Combining electropermanent magnets and magnetorheological fluids to modify the operation of input devices

Abstract

The present invention discloses combining an electropermanent magnet and a magnetorheological fluid to modify the operation of an input device. Aspects of the invention include a computer peripheral device including: an input element that operates based on a performance characteristic; an electropermanent magnet (EPM) assembly including a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field and a magnetizing assembly configured to set the strength of the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet; and a magnetorheological (MR) material coupled to the input element. The MR material has a viscosity that changes based on the magnetic field and affects the performance characteristic of the input element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to computer peripherals that utilize electropermanent magnets and magnetorheological fluids to control the properties of certain parts (eg, input elements) on the computer peripherals. Background Art

[0002] Input devices are common in modern society and are typically used to convert human-induced analog input (e.g., touch, click, motion, touch gesture, button press, scroll wheel rotation, etc.) performed in conjunction with the input device into digital signals for computer processing. An input device may include any device that can provide data and control signals to a computing system. Some non-limiting examples of input devices include a computer mouse, keyboard, virtual reality and / or augmented reality controller, touchpad, remote control, game controller, joystick, trackball, etc. Some non-limiting examples of computing systems include desktops, laptops, game consoles, tablets and "tablet" computers, smart phones, personal digital assistants, wearable devices (e.g., smart watches, smart glasses), virtual reality (VR) and / or augmented reality (AR) headsets and systems, etc.

[0003] Input devices have undergone significant improvements in quality, functionality, accuracy, ergonomics, and versatility. Earlier computer mouse designs, for example, included various mechanically based input elements such as scroll wheels, buttons, etc., which used various spring types to provide restoring forces for buttons or magnets to generate a rotational resistance distribution to increase functionality, but these designs had limited applications, reliability issues, and performance was often greatly affected by manufacturing tolerances. More modern designs incorporate electromagnets to achieve certain functions, but have not been widely adopted due to manufacturing costs and very high power requirements, which particularly affects wireless input devices. Despite these developments and advantages, more improvements are still needed to obtain better performance and greater control of input devices.

[0004] Unless otherwise indicated herein, the materials described in this section are not prior art to the claims in this application and are not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section. Summary of the invention

[0005] In some embodiments, a computer peripheral device includes: one or more processors; an input element that operates based on a performance characteristic; a permanent magnet (EPM) assembly that includes a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field and a magnetizing assembly controlled by the one or more processors and configured to control the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet; and a magnetorheological (MR) material coupled to the input element, the MR material having a viscosity, wherein the viscosity of the MR material changes based on the magnetic field MR, and the MR material affects the performance characteristic of the input element based on the viscosity of the MR material. In some aspects, the magnetizing assembly is configured to set the strength of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet, and the viscosity of the MR material is also based on the strength of the magnetic field. In some embodiments, the magnetizing assembly also includes a coil and a circuit coupled to the coil, wherein the magnetizing assembly changes the strength of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet by changing at least one of the amplitude or duration of a current pulse through the coil and the circuit, and the coil is configured to generate a magnetic field and magnetize the permanent magnet.

[0006] In some embodiments, once the current pulse through the coil sets the strength of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet, after the current through the coil is turned off, the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is permanently maintained at the set strength before the magnetizing assembly re-energizes the coil and sets the strength of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet to a new strength. In further embodiments, one or more processors may be configured to cause the input element to operate according to at least two operating modes including: a first operating mode, in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is set to change the viscosity of the MR material to a first viscosity, the first viscosity providing a first resistance to operation of the input element; and a second operating mode, in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is set to change the viscosity of the MR material to a second viscosity, the second viscosity providing a second resistance to operation of the input element, the second resistance being greater than the first resistance. The input element may also operate according to a third operating mode, in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is set to change the viscosity of the MR material to a third viscosity, the third viscosity providing a third resistance to operation of the input element, the third resistance preventing the input element from being operated, the third resistance being greater than the second resistance and the first resistance. In some cases, the performance characteristic of the input element is translational movement of the input element along the range of motion, and wherein the one or more processors cause the magnetizing assembly to change the magnetic field of the permanent magnet such that the viscosity of the MR material causes the input element to operate according to a first operating mode in which the viscosity of the MR material is set by the magnetic field to provide a minimum resistance to translational movement of the input element along the range of motion, and a second operating mode in which the viscosity of the MR material is set by the magnetic field to provide a maximum resistance to translational movement of the input element along the range of motion. In some cases, the one or more processors further cause the magnetizing assembly to change the magnetic field of the permanent magnet such that the viscosity of the MR material causes the input element to operate according to a third operating mode in which the viscosity of the MR material is set by the magnetic field to provide a resistance to translational movement of the input element along the range of motion that is between the minimum resistance and the maximum resistance.

[0007] In some embodiments, the performance characteristic of the input element is linear translation of the input element along a linear range of motion. In this case, the input element can be one of the following: a button that can be depressed along a linear range of motion; a key that can be depressed along a linear range of motion; a trigger that can be depressed along a linear range of motion; or a support structure that is configured to support a computer peripheral device on an underlying surface, the support structure configured to be raised and lowered along a linear range of motion. In some aspects, the performance characteristic of the input element is rotational translation along a circular range of motion, and the input element can be one of the following: a scroll wheel that can rotate along a circular range of motion; a trackball that can rotate along a circular range of motion; a knob that can rotate along a circular range of motion; a hinge that can rotate along a circular range of motion; a shifter and universal joint along a circular range of motion; a steering wheel that can rotate along a circular range of motion; or a pedal that can be depressed along a circular range of motion.

[0008] In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method may include: receiving, by one or more processors, input data indicating a selection of one of a plurality of operating modes of an input device. In some cases, the input device includes: an input element; an EPM component including a permanent magnet and a magnetizing component configured to set a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet; and an MR material coupled to the input element, the MR material having a viscosity that changes based on the magnetic field and affects a performance characteristic of the input element. In response to the received input data corresponding to the selection of a first operating mode in the plurality of operating modes, the method may also include setting, by the magnetizing component, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet to a first strength, the first strength causing the MR material to have a first viscosity that affects the performance characteristic of the input device. In response to the received input data corresponding to the selection of a second operating mode in the plurality of operating modes, the method may include setting, by the magnetizing component, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet to a second strength, the second strength causing the MR material to have a second viscosity that affects the performance characteristic of the input device.

[0009] In some embodiments, setting the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet includes changing at least one of an amplitude or a duration of a current pulse through a coil, the current pulse of the coil generating a corresponding magnetizing field that magnetizes the permanent magnet. The performance characteristic of the input element may be translational movement of the input element along a range of motion, wherein in a first operating mode, a first viscosity of the MR material is set by the magnetic field to provide a minimum resistance to translational movement of the input element along the range of motion, and wherein in a second operating mode, a second viscosity of the MR material is set by the magnetic field to provide a maximum resistance to translational movement of the input element along the range of motion. In response to receiving input data corresponding to a selection of a third operating mode among the plurality of operating modes, the method may further include setting, by the magnetizing assembly, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet to a third strength, the third strength causing the MR material to have a third viscosity that affects the performance characteristic of the input device, wherein in the third operating mode, the third viscosity of the MR material is set by the magnetic field to provide a resistance to translational movement of the input element along the range of motion that is between the minimum resistance and the maximum resistance. In some cases, the performance characteristic of the input element is linear translation of the input element along a linear range of motion, wherein the input element can be one of the following: a button that can be depressed along a linear range of motion; a key that can be depressed along a linear range of motion; a trigger that can be depressed along a linear range of motion; or a support structure that is configured to support a computer peripheral device on an underlying surface, the support structure being configured to be raised and lowered along a linear range. In some cases, the performance characteristic of the input element is rotational translation along a circular range of motion, wherein the input element can be one of the following: a scroll wheel that can rotate along a circular range of motion; a trackball that can rotate along a circular range of motion; a knob that can rotate along a circular range of motion; a hinge that can rotate along a circular range of motion; a shifter and universal joint along a circular range of motion; a steering wheel that can rotate along a circular range of motion; a pedal that can be depressed along a circular range of motion, etc.

[0010] In certain embodiments, a key for an input device may include: a key frame; a key plunger configured to linearly traverse within the key frame along a travel path with one degree of freedom; an electropermanent magnet (EPM) assembly coupled to the key frame and including a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field and a magnetizing assembly configured to set the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet; and a magnetorheological (MR) material disposed within the key frame and coupled to the key plunger, the MR material having a viscosity that changes based on the magnetic field, wherein the MR material is configured to provide resistance to the linear traversal of the key plunger along the travel path within the key frame, the resistance being based on the viscosity of the MR material. In some cases, the key frame may include ferrite and be configured to conduct and couple the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet to the MR material. The key plunger may include ferrite and may be configured to conduct and couple the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet to the MR material. In some cases, the profile of the ferrite key frame and / or key plunger is designed so that when the key is pressed, the conduction of the magnetic field through the MR material can change, which can produce a dynamic resistance distribution that changes as the key moves relative to the key frame.

[0011] In some embodiments, the key may further include a biasing mechanism, wherein the travel path of the key plunger includes a first position corresponding to the key plunger being in an undepressed state and a second position corresponding to the key plunger being in a fully depressed state, and wherein the biasing mechanism provides a restoring force to the key plunger to return the key plunger to the second position. The key may include a plurality of O-rings configured to form a sealed storage cavity between the key frame and the key plunger, wherein the MR material is a fluid contained in the sealed storage cavity. The key may be configured to operate in a plurality of operating modes, the plurality of operating modes including: a first operating mode, in which the magnetizing assembly sets the magnetic field of the permanent magnet so that the MR material has a first viscosity, which provides a first resistance to linear traversal of the key plunger along the travel path; and a second operating mode, in which the magnetizing assembly sets the magnetic field of the permanent magnet so that the MR material has a second viscosity, which provides a second resistance to linear traversal of the key plunger along the travel path, wherein the second resistance is greater than the first resistance. In some cases, the key may also include a second permanent magnet configured to generate a second magnetic field, wherein, in a first operating mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized such that the magnetic conduction paths of their corresponding magnetic fields are contained by the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet and do not pass through the MR material, and wherein, in a second operating mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized such that the magnetic conduction paths of their corresponding magnetic fields pass through the MR material.

[0012] In some aspects, the key may further include: one or more processors; and a sensor configured to detect a position of a key plunger within a key frame along a travel path, the sensor being controlled by the one or more processors, wherein the one or more processors are configured to cause the magnetizing assembly to dynamically set a magnetic field generated by a permanent magnet so that a viscosity of the MR material changes according to a resistance distribution based on the position of the key plunger along the travel path. The key may also include a switch configured to generate input data indicating a key press event when the key plunger is depressed beyond a threshold position along the travel path. The input device may be a keyboard or other suitable input device, and the key may be one of a plurality of keys on the keyboard.

[0013] In some embodiments, a pedal assembly includes: a base platform; a pedal arm rotatably coupled to the base platform at a first position so that the pedal arm moves relative to the base platform along a rotation axis; a piston assembly coupling the pedal arm to the base platform at a second position and including a piston housing, a piston configured to linearly traverse along a longitudinal path within the piston housing when the pedal arm rotates along the rotation axis; an EPM assembly; a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field; a magnetizing assembly configured to set the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet; and an MR material having a viscosity, the MR material contained within the piston assembly and configured so that the piston passes through the MR material as it linearly traverses along the longitudinal path within the piston housing, wherein the MR material is configured to provide resistance to the linear traversal of the piston along the longitudinal path based on the viscosity of the MR material. In some aspects, the pedal assembly may also include a plurality of O-rings configured to form a sealed storage chamber between the piston housing and the piston, wherein the MR material is a fluid contained within the sealed storage chamber. The pedal assembly can be configured to operate in multiple operating modes, including: a first operating mode in which the magnetizing assembly sets the magnetic field of the permanent magnet so that the MR material has a first viscosity that provides a first resistance to linear traversal of the piston along the longitudinal path; and a second operating mode in which the magnetizing assembly sets the magnetic field of the permanent magnet so that the MR material has a second viscosity that provides a second resistance to linear traversal of the piston along the longitudinal path, wherein the second resistance is greater than the first resistance. The pedal assembly can include a second permanent magnet configured to generate a second magnetic field, wherein in the first operating mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized so that the path of magnetic conduction of their corresponding magnetic fields does not pass through the MR material, and in the second operating mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized so that the path of magnetic conduction of their corresponding magnetic fields passes through the MR material. The pedal assembly may include: one or more processors; a sensor configured to detect a position of the piston relative to the piston housing, the sensor being controlled by the one or more processors, wherein the one or more processors are configured to cause the magnetizing assembly to dynamically set a magnetic field generated by a permanent magnet so that a viscosity of the MR material changes based on a resistance profile based on a position of the key plunger along a travel path.

[0014] In some embodiments, a method of operating an input device includes: receiving input data corresponding to an operating mode of the input device, the operating mode corresponding to control of movement of a movable element of the input device along one degree of freedom; determining a selection of the operating mode based on the input data; in response to the input data corresponding to a first operating mode: causing a magnetizing assembly to set a first magnetic field strength of a permanent magnet, the first magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet controlling a viscosity of an MR material coupled to the movable element, the MR material providing a first resistance to movement of the movable element along one degree of freedom at the first magnetic field strength; and in response to the input data corresponding to a second operating mode: causing the magnetizing assembly to set a second magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet, the MR material providing a second resistance to movement of the movable element along one degree of freedom at the second magnetic field strength, wherein the second magnetic field strength is higher than the first magnetic field strength. In some aspects, in the first operating mode, the MR material has a minimum viscosity, and wherein in the second operating mode, the MR material has a maximum viscosity. The method may also include: in response to input data corresponding to the third operating mode: causing the magnetizing assembly to set a third magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet, the MR material providing a third resistance to the movement of the movable element along one degree of freedom under the third magnetic field strength, wherein the third magnetic field strength is higher than the first magnetic field strength and less than the second magnetic field strength. In some aspects, the one degree of freedom corresponds to a linear movement of the movable element, and wherein the movable element is one of the following: a button that can be pressed along one degree of freedom in a linear manner; a key that can be pressed along one degree of freedom in a linear manner; a trigger that can be actuated and pressed along one degree of freedom in a linear manner; or a support structure that is configured to support an input device in a plurality of configurations, the support structure being capable of extending and retracting along one degree of freedom in a linear manner. In some embodiments, the one degree of freedom corresponds to a rotational movement of the movable element, and wherein the movable element is one of the following: a roller that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation; a trackball that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation; a knob that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation; a hinge that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation; a steering wheel that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation; or a pedal that can be pressed along one degree of freedom in rotation.

[0015] In certain embodiments, a computer mouse includes: a housing; a depressible element, a first side of the depressible element being configured to be depressed by a user; an actuator coupled to a second side of the depressible element opposite the first side, the actuator being configured to linearly traverse a travel path within the housing with one degree of freedom of movement when the depressible element is depressed by the user; a shrinkable membrane providing a first resistance to the actuator to linearly traverse the travel path within the housing, the shrinkable membrane being configured to shrink and provide tactile feedback in response to receiving a threshold force from the actuator , a collapsible membrane includes a ferrous material and has a hollow portion; an electropermanent magnet (EPM) assembly coupled to a housing, the EPM assembly including a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field and a magnetizing assembly configured to set the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet; and a magnetorheological (MR) material disposed within the hollow portion of the collapsible membrane, wherein the housing includes a ferrite portion that creates a magnetic field conduction path that conducts a magnetic field from a first pole of the permanent magnet through the collapsible membrane and to a second pole of the permanent magnet, and wherein the MR material is configured to cause the collapsible membrane to provide additional resistance to linear traversal of the actuator along a travel path within the housing, the additional resistance being based on a magnetic field through the MR material in the hollow portion of the collapsible membrane, the magnetic field affecting the viscosity of the MR material. In some aspects, the magnetizing assembly is configured to set the strength of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet, and the viscosity of the MR material is further based on (affected by) the strength of the magnetic field.

[0016] The computer mouse may include one or more processors, the one or more processors being configured to cause the depressible element to operate according to at least two operating modes, the at least two operating modes comprising: a first operating mode, in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is configured to change the viscosity of the MR material in the hollow portion of the shrinkable membrane to a first viscosity, the first viscosity providing a first additional resistance to the linear traversal of the actuator along the stroke path in the housing; and a second operating mode, in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is configured to change the viscosity of the MR material in the hollow portion of the shrinkable membrane to a second viscosity, the second viscosity providing a second additional resistance to the linear traversal of the actuator along the stroke path in the housing, the second additional resistance being greater than the first additional resistance. The computer mouse may also include a switch coupled to the one or more processors, the switch being configured to generate a control signal in response to being activated, wherein the switch is activated when the shrinkable membrane shrinks. In some embodiments, the depressible element may be a left mouse button or a right mouse button on the computer mouse.

[0017] In some embodiments, an input device includes: a housing; a palm region coupled to the housing, the palm region configured to receive a palm of a user when the user operates the input device, the palm region being formed in part by a plurality of submodules, wherein each of the submodules includes: a frame; a plunger configured to traverse along a travel path within the frame; an electropermanent magnet (EPM) assembly coupled to the frame, the assembly including a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field and a magnetizing assembly configured to set the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet; and a magnetorheological (MR) material disposed within the frame and coupled to the plunger, the MR material having a viscosity that changes based on the magnetic field. The MR material may be configured to provide resistance to the traversal of the plunger along the travel path within the frame, the resistance being based on the viscosity of the MR material. In some embodiments, the input device includes one or more processors configured to cause each of the submodules to operate according to at least two operating modes, the at least two operating modes including: a first operating mode in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is configured to change the viscosity of the MR material to a first viscosity that provides a first resistance to the traversal of the plunger along the travel path within the frame; and a second operating mode in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is configured to change the viscosity of the MR material to a second viscosity that provides a second resistance to the traversal of the plunger along the travel path within the housing. The first resistance may allow each of the submodules to traverse along the travel path in response to receiving a force applied along the travel path, and the second resistance may prevent each of the submodules from traversing along the travel path in response to receiving the applied force, the second resistance being higher than the first resistance.

[0018] In further embodiments, when each of the submodules operates in a first operating mode, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet does not pass through the MR material, and when each of the submodules operates in a second operating mode, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet passes through the MR material. In some embodiments, when switching between at least two operating modes, the input device consumes power only by the EPM component. In some embodiments, the input device also includes a cover coupled to the palm area, wherein the cover covers the palm area or a portion thereof, wherein a first side of the cover forms a user-accessible surface of the palm area, and wherein a second side of the cover opposite to the first side is coupled to and supported by a top surface of each of the submodules. In some embodiments, when each of the submodules operates in the first operating mode, the cover is adjustable with at least two degrees of freedom, and when each of the submodules operates in the second operating mode, the cover is not adjustable. In some cases, the EPM component is a single EPM component shared by each of the plurality of submodules. Alternatively, each submodule or a portion thereof may have its own EPM component. The palm region may have a surface contour, and each submodule may include a top portion forming a portion of the surface contour of the palm region.

[0019] In certain embodiments, a method of operating an input device includes: receiving input data corresponding to an operating mode of the input device, the operating mode corresponding to controlling a surface contour of a palm region of the input device, the palm region being formed in part by a plurality of submodules, wherein each submodule has a movable element configured to traverse along a linear travel path within a frame; determining a selection of an operating mode based on the input data; in response to the input data corresponding to a first operating mode: causing a magnetizing assembly to set a first magnetic field strength of a permanent magnet, the first magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet controlling a viscosity of an MR material coupled to the movable element, the MR material providing a first resistance to movement of the movable element along the linear travel path under the first magnetic field; and in response to the input data corresponding to a second operating mode: causing the magnetizing assembly to set a second magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet, the MR material providing a second resistance to movement of the movable element along the linear travel path under the second magnetic field strength, wherein the second magnetic field strength is higher than the first magnetic field strength. In some cases, in the first operating mode, the MR material has a minimum viscosity, and in the second operating mode, the MR material has a maximum viscosity. A first resistance may allow each of the submodules to traverse the travel path in response to receiving an applied force along the linear travel path, and a second resistance may prevent each of the submodules from traversing the linear travel path in response to receiving the applied force, the second resistance being higher than the first resistance.

[0020] In some aspects, the input device includes a cover coupled to the palm region, wherein the cover covers the palm region, wherein a first side of the cover forms a user-accessible surface of the palm region, and wherein a second side of the cover opposite the first side is coupled to and supported by a top surface of each of the submodules. In some cases, when each of the submodules operates in a first operating mode, the cover can be adjustable with at least two degrees of freedom, and when each of the submodules operates in a second operating mode, the cover is not adjustable. The palm region can have a surface contour, and each submodule (or a subset of the plurality of submodules) can include a top portion that forms a portion of the surface contour of the palm region. The magnetizing component can be a single magnetizing component shared by each of the plurality of submodules, or each submodule or a portion of the plurality of submodules can have their own magnetizing component.

[0021] This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of the disclosure, any or all drawings, and each claim.

[0022] The foregoing features and other features and examples will be described in more detail in the following specification, claims and accompanying drawings.

[0023] The terms and expressions that have been employed are used as terms of description rather than of limitation, and it is not intended that the use of such terms and expressions exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described, or portions thereof. However, it is recognized that various modifications may be made within the scope of the claimed system and method. Therefore, it should be understood that although the present system and method have been specifically disclosed by way of examples and optional features, those skilled in the art should recognize modifications and variations of the concepts disclosed herein, and such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of the system and method defined by the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The features of the above-mentioned various embodiments and other features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 An example of a computer system 100 is shown that may include any of a variety of host computing devices and computer peripherals, including peripheral devices (e.g., a computer mouse, keyboard, etc.) that may be configured to perform aspects of the various inventive concepts described herein;

[0026] Figure 2A system 200 for operating a computer peripheral device 130 is shown according to some embodiments;

[0027] Figure 3 shows a simplified block diagram of a host computing device 300 according to certain embodiments;

[0028] Figure 4A shows an example of an electropermanent magnet system 400 operating in a first operating mode according to certain embodiments;

[0029] Figure 4B shows an example of an electropermanent magnet system 400 operating in a second operating mode according to certain embodiments;

[0030] Figure 5A illustrates examples of certain properties of magnetorheological materials in the absence of a magnetic field according to certain embodiments;

[0031] Figure 5B illustrates examples of certain properties of magnetorheological materials in the presence of a magnetic field according to certain embodiments;

[0032] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating aspects of a method for controlling performance characteristics of an input element on an input device using an electropermanent magnet system and a magnetorheological material according to certain embodiments;

[0033] Figure 7 A magnetorheological based clutch system having a permanent magnet assembly is shown;

[0034] Figure 8 A magnetorheological based clutch system having an electromagnet assembly is shown;

[0035] Fig.9A A magnetorheological based clutch system having an electropermanent magnet assembly configured to apply a magnetic field to an MR material to control clutch engagement is shown according to certain embodiments;

[0036] Fig. 9B A second magnetorheological-based clutch system having an electropermanent magnet assembly configured to apply a magnetic field to an MR material to control clutch engagement is shown according to certain embodiments;

[0037] Fig. 9C A third magnetorheological-based clutch system having an electropermanent magnet assembly configured to apply a magnetic field to an MR material to control clutch engagement is shown according to certain embodiments;

[0038] Fig.10A bond structure showing improved performance characteristics of combined electropermanent magnet (EPM) and magnetorheological (MR) materials according to certain embodiments;

[0039] Fig.11 illustrates the operation of a single EPM key structure configuration with MR material according to certain embodiments;

[0040] Fig.12 illustrates the operation of a dual EPM key structure configuration with MR materials according to certain embodiments;

[0041] Fig.13 shows a graph of multiple plots depicting various force distributions defined by an EPM magnetic field according to certain embodiments;

[0042] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C Various key resistance profiles are shown according to certain embodiments;

[0043] Fig.15 is a simplified flow chart illustrating aspects of a method for controlling performance characteristics of a key structure using electropermanent magnets and MR materials according to certain embodiments;

[0044] Fig.16 A multi-bond implementation for controlling performance characteristics of multiple bond structures using electropermanent magnets and MR materials according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0045] Fig.17 A pedal assembly using an EPM assembly in combination with MR materials to control performance characteristics is shown in accordance with certain embodiments;

[0046] Fig.18 shows a pedal damping system configured to control performance characteristics of a pedal system according to certain embodiments;

[0047] Fig.19 shows a pedal damping system configured to control performance characteristics of a pedal system according to certain embodiments;

[0048] Fig. 20A shows a computer mouse configured to tilt on an underlying platform according to certain embodiments;

[0049] Fig. 20B shows a computer mouse configured to tilt on an underlying platform according to certain embodiments;

[0050] Fig.21 shows a computer mouse configured to tilt relative to an underlying platform according to certain embodiments;

[0051] Fig. 22 A game wheel assembly according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0052] Fig.23 shows a keyboard system according to certain embodiments;

[0053] Fig.24 shows a microphone stand according to certain embodiments;

[0054] Fig.25A An example of a cross section of an input element architecture on a computer mouse showing improved performance characteristics from combining EPM and MR according to certain embodiments;

[0055] Fig.25B A cross-sectional view showing an input element architecture on a computer mouse combining EPM and MR for improved performance characteristics according to certain embodiments;

[0056] Fig.26A An example of an input element architecture on a computer mouse showing improved performance characteristics from combining EPM and MR according to certain embodiments;

[0057] Fig.26B A cross-sectional view showing an input element architecture (EPM / MR structure 2620) on a computer mouse combining EPM and MR for improved performance characteristics in accordance with certain embodiments;

[0058] Fig. 27 Simplified image showing a shifter and gimbal structure incorporating EPM and MR for improved performance characteristics according to certain embodiments;

[0059] Fig.28 An input device with a trackball that combines EPM and MR for improved performance characteristics according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0060] Fig.29A A computer mouse with an adjustable palm rest is shown according to some embodiments;

[0061] Fig.29B shows a simplified cross-sectional view of a computer mouse having multiple EPM / MR controlled submodules according to certain embodiments;

[0062] FIG. 30A to FIG. 30B A computer mouse having a palm rest panel and a plurality of submodules disposed thereunder is shown according to some embodiments;

[0063] FIG. 31A to FIG. 31C A computer mouse having a palm rest panel configured in multiple orientations is shown according to some embodiments; and

[0064] Fig.32is a simplified flow chart illustrating aspects of a method for controlling a surface profile of an input device according to certain embodiments.

[0065] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are generally used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] According to certain implementations, aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to computer peripherals that utilize electropermanent magnets and magnetorheological fluids to control properties of certain parts (eg, input elements) on the computer peripherals.

[0067] In the following description, various examples of devices utilizing both EPM and MR technologies are described. For illustrative purposes, specific configurations and details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that certain embodiments may be practiced or implemented without disclosing every detail. In addition, well-known features may be omitted or simplified to prevent any confusion about the novel features described herein.

[0068] The following high-level overview is intended to provide a basic understanding of some of the novel innovations depicted in the accompanying drawings and presented in the corresponding description provided below. Aspects of the present invention relate to various improved computer peripherals and more generally to electronic devices (also referred to as input devices) that incorporate aspects of electropermanent magnet (EPM) systems and magnetorheological (MR) materials to control performance characteristics (e.g., translational movement) of one or more elements (e.g., input elements such as buttons, keys, scroll wheels, etc.) on a computer peripheral.

[0069] In early computer peripherals, for example, various mechanical springs and magnets were used to provide restoring forces on buttons or to set friction force distribution on rollers. However, many of these designs have limited control (e.g., binary settings) and applications, and in some cases are subject to challenging manufacturing tolerances and wear issues. Subsequent designs incorporate electromagnets to provide more control over magnetic fields configured to control one or more input elements, but due to their relatively high cost and demanding power requirements, such designs are not feasible in battery-powered wireless input devices. In some cases, deformable MR materials are used on the surface of the input device, such as for ductile and customizable housings. MR materials typically have a viscosity that can be changed when the MR material is subjected to a magnetic field. Various embodiments described herein incorporate both EPM systems and MR materials, and the EPM system has many applications and requires little power to implement. For example, once the EPM system instantaneously drives the coil using an electric pulse, the corresponding magnet is magnetized by a magnetic field of a specific strength (e.g., based on the amplitude and duration of the pulse), and remains magnetized when the electric pulse is removed. While some power is required to change the magnetic field and / or the strength of the magnetic field, no power is required to maintain it, making it an overall power efficient solution. The magnetic field can be set to any suitable value, which can correspondingly change the viscosity of the MR material (e.g., from highly flexible to very hard) for many useful applications.

[0070] For example, in some applications, the input element may be depressible or capable of moving along a linear range of motion (e.g., linear translational movement). MR materials may be used in conjunction with the input element to control the ease with which the input element may be moved linearly. For example, when the MR is exposed to a magnetic field of a first strength, the input element may be easily depressed, but when the magnetic field is removed, it may be difficult to depress. Some examples of input elements that may have linear translational movement include buttons (e.g., of a computer mouse), keys (e.g., keyboard keys), triggers (e.g., triggers of a controller for a game console), support structures (e.g., legs / feet configured to support a keyboard, speaker, light, etc.), or other devices, and the following description of input elements that may have linear translational movement includes ... Figures 10 to 12 , Figures 15 to 20B and FIG. 25A to FIG. 26B Describes some.

[0071] In further examples, the input element can be rotatable (rotational translation) or capable of moving along a circular range of motion (e.g., circular translational movement). MR materials can be used in conjunction with the input element to control the ease with which the input element can be rotated. For example, when the MR is exposed to a magnetic field of a first strength, the input element can be easily rotated, and when the magnetic field is removed, the input element is difficult to rotate. Some examples of input elements that can have rotational movement include scroll wheels, game wheels, game pedals, hinges, etc., and at least the following about Figure 21 to Figure 24 Some embodiments of these input elements are described. In some aspects, the profile of the input device can be compliant and customizable using aspects of EPM and MR, as described below with respect to at least FIG. 29A to FIG. 32 Any type of structure (e.g., movable, maneuverable, etc.) may be used in conjunction with EPM and MR in the manner described herein and in manners that are not necessarily explicitly described, but remain within the spirit of the present disclosure, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0072] It is to be understood that this high-level overview is presented to provide the reader with a basic understanding of some novel aspects of the present disclosure and a road map for the details that follow. This high-level overview in no way limits the scope of the various embodiments described throughout the detailed description, and each of the above-mentioned figures is further described below in more detail and within their proper scope.

[0073] Figure 1 An example of a computer system 100 is shown that can include any of a variety of host computing devices and computer peripherals, including peripherals (e.g., computer mice, keyboards, etc.) that can be configured to perform aspects of the various inventive concepts described herein. The computer system 100 shows a user 105 operating a host computing device (shown as a desktop computer) 110 and a plurality of computer peripherals communicatively coupled and integrated with the host computing device, including a display device 120, a computer mouse 130, a keyboard 140, a microphone 150, a game wheel 160, a game pedal system 170, a game console controller 180, and the computer system 100 may include any other suitable input device. Each of the computer peripherals 120 to 180 can be communicatively coupled to the host computing device 110.

[0074] Although the host computing device is shown as a desktop computer, other types of host computing devices may be used, including gaming systems, laptop computers, set-top boxes, entertainment systems, tablet or "tablet" computers, stand-alone head-mounted displays ("HMDs"), or any other suitable host computing devices (e.g., smart phones, smart wearables, etc.). In some cases, multiple host computing devices may be used and one or more of the computer peripherals may be communicatively coupled to one or two of the host computing devices (e.g., a computer mouse may be coupled to multiple host computing devices). The host computing device may also be referred to herein as a "host computer," "host device," "computing device," "computer," etc., and may include a machine-readable medium (not shown) configured to store computer code, such as driver software, firmware, etc., wherein the computer code may be executed by one or more processors in the host computing device to control aspects of the host computing device, such as via one or more computer peripherals.

[0075] Typical computer peripherals may include any suitable input devices, output devices, or input / output devices, including those shown (e.g., a computer mouse) and those not shown (e.g., a remote control, a wearable (e.g., a glove, a watch, a head mounted display), an AR / VR controller, a CAD controller, a joystick, an analog shifter, a stylus device, or other suitable devices), which may be used, for example, to convert analog inputs into digital signals for computer processing. By way of example, a computer peripheral (e.g., a computer mouse 130) may be configured to provide control signals for movement tracking (e.g., xy movement on a plane, three-dimensional "air" movement, etc.), touch and / or gesture detection, lift detection, orientation detection (e.g., in a 3 degree of freedom (DOF) system, a 6DOF system, etc.), power management functions, input detection (e.g., buttons, scroll wheels, etc.), output functions (e.g., LED control, tactile feedback, etc.), or any of a large number of other features that may be provided by a computer peripheral, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the computer mouse 130 may include a housing and input buttons, wherein a rotation control ("wheel") is configured between the housing and the input buttons. The button and / or wheel mechanism may include an EPM actuator and MR material for changing the friction force distribution associated with the pressing of the button or the rotation of the wheel, as further described in certain embodiments below.

[0076] Computer peripherals may be referred to as “input devices,” “peripheral input devices,” “peripherals,” etc. Most of the embodiments described herein generally refer to computer peripherals 130 to 180, however it should be understood that a computer peripheral may be any suitable input / output (I / O) device (e.g., user interface device, control device, input unit, etc.) that may be adapted to utilize the novel embodiments described and contemplated herein.

[0077] System for operating computer peripheral devices

[0078] Figure 2 A system 200 for operating a computer peripheral 150 is shown according to certain embodiments. The system 200 can be configured to operate any of the computer peripherals specifically shown or not shown herein but within the broad scope of the present disclosure. The system 200 may include a processor 210, a memory 220, a power management system 230, a communication module 240, an input detection module 250, and an output control module 260. Each of the system blocks 220 to 260 can be in electronic communication with the processor 210 (e.g., via a bus system). The system 200 may include additional functional blocks that are not shown or discussed to prevent obfuscation of the novel features described herein. The system blocks 220 to 260 (also referred to as "modules") can be implemented as separate modules, or alternatively, more than one system block can be implemented in a single module. In the context described herein, the system 200 can be incorporated into any input device described herein and can be configured to perform at least the following with respect to Figure 6 to Figure 32 Any of the various methods of combining EPM and MR are described, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0079] In some embodiments, the processor 210 may include one or more microprocessors and may be configured to control the operation of the system 200. Alternatively or additionally, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the processor 210 may include one or more microcontrollers (MCUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), etc., with supporting hardware and / or firmware (e.g., memory, programmable I / O, etc.), and / or software. The processor 210 may control some or all aspects of the operation of the computer peripherals 150 (e.g., system blocks 220 to 260). Alternatively or additionally, some of the system blocks 220 to 260 may include additional dedicated processors that may work in conjunction with the processor 210. For example, an MCU, μC, DSP, etc. may be configured in other system blocks of the system 200. The communication block 240 may include a local processor, for example, to control various aspects of communication with the host computer 110 (e.g., via Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, RF, IR, hardwired, ZigBee, Z-Wave, Logitech Unifying, or other communication protocols). The processor 210 may be local to the peripheral device (e.g., contained therein), may be external to the peripheral device (e.g., such as being processed off-board by a corresponding host computing device), or a combination thereof. The processor 210 may be combined with any other system blocks in the system 200 to perform any of the various functions and methods (e.g., method 600) described and / or covered by the present disclosure. In some implementations, Figure 3 The processor 302 can work in conjunction with the processor 210 to perform some or all of the various methods described throughout this disclosure. In some embodiments, multiple processors can achieve increased performance characteristics (e.g., speed and bandwidth) in the system 200, however, multiple processors are not required and are not necessarily closely related to the novelty of the embodiments described herein. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments are possible.

[0080] The memory block ("memory") 220 may store one or more software programs to be executed by the processor (e.g., in the processor 210). It should be understood that "software" may refer to a sequence of instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., a processor, a processing device, etc.), causes the system 200 to perform certain operations of the software program. Instructions may be stored as firmware residing in a read-only memory (ROM) and / or an application stored in a media storage device, which may be read into the memory to be executed by a processing device (e.g., the processor 210). The software may be implemented as a single program or a collection of separate programs, and may be stored in a non-volatile storage device and copied in whole or in part to a volatile working memory during program execution. In some embodiments, the memory 220 may store data corresponding to inputs on a peripheral device, such as movement of a peripheral device detected by a sensor (e.g., an optical sensor, an accelerometer, etc.), activation of one or more input elements (e.g., a button, a slider, a touch-sensitive area, etc.), etc. The stored data may be aggregated and sent to a host computing device via a report.

[0081] In certain embodiments, a memory array ("memory") 220 may store various data described throughout the present disclosure. For example, the memory 220 may store and / or include optical data, dynamically adjustable memory pages, and more closely related to the present disclosure, the memory array may store various settings for an EPM magnetizing assembly to magnetize one or more magnets with polarity and / or any number of intensity levels to control, for example, the viscosity of an MR material on an input device. In some cases, the intensity may be referred to as magnetic field strength, which is typically measured in SI base units of amperes per meter (A / m). The memory 220 may be used to store any suitable data to perform any of the functions described herein and as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure. The memory array 220 may be referred to as a storage system or storage subsystem, and may store one or more software programs to be executed by a processor (e.g., in the processor 210). It should be understood that "software" may refer to a sequence of instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., a processor, a processing device, etc.), causes the system 200 to perform certain operations of the software program. The instructions may be stored as firmware residing in a read-only memory (ROM) and / or as an application stored in a media storage device, which may be read into the memory for processing by the processing device. The software may be implemented as a single program or a collection of separate programs and may be stored in a non-volatile storage device and copied in whole or in part to a volatile working memory during program execution. The processing device may retrieve program instructions to be executed from the storage subsystem in order to perform various operations as described herein (e.g., software-controlled automatic adjustment of springs, etc.).

[0082] The power management system 230 can be configured to manage power distribution, recharging, power efficiency, haptic motor power control, etc. In some embodiments, the power management system 230 may include a battery (not shown), a universal serial bus (USB)-based recharging system (not shown) for the battery, and a power management device (e.g., a voltage regulator—not shown) and an electrical grid within the system 200 for providing power to each subsystem (e.g., communication block 240, etc.). In some embodiments, the functionality provided by the power management system 230 may be incorporated into the processor 210. Alternatively, some embodiments may not include a dedicated power management block. For example, functional aspects of the power management block 230 may be included by another block (e.g., processor 210) or combined with another block. The power source may be a replaceable battery, a rechargeable energy storage device (e.g., supercapacitor, lithium polymer battery, NiMH, NICD), or a wired power supply. The recharging system may be an additional cable (dedicated to recharging purposes), or the recharging system may use a USB connection to recharge the battery.

[0083] In some embodiments, the power management system 230 can control various aspects of the magnetization component of the EPM assembly, which sets the polarity and strength of the magnetic field of one or more magnets. For example, the power management system 230 can set the current pulse amplitude, duration and / or frequency of the drive coil, which is operable to generate a magnetizing field that magnetizes one or more magnets. Typically, a single pulse is used to change the magnetization and / or polarization of a magnet. In some cases, an AC current can be used to completely remove the magnetization of a magnet. In certain embodiments, multiple pulses can be used to quickly change the state of MR for tactile effects, etc. Any number of drive settings (e.g., different combinations of current pulse amplitude, duration and / or frequency) can be stored, which can affect the viscosity of the MR material (usually placed adjacent to the magnet, in close proximity to the magnet, and at least sometimes within the magnetic field of the magnet). Those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will understand many modifications, variations and alternative embodiments thereof.

[0084] According to some embodiments, the communication system 240 may be configured to implement wireless communication with a corresponding host computing device (e.g., 110) or other devices and / or peripheral devices. The communication system 240 may be configured to provide radio frequency (RF), Logitech proprietary communication protocols (e.g., Unity, Gaming LightSpeed, or others), infrared (IR), Z-Wave or other suitable communication technologies to communicate with other computing devices and / or peripheral devices. System 200 may optionally include a hardwired connection to a corresponding host computing device. For example, computer peripheral device 130 may be configured to receive USB, Or other universal cables to achieve two-way electronic communication with the corresponding main computing device or other external devices. Some embodiments may utilize different types of cables or connection protocol standards to establish hard-wired communication with other entities. In some aspects, communication ports (e.g., USB), power ports, etc. may be considered as part of other blocks (e.g., input detection module 250, output control module 260, etc.) described herein. In some aspects, communication system 240 may send a report (e.g., HID data, streaming or aggregated data, etc.) generated by processor 210 to the main computing device. In some cases, the report may be generated only by the processor, in conjunction with other entities in the processor or system 200. Communication system 240 may include one or more antennas, oscillators, etc., and may operate at any suitable frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz), etc. Those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure will understand its many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments.

[0085] The input detection module 250 may control the detection of user interactions with input elements (also referred to as “elements”) on an input device. For example, the input detection module 250 may detect user input from a motion sensor, a key, a button, a scroll wheel, a trackball, a touchpad (e.g., a one-dimensional and / or two-dimensional touch-sensitive touchpad), a click wheel, a dial, a keypad, a microphone, a GUI, a touch-sensitive GUI, a proximity sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor, a thermal sensor, etc.), image sensor-based detection such as gesture detection (e.g., via a webcam), audio-based detection such as voice input (e.g., via a microphone), etc., as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Alternatively, the functionality of the input detection module 250 may be included by or combined with the processor 210.

[0086] In some embodiments, the input detection module 250 can detect touches or touch gestures on one or more touch-sensitive surfaces on the input device 130. The input detection block 250 may include one or more touch-sensitive surfaces or touch sensors. A touch sensor typically includes a sensing element suitable for detecting signals such as direct contact, an electromagnetic field or an electrostatic field, or an electromagnetic radiation beam. A touch sensor can typically detect changes in a received signal, the presence of a signal, or the absence of a signal. The touch sensor may include a source for transmitting the detected signal, or the signal may be generated by an auxiliary source. The touch sensor may be configured to detect the presence of an object at a distance (e.g., <5 mm) from a reference area or point, contact with a reference area or point, or a combination thereof. Certain embodiments of the computer peripheral device 150 may or may not utilize touch detection or touch sensing capabilities.

[0087] The input detection block 250 may include touch and / or proximity sensing capabilities. Some examples of types of touch / proximity sensors may include, but are not limited to, resistive sensors (e.g., based on standard air gap 4-wire, based on carbon-supported plastics with different electrical properties depending on pressure (FSR), interpolated FSR, strain gauges, etc.), capacitive sensors (e.g., surface capacitance, self-capacitance, mutual capacitance, etc.), optical sensors (e.g., infrared grating matrix, laser-based diodes coupled to photodetectors that can measure the time of flight of an optical path, etc.), acoustic sensors (e.g., piezoelectric buzzers coupled to microphones to detect modifications of wave propagation modes associated with a touch point, etc.), inductive sensors, magnetic sensors (e.g., Hall effect), etc.

[0088] The input detection module 250 may include a motion tracking sub-block that may be configured to detect relative displacement of the computer peripheral 150 (motion tracking). For example, the input detection module 250 uses an optical sensor such as an IR LED and an imaging array of photodiodes to detect movement of the computer peripheral 150 relative to the underlying surface. The computer peripheral 150 may optionally include motion tracking hardware that utilizes coherent (laser) light. Motion tracking may provide position data (e.g., delta X and delta Y data from the last sample) or lift detection data. For example, an optical sensor may detect when a user lifts the computer peripheral 130 off the underlying surface (also referred to as a "work surface"), and may send that data to the processor 210 for further processing. In some embodiments, the processor 210, the motion tracking block (which may include additional dedicated processors), or a combination thereof, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0089] In some embodiments, an accelerometer can be used for movement detection. An accelerometer can be an electromechanical device (e.g., a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device) configured to measure acceleration forces (e.g., static forces and dynamic forces). One or more accelerometers can be used to detect three-dimensional (3D) positioning. For example, 3D tracking can utilize a three-axis accelerometer or two dual-axis accelerometers (e.g., in a "3D air mouse", HMD or other device). The accelerometer can also determine whether the input device 150 has been lifted off the surface below, and can provide movement data that may include the speed, physical orientation, and acceleration of the computer peripheral device 150. In some embodiments, a gyroscope can be used instead of an accelerometer or in combination with an accelerometer to determine movement or input device orientation.

[0090] In some embodiments, the output control module 260 can control various outputs for corresponding computer peripheral devices. For example, the output control module 260 can control multiple visual output elements (e.g., LEDs, LCD screens), displays, audio outputs (e.g., speakers), tactile output systems, etc. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof.

[0091] As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, although some systems may not be explicitly discussed, they should be considered as part of system 200. For example, system 200 may include a bus system to transmit power and / or data to and from different systems therein. It should be understood that system 200 is illustrative and can be varied and modified. System 200 may have other capabilities not specifically described herein. In addition, although system 200 is described with reference to specific blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for ease of description and are not intended to imply a specific physical arrangement of component parts. In addition, blocks do not need to correspond to physically different components. Blocks can be configured to perform various operations, such as by programming a processor or providing appropriate control circuit systems, and various blocks may be reconfigurable or may not be reconfigurable depending on how the initial configuration is obtained.

[0092] Embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in various devices including electronic devices (e.g., computer peripherals) implemented using any combination of circuit systems and software. In addition, aspects and / or portions of system 200 may be combined with or operated by other subsystems as required by the design. For example, input detection module 250 and / or memory 220 may operate within processor 210 rather than as separate entities. In addition, the inventive concepts described herein may also be applied to any electronic device. In addition, system 200 may be applied to any computer peripheral described in the embodiments herein, whether explicitly, by reference, or by default described computer peripherals (e.g., those of ordinary skill in the art are known to be applicable to specific computer peripherals). The foregoing embodiments are not intended to be limiting, and those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure will understand a large number of applications and possibilities.

[0093] System for operating a host computing device

[0094] Figure 3 300 is a simplified block diagram of a main computing device 300 according to certain embodiments. The main computing device 300 can implement some or all of the above functions, behaviors and / or capabilities that will use electronic storage or processing, as well as other functions, behaviors or capabilities that are not explicitly described. The main computing device 300 may include a processing subsystem (processor) 302, a storage subsystem 306, a user interface 314, 316, and a communication interface 312. The computing device 300 may also include other components (not explicitly shown) such as batteries, power controllers, and other components that are operable to provide various enhanced functions. In various embodiments, the main computing device 300 can be implemented in any suitable computing device such as a desktop computer or laptop computer (e.g., desktop 110), a mobile device (e.g., a tablet computer, a smart phone, a mobile phone), a wearable device, a media device, etc., or in some implementations in a peripheral device (e.g., a keyboard, etc.).

[0095] Processor 302 may include an MCU, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a digital signal processing device (DSPD), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a processor, a controller, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, or an electronic unit designed to perform the functions or methods described throughout the present disclosure, a combination of functions, etc.

[0096] The storage subsystem 306 may be implemented using local storage and / or removable storage media, such as using a disk, flash memory (e.g., a secure digital card, a universal serial bus flash drive), or any other non-transitory storage medium or combination of media, and may include volatile and / or non-volatile storage media. The local storage may include a memory subsystem 308, which includes a random access memory (RAM) 318 such as a dynamic RAM (DRAM), a static RAM (SRAM), a synchronous dynamic RAM (e.g., DDR), or a battery-backed RAM, or a read-only memory (ROM) 320, or a file storage subsystem 310 that may include one or more code modules. In some embodiments, the storage subsystem 306 may store one or more applications and / or operating system programs to be executed by the processing subsystem 302, including programs to be executed using a computer for implementing some or all of the above operations. For example, the storage subsystem 306 may store one or more code modules for implementing one or more method steps described herein.

[0097] Modules (e.g., procedures, functions, etc.) may be utilized to implement firmware and / or software implementations. A machine-readable medium tangibly implementing instructions may be used to implement the methods described herein. Code modules (e.g., instructions stored in a memory) may be implemented within a processor or external to a processor. As used herein, the term "memory" refers to a type of long-term, short-term, volatile, non-volatile, or other storage medium, and is not limited to any particular type of memory or multiple memories or types of media storing memory.

[0098] In addition, the term "storage medium" or "storage device" may refer to one or more memories for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), RAM, magnetic RAM, magnetic core memory, magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other machine-readable media for storing information. The term "machine-readable medium" includes, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, wireless channels, and / or various other storage media capable of storing instructions and / or data.

[0099] In addition, implementation methods can be realized by hardware, software, scripting language, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language and / or any combination thereof.When implemented with software, firmware, middleware, scripting language and / or microcode, the program code or code segment for performing tasks can be stored in a machine-readable medium such as a storage medium. Code segment (e.g., code module) or machine executable instructions can represent a combination of process, function, subroutine, program, routine, subroutine, module, software package, script, class or instruction, data structure and / or program statement. Code segment can be coupled to another code segment or hardware circuit by transmitting and / or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters and / or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. can be transmitted, forwarded or sent by appropriate means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc. These descriptions of software, firmware, storage medium, etc. are applicable to systems 200 and 300, as well as any other implementation in the wide range of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, aspects of the invention (e.g., surface classification) may be performed by software stored in the storage subsystem 306, in the computer peripheral device's memory 220, or in both. Numerous modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0100] The implementation of the techniques, blocks, steps, and means described throughout this disclosure may be accomplished in various ways. For example, the techniques, blocks, steps, and means may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. For hardware implementations, the processing unit may be implemented within one or more ASICs, DSPs, DSPDs, PLDs, FPGAs, processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, other electronic units designed to perform the above functions, and / or combinations thereof.

[0101] Each code module may include an instruction (code) set implemented on a computer-readable medium, which guides the processor of the host computing device 110 to perform corresponding actions. The instructions can be configured to run in a sequential order, in parallel (e.g., under different processing threads), or in a combination thereof. After the code module is loaded on a general-purpose computer system, the general-purpose computer is converted into a special-purpose computer system.

[0102] Computer programs incorporating the various features described herein (e.g., in one or more code modules) may be encoded and stored on various computer-readable storage media. Computer-readable media encoded with program code may be packaged with a compatible electronic device, or the program code may be provided separately from the electronic device (e.g., downloaded via the Internet or as a separately packaged computer-readable storage medium). Storage subsystem 306 may also store information useful for establishing a network connection using communication interface 312.

[0103] The computer system 300 may include user interface input device 314 elements (e.g., touch pad, touch screen, scroll wheel, click wheel, dial, button, switch, keypad, microphone, etc.), and user interface output device 316 (e.g., video screen, indicator light, speaker, headphone jack, virtual reality or augmented reality display, etc.), together with supporting electronic components (e.g., digital-to-analog converter or analog-to-digital converter, signal processor, etc.). The user can operate the user interface input device 314 to invoke functions of the computing device 300, and can see and / or hear output from the computing device 300 via the user interface output device 316.

[0104] The processing subsystem 302 may be implemented as one or more processors (e.g., integrated circuits, one or more single-core or multi-core microprocessors, microcontrollers, central processing units, graphics processing units, etc.). In operation, the processing subsystem 302 may control the operation of the computing device 300. In some embodiments, the processing subsystem 302 may execute various programs in response to program code, and may maintain multiple programs or processes that are executed simultaneously. At a given time, some or all of the program code to be executed may reside in the processing subsystem 302 and / or a storage medium such as the storage subsystem 304. Through programming, the processing subsystem 302 may provide various functions for the computing device 300. The processing subsystem 302 may also execute other programs for controlling other functions of the computing device 300, including programs that may be stored in the storage subsystem 304.

[0105] The communication interface (also referred to as a network interface) 312 can provide voice and / or data communication capabilities for the computing device 300. In some embodiments, the communication interface 312 may include a radio frequency (RF) transceiver component for accessing a wireless data network (e.g., a Wi-Fi network; 3G, 4G / LTE, etc.), a mobile communication technology, a component for short-range wireless communication (e.g., using the Bluetooth communication standard, NFC, etc.), other components or technology combinations. In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of a wireless interface, the communication interface 312 can also provide a wired connection (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB), Ethernet, a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter, etc.). The communication interface 312 can be implemented using a combination of hardware (e.g., driver circuits, antennas, modulators / demodulators, encoders / decoders, and other analog and / or digital signal processing circuits) and software components. In some embodiments, the communication interface 312 can support multiple communication channels simultaneously.

[0106] User interface input device 314 may include any suitable computer peripheral device (e.g., a computer mouse, keyboard, game controller, remote control, stylus device, etc.), as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. User interface output device 316 may include a display device (e.g., a monitor, television, projection device, etc.), an audio device (e.g., a speaker, microphone), a tactile device, etc. Note that user interface input devices and user interface output devices are shown as part of system 300 as an integrated system. In some cases, such as in a laptop computer, this may be the case where the keyboard and input elements and the display and output elements are integrated on the same host computing device. In some cases, such as Figure 1 As shown, the input devices and output devices may be separate from the system 300. Numerous modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0107] It should be understood that computing device 300 is illustrative and can be changed and modified. The main computing device may have various functions that are not specifically described (e.g., voice communication via a cellular telephone network), and may include components suitable for such functions. Although computing device 300 is described with reference to specific blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for ease of description and are not intended to imply a specific physical arrangement of component parts. For example, processing subsystem 302, storage subsystem 306, user interface 314, 316, and communication interface 312 may be in one device or distributed in multiple devices. In addition, blocks do not need to correspond to physically different components. Blocks may be configured to perform various operations, such as by programming a processor or providing appropriate control circuit systems, and various blocks may be reconfigurable or may not be reconfigurable, depending on how the initial configuration is obtained. Embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in various devices including electronic devices implemented using a combination of circuit systems and software. System 300 may be used to implement the main computing device or even peripheral devices described herein.

[0108] Electro Permanent Magnets (EPM) and Operational Aspects

[0109] Electropermanent magnets present many advantages over more conventional systems utilizing permanent magnets and / or electromagnets. A permanent magnet can be an object made of a magnetized material and produces its own persistent magnetic field. Materials that can be magnetized (which are also the same materials that are strongly attracted to magnets) are called ferromagnetic materials and typically include at least one of the elements iron, nickel, and cobalt and their alloys, some alloys of rare earth metals, and some naturally occurring minerals such as lodestone. Ferromagnetic materials can include magnetic "soft" materials such as annealed iron that can be magnetized but do not tend to remain magnetized and magnetic "hard" materials that tend to remain magnetized. Permanent magnets are made of "hard" ferromagnetic materials, such as alnico (e.g., iron alloys that typically include aluminum, nickel, and cobalt and copper and / or titanium) and ferrites (e.g., ceramic materials including iron (III) oxides (e.g., Fe2O3, rust) mixed with barium, manganese, nickel, and / or zinc), which are treated in a strong magnetic field during manufacture to align their internal microcrystalline structure, making them very difficult to demagnetize. In order to demagnetize a saturated magnet, a certain magnetic field must be applied, and the threshold depends on the coercivity of the corresponding material. "Hard" materials generally have high coercivity, while "soft" materials generally have low coercivity. The total strength of a magnet is measured by its magnetic moment or, alternatively, the total magnetic flux it produces. For the purposes of this disclosure, this may be referred to as magnetic field strength. A significant disadvantage of using permanent magnets is that their application may be limited because one magnetic field strength cannot generally be practically increased or decreased to control different levels of rotational friction on a roller, for example. When applied to MR materials, only one viscosity level (based on the magnetic field strength of the magnet's magnetic field) can be set without using a complex and potentially expensive mechanical system to move permanent magnets and corresponding magnetic fields to and from the position of the MR material.

[0110] An electromagnet comprises a coil of wire that operates as a magnet when an electric current is passed through it but ceases to operate like a magnet when the current is stopped. Typically, the coil is wound around a core of a "soft" ferromagnetic material such as mild steel, which can significantly increase the magnetic field generated by the coil. As described above, while electromagnets can generate a range of magnetic field strengths, which is useful when combined with MR materials to achieve different viscosities and more application possibilities, electromagnets require continuous power to maintain the magnetic field, which can prohibit practical use of magnetic fields in most battery-powered input devices due to high power consumption and a potentially significant corresponding reduction in battery life.

[0111] Utilizing a combination of electropermanent magnets and magnetorheological materials, any number of magnetic intensity settings of the EPM and corresponding viscosities on the MR material can be used to achieve a wide range of applications with more precise control and without the disadvantages of high power requirements. In the EPM circuit, once the magnet is magnetized (e.g., both polarity and magnetic intensity) by the EPM system via the coil, the power through the coil can be cut off and the magnet maintains its magnetic field strength without any additional power. Thus, multiple viscosities of MR can be achieved, allowing for multiple settings of certain parts such as linear adjustable input elements (e.g., buttons, keys, triggers, support structures, etc.), rotational adjustable input elements (e.g., rollers, knobs, game wheels and / or pedals, hinges, etc.), etc., as described below. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, the magnetic field in the EPM can be cut off in a similar manner and at different levels of magnetic intensity by varying the current pulses and amplitudes.

[0112] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B An example of a simplified electropermanent magnet 400 is shown that utilizes two magnets rather than one magnet as used in many of the embodiments described herein, however, the principles of operation are the same as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Figure 4A and Figure 4B In a specific simplified embodiment of the present invention, the electropermanent magnet 400 includes a first permanent magnet 402 and a second permanent magnet 404. The first permanent magnet 402 may have a higher intrinsic coercivity than the second permanent magnet 404. In some embodiments, as described above, the permanent magnet 402 may be in the form of a rare earth (e.g., neodymium iron boron or samarium cobalt) magnet, and the second permanent magnet 404 may be in the form of a ferromagnetic (e.g., alnico or ferrite) magnet. The lower intrinsic coercivity of the second permanent magnet 404 allows the magnetizing coil 406 to emit a magnetic field of sufficient intensity to reverse the polarity of the magnetic field emitted by the second permanent magnet 404 without affecting the magnetization of the first permanent magnet 402. For example, in some embodiments, the intrinsic coercivity of the first permanent magnet 402 may be more than ten times the intrinsic coercivity of the second permanent magnet 404. The lower inherent coercivity of the second permanent magnet 404 also reduces the amount of electrical energy consumed to flip the polarity of the second permanent magnet 404, thereby allowing for more efficient operation of the electropermanent magnet 400. The first permanent magnet 402 and the second permanent magnet 404 are each positioned between and in direct contact or at least in close contact with the ferromagnetic poles 408. The ferromagnetic poles 408 can be formed of a ferrite material such as mild steel, having an even lower inherent coercivity than the second permanent magnet 404. The ferromagnetic poles 408 help guide the magnetic field emitted by the first permanent magnet 402 and the second permanent magnet 404. In some embodiments, the size and shape of the ferromagnetic poles 408 can be adjusted to produce a magnetic field having a desired size and shape.

[0113] Figure 4A A dashed line 408 depicting the magnetic flux emitted by the electropermanent magnet 400 is shown, which shows how the magnetic flux is released from the electropermanent magnet 400 to produce well-defined north and south poles by both the first permanent magnet 402 and the second permanent magnet 404 oriented in the same direction. As depicted, when the strength of the magnetic field emitted by the two permanent magnets is approximately the same, the magnetic field is symmetrical.

[0114] Figure 4B It shows how the magnetic flux generated by the two permanent magnets remains substantially contained within and circulates through the ferromagnetic poles 408, the first permanent magnet 402, and the second permanent magnet 404 when the polarity of the first permanent magnet 402 is opposite to the polarity of the second permanent magnet 404. This results in almost no magnetic field being emitted by the electropermanent magnet 400. These principles can be applied to the following embodiments utilizing a single magnet or multiple magnets in an EPM system.

[0115] Magnetorheological (MR) materials and operational aspects

[0116] As described above, magnetorheological (MR) materials (e.g., fluids, elastomers, etc.) change their viscosity / stiffness in response to the strength of the magnetic field to which they are subjected. In the absence of a magnetic field, or in a very low strength magnetic field, MR materials tend to have very low viscosity / stiffness and can be ductile and compliant. In the presence of a relatively high strength magnetic field, MR materials tend to have high viscosity / stiffness and can be rigid and unyielding. By way of non-limiting example, MR materials can have a magnetic excitation field in the range of 0 to 200-300 kA / m, which can result in a magnetic induction in the range of 0 to 1-1.5 Tesla. EPMs can be designed to achieve this range by varying the magnet size, strength, and / or the size of the air gap. In some embodiments, typical MR materials may include Lord < RTI ID = 0.0> MRF-132DG or similar products. Many modifications, variations and alternative embodiments thereof will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0117] Figure 5AAn example of certain properties of a magnetorheological material 500 in the absence of a magnetic field is shown according to certain embodiments. The MR material 500 includes a shell structure 510 that contains a carrier liquid 520. In some embodiments, the carrier liquid can be a hydrocarbon-based (e.g., oil) with additives (e.g., surfactants) to avoid decantation and / or sedimentation. The mass concentration of iron particles can be about 80%, but can be higher or lower in some cases. The magnetic particles 530 (e.g., ferrite-based particles) are typically micron or nanometer-sized (e.g., 0.1 to 10 μm) spheres or ellipsoids and are suspended in the carrier oil 520 and are randomly distributed in the suspension under normal circumstances, such as Figure 5A The housing structure 510 may be any suitable structure that contains the carrier liquid 520. For example, the housing structure 510 may be in the form of a reservoir, a piston, a shock absorber, or other suitable form factor, as shown in the various embodiments below and as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0118] Figure 5B 5 shows an example of certain properties of magnetorheological materials in the presence of a magnetic field according to certain embodiments. When a magnetic field is applied, microscopic particles 530 can align themselves along magnetic flux lines 540, such as Figure 5B As shown. By way of example, a magnetorheological damper is filled with a magnetorheological fluid, which, as described above, is controlled by a magnetic field and provided by an EPM system. This allows the damping characteristics to be continuously controlled by changing the power to the EPM when a change in viscosity is required. As the magnetic strength of the electromagnet increases, the viscosity of the fluid within the damper increases. The damping quality can be a performance characteristic of the input device. For example, the linear translation of a button can be changed based on the state of the MR material. The button can be operated in a plunger-like manner, where the plunger passes through or is immersed in the MR material. Therefore, by dynamic control of the EPM and the corresponding MR material, any type of button resistance distribution can be produced, as further described in the following examples.

[0119] Figure 6 6 is a simplified flow chart illustrating aspects of a method 600 for controlling performance characteristics of an input element on an input device using an electropermanent magnet system and a magnetorheological material according to certain embodiments. The method 600 may be performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software operating on appropriate hardware (e.g., a general purpose computing system or a dedicated machine), firmware (embedded software), or any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the method 600 may be performed by aspects of the processor 210, the memory array 220, the power management block 230, the input detection module 250, or a combination thereof, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0120] At operation 610, according to some embodiments, method 600 may include receiving input data indicating the selection of one of the multiple operation modes of the input device. The input data may be received in any form and from any suitable source. For example, the input device may include a selection element such as a button, a touch-sensitive surface, a switch, a knob, etc., which may be used to select one of the multiple operation modes of the input device. In some aspects, the selection may be made via a microphone or a camera, which is communicatively coupled to the input device and configured to be selected by the user based on audio input or visual prompts / gestures, respectively. In some embodiments, the selection may be made via an input device or a selection element on a remote device (e.g., a main computing device). In some embodiments, the input device includes an input element, an EPM component having a permanent magnet and a magnetized component configured to set a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet. The input device may also include an MR material coupled to the input element, the MR material having a viscosity based on a magnetic field change and affecting the performance characteristics of the input element. The input element may be any suitable element on the input device, such as, but not limited to, an input element that can perform translational motion along a path. For example, some input elements may have translational motion along a linear translational path, such as a button or key (e.g., depressible), a switch, a support structure (e.g., extending or retracting to set the height of the input device), etc. Some input elements may have translational motion along a rotational translational path, such as a knob, a trackball, a scroll wheel, a trigger, a hinge, a pedal, etc., and as further described in many examples below. In this case, the performance characteristics of the input element can correspond to the translational movement of the input element (e.g., the degrees of freedom of movement such as linear movement or rotational movement). In some embodiments, the MR material can be coupled to the input element in such a way that the state of the MR material (e.g., viscosity) can affect the ease with which a user can move the input element along its translational path (e.g., a button is easy or difficult to press based on the viscosity of the MR material).

[0121] In some embodiments, in response to receiving input data corresponding to a selection of a first operating mode among a plurality of operating modes (operation 620), according to some embodiments, method 600 may include setting, by the magnetizing assembly, a magnetic field generated by a permanent magnet to a first strength (operation 630) such that the MR material has a first viscosity that affects a performance characteristic of the input device (operation 640). In some implementations, the magnetic field strength may be zero (e.g., the magnet is demagnetized) or very low such that the MR material is at or near its minimum viscosity state and the performance characteristic (e.g., translational movement) is such that the MR material provides minimal resistance to translational movement of the input element.

[0122] In some embodiments, in response to receiving input data corresponding to a selection of a second operating mode among the plurality of operating modes (operation 620), according to some embodiments, method 600 may include setting, by the magnetizing assembly, a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet to a second strength (operation 650) so that the MR material has a second viscosity that affects a performance characteristic of the input device (operation 660). In some implementations, the magnetic field strength may be high (e.g., magnet saturation), the MR material is at or near its maximum viscosity state using some fluid, and the performance characteristic (e.g., translational movement) is such that the MR material provides maximum resistance to translational movement of the input element.

[0123] It should be understood that according to certain embodiments, Figure 6 The specific steps shown provide a specific method 600 for controlling the performance characteristics of an input element on an input device using an electropermanent magnet system and a magnetorheological material. Other sequences of steps may also be performed according to alternative embodiments. In addition, additional steps may be added or removed depending on the specific application. For example, this example includes a minimum viscosity and a maximum viscosity for the MR material. Other states are possible, and any suitable viscosity setting may be used. In some aspects, more than two modes of operation may be performed. Any combination of changes may be used, and those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will understand its many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments.

[0124] Certain embodiments of EPM+MR-based applications

[0125] As described above, the basic principle of utilizing EPM with MR materials is that it allows the user to dynamically control, for example, the braking of a given mechanical degree of freedom (DOF) through the viscosity of the MR material, where the mechanical degree of freedom can be linear translational movement, rotational translational movement, or other types, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Implementations utilizing permanent magnets typically require that one or more permanent magnets be physically moved relative to the MR material to change the magnet field strength applied to the MR material. Therefore, it is typically necessary to add additional mechanical degrees of freedom to the system to facilitate movement between the permanent magnets and the MR material. As a result, the mechanical complexity of the system is increased, which can result in a higher risk of component failure and overall system cost.

[0126] Clutch system

[0127] Figure 7A magnetorheological clutch system 700 is shown that uses a permanent magnet assembly to apply a magnetic field to an MR material to control clutch engagement. The MR-based clutch system 700 includes a clutch input shaft 710, an output shaft 730, and a mechanically movable magnet assembly 740 having one or more permanent magnets that continuously generate a magnetic field 760. An MR fluid 720 is disposed in a cavity between the input shaft 710 and the output shaft 730. The input shaft 710 is coupled to the output shaft 730 by the MR fluid 720, such that the amount of frictional coupling between the input shaft 710 and the output shaft 730 depends largely on the viscosity of the MR fluid 720. The mechanical degree of freedom controlled by the state of the MR fluid 720 is the rotational translational movement between the input shaft 710 and the output shaft 730. In the left image, the magnet assembly 740 is positioned in a first position (e.g., the leftmost position) such that the MR fluid 720 is not (or minimally) affected by the magnetic field 760. In this case, the MR-based clutch system 700 can be described as being in an "unlocked" state in which the MR fluid 720 has a relatively low viscosity, and the input shaft 710 has a very weak friction coupling with the output shaft 730 and can rotate relatively freely relative to each other. In the right image, the magnet assembly 740 is positioned in a second position (e.g., the rightmost position) so that the MR fluid 720 is affected by the continuous magnetic field 760. In this case, the MR-based clutch system 700 can be described as being in a "locked" state in which the MR fluid 720 has a relatively high viscosity (e.g., effectively solid), and therefore the input shaft 710 has a very strong friction coupling with the output shaft 730 because the viscous fluid "locks" the input and output shafts together, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. As described above, additional degrees of freedom are required to mechanically move the magnet assembly 740 to apply and remove the MR fluid 720 from the magnetic field 760, which increases system cost and complexity, and can reduce reliability and negatively affect system life.

[0128] In some implementations, an electromagnet can be used to apply a magnetic field to the MR material to dynamically change its viscosity. As described above, the electromagnet includes a coil of wire that operates as a magnet when current is passed through the coil of wire but stops operating like a magnet when the current stops. Although the electromagnet can generate a range of magnetic field strengths, which is useful when combined with MR materials to achieve different viscosities and more application possibilities, the electromagnet requires continuous power to maintain the magnetic field, which prohibits practical use in most battery-powered electrical input devices due to high power consumption and a potentially significant corresponding reduction in battery life. For example, if the system needs to block or maintain a particular degree of freedom for a long time (e.g., the MR material needs to be maintained in a high viscosity state), the power consumption of the system will increase significantly because there must be continuous current to drive the electromagnet.

[0129] Figure 8 A magnetorheological clutch system 800 is shown that uses an electromagnet assembly to apply a magnetic field to an MR material to control clutch engagement. The MR-based clutch system 800 includes a clutch input shaft 810, an output shaft 830, and an electromagnet 840 having a magnetic field 860. The electromagnet 840 may include a circuit having at least one coil (not shown) that generates a magnetic field 860 when powered, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. An MR fluid 820 is disposed in a cavity between the input shaft 810 and the output shaft 830. The input shaft 810 is coupled to the output shaft 830 by the MR fluid 820, such that the amount of frictional coupling between the input shaft 810 and the output shaft 830 depends on the viscosity of the MR fluid 820. The mechanical degree of freedom controlled by the state of the MR fluid 820 is the rotational-translational movement between the input shaft 810 and the output shaft 830. In the left image, the electromagnet is not powered (e.g., no current drives the coil), and no magnetic field 860 is generated. In this case, the MR-based clutch system 800 can be described as being in an "unlocked" state in which the MR fluid 820 has a relatively low viscosity, and the input shaft 810 has a very weak friction coupling with the output shaft 830 and can therefore rotate freely relative to each other. Figure 8In the right image of , the electromagnet 840 is powered (e.g., current drives the coil) and generates a magnetic field 860. In this case, the MR-based clutch system 800 can be described as being in a "locked" state in which the MR fluid 820 has a relatively high viscosity, and therefore the input shaft 810 has a very strong friction coupling with the output shaft 830 because the viscous fluid "locks" the input and output shafts together, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. As described above, although electromagnets provide more control over the magnetic field configured to control one or more input elements (e.g., the magnetic field strength can be varied), electromagnets are generally not feasible in small and / or battery-powered wireless input devices due to their relatively high cost, large footprint, and demanding power requirements.

[0130] In some embodiments, an electropermanent magnet is combined with an MR material to solve the problems described above with respect to permanent magnets and electromagnets configured to control a mechanical degree of freedom of movement (e.g., linear movement, rotational movement, etc.). For example, unlike a permanent magnet, an EPM can have its magnetic field turned on or off, and can be set to any suitable magnetic field polarization and strength without having to mechanically move the EPM between positions to expose and remove MR material from the magnetic field. Unlike an electromagnet, a short single current pulse can be used to set the EPM to a specific magnetic field polarity and intensity (strength). The current can then be turned off without further power consumption requirements, and the EPM can then maintain its specific magnetic field (e.g., positive, negative, or no magnetic field) for any suitable period of time (e.g., permanently, until the EPM magnetic field is turned off or changed to a new polarization and intensity, etc.). In a typical arrangement, when the electromagnets maintain a magnetic field to cause the MR material to have a high viscosity, an electromagnet-based system as described above will use more power than an EPM-based system after about 1 second of use, or use less power (e.g., on the order of cm) when in a "hold" position. As an additional benefit, using MR fluids to constrain and control mechanical DOF is that MR fluids are better at resisting shear stresses than certain configurations that rely on magnetic confinement.

[0131] Fig.9A A magnetorheological clutch system 900 having an electropermanent magnet assembly configured to apply a magnetic field to an MR material to control clutch engagement is shown according to certain embodiments. The MR-based clutch system 900 includes a clutch input shaft 910, an output shaft 930, and an EPM 940 having a controllable magnetic field. The EPM 940 may include a plurality of magnets (e.g., having different coercivity values, as described above with respect to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B960. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, the polarization and strength of the magnetic field may be set to any suitable setting. MR fluid 920 is disposed in a cavity between an input shaft 910 and an output shaft 930. The input shaft 910 is coupled to the output shaft 930 by the MR fluid 920 such that the amount of frictional coupling between the input shaft 910 and the output shaft 930 depends on the viscosity of the MR fluid 920. The mechanical degree of freedom controlled by the state of the MR fluid 920 is the rotational-translational movement between the input shaft 910 and the output shaft 930. In the left image, the EPM is momentarily powered (e.g., via a current pulse of a drive coil) such that the two magnets have opposite polarities and the magnetic field conduction path is within the magnets themselves such that the magnetic field does not contact the MR fluid 920. In this case, the MR-based clutch system 900 can be described as being in an "unlocked" state in which the MR fluid 920 has a relatively low viscosity, and the input shaft 910 has a very weak friction coupling with the output shaft 930 and can therefore rotate freely relative to each other. Fig.9A In the right image of , the EPM is momentarily powered (e.g., via a current pulse of a drive coil) such that the two magnets have the same polarity, and the magnetic field conduction path extends outside the magnets such that the magnetic field passes through the MR fluid 920. In this case, the MR-based clutch system 900 can be described as being in a "locked" state in which the MR fluid 920 has a relatively high viscosity, and thus the input shaft 910 has a very strong friction coupling with the output shaft 930 because the viscous fluid "locks" the input and output shafts together, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Thus, embodiments of braking that utilize an EPM with MR materials to dynamically control a mechanical DOF (e.g., linear translation or rotational translation) can do so without adding a second mechanical DOF (similar to configurations using permanent magnets, which reduces robustness and increases cost), thereby not requiring power consumption to maintain a "held" state or one or more "free" states.

[0132] Fig. 9B A second magnetorheological-based clutch system 980 is shown having an electropermanent magnet assembly configured to apply a magnet field to the MR material to control clutch engagement according to certain embodiments. The clutch system 980 has an increased number of plates (e.g., a multi-plate clutch) that can provide greater friction. Fig. 9BThe clutch system 980 is shown in both a "locked" (eg, friction applied) and an "unlocked" configuration. In such an embodiment, due to the greater friction of the multi-plate clutch system, the EPM and MR systems may have reduced magnetic strength to achieve the target torque.

[0133] Fig. 9C A third magnetorheological based clutch system 990 is shown having an electropermanent magnet assembly configured to apply a magnet field to a MR material to control clutch engagement, according to certain embodiments. Fig. 9C The clutch system 990 is shown in both a "locked" (eg, friction applied) and an "unlocked" configuration. In this embodiment, the magnetic field for the clutch system 990 is radial rather than axial, as shown in FIG. FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B In other words, FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B shows a "clutch" based approach, while Fig. 9C A "bearing" based approach is shown. The rotor may include ferromagnetic material to conduct the magnetic field as shown, thereby forming a robust, compact solution that achieves lower magnetic forces than other clutch system implementations. Those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof.

[0134] Key structure

[0135] The key structures can be used in any number of applications, including keyboards, remote controls, game controls, or any suitable input device, Internet of Things (IOT) devices, etc. Conventional key structures typically include a mechanical structure such as a spring to provide a resistance profile to key presses, and a particular resistance profile may be preferred for some users or in particular uses (e.g., gaming). However, conventional key structures are typically limited to one or a few resistance profiles and can be highly susceptible to wear (e.g., the spring constant of the spring may change over time), as is typically the case with mechanical moving parts. By combining EPM and MR materials, certain embodiments of the key structure can be designed to have any suitable resistance profile by dynamically changing the viscosity of the MR material. Such embodiments can be applied to single key structures (e.g., see Figures 10 to 12 ), multi-bond structures (see, for example, Fig.15 ), and a wide variety of profiles can be achieved, including linear resistance profiles and non-linear resistance profiles that include bumps or other resistance profile features found in modern high-end input devices, as described below with respect to Figures 13 to 14C The following non-limiting embodiments present some of the numerous implementations possible by combining EPM and MR.

[0136] Fig.10A key structure 1000 is shown that combines EPM and MR materials to achieve improved performance characteristics according to certain embodiments. The key structure 1000 includes a key frame 1010, an MR material 1020, a key plunger 1040, a key cap 1030 coupled to the key plunger 1040, a biasing mechanism 1050, an EPM 1060, and an O-ring 1070. The EPM 1060 may include circuitry and corresponding coils (e.g., magnetizing components controlled by one or more processors) to set the magnetic field of the EPM 1060 (e.g., set the polarity and strength of the magnetic field). In operation, the key structure is configured to be pressed by a user, just as a typical key would be pressed on a keyboard. The user will typically depress the keycap 1030 with a downward force (shown in an initial position at rest), causing the keycap 1030 and key plunger 1040 to traverse linearly downward along a travel path relative to the key frame 1010, and the biasing mechanism 1050 will provide a restoring force that causes the key plunger 1040 and keycap 1030 to move upward (e.g., after the downward force is removed) and return to the initial position. Typically, the upward / downward movement is linear and mechanically one degree of freedom (DOF), although non-linear paths are possible. The O-ring 1070 is configured to form a sealed storage cavity between the key frame 1010 and the key plunger 1040, and the MR material 1020 (e.g., fluid) is contained within the sealed storage cavity. As the key plunger 1040 moves up and down within the key frame 1010, portions of the outer surface of the key plunger 1040 remain in contact with the MR material 1020, as shown and as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0137] EPM 1060 may be configured to generate a magnetic field having any suitable polarity and strength. Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown, the magnetic field can be conducted through the components of the key structure 1000 to direct the magnetic field to the MR material 1020 and control its corresponding viscosity to generate resistance (e.g., braking) to the movement of the key plunger 1040 along its 1 DOF of linear travel path. For example, the key frame 1010 and the key plunger 1040 can include a ferrite material that can easily conduct the magnetic field of the EPM 1060 through the MR material 1020, as shown in the following embodiments. Some embodiments can use a single EPM (e.g., see Fig.10 to Fig.11 ) or multiple EPMs (see, for example, Fig.12), but may function in a similar manner as follows: wherein the viscosity of the MR material changes dynamically as the key structure is depressed and released to affect the resistance profile for the key structure. The biasing mechanism 1050 may be a spring, a dome structure, or any suitable implementation that provides a restoring force to the key plunger 1040. Some embodiments may not include a biasing mechanism. The key structure 1000 may include other features not shown to prevent confusion about the primary novelty presented herein. For example, an actuator (to detect a button press), a position sensor (e.g., to detect the position of the key plunger 1040 relative to the key frame 1010), a circuit system, etc. may be included, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Some examples of position sensors may include Hall effect sensors, inductance-based sensors, light-based sensors, and capacitance-based sensors. In addition, some embodiments may not include a ferrite material for conducting a magnetic field, but may rely on a non-conducting magnetic field (e.g., strong enough to omnidirectionally radiate from the EPM 1060 and pass through and affect the viscosity of the MR material 1020) to control the resistance profile of the key structure 1000. In some embodiments, similar structures may be used in other applications, including shock absorbing implementations or other structures having similar linear traversals of elements relative to each other.

[0138] Some typical embodiments of a key structure for an input device may include: a key frame; a key plunger configured to linearly traverse along a travel path within the key frame with one degree of freedom of movement; an EPM assembly coupled to the key frame and including at least one permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field and a magnetizing assembly configured to set the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet; an MR material disposed within the key frame and coupled to the key plunger, the MR material having a viscosity that changes based on the magnetic field, wherein the MR material is configured to provide resistance to the linear traversal of the key plunger along the travel path within the key frame, the resistance being based on the viscosity of the MR material. The key frame and / or the key plunger may include ferrite and configured to conduct the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet and couple it to the MR material. Some embodiments may include a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring, a dome structure), wherein the travel path of the key plunger includes a first position corresponding to the key plunger being in an undepressed state and a second position corresponding to the key plunger being in a fully depressed state, wherein the biasing mechanism provides a restoring force to the key plunger that returns the key plunger to the second position. The key may include a plurality of O-rings or other containment structures configured to form a sealed storage cavity between the key frame and the key plunger, wherein the MR material is a fluid contained within the sealed storage cavity.

[0139] Continuing with the general description of typical embodiments of the key structure, the key can be configured to operate in multiple operating modes, the multiple operating modes including: a first operating mode in which the magnetizing assembly sets the magnetic field of the permanent magnet so that the MR material has a first viscosity that provides a first resistance to linear traversal of the key plunger along the travel path; and a second operating mode in which the magnetizing assembly sets the magnetic field of the permanent magnet so that the MR material has a second viscosity that provides a second resistance to linear traversal of the key plunger along the travel path, wherein the second resistance is greater than the first resistance. Some embodiments can employ a second permanent magnet configured to generate a second magnetic field, wherein in the first operating mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized so that the path of magnetic conduction of their respective magnetic fields is contained by the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet, and the magnetic field does not pass through the MR material, while in the second operating mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized so that the path of magnetic conduction of their respective magnetic fields passes through the MR material. In some cases, in a first operating mode, the EPM can be configured to have no magnetic field, a low intensity magnetic field, etc., such that the magnetic field does not pass through the MR material, thereby causing the MR material to have low viscosity and minimal resistance to movement of the key plunger relative to the key frame. In some cases, in a second operating mode, the EPM can be configured to have a high intensity magnetic field passing through the MR material, thereby causing the MR material to have high viscosity (e.g., maximum resistance) to movement of the key plunger relative to the key frame. The first operating mode and the second operating mode can be configured to control the MR material in any suitable manner, and additional operating modes are possible, as will be appreciated by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0140] The key structure may also include: one or more processors (which may be external to the key structure); a sensor configured to detect the position of the key plunger along the travel path within the key frame, the sensor being controlled by the one or more processors, wherein the one or more processors are configured to cause the magnetizing assembly to dynamically set the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet so that the viscosity of the MR material changes according to the resistance distribution based on the position of the key plunger along the travel path. Some embodiments may include a switch configured to generate input data indicating a key press event when the key plunger is depressed beyond a threshold position along the travel path. The switch may be controlled by the one or more processors and / or communicatively coupled to the one or more processors. In some aspects, the key structure may be part of a computer peripheral device, an input device, or other suitable electronic device.

[0141] Fig.11 1 shows the operation of a single EPM key structure configuration 1000 with MR material according to some embodiments. For illustration purposes, the key structure 1000 is shown with Fig.10When EPM 1060 is set to a magnetic field having a polarity and strength, magnetic field 1165 is conducted from the north pole of EPM 1060 through ferrite frame 1010, through MR material 1020, through ferrite key plunger 1040, through MR material 1020 on the other side, through the other side of ferrite key frame 1010, through the key structure and to the south pole of EPM 1060. It should be understood that Figures 10 to 12 A simplified cross-sectional view is shown, and the actual path of the magnetic field through the key structure comprises a three-dimensional path, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Thus, the EPM assembly (EPM 1060 and corresponding circuitry and coils (not shown)) controls the density of the magnetic field through the MR material (fluid) via the ferrite components described above, which in turn controls the friction between the key plunger 1040 and the MR material 1020 and, therefore, the resistance profile of the key structure. While allowing for customizability of the resistance profile, this approach (using EPM with MR material) has significant advantages over fully active solutions (e.g., electromagnets with MR) in that only power is consumed to change the overall bond force constant (e.g., achieved by short current pulses of a specific amplitude and duration), and the force bulge is achieved during an extremely short burst of power, as described below at least with respect to Fig.13 The precise implementations may vary, and numerous modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0142] In some embodiments, the ferrite material design can also be tuned to have magnetic field variations throughout the motion (e.g., with EPM field variations), which can cause force peaks or "holes" throughout the motion without having to use coil current spikes to create "tactile bumps", as described below with respect to Fig.13 Described. In such a design, the ferrite wall may not be flat and may have a varying distance from the key as the key moves up and down. When the distance is shorter, the strength of the magnetic field may be locally increased. Those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate the many modifications, variations and alternative embodiments of the disclosure. In further embodiments, the selection of an operating mode may be made prior to activation, where the mode is active throughout the keystroke or during its activation, and the mode may change depending on the position of the key during its operation.

[0143] Fig.12The operation of a dual EPM key structure configuration 1200 with MR material is shown according to certain embodiments. The key structure 1200 is in an "unlocked" position in which the key can freely move up and down according to a resistance profile with minimal resistance provided by the MR material 1220. The key structure 1200 is in a "locked" position in which the key is locked in place due to the high viscosity of the MR material 1220 caused by the passage of a magnetic field. The key structure 1200 can be similar in operation to the key structure 1000, except that an additional EPM 1260 is included. The key structure 1200 includes a key frame 1210, an MR material 1220, a key plunger 1240, a key cap 1230 coupled to the key plunger 1240, a biasing mechanism 1250, a first EPM 1260, a second EPM 1280, and an O-ring 1270. The EPMs 1260 and 1280 can each include a magnetizing component (e.g., a circuit and a coil) to set their corresponding magnetic fields. In some aspects, a single magnetizing assembly or separate magnetizing assemblies can be used to set the magnetic fields of EPMs 1260 and 1280. In operation, key structure 1200 is configured to be pressed by a user, just as a typical key on a keyboard is pressed. The user will typically press keycap 1230 (shown in a stationary initial position) with a downward force, causing keycap 1230 and key plunger 1240 to traverse linearly downward along a travel path relative to key frame 1210, and biasing mechanism 1250 will provide a restoring force that causes key plunger 1240 and keycap 1230 to move back up (e.g., after the downward force is removed) and return to the initial position. Typically, the up / down movement is linear and mechanically along one degree of freedom (DOF), although non-linear paths are possible. The O-ring 1270 is configured to form a sealed storage cavity between the key frame 1210 and the key plunger 1240, and the MR material 1220 (e.g., fluid) is contained in the sealed storage cavity. When the key plunger 1240 moves up and down in the key frame 1210, a portion of the outer surface of the key plunger 1240 remains in contact with the MR material 1220, as shown and with Figure 10 to Figure 11 The implementation method is similar.

[0144] Key structure 1200 differs from key structure 1000 in that two EPMs are used to control the viscosity and corresponding frictional force exerted by MR material 1220 on key plunger 1240. For example, in some embodiments, key structure 1200 can be in a "closed" or "unlocked" state (e.g., where MR material 1220 is not subjected to a magnetic field and has minimal viscosity) when EPM 1260 and EPM 1280 are magnetized with opposite polarities so that their corresponding magnetic fields 1265 pass through each other as shown. That is, the magnetic field from the north pole of EPM 1280 is conducted through key frame 1210 to the south pole of EPM 1260, continues out of the north pole of EPM 1260, passes through the other side of key frame 1210, and to the south pole of EPM 1280, and completes the circuit, as shown in the left figure. In some embodiments, the key structure 1200 can be in an "open" or "locked" state when both the EPM 1260 and the EPM 1280 are magnetized to have the same polarity so that their corresponding magnetic fields (1285 and 1287, respectively) are conducted through the key structure 1220 as shown. That is, the conduction path for the magnetic fields of the EPM 1260 and the EPM 1280 is from their north poles out through the ferrite frame 1210, through the MR material 1220, through the ferrite key plunger 1240, through the MR material 1220 on the other side, through the other side of the ferrite key frame 1210, and to the corresponding south poles of the EPM 1260 and the EPM 1280. In some embodiments, each EPM 1260, 1280 can be configured by the magnetizing assembly to have any suitable magnetic field to achieve any desired resistance distribution.

[0145] Fig.13 1 is a graph 1300 showing a plurality of curves of various force distributions for keyboard keys defined by EPM magnetic fields according to certain embodiments. For purposes of illustration, graph 1300 may correspond to performance characteristics of key structure 1200 (e.g., a force / displacement curve defining a resistance distribution), although any key structure utilizing EPM and MR materials may be used, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Fig.13, graph 1300 plots the force required to depress the key structure over a range of displacement values. In some embodiments, the curves of graph 1300 illustrate a force response curve when a key is depressed, and are not necessarily a representation of a force curve when the key is released. Curve 1310 illustrates the linear force constant provided by the biasing mechanism (1250) alone without significant additional friction (e.g., resistance) provided by the MR material 1220 to the depression of the key structure 1200. That is, when the MR material 1220 is not subjected to a magnetic field (or a magnetic field of negligible strength), the MR material 1220 has a minimum (or low) viscosity and provides a minimum (or low) resistance to the movement of the key plunger 1240 through the MR material 1220. The biasing mechanism provides both a small resistance during keystroke and a restoring force for returning the key plunger to its initial position after the key structure is released (e.g., the user removes or reduces the downward force on the keycap).

[0146] As described above, when the EPM is magnetized to have a particular polarity and magnetic field strength that is conducted or directed through the MR material 1220 (e.g., via a short current pulse of corresponding amplitude and duration, after which the magnetic field is maintained in the absence of a power demand for the EPM), the viscosity of the MR material increases and provides a correspondingly increased resistance to movement of the key plunger relative to the key frame through the MR material. In situations where the magnetic field is constant (e.g., the EPM magnetic field is set once and maintained), the additional resistance provided by the MR material to the key plunger will increase linearly as the key displacement increases. For example, curves 1320 and 1340 show various force constants defined by the EPM magnetic field. As the key is depressed, the force required to further depress the key increases in a linear manner. Curve 1340 shows that the EPM magnetic field has a higher strength than curve 1320.

[0147] In some cases, more complex resistance distributions (force curves) can be achieved by incorporating nonlinear behaviors that simulate mechanically based key structure systems commonly used in contemporary mechanical key systems. For example, curve 1330 shows a force constant with a force bump caused by a short current spike of the drive coil. This indicates a more "active" control of the resistance distribution of the key structure, rather than a "passive" control, in which the EPM is initially set to have a specific magnetic field that provides a force constant throughout the displacement of the key structure, as shown in curves 1320 and 1340. In an active control scheme, the EPM can be magnetized differently based on the position of the key plunger relative to the key frame. Referring back to curve 1330, the force versus displacement curve is linear until the displacement sensor detects that the key plunger reaches a certain displacement and causes the EPM to change its magnetization to produce a force bump effect. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure, the resistance distribution can be configured to change in any suitable manner with one or more force bumps, force constants, or other effects at different locations along the displacement of the key structure. This presents an unlimited number of resistance profile options, which is not possible in a purely mechanical key structure and would require significant power consumption in an electromagnet-based implementation. Thus, certain implementations can replicate various key characteristics, such as force and travel, to match well-known contemporary resistance profiles, such as a linear profile (e.g., cherry red-like Fig.14A 1402 and 1404), tactile distribution (e.g., cherry brown- Fig. 14B 1412, 1414), "clicky" distribution (e.g., cherry blue - as shown in FIG. Fig. 14C ) or any other desired resistance distribution. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate the many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, non-active, non-parametric based methods may be combined with or replace the various embodiments described above. Examples of non-active, non-parametric based methods include shaping a ferrite component (e.g., a housing, a plunger, etc.) so that when a key is pressed, the conduction of the magnetic field changes to produce a specific distribution (e.g., a tactile "bump"), as described above.

[0148] Fig.15is a simplified flow chart illustrating aspects of a method 1500 for controlling performance characteristics (e.g., resistance profile) of a key structure using electropermanent magnets and MR materials according to certain embodiments. The method 1500 may be performed by processing logic that may include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software running on appropriate hardware (e.g., a general purpose computing system or a dedicated machine), firmware (embedded software), or any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the method 1500 may be performed by: the processor 210 and / or other systems, blocks or modules of the system 200; the processor 302 and / or other systems, blocks or modules of the system 300; or a combination thereof.

[0149] According to some embodiments, at operation 1510, method 1500 may include receiving input data corresponding to an operating mode of an input device, the operating mode corresponding to control of movement of a movable element of the input device along one degree of freedom. In some aspects, one degree of freedom may correspond to linear motion of the movable element, and wherein the movable element is one of: a button that can be pressed along one degree of freedom in a linear manner, a key that can be pressed along one degree of freedom in a linear manner, a trigger that can be actuated along one degree of freedom in a linear manner, or a support structure that is configured to support the input device in a variety of configurations, the support structure being able to extend and retract along one degree of freedom in a linear manner. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have benefited from the present disclosure will understand many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, one degree of freedom may correspond to rotational movement of the movable element, wherein the movable element is one of: a roller that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation, a trackball that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation, a knob that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation, a hinge that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation, a steering wheel that can rotate along one degree of freedom in rotation, or a pedal that can be pressed along one degree of freedom in rotation. Numerous modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0150] According to some implementations, at operation 1520 , method 1500 may include determining a selection of an operating mode based on the input data.

[0151] At operation 1530, in response to input data corresponding to a first operating mode, method 1500 may include causing the magnetizing assembly to set a first magnetic field strength of a permanent magnet (EPM), the first magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet (EPM) controlling a viscosity of an MR material coupled to the movable element, the MR material providing a first resistance to movement of the movable element along one degree of freedom at the first magnetic field strength.

[0152] At operation 1540, in response to input data corresponding to a second operating mode, method 1500 may include causing the magnetizing assembly to set a second magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet, the MR material providing a second resistance to movement of the movable element along one degree of freedom at the second magnetic field strength, wherein the second magnetic field strength is higher than the first magnetic field strength. In some embodiments, in the first operating mode, the MR material has a minimum viscosity, and in the second operating mode, the MR material has a maximum viscosity.

[0153] At operation 1550, in response to input data corresponding to a third operating mode, method 1500 may include causing the magnetizing assembly to set a third magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet, the MR material providing a third resistance to movement of the movable element along one degree of freedom at the third magnetic field strength, wherein the third magnetic field strength is higher than the first magnetic field strength and lower than the second magnetic field strength.

[0154] It should be understood that according to certain embodiments, Fig.15 The specific steps shown in 1500 provide a specific method for controlling the performance characteristics of a key structure using an electropermanent magnet and an MR material. Other sequences of steps may also be performed according to alternative embodiments. Furthermore, additional steps may be added or deleted depending on the specific application. Any combination of variations may be used, and those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0155] Multi-key implementation

[0156] In some embodiments, multiple keys can be controlled by a single EPM system rather than having a separate EPM system in each key structure. In some cases, a single EPM assembly can control an entire keyboard (e.g., 101 keys) or a keyboard of any size or a subset thereof by using a key frame common to each individual key as a magnetic field bus system. For example, the EPM assembly can set the magnetic field of one or more permanent magnets to a specific magnetic field polarity and strength. The magnetic field can be conducted through a key frame (e.g., typically including ferrite), which can guide the magnetic field through multiple keys having MR material and return to the permanent magnet to complete the circuit. A non-limiting example of such an implementation is described below.

[0157] Fig.16 A multi-key implementation for controlling the performance characteristics (e.g., resistance distribution) of multiple key structures 1600 using electropermanent magnets and MR materials according to certain embodiments is shown. Four separate key structures are Fig.16 The top of the keyboard is shown in top plan view, and the same key structure is arranged in a common keyboard key frame and Fig.16 The bottom of the Fig.16It shows how the keys are arranged relative to each other, and how various aspects of the key frame and EPM assembly are configured with them. Each key structure is similar to Figures 10 to 12 The key structures of the present invention operate in that they include a key plunger, a keycap, an MR material disposed in a cavity defined by an O-ring configured between the key frame and the key plunger, and a biasing mechanism for providing a restoring force to the key plunger. The key structures are different in that they do not have an on-board EPM component for each key. Similar to the single-key embodiment described above, the external EPM component 1660 provides a magnetic field (referred to herein as a "global magnetic field" to convey a magnetic field that affects more than one key structure) that is conducted through the entire keyboard key frame (or a portion thereof) and is directed through individual keys and corresponding MR materials to affect the resistance distribution of the individual keys. In addition, as described below, the key frame structure is different in a multi-key arrangement.

[0158] Reference Fig.16 , the key frame can be configured to be discontinuous to enable conduction of the EPM magnetic field in a circuit through the key structure. More specifically, a first portion 1670 of the key frame can include ferrite and be coupled to one side (first pole) of a permanent magnet of the EPM assembly 1660, and a second portion 1680 of the key frame can include ferrite and be coupled to an opposite side (second pole) of the permanent magnet of the EPM assembly. The first portion 1670 of the key frame can conduct a magnetic field from, for example, the north pole of a permanent magnet of the EPM assembly 1660 (e.g., facilitated by the ferrite) and couple the magnetic field through each individual key and to the second portion 1680 of the key frame, which conducts to the south pole of the permanent magnet to complete the magnetic circuit. Figure 4B Similar to the EPM magnets in the ferrite component, the ferrite component helps to confine the magnetic field substantially within the circuit of the ferrite component (e.g., key frame, key plunger, etc.), as opposed to the external omnidirectional transmission type, as is the case with a typical permanent bar magnet, and as Figure 4A In some cases, a key frame may be configured to be coupled to (or in close proximity to) each key, or a ferrite conduit may be used to couple the key frame to each key structure.

[0159] Return to reference Fig.16In a side view on the top, four separate key structures include: key structure 1610 (key 'Q'), which has segment 1612 of key frame portion 1670 and segment 1614 of key frame portion 1680; key structure 1620 (key 'W'), which has segment 1622 of key frame portion 1670 and segment 1624 of key frame portion 1680; key structure 1630 (key "A"), which has segment 1632 of key frame portion 1670 and segment 1634 of key frame portion 1680; and key structure 1640 (key "S"), which has segment 1642 of key frame portion 1670 and segment 1644 of key frame portion 1680. In operation, when the EPM assembly 1660 is configured without a magnetic field, or without a negligible magnetic field that substantially affects the viscosity of the MR material of each key structure, each key structure can operate according to a resistance profile that is primarily dominated by the resistance of the biasing mechanism (e.g., see curve 1310), because the MR material is generally at a minimum or relatively low viscosity and provides little resistance to the up and down movement of the key plunger relative to the key frame, as described in various embodiments above (e.g., see Fig.10 ). When the EPM assembly 1660 is configured to have a magnetic field strong enough to substantially change the viscosity of the MR material of each bond structure, the magnetic field can be conducted throughout the multi-bond structure to cause each bond to change its corresponding resistance distribution.

[0160] When conducted, for example, through a key frame and key plunger comprising ferrite, the path of the magnetic field may start from the north pole of the EPM assembly 1660, through the key frame portion 1670, through each of the key structures 1610 to 1640, through the key frame portion 1680, and back to the EPM assembly 1660 at the south pole. For key Q, the magnetic field passes from the key frame portion 1670 to portion 1612; through the MR material, the key plunger, and again through the MR material; exits through portion 1614, portion 1624, and then through the key frame portion 1680 to the south pole of the EPM assembly 1660. For key W, the magnetic field passes from the key frame portion 1670 to portion 1612, then to portion 1622; through the MR material, the key plunger, and again through the MR material; exits through portion 1624, and then through the key frame portion 1680 to the south pole of the EPM assembly 1660. For key A, the magnetic field passes from key frame portion 1670 to portion 1632; through the MR material, key plunger, and again through the MR material; exits through portion 1634, portion 1644, and then through key frame portion 1680 to the south pole of EPM component 1660. For key S, the magnetic field passes from key frame portion 1670 to portion 1632, then to portion 1642; through the MR material, key plunger, and again through the MR material; exits through portion 1624, and then through key frame portion 1680 to the south pole of EPM component 1660. For the purpose of explaining some of the basic novel concepts presented herein, the key structures can be considered to be the same. However, it should be understood that each key can have a different amount, configuration, type of MR material; a different position / configuration of the key frame relative to the MR material; or a key frame, key plunger of different materials; a different number of EPM components and conductive paths, etc., to achieve different resistance distributions in response to the global magnetic field. Any number of key structures are possible. Numerous modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0161] Pedal Implementation

[0162] Pedal assemblies that operate with a host computing device (e.g., a gaming console, a laptop / desktop computer, etc.) have improved significantly over the years, with contemporary pedal assemblies typically including various biasing mechanisms (e.g., mechanical springs, compressible / foldable materials, etc.) to provide a specific resistance profile. Exemplary implementations are described in application Ser. No. 16 / 731,875, filed on Dec. 31, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. In some contemporary pedal assemblies, changing the resistance profile of the pedal assembly typically involves a physical process of disassembly and reassembly to replace the biasing mechanism. According to certain embodiments, aspects of the present invention can dynamically change the resistance profile of one or more pedal assemblies in real time (e.g., by software controlled by processor 210, 302, or a combination thereof) by using an EPM assembly with MR material to achieve any of a large number of resistance profiles without requiring any disassembly or reassembly. Embodiments described herein include a pedal assembly (e.g., FIG. 17 ) that can utilize an EPM- and MR-based piston-type assembly that includes a piston head that can be directly controlled (e.g., see Fig.18 ) or indirectly via side path control to control the piston head (see, for example, Fig.18 ) implementation, however a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that other implementations (e.g., multiple pistons, side paths, etc.) are possible, and at a basic level, the ability of the piston to pass through the piston housing is controlled by controlling the viscosity of the MR material contained in the piston housing through which the piston passes, as further described in the non-limiting embodiment set forth below.

[0163] Fig.17A pedal assembly 1700 is shown that uses an EPM assembly in combination with MR materials to control performance characteristics (e.g., resistance profile) according to certain embodiments. The pedal assembly 1700 may include a base platform 1710, a pedal arm 1720, and a piston assembly 1730. The pedal arm 1720 may be rotatably coupled to the base platform 1710 (also referred to as a "pedal base") at a first position such that the pedal arm 1720 may move relative to the base platform 1710 along a rotational path (e.g., a rotational axis). The pedal platform 1705 may be coupled to the pedal arm 1720 to receive a user's foot. The piston assembly 1730 may couple the pedal arm 1720 to the base platform 1710 at a second position. In some aspects, the piston assembly 1730 may include a piston housing and a piston disposed in the piston housing, and is configured to linearly traverse along a longitudinal path within the piston housing. The piston assembly 1730 may also include an EPM assembly that may have a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field, a magnetizing assembly (e.g., a coil and corresponding circuit) configured to set the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet, and an MR material having a viscosity, the MR material contained within the piston assembly and configured such that the piston passes through the MR material as it linearly traverses along a longitudinal path within the piston housing, wherein the MR material is configured to provide resistance (e.g., a damping effect) to the linear traversal of the piston along the longitudinal path based on the viscosity of the MR material. The piston moves up and down within the piston housing, like a typical piston head, but wherein the movement is affected (e.g., hindered) by the viscosity of the MR material therein. Although not shown, the pedal assembly 1700 may include a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring) that conducts in conjunction with the piston assembly to provide a restoring force to return the pedal assembly to an initial position, similar to the operation of the key assembly described above, and as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0164] Fig.18A pedal damping system 1800 configured to control performance characteristics of a pedal system is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. The pedal damping system 1800 includes a piston housing 1810, an MR material (fluid) 1820 contained within the piston housing 1810 (e.g., due in part to an O-ring 1850), and a piston including a piston rod 1840 and a piston head 1845 that linearly traverses along a longitudinal path within the piston housing 1810 (e.g., typically, as a user depresses and releases a pedal platform of the pedal assembly). An EPM assembly is configured within the piston head 1845 and includes two magnets 1860, 1870 with corresponding coils 1880, 1885, respectively. A circuit and control processor (e.g., one or more processors 210, 302, etc.—not shown) controls current through the coils 1880, 1885 to set magnetic fields generated by the magnets 1860 (magnetic field 1865) and the magnets 1870 (magnetic field 1875). The piston head 1845 also includes ferrite portions 1830, 1832 configured on the poles of the magnets 1860, 1870 and ferrite portions 1834 and 1836 configured on the piston housing 1810 (the piston head itself may or may not be ferrous). The ferrite portion may be configured to conduct the magnetic field of the magnets 1860, 1870. The ferrite portion 1830 may also be configured on the piston housing 1810, wherein the space between the piston housing and the piston head is a channel A and a channel B through which the MR material may flow. When the MR material has a low viscosity (e.g., not exposed to a magnetic field), the MR material 1820 may be displaced through channels A and B with minimal resistance as the piston head 1845 moves within the piston housing 1810. When the MR material 1820 has a high viscosity (e.g., exposed to a magnetic field), the MR material 1820 may not be displaced through channels A and B, or the displacement may be subject to high resistance, which may define the resistance profile of the pedal assembly.

[0165] In the left cross-sectional view, the pedal damping system 1800 is in an "unlocked" configuration, in which the EPM assembly is configured so that the magnets 1860, 1870 have opposite polarities, which causes their corresponding magnetic fields 1865, 1875 to conduct directly to each other, which is facilitated by a portion of the ferrite portions 1830, 1840, as shown. In this configuration, the magnetic field is contained within the piston head 1845 and is not in contact with the surrounding MR material 1820. Therefore, the viscosity of the MR material 1820 is low, and the piston can move freely within the piston housing with little or minimal resistance. In such a case, the resistance profile provided by the pedal damping system can be largely defined by the biasing mechanism configured to return the pedal assembly to the initial position, and the resistance provided by the MR material 1820 can be negligible.

[0166] In the right cross-sectional view, the pedal damping system 1800 is in a "locked" configuration in which the EPM assembly is configured so that the magnets 1860, 1870 have the same polarity, which causes their corresponding magnetic fields 1865, 1875 to move away from each other and be conducted through the circuit through the MR material 1820. More specifically, the magnetic field 1865 travels from the north pole of the magnet 1860 through the ferrite portion 1840, through the channel A of the MR material 1820, through the ferrite portion 1834, through the channel A of the MR material 1820 again, through the ferrite portion 1830, and to the south pole of the magnet 1860, as shown. In a similar but opposite manner, magnetic field 1875 passes from the north pole of magnet 1870 through ferrite portion 1840, through channel B of MR material 1820, through ferrite portion 1836, through channel B of MR material 1820 again, through ferrite portion 1830, and to the south pole of magnet 1870. Magnetic fields 1865, 1875 pass through some MR material 1820 in channels A and B, respectively, which causes the viscosity of MR material 1820 (at least in the area where the magnetic field passes through the MR material) to increase, which resists the movement of piston head 1845 through piston housing 1810, thereby generating a resistance profile. The magnitude and polarity of the magnetic field can be adjusted in real time to change the resistance profile, which can be based on software input (e.g., an in-game event that triggers a change in pedal resistance), position data (e.g., based on the position of piston head 1845 within piston housing 1810), or other basis, as well as any combination thereof. More or fewer magnets and corresponding magnetic fields can be used. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure, any resistance distribution and its corresponding resistance strength can be set in any way. In some embodiments, a biasing mechanism (not shown) can be included to return the piston head to the top position (like a mouse or keyboard button). In such a case, a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring) can be placed between the bottom of the piston head and the bottom of the piston housing around the piston shaft, or alternately placed between the top of the piston head and the top of the piston housing. Those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure. In another embodiment, a biasing mechanism.

[0167] Fig.19 A pedal damping system 1900 configured to control performance characteristics of a pedal system according to certain embodiments is shown. Pedal damping system 1900 can operate similarly to pedal damping system 1800, but the control system can be configured external to the piston housing, which can provide alternative manufacturing options, particularly for compact pedal assemblies with space constraints.

[0168] The pedal damping system 1900 may include a piston housing 1910 containing an MR material and sealed by an O-ring 1990. The pedal damping system 1900 also includes a piston having a piston rod 1940 and a piston head 1945, which linearly traverses along a longitudinal path within the piston housing 1910. A side channel A connects the top of the piston housing 1910 to the bottom of the piston housing 1910. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, the side channel A provides a path for the MR fluid 1920 to be displaced as the piston head 1945 moves up and down within the piston housing 1910 to mitigate any resistance to movement of the piston head 1945 due to compression of the MR fluid 1920. The EPM assembly is configured away from the side of the piston housing 1910 and along the channel A. The EPM assembly includes two magnets 1960, 1970 with corresponding coils 1980, 1985, respectively. Circuitry and a control processor (e.g., one or more processors 210, 302, etc.—not shown) control the current through coils 1980, 1985 to set the magnetic field generated by magnet 1960 (magnetic field 1965) and magnet 1970 (magnetic field 1975). Piston head 1945 also includes ferrite portions 1930, 1932 configured on the poles of magnets 1960, 1970 and ferrite portion 1934 configured on the opposite side of channel A. The ferrite portions can be configured to conduct the magnetic field of magnets 1960, 1970. When pedal damping system 1900 is in an “unlocked” position (not shown), the MR material has a low viscosity (e.g., not exposed to a magnetic field), and MR material 1920 can be displaced through channel A with minimal resistance as piston head 1945 moves within piston housing 1910. When the pedal damping system 1900 is in the "locked" position (as shown), the MR material 1920 has a high viscosity (e.g., exposed to a magnetic field) and cannot be displaced through channel A, or displacement may be met with high resistance, which can define the resistance profile of the pedal assembly. More specifically, when the EPM assembly is configured so that the magnets 1960, 1970 have the same polarity, the pedal damping system 1900 is in a "locked" configuration, which causes their corresponding magnetic fields 1965, 1975 to move away from each other and be conducted through a circuit through the MR material 1920. For example, the magnetic field 1965 travels from the north pole of the magnet 1960 through the ferrite portion 1932, through the channel A of the MR material 1920, through the ferrite portion 1934, through the channel A of the MR material 1920 again, through the ferrite portion 1930, and to the south pole of the magnet 1960, as shown. In a similar manner, magnetic field 1975 travels from the north pole of magnet 1970 through ferrite portion 1932 , through channel A of MR material 1920 , through ferrite portion 1934 , through channel A of MR material 1920 again, through ferrite portion 1930 , and to the south pole of magnet 1970 .The magnetic fields 1965, 1975 each pass through some of the MR material 1920 in channel A, which increases the viscosity of the MR material 1920 (at least in the area where the magnetic field passes through the MR material 1920), which resists the movement of the piston head 1945 through the piston housing 1910, thereby generating a resistance distribution. The magnitude and polarity of the magnetic field can be adjusted in real time to change the resistance distribution, which can be based on software input (e.g., an in-game event that triggers a change in pedal resistance), position data (e.g., based on the position of the piston head 1945 within the piston housing 1910), or other basis and any combination thereof. More or fewer magnets and corresponding magnetic fields can be used. As will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, any resistance distribution and its corresponding resistance strength can be set in any manner.

[0169] Additional Examples of EPM Combinations with MR Materials

[0170] The various embodiments described above show how to use EPM and MR materials to control movement of one degree of freedom, for example, in a linear or rotational manner. Some examples are provided below to present some of the many ways in which the novel technology described herein can be applied to many different applications. The following embodiments are merely examples and are by no means exhaustive in terms of the applications of the implementation of the combination of EPM and MR materials, and those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the disclosure.

[0171] Fig. 20AA computer mouse 2000 configured to tilt on an underlying platform is shown according to certain embodiments. The computer mouse 2000 may operate similarly to the embodiments described in more detail below, but includes an EPM assembly 2020 and MR material as described herein: U.S. Patent No. 10,365,730, filed on June 9, 2017, and entitled "Input Device with Trackball," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. The computer mouse 2000 may tilt along a track 2010, wherein the EPM assembly 2020 is coupled to the track 2010. In some embodiments, the EPM assembly may be coupled to an MR material that blocks movement of the computer mouse 2000 along the track 2010. The amount by which the MR material blocks movement may be based on the viscosity of the MR material. In the left image, the computer mouse 2000 is shown tilted in a first position and in a "locked" state, wherein the EPM assembly generates a magnetic field that is applied to the MR material that locks or strongly blocks movement of the computer mouse 2000 along the track 2010. In the center image, the computer mouse 2000 is shown tilted in a first position and in an "unlocked" state, wherein the EPM assembly does not generate a magnetic field (or directs it away from the MR material), causing the MR material to have a low viscosity, allowing the computer mouse 2000 to tilt freely along the track 2010. In the right image, the computer mouse 2000 is shown tilted in a second position and in a "locked" state, wherein the EPM assembly (e.g., magnet and magnetization assembly) generates a magnetic field applied to the MR material that locks or strongly blocks movement of the computer mouse 2000 along the track 2010. In some cases, the track can be linear, substantially linear, curved, etc., as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Fig. 20B Computer mouse 2050 is shown configured to tilt along trajectory 2060 on an underlying platform, with EPM assembly 2070 configured to control locked and unlocked states of computer mouse 2050 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 20A , but along a different trajectory.

[0172] Fig.21A computer mouse 2100 configured to tilt relative to an underlying platform is shown according to certain embodiments. The computer mouse 2100 differs from the computer mice 2000, 2050 in the implementation of the tilt mechanism. Instead of moving along a linear track, the computer mouse 2100 includes an elliptical cam 2110 that rotates on an axis and provides different tilt angles for the computer mouse 2100 based on the position in which the cam 2110 is locked. The EPM assembly 2120 uses a permanent magnet and a magnetized assembly with MR material to control rotation along the axis. When the EPM assembly 2120 applies a magnetic field to the MR material, the MR material provides resistance to rotation based on the viscosity of the MR material. In the left image, the cam 2110 is locked by the EPM assembly 2120, so that the computer mouse 2100 is locked in a first position. In the right image, the cam 2110 is locked by the EPM assembly 2120, so that the computer mouse 1200 is locked in a second position. In the center image, the EPM assembly 2120 unlocks the cam 2110 to rotate freely, thereby setting the computer mouse in any suitable position. FIG. 20A to FIG. 21 Various embodiments provide an improvement over existing computer mice that can tilt in that any position along a linear track or a rotational axis can be locked in place using EPM components and MR materials, as described in various embodiments above. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have benefited from this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the disclosure.

[0173] Fig. 22 A game wheel assembly 2200 according to certain embodiments is shown. The game wheel assembly 2200 may include a wheel 2210, a base 2220, and an EPM assembly 2230, which may include one or more magnets, a magnetizing assembly, and an MR material. The wheel 2210 may be tilted relative to the base 2220 along a rotation axis 2225. The EPM assembly 2230 may be configured on the rotation axis to lock and unlock the wheel tilt by applying a magnetic field to the MR material, which is configured to provide resistance to wheel tilt based on the magnetic field strength and the corresponding viscosity of the MR material, as described in various embodiments above. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the disclosure.

[0174] Fig.23A keyboard system 2300 according to certain embodiments is shown. The keyboard system 2300 includes a keyboard 2310, a rotatable cam 2320 that can rotate on an axis, and an EPM assembly 2330. The EPM assembly 2330 controls the rotation of the cam 2320 along the axis of rotation using a permanent magnet and a magnetized assembly having an MR material (e.g., coupled to the keyboard at the axis of rotation). When the EPM assembly 2330 applies a magnetic field to the MR material, the MR material provides resistance to rotation based on the viscosity of the MR material. In the left image, the cam 2320 is locked by the EPM assembly 2330, so that the keyboard system 2300 is locked in a first position. In the center image, the EPM assembly 2330 removes or redirects the magnetic field from the MR material so that the cam 2320 can rotate freely along the axis of rotation, as shown. In this state, the keyboard 2310 can be moved to any suitable tilt angle based on the position of the cam 2320. In the right image, the cam 2320 is locked again by the EPM assembly 2330 and the keyboard 2310 remains locked at the tilt angle. Thus, the performance characteristics (e.g., the rotation of the cam 2320 along the rotation axis) allow the user to set the keyboard 2310 at any desired height. Some embodiments may employ a linear telescopic support structure that may be controlled by the EPM assembly and MR material in a manner similar to that described in the above embodiments. Those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof.

[0175] Fig.24 A microphone stand 2400 according to certain embodiments is shown. The microphone stand 2400 can be manipulated in a variety of different configurations along different rotation axes along the rotary joints 2410, 2420, and 2430. An EPM assembly can be configured at each rotary joint. For example, in some embodiments, the rotary joint can incorporate some or all of the features of FIG. 9, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the rotary joints 2410 to 2430 can be coupled to an MR material that provides resistance to rotation based on the viscosity of the MR material. In some embodiments, a magnetizing assembly can be included at each rotary joint to independently control the rotation of each rotary joint. In some aspects, a single control entity (e.g., processor 210, 302, etc.) can be used to control the performance characteristics of the microphone stand 2400 (the resistance applied to the MR material at each rotary joint). A person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure will understand many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof.

[0176] In some embodiments, the EPM components and MR can be combined to obtain an improved button on a computer mouse. Figures 10 to 16), buttons (also referred to as input elements, depressible elements, keypads, etc., as mentioned above) on a computer mouse (e.g., left / right click, side buttons, etc.) can change the click distribution for static control (e.g., setting the button to a static distribution - no movement, preset resistance, etc.) or dynamic control (e.g., when the button is pressed, the distribution changes, such as FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C There are many ways to implement buttons on a computer mouse in the manner described above, such as FIG. 25A to FIG. 25B Embodiments of the present invention include embodiments using a membrane structure to provide resistance to button displacement and tactile feedback, and embodiments that may be functionally similar to Fig.10 to Fig.16 The linear motion key implementation of the key implementation method, and the following about FIG. 26A to FIG. 26B Other implementations are possible and those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate numerous modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof.

[0177] Fig.25A An example of a cross-section of an input element architecture on a computer mouse 2500 that combines EPM and MR to obtain improved performance characteristics in accordance with certain embodiments is shown. This implementation is membrane-based, where MR materials (e.g., fluids) can be utilized to adjust the "click" resistance of the input element. The collapse or flexing of the membrane provides tactile feedback associated with the click. The computer mouse 2500 may include a frame 2505, a depressible input element 2510 (e.g., a left primary button), and an upper frame 2515. The frame 2505 and the upper frame 2515 may be coupled together in a clamshell arrangement, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The EPM / MR structure 2520 may be coupled to the input element 2510 to provide a resistance profile to the input element 2510 when the input element 2510 is depressed (e.g., "clicked"), as described below with respect to FIG. Fig.25B Further described.

[0178] Fig.25BA cross-sectional view of an input element architecture (EPM / MR structure 2520) on a computer mouse combining EPM and MR for improved performance characteristics according to certain embodiments is shown. The EPM / MR structure 2520 may include a housing 2530, an actuator 2540, a flexible membrane 2550, a ferrous membrane 2560 ("shrinkable membrane"), a main housing 2570, an MR fluid 2580, and an EPM / MR assembly 2590 having a coil 2592 and a magnet 2594 generating a magnetic field 2596. The actuator 2540 may be coupled to the bottom side of the depressible element 2510 and may traverse a path (e.g., up / down) when the depressible element is depressed, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. It should be understood that while many embodiments describe linear traversal of certain features (e.g., actuator 2540), there may be some movement in other dimensions such that an upward / downward movement (z-movement) of an actuator may also have some movement in other directions, such as x and y. Because such considerations obscure the details that would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, the novel embodiments described herein are not addressed in detail herein. The housing 2530 may be constructed of plastic, rubber, or other suitable material and may include a flexible membrane 2550 (e.g., plastic, rubber, etc.) that is configured to be beneath the actuator 2540 and to couple with the actuator 2540 when the depressible element 2510 and the corresponding actuator 2540 are depressed, such as Fig.25B shown.

[0179] When the depressible element 2510 is depressed, the actuator 2540 pushes the flexible membrane 2550, which further pushes the ferrous membrane 2560, which provides resistance to the actuator to prevent further traversal along the travel path within the housing. The shrinkable membrane 2560 is configured to shrink and provide tactile feedback in response to receiving a threshold force from the actuator 2540. The MR fluid 2580 can be configured inside the shrinkable membrane 2560 and the viscosity of the MR fluid 2580 can control the amount of resistance to flexion that the shrinkable membrane 2560 has in response to the force provided by the actuator 2540. The EPM / MR assembly 2590 can be controlled by one or more processors (not shown) that can cause the coil 2592 to generate current pulses, which can cause the magnet 2594 to generate a magnetic field 2596 of a specific polarity and strength, as described in many embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, when the magnet 2594 is configured to have opposite magnetic polarity, such as Fig.25B25, 26 and 27. As shown, the magnetic field 2596 is conducted from a first pole through the main housing 2570 (e.g., composed of ferrite), through the ferrous membrane 2560 at least partially filled with MR fluid 2580, through the opposite side of the main housing 2570, and back to the magnet 2594 at its second pole. In this configuration, the MR material is subjected to the magnetic field and the resistance already provided by the mechanical integrity of the collapsible membrane 2560 is supplemented with additional resistance from the varying viscosity of the MR fluid. In some cases where the magnetic field strength is high enough, the collapsible membrane 2560 can provide significant resistance to buckling so that a user may be unable to depress the button (e.g., when a user operates a computer mouse in a typical manner and applies a typical force to the button 2510). In the case where the magnets are not opposed (not shown, but similar to Fig.12 , left image), the magnetic field is contained in the EPM assembly 2590, and the shrinkable membrane generally bends based on its own mechanical resistance and is not subject to the additional substantial resistance provided by the MR material. In some aspects, the viscosity and corresponding resistance provided by the MR material can be dynamically changed to produce a specific resistance distribution even during moderate pressure, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In certain embodiments, a host computing device coupled to a computer mouse can operate software (e.g., a video game) that can control the EPM assembly 2590 (via one or more processors from system 200, 300, or both) to control the distribution of button presses with respect to button 2510 (e.g., button 2510 is not depressible when the game function associated with a particular button is not available in the game). A person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will understand the many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof. Although Fig.25B An MR fluid 2580 is shown inside the shrinkable membrane 2560, which may be contained throughout the shrinkable membrane 2560, or in one or more sub-portions of the shrinkable membrane 2560. Thus, the shrinkable membrane 2560 may be hollow or may have a hollow portion to contain the MR fluid. Alternatively or additionally, the MR fluid may be contained within the housing 2530 such that the shrinkable membrane is immersed in the MR fluid. In this case, the magnetic field 2596 may be routed through the MR fluid through the shrinkable membrane 2560 or via another path and typically via a ferrite material path. Those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof.

[0180] It should be noted that although a sensing architecture is not shown, any number or type of sensors may be used to detect when the button 2510 is depressed, including but not limited to capacitive sensors, optical sensors, inductive sensors, Hall Effect sensors, TMR (tunnel magnetoresistive sensors), galvanic contacts, etc. For example, a TMR may be placed near the actuator (e.g., on a keypad) and may sense changes in the magnetic field when the contractile element is bent.

[0181] By way of example, some embodiments of a computer mouse using an EPM / MR architecture may include a housing, a depressible element (e.g., a button), an actuator, and a collapsible membrane, wherein a first side of the depressible element is configured to be depressed by a user, an actuator coupled to a second side of the depressible element opposite the first side, wherein the actuator is configured to traverse a travel path within the housing with at least one degree of freedom of movement when the depressible element is depressed by the user (e.g., the button moves substantially up and down), the collapsible membrane provides a first resistance to prevent the actuator from traversing the travel path within the housing, wherein the collapsible membrane is configured to contract and provide tactile feedback in response to receiving a threshold force from the actuator. In some aspects, the collapsible membrane is comprised of a ferrous material and includes a hollow portion. The computer mouse may include an EPM assembly coupled to the housing and may include a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field and a magnetizing assembly configured to set the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet. In some cases, the MR material may be disposed within the hollow portion of the collapsible membrane. The housing may include a ferrite portion that creates a magnetic field conduction path that conducts a magnetic field from a first pole of the permanent magnet through the collapsible membrane to a second pole of the permanent magnet. The MR material may be configured such that the collapsible membrane provides additional resistance to traversal of the actuator along the travel path within the housing, the additional resistance based on a magnetic field passing through the MR material in the hollow portion of the collapsible membrane that affects the viscosity of the MR material. In some embodiments, the magnetizing assembly is configured to set the strength of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet, and the viscosity of the MR material is further based on the strength of the magnetic field.

[0182] The computer mouse may further include one or more processors configured to cause the depressible element to operate according to at least two operating modes, the at least two operating modes comprising: a first operating mode in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is configured to change the viscosity of the MR material within the hollow portion of the shrinkable membrane to a first viscosity, the first viscosity providing a first additional resistance to the actuator's traversal along the travel path within the housing; and a second operating mode in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is configured to change the viscosity of the MR material within the hollow portion of the shrinkable membrane to a second viscosity, the second viscosity providing a second additional resistance to the linear traversal of the actuator along the travel path within the housing, the second additional resistance being greater than the first additional resistance. In a further embodiment, the computer mouse may include a switch coupled to the one or more processors, the switch configured to generate a control signal in response to being activated, wherein the switch is activated when the shrinkable membrane shrinks. The depressible element may be a left mouse button or a right mouse button on the computer mouse, or any suitable input element.

[0183] In further embodiments, a computer mouse button may use a linear motion, key-based approach, as described above at least with respect to Figures 10 to 16 The EPM / MR based keys of the keyboard described above are as follows: FIG. 26A to FIG. 26B Similar to FIG. 25A to FIG. 25B , a single EPM component can be used for one button (e.g., left button), two buttons (e.g., left button and right button), or even additional buttons / elements using MR materials (e.g., FIG. 30A to FIG. 31C ). In addition, although FIG. 26A to FIG. 26B A galvanic contact is shown for sensing a button press, but other sensing implementations are possible, as described above with respect to FIG. 25A to FIG. 25B mentioned.

[0184] Fig.26A An example of an input element architecture on a computer mouse 2600 that combines EPM and MR to obtain improved performance characteristics according to certain embodiments is shown. The computer mouse 2600 includes a frame 2605, a depressible input element 2610 (e.g., a left primary button), and an upper frame 2615. The frame 2605 and the upper frame 2615 can be coupled together in a clamshell arrangement, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The EPM / MR structure 2620 can be coupled to the input element 2510 to provide a resistance profile to the input element 2610 when the input element 2610 is depressed (e.g., "clicked"), as described below with respect to Fig.26B Further described.

[0185] Fig.26BA cross-sectional view of an input element architecture (EPM / MR structure 2620) on a computer mouse combining EPM and MR for improved performance characteristics according to certain embodiments is shown. The EPM / MR structure 2620 includes a housing 2630 (e.g., plastic, rubber, etc.), an actuator 2640, an O-ring 2650, a galvanic contact 2660, a biasing mechanism 2670, an MR fluid 2680, and an EPM assembly 2690 having a coil 2692 and a magnet 2694 generating a magnetic field 2696. Fig.26A and Fig.26B Can be compared with the above Fig.12 The invention also operates in a similar manner as described, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0186] Fig. 27 A simplified image of a gimbal / shifter system 2700 that combines EPM and MR to obtain improved performance characteristics according to certain embodiments is shown. The gimbal / shifter system 2700 shows how a ball joint can be implemented using two hinge joints. For example, a first hinge joint 2710 can provide a range of motion along a first axis (e.g., an x-axis) and a second hinge joint 2720 can provide a range of motion along a second axis (e.g., a y-axis). Typically, the first axis and the second axis are orthogonal to each other and may or may not be coplanar. Embodiments such as 9A to 9C The embodiments in can be used to provide such a hinge joint and produce an overall universal joint structure, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0187] Fig.28An input device 2800 with a trackball is shown that combines EPM and MR for improved performance characteristics according to certain embodiments. The input device 2800 includes a trackball 2810, a magnetorheological bearing 2820, a high friction cylinder 2830, and a position encoder 2840, as well as various other input elements (e.g., left / right buttons, scroll wheels, etc.), output elements (e.g., LEDs), and structural elements (e.g., input device housing, etc.). In some embodiments, two roller systems can be used to track the movement of the trackball 2810 on two rotational axes (one is shown). In operation, the first roller system (bearing 2820) is pushed against the trackball 2810 and a "braking" force is applied using an EPM with an MR component, as described above. In a second independent roller system (not shown), the second roller system is pushed against the trackball 2810. Each roller system can use their corresponding position encoders to track different rotational axes (e.g., X-axis and Y-axis that are orthogonal to each other), as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the EPM assembly can apply short current pulses to give a "ratchet" feedback as the ball moves, similar to the above description of Fig.13 Described as "bump" feedback.

[0188] Input device shape adjustment and shape shifting

[0189] Many of the above-described embodiments utilize EPM components and MR fluids to control various input elements (e.g., keys, buttons, pedals, clutches, shifters, joints, support structures, etc.). In some aspects, EPM components and MR fluids can be used to customize the surface of an electronic device (e.g., an input device), which can improve the ergonomic interface between a user and the electronic device. For example, a palm rest on a computer mouse can be adjusted to suit the user's preferences by using MR materials to set the orientation or contour of the palm rest. In some implementations, a palm rest can include multiple "regions," also referred to as "submodules," each region having a top surface that forms at least a portion of the palm rest surface contour, such as Fig.29A The submodules can be operated similarly to a key structure or a multi-key structure, as described above. Figures 10 to 16 as described, and as Fig.29B In some cases, the palm rest may be a single plate opposed to multiple submodules. For example, the plate may be supported by multiple submodules arranged below so that the palm rest may be arranged in a preferred orientation, as described below with respect to FIG. 30A to FIG. 32 Although various examples presented herein are applied to computer mice, the same concepts can also be applied to keyboard palm rests, headphone ear pads, chair armrests, or any other suitable surface. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments thereof.

[0190] Fig.29A A computer mouse 2900 with an adjustable palm rest 2910 is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. The adjustable palm rest 2910 may include a surface including one or more submodules 2920, wherein one or more of the submodules 2920 may be depressed like the key structures described above. A user may apply force to the palm rest 2910 (e.g., by resting their hand on the palm rest), which may cause each of the submodules 2920 to be depressed an amount based on the amount of force applied. Due to the contours of the user's hand, different parts of the user's palm may apply different amounts of force to the palm rest in different areas. Thus, in certain embodiments, once the submodules conform to the user's hand (when the MR fluid has a low viscosity and there is little magnetic field passing through it), the user may cause the EPM assembly to apply magnetic fields to the submodules 2910 to lock them in place, thereby retaining the palm rest contour to the user's preference.

[0191] Fig.29B A simplified cross-sectional view of a computer mouse 2900 having multiple EPM / MR controlled submodules 2920 is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. The submodules may operate similarly to a key structure or a multi-key structure, as described above with respect to Figures 10 to 16 As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, in operation, each individual submodule may be spring loaded and may be "unlocked" when the polarization of the magnets causes the magnetic field generated by the EPM assembly magnets to create a magnetic field loop path that closes itself, such as Fig.29B When the polarizations of the magnets are opposite to each other, a magnetic field can be routed through each submodule (or a portion thereof) to lock the submodule in place, as shown in the top image of FIG. Fig.29B . In some aspects, each submodule can be connected by a single magnetic circuit and controlled with one EPM assembly, although some embodiments may employ multiple EPM assemblies. During operation, no power is typically consumed except during adjustment (after applying a current pulse to set the magnetic field of the permanent magnet). For a highly compliant computer mouse, the method can be scaled with many submodules, or for route adjustment of the palm area of ​​the mouse, it can be scaled with few submodules (e.g., less than five). Note that while a palm area with submodules is described, the same concepts can be applied to any portion of a computer mouse or any input device, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0192] Fig. 30AA computer mouse 3000 is shown having a palm rest panel 3010 and a plurality of submodules 3020a to 3020c disposed thereunder according to certain embodiments. In this embodiment, the palm rest 3010 is a single unit having a surface profile. The palm rest 3010 rests on a plurality of submodules 3020 (e.g., similar to the submodules 3020) that support the palm rest 3010. The palm rest 3010 can be adjusted in up to three degrees of freedom due to the movement of the palm rest 3010 when force is applied to the top of the palm rest 3010, with the underlying subassemblies being depressed by different amounts based on the amount of force applied to them (e.g., when a magnetic field of sufficient strength passes through the submodules 3020 to allow them to be adjusted), as shown in FIG. Fig. 30B For example, in Fig.31A In FIG. 3 , the computer mouse 3100 includes a palm rest 3110 supported by a plurality of underlying submodules (not shown), and the palm rest is in a neutral configuration. Fig.31B The palm rest 3110 is pushed downward from the neutral position. Fig.31C In the embodiment of the present invention, the palm rest 3110 moves upward from the neutral position. Many modifications, variations and alternative embodiments thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0193] By way of example, in some embodiments, an input device (e.g., a computer mouse) may include a housing, and a palm region coupled to the housing and configured to receive a palm of a user when the input device is operated by the user, wherein the palm region is formed in part by a plurality of submodules. Each of the submodules may include a frame, a plunger configured to traverse along a travel path within the frame, an EPM assembly coupled to the frame, the EPM assembly including a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field and a magnetizing assembly configured to set the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet, and an MR material disposed within the frame and coupled to the plunger. The MR material may have a viscosity that changes based on the magnetic field, wherein the MR material is configured to provide resistance to traversal of the plunger along the travel path within the frame, the resistance being based on the viscosity of the MR material. In some embodiments, the input device includes one or more processors configured to cause each of the submodules to operate according to at least two operating modes, including: a first operating mode in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is configured to change the viscosity of the MR material to a first viscosity that provides a first resistance to the traversal of the plunger along the stroke path within the frame; and a second operating mode in which the magnetic field of the permanent magnet is configured to change the viscosity of the MR material to a second viscosity that provides a second resistance to the traversal of the plunger along the stroke path within the housing, wherein the first resistance allows each of the submodules to traverse along the stroke path in response to receiving a force applied along the stroke path, and wherein the second resistance prevents each of the submodules from traversing along the stroke path in response to receiving the applied force, the second resistance being higher than the first resistance. In some implementations, when each of the submodules operates in the first operating mode, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet does not pass through the MR material, and when each of the submodules operates in the second operating mode, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet passes through the MR material. Typically, the input device consumes power only from the EPM components when switching between at least two operating modes.

[0194] The input device may further include a cover plate coupled to the palm region, wherein the cover plate covers the palm region, wherein a first side of the cover plate forms a user-accessible surface of the palm region, and wherein a second side of the cover plate opposite the first side is coupled to and supported by a top surface of each of the submodules, wherein FIG. 30A to FIG. 31C In some cases, when each of the submodules operates in a first operating mode, the cover plate is adjustable with at least two degrees of freedom, and when each of the submodules operates in a second operating mode, the cover plate is not adjustable. The EPM assembly can be a single EPM assembly common to each of the plurality of submodules, or more than one EPM assembly can be used. In some aspects, the palm region can have a surface contour, and each submodule can include a top portion that forms a portion of the surface contour of the palm region, such as FIG. 29A to FIG. 29B shown.

[0195] Fig.32 3200 is a simplified flow chart showing aspects of a method 3200 for controlling a surface profile of an input device according to some embodiments. The method 3200 may be performed by processing logic that may include hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software operating on appropriate hardware (e.g., a general purpose computing system or a dedicated machine), firmware (embedded software), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the method 3200 may be performed by aspects of the system 200, 300, or a combination thereof.

[0196] At operation 3210, according to certain embodiments, method 3200 may include receiving input data corresponding to an operating mode of an input device, the operating mode corresponding to control of a surface contour of a palm area of ​​the input device, the palm area being formed in part by a plurality of sub-modules, wherein each sub-module has a movable element configured to traverse along a linear travel path within a frame.

[0197] At operation 3220, according to certain embodiments, method 3200 may include determining a selection of an operating mode based on the input data.

[0198] At operation 3240, according to certain embodiments, in response to input data corresponding to a first operating mode, method 3200 may include causing the magnetizing assembly to set a first magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet, the first magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet controlling the viscosity of the MR material coupled to the movable element, the MR material providing a first resistance to movement of the movable element along a linear travel path at the first magnetic field strength.

[0199] At operation 3250, in response to input data corresponding to a second operating mode, method 3200 may include causing the magnetizing assembly to set a second magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet, the MR material providing a second resistance to movement of the movable element along the linear travel path at the second magnetic field strength, according to some embodiments. In some aspects, the second magnetic field strength may be higher than the first magnetic field strength, or the first magnetic field strength may be higher than the second magnetic field strength. In the first operating mode, the MR material may have a minimum viscosity, and in the second operating mode, the MR material may have a maximum viscosity. In some aspects, the first resistance allows each of the submodules to traverse along the travel path in response to receiving an applied force along the linear travel path, and the second resistance prevents each of the submodules from traversing along the linear travel path in response to receiving an applied force, the second resistance being higher than the first resistance. In some cases, the input device includes a cover coupled to the palm region, wherein the cover covers the palm region, wherein a first side of the cover forms a user-accessible surface of the palm region, and a second side of the cover opposite to the first side is coupled to and supported by a top surface of each of the submodules. In some embodiments, when each of the submodules operates in a first operating mode, the cover plate is adjustable with at least two degrees of freedom, and when each of the submodules operates in a second operating mode, the cover plate is not adjustable. The palm region may have a surface contour, and each submodule (or at least one of the submodules) may include a top portion that forms a portion of the surface contour of the palm region. In some cases, the magnetized component is a single magnetized component common to each of the plurality of submodules.

[0200] It should be understood that according to certain embodiments, Fig.32 The specific steps shown provide a specific method 3200 for controlling the surface profile of an input device. Other sequences of steps may also be performed according to alternative embodiments. In addition, additional steps may be added or removed according to specific applications. Any combination of variations may be used and those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate its many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments.

[0201] Some embodiments may utilize at least one network that will be familiar to those skilled in the art to support communications using any of a variety of commercially available protocols, such as TCP / IP, UDP, OSI, FTP, UPnP, NFS, CIFS, etc. The network may be, for example, a local area network, a wide area network, a virtual private network, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a public switched telephone network, an infrared network, a wireless network, and any combination thereof.

[0202] Such a device may also include a computer-readable storage medium reader, a communication device (e.g., a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, etc.) and a working memory as described above. The computer-readable storage medium reader may be connected to or configured to receive a non-transient computer-readable storage medium representing a remote, local, fixed and / or removable storage device and a storage medium for temporarily and / or more permanently containing, storing, transmitting and retrieving computer-readable information, or a storage medium for temporarily and / or more permanently containing, storing, transmitting and retrieving computer-readable information. The system and various devices will generally also include a plurality of software applications, modules, services or other elements located in at least one working memory device, including an operating system and an application program, such as a client application or a browser. It should be understood that alternative embodiments may have many variations different from those described above. For example, custom hardware may also be used and / or specific elements may be implemented in hardware, software (including portable software, such as applets), or both. In addition, connections to other computing devices such as network input / output devices may be employed.

[0203] Many specific details are set forth herein to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, methods, devices, or systems known to ordinary technicians are not described in detail to avoid blurring the claimed subject matter. The various embodiments shown and described are provided only as examples to illustrate the various features of the claims. However, the features shown and described with respect to any given embodiment are not necessarily limited to the associated embodiments, and can be used or combined with other embodiments shown and described. In addition, the claims are not intended to be limited to any one example embodiment.

[0204] Although the subject matter has been described in detail with respect to specific embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that those skilled in the art can easily generate changes, modifications and equivalents to such embodiments after obtaining an understanding of the foregoing. Therefore, it should be understood that, as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, the present disclosure is presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation, and does not exclude the inclusion of such modifications, modifications and / or additions to the subject matter. In fact, the methods and systems described herein may be embodied in various other forms; in addition, various omissions, substitutions and changes may be made to the form of the methods and systems described herein without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The attached claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0205] Although the present disclosure provides certain example embodiments and applications, other embodiments that are obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, including embodiments that do not provide all of the features and advantages set forth herein, are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be limited only by reference to the appended claims.

[0206] Unless expressly stated otherwise, it should be understood that throughout this specification, discussions utilizing terms such as "processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining," and "identifying" refer to the actions or processes of a computing device, such as one or more computers or similar electronic computing devices, that manipulates or transforms data represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities within a memory, register, or other information storage device, transmission device, or display device of a computing platform.

[0207] One or more systems discussed herein are not limited to any particular hardware architecture or configuration. A computing device may include any suitable arrangement of components that provide results conditioned on one or more inputs. Suitable computing devices include multi-function microprocessor-based computer systems that access stored software that programs or configures a computing system from a general-purpose computing device to a dedicated computing device that implements one or more embodiments of the present subject matter. Any suitable programming, scripting, or other type of language or combination of languages ​​may be used to implement the teachings contained herein in software for programming or configuring a computing device.

[0208] Embodiments of the methods disclosed herein may be performed in the operation of such a computing device. The order of the blocks presented in the above examples may be changed—for example, the blocks may be reordered, combined, and / or divided into sub-blocks. Certain blocks or processes may be performed in parallel.

[0209] Unless otherwise specifically stated, conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "possibly," "might," "may," "for example," etc., or otherwise understood in context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain examples include certain features, elements, and / or steps while other examples do not. Thus, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that one or more examples in any way require features, elements, and / or steps, or that one or more examples must include logic for determining whether such features, elements, and / or steps are included in any particular example or are to be performed in any particular example, with or without author input or prompting.

[0210] The terms "comprising", "including", "having", etc. are synonymous and are used inclusively in an open-ended manner and do not exclude additional elements, features, actions, operations, etc. In addition, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (rather than in its exclusive sense), so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. The use of "suitable for" or "configured to" herein means open and inclusive language, which does not exclude devices that are suitable for or configured to perform additional tasks or steps. Additionally, the use of "based on" means open and inclusive, because the process, step, calculation or other action "based on" one or more of the conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​other than those described. Similarly, the use of "based at least in part on" means open and inclusive, because the process, step, calculation or other action "based at least in part on" one or more of the conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​other than those described. The headings, lists and numbers included herein are only for ease of explanation and are not meant to be limiting.

[0211] The various features and processes described above can be used independently of each other, or can be used in combination in various ways. All possible combinations and sub-combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, in some embodiments, certain methods or process blocks can be omitted. The methods and processes described herein are not limited to any specific sequence, and the blocks or states related thereto can be executed in other appropriate orders. For example, the blocks or states described can be executed in an order different from the order specifically disclosed, or multiple blocks or states can be combined in a single block or state. Example blocks or states can be executed serially, in parallel, or in some other ways. Blocks or states can be added to the disclosed examples or removed from the disclosed examples. Similarly, the example systems and components described herein can be configured differently from those described. For example, compared with the disclosed examples, elements can be added, removed, or rearranged.

Claims

1. A clutch assembly for a scroll wheel of a computer mouse, the clutch assembly comprising: Input shaft; Output shaft, wherein the input shaft and the output shaft are coaxially aligned, and wherein the input shaft is coupled to the output shaft such that the input shaft and the output shaft are configured to perform rotational translation of the input shaft and the output shaft; An electro permanent magnet EPM assembly, comprising: a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field; and a magnetizing assembly configured to set a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet; a cavity formed between the input shaft and the output shaft; a magnetorheological (MR) material contained within the cavity, wherein the MR material has a viscosity that changes based on the magnetic field, and Wherein the MR material is configured to provide a frictional resistance to rotational translation between the input shaft and the output shaft, the resistance being based on a viscosity of the MR material.

2. The clutch assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The clutch assembly is configured to operate in a plurality of operating modes, the plurality of operating modes comprising: a first operating mode in which the magnetizing assembly sets the magnetic field of the permanent magnet such that the MR material has a first viscosity that provides a first resistance to rotational translation between the input shaft and the output shaft; and a second operating mode in which the magnetizing assembly sets the magnetic field of the permanent magnet so that the MR material has a second viscosity that provides a second resistance to rotational translation between the input shaft and the output shaft; Wherein, the second resistance is greater than the first resistance.

3. The clutch assembly of claim 2, further comprising a second permanent magnet configured to generate a second magnetic field, in, In the first operating mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized such that the path of magnetic conduction of their respective magnetic fields is substantially contained by the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet and does not pass through the MR material, and Therein, in the second operation mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized such that the paths of magnetic conduction of their corresponding magnetic fields pass through the MR material.

4. The clutch assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The first viscosity has a low resistance that causes a weak frictional resistance between the input shaft and the output shaft, thereby allowing the input shaft and the output shaft to freely rotate relative to each other.

5. The clutch assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The second viscosity has a high resistance that causes a strong frictional resistance between the input shaft and the output shaft, thereby preventing the input shaft and the output shaft from rotating relative to each other.

6. The clutch assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The clutch assembly is a multi-plate clutch providing increased friction, wherein the input shaft includes a plurality of plates, wherein the output shaft includes a plurality of plates, wherein the plurality of plates included in the input shaft and the plurality of plates included in the output shaft are interleaved and configured adjacent to the MR material to provide increased frictional resistance between the input shaft and the output shaft when the clutch assembly is in the second operating mode.

7. The clutch assembly of claim 1, wherein: The input shaft is substantially contained by the output shaft.

8. A method of operating a clutch assembly for a scroll wheel of a computer mouse, the method comprising: receiving input data corresponding to an operating mode of the clutch assembly, the operating mode corresponding to control of frictional resistance between coaxially aligned input shaft and output shaft of the clutch assembly, wherein the input shaft and the output shaft are configured to perform rotational translation therebetween; determining a selection of the operating mode based on the input data; In response to the input data corresponding to a first operating mode: causing a magnetizing assembly to set a first magnetic field strength of a permanent magnet for controlling viscosity of a magnetorheological (MR) material disposed between the input shaft and the output shaft, the MR material providing a first frictional resistance to rotational translation between the input shaft and the output shaft at the first magnetic field strength; and In response to the input data corresponding to the second operation mode: causing the magnetizing assembly to set a second magnetic field strength of the permanent magnet, the MR material providing a second frictional resistance to rotational translation between the input shaft and the output shaft at the second magnetic field strength, the first frictional resistance and the second frictional resistance being based on a viscosity of the MR material, wherein the second magnetic field strength is higher than the first magnetic field strength, Wherein, the clutch assembly is coupled to a scroll wheel of a computer mouse.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: In the first operating mode, the MR material has a minimum viscosity, and wherein in the second operating mode, the MR material has a maximum viscosity.

10. The method of claim 8, further comprising a second permanent magnet configured to generate a second magnetic field, in, In the first operating mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized such that the path of magnetic conduction of their respective magnetic fields is substantially contained by the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet and does not pass through the MR material, and Therein, in the second operation mode, the permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are magnetized such that the paths of magnetic conduction of their corresponding magnetic fields pass through the MR material.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The viscosity of the MR material during the first operating mode has a low drag that causes a weak frictional resistance between the input shaft and the output shaft, thereby allowing the input shaft and the output shaft to rotate freely relative to each other.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The viscosity of the MR material during the second operating mode has a high resistance that causes a strong frictional resistance between the input shaft and the output shaft, thereby preventing the input shaft and the output shaft from rotating relative to each other.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The clutch assembly is a multi-plate clutch providing increased friction, wherein the input shaft includes a plurality of plates, wherein the output shaft includes a plurality of plates, wherein the plurality of plates included in the input shaft and the plurality of plates included in the output shaft are interleaved and configured adjacent to the MR material to provide increased frictional resistance between the input shaft and the output shaft when the clutch assembly is in the second operating mode.

14. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The input shaft is substantially contained by the output shaft.

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