active stylus includes a writing axis that receives physical forces generated when the user uses the stylus. The active stylus also includes a force sensor that receives the force from the writing axis and is configured to convert the received force into an electronic signal. A writing spring receives the force from the force sensor and reflects a reaction force mimicking the feel of paper back to the user.

[0010] The writing spring is compressed and subjected to geometric deflection, generating a reaction force that mimics the feel of paper. This geometric deflection is caused by the deformation of the writing spring due to the received force. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The disclosed embodiments have other advantages and features that will become more apparent from the detailed description, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings. A brief description of the drawings follows.

[0012] Figure 1 The illustration shows a system architecture of an electronic paper tablet device 110 for receiving input from an input mechanism (such as a pen stylus) according to an example embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the system architecture of an electronic paper tablet device 110 according to an example embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 The illustration shows a targeted Figures 1 to 2 The front and right perspective views of the electronic paper tablet 300, which is described in the electronic paper tablet device 110.

[0015] Figure 4 The illustration shows the hardware components of an example electrophoretic display (EPD) operating in an electronic paper flat panel device 110 according to an example embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating components of an example machine according to an example embodiment, capable of reading instructions from a machine-readable medium and executing those instructions in a processor (or controller).

[0017] Figure 6 The illustration shows a rear view of an electronic paper tablet 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing volcano feet 601a-601d, spring pads 603, and antenna area 605.

[0018] Figure 7 The illustration shows a top view of an electronic paper tablet device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing volcano feet 601a, 601d and a power button 701.

[0019] Figure 8 The illustration shows a bottom view of an electronic paper tablet device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing volcano feet 601b, 601d and a USB-C connector 307.

[0020] Figure 9 The illustration shows a right view of an electronic paper tablet device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing volcano feet 601b, 601a and a charging area 304 for recharging the input device 120 when the input device is an active stylus.

[0021] Figure 10 The illustration shows a left view of an electronic paper tablet device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing volcano feet 601c, 601d.

[0022] Figure 11 The illustration shows a pen-type stylus 1100 applicable to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 12 The illustration shows the outer housing 1201 of a pen-type stylus 1200 designed to fit the user's hand according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figures 13A to 13B The illustration shows the tip of the marker pen of the active stylus 1308 (e.g., Figure 11 The two transmitters 1301 and 1303 in the core 1102 shown enable a computing device (e.g., electronic paper tablet 110) to measure two different signals.

[0025] Figure 14 The illustration shows a cross-section of the front portion of an active stylus 1400 according to an embodiment of the present invention, which can be used by a user to perform tasks such as drawing lines on the display of a device (e.g., an electronic paper tablet 110).

[0026] Figure 15 A graph 1500 is shown comparing the force and displacement characteristics of a conventional marker pen spring, a writing spring 1421, and conventional paper according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 16 The illustration shows a writing spring 1421 according to an embodiment of the present invention, which has a material compression pad 1601 and a deflection area including a recessed portion 1603 and a raised portion 1607. The writing spring 1421 is shown as being separate from a stylus 1400.

[0028] Figure 17 A writing spring 1421 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated independently and in cross-sectional view. The writing spring has a material compression pad 1601, a deflection area of ​​a recessed portion 1603 and a raised portion 1607, and a hollow region 1701 located below the raised portion 1607.

[0029] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of the invention for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods shown herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The accompanying drawings (Figures) and the following description refer to preferred embodiments only by way of illustration. It should be noted that, from the following discussion, alternative embodiments of the structures and methods disclosed herein will be readily considered as feasible alternatives that can be employed without departing from the claimed principles.

[0031] Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It is worth noting that similar or identical reference numerals may be used in the drawings whenever feasible, and similar or identical reference numerals may indicate similar or identical functions. The drawings depict embodiments of the disclosed system (or method) for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods shown herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein.

[0032] Overview

[0033] According to embodiments of the present invention, a system and related process are disclosed that mimic the feel of writing on a conventional paper pad when drawing on a glass display of an electronic paper tablet device using a plastic pen-type stylus. The enhanced writing feel aims to make the feeling associated with using an electronic device closer to the feel and experience of using a conventional pen / pencil and a conventional writing board. The description of this particular invention is as follows: Figure 15 Start, then Figure 11 The description of the relevant stylus begins here. Before describing the invention in more detail, a description of an electronic paper tablet interacting with embodiments of the stylus, as well as a description of embodiments of the stylus itself, will be provided. Following this description, embodiments of the invention will be described.

[0034] Example system and device configurations – for supporting tablet devices

[0035] like Figure 1 As shown, the electronic paper tablet device 110 receives input from an input mechanism 120, for example, when a user makes a gesture using the input mechanism 120, the input mechanism 120 makes physical contact with a touch-sensitive surface (e.g., a touch-sensitive screen) on the electronic paper tablet device 110. The input mechanism 120 can be a finger, a pen-type stylus, or a marker. The tablet device 110 referred to herein is called an "electronic paper tablet," which allows the user of the device to mimic the feeling of writing with a regular pen and paper. Such devices are also referred to as "electronic paper" and "electronic ink." Based on the nature of the contact, the electronic paper tablet device 110 generates and executes instructions for updating the content displayed on the touch-sensitive screen to reflect the gesture input. For example, in response to a gesture of converting a spoken message (e.g., written text or drawing), the electronic paper tablet device 110 updates the touch-sensitive screen to display the converted message. As another example, in response to a gesture of selecting a navigation option, the electronic paper tablet device 110 updates the screen to display a new page associated with the navigation option. Although the embodiments of the present invention are designed for electronic paper systems, the embodiments of the present invention can also be applied to other forms of computing devices capable of receiving and processing input from pen-type stylus devices.

[0036] Input mechanism 120 can refer to any device or object compatible with the touch-sensitive screen of electronic paper tablet device 110, particularly a pen-type stylus device, such as a so-called active pen device with its own power supply or a static pen that receives its power when engaged with the touch-sensitive screen on electronic paper tablet device 110. In one embodiment, input mechanism 120 can work with an electronic ink (e.g., E-ink) touch-sensitive screen. For example, input mechanism 120 can refer to any device or object that can be contacted with a screen and from which the screen can detect a touch or contact of input mechanism 120. Once a touch or contact is detected, electronics associated with the screen generate a signal that electronic paper tablet device 110 can process into a gesture that can be provided for display on the screen. When a gesture is detected by input mechanism 120, electronics within the touch-sensitive screen generate a signal that encodes instructions for displaying content or updating content previously displayed on the screen of electronic paper tablet device 110 based on movement on the screen of the detected gesture. For example, when processed by the electronic paper tablet device 110, the encoded signal can cause a representation of the detected gesture, such as doodles, to be displayed on the screen of the electronic paper tablet device 110. As mentioned, the input mechanism 120 can be a pen-type stylus or other type of pointing device, including a part of the user's body, such as a finger.

[0037] In one embodiment, the input mechanism 120 is a coil of magnetic material. When brought near the screen of the electronic paper tablet device 110, the magnetic coil helps generate a magnetic field that encodes signals conveying instructions, which are processed by the electronic paper tablet device 110 to provide a representation of a gesture for display on the screen, for example, as a marker. The input mechanism 120 can be force (e.g., pressure) and tilt sensitive, allowing the system to make a natural visual response to both pressure and tilt applied by the user. Furthermore, the interaction between the input mechanism and the touch-sensitive screen of the electronic paper tablet device 110 can generate different encoded signals for processing, for example, to display representations of gestures with different characteristics on the screen, such as thicker line markers. In an alternative embodiment, the input mechanism 120 includes a power source (e.g., a battery) that can generate an electric field using the touch-sensitive surface. It is worth noting that the encoded signal is a signal that is generated and can be conveyed. The encoded signal can have signal patterns that can be used for further analog or digital analysis (or interpretation).

[0038] In one embodiment, the touch-sensitive screen is a capacitive touchscreen. The screen may be designed using glass or polymer materials coated with a conductive material. Electrodes or electrical components carrying alternating current are arranged along the screen coating (e.g., with diamond-shaped crosshairs) to maintain a constant level of current flow across the entire screen. A second set of electrodes is arranged horizontally. The matrix of vertically active electrodes and horizontally inactive electrodes generates an electrostatic field at each point on the screen. When an input mechanism 120 with conductive properties (e.g., a coiled magnetic coil, a human finger, or something else that triggers a capacitive effect) comes into contact with an area of ​​the screen of the electronic paper tablet device 110, current flows through the horizontally arranged electrodes, thereby disrupting the electrostatic field at the point of contact on the screen. The disruption of the electrostatic field at each point covered by the gesture can be measured, for example, as a change in capacitance and encoded as an analog or digital signal.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, the touch-sensitive screen is a resistive touchscreen. A resistive touchscreen comprises two metal layers: a first metal layer with striped electrodes located on a substrate (such as glass or plastic); and a second metal layer with transparent electrodes positioned therein. When a contact from an input mechanism (e.g., a stylus, finger, or palm) is made on the surface of the touchscreen, the two layers are pressed together. Upon contact, a voltage gradient is applied to the first layer and measured as a distance through the second layer to determine the horizontal coordinates of the touch point on the screen. A subsequent voltage gradient is applied to the second layer to determine the vertical coordinates of the touch point on the screen. The combination of the horizontal and vertical coordinates records the exact location of the touch point on the touch-sensitive screen. Unlike capacitive touchscreens that rely on conductive input mechanisms, resistive touchscreens are configured to sense contact from virtually any input mechanism. Although some embodiments of the electronic paper tablet device 110 are described herein with reference to capacitive touchscreens, those skilled in the art will recognize that resistive touchscreens can also be implemented.

[0040] In an alternative embodiment, the touch-sensitive screen is an inductive touchscreen. An inductive touchscreen includes a metal front layer configured to detect deflection when contact is made on the screen by an input mechanism. Accordingly, the inductive touchscreen is configured to sense contact from virtually any input mechanism. Although some embodiments of the electronic paper tablet device 110 have been described herein with reference to capacitive touchscreens, those skilled in the art will recognize that alternative touchscreen technologies can be implemented, such as inductive touchscreens.

[0041] According to some embodiments of the present invention, cloud server 130 is configured to receive information from electronic paper tablet device 110 and / or transmit instructions to electronic paper tablet device 110. For example... Figure 1As shown, the cloud server 130 may include a cloud data processor 150 and a data storage device 160. Data recorded and stored by the e-paper tablet device 110 can be transmitted to the cloud server 130 via the network 140 for storage in the data storage device 160. For example, the data storage device 160 may store documents, images, or other types of content generated or recorded by the user through the e-paper tablet device 110. In some embodiments, the cloud data processor 150 monitors the activity and usage of the e-paper tablet device 110 and transmits processing instructions to the e-paper tablet device 110. For example, the cloud data processor 150 may adjust the synchronization protocol between the data stored in the data storage device 160 and the e-paper tablet device 110.

[0042] Interaction between the ePaper Tablet Device 110 and the Cloud Server 130 typically occurs via a network 140, which enables communication between the ePaper Tablet Device 110 and the Cloud Server 130. In one embodiment, the network 140 uses standard communication technologies and / or protocols, including but not limited to links using technologies such as Ethernet, 802.11, WiMAX, 3G, 4G, LTE, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), InfiniBand, and PCI Fast Advanced Switching. The network 140 may also utilize dedicated, custom, or private communication links. The network 140 may include any combination of local area networks and / or wide area networks, using both wired and wireless communication systems. The cloud server 130 may be implemented alternatively and, in some embodiments, may be replaced by hardware and software that provide similar functionality but may not be considered a conventional cloud server.

[0043] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the system architecture of an electronic paper tablet device 110 according to an example embodiment. Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic paper flat panel device 110 includes an input detector module 210, an input digitizer 220, a display system 230, and a graphics generator 240.

[0044] The input detector module 210 recognizes a gesture that has been made or is being made on the screen of the electronic paper tablet device 110. The input detector module 210 refers to electronic devices integrated into the screen of the electronic paper tablet device 110, configured to interpret coded signals generated by contact between the input mechanism 120 and the screen as recognizable gestures. To this end, the input detector module 210 can evaluate the properties of the coded signal to determine whether the signal represents a gesture intentionally made by the user or an unintentionally made by the user.

[0045] The input digitizer 220 can be configured to convert analog signals encoded by contact between the input mechanism 120 and the screen into a digital instruction set. The converted digital instruction set can be processed by the electronic paper tablet device 110 to generate or update the user interface displayed on the screen to reflect intentional gestures.

[0046] Display system 230 may include physical and firmware (or software) components to display (e.g., render) a user interface on a screen. The user interface may correspond to any type of visual representation that can be presented to or viewed by a user of the electronic paper tablet device 110.

[0047] Based on the digital signal generated by the input digitizer 220, the graphics generator 240 can be configured to generate or update graphics of the user interface to be displayed on the screen of the electronic paper tablet device 110. The display system 230 can be configured to present these graphics of the user interface to the user using electronics integrated into the screen.

[0048] When the input mechanism 120 contacts the touch-sensitive screen of the electronic paper tablet device 110, the input detector module 210 recognizes a gesture made through the screen. This gesture can be recognized as part of an encoded signal generated by a pressure sensor or force sensor in the input mechanism 120 and / or a corresponding electronic component of the screen of the display system 230. The encoded signal is transmitted to the input detector module 210, which evaluates the properties of the encoded signal according to at least one gesture rule to determine whether the gesture was intentionally made by the user. If the input detector module 210 determines that the gesture was intentional, it transmits the encoded signal to the digitizer output. The encoded signal is an analog representation of the gesture received by a sensor matrix embedded in the screen of the device 110.

[0049] In one example embodiment, the input digitizer 220 converts physical points on the screen touched by the input mechanism 120 into a set of instructions for updating content provided for display on the screen. For example, if the input detector module 210 detects an intentional gesture to swipe from a first page to a second page, the input digitizer 220 receives an analog signal generated by the input mechanism 120 when it performs the swipe gesture. The input digitizer 220 generates a digital signal for the swipe gesture, which provides instructions to the display system 230 of the electronic paper tablet device 110 to update the user interface of the screen to transition from, for example, the current page (or the first page) to the next page (or the second page, which may be before or after the first page).

[0050] In one example embodiment, the graphics generator 240 receives digital instruction signals (e.g., swipe gestures indicating page transitions, such as flipping or turning pages) generated by the input digitizer 220. The graphics generator 240 generates graphics or updates previously displayed user interface graphics based on the received signals. The generated or updated user interface graphics are provided to be displayed on the screen of the electronic paper tablet device 110 by the display system 230, for example, showing the user a transition from the current page to the next page. Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the graphics generator 240 includes a rasterizer module 250 and a depixelator module 260. User input gestures drawn on a touch-sensitive surface are received as vector graphics and input to the rasterizer module 250. The rasterizer module 250 converts the input vector graphics into raster graphics, which can be displayed (or provided for display) on the touch-sensitive surface. The depixelator module 260 can apply image processing techniques to convert the displayed raster graphics back into vector graphics, for example, to improve the processing power of the electronic paper tablet device 110 and save memory. In at least one embodiment, when the content displayed on the screen is exported to a different format or exported to a different system, the depixelator module 260 can convert the displayed raster graphics back into vector graphics.

[0051] Further details regarding the structure and function of the electronic paper tablet and its graphic display can be found in USP 11,158,097 by Martin Sandsmark and Gunnar Sletta entitled “Generating vector graphics by processing raster graphics” and USP 10,824,274 by Sondre HoffDyvik, Martin Sandsmark, and Magnus Haug Wanberg entitled “Interactive displays”, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0052] Figure 3 The illustration shows a targeted Figures 1 to 2 The electronic paper tablet device 110 described herein includes front and right perspective views of the electronic paper tablet 300. In addition, the electronic paper tablet 300 includes a touch-sensitive display 303. The display 303 has been processed to provide a paper-like feel when the user of the device interacts with the device using the input device 120. Figure 3A charging region 304 for recharging the input device 120 when the input device is an active stylus, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is also shown. A set of magnets may be located inside the electronic paper tablet 300 near the charging region 304 to hold the input device 120 in place while it is recharging. Figure 3 A USB-C connector 307 is also shown, which can be used to provide power to the electronic paper tablet 300 and to transfer various types of data to or from the electronic paper tablet 300. The electronic paper tablet 300 also includes [further details to be provided below]. Figures 5 to 10 Several actuators and other features are shown in the diagram.

[0053] Figure 4 The illustration shows hardware components of an example electrophoretic display (EPD) according to a disclosed embodiment. As discussed, various display technologies can be employed, including EPD, LCD, and reflective LCD (rLCD). The specific display device deployed may be... Figure 2 The electronic paper flat panel device 110 shown is part of the display system 230 and generates... Figure 3 The image shown is displayed on the display 303 of the electronic paper tablet 300. The EPD includes a gate driver 409, a source driver 411, a shift register 423 with data and clock signal lines, a latch 425, a voltage selector 427, and rows constituting the display 405. The EPD industry borrows some components and concepts from the LCD industry; however, there are also some fundamental differences between the two devices. Of particular relevance here is the persistence of pixels in an EPD display. Unlike LCD displays, EPD displays do not require the frequent refreshes required by LCD displays. In an EPD display, for example, once a neutral voltage is set for a pixel, that pixel will not change and will persist for a long time, especially compared to an LCD display.

[0054] As mentioned, the electrophoretic display (EPD) 405 utilizes many aspects of LCD manufacturing infrastructure and driving mechanisms. The driving electronics typically consist of a gate driver (GD) 409 and a source driver (SD) 411. The display 405 has multiple rows of pixels. The pixel values ​​within a row can vary; for example, a logic high voltage might indicate a "black" pixel, while a logic low voltage or "ground" might indicate a colorless pixel. The pixels in the EPD 405 function similarly to small capacitors that operate over long time intervals. An EPD pixel contains a large number of charged particles suspended in a liquid. If a charge is applied, the particles move to the surface, where they become visible. White and black particles carry opposite charges, allowing the pixel's display to change from white to black by applying opposite charges. Therefore, the waveform applied to the EPD comprises long strings of voltages to change from black to white or vice versa. EPD technology is also known to be capable of applying variable voltage levels that mix white and black particles to produce a variety of grayscale shades. Voltage levels within a pixel can also be layered to provide shades between colorless and black (e.g., grayscale levels). The groups of pixels surrounding each other can form areas that provide the user with some visible characteristics, such as images on the screen, like the images on the screen of the display system 230 of the electronic paper tablet device 110.

[0055] To change pixel values ​​in an area, the display 405 typically scans from the top row (e.g., row 0, 421) and applies voltages to update pixels in a specific row where the pixels need to be changed to correspond to the displayed image. In this example, a start pulse (GDSP) 403 can be used to reset driver 411 to row 0, 421, and a direction (DIR) 404 can be used to reset the direction. Row-by-row selection is performed by selecting a row (e.g., active row 413) by driving driver gate 409. All pixels in a row are addressed simultaneously using data transmitted to the display. Latch 425 receives the next set of voltages to be applied to the pixel row from shift register 423. When the scan of the active row is complete and the pixels are changed or updated as necessary, a clock pulse (GDCLK) 415 is sent to driver gate 409 to move to the next row 417 for scanning.

[0056] As mentioned, those skilled in the art will recognize that similar functionality can be achieved using standard LCD, OLED, MicroLED, or other types of displays, and the description of EPD technology provided herein is merely to illustrate one embodiment of the invention.

[0057] The source driver 411 is used to set the target voltage for each pixel / column in the selected row. This source driver consists of a shift register 423 for storing voltage data, a latch circuit 425 for enabling pixel data transfer during the previous row exposure, and a voltage selector (multiplexer) 427 for converting the latched voltage selection into the actual voltage. For all rows to be updated, all voltage values ​​must be shifted into register 423 and latched to make the voltage available.

[0058] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating components of an example machine according to one embodiment, capable of reading instructions from a machine-readable medium and executing those instructions in a processor (or controller). In this example, Figure 5 A computer system 500 is shown (e.g., Figure 1 The illustrated electronic paper tablet 111 is a machine in the form of an example of a computing portion, within which program code (e.g., software) can be executed to cause the machine to perform any or more of the methods discussed herein. The electronic paper tablet device 110 may include some or all of the components of the computer system 500. The program code may include instructions 524 executable by one or more processors 502. In the electronic paper tablet system 110, the instructions may correspond to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 The functional components described herein. Figure 5 This is an example of a processing system in which some or all of the components described herein can be utilized by the modules described herein for execution.

[0059] Although the embodiments described herein are within the context of an electronic paper tablet system 110, it should be noted that these principles can be applied to other touch-sensitive devices. In these contexts, Figure 5 The machine can be a server computer, client computer, personal computer (PC), tablet PC, set-top box (STB), personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular phone, smartphone, web device, network router, Internet of Things (IoT) device, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of (sequentially or otherwise) executing instructions 524 specifying actions to be taken by the machine. Furthermore, although only a single machine is illustrated, the term "machine" should also be understood to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute instructions 524 to perform any one or more methods discussed herein.

[0060] Example computer system 500 includes one or more processors 502 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), one or more graphics processing units (GPUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs), or any combination thereof), main memory 504, and static memory 506, which are configured to communicate with each other via bus 508. Computer system 500 may further include a visual display interface 510. The visual interface may include software drivers that enable the display of a user interface on a screen (or monitor). The visual interface may display the user interface directly (e.g., on a screen) or indirectly (e.g., via a visual projection unit) on a surface, window, etc. For ease of discussion, the visual interface may be described as a screen or display. Visual interface 510 may include, for example, a touch-enabled screen of electronic paper tablet system 110 or may be connected to it and may be associated with display system 230. The computer system 500 may also include an input device 512 (e.g., a pen, keyboard, or touchscreen keyboard), a cursor control device 514 (e.g., a mouse, trackball, joystick, motion sensor, or other pointing instrument), a storage unit 516, a signal generation device 518 (e.g., a speaker), and a network interface device 520, which are also configured to communicate via a bus 508.

[0061] Storage unit 516 includes a machine-readable medium 522 on which instructions 524 (e.g., software) embodying any one or more methods or functions described herein are stored (or encoded). The instructions 524 (e.g., software) may also reside wholly or at least partially within main memory 504 or processor 502 (e.g., within the processor's cache memory) during execution by computer system 500, main memory 504, and processor 502, which also constitutes a machine-readable medium. The instructions 524 (e.g., software) may be transmitted or received via network 426 via network interface device 520.

[0062] Although machine-readable medium 522 is shown as a single medium in the example embodiment, the term "machine-readable medium" should be considered to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, or associated caches and servers) capable of storing instructions (e.g., instruction 524). The term "machine-readable medium" should also be considered to include any medium capable of storing instructions (e.g., instruction 524) that are executed by a machine and cause the machine to perform any one or more methods disclosed herein. The term "machine-readable medium" includes, but is not limited to, data repositories in the form of solid-state memory, optical media, and magnetic media.

[0063] The computer system 500 may also include one or more sensors 525. It should also be noted that the computing device may include only... Figure 5 A subset of the components shown and described. For example, an IoT device may include only a processor 502, a small storage unit 516, a main memory 504, a visual interface 510, a network interface device 520, and a sensor 525.

[0064] Representative electronic paper tablet

[0065] Figure 3 Provided similar Figures 1 to 2 A representative view of the electronic paper board 300 of the electronic paper 110 shown. Figure 6 The illustration shows a rear view of an electronic paper tablet 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating volcano feet 601a-601d, spring pads 603, and antenna region 605. Antenna region 605 is located at the main antenna of the electronic paper tablet 300 (e.g., the antenna on the electronic paper 110, which is connected to...). Figure 1 The cloud server 130 shown communicates and can generate the following information about... Figure 14 The beacon signal of the discussed electronic paper is positioned outside and above, thus allowing the electronic paper tablet device 300 to connect to, for example, the Internet. The spring pad 603 allows the electronic paper tablet device 300 to connect to other devices, such as a folio device with a keyboard.

[0066] Figure 7 The illustration shows a top view of an electronic paper tablet device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing volcano feet 601a, 601d and a power button 701.

[0067] Figure 8 The illustration shows a bottom view of an electronic paper tablet device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing volcano feet 601b, 601d and a USB-C connector 307.

[0068] Figure 9 The illustration shows a right view of an electronic paper tablet device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating volcano feet 601b, 601a and a charging region 304 for recharging the input device 120 when the input device is an active stylus. A set of magnets may be located inside the electronic paper tablet 300 near the charging region 304 to hold the input device 120 in place while it is recharging.

[0069] Figure 10 The illustration shows a left view of an electronic paper tablet device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing volcano feet 601c, 601d.

[0070] Examples of operation include a source pen.

[0071] An active stylus (or more commonly, an “active pen”) is a pen-type stylus input device that allows a user to write, sketch, or draw on the display of a computing device, such as an e-paper tablet 110. An active stylus includes digital components and / or circuitry that communicate with the computing device (e.g., the e-paper tablet). This communication enables advanced features such as force (e.g., pressure) sensitivity, tilt detection, programmable buttons, palm detection, eraser tip, memory settings, and write data transfer. More broadly, the communication between the computing device and the active stylus allows for the placement of various peripheral sensors within the active stylus, with the resulting data reported to the computing device, such as the e-paper tablet 110. Such sensors placed within an active stylus can range from simple buttons to enhanced artificial intelligence features.

[0072] The electronic components of an active pen typically include a power source that enables the device's electronics to provide lower latency and higher fidelity than other types of pens (e.g., passive pens). Active pens offer many advantages over passive pens, including hover latency; for example, an active pen can typically be activated only by proximity to a display (e.g., a display associated with the electronic paper tablet 110).

[0073] Once a stylus touches or contacts the display screen of a device such as an e-paper tablet, the electronics associated with the display screen generate a signal, which the e-paper tablet (e.g., e-paper tablet 110) can process as a gesture made by the user. When a pen gesture is detected, the electronics within the touch-sensitive screen generate a signal that encodes instructions for displaying content or updating content previously displayed on the e-paper tablet device's screen based on the detected movement of the gesture on the screen.

[0074] Compared to active pens, passive pens typically have no internal power supply. A passive pen remains inactive until it touches the device's screen (e.g., a tablet screen), causing a signal to travel from the device through the passive pen and back. The electronics associated with a passive pen can be integrated into the pen-style stylus device or even housed in a small case placed inside a pen-shaped stylus cap designed to be more ergonomic than the smaller case containing the electronics and other components.

[0075] Figure 11The illustration shows an active stylus 1100, which includes a core component 1102. This core component itself includes one or more antennas configured to communicate with a tablet device, such as an e-paper tablet 110. The active stylus 1100 may include one or more force sensing systems 1104 that detect forces, such as forces applied by a user to the display of the e-paper tablet 110. Furthermore, the active stylus 1100 can help mimic human interaction with conventional writing tools such as pencils and paper, for example, providing a "feeling of a pencil and paper stack." The active stylus 1100 also includes a power source, such as a battery 1106. In addition, the battery 1106 allows the active stylus 1100 to support a "hover" function, which allows the active stylus 1100 to enter a sleep state to conserve battery power when it is not actively engaged with the display of the electronic paper tablet 110, and to wake up from the sleep state when the core component 1102 detects proximity to the display of the electronic paper tablet 110. According to an embodiment of the invention, the active stylus 1100 may not actually draw lines on the display of the electronic paper tablet 110 until the tip of the active stylus 1100 physically touches the display of the electronic paper tablet 110.

[0076] The active pen 1100 typically includes a PCBA 1105, which includes the electronics required to drive the signal lines associated with the core component 1102. The PCBA 1105 may alternatively be a flexible printed circuit (FPC). The PCBA 1105 may include a suitable active pen PCBA or IC / ASIC / MCU that processes data received from the core component 1104 to sense force or displacement pressure with high resolution during interaction between the active pen 1100 and an object (e.g., the surface of a computing device such as electronic paper tablet 110).

[0077] The active pen 1100 can act as Figure 1 The input mechanism 120 described herein provides data input to the electronic paper tablet 110, which can cause drawing to appear on the display of the electronic paper tablet 110. The active pen 1100 may also include an erasing system that receives user commands related to the display portion of the screen of the computing device (e.g., the electronic paper tablet 110) associated with erasing. In a sense, the erasing system operates exactly the same as an active pen stylus system, except that one is for drawing and the other for erasing.

[0078] In operation, when the marker tip engages with the display on a tablet device (e.g., electronic paper tablet 110), the force sensing system 1104 receives the force applied to the marker tip of the active pen 1100 (e.g., ...). Figure 12 The physical force of the marker tip 1202 (as shown) is received and converted into an electronic signal, which is transmitted to PCBA 1105. The electronic components of PCBA can perform various processes on the received signal. PCBA 1105 can then transmit the signal back to a flat panel device (e.g., electronic paper board 110) for further actions (e.g., drawing lines).

[0079] In an embodiment where the secondary antenna system in the active pen 1100 implements the tail eraser function, the active pen 1100 also includes a second antenna system 1103 that enables the active pen 1100 to transmit and receive signals with a computing device (e.g., an electronic paper tablet 110) via the tail eraser portion of the active pen 1100 near the cap 1108. In this embodiment, the active pen 1100 also includes a second force (e.g., pressure) sensing system 1107 that controls the force (e.g., pressure) applied to the display of the computing device from the erasing activity. Similarly, the PCBA 1105 may include a suitable active pen PCBA or IC / ASIC / MCU that processes the data received from the second antenna system 1103 associated with the erasing function.

[0080] The active pen 1100 typically also includes an outer housing 1101 as a stylus holder, which is typically cylindrical in shape and made of a non-metallic material (such as plastic), and contains internal electronics within the housing 1101. A cap 1108 may be provided at the top of the housing 1101.

[0081] Figure 12 The illustration shows the outer housing 1201 of a pen-type stylus 1200 designed to fit a user's hand according to an embodiment of the present invention. The pen-type stylus 1200 includes a marker tip 1202 and an eraser 1203. The marker tip 1202 serves as... Figure 11 The core component 1102 shown operates as a part of the core component 1102, while the eraser 1203 acts as a part of the core component 1102. Figure 11 The second antenna system 1103 shown is part of its operation.

[0082] When an active stylus (e.g., stylus 1100 and / or stylus 1200) includes multiple antennas as part of a core (e.g., core 1102), the stylus can provide additional capabilities. For example... Figures 13A to 13B As shown, at the tip of the active stylus 1308 (e.g., Figure 11The core 1102 shown employs two independent transmitters 1301 and 1303, enabling a computing device (e.g., electronic paper tablet 110) to measure two different signals (in... Figure 13A The diagram shows 1301a and 1303a, while... Figure 13B The diagrams in the middle are 1301b and 1303b). By knowing the antenna separation in the input device (e.g., active stylus 1308), the input digitizer 220 in a larger computing device (e.g., e-paper tablet 110) can determine the active stylus tilt angle θ1307 relative to the computing device (e.g., e-paper tablet 110). The input digitizer 220 is typically capable of processing active stylus tilt information related to the drawing portion of the active stylus. Only slight modifications to the input digitizer 220 are needed to enable it to process tilt angle data related to the eraser (if an erase function is provided), thereby altering the display on the e-paper tablet 110.

[0083] like Figure 13A As can be seen, when the active stylus 1308 is perpendicular to the graphics display of the computing device (as shown by grid 1305 and the line passing through the center of the two signals 1301a and 1303a), the signals 1301a and 1303a from the two antennas 1301 and 1303 coincide. In contrast, Figure 13B The illustration shows the tilt angle θ1307 of the active stylus 1308 relative to the display of a computing device (e.g., electronic paper tablet 110), as indicated by the distance D between the two centers of the grid 1305 and the marker signals 1301b, 1303b. In this tilt, the signals 1301b, 1303b from the two antennas 1301, 1303 are misaligned and separated by a distance D. This distance D can be used to determine the corresponding amount of drawing performed by the electronic paper tablet device 110 on the display.

[0084] When using two antennas (e.g., Figure 11 The two separate antennas in the antenna system 1102 shown are in Figure 13A and Figure 13B When antennas 1301 and 1303 are presented as antennas 1301 and 1303, the method for determining the tilt angle θ1307 of the active stylus 1308 is known. The distance between antennas 1301 and 1303 is fixed and known. This known separation, combined with basic trigonometry, can be used in active stylus tip antenna systems to determine the tilt angle of the active stylus tip (e.g., ...). Figure 11 The tip of the core component 1102 shown is relative to the electronic paper board 110. Figure 2(The angle of the display shown is 230). Therefore, in one embodiment of the invention, as the tilt angle θ increases, the shadow area on the display increases proportionally. Similarly, it is conceivable that slightly different arrangements of the components would result in the area of ​​the marking region increasing proportionally, for example, inversely, as the tilt angle θ decreases. In both embodiments, the marking area remains directly related to the tilt angle θ; for example, the marking area changes as the tilt angle changes.

[0085] For the erase function, this tilt angle determination will operate in a similar manner. Embodiments of the invention allow the tail eraser tilt angle to be determined by an electronically calculated method within the input digitizer 220, similar to the methods conventionally used by the input digitizer 220 to determine the tilt of the marker tip and eraser functionality (when present). Such calculations require the stylus to provide additional data / information to the input digitizer 220.

[0086] In some embodiments, the stylus integrated circuit (e.g., included in PCBA1105) may not have a sufficient number of antenna signal lines to drive two of the transmitters in both the active pen tip and tail eraser antenna systems. A conventional active pen has two antenna signal lines for the active stylus tip and one for the tail eraser. Therefore, there are no more than three antenna signal lines. With this conventional configuration, the input digitizer 220 (or comparable hardware) cannot derive tilt information from the tail eraser. This problem has been solved by allowing a conventional active pen configuration to drive four antennas instead of the conventional three, thereby achieving enhanced erasing capability. Further details regarding the structure and function that solves this problem can be found in U.S. Application 18 / 208,280, entitled “ActivePen-Stylus Precise Eraser,” by Gaute Nordby et al., which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0087] Figure 14 The illustration shows a cross-section of the front portion of an active stylus 1400 according to an embodiment of the present invention, which a user can use for example, on a device (e.g., Figure 3 The electronic paper tablet 300 shown is used for tasks such as drawing lines on the display 303. The active stylus 1400 includes a core (e.g., ...). Figure 11 The shown core component 1102 includes components such as a first antenna 1407 and a second antenna 1425. The active stylus 1400 also includes a force sensor (e.g., Figure 11The force sensing system 1104 shown includes components such as a writing shaft 1413, a first spring coil 1431, a second spring coil 1429, and a force sensor 1423.

[0088] Due to the interaction between the first antenna 1407 and the second antenna 1425, and partly due to the placement of the first antenna 1407 and the second antenna 1425 relative to each other and relative to the active stylus 1400 itself, the active stylus 1400 provides high accuracy for various drawing tasks. For example... Figure 14 As shown, the second antenna 1425 surrounds the first antenna 1407, but the second antenna 1425 and the first antenna 1407 do not overlap horizontally in the active stylus 1400, but are further separated from each other by the insulator 1405.

[0089] Each antenna 1407, 1425 can transmit a clear signal to the electronic paper tablet 110. This arrangement is particularly useful for antenna 1425, as antenna 1407 is typically in physical contact with the display of the electronic paper tablet 110. When the stylus 1400 is not in contact with the tablet (e.g., the electronic paper tablet 110) (e.g., out of range), the antennas on the tablet periodically transmit beacon signals. This beacon signal is used to allow the stylus 1400 to detect whether it is within range of the tablet. For a period of time after the beacon signal, the tablet typically reserves an open time slot for the stylus 1400 to acknowledge the beacon and respond to the electronic paper tablet 110. This acknowledgment initiates bidirectional communication between the stylus 1400 and the tablet (e.g., the electronic paper tablet 110). As those skilled in the art will recognize, the “beacon” from the tablet is in the form of an uplink to the stylus 1400, while communication from the stylus 1400 to the tablet is in the form of a downlink.

[0090] The active stylus 1400 also provides advanced force (e.g., pressure) sensing, such as low activation force, high maximum force, and high dynamic range. To translate the detected force applied by the stylus 1400 onto the display of the e-paper tablet 110, the writing axis 1413 is designed to move toward and / or away from a force sensor 1423 that records activity between the replaceable marker tip 1403 and the display (e.g., the display of the e-paper tablet 110), including pressure applied to the display by the user of the stylus 1400. Additionally, a bottom support 1419 prevents the writing axis 1413 from rotating about its central axis. As discussed above, the writing axis 1413 is designed to move toward and / or away from the force sensor 1423 that records activity between the replaceable marker tip 1403 and the display (e.g., the display of the e-paper tablet 110), including force (e.g., pressure) applied to the display by the user of the stylus 1400. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the active stylus 1400 has been designed to have a minimum set of components.

[0091] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an active stylus 1400 includes a replaceable marker tip 1403, which includes a core antenna 1407 and an insulator 1405. The replaceable marker tip 1403 is held to a writing axis 1413 by a compression rib 1409 and is designed for manual removal by a user. The replaceable marker tip 1413 has a variable lifespan, depending on factors such as individual user sensitivity and user usage patterns.

[0092] The active stylus 1400 offers a variety of device safety features to ensure operational protection and long service life. In addition, the writing axis 1413 may be equipped with an impact damper 1417, which is designed to receive heavy forces applied to the stylus 1400 (e.g., the force generated by dropping onto a hard surface), thereby setting an upper limit on the force transmitted to the force sensor 1423.

[0093] According to an embodiment of the invention, the replaceable marker tip 1403 is also designed to have a marker tip gap 1411 between itself and the marker body 1401. The marker tip gap 1411 can also help to absorb some of the impact force of the stylus 1400, which would otherwise be absorbed by components inside the stylus 1400. In the event of a severe impact, the replaceable marker tip 1403 can also act as a sacrificial element, even absorbing the originally destructive energy. If the replaceable marker tip 1403 absorbs too much destructive energy and can no longer function, the user of the stylus 1400 may simply need to add a new replaceable marker tip 1403 to the previously working stylus 1400.

[0094] High-grade paper imitation

[0095] The primary purpose of the electronic paper tablet 110 is to provide users with a paper-like experience, particularly the feel of paper text. This paper-like feel typically requires certain components of the stylus 1400 to be designed and manufactured to enhance the paper-like sensation. It is well known that in operation, the user of the electronic paper tablet 110 physically touches the outer surface of the display on the electronic paper tablet 110 with the plastic stylus 1400—however, the more the plastic pen and display (e.g., with a glass or plastic cover) mimic their alternatives (i.e., a conventional pen / pencil for writing on conventional paper), the enhanced the user experience can be. As described herein, according to embodiments of the invention, the writing spring 1421 can be further adjusted to mimic writing tools (such as pens, paper, quills, brushes, needles, and chisels) and writing surfaces ranging from paper to cardboard, canvas, slate, clay tablets, bamboo tablets, papyrus, wax tablets, kraft paper, parchment, paper, copper plates, slate, porcelain, and other surfaces. The representative writing tool described herein will be a conventional pen, and the representative writing surface will be conventional paper.

[0096] To enhance the paper-like experience for users of the stylus 1400, embodiments of the present invention provide... Figure 14 The writing spring 1421 shown combines two mechanical principles: 1) material compression and 2) geometric deflection to satisfy a target force curve. While some embodiments are intended to mimic the feel of a stack of paper, embodiments of the invention are not limited to this purpose and can also be used to mimic other user sensations.

[0097] Figure 14 A stylus 1400 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, the stylus having a writing spring 1421 located behind a force sensor 1423 relative to a writing axis 1413. As discussed, a user applies the stylus 1400 to the display of an electronic paper tablet 110. The force applied by the user is received by the stylus tip 1403 and transmitted to the writing axis 1413, which in turn transmits the force to the force sensor 1423. The force sensor 1423 converts the force into an electronic signal, which is then transmitted to an integrated circuit (e.g., Figure 11 As shown in PCBA 1105, this integrated circuit ultimately sends data to electronic paper tablet 110 for appropriate processing. For example, detected forces (e.g., pressure) can help determine characteristics such as the width or thickness of lines drawn on the display of electronic paper tablet 110.

[0098] When a user applies force to the stylus 1400, the action of using the stylus 1400 will also transmit the sensation back to the user. As mentioned, one goal is to make this sensation highly reminiscent of a conventional paper / pen writing experience. The writing spring 1421 enhances the user's writing experience by reflecting the force back to the user due to the material compression of the writing spring 1421 and the geometric deflection of the writing spring 1421.

[0099] Embodiments of the writing spring 1421 are designed with a specific and defined geometry that provides a tactile feel during operation that mimics the user's paper-writing sensation, especially when combined with the specialized texture on the display of the electronic paper tablet 110. Here, the writing spring 1421 compresses and also slightly deflects during operation, which produces a feeling similar to writing on a stack of paper for the user. In contrast, conventional writing springs are linear and stiff enough that they cannot provide the smaller force required to successfully mimic the user's paper-writing sensation. Furthermore, a linear writing spring is unlikely to deflect in a way that conveys the subtle differences in the texture of paper, which is composed of a non-uniform and porous material (such as cellulose fibers or, in the case of kraft paper, possibly non-uniform and porous calfskin). When a user draws with a conventional writing instrument (e.g., a pencil), the writing instrument essentially vibrates as it moves along conventional paper. Moreover, it is well known that users tend to sink into porous writing materials when writing. Conventional writing springs in stylus devices struggle to mimic sensations such as these.

[0100] Figure 15 A graph 1500 is shown comparing the force and displacement characteristics of a conventional marker pen spring, a writing spring 1421, and conventional paper according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in graph 1500, the force and displacement of the conventional marker pen spring are substantially linear, while the relationship is substantially exponential for the writing spring 1421 and conventional paper. Furthermore, the curve for the writing spring 1421 substantially matches the curve for conventional paper. In other words, the conventional spring can capture subtle differences, but it performs poorly in mimicking larger forces and larger displacements, as shown in graph 1500. Therefore, a user drawing with the stylus 1400 should experience a feel that closely mimics the mechanical feel of drawing on paper with a conventional writing instrument (e.g., a pencil), better than a marker pen with a conventional spring. In some embodiments of the invention, the maximum force detected by the stylus 1400 may be lower than the maximum force detected using a conventional spring.

[0101] like Figure 14As shown, the writing spring 1421 has a subtle design that allows for slight deformation or movement in all directions, reflecting these sensations back to the user of the stylus 1400. According to embodiments of the invention, the writing spring 1421 can be constructed from a variety of materials, but silicon can provide a useful material.

[0102] Figure 16 A writing spring 1421, separate from the stylus 1400 according to an embodiment of the invention, is shown. As discussed, the writing spring 1421 includes a force material compression pad 1601, which is very similar to a conventional writing spring and receives force applied by the user from a force sensor 1423. However, the material compression pad 1601 is not located alone on the writing spring 1421, but is connected by a recessed portion 1603 and a raised portion 1607, which together form a bend that provides geometric deflection to the writing spring 1421. Due to these distinct areas 1601, 1603, and 1607, the user's writing experience will be more nuanced than that of writing with a conventional writing spring—because when the user applies force to the writing spring 1421, the reaction force of the writing spring 1421 is a combination of material compression and geometric deflection. More precisely, the resulting reaction force mimics the same displacement-to-force ratio between a pencil and a stack of paper. Many users perceive this experience as similar to writing on a paper pad, where it feels like the pen / pencil is sinking into the paper pad. However, according to an embodiment of the invention, this actual sinking does not occur in the stylus 1400; only a slight movement of the writing spring 1421 occurs.

[0103] As a person skilled in the art will recognize, adjusting the shape of the writing spring 1421 and its components (compression pad 1601 and zones 1603 and 1607) can make it possible to mimic other writing experiences. As mentioned above, for example, adjusting these components can mimic the feeling of writing with a quill pen on kraft paper.

[0104] Figure 17 A writing spring 1421 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown independently and in cross-section. Figure 17 The writing spring 1421 shown includes a material compression pad 1601 and deflection areas of recessed portion 1603 and raised portion 1607. Figure 17 The diagram also illustrates a hollow region 1701 located below the protruding portion 1607 according to an embodiment of the invention. As mentioned above, the recessed portion 1603 and the protruding portion 1607 together form a curved portion due to further reinforcement by the hollow region 1701. Furthermore, as... Figure 17As shown, the material compression pad 1601 is depicted as a solid part. Therefore, according to an embodiment of the invention, the deflection area of ​​the writing spring 1421 includes a recessed portion 1603 and a hollow region 1701.

[0105] Additional considerations

[0106] As discussed below, these styluses may be equipped with a tail eraser, allowing users to erase content from the display of a computing device (e.g., an e-paper tablet 110). Active pens include electronic components that enable them to send and receive signals from the computing device.

[0107] This open configuration provides users with additional precision and options when erasing portions of drawings on the e-paper tablet. This should improve the efficiency of user interaction with the e-paper tablet while also giving them more precise functional capabilities.

[0108] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings and descriptions of this disclosure have been simplified to illustrate elements relevant to a clear understanding of this disclosure, while many other elements present in typical systems have been omitted for clarity. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other elements and / or steps are desirable and / or necessary when implementing this disclosure. However, because such elements and steps are well-known in the art and because they are detrimental to a better understanding of this disclosure, discussion of such elements and steps is not provided herein. The disclosure herein relates to all such variations and modifications of these elements and methods known to those skilled in the art.

[0109] Some of the foregoing descriptions describe embodiments in terms of the algorithms and symbolic representations of information operations. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are commonly used by those skilled in the art of data processing to effectively communicate the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. While these operations are described functionally, computationally, or logically, they should be understood as being implemented by computer programs or equivalent circuits, microcode, etc. Furthermore, it has sometimes proven convenient, without loss of generality, to refer to these operations as an engine. The described operations and their associated engines can be embodied in software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof.

[0110] As used herein, any reference to "an embodiment" or "embodiment" means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Throughout this specification, the phrase "in an embodiment" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment in all instances.

[0111] As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “having,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” means inclusive or rather, not exclusive. For example, condition A or B is satisfied in any of the following cases: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist); A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists); and both A and B are true (or exist).

[0112] Additionally, the terms "a" or "an" are used to describe elements and components in the embodiments herein. This is merely for convenience and to give the general meaning of the invention. This description should be understood to include one or at least one, and the singular includes the plural, unless it is obvious otherwise. While specific embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the precise constructions and components disclosed herein. Various modifications, alterations, and variations that will be apparent to those skilled in the art may be made to the arrangement, operation, and details of the methods and apparatus disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An active stylus that provides a paper-like feel for the user, the active stylus comprising: A writing axis that receives physical forces generated when the user uses the stylus; A force sensor that receives force from the writing axis and is configured to convert the received force into an electronic signal; as well as A writing spring receives force from the force sensor and reflects a reaction force that mimics the feel of regular writing back to the user by simulating the ratio of displacement to force between a regular writing instrument and a regular writing surface.

2. The active stylus as described in claim 1, wherein, The writing spring mimics the conventional writing feel provided by a regular pen and regular paper.

3. The active stylus as described in claim 1, wherein, The writing spring is compressed and subjected to geometric deflection, thereby generating a reaction force that mimics the feel of conventional writing.

4. The active stylus as described in claim 3, wherein, The geometric deflection produced by the writing spring is caused by the deformation of the writing spring due to the received force.

5. The active stylus as described in claim 3, wherein, The writing spring includes a material compression pad surrounded by a curved portion that provides the geometric deflection.

6. The active stylus as described in claim 5, wherein, The curved portion includes the area on the writing spring that includes both recessed and raised portions.

7. The active stylus as described in claim 5, wherein, The writing spring is configured to generate this reaction force to mimic the non-uniform and porous material properties of cellulose fibers.

8. The active stylus as described in claim 1, wherein, The writing spring is made of silicon.

9. The active stylus as described in claim 1, further comprising: The marker tip initially receives the force applied by the user to the active stylus and transmits the received force to the writing axis.

10. The active stylus as described in claim 9, wherein, The marker pen tip is replaceable and includes an antenna.

11. The stylus as described in claim 1, wherein, The force sensor sends the electronic signal to an integrated circuit located on the stylus, which then transmits the processed electronic signal back to the tablet device associated with the stylus.

12. The stylus as described in claim 11, wherein, The tablet device uses the processed electronic signal to draw lines on its display.

13. The stylus as described in claim 1, wherein, The writing spring mimics the regular writing feel of one of the following: a pencil, quill, brush, needle, carving tool, and chisel.

14. The stylus as described in claim 1, wherein, This writing spring mimics the regular writing feel of one of the following: cardboard, slate, clay tablet, bamboo tablet, papyrus, wax tablet, kraft paper, parchment, copper plate, slate, and porcelain.

Images