Input devices and electronic devices

Abstract

This disclosure provides an input device and an electronic device, applicable to the field of terminal device technology. The input device includes: a first input module, the first input module including a detection element, the first input module being used to generate a first input signal in response to the relative movement of the detection element and a target surface, wherein the target surface is the surface opposite to the detection element; the input device has a first state and a second state, in the first state, the portion of the input device used to contact the target surface is a first portion, and in the second state, the portion of the input device used to contact the target surface is a second portion, the area of ​​the second portion being larger than that of the first portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of terminal equipment technology, and in particular to an input device and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, to facilitate the portability of input devices (such as mice), the manufacturing of input devices is trending towards miniaturization. However, due to their smaller size and smaller contact area with the surface they are placed on, miniaturized input devices are less stable during use. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the present disclosure provides an input device and an electronic device.

[0004] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an input device is provided, comprising: a first input module including a detection element, the first input module being configured to generate a first input signal in response to relative movement between the detection element and a target surface, wherein the target surface is a surface opposite to the detection element; the input device having a first state and a second state, wherein in the first state, a portion of the input device for contacting the target surface is a first portion, and in the second state, a portion of the input device for contacting the target surface is a second portion, the area of ​​the second portion being larger than that of the first portion.

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the housing has a first housing and a second housing that are movably connected, and a first input module is disposed on the first housing; in a first state, the second housing is in a first position relative to the first housing, the detection element faces the second housing, and the first housing is in contact with the second housing; in a second state, the second housing is in a second position relative to the first housing, the second position is different from the first position, and the detection element faces outward from the housing.

[0006] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a first housing has a first contact portion and a second housing has a second contact portion; in a first state, the first contact portion faces the second housing and the second contact portion faces the first housing; in a second state, the first contact portion is used to contact a target surface and the second contact portion is used to contact a target surface.

[0007] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the area of ​​the second contact portion is larger than that of the first contact portion.

[0008] According to embodiments of this disclosure, it further includes: a second input module for responding to an input operation on the input device to generate a second input signal, wherein the second input module and the first input module are both disposed in the first housing.

[0009] According to embodiments of this disclosure, it further includes: a switching component, configured to control interaction between the second input module and the host in response to the input device being in a first state, and to control interaction between the first input module and the host in response to the input device being in a second state.

[0010] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the switching component includes: a magnetic element disposed in the second housing, the magnetic element being used to generate a magnetic field; and a sensing element disposed in the first housing, wherein in a first state, when the sensing element senses the magnetic field, it controls the second input module to interact with the host, and in a second state, when the sensing element does not sense the magnetic field, it controls the first input module to interact with the host.

[0011] A second aspect of this disclosure provides an electronic device, comprising: a host computer; at least one input device, the at least one input device being communicatively connected to the host computer; the input device comprising: a first input module, the first input module including a detection element, the first input module being configured to respond to relative movement between the detection element and a target surface to generate a first input signal for interaction with the host computer, wherein the target surface is the surface opposite to the detection element; the input device having a first state and a second state, wherein in the first state, a portion of the input device for contacting the target surface is a first portion, and in the second state, a portion of the input device for contacting the target surface is a second portion, the area of ​​the second portion being larger than that of the first portion.

[0012] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a first input device and / or a second input device are included, the first input device and / or the second input device being detachably connected to a host computer, the host computer having a display screen, and the first input device and / or the second input device being located around the display screen.

[0013] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the input device includes: a housing having a first housing and a second housing movably connected thereto, and a first input module disposed in the first housing; the input device further includes: a second input module, the second input module being used to respond to an input operation on the input device to generate a second input signal for interaction with a host, and both the second input module and the first input module being disposed in the first housing.

[0014] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become clearer from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] Figure 1A schematic diagram of one of the structural features of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0017] Figure 2 A second schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0018] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 3.

[0019] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 4.

[0020] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 5.

[0021] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 6.

[0022] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 7.

[0023] Figure 8 This illustration schematically shows one of the electronic device application diagrams according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 9 The illustration shows a second schematic diagram of an electronic device application according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Reference numerals: 1. Input device; 10. First input module; 101. Detector; 20. Second input module; 40. Housing; 41. First housing; 41A. First side; 41B. Second side; 410. First surface; 411. First contact portion; 4111. First gasket; 42. Second housing; 42A. Third side; 42B. Fourth side; 420. Second surface; 421. Second contact portion; 4211. Second gasket; 50. Switching assembly; 51. Magnetic component; 52. Sensing component; 60. Support groove; 70. Buffer layer; 80. Connector; 81. First magnet; 82. Second magnet.

[0026] 2. Host computer. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that these descriptions are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure for ease of explanation. However, it will be apparent that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and techniques are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concepts of the present disclosure.

[0028] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. The terms “comprising,” “including,” etc., as used herein indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, or components.

[0029] All terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be noted that the terms used herein are to be interpreted in a manner consistent with the context of this specification, and not in an idealized or overly rigid way.

[0030] When using expressions such as "at least one of A, B and C", they should generally be interpreted in accordance with the meaning that is commonly understood by those skilled in the art (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B and C" should include, but is not limited to, a system having A alone, a system having B alone, a system having C alone, a system having A and B, a system having A and C, a system having B and C, and / or a system having A, B and C, etc.).

[0031] Embodiments of this disclosure provide an input device, including: a first input module, the first input module including a detection element, the first input module being configured to generate a first input signal in response to relative movement between the detection element and a target surface, wherein the target surface is the surface opposite to the detection element; the input device having a first state and a second state, wherein in the first state, the portion of the input device used to contact the target surface is a first portion, and in the second state, the portion of the input device used to contact the target surface is a second portion, the area of ​​the second portion being larger than that of the first portion.

[0032] The following will be through Figures 1-7 The input device 1 of the disclosed embodiment will be described in detail.

[0033] Figure 1 One of the schematic diagrams of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 A second schematic diagram of the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0034] like Figure 1and Figure 2 As shown, the input device 1 in this embodiment includes a first input module 10.

[0035] The first input module 10 includes a detection element 101. The first input module 10 is used to respond to the relative movement between the detection element 101 and the target surface to form a first input signal, wherein the target surface is the surface opposite to the detection element 101.

[0036] For example, input device 1 is a device that can generate an input signal in response to the relative movement of a detection element and a target surface. For instance, input device 1 can be a device with cursor input functionality, such as a mouse, touchpad, touchscreen, handwriting tablet, or game controller. First input module 10 can be a module that implements mouse functionality. Detector 101 is used to detect the movement of input device 1 within the target surface, generating a first input signal to move the cursor. After input device 1 is communicatively connected to host 2, the cursor of input device 1 can be displayed on the screen of host 2. As input device 1 moves relative to the target surface, a cursor movement signal can be generated, thereby enabling the cursor to move on the screen.

[0037] When the input device is a mouse, the movement of the mouse on the mouse pad generates a cursor movement signal. When the input device is a touchscreen, the movement of a finger or stylus on the touchscreen surface generates a cursor movement signal. When the input device is a game controller, moving the joystick generates a cursor movement signal.

[0038] The detection element 101 is capable of detecting displacement changes of the input device 1 in the vertical and horizontal directions. For example, the detection element 101 may include a ball, a roller, a grating signal sensor, a photoelectric sensor, or an electro-optical thin film, etc. However, this application is not limited to these, meaning that those skilled in the art can adjust or set the type of the detection element 101 according to specific needs.

[0039] When the detection element 101 is a photoelectric sensor, it can generate photoelectric pulse signals to reflect the displacement changes of the input device 1 in the vertical and horizontal directions. These signals are then processed and converted by the program to form a motion signal to control the movement of the cursor. When the detection element 101 is an electrochromic film, when a user's finger slides on the touchscreen, the human body charge changes the capacitance of the touch area. The capacitive touchscreen can sense this change and record the slide and the response to the touch event through its internal capacitive sensor. These signals are then sent to the control circuit, processed to determine the position and operation of the touch slide, and the result is sent to the relevant device or application, thereby realizing the touchscreen's sliding function.

[0040] The target surface can be a surface of a separate entity from the input device 1. It can be understood as the surface of the entity supporting the input device 1 that contacts it, such as the surface of a mouse pad. The target surface can also be a surface that can contact or separate from the input device 1, such as a finger. The target surface can also be part of the input device 1, such as the surface where the joystick of a game controller is initially positioned. Depending on the arrangement of the detection element 101 and the input device 1, the target surface will vary depending on the different structures of the detection element 101.

[0041] Input device 1 has a first state and a second state. Input device 1 can switch between the first state and the second state. For example, the first state can be the off state of input device 1, and the second state can be the active state of input device 1. The first state can also be the game state of input device 1, and the second state can also be the mouse state of input device 1. When input device 1 switches from the first state to the second state, the contact area between input device 1 and the target surface increases. When input device 1 switches from the second state to the first state, the contact area between input device 1 and the target surface decreases. For example, an additional contact surface can be pulled out from input device 1, or an additional contact surface hidden in input device 1 can be rotated out, etc.

[0042] In the first state, the portion of the input device 1 used for contacting the target surface is the first portion; in the second state, the portion of the input device 1 used for contacting the target surface is the second portion, and the area of ​​the second portion is larger than that of the first portion. It should be noted that, in one possible case, the area of ​​the first portion can be zero.

[0043] For example, the first state can be the off state of the first input module 10 (e.g., a mouse); the second state can be the active state of the first input module 10 (e.g., a mouse). The first state can also be the active state of other functional modules of the input device 1 (e.g., a game module) but requiring the mouse function to be off, and the second state can be the active state of the first input module 10 as a mouse. The first state can also be the state where the touch function of the touch screen is disabled, and the second state can be the state where the touch function of the touch screen is enabled.

[0044] Input device 1 has two states (a first state and a second state), and the contact area between input device 1 and the target surface differs in the two states. In the first state, a first part of input device 1 can contact the target surface; in the second state, a second part of input device 1 contacts the target surface. The contact area between input device 1 and the target surface is larger in the active state (i.e., the area of ​​the second part) than in the deactivated state (i.e., the area of ​​the first part). When input device 1 switches from the first state to the second state, the contact area between input device 1 and the target surface increases. For example, in the touchscreen's disabled state, there is no contact area between the finger and the touchscreen; in the touchscreen's active state, there is contact area between the phone and the touchscreen. That is, when switching from the first state to the second state, the contact area between the finger and the touchscreen increases.

[0045] Understandably, this input device can switch its contact area as needed to adapt to different operating environments or task requirements. By changing the contact area, users can enjoy different operating sensations and feedback, enhancing the overall user experience. Simultaneously, this device can achieve multiple input methods with a single device, reducing the need for additional equipment and increasing its practicality.

[0046] In some embodiments, the input device 1 includes a housing 40.

[0047] The housing 40 has a first housing 41 and a second housing 42 that are movably connected. The first input module 10 is disposed on the first housing 41. In a first state, the second housing 42 is in a first position relative to the first housing 41, the detection element 101 faces the second housing 42, and the first housing 41 is in contact with the second housing 42. In a second state, the second housing 42 is in a second position relative to the first housing 41, the second position is different from the first position, and the detection element 101 faces outward from the housing 40.

[0048] In the first state, the second housing 42 can also isolate the contact between the detection element 101 and the target surface.

[0049] For example, the input device 1 has a housing 40, which includes a first housing 41 and a second housing 42. The first housing 41 and the second housing 42 are movably connected; for example, the first housing 41 can be rotatably connected to the second housing 42. The first housing 41 can also be slidably connected to the second housing 42. The relative position between the first housing 41 and the second housing 42 can be changed to adapt to different usage states of different input devices 1.

[0050] The first input module 10 can be located inside the first housing 41 (e.g., a mouse) or on the surface of the first housing 41 (e.g., a joystick of a game controller).

[0051] Continuing with the example of the input device 1 as a mouse, the detection element 101 can be disposed on the first surface 410 of the first part. When the mouse is off, the second surface 420 of the second housing 42 can be in contact with the first surface 410 of the first housing 41. The second housing 42 can be an extension of the first housing 41 along the length of the input device 1. The side of the second housing 42 away from the first housing 41 (i.e., the first part) can contact the target surface. The second housing 42 can overlap with the first housing 41, isolating the detection element 101 from the outside world. The relative movement between the detection element 101 and the target surface cannot be detected; therefore, the input device 1 cannot be used as a mouse. When the mouse is in use, the second surface 420 of the second housing 42 can face the same direction as the first surface 410 of the first housing 41 (both facing the target surface). The second housing 42 can be an extension of the first housing 41 along the width of the input device 1. In this case, the first surface 410 of the first housing 41 and the second surface 420 of the second housing 42 can contact the target surface. When the second housing 42 moves relative to the first housing 41, the detection element 101 in the first surface 410 of the first housing 41 is exposed. When the first surface 410 and the second surface 420 are relatively displaced with the target surface, the detection element 101 can detect the change in the displacement of the input device 1, thereby generating a cursor movement signal, causing the cursor on the display screen to move.

[0052] It is understandable that by using a movable first and second housing, the contact area between the input device and the target surface can be changed under different states (i.e., different task requirements or operating environments), so as to achieve rapid changes in the shape of the input device to adapt to different states.

[0053] The movable connection between the first housing 41 and the second housing 42. (Combined) Figures 2-5 Please provide an explanation.

[0054] Figure 3 The third schematic diagram illustrates the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] In one feasible approach, continue to refer to Figure 2 The first part can be hinged to the second part, and the rotation angle of the second housing 42 relative to the first housing 41 is greater than 180°.

[0056] For example, the first side 41A of the first end of the first housing 41 (i.e., the end near the first surface 410) can be hinged to the third side 42A of the second housing 42, and the hinge axis is arranged along the thickness direction of the input device 1. The second side 41B of the first end of the second housing 42 can be detachably connected to the fourth side 42B of the second housing 42.

[0057] When using input device 1 (i.e., the second state), the second housing 42 is rotated 180 degrees along the hinge axis, so that the fourth side 42B of the second housing 42 moves away from the second side 41B of the first housing 41, allowing both the second surface 420 of the second housing 42 and the first surface 410 of the first housing 41 to contact the target surface. When not using input device 1 (i.e., the first state), the second housing 42 is rotated along the hinge axis, so that the fourth side 42B of the second housing 42 moves closer to the second side 41B of the first housing 41, allowing the second surface 420 of the second housing 42 to contact the first surface 410 of the first housing 41.

[0058] For example, refer to Figure 3 The second side 41B of the first end of the first housing 41 and the fourth side 42B of the second housing 42 can be detachably connected by a connector 80. The connector 80 may include a first magnet 81 disposed on the second side 41B of the first housing 41 and a second magnet 82 disposed on the fourth side 42B of the second housing 42, and the first magnet 81 and the second magnet 82 can be magnetically connected.

[0059] In use, forcefully separating the first magnet 81 from the second magnet 82 will move the second housing 42 away from the first housing 41. The first housing 41 and the second housing 42 are then fixedly connected by the magnetic attraction between the first magnet 81 and the second magnet 82.

[0060] It should be noted that this disclosure does not specifically limit the rotation angle between the second housing 42 and the first housing 41. In other embodiments, the rotation angle between the second housing 42 and the first housing 41 can also be 200 degrees or 270 degrees, as long as the rotation of the second housing 42 can make the first surface 410 of the first housing 41 and the second surface 420 of the second housing 42 flush.

[0061] Figure 4 The fourth schematic diagram illustrates the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] In another possible implementation, refer to Figure 4 The second housing 42 can be slidably connected to the first end of the first housing 41, and the sliding direction is the same as the width direction of the input device 1.

[0063] For example, the second housing 42 can be slid outward along the width direction of the input device 1, exposing its second surface 420 to contact the target surface, thereby increasing the contact area between the input device 1 and the target surface. Sliding the second housing 42 inward along the width direction of the input device 1 allows it to overlap with the first housing 41, thus shielding the detection element 101. When the second housing 42 overlaps with the first housing 41 (i.e., the first state), magnetic pieces can be placed on both the second housing 42 and the first housing 41 to achieve magnetic attraction and fixation between them.

[0064] Figure 5 The fifth schematic diagram illustrates the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] In another possible implementation, continue to refer to Figure 5 The first side 41A of the first end of the first housing 41 (i.e. the end near the first surface 410) can be rotatably connected to the third side 42A of the second housing 42, and the axis of rotation is arranged along the length direction of the input device 1.

[0066] For example, the second housing 42 can be rotated 180 degrees clockwise along the rotation axis so that the first surface 410 of the first housing 41 is exposed and in contact with the target surface. Simultaneously, the side of the rotated second housing 42 away from the first surface 410 can also contact the target surface, thereby increasing the contact area between the input device 1 and the target surface. The second housing 42 can be rotated 180 degrees counterclockwise along the rotation axis so that the first surface 410 of the first housing 41 is blocked by the second housing 42. When the second housing 42 overlaps with the first housing 41 (i.e., the first state), the connection and fixation between the second housing 42 and the first housing 41 can be achieved through the aforementioned magnetic attraction.

[0067] It is necessary to understand that Figure 5 The rotational connection between the first housing and the second housing shown is similar to... Figure 2 Different Figure 5 The rotation method in the middle is that when the second shell is unfolded, the third surface of the second shell (i.e. the surface opposite to the second surface) comes into contact with the target surface.

[0068] In some embodiments, the first housing 41 has a first contact portion 411, and the second housing 42 has a second contact portion 421.

[0069] In the first state, the first contact portion 411 faces the second housing 42, and the second contact portion 421 faces the first housing 41; in the second state, the first contact portion 411 is used to contact the target surface, and the second contact portion 421 is used to contact the target surface.

[0070] For example, the first contact portion 411 may be part of the first housing 41, such as the first surface 410 of the first housing 41; the first contact portion 411 may also be a physical entity connected to the first housing 41, such as the first contact portion 411 being fixedly connected to the first surface 410 of the first housing 41. The second contact portion 421 may be part of the second housing 42, such as the second surface 420 of the second housing 42; the second contact portion 421 may also be a physical entity connected to the second housing 42, such as the second contact portion 421 being fixedly connected to the second surface 420 of the second housing 42.

[0071] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The first end of the first housing 41 may have a first receiving space, which may have a first opening. A first contact portion 411 is located within the first receiving space, and a first engaging groove is formed between the outer peripheral wall of the first contact portion 411 and the inner peripheral wall of the first opening. A detection element 101 is disposed on the side of the first contact portion 411 away from the first housing 41. The side of the first contact portion 411 away from the first housing 41 protrudes from the end face of the first opening. The second surface 420 of the second housing 42 may be provided with a second contact portion 421, which protrudes from the second surface 420 of the second housing 42. The second contact portion 421 is arranged in a ring to form a second receiving cavity into which the first contact portion 411 is inserted.

[0072] In the first state, the first surface 410 of the first housing 41 is in contact with the second surface 420 of the second housing 42. At this time, the first contact portion 411 is inserted into the second receiving cavity, and the second contact portion 421 is engaged with the first snap-fit ​​groove. The second housing 42 isolates the detection element 101 from the base of the target surface. In the second state, both the first contact portion 411 and the second contact portion 421 face the target surface, and the sides of the first contact portion 411 and the second contact portion 421 closest to the target surface are located in the same horizontal plane.

[0073] In some embodiments, the area of ​​the second contact portion 421 is larger than that of the first contact portion 411.

[0074] It is understandable that the contact area between the second contact portion 421 and the target surface is greater than the contact area between the first contact portion 411 and the target surface.

[0075] For example, in the second state, when the input device 1 is used as a mouse, the second contact part 421 serves as a support for the user's hand, and has a larger contact area to better support the user's hand, making the movement of the input device 1 more stable during use.

[0076] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 2A first gasket 4111 may be provided on the side of the first contact portion 411 away from the first housing 41, and a second gasket 4211 may be provided on the side of the second contact portion 421 away from the second housing 42.

[0077] For example, two first gaskets 4111 are spaced apart on the side of the first contact portion 411 away from the first housing 41, and the detection element 101 is located between the two first gaskets 4111. A second gasket 4211 is provided on the side of the second contact portion 421 away from the second housing 42. In the second state, the first gaskets 4111 and the second gaskets 4211 are in contact with the target surface.

[0078] It is understandable that by setting the first shim and the second shim, the bottom of the input device 1 can be protected from wear, the service life of the input device 1 can be extended, and the resistance when the input device 1 moves can be reduced, thus improving the smoothness of the movement of the input device 1.

[0079] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 1 The side of the second housing 42 away from the first housing 41 may also have a support groove 60.

[0080] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, an arc-shaped support groove 60 is provided on the third surface of the second housing 42 (i.e., the surface opposite to the second surface 420).

[0081] It is understandable that by providing the support slot 60 so that when the user uses the input device 1 in the second state, the second part of the support slot 60 can facilitate the user's hand placement, so as to better support the user's hand and increase the comfort of using the device.

[0082] In one feasible approach, continue to refer to Figure 1 A buffer layer 70 may be provided on the side of the second housing 42 away from the first housing 41, and the support groove 60 is located inside the buffer layer 70.

[0083] The third surface of the second housing 42 is provided with a buffer layer 70 made of rubber material, and the side of the buffer layer 70 away from the second housing 42 has a support groove 60.

[0084] Understandably, in the second state, the cushioning layer 70 provides a better tactile feel for the user's hand. Therefore, the combination of the cushioning layer 70 and the support groove 60 further enhances the user experience.

[0085] Figure 6 The sixth schematic diagram illustrates the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] In another possible implementation, refer to Figure 6 A buffer layer 70 can be provided on the inner side wall of the support groove 60.

[0087] A cushioning layer 70 made of rubber is laid inside the support groove 60. In the second state, when the user's hand is placed inside the support groove 60, the cushioning layer 70 provides a good tactile feel for the user's hand.

[0088] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The input device 1 also includes a second input module 20.

[0089] The second input module 20 is used to respond to input operations on the input device 1 to form a second input signal. The second input module 20 and the first input module 10 are both disposed in the first part.

[0090] It is understood that the second input module 20 is a device capable of responding to input operations on the input device 1 to generate an input signal. For example, the second input module can be a device with input functionality, and the second input module 20 is a module with a different function from the first input module 10.

[0091] For example, the first input module 10 may be a module related to mouse movement, and the second input module 20 may be a module related to mouse click (e.g., left click, right click, or scroll wheel).

[0092] The first input module 10 can be a joystick in a game controller, and the second input module 20 can be a selection button in a game controller.

[0093] The first input module 10 can be a module related to a mouse, and the second input module 20 can be a module related to a game controller 91. That is, the input device 1 is a device with mouse mode and game mode, such as a handheld game console. Game mode is the first state, and mouse mode is the second state.

[0094] The first input module 10 and the second input module 20 can be components corresponding to different functions in the same product, or they can be components corresponding to different functions in different products.

[0095] When the first input module is a mouse-related module and the second input module is a game controller-related module, in the first state, the second housing 42 can overlap with the first housing 41, and the input device 1 is in game mode. In this state, the second housing 42 isolates the sensor 101 from contact with the target surface, the cursor on the input device 1 cannot move, the mouse mode is disabled, and the user cannot interact with the host 2 through the first input module 10. However, the user can generate a second input signal through the second input module 20 to interact with the host 2. For example, the user can control the movement of a character in the game using a joystick. In game mode, the second housing 42 does not need to be unfolded; the first housing 41 and the second housing 42 remain folded, facilitating user operation of the game using the input device 1.

[0096] In the second state, the second housing 42 can be relatively displaced from the first housing 41. At this time, the detection element 101 is exposed, and both the first surface 410 of the first housing 41 and the second surface 420 of the second housing 42 can contact the target surface. The input device 1 can be considered to be in mouse mode, with game mode disabled, preventing the user from interacting with the host 2 through the second input module 20. However, the user can generate a first input signal through the first input module 10 to interact with the host 2. For example, when the user moves the input device 1, the detection element 101 detects the relative movement between the input device 1 and the target surface, generating a cursor movement signal, allowing the cursor to move on the host 2's display screen. Alternatively, the user can control page scrolling by moving a joystick. In mouse mode, the second housing 42 can be unfolded, allowing both the first contact portion 411 of the first housing 41 and the second contact portion 421 of the second housing 42 to contact the target surface, increasing the contact area between the input device 1 and the target surface and improving the stability of the input device 1 during use.

[0097] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 2 The input device 1 shown may also include a switching component 50.

[0098] The switching component 50 is used to control the interaction between the second input module 20 and the host 2 in response to the input device 1 being in the first state, and to control the interaction between the first input module 10 and the host 2 in response to the input device 1 being in the second state.

[0099] For example, the switching component 50 may be a toggle switch, which, when moved to the first side, causes the input device 1 to enter a first state, and when moved to the second side, causes the input device 1 to enter a second state. The switching component 50 may also be a rotary switch, etc.

[0100] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when the input device 1 is in a second state (e.g., game mode), the switching component 50 can block the first input signal and activate the second input signal, enabling the second input signal generated by the second module to interact with the host 2. When the input device 1 is in a first state (e.g., mouse mode), the switching component 50 can block the second input signal and activate the first input signal, enabling the first input signal generated by the first module to control the host 2.

[0101] Understandably, the switching component 50 ensures the uniqueness of the signal interaction between the input device 1 and the host 2 in different states, preventing confusion caused by multiple signals generated by the input device 1 in different states interacting with the host 2. This improves the user experience of the product in different states.

[0102] Figure 7 The seventh schematic diagram illustrates the structure of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] like Figure 7 As shown, in one possible implementation, the switching component 50 may include a magnetic element 51 and a sensing element 52.

[0104] A magnetic component 51 is disposed on the second housing 42 and is used to generate a magnetic field; a sensing component 52 is disposed on the first housing 41. In the first state, when the sensing component 52 senses the magnetic field, it controls the second input module 20 to interact with the host 2. In the second state, when the sensing component 52 does not sense the magnetic field, it controls the first input module 10 to interact with the host 2.

[0105] The magnetic component 51 is a device that can generate a magnetic field. The sensing component 52 is a device that can detect the presence of a magnetic field.

[0106] For example, the magnetic element 51 may be a third magnet. The sensing element 52 may be a Hall sensor.

[0107] In other embodiments, the magnetic element 51 can also be an energized wire, in which current flows to generate a magnetic field. The sensing element 52 can be a current loop, a magnetic field sensor, or a piece of iron, etc.

[0108] The magnetic element 51 can be disposed on the second surface 420 of the second housing 42, and the magnetic element 51 is located within the second accommodating space. The sensing element 52 can be disposed on the side of the first contact portion 411 near the second housing 42, and in the first state, the positions of the sensing element 52 and the magnetic element 51 overlap.

[0109] For example, in the case where the first input module is a mouse-related module and the second input module is a game controller-related module, in the first state, i.e., when the input device 1 is in game mode, the third magnet corresponds to the position of the Hall sensor. The third magnet generates a magnetic field. When the Hall sensor senses the magnetic field, it blocks the first input signal generated by the first input module 10 and activates the second input signal. The user then generates a second input signal through the second input module 20 to interact with the host 2.

[0110] In the second state, i.e., when input device 1 is in mouse mode, rotating the second housing 42 away from the first housing 41, so that the Hall sensor can no longer detect the magnetic field generated by the third magnet, blocks the second signal generated by the second input module 20 and activates the first input signal. As the second housing 42 rotates, it moves the third magnet away from the Hall sensor, meaning the magnetic field sensed by the Hall sensor becomes weaker and weaker. Finally, the second contact portion 421 of the second housing 42 and the first contact portion 411 of the first housing 41 are rotated to the same horizontal plane and in contact with the target surface, thus realizing the mouse function of input device 1.

[0111] In other embodiments, the first state may also be when the magnetic field strength sensed by the sensor 52 is greater than a first threshold (e.g., the magnetic field strength is greater than 1.2 A / m), and the second input module 20 is controlled to interact with the host 2. The second state may also be when the magnetic field strength sensed by the sensor 52 is less than a second threshold (e.g., the magnetic field strength is less than 0.1 A / m), and the first input module 10 is controlled to interact with the host 2.

[0112] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein do not impose specific limitations on the threshold values ​​(first threshold and second threshold) for the magnetic field strength setting. The first threshold and second threshold can be set according to the magnitude of the magnetic field strength generated by the magnetic component 51 and the sensitivity of the sensing component 52 to the magnetic field in actual applications.

[0113] Understandably, by setting up a sensor and a magnetic component, magnetic field induction serves as the trigger condition for the signals generated by the first and second input modules. When the second housing moves away from the first housing, the sensor's sensitivity to the magnetic field gradually weakens, which can both trigger the first input signal of the first input module and increase the contact area between the input device 1 and the target surface when used as a mouse. When the second housing moves closer to the first housing, the sensor's sensitivity to the magnetic field gradually strengthens, which can both trigger the second input signal of the second input module, and at the same time, the second housing can isolate the sensor from contact with the target surface, blocking the first input signal.

[0114] The combination of magnetic and sensing elements not only enables the switching between the first and second states of the input device, reducing wear between the first and second housings, but also allows the input device in different states to have corresponding usage states, improving the user experience.

[0115] In other embodiments, the sensing element 52 may be disposed in the second housing 42, and the magnetic field element may be disposed in the first housing 41 at a position corresponding to the sensing element 52.

[0116] It should be noted that this embodiment does not specifically limit the location of the sensing element 52 in the first housing 41 or the location of the magnetic field element in the second housing 42. It is sufficient that the locations of the sensing element 52 and the magnetic field element allow for both situations where a magnetic field is sensed and situations where no magnetic field is sensed.

[0117] Figure 8 One of the schematic diagrams illustrating an electronic device application according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0118] This disclosure also discloses an electronic device, including: a host and at least one input device.

[0119] At least one input device is communicatively connected to the host computer;

[0120] The input device includes: a first input module, the first input module including a detection element, the first input module being used to respond to the relative movement between the detection element and the target surface to generate a first input signal for interaction with the host, wherein the target surface is the surface opposite to the detection element; the input device has a first state and a second state, in the first state, the portion of the input device used to contact the target surface is a first part, in the second state, the portion of the input device used to contact the target surface is a second part, the area of ​​the second part being larger than that of the first part.

[0121] For example, host 2 can be a terminal device with a display screen, such as a smart TV or computer. The input device is the same as input device 1 described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0122] The system can have one or more input devices. Multiple input devices can be devices with the same function and form, or devices with the same function but different forms. For example, a computer can connect to one mouse, or it can connect to both a mouse and a touchpad simultaneously. A smart TV can connect to one game controller, or it can connect to two game controllers simultaneously.

[0123] For example, refer to Figure 8In the case of an electronic device having an input device, the host 2 can be a smart TV, and the input device 1 can be a game controller. For example, the display screen of the host 2 can display a game application, and the target object in the game application can be moved in multiple directions by using the first input module on the game controller (e.g., moving a joystick).

[0124] For example, the first state could be game mode, where the user holds the input device (i.e., a game controller) to perform various operations in the game application. The second state could be mouse mode, where the user changes the shape of the input device to increase the contact area between the input device and the mouse pad, allowing the cursor to be moved by moving the input device on the surface of the mouse pad.

[0125] Figure 9 The illustration shows a second schematic diagram of an electronic device application according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 9 The electronic device may include a first input device 1 and / or a second input device 1.

[0127] The first input device 1 and / or the second input device 1 are detachably connected to the host 2, which has a display screen. The first input device 1 and / or the second input device 1 are located around the periphery of the display screen. Exemplarily, the first and second input devices are detachably connected to the host, thus allowing the host to be detached from the electronic device for independent use, the first and second input devices to be detached from the host for combined use, or both the first and second input devices to be connected to the host for combined use. The first and second input devices can be slidably connected to or slidably separated from the host. The first and second input devices can also be snapped into or detached from the host. Users can choose the number and usage method of the input devices according to different application scenarios.

[0128] The first and second input devices can be symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the display screen, or arranged side-by-side on one side of the display screen. Users can interact with the host computer through the first input modules on the first and second input devices. For example, refer to... Figure 9 The electronic device may include a host 2, a first input device 1, and a second input device 1. The electronic device may be a handheld game console, and the first input device 1 and the second input device 1 may be game controllers.

[0129] The first input device 1 and the second input device 1 can be slidably connected to opposite sides of the host 2. Users can move the target object displayed on the host screen by operating the buttons on the first input device 1 and the second input device 1.

[0130] In some embodiments, the input device 1 includes a housing 40 having a first housing 41 and a second housing 42 movably connected, and a first input module 10 disposed on the first housing 41.

[0131] The input device 1 further includes a second input module 20, which is used to respond to an input operation on the input device 1 to generate a second input signal. Both the second input module 20 and the first input module 10 are disposed in the first housing 41. Exemplarily, the connection structure between the first housing 41 and the second housing 42 can refer to the above description. Figures 2-5 The explanation will not be repeated here.

[0132] For example, the second input module is the same as the second input module 20 described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0133] For example, refer to Figure 8 The input device 1 can integrate both a mouse module (first input module) and a game module (second input module). When used as a game controller, the input device can also function as a mouse. In game mode, the user can control the movement of the character in the game using the joystick on the electronic device. In game mode, the second housing 42 does not need to be unfolded; the first housing 41 and the second housing 42 remain folded, facilitating user operation of the input device 1 during gameplay. In mouse mode, the second housing 42 can be unfolded to increase the contact area between the input device 1 and the mouse pad, thereby facilitating mouse movement.

[0134] In some embodiments, the input device 1 further includes a switching component 50.

[0135] The switching component 50 is used to switch the input device 1 to a first state or a second state, so as to control the second input module 20 to interact with the host 2 in response to the input device 1 being in the first state, and to control the first input module 10 to interact with the host 2 in response to the input device 1 being in the second state.

[0136] For example, when the input device 1 is in a second state (e.g., game mode), the switching component 50 can block the first input signal and activate the second input signal, enabling the second input signal generated by the second module to interact with the host 2. When the input device 1 is in a first state (e.g., mouse mode), the switching component 50 can block the second input signal and activate the first input signal, enabling the first input signal generated by the first module to control the host 2.

[0137] For the specific implementation of switching component 50, please refer to the above. Figure 7 The explanation will not be repeated here.

[0138] Those skilled in the art will understand that the features described in the various embodiments and / or claims of this disclosure can be combined or combined in various ways, even if such combinations or combinations are not explicitly described in this disclosure. In particular, the features described in the various embodiments and / or claims of this disclosure can be combined or combined in various ways without departing from the spirit and teachings of this disclosure. All such combinations and / or combinations fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0139] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. However, these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Although various embodiments have been described above, this does not mean that the measures in the various embodiments cannot be used advantageously in combination. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Various substitutions and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure, and all such substitutions and modifications should fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An input device, comprising: A first input module, comprising a detection element, is used to generate a first input signal in response to the relative movement of the detection element and a target surface, wherein the target surface is the surface opposite to the detection element. The input device has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the portion of the input device used for contacting the target surface is the first portion. In the second state, the portion of the input device used to contact the target surface is the second portion, and the area of ​​the second portion is larger than that of the first portion.

2. The input device according to claim 1, comprising: The housing has a first housing and a second housing that are movably connected, and the first input module is disposed in the first housing; In the first state, the second housing is in a first position relative to the first housing, the detection element faces the second housing, and the first housing is in contact with the second housing; In the second state, the second housing is in a second position relative to the first housing, which is different from the first position, and the detection element faces outward from the housing.

3. The input device according to claim 2, wherein the first housing has a first contact portion and the second housing has a second contact portion; In the first state, the first contact portion faces the second housing, and the second contact portion faces the first housing; In the second state, the first contact portion is used to contact the target surface, and the second contact portion is used to contact the target surface.

4. The input device according to claim 3, wherein the area of ​​the second contact portion is larger than that of the first contact portion.

5. The input device according to claim 2, further comprising: A second input module is used to respond to input operations on the input device to generate a second input signal. Both the second input module and the first input module are disposed in the first housing.

6. The input device according to claim 5, further comprising: A switching component is configured to control the interaction between the second input module and the host in response to the input device being in a first state, and to control the interaction between the first input module and the host in response to the input device being in a second state.

7. The input device according to claim 6, wherein the switching component comprises: A magnetic element is disposed in the second housing, and the magnetic element is used to generate a magnetic field; as well as A sensor is disposed in the first housing. In the first state, when the sensor senses the magnetic field, it controls the second input module to interact with the host. In the second state, when the sensor does not sense the magnetic field, it controls the first input module to interact with the host.

8. An electronic device, comprising: Host; At least one input device, the at least one input device being communicatively connected to the host; The input device includes: A first input module, comprising a detection element, is used to respond to the relative movement of the detection element and a target surface to generate a first input signal for interaction with the host, wherein the target surface is the surface opposite to the detection element; The input device has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the portion of the input device used to contact the target surface is a first portion. In the second state, the portion of the input device used to contact the target surface is a second portion, and the area of ​​the second portion is larger than that of the first portion.

9. The electronic device according to claim 8, comprising a first input device and / or a second input device. The first input device and / or the second input device are detachably connected to the host computer. The host has a display screen, and the first input device and / or the second input device are located around the periphery of the display screen.

10. The electronic device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the input device comprises: The housing has a first housing and a second housing that are movably connected, and the first input module is disposed in the first housing; The input device further includes: a second input module. The second input module is used to respond to input operations on the input device to generate a second input signal for interaction with the host. Both the second input module and the first input module are disposed in the first housing.

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