Tactile buttons with SMA

Abstract

Broadly speaking, embodiments of the present technology provide a tactile button assembly wherein the tactile button has a low profile while still providing a satisfactory tactile response or feel to the user. Advantageously, the tactile button assembly can have a profile that enables the assembly to be incorporated into free space along an edge of a portable computing device, for example. The tactile assembly can, for example, be arranged to move the button vertically relative to the edge of the device.

Description

[0001] The present technology generally relates to apparatus and methods for providing tactile feedback in electrical and electronic products, and more particularly, to an apparatus for providing tactile feedback including a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator.

[0002] Consumer electronic devices, such as laptops and smartphones, can use different types of controls to provide some feedback to the user of the device, indicating that they have successfully pressed a button on the device. This is often referred to as haptic feedback, and a tactile button or control on the device can provide a tactile sensation to the user to confirm that they have successfully pressed a button / control / switch. Tactile buttons can be provided as modules or components to be incorporated into electronic devices by device manufacturers. However, space in mobile and portable consumer electronic devices is often at a premium. For example, tactile buttons are often positioned along or near the edge of a smartphone or portable computing device, so that the display screen can be maximized. The thickness of portable computing devices is getting thinner and the display screen size is getting larger, which means that the free space for tactile buttons in smartphones is relatively small. Therefore, it is advantageous to produce a tactile button with a low profile (e.g., a low / small height) so that the button can be incorporated into the free space along the edge of the portable computing device. However, by design, low-profile buttons cannot move / travel as much within a computing device as ordinary buttons, and therefore, may not provide a satisfactory tactile response or feel to the user.

[0003] Applicants have recognized a need for an improved tactile button assembly for electronic devices.

[0004] In a first method of the present technology, a tactile button assembly is provided, which includes: a housing including a cavity; a button, which is disposed in the cavity and movable along a first axis in the cavity; at least one intermediate element, which is disposed in the cavity, in contact with the button, and movable in a plane defined by the first axis and a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis, and the at least one intermediate element is arranged to drive the button to move along the first axis; and at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) wire, which is connected to the at least one intermediate movable element and is arranged to move the intermediate movable element in the plane when contracted.

[0005] In a second method of the present technology, a tactile button assembly is provided, which includes: a housing including a cavity; a button, which is arranged in the cavity and can move along a first axis in the cavity; at least one intermediate movable element, which is arranged in the cavity, in contact with the button, and can rotate around a second axis parallel to the first axis, and is arranged to drive the button to move along the first axis; and at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, which is connected to the at least one intermediate movable element and is arranged to rotate the intermediate movable element around the second axis when contracted.

[0006] In a third method of the present technology, a tactile component is provided, which includes: a rotatable button arranged to rotate around a first axis; at least one intermediate movable element, which can rotate around the first axis and is arranged to drive the rotatable button to rotate; and at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, which is arranged along a second axis, the second axis is perpendicular to the first axis, and the at least one SMA actuator wire is connected to the at least one intermediate movable element and is arranged to rotate the intermediate movable element around the first axis when contracted.

[0007] In a fourth method of the present technology, a device is provided, comprising: a movable part; a static part; at least one tactile component arranged to move the movable part, the tactile component comprising: at least one intermediate movable element arranged to drive the movable part to move; and at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, which is connected to the at least one intermediate movable element and is arranged to drive the intermediate movable part to move when contracted.

[0008] In a fifth method of the present technology, a device is provided that includes any of the tactile button assemblies described herein for delivering tactile sensations to a user of the device.

[0009] The device can be any of the following: a smartphone, a protective cover or case for a smartphone, a functional cover or case for a smartphone or electronic device, a camera, a foldable smartphone, a foldable image capture device, a foldable smartphone camera, a foldable consumer electronic device, a camera with folded optics, an image capture device, an array camera, a 3D sensing device or system, a servo motor, a consumer electronic device (including household appliances such as vacuum cleaners, washing machines and lawn mowers), a mobile or portable computing device, a mobile or portable electronic device, a laptop, a tablet computing device, an e-reader (also known as an e-book reader or e-book device), a computing accessory or computing peripheral device (e.g., a mouse, a keyboard, a headphone, an earphone, an earbud, etc.), an audio device The invention also includes a device (e.g., earphones, headsets, earpieces, etc.), a security system, a gaming system, a gaming accessory (e.g., a controller, a headset, a wearable controller, a joystick, etc.), a robot or robotic device, a medical device (e.g., an endoscope), an augmented reality system, an augmented reality device, a virtual reality system, a virtual reality device, a wearable device (e.g., a watch, a smart watch, a fitness tracker, etc.), an autonomous vehicle (e.g., a driverless car), a vehicle, a tool, a surgical tool, a remote control (e.g., for a drone or a consumer electronic device), clothing (e.g., clothing, shoes, etc.), a switch, a dial or button (e.g., a light switch, a thermostat dial, etc.), a display screen, a touch screen, a flexible surface, and a wireless communication device (e.g., a near field communication (NFC) device). It should be understood that this is a non-exhaustive list of possible means.

[0010] In another method of the present technology, a method of providing a tactile sensation to a user using any of the tactile button assemblies described herein is provided, the method comprising: receiving data from a sensor indicating that a button has been pressed; and sending a signal to drive at least one SMA actuator wire.

[0011] Preferred features are set out in the attached dependent claims.

[0012] Embodiments of the present technology will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view showing a first arrangement of a tactile button assembly;

[0014] Figure 2 a cross-sectional view showing a second arrangement of a tactile button assembly;

[0015] Figure 3 a cross-sectional view showing a third arrangement of a tactile button assembly;

[0016] Figure 4 a cross-sectional view showing a fourth arrangement of a tactile button assembly;

[0017] Figure 5 a cross-sectional view showing a fifth arrangement of a tactile button assembly and a sealing mechanism;

[0018] Figure 6 a cross-sectional view showing a sixth arrangement of a tactile button assembly and a sealing mechanism;

[0019] Figure 7 showing a cross-sectional view of a seventh arrangement of a tactile button assembly;

[0020] Figure 8 showing a cross-sectional view of an eighth arrangement of a tactile button assembly;

[0021] Fig.9A showing a cross-sectional view of a ninth arrangement of a tactile button assembly;

[0022] Fig. 9B , Fig. 9C and Fig.9D Various arrangements of SMA actuator wires are shown;

[0023] Fig. 10A a cross-sectional view showing a tenth arrangement of a tactile button assembly and a sealing mechanism, and Fig. 10B showing an enlarged view of a portion of a tenth arrangement;

[0024] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B A plan view and a cross-sectional view are respectively shown of a sealing mechanism for sealing a tactile button assembly, and Fig. 11C A cross-sectional view of the improved sealing mechanism is shown;

[0025] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C shows a cross-sectional view of three mechanisms for sealing a tactile button assembly;

[0026] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B shows a cross-sectional view of two additional mechanisms for sealing a tactile button assembly;

[0027] Fig.14 shows a cross-sectional view of another mechanism for sealing a tactile button assembly;

[0028] Fig.15 shows a cross-sectional view of an eleventh tactile button assembly and sealing mechanism;

[0029] Fig.16 shows a cross-sectional view of a twelfth tactile button assembly and sealing mechanism;

[0030] Fig.16A shows a cross-sectional view of another tactile button assembly;

[0031] Fig.17 shows a cross-sectional view of a thirteenth tactile button assembly;

[0032] Fig.18A and Fig.18B showing cross-sectional views of a fourteenth tactile button assembly in a balanced state and an activated state, respectively;

[0033] Fig.19 shows a plan view of a fifteenth tactile button assembly;

[0034] Fig. 20 shows a cross-sectional view of a sixteenth tactile button assembly;

[0035] Fig.21A and Fig. 21B cross-sectional views of a gapless haptic assembly in a balanced state and an activated state, respectively;

[0036] Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view showing another arrangement of a tactile button assembly;

[0037] Fig.23A shows a cross-sectional view of a gapless haptic assembly;

[0038] FIG. 23B to FIG. 23G Shows Fig.23A A cross-sectional view of a flexible portion of a gapless tactile component;

[0039] Fig.24 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of a gapless haptic assembly;

[0040] Fig.25 shows a cross-sectional view of a gapless haptic assembly;

[0041] Fig.26 Schematic diagrams showing gapless and partially gapless haptic assemblies;

[0042] Fig.27A shows a schematic perspective view of a smartphone, Fig.27B Shows Fig.27A A schematic diagram of the edge of a smartphone, and Figures 27C-27E Shows Fig.27A A schematic diagram of an outline of a button portion of a smartphone;

[0043] Fig.28A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a gapless haptic assembly including a magnet, and Fig.28B Shows Fig.28A Alternative arrangements of the middle magnets;

[0044] Fig.29A shows a cross-sectional view of a gapless haptic assembly including a compressed material, and Fig.29B Shown with a gap Fig.29A A cross-sectional view of a haptic component;

[0045] Fig.29C shows a cross-sectional view of a gapless haptic assembly including a piston, Fig.29D Shows Fig.29C alternative arrangements of gapless tactile components, and Fig.29E Shown with a gap Fig.29D A cross-sectional view of a haptic component;

[0046] Fig. 30A and Fig. 30B Schematic plan views of a smartphone including a partially gapless haptic assembly in a balanced (inactive) state and an active state, respectively;

[0047] Fig.31A and Fig.31B Schematic plan views of a smartphone including an alternative partially gapless haptic assembly in a balanced (non-operating) state and an operating state, respectively;

[0048] Fig.32 shows a schematic plan view of a smartphone including another alternative partially gapless haptic assembly in an operational state; and

[0049] Fig.33A showing a plan view of a button of another tactile button assembly, Fig.33B shows a plan view of another tactile button assembly, and Fig.33C A cross-sectional view of another tactile button assembly is shown.

[0050] Broadly speaking, embodiments of the present technology provide a tactile button assembly wherein the tactile button has a low profile while still providing a satisfactory tactile response or feel to the user. Advantageously, the tactile button assembly can have a profile that enables the assembly to be incorporated into free space along an edge of a portable computing device, for example. The tactile assembly can, for example, be arranged to move the button vertically with respect to the edge of the device (rather than moving the button laterally along the edge of the device).

[0051] By moving the button in a lateral direction with respect to the portion contacted by the user, a tactile sensation can be generated from the button or movable portion, for example, see WO2018 / 046937 and GB2551657. However, it may be preferred that the tactile button moves in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the button and the surface of the device in which the button is incorporated. This is because the disadvantage of a tactile button that moves laterally is that it requires a large gap between the moving button and the edge of the housing that accommodates the button to allow lateral movement of the button, but a large gap means that it is more difficult to make the tactile button waterproof and dustproof in an energy-saving manner. Therefore, a tactile button that is more easily waterproof and dustproof is desired. It is also desirable to provide a tactile button that does not have a large visible gap between the button and the housing (e.g., about 250 μm for a button that moves laterally) because a smaller gap (e.g., about 50 μm or less) is more aesthetically pleasing.

[0052] Furthermore, due to the size and layout pressures associated with many consumer electronic devices such as wearable devices, watches, and mobile phones, it is also desirable for the tactile button assembly to have a low profile.

[0053] The present technology provides tactile button assemblies that are both low profile (making them more easily incorporated into consumer electronic devices such as smartphones) and water and dust resistant.

[0054] In addition, the present technology provides localized tactile sensations caused by direct impulses rather than through inertial effects. For example, a smartphone includes an inertial tactile actuator - a mass moves when a tactile effect is desired. The movement of the mass causes the entire smartphone to shake or vibrate. Therefore, the tactile effect is universal rather than localized. The present technology provides localized tactile feedback. Further, the tactile feedback provided by the present technology can be customized by the user by modifying software parameters. This allows different types of tactile feedback to be provided for different purposes or to suit different users.

[0055] The term "bearing" may be used interchangeably herein with the terms "sliding bearing", "plain bearing", "rolling bearing", "ball bearing", "flexure", and "roller bearing". The term "bearing" as used herein generally refers to any element or combination of elements that is used to constrain motion to only the desired motion and reduce friction between moving parts. The term "plain bearing" is used to refer to a bearing in which the bearing element slides on a supporting surface, and includes "plain bearings". The term "rolling bearing" is used to refer to a bearing in which a rolling bearing element (e.g., a ball or roller) rolls on a supporting surface. The bearing may be disposed on a nonlinear supporting surface or may include a nonlinear supporting surface. In some embodiments of the present technology, more than one type of bearing element may be used in combination to provide a bearing function. Accordingly, the term "bearing" as used herein includes, for example, any combination of plain bearings, ball bearings, roller bearings, and flexures. In an embodiment, a suspension system can be used to suspend the intermediate movable element and / or the button in the tactile button assembly and constrain the motion to only the desired motion. For example, a suspension system of the type described in WO2011 / 104518 can be used. Therefore, it should be understood that the term "bearing" used herein also refers to a "suspension system". The bearing can be formed of any suitable material, for example, ceramic, metal, metal alloy, steel, stainless steel, low carbon steel, bearing bronze, phosphor bronze, plastic and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The bearing can be coated with a friction reducing or low friction coating, such as a lubricant, a dry film lubricant, a diamond-like coating (DLC), a vapor-deposited coating and hard chrome. The surface of the bearing or the contact bearing can be polished.

[0056] Each tactile button assembly described herein can be incorporated into any device, where providing tactile feedback to a user of the device can be useful. For example, the tactile button assembly can be incorporated into an electronic device or consumer electronic device, such as a computer, a laptop, a portable computing device, a smart phone, a computer keyboard, a gaming system, a portable gaming device, gaming equipment / accessories (e.g., a controller, a wearable controller, etc.), a medical device, a user input device, etc. It should be understood that this is a non-limiting, non-exhaustive enumeration of possible devices, which can be combined with any tactile button assembly described herein. The tactile button assembly described herein can, for example, be incorporated into the edge of a smart phone or the surface of a smart phone or otherwise arranged along the edge of a smart phone or on the surface of a smart phone. In an embodiment, the tactile button assembly described herein can be provided as a separate module, which can be incorporated into an electronic device during manufacturing and can be modified to fit the device specifications so that it is suitable for the housing or external surface of the electronic device. In an alternative embodiment, some or all of the components of the tactile button assembly described herein can be integrally formed in an electronic device. For example, the housing, button, and / or seal of each tactile button assembly can be part of the electronic device itself. Each tactile button component may include an electrical connection that may couple the component to a processor, chip, motherboard, etc., of a device so that the action of the component's button being pressed may be processed by the device and so that tactile feedback may be provided.

[0057] Various tactile button assemblies are now described with respect to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that elements or features described with respect to one particular drawing or tactile button assembly may be equally applicable to any drawing or tactile button assembly described herein. For example, techniques for sealing tactile button assemblies or different possible SMA actuator wire arrangements described with respect to a particular drawing may be equally applicable to any or all tactile button assemblies described herein.

[0058] Intermediate movable element

[0059] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a first arrangement of a tactile button assembly 100 is shown. The tactile button assembly 100 includes a button 102. A user may press the button 102 to perform a particular operation, such as making a selection, turning a device on / off, entering data (e.g., typing on a keyboard), scrolling, turning a function of the device on which the assembly 100 resides on on / off, or adjusting a function (e.g., adjusting the volume of an audio output of the device), etc. Pressing or unpressing (depressing) the button 102 may cause tactile feedback or a tactile sensation to be transmitted to the user, thereby providing the user with some sensory feedback (particularly touch-based feedback) to indicate that an operation has been performed.

[0060] In many of the arrangements and embodiments described herein, button 102 may be a surface feature on a device / apparatus incorporating a tactile button assembly. In this case, the user may not press tactile button 102, but tactile button 102 is still capable of providing tactile feedback. Instead of button press triggering tactile feedback, tactile feedback may be triggered by software in response to another event. For example, if a user makes a selection on the screen of their smartphone, the selection may cause tactile feedback to be triggered, where feedback is provided by a button or surface feature. (Software-triggered tactile feedback may occur in specific applications, such as in games and / or virtual reality / augmented reality devices). Therefore, in many of the arrangements and embodiments described herein, it may not be necessary to directly press tactile button 102 in order to deliver tactile feedback. However, in each case, whether or not the button itself is pressed, the mechanism for delivering tactile feedback is substantially the same.

[0061] In such Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the tactile button assembly 100 may include a housing 104 (also referred to herein as a "support," "chassis," "casework," and "casing"). The housing 104 may include a cavity or recess 112. The button 102 may be disposed within the cavity 112 of the housing 104. The button 102 includes a contact surface 106 (also referred to herein as an outer surface, an exterior surface, or an upper surface). In an embodiment, the button 102 may be disposed within the cavity 112 such that the contact surface 106 is substantially level / flush with an exterior surface 108 of the housing 104. However, in an embodiment, the button 102 may protrude from the exterior surface 108 of the housing 104. It should be understood that the housing 104 surrounds and encases the button 102 such that only the contact surface 106 of the button is visible / touchable by a user.

[0062] The tactile button assembly 100 may include an intermediate movable element 110 that may be disposed within a cavity 112 below the button 102. The button 102 may be arranged to move in a first direction (when pressed / depressed by a user). The first direction may be a direction perpendicular to the exterior surface 108 of the housing 104, such as Figure 1104 or further into the cavity 112. In other words, for example, contact of a user's finger with the contact surface 106 of the button 102 may cause the button 102 to move into the housing 104 or further into the cavity 112. In a particular embodiment, the amount by which the button 102 may move into the cavity 112 is 100 μm. The tactile button assembly 100 may include a sensor (not shown) below the button and the intermediate movable element 110 in the housing 104. For example, the sensor may be a force sensor. In general, the sensor may be any suitable sensor or mechanism for detecting that a user has depressed the button 102 (i.e., detecting that a user has pressed the button 102). The movement of the button 102 into the cavity 112 (as a result of the user pressing the button 102) causes a force to be applied to the sensor. The sensor may be coupled to a control circuit (not shown), and the sensor may be configured to communicate with the control circuit when the force on the sensor changes, or when the force on the sensor has been applied for a minimum duration. The sensor's detection of the user pressing the button causes tactile feedback to be generated and applied by the tactile button assembly 100.

[0063] The movable element 110 is movable in a second direction within the cavity 112. The second direction is different from the first direction. The second direction may be a direction substantially parallel to the outer surface 108 of the housing 104, such as Figure 1 104 (or within a recess 112 of the housing 104). Thus, the first direction and the second direction may be orthogonal. Movement of the intermediate movable element 110 in the second direction may result in movement of the button 102 in the first direction. That is, movement of the intermediate movable element 110 may result in movement of the button 102 in such a manner that a tactile effect / feeling is conveyed to a user touching the button 102. The concept of moving the intermediate movable element 110 in one direction to result in movement of the button 102 in another direction may be implemented in a variety of ways.

[0064] For example, in a Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, both the button 102 and the movable element 110 may be wedge-shaped and arranged within the cavity 112 such that the wider end of the wedge-shaped button 102 is proximate to the narrower end of the wedge-shaped movable element 110. Thus, the narrower end of the wedge-shaped button 102 is proximate to the wider end of the wedge-shaped movable element 110. This arrangement of the wedge-shaped button 102 and the movable element 110 means that when the movable element 110 is caused to move in the second direction 118 within the housing 104, the button 102 will be forced to move in the first direction 116. In this embodiment, the intermediate movable element 110 is a "single wedge" in that only one surface of the element is sloped / inclined.

[0065] The movement of the movable element 110 is now described. The tactile button assembly 100 may include at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire 120. The at least one SMA actuator wire 120 may be disposed in another cavity 112a in the housing 104. The other cavity 112a may be smaller than the cavity 112, but may be large enough so that the intermediate movable element 110 fits at least partially therein. The SMA actuator wire 120 may be coupled to the housing 104 (and specifically to the other cavity 112a) at one end 122, and coupled to the intermediate movable element 110 at another end 124. Therefore, in an embodiment, the intermediate movable element 110 may be formed of a material suitable for coupling to (e.g., crimping) an SMA actuator wire, such as a suitable metal material. Alternatively, the intermediate movable element 110 may be formed of any material, and a crimping component may be fixedly attached to the intermediate movable element 110 to crimp one end of the SMA actuator wire. In general, a coupling element may be used to couple each SMA actuator wire 120 to the housing 104 (i.e., the static component) and to the intermediate movable element 110. The coupling element may provide a permanent (i.e., fixed) connection between the SMA wire and the static component or the movable component. The coupling element may be a crimp connector, a welding component that is welded to each SMA actuator wire to form a weld, or other similar connector. The coupling element (e.g., a crimp connector or a welding component) may hold multiple SMA actuator wires or may hold a single SMA actuator wire, as described in the applicant's UK patent application number GB1820042.8.

[0066] Thus, each SMA actuator wire may be coupled to at least one intermediate movable element via a coupling element.The coupling element may be a crimp connector, a solder component or a non-fixed connector.

[0067] As an alternative to crimping, the ends of each SMA actuator wire 120 may be connected in place using welding (e.g., arc welding, welding using a welding rod, laser / heat based welding, etc.) During the welding process, care needs to be taken to control the welding so as to minimize damage to the SMA actuator wires (e.g., melting or loss of material).

[0068] The coupling element may alternatively include a connector that provides a non-fixed connection between the SMA actuator wire and the intermediate movable component or the static component. Such a non-fixed connector may be in the form of a protruding element, such as a hook, dowel pin, or similar element, around which the SMA wire is looped or similarly held in place. For example, a length of SMA actuator wire may be wrapped around a dowel pin on the intermediate movable component (e.g., see Fig.9D) / is arranged around the locating pin, and the end of the SMA actuator wire can be attached to the housing via crimping. Alternatively, a length of SMA actuator wire can be attached to the intermediate movable element and wrapped around a pin-like feature or pin on the static part / housing.

[0069] When the sensor detects a button press, the detection is communicated to a control circuit (not shown). The control circuit may be arranged to control the power delivered to the at least one SMA actuator wire 120. Power may be delivered to the at least one SMA actuator wire. When the SMA actuator wire 120 is energized, it heats up and contracts. The contraction of the SMA actuator wire 120 causes the intermediate movable element 110 to move laterally / laterally within the cavity 112 and toward (and in an embodiment, at least partially into) the other cavity 112a. In the illustrated arrangement, the intermediate movable element 110 moves toward the left side of the drawing. As the intermediate movable element 110 moves laterally toward / into the other cavity 112a, the wedge shape of the movable element 110 forces the button 102 to move within the cavity 112. In the illustrated arrangement, the button 102 moves upward into / towards the top of the drawing. The intermediate movable element 110 may cause the button 102 to move, for example, between 20 μm and 0.5 mm. In an embodiment, the button 102 may move up to 1 mm.

[0070] In general, it will be appreciated that the button 102 and the intermediate movable element 110 can be shaped so that when the SMA actuator wire 120 is energized and caused to contract, the button moves into the cavity 112. Thus, in each of the embodiments described herein, the button 102 can move into the cavity so as to deliver tactile feedback. (The type of tactile feedback that can be delivered when the button moves into the cavity can be the same as or different from the type of feedback that can be delivered when the button moves out of the cavity).

[0071] The tactile button assembly 100 may include an element that opposes the force of the at least one SMA actuator wire 120. For example, the tactile button assembly 100 may include a return spring 126. The return spring 126 may be disposed within the other cavity 112a and may be coupled to the housing 104 at one end and to the intermediate movable element 110 at another end. The return spring 126 may be arranged to oppose the contraction of the at least one SMA actuator wire 120 (which causes the movable element 110 to move in one direction) to move the intermediate movable element 110 in the opposite direction, i.e., away from the other cavity 112a. In the figures, the return spring 126 may cause the intermediate movable element 110 to move to the right when the wire is not powered and is not actively heated (i.e., cooling). The element that opposes the force of the at least one SMA actuator wire 120 may be any suitable resilient biasing element, and it should be understood that the return spring is only one non-limiting example. In an embodiment, another SMA actuator wire may be used to oppose the force of the SMA actuator wire 120. This may be arranged to pull the intermediate movable element in a direction opposite to the movement caused by the SMA actuator wire 120 when contracted. Another SMA actuator wire may be provided between the housing 104 and the opposite side of the intermediate movable element 110 (opposite to the side to which the SMA actuator wire 120 is attached). In this embodiment, the at least one SMA wire 120 and the return spring 126 may be considered to form an actuator that causes movement of the intermediate movable element 110 (also referred to herein as the "moving portion") in the housing 104 (also referred to herein as the "static portion").

[0072] In alternative embodiments, a return spring or another SMA actuator wire may not be used. Instead, the force of the user's finger on the button 102 may be sufficient to oppose the contraction of the at least one SMA actuator wire 120, thereby moving the intermediate movable element away from the other cavity 112a.

[0073] In an embodiment, a system of antagonistic SMA actuator wires can be used to customize the tactile feedback delivered when a user presses the button 102. For example, a system of antagonistic wires can allow different types of tactile feedback to be provided depending on what the sensor of the assembly 100 detects / sensed. For example, where the sensor is a force sensor, the tactile feedback can be customized based on the amount of force detected by the sensor - a high contact force can cause a particular type of tactile feedback to be delivered, while a low contact force can cause a different type of tactile feedback to be delivered. The feedback delivered can be adjusted by having an arrangement of antagonistic SMA actuator wires that allows the movement (e.g., speed, direction, etc.) of the intermediate movable element 110 to be finely controlled. In an embodiment, the SMA actuator wires themselves can be part of the sensor mechanism of the assembly by measuring the resistance of the SMA actuator wires to determine, for example, the contact force.

[0074] The tactile button assembly 100 may include one or more bearings to reduce friction between the moving parts of the assembly. For example, the tactile button assembly 100 may include a first bearing 130 between the button 102 and the intermediate movable element 110. The first bearing 130 may include one or more ball bearings 128 disposed between a surface 134 of the button 102 and a surface 136 of the intermediate movable element 110. The surfaces 134 and 136 are beveled (inclined) so that when the SMA actuator wire 120 contracts and moves the movable element laterally, the button 102 is forced to move within the cavity 112 (i.e., orthogonal to the movement of the movable element 110). The surfaces 134 and 136 are inclined at the same angle and in the same direction. Specifically, the direction in which the surfaces 134, 136 are inclined is selected so that the movement of the intermediate movable element 110 toward the other cavity 112a pushes the button 102 upward in the cavity 112, i.e., so that the contact surface 106 protrudes from the housing 104 (and may not be flush with the surface 108 of the housing 104). The first bearing 130 may include inclined (slanted) mating surfaces 134 and 136 and one or more ball bearings 128. For example, the bearing 130 may include three ball bearings 128, but this is a non-limiting example. The tactile button assembly 100 may include a second bearing 132 between the intermediate movable element 110 and the surface of the housing 104 (i.e., the surface of the cavity 112). The second bearing 132 may include one or more ball bearings 128 disposed between the surface 138 of the intermediate movable element 110 and the surface 140 of the housing 104 (i.e., the surface of the cavity 112), which may facilitate lateral movement of the movable element 110. Horizontal movement of movable element 110 causes button 102 to move up and down (as indicated by the double-headed arrow) to provide a tactile effect to the user's finger.

[0075] The tactile button assembly 100 may include an end stop 114 in the cavity 112. The end stop 114 may be formed as part of the housing 104 or the cavity 112, or may be a separate element disposed in the cavity 112. The end stop 114 may be disposed at a location in the cavity 112 to limit the movement of the intermediate movable element 110. Generally, if the SMA actuator wire is stretched too far (i.e., beyond a certain tension), the SMA actuator wire may become weak or damaged, or even break. The force of the return spring 126 on the intermediate movable element 110 may cause the SMA actuator wire 120 to become overstretched. Therefore, the end stop 114 may limit the movement of the intermediate movable element 110 so that the at least one SMA actuator wire 120 is not overstretched. Similarly, without the end stop, the force applied by the user's finger to the button surface may cause the wire to overstretch.

[0076] Accordingly, the present technology provides a tactile button assembly, comprising: a housing comprising a cavity; a button disposed in the cavity and movable along a first axis in the cavity; at least one intermediate movable element disposed in the cavity, in contact with the button, and movable in a plane defined by the first axis and a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis, and the at least one intermediate movable element being arranged to drive the button to move along the first axis; and at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire connected to the at least one intermediate movable element and arranged to move the intermediate movable element in the plane when contracted.

[0077] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a second arrangement of a tactile button assembly 200 is shown. Figure 2 The tactile button assembly 200 in FIG. Figure 1 , therefore, for the sake of simplicity, similar features are not described. In the tactile button assembly 100, the button 102 and the intermediate movable element 110 are both wedge-shaped. Specifically, the mating surfaces 134 and 136 are inclined (slanted). In the tactile button assembly 200, the surfaces 234 and 236 are not inclined / slanted. In this embodiment, the intermediate movable element 210 is a "single wedge" because only one surface of the element is sloped / slanted. The tactile assembly 200 may include a first bearing 230 between the button and the intermediate movable element. The first bearing 230 may include one or more ball bearings disposed between the respective surfaces 234 and 236 of the button and the intermediate movable element. For example, the first bearing 230 may include three ball bearings, but this is a non-limiting example.

[0078] In the tactile button assembly 100, the respective surfaces 138 and 140 of the intermediate movable element 110 and the housing 104 are substantially flat (i.e., not inclined or beveled). In the tactile button assembly 200, the surface 238 of the intermediate movable element is beveled / inclined, and the surface 240 of the housing / cavity is also beveled / inclined. The surfaces 238 and 240 are inclined at the same angle and in the same direction so that when actuated, the movable element can slide or move along the surface 240, and in doing so, push the button upward in the cavity so that the contact surface of the button protrudes from the housing. As previously described, in an embodiment, when delivering tactile feedback, the button can move into the cavity - in which case the direction of the beveled / inclined surface can be reversed. The tactile button assembly 200 can include a second bearing 232 between the intermediate movable element and the housing surface / cavity surface. The second bearing 232 may include one or more ball bearings disposed between a surface 238 of the intermediate movable element and a surface 240 of the housing / cavity, which may facilitate movement of the intermediate movable element. For example, the bearing 232 may include three ball bearings. The second bearing 232 may include beveled / inclined surfaces 238, 240. In this arrangement, when at least one SMA actuator wire is contracted (as described above with reference to Figure 1 214 ), the intermediate movable element can move laterally (e.g., in the direction of the force applied to the movable element by at least one SMA actuator wire) and in a substantially vertical or orthogonal direction. As the movable element moves along the slope provided by the surface 240 of the cavity, the movable element causes the button to move within the cavity (as shown by arrow 216).

[0079] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a third arrangement of a tactile button assembly 300 is shown. Figure 1 The tactile button assembly 300 in FIG. Figure 1, therefore, similar features are not described for the sake of simplicity. The tactile button assembly 300 combines the features of the assemblies 100 and 200. Specifically, in the tactile button assembly 300, the button and the intermediate movable element are both wedge-shaped. The tactile button assembly 300 may include one or more bearings to reduce friction between the moving parts of the assembly. For example, the tactile button assembly 300 may include a first bearing 330 between the button and the intermediate movable element. The first bearing 330 may include one or more ball bearings disposed between a surface 334 of the button and a surface 336 of the intermediate movable element. Surfaces 334 and 336 are inclined / slanted so that when the SMA actuator wire contracts and moves the movable element in the direction of the force applied by the SMA actuator wire, the button is forced to move within the cavity (i.e., substantially orthogonal to the movement of the movable element). Surfaces 334 and 336 are inclined at the same angle and in the same direction. Specifically, the directions in which surfaces 334 and 336 are inclined are selected so that movement of the intermediate movable element toward the other cavity 112a pushes the button upward in the cavity so that the contact surface of the button can protrude from the housing. Thus, this is an example of an intermediate movable element being a "double wedge" in that both surfaces of the element are sloped / inclined.

[0080] The tactile button assembly 300 may include a second bearing 332. In the tactile button assembly 300, the surface 338 of the intermediate movable element is inclined / slanted, and the surface 340 of the housing / cavity is also inclined / slanted. The surfaces 338, 340 are inclined at the same angle and in the same direction so that when actuated, the movable element can slide or move along the surface 340, and in doing so, push the button upward in the cavity so that the contact surface of the button protrudes from the housing. The second bearing 332 of the assembly 300 can be disposed between the intermediate movable element and the surface of the housing / cavity. The second bearing 332 may include one or more ball bearings disposed between the surface 338 of the intermediate movable element and the surface 340 of the housing / cavity, which may facilitate the movement of the intermediate movable element. For example, the second bearing 332 may include three ball bearings. The second bearing 332 may include inclined / slanted surfaces 338, 340. The direction in which the surfaces 334, 336 are inclined is opposite to the direction in which the surfaces 338, 340 are inclined. The angles or gradients of the multiple pairs of inclined surfaces 334, 336 and 338, 340 can be the same or different, however, the angles / gradients of the surfaces in a pair of inclined surfaces need to be the same. The gradients of the multiple pairs of inclined surfaces / support surfaces can be linear or non-linear. In other words, the support surface can have a constant gradient or a non-linear gradient. Therefore, in an embodiment, at least one inclined surface / support surface can have a constant gradient, or can have a variable, non-constant gradient (which follows any non-linear equation). Therefore, in this arrangement, when at least one SMA actuator wire is contracted (as described above with reference to Figure 1 As described above), the movable element can move laterally - causing the button to Figure 1 Move upward as shown - and may be moved in a substantially vertical or orthogonal direction - causing the button to Figure 2 As shown, it moves upward. Therefore, Figure 3 The arrangement combines the two technologies of moving buttons and delivering tactile sensations.

[0081] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a fourth arrangement of a tactile button assembly 400 is shown. Figure 4 The tactile button assembly 400 in FIG. Figure 1, therefore, similar features are not described for the sake of simplicity. In the tactile button assembly 100, the button 102 and the intermediate movable element 110 are both wedge-shaped. Specifically, the mating surfaces 134 and 136 are inclined / slanted. In the tactile button assembly 400, the surfaces 434 and 436 are not completely inclined / slanted over their entire extent. Instead, the surfaces 434 and 436 are partially inclined. The surface 434 of the button includes one or more local bevels 442 (as more clearly shown in the inserted assembly close-up view). The surface 436 of the intermediate movable element includes one or more local bevels 444 (as more clearly shown in the inserted assembly close-up view). The local bevels 442 and 444 are co-located in pairs. In other words, the local bevel 442 of the button is very close to the corresponding local bevel 444 of the intermediate movable element. The local bevels 442 and 444 are inclined at the same angle and in the same direction. When there are more than one pair of local bevels, all of the bevels may be inclined at the same angle and in the same direction. The directions in which the local bevels 442 and 444 are inclined are selected so that the movement of the intermediate movable element toward the other cavity pushes the button upward in the cavity, i.e., so that the contact surface of the button can protrude from the housing. (It can be seen that the directions of the local bevels are different from those of the embodiment of FIG. 1 ). Figure 1 In the example shown, there are three pairs of local bevels, but it should be understood that this is a non-limiting example. The advantage of the local bevels 442, 444 is that they can enable the overall height of the tactile button assembly to be relatively large relative to, for example, Figure 1 The arrangement shown is reduced because the surfaces 434, 436 are not beveled over their entire length. In this embodiment, the intermediate movable element can be considered a "single wedge" because only one surface of the element includes a local bevel.

[0082] The tactile button assembly 400 may include a first bearing 430 between the button and the intermediate movable element. The first bearing 430 may include one or more ball bearings 128 disposed between a surface 434 of the button and a surface 436 of the intermediate movable element. At least one ball bearing 128 may be disposed between the pair or each pair of local ramps 442, 444. Figure 4 As shown, the ball bearing 128 is disposed between each of the three pairs of local ramps. However, it should be understood that more than one ball bearing 128 may be disposed on each ramp. For example, in an embodiment, there may be three ball bearings on each local ramp 442, 444. The number of ball bearings per local ramp may depend on whether there are other ways to limit the movement of the intermediate movable element and the button (e.g., additional wall contacts or end stops). The first bearing 430 may include one or more local ramps 442, 444 and one or more ball bearings 128.

[0083] The tactile button assembly 400 can include a second bearing 432 between the intermediate movable element and the surface of the housing / cavity. The second bearing 432 can include one or more ball bearings disposed between a surface 438 of the intermediate movable element and a surface 440 of the housing (i.e., a surface of the cavity) that can facilitate lateral movement of the movable element.

[0084] It should be understood that Figure 4 The local slope shown in can be combined with Figures 1 to 3 In any of the arrangements shown in, or indeed incorporated into any of the embodiments described herein. In general, a local bevel may be provided between the button and the intermediate movable element, and / or between the intermediate movable element and the housing. This may amplify the amount of button movement when the intermediate movable element is actuated. The direction and angle of inclination of the local bevel may be selected to suit each arrangement.

[0085] Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view of an alternative arrangement of a tactile button assembly 2200 is shown. The tactile button assembly 2200 is similar to Figure 4 The arrangement shown in FIG. 1 is similar to that shown in FIG. 1 , and therefore, similar features are not described for the sake of brevity. Fig. 22 In the example, the position of the local slope is relative to Figure 4 has changed. Figure 4 In , surfaces 434 and 436 are locally inclined. In contrast, in Fig. 22 In the embodiment of the present invention, surfaces 438 and 440 are locally beveled, while surfaces 434 and 436 are not. Surface 438 of the intermediate movable element includes one or more local bevels 442' (as more clearly shown in the inserted component close-up view). Surface 440 of the housing (i.e., the surface of the cavity) includes one or more local bevels 444' (as more clearly shown in the inserted component close-up view). Local bevels 442' and 444' are co-located in pairs. In other words, the local bevels 442' of the intermediate movable element are very close to the corresponding local bevels 444' of the housing. Local bevels 442' and 444' are inclined at the same angle and in the same direction. In the case of more than one pair of local bevels, all bevels can be inclined at the same angle and in the same direction. The direction in which the local bevels 442' and 444' are inclined is selected so that the movement of the intermediate movable element toward another cavity pushes the button upward in the cavity, that is, so that the contact surface of the button can protrude from the housing. However, it will be appreciated that if the inclination direction of the local ramps is reversed, the button can be moved into the cavity / housing. In the example shown, there are three pairs of local ramps, but it will be appreciated that this is a non-limiting example. An advantage of the local ramps 442', 444' is that they can allow the overall height of the tactile button assembly to be increased relative to, for example, Figure 1 The arrangement shown is reduced because the surfaces 438, 440 are not beveled over their entire length. In this embodiment, the intermediate movable element can be considered a "single wedge" because only one surface of the element includes a local bevel.

[0086] This embodiment is relative to Figure 4 The advantage shown is that manufacturing is simplified. In the case of a smartphone, typically, the button can be manufactured by one manufacturer and inserted into the smartphone, while the tactile button assembly can be inserted into the smartphone by another manufacturer. For example, in Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figures 4 to 6 In the embodiment shown, the button may need to be specially designed, shaped or milled to have an inclined surface or a partial bevel. Fig. 22 The embodiment shown may simplify the manufacturing process because the buttons do not need to be specially designed. Instead, the intermediate movable element and the housing are shaped to include local bevels, but these are typically manufactured by the same manufacturer. This may mean that any button can be used alongside the tactile button assembly 2200, which simplifies the design of the tactile button assembly and eliminates any requirement for smartphone manufacturers to shape the phone in a particular way or provide a particular type of button.

[0087] Fig. 22 A tactile button assembly 2200 is shown in which a gap exists between the button and the housing. In such cases, it may be desirable to incorporate a sealing mechanism, as described herein, to prevent or minimize the ingress of liquid and / or dust into the assembly via the gap. However, it should be understood that the tactile button assembly 2200 may be arranged as a gapless tactile assembly, i.e., an assembly in which there is no gap between the button and the housing. For example, the button (i.e., the element for delivering tactile feedback) may be integrated into the housing, such as Fig.25 shown.

[0088] The tactile button assembly 2200 may include a first bearing 430' between the button and the intermediate movable element. The first bearing 430' may include one or more ball bearings 128 disposed between a surface 434 of the button and a surface 436 of the intermediate movable element, which may facilitate lateral movement of the movable element.

[0089] The tactile button assembly 2200 may include a second bearing 432' between the intermediate movable element and the surface of the housing / cavity. The second bearing 432' may include one or more ball bearings 128 disposed between a surface 438 of the intermediate movable element and a surface 440 of the housing (i.e., a surface of the cavity). The ball bearings 128 may be disposed between the or each pair of local ramps 442', 444'. Fig. 22As shown, the ball bearings 128 are disposed between each of the three pairs of local ramps. The second bearing 432' may include one or more local ramps 442', 444' and one or more ball bearings 128.

[0090] It should be understood that Fig. 22 The local slope shown in can be combined with Figures 1 to 3 In any arrangement shown in, or indeed incorporated into any embodiment described herein. Fig. 22 The local bevel shown in Figures 4 to 6 In general, the local bevel may be provided between the button and the intermediate movable element, and / or between the intermediate movable element and the housing. This may amplify the amount of button movement when the intermediate movable element is actuated. The direction and angle of inclination of the local bevel may be selected to suit each arrangement.

[0091] Therefore, in an embodiment, the tactile button assembly may further include a bearing disposed between the intermediate movable element and the base of the cavity and arranged to support the movement of the intermediate movable element along the second axis. The second bearing of the tactile button assembly may include at least one inclined surface and at least one ball bearing arranged to roll along the at least one inclined surface. The at least one inclined surface may be provided by an inclined surface of the intermediate movable element and / or a base surface of the cavity. The at least one inclined surface is a local inclined surface disposed on a surface of the intermediate movable element and / or a base surface of the cavity.

[0092] Now go to Figure 7 , which shows a cross-sectional view of a seventh arrangement of a tactile button assembly 700. The tactile button assembly 700 is similar to Figure 1 , and therefore, similar features are not described for simplicity. In the tactile button assembly 700, the button 702 is wedge-shaped, and the intermediate movable element 710 is also wedge-shaped. The button 702 and the intermediate movable element 710 are arranged in the cavity so that the wider end of the wedge-shaped button 702 is close to the narrower end of the wedge-shaped movable element 710, and the narrower end of the wedge-shaped button 702 is close to the wider end of the wedge-shaped movable element 710. Figure 1 , the movement of the intermediate movable element 710 toward / into the other cavity 112a causes the button 102 to be pushed upward in the cavity 112, so that the button 102 can protrude from the housing 108. In contrast, when the movable element 710 moves into / towards the other cavity, the tactile button assembly causes the button 702 to move downward, i.e., further downward into the cavity. This is achieved by Figure 1 Specifically, the surface 734 of the button 702 and the surface 736 of the intermediate movable element 710 are in the same direction as the surface 736 of the intermediate movable element 710. Figure 1 The surfaces 134 and 136 of the intermediate movable element 710 are inclined in opposite directions. Thus, movement of the intermediate movable element 710 toward the other cavity enables the button 702 to drop or move downward in the cavity (i.e., toward the base of the cavity). In this embodiment, the intermediate movable element 710 can be considered a "single wedge" because only one surface of the element is inclined / sloped.

[0093] Figure 7 An advantage of the arrangement may be that the movement of the button 702 into the cavity is assisted by any pressure applied by the user to the button 702 (rather than resisting that movement as the button moves upward). Furthermore, the effect of the button disengaging from the user's finger may be another type of tactile feedback. This also means that if the button is prevented from moving, the wire will not reach very high tension and risk being damaged. For example, in Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, if the button 102 is prevented from moving upward / vertically / out of the cavity (e.g., by a user pushing down on the button with excessive force), then even if it is powered, the SMA actuator wire will not be able to contract - which may cause the SMA actuator wire to reach a high tension that may cause damage. However, in Figure 7 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 , if the button 702 is blocked from moving, the intermediate movable element 710 is still able to move when the SMA actuator wires are contracted, thereby avoiding potential damage to the wires.

[0094] It should be understood that Figure 7 The "reverse wedge" arrangement shown can be used with reference to Figures 1 to 6 Any combination of techniques described in any of the foregoing arrangements.

[0095] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of an eighth arrangement of a tactile button assembly 800 is shown. The tactile button assembly 800 is similar to Figure 1 and Figure 6 The arrangement shown in FIG. 8 is similar to that shown in FIG. 8 , and therefore, similar features are not described for the sake of brevity. The tactile button assembly includes a button 802 and an intermediate movable element 810. The button 802 is similar to Figure 6 The button 602 in FIG. The button 802 includes a protrusion 846 that forms a contact point or contact surface of the button 802. Figure 6 , there is a large gap between the button 802 and the protective seal 842, which gap can enable the protective seal 842 to flex / bend in such a way that the seal does not restrict the movement of the button 802. The button 802 includes one or more local bevels along the surface 834 (i.e., the surface that contacts the intermediate movable element 810). Therefore, the intermediate movable element 810 can be considered a "single wedge" because only one surface of the element includes a local bevel.

[0096] The intermediate movable element 810 can be formed by a sheet that can be etched to form one or more local bevels. The local bevel or each local bevel can be formed by etching a tab-like element in the sheet and folding the tab at a desired angle and in a desired direction to form a bevel. In the illustrated arrangement, the intermediate movable element 810 includes two local bevels 810b, 810c formed by two tabs in the sheet, but this is a non-limiting example. The two opposite ends of the sheet can be folded in the same direction to form edges 810a and 810d of the intermediate movable element 810. Edge 810a is coupled to at least one SMA actuator wire and, if present, can be coupled to a return spring (or similar component). Edge 810d can be combined with an end stop 814 to limit the range of motion of the intermediate movable element 810. The button 802 and the intermediate movable element 810 can include the same number of local bevels. The local bevels of the button 802 and the intermediate movable element 810 can be co-located in pairs. In other words, the local bevel of the button can be very close to the corresponding local bevel of the intermediate movable element 810. In an embodiment, the intermediate movable element 810 can be formed by a relatively rigid thin sheet of metal (so that the local bevel will not flex or bend during use). For example, the intermediate movable element 810 can be formed by a sheet of phosphor bronze. In an embodiment, the tongue-like element can be formed by plastically deforming the sheet into a well or pocket, thereby improving the rigidity of the sheet of metal forming the intermediate movable element. In an embodiment, a rib-like feature can be provided on the intermediate movable element 810 to further reinforce the sheet of metal when necessary.

[0097] The tactile button assembly 800 may include a first bearing 830 between the button 802 and the intermediate movable element 810. The first bearing 830 may include one or more ball bearings 128 disposed between a surface 834 of the button and a surface 836 of the intermediate movable element. At least one ball bearing 128 may be disposed between the pair or each pair of local ramps. The first bearing 830 may include one or more local ramps and one or more ball bearings. It should be understood that more than one ball bearing 128 may be disposed between each pair of local ramps. For example, in an embodiment, there may be three ball bearings on each local ramp.

[0098] The tactile button assembly 800 can include a second bearing 832 between the intermediate movable element 810 and the surface of the housing / cavity. The second bearing 832 can include one or more ball bearings disposed between a surface 838 of the intermediate movable element and a surface 840 of the housing (i.e., a surface of the cavity) that can facilitate lateral movement of the movable element.

[0099] The button 802 may include a slit notch or cutout 838 at a corner of the button that interacts with an edge 810d of the intermediate movable element 810. The slit notch 838 may be provided so that the edge 810d may move freely when the intermediate movable element 810 is actuated.

[0100] The overall height of the intermediate movable element 810 may be similar to, for example Figure 6 The height of the movable element in the embodiment may be lower. Figure 6 Compared to the above, less material can be used to form the intermediate movable element 810. Figure 8 The arrangement may advantageously provide a lower height / smaller size tactile button assembly, and / or may provide a lower cost assembly (because less material is used).

[0101] Fig.9A A cross-sectional view of a ninth arrangement of a tactile button assembly 900 is shown. The tactile button assembly 900 is similar to Figure 1 , therefore, similar features are not described for the sake of simplicity. The button 902 of the tactile button assembly 900 may include a lip 916 that protrudes from one side of the button 902 or along at least a portion of the button 902 (providing a "local" end stop). If the lip 916 also serves as a sealing mechanism, the lip 916 can be set all the way around the button. The housing 904 may include a corresponding ledge or groove 914, and the lip 916 of the button can engage with the ledge 914 of the housing 904. The ledge 914 can, for example, limit the movement of the button 902 into the cavity of the housing 904. Therefore, the lip 916 acts as an end stop to limit the movement of the button 902 in one direction. If the button 902 is pressed with excessive force, the lip 916 contacts the ledge 914, and the force is transmitted to the housing 904 through this contact, rather than through the bearing, and the excessive force through the bearing may potentially cause damage to the bearing. In addition, when the button is pressed, the lip 916 can perform a sealing function. For example, if the lip 916 of the button 902 has the form of an O-ring, when the button is in its equilibrium position, the lip 916 can provide a seal of the assembly 900 to prevent water and dust from entering.

[0102] Fig. 10AA cross-sectional view of a tenth arrangement of a tactile button assembly 1000 is shown, and Fig. 10B An enlarged view of a portion of the tenth arrangement is shown. In general, it may be useful to constrain the movement of a button within a cavity of a tactile button assembly so that the button moves only up and down within the cavity (i.e., along the first axis A), rather than left and right / laterally (i.e., not along the second axis B). In an embodiment, a bearing may be provided between the button and the cavity / housing to limit movement along the second axis B. Alternatively, if the assembly includes one or more flexures, the flexure may limit movement of the button along the second axis B. The intermediate movable element moves along the second axis B, and in some embodiments may also move along the first axis A. The movement of the button along axis B may be limited in a variety of ways. For example, the surface of the button and the surface of the housing (i.e., the inner surface of the cavity) may be in contact so that they operate as a sliding bearing. Alternatively, one or more ball bearings may be provided between the button and the cavity, and / or one or more flexures may be provided between the button and the cavity / housing to constrain lateral movement of the button (i.e., movement along axis A). In an embodiment, a protective membrane (as described above) may be used as a flexure to constrain the lateral movement of the button. The protective membrane / flexure is rigid and is able to absorb moments induced therein by the intermediate movable element.

[0103] The tactile button assembly 1000 is similar to Figure 8 The arrangement shown in , therefore, similar features are not described for the sake of simplicity. The tactile button assembly 1000 includes at least one ball bearing 1028 disposed between the button 1002 and the housing 1004 (i.e., the inner surface of the cavity of the housing), which can receive / absorb any lateral / lateral forces transferred from the intermediate movable element 1012 to the button 1002. The ball bearing between the button 1002 and the housing 1004 can be sufficient to limit the movement of the button 1002 along the axis B.

[0104] Additionally or alternatively, the tactile button assembly 1000 can include a device for limiting the amount of lateral movement of the intermediate movable element 1012. By limiting the range of lateral movement (i.e., movement along axis B) that the intermediate movable element 1012 can undergo, the lateral movement of the button 1002 can also be limited. The device for limiting the lateral movement of the intermediate movable element 1012 can be or include a spacing member 1050, which is disposed between the intermediate movable element 1012 and the housing 1004. The spacing member 1050 can be formed from a sheet or layer of material. The spacing member 1050 can include one or more holes 1054. Each hole 1054 can be a through-hole or a blind hole. The intermediate movable element 1012 can include one or more local bevels 1056, which correspond to the local bevels of the button 1002, as described above with reference to Figure 8 The or each local bevel 1056 may be arranged to be positioned within a hole 1054 in the spacing member 1050. The spacing member 1050 may thus limit the movement of the intermediate movable element 1012 because the hole 1054 constrains the movement of the local bevel 1056 located therein.

[0105] In the case where the intermediate movable element 1012 includes a plurality of local bevels 1056, at least one ball bearing may be disposed between the bevels 1056 to reduce friction between the non-bevel portions of the intermediate movable element 1012 and the spacing member 1050. Fig. 10B In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate movable element 1012 includes two local ramps 1056. A ball bearing 1028' is disposed between the non-ramp portion of the intermediate movable element 1012 and the housing 1004. The ball bearing 1028' is located in a hole 1054 in the spacing member 1050 to hold the ball in the correct position.

[0106] As previously referred Figure 1 As described, each tactile button assembly may include a sensor to detect when a user presses the button. Fig. 10A and 10B A sensor 1052 is shown for detecting when a user presses the button 1002. The sensor 1052 is disposed between the spacing member 1050 and the housing 1004. The sensor 1052 may be a contact sensor and may include a deformable surface 1058. Thus, when the button 1002 is pressed, the downward force on the button is transferred to the intermediate movable element 1012 and the spacing member 1050, which causes the deformable surface 1058 to deform and make electrical contact with the conductive surface 1060 of the sensor 1052. This type of sensor may be disposed as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 9CIn any of the tactile button assemblies described. An example mechanism for detecting a button press is described in GB2551657, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0107] Fig.16 A cross-sectional view of a thirteenth tactile button assembly 1600 is shown. Tactile button assembly 1600 includes a button 1602 and a housing 1604. In this case, button 1602 is part of housing 1604. Housing 1604 may include at least a portion that is flexible and depressible, thereby providing button 1602 of assembly 1600. Advantageously, by forming button 1602 as part of housing 1604, there is no gap between the button and the housing, and therefore no sealing mechanism is required. This may also provide an assembly that is cheaper and simpler to manufacture.

[0108] The assembly 1600 includes an intermediate movable element 1606 in the form of a lever arm. The intermediate movable element 1606 can be coupled to a first SMA actuator wire 1608 to move the lever arm in a first direction, and can be coupled to a second SMA actuator wire 1610 to move the lever arm in a second direction. Alternatively, one of the actuator wires 1608, 1610 can be replaced by a return spring or similar elastic element. Further alternatively, the flexible portion of the housing 1604 itself can be rigid enough to provide a return force - in this case, a return spring or a second SMA actuator wire may not be required. Movement of the intermediate movable element 1606 can cause the button portion 1602 of the housing 1604 to flex. Therefore, the housing 1604 can be formed of a flexible material so that when the intermediate movable element 1606 is actuated, the button portion 1602 flexes and provides a tactile feel. Alternatively, the housing 1604 can be formed of a material that is not generally flexible unless it is provided as a thin layer. Thus, the button 1602 may be thinner than the rest of the housing 1604, so that the button portion is flexible. For example, at least the button 1604 may be formed from a thin metal layer, for example, a 50 μm thick layer of aluminum.

[0109] Fig.16AA cross-sectional view of another tactile button assembly 1650 including a lever arm 1656 is shown. The tactile button assembly 1650 includes a button or button portion 1652 and a housing 1654. In this case, the button 1652 is part of the housing 1654. The housing 1604 may include at least a portion that is flexible and depressible, thereby providing the button 1652 of the assembly 1650. Advantageously, by forming the button 1652 as part of the housing 1654, there is no gap between the button and the housing, and therefore no sealing mechanism is required. This may also provide an assembly that is cheaper and simpler to manufacture. However, it should be understood that the tactile button assembly 1650 may be arranged such that there is a gap between the button 1652 and the housing 1654 (e.g., such as Fig.24 ), or so that there is a separate button component that is not part of the housing (e.g., as Figure 1 shown).

[0110] Assembly 1650 includes an intermediate movable element 1656 in the form of a lever arm. The intermediate movable element 1656 can be coupled to at least one SMA actuator wire 1658 to move the lever arm in a first direction. The intermediate movable element 1656 moves about a pivot 1660. In an embodiment, the lever arm 1656 can be coupled to another SMA actuator wire (not shown) to move the lever arm in a second direction. Alternatively, one of the actuator wires can be replaced by a return spring or a similar elastic element. Further alternatively, the flexible portion of the housing 1654 itself can be sufficiently rigid to provide a return force - in which case a return spring or a second SMA actuator wire may not be required. In some cases, the force of the user's finger may be sufficient to provide a return force, so that no SMA actuator wire or return spring is required to return the button to a balanced position. Movement of the intermediate movable element 1656 can cause the button portion 1652 of the housing 1654 to flex. Thus, the housing 1654 may be formed of a flexible material such that when the intermediate movable element 1656 is actuated, the button portion 1652 flexes and provides a tactile sensation. Alternatively, the housing 1654 may be formed of a material that is not generally flexible unless it is provided as a thin layer. Thus, the button 1652 may be thinner than the rest of the housing 1654 such that the button portion is flexible. For example, at least the button 1654 may be formed of a locally thinned portion of the housing, such as a 30 μm thick layer of aluminum.

[0111] Thus, in an embodiment, the intermediate movable element may be a lever arm arranged to drive movement of the button along the first axis.

[0112] Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of a fourteenth tactile button assembly 1700 is shown. Figure 1As described, each tactile button assembly described herein can include a sensor in the housing below the button and the intermediate movable element. For example, the sensor can be a force sensor. In general, the sensor can be any suitable sensor or mechanism for detecting that a user has pressed a button (i.e., detecting that a user has pressed a button). Movement of the button into the cavity (as a result of the user pressing the button) causes a force to be applied to the sensor. The sensor can be coupled to a control circuit, and the sensor can be configured to communicate with the control circuit when the force on the sensor changes, or when the force on the sensor has been applied for a minimum duration. The sensor's detection of the user pressing the button causes tactile feedback to be generated and applied by the tactile button assembly. Fig.17 The tactile button assembly 1700 shown in FIG. 1 includes an alternative arrangement of sensors, which may advantageously reduce the overall size / height of the assembly.

[0113] The tactile button assembly includes a button 1702 and an intermediate movable element 1706, both of which are disposed in a housing 1704. The assembly includes at least one SMA actuator wire 1708, which is coupled to the intermediate movable element 1706 at one end and to the housing 1704 at another end. An elastic biasing element 1710 can be coupled to the intermediate movable element 1706 and the housing 1704. The biasing element 1710 can be a weak spring, and can be weaker than a return spring, because the force applied to the button by the user can be advantageously used to pull the SMA actuator wire 1708 outward. Therefore, in an embodiment, the force applied by the user can be used to provide a "reset force" to the SMA actuator wire, so that only a weak spring is required (or the spring can be removed entirely). When a press of the button 1702 is detected, the SMA actuator wire 1708 is driven, which causes the wire 1708 to contract. The retraction of the wire 1708 causes the intermediate movable element 1706 to move into another cavity of the housing (as shown in FIG. Figure 1 ), which causes the button 1702 to move upward (ie, out of the cavity). When the SMA actuator wire 1708 cools, the biasing element 1710 can enable the button 1702 to reset to a balanced state.

[0114] The tactile button assembly 1700 can include an end stop 1712 in the cavity. The end stop 1712 can be formed as part of the housing 1704 or the cavity, or can be a separate element disposed in the cavity. The end stop 1712 can be disposed at a location in the cavity to limit the movement of the intermediate movable element 1706. Figure 1As explained, if the SMA actuator wire is stretched too far (i.e., beyond a certain tension), the SMA actuator wire may become weak or damaged, or even break. The force of the biasing element 1710 on the intermediate movable element 1706 may cause the SMA actuator wire 1708 to become overstretched. Therefore, the end stop 1712 can limit the movement of the intermediate movable element 1706 so that the at least one SMA actuator wire 1708 is not overstretched. Similarly, if there is no end stop, the force applied to the button 1702 by the user's finger may cause the wire to be overstretched because when the button is pushed downward (i.e., into the cavity), the intermediate movable element 1706 moves toward the left of the figure, causing the SMA actuator wire 1708 to be stretched.

[0115] The fact that the intermediate movable element 1706 moves toward the end stop 1712 when the button 1702 is pressed is used to provide an alternative arrangement of sensors. In the assembly 1700, the sensor 1714 is disposed on the end stop 1712. The sensor 1712 may be a contact sensor or a force sensor, and the conductive element 1716 may be disposed on the intermediate movable element 1706. When the button 1702 is pressed, the downward force on the button causes the intermediate movable element 1706 to move toward the end stop 1712 and make contact with the end stop 1712. When the intermediate movable element 1706 makes contact with the end stop 1712, the contact sensor 1712 and the conductive element 1716 form an electrical connection, which indicates that the button 1702 has been pressed and tactile feedback should be delivered.

[0116] Fig.18A and Fig.18B A cross-sectional view of a fifteenth tactile button assembly 1800 is shown in a balanced state and an activated state, respectively. The tactile button assembly 1800 includes a button 1802, a housing 1804, and an intermediate movable element 1806. The intermediate movable element 1806 is a flat flexure that is attached to the housing 1804 at one end 1808. The other end 1810 of the flexure 1806 is not attached to the housing 1804 and can freely translate along the longitudinal direction of the flexure. The button 1802 is coupled to (e.g., attached to) the flexure 1806. The assembly 1800 includes an SMA actuator wire 1812 that is coupled to the free end 1810 of the flexure 1806 at one end and to the housing 1804 at the other end. The SMA actuator wires 1812 can be arranged so that when the wires contract (upon heating), the wires force an out-of-plane deflection of the flexure 1806, which forces the button 1802 to move upward, i.e., out of the cavity of the housing 1804, as shown. Fig.18B As the wire cools, flexure 1806 returns to its equilibrium state (i.e., substantially flat), which causes button 1802 to move downward within the cavity of housing 1804, as shown. Fig.18A Advantageously, the flexure 1806 means that no additional bias spring is required to counteract the effect of the SMA actuator wire 1812. As a result, the assembly can be simpler and cheaper to manufacture and operate. In addition, compared to embodiments including wedge-shaped buttons and / or wedge-shaped intermediate movable elements (e.g., Figures 1 to 3 ), the overall profile or size of the tactile button assembly 1800 can be reduced by using a flexure as an intermediate movable element.

[0117] In an embodiment, assembly 1800 may be adapted to allow button 1802 to move vertically "downward," i.e., to allow button 1802 to move into the cavity. (As previously described, tactile feedback may be provided by a button moving upward toward a user's finger, or by a button falling away from a user's finger.) In this case, assembly 1800 may include a dimple or another cavity in housing 1804 beneath flexure 1806. Thus, flexure 1806 may be arranged to buckle or bend into the dimple / another cavity, and in doing so cause button 1802 to move further into the cavity.

[0118] Fig.19 A plan view of a fifteenth tactile button assembly 1900 is shown. (The button has been removed from the schematic for clarity). Here, the intermediate movable element 1906 is able to rotate within the housing 1904, rather than just translate. As a result, the button (not shown) is also able to rotate or tilt. This can be achieved by providing a series of ramps 1908, which are arranged so that the slope of the ramps increases in the same direction along a spiral (or substantially spiral) path. In this example, the assembly 1900 includes four ramps, and when the intermediate movable element 1906 is actuated (via the SMA actuator wire 1902) so that the intermediate movable element rotates, the ball bearing rolls along the ramps in the same direction. In some cases, a support layer can be provided between the button and the intermediate movable element to prevent the button from rotating-the support layer can decouple the button from the rotating intermediate movable element. The ball bearing can be held in place using a suitable mechanism, for example, the bearing can be located in a track or groove to constrain its movement.

[0119] In an embodiment, a single SMA actuator wire may be sufficient to drive the movement of the intermediate movable element 1906. For example, as Fig.17 , the force of the user's finger may be sufficient to provide a reset force, so that no SMA actuator wire is needed to reset the button to the equilibrium position. Alternatively, to maximize the force used to move the button, multiple SMA actuator wires can be used (e.g., multiple wires are arranged in mechanical parallel).

[0120] Steering Fig.33A , which shows a plan view of a button of another tactile button assembly 3300, Fig.33B A plan view of another tactile button assembly 3300 is shown, and Fig.33C A cross-sectional view of another tactile button assembly 3300 is shown. The tactile button assembly 3300 includes a button 3302 that can rotate within a housing 3304. The tactile button assembly 3300 includes an intermediate movable element 3308 and at least one SMA actuator wire for moving the intermediate movable element in one direction, and a resilient element (e.g., a spring) for moving the intermediate movable element in an opposite direction. In the illustrated arrangement, the tactile button assembly 3300 includes two SMA actuator wires 3310a, 3310b, which can be arranged as opposing wires (i.e., one SMA actuator wire is used as a resilient element that provides a restoring force). In other words, the SMA actuator wire 3310a can move the intermediate movable element 3308 in one direction, while the SMA actuator wire 3310b can move the intermediate movable element 3308 in an opposite direction. The tactile button assembly 3300 includes a central shaft or central bearing 3306. The central bearing 3306 is coupled to the intermediate movable element 3308 and to the button 3302. Movement of the intermediate movable element 3308 in one direction causes the central bearing 3306 to rotate in one direction, which in turn causes the button 3302 to rotate relative to the housing 3304. Movement of the intermediate movable element 3308 in the opposite direction causes the button 3302 to rotate in the opposite direction. The tactile button assembly 3300 may include a seal 3312 (e.g., a flexible sealing film) to prevent any fluid and / or dust that enters the tactile assembly through the gap between the housing 3304 and the button 3302 from further entering the tactile assembly, or further entering a device incorporating the tactile assembly. The tactile button assembly 3300 may include one or more bearings (e.g., ball bearings) 3314 disposed between the housing 3304 and the intermediate movable member 3308. The ball bearings 3314 may provide a low friction surface on which the intermediate movable member 3308 can move.

[0121] Accordingly, the present technology provides a tactile button assembly, which includes: a housing including a cavity; a button, which is disposed in the cavity and can move along a first axis in the cavity; at least one intermediate movable element, which is disposed in the cavity, contacts the button, and can rotate around a second axis parallel to the first axis, and is arranged to drive the button to move along the first axis; and at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, which is connected to the at least one intermediate movable element and is arranged to rotate the intermediate movable element around the second axis when contracted.

[0122] Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view of a sixteenth tactile button assembly 2000 is shown. In the tactile button assembly 2000, the button 2002 is chevron-shaped, i.e., the button 2002 includes two slopes that are inclined at equal angles in opposite directions. The assembly 2000 includes two wedge-shaped intermediate movable elements 2004 and 2006. In this embodiment, the intermediate movable element can be considered as or include two "opposing wedges" because the two elements are wedges with slopes inclined in opposite directions. The slope of the wedge-shaped movable element 2004 corresponds to one slope of the chevron-shaped button 2002, and the slope of the wedge-shaped movable element 2006 corresponds to the other slope of the chevron-shaped button 2002. In an embodiment, the angles or slopes of the slopes of the two movable elements 2004, 2006 are the same to prevent the button 2002 from tilting when the SMA actuator wire 2008 is driven. However, in some embodiments, tilting may be desired and may be achieved by having different slopes. It should be understood that the slope or direction of the slope of the two wedge-shaped movable elements can be reversed without loss of function (although the slope of the button 2002 also needs to be reversed). The two intermediate movable elements 2004, 2006 are coupled together via SMA actuator wires 2008.

[0123] A return spring 2010 is coupled to the movable element 2004 and the housing, and another return spring 2012 is coupled to the movable element 2006 and the housing. When a press of the button 2002 is detected, the SMA actuator wire 2008 is driven, which causes the wire 2008 to contract. The contraction of the wire 2008 causes the intermediate movable elements 2004 and 2006 to move toward each other, which causes the button 2002 to move upward (i.e., out of the cavity). When the SMA actuator wire 2008 cools and force is applied, the return springs 2010, 2012 can enable the button 2002 to return to a balanced state. In an embodiment, a return spring may not be required because the force of the user's finger on the button 2002 after providing a tactile sensation may be sufficient to return the button to a balanced state. The assembly may include two end stops 2010, 2012 to limit the movement of the intermediate movable elements 2004, 2006, respectively.

[0124] Thus, it should be understood from the above embodiments and arrangements that the intermediate movable element that causes the button to move "vertically" may be a single wedge-shaped element (or an element including a partial wedge / inclined surface), may include two wedge-shaped elements (or an element including a partial wedge / inclined surface), or may include opposing wedges. Alternatively, the intermediate movable element may be a flexure (see, for example, Fig.18A), or a lever arm (see, for example, Fig.16 ). The intermediate movable element is arranged to drive the button (or the button portion of the housing) to move into or out of the housing (ie vertically "downwards" or "upwards").

[0125] Sealing mechanism

[0126] The tactile button assembly may include a protective seal to prevent fluid and / or dust / dirt from entering the assembly. The tactile button assembly described herein may be incorporated into a variety of different devices, including smartphones and wearable devices. Smartphones and wearable devices may need to meet specific waterproof standards. For example, such a device may need to meet the standards required for an ingress protection (IP) rating of 67 or 68. An IP rating of 67 indicates that the device has a certain type of protection that causes the device to be dustproof and waterproof when the device is immersed in water up to 1m deep; while an IP rating of 68 indicates that the device has a certain type of protection that causes the device to be dustproof and waterproof when the device is continuously immersed in water more than 1m deep. Therefore, if the tactile button assembly is to be incorporated into a smartphone or wearable device with an IP rating of 67 or 68, the tactile button assembly also needs to be waterproof and dustproof to the same standard.

[0127] As described above, the tactile button assembly described herein can be more easily and effectively sealed than a tactile button assembly in which the button moves laterally. There are many different possible sealing mechanisms, some of which are described in detail in the accompanying drawings. Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Fig.9A , Figures 11A-11C , Figures 12A-12C , Figures 13A-13B and Figure 14 to Figure 16 Before describing these specific sealing mechanisms, some general concepts associated with sealing mechanisms are described.

[0128] Generally speaking, the sealing mechanism can be non-structural (i.e., it does not provide any intentional force on the button of the tactile button assembly) or can be structural (i.e., it provides some force on the tactile button assembly to, for example, guide movement of the button).

[0129] In cases where the sealing mechanism is essentially non-structural, additional bearings may be required to constrain lateral (side-to-side) movement of the button within the cavity. For example, a rolling bearing may be disposed between the button and the cavity, on the same side of the button that is connected to the SMA actuator wire, so that when the SMA actuator wire contracts, the bearing prevents the button from moving or tilting laterally within the cavity (i.e., constraining the movement of the button). Alternatively, when the sealing mechanism is non-structural, no rolling bearing may be disposed between the button and the cavity - in this case, the direct contact of the button with the cavity is a high-friction, inefficient sliding contact that serves to constrain the movement of the button. In some embodiments, the sealing mechanism may be non-structural and may be combined with a flexure to guide the movement of the button "vertically" in the cavity. In this case, a rolling bearing between the cavity and the button may not be required.

[0130] In the case where the sealing mechanism is structural, the sealing mechanism provides a sealing function and a supporting function, i.e. the sealing mechanism is able to guide the movement of the button within the cavity. In this case, no additional bearing between the cavity and the button may be required. Alternatively, the sealing mechanism may be provided by the housing itself - the button may be an integral part of the housing, so that no additional sealing mechanism is required. This can be achieved by making the button portion of the housing thinner than the rest of the housing (making the button portion of the housing flexible). However, in this case, another button that the user can press / touch may be provided externally in order to protect the thin integrally formed button of the housing.

[0131] Regardless of whether the sealing mechanism is structural or non-structural, the sealing mechanism may be functional at all times, or may be functional only when the button of the tactile button assembly is not in motion.

[0132] Now go to Figure 5 , which shows a cross-sectional view of a fifth arrangement of a tactile button assembly 500, the tactile button assembly 500 including a sealing mechanism that is structural and always functional (i.e., both when the button is in motion and when it is not in motion). The tactile button assembly 500 is similar to Figure 4, therefore, for the sake of simplicity, similar features are not described. Compared with assembly 400, tactile button assembly 500 includes a protective seal 542 (also referred to as a protective film, a protective membrane, or a protective cover). Protective seal 542 can be a waterproof and / or dustproof seal to prevent water and / or dust from entering the cavity. Generally speaking, a small gap can be set between the button and the cavity to avoid contact between the surface of the button and the surface of the cavity, which may increase friction and affect the performance of the assembly. However, the gap may allow liquid and / or dust to enter the cavity of the assembly, thereby affecting the performance of the assembly. For example, dust may inhibit the movement of buttons, bearings, and / or intermediate movable elements, while liquids may interfere with any electronic components / circuits. Therefore, protective seal 542 can advantageously enable a waterproof / dustproof tactile button assembly to be provided.

[0133] A protective seal 542 may be disposed on an exterior surface of the housing (ie, Figure 1 The entire area of ​​the surface 108 in the Figure 5 As shown), or may be provided on at least a portion of the area of ​​the exterior surface and the button. In either case, the protective seal 542 may be formed of a flexible material, an elastic material, or a material that exhibits a certain flexibility / elasticity when it is provided as a thin layer, which enables the protective seal 542 to flex as the button moves. (If the protective seal 542 is not made of a flexible / elastic material, the protective seal may inhibit or restrict the movement of the button, which may affect the tactile feel delivered by the assembly). The protective seal 542 may be formed, for example, of an elastomer, a hard plastic, a composite material, a thin metal layer (e.g., a thin layer of aluminum or a thin layer of stainless steel). It should be understood that this is a non-exhaustive, non-limiting list of example materials. The protective seal 542 may be attached to the housing 504 by any suitable technique, such as an adhesive, welding, or other technique.

[0134] Optionally, when the tactile button assembly includes a protective seal, the housing of the assembly may be modified to accommodate the protective seal. Figure 5 As shown, the housing 504 includes a cutout or flange 544 in the outer surface of the housing that is disposed around the button. The cutout or flange 544 provides a gap or space between the button and the housing. As the button moves in the cavity, the protective seal 542 can bend / flex into the flange 544, so that the portion of the protective seal 542 that can move increases when the button moves. This can advantageously reduce the degree to which the protective seal 542 resists the movement of the button.

[0135] It should be understood that the protective seal and optional cutouts may be incorporated into any of the tactile button assemblies described herein.

[0136] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a sixth arrangement of a tactile button assembly 600 is shown, the tactile button assembly 600 including a sealing mechanism that is structural and always functional (i.e., both when the button is in motion and when it is not in motion). This can be considered to include Figure 5 A more extreme version of the cutout shown in FIG. 600 is similar to the tactile button assembly 600. Figure 4 and Figure 5 , and therefore, for the sake of brevity, similar features are not described. Compared to assembly 500, tactile button assembly 600 includes a button 602 of reduced size (i.e., reduced height). Button 602 includes a protrusion 646 that forms a contact point or contact surface for button 602. Figure 5 , the area or size of the contact surface of button 602 is reduced. By reducing the height of button 602 and providing protrusion 646 as a contact surface, a large gap 644 is provided between button 602 and protective seal 642. Therefore, the degree to which protective seal 642 resists button movement is further reduced. As explained above, protective seal 642 can be formed, for example, from an elastomer, a hard plastic, a composite material, a thin metal layer (e.g., a thin aluminum layer or a thin stainless steel layer). It should be understood that this is a non-exhaustive, non-limiting list of example materials.

[0137] Brief return Figure 8 In this embodiment, the protective seal 842 acts as a flexure to guide the button to move in a first direction (vertically). Therefore, the sealing mechanism is structural and works all the time (ie, both when the button is moving and when it is not moving).

[0138] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B 1 and 2 show a plan view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of a mechanism 1100 for sealing a tactile button assembly. Fig. 11C A cross-sectional view of an improved mechanism 1100' is shown. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11CThe sealing mechanism shown in is structural and works all the time (i.e., when the button is moving and not moving). The sealing mechanism 1100, 1100' can provide an effective mechanism for making the tactile button assembly waterproof and dustproof. The sealing mechanism 1100 includes a flexible surface layer or film 1102 and an external button 1104. As previously described, the flexible surface layer 1102 can cover the cavity in the housing that accommodates the button 1106, the intermediate movable element 1108 and at least one SMA actuator wire 1110, so that the flexible surface layer 1102 effectively covers the cavity. The flexible surface layer 1102 can be considered as an impermeable barrier between the external environment and the cavity (i.e., the internal environment) of the housing of the tactile button assembly. Therefore, the term "external button" is used to indicate that the button 1104 is at least partially disposed outside the cavity, i.e., at least partially disposed on the outer side of the barrier formed by the flexible surface layer 1102. The external button 1104 can cooperate with the (internal) button of the tactile button assembly described above.

[0139] Fig. 11B An example inner button 1106 is shown, which is disposed on the inner side of the barrier formed by the flexible skin 1102. The outer button 1104 may include a stem 1112 that is arranged to cooperate with the inner button 1106. Fig. 11B In the illustrated mechanism 1100, stem 1112 contacts flexible skin 1102. When a user presses outer button 1104, stem 1112 applies a force on flexible skin 1102, which causes flexible skin 1102 to flex / bend. The force applied to button 1104 is transferred to inner button 1106 via stem 1112, and the pressing of inner button 1106 is detected as previously described (e.g., via a sensor located within the cavity).

[0140] Fig. 11C A sealing mechanism 1100' is shown having a flexible skin 1102' that includes a cutout (not visible) to reduce the overall stiffness of the mechanism in the direction of motion. Thus, the stem 1112 of the outer button 1104 extends at least partially through the cutout in the flexible skin 1102'. Thus, the stem 1112 is able to directly contact the inner button 1106.

[0141] Flexible surface layer 1102, 1102' can be made of any suitable material with appropriate rigidity in the direction of motion. Flexible surface layer 1102, 1102' is preferably an impermeable material, i.e., impermeable to liquid and dust. For example, flexible surface layer 1102, 1102' can be formed by a film polymer. Flexible surface layer 1102, 1102' can be formed by a liquid-impermeable material so that a sealing mechanism protects the tactile button assembly from fluid entry. The flexible surface layer can be, for example, a thin silicone film. Sealing mechanism 1100, 1100' can include an adhesive or adhesive element to attach the flexible surface layer 1102, 1102' to the housing of the assembly fixedly. The flexible surface layer (also referred to as a film) can be fully deflected so that button 1106 can move within the tactile button assembly. When the intermediate movable element 1108 is not actuated to transmit tactile sensation, film 1102, 1102' can provide a reset force to reset button 1106 to its default static state.

[0142] Advantageously, the sealing mechanism 1100, 1100' secures the tactile button assembly to prevent the ingress of liquids and / or dust or dirt. The flexible surface layer may enable the waterproof and dustproof tactile button assembly to be disposed along a curved edge of a device. The sealing mechanism 1100, 1100' decouples the sealing mechanism from the button / external button, which may be advantageous because the external button may then be customized without affecting the sealing mechanism or mechanical structure of the assembly. For example, the design and texture of the external button may be selected / customized without affecting the sealing mechanism.

[0143] Figures 12A to 12C Shown are cross-sectional views of three mechanisms for sealing a tactile button assembly.

[0144] Fig. 12A A portion of a tactile button assembly 1200 is shown that includes a sealing mechanism that is non-structural and only functions when the button is not in use because the seal is broken when the button is moved upward. Here, the button 1202 of the tactile button assembly performs two functions - it provides a contact surface for the user to press, and it forms part of the sealing mechanism. The tactile button assembly 1200 includes the button 1202, an intermediate movable element 1206, and one or more ball bearings 1208, which are disposed in a cavity of the assembly housing 1204. The tactile button assembly shown here is similar to Figure 41206 and includes local bevels on both the button 1202 and the movable element 1206. As shown, at least one ball bearing 1208 is disposed between the paired local bevels. The button 1202 includes a lip 1212 that extends all the way around the button. The housing 1204 includes a corresponding flange or groove 1210, and the lip 1212 of the button can engage with the flange 1210 of the housing 1204. The flange 1210 can, for example, limit the movement of the button 1202 into the cavity of the housing 1204, thereby providing a sealing effect. The button 1202 can be formed of a thick flexible material so that when the button is pressed and when the intermediate movable element 1206 is actuated, the button 1202 flexes. The button 1202 can be molded from a flexible material. The button 1202 can be formed of a liquid-impermeable material so that the sealing mechanism protects the tactile button assembly from fluid ingress. The button 1202 can be coupled to the housing 1204—the lip 1212 can be fixedly attached to the flange 1210 of the housing 1204, thereby providing a seal. The sealing mechanism can include an adhesive or bonding element to fixedly attach the button 1202 to the housing 1204. The button 1202 can be sufficiently deflected to enable the button to move within the tactile button assembly. When the intermediate movable element 1206 is not actuated to deliver a tactile sensation, the button 1202 can provide a reset force to reset the button to its default resting state.

[0145] Fig. 12B A portion of a tactile button assembly 1220 is shown including a sealing mechanism that is non-structural and only functions when the button is not in use because the seal is broken when the button is moved upward. Here, the button 1222 of the tactile button assembly performs two functions - it provides a contact surface for the user to press, and it forms part of the sealing mechanism. The tactile button assembly 1220 includes the button 1222, an intermediate movable element 1226, and one or more ball bearings 1228, which are disposed in a cavity of the housing 1224 of the assembly. Fig. 12A compared to, Fig. 12B The illustrated embodiment includes one or more local bevels on only one surface (i.e., on the button 1222 or the intermediate movable element 1226). Fig. 12B In the arrangement shown, the intermediate movable element 1226 includes at least one local bevel. At least one ball bearing 1228 is disposed between the bevel of the intermediate movable element 1226 and the button 1222. The intermediate movable element 1226 may include one or more supports 1234 that extend toward and support the button 1222.

[0146] The button 1222 includes a lip 1232 extending all the way around the button. The housing 1224 includes a corresponding flange or groove 1230, and the lip 1232 of the button can engage with the flange 1230 of the housing 1224. The flange 1230 can, for example, limit the movement of the button 1222 into the cavity of the housing 1224, thereby providing a sealing effect. The button 1222 can be formed of a thin layer of material so that when the button is pressed and when the intermediate movable element 1226 is actuated, the button 1222 flexes. The button 1222 can be molded from a flexible material, or can be formed from a thin metal film or layer. The button 1222 can be formed of a liquid-impermeable material so that the sealing mechanism protects the tactile button assembly from fluid ingress. The button 1222 can be coupled to the housing 1224-the lip 1232 can be fixedly attached to the flange 1230 of the housing 1224, thereby providing a seal. The sealing mechanism may include an adhesive or bonding element to fixedly attach the button 1222 to the housing 1224. The button 1222 may be sufficiently deflected to enable the button to move within the tactile button assembly. When the intermediate movable element 1226 is not actuated to deliver a tactile sensation, the button 1222 may provide a reset force to reset the button to its default resting state.

[0147] Fig. 12C A portion of a tactile button assembly 1240 is shown that includes a sealing mechanism that is structural and always functional (i.e., both when the button is moving and when it is not moving). Here, the button 1242 of the tactile button assembly performs two functions - it provides a contact surface for the user to press, and it forms part of the sealing mechanism. The tactile button assembly 1240 includes the button 1242, an intermediate movable element 1246, and one or more ball bearings 1248, which are disposed in a cavity of the housing 1244 of the assembly. Fig. 12B compared to, Fig. 12C The illustrated embodiment includes one or more local bevels on only one surface (i.e., on the button 1242 or the intermediate movable element 1246). Fig. 12CIn the arrangement shown, the intermediate movable element 1246 includes at least one local bevel. At least one ball bearing 1248 is disposed between the bevel of the intermediate movable element 1246 and the button 1242. The button 1242 includes a lip 1252 that extends all the way around the button. The housing 1244 includes a corresponding flange or groove 1250, and the lip 1252 of the button can engage with the flange 1250 of the housing 1244 (optionally via an O-ring 1258). The O-ring 1248 is disposed on the flange 1250 of the housing and between the flange and the lip 1252 of the button. In an embodiment, the O-ring 1258 can be replaced by any suitable internal seal that can prevent dust and liquid from entering the housing of the button assembly. For example, the internal seal 1258 can be a flexible Y-shaped seal, a flexible C-shaped seal, a flexible hollow O-ring, etc. The flange 1250 can, for example, limit the movement of the button 1242 into the cavity of the housing 1244, thereby providing a sealing effect. The button 1242 (or at least the contactable / depressible portion of the button) can be formed from a thin layer of material so that the button 1242 flexes when the button is pressed and when the intermediate movable element 1246 is actuated. The button 1242 can be molded from a flexible material, or can be formed from a thin metal film or layer. The button 1242 can be formed from a liquid-impermeable material so that the sealing mechanism protects the tactile button assembly from fluid ingress. The internal seal 1258 provides an additional barrier to prevent dust or fluid ingress.

[0148] The button assembly 1240 may include a flexure 1252 or similar flexible element disposed below the button 1242. The flexure 1252 extends across the cavity of the button assembly below the button 1242 and is attached to the inner surface of the housing 1244 along the edge of the flexure. Thus, the flexure 1252 may be used as another barrier to prevent dust or fluid from entering. The flexure 1252 is flexible and thus can flex when the button 1242 moves in and out of the cavity of the housing 1244. A gap 1260 between the flexure 1252 and the housing 1244 may be provided to provide a space into which the flexure 1252 may flex / bend when the button 1242 moves upward. Accordingly, when the flexure 1252 is provided, the ball bearing 1248 is provided between the inclined surface of the intermediate movable element 1246 and the flexure 1252 below the button 1242. The button 1242 can be coupled to the housing 1244—the lip 1252 can be fixedly attached to the flange 1250 of the housing 1244, thereby providing a seal. The sealing mechanism can include an adhesive or bonding element to fixedly attach the button 1242 to the housing 1244. The button 1242 can be sufficiently deflected to enable the button to move within the tactile button assembly. When the intermediate movable element 1246 is not actuated to deliver a tactile sensation, the button 1242 can provide a reset force to reset the button to its default resting state.

[0149] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B Shown is a cross-sectional view of two mechanisms for sealing a tactile button assembly.

[0150] Fig.13A A portion of a tactile button assembly 1300 is shown that includes a sealing mechanism that is non-structural and is always active (i.e., both when the button is moving and when it is not moving). The sealing mechanism includes an O-ring type seal 1310. The O-ring 1310 is disposed between a button 1302 and a housing 1304 of the tactile button assembly 1300. The cavity includes the button 1302, an intermediate movable element 1306, and one or more ball bearings 1308. The tactile button assembly shown here is similar to Figure 4 , and includes local bevels on both the button 1302 and the movable element 1306. However, it should be understood that the local bevels may be more generally provided on one or both of the button 1302 and the movable element 1306 (e.g., see Fig. 12C ). As shown, at least one ball bearing 1308 is disposed between the paired local ramps. An O-ring 1310 constrains the edge of the button 1302 within the housing 1304 of the button assembly. The O-ring 1310 may allow some movement or flexing of the button 1302 to move in and out of the housing 1304, but prevents or minimizes lateral (sideways) movement of the button 1302 in the housing. The O-ring 1310 forms a tight seal between the button 1302 and the housing 1304, thereby protecting the tactile button assembly from fluid and dust ingress.

[0151] Fig. 13B A portion of a tactile button assembly 1350 is shown that includes a sealing mechanism that is structural and always functional (i.e., both when the button is moving and when it is not moving). The sealing mechanism includes an internal seal 1360. The internal seal 1360 is disposed between the button 1352 and the housing 1354 of the tactile button assembly 1350. The cavity includes the button 1352, the intermediate movable element 1356, and one or more ball bearings 1358. The tactile button assembly shown here is similar to Figure 4 , and includes local bevels on both the button 1352 and the movable element 1356. However, it should be understood that the local bevels may be more generally provided on one or both of the button 1352 and the movable element 1356 (e.g., see Fig. 12C). As shown, at least one ball bearing 1358 is disposed between the paired local bevels. An internal seal 1360 is disposed across a portion of both the cavity of the housing 1354 and the button 1352. Specifically, the internal seal 1360 is disposed where the edge of the button 1352 and the cavity meet. The internal seal 1360 is disposed below the button 1352 and within the cavity so that it is not visible from the outside of the button assembly 1350. For example, the internal seal 1360 may be annular. The internal seal 1360 may be attached to both the cavity and the button 1352 so that when the button 1352 moves within the cavity, the seal 1360 prevents or minimizes dust and fluid from entering the cavity. The internal seal 1360 may be formed of a flexible material to enable the button 1352 to move within the cavity, thereby transmitting a tactile sensation.

[0152] Fig.14 A cross-sectional view of a portion of an eleventh tactile button assembly 1400 is shown including a sealing mechanism that is structural and functional at all times (i.e., both when the button is in motion and when it is not in motion). Fig. 12C Here, Fig. 12C The O-ring type internal seal 1310 shown in the figure can be replaced with a Y-shaped flexible internal seal, a C-shaped seal, or a hollow O-ring 1410. The tactile button assembly 1400 includes a button 1402, an intermediate movable element 1406, and one or more ball bearings 1408, which are disposed in a cavity of a housing 1404 of the assembly. The tactile button assembly shown here includes localized bevels on both the button 1402 and the movable element 1406. However, it should be understood that the localized bevels can be more generally disposed on one or both of the button 1402 and the movable element 1406 (e.g., see Fig. 12B ). As shown, at least one ball bearing 1408 is disposed between the pair of local ramps.

[0153] The button 1402 includes a notch 1414 along one or more surfaces of the button within the cavity of the housing 1404. The notch 1414 can be, for example, a circumferential notch disposed around the surface of the button 1402. The housing 1404 includes a groove or notch 1412 in one or more surfaces of the cavity of the housing. The groove 1412 can be, for example, a circumferential groove disposed around the surface of the cavity. The Y-shaped flexible inner seal 1410 includes a portion extending into the notch 1414 of the button 1402 and a portion extending into the groove 1412 of the cavity wall. Fig.14In the depicted arrangement, the stem portion of the Y-shaped seal is disposed in the recess 1414, and the fork portion or V portion of the Y-shaped seal is disposed in the groove 1412. (It should be understood that, alternatively, the stem portion can be disposed in the groove 1412, and the fork portion can be disposed in the recess 1414). The stem portion of the Y-shaped seal 1410 can be fixedly attached in the recess 1414, and each end of the fork portion can be fixedly attached in the groove 1412. The Y-shaped seal 1410 is formed of a flexible material so that when the button 1402 moves up and down in the cavity, the seal stretches and continues to prevent fluid and dust from entering the cavity. The Y-shaped seal 1410 can also act as a spring or elastic element because when one prong of the fork portion is compressed, the other prong is stretched and provides a restoring force.

[0154] Fig.15 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a twelfth tactile button assembly 1500 including a sealing mechanism is shown, which is structural and always (i.e., when the button is moving and not moving) in effect. The tactile button assembly 1500 includes a button 1502 and a housing 1504. In this case, the button 1502 is a part of the housing 1504. The housing 1504 may include at least a portion that is flexible and depressible, thereby providing the button 1502 of the assembly 1500. The assembly includes an intermediate movable element 1506 and one or more ball bearings 1508. The tactile button assembly includes a local bevel on the button 1502 (i.e., the button portion of the housing 1504) and the movable element 1506. As shown, at least one ball bearing 1508 is disposed between the paired local bevels. Advantageously, by forming the button 1502 as a part of the housing 1504, there is no gap between the button and the housing, so no sealing mechanism is required. This may also provide a cheaper and simpler assembly to manufacture. The housing 1504 may be formed of a flexible material so that when the intermediate movable element 1506 is actuated, the button portion 1502 flexes and provides a tactile sensation. Alternatively, the housing 1504 may be formed of a material that is not generally flexible unless it is provided as a thin layer. Thus, the button 1502 may be thinner than the rest of the housing 1504 so that the button portion is flexible. For example, at least the button 1504 may be formed of a thin layer of metal, such as a 50 μm thick layer of aluminum, a stainless steel layer, or a flexible / deformable glass layer.

[0155] Similarly, simply returning Fig.16 , assembly 1600 includes a sealing mechanism (ie, housing 1604) that is structural and functional at all times (ie, both when the button is moved and when it is not moved).

[0156] It should be understood that any sealing mechanism described herein may be used with any tactile button assembly described herein.Many of the sealing mechanisms described above are independent of the curvature of the surface / edge of the device into which the tactile button assembly is incorporated.

[0157] SMA Actuator Wire Arrangement

[0158] As mentioned above, refer to Figures 1 to 8 The described tactile button assembly may include an SMA actuator wire and a return spring coupled to the same edge of the intermediate movable element, but this is a non-limiting arrangement, and other arrangements are also possible. For example, the tactile button assembly may include two or more SMA actuator wires. The SMA actuator wires may all be parallel to each other. The SMA actuator wires may all act in the same direction (i.e., they may cause the intermediate movable element to move in the same direction when contracted), which may advantageously increase the force applied to the intermediate movable element. Each of the two or more SMA actuator wires may be uniformly driven, or may be individually drivable. If each wire is individually drivable, the force applied to the intermediate movable element may be variable, and therefore, the tactile sensation transmitted to the user may be variable (e.g., may become softer or stronger). Alternatively, one or more SMA actuator wires may act in the opposite direction to one or more remaining SMA actuator wires. In this case, as previously described, the SMA actuator wires may be used to provide a reverse force or a return force, thereby replacing the return spring. In an embodiment, the one or more SMA actuator wires can extend side-by-side with the intermediate movable element. That is, the SMA actuator wires can be coupled to one side of the intermediate movable element and extend across that side, rather than being coupled to an edge and extending into another cavity. Advantageously, this arrangement of the SMA actuator wires can reduce the width or length of the tactile button assembly because another cavity is no longer required.

[0159] Refer to the following Figures 9B to 9D Example arrangements of SMA actuator wires are described. Fig. 9B , Fig. 9C and Fig.9DVarious arrangements of SMA actuator wires in a tactile button assembly 900' are shown. In general, the force available to move the intermediate movable element can be proportional to the number of SMA actuator wires arranged in a mechanical parallel arrangement in the assembly. In addition, the total stroke of the actuation mechanism in the assembly can depend on the length of the SMA actuator wires - longer SMA actuator wires generally provide increased stroke. In general, the wire arrangement can include parallel wires that are mechanically parallel but electrically in series (e.g., wire loops), parallel wires that are both mechanically and electrically in series / parallel, parallel wires that are mechanically in series but electrically in parallel, or independently driven opposing wires.

[0160] The tactile button assembly 900' is similar to Figure 1 In the tactile button assembly 900', at least one SMA actuator wire 908 extends along at least one side of the intermediate movable element 906, rather than being coupled to an edge and extending into another cavity (e.g., see Fig.9A ). Therefore, unlike e.g. Fig.9A compared to, Figures 9B-9D The actuation mechanism has a greater stroke because the SMA actuator wire is longer. Fig. 9B , the tactile button assembly 900' comprises at least one SMA actuator wire 908, wherein the wire or each wire is coupled to the intermediate movable element 906 at one end via a connector or crimp 910b and to the housing 904 at the other end via a connector or crimp 910a. Thus, a majority of the at least one SMA actuator wire 908 is parallel to one side of the intermediate movable element 906. A return spring 912 may be coupled between the intermediate movable element 906 and the housing 904. One or more ball bearings 918 may be provided between the button 902 and the intermediate movable element 906, and between the intermediate movable element 906 and the housing 904, as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 8 Such an arrangement of the SMA actuator wires 908 may provide a more compact tactile button assembly.

[0161] Fig. 9C A plan view of a tactile assembly including two parallel SMA actuator wires is shown. As described above, the tactile button assembly 900' may include at least one SMA actuator wire 908. Fig. 9C, the tactile button assembly is shown as including two parallel SMA actuator wires 908a, 908b that are coupled to (and extend across) opposite sides of an intermediate movable element 906. The two SMA actuator wires 908a, 908b may act in the same direction (i.e., may apply force to the intermediate movable element in the same direction), or may act in opposite directions. In the former case, the two SMA actuator wires advantageously provide twice the force of a single wire, while in the latter case, the wires may eliminate the need for a return spring 912. The first SMA actuator wire 908a is coupled to the intermediate movable element 906 at one end via a connector or crimp 910b, and is coupled to the housing 904 at the other end via a connector or crimp 910a. The second SMA actuator wire 908b is coupled to the intermediate movable element 906 at one end via a connector or crimp 910d and to the housing 904 at the other end via a connector or crimp 910c.

[0162] Fig.9D Shows Fig. 9B A variation of the assembly 900 depicted. Here, a single SMA actuator wire 908' is hooked at its midpoint onto a hook 920 disposed on one side of the intermediate movable element 906. The two halves of the SMA actuator wire 908' act mechanically in parallel, and therefore, the SMA actuator wire 908' can provide twice the force of a single wire. This is relative to Fig. 9C This may be advantageous because only one set of connectors / crimps are needed to couple the SMA actuator wires 908' to the intermediate movable element 906 and the housing 904. More advantageously, the connectors 910a, 910b are both provided on the housing 904. Since the SMA actuator wires 908' need to be powered, the connectors 910a, 910b are electrical connectors (to connect the SMA actuator wires to a power source), and therefore, Fig.9D The arrangement simplifies the connections and circuitry for powering wire 908'.

[0163] It should be understood that any haptic assembly described herein may include an SMA actuator wire that is under tension or relaxed. In some cases, when a user presses a button, the force applied by the user on the button may cause the SMA actuator wire to be stretched. This may mean applying a required preload to the SMA actuator wire to achieve an optimal phase change when the SMA actuator wire is energized. The force applied by the user may cause the SMA actuator wire to be stretched to its original length. When the user applies force to the button, the intermediate movable element may be forced to move laterally / horizontally, causing the SMA actuator wire to stretch. In some cases, when the user does not apply an external load to the button / intermediate movable element (e.g., the system is in equilibrium) at ambient temperature (in some cases, the ambient temperature may be 25° C.), the SMA actuator wire may be considered to be relaxed when the length of the SMA actuator wire between two coupling elements (e.g., a crimp connector or a welded component) is greater than the distance between the two coupling elements. More specifically, when the intermediate movable element abuts the end stop within the cavity, the SMA actuator wire may be considered slack when the length of the SMA actuator wire between the two coupling elements is greater than the distance between the two coupling elements.

[0164] In some cases, when no external load is applied / the system is in equilibrium at ambient temperature (in some cases, the ambient temperature may be 25° C.), the SMA actuator wire may be much longer than the distance between the two coupling elements. In other words, the SMA actuator wire may not always be in tension.

[0165] In some cases, when no external load is applied / the system is in equilibrium at ambient temperature (in some cases, the ambient temperature may be 25° C.), the SMA actuator wire may be much shorter than the distance between the two coupling elements. In other words, the SMA actuator wire may always be in tension.

[0166] In some cases, the SMA actuator wire can have a precise amount of slack at ambient temperature (in some cases, the ambient temperature can be 25° C.). For example, when no external load is applied / the system is in equilibrium, the distance between the two coupling elements can be 7.5 mm, and the length of the SMA actuator wire can be 7.5 mm plus the precise amount of slack. The slack can be between a few microns and no more than a few tens of microns.

[0167] Thus, in embodiments, at least one SMA actuator wire may be slack.

[0168] The SMA actuator wires used in any haptic assembly described herein may be uncoated or may be coated with an electrically insulating layer / coating. In some cases, the SMA actuator wires may be coated with an electrically insulating layer having a thickness in the range of 0.3 μm to 10 μm. The electrically insulating layer may cover the entire length of each SMA actuator wire or a portion of the length of each SMA actuator wire. Techniques for providing coated SMA actuator wires are described in WO2015 / 036761. Although WO2015 / 036761 describes the use of coated wires or partially coated wires in a miniature camera, it should be understood that the techniques described therein may be used for other applications, such as haptics.

[0169] No gap design

[0170] Various techniques for sealing haptic assemblies have been described above. Alternatively, a gapless (or partially gapless, or gapless when not in use) haptic assemblies are now described. A truly gapless haptic assembly may not require any additional sealing mechanisms. A partially gapless or gapless haptic assembly when not in use may require additional sealing mechanisms, such as those described above, in order to provide a seal.

[0171] As used herein, the term "gapless" generally refers to any tactile component that has no gap between the button / movable component and the housing. The term "gapless" is used interchangeably herein with the term "truly gapless."

[0172] The term "partially gapless" as used herein refers to a tactile component in which there is no visible gap or appears to be gapless, but in which there is actually a gap between the button / movable component and the housing. In some cases, the gap may only become visible when the button / movable component is actuated to transmit a tactile sensation. The term "partially gapless" may be used interchangeably herein with the terms "gapless when not in use," "nearly gapless," "integrated," "apparently gapless," and "no visible gap." In some cases, devices such as smartphones may be formed of two or more parts / components to provide an apparently integrated or gapless device. As described below, a tactile component may be set within the device so that gaps or connecting lines between the parts / components of the device are used to provide a gap between the button / movable component and the housing of the tactile component.

[0173] Fig.21A and Fig. 21BCross-sectional views of the gapless haptic assembly 2100 in a balanced state and an activated state are shown, respectively. The haptic assembly 2100 can be coupled to a flexible material piece 2106. The flexible material piece 2106 can be, for example, a flexible portion of a housing of a smartphone or a housing of a consumer electronic device, or can be a flexible display or a flexible surface. It should be understood that these are merely exemplary. Alternatively, the flexible material piece 2106 can be part of the haptic assembly 2100 itself. It should also be understood that the flexible material piece can be made of, for example Figure 1 Instead of a button of the type shown, the haptic assembly is used to move the button. Thus, the haptic assembly 2100 can be gapless, gapless in appearance, or have a visible gap, depending on other design criteria.

[0174] The haptic assembly 2100 includes a first movable arm 2102a fixedly connected to the flexible material piece 2106 at a first end 2112 and rotatably / movably connected at a second end to a first end of a second movable arm 2102b via a hinge 2110 (or the like). The second movable arm 2102b is fixedly connected to the static component 2104 at a second end. The haptic assembly 2100 includes a third movable arm 2102c fixedly connected to the flexible material piece 2106 at a first end 2112 and rotatably connected at a second end to a first end of a fourth movable arm 2102d via a hinge 2110 (or the like). The fourth movable arm 2102d is fixedly connected to the static component 2104 at a second end. At least one SMA actuator wire 2108 is connected to the pin 2110. At least one SMA actuator wire 2108 is arranged so that when the wire contracts (upon heating), the angle between the first movable arm 2102a and the second movable arm 2102b increases, and the angle between the third movable arm 2102c and the second movable arm 2102d increases. In other words, the ends of the first movable arm and the second movable arm connected to the movable member 2106 and the static member 2104 move further apart, and the ends of the third movable arm and the fourth movable arm connected to the movable member 2106 and the static member 2104 move further apart. As a result, the first movable arm 2102a and the third movable arm 2102c push upward against the flexible material piece 2106, causing the flexible material piece 2106 to bend / deflect in the direction of arrow A, as shown in FIG. Fig. 21B As the at least one SMA actuator wire 2108 cools, the movable arms 2102a-2102d return to their equilibrium state, which causes the flexible material piece to move downward and return to a substantially flat state, as shown. Fig.21AIn some cases, the haptic assembly 2100 can include an additional resilient element (e.g., a return spring or an opposing SMA actuator wire) to provide a return force. In some cases, the force of the user's finger may be sufficient to provide the return force, so that an SMA actuator wire or a return spring is not required to return the movable member 2106 to the equilibrium position.

[0175] It will be appreciated that at least one of the two pivot points (hinge 2110) must be able to move in a direction parallel to the length of the SMA actuator wire 2108. If only one side is free to translate, the button will "tilt." Otherwise, it will move upward symmetrically about the line of symmetry of the mechanism.

[0176] It should be understood that the first movable arm and the second movable arm may be a flexure and the third movable arm and the fourth movable arm may be another flexure.

[0177] For example, if the flexible material piece 2106 is part of a housing of a smart hand, the haptic assembly 2100 may be advantageous because it may be used in conjunction with a button and / or an intermediate movable element (eg, a wedge-shaped button) that includes a wedge-shaped Figures 1 to 3 ) embodiment, the design can be configured to be gapless. This means that a device including the haptic assembly 2100 can be substantially dustproof and / or waterproof.

[0178] Fig.23A A cross-sectional view of a gapless haptic assembly 2300 is shown, and Figures 23B to 23E Shows Fig.23A A cross-sectional view of a flexible portion of a gapless tactile assembly 2300. The tactile assembly 2300 can be incorporated into an edge of an electronic device or a surface of an electronic device, or otherwise disposed along an edge of an electronic device or on a surface of an electronic device. For example, the tactile assembly 2300 can be arranged as a flexible portion of a mobile smartphone housing or a consumer electronic device housing. The tactile assembly 2300 can be provided as a stand-alone module that can be incorporated into the electronic device during the manufacturing process. Alternatively, some or all of the components of the tactile assembly 2300 can be integrally formed in the electronic device.

[0179] The haptic assembly 2300 includes a housing 2304. The housing 2304 is shaped (e.g., by forming, etching, or otherwise) to include a button portion 2302 and a flexible portion 2312. The flexible portion 2312 is connected to the button portion 2302 so that it surrounds the button portion 2302. The flexible portion can be formed of a thinner material than the button portion 2302 to provide flexibility. The button portion 2302 includes a contact surface 2306. In an embodiment, when the haptic assembly is in a balanced state, the contact surface 2306 can be substantially flush with an outer surface 2308 of the housing 2304.

[0180] The haptic assembly 2300 includes a middle movable element 2310 similar to Fig. 22 The intermediate movable element 2310 is shown, and for simplicity, the features and operation of the intermediate movable element will not be described again. When the intermediate movable element 2310 moves, it causes the button portion 2302 of the housing to move within / relative to the housing 2304. The button portion 2302 is able to move because the flexible portion 2312 is flexible. The tactile assembly 2300 is advantageous because the button portion 2302 is part of the housing 2304, so that when the tactile assembly 2300 is integrated into a device such as a smartphone, there is no external gap between the button portion and the housing 2304. Therefore, the tactile assembly 2300 is substantially waterproof and / or dustproof.

[0181] like FIG. 23B to FIG. 23D As shown, the flexible portion 2312 can take a variety of forms. Fig. 23B , the flexible portion 2312 is barely thinner than the button portion 2302. This can be useful because when the tactile assembly 2300 is integrated into a device such as a smartphone, this can enable a smooth edge or surface to be provided. In other words, this form of the flexible portion 2312 may be the most aesthetically pleasing to the user. However, because the flexible portion 2312 needs to flex to enable the button portion 2302 to move, it can be useful for the flexible portion 2312 to have a non-linear profile. In other words, it can be useful for the flexible portion 2312 to be shaped in a certain manner or include one or more bends / curved portions, which provide the flexible portion 2312 with a structure that enables it to flex easily. Therefore, in Fig.23C In the embodiment, the flexible portion 2312 is dome-shaped, while in Fig.23D In the flexible portion, the flexible portion is concave or dimple-shaped. Fig.23E In the embodiment, the flexible portion 2312 has a wavy or corrugated form. Fig.23FIn the embodiment of the present invention, the flexible portion 2312 may include a point about which the flexible portion can bend / flex. It may be advantageous to provide more than one flexible portion 2312 on either side of the button 2302 to further reduce the stiffness / increase the flexibility of the flexible portion. For example, on either side of the button 2302, FIG. 23B to FIG. 23F Combining any of the flexible portions 2312 shown in series may be useful. An example of this is Figure 23G Shown here, two Fig.23F The flexible portions 2312 shown are combined to form a larger combined flexible portion 2312'. The larger combined flexible portion 2312' can be disposed on either side of the button 2302. It should be understood that flexible portions 2312 of different shapes can be combined in series to form a combined flexible portion 2312'.

[0182] Fig.24 A cross-sectional view of a partially gapless haptic assembly 2400 is shown. The haptic assembly 2400 may be incorporated into an edge of an electronic device or a surface of an electronic device, or otherwise disposed along an edge of an electronic device or on a surface of an electronic device. For example, the haptic assembly 2400 may be arranged as a flexible portion of a housing of a mobile smartphone or a housing of a consumer electronic device. The haptic assembly 2400 may be provided as a stand-alone module that may be incorporated into an electronic device during manufacturing. Alternatively, some or all of the components of the haptic assembly 2400 may be integrally formed in an electronic device.

[0183] The haptic assembly 2400 may include a housing 2404. In this case, the haptic assembly 2400 may be a module incorporated into an electronic device. Alternatively, the housing 2404 may be a part of an electronic device (rather than a part of the haptic assembly) into which the components of the haptic assembly 2400 are incorporated. In this case, the electronic device may be more aesthetically pleasing to the user because the edge or surface of the electronic device on which the haptic assembly 2400 is located may be substantially smooth and almost gap-free / appearance-free. This may allow the production of electronic devices with smooth edges / surfaces that have no protruding buttons. The haptic assembly 2400 may provide tactile feedback when a user contacts (or approaches) a "non-protruding button" of the haptic assembly, rather than having a visible protruding button.

[0184] The housing 2404 (whether it is part of the tactile assembly 2400 or otherwise) includes a (non-protruding) button portion 2402. One or more edges of the button portion 2402 can be connected to the housing 2404. Fig.24In the illustrated embodiment, at least one edge of the button portion 2402 is not connected to the housing 2404. This allows the button portion 2402 to move relative to the housing 2404 (as indicated by the arrow) when the tactile assembly 2400 is activated. The button portion 2402 may include a thinner hinge portion 2410. The hinge portion 2410 of the button portion 2402 may be thinner than the rest of the button portion so that the button portion 2402 can move / flex around the hinge portion 2410. In other words, the thinner hinge portion 2410 may provide flexibility for the button portion 2402 to move relative to the housing 2402. The hinge portion 2410 may be provided by machining, forming, etching, or half-etching the button portion 2402 to remove material. The button portion 2402 includes a contact surface. When the tactile assembly is in a balanced state, the contact surface may be substantially flush / level with the outer surface of the housing 2402.

[0185] The haptic assembly 2400 includes an intermediate movable element 2406 that is similar to Fig. 22 The intermediate movable element 2406 is shown, and for simplicity, the features and operation of the intermediate movable element will not be described again. When the intermediate movable element 2406 moves, the button portion 2402 of the housing is caused to move within / relative to the housing 2404. The button portion 2402 is able to move because the hinge portion 2410 provides some flexibility to the button portion. At least one bearing 2408 (e.g., a ball bearing - see also the definition of the term "bearing" above) is provided between the button portion 2402 and the intermediate movable element 2406. When the intermediate movable element 2406 moves, the at least one bearing 2408 can facilitate lateral movement of the button portion 2402. The tactile assembly 2400 can be advantageous because the button portion 2402 is part of the housing 2404 and is connected to the housing 2404, so that when the tactile assembly 2400 is integrated into a device such as a smartphone, there is a reduced external gap between the button portion and the housing 2404. For example, if the button portion 2402 is connected to the housing 2404 by three of its four edges (so that only one edge of the button portion 2402 is free and not connected to the housing), then with e.g. Figure 1 In contrast to the embodiment of the present invention, the gap is greatly reduced. In addition, when the haptic assembly 2400 is in a balanced state, the gap can be minimal (and may even be difficult to see / not easily visible). When the haptic assembly 2400 is in an operating state and the button portion 2402 moves relative to the housing 2404, the gap can be larger and more visible. Therefore, at least when the haptic assembly is in a balanced state, the haptic assembly 2400 can reduce the possibility of dust and / or water entering the device.

[0186] Fig.25A cross-sectional view of a gapless haptic assembly 2500 is shown. The haptic assembly 2500 can be incorporated into an edge of a smartphone or a surface of a smartphone, or otherwise disposed along an edge of a smartphone or on a surface of a smartphone. The haptic assembly 2500 can be provided as a standalone module that can be incorporated into an electronic device during manufacturing. Alternatively, some or all of the components of the haptic assembly 2500 can be integrally formed in an electronic device.

[0187] The haptic assembly 2500 may include a housing 2504. In this case, the haptic assembly 2500 may be a module incorporated into an electronic device. Alternatively, the housing 2504 may be a part of the electronic device (rather than a part of the haptic assembly), and the components of the haptic assembly 2500 are incorporated into the electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may be more aesthetically pleasing to the user because the edge or surface of the electronic device on which the haptic assembly 2500 is located may be substantially smooth and free of gaps. This may allow the production of electronic devices with smooth edges / surfaces that do not have protruding buttons. The haptic assembly 2500 may provide tactile feedback when a user contacts (or approaches) a "non-protruding button" of the haptic assembly, rather than having a visible protruding button.

[0188] The housing 2504 (whether it is part of the haptic assembly 2500 or otherwise) includes a (non-protruding) button portion 2502. All edges of the button portion 2502 can be connected to the housing 2504. However, the button portion 2502 is thinner than the rest of the housing 2504 - this allows the button portion 2502 to move relative to the housing 2504 when the haptic assembly 2500 is activated (as shown by the arrows). In other words, the thickness of the button portion 2502 can provide flexibility for the button portion 2502 to move relative to the housing 2502. The button portion 2502 can be provided by machining, stamping, etching or half-etching the housing 2502 to remove material. The button portion 2502 includes a contact surface. When the haptic assembly is in a balanced state, the contact surface can be substantially flush / level with the outer surface of the housing 2502.

[0189] The haptic assembly 2500 includes an intermediate movable element 2506 that is similar to Fig. 22The intermediate movable element 2506 is shown, and for simplicity, the features and operation of the intermediate movable element will not be described again. When the intermediate movable element 2506 moves, the button portion 2502 of the housing is caused to move within / relative to the housing 2504. At least one bearing 2508 (e.g., a ball bearing or a sliding bearing) can be provided between the button portion 2502 and the intermediate movable element 2506. When the intermediate movable element 2506 moves, the at least one bearing 2508 can facilitate lateral movement of the button portion 2502. Alternatively, the bearing 2508 can be replaced by some support mechanism to support the button portion on the actuator, because the button portion 2502 can be formed by a thin piece of material (i.e., can be formed by locally thinning the housing 2504), and if the button portion is not supported, it is easily damaged or punctured. The haptic assembly 2500 can be advantageous because the button portion 2502 is part of the housing 2504, so that when the haptic assembly 2500 is integrated into a device such as a smartphone, there is no gap between the button portion and the housing 2504. Thus, the haptic assembly 2500 is substantially waterproof and / or dustproof.

[0190] As above Fig.24 and Fig.25 As described above, the button or movable element of the tactile assembly can be part of the housing itself. Fig.24 In the embodiment, the button portion is connected to the housing along at least one edge, and Fig.25 The button section is fully connected to the housing. Fig.26 , which shows schematic diagrams of gapless and partially gapless tactile components. Specifically, Fig.26 Schematic plan views of movable elements (or buttons or button portions) of five haptic assemblies 2600-2614 are shown. In haptic assembly 2600, the short edge 2604 of movable element 2602 is mechanically connected to the housing (not shown) of the haptic assembly (i.e., mechanically constrained), while the long edge 2606 is mechanically constrained to be "free". When haptic assembly 2600 is in a balanced state, haptic assembly 2600 may appear to be "gapless" and may be substantially waterproof and / or dustproof. However, when haptic assembly 2600 is activated and movable element 2602 moves, a gap between movable element 2602 and the housing may appear, and therefore, when haptic assembly 2600 transmits tactile feedback, the assembly may not be waterproof and / or dustproof.

[0191] In haptic assembly 2608, movable element 2602 includes only one "free" long edge 2606. In haptic assembly 2610, movable element 2602 includes no free edges, i.e., both the long and short edges are fixed. In haptic assembly 2612, the short edge 2604 of movable element 2602 is free, while the long edge is fixed. In haptic assembly 2614, movable element 2602 includes only one free short edge. Haptic assembly 2610 with four fixed edges is the most rigid and provides the greatest resistance to deflection through the middle movable component (not shown), but is the only design that is waterproof and dustproof in both the equilibrium state and the working state.

[0192] Fig.27AA schematic perspective view of a smartphone 2700 is shown. The smartphone 2700 includes one or more design features or functional features (such as antenna bands) arranged around the smartphone. In the example shown, the smartphone 2700 includes at least two such design features (e.g., antenna bands) 2704, 2708, which are located near the top edge and bottom edge of the smartphone (when held by a user in "portrait mode"). The front and back of the smartphone 2700 can be formed of glass, while the sides / edges of the smartphone 2700 can be formed of three parts / components 2702, 2706 and 2710, which can be molded or otherwise formed as separate parts and which are connected together during the manufacturing process. The three parts 2702, 2706 and 2710 can be formed of aluminum, stainless steel, plastic or flexible / deformable glass. It should be understood that these are merely example materials. The three components are typically machined and then insert molded into one part, with the antenna band disposed between the portions. As shown, antenna band 2704 is located between components 2702 and 2706 (and can typically be molded into components 2702 and 2706), and antenna band 2708 is located between components 2706 and 2710 (and can be molded into components 2706 and 2710). In some cases, there are no gaps (or significant gaps) between the three components 2702, 2706, and 2710—there may be seamless transitions between the three components, making the edge of the smartphone (and possibly the entire smartphone) appear to be formed from a single piece of material. In this case, the smartphone can be gapless, particularly if there are no protruding mechanical buttons along the edge of the smartphone 2700. Accordingly, the smartphone can achieve an ingress protection (IP) rating of 67 or 68, indicating that the device is dustproof and waterproof to a certain standard. In some cases, there may be a small gap of up to, for example, 20 μm on either side of each antenna strip 2704, 2708, and in such a case, the smartphone is not gap-free. Accordingly, additional sealing techniques (such as those described above) may be required to provide the smartphone with the required dust and water resistance qualities.

[0193] Fig.27B Shows Fig.27A Schematic plan view of the edge of a smartphone, Figures 27C-27E Shows Fig.27ASchematic cross-sectional view of the outline of the button portion 2706 of the smartphone of FIG. The button portion 2706 can be used to deliver tactile feedback to the user of the smartphone. The length of the button portion 2706 can be long—for example, the button portion 2706 can be almost as long as the long edge of the smartphone 2700. A single tactile component / tactile actuator cannot transmit the required force to move the entire length of the button portion 2706 and thereby deliver sufficient tactile sensation to the user. Therefore, one or more tactile components can be connected to the button portion 2706 and arranged to deliver localized tactile feedback.

[0194] Fig.27C It is shown how the button portion 2706 can be shaped to form a cantilever 2712. The cantilever 2712 is adjacent to the antenna strap 2704 and the gap between the button portion 2706 and the component 2702. Thus, when a force is applied to the cantilever 2712 by the haptic actuator (as indicated by the arrow), the cantilever 2712 is able to move / tilt relative to the rest of the button portion 2706 and the component 2702. Thus, the haptic assembly utilizes the existing gap in the smartphone 2700 to enable the cantilever 2712 to move to deliver a tactile sensation.

[0195] Fig.27D It is shown how the button portion 2706 can be shaped to form a first cantilever 2712 and a second cantilever 2714. The second cantilever 2714 is adjacent to the antenna strip 2708 and the gap between the button portion 2706 and the component 2710. The first cantilever 2712 and the second cantilever 2714 can be independently actuated by separate haptic actuators to deliver haptic feedback at different locations along the button portion 2706. In this way, localized haptic feedback can be delivered via the button portion 2706.

[0196] Fig.27E It is shown how the button portion 2706 can be shaped to form a first cantilever 2712, a second cantilever 2714, and a thin flexible portion 2716. Another haptic actuator can be used to move the thin flexible portion 2716 to deliver haptic feedback at one point along the length of the button portion 2706. Thus, by shaping the cross-sectional profile of the button portion 2706, it is possible to deliver haptic feedback at different points along the button portion 2706. It should be understood that the number of points of haptic feedback on the button portion 2706 can depend on the length of the button portion 2706.

[0197] Fig.28A A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a gapless haptic assembly 2800 is shown that uses magnets and magnetic interactions to produce tactile feedback. The gapless haptic assembly 2800 includes a housing 2802 similar to, for example, Fig.23A and Fig.25The housing 2802 includes a contact surface that a user can touch to receive tactile feedback. The gapless tactile assembly 2800 includes a first magnet or magnetic element 2806, which can be fixedly connected to the inner surface of the housing 2802, and specifically, to the side of the contact surface located inside. The first magnet 2806 can be a permanent magnet. Fig.28A As shown, the north pole of the first magnet 2806 can be closest to the inner surface of the housing 2802, while the south pole is farther from the inner surface of the housing, however it should be understood that this is merely exemplary. The gapless tactile assembly 2800 includes a second magnet 2804. The second magnet 2804 is movable relative to the housing 2802 and movable relative to the first magnet 2806. The second magnet 2804 can be a permanent magnet. The second magnet 2804 is arranged so that the south pole faces the south pole of the first magnet 2804. The second magnet 2804 is connected to at least one SMA actuator wire 2808. The at least one SMA actuator wire 2808 is connected to a static component (e.g., the housing 2802 itself) at one end and to the movable second magnet 2804 at the other end. In a balanced state, the second magnet 2804 is at a distance from the first magnet 2806 so that the magnetic interaction between the two magnets is minimal / insignificant. When at least one SMA actuator wire 2808 is heated and caused to contract, the second magnet 2804 moves closer to the first magnet 2806. As the like poles of the two magnets 2804, 2806 are brought closer together, the movement of the second magnet 2804 forces the first magnet 2806 to be repelled away from the second magnet 2804. This repulsion causes movement of the housing 2802 (specifically, the contact surface of the housing), thereby causing a tactile sensation to be transmitted.

[0198] Fig.28B Shows Fig.28A 2806'. Here, the first magnet 2806' can be arranged so that the poles of the magnet are at an angle to the inner surface of the housing 2802. This can help reduce any undesirable horizontal / lateral movement of the first magnet 2806' when the second magnet 2804 is moved adjacent to the first magnet 2806'. Additionally or alternatively, one or more bearings (not shown) can be used to limit the horizontal / lateral movement of the first magnet 2806, 2806' within the housing.

[0199] Fig.28A and Fig.28B The illustrated haptic assembly may also include a biasing spring or other component (not shown) to counteract the effect of the at least one SMA actuator wire 2808. The haptic assembly may also include one or more end stops (not shown) in the housing to limit the movement of the second magnet 2804 and the first magnet 2806.

[0200] Many of the haptic assemblies described above use wedge-shaped components or angled surfaces to convert motion along one axis to motion along a second axis (eg, "horizontal" / lateral motion to "vertical" motion). Fig.29A and 29B Two gapless haptic assemblies are shown that use alternative mechanisms to deliver tactile feedback.

[0201] Fig.29A A cross-sectional view of a gapless haptic assembly 2900 including a compressed material is shown. The haptic assembly 2900 can be incorporated into an edge of a smartphone or a surface of a smartphone, or otherwise disposed along an edge of a smartphone or on a surface of a smartphone. The haptic assembly 2900 can be provided as a standalone module that can be incorporated into an electronic device during manufacturing. Alternatively, some or all of the components of the haptic assembly 2900 can be integrally formed in an electronic device.

[0202] The tactile assembly 2900 may include a housing 2906. In this case, the tactile assembly 2900 may be a module incorporated into an electronic device. Alternatively, the housing 2906 may be a part of an electronic device (rather than a part of the tactile assembly) into which the components of the tactile assembly 2900 are incorporated. In this case, the electronic device may be more aesthetically pleasing to the user because the edge or surface of the electronic device on which the tactile assembly 2900 is located may be substantially smooth and free of gaps. This may allow the production of electronic devices with smooth edges / surfaces that do not have protruding buttons. The tactile assembly 2900 may provide tactile feedback when a user contacts (or approaches) a "non-protruding button" of the tactile assembly, rather than having a visible protruding button.

[0203] The housing 2906 (whether it is part of the haptic assembly 2900 or otherwise) includes a (non-protruding) button portion 2902. All edges of the button portion 2902 can be connected to the housing 2906. However, the button portion 2902 can be thinner than the rest of the housing 2906 - this allows the button portion 2902 to move relative to the housing 2906 when the haptic assembly 2900 is activated (as shown by the arrows). In other words, the thickness of the button portion 2902 can provide flexibility for the button portion 2902 to move relative to the housing 2902. The button portion 2902 can be provided by machining, etching or half-etching the housing 2902 to remove material. The button portion 2902 includes a contact surface. When the haptic assembly is in a balanced state, the contact surface can be substantially flush / level with the outer surface of the housing 2902.

[0204] The haptic assembly 2900 includes an intermediate movable element 2904. The intermediate movable element 2904 is coupled to at least one SMA actuator wire. The SMA actuator wire or each SMA actuator wire is coupled to a housing 2906 at one end and to the intermediate movable element 2904 at the other end. The haptic assembly 2900 may include a return spring / bias spring. The haptic assembly 2900 includes a compliant or flexible material 2908. The compliant material 2908 may be an elastomer, such as natural rubber, silicone rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), neoprene rubber, and polyurethane. It should be understood that this is a non-exhaustive, non-limiting list of example materials. The compliant material 2908 contacts the intermediate movable element 2904 and the button portion 2902 of the housing 2906. When the haptic assembly 2900 is in a balanced (non-operating) state, the intermediate movable element 2904 exerts a force on the compliant material 2908. In general, when the compliant material 2908 is compressed in one direction (e.g., by the intermediate movable element 2904), the compliant material 2908 expands in another direction. When the at least one SMA actuator wire is heated and contracts, the intermediate movable element 2904 moves and the force exerted by the intermediate movable element 2904 on the compliant material 2908 decreases. This enables the compliant material 2908 to expand in a lateral direction (i.e., along the axis of movement of the intermediate movable element 2904).

[0205] The haptic assembly 2900 can function in a variety of ways. For example, in one arrangement, in a state of equilibrium, the compliant material 2908 can exert a force on the button portion 2902, which causes the button portion 2902 to bulge or be in a "raised" position. In this case, when the haptic assembly 2900 is in an operating state, the compliant material 2908 can expand in a lateral direction (i.e., along the axis of movement of the intermediate movable element 2904). This causes the button portion 2902 to become "unraised" when the haptic assembly 2900 is activated, so that the button portion 2902 moves vertically "downward". In an alternative arrangement, in a state of equilibrium, the compliant material 2908 can exert a force on the button portion 2902, and the button portion 2902 can exert an equal but opposite force on the compliant material 2908. In this case, in a state of equilibrium, the button portion 2902 is substantially flush with the housing 2906. When the haptic component 2900 is in an active state, the force on the compliant material 2908 is reduced, but the force applied by the button portion remains constant. Therefore, when the haptic component is activated, the button portion 2902 can form a concave shape.

[0206] It should be understood that the arrangement of the intermediate movable element and the compliant material can be altered so that when the tactile assembly 2900 is activated, the button portion 2902 moves vertically "upwards".

[0207] The haptic assembly 2900 can be advantageous because the button portion 2902 is part of the housing 2906, so that when the haptic assembly 2900 is integrated into a device such as a smartphone, there is no gap between the button portion and the housing 2906. Thus, the haptic assembly 2900 is substantially waterproof and / or dustproof.

[0208] Like many of the gapless haptic assemblies described herein, the haptic assembly 2900 can be modified so that it is used to move a button (e.g., Figure 1 ). Thus, the tactile component 2900 may be gapless, gapless in appearance, or have a visible gap, depending on other design criteria. Fig.29B A cross-sectional view of a haptic assembly 2900 is shown with a gap between a button 2902' and the housing.

[0209] Fig.29C A cross-sectional view of a gapless haptic assembly 2950 including a piston is shown. The haptic assembly 2950 can be incorporated into an edge of an electronic device or a surface of an electronic device, or otherwise disposed along an edge of an electronic device or on a surface of an electronic device. The haptic assembly 2950 can be provided as a stand-alone module that can be incorporated into the electronic device during manufacturing. Alternatively, some or all of the components of the haptic assembly 2950 can be integrally formed in the electronic device.

[0210] The haptic component 2950 may include a housing 2956. In this case, the haptic component 2950 may be a module incorporated into an electronic device. Alternatively, the housing 2956 may be a part of the electronic device (rather than a part of the haptic component) into which the components of the haptic component 2950 are incorporated. In this case, the electronic device may be more aesthetically pleasing to the user because the edge or surface of the electronic device on which the haptic component 2950 is located may be substantially smooth and free of gaps. This may allow the production of electronic devices with smooth edges / surfaces that do not have protruding buttons. The haptic component 2950 may provide tactile feedback when a user contacts (or approaches) a "non-protruding button" of the haptic component, rather than having a visible protruding button.

[0211] The housing 2956 (whether it is part of the haptic assembly 2950 or otherwise) includes a (non-protruding) button portion 2952. All edges of the button portion 2952 can be connected to the housing 2956. However, the button portion 2952 can be thinner than the rest of the housing 2956 - this allows the button portion 2952 to move relative to the housing 2956 when the haptic assembly 2950 is activated (as shown by the arrows). In other words, the thickness of the button portion 2952 can provide flexibility for the button portion 2952 to move relative to the housing 2952. The button portion 2952 can be provided by machining, etching or half-etching the housing 2952 to remove material. The button portion 2952 includes a contact surface. When the haptic assembly is in a balanced state, the contact surface can be substantially flush / level with the outer surface of the housing 2952.

[0212] The tactile assembly 2950 includes an intermediate movable element 2954. The intermediate movable element 2954 is coupled to at least one SMA actuator wire. The SMA actuator wire or each SMA actuator wire is coupled to the housing 2956 at one end and to the intermediate movable element 2954 at the other end. The tactile assembly 2900 may include a return spring / bias spring. The tactile assembly 2950 includes a piston 2960 and a fluid 2958. The fluid 2958 may be oil, mineral oil, silicone-based fluid, glycol-based fluid, water, gas, air, or an inert gas (e.g., nitrogen). It should be understood that this is a non-exhaustive, non-limiting list of example materials. The piston 2960 is in contact with the button portion 2952 and the fluid 2958. The fluid 2958 is in contact with the piston 2960 and the intermediate movable element 2954. When the haptic assembly 2950 is in an equilibrium (non-operating) state, the intermediate movable element 2954 exerts a force on the fluid 2958, which in turn exerts a force on the piston 2960. Thus, the haptic assembly 2950 uses a hydraulic mechanism to transfer the movement of the SMA actuator wires to the button portion 2952. When the at least one SMA actuator wire is heated and contracts, the intermediate movable element 2954 moves, and the force exerted by the intermediate movable element 2954 on the fluid 2958 decreases. This enables the fluid 2958 to expand in a lateral direction (i.e., along the axis of movement of the intermediate movable element 2954).

[0213] The tactile assembly 2950 can function in a variety of ways. For example, in one arrangement, in a state of equilibrium, the fluid 2958 can exert a force on the piston 2960, which causes the button portion 2952 to bulge or be in a "lifted" position. In this case, when the tactile assembly 2950 is in an operating state, the fluid 2958 is able to expand in a lateral direction (i.e., along the axis of movement of the intermediate movable element 2954). This causes the button portion 2952 to become "unlifted" when the tactile assembly 2950 is activated, so that the button portion 2952 moves vertically "downward". In an alternative arrangement, in a state of equilibrium, the fluid 2958 can exert a force on the piston 2960, and the button portion 2952 can exert an equal but opposite force on the piston 2960. In this case, in a state of equilibrium, the button portion 2952 is substantially flush with the housing 2956. When the haptic component 2950 is in an active state, the force on the fluid 2958 and the piston 2960 is reduced, but the force applied by the button portion 2952 remains unchanged. Therefore, when the haptic component is activated, the button portion 2952 can form a concave shape.

[0214] Fig.29D Shows Fig.29C An alternative arrangement of a gapless tactile assembly wherein the direction of movement of the intermediate movable element is relative to Fig.29C In other words, when the SMA actuator wires are energized, the middle movable element exerts a greater force on the fluid 2958. In this case, when the SMA actuator wires are energized and contract, the button portion 2952 moves vertically "upward."

[0215] The haptic assembly 2950 can be advantageous because the button portion 2952 is part of the housing 2956, so that when the haptic assembly 2950 is integrated into a device such as a smartphone, there is no gap between the button portion and the housing 2956. Thus, the haptic assembly 2950 is substantially waterproof and / or dustproof.

[0216] Like many of the gapless haptic assemblies described herein, haptic assembly 2950 can be modified so that it is used to move a button (e.g., Figure 1 ). Thus, the tactile component 2950 may be gapless, gapless in appearance, or have a visible gap, depending on other design criteria. Fig.29E A cross-sectional view of a haptic assembly 2950 is shown with a gap between the button 2952' and the housing.

[0217] Thus, in embodiments of the tactile button assembly, the button and housing may be integrally formed.

[0218] The button may include at least one free edge.

[0219] The buttons may be formed by etching or semi-etching the housing.

[0220] The button may comprise at least one cantilever, and the at least one intermediate movable element is arranged to drive the cantilever to move along the first axis.

[0221] The tactile button assembly may include a first magnetic element fixedly connected to the button, and wherein the intermediate movable element may include a second magnetic element.

[0222] The tactile button assembly may include a compliant material disposed between the button and an intermediate movable element, wherein the intermediate movable element may be arranged to drive movement of the compliant material along a first axis, and movement of the compliant material drives movement of the button along the first axis.

[0223] The tactile button assembly may include a fluid and a movable component, wherein the intermediate movable element is arranged to drive movement of the fluid, the fluid is arranged to drive movement of the movable component, and the movable component drives movement of the button along the first axis.

[0224] In an embodiment, at least one intermediate movable element may include: a first movable arm, which is fixedly connected to the button at a first end; a second movable arm, which is rotatably connected to the second end of the first movable arm via a first hinge at a first end, and is fixedly connected to the static component at a second end; a third movable arm, which is fixedly connected to the button at a first end; a fourth movable arm, which is rotatably connected to the second end of the third movable arm via a second hinge at a first end, and is fixedly connected to the static component at a second end; wherein at least one SMA actuator wire is connected to the first hinge and the second hinge, and is arranged to drive the intermediate movable element to move in the first plane, thereby driving the button to move in the first plane.

[0225] Fig. 30A and Fig. 30B Schematic plan views of a device 3000 including a partially gap-free haptic component in a balanced (non-operating) state and an operating state are shown, respectively. FIG. 27A to FIG. 27E As described, for example, it is possible to take advantage of existing gaps and design features within a smartphone or other consumer electronic device when designing and integrating a haptic component into the device. Fig. 30A and Fig. 30B Shows how the haptic component can be used to slide the existing design features of the device 3000, thereby generating a tactile sensation. In this case, the haptic component may not convert the horizontal / lateral motion into vertical motion, instead, the haptic component can be used only for components that move the device 3000 horizontally.

[0226] The device 3000 includes at least one movable part that can be moved by a haptic component to deliver tactile feedback. In the example shown, the device 3000 includes a first movable part 3002 and a second movable part 3004. The device 3000 includes one or more tactile components (not shown), each of which is used to move a separate movable part. In a balanced state, the first movable part 3002 and the second movable part 3004 are flush with the other parts of the device 3000, so that there are no discernible gaps 3006, 3008, and the device can be waterproof and / or dustproof. In a working state, the tactile component can slide one of the movable parts 3002, 3004 back and forth to generate tactile feedback. However, this results in visible gaps 3006, 3008 when the movable parts move. Therefore, when the device 3000 delivers tactile feedback, the device 3000 may not be waterproof and / or dustproof. To provide water and / or dust resistance, device 3000 may include additional sealing mechanisms, such as the sealing mechanisms described in International Patent Application No. PCT / GB2018 / 052923.

[0227] Fig.31A and 31B Schematic plan views of a device 3100 including an alternative partially gapless haptic assembly in a balanced (non-operating) state and an operating state are shown, respectively. FIG. 27A to FIG. 27E As described, for example, it is possible to take advantage of existing gaps and design features within a smartphone or other consumer electronic device when designing and integrating a haptic component into the device. Fig.31A and Fig.31B Shows how the haptic component can be used to slide the existing design features of the device 3100, thereby generating a tactile sensation. In this case, the haptic component may not convert the horizontal / lateral motion into vertical motion, instead, the haptic component can be used only for components that move the device 3100 horizontally.

[0228] The device 3100 includes at least one movable part that can be moved by a haptic component to deliver tactile feedback. In the example shown, the device 3100 includes a first movable part 3102 and a second movable part 3104. The device 3100 includes one or more haptic components (not shown), each of which is used to move a separate movable part. In a balanced state, the first movable part 3102 and the second movable part 3104 are flush with each other so that there is no discernible gap between the two parts, and the device 3100 can be waterproof and / or dustproof. In a working state, the haptic component can slide one of the movable parts 3102, 3104 back and forth to generate tactile feedback. However, this results in a gap 3106 being formed between the two movable parts when the movable part or each movable part is in motion. Therefore, when the device 3100 delivers tactile feedback, the device 3100 may not be waterproof and / or dustproof. To provide water and / or dust resistance, device 3000 may include additional sealing mechanisms, such as the sealing mechanisms described in International Patent Application No. PCT / GB2018 / 052923.

[0229] Thus, in an embodiment, at least one SMA actuator wire may be arranged to drive the intermediate movable member to move along an axis parallel to the axis of the at least one SMA actuator wire; and at least one intermediate movable member may be arranged to drive the movable member to move along an axis parallel to the axis of the at least one SMA actuator wire. In other words, the intermediate movable member and the movable member may move in the same direction (horizontally / laterally) as the contraction and expansion of the at least one SMA actuator wire.

[0230] Fig.32 A schematic plan view of a device 3200 is shown that includes another alternative partially gapless haptic assembly in operation. Here, the entire side or edge of the device 3200 can be a movable member 3202 that can be moved to deliver haptic feedback. In this case, a visible gap only occurs when the movable member 3202 is moved to deliver haptic feedback. One or more haptic assemblies can be provided to move the movable member 3202 vertically upward.

[0231] In each of the embodiments shown in Figures 30 to 32, additional sealing mechanisms may be provided to ensure that the device is waterproof and / or dustproof when in use. For example, a seal between the movable part and the haptic assembly may be provided to prevent fluid and / or dust from entering the body of the device. Thus, even if fluid / dust enters the gap when the haptic assembly is in operation, it cannot move further into the body of the device.

[0232] While the importance of providing a dust and / or waterproof device has been discussed, it should be understood that this is not necessary in many applications. For example, while an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of 67 or 68 may be important for smartphones, smart watches, and some other wearable devices, it may not be important for, for example, game controllers, home appliances, and devices within vehicles. Therefore, in some cases, the haptic component may not need to be gapless or completely sealed in the equilibrium state and working state.

[0233] It should be understood that any of the gapless tactile components described above may be modified so that they can be used to move buttons (e.g., Figure 1 That is, the gapless tactile component can be modified to appear gapless or to have a visible gap.

[0234] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, although the foregoing has described what is considered to be the best mode and other modes of carrying out the present technology where appropriate, the present technology should not be limited to the specific configurations and methods disclosed in this description of the preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present technology has a wide range of applications, and that the embodiments may employ a wide range of modifications without departing from any creative concept as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tactile button assembly comprising: a housing including a cavity; a button disposed in the cavity and movable along a first axis in the cavity; at least one intermediate movable element disposed in the cavity, in contact with the button, and movable in a plane defined by the first axis and a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis, and arranged to drive the button to move along the first axis; as well as At least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire is coupled to the at least one intermediate movable element and arranged to move the intermediate movable element laterally in the plane when contracted, thereby driving the button to move along the first axis and providing a tactile effect.

2. A tactile button assembly comprising: a housing including a cavity; a button disposed in the cavity and movable along a first axis in the cavity; at least one intermediate movable element disposed in the cavity, in contact with the button, rotatable about a second axis parallel to the first axis, and arranged to drive the button to move along the first axis; as well as At least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire is coupled to the at least one intermediate movable element and is arranged to rotate the intermediate movable element about the second axis when contracted, thereby driving the button to move along the first axis and providing a tactile effect.

3. A tactile button assembly according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a plurality of SMA actuator wires.

4. The tactile button assembly of claim 3, wherein: Each SMA actuator wire is coupled to the at least one intermediate movable element via a coupling element.

5. The tactile button assembly of claim 4, wherein: The coupling element is a crimp connector.

6. The tactile button assembly of claim 4, wherein: The coupling element is a welding component.

7. The tactile button assembly of claim 4, wherein: The coupling element is a non-fixed connector.

8. A tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 7 when dependent on claim 1, wherein All of the plurality of SMA actuator wires are arranged to move the intermediate movable element in a first direction in the plane.

9. A tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 7 when dependent on claim 1, wherein: The plurality of SMA actuator wires include a first set of wires and a second set of wires, wherein the first set of wires is arranged to move the intermediate movable element in a first direction in the plane and the second set of wires is arranged to move the intermediate movable element in a second direction in the plane.

10. The tactile button assembly of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a resilient biasing element coupled to the intermediate movable element and arranged to oppose movement of the intermediate movable element caused by contraction of the at least one SMA actuator wire.

11. The tactile button assembly of claim 10, wherein: The resilient biasing element is a spring or a flexure.

12. The tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The at least one intermediate movable element is in direct contact with the button.

13. The tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The at least one intermediate movable element is in indirect contact with the button, and the assembly comprises a first bearing disposed between the intermediate movable element and the button and arranged to move the button along the first axis when the intermediate movable element moves.

14. The tactile button assembly of claim 13, wherein: The first bearing includes at least one inclined surface and at least one ball bearing, and the at least one ball bearing is arranged to roll along the at least one inclined surface.

15. The tactile button assembly of claim 14, wherein: The at least one slope is provided by an inclined surface of the button and / or the intermediate movable element.

16. A tactile button assembly according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The at least one bevel is a local bevel provided on a surface of the button and / or the intermediate movable element.

17. A tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 16 when dependent on claim 1, further comprising a second bearing disposed between the intermediate movable element and the base of the cavity and arranged to support the intermediate movable element for movement along the second axis.

18. The tactile button assembly of claim 17, wherein: The second bearing includes at least one inclined surface and at least one ball bearing, and the at least one ball bearing is arranged to roll along the at least one inclined surface.

19. The tactile button assembly of claim 18, wherein: The at least one sloped surface is provided by an inclined surface of the intermediate movable element and / or a base surface of the cavity.

20. The tactile button assembly of claim 18 or 19, wherein: The at least one bevel is a local bevel provided on a surface of the intermediate movable element and / or on the base surface of the cavity.

21. The tactile button assembly of any one of claims 13 to 20, further comprising a third bearing disposed between the button and one or more side walls of the cavity and arranged to constrain movement of the button along the second axis.

22. The tactile button assembly of claim 1, further comprising a bearing disposed between the intermediate movable element and a base of the cavity and arranged to support movement of the intermediate movable element along the second axis.

23. The tactile button assembly of claim 22, wherein: The bearing comprises at least one inclined surface and at least one ball bearing, the at least one ball bearing being arranged to roll along the at least one inclined surface.

24. The tactile button assembly of claim 23, wherein: The at least one sloped surface is provided by an inclined surface of the intermediate movable element and / or a base surface of the cavity.

25. A tactile button assembly according to claim 23 or 24, wherein: The at least one bevel is a local bevel provided on a surface of the intermediate movable element and / or on the base surface of the cavity.

26. The tactile button assembly of claim 1, wherein: The at least one intermediate movable element is a flexure.

27. The tactile button assembly of claim 1, comprising a first intermediate movable element and a second intermediate movable element, wherein the first intermediate movable element and the second intermediate movable element are coupled together.

28. The tactile button assembly of claim 27, wherein: The first intermediate movable element and the second intermediate movable element are coupled together by the SMA actuator wire, or wherein, The first intermediate movable element and the second intermediate movable element are coupled to the housing through SMA actuator wires and are coupled to each other through an elastic element.

29. The tactile button assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The button is arranged to rotate about the first axis.

30. The tactile button assembly of claim 2, wherein: The intermediate movable element is a lever arm arranged to drive the button to move along the first axis.

31. The tactile button assembly of any one of claims 1 to 30, further comprising a sealing mechanism.

32. The tactile button assembly of claim 31 , wherein: The sealing mechanism includes an outer sealing membrane disposed over the cavity and at least a portion of the housing.

33. The tactile button assembly of claim 32, wherein: The outer sealing film is formed of any one of a flexible material, an elastic material, an elastomer, a silicone material, a thin metal, a composite, and a thin stainless steel film.

34. A tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein: The sealing mechanism includes an inner sealing membrane disposed within the cavity, wherein the button is disposed above or protrudes through the inner sealing membrane.

35. The tactile button assembly of claim 34, wherein: The inner sealing film is formed of any one of a flexible material, an elastic material, an elastomer, a silicone material, a thin metal, a composite, and a thin stainless steel film.

36. A tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 31 to 35, wherein: The sealing mechanism includes a gasket seal disposed between the button and the cavity.

37. A tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 31 to 35, wherein: The sealing mechanism includes a joining portion of the housing and the button.

38. The tactile button assembly of claim 1, wherein: The button and the housing are integrally formed.

39. The tactile button assembly of claim 38, wherein: The button includes at least one free edge.

40. The tactile button assembly of claim 38, wherein: The button is formed by etching or half-etching the housing.

41. A tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein: The button comprises at least one cantilevered arm, and the at least one intermediate movable element is arranged to drive the cantilevered arm to move along the first axis.

42. The tactile button assembly of any one of claims 38 to 40, further comprising a first magnetic element fixedly connected to the button, and wherein the intermediate movable element comprises a second magnetic element.

43. The tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 38 to 40 further comprises a compliant material disposed between the button and the intermediate movable element, wherein the intermediate movable element is arranged to drive the compliant material to move along the first axis, and movement of the compliant material drives the button to move along the first axis.

44. The tactile button assembly of any one of claims 38 to 40, further comprising a fluid and a movable component, wherein: The intermediate movable element is arranged to drive movement of the fluid, the fluid is arranged to drive movement of the movable part, and the movable part drives movement of the button along the first axis.

45. The tactile button assembly of claim 38, wherein: The at least one intermediate movable element comprises: a first movable arm fixedly connected at a first end to the button; a second movable arm rotatably connected at a first end to a second end of the first movable arm via a first hinge and fixedly connected at a second end to a static component; a third movable arm fixedly connected at a first end to the button; a fourth movable arm rotatably connected at a first end to the second end of the third movable arm via a second hinge and fixedly connected at a second end to the static component; The at least one SMA actuator wire is connected to the first hinge and the second hinge, and the at least one SMA actuator wire is arranged to drive the intermediate movable element to move in a first plane, thereby driving the button to move in the first plane.

46. ​​The tactile button assembly of any preceding claim, further comprising a sensor to detect a button press.

47. The tactile button assembly of claim 46, further comprising a control circuit coupled to the sensor and the at least one SMA actuator wire and arranged to: receiving data from the sensor indicating that a button has been pressed; and A signal is sent to drive the at least one SMA actuator wire.

48. A tactile button assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: The at least one SMA actuator wire is slack.

49. The tactile button assembly of claim 14, wherein: The at least one inclined surface has a constant slope.

50. The tactile button assembly of claim 14, wherein: The at least one inclined surface has a variable, non-constant slope.

51. A tactile button assembly comprising: a rotatable button arranged to rotate about a first axis; at least one intermediate movable element rotatable about said first axis and arranged to drive said rotatable button in rotation; as well as At least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire is arranged along a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis, the at least one SMA actuator wire is coupled to the at least one intermediate movable element and is arranged to rotate the intermediate movable element about the first axis when contracted.

52. An apparatus for providing tactile feedback, the apparatus comprising: a movable member arranged to move along a first axis; Static components; at least one haptic assembly arranged to move the movable member, the haptic assembly comprising: at least one intermediate movable element arranged to drive the movable part to move; as well as At least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire is coupled to the at least one intermediate movable element and is arranged to drive the at least one intermediate movable element to move laterally when contracted, thereby driving the movable member to move along the first axis and providing a haptic effect.

53. The apparatus of claim 52, wherein: The at least one intermediate movable element comprises: a first movable arm fixedly connected at a first end to the movable member; a second movable arm rotatably connected at a first end to a second end of the first movable arm via a first hinge and fixedly connected at a second end to the static component; a third movable arm fixedly connected at a first end to the movable member; a fourth movable arm rotatably connected at a first end to the second end of the third movable arm via a second hinge and fixedly connected at a second end to the static component; Wherein, the at least one SMA actuator wire is connected to the first hinge and the second hinge and is arranged to drive the intermediate movable element to move in a first plane, thereby driving the movable part to move in the first plane.

54. The apparatus of claim 52, wherein: The movable member is movable along the first axis; the at least one intermediate movable element being in contact with the movable part and being movable in a plane defined by the first axis and a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis, and being arranged to drive the movable part to move along the first axis; as well as The at least one SMA actuator wire is arranged to move the at least one intermediate movable element in the plane when contracted.

55. The device of claim 54, further comprising at least one bearing between the movable member and the at least one intermediate movable element.

56. The apparatus of claim 54 or 55, wherein: The movable part is a cantilever.

57. The apparatus of claim 54 or 55, wherein: The movable part is the flexible part of the device.

58. The apparatus of claim 52, further comprising a first magnetic element fixedly connected to the movable member, and wherein the intermediate movable element comprises a second magnetic element.

59. The apparatus of claim 52, wherein: The haptic assembly includes a compliant material disposed between the movable component and the intermediate movable element, wherein the intermediate movable element is arranged to drive movement of the compliant material along the first axis, and movement of the compliant material drives movement of the movable component along the first axis.

60. The apparatus of claim 52, wherein: The haptic assembly further comprises a fluid and a piston, wherein movement of the intermediate movable element along the second axis drives the fluid to move along the second axis, the fluid is arranged to drive the piston to move along the first axis, and the piston drives the movable member to move along the first axis.

61. The apparatus of claim 52, wherein: The at least one SMA actuator wire is arranged to drive the intermediate movable element to move along an axis parallel to an axis of the at least one SMA actuator wire; and The at least one intermediate movable element is arranged to drive the movable component to move along an axis parallel to an axis of the at least one SMA actuator wire.

62. An apparatus for providing tactile feedback, the apparatus comprising: A tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 51, for delivering a tactile sensation to a user of the device.

63. The device according to any one of claims 52 to 62, wherein: The device is any one of the following: a smartphone, a protective case for a smartphone, a functional case for a smartphone, a camera, a foldable smartphone, a foldable image capture device, a foldable smartphone camera, a foldable consumer electronic device, a camera with folded optics, an image capture device, an array camera, a 3D sensing device or system, a servo motor, a consumer electronic device, a home appliance, a mobile or portable computing device, a mobile or portable electronic device, a laptop, a tablet computing device, an e-reader, a computing accessory or computing peripheral, an audio device, a security system, a gaming system, a gaming accessory, a robot or robotic device, a medical device, an augmented reality system, an augmented reality device, a virtual reality system, a virtual reality device, a wearable device, an autonomous vehicle, a vehicle, a tool, a surgical tool, a remote control, a garment, a switch, a dial, a button, a display screen, a touch screen, and a wireless communication device.

64. A method for providing a tactile sensation to a user using a tactile button assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 51, the method comprising: receiving data from a sensor indicating that a button has been pressed; as well as A signal is sent to drive the at least one SMA actuator wire.

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