Foldable mouse

Abstract

A foldable computer mouse is provided that includes a deformable body configurable to form a first unfolded configuration usable to receive input for controlling a computing device and a second folded configuration in which a first portion of the deformable body is folded over a second portion of the deformable body. The mouse also includes an input sensor disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect haptic input, a motion tracking component disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect movement of the computer mouse, and a communication component configured to wirelessly communicate the haptic input and motion tracking data to the computing device.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Computer mice are a common input device for various computer systems. Portable computers, such as laptops and tablets, are becoming increasingly popular. However, traditional computer mouse designs are often too bulky or inconvenient to carry with portable computing devices, while smaller travel-size computer mice often lack ergonomic design and may be uncomfortable to use. New and approved computer mouse designs offer greater portability and ergonomic features. Summary of the Invention

[0002] An example data processing system according to this disclosure may include a processor and a computer-readable medium storing executable instructions. The executable instructions include instructions configured to cause the processor to perform the following operations: obtaining source data containing a two-dimensional (2D) image, a three-dimensional (3D) image, or depth information representing the face of a human object; and generating a 3D model of the face of the human object by analyzing the source data to generate a rough 3D model of the face of the human object and refining the rough 3D model by free-form deformation to generate a fitted 3D model.

[0003] An example computer mouse according to this disclosure includes a deformable body configurable into a first unfolded configuration and a second folded configuration, the first unfolded configuration being configured to receive input for controlling a computing device, and in the second folded configuration, a first portion of the deformable body being folded onto a second portion of the deformable body; an input sensor disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect tactile input from a user; a motion tracking component disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect movement of the computer mouse; and a communication component configured to wirelessly transmit tactile input and motion tracking data to the computing device.

[0004] Another example computer mouse according to this disclosure includes a deformable body configurable into a first unfolded configuration and a second folded configuration, the first unfolded configuration being configured to receive input for controlling a computing device, and in the second folded configuration, the deformable body being folded along a central portion of the deformable body; an input sensor disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect tactile input from a user; a motion tracking component disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect movement of the computer mouse; and a communication component configured to wirelessly transmit tactile input and motion tracking data to the computing device.

[0005] This disclosure is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, a selection of concepts also described in the detailed description. This disclosure is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to the implementation of solutions to any or all the shortcomings mentioned in any part of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The accompanying drawings illustrate one or more implementations of this teaching by way of example only and not limitation. In the drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements. Furthermore, it should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0007] Figure 1A An example of a foldable mouse is shown.

[0008] Figure 1B It shows Figure 1A Another example of a foldable mouse shown is that it folds onto a portion of the computing device's housing. Figure 1C It shows Figure 1A Another example of a foldable mouse shown.

[0009] Figure 2A It shows Figure 1A A top view of a collapsible mouse. Figure 2B It shows Figure 1A The other top of the foldable mouse.

[0010] Figure 2C It shows Figure 1A-2B The view below the collapsible mouse. Figure 3A The image shows a view of the lower side of the deformable body of the foldable mouse in the aforementioned figures, with the deformable body in an unfolded configuration.

[0011] Figure 3B The image shows a view of the lower side of the deformable body of the foldable mouse in the aforementioned figures, with the deformable body in a folded configuration.

[0012] Figure 3C An enlarged view of the central portion of the lower side of the deformable body of the foldable mouse from the aforementioned plan view is shown.

[0013] Figure 4A Another example view of the deformable body of the foldable mouse is shown, which shows the top side of the deformable body and the deformable body in an unfolded configuration.

[0014] Figure 4B Another example view of the deformable is shown, showing the top side of the deformable and the deformable in a folded configuration.

[0015] Figure 4C Showing from Figure 4A A magnified view of the center portion of the top side of the deformable body of the foldable mouse.

[0016] Figure 4D Showing from Figure 4B A magnified view of the center portion of the top side of the deformable body of the foldable mouse.

[0017] Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of the deformable body of the foldable mouse is shown, in which the deformable body is in an unfolded configuration.

[0018] Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of the deformable body of the mouse is shown, in which the deformable body is in a folded configuration.

[0019] Figure 5C It shows Figure 5A An enlarged view of the central portion of the cross-section.

[0020] Figure 5D It shows Figure 5B An enlarged view of the central portion of the cross-section.

[0021] Figure 6A A cross-sectional view of the deformable mouse is shown, with the deformable body in an unfolded configuration.

[0022] Figure 6B A cross-sectional view of the deformable body of the mouse is shown, in which the deformable body is in a folded configuration.

[0023] Figure 6C It shows Figure 6A An enlarged view of the central portion of the cross-section.

[0024] Figure 6D It shows Figure 6B An enlarged view of the central portion of the cross-section.

[0025] Figure 7A A view of the deformable body of the mouse is shown, in which an unfoldable shell is set on the top surface of the deformable form of the foldable mouse.

[0026] Figure 7B A view of a deformable body of a foldable mouse in a folded configuration is shown, with an unfoldable shell set on the top surface of the deformable body.

[0027] Figure 7C Another view of a deformable body of a foldable mouse in a folded configuration is shown, wherein an unfoldable shell is disposed on the top surface of the deformable body of the foldable mouse.

[0028] Figure 8The mouse shown in the aforementioned figures has a deformable body and an unfoldable shell with a covering. Detailed Implementation

[0029] In the detailed description below, numerous specific details are illustrated by way of examples to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it is clear that these teachings can be practiced without such details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and / or circuit systems are described at a relatively high level without detailed explanation in order to avoid unnecessarily confusing various aspects of these teachings.

[0030] This invention provides a foldable computer mouse that solves the aforementioned technical problems through portability and ergonomics. The computer mouse of this application provides a technical solution to this problem by including a deformable body configured to form a first folded configuration and a second unfolded configuration. In the first folded configuration, the computer mouse has a small, portable size. In the second unfolded configuration, the computer mouse unfolds into an ergonomic form that can be used to receive user input to control a computing device. This computer mouse offers numerous technical benefits. The foldable shape factor of the mouse allows it to fold around at least a portion of the casing or housing of the portable computing device (such as, but not limited to, laptop or desktop computing devices) to be used with the mouse. Attaching the mouse to the casing of the computing device reduces the likelihood of the computer mouse being misplaced when moving with the computing device. Furthermore, when the mouse is attached to the casing or housing of the computing device, it can also receive power from the computing device. This allows the computer mouse to be charged and used at any time.

[0031] Figure 1A An example computer mouse 100 according to this disclosure is shown. The mouse 100 is in an unfolded configuration, wherein the computer mouse provides an ergonomic form that can be used to receive input for controlling a computing device. The mouse 100 has a curved ergonomic shape to allow the mouse to be comfortably held in the user's hand. The mouse 100 is designed for use by either left-handed or right-handed users. Figure 1B It shows Figure 1AAn example implementation of mouse 100 is provided, wherein the computer mouse is in a folded configuration. In this example implementation, the body of mouse 100 can be folded into an arcuate configuration conforming to the housing of computing device 120. Computing device 120 can be a laptop device, tablet computing device, or other portable computing device. Mouse 100 can be configured to be attached to the housing of computing device 120 using magnets or other means, which will be discussed in more detail in the examples below. The technical advantage of the mouse being able to conform to the exterior of the housing of computing device 120 is that mouse 100 can be removably attached to the housing of the device, which significantly reduces the possibility of mouse 100 being misplaced during travel. Furthermore, the flexibility of mouse 100 allows the mouse to conform to the housings of computing devices of different sizes.

[0032] When formed as a folded configuration (such as) Figure 1B When (as shown), the body of the mouse 100 has a first arcuate configuration with a first curvature. When formed into an unfolded configuration (as shown)... Figure 1A As shown, the main body of the mouse 100 has a second arcuate configuration with a second curvature. The first curvature is greater than the second curvature. Another technical benefit provided by the mouse 100 is that the mouse can be converted from a first arcuate configuration that facilitates transportation of the mouse 100 to a second arcuate configuration, which provides an ergonomic shape that allows the user to comfortably hold the mouse 100 when using it. Figure 1C Showing from Figure 1A An example of a mouse 100 is shown, in which several touch-sensitive areas of the mouse 100 are highlighted. The mouse 100 may have one or more touch-sensitive areas configured to detect tactile input. Figure 1C In the example implementation shown, the mouse 100 includes three such touch-sensitive areas. The mouse 100 has a first end 130 (also referred to herein as the "nose" of the mouse 100) and a second end 135 (also referred to herein as the "tail" of the mouse 100). Figure 1B The upper surface 140 of the mouse 100 is shown, also referred to herein as the "top" of the mouse 100. The mouse 100 also includes a first side 155 (also referred to herein as the "right" side of the mouse 100) and a second side 150 (also referred to herein as the "left" side of the mouse 100). The user of the mouse 100 typically places their hand on the upper surface 140 of the mouse 100, with the palm facing the tail of the computer mouse and the fingers facing the nose of the mouse 100. The curved shape of the mouse 100 provides an ergonomic shape that allows for comfortable grip when the user uses the mouse 100.

[0033] Figure 1CThe example implementation shown includes two touch-sensitive areas 105a and 105b facing the nose of the mouse 100. Touch-sensitive areas 105a and 105b may include capacitive sensors, force sensors, or other types of sensors configured to detect tactile input. Touch-sensitive area 105a can function similarly to the right mechanical button on a conventional two-button mouse, while touch-sensitive area 105b can function similarly to the left mechanical button on a conventional two-button mouse. A user can tap or apply pressure to touch-sensitive area 105a to generate a right mouse button input, or tap or apply pressure to touch-sensitive area 105b to generate a left mouse button input. Figure 1C An exemplary implementation of the mouse 100 shown also includes a touch-sensitive area 110 disposed between touch-sensitive areas 105a and 105b. The touch-sensitive area 110 can serve a similar purpose as a mechanical scroll wheel or a middle mouse button on other conventional computer mouse implementations.

[0034] Mouse 100 uses touch-sensitive areas instead of mechanical components (such as buttons and scroll wheels) to receive input, providing a more compact and streamlined form factor for folding and portability. However, in other implementations, one or more buttons and / or scroll wheels may be integrated into mouse 100 in place of one or more touch-sensitive areas. Figure 1C In the diagram, touch-sensitive areas 105a, 105b, and 110 are indicated by dashed lines because the sensors are disposed within or beneath a covering material that covers the body of the mouse 100. The covering can be made of various types of materials that are thin enough to allow touch-sensitive areas 105a, 105c, and 105d to detect tactile input, while being durable enough to protect the computer mouse 100 from damage during transport with the computing device. The covering may include woven or knitted fabrics or other types of materials such as rubber. Figure 8 An example implementation of a mouse 100 including a knitted cover is shown in the figure.

[0035] Mouse 100 may include a feedback unit ( Figure 1C(Not shown in the image) It is configured to provide tactile feedback to a user in response to a user touching one of the touch-sensitive areas 105a, 105b, or 110. The feedback unit may be configured to generate vibration in response to a user touching one of the touch-sensitive areas 105a, 105b, for example, to provide a sensation that simulates clicking a physical button. The feedback unit may be configured to generate vibration in response to a user touching touch-sensitive area 110, for example, to provide a sensation that simulates scrolling a physical scroll wheel. The feedback unit may include a speaker that outputs sound when one of the touch-sensitive areas 105a, 105b, or 110 is touched. For example, the feedback unit may output a click sound simulating the clicking of a physical button, similar to the button used on many computer mice, in response to a user touching one of the touch-sensitive areas 105a and 105b. The feedback unit may output a sound similar to that produced by a physical scroll wheel in response to a user touching touch-sensitive area 110. For example, a user may run their finger along touch-sensitive area 110 to simulate scrolling using a scroll wheel.

[0036] Figure 2A It shows Figure 1A-1C A top view of the mouse 100. The positions of the touch-sensitive areas 105a, 105b, and 110 are similar. Figure 1C The example shown. Figure 2B Another view of the top of the mouse 100 is shown, in which the touch-sensitive area 110 is closer to the center of the mouse body, rather than biased towards the nose of the computer device 100. Figure 1C , 2A The touch-sensitive regions 105a, 105b, and 110 described in 2B are merely examples, and other implementations may include additional and / or different touch-sensitive regions located on the mouse 100. Furthermore, the touch-sensitive regions may have other geometries (e.g., elliptical or circular) or non-geometric shapes. In other implementations, the number and location of the touch-sensitive regions 110 may vary.

[0037] Figure 2C This is the bottom view of mouse 100 from the aforementioned example. Figure 2C Several features that may be included in the implementation of mouse 100 are shown. The mouse may include a magnet disposed along the bottom surface of the mouse, which can be used to removably attach the computer mouse 100 to the housing or casing of computing device 120 when the mouse is in a folded configuration. Figure 2CThe example shown includes four magnets 210a, 210b, 210c, and 210d disposed at both ends of the mouse. The mouse 100 may optionally include magnets disposed along the underside of the mouse to securely attach the mouse 100 to the housing or casing of the computing device. The number of magnets included and the arrangement of the magnets along the underside of the mouse 100 may vary depending on the configuration of the housing or casing of the computing device 120, wherein the mouse 100 is intended to fold around at least a portion of the housing or casing of the mouse 100.

[0038] The mouse 100 may also include an inductive charging coil 215 for wirelessly charging a battery (not shown) of the mouse. The charging coil 215 may be configured to align with a charging coil disposed on or within the housing of the computing device 120, and the mouse 100 may be configured to be wirelessly charged when attached to the housing of the computing device 120. A magnet 210 may be configured to align the coil 215 with the coil of the computing device when the mouse 100 is magnetically attached to the computing mouse. The inductive charging coil 215 may be disposed beneath a panel 205. The panel 205 is formed of a material that allows a magnetic field generated by an external inductive charging coil (such as an inductive charging coil disposed on the housing of the computing device 120) to pass through the panel 205 to the inductive panel. The panel 205 may be formed of plastic to minimize the weight added to the mouse 100. Other materials that do not interfere with the magnetic field, such as glass, may also be used. In some implementations, the panel 205 forms part of a cover for the mouse 100. For example, a fabric cover surrounds the mouse and is attached to or under panel 205.

[0039] exist Figure 2C In the example shown, mouse 100 is an optical mouse that includes a light source 225 and a photodetector 230. The light source 225 may include a light-emitting diode (LED) or other light source. The photodetector 230 may include a photodiode array, which can be used to detect movement of mouse 100 relative to a surface on which the mouse rests. Mouse 100 may include a controller, processor, and / or other circuitry and components (not shown) for processing signals received by the photodetector 230. Figure 2CIn the illustrated implementation, the light source 225 and the photodetector 230 are disposed in a hole 220 through the panel 205. Other implementations may exclude the panel 205, and the light source 225 and the photodetector 230 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the mouse 100, for example, within one or more holes in the cover of the mouse 100. The mouse 100 may also include a wireless transceiver 240 that can be used for wireless communication with the computing device 120. The wireless transceiver 230 may be configured to support Bluetooth and / or other such wireless communication protocols. Although the wireless transceiver 240 is shown disposed on the underside of the mouse 100, the wireless transceiver 230 may be disposed in different locations within the mouse 200. The location of the wireless transceiver 240 may depend at least in part on the underlying structure of the deformable body of the mouse 100. The following examples provide details of how the deformable body of the mouse 100 may be implemented to allow the mouse 100 to fold into a compact configuration and / or unfold into a configuration in which the mouse 100 can be used to provide input to the computing device 120.

[0040] The mouse 100 may have a feedback unit 250 configured to provide tactile and / or audio feedback to a user in response to a user touching one of the touch-sensitive areas (such as touch-sensitive areas 105a, 105b, or 110 discussed in the preceding examples). The feedback unit may be configured to generate vibrations in response to a user touching one of the touch-sensitive areas to provide a sensation that simulates clicking a physical button or scrolling a physical scroll wheel. The feedback unit may include a speaker that outputs sound when the touch-sensitive area is touched. The feedback unit 250 may select from the mouse's computer-readable memory an audio signal associated with the touched touch-sensitive area to be output. The feedback unit 250 may output an audio signal that sounds similar to the click sound produced by clicking a physical button (similar to the buttons used on many computer mice) in response to a user touching the touch-sensitive area of ​​a simulated button, or it may output an audio signal that sounds similar to the sound produced by a physical scroll wheel. The feedback unit 250 may provide visual feedback to the user, such as lights indicating the mouse's status (e.g., pairing status, battery status, working status, etc.). Visual feedback can come from lights located on the surface of the mouse 100, such as inside the mouse cover or within holes in the cover.

[0041] Mouse 100 may have a controller 260. Controller 260 may be configured to receive signals from one or more components of mouse 100 and send one or more control signals to one or more of the components of mouse 100. Controller 260 may be implemented by a microprocessor or other types of hardware logic components, such as, but not limited to, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application-specific standard products (ASSPs), etc. Controller 260 may be configured to send data to and receive data from computing device 120 via wireless transceiver 240. For example, controller 260 may send control signals to computing device indicating tactile input to one or more touch-sensitive areas of the mouse and / or indicating movement of the mouse on a surface. Computing device 120 may receive the control signals and may control the movement of the mouse pointer and / or perform other actions on computing device 120 in response to these control signals.

[0042] Figure 3A This is a view of the lower side of the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100. Figure 3A The mouse overlay has been removed to reveal the underlying structure of the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100. Figure 3B Provided Figure 3A Another example view of the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100 shown. Figure 3B In the example shown, deformable 300 is in a folded configuration. Figure 3A and 3B Other components, such as panel 205, magnets 210a-210d, inductive charging coil 215, light source 225, photodetector 230, and wireless transceiver 240 shown in the aforementioned figures, are also omitted to more clearly illustrate the components of the deformable body 300. The deformable body 300 includes ends 310a and 310b and a central portion 330 disposed between ends 310b and 310a. The central portion 330 is flexible and permits the deformable body 300 to form an unfolded configuration (e.g., Figure 1A , 1C (as shown in the unfolded configurations of 3A, 3C, 4A, 4C, 5A, 5C, 6A, 6C, and 7A) or folded configurations (such as...) Figure 1C , 3B (As shown in 4B, 4D, 5B, 5D, 6B, 6D, 7B, and 7C). In Figure 3A In the example shown, the central portion 330 includes a series of hinged segments or ribs 305 arranged in a spatially coherent manner. Figure 3A The example shown includes three hinged segments 305a, 305b, and 305c. In other implementations, the deformable body may include as few as one hinged segment 305 or more... Figure 3A The three hinge segments 305 are shown.

[0043] The hinge sections 305a-305c and the ends 310a and 310b may be made of rigid or semi-rigid materials (such as, but not limited to, metal or plastic). The ends 310a and 310b are substantially flat, and one or more components of the mouse 100 may be disposed on the ends 310b and 310a, such as, but not limited to, the panel 205, magnets 210a-210d, an inductive charging coil 215, a light source 225, a photodetector 230, and a wireless transceiver 240.

[0044] Hinged segments 305a, 305b, and 305c are each connected via a hinge assembly to at least one other hinged segment 305 or end segments 310a and 310b. Figure 3A In the example, a pair of hinge assemblies 315 and 325 connect each of the hinge segments 305a, 305b, and 305c to another hinge segment or to one of the ends 310a and 310b. In other implementations, hinge segments 305a, 305b, and 305c are each connected by a hinge assembly to at least one other hinge segment 305 or one of the ends 310a and 310b. Using multiple hinge assemblies to connect the hinge segments provides the technical benefit of stabilizing the deformable body 300 and reducing the likelihood of lateral torsion of the deformable body 100.

[0045] Hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c can be configured to maintain the hinge position in a fixed position unless pressure is applied to one or more of the ends 310a and 310b and / or hinge segments 305a-305c. Hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c can be configured to maintain the hinge position using friction or tension applied by a spring or other biasing element that maintains the hinge position. The technical advantage of hinge assemblies 315 and 325 is that the hinge assemblies provide sufficient flexibility to the mouse 100 to allow the user to adjust the shape of the mouse between a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration, while also providing sufficient rigidity to maintain the shape of the mouse 100 in the folded configuration to keep the mouse attached to the housing of the computing device, and to allow the user to use the mouse as a means of providing input to the computing device in the unfolded configuration.

[0046] Hinge assemblies 315a-315c may include one or more lateral member elements that connect hinge assemblies 315a-315c into a series, such that when a force is applied to one of the hinge assemblies 315a-315c, the force is distributed across each hinge assembly 315a-315c to cause the hinge assemblies 315a-315c to move together in tandem. Similarly, hinge assemblies 325a-315c may include one or more lateral member elements that connect hinge assemblies 325a-315c into a series, such that when a force is applied to one of the hinge assemblies 325-325c, the force is distributed across each hinge assembly 325a-325c to cause the hinge assemblies 325a-325c to move together. Linking the hinge assemblies into a series provides smoother movement of the central portion 330 of the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100 because the hinge assemblies work together rather than independently. Additional details about the hinge components will be discussed in the examples below.

[0047] Figure 3C Another view of the central portion 330 is shown, providing additional details of the hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c of the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100. Hinge assembly 315a includes a first connector 315a-1 and a second connector 315a-2; hinge assembly 315b includes a first connector 315b-1 and a second connector 315b-2; and hinge assembly 315c includes a first connector 315c-1 and a second connector 315c-2. Hinge assembly 325a includes a first connector 325a-1 and a second connector 325a-2; hinge assembly 325b includes a first connector 325b-1 and a second connector 325b-2; and hinge assembly 325c includes a first connector 325c-1 and a second connector 325c-2. Figure 4C , 4D Additional details of the connectors associated with each of the hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c are shown in 5C, 5D, 6C and 6D.

[0048] Figure 4A Another example view of the deformable 300 is shown, which shows the top side of the deformable 300 and in which the deformable 300 is in an unfolded configuration. Figure 4B Another example view of the deformable 300 is shown, which shows the top side of the deformable 300 and in which the deformable 300 is in a folded configuration. Figure 4A and 4B Additional details regarding the configuration of hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c are provided. Figure 4CAn enlarged view of hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c is shown when the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100 is in the unfolded configuration. Figure 4D An enlarged view of hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c is shown when the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100 is in the unfolded configuration.

[0049] Figures 5A-5D This is a cross-sectional view of the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100, showing details of hinge assemblies 315a-315c and hinge assemblies 325a-325c. Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of the deformable body 300 of the mouse is shown, wherein the deformable body 300 is in an unfolded configuration. Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of the deformable body 300 of the mouse is shown, wherein the deformable body 300 is in a folded configuration. Figure 5C A magnified view of hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c is provided when the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100 is in the unfolded configuration. Figure 5D A magnified view of hinge assemblies 315a-3165c and hinge assemblies 325a-325c is provided when the deformable variant 300 of mouse 100 is in a folded configuration.

[0050] Figures 6A-6D This is an additional cross-sectional view showing the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100, which shows how the hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c are. Figure 6A A cross-sectional view of the deformable body 300 of the mouse is shown, wherein the deformable body 300 is in an unfolded configuration. Figure 6B A cross-sectional view of the deformable body 300 of the mouse is shown, wherein the deformable body 300 is in a folded configuration. Figure 6C A magnified view of hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c is provided when the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100 is in the unfolded configuration. Figure 6D A magnified view of hinge assemblies 315a-3165c and hinge assemblies 325a-325c is provided when the deformable variant 300 of mouse 100 is in a folded configuration.

[0051] Figure 5C , 5D Figures 6C and 6D illustrate how the transverse member connector elements of hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c operate in series with each other to distribute the force across each of hinge assemblies 315a-315c and 325a-325c when a force is applied to one or both of ends 310a and 310b. The use of connectors allows the deformable body 300 to be smoothly folded into a folded configuration or opened into an unfolded configuration.

[0052] Figure 5C and 5D The connector 315b-2 is shown to be substantially L-shaped, having a first end 515b-1 and a second end 515b-2. The connector 315b-2 has a first hinge joint (also referred to herein as a joint or node) at the first end 515b-1 and a second hinge joint at the second end 515b-2. A first pin (not shown) passes through the first hinge joint at the first connector 325a-1 and enters a corresponding hinge joint (not shown) on the first connector 325a-1, as can be seen from... Figure 6C and 6D As seen in the image. The second pin (not shown) passes through the second hinge joint at the second end 515b-2 and through the corresponding hinge joint 525c-1 on the connector 325c-1. (As can be seen in the image) Figure 5C and 5D as well as Figure 6C and 6D As seen in the image, connector 315b-2 is configured to pivot as the deformable body 300 of mouse 100 moves from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration.

[0053] If pressure is applied to end 310b to move the deformable body from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration, the first end 525c-1 of connector 325c-1 pivots downward, thereby causing the second end 525c-1 of connector 325c-1 to pivot upward. The technical advantage of this configuration is that the user can apply pressure to one or both of the ends 310a and 310b of the deformable body of the mouse to move the mouse to the unfolded configuration, and the connector distributes force along the deformable body to cause the deformable body 300 of the mouse to move between the unfolded and folded configurations, and vice versa. The second end 525c-2 of connector 325c-1 is connected to the second end 515b-2 of connector 315b-2, and the upward movement of the second end 515c-2 causes the second end 515b-2 of connector 315b-2 to be pulled downward while the first end 515b-1 pivots upward. The first end 515b-1 of connector 315b-2 is connected to the first end 525a-1 of connector 325a-1, which causes the first end 515a-1 of connector 325a-1 to pivot upward and the second end 515a-2 of connector 325a-1 to pivot downward, which in turn causes the end 310a to pivot toward the folded configuration.

[0054] If pressure is applied to end 310a to move deformable body 300 from unfolded configuration to folded configuration, downward pressure will be applied to the second end 515a-2 of connector 325a-1, causing the second end 515a-2 to pivot downwards, as well as the first end 515a-2. The first end 525a-1 of connector 325a-1 will pivot upwards, causing the first end 515b-1 of connector 315b-2 to pivot upwards. This, in turn, causes the second end 515b-2 of connector 315b-2 to pivot downwards, causing the second end 525c-2 of connector 325c-1 to pivot together with the second end 515b-2 of connector 315b-2. The first end 525c-1 will pivot downwards, causing end 310b to move towards folded configuration.

[0055] If pressure is applied to end 310b to move deformable body 300 from folded configuration to unfolded configuration, the first end 525c-1 of connector 325c-1 pivots downward, thereby causing the second end 525c-2 to pivot upward. This causes the second end 515b-2 of connector 315b-2 to pivot upward, and the first end 515b-1 of the connector to pivot downward, which causes the first end 525a-2 of connector 325a-1 to pivot upward. The upward pivoting of the second end 325a-2 of connector 325a-1 causes end 310a to pivot upward toward unfolded configuration. If pressure is applied to end 310a to move deformable body 300 from folded configuration to unfolded configuration, the second end 325a-2 of connector 325a-1 pivots upward, which causes the first end 515b-1 of connector 315b-2 to pivot downward and the second end 515b-2 to pivot upward. As a result, the second end 515c-2 of connector 325c-1 pivots downward, while the first end 515c-1 of connector 325c-1 pivots upward. End 310b-2 then also pivots upward toward the unfolded configuration. Although the preceding example illustrates the operation of the elements of hinge assemblies 325a-325c, hinge assemblies 315a-315c may include similar features that cause hinge assemblies 315a-315c to cooperate in a manner similar to the operation of hinge assemblies 325a-325c described above.

[0056] Figure 7A This is a view showing a mouse 100, illustrating a deformable body 300 including a deployable shell 705 attached to the top side of the deformable body 100. The deployable shell 705 is configured such that when the deformable body is formed into a first deployed configuration, a portion of the deformable body unfolds into an ergonomic shape for holding the mouse. In this example, the deployable shell 705 is a hollow shell of a flexible but semi-rigid material, such as, but not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or polypropylene. Figure 7AA deformable body 300 of a mouse 100 in an unfolded configuration is shown, with the housing 705 unfolded. The expandable housing 705 is able to maintain its shape when in the unfolded configuration to provide a more ergonomic shape for forming the mouse 100, but is also flexible enough to be folded flat against the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100 or the substrate when the mouse 100 is in a folded configuration.

[0057] The expandable housing 705 may include a plurality of slits along the length of each side of the expandable housing 715, which facilitate the flattening of the expandable housing 705 against the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100 when the mouse is in a folded configuration. The expandable housing 705 may be covered by a covering (such as...). Figure 8 The sensor, which provides one or more touch-sensitive areas (such as touch-sensitive areas 105a, 105b and 110 discussed in the previous examples), may be disposed on the top surface of the deployable housing 705 and / or on the covering material.

[0058] Figure 7B and 7C An example of a mouse 100 in a folded configuration is shown, wherein the unfoldable shell 710 rests or substantially rests against the top surface of the deformable body 300 of the mouse 100.

[0059] Figure 8 An example of a mouse 100 with a knitted cover 800 is shown. This cover is soft and flexible to avoid interfering with the mouse 100's ability to fold into a folded configuration or unfold into an unfolded configuration. The mouse in... Figure 8 The mouse 100 is shown in an unfolded configuration. The cover 800 may be made of an elastic material, allowing it to stretch in a folded configuration and retract in an unfolded configuration. The cover may be made of a soft material, making the mouse 100 more comfortable for the user to hold. The cover material may be non-metallic, allowing the mouse 100 to include one or more magnets that can be used to attach the mouse to a computing device (such as computing device 120 in the previous example). The cover material may also include one or more openings, such as for a light source 225 and a photodetector 230 as in the previous example. In some implementations, the cover 800 includes capacitive areas (e.g., using capacitive lines) to provide touch-sensitive buttons as described above. In some implementations, the cover includes one or more luminescent areas (e.g., using luminescent lines or optical fibers) to provide visual feedback to the user.

[0060] Although various embodiments have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary and not limiting, and it should be understood that further embodiments and implementations within the scope of the various embodiments are possible. While many possible combinations of features are shown in the drawings and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are also possible. Unless specifically limited, any feature of any embodiment may be combined with or may substitute for any other feature or element in any other embodiment. Therefore, it will be understood that any feature shown and / or discussed in this disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Therefore, the embodiments are not limited except by the appended claims and their equivalents. Similarly, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

[0061] While what is considered the best pattern and / or other examples has been described above, it is understood that various modifications can be made, and the subject matter disclosed herein can be implemented in various forms and examples, and the teachings can be applied to many applications, only some of which have been described herein. The appended claims are intended to claim any and all applications, modifications, and variations that fall within the true scope of these teachings.

[0062] Unless otherwise stated, all dimensions, numerical values, ratings, positions, sizes, dimensions and other specifications listed in this specification (including the appended claims) are approximate and not precise. They are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions they relate to and the custom in the fields to which they relate.

[0063] The scope of protection is limited only by the appended claims. When interpreted in accordance with this specification and subsequent litigation history, this scope is intended and should be interpreted as consistent with the ordinary meaning of the language used in the claims and covers all structural and functional equivalents. Nevertheless, none of the claims are intended to include, nor should they be interpreted in this manner, subject matter that does not meet the requirements of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the Patent Act. Any unintentional inclusion of such subject matter is hereby denied.

[0064] Except as described above, no statement or description should be intended or interpreted in any way that results in any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or contribution to the public, whether or not it is stated in the claims.

[0065] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the general meaning consistent with those of their respective fields of investigation and research, unless otherwise specified herein. Relational terms such as "first" and "second" may be used merely to distinguish one entity or action from another, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element beginning with "a" or "an" does not preclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0066] This abstract is provided to allow the reader to quickly determine the nature of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this abstract is not intended to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, as can be seen in the foregoing detailed description, various features have been grouped together in various examples for the purpose of simplification. This approach to disclosure is not to be construed as reflecting an intention to claim more features than are expressly stated in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the subject matter of the invention lies in all features fewer than those in a single disclosed example. Accordingly, the appended claims are incorporated into the detailed description, wherein each claim independently represents a separate claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A computer mouse, comprising: A deformable body configurable into a first unfolded configuration and a second folded configuration, the first unfolded configuration being usable for receiving input for controlling a computing device, and in the second folded configuration, a first portion of the deformable body being folded onto a second portion of the deformable body, wherein the deformable body includes a plurality of hinge segments and a plurality of hinges arranged in a spatially coherent arrangement, and wherein each of the plurality of hinge segments is connected to at least one adjacent hinge segment via one of the plurality of hinges, and wherein the first hinge of the plurality of hinges includes at least one connector element configured to apply a force to an adjacent second hinge of the plurality of hinges to distribute the force applied to the first hinge to the adjacent second hinge; An input sensor is disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect tactile input from a user; A motion tracking component, the motion tracking component being disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect the movement of the computer mouse; and A communication component configured to wirelessly transmit tactile input and motion tracking data to the computing device.

2. The computer mouse according to claim 1, characterized in that, When in the second folded configuration, the deformable body forms a first arcuate configuration that conforms to the outer shell of the computing device.

3. The computer mouse according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the deformable body is in the first unfolded configuration, the deformable body forms a second arcuate configuration with a second curvature, the second curvature being less than the first curvature of the first arcuate configuration of the deformable body in the second folded configuration.

4. The computer mouse according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of hinges includes a friction hinge, the friction hinge being configured to use friction to maintain the position of the friction hinge.

5. The computer mouse according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of hinges associated with the plurality of hinge segments are interconnected to enable the plurality of hinges to operate in concert.

6. The computer mouse according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the deformable body is formed into the first unfolded configuration, at least a portion of the deformable body unfolds into an ergonomic shape for holding the mouse.

7. The computer mouse according to claim 1, characterized in that, The deformable body includes a shell, which unfolds into the first unfolded configuration when the deformable body unfolds into the first unfolded configuration, and wherein the shell folds against the deformable body when the deformable body is folded into the second folded configuration.

8. The computer mouse according to claim 1, characterized in that, The input sensor includes a capacitive sensor for detecting the tactile input; and the computer mouse further includes: A haptic feedback component configured to generate a haptic output in response to the input sensor detecting the haptic input.

9. The computer mouse according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A first inductive charging coil for wirelessly charging the battery of the computer mouse, wherein the first inductive charging coil is configured to be magnetically coupled to a second inductive charging coil disposed in or on the housing of the computing device.

10. A computer mouse, comprising: A deformable body is configurable into a first unfolded configuration and a second folded configuration. The first unfolded configuration is configured to receive input for controlling a computing device. In the second folded configuration, the deformable body folds along a central portion of the deformable body, wherein the central portion of the deformable body includes a plurality of hinge segments and a plurality of hinges arranged in a spatially coherent manner, and wherein each of the plurality of hinge segments is connected to at least one adjacent hinge segment via one of the plurality of hinges, and wherein the first hinge of the plurality of hinges includes at least one connector element configured to apply a force to an adjacent second hinge of the plurality of hinges to distribute the force applied to the first hinge to the adjacent second hinge. An input sensor is disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect tactile input from a user; A motion tracking component, the motion tracking component being disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect the movement of the computer mouse; and A communication component configured to wirelessly transmit tactile input and motion tracking data to the computing device.

11. The computer mouse according to claim 10, characterized in that, When in the second folded configuration, the deformable body forms a first arcuate configuration that conforms to the outer shell of the computing device.

12. The computer mouse according to claim 11, characterized in that, When the deformable body is in the first unfolded configuration, the deformable body forms a second arcuate configuration with a second curvature, the second curvature being less than the first curvature of the first arcuate configuration of the deformable body in the second folded configuration.

13. The computer mouse according to claim 10, characterized in that, The plurality of hinges associated with the plurality of hinge segments are interconnected to enable the plurality of hinges to operate in concert.

14. The computer mouse according to claim 10, characterized in that, The deformable body includes a shell configured to unfold into a first unfolded configuration when the deformable body unfolds into a first unfolded configuration, and wherein the shell is configured to abut against the deformable body when the deformable body is folded into a second folded configuration when the deformable body is folded into the folded configuration.

15. The computer mouse according to claim 10, characterized in that, The input sensor includes a capacitive sensor for detecting the tactile input, and the computer mouse further includes: A haptic feedback component configured to generate a haptic output in response to the input sensor detecting the haptic input.

16. The computer mouse according to claim 10, characterized in that, Also includes: A first inductive charging coil for wirelessly charging the battery of the computer mouse, wherein the inductive charging coil is configured to be magnetically coupled to a second inductive charging coil disposed in or on the housing of the computing device.

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