Input device with adaptive grip orientation

Abstract

An input device, such as a mouse, may include a housing defining an external grip portion and an internal volume; a sensor assembly disposed in the internal volume; and a transmitter electrically coupled to the sensor assembly. In response to the sensor assembly detecting a first touch input on the housing, the transmitter transmits a first signal including information about the angular positioning of the grip portion. In response to the sensor assembly detecting a second touch input on the housing, the transmitter transmits a second signal including information about a direction of force exerted on the housing from the second touch input.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 472,177, filed on September 21, 2023, entitled “Multi-Mode Mouse,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 376,650, filed on September 22, 2022, entitled “Input Device for Three-Dimensional Control,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 376,756, filed on January 5, 2022, entitled “Variable Friction and Multi-Texture Mouse,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 376,767, filed on September 22, 2022, entitled “Input Device with Adaptive Grip Orientation,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 376,779, filed on January 5, 2023, entitled “Input Device with Adaptive Grip Orientation.” The present invention relates to a device for use with a multi-mode mouse, and the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 478,523, filed on September 22, 2022, entitled “Multi-Mode Mouse”, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 376,763, filed on September 22, 2022, entitled “Multi-Mode Mouse”, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The described embodiments generally relate to input devices. More particularly, the embodiments of the present invention relate to input devices having multiple modes. Background Art

[0004] Computer systems and devices (such as portable computers, tablet computers, desktop computers, etc.) receive input from users via input devices (such as mice, trackpads, or other input devices). Input devices allow users to move input indicators (i.e., cursors) and make selections in a graphical user interface (GUI) on a computer system. Input devices generally include buttons and motion tracking components, such as mechanical or optical motion trackers or other motion trackers. The motion tracking component can track the user-directed movement of the input device, thereby converting the user's movement into a signal that can be read by the computer system. For example, a user may wish to select a feature displayed on the GUI. The user can point the input device that converts the user's movement into a cursor on the screen to the desired feature displayed on the GUI. The user can then press or tap a button on the input device to make the desired selection.

[0005] Conventional user input devices may include mechanical buttons for data selection and command execution. Mechanical buttons are located at fixed positions on the user input device, thereby generating orientation-specific user interactions between the user input device and the user. This orientation-specific user interaction limits the user to interact with the user input device in a possibly more efficient manner, thereby reducing user productivity, and frustrating the user in some cases. In addition, the buttons and input functionality of traditional input devices limit the way in which the user can interact with the input device. Some input devices may include a variety of buttons and selectors, including joysticks and rotating knobs, but require additional components, which complicate manufacturing and increase costs. These additional buttons, knobs, and joysticks that realize different input modes from the user also introduce more moving parts, which may lead to increased failure rates.

[0006] Therefore, what is needed in the art is an input device that can provide an improved user experience with multiple input modes without the need for additional components and moving parts. Summary of the invention

[0007] In at least one example of the present disclosure, an input device includes: a housing having an interior surface defining an interior volume; a touch sensor assembly including an array of capacitive sensing elements disposed against the interior surface; an orientation sensor disposed in the interior volume; and a force sensor assembly configured to detect a direction of a force applied to the housing.

[0008] In one example, the force sensor assembly is configured to detect the first hand position of a user touching the shell based on the first group of capacitive sensing elements detecting contact between the hand and the shell, and to detect the second hand position of the user touching the shell based on the second group of capacitive sensing elements detecting contact between the hand and the shell. In one example, the orientation sensor can detect the rotation of the input device in response to detecting the first hand position, and the force sensor detects the direction of the force applied to the shell in response to detecting the second hand position. In one example, the input device includes a touch sensor assembly configured to detect the hand position of the user touching the shell. In one example, the touch sensor assembly includes two sensor elements arranged on the inner surface. In one example, the force sensor assembly includes two force sensors. In one example, the orientation sensor includes (IMU, compass, etc.). In one example, the input device also includes a feedback module. In one example, the feedback module includes a tactile mechanism. In one example, the feedback module includes a speaker.

[0009] In at least one example of the present disclosure, a mouse includes: a shell including a base and a gripping portion coupled to the base; a plurality of touch sensors disposed on the gripping portion; and a force sensor disposed on the base portion, the force sensor being sensitive to a direction and magnitude of a force applied to the gripping portion.

[0010] In one example, the mouse further includes grip detection. In one example, the mouse further includes a processor electrically coupled to the plurality of touch sensors and the force sensor. In one example, the mouse further includes a transmitter electrically coupled to the processor, wherein when the plurality of touch sensors detect a first hand position contacting the grip portion, the transmitter transmits first information about a direction of a force applied to the grip portion detected by the force vector sensor, and when the plurality of touch sensors detect a second hand position contacting the grip portion detected by the force vector sensor and when the plurality of touch sensors detect the second hand position contacting the grip portion, the transmitter transmits second information about an orientation of the mouse. The mouse further includes an orientation sensor electrically coupled to the processor.

[0011] In at least one example, a mouse may include: a housing defining an outer gripping portion and an interior volume; a sensor assembly disposed in the interior volume; and a transmitter electrically coupled to the sensor assembly. In such an example, in response to the sensor assembly detecting a first touch input on the housing, the transmitter transmits a first signal including information about an angular positioning of the gripping portion. Also, in such an example, in response to the sensor assembly detecting a second touch input on the housing, the transmitter transmits a second signal including information about a direction of a force applied to the housing from the second touch input.

[0012] In one example, the first touch input includes a set of touch input locations on the housing. In one example, the second touch input includes a single touch location. In one example, the sensor assembly includes a force vector sensor, a touch sensor array, and an angle sensor. In one example, the touch sensor array includes a plurality of capacitive sensing elements configured to detect the first touch input and the second touch input. In one example, the force vector sensor includes a first force sensor disposed at a first location within the interior volume and a second force sensor disposed at a second location within the interior volume. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present disclosure will be readily understood through the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like structural elements, and in which:

[0014] Figure 1 A perspective view of a mouse and a display is shown;

[0015] Figure 2A A perspective view of a mouse is shown;

[0016] Figure 2B A bottom perspective view of the mouse is shown;

[0017] Figure 2C A top view of the mouse and plane is shown;

[0018] Figure 3 A side cutaway view of the mouse and various sensors is shown;

[0019] Figure 4 A side cutaway view of the mouse and various sensors is shown;

[0020] Figure 5 A side cutaway view of a mouse with a sensor is shown.

[0021] Figure 6 A top cutaway view of a mouse is shown;

[0022] Figure 7 A perspective view of a mouse and light array is shown;

[0023] Figure 8 shows a side cutaway view of a mouse with a sensor;

[0024] Fig.9A A mouse and a user's hand are shown;

[0025] Fig. 9B Mouse detection hand positioning is shown;

[0026] Fig. 10A A mouse and a user's hand are shown;

[0027] Fig. 10B Mouse detection hand positioning is shown;

[0028] Fig.11A a mouse and a user's hand are shown; and

[0029] Fig. 11B Mouse detection hand positioning is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Reference will now be made in detail to the representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents that may be included in the essence and scope of the described embodiments defined by the appended claims.

[0031] The following disclosure relates to input devices. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to input devices such as mice with multiple input modes. Input devices allow users to interact with a digital environment by interacting with a computing device (e.g., a portable computer, a desktop computer, a tablet computer, etc.) and a display via an input device. An input device allows a user to move an input indicator (e.g., a cursor) to select in a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display of a computing device. An input device generally includes a button and a position tracking device (e.g., a mechanical movement tracker, an optical movement tracker, or a sensor array identifying user input). When moving (e.g., translating on a support surface (such as a mouse pad or a desktop)) an input device, the input device tracks the movement caused by the user to generate a signal that can be read by a computing device, which then presents the motion of the input device on a display, as represented by a cursor or other visual object.

[0032] In some instances, the user may wish to make a selection shown on the display. Conventional user input devices require the user to interact with a specific location of the user input device to make a selection, for example, clicking a button while hovering over an icon to generate a signal that can be read by the computing device. Typically, buttons have specific inputs programmed by the manufacturer and are difficult or unchangeable. The button location and fixed functions of the buttons result in simple user-device interactions.

[0033] Unfortunately, many users require more advanced button functionality and prefer buttons in different locations. Fixed locations of buttons on user input devices create a frustrating experience, forcing the user to grip the user input device in a way that may be uncomfortable or undesirable. Additionally, because buttons of a user input device may have fixed functionality (e.g., left-click and right-click buttons) and locations, buttons in fixed locations create a difficult user experience for left-handed and right-handed users who share the same user input device.

[0034] Additionally, conventional user input devices are limited in orientation and functionality, for example, the user input device may have a fixed coordinate system, forcing the user to properly orient the user input device to produce the user's intended direction of movement.

[0035] While having a user input device is advantageous for interacting with a computing device, as described above, conventional user input devices fail to adapt to the user's dynamic coordinate system and have fixed button positions that cannot be actively adjusted to changes in the user's hand positioning. The examples of input devices described below detail user input devices with features and functions regarding button placement and cursor positioning that produce a more satisfying and interactive user experience. In addition, these features enable the input devices described herein to detect and interpret multiple types of user interactions depending on how the user holds the device to switch operating modes.

[0036] In at least one example, an input device includes a housing including an interior surface defining an interior volume. The input device also includes an orientation sensor and a force sensor assembly, the orientation sensor being disposed in the interior volume. The force sensor and the force sensor assembly are configured to detect a direction of a force applied to the housing. For example, a user may place his or her finger on the housing and press in a direction with a certain amount of force. The input device may detect a user force vector (e.g., a direction and magnitude of the force) that causes a cursor to move in a direction intended by the user.

[0037] In another example, an input device such as a mouse includes a housing including a base and a gripping portion coupled to the base. The input device also includes a plurality of touch sensors disposed on the gripping portion. The base portion includes a force vector sensor disposed on the base portion capable of detecting user input.

[0038] In such examples, the input device can be said to be operating in a joystick mode, wherein, based on the detected position of a finger pressing on the device, the device itself can be manipulated as a joystick to be used to control a cursor.

[0039] In another example, a user input device (e.g., a mouse) includes a housing defining an internal volume, a sensor assembly, and an electrical component configured to transmit a user interface signal. The sensor assembly can detect a first touch input (e.g., a finger or hand of a user) on the housing, thereby converting the first touch input into a user interface signal via the electrical component. The user interface signal includes information about the angular positioning of the gripping portion. The sensor assembly can detect a second touch input (e.g., a force applied by a finger or hand of a user) on the housing. The user interface signal includes the direction of the force applied to the housing from the second touch input.

[0040] In such an example, the input device may be said to operate in a turn-knob or turn-dial mode, wherein the device itself may be manipulated or twisted as a turn-dial to control a cursor or make selections on a display screen, based on the detected position of a finger pressed on the device. Additionally, the input device may automatically switch from one mode to another, e.g., between a conventional mode, a joystick mode, and a turn-dial mode, based on the detected hand position of a user contacting the input device. Because the sensor array may designate any location contacted by a user as a functional input area or contact location, the functionality of the input device in each mode does not require different or unique buttons, knobs, or joysticks. Thus, the complexity of the input device is reduced, while the functionality of the different modes of operation is increased.

[0041] Thus, the electronic input devices described herein, including computer mice, may produce a more satisfying and interactive user experience by including multiple input modes without the need for additional components and moving parts.

[0042] References below Figures 1 to 11B These embodiments and other embodiments are discussed. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description relative to these figures given herein is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as restrictive. In addition, as used herein, a system, method, product, component, feature or sub-feature comprising at least one of the first option, the second option or the third option should be understood to refer to a system, method, product, component, feature or sub-feature comprising at least one of the first option, the second option or the third option, which may include one option of each listed option (e.g., only one first option in the first option, only one second option in the second option or only one third option in the third option), multiple options of a single listed option (e.g., two or more first options in the first option), two options simultaneously (e.g., one first option in the first option and one second option in the second option) or a combination thereof (e.g., one second option in two first options in the first option and one second option in the second option).

[0043] Figure 1 An input device 100 located on a support surface 106 is shown connected to a computing device 102 via a connector 110. The input device 100 may also be referred to herein as a mouse 100. The connector 110 is shown in dashed lines to indicate that the connector 110 is optional. In one example, the mouse 100 may be wirelessly connected to the computing device 102. The computing device 102 may include a display screen 104 and an input indicator (e.g., a cursor) 108 displayed on the display screen 104. The mouse 100 may rest on the support surface 106 and be manipulated by a user interacting with the computing device 102 (e.g., a computer system). A processor in the mouse 100 or the computing device 102 may transmit movements of the mouse 100 caused by the user to the cursor 108 on the display screen 104 of the computing device 102, thereby controlling the cursor 108 on the display screen 104.

[0044] The term "mouse" is intended to describe an electronic input device or circular user input device described herein as mouse 100. In one or more examples, the electronic input device or circular user input device described herein (including mouse 100) can be a remote control, a volume control, an indicator, or a device capable of providing a user input to an electronic device (such as a mouse). Figure 1 The computing device 102 shown provides other electronic input devices for providing control signals.

[0045] The mouse 100 can interact with a variety of electronic devices that provide a different set of functions to the user (e.g., a laptop, a tablet, a television, a virtual reality headset, etc.). The mode of the mouse 100 can change corresponding to the connection between the mouse 100 and the electronic device. For example, the mouse 100 can act as a mouse for a computer and switch between devices (dynamically or manually) to interact with a television or other electronic device or computing system.

[0046] The mouse 100 can be connected to the computing device 102 via a connector 110. In one example, the connector 110 can be a cable (e.g., a plurality of wires for transmitting energy, signals, or other interface data) that creates a wired connection between the mouse 100 and another electronic device (e.g., a computer, a display, a television, etc.). In one example, the connector 110 between the mouse 100 and the computing device 102 or other electronic device can be wireless (BLE, RF, WLAN, LAN, WPAN, etc.), thereby electronically communicating the movement of the mouse 100 to the computing device 102 or other electronic device.

[0047] The user can hold the mouse 100 in a variety of grip configurations and hand positions. For example, in one instance, the user can hold the electronic device 100 with the left hand, while in another instance, the user must hold the mouse 100 with the right hand. In another example, the user can hold the mouse 100 with all five fingers and a portion of his or her palm. In another example, the user can hold the mouse 100 with only two or three fingers. The mouse 100 can actively and automatically reorient which direction corresponds to the direction of the cursor 108 on the display screen 104 based on the position of the user's hand. Additionally, as will be described in more detail below with reference to other figures, the circular design of the mouse 100 allows the user to hold the electronic input device in different orientations without having to physically reorient the mouse for use or without interrupting functionality.

[0048] Figure 1 Any of the features, components, and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Figure 1 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0049] Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe top and bottom perspective views of the mouse 200 are respectively illustrated, including a gripping surface 214, a lower portion defining a lower surface (eg, a contact surface) 216, and a housing 212. The mouse 200 may be Figure 1 216 is an exemplary embodiment of a mouse 100. The lower surface 216 is configured to rest on the support surface 106, whereby the mouse 200 can be slidably translated from one position to another by a user. The mouse 200 also includes a motion sensor 220 (e.g., an optical position, positioning or movement sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor), a mechanical position sensor (e.g., a mouse ball), a laser position, positioning or movement sensor, a similar device, or a combination thereof) aligned with a hole 218 defined in the lower surface 216. The motion sensor 220 aligned with the hole 218 can detect the support surface 106 and the movement (change in position) of the mouse 200 on the support surface 106 through the hole 218.

[0050] Figure 2C A top view of the mouse 200 is shown, wherein the housing 212 defines a circular shape or circular outer perimeter about a major cross-sectional plane 222, also referred to as a major plane 222. In at least one example, the major plane 222 can be parallel to the lower surface 216. The circular cross-sectional shape of the mouse 200 in the major plane 222 can be centered on a central axis 223 extending perpendicular to the major plane 222. The lower surface 216 can be secured to the gripping surface 214 of the housing 212, and the major plane 222 and the lower surface 216 can be parallel to each other.

[0051] In at least one example, the gripping surface 214 can be comprised of a material (e.g., plastic, metal, rubber, etc.) that can be penetrated by signals detected by a capacitive sensor or other sensor type. Thus, in at least one example of the mouse 200, one or more sensors, such as touch sensors, can be disposed within the mouse 200 and configured to detect contact (e.g., from a finger, palm, wrist, etc.) by a user with the gripping surface 214 through the housing 212. Additionally, at least one embodiment of the mouse 200 can include a transparent or translucent material such that light can be projected through the housing 212 and display feedback or other information to the user.

[0052] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0053] Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of a mouse 300 (e.g., an input device) is shown, the mouse including a housing 312 having an exterior surface (e.g., an outer surface) 324 and an interior surface (e.g., an inner surface) 326 defining an interior volume 328. The housing 312 can include an upper portion / gripping portion 314 and a lower portion 316, the lower portion being configured to rest on or parallel to a support surface when the mouse 300 is in use. In at least one example, the mouse 300 can also include an orientation sensor 330 and a force sensor assembly 332 disposed in the interior volume 328. The force sensor assembly 332 and the orientation sensor 330 can be connected to a processor 334 via at least one electrical connection 336. The processor 334 can process signals sent from the force sensor assembly 332 and the orientation sensor 330.

[0054] The term "force sensor" (e.g., strain gauge force sensor, thin film force sensor, piezoresistive force sensor, hydraulic force sensor, load cell, etc.) within the context of the present application refers to a sensor that senses an input mechanical force (e.g., load force, gravity, tension, compression, torsion, pressure, etc.) and generates an output (such as a measurable electrical output signal). The electrical output signal is converted and normalized so that when the mechanical force increases or decreases, the electrical signal changes (e.g., proportional to the increase or decrease in mechanical force). For example, a user can apply pressure to the housing 312 of the mouse 300, so that the force sensor assembly 332 detects a change in mechanical force. The change in mechanical force is converted into an electrical signal and sent to the processor 334 via the connector 336, which processes the electrical signal to determine the direction of the force applied to the mouse 300.

[0055] The force sensor assembly 332 may include one or more force sensors configured to sense the direction and / or magnitude of a force applied to the housing 312. In one example, the force sensor assembly 332 may include two or more sensors disposed at an interface between the gripping portion 314 and the lower portion 316 (e.g., disposed on the lower portion 316, where the gripping portion 314 and the lower portion 316 meet) to detect the magnitude of a force applied to the housing 312 that pushes the gripping portion 314 against the lower portion 316. In one example, the multiple force sensors of the force sensor assembly 332 may each detect the magnitude of the applied force, and the direction of the force may be calculated based on the positioning of the sensors and the corresponding magnitudes detected. In at least one example, the force sensor assembly 332 may include one or more strain gauges disposed on the housing 312 to detect deformation of the housing 312 material when a user presses the housing 312 material with a certain force.

[0056] The term "orientation sensor" (e.g., accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, compass, inertial measurement unit (IMU), etc.) within the context of the present application refers to a sensor or combination of sensors that detects the orientation of an input device (e.g., mouse 300) in three-dimensional space. For example, an orientation sensor may measure a specific force, angular rate, angular velocity, linear acceleration, etc. relative to an axis, the direction of gravity, a magnetic field (e.g., the earth's magnetic field), other signals (e.g., relative to a global positioning system (GPS) signal or a nearby short-range electronic signal (e.g., WI-FI(R), Bluetooth(R), near field communication (NFC) transmitter, etc.)). The orientation sensor 330 may be a combination of orientation sensors, for example, an accelerometer may detect acceleration in a certain direction, a gyroscope may detect angular velocity, and a magnetometer may detect a magnetic field (e.g., relative to the direction of an object such as the earth). The sensed orientation may be a relative orientation, an absolute orientation, a geomagnetic orientation, other orientation types, or a combination thereof, depending on the type of sensors present and active when the input device orientation is detected.

[0057] Figure 3 Any of the features, components, and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Figure 3 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0058] Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of a mouse 400 is illustrated that includes a housing 412 , an interior surface 426 of the housing 412 defining an interior volume 428 , a touch sensor assembly 440 , an orientation sensor 430 , a force sensor assembly 432 , a base 416 , and a processor 434 .

[0059] Processor 434 can perform actions via executable instructions stored on or encoded in a memory. In some embodiments, processor 434 can be part of a controller device positioned in housing 412, the controller device including a processor that electronically communicates with a non-transitory computer-readable memory device or similar electronic storage device, the non-transitory computer-readable memory device or similar electronic storage device being configured to store thereon a set of instructions that can be executed by the processor to perform a series of tasks or actions. Any type and / or number of processors 434 may exist, including one or more central processing units (CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), microprocessors, computer chips, and / or processing units configured to execute machine language instructions and process data (such as executable instructions), send sensor data, or send position and / or force vector data sent by a sensor. Processor 434 may be coupled to touch sensor assembly 440 via electrical connector 436. Processor 434 may be configured to determine the orientation of mouse 400 based on touch input detected by a sensor (e.g., touch sensor 443, orientation sensor 430, force sensor 432, etc.) (e.g., via a set of capacitive sensing elements, force sensing elements, or other input elements).

[0060] The touch sensor assembly 440 can be configured to detect the position of a user's hand touching the housing 412, such as 9A to 11A As shown. The touch sensor assembly 440 may include at least two sensor elements 442 disposed on the interior surface 426. In one example, the touch sensor assembly 440 includes at least two sensor elements 442 disposed on the interior surface 426 of the housing 412, wherein the touch sensor assembly includes a plurality of capacitive sensing elements 442 configured to detect touch input. The capacitive sensing elements 442 may send signals to a processor 434 coupled to the sensor assembly 440, whereby the processor 434 may process the signals of the touch input from the user.

[0061] Figure 4 Any of the features, components, and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 4 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0062] Figure 5A side cross-sectional view of a mouse 500 is shown, the mouse including a housing 512 defining a gripping portion 514 and a lower portion or base 516 configured to rest on or move parallel to a support surface during use. The housing 512 may include an interior surface 526 defining an interior volume 528, and a touch sensor assembly 540 including a plurality of touch sensors 542, a force sensor assembly (including, for example, a first force sensor 532a and a second force sensor 532b), an antenna 546, which may also be referred to as a transmitter, receiver, or wireless communication module, and a feedback module 544 connected to a processor via a connector 536 may be disposed in the interior volume 528. The feedback module 544 may include one or more of a tactile mechanism (including a tactile motor), a light, and a speaker. These feedback modules 544 may communicate with a user using tactile, visual, or auditory feedback components, respectively. The feedback communication may convey mouse or computing device information, such as a confirmation signal, a power state, an operating mode state, etc., to a user of the mouse 500.

[0063] The force sensor assembly 532 includes at least two force sensors 532a, 532b disposed at first and second locations on the lower portion 516 and within the internal volume 528 of the mouse 500, respectively. The force sensors 532a, 532b can detect one or more forces applied to the housing 512, such as by compression of the housing 512 between the hand and a support surface below the lower portion 516, for example. The force sensors 532a, 532b can be independent of each other. In one example, the force sensor 532a at the first location can detect the X component of the force vector, and the force sensor 532b at the second location can detect the Y component of the force, wherein the X and Y directions are oriented perpendicular to each other. The magnitude of the force in either direction (or as a vector combining the two directions) can also be detected by the two force sensors 532a, 532b.

[0064] In one example, a user may press their finger against housing 512 in a certain direction with a certain force. The force vector detected by force sensor 532 may then be sent to processor 534 and processed in real time to interpret the force vector information as a cursor on a display screen (such as Figure 1 In another example, a user may press multiple fingers on housing 512 with a certain force to produce a function different from that of a single finger pressing on housing 512. It should be understood that the above examples are provided to illustrate the functions of force sensor 532, and other embodiments are contemplated herein. Additional details about detecting and responding to user input are incorporated herein. FIG. 9A to FIG. 11B discuss.

[0065] In some examples, the force sensor assembly 532 may include two force sensors 532a, 532b, as discussed above. The force sensor assembly 532 includes a feedback module 544, wherein the feedback module 544 includes a speaker and a tactile mechanism that generates a touch experience by applying force, vibration, or motion to the user. The tactile mechanism of the feedback module 544 may include a tactile engine. The tactile engine may include an electromechanical component or device that vibrates, shakes, or pulsates, thereby providing tactile feedback to the user via the housing 512. The tactile engine may include a linear resonant actuator (LRA) (e.g., a combination of multiple LRAs) to generate motion or tactile feedback on one or more axes relative to the mouse 500. Similarly, the tactile engine may include one or more eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motors to generate motion or tactile feedback on one or more axes relative to the mouse 500. These tactile components may be driven by different waveforms to generate different tactile effects representing different functions. For example, when the mouse 500 rotates around its central vertical axis, an audible sound or vibration similar to turning a dial or knob may be generated. In another example, the user can tap the mouse 500 with a finger to select a feature or icon on the surface of the mouse or select a feature or icon on a connected display screen via a cursor. The feedback module 544 of the mouse 500 can generate different sounds or tactile effects to distinguish the user's tap or click from the rotation of the mouse 500. In some examples, the sense of touch can have a resolution (e.g., a positioning resolution) that can vary with the user according to certain user needs or specifications. In another example, an audio signal generated by music, a game, a movie, or other digital media can be converted into a tactile effect and relayed to the user via the feedback module 544. In some embodiments, the mouse 500 can be used as a speaker to play back audio media. It should be understood that other embodiments are contemplated herein, and the above description provides examples to illustrate the feedback module 544.

[0066] The sensor assembly may include force vector sensors 532a and 532b, a touch sensor array (e.g., touch sensor assembly 540), and an orientation sensor 530 (e.g., an angle or displacement sensor). For example, the sensor assembly disposed within the mouse 500 senses a user interacting with the mouse 500, which may include the user touching the mouse 500 (and thereby changing the capacitance or resistance in the touch sensor), applying pressure to the mouse 500 (and thereby affecting the piezoresistive sensor element), and / or shaking or manipulating the mouse 500 (and thereby affecting an accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, or similar IMU sensor). The various sensors 532a, 532b, 540, 530 may send signals (e.g., touch signals, pressure vector signals, angle signals relative to an axis, etc.) to a processor 534, which converts the sensor signals into computer-readable outputs that may be presented on the display 104 and / or represented by the cursor 106.

[0067] In some examples, the mouse 500 includes a housing 512 defining an interior volume 528, a sensor assembly, and electrical components configured to transmit user interface signals. In some examples, the user interface signals are sent via an antenna 546 (often also referred to as a transmitter). When the sensor assembly detects a first touch input on the housing 512, the user interface signal may include information about the angular positioning of the gripping portion (e.g., gripping surface 214), and when the sensor assembly detects a second touch input on the housing 512, the user interface signal may include the direction of the force applied to the housing 512 from the second touch input. Each of the first touch input and the second touch input mentioned above may include a different combination of contact areas of the user's hand and fingers against the housing 512 of the mouse 500 as detected by the touch sensor assembly 540.

[0068] Antenna 546 or other wireless interface modules of mouse 500 may include PCB antenna, wire antenna, chip antenna or any other type of suitable antenna configuration. Antenna 546 may include monopole, dipole, patch, slot, planar inverted F (PIFA) or any other type of antenna suitable for omnidirectional antenna radiation and reception, which is advantageous for short-range connectivity and unpredictable access points or large sector directional radiation and reception (such as hemispherical mode) that change relative to the user's position. Additionally, antenna arrays may also be implemented to manipulate radiation / reception patterns to affect connectivity. Antenna 546 may be operated or optimized for a specific frequency (e.g., 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) and / or radio frequency (RF) band. The antenna may be a Bluetooth (R) device that transmits at a similar frequency (e.g., 2.4 GHz). It should be understood that other embodiments of the antenna are contemplated, and the above description provides examples.

[0069] In another example, the mouse 500 includes a base 516 and a gripping portion (e.g., a housing 512) coupled to the base 516. A plurality of touch sensors 542 are attached to the gripping portion. For example, the touch sensors 542 can be disposed within the interior volume 528 and against the interior surface 526 of the housing 512. The force vector sensors 532a, 532b can be disposed on or within the base 516. The mouse 500 can also include a processor 534 electrically coupled (e.g., via a connector 536) to the plurality of touch sensors 540 and the force sensor 532. A transmitter 546 can also be electrically coupled to the processor 534.

[0070] Figure 5Any of the features, components, and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Figure 5 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0071] Figure 6 A bottom cross-sectional view of a mouse 600 is shown, the mouse including a housing 612 having a grip portion 614, a sensor assembly 640, a light array 650, and a processor 634 communicatively coupled to the sensor assembly 640 and the light array 650 via electrical connectors 636. Certain electrical connectors (e.g., 536) are omitted. The housing 612 may include an interior surface 626. The interior surface 626 may define an interior volume 628. The sensor assembly 640 and the light array 650 may be disposed in the interior volume 628. In one example, the light array 650 may be concentrically located within the interior volume 628 and disposed on the interior surface 626. The light array 650 may include a plurality of individual LEDs 652 arranged in a circular shape having a first diameter. The sensor assembly 640 may be arranged in a circular shape and concentrically located within the housing, disposed on the interior surface 626, and include a second diameter. In some embodiments, the first diameter is smaller than the second diameter (e.g., Figure 6 ), and in some embodiments, the second diameter is smaller, wherein the light array 440 surrounds the sensor assembly 430. Additionally, in some embodiments, the light array 440 and the sensor assembly 430 have substantially equal and concentric diameters, wherein the individual lights 442 are spaced between or overlap the capacitive sensor elements 432.

[0072] In one example, a mouse 600 (e.g., an electronic input device) includes a housing 612, a circular sensor array 640 including a plurality of capacitive sensor elements 642 disposed against or embedded within an interior surface 628 of the housing 612, and a circular light array 650 disposed against the interior surface 628 of the housing 612. In at least one example, the circular light array 650 includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) 652 (e.g., DIP LEDs, SMD LEDs, COB LEDs, similar light sources, and combinations thereof) oriented in a circle concentric with the circular sensor array 640. In at least one example, the sensor array 640 may include a plurality of sensor elements 642. In one example, the sensor elements 642 may include capacitive touch sensor elements.

[0073] The housing 612 can be a transparent or translucent material so that when the LEDs 652 on the circular light array 650 are powered, visible spectrum light is emitted that is visible to the user through the housing 612 on the outside of the mouse 600. The LEDs 652 can vary in light intensity and color. For example, the light array 650 can provide notifications corresponding to hue, brightness, saturation, blinking, or color patterns or similar light indicator properties (e.g., text message notifications of connected computing devices, calendar notifications, time notifications, etc.). In another example, the LEDs 652 can provide indicators such as device battery life, device orientation, or other indicators. In at least one example, the LEDs 652 of the light array 650 can be synchronized over time to produce animated light that appears to move in one way or another to communicate with the user (e.g., in a pattern that moves around the circumference of a circle).

[0074] In one example, the processor 634 is configured to display the direction of the orientation of the mouse 600. For example, as the mouse 600 is rotated about the vertical / perpendicular axis 223 while having its bottom surface 216 parallel to the support surface 106, the LEDs 652 located on the circular light array 650 may illuminate, and light may transfer from the first powered-on LED 652 to the second powered-on LED 652, wherein the first LED 652 becomes de-energized when the second LED 652 is powered on. In this manner, as the mouse 600 is rotated, the powered-on LED 652 may appear to remain in one position relative to the user's viewing perspective.

[0075] In another example, processor 634 is configured to display the mode in which mouse 600 is operating. The mode may depend on the hand positioning of the user grasping mouse 600, and may be automatically switched when contact between the user's hand and housing 612 is sensed via sensor assembly 640. As noted elsewhere herein, the various operating modes of mouse 600 may include a joystick mode, a turntable mode, or a traditional mouse mode, depending on how the user grasps mouse 600.

[0076] Figure 6 Any of the features, components, and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 6 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0077] Figure 7A perspective view of a mouse 700 is illustrated, which includes a housing 712, a grip portion 714, a light sensor 750 disposed within the housing 712, and a "true north," "facing the user," or "forward" direction indicated by illuminated LEDs 754, light may be emitted from any of the LEDs 752 of the light sensor 750. The housing may be transparent or translucent to the visible spectrum produced by the light sensor 750. The light sensor 750 may produce light visible to the user when in use.

[0078] The light array 750 may react to user movement or indicate information or signals to the user. For example, the light array 750 may emit a certain color and / or pattern in response to a first movement (e.g., movement of the entire mouse 700 or movement, taps, gestures, etc. of a user's finger, stylus, hand, or other tool as detected by the touch sensor 542), and emit a different color and / or pattern in response to a second movement (e.g., a different movement of the entire mouse, a different movement of the tool, or detection of a different type of movement by / by a different type of sensor (i.e., switching from detecting the user's hand to detecting the movement of the entire mouse)). In some examples, the light array may generate a sequence, such as a rotating circular pattern or a flashing / pulsating function. The light emitted to the user may indicate a confirmation signal of the user's intention to switch operating modes. The operating mode of the mouse 700 may depend on the positioning of the user's hand grasping the mouse 700, which operating mode may be automatically switched when contact between the user's hand and the housing 712 is sensed via a sensor component within the mouse 700. As noted above, the various modes of operation of the mouse 700 may include a joystick mode, a turntable mode, a trackball mode, a trackpad mode, a traditional mouse mode, or any other type of operating mode, depending on how the user grasps the mouse. In some embodiments, additional three-dimensional mouse modes may also be detected based on a signal indicating that the mouse has been grasped and picked up or otherwise moved vertically off a supporting surface. The light array 750 may also indicate other communications or signals, including alarms, status, and other signals from a computing device or mouse.

[0079] Figure 7 Any of the features, components, and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included alone or in any combination in Figure 7 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0080] Figure 8A cross-sectional side view of a mouse 800 including a light array 850, a touch sensor assembly 840, a feedback module 854, an antenna 856, and an electrical component 858 is shown. The antenna may also be referred to as a transmitter and / or a receiver. The electrical component 858 may include multiple components. The housing 812 may include an exterior surface 826, an interior surface 826, a gripping portion 814, and a base 816. In one example, the sensor assembly 840 may include individual touch sensor elements 842 disposed in a circular shape against the interior surface 826 of the housing 812. In one example, the light array 850 may include individual lights or LEDs 852 disposed in a circular shape against or near the interior surface 826 of the housing 812. The mouse 800 may also include a processor 834 electrically coupled or in communication with other components via at least one electrical connector 836 (including wires and other circuit components). The processor 834 may thus be connected to the touch sensor assembly 840, the feedback module 854, the antenna 856, and the electrical component 858. Processor 834 receives the signal sent via electrical connection 836 and may send a signal signaling a command for cursor 108 to computing device and / or computing device 102 via antenna 856 .

[0081] electronic components 858, processor 834, antenna 856, feedback module 854, touch sensor assembly 840, light array 850 and Figure 8 The other electrical components of the computer system may collectively form a computer system interconnected via a bus (e.g., via electrical connector 836) for electrical communication to memory devices, power supplies, electronic storage devices, network interfaces (e.g., wireless interfaces (via antenna 856)), input device adapters, and output device adapters. For example, one or more of these components may be connected to each other via a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board or other substrate) supporting the bus and other electrical connectors that provide electrical communication between the components. The bus may include a communication mechanism for conveying information between parts of the system.

[0082] The processor 834 may be a microprocessor or similar device configured to receive and execute a set of instructions stored by the memory of the electrical component 858. The memory may be referred to as a main memory, such as a random access memory (RAM) or another dynamic electronic storage device for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processor 834. The memory may also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions executed by the processor 834. The processor 834 may include one or more processors or controllers, such as, for example, a CPU for the mouse 700 and a touch controller or similar sensor or I / O interface for controlling and receiving signals from sensors being used (e.g., 842, any IMU or other orientation sensors, etc.). The power supply of the electrical component 858 may include a power supply capable of providing power to the processor 834 and other components connected to the bus, such as a connection to a utility grid or a battery system.

[0083] The storage device of the electrical component 858 may include a read-only memory (ROM) or another type of static storage device coupled to the bus for storing static or long-term (i.e., non-dynamic) information and instructions for the processor. For example, the storage device may include a magnetic or optical disk (e.g., a hard disk drive (HDD)), a solid-state memory (e.g., a solid-state disk (SSD)), or a similar device.

[0084] Instructions may include information for using components of the system to perform processes and methods. Such processes and methods may include, for example, methods described in conjunction with other embodiments elsewhere herein, including, for example, in conjunction with FIG. 9A to FIG. 11B The methods and processes described.

[0085] The network interface may include an adapter for connecting the system to an external device via a wired or wireless connection. For example, the network interface may provide a connection to a computer network (such as a cellular network, the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a separate device capable of wirelessly communicating with the network interface, other external devices or network locations, and combinations thereof). In an example embodiment, the network interface is a wireless networking adapter that is configured to connect to another device having an interface capability using the same protocol via WI-FI(R), Bluetooth(R), BLE, Bluetooth mesh network, or a related wireless communication protocol. In some embodiments, a network device or a group of network devices in a network may be considered to be part of the system. In some cases, a network device may be considered to be connected to the system, but not part of the system.

[0086] The input device adapter can be configured to provide the system with connectivity to various input devices such as, for example, touch sensor assembly 840, orientation sensors (e.g., 530), optical sensors, force sensors (e.g., 532a, 532b), related devices, and combinations thereof. The sensors can be used to detect physical phenomena (e.g., light, sound waves, electric fields, forces, vibrations, etc.) near the mouse (or caused by the movement of the mouse) and convert those phenomena into electrical signals.

[0087] The output device adapter may be configured to provide the system with the ability to output information to a user, such as by providing visual output using one or more displays (e.g., light array 650 / 750 / 850 or an external display screen), providing auditory output using one or more speakers, or by providing tactile feedback sensed by touch via one or more tactile feedback devices (e.g., 544). Other output devices may also be used. The processor 834 may be configured to control the output device adapter to provide information to the user via an output device connected to the adapter.

[0088] In at least one example, feedback module 854 may include a tactile mechanism, such as a tactile engine. In at least one example, feedback module 854 may include a speaker. In at least one example, tactile module 854 may include a light. In at least one example, electronic component 858 may include a memory component that stores electronic instructions that can be executed by processor 834. In at least one example, in response to sensor assembly 840 detecting a first touch input on housing 812, antenna 856 transmits a first signal including information about the angular positioning of grip portion 814, and in response to sensor assembly 840 detecting a second touch input on housing 812, antenna 856 transmits a second signal including information about the direction of the force applied to housing 812 from the second touch input.

[0089] In at least one example, the housing 812 is symmetrical (e.g., rotationally symmetrical) about a central axis 853 that is oriented substantially perpendicular to a surface on which the mouse 800 may be rested or manipulated. For example, the housing 812 may be circular, wherein the central axis 853 is a central axis of rotation and / or symmetry of the mouse 800. In at least one example, a user may initially grasp the mouse 800 (including its housing 812) in any orientation, and based on the user's grip or hand positioning, the mouse 800 is oriented as the user desires, regardless of the actual orientation of the mouse 800, as described herein. In such an example, the processor 834 may determine the hand positioning via the touch sensor element 842 and determine the desired orientation of the mouse 800 based on the hand positioning of the user grasping the housing 812.

[0090] In at least one example, the housing 812 of the mouse 800 is circular or dome-shaped, such as Figure 8 As shown, the housing 812 can be rotated about the central axis 853 that serves as the central axis of rotation of the circular housing 812. In this example, the mouse is unaware of the actual orientation of the housing 812 relative to the support surface on which the housing 812 rests. Instead, the housing 812 can be digitally or computationally oriented and / or reoriented by the processor 834 based on the user's hand positioning as detected by the touch sensor element 842, without the need to physically move or rotate the mouse 800 when grasping the housing 812.

[0091] Figure 8 Any of the features, components, and / or parts shown (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including their arrangements and configurations) may be included alone or in any combination in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown or described in other figures. Figure 8 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0092] Fig.9A The mouse 900 is illustrated as being manipulated by a user's hand 960, which grasps a grip portion 914 of a housing 912 of the mouse 900. The circular profile of the mouse 900 enables the user to grasp the mouse 900 from any direction while the mouse 900 senses the surrounding environment via sensors in the sensor array, such as Figure 8 The sensor elements 842 of the sensor array 840 shown in the mouse 800 of FIG. 8 interpret the touch points or contact areas from the hand 960 and the finger 962. The sensor elements determine the placement and location of the hand 960 and the finger 962 on the mouse 900 to dynamically orient the mouse 900 based on the sensory determination of the location of the user's hand 960 and the finger 962 on the grip portion 914 of the mouse 900. The user's hand 954 can be left or right hand depending on the user's preference. The mouse 900 can dynamically detect left or right hand placement, thereby providing convenience and efficiency for multi-handed users or multiple different users of the same mouse 900.

[0093] In one example, a user may grip the grip portion 914 of the mouse 900. The plurality of touch sensors may detect a first hand position, such as when the user initially grips the grip portion 914. The transmitter 546 may transmit information about the direction of the force applied to the grip portion 914 as detected by the force sensor (e.g., force vector sensor) 532. When the plurality of touch sensors 840 detects a second hand position, such as when the user adjusts their hand 960 or finger 962 on the mouse 900, the transmitter transmits information about the orientation of the mouse 900. The orientation of the mouse 900 may be determined by the orientation sensor 330 and sent via the transmitter 546.

[0094] Fig. 9B A top view of the mouse 900 and housing 912 including a grip portion 914 is shown. Contact areas 964a through 964f representing detected contact between a user's hand 960 and finger / thumb 962 and the mouse 900 are shown in phantom to illustrate the general contact area between the hand and the housing 912. In the illustrated example, the detected touch areas 964a through 964f may include a first finger sensor contact area 964a, a second finger sensor contact area 964b, a third finger sensor contact area 964c, a fourth finger contact area 964d, a fifth finger contact area 964e, and a palm sensor contact area 964f. As noted above with reference to other examples, FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B The illustrated mouse 900 may be equipped with sensors and sensor arrays to detect touch areas of a user's hand 960 (eg, palm) and fingers / thumb 962. The contact areas 964a-964f may be collectively referred to as a contact profile 964.

[0095] Contact profile 964 includes sensor readings from the portion of hand 960 that is in contact with mouse 900. For example, a user may hold mouse 900 with all of his or her fingers 962 and a portion of the palm, thereby creating Fig. 9B The sensor contact profile shown. The first contact area 964a indicating that the first finger 962 is contacting the mouse 900 may be different from the second contact area 964b, thereby generating a unique sensor profile for each finger and / or each palm in contact with the outer surface of the housing 912 of the mouse 900. For example, the sensor profile 964 can be a real-time capacitance reading of the finger based on unique user hand contact characteristics (e.g., finger contact length, finger contact width, finger contact cross-sectional area, etc.). These hand contact characteristics are used by at least a first touch sensor and a second touch sensor, the first touch sensor being configured to detect a first response at a first position on the grip portion 914 (e.g., to identify / detect the first contact area 964a), and the second touch sensor being configured to detect a second touch response at a second position on the external surface (e.g., the second finger contact area 964b). In this way, the intended operating mode of the mouse 900 can be automatically determined. Reference is made below. FIG. 10A to FIG. 11B Examples of different intended operating modes corresponding to different contact profiles are illustrated in more detail.

[0096] exist Fig. 9B In the illustrated example, the contact profile detected as a combination of contact areas 964a through 964f may indicate the user's intent to operate the mouse 900 in a conventional mode, in which the mouse 900 slides back and forth, left and right, on a supporting surface such as a mouse pad or desktop. Fig. 9BThe illustrated contact profile 964 may be referred to as a conventional mouse grip configuration, a full-hand grip configuration, a “clamp grip” configuration, or a “claw grip” configuration, which, when detected, enables the system to use the mouse if the mouse 900 is a conventional mouse with buttons (e.g., interpreting an input such as a tap on a designated portion of the outer surface while maintaining a minimal amount of contact with the rest of the hand or on the rest of the mouse as input intended by the user to simulate actuation of a left-click button, right-click button, middle-click button, side mouse button, etc.). Similarly, upon detecting a conventional mouse grip by a user, the system may interpret certain gestures on a designated portion of the outer surface of the mouse 900 as input intended by the user to simulate use of a touchpad / trackpad or mouse wheel (e.g., interpreting 1 to 3 finger drags on the top surface to enable scrolling, zooming, control of user interface elements (e.g., window control functionality)). In one example, the system can identify that the user intends to use the mouse as a regular mouse while the user maintains consistent thumb contact (e.g., at 964a) and at least one opposing finger contact (e.g., at 964d or 964e) with the mouse, and other fingers (e.g., at 964b-964d) can move or not be sensed without changing the system's touch interpretation mode. A processor of the mouse 900 (or a computing device in electronic communication with the mouse) can identify the contact profile and associate it with the user's intent via preset instructions, or in one or more other examples, a memory component of the mouse 900 can include instructions for performing a machine learning algorithm to learn the user's intent based on the contact profile and each user's movements over time.

[0097] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B Any of the features, components, and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included, alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components, and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included, alone or in any combination, in FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0098] Fig. 10A The user's hand 1060 is illustrated touching the grip portion 1014 of the mouse 1000 with a single finger 1062. In the illustrated example, the contact outline may include a portion of the mouse 1000 that is formed by the finger 1062. Fig. 10B The contact area 1064 shown represents a single touch input location for detecting touch input. In at least one example, the sensor and sensor assembly disclosed herein with reference to other examples and other figures may include a grip portion 1014 disposed anywhere (including at a user's location such as Fig. 10BThe positions and configurations of the multiple sensor elements of the touch sensor assembly disclosed herein and shown in the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are not meant to be limiting. One or more other examples (including Fig. 10B The example shown) may include a touch sensor assembly having touch sensors and elements disposed anywhere within the device so that a single finger touch or multiple finger touches anywhere on the grip portion 1014 can be detected.

[0099] The sensor assembly detecting a single touch input may send the angular position and force applied by the finger 1062 at the contact area 1064 to the processor via the force sensor of the mouse 1000. The processor may then process and send the received touch input position and vector information to operate the mouse 1000 in a "joystick" mode. That is, a single finger touch may be detected, and the user may operate the mouse 1000 as if it were a joystick by changing the direction of the force on the grip portion 1014 (e.g., by tilting the user's finger while the fingertip remains substantially stationary, or by changing the primary direction of pressure being applied by the finger when the fingertip is in a single position 1064, similar to an "eraser head" type mouse). The mouse 1000 may automatically switch to a joystick mode to detect the direction of the force applied by the finger 1062, so that the user may control an on-screen cursor via the mouse 1000 as if the mouse 1000 were a joystick, rather than in a conventional mode in which the mouse 1000 must be moved across a supporting surface.

[0100] include Fig. 10B The contact profile of the single contact area 1064 shown may correspond to the user's intention to operate the mouse 1000 in joystick mode. However, the illustrated contact profiles are exemplary only and are not meant to be limiting. Other contact profiles including multiple contact areas at certain other locations on the grip portion 1014 of the mouse 1000 may also indicate the user's intention to operate the mouse 1000 in joystick mode, such as two to five fingers touching the top of the mouse in a tucked or gathered form within a single contact area (e.g., 1064). Other operating modes are also contemplated herein. Finger 1062 may be detected via a touch sensor (e.g., from sensor assembly 840).

[0101] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included, alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included, alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10BExamples of equipment, features, components and parts shown.

[0102] Fig.11A The user's hand 1160 is illustrated touching the grip portion 1114 of the mouse 1100 with multiple fingers 1162. In the illustrated example, the contact outline may include Fig. 11B The touch inputs detected at the plurality of spaced apart touch input locations represented by the contact areas 1164a, 1164b, and 1164c shown. These contact areas 1164a to 1164c may correspond to the touch inputs detected at the plurality of spaced apart touch input locations represented by the contact areas 1164a to 1164c. Fig.11A The position of contact between the user's finger 1162 and the housing 1112 of the mouse 1100 is shown. The contact areas 1164a to 1164c can be aligned with the contact areas 964a to 964f (see Fig. 9B ) due to their positioning on the surface (i.e., positioned higher than the claw grip configuration on the outer surface), the number of contacts (i.e., 2 to 3 times versus 5 or more times), and the type of contact (e.g., finger-sized contact areas 1164a to 1164c versus palm-sized contact area 964f). The sensor assembly detecting a single touch input can send the angular position and force traced by the finger 1162 at the contact areas 1164a to 1164c to the processor via the force sensor of the mouse 1100. The processor can then process and send the received touch input position and vector information to operate the mouse 1100 in a turn-knob or turn-wheel mode. That is, a particular combination of detected contact areas 1164a to 1164c can indicate the user's intention to operate the mouse 1100 as a turntable. In this mode of operation, the user can rotate the mouse 1100 as if the mouse were a rotatable turntable to control a cursor or scroll through menu items in a GUI displayed on the screen. In this way, the mouse can automatically switch to turntable mode based on the user's hand positioning.

[0103] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B The mouse 1100 shown may include any or all of the components of other examples of mice shown in other figures and described herein. For example, the mouse 1100 may include one or more orientation sensors, including IMU sensors, angle sensors, accelerometers, etc., to detect the orientation of the mouse 1100 relative to a starting orientation or position when the user twists the mouse in a turntable mode.

[0104] include Fig. 11BThe contact profiles of the three contact areas 1164a to 1164c shown may correspond to the user's intention to operate the mouse 1100 in a turntable mode. However, the illustrated contact profiles are exemplary only and are not meant to be limiting. Other contact profiles including one or more contact areas at certain other locations on the grip portion 1114 of the mouse 1100 may also indicate the user's intention to operate the mouse 1100 in a turntable mode. Other operating modes are also contemplated herein. Thus, the touch sensor array of the mouse 1100 may include a plurality of capacitive sensing elements configured to detect a touch including: Fig. 10B The first touch input of the first contact profile shown and comprising Fig. 11B A second touch input with a second contact outline is shown.

[0105] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B Any of the features, components and / or parts shown (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included, alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. Similarly, any of the features, components and / or parts shown or described with reference to other figures (including arrangements and configurations thereof) may be included, alone or in any combination, in any of the other examples of devices, features, components and parts shown in other figures described herein. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B Examples of equipment, features, components and parts shown.

[0106] It is understood that the use of personally identifiable information should be subject to privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized to meet or exceed industry or government requirements for maintaining user privacy. Specifically, personally identifiable information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of the authorized use should be clearly stated to users.

[0107] For the purpose of explanation, the foregoing description uses specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Therefore, for the purpose of illustration and description, the foregoing description of the specific embodiments described herein is presented. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the disclosed precise forms. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that, in view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are possible.

Claims

1. An input device, comprising: a housing having an interior surface defining an interior volume; a touch sensor assembly including an array of capacitive sensing elements disposed against the interior surface; an orientation sensor disposed in the interior volume; and A force sensor assembly is configured to detect a direction of a force applied to the housing.

2. The input device according to claim 1, wherein: The touch sensor assembly is configured as follows: detecting a first hand position of a user touching the housing based on a first set of capacitive sensing elements detecting contact between the hand and the housing; as well as detecting a second hand position of a user touching the housing based on a second set of capacitive sensing elements detecting contact between the hand and the housing; and the orientation sensor detecting a rotation of the input device in response to detecting the first hand position; and The force sensor detects the direction of the force applied to the housing in response to detecting the second hand position. 3 . The input device of claim 2 , wherein the housing includes an interior surface defining the interior volume, and the touch sensor assembly includes two sensor elements disposed on the interior surface.

4. The input device of claim 1, wherein the force sensor assembly comprises two force sensors.

5. The input device of claim 1, wherein the orientation sensor comprises an inertial measurement unit (IMU). The input device according to claim 1 , further comprising a feedback module.

7. The input device according to claim 6, wherein the feedback module comprises at least one of the following: tactile mechanism; lights; or speaker.

8. The input device of claim 6, wherein the housing is circular about a central axis.

9. The input device according to claim 6, wherein: The input device also includes a processor electrically coupled to the touch sensor assembly; and The processor is configured to determine an intended orientation of the housing based on a user's hand positioning detected by the touch sensor assembly.

10. A mouse, comprising: a housing comprising a base and a gripping portion coupled to the base; a plurality of touch sensors disposed on the gripping portion; and A force sensor is disposed on the base portion, the force sensor being sensitive to the direction and magnitude of a force applied to the grip portion.

11. The mouse of claim 10, wherein the plurality of touch sensors are configured to detect positioning of a hand contacting the grip portion.

12. The mouse of claim 11, further comprising a processor in electrical communication with the plurality of touch sensors and the force sensor.

13. The mouse according to claim 12, further comprising: a transmitter electrically coupled to the processor; and a memory component storing electronic instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the transmitter to: in response to the plurality of touch sensors detecting a first hand position in the positions, transmitting a first signal including first information regarding a direction of a force applied to the grip portion detected by the force vector sensor; as well as In response to the plurality of touch sensors detecting a second hand position contacting the grip portion, a second signal including second information regarding an orientation of the mouse is transmitted.

14. The mouse of claim 13, further comprising an orientation sensor electrically coupled to the processor.

15. A mouse, comprising: a housing defining an exterior gripping portion and an interior volume; a sensor assembly disposed within the interior volume; and a transmitter electrically coupled to the sensor assembly; in: In response to the sensor assembly detecting a first touch input on the housing, the transmitter transmits a first signal including information regarding an angular positioning of the grip portion; as well as In response to the sensor assembly detecting a second touch input on the housing, the transmitter transmits a second signal including information about a direction of a force applied on the housing from the second touch input.

16. The mouse of claim 15, wherein the first touch input comprises a set of touch input locations on the housing.

17. The mouse of claim 15, wherein the second touch input comprises a single touch input location.

18. The mouse of claim 15, wherein the sensor assembly comprises: Force vector sensor; touch sensor array; and Angle sensor.

19. The mouse of claim 18, wherein the touch sensor array comprises a plurality of capacitive sensing elements configured to detect the first touch input and the second touch input.

20. The mouse of claim 18, wherein the force vector sensor comprises a first force sensor disposed at a first location within the interior volume and a second force sensor disposed at a second location within the interior volume.

Images