Annular display knob apparatus and related apparatus

Abstract

Annular display knob (KoD) apparatus and related devices. An apparatus includes a frame having a generally annular shape, a spring switch, a plurality of actuator members, and a plurality of pivot members. A respective one of the plurality of pivot members secures an actuator member of the plurality of actuator members to the frame and transfers a force applied to the actuator member to the spring switch.

Description

[0001] Priority declaration

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 371,725, filed on August 17, 2022, entitled “SINGLE TACTILEDOME SOLUTION FOR A RING SHAPED KNOB,” under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to annular shaped knob on display (KoD) devices, and more particularly to systems, methods, and devices for transferring pressure from a button press on an annular shaped KoD device to a dome switch. Background Art

[0004] The KoD device is a physical knob attached (e.g., via adhesive, but not limited to) to a touch screen. The conductive detection pads on the back of the KoD device are detected by the touch sensor panel to report position, angle, or both, and detect a touched state, an untouched state, a push, a release, or a combination thereof.

[0005] The KoD device can be used in various applications to dynamically control a graphical user interface displayed at or near the KoD device. In a vehicle, an electronic display and a KoD device on the display can be used to enable the same KoD device to control a variety of different functions. For example, in an environmental control mode, an environmental control graphical user interface element can be displayed at or near the KoD device, and the KoD device can be operated to enable a user to control at least some environmental control functions by manipulating the KoD device. As another example, in a multimedia control mode, a multimedia user interface element can be displayed at or near the KoD device, and the KoD device can be operated to enable a user to control at least some multimedia functions. As yet another example, in a vehicle speed control mode, a vehicle speed user interface element can be displayed at or near the KoD device, and the KoD device can be operated to enable a user to control the vehicle speed by manipulating the KoD device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] While the present disclosure concludes with claims that particularly point out and distinctly claim specific examples, the various features and advantages of examples within the scope of the present disclosure may be more readily ascertained from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] Figures 1A to 1F is a diagram of an apparatus according to one or more examples;

[0008] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Based on some examples Figure 1A a view of a portion of a device;

[0009] Figure 3 is a graph illustrating capacitance detected at a touch sensor of a touch screen device with a prototype KoD device positioned on the touch screen of the touch screen device, with the cover touched and the dome switch in a suspended position;

[0010] Figure 4 is a graph illustrating capacitance detected at a touch sensor of a touch screen device with a prototype KoD device positioned on the touch screen of the touch screen device with the cover touched and the dome switch in a collapsed position;

[0011] Figure 5 is a simplified perspective view of a spring wiper contact for pushing and rotating a test pad according to one or more examples.

[0012] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a display screen knob device according to one or more examples. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the present disclosure, and in the accompanying drawings are shown by way of illustration specific examples in which the present disclosure may be practiced. These examples are described in sufficient detail to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the present disclosure. However, other examples enabled herein may be utilized, and structural, material, and process changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0014] The illustrations presented herein are not intended to be actual views of any particular method, system, device, or structure, but are merely idealized representations used to describe examples of the present disclosure. In some cases, similar structures or components in the various drawings may retain the same or similar numbering for the convenience of the reader; however, the similarity of numbering does not necessarily mean that the structure or component is the same in size, composition, configuration, or any other attribute.

[0015] The following description may include examples to help enable a person of ordinary skill in the art to practice the disclosed examples. The use of the terms "exemplary," "such as," and "for example" means that the related description is illustrative, and while the scope of the present disclosure is intended to encompass the examples and legal equivalents, the use of such terms is not intended to limit the examples or the scope of the present disclosure to the specified components, steps, features, functions, etc.

[0016] It should be readily understood that the components of the examples as generally described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings may be arranged and designed in a variety of different configurations. Therefore, the following description of various examples is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but is merely representative of various examples. Although various aspects of these examples may be presented in the accompanying drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless otherwise indicated.

[0017] In addition, the specific implementations shown and described are only examples and should not be understood as the only way to implement the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified herein. Elements, circuits, and functions can be shown in block diagram form so as not to obscure the present disclosure with unnecessary details. On the contrary, the specific implementations shown and described are only exemplary and should not be understood as the only way to implement the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified herein. Additionally, the partitioning of logic between block definitions and individual blocks is an example of a specific implementation. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the present disclosure can be practiced through many other partitioning solutions. In most cases, details about timing considerations, etc. have been omitted, where such details are not required to obtain a complete understanding of the present disclosure and are within the capabilities of those of ordinary skill in the relevant art.

[0018] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that information and signals may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For clarity of presentation and description, some of the figures may illustrate a signal as a single signal. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a signal may represent a signal bus, where the bus may have a variety of bit widths, and that the present disclosure may be implemented on any number of data signals, including a single data signal.

[0019] The various illustrative logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the examples disclosed herein may be implemented or implemented with a general purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an integrated circuit (IC), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor (also referred to herein as a host processor or simply a host) may be a microprocessor, but in an alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. A general purpose computer including a processor is considered a special purpose computer when the general purpose computer is configured to execute computing instructions (e.g., software code) associated with the examples disclosed herein.

[0020] Examples may be described according to processes depicted as flow charts, flow diagrams, structure diagrams, or block diagrams. Although flow charts may describe operable actions as continuous processes, many of these actions may be performed in another sequence, in parallel, or substantially simultaneously. In addition, the order of actions may be rearranged. The processes herein may correspond to methods, threads, functions, processes, subroutines, subprograms, other structures, or combinations thereof. In addition, the methods disclosed herein may be implemented by hardware, software, or both. If implemented in software, a function may be stored or sent to a computer-readable medium as one or more instructions or codes. Computer-readable media include both computer storage media and communication media, which include any media that facilitates transferring a computer program from one location to another.

[0021] Any reference to elements herein using names such as "first," "second," etc. does not limit the quantity or order of those elements unless such limitations are explicitly stated. Rather, these names may be used herein as a convenient method of distinguishing between two or more elements or instances of elements. Thus, reference to a first element and a second element does not mean that only two elements may be employed there, or that the first element must precede the second element in some manner. Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated, a group of elements may include one or more elements.

[0022] As used herein, the term "substantially" in reference to a given parameter, attribute, or condition refers to and includes the degree to which a person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the given parameter, attribute, or condition is satisfied with a small degree of variance, such as, for example, within acceptable manufacturing tolerances. By way of example, depending on the particular parameter, attribute, or condition that is substantially satisfied, the parameter, attribute, or condition may be satisfied by at least 90%, by at least 95%, or even by at least 99%.

[0023] In the KoD device, a dome switch may be used to electrically connect the cover of the KoD device to the touch pad near the touch screen so that the touch sensor can detect a push of the KoD device.

[0024] As a non-limiting example, a dome switch is a momentary tactile switch used in various electronic devices, particularly in keyboards and keypads. A typical dome switch includes a thin, flexible metal or polymer dome-shaped component. It is typically made of stainless steel, nickel-plated stainless steel, or a conductive polymer material. The dome-shaped component is positioned below the membrane or key cover in the keyboard, and when the key is pressed, the dome-shaped component collapses, and then, in theory, when the pressure is released, the dome-shaped component quickly rebounds to its original shape. This action creates a tactile feedback sensation for the user, indicating that the key press has been registered.

[0025] In some cases, the KoD device may have a cover area that is larger than the area of ​​the dome switch. In this case, pressure applied to portions of the cover area that are not immediately adjacent to the dome switch may not result in sufficient pressure to collapse the dome-shaped member. Furthermore, in an annular KoD device, if pressure is applied to portions of the annular cover that are located away from the dome switch, a single dome switch may not collapse, i.e., the dome-shaped member of the switch may not collapse.

[0026] In a ring-shaped KoD device, a single dome switch may not be placed in the center because the ring geometry has no central positioning point. Instead, multiple dome switches may be placed around the ring KoD device.

[0027] While the use of multiple dome switches can provide "click" feedback in response to pressure applied to various different parts of the cover of the KoD device, if multiple dome switches collapse, multiple "click" feedback responses can be generated (for example, if pressure is applied between two dome switches, but not limited to this). These multiple "click" feedback responses may not be completely synchronized in time, which may result in multiple click feedback responses, which may be embarrassing, confusing, or generally unsatisfactory to the user. Satisfactory click feedback responses often help provide a satisfactory user experience.

[0028] In addition, the presence of multiple dome switches will increase the capacitance between the cover of the KoD device and the push detection pad compared to the capacitance of the KoD device implemented with a single dome switch. The increased capacitance can reduce the capacitance detection range on the push detection pad of the KoD device. In addition, the use of multiple dome switches increases the cost of manufacturing the KoD device because installing the dome switches can increase parts (e.g., PCB, but not limited to this), carrier time and assembly time, thereby increasing the cost.

[0029] In one or more examples, the KoD device may include a dome switch and two or more actuator members to transfer a mechanical force applied to a portion of the cover away from the dome switch to the dome switch. Therefore, the number of dome switches used in the KoD device can be reduced, and the capacitance between the touch surface and the detection pad can be reduced. In some cases, only a single dome switch may be required for the entire ring-shaped KoD.

[0030] In one or more examples, the KoD device includes two or more actuator members (e.g., electrically insulating actuator members, such as plastic, but not limited thereto), and the two or more actuator members can be mechanically connected to the frame via corresponding pivot members (e.g., electrically insulating pivot members, such as plastic, but not limited thereto). In some examples using two actuator members, the two pivot members can be positioned relative to each other across the frame. The dome switch can be mechanically coupled to the frame between the two pivot members (e.g., in an intermediate position between the two pivot members, but not limited thereto). A pillar including a conductive material can be used to transfer mechanical pressure from the actuator member to the dome switch. The pillar can be electrically connected to the cover of the KoD device (e.g., by contacting the cover or by a conductive spring from the cover to the pillar, but not limited thereto). The actuator member includes a push point that is mechanically connected to the cover (e.g., connected to the bottom surface of the cover, but not limited thereto).

[0031] In some examples using four actuator members, four pivot members may be positioned around the inner frame of the KoD device.

[0032] The examples disclosed herein can be used in a variety of applications. For example, a KoD device including the examples disclosed herein can be used in automotive applications (e.g., for automotive center stacks, but not limited thereto) and consumer products (e.g., home appliances, but not limited thereto).

[0033] In one or more examples, the KoD device can be annular (e.g., donut-shaped, but not limited to) with a single tactile dome switch. These examples can include a low rotation detection pad to push detection pad capacitance compared to the capacitance of a multiple dome switch KoD. These examples can include an actuator member arrangement that transfers the force applied to the actuator member to a single tactile dome switch. In some of these examples, metal is not used (e.g., plastic can be used for components such as actuator members and pivot members).

[0034] Figures 1A to 1F is a diagram of an apparatus 100 according to various examples. The apparatus 100 is a non-limiting example of a KoD device and may also be referred to herein as a "KoD device 100."

[0035] Figure 1A is a perspective view of the device 100 . Figure 1B yes Figure 1A The device 100 in Figure 1A Side view of the incision 1B. Figure 1C yes Figure 1A The device 100 in Figure 1A 1B, and also depicts the base subassembly 136 and the cover 140. Figure 1D yes Figure 1A 100 is a side view of the device 100. Figure 1E yes Figure 1A The device 100 in Figure 1A 1E, and also depicts the base assembly and the cover assembly. Figure 1F is a simplified side view of a cross-section of a KoD device including a push spring strut assembly according to one or more embodiments.

[0036] Reference together Figures 1A to 1F , the device 100 includes a frame 102, a dome switch 110, a first actuator member 124, a second actuator member 126, a first pivot member 120, and a second pivot member 122. The frame 102 includes a screen surface 104 facing the touch screen of the touch screen device in response to mounting the device 100 to the touch screen. The dome switch 110 is mounted to the frame 102. The dome switch 110 includes a conductive material (for example, but not limited to metal, conductive polymer). The first pivot member 120 guides the force applied to the first actuator member 124 to the dome switch 110. The second pivot member 122 guides the force applied to the second actuator member 126 to the dome switch 110.

[0037] The device 100 also includes a push detection pad 106 and a spring switch contact 114. The push detection pad 106 faces the touch screen (the touch screen is not shown). The push detection pad 106 is mounted to the frame 102. The spring switch contact 114 is mounted to the frame 102. The spring switch push detection pad 106 is electrically connected to the spring switch contact 114. When in the collapsed position of the spring switch 110, the spring of the spring switch 110 operates as a terminal and is electrically connected to the spring switch contact 114. When in the collapsed position of the spring switch 110, the spring of the spring switch 110 is electrically connected to the push detection pad 106 via the spring switch contact 114. When the spring switch 110 is in the suspended position, the spring of the spring switch 110 is electrically isolated from the push detection pad 106. In one or more examples, when the spring switch 110 is in the suspended position, the spring of the spring switch 110 is electrically isolated from the push detection pad 106 by an air gap.

[0038] The device 100 further includes a rotation detection pad 108. The rotation detection pad 108 faces the touch screen. The push detection pad 106 and the rotation detection pad 108 are mounted to the frame 102.

[0039] The device 100 includes a cover 140 secured to the frame 102 using cover clips 130 . Figure 1E An example of a cover secured to a frame via cover clips is depicted in FIG. Figure 1A A side view of the device 100 including the base subassembly 136 and the cover assembly 152 taken at the cutout 1E of FIG. Figure 1EA cover assembly 152 is depicted secured to the frame 102 via the cover clips 130. The cover assembly 152 differs from the cover 140 in that the cover assembly 152 includes a plastic cover interior 160, a cover metal applique ring 158 adhered to the top of the plastic cover interior 160, and a cover rear metal plate 162 adhered to the bottom of the plastic cover interior 160.

[0040] The cover 140 includes a conductive material. The cover 140 is electrically connected to the dome switch 110. Figure 1C As illustrated, the cover 140 is electrically connected to the support 116, thereby forming a continuous conductive path from the cover 140 through the support 116 to the dome switch 110. The support 116 is formed by Figure 1B Depicted are two "T" shaped strut sections stacked one on top of the other, but it is within the scope of the present disclosure to use any number of strut sections, including one strut section, two strut sections, or more than two strut sections.

[0041] like Figure 1A As illustrated, in one or more examples, the cover 140 may be electrically connected to the spring of the spring switch 110 through the push spring 142 and the support 116 , and the push spring 142 is conductive. Therefore, the spring of the spring switch 110 is electrically connected to the cover 140 . Therefore, when the dome switch 110 is in the collapsed position (i.e., force is transmitted from the touch position (also referred to as "push point") on the cover 140 to the push detection pad 106 via the first actuator member 124 and the collapsed dome), or when the dome switch 110 is transformed from the suspended position to the collapsed position (i.e., force is transmitted from the touch position on the cover 140 to the dome of the dome switch 106 via the first actuator member 124 and the pillar 116, causing the dome to collapse, and then transmitted to the push detection pad 110 via the first actuator member 124, the pillar 116 and the collapsed dome), the force applied to the cover 140 (e.g., from the user's touch, but not limited thereto) can be registered at the push detection pad 106. In one or more examples, a portion of the upper portion of the pillar 116 can be compressed with a spring (see Figure 1FThe first actuator member 124 and the support 116 are configured to transmit a force originating from the surface of the cover 140 or any position of its periphery (e.g., applied at a non-ninety degree angle relative to the surface of the cover 140, but not limited thereto) to the dome switch 110 or the push detection pad 106, as discussed above. A single dome switch (one and only one dome switch) can be utilized to detect a touch originating from any position of the cover 140 or its periphery, without requiring multiple dome switches to detect a touch originating from anywhere on the cover 140 or its periphery.

[0042] The cover 140 is also electrically connected to the rotation detection pad 108 via the rotation spring 118 extending through the spring port 128, and the rotation spring 118 is electrically conductive. Figure 1C , the spring port 128 can extend through the second actuator member 126 and the first actuator member 124 when aligned as depicted in . When the cover 140 is pressed down, the dome switch 110 is in a collapsed position and the rotation spring 118 is in a compressed position. When the cover 140 is not pressed down (in a static position), the dome switch 110 is in a suspended position and the rotation spring 118 is in an uncompressed or free state. When the cover 140 is in a static position, the free length of the rotation spring 118 is sufficient to electrically connect the cover 140 to the rotation detection pad 108. Therefore, no matter the cover 140 is pressed down to place the dome switch 110 in the collapsed position, or not pressed down to place the dome switch 110 in the suspended position, the cover 140 can be electrically connected to the rotation detection pad 108 via the rotation spring 118.

[0043] In some examples, the frame 102 has a generally annular shape. The first actuator member 124 and the second actuator member 126 may also have a generally annular shape and may be positioned on the inner surface 112 of the frame 102 .

[0044] The inner surface 112 is opposite to the screen surface 104 of the frame 102. The first actuator member 124 is mechanically interlocked with the second actuator member 126. The mechanical interlock prevents the first actuator member 124 and the second actuator member 126 from moving or operating independently of each other, and ensures that they are in the specific positions described herein relative to each other for proper operation of the device 100. Any suitable means can be used to mechanically interlock the first actuator member 124 and the second actuator member 126. As a non-limiting example of interlocking: a pivot pin ( Figures 1A to 1D not depicted).

[0045] The first pivot member 120, the second pivot member 122, the first actuator member 124, and the second actuator member 126 may include an electrically insulating material. Non-limiting examples of such electrically insulating materials include polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and silicone rubber. An electrically insulating material may be used for the first pivot member 120, the second pivot member 122, the first actuator member 124, and the second actuator member 126 because the conductive material may form an electrical connection, thereby reducing the capacitance between the cover 140 and the push detection pad 106, and thus reducing the touch sensitivity of the touch controller.

[0046] Although the device 100 includes two actuator members (e.g., the first actuator member 124 and the second actuator member 126, but not limited thereto), more than two actuator members may be used without exceeding the scope. For example, the device may include a frame having a generally annular shape, a dome switch, a plurality of actuator members, and a plurality of pivot members. A corresponding pivot member of the plurality of pivot members fixes a corresponding actuator member of the plurality of actuator members to the frame and transmits the force applied to the actuator member to the dome switch. The plurality of pivot members and the plurality of actuator members may include an electrically insulating material.

[0047] Internally, two actuator members (first actuator member 124 and second actuator member 126, which can be plastic actuator horizontal arms) are connected via pivot members (first pivot member 120 and second pivot member 122, respectively), which can be plastic pivot points (which can be made of plastic because conductive materials such as metal can reduce capacitive performance) relative to each other via frame 102.

[0048] A dome switch 110 (e.g., a tactile dome switch, but not limited thereto) is attached to the inner surface 112 of the frame 102, approximately radially midway between the first pivot member 120 and the second pivot member 122 on the same first side of the frame 102. The actuator member has corresponding metal posts (posts 116) inserted therein, which form physical and electrical contact from the cover 140 to the dome switch 110.

[0049] Four push points (for example, two push points on each actuator member, but not limited thereto) are pushed by the cover 140. The first push point 144 may be above the dome switch 110. The second push point 146 may be 90 degrees from the first push point 144 along the second actuator member 126. The third push point 148 may be 180 degrees from the first push point 144. The fourth push point 150 is a mirror image of the second push point 146 and may be 90 degrees from the third push point 148 along the second actuator member 126. The cover 140 is electrically connected to the pillar 116 and the rotation spring 118, and when any point on its annular ring surface is pressed, one or more of the four push points are pushed, thereby causing the dome switch 110 to collapse and click.

[0050] The push detection pad 106 and the rotation detection pad 108 can be positioned relative to each other (for example, 180 degrees apart on a circle defined by the frame 102 - the maximum distance between two positions on the circle) to reduce capacitive coupling to a negligible amount or zero. Capacitive coupling occurs only between the dome switch contact 114 and the dome of the dome switch 110. It is worth noting that in multiple dome switch designs, capacitive coupling between corresponding dome switches or components thereof can leave little overhead for detecting push and non-push states. In one or more examples, the push detection pad 106 and the rotation detection pad 108 can be formed as spring wiper contacts, such as Figure 5 1. The spring wiper contact 506 and the spring wiper contact 508 are depicted. The spring wiper contact 506 and the spring wiper contact 508 may include respective fingers 520 and 522 to contact the base segment PCB 156. The fingers 520 and the fingers 522 may be formed or bent at a downward angle (i.e., toward the base segment PCB 156) relative to the portion of the spring wiper contact that is configured to physically contact the bottom of the base subassembly 136 (discussed below). The portion of the spring wiper contact 506 that is configured to contact the bottom of the base subassembly 136 includes a hole defined therethrough that permits the end of the push post 116 to be at least partially inserted therein. The portion of the spring wiper contact 508 that contacts the bottom of the base subassembly 136 is continuous (without a hole).

[0051] The device 100 includes a base subassembly 136 including a detent 138 in its inner surface facing the frame 102. The frame 102 defines at least one detent ball socket 134 to accommodate a detent spring 132 and a detent ball (not shown). With the frame 102 positioned within the base subassembly 136, the detent spring 132 presses the detent ball against the inner surface of the base subassembly 136. Thus, when the frame 102 is rotated within the base subassembly 136, a user rotating the frame 102 may experience a click.

[0052] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Based on some examples Figure 1A 200 of a portion of the apparatus 100 . Figure 2A is a plan view of the portion 200 , wherein the dome switch 110 is shown in phantom. Figure 2B is a plan view of portion 200 , in which dome switch 110 is shown. Figure 2C is along Figure 2B The line 2B intercepts Figure 2A and Figure 2B 200 , wherein the dome switch 110 is in a suspended position 204 . Figure 2D is along Figure 2B The line 2B intercepts Figure 2A and Figure 2B 200 , wherein the dome switch 110 is in a collapsed position 208 .

[0053] Reference together FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D , the frame 102 includes a dome switch mounting pad 202 and a dome switch contact 114 on an inner surface 112 of the frame 102. The dome switch 110 is mounted to the dome switch mounting pad 202. The dome of the dome switch 110 is suspended above the dome switch contact 114 in a suspended position 204. Therefore, in the suspended position 204, the dome of the dome switch 110 is electrically isolated from the dome switch contact 114 and the push detection pad 106. In response to a force 206 on the pillar 116 (e.g., applied to the pillar 116 by the first actuator member 124 or the second actuator member 126, but not limited thereto), the pillar 116 forces the dome of the dome switch 110 to physically contact the dome switch contact 114 in the collapsed position 208. Therefore, in the collapsed position 208, the dome of the dome switch 110 is electrically connected to the dome switch contact 114 and the push detection pad 106.

[0054] Figure 2D is along Figure 2B The line 2B intercepts Figure 2A and Figure 2B 200 , wherein the dome switch 110 is in a collapsed position 208 .

[0055] Reference together FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D , the frame 102 includes a dome switch mounting pad 202 and a dome switch contact 114 on an inner surface 112 of the frame 102. The dome switch 110 is mounted to the dome switch mounting pad 202. The dome switch 110 is suspended above the dome switch contact 114 in the suspended position 204. Therefore, in the suspended position 204, the dome of the dome switch 110 is electrically isolated from the dome switch contact 114 and the push detection pad 106. In response to a force 206 on the pillar 116 (e.g., applied to the pillar 116 by the first actuator member 124 or the second actuator member 126, but not limited thereto), the pillar 116 forces the dome switch 110 to physically contact the dome switch contact 114 in the collapsed position 208. Therefore, in the collapsed position 208, the dome of the dome switch 110 is electrically connected to the dome switch contact 114 and the push detection pad 106.

[0056] Figure 3 3 is a diagram illustrating a graph including a surface representing capacitance 300 detected at a touch sensor of a touch screen device, wherein the example KoD device 100 is positioned on the touch screen of the touch screen device, the touch cover 140 and the dome switch 110 is in a suspended position. The graphed surface includes at least two regions: a first region 306 including capacitance information about rotation and a second region 308 including capacitance information about push. As can be seen in FIG. Figure 4 As observed in FIG. 3 , a rotation peak 302 (so called because the capacitance change appears as a peak corresponding to the rotation detection pad 108) is present in the first area 306, and the touch controller can detect the rotation peak. However, since the dome switch 110 is in a suspended position, the capacitance from the touch is not transmitted to the push detection pad 106 through the dome switch 110, and no corresponding push peak is present in the second area 308, so the touch controller detects "no touch".

[0057] Figure 4 4 is a diagram illustrating a graph including a surface representing capacitance 400 detected at a touch sensor of a touch screen device, wherein the example KoD device 100 is positioned on the touch screen of the touch screen device, touching and pushing the cover 140, and the dome switch 110 is in a collapsed position. The graphed surface includes at least two regions: a first region 406 including capacitance information about rotation and a second region 408 including capacitance information about pushing. As can be seen in FIG. Figure 5 As observed in FIG. 4 , a rotation peak 402 is present at a first region 406, and a push peak 404 is present at a second region 408. Because the touch is transmitted to the push detection pad 106 through the dome switch 110 in the collapsed position, the push peak 404 is detected.

[0058] Compared to many dome switch KoD devices where a small push peak can be observed even when the dome switch 110 is in the suspended position, Figure 3 The push peak is essentially invisible in the . Thus, a much stronger push peak signal from the suspended position to the collapsed position is observed with the prototype KoD device 100 compared to multiple dome switch KoDs of similar size (e.g., approximately four times larger). A uniform single mechanical click around the cover 140 can also be observed when pushed.

[0059] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a display screen knob device according to one or more examples. The display screen knob device 600 may be according to one or more of the following: Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 1C , Figure 1D , Figure 1E , Figure 1F , Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 2D , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 .

[0060] As used in this disclosure, the term "module" or "component" may refer to a specific hardware implementation that is configured to perform the actions of a module or component and / or a software object or software routine that may be stored on and / or executed by general-purpose hardware of a computing system (e.g., a computer-readable medium, a processing device, etc.). In some examples, the different components, modules, engines, and services described in this disclosure may be implemented as objects or processes (e.g., as separate threads) that execute on a computing system. Although some of the systems and methods described in this disclosure are generally described as being implemented in software (stored on and / or executed by general-purpose hardware), specific hardware implementations or combinations of software and specific hardware implementations are possible and contemplated.

[0061] As used in this disclosure, the term "combination" referring to a plurality of elements may include any combination of all elements or various subcombinations of certain elements. For example, the phrase "A, B, C, D, or a combination thereof" may refer to any one of A, B, C, or D; a combination of each of A, B, C, and D; and any subcombination of A, B, C, or D, such as A, B, and C; A, B, and D; A, C, and D; B, C, and D; A and B; A and C; A and D; B and C; B and D; or C and D.

[0062] The terms used in this disclosure, especially in the appended claims (e.g., the bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended to be “open” terms (e.g., the term “comprising” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” etc.).

[0063] Additionally, if a specific number of introduced claim expressions is intended, such intent will be expressly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such a recitation, no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may include the use of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim expressions. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that a claim expression introduced by the indefinite article "a" or "an" will limit any particular claim containing such introduced claim expression to an example containing only one such expression, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article, such as "a" or "a kind" (e.g., "a" and / or "an" may be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same is true when a claim expression is introduced using a definite article.

[0064] In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, one skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the unmodified recitation "two recitations" means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations, in the absence of other modifiers). Moreover, in those cases where a convention similar to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." or "one or more of A, B, and C, etc." is used, such construction is generally intended to include only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C, or A, B, and C, etc.

[0065] In addition, any separate word or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the specification, claims or drawings, should be understood to include the possibility of one of the terms, any one of the terms, or both of the terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" should be understood to include the possibility of "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0066] Although the present disclosure describes the present invention with respect to certain illustrative examples, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize and understand that the present invention is not so limited. Rather, many additions, deletions, and modifications may be made to the illustrative examples and the examples described without departing from the scope of the present invention as claimed below and its legal equivalents. Furthermore, features from one example may be combined with features from another example while still being included within the scope of the present invention as contemplated by the inventor.

[0067] Additional non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure include:

[0068] Embodiment 1: A device for a display screen knob device, the device comprising: a frame having a substantially annular shape; a dome switch; a plurality of actuator components; and a plurality of pivot components, wherein corresponding pivot components among the plurality of pivot components fix corresponding actuator components among the plurality of actuator components to the frame and transmit the force applied to the actuator components to the dome switch.

[0069] Embodiment 2: The device of embodiment 1, wherein the number of the respective actuator members in the plurality of actuator members is two.

[0070] Embodiment 3: The device according to embodiments 1 and 2, wherein the number of the respective actuator members in the plurality of actuator members is four.

[0071] Embodiment 4: The device of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein a corresponding pivot member of the plurality of pivot members comprises an electrically insulating material.

[0072] Embodiment 5: The device of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein respective actuator members of the plurality of actuator members comprise an electrically insulating material.

[0073] Embodiment 6: The device of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein at least two actuator members of the plurality of actuator members are fixed to the frame via respective pivot members of the plurality of pivot members.

[0074] Embodiment 7: The device according to embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the at least two actuators are respectively fixed to the frame at relative positions on the frame.

[0075] Embodiment 8: The device of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the dome switch is fixed to the frame at a radially midway position between two of the plurality of pivot members.

[0076] Embodiment 9: The device according to embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the dome switch is a single dome switch.

[0077] Embodiment 10: The device of Embodiments 1 to 9, wherein respective pivot members of the plurality of pivot members are positioned at 90 degree intervals about a circle at least partially defined by the frame.

[0078] Embodiment 11: The device of Embodiments 1 to 10, wherein respective pivot members of the plurality of pivot members are positioned at 180 degree intervals around a circle at least partially defined by the frame.

[0079] Embodiment 12: A device for a display screen knob device, the device comprising: a frame, the frame comprising a screen surface facing the touch screen in response to mounting the device to the touch screen of a touch screen device; a dome switch mounted to the frame, the dome switch comprising a conductive material; a first actuator member; a second actuator member; a first pivot member, the first pivot member being used to direct the force applied to the first actuator member to the dome switch; and a second pivot member, the second pivot member being used to direct the force applied to the second actuator member to the dome switch.

[0080] Embodiment 13: The device according to embodiment 12, wherein the dome switch has at least two positions, and the at least two positions include a collapsed position and a suspended position.

[0081] Embodiment 14: According to the device described in Embodiments 12 and 13, the device includes: a push detection pad facing the touch screen, the push detection pad is mounted to the frame; and a spring switch contact mounted to the frame, the spring switch contact is electrically connected to the push detection pad.

[0082] Embodiment 15: The device according to embodiments 12 to 14, wherein in the collapsed position of the dome switch, the dome of the dome switch is electrically connected to the dome switch contact, and in the suspended position of the dome switch, the dome of the dome switch is electrically isolated from the dome switch contact.

[0083] Embodiment 16: The device according to embodiments 12 to 15, wherein in the folded position, the dome of the dome switch physically contacts the dome switch contact.

[0084] Embodiment 17: The device of Embodiments 12 to 16, wherein the dome of the dome switch is physically spaced apart from the dome switch contact in the suspended position.

[0085] Embodiment 18: The device according to embodiments 12 to 17, comprising a cover, the cover comprising a conductive material, the cover being electrically connected to the dome switch.

[0086] Embodiment 19: The device according to embodiments 12 to 18, wherein the cover is electrically connected to the dome of the dome switch through a support.

[0087] Embodiment 20: The device according to embodiments 12 to 19, wherein the cover is electrically connected to the dome of the dome switch through a conductive spring.

[0088] Embodiment 21: The device according to embodiments 12 to 20, comprising a rotation detection pad facing the touch screen, the rotation detection pad being mounted to the frame, and the rotation detection pad being electrically connected to the cover via a conductive spring.

[0089] Embodiment 22: The device of Embodiments 12 to 21, wherein the frame has a generally annular shape, and wherein the rotation detection pad and the push detection pad are positioned 180 degrees apart on a circle at least partially defined by the frame.

[0090] Embodiment 23: The device of Embodiments 12 to 22, wherein the first actuator member is interlocked with the second actuator member.

[0091] Embodiment 24: The device of Embodiments 12 to 23, wherein the frame has a generally annular shape.

[0092] Embodiment 25: The device of Embodiments 12 to 24, wherein the first pivot member and the second pivot member of the plurality of pivot members are positioned at 180 degree intervals around a circle at least partially defined by the frame.

Claims

1. A device for a display screen knob device, the device comprising: a frame having a generally annular shape; Shrapnel switch; a plurality of actuator members; and A plurality of pivot members, respective ones of the plurality of pivot members fixing respective ones of the plurality of actuator members to the frame and transmitting a force applied to the actuator member to the dome switch. 2 . The device according to claim 1 , wherein the number of the respective actuator members in the plurality of actuator members is two.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the number of the respective actuator members in the plurality of actuator members is four. 4 . The device of claim 1 , wherein a corresponding pivot member of the plurality of pivot members comprises an electrically insulating material.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein respective actuator members of the plurality of actuator members comprise an electrically insulating material.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein at least two of the plurality of actuator members are secured to the frame via respective pivot members of the plurality of pivot members.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the relative positions of the at least two actuators on the frame are respectively fixed to the frame.

8. The device of claim 6, wherein the dome switch is fixed to the frame at a radially midway position between two of the plurality of pivot members.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the dome switch is a single dome switch.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein respective ones of the plurality of pivot members are positioned at 90 degree intervals about a circle at least partially defined by the frame.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein respective ones of the plurality of pivot members are positioned at 180 degree intervals about a circle at least partially defined by the frame.

12. A device for a display screen knob device, the device comprising: a frame including a screen surface facing the touch screen in response to mounting the apparatus to the touch screen of a touch screen device; a dome switch mounted to the frame, the dome switch comprising a conductive material; a first actuator member; a second actuator member; a first pivot member for directing a force applied to the first actuator member to the dome switch; and A second pivot member for directing a force applied to the second actuator member to the dome switch.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the dome switch has at least two positions, the at least two positions comprising a collapsed position and a suspended position.

14. The device according to claim 13, comprising: a push detection pad facing the touch screen, the push detection pad being mounted to the frame; as well as A dome switch contact is mounted to the frame, the dome switch contact being electrically connected to the push detection pad.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein in the collapsed position of the dome switch, the dome of the dome switch is electrically connected to the dome switch contact, and in the suspended position of the dome switch, the dome of the dome switch is electrically isolated from the dome switch contact.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein in the collapsed position, the dome of the dome switch physically contacts the dome switch contact.

17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein in the suspended position, the dome of the dome switch is physically spaced apart from the dome switch contact.

18. The device of claim 14, comprising a cover, the cover comprising a conductive material, the cover being electrically connected to the dome switch.

19. The device of claim 18, wherein the cover is electrically connected to the dome of the dome switch through a support.

20. The device of claim 18, wherein the cover is electrically connected to the dome of the dome switch through a conductive spring.

21. The device of claim 16, comprising a rotation detection pad facing the touch screen, the rotation detection pad being mounted to the frame, the rotation detection pad being electrically connected to the cover through a conductive spring.

22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the frame has a generally annular shape, and wherein the rotation detection pad and the push detection pad are positioned 180 degrees apart on a circle at least partially defined by the frame.

23. The device of claim 12, wherein the first actuator member is interlocked with the second actuator member.

24. The device of claim 12, wherein the frame has a generally annular shape.

25. The device of claim 12, wherein the first pivot member and the second pivot member of the plurality of pivot members are positioned 180 degrees apart about a circle at least partially defined by the frame.

Images