Ring input device with pressure sensitive input

Abstract

The present invention is entitled "Ring Input Device with Pressure Sensitive Input." A ring input device is disclosed, and more particularly to pressure sensitive input mechanisms within the ring input device that detect pressure to initiate operations. Because a ring is typically small and worn daily, an electronic ring can be used as an unobtrusive communication device that is readily available to wirelessly communicate with other devices capable of receiving those wireless communications. A ring input device according to examples of the present disclosure can detect press input on its band to generate inputs that can then be wirelessly communicated to a companion device.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefits of U.S. Provisional Applications No. 63 / 083,082, No. 63 / 083,084, No. 63 / 083,092, and No. 63 / 083,088, all filed on September 24, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a loop input device, and more particularly to pressure-sensitive input mechanisms within the loop input device that detect pressure to initiate operation. Background Technology

[0004] Currently, many types of electronic devices are available capable of receiving input to initiate operations. Examples of such devices include desktop computers, laptops and tablets, smartphones, media players, wearable devices such as watches and health monitoring devices, smart home control and entertainment devices, headphones and earphones, and devices for computer-generated environments such as augmented reality, mixed reality, or virtual reality environments. Many of these devices can receive input via physical touch buttons or keys, mice, trackballs, joysticks, touch panels, touchscreens, etc. Some devices can also detect and receive input from objects that are close to the device but do not physically touch it, such as fingers or styluses. To provide the convenience of receiving input at a greater distance without having to be close to the object, many of these devices can also wirelessly communicate with other electronic devices, for example, via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention relates to a ring input device, and more particularly to pressure-sensitive input mechanisms within the ring input device that detect pressure to initiate operation. Since rings are typically small and worn daily, electronic rings can serve as inconspicuous communication devices that are readily available to communicate wirelessly with other devices capable of receiving such wireless communications. Ring input devices according to examples of this disclosure can detect press inputs on their band to generate inputs, which can then be wirelessly transmitted to an accessory device. Although ring input devices may be primarily described and shown herein as electronic rings for ease of explanation, it should be understood that examples of this disclosure are not limited thereto, but also include ring input devices worn as part of necklaces, hoop earrings, electronic bracelets worn around the wrist, electronic toe rings, etc. Attached Figure Description

[0006] FIGS. 1A-1C Different configurations of ring input devices are shown in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 1D is an exploded view of a ring input device in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2 is a system block diagram of a ring input device in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3A is a symbolic side view of a portion of a fixed inner band and a rotating outer band in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3B is a symbolic side view of a portion of a fixed inner band and a rotating outer band in accordance with examples of the present disclosure, with a variable resistance generator supported on the inner band.

[0011] FIG. 3C is a symbolic side view of a portion of a fixed inner band and a rotating outer band in accordance with examples of the present disclosure, with a variable resistance generator supported on the outer band.

[0012] FIG. 3D is a symbolic side view of a portion of a fixed inner band and a rotating outer band in accordance with examples of the present disclosure, with a variable resistance generator supported on the outer band.

[0013] FIG. 4A is a symbolic side view of two portions of a concentrically aligned fixed inner band and a rotating outer band in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4B is a symbolic side view of two portions of a fixed inner band and a rotating outer band in an eccentric relationship in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 5A is a symbolic side view of a portion of a fixed inner band and a rotating outer band in accordance with examples of the present disclosure, with an electromagnetic rotational resistance generator.

[0016] FIG. 5B is a symbolic side view of a portion of a fixed inner band and a rotating outer band in accordance with examples of the present disclosure, with an electromagnetic rotational resistance generator having a movable brake.

[0017] FIG. 6A is a symbolic end view of a fixed inner band, a rotating outer band, a guard rail, and a variable resistance generator configured for axial resistance in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 6Bis a symbolic end view of a fixed inner band, a rotating outer band, a guard rail, and an electromagnetic resistance generator configured for axial electromagnetic force, according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 7A is a symbolic end view of a rotating outer band and a magnetometer, according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 7B shows two symbolic side views of a rotating outer band in two different positions rotated 90 degrees from each other and a magnetometer located near the outer band, according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 8A is a normalized plot of magnetic field strength versus rotation angle along the Y axis and along the Z axis, according to one example of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 8B is a normalized plot of magnetic field strength along the Z axis versus magnetic field strength along the Y axis, according to an example of the present disclosure. FIG. 8A

[0023] FIG. 8C is a plot of true position (in degrees) versus calculated position (in degrees) of rotation angle, according to an example of the present disclosure. FIGS. 8A-8B

[0024] FIG. 9A is a symbolic perspective view of a ring input device including a rotating outer band with physical indicators such as grooves, according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 9B is a symbolic view of a user interface with icons displayed on a touchscreen of a companion device, according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 10A is a side view of a band mechanism of a ring input device including low-friction contact points and button bearing, according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 10B is an enlarged side view of a pressure-sensitive input mechanism in the form of a pop-switch button bearing, as indicated by the dashed lines in FIG. 10A

[0028] FIGS. 11A-11B is a simplified symbolic side view (not to scale) of a rotating outer band and a fixed inner band, according to an example of the present disclosure, where the inner band has different levels of stiffness.

[0029] FIG. 11C is a simplified symbolic side view (not to scale) of a rotating outer band and a fixed inner band, according to an example of the present disclosure, where the inner band has detents on either side of a pop-switch button bearing. ​​​

[0030] FIG. 12A is a symbolic side view of a portion of a band mechanism including a fixed inner band and a rotating outer band with a slide contact to provide touch sensing according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a portion of a band mechanism showing a leaf spring slide contact on a fixed inner band according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 13A is a symbolic side view of a cross section of a band mechanism showing a button bearing attached to an inner band where the button bearing can also function as a slide contact according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 13B is a symbolic side view of a cross section of a band mechanism showing a leaf switch button bearing attached to an inner band where the button bearing can also function as a slide contact with a reduced number of traces according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 13C is a symbolic side view of a cross section of a band mechanism showing a slide contact and a button bearing attached to an inner band with a reduced number of traces according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 13D is a flowchart of a method for detecting valid touch or press inputs on a ring input device according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 13E is a symbolic side view of a cross section of a band mechanism showing two leaf switch button bearings attached to an inner band where the button bearings can function as a slide contact with a reduced number of traces according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 14A is a system block diagram of an electronic sapphire system including a ring input device with a scroll ball and a touch sensor according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 14B is a symbolic perspective view of a ring input device including an electronic sapphire system with a scroll ball and a touch sensor according to an example of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] In the following description of examples, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific examples that can be practiced. It is to be understood that other examples can be used and structural changes can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosed examples.

[0040] Examples of the present disclosure relate to a ring input device. Because a ring is worn daily and is typically small, an electronic ring can be used as an unobtrusive daily communication device that is readily available to wirelessly communicate with other devices capable of receiving those wireless communications. Although ring input devices can be primarily described and shown herein as electronic rings for ease of explanation, it should be understood that examples of the present disclosure are not so limited, but also include ring input devices worn as part of a necklace, a ring hoop earring, an electronic bracelet band worn around a wrist, an electronic toe ring, etc. Some examples of the present disclosure relate to pressure sensitive input mechanisms (e.g., buttons) within a ring input device that detect pressure to initiate an operation. Other examples of the present disclosure relate to a conductive outer band on a ring input device that can detect a touch to initiate an operation. Yet other examples of the present disclosure relate to adjusting the rotational friction of a rotating outer band on a ring input device to improve the user experience. Yet other examples of the present disclosure relate to detecting the rotational position of a rotating outer band or detecting the position / orientation of a ring input device to provide additional input capabilities.

[0041] FIGS. 1A-1C Different configurations of a ring input device 100 according to examples of the present disclosure are shown. In FIG. 1A Examples, a ring input device 100 can include a band mechanism 102 that can include a fixed inner band 104, a rotating outer band 106, and a contact pad 108 (e.g., for electrical contact with a user’s finger). In some examples, the band mechanism 102 can be removably coupled to an electronic crystal system, which can be referred to herein simply as a “crystal” 110, which is shown FIG. 1A symbolically as a box in FIG. 1B but can be produced in a variety of different shapes and sizes in various examples. FIG. 1B A ring input device 100 with a more compact, less obtrusive crystal 110 configuration according to examples of the present disclosure is shown. To accommodate a flatter crystal 110 as in FIG. 1A the band mechanism 102 can be widened (e.g., 8 mm instead of 4 mm) compared to FIG. 1C A ring input device 100 with functionality of the crystal 110 located inside a portion of the thickened fixed inner band 104 is shown. It should be understood that FIGS. 1A-1C the illustrations are example configurations not drawn to scale, and FIGS. 1A-1C any of the components of

[0042] FIGS. 1A-1CRing input device 100 can be used to provide wireless input for a wide variety of devices. For example, ring input device 100 can be used to provide input to a companion wearable device such as a smart watch, health monitoring device, earpiece, earbud, etc. Ring input device 100 can also be used to provide input to handheld devices such as smart phones (e.g., to scroll through lists using rotating outer band 106), tablet and laptop computing devices, media players, stylus, a wand or glove for computer generated environments, etc. Further, ring input device 100 can also be used to provide input to stationary devices such as desktop computers, smart home controls and entertainment devices (e.g., to turn on a light, change a TV channel), etc. In some examples, ring input device 100 can receive wireless input from a companion device and provide information to the wearer of the ring (e.g., the ring can receive a notification from a smart phone and generate a vibrating alert).

[0043] FIG. 1D is an exploded view of ring input device 100 according to examples of the present disclosure. In FIG. 1D In the example of FIG. 1, band mechanism 102 is shown exploded in the axial direction, exposing example stationary inner band 104 and rotating outer band 106. Also shown is guard rail 134, which can be coupled to stationary inner band 104 to hold rotating outer band 106 while allowing the outer band to rotate. Guard rail 134 can also include pogo pins 136 (described in more detail below) for providing electrical connections to crystal 110, although connections other than pogo pins 136 can also be employed. In some examples, and in some cases depending on the configuration of pogo pins 136 (or generally, the connections), crystal 110 can be removably coupled to guard rail 134 using screws, tabs, tongue and groove structures, etc. FIGS. 1A-1C (shown in dashed lines) that in various examples, crystal 110 can be removed or installed vertically, or slid in and out horizontally.

[0044] FIG. 2 is a system block diagram of ring input device 200 according to examples of the present disclosure. In FIG. 2 In the example of FIG. 2, band mechanism 202 can be electrically coupled to crystal 210 through connections 212, which in some examples can be so-called "pogo pins," which are spring-loaded electrical connectors that are pressed into and make electrical contact with a conductive area (region or target). Band mechanism 202 can include stationary inner band 204 and rotating outer band 206. In some examples, stationary inner band 204 can include pressure sensitive input mechanism 214 and touch sensing mechanism 216, although in other examples these blocks can be combined into one functional block. Stationary inner band 204 can also include variable resistance generator 232. In some examples, pressure sensitive input mechanism 214 and touch sensing mechanism can be electrically coupled to rotating outer band 206 via a sliding connection, and variable resistance generator 232 can exert a frictional or magnetic influence on rotating outer band 206.

[0045] The electronic gemstone system or "gemstone" 210 can include a controller 218 coupled to a memory and / or storage device 220. The controller 218 can include one or more processors capable of executing programs stored in the memory 220 to perform various functions. In examples of the present disclosure, the controller 218 can be connected to a wireless transmitter or transceiver 224, as well as one or more of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 226, a magnetometer 228, and a haptic generator 230. The memory 220 can include, without limitation, random access memory (RAM) or other types of memory or storage devices, a watchdog timer, etc. The controller 218 can include, without limitation, touch sensing circuitry for driving and / or sensing one or more touch electrodes, including generating one or more excitation signals that can be selectively applied to the touch electrodes at various frequencies and / or phases. The controller 218 can also be communicatively coupled to the magnetometer 228 to process signals from the magnetometer to determine an amount of rotation of the rotating outer band 206, and to the IMU 226 to process signals from the IMU to determine parameters such as angular rate, orientation, position, and velocity of the ring input device 200. In some examples, the controller 218 can be communicatively coupled to the haptic generator 230 to initiate haptic feedback. The controller 218 can also be communicatively coupled to the wireless transmitter or transceiver 224 to wirelessly transmit inputs, and in some examples, to transmit and receive data and other information. In some examples, the wireless transmitter or transceiver 224 can wirelessly communicate with desktop, laptop, and tablet computing devices, smartphones, media players, wearable devices such as watches and health monitoring devices, smart home controls and entertainment devices, headphones and earbuds, and devices for computer-generated environments such as augmented reality, mixed reality, or virtual reality environments, among others.

[0046] It will be apparent, FIG. 2 The illustrated architecture is merely one example architecture for the gemstone 210, and systems can have more or fewer components than illustrated or a different configuration of components. FIG. 2 The various components illustrated in FIG. 1 can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof, including one or more signal processing and / or application specific integrated circuits.

[0047] It is noted that one or more of the functions described herein can be performed by firmware stored in memory 220 and executed by a processor in controller 218. This firmware can also be stored and / or transported within any non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer-based system, processor- containing system, or other system that can fetch instructions from the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device and execute instructions. In the context of this document, a "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" can be any medium, not including signals, that can contain or store program instructions for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. In some examples, memory 220 is a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The instructions can be those encoded in processor-executable instructions. The instructions can provide more specific functionality when executed by processor. The computer-readable storage medium can include but is not limited to electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device. The memory 220 can store instructions that, when executed by the processor in the controller 218, can cause the ring input device 200 to perform one or more functions and methods of one or more examples of the present disclosure. The computer-readable storage medium can include, but is not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, portable computer diskette (magnetic), random access memory (RAM) (magnetic), read-only memory (ROM) (magnetic), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) (magnetic), portable optical disk, such as CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-R, or DVD-RW, or flash memory, such as compact flash cards, secure digital cards, USB memory devices, memory sticks, and the like.

[0048] The firmware can also be transmitted or transmitted within any transport medium for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer-based system, processor- containing system, or other system that can fetch instructions from the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device and execute instructions. In the context of this document, a "transport medium" can be any medium that can communicate, propagate, or transport program instructions for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The transport medium can include, but is not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, or infrared wired or wireless propagation medium.

[0049] FIG. 3A is a symbolic side view of a portion of the stationary inner band 304 and the rotating outer band 306 according to an example of the present disclosure. It is noted that, FIG. 3A is not to scale, and the gap between the stationary inner band 304 and the rotating outer band 306 can be on the order of hundreds of microns. In some examples, an encoder (e.g., an optical encoder) can be used to detect rotation of the outer band 306, but in other examples described below, other devices such as magnetometers can be used. As described above, the stationary inner band 304 can include a variable resistance generator that can exert a frictional or magnetic influence on the rotating outer band 306 to effectively create a sensation of a modulated resistance to rotation of the outer band. In some examples, the variable resistance generator can be a magnetic generator that can exert a magnetic influence on the rotating outer band 306 to effectively create a sensation of a modulated resistance to rotation of the outer band. FIG. 3AIn the example of FIG. 3, arrows are shown symbolically representing a frictional or magnetic influence that can be applied to the rotating outer band 306. In some examples, this frictional or magnetic influence can be a result of an effective increase in the diameter of the stationary inner band 304 (at least in portions of the inner band). In examples of the present disclosure, this frictional or magnetic influence can be adjusted so that the rotating outer band 306 can become easier or harder to rotate, freeze in place, create a sensation of a detent (lugs, snaps, etc.) on the band, create a hard stop, etc.

[0050] Adjusting the rotational resistance of the rotating outer band 306 can provide a number of advantages. In general, a user interface manipulated by a ring input device can affect the rotational resistance of the outer band 306 to improve the user experience. For example, the rotation of the outer band 306 can become harder and eventually stop at the end of the input (e.g., when the rotation causes reaching the end of a slider bar of a virtual display). In some examples, the frictional or magnetic influence can depend on the item being manipulated (e.g., a parameter or a user interface (UI)). In other examples, the rotational resistance can be decreased when a list to be scrolled is long and fast scrolling is desired, or increased when the list is short or when more precise scrolling is desired. In yet other examples, the rotational resistance can be increased or decreased depending on whether the item being manipulated should change slowly (e.g., volume of a companion device) or quickly (e.g., scrolling through a lengthy document).

[0051] A sensation of a detent caused by a pulse of increased rotational resistance can be advantageous when moving through a document in a page view, moving in discrete increments, jumping from one icon to another, etc. However, because detents can be time sensitive, a delay in receiving a detent can make the feedback useless or worse, resulting in an error. The delay can be a result of the round trip communication path of receiving an input at the outer band 306, wirelessly transmitting the signal to a companion device, receiving a reply back from the companion device, and then generating the detent. Thus, in some examples, the detent processing and generation can be handled locally, such as within the gemstone.

[0052] In other examples, a strong rotational resistance to the point of causing the rotating outer band 306 to not move can be employed to ensure that a rotational input is not inadvertently generated. Further, the strong rotational resistance can only be applied at the beginning of rotation and can decrease as the user applies sufficient rotational force to overcome the strong initial rotational resistance. Such a strong initial rotational resistance can feel like the initial resistance of a toggle switch or a clicky knob and can ensure that an event is not accidentally triggered. Similarly, the strong rotational resistance can only be applied at the end of rotation and can increase to require the user to apply sufficient rotational force to overcome the strong end rotational resistance. Such a strong end rotational resistance can feel like the final end resistance of a toggle switch or a clicky knob, requiring a strong affirmative action to end the activity. It should be understood that the foregoing use descriptions are non-limiting and merely exemplary, and adjusting the rotational resistance of the rotating outer band 306 is also contemplated for other purposes.

[0053] FIG. 3BA symbolic side view of a portion of the stationary inner band 304 and rotating outer band 306 is shown, according to an example of the present disclosure, with a variable resistance generator 332 supported on the inner band. In some examples of the present disclosure, the variable resistance generator 332 can be an electroactive polymer (EAP) that can change size and shape when excited by an electric field. The strength of the applied electric field can determine the amount of resistance exerted on the rotating outer band 306, and pulsing the applied electric field at a particular duty cycle can create the sensation of a stopper in the rotating outer band. In some examples, the variable resistance generator 332 can be an electromechanical brake, in which an electromagnetic force is used to press a variable resistance generator (in this example, in the form of a brake pad) against the rotating outer band 306. The strength of the applied electromagnetic force can determine the amount of resistance exerted on the rotating outer band 306, and pulsing the applied electromagnetic force at a particular duty cycle can create the sensation of a stopper in the rotating outer band. In some examples, the variable resistance generator 332 can be a shape memory alloy (SMA) that can change size and shape according to its temperature, which is controlled by an electric current. The electric current can determine the amount of resistance exerted on the rotating outer band 306, and pulsing the electric current at a particular duty cycle can create the sensation of a stopper in the rotating outer band. In some examples, the variable resistance generator 332 can be an air bladder that can change size and shape according to its air (or other gas) content. The amount of air can determine the amount of resistance exerted on the rotating outer band 306, and pulsing the air volume at a particular duty cycle can create the sensation of a stopper in the rotating outer band. In some examples, the variable resistance generator 332 can be a piezoelectric material that can change size and shape when a voltage is applied. The voltage level can determine the amount of resistance exerted on the rotating outer band 306, and pulsing the voltage level at a particular duty cycle can create the sensation of a stopper in the rotating outer band. In some examples, the variable resistance generator 332 can be an electroadhesive pad. The electroadhesive pad can include electrodes that are biased with alternating positive and negative voltages, creating an electric field between the electrodes. Positive and negative charges can then be induced on the rotating outer band 306, which can cause electrostatic adhesion between the electrodes and the outer band, creating rotational resistance between them.

[0054] FIG. 3C A symbolic side view of a portion of the stationary inner band 304 and rotating outer band 306 is shown, according to an example of the present disclosure, with a variable resistance generator 332 having a magnetorheological fluid 338. In this example, the magnetorheological fluid 338 can be retained in a membrane or other receptacle that holds the fluid between the stationary inner band 304 and the rotating outer band 306. Since the magnetorheological fluid 338 can increase in viscosity to the point of effectively becoming a solid in the presence of a magnetic field, the strength of the applied magnetic field can determine the viscosity and thus the amount of resistance exerted on the rotating outer band 306, and pulsing the applied magnetic field at a particular duty cycle can create the sensation of a stopper in the rotating outer band. FIG. 3C In some examples of the present disclosure, the magnetorheological fluid 338 can be retained in a membrane or other receptacle that holds the fluid between the stationary inner band 304 and the rotating outer band 306. Since the magnetorheological fluid 338 can increase in viscosity to the point of effectively becoming a solid in the presence of a magnetic field, the strength of the applied magnetic field can determine the viscosity and thus the amount of resistance exerted on the rotating outer band 306, and pulsing the applied magnetic field at a particular duty cycle can create the sensation of a stopper in the rotating outer band.

[0055] FIG. 3D A symbolic side view of a portion of a fixed inner belt 304 and a rotating outer belt 306 according to an example of this disclosure is shown, wherein a variable resistance generator 332 is supported on the outer belt. FIG. 3D Examples are similar to FIG. 3B The example differs in that the variable resistance generator is supported on a rotating outer belt 306. FIG. 3D In the example, arrows are shown symbolically representing the frictional or magnetic effects that can be applied to the fixed inner band 304. (The above is in...) FIGS. 3A-3C Various examples of the variable resistance generator 332 described herein can also be used. FIG. 3D In. FIG. 3D In the example, one or more additional electrical connections are required between the fixed inner belt 304 and the rotating outer belt 306 to apply electric fields, electromagnetic forces, currents, etc., to the variable resistance generator 332. In some examples, these connections may be formed by leaf springs or other sliding contacts.

[0056] FIG. 4A This is a symbolic side view of two concentrically aligned portions of a fixed inner belt 404 and a rotating outer belt 406 according to an example of this disclosure. In the example of the variable resistance generator 432 described above, if the fixed inner belt 404 and the rotating outer belt 406 as... FIG. 4A If configured as concentric belts as in the example, the variable drag generator 432 may need to apply complementary opposing forces on opposite sides of the belt mechanism 402 to maintain the concentric relationship between the inner and outer belts. It should be understood that, although for ease of illustration... FIG. 4A Only the variable resistance generator 432 at the bottom and top positions is shown, but multiple variable resistance generators can be used in any number of relative positions along the belt mechanism.

[0057] FIG. 4B This is a symbolic side view of two portions, a fixed inner belt 404 and a rotating outer belt 406, in an eccentric relationship according to an example of this disclosure. In the example of the variable resistance generator 432 described above, if the fixed inner belt 404 and the rotating outer belt 406 are as... FIG. 4B If configured as an eccentric belt as in the example, the variable resistance generator 432 does not need to be on the opposite side of the belt mechanism 402 in order to maintain the eccentric relationship between the inner and outer belts. It should be understood that, although for ease of illustration... FIG. 4B Only one variable resistance generator 432 is shown at the bottom position, but multiple variable resistance generators can be used at multiple positions along the belt mechanism, although FIG. 4B The geometry of the eccentric belt shown can limit the position of the variable resistance generator, and the effective “diameter increase” for each variable resistance generator may need to be different depending on the position of the variable resistance generator along the belt mechanism.

[0058] FIG. 5A is a symbolic side view of a portion of a fixed inner band 504 and a rotating outer band 506 having an electromagnetic rotational resistance generator 540 according to examples of the present disclosure. In FIG. 5A In examples of the present disclosure, the electromagnetic rotational resistance generator 540 can include an array of coils 542 formed on the fixed inner band 504 and an array of magnetic poles 544 formed on the rotating outer band 506. The magnetic poles 544 can be formed to have alternating opposite poles (e.g., a series of north-south-north-south, etc.), although in other examples, different patterns of opposite poles can be employed. In FIG. 5A In examples of the present disclosure, the direction of current through each coil 542 can attract or repel the magnetized poles 544. In some examples, the individual coils 542 can be magnetized via directed current according to the magnetization pattern of the poles 544 to create an attractive force (see arrows) relative to the poles 544 sufficient to resist rotation of the rotating outer band 506, effectively creating a braking effect. The strength of the electromagnet formed by the coils 542 can vary according to its current to create a variable effective resistance. In some examples, the rotational resistance felt on the rotating outer band 506 as the poles pass the attractive force of the coils can create a force profile that mimics the feel of a detent on a belt mechanism. If the attractive force is strong enough, the rotating outer band 506 can feel locked in place.

[0059] FIG. 5B is a symbolic side view of a portion of a fixed inner band 504 and a rotating outer band 506 having an electromagnetic rotational resistance generator 540 with a movable brake 546 according to examples of the present disclosure. In FIG. 5B In examples of the present disclosure, the magnetic rotational resistance generator 532 can include an array of coils 542 formed on the brake 546 and an array of magnetic poles 544 formed on the rotating outer band 506, which can be movably coupled to the fixed inner band 504. In some examples, the individual coils 542 can be magnetized via directed current according to the magnetization pattern of the poles 544 to create an attractive force relative to the poles 544 sufficient to resist rotation of the rotating outer band 506. However, unlike FIG. 5A In examples of the present disclosure, the coils 542 can be attached to the brake 546, which can be moved toward the rotating outer band 506 until it contacts the outer band, providing resistance and effectively creating a braking effect. The strength of the electromagnet formed by the coils 542 and thus the movement of the brake 546 and the amount of friction or resistance created relative to the rotating outer band 506 can vary according to its current to create a variable effective resistance. If the resistance is strong enough, the rotating outer band 506 can feel locked in place.

[0060] In other examples, individual coils 542 can be magnetized via directed current in various timing sequences to produce rotational motion in the rotating outer band 506 without the need for a user’s touch. In other examples, manual rotation of the rotating outer band 506, such as by a finger, can induce a current in the coils 542. This energy can then be harvested and stored, such as by charging a battery within the crystal, for later use.

[0061] FIG. 6A is a symbolic end view of the fixed inner band 604, rotating outer band 606, guard rail 634, and variable resistance generator 632 configured for axial resistance, according to an example of the present disclosure. Unlike the variable resistance generators described in relation to FIG. 5A FIG. 6A The variable resistance generator 632 in examples of the present disclosure can be attached to the side rails of the fixed inner band 604 and apply variable resistance to the side walls of the rotating outer band 606 in the axial direction. In some examples, the variable resistance generator 632 can alternatively or additionally be attached to the guard rail 634, as shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 6A Any of the above variable resistance generator examples can be used in examples of the present disclosure. FIG. 6A

[0062] FIG. 6B is a symbolic end view of the fixed inner band 604, rotating outer band 606, guard rail 634, and electromagnetic resistance generator 640 configured for axial electromagnetic force, according to an example of the present disclosure. Unlike the variable resistance generators described in relation to FIG. 5B FIG. 6B The electromagnetic resistance generator 640 in examples of the present disclosure can be attached to the side rails of the fixed inner band 604 and the side walls of the rotating outer band 606 and produce attractive and repulsive electromagnetic forces in the axial direction. In some examples, the electromagnetic resistance generator 640 can alternatively or additionally be attached to the guard rail 634 and opposite side walls of the rotating outer band 606, as shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 6B

[0063] ​​​​In addition to adjusting the rotational resistance of the rotating outer band 606 as described above, examples of the present disclosure can also determine position information such as the rotational position of the outer band (e.g., the absolute angle of the rotational position). Determining the rotational position can provide a number of advantages. For example, the rotation of the outer band 606 from one determined rotational position to another can be used to calculate the direction, amount, or angle of rotation as well as the absolute position (e.g., a clockwise relative rotation of 15 degrees to an absolute 45 degree position). To name a few examples, the direction, amount, and absolute position of the rotation of the outer band 606 can determine the direction and amount of scrolling through a list, the direction and amount of image panning, the direction and amount of cursor movement, and the direction and amount of change to a parameter being manipulated (e.g., the amount of volume change). In some examples, a series of rotations (e.g., a series of rotational angles) can be recorded to recognize a gesture and initiate certain actions. For example, a series of back-and-forth rotations between two positions (e.g., between the 4 o'clock position and the 6 o'clock position) can be recognized as a gesture that initiates a particular operation (e.g., an erase operation). In other examples, the rotational position captured over time can be used to determine the velocity or acceleration of the rotating outer band 606. It should be appreciated that the foregoing uses are non-limiting and merely exemplary, and determining the rotational position of the outer band 606 is also contemplated for other purposes. However, determining the rotational position can be difficult because the rotating outer band 606 can move freely in either direction in an infinite manner (in the absence of an applied rotational resistance) without any starting or ending point or other clear frame of reference.

[0064] FIG. 7A is a symbolic end view of a rotating outer band 706 and magnetometer 748 according to examples of the present disclosure. In FIG. 7A In examples of the present disclosure, the rotating outer band 706 can be magnetized to form a single dipole, preferably with predictable and uniform magnetic field lines 750. In some examples, the rotating outer band 706 can be made of a low-coercivity, high-remnant material to maintain its magnetization. In some examples, 17-4 steel (approximately 17% chromium, 4% nickel) can be used, although other types of metals can also be employed. The magnetometer 748 can be positioned adjacent to the outer band in an area where magnetic field lines 750 from the rotating outer band 706 are present. In some examples, the magnetometer 748 can be located in the bezel of a ring input device. The magnetometer 748 can be used to obtain rotational input data and measure and / or calculate from its position the direction, strength, or relative change in the magnetic field. Because the position of the magnetometer 748 acts as a reference point from which calibration measurements are obtained, the magnetometer does not need to be placed precisely within the electric field.

[0065] FIG. 7BTwo symbolic side views are shown of a rotating outer band 706 located at two different positions rotated 90 degrees relative to each other, and a magnetometer 748 located near the outer band, according to an example of this disclosure. In the upper view, the rotating outer band 706 is oriented such that its north pole (N) is at the 12 o'clock position and its south pole (S) is at the 6 o'clock position. In the lower view, the outer band 706 has been rotated 90 degrees clockwise such that N is at the 3 o'clock position and S is at the 9 o'clock position. Note that the magnetic field lines 750 have also been rotated 90 degrees clockwise, which changes the strength of the magnetic field on each axis. In some examples of this disclosure, the magnetometer 748 may be a multi-axis magnetometer capable of measuring the magnetic field strength on at least the Y and Z orthogonal axes, and these measurements can then be used to calculate the rotational position of the outer band 706 by comparing the measurements of the magnetic field strength at the initial position and the rotated position. Although FIGS. 7A-7B A rotating outer band 706 is shown, magnetized to form a single dipole; however, in other examples, the outer band may be magnetized to form multiple dipoles. Although FIG. 7A A single dipole example can provide the advantage of determining the absolute rotational position, but multiple dipoles can provide the advantage of higher spatial resolution because each dipole can be used to obtain more accurate rotational position information within a smaller rotational range (e.g., 0 degrees to 90 degrees). However, multiple dipoles can make it more difficult to eliminate ambiguities in the magnetometer's magnetic field strength measurements and to calculate the absolute rotational position information.

[0066] The magnetometer 748 can be calibrated before calculating the rotational position of the rotating outer belt 706. Calibration can be performed before delivery of the final product, or by the user by rotating the outer belt one or more times. During these rotations, the magnetometer 748 measures the magnetic field strength along the Y and Z axes, and the influence of the Earth's magnetic field is negligible, as it is approximately 1% of the magnetic field generated by the magnetized outer belt. In some examples, these magnetic field strength values ​​can then be normalized to, for example, values ​​between -1.0 and +1.0. However, if the magnetometer 748 is to be calibrated to compensate for the Earth's magnetic field, it may be necessary to measure the magnetic field strength along all three axes (X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis).

[0067] FIG. 8A These are, according to an example of the present disclosure, normalized curves of magnetic field strength as a function of rotation angle along the Y-axis (curve 852) and normalized curves of magnetic field strength as a function of rotation angle along the Z-axis (curve 854). FIG. 8B It is based on FIG. 8A Figure 856 shows a normalized curve of the magnetic field strength along the Z-axis versus the magnetic field strength along the Y-axis. Ideally, FIG. 8BThe curve will be a circle containing the points (0.0, 1.0), (1.0, 0.0), (0.0, -1.0), and (-1.0, 0.0) (clockwise from the 12 o'clock position), and... FIG. 8A The Y and Z curves will be more regular and sinusoidal in shape, but due to the imperfections and non-uniform magnetization of the outer rotation zone (which may lead to lower predictability in the magnetic field lines), the curves may be distorted, such as... FIGS. 8A-8B As shown.

[0068] FIG. 8C It is based on FIGS. 8A-8B The example shows a curve of the actual position (in degrees) versus the calculated position (in degrees) of the rotation angle. The calculated (absolute) position can be calculated as θ = arctan2(Y,Z), where Y is the measured (normalized) magnetic field strength along the Y-axis, and Z is the measured (normalized) magnetic field strength along the Z-axis. Ideally, FIG. 8C The curve will be linear, but due to imperfect magnetization, it may contain some perturbations. In some examples of this disclosure, a calibration lookup table can be used to apply an offset to the calculated position, such that the resulting calibrated position produces a more accurate result than... FIG. 8C The graph shown is a more linear graph. This calibration lookup table can be filled with offset values ​​based on empirical data obtained before the final product is delivered, or it can be filled during field calibrations initiated by the user or periodically according to an automated calibration schedule. In other examples, instead of a calibration lookup table, offset values ​​can be calculated using piecewise estimation or specific formulas based on pre-stored calibration information.

[0069] In some examples of this disclosure, Hall effect sensors can be used instead of a magnetometer. Multiple Hall effect sensors (e.g., three Hall effect sensors) can be attached to the inner band and used to determine the absolute rotational position of the outer band when the rotating outer band 706 is magnetized to form a single dipole. In some cases, when space constraints prevent the magnetometer from being located inside the crystal, it is advantageous to use Hall effect sensors on the inner band to detect the rotation of the outer band.

[0070] Although magnetometers can be used to determine the rotational position of a rotating outer belt, in some cases, users may find it difficult to actually rotate the belt or to determine that the belt is actually rotating, especially when visual confirmation of rotation is inconvenient or impossible.

[0071] FIG. 9A This is a symbolic perspective view of a ring input device 900 including a rotating outer strap 906 with a physical indicator such as a groove 960, according to an example of this disclosure. FIG. 9AIn the example of FIG. 9, the rotating outer band 906 can include grooves 960 to enable a user to feel the band and determine whether the band is actually rotating, or whether the band is stationary or nearly stationary and the user’s finger is just sliding on the band. Although grooves 960 are shown in FIG. 9A

[0072] In some examples, the ring input device 900 can include a linear resonant actuator (LRA) 962 or other haptic feedback device. The LRA 962 can include a mass that moves linearly to generate haptic feedback. In FIG. 9A ​In the example of FIG. 9A, the LRA 962 is located in the crystal 910, but in other examples it can be located elsewhere in the ring input device 900. In some examples, as an alternative to the trench 960, the LRA 962 can generate a vibration or other force when the rotating outer band 906 has rotated a certain number of degrees, as determined using the magnetometer described previously. In other examples, the LRA 962 (or other haptic feedback generator) can generate haptic feedback at particular times in a uniform or non-uniform manner based on the amount of rotation of the rotating outer band 906, the calculated angular velocity and / or acceleration, and / or the UI being manipulated. For example, if it is determined that a UI comprising a short (e.g., 10 item) list is being scrolled, haptic feedback can be generated uniformly as each item in the list is highlighted. On the other hand, if the list is long (e.g., 100 items), haptic feedback can be generated as every 10th item is highlighted. In some examples, if the detected angular velocity is low (e.g., less than 90 degrees of rotation per second), haptic feedback can be generated as each item in the list is highlighted. However, if the detected angular velocity is high (e.g., greater than 90 degrees of rotation per second), haptic feedback can be generated, for example, as every 10th item is highlighted or every 10 seconds. Haptic feedback can also be generated non-uniformly. For example, based on the initial angular acceleration and / or velocity determination of the rotating outer band 906, a "momentum" scrolling of the UI can be performed in which the UI can scroll through a list of items with a velocity that increases sharply, reaches a steady state, and then decays until it stops. Haptic feedback can be generated non-uniformly by increasing the frequency, reaching a steady state, and then decreasing the frequency until it stops to track the movement of the UI, regardless of whether the motion of the outer band 906 continues after the initial angular acceleration and / or velocity determination. However, if the outer band 906 is held or otherwise damped to slow or stop the rotation of the band, the haptic feedback can be non-uniformly decreased in frequency to follow the deceleration of the band.

[0073] In some examples, the LRA 962 (or other haptic feedback generator) can generate different types of haptic feedback in a uniform or non-uniform manner based on the amount of rotation of the rotating outer band 906, the calculated angular velocity and / or acceleration, and / or the UI being manipulated. For example, if the detected angular velocity of the rotating outer band 906 is low, haptic feedback can be generated to simulate the feeling of rotating the band under higher friction and coarse texture. In another example, if the detected angular velocity of the rotating outer band 906 is high, haptic feedback can be generated to simulate the feeling of rotating the band under lower friction and smoother texture. In another example, different textured haptic feedback can be generated when an inertial measurement unit (described below) in the ring input device 900 is used to move a 3D object in a computer-generated environment.

[0074] In other examples, LRA 962 can be used in conjunction with grooves 960 such that a vibration is generated each time rotation of outer band 906 causes a groove to pass a location at which the groove can be detected using an optical sensor or the like. LRA 962 can also be used to generate haptic feedback independent of any rotation of outer band 906. For example, LRA 962 can generate haptic feedback to provide an alert to a user based on movement detected by an inertial measurement unit (discussed below), sound input (e.g., audio commands), sensor input, and / or signals (e.g., notifications) received wirelessly at ring input device 900 even when outer ring 906 is stationary.

[0075] In addition to rotating outer band 906 to initiate or perform operations as described above, examples of the present disclosure can also determine position information such as the orientation and movement of ring input device 900 in free space. Determining the orientation and movement of ring input device 900 in free space can provide a number of advantages. For example, a wearer of ring input device 900 can move the ring around in free space to generate a rotational or orientation signal or perform a gesture that can trigger wireless transmission of a command to a companion device, such as a hand swipe or wave. In one particular example, the orientation and movement of ring input device 900 from one location to another can be used to move a cursor on a user interface or a 3D object being displayed. In some examples, the gesture can be recognized in ring input device 900 and in other examples, the data can be wirelessly transmitted for gesture processing by another device. It should be understood that the foregoing use descriptions are non-limiting and merely exemplary, and determining the orientation and movement of ring input device 900 is also contemplated for other purposes.

[0076] An inertial measurement unit (IMU) 964 can be used to determine the orientation and movement of ring input device 900. In FIG. 9A In examples, IMU 964 is located in crystal 910, but in other examples it can be located elsewhere in ring input device 900. In some examples, IMU 964 can include one or more accelerometers to detect linear acceleration and gyroscopes to detect rotational rate. In some examples, IMU 964 can include an accelerometer and a gyroscope for each of the principal axes: pitch, roll, and yaw. In some examples, IMU 964 can transmit position information to a processor within crystal 910 to enable the crystal to calculate the orientation, position, and movement of ring input device 900. In other examples, one or more of these calculations can be performed within IMU 964.

[0077] FIG. 9B is a representative view of a user interface with icons 966 displayed on a touchscreen of companion device 968 in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. In FIG. 9BIn the example of FIG. 9, a touch input (explained below) on the rotating outer band 906 of the ring input device can be detected, and a signal can be wirelessly transmitted to the companion device 968 to display a user interface and display a cursor at the initial location 970 (e.g., in the center of the user interface), or display the cursor if a user interface is already displayed. Thereafter, movement of the ring input device 900 can be detected, and the cursor can move across the user interface in accordance with the detected movement of the ring. In FIG. 9B In the example of FIG. 9, a touch input (explained below) on the rotating outer band 906 of the ring input device can be detected, and a signal can be wirelessly transmitted to the companion device 968 to display a user interface and display a cursor at the initial location 970 (e.g., in the center of the user interface), or display the cursor if a user interface is already displayed. Thereafter, movement of the ring input device 900 can be detected, and the cursor can move across the user interface in accordance with the detected movement of the ring. In FIG. 9B The example of FIG. 9 is merely one example of how movement of the IMU 964 and the ring input device 900 can be utilized to initiate and / or perform operations on a companion device.

[0078] When the IMU 964 in the ring input device 900 is used to control an object being displayed, such as a 3D object, in some examples the virtual object can be rotated along all three axes (X, Y, and Z). However, in other examples, one or two of the axes can be locked to limit rotation of the object. For example, the Y axis can be locked so that movement of the ring input device 900 can only cause the object to rotate about the X and / or Z axes. In some examples, moving the cursor over an axis and then making a press input on the outer band 906 can cause that axis to be locked. Locking an axis can eliminate unintended motion and enable the ring input device 900 to detect more precise movements.

[0079] In addition to detecting the position of the ring input device 900 or detecting the rotational position of the outer ring 906 with or without adjusting the resistance as described above, detecting a press on the rotating outer band 906 can provide additional advantages. For example, after the outer band 906 is rotated to a desired position, one or more detected presses on the band can initiate further actions, such as selection of an item. Presses on the rotating outer band 906 can initiate operations even in the absence of rotation, such as triggering a left mouse click input (single click) or a right mouse click input (double click), moving through a list in discrete steps, moving through a document using a page view, jumping to a different item or icon, incrementing or decrementing a parameter, or terminating an operation. Press and hold inputs or press and rotate inputs can also be detected to perform or initiate other operations. It should be understood that the foregoing uses are non-limiting and are merely exemplary, and that detecting presses on the rotating outer band 906 are also contemplated for other purposes.

[0080] FIG. 10Ais a side view of a band mechanism 1002 of a ring input device including low-friction contact points 1074 and button bearings 1076 according to examples of the present disclosure. As defined herein, a button bearing is a mechanism that acts as both a button and a low-friction bearing. The low-friction contact points 1074 and button bearings 1076 can allow the outer band 1006 to rotate about the stationary inner band 1004 with reduced friction. In some examples, both the low-friction contact points 1074 and button bearings 1076 can be ball bearings. In other examples, the low-friction contact points 1074 can be stationary contact points that extend along most or all of the width of the stationary inner band 1004, while the button bearings 1076 can be ball bearings. In yet other examples, the low-friction contact points 1074 can be stationary contact points, while the button bearings 1076 can be pressure-sensitive input mechanisms, such as a leaf switch or other type of switch or mechanism capable of producing an “open” state and a “closed” state. These pressure-sensitive input mechanisms can include resistive strain gauge sensors whose electrical resistance varies with pressure, optical strain gauge sensors whose reflective light properties vary with pressure, and more generally analog force sensors capable of generating an analog output value in response to different levels of pressure. Other examples of pressure-sensitive input mechanisms can include capacitive force sensors whose capacitance across two plates varies with pressure causing a deformable material between the two plates to compress and change the distance between the plates. Using a pressure-sensitive input mechanism for the button bearings 1076 creates a multifunctional element, where the pressure-sensitive input mechanism acts as both a bearing to rotate the outer band 1006 and as a mechanism to generate a press input.

[0081] FIG. 10B is a zoomed-in side view of a pressure-sensitive input mechanism in the form of a leaf switch button bearing 1076 as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 10A In some examples, the leaf switch button bearing 1076 can include a compressible leaf made of a non-conductive material such as rubber or polyurethane (pointing downward in examples of FIG. 10B The compressible leaf has one or more pairs of contacts within it that make electrical contact (e.g., a short) when the leaf is sufficiently compressed, but remain open in the absence of sufficient compression. Although primarily disclosed herein are two-level leaf switches (open or closed), it should be understood that leaf switches according to examples of the present disclosure can include multi-level leaf switches.

[0082] Referring again to FIG. 10AWhen the low-friction contact point 1074 is formed as a fixed contact point, pressure applied to the rotating outer band 1006 at or near the location of the contact point should result in little or no compression or movement. Thus, fixed contact points can be used in locations that are not expected to receive press input, such as under the crystal. However, pressure applied to the rotating outer band 1006 at or near the location of the pop-switch button bearing 1076 can result in compression or movement of the pop-switch, and can result in activation of the switch. The activation area of the pop-switch can depend on the configuration of the pop-switch (e.g., the height of the pop, and / or the size and shape of the base in which the pop sits), the gap between the fixed inner band 1004 and the rotating outer band 1006, and the material of the inner band. In some examples, pressure applied within about 45 degrees on either side of the pop-switch can still activate (i.e., close) the switch. Although FIG. 10A Two pop-switch button bearings 1076 are shown in FIG. 10B, but in other examples, only a single pop-switch can be employed, or three or more pop-switches can also be utilized. With two or more pop-switches, different functions can be initiated depending on which pop-switch is pressed, or the same function can be initiated regardless of which pop-switch is pressed. In some examples, pressure applied between two adjacent pop-switches can activate both switches, which can initiate other functions.

[0083] As noted above, the activation area of a pop-switch can vary. Variations in the activation area of a pop-switch (and thus the activation area of a button within the band mechanism of a ring input device) can provide a number of advantages. For example, a wide activation area can allow a user to activate a button without having to know precisely where that button is within the rotating outer band. This can be particularly useful when the user wants to press a button but is not looking at the ring. On the other hand, a narrow activation area can enable multiple buttons to be placed within the band mechanism, where each button can be independently activated. A narrow activation area can also reduce inadvertent button presses.

[0084] FIGS. 11A-11B is a simplified, symbolic side view (not to scale) of a rotating outer band 1106 and a fixed inner band 1104 according to an example of the disclosure, where the inner band has different levels of stiffness. FIG. 11A is an example of a pop-switch with a wide activation area, where the fixed inner band 1104 can be formed of a material with a high stiffness. When pressure is applied on the rotating outer band 1106 at a location offset from the pop-switch button bearing 1176, enough pressure can be applied against the pop-switch to activate it because neither the outer band nor the fixed inner band 1104 experiences significant deformation. In some examples, pressure can be applied up to 60 degrees or more on either side of the pop-switch button bearing 1176 to activate the switch.

[0085] In contrast, FIG. 11Bis an example of a poppet switch with a narrower activation zone, where the fixed inner band 1104 can be formed of a softer, more flexible material. When pressure is applied on the rotating outer band 1106 at a location offset from the poppet switch button bearing 1176, the outer band can contact the poppet switch without activating it. As pressure on the poppet switch continues (without enough pressure to activate the switch), the fixed inner band 1104 can begin to deform, and can continue to deform until it contacts the rotating outer band 1106 at location 1178. At this point, further deformation of the fixed inner band 1104 can stop, such that the poppet switch button bearing 1176 does not have enough pressure to activate it. In FIG. 11B examples, activation can only occur when pressure is applied sufficiently close to the poppet switch button bearing 1176, such that the switch is activated before the deformed fixed inner band 1104 contacts the rotating outer band 1106. In some examples, pressure can be applied at no more than about 5 degrees on either side of the poppet switch button bearing 1176 before the inner band 1104 contacts the outer band 1106 and prevents activation of the switch.

[0086] FIG. 11C is a simplified symbolic side view (not to scale) of a rotating outer band 1106 and fixed inner band 1104 according to examples of the disclosure, where the inner band has a stop 1180 on either side of the poppet switch button bearing 1176. In FIG. 11C examples, the activation zone of the poppet switch button bearing 1176 is narrowed with the stop 1180. The stop 1180 can be a button bearing or fixed contact point that allows direct pressure on the poppet switch button bearing 1176 to activate the switch, but also limits the radial travel of the rotating outer band 1106 to prevent it from activating the switch when pressure is applied at a location offset from the switch. When pressure is initially applied on the rotating outer band 1106 at a location offset from the poppet switch button bearing 1176, the outer band can contact the poppet switch without activating it. As pressure on the poppet switch continues (without enough pressure to activate the switch), the rotating outer band 1106 can come into contact with the stop 1180. At this point, further pressure on the poppet switch button bearing 1176 can stop, such that the switch does not have enough pressure to activate it. In FIG. 11C examples, activation can only occur when pressure is applied sufficiently close to the poppet switch button bearing 1176, such that the switch is activated before the stop 1180 contacts the rotating outer band 1106.

[0087] In addition to detecting presses on the outer band 1106 as described above, detecting touches on the outer band can provide additional advantages. For example, touch sensing can help to distinguish between a valid press input (e.g., caused by a user's finger) and an inadvertent press input (e.g., accidentally pressing the outer band 1106 against a desk or other ungrounded object). In another example, one or more detected touches or taps on the band (without a detected press) can initiate further actions after the outer band 1106 is rotated to a desired position. One or more detected touches or taps on the outer band 1106 can also initiate operations even in the absence of rotation, such as bringing up a user interface or "peeking" to temporarily view content. Touch and hold inputs or touch and rotate inputs (as opposed to swipes to rotate) can also be detected to perform or initiate other operations. It should be understood that the foregoing use descriptions are non-limiting and merely exemplary, and detecting touches on the rotating outer band 1106 is also contemplated for other purposes.

[0088] FIG. 12A is a symbolic side view of a portion of a band mechanism 1202 including a fixed inner band 1204 and a rotating outer band 1206 according to examples of the present disclosure, with a sliding contact 1282 to provide touch sensing. In some examples, touch sensing can be achieved by utilizing the entire conductive outer band 1206 as a self-capacitance touch electrode, where the self-capacitance of the electrode to ground can be measured, and changes in the self-capacitance can be detected and identified as the result of a touch. In FIG. 12A In examples, the sliding contact 1282 can be attached to the fixed inner band 1204 and can be in electrical contact with the outer band 1206 (acting as a self-capacitance electrode) when the outer band is fixed, and can continue to make sliding contact with the outer band when the outer band is rotated, thereby providing an electrical connection from the outer band 1206 to the inner band 1204. Although FIG. 12A two sliding contacts 1282 are shown, in other examples only one sliding contact can be used, or more than two sliding contacts can be used. In addition, one or more ground contacts (not shown) on the interior of the inner band 1204 can provide a reference ground for a ring input device that can be coupled to the ground when a user wears the ring and makes contact with the ground contacts. With the electrical connection to the self-capacitance electrode and the reference ground available at the inner band 1204, the self-capacitance of the outer band 1206 can be measured and touches can be detected.

[0089] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the fixed inner band 1204 according to examples of the present disclosure, showing a leaf spring sliding contact 1282 on the fixed inner band 1204. In FIG. 12B In examples, the leaf spring sliding contact 1282 is oriented perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the outer band FIG. 12B In examples, the leaf spring sliding contact 1282 is oriented perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the outer band FIG. 12BThe sliding contact 1282 is shown as a leaf spring, but in other examples different types of sliding contacts can be utilized, including brushes, fixed or rotating conductive bearings, etc. Further, in other examples the orientation of the sliding contact can be parallel to the direction of rotation of the outer band. In further examples, the outer band 1206 can be formed of two parallel conductive (but isolated) circumferential strips, the sliding contact 1282 can be formed as two isolated contacts oriented parallel to the direction of rotation of the outer band for separately contacting the circumferential strips, and mutual capacitance sensing can be performed between the two circumferential strips.

[0090] FIG. 13A is a symbolic side view of a cross-section of a band mechanism 1302 according to examples of the disclosure, showing a leaf switch button bearing 1376 attached to an inner band 1304, where the button bearing can also function as a sliding contact. FIG. 13A In examples of , instead of utilizing a separate sliding contact to provide electrical contact with the outer band 1306, a conductive surface 1384 can be added to the previously described leaf switch button bearing 1376 to provide the sliding contact.

[0091] FIG. 13A The leaf switch button bearing 1376 can include a non-conductive (e.g., rubber) leaf spring, and a button trace 1386 can be connected to a switch or a double pole mechanism in the leaf switch (symbolically represented as a single pole single throw switch in FIG. 13A ). However, in examples of , a conductive surface 1384 can be added to the non-conductive leaf spring, and a touch trace 1388 can be connected to the conductive surface. Further, a ground contact 1390 on the interior of the inner band 1304 can provide a reference ground for the ring input device, which can be coupled to the ground when the user wears the ring and contacts the ground contact. In some examples, the "throw" contact of the switch mechanism can also be connected to the ground contact 1390. With the button trace 1386, the touch trace 1388, and the ground contact 1390 available at the inner band 1304, both a press on the leaf switch button bearing 1376 and a touch at any location along the outer band 1306 can be detected. Thus, the leaf switch button bearing 1376 can be used for three functions: it can act as a bearing between the inner band 1304 and the outer band 1306, it can provide the touch trace 1388 for touch sensing, and it can provide the button trace 1386 for press input sensing.

[0092] FIG. 13B is a symbolic side view of a cross-section of a band mechanism 1302 according to examples of the disclosure, showing a leaf switch button bearing 1376 attached to an inner band 1304, where the button bearing can also function as a sliding contact. FIG. 13B Examples of FIG. 13AThe difference is that the button trace 1386 and the touch trace 1388 can be electrically coupled together and led out from the button bearing 1376 as a single dual-function trace 1392. This reduction in traces advantageously reduces the number of conductive wires, contacts, pads, and pins required to route the traces to the crystal of the loop input device, reducing cost, saving space, and increasing reliability. This reduction in traces is possible because the dual-function trace 1392 (which connects the button trace 1386 and the touch trace 1388 together) can be used for different purposes at different times. FIG. 13B As shown, when the spring switch button bearing 1376 is not activated (i.e., the switch is open), the dual-function trace 1392 is connected to the outer band 1306 only via the conductive surface 1384, and this trace can be used to read the self-capacitance on the conductive surface in the usual way (i.e., to detect a touch). When sufficient pressure has been applied to activate the spring switch button bearing 1376 (i.e., the switch is closed), the closed switch forces the trace 1392 to a fixed potential (e.g., ground 1390), which indicates that a valid press input has been received. At this time, because the trace 1392 is held at a fixed potential, it can no longer be used to detect a touch. However, since a valid press input implies a touch, touch detection is no longer required, and the fixed potential on the trace 1392 can be interpreted as a valid touch.

[0093] FIG. 13C This is a symbolic side view of a cross-section of the belt mechanism 1302 according to an example of this disclosure, showing a sliding contact 1382 and a button bearing 1376 attached to the inner belt 1304, the button bearing having a reduced number of traces. FIG. 13C Examples are similar to FIG. 13B The difference is that instead of providing electrical contact with the conductive outer strip 1306 via the conductive surface of the spring switch button bearing 1376, a single sliding contact 1382 (discussed above) is used for this purpose. However, the button trace 1386 and the touch trace 1388 can be electrically coupled together and led out from the button bearing 1376 as a single dual-function trace 1392. FIG. 13B As with the example, this reduction in traces offers advantages and is possible because the dual-function trace 1392 (which connects the button trace 186 and the touch trace 1388) can be used for different purposes at different times. FIG. 13BAs shown, when the pop-switch button bearing 1376 is not activated (i.e., the switch is open), the dual-function trace 1392 is only connected to the outer band 1306 via the sliding contact 1382, and this trace can be used to read self-capacitance on the conductive surface in the usual manner (i.e., to detect a touch). When sufficient pressure has been applied to activate the pop-switch button bearing 1376 (i.e., the switch is closed), the closed switch can force the dual-function trace 1392 to a fixed potential (e.g., ground 1390), which can indicate that a valid press input has been received. At this point, because the dual-function trace 1392 is held at a fixed potential, this trace can no longer be used to detect a touch. However, because a valid press input implies a touch, touch detection is no longer needed, and the fixed potential on the dual-function trace 1392 can be interpreted as a valid touch.

[0094] FIG. 13D is a flowchart of a method for detecting a valid touch or press input on a ring input device according to examples of the present disclosure. In FIG. 13D In examples of the present disclosure, at 1394, it can be determined whether the outer band 1306 is held at a fixed potential (e.g., ground), indicating that the pop-switch has been activated (i.e., the pop-switch is closed). When it is determined that the outer band 1306 is not held at a fixed potential (i.e., the pop-switch is open), then at 1396, it can be determined self-capacitance of the outer band 1306. At 1398, it can be determined whether the self-capacitance is greater than a predetermined threshold (which indicates a valid touch from a grounded object such as a finger). When the self-capacitance is greater than the predetermined threshold, then at 1399, it can be determined that a valid touch input has been received without a valid press input, and the method can then restart at 1394. When the self-capacitance is not greater than the predetermined threshold, then at 1397, it can be determined that a valid touch input has not been received and a valid press input has not been received, and the method can then restart at 1394. The predetermined threshold can be chosen such that an unintended touch of the outer band 1306 by an ungrounded or poorly grounded object (e.g., bumping the outer band 1306 against a table) should not increase the self-capacitance of the outer band 1306 above the predetermined threshold and cause a valid touch input to be identified.

[0095] At 1394, determining that the outer band 1306 remains at the fixed potential does not necessarily mean that a valid press input has been received, as an accidental press input can also activate (close) the pop-switch button bearing 1376 and force the outer band 1306 to the fixed reference potential (e.g., ground). However, as noted above, touch sensing can help to distinguish valid press inputs (e.g., caused by a user's finger) from accidental press inputs (e.g., caused by accidentally pressing the outer band 1306 against a non-grounded object such as a table). Because a valid touch input should always precede a valid press input, to disambiguate valid press inputs from accidental press inputs, when the outer band 1306 is determined to remain at the fixed potential at 1394, it can then be further determined at 1395 whether the self-capacitance of the outer band 1306 was greater than a predetermined threshold (which indicates a valid touch input) just prior to determining that the outer band was driven to the fixed potential. In some examples, this can be accomplished by saving the determined outer band state at periodic intervals (e.g., 100 millisecond intervals). A valid press input (e.g., caused by a user's finger) will produce a series of valid touch input readings (i.e., self-capacitance levels above the predetermined threshold) prior to the fixed potential reading. An invalid press input (e.g., caused by a non-grounded or poorly grounded object) will produce a series of invalid touch input readings (i.e., self-capacitance levels below the predetermined threshold) prior to the fixed potential reading. When a valid press input sequence is captured, it can then be inferred at 1391 that a valid press input has been received, and the method can then restart at 1394. On the other hand, when an invalid press input sequence is captured, it can then be inferred at 1393 that a valid press input has not been received (e.g., only a press input from a non-conductive object was received), and the method can then restart at 1394.

[0096] FIG. 13E is a symbolic side view of a cross-section of a band mechanism 1302 according to an example of the present disclosure, showing two pop-switch button bearings 1376 attached to the inner band 1304, where the button bearings can be used as slide contacts with a reduced number of traces. In FIG. 13E In examples of the present disclosure, the button traces 1386 and the touch traces 1388 of the two pop-switch button bearings 1376 are all electrically connected together and brought out as a single trace 1392. This reduction of three traces to one can advantageously reduce the number of conductive wires, contacts, pads, and pins needed to route the traces to the ring input device's gemstone, reducing cost, saving space, and increasing reliability. This reduction of traces is possible because the trace 1392 can be used for different purposes at different times. As FIG. 13EAs shown, when neither of the two paddle switch button bearings 1376 is activated (i.e., the switches are open), the trace 1392 is connected to the outer strap 1306 only via the touch trace 1388 and the conductive surfaces 1384 of the two paddle switches, and the trace 1392 can be used to read the self-capacitance on the outer strap 1306 in the usual way (i.e., to detect a touch). When enough pressure has been applied to activate the center paddle switch button bearing 1376 in FIG. 13E (i.e., the switch is closed), the closed switch can force the trace 1392 to a first fixed potential (e.g., ground 1390), which can indicate that a valid press input has been received at the center paddle switch. On the other hand, when enough pressure has been applied to activate the left paddle switch button bearing 1376 in FIG. 13E (i.e., the switch is closed), the closed switch can force the trace 1392 to a second fixed potential (e.g., Vcc 1389), which can indicate that a valid press input has been received at the left paddle switch. Thus, the voltage level of the fixed potential at the trace 1392 can determine which paddle switch button bearing 1376 is being pressed. In either case, because the trace 1392 remains at a fixed potential when either of the two paddle switch button bearings 1376 is pressed, it is no longer able to be used to detect a touch. However, because a valid press input implies a touch, touch detection is no longer needed, and the fixed potential on the trace 1392 can be assumed to be a valid touch. It should be understood that in the example of FIG. 13E , both of the paddle switch button bearings 1376 should not be activated at the same time, or else a short circuit between, for example, VCC and ground can occur.

[0097] FIG. 14A is a system block diagram of an electronic crystal system 1410 including a ring input device of a scroll ball 1489 and a touch sensor 1487 according to examples of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 The example of FIG. 14A is similar to the system of FIG. 14BThe IMU 1426, magnetometer 1428, haptic generator 1430, scroll ball 1489, and touch sensor 1487 in the ring input device 1400 can all be used in any number of combinations and arrangements or omitted, as ensured by the use of the word "example" or "examples" throughout the disclosure that no number or description is to be interpreted as required.

[0098] FIG. 14B is a symbolic perspective view of a ring input device 1400 including an electronic sapphire system 1410 having a scroll ball 1489 and a touch sensor 1487 according to examples of the present disclosure. As discussed above, in some examples, the electronic sapphire system 1410 can include a scroll ball 1489. The scroll ball 1489 can be used as a replacement for or in addition to the rotating outer band 1406 to provide directional input in two dimensions. Although ​ not shown in the ring input device 1400, in some examples, the scroll ball 1489 can also include a haptic switch to detect a press input on the scroll ball. The haptic switch can be used as a replacement for or in addition to a press input on the rotating outer band. The scroll ball 1489 can enable a user to provide directional input in two dimensions to perform operations such as moving a cursor, scrolling through a list, panning an image, etc. The haptic switch can be used to select an item, perform a mouse click, move or take discrete steps or increments, etc. Similar operations can be performed by the touch sensor 1487, which in some examples can also include a haptic switch (not shown).

[0099] In some examples, input from the scroll ball 1489 and / or the touch sensor 1487 can be used in conjunction with input from one or more other devices, such as the rotating outer band 1406 (and a press input that can be detected thereon), the IMU 1464, and / or the magnetometer 1428 to generate different types of gesture input to perform or initiate different operations. To provide just one example (of many possible examples) for purposes of illustration only, two-dimensional movement on the scroll ball 1489 can be detected along with up and down movement of the ring input device 1400 (from the IMU 1426) to move an object in a computer-generated environment in three dimensions.

[0100] As discussed above, ring input devices according to examples of the present disclosure can include a band mechanism having a fixed inner band and a rotating outer band. In some examples of the present disclosure, the rotating outer band can be made of a conductive material such as steel. Other portions of the band mechanism can be made of metal, ceramic, leather, fabric, etc. to provide fashion choices. The band mechanism can be wide or narrow.

[0101] As described above, the rotating outer band can generate variable rotational resistance, sense rotational position of the outer band, detect orientation and movement of the ring itself, provide haptic feedback whether the outer band is rotating or stationary, and can provide press and touch input sensing. The ring input device can be used to provide input to companion wearable devices such as smart watches, health monitoring devices, earphones and earbuds, to handheld devices such as smartphones, tablet computers and laptop computers, media players, stylus pens, sticks or gloves for computer generated environments, and to stationary devices such as desktop computers, smart home controls and entertainment devices. In some examples, the ring input device can receive input from the companion device and provide information (e.g., alerts) to the wearer of the ring.

[0102] Due to the touch and press input capabilities of the outer band, the outer band can be susceptible to unintentional touch or press input from the wearer's other fingers. For example, if the ring input device is worn on the ring finger or middle finger, a finger on either side of the ring can accidentally generate touch or press input on either side of the ring, while if the ring is worn on the index finger, only the middle finger can accidentally generate touch or press input on one side of the ring. Thus, in some examples, the ring portion can be protected by one or more guards to prevent accidental touches by adjacent fingers or other objects. In some examples, the ring input device can have permanent guards as well as locations for attachable (e.g., snap fit) guards. These guards can be configured to protect different areas of the outer band depending on which finger the ring is worn on.

[0103] As described above, a ring input device according to examples of the present disclosure can include a stone that can contain most of the electronics of the ring. In some examples, the stone can be removably connected to the band mechanism using pogo pins or other electrical or magnetic connections. The stone can be made or configured to have different shapes, styles, and / or colors to provide fashion options. The ability to attach different stones to different band mechanisms can advantageously enable a single stone design to work with different sized band mechanisms (for different finger sizes), enable one stone to be replaced with another, and provide opportunities for mix and match fashion options. In addition, the ability to attach different stones can enable stones with different capabilities to be connected to the band mechanism. For example, different stone designs can include different components for different sensing capabilities, larger or smaller batteries, different features, and different price points to enable users to utilize a stone that best fits the user's needs.

[0104] In some examples, the removable stone can advantageously allow for removal and charging in a separate docking station, charging pad, or through the use of a connector while the band mechanism remains on the wearer's finger. In other examples, the ring input device can be removed from the wearer and charged as a single unit. The closed loop configuration of the band mechanism of the ring input device can allow for placement of the coil inside the band mechanism, and the ring can slide over a cylindrical post on a charging device for inductive charging.

[0105] While the various examples and features of the ring input device can have been described above in different paragraphs, and illustrated in different figures for ease of explanation, it should be understood that different permutations and combinations of these features are contemplated in different examples of the present disclosure.

[0106] Accordingly, in light of the above, some examples of the present disclosure relate to a ring input device capable of detecting a press input, the ring input device comprising a band mechanism having an outer band and an inner band, a first pressure sensitive input mechanism formed on the inner band and disposed between the inner band and the outer band, and an electronic stone system communicatively coupled to the band mechanism, wherein the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is configured to provide a first signal to the electronic stone system for generating a first press input when the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is activated. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is configured to act as a bearing for the outer band in addition to generating the first press input.

[0107] Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is configured to be activated upon receiving pressure within a first activation area on the outer band. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the material of the inner band at least around the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is selected to have a certain stiffness to provide a first activation area of about 60 degrees on either side of the first pressure sensitive input mechanism on the outer band.

[0108] Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the first pressure-sensitive input mechanism is a button bearing. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the button bearing is a paddle switch. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the material of the inner band at least around the first pressure-sensitive input mechanism is selected to have a particular stiffness such that pressure on the outer band at a location offset from the first pressure-sensitive input mechanism causes the inner band to deform and contact the outer band prior to activation of the first pressure-sensitive input mechanism. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the material of the inner band at least around the first pressure-sensitive input mechanism is selected to have a particular stiffness to create a particular activation area. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the ring input device further comprises a plurality of stops formed on the inner band on either side of the first pressure-sensing mechanism, the plurality of stops configured such that pressure on the outer band at a location offset from the first pressure-sensitive input mechanism causes the outer band to contact one of the stops prior to activation of the first pressure-sensitive input mechanism. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the ring input device further comprises one or more contact points formed on the inner band and disposed between the inner band and the outer band, the one or more contact points located at an area of the band mechanism that is insensitive to pressure on the outer band. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the ring input device further comprises a second pressure-sensitive input mechanism formed on the inner band and disposed between the inner band and the outer band, wherein the second pressure-sensitive input mechanism is configured to provide a second signal to the electronic crystal system for generating a second press input when the second pressure-sensitive input mechanism is activated. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the outer band is configured to rotate relative to the inner band, the electronic crystal system is configured to calculate a rotational position of the outer band, and the electronic crystal system is configured to initiate an operation based on the first press input and the rotational position of the outer band.

[0109] Some examples of the disclosure relate to a method for detecting a press input on a ring input device, comprising: providing a first bearing between an outer band and an inner band of a ring input device for enabling rotation of the outer band relative to the inner band; and generating a first press input when a first pressure exerted on the outer band at the first bearing causes a first pressure threshold at the first bearing to be exceeded. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples of the disclosure the method further comprises: providing a first activation zone on the outer band, wherein exerting a first pressure within the first activation zone causes the first pressure threshold at the first bearing to be exceeded, and wherein exerting a first pressure outside the first activation zone prevents the first pressure threshold at the first bearing from being exceeded. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples of the disclosure the method further comprises: selecting a material of the inner band at least around the first bearing to have a particular stiffness to provide a first activation zone of about 60 degrees on either side of the first bearing on the outer band. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples of the disclosure the method further comprises: selecting a material of the inner band at least around the first bearing to have a particular flexibility such that a pressure on the outer band at a location offset from the first bearing causes the inner band to deform and contact the outer band before the first pressure threshold at the first bearing is exceeded. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples of the disclosure the method further comprises: selecting a material of the inner band at least around the first bearing to have a particular stiffness to create a particular activation zone. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples of the disclosure the method further comprises: physically preventing the outer band from activating the first bearing when a pressure is exerted on the outer band at a location offset from the first bearing.

[0110] Some examples of the disclosure relate to a ring input device capable of detecting a press input, the ring input device comprising: a bearing arrangement disposed between an outer band and an inner band of the ring input device for enabling rotation of the outer band relative to the inner band; means for detecting a first pressure exerted on the outer band at the first bearing; and means for generating a first press input when the first pressure exceeds a first pressure threshold at the first bearing. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the ring input device further comprises: means for physically preventing the outer band from activating the first bearing when a pressure is exerted on the outer band at a location offset from the first bearing.

[0111] Some examples of the present disclosure relate to a ring input device capable of detecting touch input, the ring input device comprising: a band mechanism having a conductive outer band and an inner band, the conductive outer band configured for rotation relative to the inner band; a first sliding contact formed on the inner band and configured for sliding contact with the conductive outer band; and an electronic gemstone system communicatively coupled to the band mechanism, wherein the first sliding contact is configured for providing a first touch signal to the electronic gemstone system for detecting a first touch input upon touching the conductive outer band. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the electronic gemstone system is configured for receiving the first touch signal and determining a self-capacitance of the conductive outer band to detect the first touch input. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first sliding contact is a first leaf spring. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first sliding contact is a first button bearing having a first conductive surface configured for sliding contact with the conductive outer band. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first sliding contact is a first pogo switch having a first conductive surface configured for sliding contact with the conductive outer band. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first pogo switch comprises a first pogo leaf having the first conductive surface formed thereon, the first conductive surface connected to a first touch trace; and a first switch mechanism configured for being activated upon application of sufficient pressure to the first pogo leaf, the first switch mechanism connected to a first button trace. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the electronic gemstone system is configured for receiving the first touch trace to detect the first touch input and receiving the first button trace to detect a first press input. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first touch trace and the first button trace are connected together to form a first dual-function trace, and wherein the electronic gemstone system is configured for detecting the first touch input and the first press input using the first dual-function trace. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the electronic gemstone system is further configured for: determining from the first dual-function trace whether the conductive outer band remains at a fixed potential; in accordance with a determination that the conductive outer band does not remain at the fixed potential, determining a self-capacitance of the conductive outer band from the dual-function trace; in accordance with a determination that the self-capacitance of the conductive outer band is greater than a predetermined threshold, determining that a valid touch input has been received and no valid press input has been received; and in accordance with a determination that the self-capacitance of the conductive outer band is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold, determining that no valid touch input has been received and no valid press input has been received.Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the electronic watch system is further configured to: in accordance with a determination that the conductive outer band remains at the fixed electrical potential, determine whether a valid press input sequence has been received; in accordance with a determination that the valid press input sequence has been received, determine that a valid press input has been received; and in accordance with a determination that the valid press input sequence has not been received, determine that a valid press input has not been received. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the ring input device further includes a second slide contact formed on the inner band and configured to be in sliding contact with the conductive outer band, wherein the second slide contact is configured to provide a second touch signal to the electronic watch system for detecting the first touch input when the conductive outer band is touched. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the second slide contact is a second paddle switch having a second conductive surface configured to be in sliding contact with the conductive outer band. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the second paddle switch includes a second paddle having the second conductive surface formed thereon, the second conductive surface connected to a second touch trace; and a second switch mechanism configured to be activated when sufficient pressure is applied to the second paddle, the second switch mechanism connected to a second button trace. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the electronic watch system is configured to receive the second touch trace to detect a second touch input and to receive the second button trace to detect a second press input. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the second touch trace and the second button trace are connected together to form a second dual-function trace, and the electronic watch system is configured to use the second dual-function trace to detect either the first touch input or the second press input.

[0112] Some examples of the present disclosure relate to a method for detecting touch inputs on a ring input device, the method comprising: providing a first contact between an inner band and a conductive outer band of the ring input device, the first contact maintaining a sliding electrical contact with the conductive outer band as the outer band rotates relative to the inner band; and generating a first touch signal on the first contact for detecting a first touch input upon touching the conductive outer band. In the alternative or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples of the present disclosure, the method further comprises: using the first contact as a first bearing between the outer band and the inner band in addition to generating the first touch signal. In the alternative or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples of the present disclosure, the method further comprises: receiving a first touch trace from the first bearing to provide the first touch signal to detect the first touch input, and receiving a first button trace from the first bearing for detecting a first press input. In the alternative or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples of the present disclosure, the method further comprises: connecting the first touch trace and the first button trace together to form a first dual-function trace, and using the first dual-function trace to detect the first touch input and the first press input. In the alternative or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples of the present disclosure, the method further comprises: determining from the first dual-function trace whether the conductive outer band is maintained at a fixed potential; in accordance with a determination that the conductive outer band is not maintained at the fixed potential, determining a self-capacitance of the conductive outer band from the dual-function trace; in accordance with a determination that the self-capacitance of the conductive outer band is greater than a predetermined threshold, determining that a valid touch input has been received and that no valid press input has been received; and in accordance with a determination that the self-capacitance of the conductive outer band is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold, determining that no valid touch input has been received and that no valid press input has been received.

[0113] Some examples of the present disclosure relate to a ring input device capable of providing and controlling rotational input, the ring input device comprising: a belt mechanism having an outer belt and an inner belt, the outer belt being rotatable relative to the inner belt; a first variable resistance generator formed on one or both of the inner belt and the outer belt; and an electronic gemstone system communicatively coupled to the belt mechanism, wherein the electronic gemstone system is configured for controlling the first variable resistance generator to adjust a rotational resistance of the outer belt relative to the inner belt depending on an item being manipulated. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the electronic gemstone system is further configured to adjust the rotational resistance to create a sensation of a detent in the rotating outer belt. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the electronic gemstone system is further configured for controlling the first variable resistance generator to prevent rotation of the outer belt. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the electronic gemstone system is further configured for controlling the first variable resistance generator to increase the rotational resistance of the outer belt at the beginning or end of a rotational input. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first variable resistance generator is one of an electroactive polymer, a shape memory alloy, an air bladder, and a magnetorheological fluid. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the item is a parameter. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the item is a user interface (UI). Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first variable resistance generator is attached to the outer belt and exerts the modulated rotational resistance against the inner belt. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the inner belt and the outer belt are arranged as concentric belts, and the ring input device further comprises a second variable resistance generator disposed between the inner belt and the outer belt and on an opposite side of the ring input device relative to the first variable resistance generator, wherein the electronic gemstone system is further configured for controlling the first variable resistance generator and the second variable resistance generator to exert complementary opposing forces within the ring input device. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the inner belt and the outer belt are arranged as eccentric belts. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the first variable resistance generator is an electromagnetic rotational resistance generator having an array of coils formed on the inner belt and an array of magnetic poles formed on the outer belt. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the electromagnetic rotational resistance generator is attached to a brake that exerts a frictional resistance to the outer belt when subjected to a magnetic influence of the electromagnetic rotational resistance generator.Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the inner band has side rails for holding the outer band, and the outer band has side walls adjacent the side rails, wherein the first variable resistance generator is formed on the side rails of the inner band, and wherein the electronic gemstone system is configured for controlling the first variable resistance generator to adjust the rotational resistance of the side rails of the inner band relative to the side walls of the outer band.

[0114] Some examples of the disclosure relate to a method of controlling rotational input on a control ring input device, the method comprising providing a first variable resistance between an inner band and a rotating outer band of the ring input device, and controlling the first variable resistance to adjust the rotational resistance of the outer band relative to the inner band as a function of an item being manipulated. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the method further comprises adjusting the rotational resistance to create a sensation of a detent in the rotating outer band. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the method further comprises adjusting the rotational resistance to prevent rotation of the outer band. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the method further comprises modulating the rotational resistance to increase the rotational resistance of the outer band at the beginning or end of a rotational input. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the item is a parameter. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the item is a user interface (UI). Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the first variable resistance is an electromagnetic rotational resistance.

[0115] Some examples of the present disclosure relate to a ring input device for generating ring position information, the ring input device comprising: a belt mechanism having an outer belt and an inner belt, the outer belt configured for rotation relative to the inner belt, the outer belt magnetized to form a single dipole; a magnetometer located in proximity to the outer belt, the magnetometer configured for measuring magnetic field strength of the outer belt along a plurality of axes; and an electronic system communicatively coupled to the belt mechanism and the magnetometer, wherein the electronic system is configured for calculating an absolute angle of a rotational position of the outer belt from the measured magnetic field strength along the plurality of axes. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the magnetometer is further configured for capturing a plurality of measurements of the magnetic field strength of the outer belt along the plurality of axes over time, and the electronic system is further configured for calculating a rotational amount and direction of the outer belt from the plurality of captured magnetic field strength measurements. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the magnetometer is further configured for capturing a plurality of measurements of the magnetic field strength of the outer belt along the plurality of axes over time, and the electronic system is further configured for calculating a rotational velocity of the outer belt from the plurality of magnetic field strength measurements. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the electronic system is further configured for calibrating the calculated absolute angle of the rotational position of the outer belt by applying a predetermined offset value to the calculated absolute angle of the rotational position of the outer belt. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the ring input device further comprises a lookup table containing predetermined offset values for a plurality of calculated absolute angles of the rotational position. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the magnetometer is further configured for measuring a magnetic field strength along a Y-axis (Y) and measuring a magnetic field strength along a Z-axis (Z), the electronic system is further configured for calculating the absolute angle of the rotational position of the outer belt as Θ = arctan2(Y, Z). Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the outer belt comprises a plurality of evenly spaced physical indicators configured to be sensed by a user to provide haptic confirmation of a rotational amount and direction of the outer belt. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the ring input device further comprises a haptic feedback device communicatively coupled to the electronic system and configured for generating haptic feedback each time a physical indicator is sensed during rotation. Alternatively or additionally to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the ring input device further comprises a haptic feedback device communicatively coupled to the electronic system and configured for generating haptic feedback each time a particular rotational amount of the outer belt is detected.Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the ring input device further includes an inertial measurement unit (IMU) communicatively coupled to the electronic system and configured to generate position information for determining an orientation of the ring input device. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the electronic system is further configured to generate a cursor signal based on the determined orientation of the ring input device and wirelessly transmit the cursor signal for manipulation of a cursor.

[0116] Some examples of the disclosure relate to a method for determining position information on a ring input device, the method comprising: magnetizing an outer band of the ring input device to form a single dipole; measuring magnetic field strength of the outer band along a plurality of axes with respect to rotation of an inner band of the ring input device; and calculating an absolute angle of a rotational position of the outer band from the measured magnetic field strength along the plurality of axes. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the method further comprises: capturing a plurality of measurements of the magnetic field strength of the outer band along the plurality of axes over time, and calculating a rotational amount and direction of the outer band from the plurality of captured magnetic field strength measurements. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the method further comprises: capturing a plurality of measurements of the magnetic field strength of the outer band along the plurality of axes over time, and calculating a rotational velocity of the outer band from the plurality of magnetic field strength measurements. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the method further comprises: calibrating the calculated absolute angle of the rotational position of the outer band by applying a predetermined offset value to the calculated absolute angle of the rotational position of the outer band. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the method further comprises: measuring a magnetic field strength along a Y-axis (Y) and measuring a magnetic field strength along a Z-axis (Z), and calculating the absolute angle of the rotational position of the outer band as Θ = arctan2(Y, Z). Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the method further comprises: providing a haptic confirmation of the rotational amount and direction of the outer band. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the method further comprises: generating haptic feedback each time a particular rotational amount of the outer band is detected. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the method further comprises: generating position information for determining an orientation of the ring input device. Alternatively or in addition to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples, the method further comprises: generating a cursor signal based on the determined orientation of the ring input device and wirelessly transmitting the cursor signal for manipulation of a cursor.

[0117] While the disclosed examples are fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is to be understood that such changes and modifications are considered within the scope of the disclosed examples as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A ring input device configured to detect press input, comprising: a band mechanism having an outer band and an inner band; a first pressure sensitive input mechanism formed on the inner band, disposed between the inner band and the outer band, and activated by pressure applied at the outer band that exceeds a pressure threshold; and an electronic crystal system communicably coupled to the band mechanism; wherein the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is configured to provide a first signal to the electronic crystal system for generating a first press input when the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is activated.

2. The ring input device of claim 1, wherein the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is configured to act as a bearing for the outer band in addition to generating the first press input.

3. The ring input device of claim 1, wherein the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is configured to be activated when the pressure that exceeds the pressure threshold is applied on the outer band within a first activation area.

4. The ring input device of claim 3, wherein material of the inner band at least around the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is selected to have a certain stiffness to provide the first activation area of about 60 degrees on either side of the first pressure sensitive input mechanism on the outer band.

5. The ring input device of claim 1, wherein the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is a button bearing.

6. The ring input device of claim 5, wherein the button bearing is a pop switch.

7. The ring input device of claim 1, wherein material of the inner band at least around the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is selected to have a certain stiffness such that pressure on the outer band at a location offset from the first pressure sensitive input mechanism causes the inner band to deform and contact the outer band before activation of the first pressure sensitive input mechanism.

8. The ring input device of claim 1, wherein material of the inner band at least around the first pressure sensitive input mechanism is selected to have a certain stiffness to create a certain activation area.

9. The ring input device of claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of stops formed on the inner band on either side of the first pressure sensitive input mechanism, the plurality of stops configured such that pressure on the outer band at a location offset from the first pressure sensitive input mechanism causes the outer band to contact one of the stops before activation of the first pressure sensitive input mechanism.

10. The ring input device of claim 1, further comprising: one or more contact points formed on the inner band and disposed between the inner band and the outer band, the one or more contact points located at a region of the band mechanism that is insensitive to pressure on the outer band.

11. The ring input device of claim 1, further comprising: a second pressure sensitive input mechanism formed on the inner band and disposed between the inner band and the outer band; wherein the second pressure sensitive input mechanism is configured to provide a second signal to the electronic crystal system for generating a second press input when the second pressure sensitive input mechanism is activated.

12. The ring input device of claim 1 : wherein the outer band is configured to rotate relative to the inner band; wherein the electronic stone system is configured to compute a rotational position of the outer band; and wherein the electronic stone system is configured to initiate an operation based on the first press input and the rotational position of the outer band.

13. A method for detecting a press input on a ring input device, comprising: providing a first bearing between an outer band and an inner band of the ring input device for enabling the outer band to rotate relative to the inner band; detecting an application of a first pressure on the outer band at the first bearing; and generating a first press input when the first pressure on the outer band at the first bearing causes a first pressure threshold at the first bearing to be exceeded.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: providing a first activation area on the outer band, wherein an application of the first pressure within the first activation area causes the first pressure threshold at the first bearing to be exceeded, and wherein an application of the first pressure outside the first activation area prevents the first pressure threshold at the first bearing from being exceeded.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: selecting a material of the inner band at least around the first bearing to have a particular stiffness to provide the first activation area on the outer band of about 60 degrees on either side of the first bearing.

16. The method of claim 14, further comprising: selecting a material of the inner band at least around the first bearing to have a particular flexibility such that a pressure on the outer band at a location offset from the first bearing causes the inner band to deform and contact the outer band before the first pressure threshold at the first bearing is exceeded.

17. The method of claim 13, further comprising: selecting a material of the inner band at least around the first bearing to have a particular stiffness to create a particular activation area.

18. The method of claim 13, further comprising: physically preventing the outer band from activating the first bearing when a pressure is applied on the outer band at a location offset from the first bearing.

19. A ring input device configured to detect a press input, comprising: a bearing arrangement disposed between an outer band and an inner band of the ring input device for enabling the outer band to rotate relative to the inner band, the bearing arrangement comprising a first bearing; means for detecting an application of a first pressure on the outer band at the first bearing; and means for generating a first press input when the first pressure exceeds a first pressure threshold at the first bearing.

20. The ring input device of claim 19, further comprising: means for physically preventing the outer band from activating the first bearing when a pressure is applied on the outer band at a location offset from the first bearing.

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