Keyless keyboard with force sensing and haptic feedback

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a keyless keyboard with force sensing and haptic feedback. The invention provides an input device for an electronic device, the input device including a housing and a top member defining an input surface having a plurality of distinguishable input areas. The input device further includes: a first force sensing system associated with a first region of the top member, the first region including a first set of the distinguishable input areas; and a second force sensing system associated with a second region of the top member, the second region including a second set of the distinguishable input areas. The input device also includes a touch sensing system configured to determine which input area from the first set of distinguishable input areas corresponds to a first force input, and to determine which input area from the second set of distinguishable input areas corresponds to a second force input.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the PCT application filed on September 12, 2017, with national application number 201780020953.6 and invention title "Keyless Keyboard with Force Sensing and Tactile Feedback", which has entered the Chinese national phase.

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] This Patent Cooperation Treaty patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 393,989, filed on September 13, 2016, entitled “Keyless Keyboard with Force Sensing and Haptic Feedback,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] The embodiments described typically involve computational input devices. More specifically, this embodiment relates to force and / or touch-sensitive input devices with haptic feedback. Background Technology

[0005] Traditional computer input devices such as mice, keyboards, and touchpads tend to use dedicated keys or buttons for operation. Each key or button operation may be associated with a specific function or command. However, traditional input devices lack the flexibility to adapt to the expanded features offered by newer devices, operating systems, and software. As a further drawback, the dedicated keys or buttons on traditional input devices cannot accommodate different user needs and preferences.

[0006] Alternative input devices, such as touch input devices, seem to offer greater flexibility in terms of input scenarios and customization than mechanical keyboards, mice, and similar devices. However, touch-sensitive input devices typically have flat, inflexible input surfaces that provide little or no tactile feedback to the user, and may therefore be less ideal than traditional input devices for many scenarios.

[0007] Therefore, improved input devices are needed to provide greater flexibility and customizability, while also providing feedback to the user during operation. Summary of the Invention

[0008] An input device for an electronic device may include a housing and a top member coupled to the housing and defining an input surface having a plurality of distinguishable input areas. The input device may further include: a first force sensing system associated with a first region of the top member, the first region including a first set of distinguishable input areas, and the first force sensing system configured to determine a first force associated with a first force input applied within the first region; and a second force sensing system associated with a second region of the top member, the second region including a second set of distinguishable input areas, and the second force sensing system configured to determine a second force associated with a second force input applied within the second region. The input device may further include a touch sensing system configured to determine which input area from the first set of distinguishable input areas corresponds to the first force input, and which input area from the second set of distinguishable input areas corresponds to the second force input.

[0009] The first force sensing system can be configured to determine the first force independently of the second force sensing system. A first set of distinguishable input areas can correspond to a key typically selected by a first finger of the user's hand, and a second set of distinguishable input areas can correspond to a key typically selected by a second finger of the user's hand.

[0010] The multiple distinguishable input areas can correspond to keys on a keyboard. These multiple distinguishable input areas can be visually distinguished on the top component. The input device can be configured to detect key presses in a specific input area by detecting both the touch location and the force value that meets a force threshold within a given set of distinguishable input areas. The input device may also include a haptic output system configured to generate haptic output in response to the detection of a key press.

[0011] The haptic output system may include: a first actuator having a first actuation axis along a first direction; and a second actuator having a second actuation axis along a second direction not parallel to the first direction. The input device may be configured to alternately actuate the first actuator and the second actuator in response to detecting continuous key presses.

[0012] The first force sensing system and the second force sensing system may be part of a set of force sensing systems, and the set of force sensing systems may define two rows of force sensing areas on the top member. The first set of distinguishable input areas and the second set of distinguishable input areas may be substantially diagonally oriented relative to the longitudinal axis of the input device.

[0013] A keyboard for an electronic device includes a housing and a cover coupled to the housing and defining an input surface. The keyboard also includes a first actuator located within the housing and coupled to the cover, and a second actuator located within the housing and coupled to the cover. The first actuator is configured to apply a first force along a first axis of the cover, substantially parallel to the input surface, and the second actuator is configured to apply a second force along a second axis of the cover, wherein the second axis is perpendicular to the first axis and substantially parallel to the input surface.

[0014] A first actuator may be configured to oscillate along a first axis to apply a first force to the cover, and a second actuator may be configured to oscillate along a second axis to apply a second force to the cover. The keyboard may also include a force sensing system within the housing and configured to detect continuous force input on the input area.

[0015] The keyboard can be incorporated into an electronic device including a display coupled to a housing, wherein the display is distinct from the keyboard. The input surface may include an input area representing character input keys, and a first actuator and a second actuator may be configured to provide tactile feedback to a user to evoke a sensation representing mechanical keystrokes. The keyboard may be configured to alternately actuate the first and second actuators in response to a continuous force input on the input area. The keyboard may also, or alternatively, be configured to actuate the first and second actuators substantially simultaneously (or to cause the actuation of the first and second actuators to overlap in time).

[0016] A force sensing system for an electronic device may include a cover defining an input surface, the input surface including a plurality of input regions, each corresponding to an input button. The cover may be configured to locally deform in response to an input force applied to one of the plurality of input regions. The force sensing system may include a capacitive sensing layer beneath the cover, a compliant material between the cover and the capacitive sensing layer and located beneath the input region, and a processor electrically coupled to the capacitive sensing layer. The processor may be configured to determine the force value of the input force based on a capacitance change between the capacitive sensing layer and an input member applied to the input region, and to determine the location of the input force based on which of a set of electrodes detects the capacitance change. The capacitive sensing layer may include a set of electrodes, each having an area equal to or smaller than the area of ​​the input region. The force sensing system may be configured to distinguish force inputs having centroids spaced approximately 3.0 cm or less apart.

[0017] The force sensing system can be coupled to the lower portion of the laptop's casing and can be configured to function as the laptop's keyboard. The multiple input areas can be visually distinguished to define the laptop's keyboard. The laptop may include a display coupled to the upper portion of the casing.

[0018] The covering can be formed of glass. The glass can have an elastic modulus in the range of about 60 to about 80 GPa. The glass can have a thickness in the range of about 0.1 to about 0.5 mm. The compliant material can have a thickness in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm. The compliant material can be foam.

[0019] Force sensing systems can eliminate the need for an additional capacitive sensing layer between the cover and the compliant material.

[0020] The input surface may include multiple input areas, each corresponding to an input button, and the capacitive sensing layer may include a set of electrodes, each having an area that is the same as or smaller than that of the input area.

[0021] A method for detecting key presses includes: determining the number of fingers in contact with an input surface of an electronic device, and determining a force threshold indicating key presses based at least in part on the number of fingers in contact with the input surface. The method may further include detecting a force input that satisfies the force threshold, and registering a selection of an input region corresponding to a text character in response to the detection of the force input.

[0022] The operation of determining the number of fingers in contact with the input surface may include using a touch sensing system to determine the number of fingers in contact with the input surface. For the determined number of fingers in contact with the input surface, the force threshold may be between approximately 25 and 150 grams higher than the baseline force.

[0023] The method may further include detecting touch input corresponding to movement on an input surface, and changing the position of a cursor on the display of an electronic device in response to detecting touch input corresponding to movement across the input surface. Detecting force input may include detecting force input using a force sensing system, and detecting touch input may include detecting touch input using a touch sensing system. Attached Figure Description

[0024] This disclosure will be readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals refer to similar structural elements, and wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 An exemplary input device is shown.

[0026] Figure 2 An exemplary input device with a haptic actuator is shown.

[0027] Figures 3A to 3C It shows Figure 2 A simplified cross-sectional view of the input device illustrates an exemplary haptic output.

[0028] Figures 4A to 4C It shows Figure 2A simplified cross-sectional view of the input device shows another exemplary haptic output.

[0029] Figures 5A to 5C It shows Figure 2 A simplified cross-sectional view of the input device shows yet another exemplary haptic output.

[0030] Figures 6A to 6C It shows Figure 2 A simplified cross-sectional view of the input device shows an exemplary haptic actuator.

[0031] Figures 6D to 6E An exemplary arrangement of a haptic actuator relative to a cover of an input device is shown.

[0032] Figures 7A to 7B An input device with an exemplary force sensing area is shown.

[0033] Figures 8A to 8C A simplified cross-sectional view of the force sensing system is shown.

[0034] Figures 9A to 9B A simplified cross-sectional view of a force sensing system is shown, illustrating an exemplary capacitive sensor.

[0035] Figures 10A to 10C An exemplary local force sensing system is shown.

[0036] Figures 11A to 11B A simplified cross-sectional view of a force sensing system is shown, illustrating an exemplary strain gauge.

[0037] Figure 12 A simplified cross-sectional view of a force sensing system is shown, illustrating an exemplary force sensing element.

[0038] Figure 13 This is a graph illustrating an exemplary force threshold.

[0039] Figure 14 An exemplary process for detecting button presses is shown.

[0040] Figures 15A to 15C This shows how an input area is generated based on user interaction.

[0041] Figures 16 to 17 An embodiment of software interaction with an input device having an adaptive display is shown.

[0042] Figures 18 to 19 An exemplary implementation of the input device is shown.

[0043] Figure 20 An exemplary electronic device is shown.

[0044] The use of crosshairs or shading in the accompanying drawings is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements and also to enhance the readability of the drawings. Therefore, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not indicate or suggest any preference or requirement for a particular material, material properties, element scale, element size, commonality of similar illustrated elements, or any other characteristic, property, or attribute of any element shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0045] Furthermore, it should be understood that the proportions and dimensions (relative or absolute) of the various features and elements (as well as their sets and groups), and the boundaries, spacing, and positional relationships therebetween, are provided in the accompanying drawings solely to facilitate understanding of the various embodiments described herein, and may therefore be unnecessarily presented or shown for scaling and are not intended to indicate any preference or requirement for the illustrated embodiments to exclude embodiments in conjunction with them. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Reference will now be made specifically to the representative embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a single preferred embodiment. Rather, it is intended to cover alternative forms, modifications, and equivalents that may be included within the substance and scope of the embodiments defined by the appended claims.

[0047] The following disclosure relates to an input device that uses touch and / or force sensing to detect user input and provides feedback to the user using haptic output. One embodiment of such an input device is a keyboard without mechanical keys or movable keys. Instead, the keyboard may have a flat, keyless input surface such as a glass or metal layer and may include a touch and / or force sensing system to determine when a user touches and / or presses the surface. A haptic actuator can provide physical feedback to indicate that the user has pressed the keyless surface with sufficient force to register the input. The haptic actuator can evoke a physical sensation similar to or representing a mechanical key. For example, when a user presses the surface of the keyboard with sufficient force, the surface may vibrate or otherwise move to indicate to the user that the expected input has been registered.

[0048] Using force sensing in addition to touch sensing allows users to use keyless keyboards in a way that is more similar to mechanical keyboards. For example, when typing, users typically place multiple fingers on the keyboard. On a keyless keyboard with only touch sensing (e.g., without force sensing), it may be difficult or impossible to determine whether a user is attempting to select a specific key or whether the user is simply placing a finger on that key. As an alternative to or complement to touch sensing, force sensing allows keyless keyboards to distinguish between accidental touches and intentional key selections.

[0049] Force sensing in a keyless keyboard can be global or local. With global force sensing, the keyboard can determine the total amount or magnitude of force applied to the surface, regardless of the position or number of fingers on the surface. However, as mentioned above, users can place their fingers on keys that are not actively selected. Furthermore, different users can place different numbers of fingers on the keys or place their fingers with different forces. And the same user can place different numbers of fingers on the keys at different times while typing. Therefore, the force threshold used to detect key presses can change depending on the number of fingers touching the keyboard. Thus, a keyboard with global force sensing can set a force threshold that determines whether a key is pressed based on the number of fingers in contact with the surface at a given time (e.g., detected by a touch sensing system).

[0050] For local force sensing, a keyboard can determine the amount or magnitude of force applied to one or more specific locations on its surface. An exemplary local force sensing system uses a pixelated capacitive sensing layer beneath the keyboard surface. When pressed, a user's finger can create a depression on the keyboard surface beneath the finger. The pixelated capacitive sensing layer can detect the depth and / or location of the depression to determine the amount and location of the force. The keyboard can use global or local force sensing alone, or a combination of these techniques.

[0051] Haptic output can be global or local. For global haptic output, the entire keyboard surface can be moved to provide haptic output. In this case, all fingers placed on the keyboard surface can sense the haptic output. For example, a haptic actuator can be used to generate global haptic output by moving the entire surface in a plane relative to the keyboard's input surface (e.g., in the x or y direction), or in a non-plane relative to the input surface (e.g., in the z direction). In some implementations, multiple haptic actuators can be provided to provide discrete global haptic output for subsequent key presses. For example, a single haptic actuator vibrating the input surface may not produce a continuous discrete haptic output with the user's keystroke frequency. Therefore, multiple haptic actuators can be used. In some cases, actuators can produce different haptic outputs, such as vibrations along different directions. Even if these outputs are produced substantially simultaneously, the user can distinguish such outputs.

[0052] For localized haptic output, only a portion of the keyboard can move. For example, localized haptic actuators such as piezoelectric elements can cause localized deformation of a surface, which is felt only (or primarily) by the finger directly subjected to that deformation. In another embodiment, an electrostatic element can selectively apply electrostatic charge to the input surface or a portion thereof. The electrostatic charge can alter or modify the haptic or touch-based stimulation perceived by the user. The electrostatic charge can electrostatically attract the user's finger to the surface, thereby causing an actual or perceived change in friction or surface roughness between the object (e.g., the user's finger) and the input surface. The keyboard can use global or localized haptic outputs, alone or in combination, to provide the desired haptic output to the user.

[0053] Because keyboards lack mechanical keys, they can offer many other features and functions beyond just keyboard input. For example, a keyboard may include an adaptive display to present visual information, such as the outline of the input area (e.g., indicating keys) and indications of their functions (e.g., symbols). Thus, the position, size, spacing, and / or arrangement of the keys can be varied. As another embodiment, the keyboard's input surface can be used as a touchpad to detect touch input (e.g., moving the cursor, manipulating user interface elements) as well as typing input.

[0054] While this discussion uses a keyboard as an exemplary input device, employing force sensing to detect input and haptic output to provide haptic feedback, these techniques can also be used in other input devices. For example, in cases where the input device includes an adaptive display, the display can present representations of various manipulable functional representations or objects (to which physical feedback can be provided), such as audio mixers, buttons, musical instruments, etc. Furthermore, force sensing and haptic output can be used in devices beyond flat, keyboard-like input devices. For instance, rotary input devices such as knobs can utilize force sensing systems to detect input and provide haptic output to convey feedback to the user.

[0055] These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the detailed descriptions given herein with respect to these drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0056] Figure 1 An exemplary keyboard 100 is shown, which uses a force sensing system to detect user input and provides tactile output using haptic actuators. As shown, the keyboard 100 is in the form of a standalone keyboard. However, the keyboard 100 can be (physically and / or communicatively) coupled to other devices such as desktop computing systems. Figure 18 Laptop or notebook computing systems Figure 16 and Figure 17 Coverings for portable electronic devices Figure 19), mouse, etc. Exemplary internal components of keyboard 100 (and / or computing devices to which keyboard 100 may be physically or communicatively coupled) are referenced below. Figure 20 Describe it.

[0057] like Figure 1 As shown, the keyboard 100 includes a housing 102 and a top member or cover 104 coupled to the housing 102. The housing 102 may provide structural support for the top member or cover 104 and may include additional features such as a bracket 108. As described herein, the keyboard 100 may include components such as a force sensing system, a haptic actuator, a touch sensing system, and a display component within the housing 102.

[0058] Cover 104 (or top member) defines the input surface of keyboard 100. In this embodiment, cover 104, rather than physical keys, is positioned on the top surface of keyboard 100. Cover 104 or top member can be or may include any suitable material, such as glass, metal, plastic, etc. Cover 104 may include or be coupled to other layers, such as filters, coatings, touch-sensitive layers, liquid crystal layers, display components (e.g., organic light-emitting diode (OLED) layers, light sources, light guides), etc. Although no mechanical keys are shown, keyboard 100 may also include one or more mechanical keys.

[0059] Cover 104 can operate as a touch-sensitive surface. For example, cover 104 can respond to touch input and may include or be coupled to a touch sensing system configured to determine the location of a touch input on cover 104. Cover 104 can receive a wide variety of touch inputs, which can be used to interpret various commands or operations.

[0060] Cover 104 may be additionally or alternatively configured to operate as a force-sensitive surface. For example, cover 104 may include or be coupled to a force sensing system configured to detect the position and / or amount of force applied to cover 104. The force sensing system may include (or may be operatively connected to) force sensing circuitry configured to determine or estimate the amount of force applied. The force sensing circuitry may output a signal or otherwise register the detected input in response to determining that the amount of force exceeds a force threshold. The force threshold may be fixed or variable, and more than one threshold may be provided for different inputs. For example, the threshold may be based on the number of fingers in contact with cover 104.

[0061] The cover 104 may also include distinguishable input areas 106. For example, at least some of the distinguishable input areas 106 may correspond to character input keys (e.g., alphanumeric characters, symbol characters, text spaces, labels, etc.). In some cases, other keys may control other aspects of the device without requiring character input (e.g., controlling audio volume, screen brightness, or other device functions).

[0062] The distinguishable input area 106 may be an area of ​​a cover (or other top member defining the input surface) that is visually and / or tactilely distinguishable from one another by means of pigment, ink, etching, grooves, bumps, ridges, textures, etc. The distinguishable input area 106 may correspond to character input keys (e.g., keys on an alphanumeric keypad), buttons, or other indications. The distinguishable input area 106 may be simply referred to herein as input area 106.

[0063] In some cases, the distinguishable input areas 106 can be virtually distinguished from each other. For example, the overlay 104 may include an adaptive display or a portion thereof. The adaptive display may be an illuminated display configured to display visual markers corresponding to one or more distinguishable input areas 106. Where the distinguishable input areas 106 are virtually defined by the adaptive display, they may be referred to as virtual keys. One or more different sets of visual markers may be displayed, depending on the type of simulated display, user preferences, and / or the application controlled by the keyboard 100.

[0064] Keyboard 100 may also include Figure 1 Various other components or devices, shown or not shown. Specifically, the keyboard 100 may also include one or more ports or electronic connectors disposed along one or more sides of the housing 102. Ports may include, for example, a USB connection port, an IEEE 1394 data port, an audio connection port, a video connection port, or other electronic hardware ports configured to transmit and / or receive signals or data. Ports may also include power connection ports configured to receive power from an external source such as a wall outlet or other power supply. The keyboard 100 may also include a wired communication connection 110 for connecting to another device, or the keyboard 100 may include a wireless transmitter and / or receiver for communicating with another device. Other internal components, such as a processing unit, may be included. References below... Figure 20 Describe several such internal components.

[0065] As described above, the keyboard 100 may include a haptic actuator configured to move or otherwise apply force to the entire cover 104 or top member of the keyboard 100. Figure 2This is a top view of the keyboard 100, showing an embodiment of a first actuator 202 and a second actuator 206 included within a housing 102 and coupled to a cover 104. The first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 can be coupled to any location within the keyboard 100 or on the keyboard, as long as the actuators apply force to the cover 104 or otherwise generate a tactile output detectable on the top member of the keyboard 100.

[0066] The first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 may apply force to the cover 104 or other top member along different axes or directions. For example, the first actuator 202 may apply force along the actuation axis or direction indicated by arrow 204, while the second actuator 206 may apply force along the actuation axis or direction indicated by arrow 208. These directions may be substantially perpendicular to each other, but other relative orientations are also possible (e.g., parallel, at 45 degrees, 30 degrees, etc.).

[0067] A single actuator may not be able to provide tactile output (or the desired tactile output) at a rate sufficient to keep up with the typing speed of some users. For example, some typists may type at a frequency of up to ten characters per second (or more), and a single tactile actuator may not be able to produce output at that frequency, especially tactile output with a relatively long duration (e.g., output exceeding 100 milliseconds). However, such a duration of output may be desirable in order to more closely mimic the tactile feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard, or otherwise provide the desired user experience. Therefore, a second tactile actuator can be provided.

[0068] By positioning the first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 such that they apply perpendicular forces to the cover 104, interference between movements or vibrations caused by the actuators can be reduced. For example, if the first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 apply forces along the same axis, the movements or vibrations applied to the cover 104 by each actuator may cancel each other out or otherwise interfere with each other. Furthermore, a user may have difficulty or be unable to distinguish tactile outputs from different actuators, especially when they are active simultaneously (e.g., indicating simultaneous or overlapping button presses). By having the actuators apply forces in different directions (e.g., along perpendicular or non-parallel directions), even if the outputs overlap, the user can still be able to discern when two tactile outputs are provided. While the outputs may feel the same or similar to each other (e.g., the user may not be able to distinguish the direction of the tactile actuator producing a particular output), the start and / or end of a tactile output from one actuator can be detected by the user, even if that tactile output occurs during a tactile output from another actuator.

[0069] The first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 can be actuated in an alternating mode. In some cases, the first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 can be actuated in an alternating mode only when the typing speed (e.g., force input frequency) exceeds a certain value, such as a frequency higher than the response frequency of a single actuator. In this case, if the typing speed is lower than that value, only one actuator can be used (or they can be used in a mode other than alternating mode). Other modes or schemes for actuating the first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 in response to force input are also envisioned.

[0070] The first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 can be any suitable mechanism or system for generating tactile output or otherwise applying force to the cover 104. Suitable actuators may include electromechanical actuators, piezoelectric actuators (e.g., piezoelectric actuators directly coupled to the cover 104, piezoelectric benders below the cover 104 that lift or move the cover 104), linear actuators, voice coil motors, Lorentz force actuators, electroactive polymer actuators, etc. For example, the first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 can be linear actuators, each including a coil and a corresponding magnet, wherein current is passed through the coil to move the corresponding magnet (or otherwise apply force to the magnet).

[0071] The first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 can apply force to the cover 104 to produce different kinds of tactile outputs. For example, the first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 can move along their respective axes ( Figure 2 The arrows 204 and 208 in the diagram oscillate, thereby applying vibration or oscillation to the cover 104. As another embodiment, the first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 can apply a single pulse (e.g., apply a single force along a single direction) to the cover 104. In either case, a force can be applied to move the weight coupled to the actuator, or the force can be applied directly to the cover 104.

[0072] Although Figure 2 Two actuators are shown; some embodiments may include more actuators. In such cases, the actuators may be positioned to apply force or oscillate in different directions (e.g., offset from each other by 45 degrees). Alternatively, some actuators may apply force or oscillate in the same direction.

[0073] The first actuator 202 and the second actuator 206 can apply a force to the cover 104 (or top member), the force being in a plane (or substantially in a plane) with the input surface defined by the cover 104 or other top member. Figures 3A to 3C It shows along Figure 2 The line BB observed in the middle Figure 2 A simplified cross-sectional view of the input device. For simplicity, Figures 3A to 3C The cross-section shown does not include internal features, components, layers, sensors, etc., that may be present in the keyboard 100. Furthermore, the position of the second actuator 206 is for illustrative purposes only and may be positioned relative to... Figures 3A to 3C In different locations or different components as shown. For example, keyboard 100 may include (and optionally couple to) an additional layer or component below cover 104. In this case, second actuator 206 may be below the additional layer or component.

[0074] Figure 3A The keyboard 100 is shown before the finger 300 contacts the cover 104. In this state, the second actuator 206 is stationary. Figure 3B The diagram illustrates the keyboard 100 after input has been registered (e.g., after finger 300 has pressed against cover 104 with a force satisfying a force threshold). A second actuator 206 applies a force to cover 104, causing cover 104 to move in the direction of arrow 302. Then, the second actuator 206 can reverse the direction of the force, causing cover 104 to move in the direction of arrow 304. Figure 3C The movement of the cover 104 can be a batch movement of the cover 104 (e.g., even if the cover moves only a few micrometers in either direction), or the movement can correspond to the movement caused by vibration or oscillation propagating through the cover 104 in the directions of arrows 302, 304 (which may not result in translation of the cover 104).

[0075] Figure 2 and Figures 3A to 3C An actuator is shown that applies a force in a plane (e.g., substantially parallel) to the top member of the keyboard 100. However, other types of actuators can be used to replace or supplement those discussed above. For example, Figures 4A to 4C An embodiment of keyboard 100 is shown, wherein an actuator moves a top member along a direction that is not in a plane relative to the input surface of the top member (e.g., perpendicular to the direction of force input).

[0076] Figures 4A to 4C It shows along Figure 2 The line BB in the image shows a partial cross-sectional view of the keyboard 100, illustrating the out-of-plane tactile output that can be generated by the actuator. (See image for details.) Figure 4A As shown, when (e.g., via a capacitive touch sensing system) a finger 400 is detected approaching the cover 104, the cover 104 can be moved upward by an actuator (indicated by arrow 402). As the finger 400 continues its downward movement, the actuator can allow or cause the cover 104 to move downward, as... Figure 4BAs indicated by arrow 404. Once finger 400 moves a threshold distance or releases downward pressure, the actuator can move the input surface (by...) upward. Figure 4C (As indicated by arrow 406 in the diagram), this allows the input surface to return to its initial position or be moved further upwards.

[0077] In embodiments where the entire cover 104 moves (e.g., as referenced) Figures 3A to 3C and Figures 4A to 4C The cover 104 can be suspended relative to the housing 102 via a suspension system (not shown). The suspension system can take many forms and may include springs, foam, compliant members or materials, or other mechanisms that allow the cover 104 to move relative to the housing 102 to provide tactile output.

[0078] In some implementation schemes, it is possible to achieve Figures 4A to 4C The moving subgroup is shown in the diagram. For example, in response to a force input, the actuator can cause the cover 104 to move as shown in the diagram. Figure 4A The actuator may "pop" upwards or deflect and quickly return to its original position. Alternatively, in response to a force input, the actuator may cause the cover 104 to... Figure 4B As shown, it deflects downwards, and as Figure 4C The prompt indicates a quick return.

[0079] refer to Figures 2 to 4C The described tactile output is an embodiment of an actuator that generates a global tactile output, or a tactile output that affects or can be felt across the entire surface of the keyboard 100. In some cases, localized tactile outputs can be used to replace or supplement global tactile outputs. For example, Figures 5A to 5C It shows along Figure 2 The partial cross-sectional view of the keyboard 100 observed by line BB shows the partial tactile output that can be produced by an actuator or a combination of actuators.

[0080] like Figure 5A As shown, when a finger 500 approaches the input area 502 of the cover 104, a sensor such as a touch or proximity sensor can detect the presence and / or proximity of the finger 500. Once the proximity of the finger 500 is detected, an actuator can move the input area 502 of the cover 104 upward to meet the finger 500. For example, an electromechanical or piezoelectric actuator operatively coupled to the cover 104 can be actuated to cause a partial deflection of the input area 502. The actuator that causes partial deformation of the cover 104 can be any suitable actuator, such as an electromechanical actuator, a piezoelectric actuator (e.g., a piezoelectric actuator directly coupled to the cover 104, a piezoelectric bender below the cover 104 that causes partial deformation of the cover 104), a linear actuator, a voice coil motor, a Lorentz force actuator, an electroactive polymer actuator, etc.

[0081] As finger 500 continues to press down, the actuator allows input area 502 to... Figure 5B As shown, move downwards. Figure 5C As shown, once finger 500 moves a threshold distance or releases downward pressure, the actuator can cause input area 502 to move upward again, either returning input area 502 to its original position or moving it further upward. Figures 5A to 5C Whether the movements depicted are implemented individually or together, they can provide the user with a tapping or movement sensation similar to pressing a key or button. In some implementations, multiple such input areas 502 can be defined and can be individually controlled on the cover 104 to provide localized feedback on the input surface defined by the cover 104 (or other top member).

[0082] As described above, in some implementation schemes, it is possible to achieve Figures 5A to 5C The moving subgroup is shown in the diagram. For example, in response to a force input, the actuator can make the input region 502 as... Figure 5A The actuator may "pop" upwards or deflect and then quickly return. Alternatively, in response to a force input, the actuator may cause the input region 502 to... Figure 5B As shown, it deflects downwards, and as Figure 5C The prompt indicates a quick return.

[0083] Figures 6A to 6C It shows along Figure 2 The line BB observed in the middle Figure 2 A simplified cross-sectional view of the input device shows an exemplary haptic actuator 601 that can produce localized deformation or deflection of the cover 104. For example, the haptic actuator 601 can be configured to retract vertically and / or extend (e.g., Figures 6A to 6C (as in the center orientation) to apply tactile output to the cover 104. Figure 6A The tactile actuator 601 is shown in a static or neutral state, while Figure 6B The haptic actuator 601 is shown in a retracted state, causing a partial dent in the cover 104. Figure 6C The haptic actuator 601 is shown in an extended state, causing a partial protrusion of the cover 104.

[0084] The haptic actuator 601 can be attached to the cover 104 and the lower support such as the housing 102, such that when the haptic actuator 601 retracts (e.g., shortens vertically), the haptic actuator 601 pulls up and down on the cover 104 and causes partial deformation and / or deflection of the cover 104. The haptic actuator 601 can be attached to the cover 104 and the housing 102 (or any other suitable component or structure) by adhesives such as pressure or heat-sensitive adhesives, epoxy resins, glues, etc.

[0085] The haptic actuator 601 may include electrode layers 604 (e.g., 604-1, ..., 604-n) interwoven with compliant layers 602 (e.g., 602-1, ..., 602-n). To generate a haptic output, and more specifically, to retract or shorten the actuator 601, the electrode layers 604 may be selectively charged such that the electrode layers (e.g., adjacent electrode layers) attract each other. For example, a first electrode layer 604-1 may be positively charged, and a second electrode layer 604-2 may be negatively charged, causing the first electrode layer 604-1 and the second electrode layer 604-2 to attract each other. As the first electrode layer 604-1 and the second electrode layer 604-2 are pulled together by the attractive force between the electrodes (e.g., electrostatic force), this attraction can cause the first compliant layer 602-1 to deform. Similar charges may be applied to other electrode layers 604 to cause the entire haptic actuator 601 to retract. On the other hand, in order to extend the haptic actuator 601 to generate an upward force on the cover 104 (e.g., to form a protrusion), the electrode layers 604 can be charged with the same or similar charges, causing the electrode layers 604 to repel each other. For example, all electrode layers 604 can be positively charged. The resulting repulsive force (e.g., electrostatic repulsion) can cause the compliant layer 602 to be stretched vertically, thereby creating localized protrusions or deformations in the cover 104.

[0086] The haptic actuator 601 can be configured to produce various types of haptic outputs. For example, the haptic actuator 601 can be repeatedly pulsed to produce vibration, or it can be actuated once to deform in one direction and then return to a neutral state, producing a single "pop"-type haptic output. These and other types of haptic outputs can include retraction of the haptic actuator 601, extension of the haptic actuator, or both types of movement. For example, vibration can be produced by cyclically applying a specific charge to the electrode layer 604, causing the electrode layer to be attracted to adjacent electrode layers 604, thereby compressing the compliant layer 602 and retracting the actuator 601. When the charge is removed between cycles, the electrode layer 604 may not generate force, allowing the haptic actuator 601 to return to the neutral position. Similarly, vibration can be produced by cyclically applying a charge to the electrode layer 604 (which causes the electrode layers 604 to repel each other) and then removing the charge to allow the haptic actuator 601 to return to the neutral position. Vibration can also be generated by alternating between attracting and repelling charges, causing the actuator 601 to retract and extend alternately. Similar operating modes can be used to produce non-repetitive tactile outputs such as the single "pop" type output described above.

[0087] Figures 6A to 6C A single haptic actuator 601 is shown, and a keyboard (e.g., keyboard 100) or other input device or device may include multiple haptic actuators 601. Figure 6DAn exemplary arrangement of the haptic actuator 601 relative to the cover 104 is shown. Specifically, Figure 6D A haptic actuator 601 arranged in a keyboard pattern is shown, wherein at least one actuator 601 is located below each input area (which may correspond to a key in the keyboard layout). For example, a single actuator 601 may be located below each letter and number key, while some input areas, such as an area 605 that may correspond to the space bar, may include multiple actuators 601. In some cases, such as Figure 6D As shown, actuators 601 can be arranged in a grid pattern instead of mapping actuators 601 to specific input areas. Alternatively, keyboard 100 may include discrete haptic actuators 601 for each of the key subgroups, while other keys share haptic actuators 601. For example, each letter and number key of keyboard 100 may correspond to a different haptic actuator 601, while other groups of non-letter keys such as tab keys, Caps Lock keys, left shift keys, and left control keys may share a common haptic actuator 601.

[0088] Figure 6E Another exemplary arrangement of the haptic actuator 601 relative to the cover 104 is shown. In this embodiment, the haptic actuator 601 may be formed from a single sheet or otherwise interconnected via one or more connecting elements 606. The connecting elements 606 may be made of the same material as the compliant layer 602 forming the actuator 601 itself. In some cases, the haptic actuator 601 and the connecting elements 606 may be an integrated structure. For example, the haptic actuator 601 and the connecting elements 606 may be formed by cutting continuous sheets of compliant material to form the actuator 601, the connecting elements 606, and the gap 610. This sheet may then be laminated with the electrodes 604 to form an integral sheet of actuator 601 and connecting elements 606. While the connecting elements 606 can fuse the haptic actuator 601 into a single common structure, the electrode layer 604 may be omitted from the connecting elements 606. This configuration can maintain electrical isolation of the actuator 601 to allow independent actuation of the actuator 601.

[0089] The gap 610 may provide a gap around the tactile actuator 601 to allow lateral deformation of the actuator 601 when the actuator is compressed. In some cases, the gap 610 is free space (e.g., air), while in others, another material, such as a material that is more compliant than the compliant layer 602, is introduced into the gap (and thus allows lateral deflection of the compliant layer 602).

[0090] The connecting elements 606 can provide several benefits. For example, they can provide additional structural support to the cover 104 by providing less unsupported area between adjacent actuators 601. Furthermore, they can help isolate or localize deflections caused by force input and / or button selection, which can improve local force and / or touch sensing capabilities. For example, it can improve the resolution of the force sensing system in detecting the location of force input.

[0091] like Figures 6A to 6C As shown, the haptic actuator 601 is used to generate localized haptic output. For example, a cover 104 is shown to locally deflect or deform in response to the extension or retraction of the haptic actuator 601. Such protrusions and depressions in the cover 104 can be facilitated by a cover 104 that is sufficiently flexible to produce localized deformation and / or deflection. For example, in the case where the cover 104 is glass, the glass may have an elastic modulus in the range of about 60 to 80 GPa and a thickness in the range of about 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. Other dimensions, properties, and materials (e.g., plastics, fabrics, metals) are also possible. Furthermore, the cover 104 may be reinforced or strengthened in certain areas to help isolate the deformation and / or deflection generated by the haptic actuator 601. For example, ribs may be formed or applied between the various haptic actuators 601 at the bottom of the cover 104. The ribs may extend to another structure such as the housing 102, or they may only partially extend to another structure (such as... Figure 10B and Figure 11B Rib 1007 shown in the figure.

[0092] The haptic actuator 601 can be configured to generate a global haptic output, such as a reference. Figures 4A to 4C As described above. In this case, the cover 104 can be configured to resist or minimize local deformation or deflection, such that the force applied by the haptic actuator 601 can be sensed anywhere on the cover 104 (or at least in an area larger than the haptic actuator itself). For example, the cover 104 can be thicker and / or harder than a cover 104 used for local haptic output. More specifically, the cover 104 can be glass with a thickness in the range of about 0.75 to 2.0 mm. Alternatively, the cover 104 can be metal, plastic, etc. Furthermore, in the case of using global haptic output, the device can include multiple haptic actuators 601 that can operate simultaneously or individually.

[0093] The haptic actuator 601 may include any suitable number of compliant layers 602 and electrode layers 604. For example, the haptic actuator 601 may include 40 compliant layers 602 and 41 electrode layers 604, with each compliant layer 602 sandwiched between two electrode layers 604. The electrode layers 604 may be formed of or comprise any suitable material, such as gold, aluminum, copper, indium tin oxide (ITO), etc. Similarly, the compliant layers 602 may be formed of or comprise any suitable material, such as silicone, latex, elastomer, polymer, gel, or any other compliant material. The compliant layers 602 may have any suitable thickness, such as from about 10 micrometers to about 50 micrometers thick. In some cases, its thickness is about 25 micrometers. When viewed from above, the actuator 601 may have any suitable shape, such as square, rectangular, circular, etc. In some cases, when viewed from above (e.g., through cover 104), actuator 601 has length and width dimensions of approximately 40 × 40 mm, approximately 25 × 25 mm, or approximately 15 × 15 mm. In some cases, actuator 601 has substantially the same dimensions as the input area in which it is located (e.g., a virtual button). Other dimensions are also envisioned.

[0094] The haptic actuator 601 can be arranged in the keyboard 100 (or other input device) in any suitable manner. For example,

[0095] In response to keyboard 100 detecting a force input that meets a threshold (e.g., a force threshold), any of the aforementioned tactile outputs can be generated. Specifically, the tactile outputs can be used to indicate to the user that they have pressed keyboard 100 with sufficient force to register the input. In this way, keyboard 100 can evoke a sensation that mimics or suggests the action of a mechanical keyboard, where the tactile output represents the sensation of a collapsing mechanical key. Furthermore, the attributes of the tactile outputs, or the outputs used by keyboard 100, can be selected or optimized to provide a tactile sensation similar to that of collapsing mechanical keys. In some cases, tactile outputs may not be generated in response to inputs corresponding to accidental contact resulting from fingers placing on keyboard 100, or low-force inputs resulting from tactile input to keyboard 100 (e.g., when using the input surface as a touchpad).

[0096] As described above, a keyless keyboard, such as keyboard 100, may include one or more force sensing systems to facilitate the detection of user input. As used herein, a force sensing system corresponds to any combination of a mechanism and associated processor, software, etc., capable of determining the amount of force applied to a surface or a portion thereof. A force sensing system may include one or more force sensing elements, such as piezoelectric elements, strain gauges, optical displacement sensors, etc.

[0097] In some implementations, a single force sensing system can be used to determine the total amount of force applied to the cover 104 (e.g., global force sensing). However, this type of force sensing system provides insufficient information to determine the location of the physical contact that generates the detected force (or it may fail to determine the location at a suitable resolution). Therefore, in the case of using global force sensing, a touch sensing system can be used to determine the location of each contact between the user's finger (or other tool or input component) and the cover 104. An accelerometer can also be used in conjunction with the touch sensing system and the force sensing system to determine the location of force input. For example, one or more accelerometers and an associated processor can detect vibration or motion signatures that indicate input from a particular finger or a specific location on the input surface of the keyboard 100. The touch sensing system and the global force sensing system (and optionally, the accelerometer) together can be used to determine when and where the user attempts to apply input to the surface of the keyboard 100.

[0098] In other implementations, multiple force sensing systems (or multiple force sensing elements associated with a single force sensing system) may be used to determine the amount of force applied to discrete areas or known locations on the cover 104. For example, in some cases, each input area 106 of the keyboard 100 (e.g., corresponding to the size and / or position of a conventional key such as a character input key) is associated with its own unique force sensing system or force sensing element. In other words, each key is monitored individually to detect force input. In some cases, instead of monitoring the force of each individual key, the keyboard 100 is divided into multiple force sensing areas or pixels, at least some of which include multiple keys. Specifically, based on typical typing patterns, there may be groups of keys that are unlikely to be touched simultaneously. For example, a user may place his or her finger along the "stationary row" or center of the keys and move his or her finger away from the stationary row to strike individual keys. Due to the horizontal positioning of the user's fingers relative to the keyboard, it is unlikely that the user will touch multiple keys in a single column at any given time. As a more specific example, on a traditional standard English typing keyboard, a user's finger can be placed on the "a" key while pressing the "f" key, but it is unlikely that the user's finger will be placed on the "a" key while pressing the "q" key. Therefore, the accuracy of a force-sensitive keyboard can be increased by providing force-sensing pixels (e.g., as opposed to a global force-sensing system) without using a different force-sensing system or force-sensing element for each key.

[0099] Such force-sensing pixels can include different sets of input regions and can detect forces substantially independently of each other. For example, a force input applied to a force-sensing pixel can be detected by a force-sensing system (or element) associated with that force-sensing pixel, but not by a force-sensing system (or element) associated with a different force-sensing pixel (or it may not meet the detection threshold of a second force-sensing system or element). In some cases, each force-sensing pixel (and / or the force-sensing element associated with each force-sensing pixel) produces a force value different from each other force value. For example, a processor can use a first force-sensing system or element associated with a first force-sensing pixel (independent of a second force-sensing system or element associated with a different force-sensing pixel) to determine the force applied to the first force-sensing pixel. Similarly, a processor can use a second force-sensing system or element associated with a second force-sensing pixel (independent of the first force-sensing system or element) to determine the force applied to the second force-sensing pixel. Therefore, each force-sensing pixel can be evaluated independently to determine whether a force input has been applied to that particular force-sensing pixel, and / or to determine the amount of force applied to that particular pixel.

[0100] Figures 7A to 7B A keyboard 100 with different exemplary force sensing areas or force pixel arrangements is shown. Figure 7A In the keyboard, force-sensing areas 702 (or pixels) are arranged in approximately two rows, with the first row above line 701 and the second row below line 701. Line 701 roughly divides the keyboard vertically into two halves, and each row contains ten force-sensing areas 702. Figure 7B In the middle, the force sensing area 704 is also arranged in roughly two rows, with the first row above the line 703 and the second row below the line 703. Figure 7B This includes eight force-sensing regions 704 in each row. The force-sensing regions 704 can be substantially diagonally oriented (relative to...). Figure 7B The keyboard's vertical axis extends from left to right. This arrangement corresponds to a typical typing pattern, where each particular finger tends to be used to press keys in diagonal groups.

[0101] In some implementations, such as Figures 7A to 7B The ones shown each include at least eight force-sensing areas per row. Thus, each row includes at least a separate force-sensing area for each area that can be accessed (or typically tapped) by a particular finger (excluding the thumb in the case of an eight-pixel arrangement). Furthermore, at least one subgroup of force-sensing areas 702, 704 includes a group of at least two separate input areas / keys (e.g., the force-sensing areas are configured to detect forces applied to at least two separate input areas / keys).

[0102] Figures 7A to 7BThe arrangement of the force-sensing areas (including which button is included in each force-sensing area) is merely an example. In various embodiments, the force-sensing areas may include input areas (e.g., buttons) that are different from those shown in these figures.

[0103] Force sensing area 702 ( Figure 7A ) and 704 Figure 7B Each of the force sensing regions 702 and 704 can correspond to a single force sensing system or element. That is, a force applied to any location within the force sensing regions 702 and 704 can produce a single force value regardless of the force's location. As described above, the force sensing system or element can use any suitable force sensing technology and / or method, including capacitive force sensing, piezoelectric sensing, strain gauges, etc. The force sensing system or element for each force sensing region 702 and 704 can be located below the force sensing region and within the housing 102 of the keyboard 100. The cover 104 can be segmented along the boundaries of the force sensing regions 702 and 704 to allow each force sensing region to move at least to some extent independently of each other. In some embodiments, the cover 104 is slotted along the boundaries of the force sensing regions 702 and 704 (e.g., on the bottom or top surface). The slots can allow the force sensing regions 702 and 704 to move substantially independently of each other and can reduce the degree to which a force sensing region deflects in response to a force applied to an input region in an adjacent force sensing region. This can improve the independence of the force detected at each force sensing region.

[0104] The force sensing system or element associated with each force sensing area (e.g., areas 702, 704) can be configured to detect button presses in response to different force values. For example, the force input detected in the force sensing area can be compared with different force thresholds. Thus, force sensing areas that typically withstand smaller forces (such as those typically tapped by the user's little finger) can use different (e.g., lower) force thresholds than areas that typically withstand larger forces (such as those typically tapped by the user's index finger).

[0105] Figures 8A to 8C A partial cross-sectional view of the keyboard 100 is shown (e.g., along...). Figure 1 (See line AA in the diagram), illustrating an exemplary local force sensing system 800 that can be used in conjunction with the embodiments described herein. As described herein, the force sensing system 800 can provide local force sensing, enabling the determination of both the force and location of individual force inputs from a finger, stylus, or other tool or input component. Furthermore, the resolution of the force sensing system 800 can be substantially equal to or greater than the resolution of the input area, such that each force input can be reliably associated with a given input area.

[0106] The force sensing system 800 may include a cover 802 (e.g., corresponding to...). Figure 1The force sensing system 800 comprises a cover 104, a compliant material 804, and a capacitive sensing layer 806. The cover 802 may define an input surface, as described above with respect to the cover 104. The force sensing system 800 determines force by detecting a change in capacitance caused by a change in the proximity of a user's finger 808 (or other tool or input component) to the capacitive sensing layer 806. Specifically, the cover 802 may locally deform or deflect in response to an applied force input, thereby compressing or otherwise deforming the compliant material 804 and allowing the user's finger 808 (or any other tool or input component capacitively coupled to the capacitive sensing layer 806) to move closer to the capacitive sensing layer 806.

[0107] The deflection and / or compression behavior of the compliant material 804 and / or the cover 104 can be modeled, allowing a processor associated with the force sensing system 800 to determine the amount of force for a given force input. Specifically, a known force can be applied at different locations on the cover 802 to determine the capacitance change caused by a given amount of force applied to a given location. This information can be stored in a table as an equation representing the force-capacitance relationship, or in any other data structure or algorithm that can be used to correlate capacitance values ​​with force values.

[0108] As an alternative to or supplement to capacitive sensors, other types of sensors can be used to detect changes in distance between the cover 802 and the underlying layer. For example, the capacitive sensing layer 806 can be replaced (or supplemented) by an array of optical displacement sensors that detect localized deformations of the cover 802. When using distance or displacement sensors, a known force can be applied at different locations on the cover 802 to determine the sensor value produced by a given amount of force applied to a given location. This information can be stored in a table as an equation representing a force-displacement relationship, or in any other data structure or algorithm that can be used to correlate (e.g., measured by an optical displacement sensor) changes in displacement or distance with force values.

[0109] Figure 8B A force-sensing system 800 is illustrated, while a cover 802 is locally deformed by a finger 808 or other input member. The cover 802 can locally deform in response to local force input. In other words, the cover 802 is not so rigid or stiff that finger pressure with typical typing force cannot produce local deformation or indentation 810 in the cover 802. Non-local deflection of the cover 802 (e.g., downward translation) can also occur in response to force input.

[0110] The cover 802 can be formed of or comprise any suitable material such as glass, metal, polycarbonate, sapphire, etc. The size and / or material of the cover 802 can be selected to provide a suitable local deformation profile (e.g., diameter and depth). For example, the cover 802 may have an elastic modulus in the range of about 60 to 80 GPa and a thickness in the range of about 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0111] The compliant material 804 can be formed of or comprise any suitable material, such as foam, gel, silicone, (e.g., an array of compliant material dots or structures formed of silicone), liquid, air, etc. The compliant material 804 can support the cover 802 on touch and / or force-sensitive areas, such as areas defining input regions (e.g., buttons) of the cover 802. For example, as... Figure 1 As shown, the compliant material 804 may be located beneath substantially the entire cover 104, or only beneath the area defining the input region or button 106. The support provided by the compliant material 804 helps to isolate the effects of force input applied to the cover 802 within a limited area of ​​the cover 802. More specifically, when a force input, such as a finger press corresponding to a button press on the cover 802, is applied to a force sensing system that does not include the compliant material 804, the cover 802 may tend to deflect substantially globally. For example, if the force sensing system has an air gap instead of a compliant material, a finger press could cause the cover 802 to deform all the way to the edge of the cover. On the other hand, when the compliant material 804 is included, the compliant material 804 prevents or reduces deflection or deformation of the cover 802 in areas that do not directly contact (or are adjacent to) an object.

[0112] The compliant material 804 also provides a predictable force-displacement relationship that the force sensing system 800 can utilize to help determine the force value of the force input. For example, particularly compared to a force sensing system 800 using an air gap instead of the compliant material 804, the compliant material 804 can help improve the consistency of the force-displacement response on the input surface of the cover 802. More specifically, without the compliant material 804, a force applied near the center of the cover 802 (e.g., away from the support edge of the cover 802) can cause more deflection of the cover 802 than the same force applied near the edge of the cover 802. The supporting effect of the compliant material 804 can help prevent or limit the amount of sagging or global deflection in response to input forces, especially input forces away from the edges or support areas of the cover 802. In this way, input forces applied to the center and edges of the cover 802 (in fact, any area of ​​the cover 802) can result in similar deformation. Furthermore, because the compliant material 804 provides large-area support to the cover 802, these deformations can be more localized (e.g., smaller) than when there is no compliant material 804, thus producing higher resolution touch and force sensing results.

[0113] The compliant material 804 can be a single continuous sheet, multiple sheet segments, or other shapes or constructions (e.g., points, pillars, pyramids, columns, discs, etc.). The dimensions and / or material (or any other properties such as toxicity ratio, stiffness, hardness, hardness test value, etc.) of the compliant material 804 can be selected to provide a suitable local deformation profile in conjunction with the cover 802. For example, the compliant material 804 can have a thickness ranging from about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm. In cases where the compliant material 804 comprises multiple compliant members or materials (e.g., points, pillars, sheets, etc.), each compliant member can have substantially the same thickness, such that the distance between the cover 802 and the underlying sensing layer (e.g., sensing layer 806) is substantially the same in the region including the input area.

[0114] The materials and dimensions of the cover 802 and the conforming material 804 can be optimized and / or evaluated together to provide a suitable local deformation profile. In some embodiments, the cover 802 is a glass layer with a thickness of about 0.3 mm and an elastic modulus of about 70 GPa, and the conforming material 804 is a foam with a thickness of about 0.5 mm.

[0115] The local deformation characteristics of the force sensing system 800 allow for the detection and individual identification of multiple adjacent force inputs. For example, the cover 802 and the compliant material 804 may experience sufficiently distinguishable indentations in response to force inputs spaced approximately 3.0 cm (e.g., 3.0 cm or more) apart, as measured between the geometric centroids of the force inputs. In some cases, the cover 802 and the compliant material 804 may experience sufficiently distinguishable indentations in response to closer force inputs, such as those spaced 2.5, 2.0, or even 1.0 cm apart. Figure 8C The force sensing system 800 is shown to receive two force inputs from two separate fingers 808, 812 (or other input components or tools). Each finger / input component produces its own indentation (814, 816, respectively). Figure 8C The centroids of fingers 808 and 812 can be approximately 3.0 cm (or closer) to each other. As the distance between the centroids of fingers 808 and 812 increases, the corresponding indentation becomes more pronounced. Figure 8C The one shown is even more different.

[0116] Figures 9A to 9B A partial cross-sectional view of a force sensing system is shown, illustrating an exemplary configuration of the capacitance sensing layer. Specifically, Figure 9A A force sensing system 900, corresponding to a force sensing system 800, is shown, comprising a cover 902 (e.g., cover 802, 104), a compliant material 904 (e.g., compliant material 804), and a capacitive sensing layer 906 beneath the compliant material 904. The capacitive sensing layer 906 is configured to be directly capacitively coupled to a user's finger 903 or other object, such as a stylus or pen, in contact with the cover 902. Specifically, the capacitive sensing layer 906 can detect the finger 903 via self-capacitance. Because the capacitive sensing layer 906 is directly capacitively coupled to the user's finger 903, other capacitive sensing layers (such as electrodes or driving layers capacitively coupled to the sensing layer 906) may not be required. More specifically, some embodiments of the force sensing system 900 may not include another capacitive sensing layer between the cover 902 and the compliant material 904 (or between the cover 902 and the capacitive sensing layer 906).

[0117] The capacitance sensing layer 906 may include a substrate 910, such as a circuit board or flexible circuit material, and a set of electrodes 912. The electrodes 912 may be conductive traces applied to the substrate 910 and coupled to a processor and / or other electronic components, which help determine the capacitance change due to the presence of the finger 903 (and thus the force). The location of the electrodes 912 may be known such that the detection of a capacitance change at a given electrode 912 can indicate to the device the location of the force input on the cover 902.

[0118] The size of electrode 912 can define the resolution of force sensing system 900. For example, the size of electrode 912 can be the same as or smaller than the input area (e.g., surface area or any other suitable size). In this case, it is possible to determine from force sensing system 900 which button the user has selected. That is, if one or more electrodes 912 below a particular button (e.g., input area 106, ...) Figure 1 If a capacitance change corresponding to a threshold force is detected, the force sensing system 900 and / or its connected devices can register the selection of the button. Due to the resolution of this force sensing system, it may not be necessary to use a separate touch sensing system to determine the location of the force input applied to the input surface.

[0119] Figure 9B A force sensing system 916, corresponding to force sensing system 800, is shown, comprising a cover 902, a compliant material 904, and a capacitance sensing layer 914 beneath the compliant material 904. The capacitance sensing layer 914 includes electrodes 920 disposed on a substrate 918 (e.g., a circuit board or flexible circuit). Paired electrodes 920 enable monitoring or measurement of the capacitance between the two electrodes 920, such as... Figure 9B The capacitor symbol is shown in the diagram. When a finger 903 (or other tool) deforms the cover 902 and approaches the electrode 920, the finger 903 changes the capacitance measured between the electrodes 920 near the finger 903. Specifically, the finger 903 changes the permittivity or dielectric constant of the region surrounding the electrode 920. The force sensing system 916 and its associated components and processor can detect those capacitance changes between the electrodes 920 to determine the amount of deformation, thereby determining the amount of force applied to the cover 902. Similar to the force sensing system 900, the force sensing system 916 may not include a second sensing layer between the cover 902 and the compliant material 904.

[0120] The force sensing systems 900 and 916 described above provide local force detection, wherein both the location and magnitude of the force input can be determined by the force sensing system. Furthermore, the force sensing systems 900 and 916 have sufficiently high resolution to distinguish the locations of force inputs from individual fingers.

[0121] Figures 10A to 10C An exemplary local force sensing system is shown that can be used in conjunction with a keyboard 100 (or any other suitable input device or electronic device). Figures 10A to 10C The force sensing system shown uses a strain gauge to determine the amount of force applied to the input surface. Specifically, and as... Figures 11A to 11B As shown in more detail, a strain gauge can be used to determine the amount of deflection or deformation of an input surface (e.g., cover 104), which can then be correlated with the amount of force (as associated with the input).

[0122] Figure 10A An exemplary force sensing system 1001 including a substrate 1002 is shown. The substrate 1002 may correspond to... Figure 1 The cover 104 in the cover, or which may correspond to a component that may be disposed below the cover such as cover 104 (e.g., coupled to the bottom). The substrate 1002 may be formed of or comprise any suitable material, such as glass, polymer, flexible circuit material, polyester film, etc.

[0123] The force sensing system 1001 includes a strain gauge 1004 applied to or otherwise integrated with a substrate 1002. The strain gauge 1004 can be of any suitable construction and can be formed from any suitable material. For example, the strain gauge 1004 may include a conductor having a serpentine or coil pattern (or any other suitable pattern) and disposed on a thin film or other substrate. In some cases, the strain gauge 1004 may include two or more substrates or thin films, each having a coiled or serpentine conductor and laminated together. This construction can help filter or suppress noise, interference, or other undesirable effects caused by temperature, magnetic fields, etc., on the strain gauge 1004.

[0124] The strain gauges 1004 can have any suitable size and can be arranged on the substrate 1002 in any suitable pattern. For example, as shown, the strain gauges 1004 can all have substantially the same size and be arranged on the substrate 1002 in a regular grid pattern. Viewed from the top of the substrate 1002, the strain gauges 1004 can have any suitable size, such as approximately 10 × 10 mm, 15 × 15 mm, or any other suitable size. Although the strain gauges 1004 may not be directly mapped to individual keys or input areas of the keyboard, the location of the force input on the substrate 1002 can be determined by analyzing signals from multiple (e.g., all) strain gauges 1004 to identify the estimated location (e.g., centroid) of the input, regardless of the location of the applied input on the substrate 1002 or other associated input surfaces.

[0125] However, in some cases, the corresponding strain gauge 1004 can be positioned to correspond to a corresponding button or input area. For example, Figure 10B A force sensing system 1009 is shown, wherein the pattern of strain gauges 1005 on a substrate 1003 substantially mimics the pattern of a key or input area, such that each key or input area of ​​the keyboard has at least one strain gauge 1005 disposed beneath it. Therefore, the force measured by a given strain gauge 1005 can be used to independently determine whether the corresponding key or input area has been actuated by the user, without reference to strain gauges associated with other keys or input areas.

[0126] Where each button or input area is associated with at least one unique strain gauge, the substrate 1003 (which may correspond to the cover 104 or a component disposed beneath the cover) may include ribs 1007 formed on or otherwise coupled to the substrate 1003. Ribs 1007 can help isolate deformation and / or deflection caused by forces applied to the substrate 1003 or the overlying cover and / or touch input, as per [reference to...]. Figure 11B As shown and described in more detail. In cases where the device includes an adaptive display to generate virtual input areas at different locations on the cover 104, such ribs can be omitted to facilitate more uniform force sensing on the surface of the input surface.

[0127] Figure 10C It shows that it has a greater than Figure 10A The force sensing system 1011, showing a pattern of strain gauge 1008, illustrates another exemplary arrangement of strain gauges on a substrate of the force sensing system. Although strain gauge 1008 is larger than... Figure 10A The strain gauges shown can still provide a suitable resolution for determining the location of the force input. For example, by detecting and analyzing signals from multiple strain gauges 1008 (e.g., to determine the centroid of the force input), the location of the force input can be determined with a resolution of approximately + / - 5 mm. This is applicable to multiple input areas that can be shown on the input surface or displayed on an adaptive display, such as keyboard keys (e.g., virtual keys), game inputs, or other energy indications.

[0128] Figure 11A A partial cross-sectional view of the keyboard 100 is shown (e.g., along...). Figure 1 The force sensing system 1001 is shown in the line AA observation. Figure 10A (This is an embodiment incorporated into keyboard 100.) Figure 11A As shown, a finger 1105 applies force to a substrate 1002 (which may correspond to a cover 104), creating a localized depression 1102 in the substrate 1002. A strain gauge 1006 coupled to the depression region of the substrate 1002 can generate a signal or other detectable phenomenon corresponding to the relative deflection and / or strain experienced by the substrate 1002 due to deformation. By evaluating the strain gauge 1006, the magnitude of the force input applied by the finger 1105 and the location of the force input can be determined.

[0129] Figure 11A The keyboard 100 shown illustrates a lower component 1106, which may correspond to another internal component or structure of the housing 102 or electronic device. As shown, the substrate 1002 can be separated from the lower component 1106 by a gap 1104. The gap 1104 may be empty (e.g., it may be an air gap), or it may be completely or partially filled with a material, such as a reference material. Figures 7A to 7BThe described compliant material 704 is similar to compliant materials (e.g., foams, gels, silicone resins, arrays of compliant material dots or structures (e.g., formed of silicone resins)). Compliant materials can help support the substrate 1002 and can help localize and / or isolate deflections of the substrate 1002 caused by force input.

[0130] Figure 11B A partial cross-sectional view of the keyboard 100 is shown (e.g., along...). Figure 1 The force sensing system 1009 is shown in the line AA observation. Figure 10B (This is an embodiment incorporated into keyboard 100.) Figure 11B As shown, finger 1107 applies force to substrate 1003 (which may correspond to cover 104), creating a localized depression 1108 in substrate 1003. (See reference...) Figure 10B As described, the force sensing system 1009 may include ribs 1007 formed on or otherwise coupled to the substrate 1003. The ribs can isolate and localize deflection of the substrate 1003 caused by a force input. For example, as Figure 11B As shown, most of the force input from finger 1107 is contained between ribs 1007-2 and 1007-3. Therefore, strain gauge 1005-3 can withstand greater strain than nearby strain gauges (e.g., strain gauges 1005-2, 1005-4), thereby reducing the likelihood of false detection of key presses in nearby or adjacent key or input areas.

[0131] Figure 11B The keyboard 100 in the figure shows a lower component 1112, which may correspond to another internal component or structure of the housing 102 or electronic device. As shown, the substrate 1003 can be separated from the lower component 1112 by a gap 1110. The gap 1110 may be empty (e.g., it may be an air gap), or it may be completely or partially filled with a material, such as a reference material. Figures 7A to 7B The described compliant material 704 is similar to compliant materials (e.g., foams, gels, silicone resins, arrays of compliant material dots or structures (e.g., formed of silicone resins)). The compliant material can help support the substrate 1003 and can help further localize and / or isolate the deflection of the substrate 1003 caused by force input.

[0132] Figure 12 A partial cross-sectional view of the keyboard 100 is shown (e.g., along...). Figure 1 (See line AA in the image) This illustrates a force sensing system 1200 that uses an actuator 1201 to detect the force applied to a substrate 1208 (which may correspond to a cover 104). Figure 12 The keyboard 100 in the diagram shows a lower component 1210, which may correspond to the housing 102 or another internal component or structure of the electronic device.

[0133] Actuator 1201 may correspond to the haptic actuator 601 described herein. Specifically, actuator 1201 may provide both haptic actuation and force sensing functions as described above. For example, actuator 1201 (which may have the same construction as haptic actuator 601) includes a compliant layer 1206 sandwiched between electrode layers 1204. Electrode layers 1204 may serve as electrodes in a mutual capacitance sensing scheme. For example, one electrode layer may serve as a drive electrode, and another electrode layer may serve as a sensing electrode. When the sensing and drive electrodes move closer together, such as when finger 1202 or other tool deforms substrate 1208 and compresses actuator 1201, a processor or other circuitry may detect the resulting electrical change, which may be correlated with the amount of force applied via a force input. More specifically, force sensing system 1200 may use the correlation between force and capacitance (or other electrical phenomena) to determine the amount of force corresponding to a measured capacitance value (or other electrical value).

[0134] In some embodiments, only two electrode layers 1204 in actuator 1201 are used for capacitive force sensing. In other embodiments, more electrode layers 1204, such as all electrode layers, are used. As described above, the actuator may include 40 compliant layers 1206 and 41 electrode layers 1204. In this case, all 41 electrodes can be used for capacitive sensing. Fewer electrodes may also be used.

[0135] It is noteworthy that the actuator 1201 can detect the applied force and generate a tactile output substantially simultaneously. For example, the tactile signal can have a relatively low frequency (e.g., between 2 and 200 Hz, although other frequencies are possible), while the drive signal for the drive electrodes of the capacitive sensor can have a relatively high frequency (e.g., between 100 and 200 kHz, although other frequencies are possible). Therefore, such frequencies can be applied to the electrode layer of the actuator 1201 substantially simultaneously, such that a tactile output is generated simultaneously with the detection of an electrical change due to the force input. When a force input is sensed, the processor and / or circuitry of the force sensing system 1200 can compensate for any compression or stretching of the compliance layer 1206 caused by the tactile output, in order to mitigate any contamination of the force measurement by the tactile output.

[0136] In cases where the keyboard 100 includes a force sensing area (such as a single force sensing area covering the entire keyboard or force sensing pixels) that can be tapped or actuated by more than one finger, the force sensing system can adjust or select the force threshold based on the number of fingers in contact with the surface.

[0137] For example, a typical force input instructing a user to attempt to actuate virtual keys on a flat surface can range from about 25 to about 150 grams. Therefore, when the force sensing system detects a force input exceeding this value, it should register the selection of a virtual key. However, if the user places multiple fingers on the keyboard surface, the force sensing system can detect a non-zero baseline force. This variation in baseline force can lead to false positives and negatives in force input detection, effectively reducing the amount of force required to trigger the input. As an example, if the baseline force generated by placing three fingers on the keyboard is 20 grams, simply placing a fourth finger on the keyboard might be sufficient to cause the device to incorrectly recognize force input.

[0138] Therefore, the force sensing system can dynamically determine the force threshold indicating key presses based on the number of fingers in contact with the keyboard input surface at a given time. Figure 13 A graph 1300 illustrates three exemplary baseline forces and force thresholds based on different numbers of fingers in contact with an input surface (e.g., cover 104). Specifically, baseline force 1302 may correspond to the force of one finger placed on the surface. The force threshold is then set at a specific value 1306 above baseline force 1302, resulting in force threshold 1304. Similarly, baseline force 1308 may correspond to the force of two fingers placed on the surface, and the force threshold can be set at a specific value 1312 above baseline force 1302, resulting in force threshold 1310. In the case where three fingers are determined to be placed on the surface, the force threshold can be set at a specific value 1318 above baseline force 1314, resulting in force threshold 1316. In some cases, the force threshold is set between approximately 25 and approximately 150 grams above the baseline force, such as approximately 30 grams above the baseline force, regardless of the value of the baseline force. In other cases, the force threshold can be set to a different amount above the baseline force depending on the number of fingers in contact with the surface.

[0139] Baseline forces 1302, 1308, and 1314 can be determined based on the number of fingers placed on the keyboard's input surface. For example, the baseline force corresponding to one finger placed on the surface can be determined to be 10 grams. Therefore, when one finger is detected on the surface, the baseline force can be 10 grams regardless of the actual amount of force applied to the surface. Similarly, when two fingers are detected on the surface, the baseline force can be 20 grams, and so on. Thus, the force threshold can be determined at any given time based on the number of fingers in contact with the input surface, regardless of the actual amount of force applied to the surface by the fingers.

[0140] Figure 14An exemplary process 1400 for detecting key presses on an input surface of an electronic device is illustrated. Process 1400 can be implemented on any of the exemplary devices discussed herein. For example, process 1400 can be used to determine what action (if any) the electronic device should perform in response to a force input, and can use, for example, a processing unit and a reference. Figure 20 Other hardware components described herein. Process 1400 can be implemented as processor-executable instructions stored in the memory of an electronic device.

[0141] In operation 1402, the input surface of the electronic device (e.g., the surface of cover 104) is determined. Figure 1 The number of fingers in contact. For example, the touch sensing system of keyboard 100 can be used to determine the number of fingers in contact with cover 104.

[0142] In operation 1404, a force threshold for indicative key presses is determined. For example, keyboard 100 determines a force threshold that, if met, will cause keyboard 100 to register the selection of an input area (e.g., virtual keys). The force threshold is determined at least in part based on the number of fingers in contact with the input surface. For example, to determine the number of fingers in contact with the input surface, the force threshold may be between approximately 25 and approximately 150 grams higher than the baseline force. The baseline force for each finger contact may be 10 grams. Therefore, each additional finger in contact with the input surface may add an additional 10 grams to the baseline force. Other values ​​are also possible. Moreover, the baseline force for each number of fingers may not increase linearly. For example, the baseline force for one finger may be 10 grams, and the baseline force for eight fingers may be 40 grams.

[0143] In operation 1406, a force input that meets a force threshold is detected. The force input can be detected using a force sensing system such as any of the force sensing systems described above.

[0144] In operation 1408, in response to the detection of force input in operation 1406, a selection of an input area can be registered. For example, if it is determined that a force input meeting a threshold has been applied to the position of a key, the selection of that key (e.g., which may correspond to a text character) is registered. Keyboard 100 can then transmit the selection to an electronic device, which can perform an appropriate action or response (such as inputting text characters into an application).

[0145] In some cases, a force threshold can be established alternatively or additionally based on the magnitude of the detected force input. That is, different users can type or apply input to the keyboard with different forces. More specifically, a first user might type with relatively low force per keystroke (e.g., using an average force of about 10 grams), while a second user might type with relatively high force per keystroke (e.g., using an average force of about 100 grams). Therefore, the keyboard 100 can adapt to individual users by adjusting the force threshold after detecting multiple inputs. For example, the keyboard 100 can detect inputs indicating typing input (e.g., key presses), such as inputs applied to a key area and / or inputs having a frequency or other pattern indicating key presses, and can determine the average force of the input. The keyboard 100 can then adjust the force threshold based on the average force of the key presses. Therefore, if the force threshold is significantly lower than the average typing force detected by the keyboard 100, the keyboard 100 might misinterpret a lighter touch (not intended as a key press) as a key press. On the other hand, if the force threshold is significantly higher than the average typing force detected by the keyboard 100, the keyboard 100 may not be able to recognize all user input as key presses. Therefore, the keyboard 100 can dynamically set the force threshold based on the average detected force input. In some cases, the force threshold can be set to a predetermined amount lower than the average typing force, such as 1%, 5%, 10%, or 20% lower than the average typing force (or any other suitable value).

[0146] Average typing power can be detected at any suitable interval, such as based on time-based periodicity (e.g., every hour, every 5 hours, etc.) or event-based (e.g., every time a word processing application is opened, every time the computer is restarted, etc.). Other intervals, periods, and triggering events are also envisioned.

[0147] The keyless keyboard may also include a touch-sensing system similar to a touchpad that detects touch- and / or motion-based input (e.g., swipe, pinch, rotate, or tap). Thus, touch input corresponding to movement on the input surface can be detected. In response to detecting touch input corresponding to movement across the input surface, the cursor position on the electronic device's display can be changed. The touch-sensing system can share the same input surface as the keyboard keys, allowing users to interact with the flat keyboard surface in various ways, including typing (e.g., force input) and traditional touchpad input (e.g., swipe, pinch, rotate, tap, etc.).

[0148] As described above, keyboard 100 may include an adaptive display that can change the layout of keys (e.g., virtual keys) on the surface of keyboard 100. Figures 15A to 17 An exemplary layout and other functions that can be implemented in a keyboard 100 that includes both force sensing and haptic output are shown.

[0149] For example, as referenced Figures 15A to 15C The input device 1500 can detect the position of a user's finger 1532 and define multiple input areas based on the position and manner in which the user places his or her finger 1532. This can improve the user experience by allowing different arrangements, sizes, and positions of the input areas (or buttons) 1506.

[0150] like Figure 15A As shown, the input surface 1504 may initially be inactive, with no defined input area or visual indication of the input area. When the user's finger 1532 approaches the input surface 1504, the input surface 1504 can, as Figure 15B The input surface 1504 can be made active, for example, by incorporating a proximity sensor such as a touch sensing system that detects the presence and / or position of a user's finger 1532. These sensors can detect a desired position for defining the input area 1506. The input area 1506 can also be defined in response to additional user actions such as the execution of a gesture, a touch of the input surface 1504, or a press of the input surface 1504.

[0151] While defining an input area 1506 (e.g., a virtual key) on the adaptive input surface 1504, or in response to this operation, the input area 1506 can be visually indicated. For example, a display within the input surface 1504 can visually indicate the location of the virtual key 1506. The location of the virtual key 1506 can also be indicated tactilely, or alternatively. For example, an actuator (e.g., a piezoelectric actuator, an electrostatic element, etc.) can provide vibrations or other outputs that can be perceived by the user as physical boundaries of the virtual key 1506. For example, no tactile output may be provided when the user places their finger directly on the center of the virtual key 1506. When the user moves their finger to the key boundary (or initially places their finger on the key boundary), the actuator can generate an output indicating to the user that their finger is on the key boundary.

[0152] The location of the input area and its corresponding visual markers can also be adapted to user interaction. For example, the input device 1500 may also include a computer-readable storage device for storing multiple keyboard layouts, each with a corresponding visual representation. Figure 15B The layout shown can be a first layout (e.g., a first configuration of virtual buttons), while Figure 15C This could be a second layout (e.g., a second configuration of virtual buttons). Additional layouts could also be stored within input device 1500, or transferred to input device 1500 from another computing device.

[0153] like Figure 15CAs shown, the input area 1506 can be defined differently (e.g., according to a second keyboard layout) depending on the arrangement or position of the user's finger 1532 on the input device 1500. Figure 15C As shown, the user's fingers are placed at an angle to each other on the previously inactive input surface, rather than following a set pattern. Figure 15B The keyboard is positioned in a straight line on the input surface. The input device can recognize this placement as corresponding to an ergonomic keyboard layout (e.g., a second stored keyboard layout) and accordingly define input area 1506 and corresponding visual markers for the input area. These embodiments are illustrative in nature, and further keyboard layouts or input schemes can be implemented according to the invention, whether due to user interaction, programming preferences, or software control by an application communicating with the input device.

[0154] Input devices, including force sensing, haptic output, and adaptive displays, can be used to define user interfaces beyond traditional keyboards. Figure 16 An exemplary input device 1600 is shown incorporated within a notebook or laptop computer 1642, wherein alternative user input is generated on an adaptive input surface 1604.

[0155] The notebook computer 1642 includes a casing 1602 having an upper portion with a display 1644 and a lower portion housing an input device 1600. The casing may further house various components such as a processing unit (which may be shared with the processing unit of the input device 1600 or may be independent), memory, computer-readable media, input / output ports, sensors, a microphone, a speaker, etc. The input device 1600 may include a force sensing system, a touch sensing system, and one or more haptic actuators (not shown). Any force or touch sensing system or haptic actuator described herein may be available in the input device 1600.

[0156] Input device 1600 has an adaptive input surface 1604 (which can correspond to) Figure 1(Cover 104 or any other cover described herein). Input surface 1604 is shown adapted to interact with an active software application (here, a music player) presented on the display 1644 of a laptop computer 1642. Input surface 1604 has defined input areas including media playback controls 1646 and a virtual touchpad 1648. Input surface 1604 also defines an input area for volume controls 1650. As a user slides their finger 1632 along volume controls 1650, the touch and / or force sensing system of input device 1600 can detect the movement of the user's finger 1632 and can activate a haptic actuator (e.g., cause input surface 1604 to oscillate or vibrate) and provide haptic feedback to the user. As the finger 1632 slides to increase the volume, the haptic feedback can increase in intensity (e.g., frequency or amplitude), and as the finger 1632 slides to decrease the volume, the intensity of the haptic feedback can decrease.

[0157] Similarly, Figure 17 An exemplary input device 1700 integrated within a laptop computer 1742 is shown. The laptop computer 1742 includes a housing 1702 having an upper portion with a display 1744 and a lower portion that houses the input device 1700 according to the invention.

[0158] Input device 1700 has an adaptive input surface 1704 (which can correspond to) Figure 1 (Cover 104 or any other cover described herein). Input surface 1704 is shown as adapted to interact with the user interface of a software application (here, a web browser) presented on the display 1744 of the laptop computer 1742. Assuming that input surface 1704 was previously defined with a standard keyboard layout including virtual keys, when the web browser is opened, virtual keys 1706 can be shifted and / or truncated, while virtual touchpad 1748 can be repositioned to the center of input surface 1704. With virtual touchpad 1748 more prominently positioned, user 1732 can more easily navigate web pages, which may often require moving pointer 1752 and clicking links.

[0159] like Figures 18 to 19 As shown, the input device according to the present invention, such as a keyless keyboard, can be implemented in various forms. The input device can be integrated into a device such as a laptop computer, as referenced above. Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, or they can be connected to a host computer or such Figures 18 to 19 The independent device that communicates with other devices shown.

[0160] Figure 18An exemplary keyboard 1800 communicating with a desktop computer 1854 is shown. The keyboard 1800 can communicate with the desktop computer 1854 via a wired or wireless connection. The keyboard 1800 has a housing and an adaptive input surface 1804 located within the housing. The input surface 1804 defines an input area 1812 that corresponds to character input keys. The keyboard 1800 may include the force sensing system and / or haptic actuator or haptic output system described herein.

[0161] Figure 19 An exemplary input device 1900 is shown incorporated into a cover housing. The cover housing can be attached to and communicate with a portable tablet computing device 1956. The input device 1900 can communicate with the tablet computing device 1956 via a wired connection, an electrical contact connection, or a wireless connection. The input device 1900 has an adaptive input surface 1904 defining an input area 1912. The input device 1900 may include the force sensing system and / or haptic actuator or haptic output system described herein.

[0162] The exemplary devices shown in the above figures are illustrative in nature and can be implemented in a variety of other ways. Furthermore, while the above embodiments are shown with flat, generally smooth input surfaces, the invention can also be implemented using curved, bent, textured, rough, and other types of surfaces.

[0163] Figure 20 Exemplary components of an input device according to an embodiment described herein are shown. Figure 20 The illustrative representations shown may correspond to components of the device described herein. However, Figure 20 Other types of devices, including force sensing systems and controllable tactile feedback elements, can also be referred to more generally according to the embodiments described herein.

[0164] like Figure 20 As shown, device 2000 includes a processing unit 2058 operatively connected to computer memory 2060. Processing unit 2058 may be operatively connected to memory 2060 via an electronic bus or bridge. Processing unit 2058 may include one or more computer processors or microcontrollers configured to perform operations in response to computer-readable instructions. In the case of integration into a larger device such as a laptop computer, processing unit 2058 may be the central processing unit (CPU) of the larger device. Alternatively or concurrently, processing unit 2058 may include other processors located within device 2000, including application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and other microcontroller devices. Processing unit 2058 may perform the functions described in the above embodiments.

[0165] The memory 2060 may include various types of non-transitory computer-readable storage media, such as read-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and EEPROM), or flash memory. The memory 2060 is configured to store computer-readable instructions, sensor values, and other persistent software elements.

[0166] In this embodiment, the processing unit 2058 is operable to read computer-readable instructions stored in the memory 2060. These computer-readable instructions adapt the processing unit 2058 to perform the operations or functions described above. The computer-readable instructions can be provided as a computer program product, software application, etc.

[0167] Device 2000 may also include a battery 2062 configured to provide power to components of device 2000. Battery 2062 may include one or more power storage units connected together to provide an internal power supply. Battery 2062 is operatively coupled to power management circuitry configured to provide appropriate voltage and power levels to various components or groups of components within device 2000. Battery 2062 may receive power from an external power source, such as an AC power outlet, via the power management circuitry. Battery 2062 may store the received power, enabling device 2000 to operate for extended periods, ranging from several hours to several days, without connection to an external power source.

[0168] The device 2000 may also include a display 2020 (or multiple displays 2020). The display 2020 may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an electroluminescent (EL) display, an electronic ink (e-ink) display, etc. If the display 2020 is an LCD or an e-ink display, it may also include a backlight component controllable to provide a variable display brightness level. If the display 2020 is an OLED or EL display, the brightness of the display 2020 can be controlled by modifying the electrical signals supplied to the display element. The display 2020 may include a standalone display such as display 1744 (…). Figure 17 An adaptive display for a keyboard or other input device, and / or a keyboard or other input device. For example, the display 2020 can be integrated into a keyboard to present various keyboard layouts or other user interfaces.

[0169] In some embodiments, device 2000 includes one or more input devices 2064. Input device 2064 is a device configured to receive user input. Input device 2064 may include, for example, buttons, touch-activated buttons, etc. In some embodiments, input device 2064 may provide dedicated or primary functions, such as including a power button, volume buttons, home button, scroll wheel, and camera button. Typically, touch sensing systems and force sensing systems can also be classified as input devices. However, for illustrative purposes, touch sensing systems (touch sensing element 2018 and touch sensing circuit 2070) and force sensing systems (force sensing element 2066 and force sensing circuit 2072) are shown as different components within device 2000.

[0170] Device 2000 may include a touch sensing system (or multiple touch sensing systems). The touch sensing system may include touch sensing elements 2018, or multiple touch sensing elements 2018, and touch sensing circuitry 2070. The touch sensing system may also include or incorporate other components of the electronic device, such as a cover or input surface of the electronic device. The touch sensing element 2018 may include electrodes, electrode layers, or other components, and as described above, may be configured to operate according to a mutual capacitance or self-capacitance touch sensing scheme. Touch sensing elements 2018 for other types of touch sensing schemes, such as elements for surface acoustic wave sensors, resistive sensors, infrared sensors, etc., may be used additionally or alternatively.

[0171] The device 2000 may also include a touch sensing circuit 2070. The touch sensing circuit 2070 may be operatively coupled to the touch sensing element 2018 to form all or part of a touch sensing system. The touch sensing circuit 2070, in conjunction with the touch sensing element 2018, can detect and estimate the position of a touch on or near an input surface (such as the input surface of a keyless keyboard). The touch sensing circuit 2070 may also output a signal or other marker indicating the detected touch position. The touch sensing circuit 2070 may also be operatively coupled to the processing unit 2058.

[0172] The device 2000 may also include a force sensing system (or multiple force sensing systems). The force sensing system may correspond to any component or group of components that detects and / or estimates the amount of force applied to an input surface. For example, a force sensing system may include a force sensing element 2066, or multiple force sensing elements 2066, and force sensing circuitry 2072. The force sensing system may also include or incorporate other components of the electronic device, such as a cover or input surface of the electronic device. In cases where the device includes multiple force sensing systems, each force sensing system may include its own separate components (e.g., each may have different force sensing elements and force sensing circuitry), or they may share some components (e.g., each force sensing system may have its own force sensing element but may share force sensing circuitry).

[0173] Force sensing element 2066 can generate changes in electrical values ​​(e.g., resistance, capacitance, voltage, etc.), detectable signals, etc., in response to force input applied to a keyless keyboard (or other force-sensitive input device). Sensing element 2066 can be implemented as one or more layers, such as electrode layers or other conductive materials. Exemplary force-sensitive elements are as described above and may include capacitive sensing elements, electrodes, piezoelectric materials, strain gauges, etc.

[0174] Force sensing circuit 2072 may be operatively coupled to force sensing element 2066 to form all or part of a force sensing system. Force sensing circuit 2072, in conjunction with force sensing element 2066, can detect and estimate the amount of force applied to an input surface. In some embodiments, force sensing circuit 2072 may further detect the location of the applied force. Force sensing circuit 2072 may also output a signal or other indication of the estimated amount of applied force. In some embodiments, force sensing circuit 2072 may operate using a dynamic or adjustable force threshold. Force sensing circuit 2072 may output a signal only for applied forces exceeding the force threshold. Force sensing circuit 2072 may also be operatively coupled to processing unit 2058.

[0175] The device 2000 may also include a haptic actuator 2026 (or multiple haptic actuators 2026). The haptic actuator 2026 may be controlled by the processing unit 2058 and may provide haptic feedback to a user interacting with the device 2000, such as the feedback mentioned above. Figures 2 to 6C As shown. In some embodiments, multiple haptic actuators 2026 can provide localized macroscopic haptic feedback at different areas of the input surface.

[0176] Device 2000 may also include a communication port 2068 configured to transmit and / or receive signals or electrical communications from external or separate devices. Communication port 2068 may be coupled to an external device via a cable, adapter, or other type of electrical connector. In some embodiments, communication port 2068 may be used to couple device 2000 to a host computer. Communication port 2068 may receive control information from external devices that can be used to operate and / or control device 2000.

[0177] In the foregoing description, the specific naming used for illustrative purposes provides a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such specific details are not required to practice the described embodiments. Therefore, the foregoing description of specific embodiments described herein is presented for illustrative and descriptive purposes. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. For example, although the methods or processes disclosed herein are described and shown with reference to specific operations performed in a particular order, these operations may be combined, subdivided, or rearranged to form equivalent methods or processes without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. Furthermore, structures, features, components, materials, steps, processes, etc., described herein with respect to one embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment or incorporated into other embodiments.

Claims

1. A laptop computer, comprising: The housing includes: The upper portion includes a display; and The lower portion, coupled to the upper portion, includes: A glass top member defining a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface; A first rib structure is positioned along the bottom surface of the glass top member and defines a first input area of ​​the glass top member; A second rib structure is positioned along the bottom surface of the glass top member and defines a second input area of ​​the glass top member; First visually distinguishable keyboard keys, the first visually distinguishable keyboard keys are defined and positioned in the first input area along the top surface of the glass top member; Second visually distinguishable keyboard keys, which are defined and positioned along the top surface of the glass top member in the second input area; A first force sensing system is coupled to the glass top member within the first input region and configured to detect deformation of the glass top member within the first input region, wherein a first rib structure surrounds the first force sensing system and substantially isolates deformation caused by a first input force applied within the first input region; and A second force sensing system is coupled to the glass top member in the second input region and configured to detect deformation of the glass top member in the second input region, wherein the second rib structure surrounds the second force sensing system and substantially isolates deformation caused by a second input force applied in the second input region.

2. The laptop computer according to claim 1, wherein: The first input region is configured to deform locally in response to the first input force applied within the first input region; and The second input region is configured to deform locally in response to a second input force applied within the second input region.

3. The laptop computer according to claim 2, wherein: The first force sensing system includes a first compressible structure positioned between the glass top member and the support structure, and configured to be compressed by local deformation of the first input region; and The second force sensing system includes a second compressible structure positioned between the glass top member and the support structure, and configured to be compressed by local deformation of the second input region.

4. The laptop computer according to claim 3, wherein: The first force sensing system is configured to generate a first tactile output detectable within the first input area; and The second force sensing system is configured to generate a second tactile output that is detectable within the second input area.

5. The laptop computer according to claim 3, wherein, The first compressible structure includes: First electrode layer; A first compliant material positioned between the electrode layers of the first pair of electrode layers; The second pair of electrode layers; and A second compliant material positioned between the electrode layers of the second pair of electrode layers.

6. The laptop computer according to claim 5, wherein, The first pair of electrode layers and the second pair of electrode layers are coupled to a processing system, which detects deformation of the glass top member in the first input region based at least in part on the following: The first change in capacitance detected between the electrode layers of the first pair of electrode layers; and A second change in capacitance detected between the electrode layers of the second pair of electrode layers.

7. A keyboard for an electronic device, comprising: Base structure; Top member, the top member being coupled to and defining the base structure: The outer side of the keyboard area and touchpad area; and The inner side opposite to the outer side; A reinforcing structure, positioned along the inner side of the top member and defined in the keyboard area of ​​the top member: A first local deformation region, the first local deformation region being configured to locally deform in response to a first input applied to the top member at a first key area within the keyboard area; and A second local deformation region is configured to locally deform in response to a second input applied to the top member at a second key area within the keyboard area; A first force sensing system is coupled to the inner side of the top member within the first local deformation region and is configured to detect local deformation caused by the first input. and A second force sensing system is coupled to the inner side of the top member within the second local deformation region and is configured to detect local deformation caused by the second input. The reinforcing structure defines a rib located between the first local deformation region and the second local deformation region, and the rib substantially isolates local deformation caused by the first input to the first local deformation region and substantially isolates local deformation caused by the second input to the second local deformation region.

8. The keyboard according to claim 7, wherein, The reinforcing structure includes a plurality of ribs extending from the inner side of the top member.

9. The keyboard according to claim 7, wherein, The top component is made of glass.

10. The keyboard of claim 7, further comprising a touch sensing system coupled to the inner side of the top member and configured to determine the location of a touch input applied within the touchpad area.

11. The keyboard according to claim 7, wherein: The first force sensing system includes a first strain gauge coupled to the inner side of the top member; and The second force sensing system includes a second strain gauge coupled to the inner side of the top member.

12. A computing system, comprising: The housing includes: The upper portion includes a display; and The lower portion, coupled to the upper portion, includes: Base structure; A glass top member, coupled to and defining the base structure: The top surface defining the keyboard and touchpad areas; and The bottom surface opposite the top surface; An actuator stack, extending from the base structure to the bottom surface of the glass top member, is configured to: Detecting localized deformation of the glass top member in the key area of ​​the keyboard area; and Tactile output is generated by locally deforming the glass top component in the button area; and A rib structure, positioned along the bottom surface of the glass top member and surrounding the actuator stack, wherein the rib structure is configured to substantially isolate the local deformation in the button area.

13. The computing system according to claim 12, wherein: The actuator stack is the first actuator stack; The button area is the first button area; The local deformation is the first local deformation; The tactile output is the first tactile output; The rib structure is a first rib structure; and The lower portion also includes: A second actuator stack, extending from the base structure to the bottom surface of the glass top member, is configured as follows: Detecting a second local deformation of the glass top member in the second key area of ​​the keyboard area; and A second tactile output is generated by partially deforming the glass top component in the second button area; and A second rib structure is positioned along the bottom surface of the glass top member and around the second actuator stack, wherein the second rib structure is configured to substantially isolate the second local deformation in the second button area.

14. The computing system of claim 12, wherein the actuator stack comprises a plurality of compliant electrode stacks.

15. The computing system according to claim 14, wherein, One of the plurality of compliant electrode stacks includes: A pair of electrode layers; and Compliant material positioned between the electrode layers of the pair of electrode layers.

16. The computing system according to claim 15, wherein: The local deformation of the glass top member in the key area is detected at least in part based on the change in capacitance between the electrode layers of the pair of electrode layers; and The localized deformation of the glass top component is achieved through the following: A first electrical signal is provided to the first electrode layer of the pair of electrode layers; and A second electrical signal is provided to the second electrode layer of the pair of electrode layers.

Images