Computer mouse and method for operating computer mouse

Abstract

The invention relates to a computer mouse and a method of operating a computer mouse. In some embodiments, a computer mouse includes a housing, a depressible key pad, and a haptic element coupled to a bottom surface of the depressible key pad. The haptic element may be configured to operate in a plurality of operating modes including a first mode and a second mode. In a first mode of operation, the haptic element may generate a haptic output that statically and unidirectionally deflects and remains at a deflection distance the haptic element and the coupled key plate. In a second mode of operation, the haptic element may produce a second haptic output that bidirectionally deflects the haptic element relative to the deflection distance, thereby producing vibration feedback superimposed on the unidirectional deflection at the deflection distance. In some aspects, the haptic element is a piezoelectric device, and the control signal is a voltage applied to the haptic element.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 578,121, filed on August 22, 2023, and entitled “HAPTICS AND SENSING SYSTEMS FOR AN INPUT DEVICE,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a computer mouse and a method of operating a computer mouse. Background Art

[0004] Haptic and transmission technology can refer to any technology that can create a touch experience by generating force, vibration or motion applied to the user. A haptic device can incorporate a tactile sensor that measures the force applied by the user to the interface, which can be used, for example, to adjust the amount of tactile feedback. Simple haptic devices are often in the form of game controllers, joysticks, steering wheels, and smartphones. The sense of touch can be divided into passive and active, and the term "haptic" is usually associated with active touch to communicate or identify objects.

[0005] While the sensing and haptics fields have undergone significant improvements, research, and development in recent years, there remains a need for better solutions to incorporate sensing and / or haptics into computer peripherals to improve the user experience through the more powerful and feature-rich enhancements that haptics can provide. Summary of the invention

[0006] In some embodiments, a computer mouse includes: a housing; a depressible keypad disposed within the housing, the keypad including a top surface and a bottom surface; a carrier platform including a top side and disposed within the housing; a tactile element coupled to the top side of the carrier platform; a biasing system configured to couple the carrier platform to the housing and provide a preload force that pushes the tactile element coupled to the carrier platform against the bottom surface of the depressible keypad; and a limiter element operable to physically limit a movable range of the keypad in one direction, which prevents the top surface of the keypad from deflecting beyond an adjacent top surface of the housing due to the preload force, and when the depressible keypad is in an undepressed neutral position, the top surface of the keypad and the adjacent top surface of the housing form a continuous contour. The biasing system may include a mechanical fastener that mechanically couples the carrier to the housing and allows the carrier platform to move relative to the housing within a movable range, and a biasing element that is compressed when the mechanical fastener is coupled to the housing. The combination of the biasing element and the mechanical fastener can provide a preload force that pushes the tactile element against the bottom surface of the depressible key plate. In some aspects, the combination of the key plate, the tactile element, and the carrier can be operated to be pressed together in response to a depressing force on the top surface of the key plate. The biasing element (e.g., a mechanical spring) can provide a restoring force that moves the combination of the key plate, the tactile element, and the carrier from any depressed position of the movable range back to a neutral position in which the top surface of the key plate is aligned in a continuous contour with an adjacent top surface of the housing.

[0007] In some embodiments, the limiter element is coupled to the key plate and includes a lip extending laterally beyond the end of the key plate, wherein the lip of the limiter element contacts a portion of the housing and prevents an edge of the top surface of the key plate from significantly deviating from an adjacent top surface of the housing. The limiter element can be combined with the key plate or with the carrier platform, can be a rigid mechanical structure, can be flexible and can be spring loaded or include a soft buffer, can be a piston-type structure with a spring pin or reverse spring pin configuration, or any combination thereof. The housing can include a top shell of a computer mouse. In some cases, the soft layer covers the top shell of the computer mouse and the top surface of the depressible key plate. In some cases, the carrier platform is a flexible carrier platform and operates as a biasing element that provides a preload force that pushes the tactile element against the bottom surface of the depressible key plate, the combination of the key plate, the tactile element and the carrier platform is operable to be pressed together in response to a depressing force on the top surface of the key plate, and the flexible carrier platform provides a restoring force that causes the combination of the key plate, the tactile element and the carrier to move from any depressed position within the movable range back to a neutral position in which the top surface of the key plate is in plane alignment with the top surface of the housing.

[0008] In some embodiments, a computer mouse includes: a housing; a depressible keypad, the depressible keypad is coupled to the housing, the keypad includes a top surface and a bottom surface; a carrier platform, the carrier platform includes a top side and is disposed within the housing; a tactile element, the tactile element is coupled to the top side of the carrier platform; a biasing system, the biasing system is configured to couple the carrier platform to the housing and provide a preload force that pushes the tactile element coupled to the carrier platform against the bottom surface of the depressible keypad; and a limiter element, the limiter element is operable to physically limit the movable range of the keypad in a manner opposite to the preload force that pushes the tactile element coupled to the carrier platform against the bottom surface of the depressible keypad. In certain embodiments, the biasing system includes a mechanical fastener that mechanically couples the carrier to the housing and allows the carrier platform to move relative to the housing within the movable range and a biasing element (e.g., a mechanical spring) that is compressed when the mechanical fastener is coupled to the housing. The combination of the biasing element and the mechanical fastener can provide a preload force that pushes the tactile element against the bottom surface of the depressible keypad. The combination of the keypad, tactile element, and carrier may be pressed together in response to a depressing force on the top surface of the keypad.

[0009] The biasing element can provide a restoring force that moves the combination of the key plate, the tactile element, and the carrier back to a neutral position from any depressed position of the movable range, in which the top surface of the key plate is aligned with the adjacent top surface of the housing in a continuous profile. In some embodiments, a limiter element is coupled to the key plate, and wherein the limiter element includes a lip extending laterally beyond the end of the key plate, wherein the lip of the limiter element contacts a portion of the housing and prevents the edge of the top surface of the key plate from significantly deflecting beyond the adjacent top surface of the housing. The limiter element can be combined with the key plate, can be a rigid mechanical structure and combined with the carrier platform, can be flexible and can be spring loaded or include a soft buffer, and / or can be a piston-type structure with a spring pin or reverse spring pin configuration. In some cases, the housing includes a top shell of a computer mouse, and the computer mouse can also include a silicone layer covering the top shell of the computer mouse and the top surface of the depressible key plate.

[0010] In some embodiments, a computer mouse includes: a housing; a multi-layer and depressible keypad, the keypad including a first layer and a second layer; a tactile element; a sub-base plate, the sub-base plate being configured to support the tactile element and directly connect the tactile element to the bottom surface of the first layer of the keypad; and a sensor (e.g., a force sensor, a key detection sensor, etc.). In some cases, when pressed down a threshold distance, the second layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad contacts the sensor, so that the sensor detects that the multi-layer depressible keypad is depressed. In some aspects, the multi-layer depressible keypad is a unitary structure so that the first layer and the second layer move relative to the housing as a single unit when the multi-layer depressible keypad is depressed. In some embodiments, the tactile energy generated by the tactile element is coupled to the first layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad, and the pressing force that pushes the multi-layer depressible keypad downward is coupled to the sensor via the second layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad. The first layer and the second layer can be vertically aligned so that the second layer is positioned below the first layer. The first layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad can be tuned to resonate at the operating frequency of the tactile drive element. In some embodiments, the tactile element is not directly coupled to the second layer of the keypad, and the tactile energy generated by the tactile element is substantially located in the first layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad. In some embodiments, the first layer is flexible and the second layer is rigid relative to the first layer. In some embodiments, the sub-base is not directly coupled to the multi-layer depressible keypad and is not directly coupled to the housing of the computer mouse. The first layer may include a first end, and the second layer includes a second end, and wherein the first layer is coupled to the second layer via the first end and the second end.

[0011] In other embodiments, a computer mouse includes a depressible keypad having a bottom side, a tactile element coupled to the bottom side of the depressible keypad, a flexible sub-bottom plate configured to support the tactile element and provide a preload force that pushes the tactile element against the bottom surface of the depressible keypad, a sensing element, and a load transfer element configured between the bottom of the flexible sub-bottom plate and the top of the sensing element and coupled thereto, the load transfer element being operable to transfer a force load from the keypad and the flexible bottom plate to the sensing element. The computer mouse may also include: an outer shell having an opening (e.g., an orifice) that defines a housing of the computer mouse, wherein the depressible keypad is configured within the opening of the outer shell; and an inner bottom plate that is disposed within the outer shell and configured to couple to and provide structural support for the combination of the keypad, the tactile element, the flexible sub-bottom plate, the load transfer element, and the sensor, wherein the depressible keypad is floating and disconnected from the outer shell. In some embodiments, a soft, compliant layer seamlessly covers the keypad and the outer shell. The tactile element can be structurally combined with the depressible key plate. The flexible sub-base plate can be tuned to include a static portion and a dynamic portion, wherein the static portion has an increased stiffness and the dynamic portion is tuned to the resonant frequency of the tactile element. Some embodiments may also include a limiter element that can be operated to physically limit the movable range of the key plate in a manner opposite to the preload force that pushes the tactile element connected to the flexible sub-base plate against the bottom surface of the depressible key plate. In some cases, the depressible key plate is a left mouse button or a right mouse button on a computer mouse. The flexible sub-base plate can be configured as a leaf spring. In some cases, the load transfer element is composed of a soft compliant material that damps vibration. In certain embodiments, the soft compliant material includes foam, polyurethane, rubber, polymer, or TPE. In some cases, the tactile element can be a piezoelectric element.

[0012] In other embodiments, a computer mouse includes: a housing; a depressible keypad, the depressible keypad including a bottom surface; and a tactile element, the tactile element being coupled to the bottom surface of the depressible keypad. The tactile element can be configured to operate in a plurality of operating modes including a first mode and a second mode. In the first operating mode, the tactile element can generate a tactile output that causes the tactile element and the coupled keypad to be statically and unidirectionally deflected and maintained at a deflection distance. In the second operating mode, the tactile element can generate a second tactile output that causes the tactile element to deflect bidirectionally relative to the deflection distance, thereby generating a vibration feedback superimposed on the unidirectional deflection at the deflection distance. In some aspects, the deflection distance corresponds to a control signal. The tactile element can be a piezoelectric device, and the control signal is a voltage applied to the tactile element. In some implementations, the tactile output in the first operating mode deflects the keypad unidirectionally to the deflection distance within 10 ms, thereby generating a single pulse feedback effect on the keypad. The vibration feedback can be independently controlled relative to the deflection distance. In some cases, the vibration feedback is controlled by a control signal that defines a positive deflection distance and a negative deflection distance of the vibration feedback. In some embodiments, the vibration feedback is controlled by a control signal that defines the force of the vibration feedback. In certain embodiments, the vibration feedback is controlled by a control signal that defines the time when the vibration feedback is fully deflected. In some cases, the second operating mode generates a press and hold tactile feedback, characterized in that in response to receiving a pressing force on the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element deflects unidirectionally and remains at the deflection distance, when the tactile element deflects at the deflection distance and the pressing force is detected on the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element generates vibration feedback, and after the pressing force is removed from the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element returns to the first operating mode. In some cases, the keypad is the left primary button or the right primary button of a computer mouse.

[0013] In some embodiments, a method of operating a computer mouse includes: controlling a tactile element by one or more processors to operate in one of a plurality of operation modes including a first operation mode and a second operation mode, wherein the tactile element is connected to a keypad of the computer mouse; when the tactile element is in the first operation mode, generating a tactile output that causes the tactile element and the connected keypad to deflect statically and unidirectionally and remain at a deflection distance; and when the tactile element is in the second operation mode, generating a second tactile output that causes the tactile element to deflect bidirectionally relative to the deflection distance, thereby generating a vibration feedback superimposed on the unidirectional deflection at the deflection distance. In some cases, one or more processors control the tactile element by a control signal defining a deflection distance of the unidirectional deflection of the tactile element. In some cases, the vibration feedback is controlled by a control signal defining a positive deflection distance and a negative deflection distance of the vibration feedback. In some aspects, the tactile element is a piezoelectric device, and the control signal is a voltage applied to the tactile element. In some embodiments, the tactile output in the first operating mode deflects the keypad unidirectionally to the deflection distance within 10ms, thereby generating a single pulse feedback effect on the keypad. In some cases, the vibration feedback is independently controlled relative to the deflection distance. In some embodiments, one or more processors control the tactile element by the following control signal: the control signal defines the positive deflection distance and negative deflection distance of the vibration feedback, the force of the vibration feedback, the time of complete deflection of the vibration feedback, or any combination thereof. In some aspects, in the second operating mode, a press and hold tactile feedback is generated, and it is characterized in that in response to receiving a pressing force on the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element deflects unidirectionally and remains at the deflection distance, when the tactile element deflects at the deflection distance, and the pressing force is detected on the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element generates vibration feedback, and after the pressing force is removed from the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element returns to the first operating mode. In some cases, the keypad is the left main button or the right main button of a computer mouse.

[0014] The terms and expressions that have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and in the use of such terms and expressions, it is not intended to exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described, or portions thereof. However, it should be recognized that various modifications may be made within the scope of the claimed system and method. Therefore, it should be understood that although the present system and method have been specifically disclosed by way of examples and optional features, those skilled in the art will recognize modifications and variations of the concepts disclosed herein, and such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of the system and method as defined by the appended claims.

[0015] This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used alone to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of the disclosure, any or all drawings, and each claim.

[0016] The foregoing features and examples, as well as other features and examples, will be described in detail in the following description, claims and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

[0018] The features of the above-mentioned various embodiments of the present invention as well as other features and advantages of certain embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1 shows a simplified diagram of a computer system according to certain embodiments;

[0020] Figure 2 shows a simplified block diagram of a system for operating an input device according to some embodiments;

[0021] Figure 3A and Figure 3B shows examples of how tactile elements may be configured on an input device according to certain embodiments;

[0022] Figures 4 to 5 depicts simplified waveforms showing tactile element states and corresponding current profiles for identifying push and release phases according to certain embodiments;

[0023] Figures 6 to 8 A solid-state computer mouse having multiple tactile elements constructed on a single input element is shown in accordance with certain embodiments;

[0024] Figures 9 and 10 A physical connection hinge between a keypad and a structural element of a computer mouse (eg, a top case) is shown in accordance with certain embodiments.

[0025] Fig.11 An example of a non-hinged key supported by a soft cover is shown;

[0026] Fig.12 An example of a fully floating keypad (no hinges) according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0027] Fig.13AA general prior art system for coupling a tactile element to an input device is shown;

[0028] Fig. 13B illustrates a problem with certain prior art systems that use a preload force;

[0029] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C shows a key sequence on a system that provides and maintains a preload force that pushes a tactile element against a key plate and further operates to prevent the key plate from extending beyond a predetermined position, in accordance with certain embodiments;

[0030] Fig.15 A system for providing preload at a mechanical interface between a support structure of a tactile element and a keypad area according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0031] Fig.16 A system including a compressible element used as a biasing mechanism according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0032] Fig.17 shows a system for providing preload via a slot-shaped recess in a housing into which a tactile element support structure is inserted, according to certain embodiments;

[0033] Fig.18 A keypad system with a leaf spring biasing system according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0034] Fig.19 and Fig. 20 A system for providing preload via flexibility of a soft top layer of a computer mouse is shown according to certain embodiments;

[0035] Fig. 20 shows a deformable layer encapsulating and enclosing a keypad according to certain embodiments;

[0036] Figure 21 to Figure 22 shows the use of a washer or screw type limiter element configured to prevent the key plate from moving in one direction beyond a threshold position according to certain embodiments;

[0037] Fig.23 Another variation of a washer or screw type restrictor element according to certain embodiments is shown, which also incorporates a compressible element;

[0038] Fig.24 A keypad system having a restrictor element coupled to the keypad via a clamping mechanism is shown according to certain embodiments;

[0039] Fig.25 A keypad system including a keypad with an incorporated restrictor element is shown according to certain embodiments;

[0040] Figure 26 to Figure 28 illustrates aspects of a stepped restrictor element and a carrier platform according to certain embodiments;

[0041] Figure 29 to Figure 30 shows an example of how a clamp may be used in a keypad lift prevention system according to certain embodiments;

[0042] Fig.30 including soft elements that allow compliance in the system to absorb tolerances between rigid elements and required compressive loads according to certain embodiments;

[0043] Fig.31A shows how a soft and / or compliant material may couple adjacent substantially rigid and vertical side walls of a keypad and computer mouse in accordance with certain embodiments;

[0044] Fig.31B shows how the top surface of the keypad according to some embodiments is generally planar with an abutting portion of a computer mouse housing;

[0045] Fig.31C A keypad including, according to some embodiments, extending around the end of the device housing, hooking under a protruding edge of the housing;

[0046] Fig.31D shows a keypad wrapped from a top plane to a side plane according to certain embodiments;

[0047] Fig.32A An implementation of a tactile element in a keypad with side-hinged keys in an area surrounding a scroll wheel opening according to some embodiments is shown;

[0048] Fig.32B shows the implementation of tactile elements in a keypad design covered by a soft compliant material according to certain embodiments;

[0049] Fig.33 shows an example of a plurality of tactile elements mounted on a common carrier support structure according to certain embodiments;

[0050] Fig.34 shows a modeling of an input element with a lateral direct tactile implementation according to certain embodiments;

[0051] Fig.35 shows the relationship between the keypad and the body of a computer mouse during electrical actuation of a tactile element;

[0052] Fig.36 is a first solution of a model according to certain embodiments, which illustrates coupled actuation and sensing in a lateral haptic solution;

[0053] Fig.37 depicts a model for illustrating disconnected coupling actuation and sensing in a lateral haptic solution, according to certain embodiments;

[0054] Fig.38 shows a model for disconnect actuation and sensing in a normally configured haptic solution according to certain embodiments;

[0055] Fig.39 shows a model for coupling actuation and sensing in a normally configured haptic solution according to certain embodiments;

[0056] Figure 40 to Figure 42 shows an example of a haptic device having a touch surface that is locally tuned to respond at a given resonant frequency by incorporating springs in the ambient and static regions, in accordance with certain embodiments;

[0057] Figures 43 to 46C shows an example of a keypad designed to intentionally vibrate at a specific frequency to match the excitation and response of a tactile element in accordance with certain embodiments;

[0058] Fig.47 An embedded keypad with tactile elements incorporated into the mouse top shell is shown;

[0059] Fig.48A An embedded multi-layer keypad with tactile elements incorporated into a mouse top shell is shown according to certain embodiments;

[0060] FIG. 48B to FIG. 48C A keypad system with an incorporated tactile element is shown according to certain embodiments;

[0061] Figures 49 to 51 shows an example of a haptic device according to certain embodiments, wherein a touch area is directly coupled to a tactile element housed by a floating sub-chassis;

[0062] Figure 52 to Figure 54 shows an example of a haptic device according to some embodiments, wherein motion is restricted in all directions except lateral motion tangential to the touch surface and aligned with the tactile element;

[0063] Fig.55 A keypad system utilizing a suspended membrane according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0064] Fig.56 Another keypad system utilizing a suspended membrane according to certain embodiments is shown;

[0065] Figure 57 to Figure 59shows an example of a dual-layer haptic device in accordance with certain embodiments, wherein the outer layer, i.e., the touchable surface, is comprised of a soft, compliant material;

[0066] Fig.60 and Fig.61 shows an example of the introduction of a compliant actuator configured between a touch surface and a sensing element according to some embodiments;

[0067] Figure 62 to Figure 65 An example of a compliant actuator that accurately transfers load to a sensor located in a sensing element is shown;

[0068] Fig.66 is a graph showing compliance induced by loads applied at different input levels according to certain embodiments;

[0069] Fig.67 is a graph showing a resultant linearization curve of applied load versus contact area on a sensing element according to certain embodiments;

[0070] Fig.68 shows an example of a sensing element coupled to a sub-chassis mounted on a top case of a computer mouse, wherein loads are transferred through the sub-chassis which also includes a tactile element, according to certain embodiments;

[0071] Fig.69 shows an example of a sensing element combined with a dedicated structure coupled to the bottom of a mouse, wherein loads are transferred through both a secondary and extended bottom plate including tactile elements, according to certain embodiments;

[0072] Fig.70 An example of a sensing element integrated with a main printed circuit board of a computer mouse and coupled to the bottom of the mouse is shown, wherein loads are transferred through a secondary and extended bottom plate that also includes a tactile element, according to certain embodiments;

[0073] Fig.71 An example of a tactile pointing system is shown in accordance with certain embodiments, wherein a touchable area including a keypad has a submount that also incorporates tactile elements coupled thereto;

[0074] Fig.72 is an example of a tactile clicking system, wherein the touchable area, i.e., the keypad, has a sub-base, the keypad also incorporating tactile elements coupled thereto;

[0075] Fig.73 An example of a tactile clicking system according to certain embodiments is shown, wherein the touchable area, i.e., the keypad, has a sub-mount that transfers the load to the sensing element while being preloaded onto the sensing element by a mechanical spring element;

[0076] Fig.74 An example of a tactile clicking system according to certain embodiments is shown, wherein the touchable area, i.e., the keypad, has a sub-mount that transfers the load to the sensing element while being preloaded onto the sensing element by a mechanical spring element;

[0077] Fig.75 shows an example of a tactile clicking system according to certain embodiments, wherein a keypad has a separate touch area due to a partially hinged area, while a sub-chassis is coupled to its lateral and non-vibrating structures;

[0078] Fig.76 An example of a tactile clicking system according to certain embodiments is shown, wherein the keypad has a single full touch area due to the hinged or pivoted area, while the sub-chassis is coupled to its lateral and non-vibrating structures;

[0079] Fig.77 An example of a tactile clicking system according to some embodiments is shown, wherein a keypad has a single full touch area due to a hinged or pivoted area and a fixedly bonded bottom plate;

[0080] Figures 78 to 82 Certain embodiments are illustrated wherein a hinge couples the input element of the device to the structural support; and

[0081] Fig.83 is a simplified flow chart illustrating aspects of a method for operating a computer mouse according to some embodiments.

[0082] It should be noted that throughout the drawings, like reference numbers are generally used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0083] According to certain implementations, aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to computer peripheral devices, and more particularly, to input devices, such as a computer mouse.

[0084] In the following description, various examples of systems and methods for improving the tactile feedback user experience are described. For the purpose of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth to provide a comprehensive understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain embodiments may be practiced or implemented without disclosing every detail. In addition, well-known features may be omitted or simplified to help prevent any confusion about the novel features described herein.

[0085] The following high-level overview is intended to provide a basic understanding of some of the novel innovations depicted in the accompanying drawings and presented in the corresponding description provided below. Aspects of the present invention include implementing sensing elements and tactile elements in an input device to receive user input and provide tactile output. The description is generally organized in sections covering innovations in tactile effects and filtering, mechanical design, tactile applications, sensing applications and design combinations thereof, and other related topics, which are partially summarized in this introduction to provide a rough guide to the layout of the document rather than providing a comprehensive overview of these sections.

[0086] In a tactilely implemented computer peripheral device, a user input may include a force received from a user's finger, which is applied to a click architecture including a tactile device and a sensing device (e.g., a piezoelectric element), which may, for example, convert the input force into a voltage. The induced voltage may be used to control various functions on the input device, including generating various control signals (e.g., button presses, scrolling, scrolling functions, etc.), as discussed further below. The tactile device may also be used to generate a tactile output signal such as a vibrotactile sensation, which may simulate certain physical phenomena, including button presses and roller rotations, and other performance parameters typically associated with mechanical input elements. That is, the tactile output may convincingly reproduce the sensation of physically pressing and actuating a key, rotating a roller, flipping a switch, or other physical inputs using tactile vibrations. In some aspects, the sensing and actuation of tactile feedback may be performed on the same tactile element, or on separate tactile elements. Despite the many advantages that can be achieved in haptically driven computer peripherals, haptics have not yet been successfully and commercially implemented as a primary source of user interaction in computer peripherals, including integration of sensing and feedback in the same system.

[0087] In order to facilitate the transfer of tactile energy and ensure the transmissibility of the excitation (vibration) from the tactile element to the desired input element, the tactile element can be mechanically connected to the input element directly or indirectly (e.g., through a variety of materials). Therefore, some embodiments described herein provide a mechanical architecture that ensures a preload force, thereby pushing the tactile element directly against the bottom surface of the input element to ensure a good mechanical connection. Although the preload force can ensure the mechanical connection between the tactile element and the input element to effectively transfer tactile energy between the two, the preload force may cause the input element to lift beyond its default (unpressed) position and create a step, thereby destroying the (aesthetic) shape continuity between the housing and the input element in its static state, and compromising the ergonomics and aesthetics in the overall industrial design, which may be further exacerbated by certain soft and flexible outer layers of the input device (e.g., silicone, rubber, fabric, etc.). Some aspects of the present invention relate to systems that can provide a preload force to promote a secure mechanical contact between a tactile element and a corresponding keypad (or other input element), thereby providing a good transfer of tactile energy between the tactile element and the corresponding keypad (or other input element), and some aspects of the present invention also provide a system architecture that prevents the input element from moving beyond a default position (or any desired position that would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure) to improve both the ergonomics and aesthetics of the input device, as well as to prevent deformation of the system over time (e.g., creep in plastics and soft materials). These aspects and more are shown and further described below (e.g., see FIG. 14A to FIG. 18 ).

[0088] In some embodiments, a multi-layer depressible keypad can be used to isolate tactile energy and effectively transfer tactile energy to the user while reducing tactile energy transferred to other areas of the computer mouse (see, e.g., Fig.48A Some alternative embodiments utilize a novel flexible sub-base (e.g., a leaf spring-like structure) that provides a preload force to ensure a good mechanical connection between the tactile element and the keypad and a good transfer of the force on the keypad to the sensor via the load transfer element (e.g., a key press event), such as in FIG. 48B to FIG. 48C As shown in .

[0089] In other embodiments, the tactile elements on a computer mouse can be used to provide static and unidirectional feedback that can deflect and hold the keypad at a deflection distance. In some aspects, a secondary tactile feedback can be superimposed on top of the static deflection to create a complex and rich tactile feedback experience for the user, as described below with at least reference to Figures 4 to 5 Further described.

[0090] It should be understood that this high-level overview is presented to provide the reader with a basic understanding of some novel aspects of the present disclosure as well as a road map for the following details. This high-level overview in no way limits the scope of the various embodiments described throughout the detailed description, and each of the above-mentioned figures is further described in more detail and to its proper extent below.

[0091] Figure 1 A simplified diagram of a computer system 100 according to certain embodiments is shown. The computer system 100 may include a computer 110, a monitor 120, an input device 130, and a keyboard 140. In some embodiments, the input device 130 may be a computer mouse, a remote control device, a game controller (e.g., a game pad, a joystick, a flight stick, etc.) or an element thereof (e.g., a top hat switch), a smart phone, or other suitable device that can be used to convert analog input into a digital signal for computer processing. For the computer system 100, the input device 130 may be configured to control various aspects of the computer 110 and the monitor 120. Throughout this disclosure, the input device 130 is referred to as a computer mouse, and any of the inventive concepts considered herein may be applied to the computer mouse 130 or any suitable input device, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0092] The computer 110 can be any suitable computing device, including, but not limited to, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet or "tablet phone" computer, a smart phone, a PDA, a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch, smart glasses), a virtual reality / augmented reality (AR / VR) system, etc. In some embodiments, the input device 130 can be configured to provide control signals for motion tracking (e.g., two-dimensional (2D) motion on a planar surface, three-dimensional (3D) "in-the-air" motion, etc.), touch and / or gesture detection, lift detection, orientation detection (e.g., in a 3-degree-of-freedom (DOF) system, a 6DOF system, etc.), power management capabilities, input detection (e.g., buttons, scroll wheels, etc.), output functionality (e.g., LED control, tactile feedback, etc.), or any of a myriad of additional features that will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The computer 110 may include a machine-readable medium (not shown) configured to store computer code, such as mouse driver software, wherein the computer code can be executed by a processor of the computer 110 (e.g., see Figure 2140) to control various aspects of the computer 110 via the input device 130, keyboard 140, etc. The various embodiments described herein generally refer to the input device 130 as a computer mouse or similar input device, however it should be understood that the input device 130 can be any suitable input / output (I / O) device (e.g., user interface device, control device, input unit, etc.) that can be adapted to utilize the novel embodiments described and / or contemplated herein. More specifically, the following embodiments tend to focus on the incorporation of tactile devices on a computer mouse, however it should be understood that the concepts described, taught, and suggested herein can be applied to other types of input devices, including the above non-exhaustive list of input devices, including game pads, trackballs, presenters, keyboards, AR / VR controllers, etc., as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In addition, the invention described herein is shown on a relatively flat surface, but the invention can be applied to uneven surfaces, simple or complex contours, shapes, etc.

[0093] Figure 2 A simplified block diagram of a system 200 for operating an input device 130 according to some embodiments is shown. The system 200 may include a processor 210, an input detection block 220, a motion tracking block 230, a power management block 240, and a communication block 250. Each of the system blocks 220-250 may be in electrical communication with the processor 210. The system 200 may also include additional systems that are not shown or described to avoid obscuring the novel features described herein.

[0094] In certain embodiments, the processor 210 may include one or more microprocessors (μC) and may be configured to control the operation of the system 200. Alternatively or additionally, the processor 210 may include one or more microcontrollers (MCUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), etc., with supporting hardware, firmware (e.g., memory, programmable I / O, etc.), and / or software, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Alternatively, the MCU, μC, DSP, ASIC, programmable logic device, etc. may be configured in other system blocks of the system 200. For example, the communication block 250 may include a local processor to control communications with the computer 110 (e.g., via Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, RF, IR, hardwire, ZigBee, Z-Wave, Logitech Logitech or other communication protocols). In some embodiments, multiple processors can achieve increased performance characteristics (e.g., speed and bandwidth) in system 200, however, multiple processors are not required and are not essential to the novelty of the embodiments described herein. Alternatively or additionally, certain aspects of the processing can be performed by analog electronic design, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0095] The input detection block 220 can control the detection of button activation (e.g., main button, side button, scroll wheel button, etc.), scroll wheel and / or trackball manipulation (e.g., rotation detection), sliders, switches, touch sensors (e.g., one-dimensional and / or two-dimensional touch pads), etc. In some embodiments, the input detection block 220 can detect when a keypad (e.g., a left mouse button) is pressed with sufficient force (e.g., a threshold force) so that the keypad contacts and activates a force sensor. The force sensor can generate a corresponding control signal (e.g., a human interface device (HID) signal) to control a computing device (e.g., computer 110) that is communicatively coupled to the input device (e.g., instantiating a "left click" on the computer). Alternatively, the functionality of the input detection block 220 can be incorporated into the processor 210, or combined with the processor 210.

[0096] In some aspects, the input detection block 220 can control the operation of a tactile device implemented on an input device. For example, an input signal generated by a tactile device can be received and processed by the input detection block 220. For example, the input signal can be an input voltage, charge, or current generated by a piezoelectric device in response to a force (e.g., user interaction) received on its surface. In some embodiments, the input detection block 220 can control the output of one or more tactile devices on the input device 130. For example, certain parameters defining the characteristics of tactile feedback can be controlled by the input detection block 220. Some input parameters and output parameters can include a press threshold, a release threshold, feedback sharpness, feedback force amplitude, feedback duration, feedback frequency content (e.g., sinusoidal or other), overvoltage (e.g., using different voltage levels at different stages), and feedback modulation over time. These characteristics will be further described below. Alternatively, tactile input / output control can be performed by the processor 210 or in combination with it.

[0097] In some embodiments, the input detection block 220 can detect user presses or touch gestures on one or more input surfaces, touch surfaces, and / or force-sensitive surfaces on the input device 130. The input detection block 220 may include one or more input surfaces, touch surfaces / force-sensitive surfaces, or touch sensors / force sensors. A touch sensor typically includes a sensing element adapted to detect a signal such as direct contact, an electromagnetic field or an electrostatic field, or a beam of electromagnetic radiation. A touch sensor typically can detect a change in a received signal, the presence of a signal, or the absence of a signal. A touch sensor may include a source for emitting a detected signal, or the signal may be generated by an auxiliary source. The touch sensor may be configured to detect the presence of an object at a distance (e.g., <5 mm) from a reference area or point, contact with a reference area or point, or a combination thereof. Touch and / or force detection and sensors may be used to place the system in a "ready" mode, thereby reducing waiting time when a user begins to move or input to the system. Certain embodiments of the input device 130 may or may not utilize touch / force detection or touch / force sensing capabilities.

[0098] The input detection block 220 may include touch, force, and / or proximity sensing capabilities. Some examples of types of touch / force / proximity sensors may include, but are not limited to, resistive sensors (e.g., based on carbon-loaded plastics with different electrical properties based on force (FSR), interpolated FSR, etc.), piezoelectric elements and MEMS, capacitive sensors (e.g., surface capacitance, self-capacitance, mutual capacitance, etc.), optical sensors (e.g., infrared grating matrices, laser-based diodes coupled to photodetectors that can measure the time of flight of an optical path, etc.), load cells, strain gauges, acoustic sensors (e.g., piezoelectric buzzers coupled to microphones to detect changes in wave propagation modes associated with a touch point, ultrasonic sensors, etc.), etc.

[0099] The motion tracking block 230 can be configured to track the motion of the input device 130. The motion tracking block 230 can use an optical sensor such as a light emitting diode (LED) and an imaging array of photodiodes to detect the motion of the input device 130 relative to the underlying surface. The input device 130 can optionally include motion tracking hardware using coherent (laser) light. In some embodiments, the optical sensor is disposed on the bottom side of the input device 130. The motion tracking block 230 can provide position data (e.g., XY coordinate data) or lift detection data. For example, the optical sensor can detect when the user lifts the input device 130 off the work surface, and the data can be sent to the processor 210 for further processing. In some embodiments, the processor 210, the motion tracking block 230 (which can include additional dedicated processors), or a combination thereof can perform some or all of the novel functions described herein, including: modifying the number of image sensor pixels for different operating modes (e.g., a first operating mode and a second operating mode), changing the image sensor frame rate for different operating modes, and changing the number of memory slots for different operating modes, as further described below.

[0100] In some embodiments, an accelerometer can be used for motion detection. An accelerometer can be an electromechanical device (e.g., a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device) configured to measure acceleration forces (e.g., static forces and dynamic forces). One or more accelerometers can be used to detect three-dimensional (3D) positioning. For example, 3D tracking can utilize a three-axis accelerometer or two two-axis accelerometers (e.g., in a "3D air mouse"). The accelerometer can also determine whether the input device 130 has been lifted off the surface and provide motion data that can include the speed, physical orientation, and acceleration of the input device 130. In some embodiments, a gyroscope can be used instead of an accelerometer or in combination with an accelerometer to determine motion or input device orientation.

[0101] The power management block 240 can be configured to manage power distribution, recharging, power efficiency, etc. of the input device 130. In some embodiments, the power management block 240 may include a battery (not shown), a USB-based recharging system for the battery (not shown), a power management device (e.g., a low dropout voltage regulator - not shown), and a power grid within the system 200 that provides power to each subsystem (e.g., the communication block 250, etc.). In certain embodiments, the functionality provided by the power management block 240 can be incorporated into the processor 210. Alternatively, some embodiments may not include a dedicated power management block. For example, functional aspects of the power management block 240 can be subsumed into another block (e.g., the processor 210), or combined with another block (e.g., the processor 210).

[0102] According to some embodiments, the communication block 250 can be configured to enable communication between the input device 130 and the computer 110 or other devices and / or peripherals. The communication block 250 can be configured to provide a wireless connection (e.g., radio frequency (RF), Bluetooth, BLE, infrared (IR), ZigBee, Z-Wave, Logitech Unifying, etc.) for the computer 110 or other wireless devices. The system 200 may include a hard-wired connection (e.g., USB, FireWire, etc.) to the computer 110. For example, the input device 130 can be configured to receive a universal serial bus (USB) cable to enable two-way electronic communication with the computer 110 or other external devices. Some embodiments can utilize different types of cables or connection protocol standards to establish hard-wired communications with other entities. In some embodiments, the processor 210, the communication block 250, or a combination thereof can perform some of the novel functions described herein.

[0103] Although some systems are not explicitly discussed, they should be considered as part of the system 200, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the system 200 may include a bus system to transmit power and / or data to and from different systems therein. In some embodiments, the system 200 may include a storage subsystem (not shown). The storage subsystem may store one or more software programs to be executed by a processor (e.g., in the processor 210). It should be understood that "software" may refer to a sequence of instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., a processor, a processing device, etc.), causes the system 200 to perform certain operations of the software program. Instructions may be stored as firmware residing in a read-only memory (ROM) and / or an application stored in a media storage that can be read into the memory for processing by the processing device. The software may be implemented as a single program or a collection of separate programs and may be stored in a non-volatile memory and copied in whole or in part to a volatile working memory during program execution. The processing device may retrieve program instructions from the storage subsystem to perform various operations as described herein (e.g., software-controlled automatic adjustment of springs, etc.).

[0104] It should be appreciated that the system 200 is intended to be illustrative, and many variations and modifications are possible, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. The system 200 may include other functions or capabilities not specifically described herein (e.g., mobile phones, global positioning systems (GPS), power management, one or more cameras, various connection ports for connecting external devices or accessories, etc.). Although the system 200 is described with reference to specific blocks (e.g., input detection block 220), it should be understood that these blocks are defined for the purpose of understanding certain embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to imply that the embodiments are limited to a specific physical arrangement of component parts. The various blocks do not need to correspond to physically different components. The blocks may be configured to perform various operations, such as by programming a processor or providing appropriate processing, and the various blocks may or may not be reconfigurable, depending on how the initial configuration is obtained. Certain embodiments may be implemented in various devices including electronic devices implemented using any combination of circuits and software. In addition, as informed by design, aspects and / or parts of the system 200 may be combined with or operated by other subsystems. For example, the power management block 240 and / or the motion tracking block 230 may be integrated with the processor 210 rather than being implemented as separate entities.

[0105] In some embodiments, a tactile device that can be implemented on an input device to operate as both an input user interface and an output user interface. For example, a tactile element (e.g., a piezoelectric element, a piezoresistive element, etc.) can generate a charge, voltage, or current proportional to the amount of physical stress (e.g., user pressure on the surface of the tactile element) of a piezoelectric crystal. The voltage (input signal) generated can be proportional to the input force, and when a threshold voltage is reached, the input signal can be used to detect a button press (e.g., a mouse left button / right button click). In response to the detected button press, the same (or different) tactile element can be controlled by an element of system 200 to generate an output vibration in response to the input signal. The tactile element can be a single-layer or multi-layer piezoelectric element, a voice coil, a linear resonant actuator (LRA), or any other vibration system / impact system. The sensing portion of the tactile element can be a piezoelectric element, any kind of force sensor (MEMS, strain gauge, capacitive, resistive FSR, or any other). In some embodiments, the output vibration can be tuned in a way that can be perceived by the user as a physical depression of a mechanical key, an intentionally induced cognitive tactile illusion, even if the underlying surface only vibrates and does not actually deflect, move, depress, or actually move substantially relative to the housing itself - this is only perceived due to the vibration characteristics of the tactile output (although in some embodiments, the input surface may deflect slightly (e.g., on the order of 50 μm or so due to the compliant nature of the material, but much less than the typical deflection of actuating a physical switch (e.g., a computer mouse button, which is typically on the order of 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm, and up to 3 mm in a keyboard device)). The values ​​and ranges described above and throughout the disclosure are used as examples of reference points and are in no way limiting of the embodiments described herein. Various embodiments are shown, which may have values ​​and ranges outside of these examples, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The term "housing" may refer to an enclosure for housing various electronic components of an input device, and also serves as a user interface and includes various input elements, including buttons, scroll wheels, touch sensors, etc. as mentioned above. Other input elements (e.g., scroll wheels) may be simulated in a similar manner. These tactile alternatives to conventional input elements may be advantageous because expensive mechanical keypads, springs, rollers, supporting infrastructure, etc. may be replaced by cheaper and more reliable tactile elements that are typically not subject to similar fatigue or wear. In addition, the tactile element may have a very small form factor, allowing for a more compact and space-efficient design.

[0106] Some of the embodiments described in the present disclosure utilize tactile elements to generate tactile feedback and further modify various aspects of tactile output to solve various problems of devices enabled by tactile. Some embodiments may implement mechanical solutions to solve various problems, including different implementations for supporting tactile elements (e.g., piezoelectric elements) to obtain good performance, stable support, and aesthetic considerations. In some embodiments, firmware, software, and mechanical implementations may be used in any suitable combination to solve one or more problems, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure.

[0107] Figure 3A and Figure 3B An example of how tactile elements can be constructed on an input device according to certain embodiments is shown. An input device 300 (e.g., a computer mouse) is shown with a housing 310 (e.g., a "housing," "bottom plate," or "body" of a computer mouse), a left button 320 and a right button 330, a scroll wheel 340, and any other suitable input element (e.g., additional buttons, side scroll wheels, touch sensors, etc.) or output element (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED), a display, a tactile feedback element, a speaker, etc.), as typically constructed on most computer mice. Each of the left button 320 and the right button 330 includes a tactile element 322, 332 constructed below. Alternative implementations may consider a single tactile element sharing feedback on the primary touch surface. Previous or additional tactile elements may also be embedded in the system to provide secondary and tertiary tactile information that is not directly related to the primary click. The tactile elements 322, 332 may be controlled, for example, by one or more processors 210 of the system 200 and may be configured to vibrate and create a tactile output that may be perceived by the user as a button press, a "bump," or any other tactile sensation based on the type of vibration created by the tactile element. Figure 1 The input device 130 of , or any other input device described herein corresponds. In some embodiments, the tactile element can also be used as an input sensor. In some cases, a combination of a tactile element and a force sensor can be used for improved input detection, as further described below.

[0108] Figure 3BVarious aspects of a bottom portion of an input device 300 according to certain embodiments are shown. The bottom of the input device 300 may include one or more feet, an image sensor 380 (e.g., a CMOS sensor using an IR LED light), and a power switch 385. Additional input elements (e.g., buttons, sliders, etc.) may be included. In some cases, the power switch 385 may be located elsewhere on the mouse or may not be included at all (e.g., the input device 300 may be powered on / off based on use). Those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments of the disclosure.

[0109] In some embodiments, the image sensor 380 is generally located near the center of the bottom portion of the input device 300, as shown. According to certain embodiments, the image sensor 380 can be a single sensor and can operate in one or more operating modes (e.g., surface tracking, changing operating parameters to adapt to specific surface types and corresponding surface classifications, as further described below), lift and / or tilt detection, etc. The image sensor can be a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor that captures images of the underlying surface and sends each image to a processor (e.g., processor 210, on-board processing on the sensor, etc., to perform image correlation and displacement calculations, etc.) for analysis. Other types of image sensors can be used, including charge coupled devices (CCDs), N-type metal oxide semiconductors (NMOS), hybrid devices (e.g., CCD / CMOS), etc., as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. The processor can detect patterns in the images and see how these patterns have moved since the previous image, and the processor can determine based on the changes in the patterns over the sequence of images: how far and in what direction the corresponding computer peripheral device has moved, which can be sent to the host computer to control one or more functions (e.g., control a cursor on a display, control volume in a music application, etc.). This process can occur hundreds or even thousands of times per second to accurately detect all types of motion, including a range of motion speeds and accelerations.

[0110] In some embodiments of computer peripherals related to tactile elements, and according to maintaining a good UX, feedback based on vibration is intended to be easily identified as feedback of its traditional electromechanical type, for example, a mouse click provided by a micro switch. In such a case, the tactile element can be stimulated to make it forced to change state, rather than vibrate with a pulse or a combination of pulses. The change of this state that can be perceived by the user as a sudden unidirectional force change under the finger, which is finally accompanied by the micro-displacement of the surrounding structure, causes the different configurations of the tactile element, enters the stable or stable state form corresponding to pressing or releasing interaction. The conversion between these states will allow the user to perceive the actuated element as being in a state equivalent to a traditional electromechanical actuator, and assumes familiarity with traditional user input. However, for these configurable stable states, more generalized tactile pulses can be superimposed, so that the tactile information available is enriched and conveyed to the user, and even for the purpose of creating a vibrotactile prompt, such as a displacement illusion.

[0111] Figures 4 to 5 Depicted are simplified waveforms showing tactile element states 400 ( Figure 4 ) and the corresponding current distribution 500( Figure 5 ). Instead of applying tactile feedback with bursts of oscillations (e.g., rapid positive and negative excursions of a piezoelectric element to produce vibrations) as is typical in tactile feedback systems, some aspects of the invention may apply a unidirectional force variation or relatively static physical deflection of a tactile generator in one direction - typically toward a user's finger or thumb - with such magnitude that the user senses a physical impact. The magnitude of the deflection and the perceived impact may vary and may correspond to a voltage applied to a tactile generator (e.g., a piezoelectric). In summary, instead of using a tactile generator to vibrate, some embodiments deflect the tactile element in one direction and hold it there, causing an electromechanical switch to step with a linear drive from a first state (e.g., a flat piezoelectric) to a second state (e.g., a deflected piezoelectric), which may be performed at any suitable rate (e.g., milliseconds). In some embodiments, multiple states are possible, where three or more states may be used for mechanical effects, such as deflection at three or more distances (in response to different voltage magnitudes on the tactile element) and in a positive or negative direction. In some implementations, vibrations can be superimposed on a statically deflected tactile element to induce the sensation of pressing a key and result in one of the previously described states.

[0112] In some embodiments utilizing tactile elements, those tactile elements that are capable of achieving such state configurations (e.g., piezoelectric) can be driven by an electric current, wherein the direction of the current and the lack of such excitation can cause any possible static state. Other embodiments of tactile elements (e.g., magnetic hammers) can use permanent magnets or magnet arrangements, wherein the external field is excited by an electric current, resulting in a sudden movement of the magnet position. The arrangement of such magnets can be radial, axial, polar, or any other possible arrangement, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Other embodiments can see the use of reversible magnets that are temporarily and instantaneously excited by an electric current pulse, (e.g., via an EPM) to reverse its polarization. This will cause a change of state by rearranging the element in the presence of a permanent magnet or magnetic material. The permanent magnet or magnetic material benefits from a passive state, wherein the current is only used to reverse the magnetic polarization.

[0113] The tactile elements used to generate primary interaction feedback, such as mouse clicks, can also be used to generate secondary and tertiary tactile information. Even if the feedback is not directly related to the primary interaction, the information can be conveyed to the user through available tactile technology. Examples of such prompts may include: (1) enhanced click feedback, such as multi-level presses (e.g., hard clicks); (2) secondary tactile prompts: long press, menu pop-up, menu selection, selection and drag, layout / positioning for drop-down, row and column changes (spreadsheets), segment changes when scrolling long files, etc.; (3) tertiary tactile prompts and other feedback that are not directly prompted by the user, such as state changes, device power-on, low battery, and application / task-based notifications: such as calendar events, emails, schedules, time-based events, etc.; and (4) stereo tactile, in which the two keypads of the input device are used in conjunction to provide directional prompts to the user. Multiple tactile elements can be used synchronously or asynchronously with phased waveforms, alternating excitations between elements, or different waveforms generated independently. Therefore, multi-point tactile can achieve the introduction of further rich tactile information to the corresponding input device.

[0114] Fig.83 8300 is a simplified flow chart showing various aspects of a method 8300 for operating a computer mouse according to some embodiments. The method 8300 may be performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software operating on appropriate hardware (such as a general-purpose computing system or a dedicated machine), firmware (embedded software), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the method 8300 may be performed by various aspects of the system 200 (e.g., the processor 210, the input detection 220, a combination thereof, etc.).

[0115] According to some embodiments, at operation 8310, method 8300 may include controlling, by one or more processors, a tactile element to operate in one of a plurality of operating modes including a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein the tactile element is coupled to a keypad of a computer mouse.

[0116] According to some embodiments, at operation 8320, method 8300 may include generating a tactile output when the tactile element is in the first operating mode that statically and unidirectionally deflects the tactile element and the coupled keypad and maintains it at the deflection distance.

[0117] According to certain embodiments, at operation 8330, method 8300 may include generating a second tactile output when the tactile element is in a second operating mode, the second tactile output causing the tactile element to deflect bi-directionally relative to the deflection distance, thereby generating vibration feedback superimposed on the unidirectional deflection at the deflection distance.

[0118] In some aspects, one or more processors control the tactile element by a control signal defining the deflection distance of the unidirectional deflection of the tactile element. In some embodiments, the vibration feedback is controlled by a control signal defining the positive deflection distance and the negative deflection distance of the vibration feedback. In some embodiments, the tactile element is a piezoelectric device, and the control signal is a voltage applied to the tactile element. In certain embodiments, the tactile output in the first operating mode deflects the key plate unidirectionally to the deflection distance within 10ms, thereby generating a single pulse feedback effect on the key plate. The vibration feedback can be independently controlled relative to the deflection distance. In some cases, one or more processors control the tactile element by the following control signal: the control signal defines the positive deflection distance and the negative deflection distance of the vibration feedback, the force of the vibration feedback, or the time when the vibration feedback is fully deflected, or any combination thereof.

[0119] In some embodiments, a press and hold tactile feedback may be generated in a second operating mode, characterized in that the tactile element is unidirectionally deflected and held at a deflection distance in response to receiving a pressing force on the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element generates vibration feedback when the tactile element deflects the deflection distance while the pressure is detected on the top surface of the keypad, and the tactile element returns to the first operating mode after the pressing force is removed from the top surface of the keypad. In some cases, the keypad is a left primary button or a right primary button of a computer mouse.

[0120] It should be understood that Fig.83The specific steps illustrated in the figure provide a specific method 8300 for operating a computer mouse according to certain embodiments. Other step sequences may also be performed according to alternative embodiments. In addition, additional steps may be added or removed depending on the specific application. Any combination of changes may be used, and those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from this disclosure will appreciate its many variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments.

[0121] The specific shape of the actuation and loading features between the key plate and the tactile module can facilitate more accurate transfer of the finger pressure load to the piezoelectric element. These features allow the piezoelectric vibration response to be modified by changing the contact area and other mechanical properties, such as structural stiffness under load. These features can also double as mechanical locking members between the rigid structure and the soft layer of the device (e.g., a computer mouse). In this case, the features are added to the key plate below the structure by mechanical assembly, such as clamping, clamping, press fit, fastening, or a combination thereof. Through the interference and clamping effects produced, the features lock and hold the soft layer against the rigid key plate, thereby preventing it from being disconnected from the key plate (e.g., delamination or peeling under finger pressure).

[0122] By modulating the click sounds driven by external and active tactile elements, active noise cancellation (e.g., sound filtering systems) can be enabled using tactile feedback devices. Aspects of the present invention may include additional layers of customization for audible feedback (e.g., silent clicks, enhanced click sounds, etc.). Audible click sound emissions and other feedback sound emissions, including those emitted from tactile elements, are modulated and attenuated or enhanced using, for example, active speakers embedded in the device itself or any other speaker device available to the user. The system may include a microphone to measure audible sounds in real time or utilize a predetermined sound waveform known to match the waveform of the system architecture or pre-recorded sounds for use as input to the filtering system. The system may filter and eliminate the emitted sounds using traditional, AI, or hybrid methods by modulating and phase shifting the output sound waveform.

[0123] Audible feedback can be made possible by integrating a noise cancellation device (e.g., a speaker) that outputs the same excitation (e.g., frequency and modulation) out of phase with the tactile piezoelectric device. This allows for the amount of control used to cancel the level and frequency modulation. The active noise cancellation system can adopt either of two architectures. The first architecture uses the tactile element itself to cancel the specific structure-borne noise emitted from the mouse / tactile module. In this case, the tactile element resonates at its main frequency carrying the anti-noise signal. The goal is usually not to eliminate the noise of the tactile element, but to eliminate the resonance of the input device (e.g., computer mouse) itself. The tactile module typically has a resonance peak that is roughly higher than the frequency detectable by the user's ear or the level perceptible to human touch (e.g., <400Hz). The second architecture uses an onboard speaker to emit out-of-phase noise to eliminate and / or modulate mouse clicks and any undesirable noise emissions. In addition, a microphone can be embedded in the system to measure and monitor noise emissions, thereby enabling adaptive and context-based noise cancellation, thereby creating a noise cancellation system integrated with the mouse and the corresponding tactile module.

[0124] Some of the various embodiments of input devices (e.g., computer mice) described herein employ tactile elements that can provide tactile feedback to a user in a variety of different ways to mitigate certain detrimental conditions that can be associated with tactile element implementations (e.g., shock filtering, maintaining tactile threshold relationships, etc.) and improve the user experience. In some cases, conventional switches (e.g., micro switches) can be replaced with solid-state implementations (e.g., tactile elements), which can improve the life and reliability of the input device with fewer moving parts and a more robust tactile-based design.

[0125] In order for the user to experience tactile feedback, the vibration (tactile energy) of the tactile element needs to be transmitted to the input element with which the user is interacting, so that the user experiences vibration. For many embodiments described herein, the input element is a mouse button (e.g., a left mouse button), however, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure, the novel embodiments described herein can be used to transfer tactile energy to any suitable element, region or portion of the input device. In order to facilitate the transfer of tactile energy (vibration) from the tactile element to the desired input element / from the desired input element to the tactile element, the tactile element can be mechanically connected directly or indirectly (e.g., through a variety of materials) to the input element. Therefore, some embodiments described herein provide a preload force that pushes the tactile element directly against the bottom surface of the input element or pushes the tactile element against the bottom surface of the input element using a connecting material (e.g., an adhesive) therebetween to ensure a good mechanical connection. Typically, increasing the preload force and surface area of ​​the mechanical connection will produce better energy transfer efficiency. It should be noted that the mechanical coupling is also useful in facilitating the transfer of energy in the other direction so that movement of the input element (eg, keypad) is properly sensed by the tactile element.

[0126] In some aspects, the preload can range from a minimum compression state to ensure contact (close to but above 0N) to one-tenth of a Newton to improve (e.g., maximize) the mechanical connection, where the improved (e.g., optimal) value depends on the system design and architecture, as would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0127] In many input devices, and in particular in computer mice, ergonomics and aesthetics can be an important part of industrial design. In some cases, the input element (e.g., keypad) can be designed to be aligned with the shell in a substantially planar manner to form a continuous profile when the keypad is stationary (e.g., unpressed, default position). When the input element is pressed, the keypad can deflect downward, but can return to the default position to maintain continuity between the shell and the keypad. As described above, although the preload force can ensure a good mechanical connection between the tactile element and the input element to effectively transfer tactile energy between the two, the preload force may cause the input element to lift beyond its default position and create a step, thereby destroying the continuity of the shell and the input element in its stationary state, and compromising the ergonomics and aesthetics in the entire industrial design, as well as introducing creep in the system, resulting in long-term deformation of the keypad and corresponding system components. Some embodiments may further employ a soft, flexible cover, such as a silicone layer, to improve various aspects of the user experience. For example, some tactile element-attached keypads may have a very small gap or dividing line between the keypad and the housing to allow for small keypad movements (e.g., 50 μm), and a soft layer (e.g., silicone rubber or any other suitable material) may help hide the small gap so that the entire input device appears to be a single integral unit and achieves a seamless design. However, the soft layer may actually deteriorate the aesthetics of the input device by accentuating any discontinuities in the profile of the input device, such as a discontinuous step between the keypad and the housing, thereby further exacerbating the problem. In such cases, intended design features may be embedded in the shape of the device, such as recesses or bumps, thereby masking minor deformations caused by internal preloads, material aging (e.g., material creep), and normal user interactions. Such features are also beneficial in providing users with visual tactile cues for input positioning while maintaining a seamless overall design language.

[0128] Various aspects of the present invention are directed to systems that can provide a preload force to promote secure mechanical contact between a tactile element and a corresponding keypad (or other input element) for providing good transfer of tactile energy therebetween, while providing a system architecture that prevents the input element from moving beyond a default position (or any desired position, as would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure) to improve both the ergonomics and aesthetics of the input device.

[0129] In some embodiments, the various parts of the computer mouse include an entire top shell, bottom shell, etc. that can be manufactured as a single material or a combination of materials (e.g., soft rubber, silicone, TPE, ABS, ceramic, plastic, metal) that can be covered or meshed together (e.g., smart structure) to benefit from a combination of their mechanical or material properties. In some aspects, materials can be configured for local functions (e.g., user input area) or across the entire computer mouse to improve (e.g., optimize) material and mechanical properties depending on the function and desired user experience.

[0130] In some embodiments, relative motion at a microscopic level (e.g., <100 μm) that feels soft to the touch can be achieved by using a touchable surface in which the material, surface texture, thickness, and hardness can be considered design factors. In some cases, soft materials, such as elastomers, foams, and smart structures can have lower hardness and increased thickness; rigid materials can have microscopic relative motion by having a local design stiffness of a rigid component with spring-like behavior, and smart structures can have perceptible flexible behavior; and hybrid compliant surfaces can include a combination of the above soft and rigid materials, and can also include a combination with the internal architecture of a computer mouse. When using such a system, for loads within the click input range, user finger compression can be in the range of 1-3 mm (e.g., in the softest part of the finger). Therefore, even when pressing a hard or slightly compliant surface, there may be relatively "large" motion at the finger caused by finger compression. The combination of materials as described above can allow tactile feedback to create a sensory illusion of motion via tactile stimulation (e.g., tactile vibration) and specific cues provided to the user's somatosensory system. For example, active haptics can aid in sensing stiffness and keypad motion, where progressive input (e.g., greater downward pressure by a user with their finger) can result in increased stimulation of vibration and create a sensory illusion of keypad motion.

[0131] In some embodiments, TPE can produce stress marks over time. Silicone can be used as a top layer because it does not produce stress marks over time and can further improve the UX (e.g., soft, comfortable material). In addition, silicone can be molded at a thinner thickness than TPE, which helps transfer energy from the haptic motor to the user. In some cases, the top shell can be made of a rigid material (e.g., ABS) to provide structure and bonding rubber for the UX. In some embodiments, the carrier platform can provide mechanical support for the keypad. A top layer, such as silicone, can be bonded to the entire outer portion of the input device or a portion thereof (e.g., above the top shell) to obtain good tactile and visual properties, but is not necessarily used to provide support for various elements (e.g., a floating keypad), as described below.

[0132] In certain embodiments, the use of tactile elements and solid-state architecture allows for the possibility of seamless and / or gap-free designs without any necessary gaps between any external features of the computer mouse, including gaps between buttons and housing and any other features that typically require gaps to ensure independent and proper operation of the external features in a conventional computer mouse. The seamless design can be used to implement a fully enclosed mouse housing (e.g., top / bottom housing), for waterproof and / or waterproof implementations that can prevent contamination of the interior of the computer mouse (e.g., IP68), and to keep the exterior / touchable surfaces clean and sanitary. In some cases, the seamless design allows for a reduction in the number of parts required for a functional mouse housing, potentially simplifying tooling and manufacturing processes while reducing waste and improving repairability and robustness.

[0133] For clickable areas (e.g., areas coupled to a tactile element and configured to propagate tactile vibrations coupled thereto), various tactile cues can be integrated therewith, including bumps, recesses, ridges, indentations, raised / reduced areas for user guidance and improved tactile sensation, while still retaining both the solid and seamless design features described above. In addition, including these features can improve the shape and ergonomics of a computer mouse, enhance aesthetics, improve product finish, and improve the quality of the user experience.

[0134] In some embodiments, the clickable areas (e.g., left / right click areas) on a solid seamless computer mouse may have any of the following design features, including: a continuous and integral surface area (e.g., no gaps between the clickable area and the surrounding housing), raised or visually / tactilely perceptible features that help the user locate the clickable / interactive area, a continuous (single or inconspicuous left / right button) or distinct left / right key pads, distinct textures for identifying clickable areas, etc. In some cases, the key pad may have seamless hinges at specific locations (e.g., areas where the top shell is thinner to facilitate micron-scale motion). Floating islands are possible and may allow the key pad to move up and down and allow feedback via tactile elements to be coupled to the user through the key pad.

[0135] In some implementations, a keypad can be designed specifically for use with an input device incorporating tactile elements, and the keypad can have a seamless and / or solid-state design, as described above. Figures 6 to 8 Various implementations of computer mice or portions thereof incorporating tactile elements in solid-state implementations are shown.

[0136] Figures 6 to 8A solid-state computer mouse having multiple tactile elements constructed on a single input element according to certain embodiments is shown. More specifically, two tactile elements are constructed in a linear manner on each left-button pad area / right-button pad area of ​​the computer mouse. Larger or smaller tactile elements can be used, more or fewer tactile elements can be used, and the tactile elements can be arranged in any suitable configuration (e.g., the location of the tactile elements can follow and / or conform to any contour of the housing), as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Figures 6 to 8 The tactile elements shown in and described throughout this document may be controlled by aspects of system 200 (eg, processor 210), a host system in communication with a computer mouse, or a combination thereof. Figures 6 to 8 Can be operated as a solid-state computer mouse such that the left / right keypad can be seamless and mechanically coupled to the shell so that the tactile element can be enabled via user pressure and output tactile vibrations in response to the user pressure, which tactile vibrations can be transmitted from the tactile element upward through the shell to the user's fingers without any part of the keypad or shell being mechanically depressed other than material bending (e.g., <100 μm) as described above.

[0137] In the absence of a discrete keypad, the area of ​​a housing with an integrated keypad that can enable a force-sensitive input element when pressed can be referred to as a "clickable area". The clickable area can be fully integrated with the housing, or in some cases can be joined or hinged to facilitate some movement of the keypad, thereby enhancing the UX. For example, some embodiments of an integrated keypad may include a solid keypad, an articulated keypad, a peripherally articulated keypad, a combined floating keypad, a pivot, and a fully floating keypad, although other types of clickable areas utilizing tactile elements are also possible, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The keypad or area associated with the force-sensitive input element can be positioned on any suitable surface of the device, such as the top, side, front, and back.

[0138] In an articulated keypad design, the keypad system can be constructed with local hinges that allow minimal movement of the keypad. The hinges can be hinge members, rotation members, and other physical connections between the keypad and the surrounding structure. For example, Figures 9 and 10 A physical connection hinge between a keypad and a structural element (eg, a top case) of a computer mouse is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. Fig. 9 The side hinge keys are shown, and Fig.10A rear hinged key is shown. The hinged keypad can be total, meaning the entire surface of the click area is hinged, or a partial, where only a portion of the area is hinged and the rest of the click remains stationary relative to the portion. Similar to the hinged keypad, other design options, such as pivot keys, are available, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In contrast, according to certain embodiments and as further described below, Fig.11 An example of a non-hinged key supported by a soft cover is shown, and Fig.12 An example of a fully floating keypad (no hinges) is shown.

[0139] Figures 78 to 82 Certain embodiments are illustrated in which a hinge couples the input element of the device to the structural support. The hinged input element may be physically separate from the top housing, such as Fig.78 , Fig.79 , Fig.81 , Fig.82 As shown in , or the hinged input element can be combined with the top shell, such as Fig.80 As shown in Fig.78 In, an embodiment includes a hinge having a necked (or tapered) region, wherein the hinge can bend, a front portion of the hinge is coupled to an input element, and a rear portion of the hinge is coupled to a top shell. A support is coupled (or coupled to) the input element, and a tactile generating element is coupled to the support for transmitting (and in some cases receiving) motion and / or force and / or vibration to (or from) the input element. The tactile generating element can be coupled directly or indirectly to a structural element of the device. In Fig.79 In the implementation, the Fig.78 The support shown in FIG. 1 and the tactile generating element are directly connected to the input element. Fig.80 In the , the input element and the top shell are integral (monolithic). Fig.81 In the embodiment, the rear portion of the hinge is connected to an internal structural element of the device. Fig.82 In the embodiment of the present invention, the hinge uses a pivoting rotation joint rather than a neck region to achieve movement. The hinge causes a lever action and acts as a local reinforcement. In certain embodiments, the hinge facilitates a quasi-linear increase in feedback when the input element deforms or deflects.

[0140] Fig.13AA general prior art system 1300 for coupling a tactile element to an input device is shown. As described above, a preload force can be used to provide a firm mechanical contact and ensure sufficient coupling between the tactile element and the corresponding input element to improve the transfer of tactile energy therebetween. System 1300 includes a tactile element 1322 (e.g., a multilayer piezoelectric element) supported by a carrier platform 1310 via one or more support structures 1314. Support structure 1314 can be a printed circuit board, a sub-base plate, or other suitable substrate configured to support the tactile element. Support structure 1310 can include a cavity 1312, and support structure 1314 includes an opening to allow tactile element 1322 (e.g., when vibrating) to bend downward into cavity 1312 to accommodate a full range of motion, or alternatively, support structure 1314 can fully support the tactile element by providing a rigid-elastic foundation in a manner that energy rebounds upward and toward the user. Compression is typically applied to the combination of carrier platform 1310, support structure 1314, and tactile element 1322 to create a preload force so that tactile element 1322 presses against the bottom side of input element 1324 and forms a strong mechanical connection so that vibration energy from tactile element 1322 can be effectively transferred to input element 1324. One or more additional layers (e.g., silicone layers), such as layer 1320, can be disposed over the input element.

[0141] Fig. 13B The problem with certain prior art systems that use a preload force is shown. A solid preload force can ensure good transfer of mechanical loads and vibration energy from the tactile element to the input element (e.g., keycap, keypad), however the preload force can cause the input element to move beyond a preferred static (e.g., default) position, which can result in detrimental aesthetic and / or ergonomic effects. For example, when the preload force causes the top surface of the input element 1324 to move beyond the contour of the top surface of the housing 1312, a discontinuous and visible "step" 1322 is created. Such a step can propagate through any upper layer 1320 and further enhance visually.

[0142] Various embodiments described herein (see, for example, FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C ) overcomes the above-mentioned shortcomings and operates to provide a good preload force to ensure good transfer of vibration energy from the tactile element to the input element (e.g., keypad), and further prevent the input element from traversing beyond a desired position in its rest position. In some aspects, the rest position can be a position where the top surface of the input element is aligned with the top surface of the housing (e.g., top shell), such as in FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C , or any suitable position (eg, above or below a position aligned with the surface of the housing) as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0143] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C The sequence of keystrokes on a system 1400 is shown according to some embodiments, the system providing and maintaining a preload force that pushes the tactile element 322 against the key plate 320 and further operates to prevent the key plate from extending beyond a predetermined position (e.g., a default position). In some cases, the predetermined position can be a desired position when the key plate is at rest (e.g., no downward force is acting on the top surface of the key plate 320). FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C , the predetermined position is a position where the top surface of the key plate 320 is preferably aligned with the top surface of the housing 310.

[0144] exist Fig.14A , system 1400 includes a housing 310, which may correspond to the top shell of a computer mouse. Housing 310 includes a keypad 320 disposed therein. A tactile element 322 (e.g., a piezoelectric element) is supported by carrier platform 1410 via one or more support structures, which may be a printed circuit board, a sub-base, or other suitable substrate configured to support tactile element 322, and in some cases, provide circuitry to enable communication between tactile element 322 and a control system, such as processor 210 of system 200, a host computing device, or a combination thereof. The support structure may include a cavity 1412 to allow tactile element 322 to move during actuation and deformation, while supporting tactile element 322 by edges and / or boundaries of the support structure. The combination of carrier platform 1410 and tactile element 322 may be pushed upward via a preload force, so that tactile element 322 is pressed against the bottom side of keypad 320 and forms a stable mechanical connection, so that vibration energy from tactile element 322 may be more effectively transferred to keypad 320. The system 1400 also includes a limiter element 1420 operable to physically limit the range of movement of the keypad in one direction. Figures 14A to 14CIn the example of , the limiter element 1420 prevents the top surface of the key plate from deflecting beyond the top surface of the housing due to the preload force. The biasing system can be configured to couple the carrier platform 1410 to the housing 310 and provide a preload force that pushes the tactile element 322 coupled to the carrier platform 1410 against the bottom surface of the depressible key plate 320. In some embodiments, the biasing system may include one or more mechanical fasteners 1411 that mechanically couple the carrier platform 2410 to the housing 310 and allow movement of the carrier platform 1410 relative to the housing 310 within a movable range. The biasing element 1413 can be coupled to 1410 and can be configured to be compressed or expanded (store mechanical energy) when the mechanical fastener is fastened to the housing. In some embodiments, the biasing element 1413 is configured between the head of the mechanical fastener and the carrier platform. In other embodiments, the carrier platform itself can be a mechanical energy storage device (e.g., by introducing a flexible support or making the carrier itself a leaf spring) that provides a return biasing force when bent, which pushes the carrier platform 1410 back upward toward the bottom surface of the depressible keypad 320. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0145] The combination of the compressed biasing element and the mechanical fastener can provide a preload force that pushes the tactile element against the bottom surface of the depressible key plate. The combination of the key plate 320, the tactile element 322 and the carrier 1410 can be operated to be pressed together in response to the pressing force on the top surface of the key plate. The biasing element 1413 can provide a restoring force (stored mechanical energy) that moves the combination of the key plate, the tactile element and the carrier back from any depressed position of the movable range toward the neutral position where the key plate is stationary (e.g., there is no pressing force from the user) once the user's pressing force is removed from the key plate. In order to ensure that the top surface of the key plate is aligned with the top surface of the housing at the neutral position and does not extend beyond the position due to the preload force and / or the restoring force, the limiter element 1420 extends laterally and contacts the lip of the housing 320 at 1430, thereby preventing the key plate from moving further upward. In some embodiments, a tuning element can be used to set the position where the limiter element 1420 contacts the lip of the housing 320. For example, the limiter element 1420 can be coupled to the key plate 320 via a threaded complementary relationship so that the limiter element 1420 can be adjusted upward or downward into the key plate to set a desired height of the key plate where upward mobility is stopped. The limiter element 1420 can be a stop and can be coupled to the key plate 320 via a threaded fit, a compression fit, an adhesive, or any other suitable connection method, and preferably has an adjustable implementation to fine-tune the relationship between the top of the key plate and the housing when the key plate is stationary. Although some of the embodiments described herein are directed to constructing a system 1400 to ensure alignment of the top surface of the key plate with the top surface of the housing, any suitable configuration of the top-most position of the key plate as would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure may be provided.

[0146] Referring back to the sequence, system 1400 Fig.14A 320 is shown at rest, wherein the top of the keypad 320 and the top of the housing 310 are aligned so that the transition between the two appears as a continuous profile. Layer 1420 also exhibits a continuous profile without discontinuities or steps, such as Fig. 14B As shown in Fig. 14B , the user 1405 provides a downward force on the top of the key plate 320, causing it to be depressed along with the combination of the carrier platform 1410, any supporting structures, and the tactile element 322. The mechanical fasteners 1411 allow downward movement, and the biasing element 1413 begins to compress and store energy. The depressed relationship of the key plate 320 relative to the housing 310 is made apparent by the step 1422 between the two elements. Once the user 1405 reduces or removes the downward force, the restoring force of the biasing element 1413 pushes the carrier platform 1410 back upward to the neutral position. Fig. 14C, the carrier platform 1410 continues to move back toward the neutral position until a portion of the limiter element 1420 contacts the lip 1430 of the shell 310 and prevents further upward movement, thereby preventing the key plate from moving beyond the desired neutral position so that a continuous contour between the top of the key plate 320 and the top of the shell 310 is maintained.

[0147] In some embodiments, the limiter element can be any form of "stopper" device located between the key plate 320 and the housing (e.g., top shell), which allows the key plate to move downward without resistance from the limiter element, but prevents the key plate from moving upward beyond a specific position indicated by the position where the limiter element contacts the housing (e.g., the position where the top of the housing 310 and the top plane of the key plate 320 are aligned). In some embodiments, contact can be made between the housing and the carrier support instead of the key plate or other features, as long as the same function is produced. The limiter element can be rigid, flexible (e.g., a spring-loaded soft buffer), piston-type (e.g., spring pin, reverse spring pin) or other suitable mechanical structure. In some cases, the limiter element can be connected to the key plate, housing (e.g., top shell), click module, sub-bottom plate, bottom shell or other suitable location, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure. In some cases, the limiter element can be a separate entity connected to one or more of the various elements, as described above. In some cases, the limiter element can be integrated with the key plate (e.g., a homogenous portion of the key plate) or other features, such as in Fig.40 Any configuration that provides a mechanical stop point to prevent the keypad from moving upward beyond a desired stop point (eg, typically a desired neutral position of the keypad) may be used.

[0148] In certain embodiments, effective operation of the tactile elements includes a permanent mechanical connection between the keypad and its corresponding tactile element. The mechanical connection can be constructed within a preferred operating range that ensures good function of the tactile pointing device, including internal loading and / or pre-compression. This can improve sensing and feedback transmissibility (e.g., no gaps or voids between the computer mouse and the user for vibration transmission).

[0149] The tactile module (e.g., tactile elements and supporting infrastructure) is maintained in permanent preload compression between a computer mouse housing (e.g., top shell, keypad, combinations thereof) that may be comprised of one or more layered materials and a sub-chassis or supporting element or structure (e.g., carrier platform).

[0150] The preload system can be implemented by many different systems, including interference designs, screw torque members, flexible material pieces that bend and / or compress, combinations of mechanical elements, etc. The interference design can have assembled components that are intentionally designed to remain in a pre-compressed state during the life of the product. The screw torque member can be an interference design, a cam design, etc. The flexible material piece that bends and / or compresses can include leaf springs, rubber washers, etc. An example of a combination of mechanical elements can include a screw with a spring that engages a bracket or sub-base plate (e.g., similar in concept to a CPU cooler design).

[0151] Fig.15 A system for providing preload at the mechanical interface between a support structure of a tactile element and a keypad area is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C In various embodiments, a preload force is provided via one or more fasteners, albeit with a flexible carrier platform. The screws can be tightened as needed to generate the necessary force. Compressible elements such as gaskets, springs, O-rings, locking washers, deformable mounting points, and intentionally designed flexible assembly elements can be positioned between the support structure and the adjacent portion of the housing, the compressible element moving toward the adjacent portion of the housing as the screws are tightened and acting as a biasing mechanism, such as Fig.16 In some embodiments, different compressible elements can be used at different connection points between the key plate and the support structure, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the carrier platform can be flexible (e.g., an elastic sub-base) that can connect the key plate to the sensing element to transfer the load from the key plate to the sensing element while introducing a preload into the system, thereby ensuring continuous contact and preloading of the tactile element under any conditions. The elastic sub-base can be tuned by design to perform specific static (e.g., expected stiffness) and dynamic behavior (e.g., tuned resonant frequency). The carrier may include features to prevent the key plate from lifting as described above. Both the preload and anti-lift features can be shared in the same element, or be separate modules attached to the key plate.

[0152] Fig.17A system for providing preload via a groove-shaped recess in a housing according to certain embodiments is shown, into which a tactile element support structure is inserted. The groove limits the movement of the support structure below a certain point (and in at least one lateral direction, as shown in the figure), and in the restricted position, a preload force is applied between the tactile element or sensing element and the key plate. The support structure can move freely upward in the groove, or in an embodiment, a compressible material can be used in the groove above the support structure to provide a damping or limiting force that resists further upward movement of the support structure into the groove. In some embodiments, the system of preloaded support structures, tactile elements, key plates, and housing elements can be independent modules. For example, the housing including the groove can be a component separated from the entire mouse housing. The assembled, preloaded tactile system can then be connected to the computer mouse housing.

[0153] Fig.18 A keypad system 1800 with a leaf spring biasing system according to certain embodiments is shown. The keypad system 1800 includes a carrier platform / base plate 1810, a sensing element 1820 (e.g., a tactile element) supported by the carrier platform / base plate 1810, a biasing element 1830 supported on a portion of the base plate and providing a preload force on the tactile element 1820, a keypad and extrusion 1840 for locating the preload force and / or user input force to the center of the tactile element, and a soft and flexible top layer 1850. In this embodiment, the system flexibility and its means for storing mechanical energy are embedded in the carrier platform itself in the form of a leaf spring design. This spring design can prevent the system from pressing the keypad upward (e.g., not a stopper but a release system) while allowing it to press against the tactile element. In addition, no matter where the user presses on the keypad surface, the system 1800 transmits the user's press directly to a single (or multiple) point load on the tactile element. Thus, the tactile element is supported beneath the functional carrier and by other structural elements of the device (e.g., the top shell). In other words, the leaf spring serves to preload the tactile element to better transfer mechanical energy. The upward load on the keypad is then low (or in some cases zero), which can prevent the non-aesthetic step-like problem described above. The user input force on the keypad is directed toward the tactile element for sensing. In some alternative embodiments, a helical compression spring or a flexible sub-base may be used instead of the leaf spring, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0154] Fig.19 and Fig. 20 A system for providing preload via the flexibility of a soft top layer of a computer mouse is shown according to certain embodiments. The soft top layer deforms during assembly so that closing the mouse stretches the shell, thereby inducing a load on its internal components, including the tactile elements, which produces a desirable preload force. Fig.19In the present invention, a soft material (which may also be stretchable) is layered in such a way that it is clamped under tension between the key plate and the surrounding structure, thereby providing and maintaining a constant preload in the haptic system to prevent it from deforming. When assembled, the outer soft material stretches and is able to preload the key plate onto the tactile elements and / or sensor elements. Fig. 20 Denotes a deformable layer that fully or partially encapsulates and encloses the keypad. This layer includes a functional hinge, a flapper-type deformable member that is stretched when assembled into a computer mouse, thus contributing at least partially to the required preload while allowing deformation and minimal movement of the keypad upon user interaction. In operation, when a button is pressed, the compliant material (deformable layer) bends downward and folds over itself, acting as a stopper on the way down.

[0155] The click module or tactile system may include all electromechanical systems required to provide a functional interface in a button-type arrangement that is fitted into a computer mouse structure. The click module or tactile system includes tactile elements of an array of single or multiple elements, associated circuits, and a supporting backing structure, i.e., a sub-base plate or supporting bracket and a key plate. Other elements include functional components or coupling elements, including those elements that provide and contribute to the required preload system, mechanical features such as interlocking pieces or fasteners, and bonding devices such as adhesives between layers or mounting features.

[0156] In some embodiments, the limiter element can be a stopper constructed between the key plate and the tactile module carrier (e.g., a carrier platform) or between the key plate and the housing (e.g., a top shell), which allows the key plate to move in one direction (e.g., downward), but prevents the key plate from moving in another direction (e.g., upward) beyond a threshold position (e.g., a reference position, a static position, a pre-compressed position, etc.), as described above. The purpose of using such a stopper to limit the movable structure is to ensure the integrity of its components, such as sensing elements or tactile elements, under normal user conditions for good UX, for maintaining a guaranteed preload at a static and unloaded position, thereby maintaining the aesthetics of a seamless device design, or to avoid deformation of a soft layer, such as silicone, beyond its recoverable strain. In addition, the stopper can be rigid or compliant, and can include a compressible element so that the end of the stroke is well divided or more gradually achieved. These stops can also be combined with or used as impact dampers and sound dampers.

[0157] In some aspects, the limiter element can be a stopper configured as a key plate anti-lift system that blocks the movement of the key plate. For example, the limiter element can be a screw, a plastic feature, a heat-melt post, a feature, or an auxiliary component connected to the key plate, etc., which engages with the housing (e.g., top shell) in a manner that prevents the key plate from moving upward beyond a threshold position. In some embodiments, the threshold position is a position where the top of the key plate is aligned with the top of the housing (e.g., top shell) so that the transition between the two is coplanar or continuous so that there is no discontinuous step or profile between them, as described above. The limiter element can be connected to the housing (e.g., top shell or bottom shell), the click module, the sub-base plate (e.g., below the click module, independent of the click module), or any combination thereof.

[0158] Figure 21 to Figure 22 The use of a washer or screw-type limiter element configured to prevent the key plate from moving in one direction beyond a threshold position is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. Fig.23 Another variation of a washer or screw type limiter element also incorporating a compressible element is shown according to certain embodiments. In the latter case, the compression element employed can act as an impact and acoustic damper while effectively benefiting the UX of a device using such a design.

[0159] Fig.24 A keypad system 2400 is shown having a limiter element 2450 coupled to a keypad 2420 via a clamping mechanism. The limiter element 2450 includes lateral protrusions that prevent movement of the keypad 2420 above a position where the limiter element 2450 contacts the top case / bottom plate 2410, thereby maintaining an ergonomically continuous contour between the keypad 2420 and the housing 2410 when the keypad 2420 is in a default position. The limiter element 2450 passes through a portion of the keypad 2420 and is anchored to the keypad 2420 by a clamp. The limiter element 2450 may be secured to the keypad 2420 using any suitable hardware.

[0160] Fig.25 A keypad system 2500 is shown including a keypad 2520 having an incorporated limiter element 2522 according to some embodiments. The limiter element 2522 is part of the keypad 2520 and protrudes laterally, formed as an integral structure. The limiter element 2522 prevents movement of the keypad 2520 above the point where the limiter element 2522 contacts the top case / bottom plate 2510, thereby maintaining an ergonomically continuous contour between the keypad 2520 and the housing 2510 when the keypad 2520 is in a default position.

[0161] In certain embodiments, the keypad anti-lift system can utilize a piston or sliding pin that engages with a carrier platform or chassis (e.g., a subchassis, an internal portion of an input device) and is coupled (e.g., bonded, fastened, etc.) to the keypad. Figure 26 to Figure 28 It shows that Fig.25 The aspects of the stepped limiter element and carrier platform shown in the figure control system movement in all axes except the vertical direction which is configured to prevent shear loads and destructive loads of the tactile elements or sensing elements, as well as lateral movement at the keypad surface.

[0162] In some embodiments, the keypad anti-lift system can utilize a clamping portion that engages with a carrier platform or base (e.g., a sub-base, an internal portion of an input device, etc.) rather than with a top case, as would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0163] Figure 29 to Figure 30 An example of how a clamp may be used in a keypad anti-lift system according to certain embodiments is shown. The system incorporates a stop in the form of a keypad feature that clamps directly to a carrier. This reduces the number of components required and facilitates assembly of the system architecture. The feature prevents the keypad from moving vertically away from the carrier, effectively acting as a stop, while still allowing and guiding the keypad to compress the tactile element when pressed by a user. Fig.30 Also included are soft elements (eg, O-rings or soft gaskets) that allow for compliance in the system to absorb tolerances and required compressive loads between rigid elements (eg, a keypad coupled to a carrier).

[0164] In a peripherally hinged keypad design, the keypad can be hinged around a portion, all, or most of, if not all, of its periphery via a soft and / or resilient compliant member. The soft and / or compliant member can be coupled to the outer surface of the keypad at various locations such as a side portion, a top portion, a bottom portion, or a combination thereof. Similarly, the soft and / or compliant member can be coupled to the surface of another supporting member and / or device at various locations (inside and / or outside) and / or portions of the top shell. For example, the keypad can be coupled to the top shell and / or sides of a computer peripheral device via a flexible and / or compliant silicon material. FIG. 31A to FIG. 31DSome variations of the peripheral hinged keypad according to certain embodiments are shown. These embodiments represent different ways of coupling a soft and / or compliant member to a relatively rigid element of a device and / or between relatively rigid elements of a device, thereby facilitating at least some input motions of an input element. A soft and / or compliant material can be used as a gasket, completely or partially sealing the boundaries of an input element, and coupling the soft and / or compliant material to a device. In certain embodiments, a soft and / or compliant material can absorb shock and / or vibration, thereby providing a form of mechanical isolation between elements. The performance of a soft and / or compliant material can be adjusted and / or modified at different locations to provide different levels of mechanical isolation and / or absorb specific frequencies. A soft and / or compliant material can be homogeneous, heterogeneous, and / or similar to other materials. A soft and / or compliant material can be directly bonded to two elements to be coupled, and an intermediate material (which can be soft and / or compliant or rigid) can be used. Furthermore, a soft and / or compliant material may be coupled to another soft and / or compliant material directly and / or via an intermediate material.

[0165] Fig.31A How a soft and / or compliant material according to certain embodiments is shown to connect a key plate and adjacent substantially rigid and vertical side walls of a computer mouse. The soft and / or compliant material is bonded to the key plate and adjacent side walls. A portion of the soft and / or compliant material is otherwise positioned between the abutting surfaces of the key plate and the side walls. The soft and / or compliant material between the other abutting surfaces may be the same as the soft and / or compliant material bonded or compliantly bonded to the key plate and the side walls, or it may be different. For example, a dual hybrid manufacturing process may be used. In addition, the performance of the soft and / or compliant may be different at different locations. For example, the soft and / or compliant material may have a very high level of compliance at the top (where the user rests their "click" finger), a medium level of compliance between the other abutting surfaces, and a low level of compliance at the place bonded to the side walls (where the user rests their thumb). The thickness of the soft and / or compliant material may be consistent at its various locations.

[0166] Similar to Fig.31A , Fig.31BIt is shown how the top surface of the key plate according to certain embodiments is substantially planar with the abutment portion of the computer mouse housing. A lip is included below each of the abutment surfaces, and a soft and / or compliant material extends into the lip. There may be a cavity (closed or open) below the area into which the soft and / or compliant material extends. The soft and / or compliant material may not be bonded to the top shell or key plate in this area. When the key plate moves downward, the extended soft and / or compliant material may move into the cavity or be compressed within the cavity. There may also be a portion of the extended portion of the key plate that protrudes downward, at least partially adjacent to the soft and / or compliant material. In some cases, the soft and / or compliant may not be bonded to the key plate protrusion. A retaining guide may be connected to the housing of the device and may engage with the key plate protrusion to limit the movement of the key plate in at least one direction.

[0167] exist Fig.31C In some embodiments, the key plate extends around the end of the device housing and hooks under the protruding edge of the housing. A soft and / or compliant material is sandwiched between the key plate and the housing on the top surface and side surfaces of the housing. The key plate and the housing are in contact where the key plate wraps around the bottom of the housing, preventing the key plate from moving upward, but allowing the key plate to move downward. There may also be a gap between the end of the hooked key plate portion and the housing, so that at least some lateral (left and right) movement of the key plate may be possible. The gap area may also be filled with a soft and / or compliant material, still allowing movement, but dampening the movement.

[0168] exist Fig.31D In some embodiments, the key plate wraps around from the top plane to the side plane. The key plate abuts the side wall of the housing on the side plane. The soft and / or compliant material is bonded to the outer surface of the key plate and the side wall of the housing, and extends into the area where the key plate and the side wall of the housing abut. Another portion of the soft and / or compliant material extends along the inner surface of the key plate and is bonded to the inner surface of the key plate.

[0169] In a floating keypad design, according to certain embodiments, the keypad can be completely separated from the rigid connection to the external housing (e.g., top case) and fully supported by the underlying underlying module. FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C The keypad is shown fully supported by the carrier platform, with no rigid mechanical coupling between the keypad and the surrounding top case, as further described above.

[0170] exist Fig.11 and Fig.12 Also shown in FIG. 1 is a floating keypad design as previously described according to certain embodiments. Fig.11A soft and / or compliant material extending through and bonded to the key plate and housing of a computer mouse according to certain embodiments is shown. The thickness of the soft and / or compliant material can vary depending on its location and desired performance. In some cases, a recess in the key plate where a tactile member may be mounted may be filled with the soft and / or compliant material.

[0171] Fig.32A An implementation of a tactile element in a keypad with side-hinged keys from around a scroll wheel opening area is shown in accordance with certain embodiments.

[0172] Fig.32B shows a method similar to Fig.47 But the implementation of tactile elements in a keypad design covered by a soft, compliant material.

[0173] Fig.33 Examples of multiple tactile elements mounted on a common carrier support structure according to certain embodiments are shown. Two tactile elements contact the keypad at two different locations. The common carrier support structure can provide a preload force (e.g., a compressive force) to form good mechanical contact between the tactile elements and the keypad. In addition, the carrier support structures can generally (in terms of how many tactile elements they support) be one piece, or a combination of multiple pieces connected together.

[0174] In some alternative embodiments, a reverse design with less tolerance stacking, fewer parts, and a simpler design may be achieved according to certain embodiments. Such an embodiment may be actuated from below as a reaction force pressing down on the depressible area. The tactile element may be assembled directly to the bottom of the key plate. The actuator may be configured to be underneath the structure of the mouse, such as a sub-chassis or bottom shell.

[0175] To summarize some of the haptic implementations presented so far, some embodiments may be described between two categories. The first category may correspond to situations where a haptic element exerts a direct force on a surface touched by a user, which may be referred to as "direct haptic." Fig.34 A model of an input element with a lateral direct tactile implementation is shown in accordance with some embodiments. Fig.34 The relationship between the keypad and the body of a computer mouse is shown during electrical actuation of a tactile element.Some technologies that may be incorporated into such a design may include solenoids, electromagnets, and piezoelectric actuators.

[0176] The second category involves the case where the tactile element is a vibrating element attached to the surface that the user touches, which may be referred to as "indirect tactile". Fig.35 A model of an input element with a lateral indirect haptic implementation is shown in accordance with some embodiments. Fig.35The relationship between the keypad and the body of the computer mouse during electrical actuation of the tactile element is shown. In this case, the indirect conversion of tactile energy from the tactile element to the keypad is achieved through the housing 5040 of the tactile element, as shown. Some technologies that can be incorporated into such a design can include linear resonant actuators (LRA), eccentric rotating masses (ERM), or piezoelectric-based elements, to name a few.

[0177] In some cases, each of the two implementations typically follows a different set of design guidelines. For a direct tactile implementation, the mechanical connection between the mouse body and the keypad in the actuation direction only should typically be (1) stiff enough to ensure reliable transmission of the command waveform to the keypad displacement waveform (e.g., to avoid filtering "high" frequency content); (2) flexible enough to allow a certain degree of freedom so that there is perceptible movement; (3) the resonant frequency of the keypad element typically ranges from about 350 Hz to 700 Hz, depending on the tactile element technology; (4) configured to damp the keypad movement to avoid ringing after excitation, which can translate into a poor user experience (UX); (5) not damp too much to avoid efficiency losses in the system (e.g., power consumption); and (6) the damping ratio of the keypad element can be in the typical range of 10% to 50%, depending on the tactile element technology, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In some aspects, the high frequency content can be the highest portion of the vibration frequencies perceptible to humans: ~500 Hz to 800 Hz. It should be noted that the degrees of freedom are usually expressed in stiffness: N / m, and depend largely on the mass of the keypad. The range is usually linked to the frequency range 350Hz to 700Hz and is flexible enough, meaning that the main resonant frequency should usually be below 700Hz. In some aspects, the link between mass / stiffness / frequency is that of a 1 degree of freedom (DOF) mechanical resonator (w=sqrt(k / m)).

[0178] For indirect tactile implementations, the following design considerations should be adopted: (1) Stiffness - In order to avoid transferring the limited amount of available energy to the mouse body, the keypad should have some flexibility in the actuation direction compared to the mouse body (transmissibility theory). The tactile operating vibration mode of the keypad should be below 100 Hz to 150 Hz, with lower frequencies preferred; (2) Damping - Some damping is preferred and can help mitigate the tactile element resonance effect. The damping of the keypad relative to the top shell is typically designed to be between 20% and 100%, although other ranges are also possible; (3) The tactile element is mounted on the keypad - In order to help maximize the amount of energy transferred from the tactile element to the keypad, the tactile element should be rigidly mounted to the keypad, and generally higher stiffness will produce better performance because a loosely mounted keypad has a less efficient energy coupling between the tactile element and the keypad.

[0179] In some embodiments, the tactile stimulation of the surface (e.g., keypad, keycap, etc.) or tangential (e.g., lateral) tactile member that interacts with the user is generally perpendicular to the surface or in the surface plane / mid-plane. Tangential tactile members can have some substantial advantages. For example, by definition, the sensing of user force is normal (e.g., measuring normal finger force on the keypad). Tangential tactile members avoid conflicts between sensing members and tactile members, allowing design freedom and disturbances in use because the axes are different, which is contrary to normal tactile implementation schemes. Various studies have shown that fingertips are more sensitive to lateral excitation than to normal excitation. Lateral tactile members can therefore be more effective because significantly less power is required for the same tactile sensation of the user.

[0180] Fig.36 A first solution is provided for a model that couples actuation and sensing in a lateral tactile solution according to certain embodiments. The model includes a mouse body, a sensing printed circuit board (PCB), an actuator with a protrusion, a tactile element, and a keypad. The keypad suspension couples the keypad to the mouse body in any of the following various implementations: a plastic flexure, a metal blade, a coil spring with a guide, an elastic gasket, a flexible adhesive / material, a soft covering for seamless mouse designs such as a floating keypad design, as further described throughout this disclosure. The keypad suspension can be carefully designed, for example tuned to achieve any suitable performance characteristics including rigidity, flexibility, etc. In certain embodiments, the tactile element is configured to induce lateral tactile feedback to the user via the keypad. Although some of these embodiments illustrate tangential tactile implementations, the embodiments may also be applied in normal constructions, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Note that in Fig.36 and Fig.39 In , actuation and sensing are coupled, and the actuator boss is attached to the tactile element so the tactile element can be seen on the sensing signal. Fig.37 and Fig.38 In the embodiment of the invention, the suspension has the additional function of decoupling sensing and actuation.

[0181] Fig.37A second solution is shown in accordance with certain embodiments, a model for disconnecting actuation and sensing in a lateral tactile solution. The model includes a mouse body, a sensing printed circuit board (PCB), an actuator with a protrusion, a tactile element, and a keypad. The keypad suspension connects the keypad to the actuator in any of the following various implementations: a plastic flexure, a metal blade, a coil spring with a guide, an elastic gasket, a flexible adhesive / material, a soft covering for a seamless mouse design such as a floating keypad design, as further described throughout this disclosure. The keypad suspension can be carefully designed, for example, tuned to achieve any suitable performance characteristics including rigidity, flexibility, etc. In certain embodiments, the tactile element is configured to induce lateral tactile feedback to the user via the keypad.

[0182] Fig.38 A model for disconnecting actuation and sensing in a normally constructed tactile solution according to certain embodiments is shown. The model includes a mouse body, a sensing printed circuit board (PCB), an actuator with a protrusion, a tactile element, and a keypad. The keypad suspension can connect the keypad to the actuator in any of the following various implementations: a plastic flexure, a metal blade, a coil spring with a guide, an elastic gasket, a flexible adhesive / material, a soft covering for a seamless mouse design such as a floating keypad design, as further described throughout this disclosure. The keypad suspension can be carefully designed, for example, tuned to achieve any suitable performance characteristics including rigidity, flexibility, etc. In certain embodiments, the tactile element can be configured to induce normal tactile feedback to the user via the keypad.

[0183] Fig.39 A model for coupling actuation and sensing in a normally constructed tactile solution according to certain embodiments is shown. The model includes a mouse body, a sensing printed circuit board (PCB), an actuator with a protrusion, a tactile element, and a keypad. The suspension couples the sensing PCB to the mouse body in any of the following various implementations: a plastic flexure, a metal blade, a coil spring with a guide, an elastic washer, a flexible adhesive / material, a soft covering for a seamless mouse design such as a floating keypad design, as further described throughout this disclosure. The suspension can be carefully designed, for example, tuned to achieve any suitable performance characteristics including rigidity, flexibility, etc. In certain embodiments, the tactile element can induce normal tactile feedback to the user via the keypad.

[0184] In certain embodiments, the force-sensitive input element (e.g., tactile element) described in the present disclosure can implement a conventional mechanical keypad and an immovable and imperceptibly movable design, such as a solid-state computer mouse. Unlike conventional mechanical keypad designs, the solid-state input element on a computer mouse can be limited by an immovable (or imperceptibly movable) clickable area. For example, an immovable area can be an area that does not provide a significant displacement / travel, as is common with articulated mechanical keys, while it can still deflect or deform under normal user loads. Conventional mechanical keypad designs typically span 50mm to 100mm, which can be one or more orders of magnitude larger than solid-state input elements. In some aspects, solid-state input elements can allow tactile clicking technology to be better combined with design flexibility for more innovative designs (e.g., without the need to use conventional mechanical systems that may limit design options), better compatibility with tactile and vibration-based feedback technologies, and improved transmissibility of user input and tactile output feedback. Some implementations may incorporate a fully enclosed keypad system that has no perceptible mechanical movement (except for possible material flexing) and includes one or more layers with different materials and properties, such as an inner shell composed of a rigid material (e.g., ABS plastic) and an outer shell with soft tactile properties (e.g., silicone, rubber, TPE, etc.). From a user experience perspective, although the input element with the tactile element has no perceptible mechanical displacement, the user may receive a tactile cue (e.g., a pulse from the tactile element) that may feel like displacement to the user, or at least provide a sensory cue that a key press event has been instantiated. In some cases, a solid-state input device may employ a keypad that may be flat or have a complex geometry, any of which may accommodate multiple tactile elements (e.g., piezoelectric elements), and have more creative flexibility because the keypad contour does not have to be designed to accommodate bulky and cumbersome mechanical key switches and corresponding architectures.

[0185] Tactile elements, such as piezoelectric elements, can be modulated and tuned based on the way they are mechanically supported. Tuning features can be intended to enhance or better mechanically connect structures for specific frequencies (or frequency ranges) in order to provide enhanced tactile cues and better UX to the user; while other features can be intended to dampen or suppress unwanted frequencies, such as noise and clicks, which can be detrimental to UX and device functionality. In any case, features used as mechanical supports and connectors will change the behavior of the vibrating structure and its response to both user input and other external loads and feedback generated in the tactile element as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from this disclosure. Therefore, the dynamic behavior of the tactile element is modified by affecting its so-called boundary conditions. By changing the shape of the boundary conditions (e.g., the position, hardness, and stiffness of the clamp), the vibration mode shape, frequency, and response can be tuned to a desired range and operating mode to some extent.

[0186] Various aspects of the present disclosure relate to connection solutions for tactile elements without the use of subtractors or adhesives or by means of bonding or soldering to a flexible printed circuit (FPC), while still ensuring preload and contact continuity between the tactile element, the sensing element and the corresponding keypad for improved sensing and feedback transmissibility (e.g., effective connection of mechanical vibrations), adjusting and tuning the local basis of the tactile element to effectively change and modulate its dynamic behavior, including shaping its vibration mode and switching resonant frequency. These connection solutions can also reduce the cost for tactile modules while improving reliability and durability (e.g., reducing or eliminating circuit degradation, trace silver migration), achieving repairability and providing more sustainable design options (by removing the contribution of electronic subtraction).

[0187] In some embodiments, tuning of tactile feedback can be accomplished at a structure coupled to the tactile element, such as at the keypad. For example, specific areas of the keypad touch area or the entirety can be designed so that its vibration response is tuned to amplify or damp specific frequencies introduced by the tactile element. Tuning is achieved through design choices, such as dimensional features (e.g., thickness of material), material properties, and specific features such as hinge design, partially movable areas, or by any other means that would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0188] Figure 40 to Figure 42 An example of a haptic device with a touch surface that is locally tuned to respond at a given resonant frequency by incorporating springs in the surrounding and static regions is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. In this example, the leaf spring allows lateral movement at a unique primary frequency while avoiding or minimizing response outside of an optimal bandwidth. This is an example of a lateral haptic device.

[0189] Figures 43 to 46C An example of a keypad designed to intentionally vibrate at a specific frequency, thereby matching the excitation and response of a tactile element, is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. Both cases provide examples of normally perceived tactile feedback. Figures 43 to 44C Examples of local tuning areas of a keypad are shown in accordance with some embodiments. Figures 45 to 46C An example of an entire touch surface tuned to match tactile feedback according to certain embodiments is shown. Other mechanical elements may be introduced between the tactile element and the touch surface to further modulate and influence the tactile response. This is the case with dampers (e.g., tuned rubber bushings), stiffeners, fasteners, springs, or other elastic elements with tuned resonance, etc. In addition, mechanical features may be introduced to limit or constrain movement in one or more undesirable directions, such as limiting up and down, lateral, and torsional movement while allowing movement in a direction aligned with the tactile element excitation. The present application may utilize guides, pins, springs or elastic elements, design features, or any other device that would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art who would benefit from the present disclosure.

[0190] Fig.47 An embedded keypad (light blue) with a tactile element (white) incorporated in the mouse top shell (dark blue line) is shown. The tactile element is mechanically coupled to the keypad via a sub-base plate (yellow), which includes a compliant actuator (red) that transfers the load to the sensing element (green). Between the base plate and the tactile element, a compressible element (black) is introduced and ensures preload in the system. The keypad is hinged at the rear (right side) by a flexible feature. The additional preload for the keypad is caused by a magnet placed at the front edge (left side of the picture), which is oriented in a way that it is attracted downward toward a magnetic component (such as a screw) in the top shell. Although this solution provides a simple and effective way to combine all necessary systems and sense user interactions in a pointing device, it was found that this approach was insufficient to convey the sense of touch to the user. It was therefore lost that the tactile feedback was better coupled to the compliant element and therefore to the rest of the mouse rather than to the user, resulting in a poor transfer of tactile energy. In other words, in such embodiments, tactile energy is more likely to flow into the internal structure of the computer mouse rather than into the keypad, resulting in inefficient transfer of tactile energy to the user.

[0191] Fig.48AAn embedded multi-layer keypad (light blue) with a tactile element (white) incorporated into a mouse top shell (dark blue line) is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. The tactile element is mechanically coupled to the keypad via a sub-base plate (yellow). A separate bridge portion (orange) includes a compliant actuator (red) that transfers the load to a sensing element (green) and is directly coupled to the tactile element. Between the sub-base plate and the bridge portion, features are included to transfer the load after an initial pre-compression and better protect the tactile element from overload. The keypad is hinged at the rear (right side) by a flexible feature that allows the keypad to move downward as a whole even in a quasi-solid design. However, a second hinge is added to the keypad to separate the top surface, i.e., the user accessible area, from the underlying structure that supports the bridging element. The second hinge operates as a partial disconnection feature of the top structure from the overall movement of the keypad caused by the user, thereby allowing vibration to occur locally. The hinge allows the excitation from the tactile element to be well transmitted to the user, for example, upward and perpendicular to the touch surface, while significantly reducing the tactile energy losses of the entire system (for example, tactile energy coupled to areas that do not include the keypad). The hinge can also be tuned to the tactile vibrator (for example, resonating with the tactile element) by design, which can act as a mechanical amplifier or damper of structural vibrations. Additional preload for the keypad is caused by a magnet placed at the front edge (left side of the figure), which is oriented in a way that it is attracted downward toward a magnetic component (such as a screw) in the top shell.

[0192] In some exemplary embodiments of the implementation scheme using a multi-layer keypad, an input device (e.g., a computer mouse) may include: a housing; a multi-layer depressible keypad including a first layer and a second layer; a tactile element (e.g., a piezoelectric device); a sub-base plate configured to support the tactile element and directly connect the tactile element to the bottom surface of the first layer of the keypad; and a sensor. When the multi-layer keypad is pressed down a threshold distance, the second layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad may contact the sensor so that the sensor detects that the multi-layer depressible keypad is pressed. In some cases, the multi-layer depressible keypad is an integral structure so that the first layer and the second layer move relative to the housing as a single unit when the multi-layer depressible keypad is pressed. In some cases, the tactile energy generated by the tactile element is coupled to the first layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad, and the depressing force that pushes the multi-layer depressible keypad downward is coupled to the sensor via the second layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad. The first layer and the second layer may be vertically aligned relative to each other so that the second layer is positioned below the first layer. In some embodiments, the first layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad may be tuned to resonate at the operating frequency of the tactile drive element. In some aspects, the tactile element is not directly coupled to the second layer of the keypad, and the tactile energy generated by the tactile element is substantially located in the first layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad, such that greater than 50% of the tactile energy is transferred to the first layer, and in some tuned embodiments, greater than 75%, 90% or more of the tactile energy may be transferred. In some embodiments, the first layer is flexible and the second layer is rigid relative to the first layer. In some cases, the sub-base plate may not be directly coupled to the multi-layer depressible keypad, nor directly coupled to the housing of the computer mouse. In certain embodiments, the first layer includes a first end, and the second layer includes a second end, and the first layer is coupled to the second layer via the first end and the second end. In simpler terms, the first layer and the second layer may be similar to two springboards stacked vertically relative to each other, which are connected to each other at the same end of each springboard, such as Fig.48A as shown in .

[0193] FIG. 48B to FIG. 48C A keypad system 4850 with an incorporated tactile element is shown in accordance with certain embodiments. The keypad system 4850 includes a user-accessible keypad (blue) incorporating a tactile element (white), wherein the keypad is coupled to an elastic sub-base (yellow) that can transfer a load (e.g., force from a user pressing a key) to a sensing element (dark green) via an actuator (dark red) of a particular shape and form. The elastic sub-base can be tuned by design to perform specific static behavior (e.g., desired stiffness) and dynamic behavior (e.g., tuned resonant frequency). In some aspects, the keypad system 4850 can incorporate a preload system and a lift stop (e.g., limiter element) (e.g., see FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C) to ensure mechanical coupling of the components under any conditions while preventing the keyboard from lifting. Such preload system components can be shared in the same component (dark orange component) and be a separate module attached to the keyboard or utilize features available from the sub-chassis (such as FIG. 48B to FIG. 48C In the latter case, the sub-chassis may include a leaf spring that acts as a preload inducer to couple the system to the device body. In this arrangement, the tactile element provides feedback to the user by vibrating the coupled chassis and keypad laterally and stimulating a touch area tangential to its surface.

[0194] In some embodiments, the main keypad hinge stiffness (K1) is designed to allow movement and loading of the system under user load, and also to position the keypad to the device body (responsible for configuring the position and orientation of the user-accessible portion of the keypad relative to the device body (housing)). The flexible carrier (K2) is designed for stiffness and other mechanical properties. For example, the flexible carrier can be tuned to ensure preload (compliance) throughout the system and the load sensor below. The design of the carrier also allows tuning of dynamic behavior (e.g., resonance and transient response) for improved tactile energy transfer and mitigation of vibration and click problems (e.g., in other parts of the input device). In some aspects, the preload spring (K3) can be a leaf spring-type extension of the flexible carrier (combined feature). The load transfer element (actuator) can include geometric shape and material design factors, and operate to allow determination of preload and interference (for preload), and transfer load between the keypad and the sensor. The rigidity or compliance of the material also allows gradual loading of the sensing element. In some aspects, load transfer elements using soft materials can also damp and adapt to geometric tolerance deviations. The sensing element can have stiffness and can behave as a curved beam with tuned stiffness and geometry. In some aspects, the keypad can also include other mechanical features such as mounting points, location areas, and overload prevention features. Variations in various sizes, stiffness, compliance, locations, etc. of the elements of the keypad system 4850 can be selected based on design goals. Those of ordinary skill in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate its many modifications, variations, and alternative embodiments.

[0195] In some exemplary embodiments, a computer mouse includes: a housing; a multi-layer and depressible keypad, the keypad including a first layer and a second layer; a tactile element; a sub-base plate, the sub-base plate being configured to support the tactile element and directly connect the tactile element to the bottom surface of the first layer of the keypad; and a sensor (e.g., a force sensor, a key detection sensor, etc.). In some cases, when pressed down a threshold distance, the second layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad contacts the sensor, so that the sensor detects that the multi-layer depressible keypad is depressed. In some aspects, the multi-layer depressible keypad is a unitary structure so that the first layer and the second layer move relative to the housing as a single unit when the multi-layer depressible keypad is depressed. In some embodiments, the tactile energy generated by the tactile element is coupled to the first layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad, and the pressing force that pushes the multi-layer depressible keypad downward is coupled to the sensor via the second layer of the multi-layer depressible layer keypad. The first layer and the second layer can be vertically aligned so that the second layer is positioned below the first layer. The first layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad can be tuned to resonate at the operating frequency of the tactile drive element. In some embodiments, the tactile element is not directly coupled to the second layer of the keypad, and the tactile energy generated by the tactile element is substantially located in the first layer of the multi-layer depressible keypad. In some embodiments, the first layer is flexible and the second layer is rigid relative to the first layer. In some embodiments, the sub-base is not directly coupled to the multi-layer depressible keypad and is not directly coupled to the housing of the computer mouse. The first layer may include a first end, and the second layer includes a second end, and wherein the first layer is coupled to the second layer via the first end and the second end.

[0196] In other embodiments, a computer mouse includes a depressible keypad having a bottom side, a tactile element coupled to the bottom side of the depressible keypad, a flexible sub-bottom plate configured to support the tactile element and provide a preload force that pushes the tactile element against the bottom surface of the depressible keypad, a sensing element, and a load transfer element configured between the bottom of the flexible sub-bottom plate and the top of the sensing element and coupled to them, the load transfer element being operable to transfer a force load from the keypad and the flexible bottom plate to the sensing element. The computer mouse may also include: an outer shell having an opening (e.g., an orifice), the outer shell defining an outer shell of the computer mouse, wherein the depressible keypad is configured within the opening of the outer shell; and an inner bottom plate, the inner bottom plate being disposed within the outer shell and configured to couple to and provide structural support for the combination of the keypad, the tactile element, the flexible sub-bottom plate, the load transfer element, and the sensor, wherein the depressible keypad is floating and disconnected from the outer shell. In some embodiments, a soft compliant layer seamlessly covers the keypad and the outer shell. The tactile element may be structurally combined with the depressible keypad. The flexible sub-base plate can be tuned to include a static portion and a dynamic portion, wherein the static portion has an increased stiffness and the dynamic portion is tuned to the resonant frequency of the tactile element. Some embodiments may also include a limiter element that can be operated to physically limit the movable range of the key plate in a manner opposite to the preload force that pushes the tactile element connected to the flexible sub-base plate against the bottom surface of the depressible key plate. In some cases, the depressible key plate is a left mouse button or a right mouse button on a computer mouse. The flexible sub-base plate can be configured as a leaf spring. In some cases, the load transfer element is composed of a soft compliant material that damps vibration. In certain embodiments, the soft compliant material includes foam, polyurethane, rubber, polymer, or TPE. In some cases, the tactile element can be a piezoelectric element.

[0197] Figures 49 to 51 An example of a haptic device according to certain embodiments is shown, where a touch area (blue) is directly coupled to a tactile element (white) housed by a floating sub-base (green). The sub-base contains two leaf springs (grey) tuned to resonate at a specific frequency that matches the response of the tactile element. The springs are also embedded in a mechanism (yellow) that ensures a preload in the system via its mechanical coupling to the device's static base (red). The system provides tactile feedback perpendicular to the touch surface.

[0198] Figure 52 to Figure 54An example of a haptic device according to certain embodiments is shown, in which movement in all directions is restricted except for lateral movement tangential to the touch surface and aligned with the tactile element. This can be achieved by a local guide feature in a sub-base plate (white) coupled to a keypad (blue), wherein the tactile element (grey) is incorporated into the keypad. The keypad system is then coupled to a base plate (green) supported by two leaf springs (grey), thereby introducing compliance into the system and introducing a preload into the system. Elastic elements (black and red) are included in the system to maintain the preload while providing multi-directional damping and transferring the load to the sensing element. Thus, unidirectional lateral tactile is possible, which is tangential to the touch surface and aligned with the tactile element excitation.

[0199] These various embodiments can be coupled or paired and combined independently of the tactile elements, matching the tuning of the entire architecture through design at the level of each relevant component. Similarly, if the tactile element is tunable, its excitation can be modulated in amplitude, frequency, pulse duration, variation and number of pulses, variation of excitation (e.g., ramp or step), or any other controllable parameter to better match the vibration response of the surrounding structure, which can result in an improved UX. Some tactile elements may have limited bandwidth to limit control over the parameters, and may include implementations using multilayer piezoelectric elements, certain LRAs and LRMs, etc.

[0200] In some embodiments, the suspension film is used to provide a relatively smooth suspension of the key plate on the computer mouse, which allows movement and reduces mechanical vibrations (e.g., mechanical vibrations from the tactile element) to avoid being connected to other unexpected parts of the computer mouse. In some embodiments, the suspension film can be coplanar with the key plate and the surrounding supporting elements (or more generally, it can be co-contoured with the key plate and the surrounding supporting elements for non-planar complex surfaces). The suspension film may also have some slack. The suspension film can continuously pass through the top surface and / or supporting elements of the key plate. The suspension film can also be bonded to the side portion or bottom portion of the key plate and / or supporting element. The material of the suspension film can also completely surround one or more elements of the elements to which it is connected.

[0201] Fig.55 A keypad system utilizing a suspended membrane according to certain embodiments is shown. The keypad system includes a keypad, a housing, and a suspended membrane coupling the keypad to the housing, a plurality of tactile elements coupled to a bottom side of the keypad and supported by a support infrastructure.

[0202] Fig.56 Another keypad system utilizing a suspended membrane according to certain embodiments is shown. Fig.56 The keyboard system can be similar to Fig.55The present invention is similar to a keypad system of the present invention, but the keypad and the suspension membrane are combined into a single elastomeric component. This component can be molded and have complex external shapes (an advantage of the suspended keypad) to allow flexibility in the external industrial design of the product. Therefore, the keypad system incorporating the suspension membrane can promote seamless design, good coupling of mechanical vibrations from the tactile element to the keypad without coupling to adjacent features (e.g., other parts of a computer mouse), and allow greater flexibility in the external product industrial design.

[0203] In some embodiments, according to some embodiments, a key travel enhancement system can be used to increase the keypad travel in a keypad system by adding a soft biasing element in series with the stiffness of the tactile element. The biasing element can be a dedicated spring, a resilient rubber or elastomer, or another suitable compliant biasing element. In addition, the introduction of a compliant layer, such as a compressible silicone, can benefit the UX in providing user perception of keypad movement when the surface is (mostly) stationary. Figure 57 to Figure 59 An example of a two-layer haptic device is shown in accordance with certain embodiments, where the outer, touchable surface is comprised of a soft, compliant material.

[0204] Fig.60 and Fig.61 An example of the introduction of a compliant actuator (red) configured between a touch surface (white / yellow) and a sensing element (green) is shown in accordance with certain embodiments.

[0205] As described above, the compliant element helps transfer loads from a larger touch area and better focus the input on the sensing element component. The design parameters and materials for the compliant actuator can be selected to tune the compliant actuator to introduce the expected mechanical response and gradually load the specific sensing element to, for example, linearize the load transferred to the contact area. The design of the element also allows for a more generic design for the input architecture of any sensing element type or technology. Therefore, the same input design can adopt different sensing options or technologies by simply changing the compliant element to match the new sensing element while maintaining the same structural design.

[0206] Figure 62 to Figure 65 Shown is an example of a compliant actuator (red) that accurately transfers load to a sensor located in a sensing element (light green). Fig.66 is a graph showing compliance induced by loads applied at different input levels (from click threshold to normal user input to heavy user input) according to certain embodiments. Fig.67 is a graph showing a resultant linearization curve of applied load on a sensing element versus contact area, according to certain embodiments.

[0207] In some embodiments, a force-sensitive input element is positioned below an average pressure area on an input element (e.g., a keypad). In some embodiments, multiple force-sensitive input elements are positioned around the average pressure area on the input element. The force-sensitive input elements may be located at equal distances from a center point of the average pressure area.

[0208] In some embodiments, a haptic system for a computer mouse may include the addition of secondary sensing elements or alternative primary sensing elements to supplement any sensing from a capable haptic element. These sensing elements may independently serve as a primary source of detecting user input, or supplement the sensing capabilities of an existing haptic element (e.g., load rate from a piezoelectric device). Such sensing elements may be capable of detecting force, strain, displacement, rotation, or any other input or result of user input in the mouse structure as well as a previous load rate or change.

[0209] In some embodiments, the use of multiple sensing elements or one sensing element capable of detecting multiple prompts from user input, such as combining the measurement of load rate and absolute force, allows covering all user inputs that are generally available in a computer mouse, and covers usability scenarios. This is considered to be crucial for novel technologies that maintain or exceed the current level of sensing reliability for computer mice. Examples include successful detection of interactions such as dragging and dropping, or holding down a key when selecting multiple items, where the user clicks, holds down the click for an undefined duration, and releases after completing the task. In this case, simply measuring the load rate without being able to detect the holding phase, quasi-static input (considering the natural variation of the user input force) will not be able to provide any reliable or measurable change input. In this case, combining or adding a second measurement value, such as the user's absolute force, via detecting the synthetic strain in the mouse structure under the finger will provide a reliable measure by detecting the level of force that occurs during the quasi-static holding phase. Similarly, this sensing capability allows reliable detection of user input when moving the mouse, including through a rough surface or being lifted, while still avoiding undesirable clicks due to shock or vibration.

[0210] Such sensing elements can be embedded in the mouse structure with a variety of layouts, thereby optimizing the detection of intended user input. In some embodiments, the sensing element can be embedded in the touch area itself, directly incorporated in the mouse shell or incorporated in the layer (e.g., incorporated between the rigid layer and the soft layer) or directly incorporated under the mouse, installed in the sub-bottom plate connected to the mouse top shell. In other arrangements, the sensing element can be incorporated in a separate structure connected to other mouse structures, which requires a mechanical connector between the touch area and the element itself to transmit user input. In other embodiments, the sensing element can be incorporated in the bottom of the mouse, such as incorporated in the mouse main PCB or even other compliance structures (e.g., mouse feet). In any embodiment presented herein, the mouse can maintain its solid-state design, in which, unlike more traditional mechanical key plates, there is no obvious key plate movement. Similarly, when the payload transfer between the structure and the sensing element is allowed, a seamless design can be achieved.

[0211] Fig.68 An example of a sensing element (green) coupled to a sub-chassis mounted to a top case of a computer mouse is shown, wherein loads are transferred through the sub-chassis (yellow) which also includes a tactile element (grey), in accordance with certain embodiments.

[0212] Fig.69 An example of a sensing element (green) combined with a dedicated structure coupled to the bottom of a mouse is shown, wherein loads are transferred through a secondary and extended base plate (yellow) that also includes tactile elements (grey), in accordance with certain embodiments.

[0213] Fig.70 An example of a sensing element (green) combined with a computer mouse main PCB and coupled to the bottom of the mouse is shown, wherein loads are transferred through a secondary and extended bottom plate (yellow) that also includes a tactile element (grey) in accordance with certain embodiments. In any of these examples, the structure employed to transfer user input loads to the sensing element can benefit from structural optimizations, including the use of compliant and elastomeric materials to linearize load transfer (e.g., load vs. compression or contact area with the sensing element) and introduce damping into the system.

[0214] In some embodiments, the tactile element may be coupled to or combined with a primary touch structure (e.g., a keypad) or appropriately coupled to the touch structure in a sub-base. Further optimization of the tactile sense to achieve a good UX may see coupling to the entire touch surface or a more localized touch area. In some embodiments, a typical tactile click architecture may incorporate any of the following: a touchable surface, a keypad with or without a soft layer; a preload system of the intended stiffness using springs, compliant materials, or designed structures; a tactile element coupled to any structure in the structure; a primary sensing element or a secondary sensing element; a sub-base for transmitting user input to the sensing element and / or including the tactile element; any mechanical subsystems or features required for proper assembly and function, such as guides, pivots, hinges, fasteners and screw bosses, clamps, and stops; or other features that would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0215] Fig.71 An example of a tactile clicking system according to certain embodiments is shown, wherein a touchable area including a keypad (yellow) has a sub-base (blue) that also incorporates a tactile element (white) coupled thereto. The system can be configured to transfer a load to a sensing element (dark green) while preloading the sensing element via a mechanical spring element (grey). In this arrangement, the tactile element transmits feedback to the user by vibrating the coupled base and keypad and exciting a touch area perpendicular to its surface.

[0216] Fig.72 is an example of a tactile clicking system according to certain embodiments, wherein the touchable area, i.e., the keypad (yellow), has a sub-base (blue) that also incorporates a tactile element (white) coupled thereto. The system transfers loads to a sensing element (dark green) while preloading the sensing element via a mechanical spring element (grey). In this arrangement, the tactile element provides feedback to the user by vibrating the coupled base and keypad laterally and exciting a touch area tangential to its surface.

[0217] Fig.73 An example of a tactile pointing system is shown in accordance with certain embodiments, wherein the touchable area, i.e., the keypad (yellow), has a sub-mount (blue) that transfers loads to the sensing element (dark green) while preloading the sensing element via a mechanical spring element (grey). In this arrangement, the tactile element (white) is directly coupled to the keypad, thereby providing feedback to the user by directly stimulating the touch area perpendicular to its surface.

[0218] Fig.74An example of a tactile pointing system is shown in accordance with certain embodiments, wherein the touchable area, i.e., the keypad (light green), has a sub-mount (blue) that transfers load to the sensing element (dark green) while preloading the sensing element via a mechanical spring element (grey). In this arrangement, the tactile element (white) is directly coupled to the keypad in an inclined position, thereby providing feedback to the user by directly stimulating the touch area tangential to its surface.

[0219] Fig.75 An example of a tactile clicking system according to certain embodiments is shown, where the keypad (light green) has a separate touch area due to a partial hinge area, while the sub-base (blue) is coupled to its lateral structure and non-vibrating structure (disconnected from the touch area). The load is transferred from the sub-base to the sensing element (green), while the sensing element is preloaded by a mechanical spring element (grey). In this arrangement, the tactile element is directly coupled to the keypad hinge area, thereby providing feedback to the user by directly stimulating the touch area perpendicular to its surface.

[0220] Fig.76 An example of a tactile clicking system according to certain embodiments is shown, where the keypad (light green) has a separate full touch area due to the hinge or pivot area, while the sub-base (blue) is coupled to its lateral and non-vibrating structures (disconnected from the touch area). The load is transferred from the sub-base to the sensing element (green), while the sensing element is preloaded by a mechanical spring element (grey). In this arrangement, the tactile element (white) is directly coupled to the keypad hinge area, thereby providing feedback to the user by directly stimulating the touch area perpendicular to its surface.

[0221] Fig.77 An example of a tactile clicking system according to certain embodiments is shown, in which a keypad (light green) has a separate full touch area due to a hinged or pivoted area and a fixedly coupled base plate. A sensing element (dark green) is incorporated in the keypad, coupled to its fixed area and has one or more contact points in the touch (compliant or movable) area. The load is directly transferred to the sensing element via these touch points, resulting in bending, compression or torsion of the sensing element, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Alternatively, the sensing element can detect user loads by measuring the proximity of the keypad via optical, inductive, capacitive, and any other non-contact technology, as will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In this arrangement, the tactile element (white) is directly coupled to the keypad hinge area, thereby providing feedback to the user by directly stimulating the touch area perpendicular to its surface.

[0222] A tactile module may generally include a carrier platform, one or more tactile elements, and a supporting infrastructure. The tactile module may be coupled to an input device in a variety of different implementations, including (1) a single unified carrier platform that supports two keypads (e.g., a left keypad and a right keypad), (2) a split carrier platform to accommodate each keypad or a corresponding separate tactile element, (3) a foil-free design in which the tactile elements are directly coupled to the carrier platform using separate wiring arrangements (e.g., pins, wires, SMT, etc.), and (4) a combination carrier platform with a plastic retainer and a steel bracket for preloading force.

[0223] Most embodiments utilize at least one network that supports communications using any of a variety of commercially available protocols familiar to those skilled in the art, such as TCP / IP, UDP, OSI, FTP, UPnP, NFS, CIFS, etc. The network can be, for example, a local area network, a wide area network, a virtual private network, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a public switched telephone network, an infrared network, a wireless network, and any combination thereof.

[0224] In embodiments utilizing a web server as an operational server or security server, the web server may run any of a variety of server or middle-tier applications, including HTTP servers, FTP servers, CGI servers, data servers, Java servers, and business application servers. The server may also be capable of executing programs or scripts in response to requests from user devices, such as by executing one or more applications that may be implemented as one or more scripts or programs, including but not limited to The server may also include a database server, including but not limited to a database server that can be accessed from and Commercially available servers.

[0225] Such a device may also include a computer-readable storage medium reader, a communication device (e.g., a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, etc.) and a working memory as described above. A computer-readable storage medium reader may be connected to or configured to receive a non-transient computer-readable storage medium, which represents a remote, local, fixed and / or removable storage device and a storage medium for temporarily and / or more permanently containing, storing, transmitting and retrieving computer-readable information. The system and various devices will generally also include a plurality of software applications, modules, services or other elements located in at least one working storage device, including an operating system and an application program, such as a client application or a browser. It should be understood that alternative embodiments may have many variations from the above-described embodiments. For example, customized hardware may also be used and / or specific elements may be implemented in hardware, software (including portable software, such as a small application program) or both. In addition, connections to other computing devices such as network input / output devices may be employed.

[0226] Many specific details are set forth herein to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, methods, devices, or systems known to those of ordinary skill are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the claimed subject matter. The various embodiments illustrated and described are provided only as examples to illustrate the various features of the claims. However, the features shown and described with respect to any given embodiment are not necessarily limited to the relevant embodiment, and may be used or combined with other embodiments shown and described. In addition, the claims are not intended to be limited to any one example embodiment.

[0227] Although the subject matter has been described in detail with respect to specific embodiments of the subject matter, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can easily generate changes, variations, and equivalents of such embodiments after obtaining an understanding of the foregoing. Therefore, it should be understood that, as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, the present disclosure is presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation, and does not exclude the inclusion of these modifications, variations, and / or additions to the subject matter. In fact, the methods and systems described herein may be embodied in various other forms; in addition, various omissions, substitutions, and changes may be made to the form of the methods and systems described herein without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The attached claims and their equivalents are intended to cover these forms or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0228] Although the present disclosure provides certain example embodiments and applications, other embodiments that are obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, including embodiments that do not provide all of the features and advantages described herein, are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be limited only by reference to the appended claims.

[0229] Unless otherwise expressly noted, it should be understood that throughout this specification, discussions utilizing terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” and “identifying” refer to the actions or processes of a computing device, such as one or more computers or similar electronic computing devices, that manipulates or transforms data represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities within a memory, register, or other information storage device, transmission device, or display device of a computing platform.

[0230] One or more systems discussed herein are not limited to any particular hardware architecture or configuration. A computing device may include any suitable arrangement of components that provide results conditioned on one or more inputs. Suitable computing devices include multi-purpose microprocessor-based computer systems that access stored software that programs or configures the computing system from a general-purpose computing device to a dedicated computing device that implements one or more embodiments of the present subject matter. Any suitable programming, scripting, or other type of language or combination of languages ​​may be used to implement the teachings contained herein in software for programming or configuring a computing device.

[0231] Embodiments of the methods disclosed herein may be performed in the operation of such a computing device. The order of the blocks presented in the above examples may be changed—for example, the blocks may be reordered, combined, and / or divided into sub-blocks. Certain blocks or processes may be performed in parallel.

[0232] Unless otherwise specifically stated, conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "possibly," "might," "may," "for example," and the like, or otherwise understood in context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain examples include certain features, elements, and / or steps while other examples do not. Thus, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that one or more examples in any way require features, elements, and / or steps, or that one or more examples must include logic for determining, with or without author input or prompting, whether such features, elements, and / or steps are included in any particular example or are to be performed in any particular example.

[0233] The terms "include", "comprise", "have", etc. are synonyms and are used inclusively in an open manner, and do not exclude other elements, features, actions, operations, etc. In addition, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (rather than in its exclusive sense), so that, for example, when used to connect a list of elements, the term "or" means one element, some elements, or all elements in the list. The use of "suitable for" or "configured to" herein means open and inclusive language, which does not exclude the device that is suitable for or configured to perform additional tasks or steps. In addition, the use of "based on" means open and inclusive, because the process, step, calculation or other action "based on" one or more of the conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​other than those described. Similarly, the use of "based at least in part" means open and inclusive, because the process, step, calculation or other action "based at least in part" on one or more of the conditions or values ​​may actually be based on additional conditions or values ​​other than those described. The titles, lists and numbers included herein are only for ease of explanation and are not meant to be limited.

[0234] The various features and processes described above can be used independently of each other, or can be combined in various ways. All possible combinations and sub-combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, in some embodiments, certain methods or process blocks may be omitted. The methods and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular sequence, and the blocks or states associated therewith may be performed in other appropriate sequences. For example, the blocks or states described may be performed in a sequence other than the sequence specifically disclosed, or multiple blocks or states may be combined in a single block or state. Example blocks or states may be performed serially, in parallel, or in some other manner. Blocks or states may be added to the disclosed examples or removed from the disclosed examples. Similarly, the example systems and components described herein may be configured differently from those described. For example, compared to the disclosed examples, elements may be added, removed, or rearranged.

Claims

1. A computer mouse comprising: case; a depressible keypad comprising a bottom surface; a tactile element coupled to a bottom surface of the depressible keypad, wherein the tactile element is configured to operate in a plurality of operating modes including a first mode and a second mode, wherein, in a first operating mode, the tactile element generates a tactile output that causes the tactile element and the coupled keypad to statically and unidirectionally deflect and remain at a deflection distance, wherein, in a second operating mode, the tactile element generates a second tactile output that causes the tactile element to deflect bidirectionally relative to the deflection distance, thereby generating vibration feedback superimposed on the unidirectional deflection at the deflection distance, and The deflection distance corresponds to the control signal.

2. The computer mouse according to claim 1, wherein The tactile element is a piezoelectric device, and the control signal is a voltage applied to the tactile element.

3. The computer mouse according to claim 1, wherein The tactile output in the first operating mode deflects the keypad unidirectionally to the deflection distance within 10 ms, thereby generating a single pulse feedback effect on the keypad.

4. The computer mouse according to claim 1, wherein The vibration feedback is controlled independently of the deflection distance.

5. The computer mouse according to claim 1, wherein The vibration feedback is controlled by a control signal defining a positive deflection distance and a negative deflection distance of the vibration feedback.

6. The computer mouse according to claim 1, wherein The vibration feedback is controlled by a control signal defining a force of the vibration feedback.

7. The computer mouse according to claim 1, wherein The vibration feedback is controlled by a control signal that defines the time for full deflection of the vibration feedback.

8. The computer mouse according to claim 1, wherein The second operating mode generates press and hold tactile feedback, characterized in that: In response to receiving a depressing force on the top surface of the keypad, The tactile element deflects unidirectionally and remains at the deflection distance; When the tactile element deflects at the deflection distance while detecting the pressing force on the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element generates the vibration feedback; and After the depressing force is removed from the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element returns to the first mode of operation.

9. The computer mouse according to claim 1, wherein The keypad is the left primary button or the right primary button of the computer mouse.

10. A method of operating a computer mouse, the method comprising: controlling, by one or more processors, a tactile element to operate in one of a plurality of operating modes including a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein the tactile element is coupled to a keypad of the computer mouse; When the tactile element is in the first operating mode, generating a tactile output that causes the tactile element and the coupled keypad to statically and unidirectionally deflect and maintain the tactile element at a deflection distance; and When the tactile element is in the second operating mode, a second tactile output is generated that causes the tactile element to deflect bidirectionally relative to the deflection distance, thereby generating vibration feedback superimposed on the unidirectional deflection at the deflection distance.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The one or more processors control the tactile element via a control signal defining a deflection distance of a unidirectional deflection of the tactile element.

12. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The one or more processors control the tactile elements via control signals, wherein the vibration feedback is controlled by the control signals defining positive and negative deflection distances of the vibration feedback.

13. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The one or more processors control the tactile element via a control signal, wherein the tactile element is a piezoelectric device and the control signal is a voltage applied to the tactile element.

14. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The tactile output in the first operating mode deflects the keypad unidirectionally to the deflection distance within 10 ms, thereby generating a single pulse feedback effect on the keypad.

15. The method according to claim 10, wherein The vibration feedback is controlled independently of the deflection distance.

16. The method according to claim 10, wherein The one or more processors control the tactile element via a control signal defining a positive deflection distance and a negative deflection distance of the vibration feedback.

17. The method according to claim 10, wherein The one or more processors control the haptic element via a control signal defining a force of the vibration feedback.

18. The method according to claim 10, wherein The vibration feedback is controlled by a control signal that defines the time for full deflection of the vibration feedback.

19. The method according to claim 10, wherein The second operating mode generates press and hold tactile feedback and is characterized by: In response to receiving a depressing force on the top surface of the keypad, The tactile element deflects unidirectionally and remains at the deflection distance; When the tactile element deflects the deflection distance while detecting the pressing force on the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element generates vibration feedback; and After the depressing force is removed from the top surface of the keypad, the tactile element returns to the first mode of operation.

20. The method according to claim 10, wherein The keypad is the left primary button or the right primary button of a computer mouse.

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