Haptic structures for providing localized tactile output

Abstract

Disclosed herein are structures, devices, methods, and systems for providing tactile output on an electronic device. In some embodiments, the electronic device includes an actuator configured to move in a first direction. The electronic device also includes a substrate coupled to the actuator. When the actuator moves in the first direction, the substrate or a portion of the substrate moves in a second direction by virtue of being coupled to the actuator. In some embodiments, the movement of the substrate is perpendicular to the movement of the actuator.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with an international application date of September 12, 2017, a national application number of 201780020790.1, and an invention name of “Tactile structure for providing local tactile output”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This Patent Cooperation Treaty patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 397,541, filed on September 21, 2016, and entitled “Haptic Structure or Providing Localized Haptic Output,” and U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 416,466, filed on January 26, 2017, and entitled “Haptic Structure for Providing Localized Haptic Output,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to providing tactile output for electronic devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to using tactile structures to provide localized tactile output for electronic devices. Background Art

[0005] Electronic devices are common in today's society. Example electronic devices include mobile phones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, and the like. Some of these electronic devices include tactile actuators that provide tactile output to a user. The tactile output may be provided by an actuator that utilizes a vibration motor or an oscillation motor. However, these vibration motors typically vibrate the entire electronic device and are unable to provide tactile output at a specific area. Summary of the invention

[0006] Disclosed herein is a tactile structure for providing local tactile output and tactile sensation to an electronic device. In some embodiments, the tactile structure includes a beam structure or other deflection mechanism processed by or within the surface or some other component (e.g., a housing component) of the electronic device. The beam structure is coupled to a piezoelectric element and is configured to deflect in different directions according to a current, voltage, or other input signal applied to the piezoelectric element. When the beam structure deflects, the surface of the electronic device may also deflect; this causes a tactile output of tactile sensation. In some embodiments, the tactile output may be provided to an input surface (e.g., a surface, structure, or the like designed to receive input from a user).

[0007] More specifically, described herein is an electronic device having an input surface including a tactile structure. The electronic device may include: an input surface; a tactile structure, the tactile structure operably connected to the input surface and including: a substrate, the substrate defining a beam structure; a spacer, the spacer coupled to a first side of the beam structure; and a piezoelectric element, the piezoelectric element coupled to a second side of the beam structure; wherein the piezoelectric element is configured to deflect the beam structure in a first direction in response to a first input signal applied to the piezoelectric element to provide a first tactile output; and the piezoelectric element is configured to deflect the beam structure in a second direction in response to a second input signal applied to the piezoelectric element to provide a second tactile output.

[0008] Also described is a tactile structure for an electronic device. The tactile structure includes a surface, the surface defining a first deflection mechanism and a second deflection mechanism; a first actuation element, the first actuation element coupled to the first deflection mechanism; a second actuation element, the second actuation element coupled to the second deflection mechanism; and a substrate, the substrate coupled to the first deflection mechanism and the second deflection mechanism; wherein the substrate is operable to deflect in response to a deflection of one or both of the first deflection mechanism and the second deflection mechanism.

[0009] The present disclosure also describes an electronic device having an input surface and a tactile structure disposed below the input surface. The tactile structure is operable to selectively provide tactile output at different locations on the input surface. The tactile structure includes a first beam structure, the first beam structure is formed at a first location below the input surface; a first spacer, the first spacer is coupled to the first beam structure and a first portion of the input surface; and a first piezoelectric element, the first piezoelectric element is coupled to the first beam structure. The first piezoelectric element is operable to cause the first beam structure and the first portion of the input surface to deflect in response to a first received input. The tactile structure also includes a second beam structure, the second beam structure is formed at a second location below the input surface; a second spacer, the second spacer is coupled to the second beam structure and a second portion of the input surface; and a second piezoelectric element. The second piezoelectric element is coupled to the second beam structure and is operable to cause the second beam structure and the second portion of the input surface to deflect in response to a second received input. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The present disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like structural elements, and wherein:

[0011] Figure 1A Exemplary electronic devices that may use or incorporate haptic structures that provide tactile output are illustrated;

[0012] Figure 1B Another exemplary electronic device that may use or incorporate a haptic structure that provides a tactile output is illustrated;

[0013] Figure 2A An exemplary haptic structure in an inactive state is illustrated;

[0014] Figure 2B The first active state is shown Figure 2A An exemplary tactile structure of

[0015] Figure 2C Illustrate the second active state Figure 2A An exemplary tactile structure of

[0016] Figure 3A illustrating another exemplary tactile structure in an inactive state;

[0017] Figure 3B The first active state is shown Figure 3A An exemplary tactile structure of

[0018] Figure 3C Illustrate the second active state Figure 3A An exemplary tactile structure of

[0019] Figure 4A illustrates a top view of a set of exemplary haptic structures;

[0020] Figure 4B Illustrated Figure 4A A bottom view of an exemplary tactile structure;

[0021] Figure 5A illustrating an exemplary haptic structure in a first operational state;

[0022] Figure 5B The second operating state is illustrated Figure 5A A perspective view of an exemplary tactile structure of FIG.

[0023] Figure 5C The third operating state is illustrated. Figure 5A A perspective view of an exemplary tactile structure of FIG.

[0024] Fig. 6A illustrates a top view of another set of exemplary haptic structures;

[0025] Figure 6B Illustrated Fig. 6A A bottom view of an exemplary tactile structure;

[0026] Fig. 7A illustrating another set of exemplary haptic structures in a first operational state;

[0027] Figure 7B The second operating state is illustrated Fig. 7A A perspective view of an exemplary tactile structure of FIG.

[0028] Fig. 8A Yet another set of embodiment haptic structures are illustrated;

[0029] Figure 8B Illustrate the operational state Fig. 8A An exemplary tactile structure of; and

[0030] Fig. 9 As an example, Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of a tactile structure integrated with an electronic device taken along line AA.

[0031] Fig. 10A A first cross-sectional view of a haptic structure integrated with a display of an electronic device is illustrated.

[0032] Fig. 10B A second cross-sectional view of a haptic structure integrated with a display of an electronic device is illustrated.

[0033] Fig.11 The haptic structure is illustrated integrated into a sample input device, in this case a stylus.

[0034] Fig.12 A haptic structure is illustrated integrated into a sample input device, in this case a mouse. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Reference will now be made specifically to the representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalent forms that may be included in the spirit and scope of the embodiments defined by the appended claims.

[0036] Embodiments described herein relate to providing global tactile output and local tactile output on the surface of an electronic device. As used herein, the term "global tactile output" means that a tactile structure provides a tactile output on the entire surface of an electronic device, and so provides a sense of touch, and the tactile structure is located in or below the entire surface of the electronic device. Similarly, the term "local tactile output" means that a tactile structure provides a tactile output on a portion of the surface of an electronic device, and the tactile structure is located in or below a portion of the surface of the electronic device. For example, a surface may be an input surface configured to accept user input.

[0037] The tactile output provided by the tactile structure can be a discrete output or a continuous output. For example, the tactile structure can provide a discrete tactile output to simulate a key or button actuation. In other specific implementations, the tactile structure can provide a continuous output, such as vibration. When a user moves an input mechanism (e.g., a stylus, finger, or the like) over an input surface of an electronic device, the vibration can be used to simulate a texture.

[0038] In addition to the specific embodiments given above, the tactile structure can provide localized or global tactile output in response to any number of events associated with the electronic device. Such events include, but are not limited to, events associated with applications executed on the electronic device, button or keyboard key presses, rotation of a dial, crown or knob, alarms, displayed images, incoming or outgoing electronic messages, incoming or outgoing telephone calls, and the like.

[0039] In addition, although electronic devices are specifically mentioned and shown in the figures, the tactile structures described herein may be included in various electronic devices, mechanical devices, electromechanical devices, etc. For example, the tactile structures may be included in styluses, mice, knobs, steering wheels, dashboards, bands for wearable electronic devices, wearable devices (such as watches), gloves, glasses, and other wearable devices, etc.

[0040] Unlike conventional tactile actuators that utilize vibration or oscillation motors, the tactile structure of the present disclosure includes one or more beam structures or deflection mechanisms. The beam structure may be formed by or within a substrate, an input surface, or other portion of a device. For example, the beam structure may be defined by a first hole and a second hole in a substrate or surface of an electronic device. The holes are typically (but not necessarily) parallel and spaced apart from each other. In some embodiments, the holes are arranged so that the opposite ends of the beam structure are fixed relative to the substrate or surface. In some embodiments, the holes may be conical, angled relative to each other, curved, or otherwise nonlinear, etc., rather than parallel holes.

[0041] Sample substrates include external surfaces of electronic devices, support structures within electronic devices, plates within electronic devices, or the like. A substrate is generally a structure on which or by which a tactile actuator is formed, while a "surface" is a structure through which a tactile output is transmitted. In some embodiments, the substrate and the surface may be the same. For example, one or more tactile actuators may be formed by or on one side of the material when a user interacts with a second side of the material. Thus, the material may function as both a surface and a substrate.

[0042] In the embodiments described herein, a beam structure having opposite ends that are fixed is referred to as a "fixed beam structure". In another embodiment, a beam structure may have one end that is fixed relative to a substrate, while the other end is not fixed relative to the substrate. In the embodiments described herein, a beam structure having one fixed end is referred to as a "cantilever beam structure".

[0043] As will be described below, each of the beam structures described herein includes a piezoelectric element that causes the beam structure to deflect. The direction of the deflection depends on the received input signal. For example, the beam structure may deflect in a first direction in response to a first received input signal, and may deflect in a second direction in response to a second received input signal. Each received input signal may be a voltage signal, a current signal, or any other suitable input signal.

[0044] In some embodiments, the beam structure may be coupled to the surface. When the beam structure deflects, the surface or portion of the surface may also deflect or bend. For example, if the beam structure deflects in an upward direction, the surface also deflects in an upward direction. Similarly, if the beam structure deflects in a downward direction, the surface also deflects in a downward direction. The deflection of the beam structure and / or the surface causes a tactile output and a corresponding tactile sensation.

[0045] For example, when in the nominal state of the beam structure, the beam structure may be flat. When an input signal is applied to the piezoelectric element, the beam structure may be convexly or concavely formed into an arch. When a surface is coupled to the beam structure, deflection of the beam structure causes the surface to deflect or otherwise move. The movement of the surface in this manner provides a tactile output that can be felt by a person touching the surface. Therefore, the surface can act as an input surface and an output surface, as long as the surface can receive user input and provide tactile output.

[0046] In some embodiments, the haptic structure may include a single beam structure having a single piezoelectric element. In other cases, the beam structure may have two or more piezoelectric elements. In other cases, the haptic structure may include two or more beam structures, and each beam structure may have a single piezoelectric element or multiple piezoelectric elements. In addition, the haptic structure may include a fixed beam structure and a cantilever beam structure, either of which may be associated with the piezoelectric element(s).

[0047] The beam structures can be positioned at different zones or regions. For example, one or more cantilever beam structures can be positioned on a peripheral portion of the haptic structure, while one or more fixed beam structures can be positioned on an interior portion of the haptic structure. Each of the beam structures can be actuated simultaneously, substantially simultaneously, and / or sequentially to provide different types of tactile outputs.

[0048] For example, a first input signal may be provided to a piezoelectric element of a first beam structure at a first time, causing the first beam structure to provide a first tactile output at a first position. A second input signal may be provided to a piezoelectric element of a second beam structure at the same time or at a different time, causing the second beam structure to provide a second tactile output at a second position.

[0049] In some embodiments, the beam structure can be integrated into the housing or a portion of the housing of the electronic device. For example, if the electronic device includes a keyboard, a trackpad, or other such input mechanism, the tactile structure can be integrated into the keyboard (e.g., the top housing of the keyboard) or the trackpad. In other specific implementations, the tactile structure can be integrated into the display of the electronic device.

[0050] The tactile structure may also be used with a force sensing element. For example, the tactile structure and the force sensing element may be incorporated into a single electronic device. Thus, the force sensing element may be operable to detect a force input received on an input surface of the electronic device, and the tactile structure may provide a tactile output on the input surface of the electronic device. In other specific implementations, the piezoelectric element may be configured to determine the amount of force provided on the input surface of the electronic device.

[0051] Reference below Figure 1A-Figure 9 These and other embodiments are discussed. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0052] Figure 1A An exemplary electronic device 100 that may incorporate a tactile structure 140 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. The tactile structure 140 may provide tactile output for the electronic device 100. Figure 1A As shown, the electronic device 100 may be a laptop computing device. In other specific implementations, the electronic device 100 may be a computer such as Figure 1B Although Figure 1A-1B Different electronic devices 100 are shown, but similar reference numerals are used to refer to similar components. For example, each electronic device 100 may include a display. Thus, reference numeral 110 is used to refer to the display of each electronic device 100.

[0053] Additionally, although specific electronic devices are shown in the figures and described below, the haptic structures described herein may be used with a variety of electronic devices, including, but not limited to, mobile phones, personal digital assistants, time-keeping devices, health monitoring devices, wearable electronic devices, input devices (e.g., stylus), desktop computers, electronic glasses, etc. Although various electronic devices are mentioned, the haptic structures 140 of the present disclosure may also be used with other products and in combination with various materials.

[0054] For example, the haptic structure 140 can be used on a band of a wearable electronic device, a dashboard of a car, a steering wheel of a car, a housing of an electronic device, a keyboard, etc. Using the haptic structure described herein can replace traditional rotary or linear actuators. As a result, the profile of the electronic device can be smaller and / or thinner.

[0055] The electronic device 100 may include a display 110, a housing 120, and one or more input mechanisms 130. In some embodiments, the input mechanism 130 may be a touch-sensitive input device such as a touchpad, a keyboard, etc. The display 110, the housing 120, and the one or more input mechanisms 130 may be coupled to a tactile structure 140 so that a tactile output is provided directly on each component. For example, the tactile structure 140 may be disposed under the display 110 (or otherwise coupled to the display 110), and the display 110 includes a cover glass that is part of the display 110. Therefore, when the beam structure or deflection mechanism of the tactile structure 140 is actuated, the display 110 (and in some embodiments, only the cover glass) also deflects to provide a tactile output.

[0056] In some embodiments, the display 110 can be a touch-sensitive display that detects and measures the location of a touch on an input surface of the display 110. Thus, when the touch sensor detects the location of a touch, an electronic signal can drive one or more tactile structures 140 at the detected location, thereby generating a tactile output at that location.

[0057] The touch sensor may be a capacitance-based touch sensor that is disposed relative to the display 110 or a display stackup of the electronic device 100. Although a capacitance-based touch sensor is disclosed, other sensors may be used.

[0058] The electronic device 100 may also include a force sensing element that uses a force sensor to detect and measure the magnitude of the force of a touch on a surface of the electronic device 100. The surface may be, for example, a display 110, a trackpad, or some other input device or input surface, or may be a surface that is not designed or intended to accept input.

[0059] The tactile structure 140 of the present disclosure may be combined with a touch sensor or force sensor or otherwise integrated with a touch sensor or force sensor and may provide input capabilities and output capabilities. For example, the tactile structure 140 may provide a tactile output at or near the location of any detected touch input. The tactile structure 140 may also provide various types of tactile outputs based on the amount of force detected. In addition, the tactile structure may be used to detect the amount of force received, such as will be described below.

[0060] The electronic device 100 may include a housing 120 that surrounds one or more components of the electronic device 100. The housing 120 may also be coupled to or may otherwise incorporate one or more tactile structures 140. For example, one or more beam structures of the tactile structures 140 may be formed within the housing 120 of the electronic device 100.

[0061] The tactile structures 140 can also be used with or coupled to the input mechanism 130. For example, one or more tactile structures 140 can be coupled to a trackpad and / or force-sensitive input device of the electronic device 100.

[0062] The tactile structure 140 disclosed herein may also be used in place of the input mechanism 130, or as an additional input mechanism. For example, the tactile structure 140 may be placed under or otherwise integrated with the housing 120, cover glass, and / or display 110 of the electronic device 100, and may be used to detect received input.

[0063] In one implementation, when a force is received at or near the location of the tactile structure 140, the tactile structure 140 may generate a voltage or current that can be measured by the electronic components of the electronic device 100. The processing element may sense the charge (or current) and accept the charge (or current) as an input. Such inputs may be binary (e.g., if the charge or current exceeds a threshold, it is counted as an input) or variable across a continuum (e.g., different generated charges / currents are equal to differences in different inputs or inputs of a particular type).

[0064] To continue with this embodiment, the amount of current or voltage generated by the tactile structure 140 can vary based on the type of input received. For example, if the amount of current generated or detected is above a first threshold, it can indicate that a first type of touch input (e.g., a quick touch or press) is received. If the amount of current generated or detected is above a second threshold, it can indicate that a second type of touch input (e.g., a long touch or press) is received.

[0065] The tactile structure 140 may also work with one or more force sensing elements or one or more force sensors to determine the amount of force applied to an input surface (or other surface) of the electronic device 100. In addition, the tactile structure 140 may be used to determine the location of the received input and to determine one or more gestures associated with the received input. For example, a swipe gesture may be detected if the tactile structure or series of tactile structures detects touch input within a certain time period and a certain distance on the surface of the electronic device 100.

[0066] Figure 2A An exemplary haptic structure 200 of an electronic device in an inactive state is illustrated. Figure 2B The first active state is shown Figure 2A An exemplary tactile structure 200 of Figure 2C Illustrate the second active state Figure 2A The tactile structure 200 may be similar to the tactile structure 200 described above. Figure 1A-1BAn exemplary electronic device 100 is shown and described for use with the exemplary electronic device 100 .

[0067] The tactile structure 200 may include a deflection mechanism 210. The tactile structure 200 may be referred to as a fixed beam structure because both ends of the deflection mechanism 210 are coupled to, formed within, or otherwise integrated with a surface (such as an input surface, or in some cases a substrate) that constitutes the touch structure 200. For example, the deflection mechanism 210 may be defined by two or more parallel holes that extend through a substrate such as will be shown and described below.

[0068] The deflection mechanism 210 can be approximately 0.3 mm-0.5 mm thick, approximately 7 mm-9 mm wide, and approximately 45 mm long, although other dimensions can be used. Additionally, a first portion of the deflection mechanism 210 can have a first dimension, while a second portion of the deflection mechanism 210 has a second, different dimension. For example, the first portion of the deflection mechanism 210 can have a first thickness, while the second portion of the deflection mechanism 210 can have a second thickness.

[0069] The haptic structure 200 also includes an actuation element 220. The actuation element 220 can be coupled to one side of the deflection mechanism 210. In some implementations, the actuation element 220 is a piezoelectric material. In other implementations, the actuation element 220 can be any type of actuator that moves or can be driven by an input signal (e.g., an electrical signal such as a current or voltage, an optical signal, or other input) to cause the deflection mechanism 210 to move or deflect along an axis.

[0070] For example, when the first input signal is applied to the actuator element 220, the actuator element 220 may cause the deflection mechanism 210 to have a motion such as Figure 2B When the second input signal is applied to the actuator 220, the actuator may cause the deflection mechanism 210 to have a concave shape such as Figure 2C Each time the deflection mechanism 210 is deflected, a tactile output may be provided.

[0071] In some embodiments, the actuator 220 can be driven to produce discrete tactile outputs, or the actuator 220 can be driven to produce continuous tactile outputs. Additionally, the actuator 220 can be driven within a range of frequencies to produce tactile outputs of different types and intensities. For example, the actuator 220 can be driven at a frequency of 1 Hz to 1 kHz or more.

[0072] Although Figure 2A2, but the spacers may be attached to different sides of the deflection mechanism 210, and the deflection mechanism 210 may be coupled to a surface. The surface may be a cover glass of an electronic device, a housing of an electronic device, etc. Because the surface is coupled to the deflection mechanism 210, when the deflection mechanism 210 is deflected, the surface may also deflect and provide a tactile output.

[0073] Although the haptic structure 200 is discussed specifically with respect to electronic devices, the haptic structure 200 may be used with other devices including mechanical devices and electronic devices such as those described herein, as well as non-mechanical devices and non-electronic devices.

[0074] Figure 3A Another exemplary tactile structure 300 for an electronic device is illustrated. The tactile structure 300 may be referred to as a cantilever beam structure because one end of the deflection mechanism 310 is coupled to, processed by, or otherwise integrated with a substrate of the tactile structure 300, while the other end of the deflection mechanism 310 is free.

[0075] The haptic structure 300 also includes an actuation element 320, which may be a piezoelectric actuator or the like. The deflection mechanism 310 and the actuation element 320 may operate in a similar manner to the deflection mechanism 210 and the actuation element 220 described above.

[0076] For example, when a first input signal is applied to the actuator element 320, the deflection mechanism 310 may be configured to move in a manner such as Figure 3B Similarly, when a second input signal current is applied to the actuator element 320, the deflection mechanism 310 may be such as Figure 3C As shown, the second direction is generally opposite to the first direction.

[0077] Deflection of the deflection mechanism 310 in the described manner can provide a tactile output to a user of the electronic device. More specifically, when the deflection mechanism 310 is deflected, one or more portions of the electronic device incorporating the tactile structure 300 can also be deflected.

[0078] Figure 4A A top-down view of an exemplary tactile structure 400 is illustrated. The tactile structure 400 may include a plurality of fixed beam structures such as those described above. More specifically, the tactile structure 400 may include a substrate (which may be an input surface, housing, or internal component of an electronic device such as a support plate) defining a first hole 410 and a second hole 420. The first hole 410 is spaced apart from the second hole 420 and is parallel relative to the second hole 420. The first hole 410 and the second hole may be processed from the substrate to form a beam structure 430. For example, the first hole 410 and the second hole 420 may extend in whole or in part through the surface of the tactile structure 400 to form or otherwise define the beam structure 430.

[0079] As mentioned above, Figure 4A The beam structure 430 shown in the figure is a fixed beam structure because the first hole 410 and the second hole 420 are configured so that the opposite ends of the beam structure 430 are fixed or otherwise integrated with the surface of the tactile structure 400. However, although the beam structure 430 is shown and described as being integrated with or otherwise formed in the surface of the tactile structure 400, the beam structure 430 can be a separate component. For example, one or more holes, channels, or openings can be formed in the surface of the tactile structure 400, and the beam structure 430 can be placed over or within the holes.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the tactile structure 400 includes a 2×4 array of beam structures 430. However, the size of the tactile structure 400 and the number of beam structures 430 are scalable. As such, the tactile structure 400 can include any number of beam structures 430 arranged in various configurations. For example, a tactile structure 400 having a first array of beam structures can be used in one electronic device, while a tactile structure 400 having a second array of beam structures 430 can be used in a different computing device. It should also be noted that a single electronic device can have a tactile structure with varying arrays of beam structures.

[0081] In some embodiments, the tactile structure 400 can include a spacer 440. The spacer can be coupled to a first side of the beam structure 430. The spacer 440 can be used to couple the beam structure 430 to an output surface (e.g., Figure 5A The spacer 440 may be an energy absorbing material, such as a polyurethane material. The spacer 440 may also have an adhesive material that couples the beam structure 430 to the surface. As described above, when the beam structure 430 deflects, the surface may also deflect to provide a tactile output.

[0082] Figure 4B A bottom view of a tactile structure 400 is illustrated. Figure 4B As shown, the piezoelectric element 450 may be disposed on the lower side of each beam structure 430. When an input signal is applied to the piezoelectric element 450, one or more dimensions of the piezoelectric element 450 may change. For example, when a first input signal is applied to the piezoelectric element 450, the length of the piezoelectric element 450 may increase, which causes the beam structure 430 to exhibit a concave shape or deflect in a first direction. Similarly, when a second input signal is applied to the piezoelectric element 450, the length of the piezoelectric element 450 may decrease, which causes the beam structure 430 to exhibit a convex shape or deflect in a second direction.

[0083] As described above, in some implementations, the tactile structures described herein can be configured to provide local tactile output or global tactile output. For example, when providing global tactile output, all beam structures in a given area of ​​the tactile structure can be actuated. When providing local tactile output, one or more beam structures in a given area of ​​the tactile structure can be actuated.

[0084] For example and reference Figure 5A , the tactile structure 500 may include one or more beam structures 520. Each of the beam structures 520 may be attached or otherwise coupled to a surface 510 using one or more spacers 530. In some implementations, the surface may be a cover glass of a display, an input surface of a touch pad, a housing of an electronic device, etc. The surface 510 may also be plastic, acrylic, alloy material, or other material.

[0085] When providing a global tactile output, all beam structures 520 of the tactile structure may deflect as shown. In response, the surface 510 also deflects or moves in the same direction as the beam structures 520. Although Figure 5A The beam structure 520 is illustrated in a raised or convex configuration, but the beam structure 520 can be moved downward or otherwise have a concave configuration such that the beam structure 520 extends below the surface of the tactile structure 500. In either case, due to the coupling between the spacer 530 and the surface 510, the surface 510 can move with the beam structure 520.

[0086] Although a single surface 510 is shown, each beam structure 520 may be associated with an independent or other unique surface. Thus, when each beam structure 520 is actuated, the corresponding surface 510 of each beam structure 520 may also move accordingly. For example, each surface 510 may be an independent key of a keyboard. When the beam structure 520 is actuated, each independent key may move accordingly.

[0087] In other specific implementations, the nominal state of the beam structure 520 may be a state where the beam structure 520 is concave or convex. When the piezoelectric element is actuated, the beam structure may flatten or become more concave or convex. This may be useful when using a rounded surface (e.g., a cover glass for a display with rounded edges, etc.). In this way, tactile output may be provided on both flat and rounded surfaces.

[0088] Figure 5B and Figure 5C A tactile structure 500 is illustrated that provides a localized tactile output. Figure 5B In the embodiment of the present invention, the top center beam structure 520 is deflected in response to an input signal being applied to a piezoelectric element associated with the top center beam structure 520. In response, a portion of the surface 510 adjacent to the top center beam structure 520 is also deflected and provides a tactile output.

[0089] Likewise and Figure 5C As shown, the upper right beam structure 520 of the tactile structure 500 can be actuated in a similar manner. As a result, a portion of the surface 510 adjacent to the beam structure 520 can also be deflected in the same direction. Therefore, it can be understood that the first tactile actuator can generate a tactile output at or through a first portion of the input surface, and the second tactile actuator can generate another tactile output at or through a second portion of the input surface.

[0090] Although the illustrated and described embodiments show a single beam structure being actuated, different combinations of beam structures 520 may be actuated simultaneously or substantially simultaneously or sequentially. Additionally, a first beam structure 520 may be actuated in a first direction (e.g., to exhibit a convex shape) while a second beam structure 520 is actuated in a second, opposite direction (e.g., to exhibit a concave shape). In other implementations, one beam structure 520 may be actuated at a first position while a different beam structure 520 is actuated at a second position to reduce or enhance the tactile output provided at the first position.

[0091] Fig. 6A A top-down view of another exemplary tactile structure 600 is illustrated. The tactile structure 600 can include a plurality of cantilever beam structures such as those described above. More specifically, the tactile structure 600 can include a substrate defining a hole 610 extending around a beam structure 620 such that one end of the beam structure is integrated with a surface of the tactile structure 600, while the other end of the beam structure is not secured to the surface of the tactile structure 600.

[0092] The tactile structure 600 can include a spacer 630. The spacer 630 can function in a similar manner to the spacer 440 described above.

[0093] Figure 6B A bottom view of a tactile structure 600 is illustrated. Figure 6B As shown, a piezoelectric element 640 may be disposed on the underside of each beam structure 620. The piezoelectric element 640 may function in a similar manner to the piezoelectric element 440 described above.

[0094] Fig. 7A A perspective view of an exemplary tactile structure 700 in a first operational state is illustrated. The tactile structure 700 can include one or more cantilever beam structures 720 coupled to a surface 710 using one or more spacers 730. Similar to the tactile structure 500 described above, the tactile structure 700 can be configured to provide global tactile output or localized tactile output such as described.

[0095] For example and reference Figure 7B, one or more beam structures 720 may deflect in response to actuation of a piezoelectric element of the beam structure 720. When the beam structure 720 deflects, a portion of the surface 710 adjacent to or otherwise coupled to the beam structure 720 may also deflect due to the coupling between the spacer 730, the beam structure 720, and the surface 710.

[0096] Fig. 8A Illustrated is a perspective view of another exemplary haptic structure 800. In this embodiment, the haptic structure 800 includes a cantilever beam structure 810 and a fixed beam structure 820. Each of the cantilever beam structure 810 and the fixed beam structure 820 functions in a similar manner as described above.

[0097] For example, Figure 8B As shown, the cantilever beam structure 810 can be actuated simultaneously with the fixed beam structure. In some embodiments, the cantilever beam structure 810 can be placed on the perimeter of the tactile structure 800 to provide enhanced tactile output near the borders or interfaces of the tactile structure 800. Due to various interface conditions associated with the tactile structure 800, enhanced tactile output may be required around the perimeter of the tactile structure 800. For example, a peripheral portion of a surface may be coupled to the cantilever beam structure 810 while the fixed beam structure 820 is attached to the housing of the electronic device, which makes it more difficult for the surface to move at those locations.

[0098] The cantilevered tactile structure 810 can be positioned so that the free ends of the beam structure are positioned near a perimeter such as shown, in order to provide a more pronounced tactile output at those locations.

[0099] In some embodiments, different combinations of cantilever beam structures 810 and fixed beam structures 820 can be actuated simultaneously, substantially simultaneously, or sequentially. In addition, each of the beam structures can deflect in the same or different directions. In other embodiments, a first set of beam structures can provide a first type of tactile output (e.g., discrete tactile output) while a second set of beam structures provides a second type of output (e.g., continuous tactile output).

[0100] Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of a tactile structure 900 integrated with an electronic device such as, for example, a keyboard is illustrated. Figure 1A Line AA cuts a cross-section of the tactile structure 900 .

[0101] The tactile structure 900 and more specifically the deflection mechanism 920 of the tactile structure 900 can be integrated with or otherwise formed in the housing 910 (e.g., top case) of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the hole forming the deflection mechanism 920 is machined from the housing 910.

[0102] As described above, the haptic structure 900 includes the actuation element 930 formed on a first side of the deflection mechanism 920 and the spacer 940 formed on an opposite side of the actuation element 930. The spacer 940 may be adhesively coupled to the surface 950.

[0103] When current is applied to the actuation element 930, the deflection mechanism 920 deflects (eg, bows or otherwise moves in an upward or downward direction). When the deflection mechanism 920 deflects, the surface 950 moves in a similar manner such as described above.

[0104] In some cases, the haptic structure may be integrated into a display 110 of an electronic device, such as the laptop computing device 100 shown in FIG. 1 . Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B A cross-sectional view of a sample tactile structure 140 beneath the display 110 of the computing device 100 is illustrated. Fig. 10A In the cross-sectional view of FIG, multiple tactile actuators 140 can be seen in different rows of actuators. Fig. 10B In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 , multiple haptic actuators 140 can be seen, each in a different column. Typically, the haptic actuators 140 will operate to bow, bend, or otherwise deflect toward the cover glass 1030 and thereby deform the cover glass 1030, as described in more detail below.

[0105] Each haptic actuator 140 is disposed on a support 1000 formed from a portion of a laptop housing 1010. In some embodiments, the actuators 140 can rest on (as part of) a beam structure formed by the support 1000 as discussed elsewhere herein.

[0106] Generally speaking, the haptic actuator 140 is disposed below the display layer 1020 and the cover glass 1030; the display layer 1020 and the cover glass 1030 together form the display 110 of the electronic device. The display layer can be an LCD display, an LED display, an OLED display, or any other suitable display. Likewise, the cover glass 1030 can be formed of glass (whether chemically strengthened or not), plastic, sapphire, or any other suitable material.

[0107] exist Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B In the embodiment shown in , both the cover glass 1030 and the display layer 1020 are shown as floating relative to the housing 1010. In some embodiments, the cover glass and / or the display layer can be adjacent and / or attached to the housing, or the cover glass and / or the display layer can be separated by a gap as shown. In other embodiments, the display layer and the cover glass can be adjacent at certain points and / or attached to the housing at certain points, but float at other points.

[0108] When haptic actuator 140 is activated, haptic actuator 140 can flex, deflect, or otherwise deform as described herein. This operation, in turn, can deflect display layer 1020 and cover glass 1030 upward, thereby providing tactile output to a user in contact with cover glass 1030.

[0109] Although both the cover glass 1030 and the display layer 1020 are deformed, the deformation may not be visually perceptible because the deformation may be too small to be seen. In other embodiments, the deformation may be visually perceptible but is typically covered by a user's finger, stylus, or other object that receives tactile feedback through the cover glass.

[0110] It should be appreciated that the embodiments described herein may be used in any number of different electronic devices. For example, Fig.11 A stylus 1100 is illustrated that incorporates a set of tactile structures 1110. The tactile structures can be within the body of the stylus 1100, or on the exterior of the body of the stylus 1100. The tactile structures can be formed on or attached to a substrate within the body, on the interior or exterior of a sidewall, etc. Regardless of the location, the tactile structures 1110 can provide tactile output (and therefore tactile sensation) to a person grasping, touching, or otherwise interacting with the stylus.

[0111] same, Fig.12 A mouse 1200 is illustrated, in which multiple tactile structures 1210 are incorporated to replace buttons. The tactile structures can simulate a "click" or a traditional mouse button, or can provide more complex and / or precise feedback. In some embodiments, a force applied to the outside of the mouse 1200 can cause the tactile structure 1210 to deform, thereby generating an electrical signal from or in the piezoelectric element of the tactile structure. The magnitude of the electrical signal can vary with the force applied, as long as a greater force can deflect or deform the piezoelectric element to a greater extent than a weaker force. Therefore, the tactile structure 1210 can also receive input from the user in a manner similar to a dome switch or other switch element, but can have the added benefit of measuring non-binary forces. Therefore, the various tactile structures described herein can be used as both input mechanisms and output mechanisms.

[0112] In other embodiments, the haptic structure may be incorporated into an output surface that also does not accept touch or force input. In other embodiments, a wearable device (such as a watch) may incorporate a sample haptic structure as described herein on a portion of the wearable device that contacts the user's skin when worn. The haptic structure may be actuated to provide output to the user's skin. Such haptic structures may be within a band, on the back of a watch body, etc.

[0113] Accordingly, it should be appreciated that any of a variety of electronic devices may incorporate the haptic structures described herein.

[0114] For the purpose of illustration, the above description uses specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the embodiments. Therefore, for the purpose of illustration and description, the above description of the specific embodiments described herein is presented. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that, in view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are possible.

Claims

1. An electronic device, comprising: monitor; a housing pivotally coupled to the display and including a cover glass defining an input surface of the electronic device; as well as a tactile structure disposed below the cover glass and comprising: a base plate having a pair of elongated holes and a beam structure defined between the pair of elongated holes, the beam structure having a beam length extending from a first fixed end to a second fixed end; a spacer positioned along a first side of the beam structure and between the substrate and the cover glass, the spacer coupling the beam structure to the cover glass; and a piezoelectric element positioned along a second side of the beam structure and having a piezoelectric length extending along the beam length of the beam structure; wherein: The piezoelectric element is configured to deflect the beam structure and locally deform the cover glass in response to input received at the cover glass to provide a tactile output along the input surface. 2 . The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the cover glass is located over a portion of the substrate between the pair of elongated holes. 3 . The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the tactile structure is configured to detect an input at the input surface in response to a downward deflection of the beam structure caused by the input.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The tactile output is a first tactile output generated by the beam structure being deflected in a first direction; and The piezoelectric element is configured to deflect the beam structure in a second direction to provide a second tactile output along the input surface.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The tactile structure is a first tactile structure; The tactile output is a first tactile output; and The electronic device further comprises a second tactile structure, the second tactile structure being located below the cover glass; wherein: the first tactile structure providing the first tactile output at a first location on the cover glass; and The second tactile structure provides a second tactile output at a second location on the cover glass.

6. The electronic device of claim 5, wherein the first tactile structure is operable to deflect independently of the second tactile structure.

7. A portable computer comprising: monitor; as well as a housing defining an interior volume and pivotally coupled to the display, the housing comprising: a cover glass defining a touch-sensitive input surface; a substrate disposed below the cover glass, the substrate defining a pair of elongated slits and a beam structure partially defined by the pair of elongated slits, the beam structure extending from a first fixed end to a second fixed end, the beam structure having a first surface facing the cover glass and a second surface facing the interior of the housing; a spacer between the first surface and the cover glass, the spacer coupling the beam structure to the cover glass; and A piezoelectric element is coupled to the second surface and is operable to deflect the beam structure in response to a touch input to the cover glass, thereby causing a localized deflection of the cover glass.

8. The portable computer according to claim 7, wherein: The substrate defines an array of beam structures, each beam structure in the array of beam structures being located beneath a corresponding region of the cover glass.

9. The portable computer according to claim 7, wherein: The pair of elongated slits are parallel to each other.

10. The portable computer according to claim 7, wherein: In response to receiving a touch input, the length of the piezoelectric element is configured to change; as well as In response to the length of the piezoelectric element changing, the piezoelectric element is configured to deflect in a second direction transverse to the length of the piezoelectric element.

11. The portable computer according to claim 10, wherein: The portable computer further comprises a set of piezoelectric elements, the set of piezoelectric elements comprising the piezoelectric element; and Each piezoelectric element in the set of piezoelectric elements is located below a corresponding area of ​​the cover glass.

12. An electronic device comprising: monitor; as well as a housing pivotally coupled to the display, the housing comprising: a cover glass defining a first region and a second region adjacent to the first region; A substrate, the substrate defining: a first deflection mechanism located below the first region and having a first fixed end and a second fixed end; a first opening extending through the substrate and positioned along a first side of the first deflection mechanism; a second opening extending through the substrate and positioned along a second side of the first deflection mechanism; a second deflection mechanism positioned below the second region, the first opening being positioned along a first side of the second deflection mechanism; a third opening extending through the substrate and positioned along a first side of the second deflection mechanism; a fourth opening extending through the substrate and positioned along a second side of the second deflection mechanism; a first piezoelectric element coupled to a first side of the first deflection mechanism; and a second piezoelectric element coupled to the first side of the second deflection mechanism; a first spacer coupled to a second side of the first deflection mechanism between the substrate and the cover glass and coupling the first deflection mechanism to the cover glass; and a second spacer, the second spacer being coupled to a second side of the second deflection mechanism between the substrate and the cover glass and coupling the second deflection mechanism to the cover glass; wherein: The first deflection mechanism is configured to locally deflect the cover glass along the first region; and The second deflection mechanism is configured to locally deflect the cover glass along the second region.

13. The electronic device of claim 12, wherein the cover glass is configured to locally deflect in an outward direction in response to input received along a surface of the cover glass.

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