Sensor module and method for detecting and characterizing side input at a device

Abstract

One variant of a system includes a frame, a sensor module, and a controller. The frame includes a base structure that positions a display that defines a front face of a device, and a lateral frame structure that extends along and adjacent to edges of the display and is supported on sides of the base structure. The base structure and the lateral frame structure cooperate to define a channel arranged behind the display and extending longitudinally between the lateral frame structure and the sides of the base structure. The sensor module is arranged in the channel, and the sensor module includes a substrate, and a linear array of sensors arranged on the substrate and outputting a sense signal representative of local deflection of the lateral frame structure. The controller detects a location and a force magnitude of a side input proximate to an edge of the display on the device based on the sense signal output by the linear array of sensors.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 053,071, filed July 17, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 034,798, filed June 4, 2020, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] This application relates to U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 499,001, filed on September 26, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This invention relates generally to the field of touch sensors, and more specifically to new and useful systems and methods for detecting and characterizing side inputs at a device in the field of touch sensors. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0006] Figure 1 It is a flowchart representation of the system;

[0007] Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C It is a schematic representation of a variant of the system;

[0008] Figure 3 It is a flowchart representation of a variant of the system;

[0009] Figure 4 It is a flowchart representation of a variant of the system;

[0010] Figure 5 It is a flowchart representation of a variant of the system;

[0011] Figure 6 It is a flowchart representation of a variant of the system;

[0012] Figure 7 It is a flowchart representation of a variant of the system;

[0013] Figure 8 It is a flowchart representation of a variant of the system;

[0014] Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is a flowchart representation of a variant of the system;

[0015] Figure 10 It is a flowchart representation of a variant of the system;

[0016] Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 11C It is a schematic representation of a variant of the system; and

[0017] Figure 12 It is a schematic representation of a variant of the system.

[0018] Implementation Example Description

[0019] The following description of embodiments of the present invention is not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments, but rather to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples described herein are optional and are not exclusive. The invention described herein may include any and all combinations of these variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples.

[0020] 1. System

[0021] like Figure 1 , Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 11C As shown, system 100 includes: a frame 110; a sensor module 120; and a controller 150. The frame 110 includes: a base structure 112 configured to position a display 182 defining the front of a mobile computing device; and a lateral frame structure 114 extending along and adjacent to a first edge of the display 182 and supported on a first side of the base structure 112. The base structure 112 and the lateral frame structure 114 cooperate to define a channel 116 disposed behind the display 182 and extending longitudinally between the lateral frame structure 114 and the first side of the base structure 112. The sensor module 120 is disposed in the channel 116 and includes: a substrate 121; and a linear array of sensors 124 disposed on the substrate 121 and configured to output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of the lateral frame structure 114. The controller 150 is configured to detect the position and force magnitude of a side input on the mobile computing device near the first edge of the display 182 based on sensing signals output by a linear array of sensors 124.

[0022] 2. Application

[0023] Typically, system 100 can be integrated into a mobile computing device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, or laptop) to form a continuous pressure sensor along one or more sides of the mobile computing device, enabling the mobile computing device (hereinafter referred to as the "device") to detect the force magnitude and position of inputs (hereinafter referred to as "side inputs") along the sides of device 170 within a range of force magnitudes and (almost) continuous positions. Specifically, system 100 may include: a sensor module 120 disposed behind the side of device 170; and a controller 150 that detects the position and force magnitude of the inputs on the side of device 170 based on sensing signals output by sensor module 120, dynamically links these side inputs to specific input types based on these input characteristics and / or virtual buttons 188 presented on display 182 of device 170 adjacent to the positions of these side inputs, and then triggers context-dependent (e.g., application-specific) command functions at device 170 based on these input types. For example, sensor module 120 can be integrated into the side of device 170 (e.g., instead of mechanical buttons) to convert the periphery of device 170 into a force-sensitive input surface. Controller 150 (or another processor in device 170) can then dynamically reassign areas or segments of the side of device 170 to different input types (e.g., volume control, camera shutter control) based on: the lock screen, home screen, or open application on device 170; the orientation of device 170; the last touch location on the side of device 170; and / or custom settings of user input.

[0024] 2.1 Hardware Assembly and Configuration

[0025] More specifically, such as Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2CAs shown, sensor module 120 may include a set of force-sensitive elements, such as a set of driving electrodes and corresponding sensing electrodes (hereinafter referred to as "driving and sensing electrode pairs 125"), arranged on a strip of flexible substrate 121 with a length approximately equal to the length of one side of device 170 (e.g., within 80% of it); arranged below the front display of device 170, behind structures defining that side of device 170 (e.g., the curved portion of display 182, a segment of frame 110 of device 170). For example, sensor module 120 may include: a flexible substrate 121 having a thickness of 250 micrometers, a width of 7 millimeters, and a length of 150 millimeters, and filled with a single row of 20 driving and sensing electrode pairs 125; and a force-sensitive layer 126, which is stacked on the row of driving and sensing electrode pairs 125 and exhibits a change in contact resistance (or a change in local volume resistance) of the driving and sensing electrode pairs 125 in response to local changes in applied force. The channel 116 can be machined, cast, or molded in a manner that runs along and is embedded from the side of the frame 110 of the device 170 (e.g., along 90% of the length of the side of the frame 110 and embedded 1.5 mm from the side of the frame 110).

[0026] During the assembly of device 170, the pre-assembled sensor module 120 and resilient compression element 128 (e.g., foam insert) can be inserted into channel 116. Then, a set of shims 160 can be installed between sensor module 120 and channel 116 to: compress compression element 128 (which fills the gaps and consumes the manufacturing tolerance stack across channel 116); and abut against sensor module 120 a preloaded force-sensitive layer 126. More specifically, the compression element 128 may: press the sensor module 120 against the inner wall of the channel 116; deform to fill the gap between the sensor module 120 and the channel 116; absorb inconsistencies and / or manufacturing defects within the channel 116 and on the sensor module 120; apply a preload force (i.e., a compressive force) across the sensor module 120 to eliminate the gap between the force-sensitive layer 126 and the drive and sensing electrode pair 125; thereby extending the lower end of the dynamic range of the sensor module 120 along its full length.

[0027] like Figure 1As shown, a flat panel display can then be mounted in frame 110 to surround channel 116, such that the edge of display 182 terminates near the side of frame 110 (e.g., within 0.5 mm) (i.e., above the transverse frame structure 114 between channel 116 and the side of device 170). Thus, a portion of the transverse frame structure 114 extending along channel 116 can define the side of device 170 and can be deflected inward into channel 116 in response to the application of force to the side of device 170—such as: a user pressing their thumb or forefinger on the area of ​​the side of device 170 assigned to virtual volume control or virtual shutter control; or a user squeezing the side of device 170 (e.g., silencing an incoming phone call)—compressing the force-sensitive layer 126 and altering the contact resistance of the force-sensitive layer 126 to the columns of drive and sensing electrode pairs 125. More specifically, the driving and sensing electrode pair can output a sensing signal representing the contact resistance of a region adjacent to the force-sensitive layer, which varies with the contact area of ​​the force-sensitive layer relative to the driving and sensing electrode pair, which varies with the applied force. For example, the sensing signal output by the sensing electrode can represent the sum of many parallel resistances over a localized region of the force-sensitive layer in contact with the driving and sensing electrode pair.

[0028] Therefore, the controller 150 coupled to the sensor module 120 can: read sensing signals (e.g., resistance values) from the columns of the drive and sensing electrode pairs 125; interpret the magnitude of the force transmitted to each of the drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 based on these sensing signals; interpret the force gradient along the side of the device 170 based on these force magnitudes; detect the position and force magnitude of each input along the side of the device 170 based on the force gradient; and / or trigger actions of the inputs assigned to these force magnitudes and / or actions at these positions along the side of the device 170.

[0029] Alternatively, a non-planar (i.e., curved) display can be mounted on frame 110, wherein the curved portion of display 182 extends along and surrounds the side of frame 110 and channel 116. Thus, the curved portion of display 182 and frame 110 can deflect inward together in response to an input along the side of device 170, thereby locally compressing force-sensitive layer 126, locally altering (e.g., reducing) the contact resistance between force-sensitive layer 126 and the columns of drive and sensing electrode pairs 125, and modifying the sensing signals output by drive and sensing electrode pairs 125. Controller 150 can then detect and interpret side inputs on device 170 based on these sensing signals.

[0030] However, alternatively, the curved portion of the non-planar display can cooperate with the frame 110 to thus define the channel 116 occupied (or “filled”) by the sensor module 120, such as Figure 9A and Figure 9BAs shown. Therefore, the curved portion 186 of the display 182 deflects inward into the channel 116 in response to an input along the side of the device 170, thereby locally compressing the force-sensitive layer 126, locally altering (e.g., reducing) the contact resistance between the force-sensitive layer 126 and the columns of the drive and sensing electrode pairs 125, and modifying the sensing signals output by the drive and sensing electrode pairs 125. The controller 150 can then detect and interpret the side input on the device 170 based on these sensing signals.

[0031] 2.2 Side Input Detection

[0032] Specifically, during operation, the side inputs of device 170 can deflect inwards into localized areas of the side of device 170 (e.g., the transverse frame structure 114, the curved portion 186 of display 182), which locally compresses the force-sensitive material. This alters (e.g., reduces) the contact resistance on one or more adjacent drive and sensing electrode pairs 125. Therefore, controller 150 can detect these changes in resistance on these drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 and interpret the magnitude of the force transmitted to device 170 through these drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 as a function (e.g., proportional to) the magnitude of the deviation of the sensed signal (e.g., the magnitude of the change in voltage or resistance) read from these drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 from the corresponding baseline value.

[0033] The controller 150 may also: interpolate the magnitude of the force between the drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 based on the magnitude of the force detected at each drive and sensing electrode pair 125 in the sensor module 120; calculate the force gradient on the sensor module 120; isolate the location (e.g., center, centroid) of discrete lateral inputs; detect lateral inputs with force magnitudes exceeding a threshold force; interpret the size (i.e., length) of the lateral inputs; and so on.

[0034] 2.3 Virtual Button Reassignment

[0035] Furthermore, the controller 150 may: dynamically associate pre-programmed command functions with discrete regions along the sides of the device 170; define size (e.g., length) and / or force magnitude thresholds for triggering these functions in response to lateral inputs near these discrete regions; and then selectively trigger or execute these command functions based on lateral inputs interpreted from sensing signals read from the sensor module 120.

[0036] For example, controller 150 can characterize gestures represented by lateral input, such as by matching an instantaneous force gradient captured during a single scan cycle of sensor module 120 with a stored force gradient template (e.g., squeezing the side of device 170 to mute an incoming phone call); or by matching a sequence of force gradients captured during a sequence of scan cycles with a stored force gradient template (e.g., dragging a finger along the side of device 170 to scroll down a document or webpage). Controller 150 can then execute an action linked to that matched gesture.

[0037] Similarly, controller 150 may: dynamically remap the position and / or sensing area on the side of device 170 to different or additional command functions (e.g., basic commands associated with the lock screen, home screen, or an application currently running on device 170); and trigger display 182 to display icons for these command functions near the current position and / or sensing area on the side of device 170 that are currently linked to these command functions, such as... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown. Therefore, the controller 150 can dynamically redistribute specific command functions to different areas along the side of the device 170 to seamlessly support a variety of different, context-dependent functions.

[0038] Therefore, the sensor module 120 and the controller 150 can: supplement and / or replace the functions of the mechanical buttons, such as power, volume, scrolling, camera shutter, game and / or video playback control; and enable dynamic redistribution of the area on the side of the device 170 linked to these functions.

[0039] 3. Equipment and Frame

[0040] exist Figure 1 In one implementation shown, device 170 (e.g., mobile phone, tablet, smartwatch, laptop computer) includes: a display 182 (e.g., a flat LCD display or touchscreen 180, a curved OLED display or touchscreen 180); a frame 110 (or “middle frame 110”, chassis) configured to support the display 182 and define a groove 116 extending along the side of device 170 (e.g., a left lateral side or a right lateral side), adjacent to the edge of the display 182 and behind it; a back cover coupled to the frame 110 opposite to the display 182; and a set of electronic components (e.g., processor, battery, wireless communication module, memory, etc.) disposed inside and supported on the frame 110.

[0041] As described below, the frame 110 may include a machined, cast, forged, sintered, and / or molded aluminum, steel, or polymer structure. Furthermore, the periphery of the frame 110 may be exposed around the periphery of the display 182, thus defining the external tactile surface of the device 170.

[0042] In one implementation, the frame 110 includes: a base structure 112 configured to position a display 182, defining the front of the device 170; and a transverse frame structure 114 extending along and adjacent to a first edge of the display 182, supported on a first side of the base structure 112, and cooperating with the base structure 112 to define a channel 116 disposed behind the display 182 and extending longitudinally between the transverse frame structure 114 and the first side of the base structure 112.

[0043] For example, frame 110 may include a 5 mm thick, 150 mm long integrally machined aluminum structure, the aluminum structure including machined aluminum channels that: extend perpendicularly to the front plane of display 182 into frame 110; extend longitudinally along a first lateral side of frame 110 to form a channel 116 with a length of 140 mm, a depth of 4.5 mm, and a width of 1.5 mm; and are embedded from the first lateral side of frame 110 to form a lateral frame structure 114, which is 1 mm thick, 4.5 mm high, and 140 mm long, and is supported away from base structure 112 by a 0.5 mm thick web (or “rib”) extending along the base of channel 116. Sensor module 120 can then be inserted into channel 116.

[0044] Furthermore, in this example, because the rear edge of the transverse frame structure 114 (e.g., adjacent to the rear cover panel 174 of device 170) is held and supported by a web, the front edge of the transverse frame structure 114 adjacent to the display 182 can preferentially deflect inward toward the base structure 112 of the frame 110 to transmit forces input on that side of device 170 to the sensor module 120, such as pressing the force-sensitive layer 126 against the drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 in the sensor module 120 in response to forces applied to that side of device 170. For example, the front edge of the transverse frame structure 114 adjacent to the edge of the display 182 can be configured to deflect locally inward toward a first side of the base structure 112 at a distance between 0.0005 inches and 0.002 inches per pound of force applied to a local portion of the side of the mobile computing device. Therefore, the force-sensitive layer 126 can exhibit a localized change in contact resistance inversely proportional to the localized inward deflection of the front edge of the transverse frame structure 114. The drive and sensing electrode pair 125 and the controller 150 can detect this localized change and interpret it as the position and / or force magnitude of a lateral input on the device 170. Thus, the thickness of the web can be set (or "adjusted") to achieve a target deflection rate per unit force applied to the side of the device 170 at the front edge of the transverse frame structure 114, thereby achieving a target sensitivity to lateral inputs on the device 170. Additionally or alternatively, as described below, the web can be perforated to form a series of bridges along the base of the channel 116, which can reduce resistance to forces applied to the transverse frame structure 114 and thus increase the sensitivity of the system 100 to lateral inputs on the device 170.

[0045] 4. Sensor Module

[0046] The sensor module 120 is disposed in the channel 116 and includes: a substrate 121; and a linear array of sensors 124 disposed on the substrate 121 and configured to output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of the transverse frame structure 114.

[0047] exist Figure 2AIn one implementation shown, sensor module 120 includes a force-sensitive layer 126 facing substrate 121 (e.g., laminated on substrate 121) and exhibiting a localized change in contact resistance in response to localized compression of sensor module 120. Each sensor in the linear array of sensors 124 in sensor module 120 may include a pair of driving and sensing electrodes 125 facing the region of force-sensitive layer 126; and may output a sense signal (e.g., voltage) representing the contact resistance of adjacent regions of force-sensitive layer 126 between driving and sensing electrode pairs 125. Specifically, the set of driving and sensing electrode pairs 125 may be fabricated across substrate 121 (e.g., a rigid or flexible PCB) or mounted on substrate 121 (e.g., a rigid or flexible PCB). Force-sensitive layer 126 may be disposed on a set of driving and sensing electrode pairs 125; may be bonded to the periphery of substrate 121; and may include a material that exhibits a change in contact resistance (or a change in localized bulk resistance) of driving and sensing electrode pairs 125 according to an applied force (e.g., localized compression).

[0048] In the above example, where frame 110 defines a 140 mm long channel 116 within a 150 mm long device, sensor module 120 may include a 138 mm long substrate 121 filled with 24 driving and sensing electrode pairs 125, and may be arranged in the channel 116 substantially perpendicular to the front plane of display 182. Compression element 128 may also be inserted into the channel 116 adjacent to sensor module 120 to: fill the gap between sensor module 120 and the walls of channel 116; and cooperate with frame 110 to transmit forces input to the side of device 170 (e.g., on transverse frame structure 114) to the force-sensitive layer 126, causing localized compression of sensor module 120, which produces changes in sensing signals output by the sensing electrode pairs near these forces. Controller 150 can then detect the position and / or magnitude of the input on that side of device 170 based on these changes in sensing signals.

[0049] 4.1 Arrangement of driving and sensing electrode pairs

[0050] exist Figure 2BIn one implementation shown, the set of drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 is arranged in a single column extending along the length of substrate 121. In one example, sensor module 120 includes: 24 rows of 24 drive electrodes arranged in a single column and connected to a single common drive line; and 24 sensing electrodes arranged in a single column, each sensing electrode connected to one of the 24 sensing lines. In this example, during a scan cycle, controller 150 can selectively drive the single common drive line and serially read sensing signals from each of the 24 sensing lines. In another example, sensor module 120 includes: six clusters of four drive electrodes arranged in a row, each cluster of drive electrodes connected to one of the six common drive lines; and six clusters of four sensing electrodes arranged in a row, each cluster of sensing electrodes connected to one of the six common sensing lines, and including a sensing electrode paired with a drive electrode in each of the six clusters of drive electrodes. In this example, during the scan cycle, the controller 150 may: selectively drive a first common drive line and serially read each of the six common sensing lines to capture a sensing signal from a first cluster sensing electrode; selectively drive a second common drive line and serially read each of the six common sensing lines to capture a sensing signal from a second cluster sensing electrode; selectively drive a third common drive line and serially read each of the six common sensing lines to capture a sensing signal from a third cluster sensing electrode; and so on.

[0051] 4.2 Arrangement of force-sensitive layer

[0052] exist Figure 2A and Figure 3 In one implementation shown, a force-sensitive layer 126 is defined around the periphery of substrate 121 using an adhesive (e.g., an annular or "ring" adhesive layer). In this implementation, the adhesive can cover an area of ​​sensor module 120, and thus reduce the sensitivity of sensor module 120 to forces applied to the corners of device 170, causing the sensor module to preferentially detect forces applied squarely to the sides of the device. Therefore, the sensor module may be less sensitive and misinterpret a hand holding device 170 as input to the sides of the device.

[0053] exist Figure 1In another implementation shown, the force-sensitive layer 126 is wound around the substrate. In this implementation, the force-sensitive layer 126 is also bonded to the back side of the substrate 121 opposite to the sensor 124, such that the force-sensitive layer faces the sensor 124 on the front side of the substrate 110 and is exposed to the entire height and width of the sensor 124 on the front side of the substrate 110. Therefore, in this implementation, the sensor module can exhibit sensitivity to both forces applied to the corner of the device 170 and forces applied directly to the side of the device.

[0054] 4.3 Controller Integration

[0055] like Figure 2C As shown, the controller 150 may be arranged remotely from the set of drive and sensing electrode pairs 125. For example, the substrate 121 may include: a (rectangular) sensing portion 122 configured to be inserted into a channel 116 in the frame 110 and extending longitudinally along the side of the device 170; and a "tail" portion 123 extending laterally from the sensing portion 122 and defining a plug configured to be inserted into a data and power socket on the motherboard of the device 170. In this example, the controller 150 can be mounted to the tail portion 123 and can transmit the detected position and / or force magnitude of the lateral input via a plug to the device 170 (e.g., a processor on the motherboard of the device 170), such that the sensor module 120 and the controller 150 are limited to a single structure that can be simply mounted in the device 170 (i.e., by inserting the sensing portion 122 into the channel 116, loading the compression element 128 and a set of gaskets 160 into the channel 116, and then connecting the tail portion 123 to a socket on the motherboard of the device 170).

[0056] Therefore, in this variant, the sensor module 120 and the controller 150 can be manufactured and / or assembled on a single structure (e.g., a single, integrated flexible PCB) to form a self-contained side input detection and interpretation subsystem, which includes: a sensing portion 122 configured to be mounted in a channel 116 and held in place without adhesive; and a tail portion 123 configured to insert a socket into the device 170 to fully connect the sensor module 120 and the controller 150 to the power and data input / output terminals within the device 170.

[0057] 5. Ditch configuration and bridges

[0058] exist Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 11CIn one variant shown, frame 110 further defines a series of bridges: a bridge extending across channel 116 from a first side of base structure 112 to transverse frame structure 114; a bridge longitudinally offset along channel 116; and a bridge configured to position the rear edge of transverse frame structure 114 onto base structure 112. More specifically, instead of a continuous web extending from base structure 112 of frame 110 to transverse frame structure 114, frame 110 may include discrete, intermittent “bridges” that support and position the rear edge of transverse frame structure 114 onto base structure 112. In this variant, each sensor in sensor module 120 is longitudinally centered between a pair of adjacent bridges in channel 116 and can output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of adjacent portions of transverse frame structure 114 between the pair of adjacent bridges.

[0059] Therefore, these bridges can: enable the front edge of the transverse frame structure 114 adjacent to the display 182 to preferentially deflect inward toward the base structure 112 in response to lateral input applied to that side of the mobile computing device; and / or achieve greater inward deflection of each unit force applied to the side of the device 170 in these areas of the transverse frame structure 114 between these bridges. More specifically, the bridges can exhibit greater yield to each unit force applied to the side of the device 170, such that a larger proportion of the force applied to the side of the device 170 is transmitted to the sensor module 120, which results in greater compression of the force-sensitive layer 126, and thus a greater change in the local contact resistance of the force-sensitive layer 126. Therefore, the sensor can output a sensing signal exhibiting a greater change in the amplitude of each unit force applied to the side of the device 170, thereby increasing the sensitivity of the system 100.

[0060] 5.1 Example: Aluminum frame with exposed sides

[0061] exist Figure 1 In one example implementation shown, the frame 110 includes a 5 mm thick aluminum structure whose sides are exposed when the display 182 and the rear cover panel 174 are mounted at the front and rear of the frame 110, respectively. In this example implementation, the frame 110 is die-cast, machined, and / or extruded, etc., to form a linear rectangular channel 116 that is 1.5 mm wide and 4 mm deep, the channel 116 being embedded 1 mm from the front edge of a first side of the frame 110. Then, at locations along the length of the channel 116 corresponding to the sensing areas of the sensor module 120, a row of elongated slots is machined or stamped through the base of the channel 116 (e.g., a 1 mm thick web) to form a row of “bridges” extending across the base of the channel 116, thereby supporting the transverse frame structure 114 between these sensing areas.

[0062] In another example where the first side of the frame 110 is 150 mm long, the length of the channel 116 can be 120 mm (i.e., 80% of the length of the frame 110), comprising 20 5 mm long slots machined along the base of the channel 116 at 6 mm intervals to the rear of the frame 110, forming 19 1 mm wide "bridges" spaced 6 mm apart along the base of the channel 116. In this example, the sensor module 120: can be approximately 120 mm long (e.g., 118 mm); can define a row of twenty sensing areas, each sensing area containing one or a set of drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 spaced 6 mm apart along its length; and can be arranged in the channel 116 such that the area of ​​the sensor module 120 between adjacent sensing areas faces these bridges.

[0063] Therefore, when a user applies force to this side of frame 110 (e.g., when device 170 is "squeezed"), the bridge can resist deflection of the rear edge of this side of frame 110. However, the unsupported segment of the side of frame 110 between two adjacent bridges may deflect inward (i.e., bend) when squeezed by the user. The force applied to the unsupported segment of the side of frame 110 can cause the unsupported segment of frame 110 to deflect inward toward the adjacent sensing area of ​​sensor module 120, thereby: transferring (partially) the force to sensor module 120; compressing the force-sensitive material of sensor module 120; and reducing the local volume resistance of the force-sensitive material. Controller 150 can then: detect this reduction in the local volume resistance of the force-sensitive material in the form of a change in resistance on the sensing and drive electrodes in the sensing area of ​​sensor module 120; and convert the magnitude of this change in resistance into the magnitude of the input force at the location of the sensing area along the first side 171 of device 170.

[0064] More specifically, these bridges can act to: uniformly position the rear edge of the first side of the frame 110; maintain a uniform width of the back of the frame 110; and allow the front edge of the first side of the frame 110 to preferentially and elastically deflect inward, and allow the unsupported portion of the first side of the frame 110 between the bridges to elastically deflect inward toward the sensor module 120, thereby enabling the touch sensor module and controller 150 to detect and interpret the magnitude of the force applied to the first side 171 of the device 170.

[0065] Furthermore, the bridge spanning the base of the channel 116 can reduce sensitivity to inputs along the rear edge of the first side 171 of the device 170 and / or achieve higher sensitivity to inputs along the front edge of the first side 171 of the device 170. For example, the device 170 may display virtual icons along the edge of the display 182 adjacent to the first edge of the frame 110 to indicate commands or actions (currently) associated with different areas of the first side 171 of the device 170. When seeing these virtual icons displayed on the display 182, a user may tend to preferentially “squeeze” or press the first side 171 of the device 170 closer to the front edge of the device 170 to input commands associated with adjacent virtual icons displayed on the display 182. Therefore, because the bridge is arranged along the rear edge of the first side 171 of the device 170, the front edge of the first side of the frame 110 can exhibit a lower spring constant than the rear edge of the first side of the frame 110, causing the former to deflect more under applied force and causing more of that applied force to be transmitted to and detected by the sensor module 120.

[0066] (Alternatively, in order to achieve priority force detection along the rear edge of the first side of the frame 110, the channel 116 may extend forward from the rear surface of the frame 110 toward the display 182, and the bridge may be formed along the front surface of the frame 110.)

[0067] Therefore, in this variation: the base structure 112, the transverse frame structure 114, and a series of bridges can define an integrated structure (e.g., a metal structure); and the base of the channel 116 (opposite to the display 182) can be perforated to form a series of bridges that support the transverse frame structure 114 away from the base structure 112 of the frame 110.

[0068] 5.2 Example: Steel Frame

[0069] In another example implementation, the frame 110 includes a 5 mm thick stainless steel structure and a rectangular groove 116 that is machined along the top surface of the frame 110; is 1.5 mm wide; is 4.5 mm deep; and is embedded 0.6 mm from the front edge of the first side of the frame 110.

[0070] In one example where the first side of the frame 110 is 150 mm long, the channel 116 may be 120 mm long and include 15 7.5 mm long slots machined along the base of the channel 116 at 8 mm intervals to the back of the frame 110, forming 14 0.5 mm wide "bridges" at 8 mm intervals along the base of the channel 116. In this example, the sensor module 120 is approximately 120 mm long, defining a row of 20 sensing areas along its length at 6 mm intervals, and is mounted in the channel 116, as further described below.

[0071] In particular, by reducing the thickness of the unsupported segment of the first side of the frame 110 and reducing the width and thickness of the bridge, the stainless steel frame 110 can exhibit a spring constant similar to that of the aforementioned stainless steel frame 110 along the front edge of the first side of the frame 110 and along the unsupported segment of the first side of the frame 110.

[0072] Conversely, by increasing the thickness of the unsupported segment of the first side of the frame 110 and / or increasing the width and thickness of the bridge, the plastic or polymer frame 110 can exhibit a spring constant similar to that of the aluminum and stainless steel frames described above along the front edge of the first side of the frame 110 and along the unsupported segment of the first side of the frame 110.

[0073] 6. Sensor module assembly

[0074] In this variant, as described above, the sensor module 120 may include: a substrate 121 (e.g., a flexible PCB); a set of driving and sensing electrodes 125 arranged across the substrate 121 (e.g., fabricated on one or more conductive layers of the flexible PCB); a force-sensitive material layer arranged adjacent to the set of driving and sensing electrodes on the substrate 121 and exhibiting localized changes in volume resistance according to the applied force (or pressure); and a compression element 128 (e.g., a foam slip) arranged across the force-sensitive material opposite to the substrate 121 and configured to fill the gap between the channel 116 and the sensor module 120.

[0075] In one implementation, the sensor module 120 further includes a first conical pad 160 bonded to the substrate 121 with a force-sensitive material, for example, using a pressure-sensitive adhesive, such that the thick end of the first conical pad 160 extends along the rear edge of the substrate 121. In this implementation, the sensor module 120 is inserted into the frame 110 in a channel 116, with the rear edge of the substrate 121 and the thick end of the first conical pad 160 located at the bottom of the channel 116, adjacent to the rear of the frame 110. Then, a second conical pad 160, geometrically similar to the first conical pad 160, is first inserted with its thin end into the channel 116 between the first conical pad 160 and the adjacent inner wall of the channel 116, thereby driving the sensor module 120 toward the opposing inner wall of the channel 116 and compressing the compression element 128 to fill gaps and geometric inconsistencies along the channel 116.

[0076] For example, for the aforementioned 1.5 mm wide channel 116: the substrate 121 may be defined with a thickness of 0.3 mm; the pressure-sensitive material layer may be defined with a thickness of 0.3 mm; the compression element 128 may be defined with a thickness of 0.4 mm; and the pressure-sensitive adhesive may be defined with a thickness of 0.1 mm. Furthermore, the first tapered pad 160 and the second tapered pad 160 may include: a thin end with a thickness of 0.2 mm; and a thick end with a thickness of 0.4 mm. Therefore, the total unmounted stack height of these components is approximately 1.7 mm. However, once these components are mounted in the channel 116, the total mounted stack height of these components is 1.5 mm, including the compression of the compression element 128 from its original thickness of 0.4 mm to a nominal final thickness of 0.2 mm.

[0077] Alternatively, in Figure 1 and Figure 3 In a similar example shown, sensor module 120 and compression element 128 can be mounted in channel 116, and a set of flat or tapered pads 160 (e.g., two 0.3 mm thick pads 160) can then be mounted in channel 116 (e.g., between one side of channel 116 and substrate 121 of sensor module 120) to compress compression element 128 and drive force-sensitive layer 126 in contact with substrate 121.

[0078] The display 182 and the rear cover panel 174 can then be coupled to and / or sealed around the periphery of the frame 110, extending beyond the channels 116 and the sensor module 120, such that the channels 116 and the sensor module 120 fall into the water-resistant envelope formed by the frame 110, the display 182, and the rear cover panel 174.

[0079] 7. Multiple sensor modules on each side of the equipment

[0080] In one variant, system 100 includes: a front channel 116 formed along the front of frame 110 adjacent to a first side of frame 110; a rear channel 116 formed along the rear of frame 110 adjacent to the first side of frame 110, and forming a web near the mid-plane of frame 110 at a depth similar to that of the front channel 116; a row of through slots formed along the web to form a row of bridges between the front channel 116 and the rear channel 116; a front sensor module 120 mounted in the front channel 116; and a rear sensor module 120 similarly mounted in the rear channel 116.

[0081] In this variant, when a force is applied near the front edge of the side of frame 110, the front edge of the transverse frame structure 114 can preferentially deflect inward toward the front sensor module 120, and the force is then preferentially detected by the front sensor module 120. Similarly, when a force is applied near the rear edge of the side of frame 110, the rear edge of the transverse frame structure 114 can preferentially deflect inward toward the rear sensor module 120, and the force is then preferentially detected by the rear sensor module 120. Therefore, in this variant, the controller 150 can detect and distinguish between forces applied along the front and rear edges of the side of frame 110, and selectively execute actions based on such front or rear side input to the device 170.

[0082] For example, controller 150 can: detect input along both the front and rear edges of the side of device 170 based on sensing signals read from sensors in front sensor module 120 and rear sensor module 120; identify a rear side input at a specific location on the side of device 170 if the force detected by the sensor in rear sensor module 120 at that location is greater than the force detected by the adjacent sensor in front sensor module 120 at that location; and vice versa. Then, controller 150 can: read side input when a hand or fingers grip device 170 and therefore ignore such side inputs; and interpret front side inputs as intentional inputs, thereby triggering an action in response to the front side input. In this example, controller 150 can thus enable the user to: grip device 170 without triggering an action; and then trigger a specific action, namely pressing a portion of the front edge of the side of device 170 near a virtual button 188 displayed on display 182 associated with that specific action.

[0083] 8. Sensor modules on multiple sides of the device

[0084] Additionally or alternatively, device 170 may include channels 116 and sensor modules 120 arranged along additional sides of frame 110—such as: along the left and right sides of device 170; or on the left, right, and top sides of device 170—as... Figure 1 and Figure 10 As shown.

[0085] In one implementation, the frame 110 further includes a second outer frame structure 130 (e.g., a second lateral frame structure 114) that extends along and adjacent to a second edge of the display 182 (e.g., the top side of the device 170); a second lateral side of the device 170 opposite to the (first) channel 116 and the (first) sensor module 120; a second side supported on a base structure 112 of the frame 110; and cooperates with the base structure 112 to define a second channel 136 disposed behind the display 182 and extending between the second outer frame structure 130 and the second side of the base structure 112. In this implementation, the system 100 further includes a second sensor module 140 disposed in the second channel 136, and the second sensor module 140 includes: a second substrate 141; and a second linear array of sensors 124 disposed on the second substrate 141 and configured to output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of the second outer frame structure 130.

[0086] In this implementation, the controller 150 can also be configured to detect the position and force magnitude of a side input on the mobile computing device near the second edge of the display 182 based on sensing signals output from the second linear array of sensors 124. More specifically, in this implementation, the controller 150 can sample sensing signals from sensors in the two sensor modules 120 and interpret the position and force magnitude of the input on both sides of the device 170 based on these sensing signals.

[0087] Alternatively, in this implementation, system 100 may include a second controller 150 coupled to the second sensor module 140 and performing the methods and techniques described above and below to detect and interpret the magnitude of the force input only on the second side 172 of device 170 based on sensing signals read from sensors in the second sensor module 140.

[0088] 9. Equipment Assembly

[0089] Once the sensor module 120 is installed in the channel 116 and connected to the motherboard, controller 150, and / or another component inside the frame 110 (e.g., via a flexible PCB, such as...), Figure 2B and Figure 9BAs shown), the display 182 can be mounted on the front side of the frame 110 such that the edge of the display 182 extends upward to (or near) the periphery of the frame 110 and surrounds the groove 116. For example, the periphery of the display 182 can be bonded to and / or sealed against the periphery of the frame 110, i.e., along the transverse frame structure 114 and outside the groove 116. Specifically, the display 182 can be bonded to the frame 110 along a narrow (e.g., one millimeter wide) portion between the groove 116 and the front edge of the first side of the frame 110. Furthermore, in this example, the adhesive or seal that bonds the periphery of the display 182 to the frame 110 can exhibit compliance in shearing so that: when pressed by a user, it absorbs the inward deflection of the transverse frame structure 114; and the transmission of this deflection is limited to the edge of the display, which would otherwise distort the image presented by the display 182.

[0090] The rear cover panel 174 can similarly be attached to the frame 110 along the narrow (e.g., one millimeter wide) transverse frame structure 114, and can surround the groove between the bridges along the base of the channel 116. Therefore, the display 182 and the rear cover panel 174 can cooperate to surround the channel 116 and the sensor module 120, and the channel 116 and the sensor module 120 can fall within a waterproof component or housing formed by the frame 110, the display 182, and the rear cover panel 174.

[0091] 10. Input Detection

[0092] Therefore, each sensor in the linear array of sensors 124 in sensor module 120 can: face a portion of the transverse frame structure 114; and output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of that portion of the transverse frame structure 114. Thus, during a scan cycle, controller 150 can: read a set of sensing signals from the linear array of sensors 124; interpret a set of forces applied to a portion of the transverse frame structure 114 during the scan cycle based on the set of sensing signals; interpolate a specific location of a side input applied to a first edge of the display 182 of the mobile computing device during the scan cycle based on the known positions of these sensors along the channel 116 and the set of forces; estimate the total force magnitude of the side input based on the combination of the forces; and output the specific location and force magnitude of the side input, such as to the processor or main controller 150 in device 170. The controller 150 may also: repeat the process for subsequent scan cycles, such as at a rate of 100 Hz, to detect the position and force magnitude of the lateral input on the device 170 during these subsequent scan cycles; implement input tracking technology to track the lateral input on the device 170 over multiple consecutive scan cycles; and / or detect changes in the force magnitude of individual lateral inputs; etc.

[0093] In one implementation, during operation, controller 150: reads a set of resistance values ​​on each drive and sensing electrode pair 125 in sensor module 120; converts these resistance values ​​into a set of force magnitudes, for example, based on a stored force-resistance model, scaling function, or lookup table; interpolates these force magnitudes based on the known positions of these sensors in channel 116; stores these measured and interpolated force magnitudes in a force gradient representing the sides of device 170; and detects a set of consecutive regions in the force gradient exhibiting force magnitudes greater than a threshold force. Then, for each of these regions in the force gradient, controller 150: calculates the total force magnitude of the side input in that region based on a combination (e.g., and) of the force magnitudes represented in that region of the force gradient; calculates the centroid of that region of the force gradient; and returns the side input at the centroid location with the total force magnitude (e.g., back to the processor in device 170).

[0094] 10.1 Input Representation

[0095] The controller 150 may also characterize lateral input as follows: if the length of the corresponding region of the force gradient is less than a threshold finger length (e.g., 12 mm), it is characterized as a finger (or expected input); if the length of the corresponding region of the force gradient is within the thumb length range (e.g., 12 to 20 mm), it is characterized as a thumb; or if the length of the corresponding region of the force gradient is greater than a threshold palm length (e.g., 12 to 20 mm), it is characterized as a palm. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 150 may characterize lateral input as follows: if the peak applied force (or peak applied pressure) in the force gradient region associated with the lateral input exceeds a threshold peak finger force (e.g., 100 g), it is characterized as a finger (or expected input); if the peak applied force in the force gradient region associated with the lateral input falls within the thumb force range (e.g., between 25 and 100 g), it is characterized as a thumb; or if the peak applied force in the force gradient region associated with the lateral input is less than a threshold peak palm force (e.g., less than 25 g), it is characterized as a palm.

[0096] Additionally or alternatively, controller 150 may isolate a single side input most likely representing an intentionally selected location at device 170 from a set of concurrent side inputs to device 170. For example, controller 150 may identify a specific side input within a set of concurrent side inputs at the intentionally selected input location in response to a specific side input exhibiting the maximum peak force or maximum pressure within that set of side inputs (i.e., the total force magnitude divided by the total area or length of the input). Controller 150 may then implement the methods and techniques described above and below to characterize the specific side input and return the characteristics of the specific side input (e.g., location and / or total force magnitude) to the processor or other subsystem 100 within device 170.

[0097] 10.2 resolution

[0098] like Figure 2B As shown, sensor module 120 may include driving and sensing electrode pairs 125 arranged in a small number (e.g., one or two) columns and a large number (e.g., 24 or 32) rows. Therefore, sensor module 120 may exhibit low resolution for lateral input along the depth of the side of device 170 and high (higher) resolution along the length of the side of device 170.

[0099] In one implementation, the linear array of channel 116 and sensor 124 extends longitudinally over a length greater than 80% of the longitudinal length of the first side of the mobile computing device. In this example, controller 150 can detect the position and force magnitude of a lateral input in a row of discrete regions on the first side of the mobile computing device based on sensing signals output by the linear array of sensor 124, wherein each discrete region on the first side of the mobile computing device defines a longitudinal length less than 10% of the longitudinal length of the first side of the mobile computing device. For example, the first side 171 of device 170 may define a length of 150 mm; channel 116 may extend 140 mm along the first side 171 of device 170; and sensor module 120 may define a length of 138 mm and include 32 pairs of driving and sensing electrodes 125 with a spacing of 4.25 mm. Therefore, controller 150 can detect the lateral input at 32 discrete senseable regions along the length of the side of device 170. The controller 150 can also interpolate the forces between these 32 discrete senseable regions (e.g., at a location between adjacent senseable regions) in order to upsample the sensed signals read from the sensor module 120.

[0100] 10.3 Input Tracking and Gesture Interpretation

[0101] The controller 150 can also repeat the aforementioned process during subsequent scan cycles and interpret specific types of lateral inputs and / or lateral input gestures based on lateral inputs detected in multiple scan cycles.

[0102] For example, controller 150 may characterize a side input as "intentional selection" (or "button press") in response to detecting a significant increase in the magnitude of the force applied to a specific location on the side of device 170 adjacent to the virtual button 188 displayed on display 182 within a first subset of the scan cycle, while the force applied to the side input at other locations on device 170 remains unchanged or increases slightly; followed by a decrease in the magnitude of the force applied to the specific location on the side of device 170 in subsequent scan cycle sequences, or the side input being released from the specific location. Controller 150 (or the processor in device 170) may then trigger an action linked to the virtual button 188.

[0103] In a similar example, controller 150 may implement the methods and techniques described above to detect the position and total force magnitude of individual side inputs on the side of device 170; and convert these total forces into average pressure based on the total area (or length) of the respective side inputs. In this example, controller 150 may then characterize the side inputs as “intentionally selected” in response to detecting a significant increase in pressure applied to a specific location on the side of device 170 adjacent to the virtual button 188 presented on display 182 within a first subset of the scan cycle, while the pressure of side inputs at other locations on device 170 remains unchanged or increases slightly; followed by a decrease in pressure applied to the specific location on the side of device 170 in subsequent scan cycle sequences, or release of the side input from the specific location. Controller 150 (or the processor in device 170) may then trigger an action linked to the virtual button 188.

[0104] In a similar example, controller 150 may characterize the lateral input as “intentionally selected” in response to detecting a significant increase in peak applied force (or peak pressure, rather than total force or total pressure) in a specific region of the lateral input on the side of device 170 within a first subset of the scan cycle, while the peak applied force remains unchanged or increases slightly in other regions of the lateral input on the side of device 170; followed by a decrease in the peak applied force in the specific region in subsequent scan cycle sequences.

[0105] In another example, controller 150 may characterize a set of concurrent lateral inputs as a “squeeze” gesture in response to detecting an increase in the magnitude of force applied to a large, continuous area (e.g., thumb or palm input) on a first side 171 of device 170; a comparable increase in the magnitude of force applied to a set (e.g., three, four) consecutive discrete areas (e.g., three or four fingers) on opposite sides of device 170; followed by a similar and concurrent decrease in the magnitude of force for all lateral inputs in the set.

[0106] In another example, sensor module 120 may characterize a lateral input as a "slide" or "roll" gesture in response to detecting an increase in the magnitude of the force applied to a first position on the side of device 170 within a first scan cycle sequence; followed by a transition of the lateral input to a second position on the side of device 170 with a similar force magnitude in subsequent scan cycles. Therefore, controller 150 may output a slide or roll command at a rate corresponding to the rate at which the lateral input transitions from the first position to the second position.

[0107] 10.4 Calibration

[0108] In one implementation, controller 150 stores a set of baseline signal values ​​representing the contact resistance between the linear array of sensors 124 in sensor module 120 and force-sensitive layer 126 during periods when there is no side input on the mobile computing device. Then, during a scan cycle, controller 150: reads a set of sensing signals from the linear array of sensors 124; calculates a set of corrected sensing signals based on the set of sensing signals and the set of baseline signal values ​​(e.g., by subtracting the corresponding baseline signal values ​​from these sensing signals); interprets a set of nominal forces applied to portions of the transverse frame structure 114 during the scan cycle based on the set of corrected sensing signals; and estimates the total force magnitude of side inputs near the edge of display 182 on the mobile computing device during the scan cycle based on the combination of the set of corrected forces.

[0109] For example, in this implementation, when no force is applied to the side of device 170 during a setup cycle, controller 150 may record baseline electrical (e.g., voltage or resistance) values ​​(or “determine tare”) read from sensors in sensor module 120. Then, during an operating cycle, controller 150 may: correct or “normalize” the sensing signals read from the drive and sensing electrode pair 125 in sensor module 120 by subtracting these stored baseline electrical values ​​from the sensing signals read from the corresponding drive and sensing electrode pair 125; and convert these corrected sensing signals into force values ​​based on a stored force-resistance model, scaling function, or lookup table, etc.

[0110] Alternatively, in this implementation, controller 150 may: record baseline electrical (e.g., voltage or resistance) values ​​(or "determine tare weight") read from sensors in sensor module 120 when no force is applied to the side of device 170 during a setup cycle; convert these baseline electrical signals into baseline force values ​​based on a stored force-resistance model, scaling function, or lookup table, etc.; and store these baseline force values. Then, during an operation cycle, controller 150 may: read sensing signals read from the drive and sensing electrode pair 125 in sensor module 120; convert these uncorrected sensing signals into uncorrected force values ​​based on a stored force-resistance model, scaling function, or lookup table, etc.; and then subtract the baseline force values ​​from the uncorrected force values ​​to calculate corrected force values ​​along the side of device 170.

[0111] 11. Context Input

[0112] The controller 150 (or the individual or main processor in the device 170) can also detect, interpret, and process side inputs to the device 170 based on the content presented on the display 182 (e.g., the location of virtual buttons 188 presented along the perimeter of the display 182) and / or the screen or application currently running on the device 170.

[0113] For example, when display 182 displays the lock screen and / or the home screen, controller 150 may: read sensing signals from sensor module 120; implement the methods and techniques described above to detect input groups on both sides of device 170 and interpret these inputs as "squeeze" inputs; and then trigger device 170 to switch to "sleep" or "hibernate" mode in response to the "squeeze" input. Similarly, when display 182 is in "sleep" or "hibernate" mode when display 182 is off, controller 150 may: read sensing signals from sensor module 120; implement the methods and techniques described above to detect input groups on both sides of device 170 and interpret these inputs as "squeeze" inputs; and then trigger device 170 to switch to wake-up mode and display the lock screen in response to the "squeeze" input.

[0114] In another example, when the camera app is opened on device 170, controller 150 may: implement the methods and techniques described above to detect a set of lateral inputs on the side of device 170; and trigger a shutter function in the camera app in response to at least one of these lateral inputs spanning a total area or length smaller than a threshold selection size (e.g., threshold finger area or length) and exhibiting a total force exceeding a high threshold force (e.g., 165 grams) and then decreasing to below a lower threshold force (e.g., 70 grams). Additionally or alternatively, in this example, controller 150 may trigger a video capture or image burst function within the camera app in response to at least one of these lateral inputs spanning a total area or length smaller than a threshold selection size and exhibiting a total force exceeding a high threshold force (e.g., 165 grams) for a duration exceeding a threshold (e.g., 1 second).

[0115] In yet another example, when a social media application is executed on device 170, controller 150 may: implement the methods and techniques described above to detect lateral input exceeding a threshold peak force, force magnitude, or pressure; track the lateral input over multiple scan cycles; detect lateral input with approximately consistent peak force, force magnitude, or pressure as it transitions downward along the side of device 170; interpret the lateral input as a "scroll down" input; and then trigger the social media application to scroll down through the social feed at a rate proportional to the scroll down input. Additionally or alternatively, in this example, controller 150 may: implement the methods and techniques described above to detect a set of inputs on two opposing sides of device 170; interpret a squeeze (or "pinch") gesture input in device 170 in response to the set of inputs containing similar force magnitudes of two opposing sides and force magnitudes exceeding a threshold; and then trigger the social media application to scroll down through the social feed at a rate proportional to the squeeze input and the force magnitudes of the two opposing side inputs (e.g., average or total force magnitudes).

[0116] Therefore, controller 150 (or other processors in device 170) can map individual side inputs or concurrent groups of side inputs to different input types based on the screen presented on device 170 or the application executed.

[0117] 12. Dynamic button assignment

[0118] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, during the current scan cycle, device 170 can dynamically reassign areas of the sides of device 170 to different command functions, for example, based on the current orientation of device 170, the screen currently displayed on device 170, the application currently running on device 170, and / or the location of side inputs detected at device 170. Then, device 170 can present virtual buttons 188 for the various command functions, for example, in the form of icons and / or text descriptions, around the periphery of display 182 near the areas of the sides of device 170 currently assigned to these command functions.

[0119] More specifically, based on the current orientation of device 170 during the current scan cycle, the screen currently displayed on device 170, the application currently executed on device 170, and / or the location of side inputs detected at device 170, device 170 can dynamically: remap the association between regions along the sides of device 170 and specific command functions; and update the diagrams displayed on display 182 to reflect these new side input mappings.

[0120] 12.1. Example

[0121] exist Figure 5 In one example shown, when the device 170 display is off, displaying a lock screen, or displaying a home screen, the controller 150 (or another processor in the device 170) can: switch the device 170 between sleep and lock screen modes in response to a brief side input (e.g., a "press" input exceeding a threshold force for less than two seconds) at a first area of ​​the sensor module 120 (e.g., near the upper corner of the device 170); present a virtual "power" button on the display 182 adjacent to the sensor module 120; and respond to a middle portion of the sensor module 120 near the side of the device 170. A brief side input or "slide" input in the second area increases or decreases the output volume of device 170; virtual "volume up" and "volume down" buttons are displayed on display 182 adjacent to the second area of ​​sensor module 120; a side input (e.g., "squeeze" or "pinch" gesture) in the third area of ​​sensor module 120 near the lower part of the side of device 170 (e.g., the lower half of device 170) toggles audible notifications (e.g., inbound messages, alarms); and a virtual "mute" button is displayed on display 182 adjacent to the third area of ​​sensor module 120.

[0122] Later, when a call comes into contact with device 170, controller 150 (or processor, etc.) may: remove virtual “power,” “volume up,” and “volume down” buttons from display 182; remap the entire length of sensor module 120, which includes first, second, and third regions, to detect “squeeze” input; present a virtual “squeeze to mute” indicator on display 182; and then, in response to detecting a “squeeze” or “pinch” side input at any location along the length of sensor module 120, selectively mute the incoming call.

[0123] Later, when the user opens the camera application at device 170 and holds device 170 in a portrait orientation, controller 150 (or another processor in device 170) can automatically: remap a first area of ​​sensor module 120 to camera “shutter” control; trigger the camera shutter in response to detecting a side input in the first area of ​​sensor module 120; remap a second area of ​​sensor module 120 to “zoom in” and “zoom out” control; trigger the camera application to zoom in and out of the viewfinder in response to detecting a side input in the second area of ​​sensor module 120; remap a first sub-section of a third area of ​​sensor module 120 to “video capture” control; and trigger the camera to record video in response to detecting a side input in the first sub-section of the third area of ​​sensor module 120; and update display 182 to present virtual buttons 188 to reflect these remapped controls. Furthermore, controller 150 (or another processor in device 170) may: assign a focus force threshold and a shutter force threshold greater than the focus force threshold to a first region of “shutter” control; trigger the camera shutter in response to detecting a lateral input in the first region of sensor module 120 of total force, peak force, or peak pressure exceeding the shutter force threshold; and trigger a camera application to refocus the camera in response to detecting a lateral input in the first region of sensor module 120 of total force, peak force, or peak pressure between the shutter and focus force thresholds.

[0124] Then, if the user rotates the device 170 to landscape orientation while the camera application is open, the controller 150 (or another processor in the device 170) can automatically: remap the first area of ​​the sensor module 120 to “zoom in” and “zoom out” controls; retain the “video capture” controls mapped to the first sub-section of the third area of ​​the sensor module 120; remap the camera “shutter” controls to the second sub-section of the third area of ​​the sensor module 120 near the upper right corner of the device 170 in landscape orientation; and update the display 182 to present the virtual buttons 188 to reflect these remapped controls.

[0125] 12.2 Light Input Limits Virtual Button Position

[0126] Additionally and / or alternatively, the device 170 may dynamically remap command functions to different areas along the sensor module 120 based on the location of light (i.e., low force or “resting”) side inputs detected along the side of the device 170.

[0127] In one implementation, controller 150 (or another processor in device 170): based on a first set of sensing signals read from sensor array 124 during a first scan cycle, detects a first input of a first force magnitude at a first position on a first side of the mobile computing device at a first time; and in response to detecting the first input at the first position, triggers display 182 to present a first virtual button 188 near the first position during a first time period following the first scan cycle. Then, controller 150: based on a second set of sensing signals read from sensor array 124 during a second scan cycle following the first scan cycle, detects a second input of a second force magnitude near the first position on the first side of the mobile computing device during the first time period; and in response to a) detecting the second input near the first position and b) the second force magnitude exceeding the first force magnitude, triggers an action associated with the first virtual button 188. Later, the controller 150 may: detect a third input at a third position on the second side of the mobile computing device at a third time based on a third set of sensing signals read from the second sensor array 124 during a third scan cycle following the second scan cycle; and in response to detecting the third input at the third position on the second side 172 of the device 170, trigger the display 182 to present the first virtual button 188 near the third position on the second side 172 of the device 170 during a third time period following the third scan cycle.

[0128] In one example, during a scan cycle, controller 150: detects a set (e.g., three, six) of lateral inputs on the sides of device 170 based on sensing signals read from a first sensor module 120 on a first side 171 of device 170 and a second sensor module 140 on a second side 172 of device 170; and identifies these lateral inputs as “stationary” lateral inputs in response to the total force magnitude, peak force magnitude, or peak pressure of these lateral inputs exceeding a threshold force sensitivity lower limit (e.g., 10 grams to filter and discard noise in sensor module 120) and falling below a lateral input force threshold (e.g., 165 grams). Alternatively, controller 150 may identify these lateral inputs as “stationary” lateral inputs in response to the total force magnitude, peak force magnitude, or peak pressure of the lateral inputs differing by a threshold difference (e.g., + / - 8%). Controller 150 (or other processors in device 170) may also identify subsets of these lateral inputs corresponding to individual fingers, such as lateral inputs characterized by a length less than a threshold length (e.g., 20 mm). Alternatively, the controller 150 may: recognize three or more lateral inputs on a first side 171 of the device 170 as fingers, with the apex of these lateral inputs corresponding to the index finger; recognize the largest lateral input on a second opposing side of the device 170 as a palm; and recognize a second lateral input on a second side 172 of the device 170 as a thumb.

[0129] Then, controller 150 may: retrieve a priority list of command functions associated with the screen currently displayed on display 182 or the application currently executed on device 170; assign a first command function from the priority list to a first area of ​​first sensor module 120 adjacent to a first area identified as a finger's tip lateral input; update display 182 to present a first virtual button 188 for the first command function near the first area of ​​first sensor module 120; assign a second command function from the priority list to a second area of ​​first sensor module 120 adjacent to a second area identified as a finger's second lateral input; update display 182 to present a second virtual button 188 for the second command function near the second area of ​​first sensor module 120; and so on. Controller 150 may also: reassign a "screen lock" command function to an area of ​​second sensor module 140 adjacent to a side input identified as a thumb; and update display 182 to present a virtual "screen lock" button near the area of ​​second sensor module 140.

[0130] The controller 150 (or another processor in the device 170) can then execute the specific command function in response to detecting a lateral input exceeding a threshold force (e.g., 165 grams) in a specific area of ​​the first or second sensor module 140 currently mapped to that particular command function. The controller 150 can also repeat the aforementioned process regularly (e.g., continuously, every two seconds) to dynamically reassign command functions to locations along the side of the device 170 adjacent to the stationary lateral input as the user naturally holds the device 170 in her hand, thereby enabling the user to immediately access primary or high-priority functions at the device 170 without moving her fingers along the device 170 or repositioning the device 170 in her hand.

[0131] Therefore, the controller 150 (or another processor in the device 170) can dynamically reassign the virtual button 188 to different locations along the sensor module 120 and dynamically adjust the force threshold for responding to lateral inputs at these locations.

[0132] 12.3 Device orientation limits the location of virtual buttons

[0133] In another implementation, controller 150 may: detect the current orientation of device 170 based on the output of the accelerometer on device 170; rotate the mapping between a specific command function and the area of ​​sensor module 120 by 180° when device 170 is inverted; and / or rotate the mapping between a specific command function and a specific position by 90° (for device 170 having sensor modules 120 on all four sides) when device 170 is switching between longitudinal and lateral orientations.

[0134] In a similar implementation where device 170 includes two sensor modules 120 on its left and right sides, when device 170 is held in a longitudinal orientation, controller 150 may assign a first set of virtual buttons 188 to the lower region of the right sensor module 120, a second set of virtual buttons 188 to the upper region of the right sensor module 120, a third set of virtual buttons 188 to the upper region of the left sensor module 120, and a fourth set of virtual buttons 188 to the lower region of the left sensor module 120. When device 170 changes from a longitudinal orientation to a lateral orientation clockwise, controller 150 may dynamically reassign the first set of virtual buttons 188 to the lower region of the left sensor module 120, the second set of virtual buttons 188 to the lower region of the right sensor module 120, the third set of virtual buttons 188 to the upper region of the right sensor module 120, and the fourth set of virtual buttons 188 to the upper region of the left sensor module 120. Similarly, when device 170 changes from a longitudinal orientation to a lateral orientation, controller 150 can dynamically reassign the first set of virtual buttons 188 to the upper region of the right sensor module 120, the second set of virtual buttons 188 to the upper region of the left sensor module 120, the third set of virtual buttons 188 to the lower region of the left sensor module 120, and the fourth set of virtual buttons 188 to the lower region of the right sensor module 120, such that the virtual buttons 188 remain in approximately the same quadrant of device 170 relative to gravity or the ground plane, regardless of the orientation of device 170. 12.4 Chirality (Handedness)

[0135] In a similar implementation, controller 150 can implement the methods and techniques described above to detect a palm and / or thumb on the first side 171 of device 170 based on a first set of sensing signals read from a first sensor module 120 on the first side 171 of device 170; and to detect a set of fingers on the second side 172 of device 170 based on a second set of sensing signals read from a second sensor module 140 on the second side 172 of device 170. Device 170 can then: detect the hand deviance of the hand holding device 170 based on the position of the palm, thumb, and / or fingers on the side of device 170; and selectively reverse (e.g., mirror) the mapping between the areas of these sensor modules 120 and command functions based on the hand deviance, such that regardless of whether the user holds device 170 with their left or right hand, the user's thumb and index finger, etc., can always reach the same virtual button 188 (given a specific screen displayed on display 182 or an application executed on device 170).

[0136] 13. Continuous input area + discrete buttons

[0137] exist Figure 4 In one variant, the lateral frame structure 114 of frame 110 defines a drilled hole 164 (e.g., a round or square hole) extending laterally between the first side of the mobile computing device and the channel 116; and system 100 also includes a physical button element 162 disposed in the drilled hole 164, accessible from the first side of the mobile computing device, and configured to selectively compress a specific area of ​​a specific sensor in the adjacent sensor module 120 of the force-sensitive layer 126. In this variant, controller 150 can therefore: implement the methods and techniques described above to detect the position and force magnitude of a side input on the mobile computing device adjacent to the first edge of display 182 and offset from the physical button element 162 based on sensing signals output by sensors other than the specific sensor in the linear array of sensors 124; and detect the force magnitude of the input on the physical button element 162 based on sensing signals output by the specific sensor.

[0138] Typically, in this variant, the sensor module 120 may define a single, continuous substrate 121 and a single, continuous force-sensitive layer 126 arranged along the side of the device 170 in the channel 116; may output a sensing signal indicating inward deflection of the transverse frame structure 114 in response to inputs along the side of the device 170; and may also output a sensing signal indicating positional compression of the force-sensitive layer 126 in response to pressing a physical button that passes laterally through the transverse frame structure 114. For example, the sensor module 120 may be sealed against the channel 116 (e.g., waterproof) and may detect inputs along a first side 171 of the device 170 from deflection of the transverse frame structure 114 and pressing of a physical button, without additional discrete buttons or sealing around these discrete buttons.

[0139] 14. Integration of sensor module and touch screen

[0140] In a variant of the device 170 including a touchscreen 180, the controller 150 (or another processor in the device 170) may: read sensing signals from the touchscreen 180 during a scan cycle and interpret high-resolution lateral and longitudinal positions on inputs on the touchscreen 180 based on the sensing signals (or access a touch image output by a second controller 150 in the device 170 based on sensing signals read from the touchscreen 180); read sensing signals from a sensor module 120 arranged along a first side 171 of the device 170 and interpret the total force magnitude (or peak force magnitude, peak pressure) and low-resolution position of lateral inputs along the side of the device 170 during a scan cycle based on the sensing signals read from the sensor module 120; and identify touch inputs detected by the touchscreen 180 as corresponding to lateral inputs detected by the sensor module 120 if the positions of these inputs are within a threshold distance (e.g., if the centroid of the touch input is within 3 mm of the edge of the touchscreen 180 on the first side 171 of the device 170). Then, when the touch and side inputs are identified as the same input, the controller 150 can: fuse the high-resolution location of the touch input and the total force magnitude (or peak force magnitude, peak pressure) of the side input into a high-resolution side input; and output the side input during the scan cycle (e.g., to another processor in the device 170).

[0141] More specifically, the touchscreen 180 may include a relatively high density of driving and sensing electrode pairs 125 (e.g., one sensor or driving channel 116 per millimeter length), and the sensor module 120 may include a relatively low density of driving and sensing electrode pairs 125 (e.g., one sensor or driving channel 116 per 4.5 millimeters length). Therefore, the touchscreen 180 can exhibit a relatively high spatial resolution, while the sensor module 120 can exhibit a relatively low spatial resolution. Therefore, in this variant, if: the lateral (or "x") position of the touch input (center of mass) drops along the screen edge adjacent to sensor module 120 (e.g., within a lateral threshold distance of 3 mm from the edge of touchscreen 180); and the longitudinal (or "y_touch") position of the touch input falls within a threshold longitudinal distance of the longitudinal (or "y_side") position of the side input (e.g., within a longitudinal threshold distance of the spacing between sensors in sensor module 120, or 4.5 mm), then controller 150 (or another processor in device 170) can link the touch input detected at high-resolution touchscreen 180 and the side input detected at force-sensitive sensor module 120 during the scan cycle. Then, when linking these touch and side inputs, controller 150 can fuse the high-resolution longitudinal position of the touch input detected by touchscreen 180 and the total force magnitude (or peak force magnitude, peak pressure) of the side input detected by sensor module 120 into a side input with high (higher) spatial resolution.

[0142] For example, touchscreen 180 may include: display 182; and a touch sensor disposed on display 182 and configured to output a sensing signal representing the position of a touch input on display 182. In this example, controller 150 may: read a first set of sensing signals from touch sensor during a scan cycle; detect a first lateral position and a first longitudinal position of a first touch input on display 182 during the scan cycle based on the first set of sensing signals; read a second set of sensing signals from sensor 124 array in sensor module 120 during the scan cycle; interpret a first force magnitude of a lateral input in a first region of a first side of a mobile computing device based on the second set of sensing signals; and, in response to the first lateral position of the first touch input falling within a threshold distance of the first region of the first side of the mobile computing device, output a representation of the first lateral input at a first longitudinal position on the first side of the mobile computing device during the scan cycle.

[0143] 15. Variation: Curved display with exposed frame

[0144] exist Figure 7In one variant, the display 182 includes: a flat display portion 184 defining the front of the mobile computing device; and a non-planar (e.g., curved) display portion extending around a first side of the mobile computing device and defining a first edge of the display 182. In this variant, a lateral frame structure 114 of the device 170 may extend along and behind the non-planar display portion 186, and the non-planar display portion 186 may extend over and surround a sensor module 120 in a channel 116. For example, the lateral frame structure 114 may: define a display seat extending along the first edge of the display 182, coupled to the first edge of the display 182, and / or sealed against the first edge of the display 182; and extend beyond the first edge of the display 182 to define a first side 171 of the device 170. Therefore, the seat of the lateral frame structure 114 can form a thin (e.g., 0.025”) gap along the first edge of the display 182, and the lateral frame structure 114 can be deflected inward to close the gap, and in response to a force applied along the first side 171 of the device 170, the force-sensitive layer 126 is locally pressed against the sensor in the sensor module 120. Thus, in this variant, the lateral frame structure 114 can be deflected inward to locally compress the force-sensitive layer 126, while the deflection of the first edge of the display 182 is minimal or non-existent.

[0145] exist Figure 7In one example shown, frame 110 includes: a first curved (or “radiated”) side; a channel 116 and a bridge embedded in and extending parallel to the first curved side; a front ridge extending along the front portion of frame 110 between the channel 116 and the first curved side; and a rear ridge extending along the rear portion of frame 110 between the channel 116 and the first curved side. As described above, sensor module 120 can be mounted in the channel 116. In this example, device 170 includes: a display 182 (and a front cover panel) having a curved “waterfall” edge extending along the front portion of frame 110 and the first curved side of frame 110 and terminating at the front ridge; and a (rigid) rear cover panel 174 having a curved “waterfall” edge extending along the rear portion of frame 110 and the first curved side of frame 110 and terminating at the rear ridge. Specifically, the edges of the display 182 (and / or front cover panel) and the rear cover panel 174 can be (e.g., with a flexible waterproof adhesive) bonded to the vicinity of the front and rear ridges of the frame 110, respectively, with the central portion of the first curved side of the frame 110 remaining exposed. Thus, the free edges of the display 182 (and / or front cover panel) and the rear cover panel 174 adjacent to the channel 116 can deflect in response to a force applied to the first side 171 of the device 170, transferring a portion of that force to the curved side of the frame 110, which also deflects and transfers a portion of that force to the adjacent segment of the sensor module 120. Furthermore, the display 182 (and / or front cover panel) and the rear cover panel 174 can extend beyond the channel 116 and sensor module 120 to the periphery of the frame 110 and / or abut against the periphery of the frame 110 for sealing, such that the channel 116 and sensor module 120 fall within a waterproof element or housing formed by the frame 110, the display 182, and the rear cover panel 174.

[0146] 16. Variation: Curved display with hidden frame

[0147] exist Figure 8In a similar variant shown, the channel 116 can extend forward from the rear of the frame 110 toward the display 182; and the non-planar display portion 186 can extend around the frame 110 to conceal the transverse frame structure 114, and can define a first side 171 of the device 170 that is joined along and / or sealed against the transverse frame structure. In this variant, the rear cover panel 174 can: similarly extend around the frame 110 to conceal the transverse frame structure 114; abut the first edge of the display 182; and enclose the sensor module 120 in the channel 116. Thus, in this variant, the first edge of the display 182 can be deflected inward to transmit lateral forces to the transverse frame structure 114, which then deflects inward to locally compress the force-sensitive layer 126.

[0148] exist Figure 8 In one example shown, device 170 includes: a frame 110 having a first curved (or “rounded”) side; a display 182 (and a front cover panel) having curved “waterfall” edges extending from the front of frame 110 and along the first curved side of frame 110; and a (rigid) rear cover panel 174 extending through the rear of frame 110 and extending to the periphery of display 182 to surround and completely cover frame 110. As described above, frame 110 may also include a channel 116 and a bridge along the first curved side of frame 110, and sensor module 120 may be mounted in the channel 116. In this example, the rear edge of display 182 (and / or front cover panel) may be (e.g., with a flexible waterproof adhesive) bonded adjacent to channel 116 and sensor module 120 to the first curved side of the panel. Therefore, the free edge of the display 182 (and / or front cover panel) adjacent to the channel 116 can deflect in response to a force applied to the first side 171 of the device 170 and transmit a portion of that force to the curved side of the frame 110, which also deflects and transmits a portion of that force to the adjacent segment of the sensor module 120.

[0149] 17. Variation: Curved display with defined channels

[0150] In another variation of the display 182, which includes a non-planar display portion 186 surrounding the edge of the device 170, the non-planar display portion 186 and the frame 110 may cooperate to define a channel 116, and the sensor module 120 may be arranged (e.g., laminated) behind the non-planar display portion 186, as... Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown.

[0151] exist Figure 9B and Figure 10In one implementation shown: a frame 110 defines a seat extending along its first edge, the seat being configured to receive a support base 129 (e.g., a "reinforcing element"); and the profile of the support base 129 is set (e.g., molded, machined) such that the sensor module 120 is positioned parallel to a plane tangent to a line extending along a non-planar display, the line being centered on the sensor module 120. During assembly, the sensor module 120, including a force-sensitive layer 126 laminated on a substrate 121, is arranged on and / or bonded to the support base 129, and then the support base 129 is loaded onto the seat. A compression element 128 is mounted opposite a support base 129 onto a sensor module 120. A display 182 is then mounted onto a frame 110 to surround the sensor module 120 and compress the compression element 128 between the inner surface of a non-planar display portion 186 and the sensor module 120, which is rigidly supported on the frame 110 via the support base 129. In this implementation, the frame 110 may also define a lip extending along a first edge of the display 182 (i.e., along the edge of the non-planar display portion 186) and bonded and / or sealed to the first edge of the display 182. For example, the lip may be bonded to and / or sealed to the first edge of the display 182 using an adhesive or sealant exhibiting a low modulus of elasticity, and this adhesive or sealant may compress and / or shear to allow the first edge of the display 182 to partially deflect inward toward the sensor module 120, and thus compress the force-sensitive layer 126 in response to lateral input along the first edge of the display 182.

[0152] 18. Variation: Capacitive sensor

[0153] exist Figure 12 In one variant shown, instead of the force-sensitive layer 126 and a sensor configured to detect contact resistance in adjacent regions of the force-sensitive layer 126, the sensor module 120 includes an array of drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 arranged in a mutual capacitance configuration and configured to capacitively couple to capacitive elements along adjacent sides of the device 170. Therefore, in this variant, the controller 150 is configured to: read capacitance values ​​(e.g., charging time, discharging time, voltage, resonant frequency) from the array of drive and sensing electrode pairs 125; and convert these capacitance values ​​into the magnitude of a force input adjacent to the sides of these drive and sensing electrode pairs 125.

[0154] More specifically, in this variant, a side input applied to the side of device 170 adjacent to a specific drive and sensing electrode pair 125 in sensor module 120 can cause the side of device 170 to deflect inward. This brings the adjacent area of ​​the capacitive element closer to the specific drive and sensing electrode pair 125 and alters the capacitance value read from the specific drive and sensing electrode pair 125 (e.g., increasing charging time, decreasing discharging time, or reducing voltage). Controller 150 can then read this capacitance value, calculate the difference between this capacitance value and a baseline capacitance value (e.g., recorded when there is no side input on device 170), and convert this capacitance value into the magnitude of the force applied to the side input near the specific drive and sensing electrode pair 125. The controller 150 may also: perform the process in series or in parallel for each of the other drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 in the sensor module 120 to calculate the magnitude of the force applied to the side of the device 170 during the scan cycle; interpolate the magnitude of the force between these drive and sensing electrode pairs 125; synthesize the force gradient by combining the large and small groups of these measured and / or interpolated forces; and detect the position and total force magnitude, peak force and / or peak pressure input along the side of the device 170 during the scan cycle, as described above.

[0155] In one implementation: the display 182 includes a non-planar display portion 186 adjacent to the sensor module 120 surrounding the side of the frame 110 to form all or part of the side of the device 170; and the capacitive element includes a conductive trace integrated into and extending in the edge of the non-planar display portion 186, such that a force applied to the side of the device 170 causes a local area of ​​the edge of the non-planar display portion 186 to deflect inward, which brings a local portion of the conductive trace closer to the adjacent drive and sense electrode pair 125, and thus generates capacitance in the drive and sense electrode pair 125.

[0156] In this implementation, because the non-planar display portion 186 is configured to deflect in response to side input to the device 170, because the image presented on the non-planar display portion 186 may be distorted due to the deflection of the display 182, and / or because the non-planar display portion 186 may be sensitive to fatigue and failure depending on strain, the non-planar display portion 186 (and the front edge of the transverse frame structure 114) may be configured to locally deflect the base structure 112 of the frame 110 a small distance inward for each unit force applied to the side of the device 170, such as a deflection of less than 0.0005 inches per pound of force applied to a local portion of the side of the device 170. More specifically, because the non-planar display portion 186 may be sensitive to local deflection: the lateral frame portion 110 may support the edge of the non-planar display portion 186 and / or the display 182 may include a rigid (e.g., glass) cover layer configured to support the non-planar display portion 186 to prevent inward deflection; and the drive and sensing electrode pair 125 may be adjusted to exhibit high sensitivity to small deflections in adjacent edges of the non-planar display portion 186, thereby enabling the controller 150 to detect and interpret side inputs along the non-planar display portion 186, even though the non-planar display portion 186 responds to small deflections of these side inputs.

[0157] exist Figure 12 In a similar implementation shown, where the lateral frame structure 114 is non-metallic, system 100 includes a compression element (e.g., a foam strip) disposed between the sensor module 120 and the side of device 170, such as: for a device 170 where the lateral frame structure 114 defines the side of device 170, disposed between the sensor module 120 and the lateral frame structure 114; or for a device 170 where the display 182 surrounds the side of device 170, disposed between the sensor module 120 and the non-planar display portion 186. In this example, the capacitive element may include a conductive foil (e.g., aluminum foil) disposed between the compression element and the side of device 170, such that a force applied to the side of device 170 causes the lateral frame structure 114 and / or the non-planar display portion 186 to locally deflect inward, which locally compresses the compression element 128, bringing a local portion of the conductive foil closer to the adjacent drive and sensing electrode pair 125, and thus generating capacitance in the drive and sensing electrode pair 125.

[0158] In another implementation, frame 110 includes a transverse frame structure 114 that: extends along and adjacent to a first edge of display 182; is supported on a first side of base structure 112 of frame 110; cooperates with base structure 112 to define a channel 116 disposed behind display 182 and extending longitudinally between transverse frame structure 114 and the first side of base structure 112; and is configured to partially deflect inward toward base structure 112 in response to a force applied to a side of mobile computing device adjacent to the edge of display 182. In this implementation, sensor module 120 is disposed along base structure 112 within channel 116 and offset from the inner surface of transverse frame structure 114 (e.g., 0.5 mm). Furthermore, in this implementation, frame 110 and therefore transverse frame structure 114 may comprise metal or conductive materials, such as cast, forged, sintered, or billeted aluminum or steel; or co-molded polymers and conductive particles. Therefore, each sensor in the linear array of sensor 124 (e.g., each drive and sensing electrode pair 125) can: capacitively couple to an adjacent portion of the transverse frame structure 114; and output a sensing signal representing the distance to that adjacent portion of the transverse frame structure 114 and thus representing the inward deflection of that adjacent portion of the transverse frame structure 114 toward the sensor. More specifically, in this implementation, each sensor in the linear array of sensor 124 can: exhibit capacitive coupling to an adjacent portion of the transverse frame structure 114, the capacitive coupling being proportional to the inward deflection of the adjacent portion of the transverse frame 114; and output a sensing signal representing the capacitive coupling to the adjacent portion of the transverse frame structure 114.

[0159] In this variant, controller 150 may store a set of baseline capacitance values ​​representing the nominal distance between the linear array of sensors 124 and adjacent portions of the transverse frame structure 114. Then, during a scan cycle, controller 150 may: read a set of sensing signals from the linear array of sensors 124; calculate a set of corrected sensing signals based on the set of sensing signals and the set of baseline capacitance values; interpret a set of nominal forces applied to portions of the transverse frame structure 114 during the scan cycle based on the set of corrected sensing signals; and estimate the total magnitude of the lateral input on the mobile computing device near the first edge of display 182 during the scan cycle based on the combination of the set of corrected forces.

[0160] Furthermore, in this variant, instead of the drive and sensing electrode pairs 125 arranged in a mutual capacitance configuration on one side of the substrate 110, the sensor module 120 may include: a separate array of sensing electrodes arranged in a self-capacitance configuration on a first side of the substrate 110; and a common ground electrode or a separate ground electrode arranged along a second side of the substrate opposite to these sensing electrodes. Therefore, the controller 150 can implement a similar method and technique to: detect positional changes of a local area of ​​the side of the device 170 relative to these sensing electrodes based on capacitance values ​​read from them; and then interpret the magnitude and position of the force input to the side of the device 170 based on these positional changes.

[0161] The systems and methods described herein can be embodied and / or implemented at least in part as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions can be executed by a computer-executable component integrated with hardware / firmware / software elements of an application, applet, host, server, network, website, communication service, communication interface, user computer or device, wristband, smartphone, or any suitable combination thereof. Other systems and methods of the embodiments can be embodied and / or implemented at least in part as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions can be executed by a computer-executable component integrated with a computer-executable component integrated with devices and networks of the types described above. The computer-readable medium can be stored on any suitable computer-readable medium, such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, EEPROM, optical devices (CD or DVD), hard disk drives, floppy disk drives, or any suitable device. The computer-executable component can be a processor, but any suitable dedicated hardware device can (alternatively or additionally) execute the instructions.

[0162] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art from the foregoing detailed description and from the drawings and claims, modifications and alterations may be made to embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system for detecting and characterizing side inputs at a mobile computing device, comprising: The framework includes: A base structure configured to position a display defining the front of the mobile computing device; and The horizontal frame structure, wherein the horizontal frame structure is: Extending along and adjacent to the first edge of the display; It is supported on the first side of the base structure; Cooperating with the base structure to define a channel, the channel: Arranged behind the display; and Extending longitudinally between the first side of the transverse frame structure and the base structure; and Includes a front edge adjacent to the display, the front edge being configured to preferentially deflect toward a first side of the base structure in response to a side input applied to a first side of the mobile computing device, the first side of the mobile computing device being adjacent to the first edge of the display; A series of bridges, the series of bridges mentioned: Extending across the trench from the first side of the base structure to the transverse frame structure; Longitudinal offset along the channel; and Configured to position the rear edge of the transverse frame structure on the base structure; A sensor module, disposed in the channel, and comprising: Substrate; and A sensor array, disposed on the substrate and configured to output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of the transverse frame structure; and A controller configured to detect the position and force magnitude of a side input on the mobile computing device near a first edge of the display based on sensing signals output by the sensor array.

2. The system according to claim 1: in, The base structure, the transverse frame structure, and the series of bridges comprise an integrated metal structure; and The base of the channel opposite the display is perforated to form the series of bridges.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein, Each sensor in the sensor array: The bridges in the series of bridges in the trench are longitudinally centered between adjacent pairs; and It is configured to output a sensing signal representing a portion of the transverse frame structure between the pair of adjacent bridges.

4. The system according to claim 1: in, Each sensor in the sensor array: Facing a portion of the said transverse frame structure; and It is configured to output a sensing signal representing a portion of the transverse frame structure with local deflection; as well as The controller is configured to, during the scan cycle: Read a set of sensing signals from the sensor array; Based on the set of sensing signals, a set of forces applied to a portion of the transverse frame structure during the scanning cycle are interpreted; Based on the set of forces, interpolation is performed at a specific location of the side input applied to the mobile computing device near the first edge of the display during the scanning cycle; The total force magnitude of the lateral input is estimated based on the combination of the aforementioned forces; and Output the specific location and the magnitude of the force.

5. The system according to claim 1: in, The channel and the sensor array extend longitudinally over a length greater than 80% of the longitudinal length of the first side of the mobile computing device. as well as The controller is configured to detect the position and force magnitude of a side input in a row of discrete regions on a first side of the mobile computing device based on sensing signals output by the sensor array, wherein each discrete region on the first side of the mobile computing device defines a longitudinal length less than 10% of the longitudinal length of the first side of the mobile computing device.

6. The system according to claim 1: in, The sensor module further includes a force-sensitive layer, wherein the force-sensitive layer: Facing the substrate; and The sensor module exhibits a localized change in contact resistance in response to localized compression. Each sensor in the sensor array: Includes a pair of driving and sensing electrodes facing the region of the force-sensitive layer; and Configured to output a sensing signal representing the contact resistance of the region of the force-sensitive layer between the driving and sensing electrode pairs; and The system also includes a compression element, the compression element being: They are arranged in the trench; Fill the gap between the sensor module and the channel; and In cooperation with the base structure and the transverse frame structure, local forces input from the side of the mobile computing device near the first edge of the display are transmitted to the force-sensitive layer, thereby locally pressing a region of the force-sensitive layer against the sensor module.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein, The controller: Store a set of baseline signal values, which represent the contact resistance between the sensor array and the force-sensitive layer during the absence of lateral input on the mobile computing device; as well as Configured to be used during the scan cycle: Read a set of sensing signals from the sensor array; A set of corrected sensing signals is calculated based on the set of sensing signals and the set of baseline signal values; Based on the set of calibrated sensing signals, a set of nominal forces applied to portions of the transverse frame structure during the scanning cycle are interpreted; as well as Based on a combination of corrected forces, the total magnitude of the force input on the side of the mobile computing device near the first edge of the display is estimated during the scanning cycle.

8. The system according to claim 1: in, The sensor module further includes a force-sensitive layer, wherein the force-sensitive layer: Facing the substrate; and The sensor module exhibits a localized change in contact resistance in response to localized compression. Each sensor in the sensor array: Includes a pair of driving and sensing electrodes facing the region of the force-sensitive layer; and It is configured to output a sensing signal representing the contact resistance of the region of the force-sensitive layer between the driving and sensing electrode pairs; The channel extends rearward from the display; and The lateral frame structure adjacent to the front edge of the display is configured to preferentially deflect inward toward the first side of the base structure in response to a force applied to the first side of the mobile computing device adjacent to the first edge of the display, and press the force-sensitive layer against the sensor module.

9. The system according to claim 8: in, The front edge of the transverse frame structure is configured such that for every pound of force applied to a local portion of the side of the mobile computing device, it is locally deflected inward by a distance between 0.0005 inches and 0.002 inches toward a first side of the base structure. as well as The force-sensitive layer exhibits a localized change in contact resistance that is inversely proportional to the localized inward deflection of the front edge of the transverse frame structure.

10. The system according to claim 8: in, The transverse frame structure defines a drill hole extending laterally between a first side of the mobile computing device and the trench; It also includes a physical button element disposed in the borehole, the physical button element being accessible from a first side of the mobile computing device and configured to selectively compress a specific area of ​​the force-sensitive layer adjacent to a specific sensor in the sensor array; as well as The controller is configured to: Based on sensing signals output by a first subset of the sensors in the sensor array, the position and force magnitude of a side input on the mobile computing device that is close to the first edge of the display and deviates from the physical button element are detected; as well as The magnitude of the force applied to the physical button element is detected based on the sensing signal output by the specific sensor.

11. The system according to claim 1: in, The channel is defined by the first side of the base structure and the inner side of the transverse frame structure opposite to the first side of the base structure; Wherein, the sensor module is arranged along the first side of the base structure within the channel and offset from the inner surface of the transverse frame structure; and Each sensor in the sensor array is configured as follows: Capacitively coupled to adjacent portions of the transverse frame structure; and The output represents a sensing signal indicating the inward deflection of adjacent portions of the transverse frame structure.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The controller: Store a set of baseline capacitance values ​​representing the nominal distance between adjacent portions of the sensor array and the transverse frame structure; as well as Configured to be used during the scan cycle: Read a set of sensing signals from the sensor array; A set of corrected sensing signals is calculated based on the set of sensing signals and the set of baseline capacitance values; Based on the set of calibrated sensing signals, a set of nominal forces applied to portions of the transverse frame structure during the scanning cycle are interpreted; as well as Based on a combination of corrected forces, the total magnitude of the force input on the side of the mobile computing device near the first edge of the display is estimated during the scanning cycle.

13. The system according to claim 11: It also includes the display, the display comprising: A flat-panel display portion, the flat-panel display portion defining the front of the mobile computing device; as well as A non-planar display portion extends around the first side of the mobile computing device and defines a first edge of the display; as well as The horizontal frame structure extends along the non-planar display portion and behind it.

14. The system according to claim 13: in, The front edge of the lateral frame structure and the non-planar display portion are configured such that each pound of force applied to a local portion of the side of the mobile computing device deflects locally inward toward a first side of the base structure by a distance less than 0.0005 inches; and Each sensor in the sensor array is configured as follows: Capacitively coupled to adjacent portions of the transverse frame structure, the capacitive coupling being proportional to the inward deflection of the adjacent portions of the transverse frame; and The output represents a sensing signal that is capacitively coupled to the adjacent portion of the transverse frame structure.

15. The system according to claim 1: in, The frame also includes a second outer frame structure, the second outer frame structure being: Extending along and adjacent to the second edge of the display; It is supported on the second side of the base structure; as well as Cooperating with the base structure to define a second channel, the second channel: It is positioned behind the display; as well as Extending between the second outer frame structure and the second side of the base structure; The system further includes a second sensor module disposed in the second trench, the second sensor module comprising: Second substrate; and A second sensor array, disposed on the second substrate and configured to output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of the second outer frame structure; and The controller is configured to detect the position and force magnitude of a side input on the mobile computing device near the second edge of the display based on sensing signals output by the second sensor array.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein, The controller is configured to: Based on a first set of sensing signals read from the sensor array during a first scan cycle, a first input is detected at a first position on a first side of the mobile computing device at a first time. In response to detecting the first input at the first location, the display is triggered to present a first virtual button near the first location during a first time period following the first scan cycle; Based on a second set of sensing signals read from the second sensor array during a second scan cycle following the first scan cycle, a second input is detected at a second position on a second side of the mobile computing device at a second time. as well as In response to detecting the second input at the second location, the display is triggered to present the first virtual button near the second location during a second time period following the second scan cycle.

17. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to: Based on a first set of sensing signals read from the sensor array during a first scan cycle, a first input is detected to measure the magnitude of a first force at a first position on the first side of the mobile computing device at a first time. In response to detecting the first input at the first location, the display is triggered to present a first virtual button near the first location during a first time period following the first scan cycle; Based on a second set of sensing signals read from the sensor array during a second scan cycle following the first scan cycle, a second input of the magnitude of a second force at a first position near a first side of the mobile computing device during the first time period is detected. as well as In response to detecting a second input near the first position and in response to the second force exceeding the first force, an action associated with the first virtual button is triggered.

18. The system according to claim 1: It also includes a touchscreen, which comprises: monitor; as well as A touch sensor, which is disposed on the display and configured to output a sensing signal indicating the location of a touch input on the display; as well as The controller is configured to: During the scanning cycle, a first set of sensing signals is read from the touch sensor; Based on the first set of sensing signals, the first lateral position and the first vertical position of the first touch input on the display are detected during the scanning cycle; During the scanning cycle, a second set of sensing signals is read from the sensor array in the sensor module; Based on the second set of sensing signals, the magnitude of the first force input from the side in the first region of the first side of the mobile computing device is interpreted; and In response to the first lateral position of the first touch input falling within a threshold distance of a first region on the first side of the mobile computing device, a representation of the magnitude of the first force at the first longitudinal position on the first side of the mobile computing device during the scanning cycle is output.

19. A system for detecting and characterizing side inputs at a mobile computing device, comprising: The framework includes: A base structure configured to position a display defining the front of the mobile computing device; and The horizontal frame structure, wherein the horizontal frame structure is: Extending along and adjacent to the first edge of the display; It is supported on the first side of the base structure; Cooperating with the base structure to define a channel extending rearward from the display, the channel: Arranged behind the display; and Extending longitudinally between the first side of the transverse frame structure and the base structure; and Including a front edge adjacent to the display, the front edge being configured to preferentially deflect inward toward a first side of the base structure in response to a force applied to a first side of the mobile computing device adjacent to the first edge of the display, and to press the force-sensitive laminate against the sensor module; A sensor module, disposed in the channel, and comprising: substrate; Force-sensitive layer, wherein the force-sensitive layer: Facing the substrate; and The sensor module exhibits a localized change in contact resistance in response to localized compression; and A sensor array, arranged on the substrate and configured to output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of the transverse frame structure, wherein each sensor in the sensor array: Includes a pair of driving and sensing electrodes facing the region of the force-sensitive layer; and Configured to output a sensing signal representing the contact resistance of the region of the force-sensitive layer between the driving and sensing electrode pairs; and A controller configured to detect the position and force magnitude of a side input on the mobile computing device near a first edge of the display based on sensing signals output by the sensor array.

20. A system for detecting and characterizing side inputs at a mobile computing device, comprising: The framework includes: A base structure configured to position a display defining the front of the mobile computing device; and The horizontal frame structure, wherein the horizontal frame structure is: Extending along and adjacent to the first edge of the display; It is supported on the first side of the base structure; The first side of the base structure and the inner surface of the transverse frame structure opposite the first side of the base structure cooperate to define a channel, the channel being: Arranged behind the display; and Extending longitudinally between the first side of the transverse frame structure and the base structure; and Configured to partially deflect inward toward the first side of the base structure in response to a force applied to a first side of the mobile computing device adjacent to a first edge of the display; A sensor module, arranged along a first side of the base structure in the channel and offset from the inner surface of the transverse frame structure, and comprising: Substrate; and A sensor array, disposed on the substrate and configured to output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of the transverse frame structure, wherein each sensor in the sensor array is configured to: Capacitively coupled to adjacent portions of the transverse frame structure; and The output represents a sensing signal indicating the inward deflection of adjacent portions of the transverse frame structure; and A controller configured to detect the position and force magnitude of a side input on the mobile computing device near a first edge of the display based on sensing signals output by the sensor array.

21. A system for detecting and characterizing side inputs at a mobile computing device, comprising: The framework includes: A base structure configured to position a display defining the front of the mobile computing device; and The horizontal frame structure, wherein the horizontal frame structure is: Extending along and adjacent to the first edge of the display; Supported on the first side of the base structure; and Cooperating with the base structure to define a channel, the channel: Arranged behind the display; and Extending longitudinally between the first side of the transverse frame structure and the base structure; A sensor module, disposed in the channel, and comprising: Substrate; and A sensor array, disposed on the substrate and configured to output a sensing signal representing a local deflection of the transverse frame structure; and The controller is configured to: Based on a first set of sensing signals read from the sensor array during a first scan cycle, a first input of the magnitude of a first force at a first position on a first side of the mobile computing device is detected at a first time. In response to detecting the first input at the first location, the display is triggered to present a first virtual button near the first location during a first time period following the first scan cycle; Based on a second set of sensing signals read from the sensor array during a second scan cycle following the first scan cycle, a second input is detected to measure the magnitude of a second force at a first location near a first side of the mobile computing device during the first time period; and In response to detecting a second input near the first position and in response to the second force exceeding the first force, an action associated with the first virtual button is triggered.

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