Magnetic actuation for percussive feedback effects in key structure

Abstract

Magnetic actuation involving key structure for percussive feedback effect. A key switch for a keying device, comprising: a housing having an internal structure, wherein a cavity is defined within the internal structure; a plunger protruding from a top side of the housing and extending into the cavity, the plunger operable to be pressed and travel along a linear range of motion within the cavity of the housing; a plug composed of a magnetic material and configured at a bottom section of the cavity; and a conductive coil, wherein the conductive coil is operable to generate a magnetic field in response to receiving an electric current, the magnetic field operable to magnetically move the plug within the cavity such that the plug impacts a portion of the housing or the plunger, wherein the impact produces a feedback effect that is mechanically transferred through the key switch.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The various aspects of this disclosure generally relate to computer peripherals, and more specifically, to key structures with impulse feedback systems. Background Technology

[0002] Haptic effects in computer peripherals can provide users with physical feedback to indicate that an event has occurred. For example, a keyboard can incorporate a mechanical bias structure that is triggered when a key is pressed by a threshold amount, thus providing tactile and "click" feedback. Some common key structures with various mechanical feedback profiles include MX Cherry key switches. These types of key switches can provide excellent user experience (UX) and good reliability.

[0003] Modern adjustable key switches offer users configuration options, but are typically not adjustable, and their application and variability are significantly limited. There is a need for key structures with better customizability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In some embodiments, a key switch for a keying device includes: a housing having an internal structure defining a cavity within the internal structure; a plunger projecting from a top side of the housing and extending into the cavity, the plunger being operable to be pressed and travel along a linear range of motion within the cavity of the housing; a slug made of a magnetic material and disposed at a bottom segment of the cavity; and a conductive coil operable to generate a magnetic field in response to receiving an current, the magnetic field being operable to magnetically move the slug within the cavity such that the slug impacts a portion of the housing or the plunger, wherein the impact produces a feedback effect mechanically transmitted through the key switch. Movement may include, for example, magnetic attraction and magnetic repulsion. In some embodiments, a sensor is configured to detect the position of the plunger along the range of motion, wherein the conductive coil receives current and generates a magnetic field based on the position of the plunger along the range of motion. The generated magnetic field can control the acceleration and velocity of the slug's movement, thereby affecting the impact characteristics of the slug on a portion of the housing or the plunger (e.g., impact intensity, linear movement, oscillating movement, etc.). In some aspects, when the plunger reaches a first threshold position along its range of motion, the conductive coil generates a magnetic field and moves the plunger; and when the plunger reaches a second threshold position different from the first position along its range of motion, the conductive coil generates a magnetic field and moves the plunger. Some implementations may include one, two, three, or more threshold positions, which may be fixed or dynamically set (e.g., rapid triggering, as described in the detailed description below). In some implementations, when the plunger reaches the first threshold position along its range of motion, the conductive coil generates a magnetic field and moves the plunger, wherein the first threshold position changes based on the position where the plunger is pressed and released along its range of motion. In some cases, the conductive coil is integrated on one of a printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible substrate, and a key switch housing via in-mold electronics integration, mechatronics integration technology, or multi-material additive manufacturing processes. In some implementations, the plunger and conductive coil are configured externally to the housing, the plunger is configured internally to the housing and the conductive coil is configured externally to the housing, the plunger and conductive coil are configured internally to the housing, or any suitable arrangement according to design specifications. In some implementations, the keying device is a keyboard, or a computer mouse in which plungers are coupled to a keypad. In some implementations, the impact produces an impact-based feedback effect that is mechanically transferred to the top portion of the plunger (e.g., a coupled user-accessible keycap) via a key switch.

[0005] In some embodiments, a method of operating a key switch includes: controlling a sensor configured to detect the position of a plunger, the plunger being operable to be pressed and travel along a range of motion within a cavity of the key switch housing; determining when the plunger reaches a threshold position along the range of motion; and in response to the plunger reaching the threshold position, driving a conductive coil with a current, the conductive coil being operable to generate a magnetic field based on the current, wherein the magnetic field magnetically moves a magnetic element, causing the magnetic element to impact a portion of the key switch housing or the plunger, and wherein the impact produces a feedback effect mechanically transferred through the key switch. In some embodiments, the generated magnetic field controls the acceleration and velocity of the movement of the magnetic element, thereby affecting the impact characteristics of the magnetic element on a portion of the housing or the plunger. In another embodiment, the method includes driving the conductive coil with a second current in response to the plunger reaching a second threshold position, the second current causing the conductive coil to generate a second magnetic field that moves the magnetic element to impact a portion of the key switch housing or the plunger. Some embodiments may include one, two, three, or more threshold positions, which may be fixed or dynamically set (e.g., quick triggering, as described below). In some aspects, the magnetic element and conductive coil are disposed outside the key switch housing, the magnetic element is disposed inside the key switch housing and the conductive coil is disposed outside the key switch housing, or the magnetic element and conductive coil are disposed inside the key switch housing. In some cases, the key switch operates on a keyboard. In some cases, a plunger is coupled to a user-accessible keyplate of a computer mouse. The key switch can be implemented on any suitable device and can include both linear mechanical devices (e.g., plungers) and rotary devices (e.g., scroll wheels). Many modifications, variations, and alternative implementations will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0006] The terms and expressions used are descriptive rather than restrictive, and their use is not intended to exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof. However, it is recognized that various modifications can be made within the scope of the claimed systems and methods. Therefore, although the systems and methods have been specifically disclosed by way of example and optional features, those skilled in the art will recognize that modifications and variations of the concepts disclosed herein are considered to be within the scope of the systems and methods as defined by the appended claims.

[0007] This overview is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used alone to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by referring to the appropriate portions of the entire specification of this disclosure, any or all of the accompanying drawings, and each claim.

[0008] The foregoing features and examples will be described in more detail in the following description, claims and drawings, together with other features and examples. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The features of the various embodiments of the present invention, as well as other features and advantages of certain embodiments, will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 A simplified example of a computer system is shown, which may include any of a variety of main computing devices and computer peripherals, including those that can be configured to perform aspects of the various inventive concepts described herein.

[0011] Figure 2 A system 200 for operating computer peripherals according to certain embodiments is shown.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a simplified block diagram of a main computing device according to certain implementations.

[0013] Figure 4 (It includes parts (A) and (B)) shows a smart key switch structure 400 that utilizes magnetic actuation to achieve an impact feedback effect according to certain embodiments;

[0014] Figure 5 (It includes parts (A) and (B)) shows a smart key switch structure 500 that utilizes magnetic actuation to achieve an impact feedback effect according to certain embodiments;

[0015] Figure 6 (It includes parts (A), (B), (C) and (D)) show different smart key switch structures that utilize magnetic actuation to achieve an impact feedback effect according to certain embodiments;

[0016] Figure 7 A smart key switch structure 700 that utilizes magnetic actuation to achieve an impact feedback effect according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0017] Figures 8A to 8G Aspects of a smart key switch structure according to certain embodiments are shown, which utilizes magnetic actuation to achieve an impulse feedback effect to indicate fast-triggered on and off events; and

[0018] Figure 9 This is a simplified flowchart illustrating various aspects of a method 900 for operating a smart key switch according to certain embodiments.

[0019] Throughout the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that the same reference numerals are generally used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures. Detailed Implementation

[0020] According to certain embodiments, aspects of this disclosure generally relate to computer peripherals, and more specifically, to key structures having an impulse feedback system.

[0021] In the following description, various examples of bond structures with magnetically controlled impulse feedback systems are described. Specific configurations and details are set forth for illustrative purposes to provide a thorough understanding of the implementation. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain implementations can be practiced or implemented without disclosing every detail. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified to prevent any confusion regarding novel features described herein.

[0022] The following high-level overview is intended to provide a basic understanding of some of the novel innovations depicted in the accompanying drawings and presented in the corresponding description provided below. Aspects of the invention relate to magneto-actuation for generating feedback effects in key switches. The feedback effect can simulate the tactile and click feedback effects present in conventional key switches, which are typically caused by the movement of a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring) relative to a protrusion, resulting in a physical impact and an audible click sound that the user is generally accustomed to. In some cases, the audible click can serve as an audible confirmation that a key press has been instantiated. The user experience (UX) provided by such switches can be excellent, but often the UX is not customizable, or customizability may be significantly limited in terms of the type of feedback provided, or the intensity of the impact vibration, the threshold for triggering impact feedback during key press, or other aspects cannot be adjusted, and products that do allow a degree of customizability often require physical changes to the hardware or other cumbersome and / or expensive modifications.

[0023] Some embodiments of this disclosure can utilize magnetic actuation to provide impact-type feedback to the user in a highly customizable manner (as opposed to the typical vibration-type feedback of conventional haptic devices). In some embodiments, electromechanical actuation is used to generate impact feedback to the user. The feedback and actuation can be modulated by defining the strength and variation of the magnetic field, including UX customization, resulting in different accelerations and directions of acceleration of the magnetomechanical element (e.g., a magnet). Regarding feedback, aspects of the invention are capable of generating pulse-type feedback as well as repetitive pulses, including varying continuous pulses such as clicks, typing, and other types of UX feedback for any suitable keying device (e.g., a keyboard, computer mouse, gaming device, or other computer peripheral). In some embodiments, feedback can be provided at different intensity levels for specific haptic and acoustic cues within a range provided between linear feedback and strong click feedback. Additionally, feedback can be provided discretely—in response to a single pulse when the user presses; or software-induced pulses, even without user interaction (e.g., notifications), providing single or continuous / repetitive feedback.

[0024] In some implementations, it is used for keying devices (such as...) Figure 4The key switch (those shown) may include: a housing having an internal structure defining a cavity within the internal structure; a plunger projecting from the top side of the housing and extending into the cavity, the plunger being operable to be pressed and travel along a linear range of motion within the cavity of the housing; a slug, comprising a movable magnetic element, magnet, ferrous material, secondary coil, or a combination thereof, and typically disposed in a bottom section of the cavity, wherein any protective, encapsulating, and / or damping material may be added to the slug; and a conductive coil. The conductive coil is operable to generate a magnetic field in response to receiving a current, the magnetic field being operable to magnetically repel the slug within the cavity and deflect it upward, causing the slug to impact a portion of the housing or the plunger. The impact can be mechanically transferred by the key switch, for example, by transferring to the top of the plunger and to the user. A sensor (e.g., inside the housing) can detect the position of the plunger along the range of motion and can modulate the magnetic field based on the position of the plunger along the range of motion. Modulation of the magnetic field can control the acceleration and velocity of the deflection of the slug relative to a portion of the housing or the plunger. In some implementations, a magnetic field can be generated in response to the plunger reaching one or more threshold positions along its range of motion. For example, when the plunger is pressed to a first position, a first magnetic field and subsequent impulsive feedback can be generated, and as the plunger continues along its range of motion to a second position, a potentially different second magnetic field and subsequent impulsive feedback can be generated. More threshold positions are possible, and different feedback effects can be generated based on, for example, the plunger's acceleration and velocity, the polarity of the magnetic field, and the strength of the magnetic field. The plunger can generate perceptible feedback to the user through impacts with surrounding structures such as plungers, keyboard keycaps, mouse keyboards, housing features, or device housings. Figures 4 to 7 Various implementations of key switches using magnetic actuation for feedback effects are shown.

[0025] It should be understood that this highly detailed overview is presented to provide the reader with a basic understanding of some of the novel aspects of this disclosure and guidance to the detailed content that follows. This highly detailed overview is in no way limited to the scope of the various embodiments described throughout the detailed description, and each of the figures cited above is further described below in more detail and within its appropriate scope.

[0026] Figure 1A simplified example of a computer system 100 is shown, which may include any of a variety of main computing devices and computer peripherals, including computer peripherals (e.g., computer mouse, keyboard, etc.) that can be configured to perform aspects of the various inventive concepts described herein. The computer system 100 may include a computer 110, a monitor 120, a computer mouse 130, and a keyboard 140. In some cases, the keyboard 140 may be a "qwerty" type keyboard, or any suitable input device having one or more keys (e.g., IoT device, AR / VR controller, remote control, etc.): said one or more keys may be configured as analog keys with travel and force detection, as further described throughout this disclosure. As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art who benefits from this disclosure, for the computer system 100, the keyboard 140 may be configured to control aspects of the computer 110 and the monitor 120. The monitor 120, computer mouse 130, and keyboard 140 may be collectively referred to as "computer peripherals" or "input devices." Computer peripherals 120 to 140 can be communicatively coupled to main computing device 110, and in some cases, can be coupled to multiple main computing devices. Although many of the examples presented herein utilize analog keys in keyboard-type computer peripherals, those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will understand that the use of such a structure can be adapted to other types of input devices.

[0027] Computer 110 can be any suitable computing device, including but not limited to desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers or “tablet” computers, smartphones, PDAs, wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches, smart glasses), virtual reality / augmented reality (VR / AR) systems, etc. The main computing device may also be referred to herein as a “main computer,” “host device,” “computing device,” “computer,” etc., and may include a machine-readable medium (not shown) configured to store computer code such as driver software, firmware, etc., wherein the computer code may be processed by one or more processors of the main computing device (see, for example...). Figure 2 The processor 210) performs functions to control aspects of the main computing device, for example, via one or more computer peripherals.

[0028] Figure 2A system 200 for operating computer peripherals (e.g., computer mouse 130, keyboard 140, etc.) according to certain embodiments is illustrated. System 200 can be configured to operate any computer peripheral shown or not shown herein but within the broad scope of this disclosure. System 200 may include a processor 210, a memory 220, a power management system 230, a communication module 240, an input detection module 250, and an output control module 260. Each of system blocks 220 to 260 can communicate electronically with processor 210 (e.g., via a bus system). System 200 may include additional functional blocks, which are not shown or discussed to avoid obscuring the novel features described herein. System blocks 220 to 260 (also referred to as “modules”) may be implemented as separate blocks, or alternatively, more than one system block may be implemented within a single block. As will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, in the context described herein, system 200 may be included in any computer peripheral device (e.g., input device) described or mentioned herein, and may also be configured with any of the analog key structures proposed herein.

[0029] In some implementations, processor 210 may include one or more microprocessors and may be configured to control the operation of system 200. Alternatively or additionally, processor 210 may include one or more microcontrollers (MCUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), etc., having supporting hardware and / or firmware (e.g., memory, programmable I / O, etc.) and / or software, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Processor 210 may control some or all aspects of the operation of keyboard 140 (e.g., system blocks 220 to 260). Alternatively or additionally, some system blocks 220 to 260 may include additional dedicated processors that can work in conjunction with processor 210. For example, MCUs, μCs, DSPs, etc., may be configured in other system blocks of system 200. Communication block 240 may include a local processor, for example, for controlling aspects of communication with host computer 110 (e.g., via Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, RF, IR, hardwired, ZigBee, Z-Wave, Logitech Unifying, or other communication protocols). Processor 210 may be local to the computer peripheral device (e.g., housed therein), external to the computer peripheral device (e.g., off-board processing via a corresponding main computing device), or a combination thereof. Processor 210 may cooperate with any other system block in system 200 to perform any of the various functions and methods described and / or covered by this disclosure. In some implementations, Figure 3The processor 302 may work in conjunction with the processor 210 to perform some or all of the various methods described throughout this disclosure. In some embodiments, multiple processors may be used to increase performance characteristics (e.g., speed and bandwidth) in the system 200; however, multiple processors are not necessary and are not necessarily closely related to the novelty of the embodiments described herein. Many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0030] Memory block (“memory”) 220 may store one or more software programs to be executed by one or more processors (e.g., processor 210). It should be understood that “software” may refer to a sequence of instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., processor, processing device, etc.), cause system 200 to perform certain operations of the software program. The instructions may be stored as firmware residing in read-only memory (ROM) and / or as an application stored in a media storage device, which may be read into memory for execution by the processing device (e.g., processor 210). The software may be implemented as a single program or a collection of single programs and may be stored in a non-volatile storage device and copied, wholly or partially, to volatile working memory during program execution. In some embodiments, memory 220 may store data corresponding to inputs on computer peripherals, such as detected movement of computer peripherals, sensors (e.g., optical sensors, accelerometers, etc.), activation of one or more input elements (e.g., buttons, sliders, touch-sensitive areas, etc.). The stored data may be aggregated and sent to the main computing device via a report.

[0031] In some embodiments, memory 220 may store various data throughout the description of this disclosure. Memory 220 may be used to store any suitable data to perform any functions described herein and as will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure. Memory 220 may be referred to as a storage system or storage subsystem and may store one or more software programs to be executed by a processor (e.g., in processor 210). It should be understood that “software” may refer to a sequence of instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., processor, processing device, etc.), cause system 200 to perform certain operations of the software program. Instructions may be stored as firmware residing in read-only memory (ROM) and / or as applications stored in a media storage device, which may be read into memory for processing by the processing device. Software may be implemented as a single program or a collection of single programs and may be stored in a non-volatile storage device and copied wholly or partially to volatile working memory during program execution. The processing device may retrieve program instructions from the storage subsystem to perform various operations as described herein (e.g., software-controlled switching, etc.).

[0032] The power management system 230 can be configured to manage power distribution, recharging, power efficiency, etc. In some embodiments, the power management system 230 may include a battery (not shown), a Universal Serial Bus (USB)-based recharging system for the battery (not shown), power management devices (e.g., a voltage regulator—not shown), and a power grid within system 200 for providing power to each subsystem (e.g., communication block 240, etc.). In some embodiments, the functionality provided by the power management system 230 may be incorporated into processor 210. Alternatively, some embodiments may not include a dedicated power management block. For example, functional aspects of the power management block 230 may be incorporated into or combined with other blocks (e.g., processor 210). The power source may be a replaceable battery, a rechargeable energy storage device (e.g., a supercapacitor, lithium polymer battery, NiMH, NiCd), or a wired power supply. The recharging system may be an additional cable (dedicated to recharging purposes), or the recharging system may use a USB connection to recharge the battery.

[0033] According to some implementations, communication system 240 may be configured to enable wireless communication with a corresponding host computing device (e.g., 110) or other devices and / or computer peripherals. Communication system 240 may be configured to provide radio frequency (RF), near field communication (NFC), Bluetooth®, Logitech proprietary communication protocols (e.g., Unifying, Gaming Lightspeed, or others), infrared (IR), ZigBee®, Z-Wave, or other suitable communication technologies for communicating with other computing devices and / or peripherals. System 200 may optionally include a hardwired connection to the corresponding host computing device. For example, computer peripheral 140 may be configured to accept USB, FireWire®, Thunderbolt®, or other common types of cables to enable bidirectional electronic communication with the corresponding host computing device or other external devices. Some implementations may utilize different types of cables or connection protocol standards to establish hardwired communication with other entities. In some aspects, communication ports (e.g., USB), power ports, etc., may be considered as part of other blocks described herein (e.g., input detection module 250, output control module 260, etc.). In some aspects, communication system 240 may send reports (e.g., HID data, streaming data, or aggregated data, etc.) generated by processor 210 to a main computing device. In some cases, the reports may be generated solely by the processor, generated in conjunction with the processor, or generated by other entities in system 200. Communication system 240 may include one or more antennas, oscillators, etc., and may operate in any suitable frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz, etc.). Many modifications, variations, and alternative implementations will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0034] Input detection module 250 can control the detection of user interactions with input elements on an input device. For example, as those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will understand, input detection module 250 can detect user input from: motion sensors, keys or buttons (e.g., pressable elements), scroll wheels, trackballs, touchpads (e.g., one-dimensional and / or two-dimensional touch-sensitive touchpads), click wheels, dial pads, keyboards, microphones, GUIs, touch-sensitive GUIs, proximity sensors (e.g., IR sensing, thermal sensing, Hall effect sensing, inductive sensing, etc.), image sensor-based detection such as gesture detection (e.g., via a webcam), audio-based detection such as voice input (e.g., via a microphone), etc. Alternatively, the functionality of input detection module 250, or a subset thereof, may be incorporated into or combined with processor 210.

[0035] In some embodiments, the input detection module 250 can detect touches or touch gestures on one or more touch-sensitive surfaces on the keyboard 140. The input detection module 250 may include one or more touch-sensitive surfaces or touch sensors. Touch sensors typically include sensing elements adapted to detect signals such as direct contact, electromagnetic or electrostatic fields, or beams of electromagnetic radiation. Touch sensors can typically detect changes in received signals, the presence of a signal, or the absence of a signal. Touch sensors may include a source for emitting the detected signal, or the signal may be generated by an auxiliary source. Touch sensors may be configured to detect the presence of an object at a distance (e.g., <5 mm) from a reference area or reference point, contact with the reference area or reference point, or a combination thereof. Some embodiments of the computer peripheral device 140 may or may not utilize touch detection or touch sensing capabilities.

[0036] Input detection block 250 may include touch and / or proximity sensing capabilities. Some examples of touch / proximity sensor types may include, but are not limited to, resistive sensors (e.g., air-gap 4-wire based, carbon-loaded plastics with different electrical properties depending on pressure (FSR), interpolated FSR, strain gauges, etc.), capacitive sensors (e.g., surface capacitance, self-capacitance, mutual capacitance, etc.), optical sensors (e.g., grating type (default open or closed), infrared grating matrix, laser-based diodes coupled to a photodetector that can measure the time of flight of the optical path, etc.), acoustic sensors (e.g., piezoelectric buzzers coupled to a microphone to detect changes in wave propagation patterns associated with the touch point, etc.), inductive sensors, magnetic sensors (e.g., Hall effect, etc.), etc.

[0037] Input detection module 250 may include a motion tracking sub-block that can be configured to detect the relative displacement (motion tracking) of a computer peripheral device. For example, input detection module 250 may include optical sensors such as IR LEDs and photodiode imaging arrays to detect movement of the computer peripheral device relative to an underlying surface. The computer peripheral device may optionally include motion tracking hardware utilizing coherent (laser) light. Motion tracking can provide positional data (e.g., ∆X and ∆Y data relative to the last sample) or lift detection data. For example, the optical sensor may detect when a user lifts the computer peripheral device (e.g., computer mouse 130) off the underlying surface (also referred to as the "working surface") and may send that data to processor 210 for further processing. In some embodiments, as will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, processor 210, the motion tracking block (which may include an additional dedicated processor), or a combination thereof.

[0038] In some implementations, accelerometers can be used for motion detection. Accelerometers can be electromechanical devices (e.g., microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices) configured to measure accelerating forces (e.g., static and dynamic forces). One or more accelerometers can be used to detect three-dimensional (3D) positioning. For example, 3D tracking can utilize a triaxial accelerometer or two biaxial accelerometers (e.g., in a "3D air mouse," HMD, or other device). Accelerometers can also determine whether a computer peripheral has been lifted off a surface below and can provide motion data that may include the computer peripheral's velocity, physical orientation, and acceleration. In some implementations, a gyroscope can be used instead of an accelerometer, or a gyroscope can be used in conjunction with an accelerometer, to determine the orientation of a moving or input device. In some implementations, as described herein, input detection block 250 can control aspects of one or more sensing elements.

[0039] In some embodiments, the output control module 260 can control various outputs for corresponding computer peripherals. For example, the output control module 260 can control multiple visual output elements (e.g., LEDs, LCDs, or LED screens / keys), displays, audio output devices (e.g., speakers), impulse feedback systems, etc. Many modifications, variations, and alternative implementations will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0040] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, although certain systems may not be explicitly discussed, they should be considered as part of system 200. For example, system 200 may include a bus subsystem for transmitting power and / or data to and from different systems in system 200. It should be understood that system 200 is illustrative and can be varied and modified. System 200 may have other capabilities not specifically described herein. Furthermore, while system 200 is described with reference to specific blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for ease of description and are not intended to imply a specific physical arrangement of the components. Moreover, these blocks do not need to correspond to physically different parts. Blocks may be configured (e.g., by programming a processor or providing an appropriate control circuitry) to perform various operations, and depending on how the initial configuration is obtained, various blocks may be reconfigurable or non-reconfigurable.

[0041] System 200 can be used entirely or in part (e.g., a subset of system blocks 210 to 260), or in conjunction with additional blocks, to implement the various inventive concepts described herein. In some cases, multiple systems 200 or portions thereof can be applied to a computer peripheral device.

[0042] Embodiments of the invention can be implemented in a variety of devices, including electronic devices (e.g., computer peripherals) implemented using any combination of circuit systems and software. Furthermore, aspects and / or portions of system 200 can be combined with or operated by other subsystems, depending on design requirements. For example, input detection module 250 and / or memory 220 can operate within processor 210, rather than as separate entities. Additionally, the inventive concepts described herein can be applied to any electronic device. Moreover, system 200 can be applied to any computer peripheral described in the embodiments herein, whether explicitly, explicitly, or implicitly (e.g., those skilled in the art will know that it can be applied to a particular computer peripheral). The foregoing embodiments are not intended to be limiting, and those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will appreciate numerous applications and possibilities.

[0043] Figure 3 This is a simplified block diagram of a main computing device 300 according to certain embodiments. The main computing device 300 may implement some or all of the functions, behaviors, and / or capabilities described herein that will utilize electronic storage or processing, as well as other functions, behaviors, or capabilities not explicitly described. The main computing device 300 may include a processing subsystem (processor) 302, a storage subsystem 306, user interfaces 314, 316, and a communication interface 312. The computing device 300 may also include other components (not explicitly shown) such as a battery, a power controller, and other components operable to provide various enhanced capabilities. In various embodiments, the main computing device 300 may be implemented in any suitable computing device, such as a desktop or laptop computer (e.g., desktop 110), a mobile device (e.g., a tablet computer, smartphone, mobile phone), a wearable device, a media device, etc., or in some implementations in a peripheral device (e.g., a keyboard, etc.).

[0044] Processor 302 may include an MCU, microprocessor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), digital signal processor (DSP), digital signal processing device (DSPD), programmable logic device (PLD), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), processor, controller, microcontroller, microprocessor, or electronic unit designed to perform the functions, features, or methods described throughout this disclosure.

[0045] Storage subsystem 306 may be implemented using local storage devices and / or removable storage media such as disks, flash memory (e.g., Secure Digital Card, Universal Serial Bus flash drive), or any other non-transitory storage media or combinations thereof, and storage subsystem 306 may include volatile and / or non-volatile storage media. Local storage devices may include memory subsystem 308 or file storage subsystem 310, which may include one or more code modules. Memory subsystem 308 includes random access memory (RAM) 318 or read-only memory (ROM) 320, such as dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (e.g., DDR), or backup battery RAM. In some embodiments, storage subsystem 306 may store one or more application and / or operating system programs to be executed by processing subsystem 302, including programs to be executed using a computer to implement some or all of the above operations. For example, storage subsystem 306 may store one or more code modules for implementing one or more method steps described herein.

[0046] Firmware and / or software implementations can be implemented using modules (e.g., procedures, functions, etc.). Machine-readable media that tangibly embody instructions can be used in implementing the methods described herein. Code modules (e.g., instructions stored in memory) can be implemented within or outside the processor. As used herein, the term "memory" refers to long-term, short-term, volatile, non-volatile, or other types of storage media, and is not limited to any particular type of memory, any number of memories, or the type of memory on which media are stored.

[0047] Furthermore, the terms "storage medium" or "storage device" can refer to one or more memories used for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), RAM, magnetic RAM, magnetic core memory, disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other machine-readable media used for storing information. The term "machine-readable medium" includes, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, wireless channels, and / or various other storage media capable of storing instructions and / or data.

[0048] Furthermore, implementations can be carried out using hardware, software, scripting languages, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, and / or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware, scripting languages, and / or microcode, program code or code segments for performing tasks can be stored in a machine-readable medium such as a storage medium. Code segments (e.g., code modules) or machine-executable instructions can represent processes, functions, subroutines, programs, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, scripts, classes, or combinations of instructions, data structures, and / or program statements. Code segments can be coupled to another code segment or hardware circuitry by passing and / or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, and / or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc., can be passed, forwarded, or transmitted by appropriate means including memory sharing, messaging, token passing, network transmission, etc. These descriptions of software, firmware, storage media, etc., apply to systems 200 and 300 and any other implementations within the broad scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, aspects of the invention (e.g., surface classification) may be executed by software stored in storage subsystem 306, in memory 220 of a computer peripheral device, or both. Many modifications, variations, and alternative implementations will be understood by those skilled in the art who will benefit from this disclosure.

[0049] The techniques, blocks, steps, and means described throughout this disclosure can be implemented in various ways. For example, these techniques, blocks, steps, and means can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In a hardware implementation, the processing unit can be implemented within one or more ASICs, DSPs, DSPDs, PLDs, FPGAs, processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described above, and / or combinations thereof.

[0050] Each code module may include a set of instructions (code) embodied on a computer-readable medium, which instructs the processor of the main computing device 110 to execute corresponding actions. The instructions may be configured to execute sequentially, in parallel (e.g., under different processing threads), or a combination thereof. After the code modules are loaded onto a general-purpose computer system, the general-purpose computer is transformed into a special-purpose computer system.

[0051] Computer programs including the various features described herein (e.g., in one or more code modules) can be encoded and stored on various computer-readable storage media. The computer-readable medium encoding the program code can be packaged together with a compatible electronic device, or the program code can be provided separately from the electronic device (e.g., downloaded via the Internet or as a separately packaged computer-readable storage medium). Storage subsystem 306 can also store information useful for establishing network connections using communication interface 312.

[0052] Computer system 300 may include user interface input device elements 314 (e.g., touchpad, touch screen, scroll wheel, click wheel, dial pad, button, switch, keyboard, microphone, etc.), user interface output devices 316 (e.g., video screen, indicator lights, speaker, headphone jack, virtual or augmented reality display, etc.), and supporting electronic devices (e.g., digital-to-analog converter or analog-to-digital converter, signal processor, etc.). Users can operate the user interface input device 314 to invoke functions of computing device 300, and can view and / or hear output from computing device 300 via user interface output device 316.

[0053] The processing subsystem 302 can be implemented as one or more processors (e.g., integrated circuits, one or more single-core or multi-core microprocessors, microcontrollers, central processing units, graphics processing units, etc.). In operation, the processing subsystem 302 can control the operation of the computing device 300. In some embodiments, the processing subsystem 302 can execute various programs in response to program code and can maintain multiple concurrently executing programs or processes. At a given time, some or all of the program code to be executed can reside in the processing subsystem 302 and / or storage medium such as the storage subsystem 304. Through programming, the processing subsystem 302 can provide various functions for the computing device 300. The processing subsystem 302 can also execute other programs for controlling other functions of the computing device 300, including programs that can be stored in the storage subsystem 304.

[0054] The communication interface (also referred to as the network interface) 312 can provide voice and / or data communication capabilities to the computing device 300. In some embodiments, the communication interface 312 may include radio frequency (RF) transceiver components for accessing wireless data networks (e.g., Wi-Fi networks, 3G, 4G / LTE, 5G, etc.), mobile communication technologies, components for short-range wireless communication (e.g., using Bluetooth communication standards, NFC, etc.), other components, or combinations of technologies. In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of a wireless interface, the communication interface 312 may also provide wired connectivity (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB), Ethernet, Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter, etc.). The communication interface 312 can be implemented using a combination of hardware (e.g., driver circuitry, antenna, modulator / demodulator, encoder / decoder, and other analog and / or digital signal processing circuitry) and software components. In some embodiments, the communication interface 312 may support multiple communication channels simultaneously.

[0055] As will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, user interface input device 314 may include any suitable computer peripheral device (e.g., computer mouse, keyboard, game controller, remote control, stylus device, etc.). User interface output device 316 may include display devices (e.g., monitor, television, projector, etc.), audio devices (e.g., speakers, microphones), etc. Note that the user interface input and output devices are shown as part of an integrated system 300. In some cases, such as in a laptop computer, this may be where the keyboard and input elements, as well as the display and output elements, are integrated on the same main computing device. In some cases, such as Figure 1 As shown, the input and output devices can be separated from system 300. Many modifications, variations, and alternative implementations will be understood by those skilled in the art who will benefit from this disclosure.

[0056] It will be understood that computing device 300 is illustrative, and variations and modifications are possible. The main computing device may have various functions not specifically described (e.g., voice communication via a cellular telephone network) and may include components suited to such functions. While computing device 300 is described with reference to specific blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for ease of description and are not intended to imply a specific physical arrangement of the components. For example, processing subsystem 302, storage subsystem 306, user interfaces 314, 316, and communication interface 312 may be in one device or distributed across multiple devices. Furthermore, these blocks do not need to correspond to physically different components. Blocks can be configured to perform various operations (e.g., by programming the processor or providing appropriate control circuitry), and depending on how the initial configuration is obtained, the various blocks may be reconfigurable or non-reconfigurable. Embodiments of the invention can be implemented in various devices, including electronic devices implemented using a combination of circuitry and software. The main computing device or even peripheral devices described herein can be implemented using system 300. Magnetodynamics for impulse feedback effects

[0057] Various aspects of this invention relate to magnetoacturization for generating an impact feedback effect in a key switch. The impact effect can simulate the tactile and click feedback effects present in conventional key switches, typically caused by the movement of a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring) relative to a protrusion, resulting in a physical impact and an audible click sound that the user is generally accustomed to. In some cases, the audible click can serve as audible confirmation that a key press has been instantiated. The user experience (UX) provided by such a switch can be excellent, but often the UX is not customizable, or customizability may be significantly limited in terms of the type of feedback provided, or the impact intensity, the threshold at which the impact occurs during key press, or other aspects cannot be adjusted, and products that do allow a degree of customizability often require physical changes to the hardware or other cumbersome and / or expensive modifications.

[0058] Some embodiments of this disclosure can provide feedback to the user in a highly customizable manner using magnetic actuation. In some embodiments, electromechanical actuation is used to generate impact-like feedback to the user. The feedback and actuation can be modulated by defining the strength and variation of the magnetic field, including UX customization, thereby producing different accelerations and directions of acceleration of the magnetomechanical element (e.g., a magnet). Regarding feedback, aspects of the invention are capable of generating pulse-type feedback as well as repetitive pulses, including varying continuous pulses such as clicks, typing, and other types of UX feedback for any suitable keying device, such as a keyboard, computer mouse, gaming device, or other computer peripheral.

[0059] Figure 4 A smart key switch structure 400 utilizing magnetic actuation to achieve an impact-based feedback effect is illustrated according to certain embodiments. The smart key switch structure (“key switch”) 400 can provide click feedback for make / brake events, much like a linear switch. For example, unlike the conventional tactile effect when a biasing mechanism interacts with a protrusion, the key switch 400 can produce a feedback effect at any point (including multiple points) along the range of motion of a key press, and the feedback effect can also differ during key press compared to key release. The feedback effect can include tactile, click, and linear feedback profiles, or other suitable feedback profiles. In some cases, force-click feedback and rapid-trigger feedback may be implemented using the smart key switch 400.

[0060] The smart key switch structure 400 may include a housing 405, a plunger 410, a printed circuit board (PCB) 420, a conductive coil 425, and a slug 430. The housing 405 includes a cavity 415 or an internal structure 445 (“structure”) coupled to defining the cavity 415. The cavity 415 may be channel-shaped, cylindrical, square, rectangular, or any suitable polygonal shape. The cavity 415 may have a uniform size or may be a set of composite dimensions (e.g., wider near the plunger's range of motion and narrower near the slug's range of motion). It should be understood that the term “cavity” is a general term defining an opening within the housing, and a wide variety of cavity sizes are possible, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art who benefits from this disclosure. In some cases, the housing 405 may include a cavity, or the housing may (e.g., via PCB 440) be coupled to another structure 445 that includes the cavity and / or the slug 430, as shown.

[0061] The plunger 410 can be configured such that it protrudes from the top side of the housing and extends into the cavity. In some aspects, the top of the plunger can be coupled to a user-accessible keycap. When the user presses the keycap, the plunger is operable to be pressed and travel within the cavity of structure 445 along a range of motion (e.g., downward linear movement), such as... Figure 4 Part (A) to Figure 4 The transition between sections (B) is shown. Slug 430 can be a magnet or made of other ferrous materials and a coil or any combination thereof. Typically, slug 430 is a monolithic element; however, some embodiments may include composite elements (e.g., ferrous and nonferrous materials that respond to a magnetic field, the nonferrous material potentially having certain desired impact characteristics (e.g., vibratory acoustic damping) or reducing friction of movement within cavity 415). The size / mass / inertia of the slug, in conjunction with the design of the coil and its induced magnetic field, can be design parameters that can be used to define the range of feedback strength and UX characteristics provided by the system. The cavity 415 in which the plunger and slug move can be a single cavity (e.g., cylindrical) having uniform dimensions, composite dimensions (e.g., different diameters at different locations within housing 405), etc.

[0062] The conductive coil 425 can be a single coil or multiple coils connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof. The conductive coil 425 can be configured to extend in a planar plane or in three-dimensional space. In some embodiments, the conductive coil 425 is integrated on a PCB 420 and can be driven by one or more processors (210) and / or driver circuitry to pass current through the conductive coil 425 and generate a magnetic field. In some configurations, the magnetic field is operable to magnetically repel the slug within the cavity and deflect it upwards based on the characteristics of the magnetic field (e.g., intensity, duration, range). Thus, the slug can respond to the plunger reaching different threshold positions within its range of motion by impacting the bottom of the plunger or a portion of the housing (e.g., an internal flange extending into the cavity) at varying velocities and frequencies. For example, a larger current through the conductive coil 425 can generate a magnetic field that can magnetically repel the slug 430 with increased acceleration and velocity compared to a lower current. In some typical systems with a slug-based design, power can vary between 0.1 W and 10 W, where the weight of the slug is between 0.1 gr and 10 gr, and the force ranges from 30 gf to 300 gf, although other quantities are possible. In some cases, alternating current can be used to generate a varying magnetic field that causes the slug 430 to repeatedly accelerate and decelerate to periodically (or non-periodically) change direction, thereby rapidly and continuously impacting the plunger or housing to generate a controlled shock-vibration effect. In some embodiments, a sensor (not shown) can be configured to detect the position of the plunger within the cavity, where one, two, three, or more distinct threshold positions can be used to trigger a feedback effect, the feedback effect relative to each threshold position may be similar or may be different. For example, each threshold position may correspond to a different current signal driving the conductive coil 425. Many modifications, variations, and alternative implementations will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0063] Reference Figure 4 In section (A), the smart key switch 400 is in the unpressed state, with plunger 410 in a neutral position (e.g., topmost position, unpressed position). Segment 430 is stationary at the bottom portion of cavity 415 because: the conductive coil 425 does not generate a magnetic field; or the conductive coil 425 does not generate a magnetic field that repels segment 430 (e.g., a magnetic field that attracts segment 430); or the conductive coil 425 does not generate a magnetic field with sufficient repulsive force to magnetically push segment 430 upward through cavity 415. See reference. Figure 4In section (B), plunger 410 is pressed and moves downward within cavity 415. Plunger 410 is pressed at least to a first threshold position, causing a drive circuit (e.g., processor 210) to drive a conductive coil 425 with current. This current causes the conductive coil 425 to generate a magnetic field that magnetically repels slug 430 upward through cavity 415, thereby causing slug 430 to impact the bottom of plunger 410. The impact and the resulting vibration are mechanically transferred through plunger 410, which is felt as physical feedback at the top of plunger 410 and / or at the coupled keycap (not shown), which can be perceived by the user when touching the keycap. Alternatively or additionally, in some cases, slug 430 may impact a portion of the housing, which can mechanically transfer the vibration from the impact to the user via the keycap. In some embodiments, as shown, the slug 430 and the conductive coil 425 (e.g., coupled to PCB 420) may be configured externally to the switch, wherein the smart key switch 400 is mounted on a first PCB 460, and PCB 420 is configured below and coupled to PCB 460, wherein a cavity 415 extends from housing 405 (or structure 445) into structure 470 and is located below structure 470, and the slug 430 can move and impact the plunger 410 during operation. In some embodiments, the switch may include a cavity (also referred to as a channel) for the slug to move, or the switch may be coupled to a structure including a cavity, such as... Figure 4 Part (A) and Figure 4 As shown in section (B). Figure 4 Part (A) and Figure 4 In section (B), switch 400 is attached to main PCB 440. PCB 440 is coupled to structure 445, which includes cavity 415 and houses magnet 430. Structure 445 is coupled to bottom PCB 420, which includes coil 425 disposed thereon and operating as described above. In some embodiments, the conductive coil may be integrated into the system in the following ways: in a printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible substrate; directly embedded as an integrated element (e.g., wiring) in the key switch structure (e.g., via double-shot material or in-mold insertion electronics); or using mechatronics integrated device technology (3D-MID), multi-material additive manufacturing processes, or other suitable methods. Many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0064] Figure 5 Part (A) and Figure 5Section (B) illustrates a smart key switch structure 500 that utilizes magneto-actuation to achieve an impact feedback effect according to certain embodiments. The smart key switch structure 500 may include a housing 505, a plunger 510, a printed circuit board (PCB) 520, a conductive coil 525, and a slug 530, and may be operationally similar to key switch structure 400, except that the slug 530 may be configured inside the key switch structure 500, while the conductive coil 525 may be configured outside the key switch structure 500. For example, the conductive coil may be configured on another PCB 550 below the key structure 500, as shown. In some cases, the conductive coil may be configured below the slug 530; however, in some embodiments, the slug 530 may be configured such that, when at rest, the slug 530 is at least partially configured on the same plane as the PCB having the conductive coil 525, as shown. Figure 5 Part (A) and Figure 5 The implementation in section (B) illustrates a compact system with a cavity and magnet smaller than that of switch 400. Such an implementation can have excellent mechanical coupling and reduced losses (e.g., dissipated vibrations) while using less available design space.

[0065] Figure 6 Part (A) to Figure 6 Section (D) illustrates different smart key switch structures that utilize magnetic actuation to achieve an impact feedback effect according to certain embodiments. Figure 6 Part (A) shows a coil PCB with a cylindrical magnet underneath, and is similar to... Figure 5 The key switch in section (A) has a dedicated PCB for the coil configured in the bottom housing. Figure 6 Part (B) uses a magnet with a hole in the center (e.g., a "ring" or toroidal magnet). A portion of the plunger can pass through the center of the magnet. In such an implementation, the coil can be coupled to or integrated with the main PCB, rather than having a separate PCB, which saves cost and space. Figure 6 The aspects of part (C) are similar to Figure 6 The difference in part (A) is that the coil PCB can be soldered to the main PCB, which simplifies the assembly process. Figure 6 The aspects of part (D) are similar to Figure 6 In part (A), the PCB coils are replaced with wound copper coils, which can be more sustainable.

[0066] Figure 7A smart key switch structure 700 utilizing actuation for an impact feedback effect, according to certain embodiments, is shown. The smart key switch structure 700 may include both a plunger 730 and a conductive coil 720 disposed therein. As shown, the smart key switch structure 700 may include a plunger 710, a hybrid current contact 740, a sensor circuit 750 on a vertically configured PCB, a plunger 730 disposed within a cavity as shown, and a conductive coil 720 on a horizontally configured PCB. The horizontal conductive coil 720 may be disposed inside the key switch and directly soldered to the vertical PCB. Therefore, the key switch can be compatible with modular switch type designs. Impact feedback effect

[0067] The various implementations described herein (e.g., such as) Figures 4 to 7 The diagram illustrates different ways to achieve an impact feedback effect to the user. As mentioned above, conventional designs typically use a rotary motor with an eccentric counterweight configured to generate a controllable vibration effect, or in some cases, a piezoelectric (oscillating) material. In contrast, the embodiments presented herein are operable to produce an impact feedback effect caused by the magnetic propulsion of an object onto a target (e.g., a plunger, a portion of a housing, etc.). Figures 4 to 7 Various implementations illustrate a range of options for system design, which, as will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, can achieve effects such as: better specific performance for sensing and tactile feedback, structural optimization to minimize mechanical losses, acoustic damping and tuning, better coupling and guidance of moving parts (e.g., magnets), and efficient use of design space.

[0068] One or more threshold positions of the plunger can be used to trigger an impact feedback effect. For example, three threshold positions (e.g., different positions along the plunger's range of motion) can be operable to induce an impact feedback effect. The feedback effect can be the same in response to traversing each threshold position, or different feedback effects can be applied in response to traversing each threshold position. For example, a light impact feedback effect can be applied to a first threshold position, a heavy impact feedback effect can be applied to a second threshold position, and an impact vibration effect can be applied to a third threshold position. In some cases, an impact feedback effect can occur when the plunger passes through a threshold position from above (downward movement) or from below (upward movement). Alternatively, a hysteresis can be applied, where the threshold positions differ when the plunger moves upward or downward.

[0069] Alternatively or additionally, an impact feedback effect can be applied when the plunger moves at a specific threshold speed or acceleration. For example, if the user presses the plunger very quickly (e.g., faster than the threshold speed), the impact feedback effect may differ from that when the user presses the plunger slowly (e.g., slower than the threshold speed).

[0070] In some implementations, any of the threshold detection positions can be adjusted. This can be done via user input (e.g., via software (SW), firmware (FW), or a combination thereof), allowing customization of the travel required to actuate the first and subsequent levels. Such implementations enable the user to actuate the keys within preferred ranges (e.g., very shallow, short travel for more sensitive control; or longer travel to prevent false actuation). Furthermore, adjustment can be shared across multiple keys or done individually for each input system, allowing for personalization of the keying device layout.

[0071] The detection threshold can also be adjusted via SW / FW without user input. This allows the sensing threshold to be tuned to better match user intent using machine learning algorithms or any similar adaptive algorithms, thus preventing unintended actuation or optimizing the system for faster response. Similarly, by combining analog sensing input, such a system can detect the intent to click before reaching a click threshold during keypad travel. By measuring a set of input parameters including velocity and acceleration, the system can confirm the user's input intent and actuate the system, including modulating the magnetic field and generating feedback before the key actually reaches the threshold. This adaptive feature reduces system latency and achieves faster input feedback response in milliseconds. That is, the inherent latency caused by the movement of potentially “heavy” magnets and the corresponding inertia (in the order of approximately 10 ms) can be reduced, and the user can receive precise feedback when the plunger / sensor crosses a specific threshold.

[0072] The adjustment of the sensing threshold can also be performed at the end of the production line, at the production and qualification stage, to self-calibrate the device to minimize the effects of electromagnetic mechanical deviations arising from any individual component in the system and its assembly process, in both sensing and feedback generation (e.g., intensity) at the same input displacement.

[0073] In some cases, the "quick-trigger" feedback effect can be achieved using the impulsive feedback system described herein. Quick-trigger functionality is typically described as the detected key press and release, usually exceeding a threshold position, even if the press and release occur midway through a small portion of the plunger's travel range. In other words, quick-trigger can immediately activate a key press (on contact) at the threshold position and immediately deactivate a key press (off contact) at the start of release, regardless of where the release occurs. Based on the travel distance rather than a fixed point in the key's travel, quick-trigger can eliminate all or almost all of the delay caused by the physical movement of the switch by dynamically activating and deactivating the key. This also means you can repeat the intermediate movement of a key press without exceeding a fixed reset or actuation point to achieve a quick press. You can customize the sensitivity of quick-trigger to 0.1 mm or less. Therefore, a user can push the plunger beyond the "on" threshold, repeating the press and release along the range of movement beyond the threshold point within a small range of movement (+ / -0.5 mm), and quickly achieve both on and off events without having to fully release the key beyond the threshold to achieve another on event. Various aspects of the present invention can utilize magnetic actuation for impulse feedback effects (e.g., see...). Figures 4 to 7 ( ), and be consistent with each on or off event in any suitable manner as described herein.

[0074] Figures 8A to 8G Aspects of a smart key switch structure according to certain embodiments are shown, which utilizes magnetic actuation to achieve an impulse feedback effect to indicate on and off events triggered rapidly. Figures 8A to 8G The range of motion 800 of a plunger 810 with a key press threshold 820 and a quick-trigger function according to some embodiments is shown. The key press threshold 820 serves as a fixed actuation point to aid in illustrating the quick-trigger function. It should be understood that in some embodiments, not only can one or more fixed thresholds be set, but some embodiments may employ an adjustable threshold level, which can be adjusted by FW, SW, user interaction, or a combination thereof as described above, and may or may not have a quick-trigger function. Those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will understand that many combinations, modifications, etc., are possible using the novel concepts described herein and through this disclosure. Return to References Figure 8A The plunger 810 was pushed downwards, but the key press threshold 820 was not reached. Therefore, no key press event was achieved, and no magnetic shock feedback was generated. Figure 8B In the middle, plunger 810 continues downward and reaches the key press threshold 820. A key press event ("on" event) is instantiated and an impact feedback effect is applied. Figure 8CIn the middle, plunger 810 continues downward past key press threshold 820. No change in direction occurs, no key press event is instantiated, and no impact feedback effect is applied. Figure 8D In the process, the keycap coupled to plunger 810 is released, causing plunger 810 to begin moving upwards while still below the key press threshold 820. Once the orientation of plunger 810 changes, a key release event ("disconnect" event) is immediately instantiated, and an impact feedback effect is applied simultaneously. Figure 8E In the middle, the keycap coupled to plunger 810 is pressed again, causing plunger 810 to begin moving downwards, while still below the key press threshold 820. Once the direction of plunger 810 changes, the key press event ("on" event) is immediately instantiated again, and the impact feedback effect is applied simultaneously. Figure 8F In the middle, the keycap coupled to plunger 810 is released again, causing plunger 810 to begin moving upwards again, while still below the key press threshold 820. Once the direction of plunger 810 changes, the key press event ("disconnect" event) is immediately instantiated again, and the impact feedback effect is applied simultaneously. The plunger continues upwards past the key press threshold 820, as shown. Figure 8G In the middle, plunger 810 is pressed again, causing it to begin moving downwards. The key press event is not immediately instantiated when the plunger 810 changes direction, but rather until the plunger passes the key press threshold 820 again. Figures 8A to 8G This demonstrates how to implement a rapid triggering function using the smart key switch and magnetic shock feedback system described herein. Many modifications, variations, and alternative implementations will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0075] Although many of the embodiments described herein use the position of the plunger to determine when a key press event (e.g., an on or off event) occurs, it should be understood that any suitable detection system (e.g., optical, inductive, capacitive, etc.) and any suitable target (e.g., plunger, metallic or ferrous material, sensor, etc.) can be used to implement novel ideas that can be adopted (e.g., magnetic shock feedback), as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art who benefits from this disclosure.

[0076] It should also be reiterated that the magnetic impact feedback described herein offers numerous technological advantages over contemporary haptic systems. For example, impact feedback can occur at any suitable location along the range of motion of the target (e.g., a plunger, a sensing element). That is, multiple locations (e.g., two, three, four, or more) can exist along the range of motion where impact feedback can be employed. In some cases, impact feedback can be applied to both on and off events, and can be applied at different points along the range of motion of the detected target (e.g., a plunger) moving downwards and upwards. Typical systems can provide feedback at a single point (e.g., at a single key press threshold), and the feedback is typically oscillatory (e.g., a piezoelectric element) and not impact-based. Impact feedback (e.g., a projected weight striking a fixed or semi-fixed object) can be significantly stronger than vibration, and can be mechanically transferred to the user more effectively through the key structure. Furthermore, the driving current (or voltage, energy, etc.) energizing the conductive coil can be changed rapidly, thus enabling almost instantaneous changes (e.g., changes occurring within microseconds) in the magnetic field, thereby allowing very precise control of the movement of the slug (e.g., a magnet, an iron-containing material) within the cavity. Therefore, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art who benefits from this disclosure, the impact intensity, impact frequency (e.g., for each on or off event exceeding a threshold position within the range of motion), or impact type (e.g., a single impact, a rapid impact for buzzer-type feedback, a very strong to a very weak impact) in any suitable combination.

[0077] In some implementations, the impact force and velocity projected by the slug via the magnetic field can be adjusted based on the distance the slug must travel to strike a portion of the plunger or housing (e.g., adjusting the duration of the current, drive voltage, etc.). For example, if impact feedback is triggered at three positions along the range of motion, the system can adjust the duration of the current or drive voltage for each position so that the same impact force is applied to the plunger. Therefore, to make the slug travel along the range of motion through positions higher than the lowest position, it would be necessary to increase the deflection of the slug. As will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, some systems can take into account downward gravity and utilize the magnetic field to reverse the polarity and stop or mitigate the debounce effect. Any suitable voltage and / or current can be used to control the magnetic field. By way of non-limiting example, a typical voltage could be a USB voltage of 5 V and 100 mA, although higher and lower values ​​can be used.

[0078] In many of the embodiments described and depicted herein, the slug impacts the bottom of the plunger to generate a feedback effect. In some cases, the slug (or other suitable magnetic or ferrous material or element) may impact a portion of the housing or other features besides the plunger. In some embodiments, the plunger may be hollow and include an internal channel or cavity in which the slug may protrude upward into the plunger and impact a portion of the plunger or other features therein.

[0079] In some implementations, any suitable magnetic shock feedback can be achieved by precisely controlling the current (and / or voltage) applied to the conductive coil. In some cases, linear, tactile, and click feedback, such as that provided in conventional mechanical switches, can be achieved. Linear feedback is typically quiet, with almost no tactile feedback. Linear feedback can be achieved by using almost no impact or zero impact. Tactile feedback typically involves a slight bump midway through the key press. Tactile feedback can be simulated using a larger impact and its adjustment (e.g., the amplitude of the impact, the duration of the magnetic field, and / or variations). Click feedback typically produces a louder sound, feeling like a traditional mechanical keyboard. Click feedback can be achieved using even larger impacts and corresponding adjustments. Many modifications, variations, and alternative implementations will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0080] In some embodiments described herein, magnetic induction feedback may be the sole or partial source of all tactile feedback provided by the system. For example, in the case of partial source, tactile feedback may be initiated by any existing mechanical element in the system, such as a spring, guide, stop, etc. Magnetic induction impulsive tactile feedback may operate as a modulator of the feedback and superimposed on the system’s inherent mechanical feedback, which may be quasi-linear and within the stroke defined by the end stop.

[0081] In some implementations, there may be a single threshold or multiple thresholds, any one of which may be fixed or configured (e.g., via SW). In some cases, the threshold may be an adaptive threshold, which may correspond to a fast-trigger configuration.

[0082] Figure 9 This is a simplified flowchart illustrating aspects of a method 900 for operating a smart key switch according to certain embodiments. Method 900 can be executed by processing logic, which may include hardware (circuit systems, dedicated logic, etc.), software operating on suitable hardware (such as general-purpose computing systems or dedicated machines), firmware (embedded software), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, method 900 can be executed by aspects or combinations of system 200 (processor 210), system 300, or system 200.

[0083] At operation 910, according to some embodiments, method 900 may include controlling a sensor configured to detect the position of a plunger, which is operable to be pressed and travel along a range of motion within the cavity of the key switch housing.

[0084] At operation 920, according to some implementations, method 900 may include determining when the plunger reaches a threshold position along the range of motion.

[0085] At operation 930, according to some embodiments, method 900 may include driving a conductive coil with a current in response to the plunger reaching a threshold position. The conductive coil is operable to generate a magnetic field based on the current. Driving the conductive coil can cause the magnetic field to magnetically move a magnetic element (e.g., a slug), thereby causing the magnetic element to impact a portion of the key switch housing or the plunger. The impact can produce an impact-type feedback effect mechanically transferred through the key switch. In some aspects, the generated magnetic field controls the acceleration and velocity of the deflection of the magnetic element, thereby affecting the impact characteristics of the magnetic element on a portion of the housing or the plunger.

[0086] At operation 940, according to some embodiments, method 900 may include driving a conductive coil with a second current in response to the plunger reaching a second threshold position, the second current causing the conductive coil to generate a moving magnetic element that impacts a portion of the key switch housing or the plunger with a second magnetic field.

[0087] In some alternative implementations, as those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will understand, instead of driving the conductive coil in response to the plunger reaching a fixed threshold position, the threshold can be dynamically adjusted based on sensing information (e.g., position, velocity, acceleration), or based on sensing information from adjacent keys, to quickly trigger operations such as configuration.

[0088] In some implementations, the conductive coil may be integrated with a printed circuit board (PCB). The magnetic element and the conductive coil may be configured externally to the key switch housing, internally to the key switch housing, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the conductive coil is integrated with the printed circuit board (PCB), the magnetic element is configured internally to the key switch housing, and the conductive coil is configured externally to the key switch housing. In other aspects, the conductive coil is integrated with the printed circuit board (PCB), and the magnetic element and the conductive coil are configured internally to the key switch housing. The conductive coil may also be integrated with the housing or other suitable substrate. In some cases, the key switch may be operable on a keyboard, computer mouse, multimedia control, analog controller (e.g., throttle, gear shifter, paddle shifter, pedal, etc.), knob (e.g., by embedding the system in a cam-like device), etc., as will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0089] In some respects, the various systems described herein may include any suitable use cases, including but not limited to: (1) dynamically floating thresholds for rapid triggering, which may be controlled by a switch and / or a ground truth (FW); (2) click experiences (e.g., impactful UX) that can vary according to the context of the user in a game or other interactive activity; (3) systems that can be used to implement additional feedback layers beyond the click itself but still relevant to the user's input, such as haptic anchors, progressive amplitude vibrations, and impacts; (4) generating software-driven feedback that is not directly related to the user's input, such as contextual feedback and notifications, to act as active haptic drivers; or (5) utilizing analog sensing input and, by measuring velocity and acceleration, causing movement of magnetic elements before the switch reaches the click threshold, thus adaptively reducing system latency and enabling faster input feedback responses in milliseconds. Many modifications, variations, and alternative implementations will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0090] It should be understood that, according to certain implementation methods, Figure 9 The specific steps shown provide a particular method 900 for operating a smart key switch. According to alternative embodiments, other sequences of steps may also be performed. Furthermore, additional steps may be added or removed depending on the specific application (e.g., operation 940 may be optional, and more threshold positions and corresponding currents may be used, etc.). Any combination of variations may be used, and many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments will be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0091] Most implementations utilize at least one network familiar to those skilled in the art that supports communication using any of a variety of commercially available protocols such as TCP / IP, UDP, OSI, FTP, UPnP, NFS, CIFS, etc. This network can be, for example, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a virtual private network (VPN), the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), an infrared network, a wireless network, and any combination thereof.

[0092] In implementations utilizing a web server as an operational or security server, the web server can run any of a variety of server or middleware applications, including HTTP servers, FTP servers, CGI servers, data servers, Java servers, and business application servers. The server can also respond to requests from user devices, for example, by executing one or more applications that can be implemented in any programming language or any scripting language and combinations thereof, including but not limited to Java. ®The server can be configured with C, C#, or C++, and scripting languages ​​such as Perl, Python, or TCL. The server may also include a database server, including but not limited to those retrievable from Oracle. ® Microsoft ® Sybase ® and IBM ® Those servers purchased commercially.

[0093] Such devices may also include computer-readable storage medium readers, communication devices (e.g., modems, (wireless or wired) network cards, infrared communication devices, etc.), and working memory as described above. The computer-readable storage medium reader may be connected to or configured to receive non-transitory computer-readable storage media, thereby representing remote, local, fixed, and / or removable storage devices, as well as storage media for temporarily and / or more permanently containing, storing, transmitting, and retrieving computer-readable information. Systems and various devices will also typically include numerous software applications, modules, services, or other elements residing within at least one working memory device, including operating systems and applications such as client applications or browsers. It should be understood that alternative implementations may have many variations based on the implementations described above. For example, custom hardware may be used and / or specific elements may be implemented in hardware, software (including portable software, such as applets), or both. Furthermore, connections to other computing devices, such as network input / output devices, may be employed.

[0094] This document sets forth numerous specific details to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods, apparatus, or systems known to those of ordinary skill in the art have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the claimed subject matter. The various embodiments shown and described are provided merely as examples to illustrate the various features of the claims. However, the features shown and described with respect to any given embodiment are not necessarily limited to the associated embodiments and can be used or combined with other embodiments shown and described. Furthermore, the claims are not intended to be limited to any of the exemplary embodiments.

[0095] Although the subject matter has been described in detail with reference to specific embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that those skilled in the art, upon gaining an understanding of the foregoing, will readily generate changes, modifications, and equivalents to such embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that this disclosure is presented for illustrative purposes rather than limiting, and does not exclude such modifications, variations, and / or additions to the subject matter. In fact, the methods and systems described herein can be embodied in various other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made to the form of the methods and systems described herein without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[0096] While this disclosure provides certain exemplary embodiments and applications, other embodiments that will be apparent to those skilled in the art, including embodiments that do not provide all the features and advantages set forth herein, are also within the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is intended to be limited only by reference to the appended claims.

[0097] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it should be understood that throughout this specification, discussions using terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “operation,” “determining,” and “identifying” refer to the actions or processing of computing devices, such as one or more computers or similar electronic computing devices, which manipulate or convert data represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities within the memory, registers, or other information storage, transmission, or display devices of a computing platform.

[0098] The one or more systems discussed herein are not limited to any particular hardware architecture or configuration. A computing device may include any suitable arrangement of components that provides a result conditioned on one or more inputs. Suitable computing devices include multi-purpose microprocessor-based computer systems that access stored software that programs or configures a computing system from a general-purpose computing device to a dedicated computing device that implements one or more embodiments of this subject matter. The teachings contained herein can be implemented in the software used for programming or configuring the computing device using any suitable programming, scripting, or other type of language or combination of languages.

[0099] Implementations of the methods disclosed herein can be performed within the operation of such a computing device. The order of the boxes presented in the above examples can be varied—for example, the boxes can be reordered, grouped, and / or divided into sub-boxes. Some boxes or processes can be executed in parallel.

[0100] Unless otherwise specifically stated or otherwise understood in the context in which they are used, the conditional language used herein, such as in particular “can,” “able to,” “may,” “for example,” etc., is generally intended to express that some examples include certain features, elements, and / or steps while other examples do not include certain features, elements, and / or steps. Therefore, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that one or more examples require features, elements, and / or steps in any way, or that one or more examples must include logic for determining, with or without author input or prompts, whether such features, elements, and / or steps are included in any particular example or to be performed in any particular example.

[0101] The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” etc., are synonyms and are used inclusively in an open manner, without excluding additional elements, features, actions, operations, etc. Furthermore, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (rather than its exclusive sense), such that, for example, when “or” is used to connect a list of elements, it means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. The use of “suitable for” or “configured to” herein is an open and inclusive language, which does not exclude means suitable for or configured to perform additional tasks or steps. Additionally, the use of “based on” is open and inclusive, because processing, steps, operations, or other actions “based on” one or more of the stated conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​beyond those stated. Similarly, the use of “at least partially based on” is open and inclusive, because processing, steps, operations, or other actions “at least partially based on” one or more of the stated conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​beyond those stated. The headings, lists, and numbers included herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0102] The various features and processes described above can be used independently of each other or in combination in various ways. All possible combinations and sub-combinations are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, in some embodiments, certain method or processing blocks may be omitted. The methods and processes described herein are not limited to any particular order, and the blocks or states associated with them may be executed in other suitable orders. For example, the described blocks or states may be executed in an order other than that specifically disclosed, or multiple blocks or states may be combined into a single block or state. Example blocks or states may be executed serially, in parallel, or in some other manner. Blocks or states may be added to or removed from the disclosed examples. Similarly, the example systems and components described herein may be configured differently from those described. For example, elements may be added, removed, or rearranged compared to the disclosed examples.

Claims

1. A key switch for a keying device, the key switch comprising: A housing having an internal structure, wherein a cavity is defined within the internal structure; A plunger that protrudes from the top side of the housing and extends into the cavity, the plunger being operable to be pressed and travel within the cavity of the housing along a linear range of motion; A plug, the plug being made of magnetic material and disposed in the bottom section of the cavity; as well as Conductive coil, The conductive coil is operable to generate a magnetic field in response to a received current, and the magnetic field is operable to magnetically move the slug within the cavity, causing the slug to impact a portion of the housing or the plunger. The impact generates a feedback effect that is mechanically transmitted through the key switch.

2. The key switch of claim 1, further comprising a sensor configured to detect the position of the plunger along the range of motion. in, The conductive coil receives current and generates a magnetic field based on the position of the plunger along the range of motion.

3. The key switch according to claim 2, wherein, The generated magnetic field controls the acceleration and velocity of the slug's movement, thereby affecting the impact characteristics of the slug on a portion of the housing or the plunger.

4. The key switch according to claim 2, wherein, When the plunger reaches the first threshold position along the range of motion, the conductive coil generates a magnetic field and moves the plunger. When the plunger reaches a second threshold position different from the first position along the range of motion, the conductive coil generates a magnetic field and moves the plunger.

5. The key switch according to claim 1, wherein, When the plunger reaches the first threshold position along the range of motion, the conductive coil generates a magnetic field and moves the plunger segment. The first threshold position changes based on the position where the plunger is pressed and released along the range of motion.

6. The key switch according to claim 1, wherein, The conductive coil is integrated onto one of the printed circuit board, flexible substrate, or key switch housing via in-mold electronics integration, mechatronics integration technology, or multi-material additive manufacturing process.

7. The key switch according to claim 1, wherein, The slug and the conductive coil are disposed outside the housing.

8. The key switch according to claim 1, wherein, The slug is disposed inside the housing, and the conductive coil is disposed outside the housing.

9. The key switch according to claim 6, wherein, The slug and the conductive coil are disposed inside the housing.

10. The key switch according to claim 1, wherein, The key control device is a keyboard.

11. The key switch according to claim 1, wherein, The keying device is a computer mouse, and the plunger is coupled to the keypad.

12. The key switch according to claim 1, wherein, The impact generates an impact-type feedback effect that is mechanically transferred to the top portion of the plunger via the key switch.

13. A method for operating a key switch, the method comprising: The control is configured to detect the position of a plunger, wherein the plunger is operable to be pressed and travels within a range of motion within the cavity of the key switch housing; Determine when the plunger reaches the threshold position along the range of motion; as well as A conductive coil is driven by a current in response to the plunger reaching the threshold position, and the conductive coil is operable to generate a magnetic field based on the current. The magnetic field magnetically moves the magnetic element, causing the magnetic element to impact a portion of the key switch housing or the plunger, and The impact generates a feedback effect that is mechanically transferred through the key switch.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The generated magnetic field controls the acceleration and velocity of the movement of the magnetic element, thereby affecting the impact characteristics of the magnetic element on a portion of the housing or the plunger.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising driving the conductive coil with a second current in response to the plunger reaching a second threshold position, the second current causing the conductive coil to generate a second magnetic field that moves the magnetic element to impact a portion of the key switch housing or the plunger.

16. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The magnetic element and the conductive coil are disposed outside the key switch housing.

17. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The magnetic element is disposed inside the key switch housing, and The conductive coil is disposed outside the key switch housing.

18. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The magnetic element and the conductive coil are disposed inside the key switch housing.

19. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The key switch is operated on the keyboard.

20. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The plunger is coupled to the user-accessible keypad of the computer mouse.

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