Variable friction and multi-texture mouse

Abstract

An input device may include a housing defining an interior volume and a lower portion, the lower portion defining an aperture; an input sensor disposed in the internal volume; and a haptic assembly disposed in the interior volume. The haptic assembly may include an actuator and a foot coupled to the actuator and aligned with the aperture. The actuator may be configured to selectively extend the foot through the aperture to vary a sliding resistance of the input device on a support surface.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 472,186, filed on September 21, 2023, and entitled “Variable Friction and Multi-Texture Mouse,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 478,523, filed on January 5, 2023, and entitled “Input Device,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 376,767, filed on September 22, 2022, and entitled “Variable Friction and Multi-Texture Mouse,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 376,763, filed on September 22, 2022, and entitled “Multi-Mode Mouse,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 376,650, filed on September 22, 2022, and entitled “Input Device for Three-Dimensional Control,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 376,650, filed on September 22, 2022, and entitled “Input Device with Adaptive Grip The disclosures of these patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to electronic input devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to electronic input device feedback modes and their variations. Background Art

[0004] Recent advances in computing have enabled immersive user experiences, including desktop games on personal computers, alternative and virtual reality interactive consoles, three-dimensional computer-aided design software, high-resolution display screens, and the like. However, the user feedback provided by these computing systems and software is typically limited to audio and visual feedback. Even the parts of computing devices and systems that users physically interact with (such as game controllers, keyboards, mice, and other physical input devices) are limited to basic tactile user feedback, such as tactile user feedback from haptic engine vibrations. Desktop computers and laptops commonly used in home and office environments utilize input devices such as pens, styluses, and mice to implement user input. However, typical computer mice or styluses are also limited in terms of user feedback capabilities.

[0005] Therefore, what are needed in the art are input devices and systems that can generate enhanced user feedback for a more immersive user computing experience. Summary of the invention

[0006] In at least one example of the present disclosure, an input device may include: a housing defining an interior volume and a lower portion defining an aperture; an input sensor disposed in the interior volume; and a haptic component disposed in the interior volume. The haptic component may include an actuator and a foot coupled to the actuator and aligned with the aperture. The actuator may be configured to selectively extend the foot through the aperture to vary a sliding resistance of the input device on a supporting surface.

[0007] In one example, the input sensor includes a plurality of capacitive sensing elements disposed on the housing, and the leg is movable between a first position and a second position via the actuator, wherein in the second position, the leg extends through the aperture. In one example, a first coefficient of friction between the lower portion and the support surface on which the input device rests when the leg is in the first position is different from a second coefficient of friction between the leg and the support surface when the leg is in the second position. In one example, the actuator is coupled to the leg to selectively extend the leg through the aperture. In one example, the lower portion includes a support protrusion having a lower surface. In one example, the lower portion defines a lower surface configured to support the input device on a support surface. In one example, the actuator is configured to extend the leg through the aperture so that the contact surface of the leg supports the input device on the support surface. In one example, the actuator is configured to extend the leg through the aperture so that the contact surface of the leg supports the input device on the support surface. In one example, the actuator is configured to extend the leg through the aperture so that the contact surface of the leg supports the input device on the support surface. In one example, the friction between the input device and the support surface on which the input device rests changes when the contact surface of the foot supports the input device. In one example, the foot is a first foot, the aperture is a first aperture, the housing defines a second aperture, and the mouse includes a second foot extendable through the second aperture.

[0008] In at least one example of the present disclosure, a mouse includes: a housing defining an aperture and a lower surface; and a foot movable between a first position and a second position. In this example, in the first position, the lower surface defines a bottom-most surface of the mouse, and in the second position, the foot extends through the aperture and defines the bottom-most surface of the mouse.

[0009] In one example, the bottommost surface is configured to contact a support surface on which the mouse rests when the foot is in the first position or when the foot is in the second position. In one example, the mouse further comprises: an actuator coupled to the foot, the actuator configured to selectively extend the foot through the aperture. In one example, a sliding resistance between the contact surface and the support surface on which the mouse rests changes based on whether the foot is in the first position or the foot is in the second position. In one example, the actuator comprises a motor. In one example, the aperture is a first aperture, the housing defines a second aperture, the foot is a first foot, the input device further comprises a second foot, and the second position further comprises the second foot extending through the second aperture.

[0010] In at least one example of the present disclosure, an input device includes: a first condition having a first sliding resistance on a surface; a second condition having a second sliding resistance on the surface, the second sliding resistance being different from the first sliding resistance; and an actuator for selectively switching the input device from the first condition to the second condition. The input device may also include an input sensor to detect input from a user's hand grasping the input device.

[0011] In one example, the actuator is a motorized actuator operable to extend the foot relative to the bottom surface of the input device. In one example, the actuator is configured to selectively switch between the first condition and the second condition based on a texture pattern. In one example, in the first condition, the input device includes a lower portion defining a first lower contact surface and an orifice, and in the second condition, the input device includes a foot extending through the orifice and defining a second lower contact surface separate from the first lower contact surface. In one example, the actuator selectively switches the input device from the first condition to the second condition by extending the foot through the orifice. In one example, the input device may also include a processor programmed to control the actuator to extend the foot through the orifice based on a position of a cursor controlled by the input device on a display screen. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] 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:

[0013] Figure 1 An example of an input device for controlling a visual object on a display screen is shown;

[0014] Figure 2A A top perspective view of an example of an input device is shown;

[0015] Figure 2B A bottom perspective view thereof is shown;

[0016] Figure 3 A bottom perspective view of an example of an input device is shown;

[0017] Figure 4A A cross-sectional view showing an example of an input device;

[0018] Figure 4B A bottom perspective view thereof is shown;

[0019] Figure 4C A cross-sectional view thereof is shown;

[0020] Figure 4D A bottom perspective view thereof is shown;

[0021] Figure 5 An example of a haptic component of an input device is shown;

[0022] Figure 6 shows a top perspective view of an example of an input device with a portion of the housing removed to illustrate internal components; and

[0023] Figure 7 An example of an input device for controlling a visual object on a display screen is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] 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.

[0025] The following disclosure relates generally to electronic input devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to electronic input device feedback modes and their variations. User feedback provided by typical computing systems and software is generally limited to audio and visual feedback. Even the parts of computing devices and systems that users physically interact with (such as game controllers, keyboards, mice, and other physical input devices) are limited to basic tactile user feedback, such as tactile user feedback from haptic engine vibrations. Desktop computers and laptop computers commonly used in home and office environments utilize input devices such as pens, styluses, and mice to implement user input. However, a typical computer mouse or stylus is also limited in terms of user feedback capabilities.

[0026] The user input devices and systems described herein provide enhanced feedback to users who control or manipulate images presented on a display screen over prior art user input devices. In at least one example, the input device includes a housing defining an internal volume and a lower portion, the lower portion defining an orifice, and a tactile component disposed in the internal volume. The tactile component may include an actuator and a foot coupled to the actuator and aligned with the orifice. In at least one example, the actuator may selectively extend the foot through the orifice. When the foot extends through the orifice, the lower surface of the foot becomes the contact surface between the input device and a support surface (such as a desktop surface), rather than the lower portion of the input device as the contact surface. That is, in at least one example, the portion of the input device that contacts the desktop surface may change during use.

[0027] In addition, because the lower surface of the foot and the lower portion of the input device may have different properties, such as different coefficients of friction or supporting contact surface areas, the force required to move the input device along the desktop surface may vary as the foot extends through the aperture. For example, the lower surface of the foot may include a material having a higher coefficient of friction than the lower portion defining the aperture. The force required to slide the input device along the surface also depends on other factors, including the contact surface area and the downward force (normal force) applied to the input device. However, in such a situation where the coefficient of friction of the foot is greater than the coefficient of friction of the lower portion of the device, extending the foot through the aperture so that the contact surface between the input device and the desktop surface is the lower surface of the foot, the friction between the input device and the desktop surface may be increased. Therefore, the force or torque required to slide the input device on the desktop surface can be selectively increased or decreased depending on the positioning of the foot and the lower surface of the device relative to the desktop surface.

[0028] The opposite is also true, where the lower surface of the foot has a lower coefficient of friction, such that extending the actuated foot through the aperture can reduce friction between the input device and the desktop surface. Additionally, other examples can include multiple feet that selectively extend through multiple apertures defined by the lower portion of the input device such that the total surface area of ​​the lower surface of each foot is less than, greater than, or equal to the surface area of ​​the lower portion of the device. Along these lines, examples including multiple feet can actuate each foot individually or together to generate a desired friction or torque to resist the input device being pushed or rotated on a surface.

[0029] As used herein, the term "selectively" when used to describe a foot selectively extending through an aperture or an actuator selectively extending a foot through an aperture is used to describe an operating mode in which one or more feet of the input device may or may not extend through the aperture at any point during operation, and in which any foot may change from an extended position to a non-extended position at any point during operation. The selective extension of the foot through the aperture of the input device described herein may be accomplished automatically via a computing device and / or a processor of the input device such that a change in friction between the input device and a supporting surface resulting from the selective extension of the foot corresponds to the positioning of a cursor or visual object on a display screen.

[0030] In one example, the friction between an input device and a supporting surface (such as a desktop surface) on which the input device moves can be automatically altered to simulate a surface texture or environment or a change in surface texture or environment over which a cursor is moved by the input device on a display screen. One scenario may include a portion of a display screen that visually presents ice and another portion of a display screen that visually presents sand. When a visual object (e.g., a cursor) controlled by the input device moves over the ice portion, the input device may maintain a first friction between the input device and the desktop. Then, when a visual object (e.g., a cursor) controlled by the input device moves over the sand portion of the screen, the input device may increase the friction between the input device and the desktop surface via selective actuation of the feet to simulate the increased force that would be expended in reality to move such an input device over sand as compared to ice.

[0031] Other examples may include allowing game characters to move in water and air, where the input device can give different tactile feedback to the user via variable friction. In some examples, different surface textures and features can be tactilely transmitted back to the user when the cursor or other object moves on the screen by increasing (or decreasing) the timing of the friction required to move the input device to the location, shape and size of the surface features corresponding to one or more legs. For example, moving the cursor over a visual presentation of a "diamond plate" sheet of metal can cause the legs to extend from the orifice of the input device whenever the cursor moves on a single diamond protrusion. In this case, when the user slides the input device on the desktop, the user can tactilely feel the simulated "bump", as if the input device is moving on the diamond plate metal plate, although the desktop is smooth at this time. The legs can be intermittently actuated at any rate according to the location and spacing of the diamond features and according to how fast the user moves the cursor on the diamond pattern.

[0032] It should be understood that the imitation of surface features such as those found on diamond plate metal sheets can be applied to any other surface features shown on a display screen or in a virtual / augmented reality system. These can include various surface textures, shapes, ridges, protrusions, objects, etc. Creating such tactile feedback that mimics features on the screen can provide a more immersive, realistic sensory feedback environment to the user for any number of applications (including those mentioned above and discussed elsewhere herein). Applications can include three-dimensional (3D) design, gaming, web browsing, or any other visual display software application.

[0033] In addition to the above examples where the device can simulate texture and vary friction as it slides over a support surface, in some examples, the friction or sliding resistance of the device described herein can be modified to maintain constant friction over different support surfaces. Typically, when an input device such as a computer mouse is slid by a user over a mouse pad and then off the mouse pad onto a desktop surface surrounding the mouse pad, the user experiences different sliding resistances based on the different materials of the mouse pad and desktop surface. The device described herein utilizing selectively articulated legs as described above can modify the lower contact surface of the mouse to maintain constant friction as the user moves the mouse from one surface to another.

[0034] In the example given, the material of the mouse pad may have a higher coefficient of friction with the lower surface of the mouse than with the finished wood surface of the desktop. In this case, the apparatus and system described herein may modify the coefficient of friction between the two materials by selectively actuating the legs as described herein so that the coefficient of friction between the lower contact surface of the mouse and the mouse pad and the desktop surface remains the same. In this way, the user may not feel the difference in the sliding resistance of the mouse, regardless of the surface on which the mouse slides. This may be done automatically to provide the user with a smooth, comfortable experience of manipulating the mouse.

[0035] Thus, examples of input devices disclosed herein can create tactile feedback that mimics on-screen features to provide a more immersive, realistic sensory feedback experience for users when interacting with any number of applications that include manual input devices. These applications may include those mentioned above and discussed elsewhere herein, including 3D design, gaming, web browsing, or any other visual display and / or interactive software application.

[0036] Reference below Figures 1 to 7To discuss these and other embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these drawings is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as being 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 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., a first option in the first option, and a second option in the second option), or a combination thereof (e.g., a second option in the two first options in the first option, and a second option in the second option).

[0037] Figure 1 An example of an input device 100 resting on a support surface 106 is illustrated. The input device 100 can be configured to manipulate visual objects 108 displayed on a display screen 104 of a display device 102. The display device 102 can include a computing device such as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, or a tablet computer. An electrical connection 110 between the input device 100 and the display device 102 is illustrated with a dashed line because implementations of the device 100 can be hardwired to the display device 102, or the input device 100 can be wirelessly connected to the display device 102 to visually manipulate the visual objects 108 on the display screen 104.

[0038] Display device 102 may be a computing device configured to run a software application that displays visual information to a user. Figure 1 The visual object 108 shown in is a non-limiting example of an image whose movement on the display screen 104 can be controlled to be related to the movement of the input device 100 on the support surface 106. In some examples, the visual object 108 can be a cursor. In other examples, the visual object 108 can include a game character or a three-dimensional part designed in computer-aided design (CAD) software. When the user moves the input device 100 on the support surface 106 on which the input device 100 rests, the visual object 108 can move on the display screen 104 in a similar manner.

[0039] Support surface 106 may include any surface on which input device 100 may rest and slide during use. In one example, support surface 106 includes the top surface of a mouse pad. In another example, support surface 106 may include the top surface of a desk, counter, or table comprising various materials.

[0040] In at least one example, visual object 108 can be superimposed on one or more background images on display screen 104. Input device 100 can be configured to move visual object 108 on top of the background image, which can include one or more different surface structures, features, or textures. As visual object 108 virtually moves on display screen 104, visual object 108 can translate over these features or textures. When a user's hand slides input device 100 over support surface 106, devices described herein (including Figure 1 The input device 100 shown in FIG. 1 may provide tactile feedback to the user to physically simulate what it would actually feel like if the visual object 108 were translated on the display screen 104 .

[0041] 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.

[0042] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An upper perspective view and a lower perspective view of an example of an input device 200 are illustrated, respectively, that includes a housing 212 defining a grip portion 214 and a lower portion 216. The grip portion 214 can be curved, non-planar, or otherwise shaped to accommodate a user's grip of the input device 200. In at least one example, the lower portion 216 can be a planar, flat portion defining a lower contact surface 218. The lower contact surface 218 can also be referred to as a lower surface or a contact surface. The lower surface 218 is configured to contact a support surface on which the input device 200 rests and on which a user can slide the input device 200 during use. In one or more other examples, the grip portion 214 and the lower portion 216 of the housing 212 can vary in shape, size, and configuration. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The device 200 illustrated is illustrative only and is not meant to be limiting.

[0043] In at least one example, Figure 2BAs shown, the lower portion 216 of the input device 200 can define one or more apertures 220a, 220b, and 220c. The apertures 220a-c can be collectively referred to as apertures 220. The apertures 220 defined by the lower portion 216 can form through-holes that extend through the entire thickness of the housing 212 of the lower portion 216. In addition to these apertures 220, the lower portion 216 can also define another aperture 222 through which a visual sensor 224 can emit and receive light. The visual sensor 224 detects the movement and positioning of the input device 200 on the supporting surface.

[0044] The lower portion 216 defines a lower surface 218 that is configured to contact a support surface and support the weight of the input device 200. The lower surface 218 contacts the support surface and supports the weight of the input device 200 as well as any weight or force added by a user's hand resting on the input device 200. Thus, when a user slides or rotates the input device on the support surface, the sliding resistance, friction force, or friction torque acting between the lower surface 218 and the support surface on which the input device 200 rests will resist or redirect such movement.

[0045] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B 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 FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0046] Figure 3 300. The input device 300 includes a grip portion 314 and a lower portion 316 defining one or more apertures 320a, 320b, and 320c. Figure 3 In the example shown, the lower portion 316 also includes one or more support protrusions 326a, 326b, and 326c, which may be collectively referred to as lower support protrusions 326. The lower support protrusions 326 may extend downwardly from the lower portion 316 to define a lower contact surface 318. Likewise, the lower contact surface 318 may also be referred to as a contact surface or a lower surface, and includes any surface that contacts a support surface during use.

[0047] exist Figure 3In the example shown, the lower support protrusion 326 defines the lower contact surface 318 because the support protrusion 326 extends downward to contact the support surface on which the input device 300 rests and along which it slides during use. Therefore, as used herein, the term "lower contact surface" or other terms related thereto are used to describe any surface that supports the weight of the input device 300 and any surface that is configured to contact a support surface during use. Therefore, one or more other examples of input devices may include other features or portions that define the lower contact surface on which the input device rests. These other features may be related to Figure 3 The lower support protrusion 326 shown in Figure 2B The lower portion 216 shown in FIG. 2 may be similar or different.

[0048] The total surface area, material, surface texture, and other surface or material properties of the lower contact surface of the various input devices described herein can be designed and tuned to achieve a desired friction or sliding resistance when a user slides the input device over a supporting surface during use.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 4A to 4DAn example of an input device 400 in two different conditions is illustrated. In each condition, which is described in more detail below, one or more legs are disposed in a different orientation relative to the input device 400. Each condition of the input device 400 or each orientation of the legs provides a unique lower contact surface of the input device 400 that modifies the sliding force, friction, or friction torque of the input device 400 when the input device 400 is slid or rotated by a user on a support surface. One or more legs of the input device 400 may be movable to selectively extend through one or more apertures of the input device 400 and generate variable friction, torque, and sliding resistance during use. For example, a leg (or a set of legs) may extend from the device 400 at an eccentric position on the lower surface to allow the user to experience friction torque. For example, one or more legs may extend to increase friction on one side of the bottom centerline of the device (e.g., under the user's grip on the device 400). When a user moves device 400 along an axis or direction that does not intersect the extended legs (i.e., along a direction that unequally balances the frictional resistance applied by the multiple legs positioned on each side of the axis of motion), the increased friction can give the user of device 400 a sensation or bias of rotation in one direction.

[0051] Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of an input device 400 is shown. In at least one example, the input device 400 can include a housing 412 that defines a grip portion 414 and a lower portion 416. The lower portion 416 defines an aperture 420 (e.g., similar to apertures 320a-c) and a lower contact surface 418. The housing 412 also includes or defines a grip portion 414 that a user can grasp with his or her hand to manipulate the input device 400 on a support surface. In particular, in Figure 4A In the condition of the device 400 shown, the lower contact surface 418 defined by the lower portion 416 can support the input device 400 and slide on the support surface. As described above, the support surface can include any surface on which the input device 400 rests, including a desktop surface, a mouse pad, a countertop, etc.

[0052] The housing 412 can define an outer surface 430 and an opposing inner surface 428. In at least one example, the inner surface 428 defines an interior volume 432 of the input device 400. In at least one example, the input device 400 can include one or more input sensors 439a and 439b configured to receive input from a user. Figure 4AIn the example shown, the input device 400 includes two separate touch sensors 439a and 439b disposed against the inner surface 428 of the housing 412. These touch sensors 439a and 439b may include capacitive touch elements that are configured to sense when and where a user's fingers, palm, or other part of the user's hand contacts the outer surface 430 of the housing 412. The user may contact the input device 400 at locations on the outer surface 430 corresponding to the touch sensors 439a and 439b to give commands using touch, tap, squeeze, touch gestures, etc.

[0053] In at least one example, input device 400 may include more than Figure 4A 430, or other types of touch sensors or buttons disposed elsewhere within the interior volume 432, disposed on the exterior surface 430, or disposed elsewhere in or on the input device 400. Figure 4A Input signals detected by input sensors 439a and 439b) shown in FIG. 4 can be relayed to a computing device wirelessly or through one or more hardwired connections between input device 400 and a computing device to execute instructions based on those signals. In this way, input device 400 can be used to control a computer system such as a computer system described in reference to FIG. Figure 1 One or more visual objects on a display screen of a computing device as described and discussed above.

[0054] In at least one example, an input sensor array (comprising Figure 4A Input sensors 439a and 439b) shown in the figure can be set on or in the input device 400 to detect multiple input signals and touches from the user. These input signals can determine the presence and / or location of finger taps and gestures or the hand positioning of the user's hand contacting the outer surface 430 of the input device 400.

[0055] At least one example of input device 400 can include a haptic assembly 440 disposed in interior volume 432. Haptic assembly 440 can include an actuator 436 and a foot 434 coupled to the actuator and aligned with aperture 420. Actuator 436 is coupled to foot 434 in a manner such that actuator 436 is configured to extend the foot between a first position and a second position. Figure 4A The feet in are shown in a first position, wherein the feet do not extend below the lower contact surface 418 of the input device 400. Figure 4BThe lower perspective view of the input device 400 shown illustrates the input device 400 having a plurality of apertures 420a, 420b, and 420c defined by the lower portion 416. In this first position of the feet 434, the lower portion 416 defines a lower contact surface 418 upon which the input device 400 rests and is supported on a support surface.

[0056] In at least one example, the actuator 436 includes a motor configured to physically move the leg 434 into and out of the interior volume 432 so that the leg 434 can be selectively moved into and out through the aperture 420 defined by the lower portion 416. The input device 400 can also include one or more processors 438 electrically coupled to the actuator 436 of the haptic assembly 440 via one or more wires or circuit components 442. The processor 438 can be part of a controller that determines when and how the leg 434 moves into and out of the aperture 420.

[0057] It should also be noted that the input device 400 may include one or more other electronic devices or components that are configured to send one or more signals to and from the actuator 436 and to and from a computer electrically coupled to the input device 400. In some examples, the input device 400 does not include a processor 438, but rather a processor of the computing device determines when and how the actuator 436 moves the foot 434. In such examples, hardwired or wireless connections and / or antennas of the computing device and / or input device 400 may be used to send and receive such signals. However, for purposes of explanation and as an example, the input device described herein (including Figure 4A The input device 400 may include a processor 438 for the purpose of controlling the actuator 436.

[0058] In at least one example, the housing 412 is symmetrical (e.g., rotationally symmetrical) about a central axis 453 that is oriented substantially perpendicular to a surface on which the input device 400 may rest or be manipulated. For example, the housing 412 may be circular, wherein the central axis 453 is a central axis of rotation and / or symmetry of the input device 400. In at least one example, a user may initially grasp the input device 400 (including its housing 412) in any orientation and, based on the user's grip or hand positioning, orient the input device 400 as the user desires, regardless of the actual orientation of the input device 400, as described herein. In such an example, the processor 438 may determine the hand positioning and the intended orientation of the input device 400 based on the user's hand positioning of the housing 412 via the touch sensors 439a-b.

[0059] In at least one example, the housing 412 of the input device 400 is circular or dome-shaped, such as Figure 4A 4, so that the housing 412 can rotate about the central axis 453 serving as the central axis of rotation of the circular housing 412. In such an example, the mouse is unaware of the actual orientation of the housing 412 relative to the support surface on which the housing 412 rests. More specifically, the housing 412 can be digitally or computationally oriented and / or reoriented by the processor 434 based on the user's hand positioning as detected by the touch sensors 439a-b, without physically moving or rotating the input device 400 when grasping the housing 412.

[0060] As described above, the actuator 436 can be configured to extend the foot 434 through the aperture 420. The actuator 436 can be configured to selectively extend the foot 434 between the first position and the second position to change which surface comprises the lower contact surface of the input device 400. Again, as Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the foot 434 is in a first position including the foot 434 not extending through the aperture 420 and the lower portion 416 defining the lower contact surface 418. In this first position of the foot 434, the input device 400 can be considered to be in a first condition, wherein the friction or sliding resistance of the input device 400 is determined by the interaction between the lower contact surface 418 as defined by the lower portion 416 and the support surface on which the input device 400 rests. In this first condition, the lower portion 416 can define a first coefficient of friction with the support surface.

[0061] Figure 4C and Figure 4D The input device 400 is illustrated in a second condition, wherein the leg 434 has been extended or moved through the aperture 420 by the actuator 436. In the second condition, the lower portion or surface of the leg 434 defines the lower contact surface 418, so that the friction resistance and sliding resistance and the coefficient of friction between the input device 400 and the support surface are generated by the interaction between the leg 434 or the plurality of legs 434a, 434b, and 434c extending through the respective apertures 420a, 420b, and 420c. In the second condition, wherein the leg 434 or the plurality of legs 434a-c extending through the aperture 420 is in a second position, the friction force, friction torque, coefficient of friction, or sliding resistance of the input device 400 sliding on the support surface may be different from the friction force and sliding resistance of the input device 400 in the first condition. This is because, in the second condition, the lower portion or surface of the leg 434 defines the lower contact surface 418, so that the friction force and sliding resistance and the coefficient of friction between the input device 400 and the support surface are generated by the interaction between the leg 434 or the plurality of legs 434a, 434b, and 434c extending through the respective apertures 420a, 420b, and 420c. Figure 4C and Figure 4DIn the second condition or second positioning of the feet 434 shown in , the contact surface 418 is at least partially, and in some cases completely, defined by the feet 434. Thus, in the second condition of the input device 400, the interaction between the feet 434 and the support surface determines the coefficient of friction and sliding resistance of the input device 400 on the support surface.

[0062] In this manner, in at least one example, a first coefficient of friction between lower portion 416 and a support surface on which input device 400 rests in a first orientation is different from a second coefficient of friction between one or more legs 434 and the support surface in a second orientation in which one or more legs 434 define lower contact surface 418. In one example, the first coefficient of friction is greater than the second coefficient of friction. In one example, the second coefficient of friction is greater than the first coefficient of friction. In any case, legs 434 may be capable of selectively moving and extending through aperture 420 to modify the coefficient of friction defined by input device 400 resting on or sliding on a support surface.

[0063] There are many factors that affect the coefficient of friction defined by two materials or surfaces that interact (statically or dynamically) with each other. The normal force between the surfaces or materials, material type, surface texture, total surface area, humidity, and many other factors can affect the coefficient of friction and the resulting sliding resistance between the input device 400 and the supporting surface. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The lower contact surface 418 defined by the lower portion 416 in the first condition and first orientation with the feet 434 shown may include one set of properties or factors that affect a first coefficient of friction, while the lower contact surface 418 in the second condition, as defined by the lower surface of the feet 434 extending through the aperture 420 in the second orientation, may include another set of properties or factors that affect a second coefficient of friction. However, in general, references to coefficients of friction as used herein generally refer to the amount of friction or sliding resistance experienced by a user when the user pushes and / or slides the input device 400 on a support surface.

[0064] Examples of input devices described herein include 4A to 4DThe device 400 shown in the example illustrates three legs 434a-c that can selectively extend through three corresponding orifices 420a-c. However, this configuration is only for exemplary and illustrative purposes and is not meant to be restrictive. In one or more other examples of the device described herein, less than three or more than three legs 434 and orifices 420 may be included based on the design needs and desired friction changes of the input device 400. In addition, each leg 434 of the multiple legs of any one input device can be actuated independently of the other legs and extend through the orifice. In this example, a single leg on one side of the device 400 can extend more or less than other legs to tilt, turn, apply torque or otherwise push the mouse in a direction based on the difference in friction sliding force from one side of the device 400 to the other side. In one example, all legs of a single input device can be actuated together in unison. In addition, in one or more other examples, the size, shape and other design aspects of the legs 434 may be different.

[0065] In at least one example, the actuator 436 of the device 400 can push the leg 434 with a variable force or extend the leg. In this way, when the user's hand rests on the device 400, the input device 400 can maintain contact with the support surface. If the force to extend the leg 434 is less than the opposing force from the user's hand on the device 400, the variable force from the actuator 434 can cause the force from one or more legs of the leg 434 to variably increase or decrease the sliding resistance of the device 400 along the range. In this example, the device 400 is not limited to only two discrete sliding resistances or friction forces on the support surface. Therefore, although the first and second positioning of the leg 434 are illustrated and described herein, these positionings and the friction forces generated are not meant to be restrictive. More precisely, these positionings are shown for illustrative purposes, and the leg 434 may include any positioning between the first and second positionings shown and acted on by the actuator 436 with a variable force to provide a variable sliding force felt by the user.

[0066] Signals may be sent by the computing device and received by the input device 400 to actuate one or more legs 434 in order to change the friction of the input device 400 on the supporting surface. These changes may be associated with the movement of a visual object on the display screen of the computing device, as controlled by the input device 400. In this way, the sliding resistance of the input device 400 may be altered to varying degrees and over time to produce a varying sliding resistance tactilely perceived by the user. This tactile feedback of the perception of varying friction based on the positioning of the legs 434 of the input device 400 may mimic the visual representation of unique and different surface textures and features displayed on the display screen of the computing device as the user visually drags an object, such as a cursor, over these textures and features.

[0067] 4A to 4D 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. 4A to 4D Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0068] Figure 5 An example of a haptic assembly including an actuator 536 coupled to a leg 534 is illustrated. The actuator 536 can be a motor that engages a top portion or surface of the leg 534 via a cam 546. The lower portion 516 of the input device can define an aperture 520 through which the actuator 536 can selectively extend the leg 534. The haptic assembly 540 can also include a bracket 544 to guide linear translation of the leg 534 through the aperture 520, and a biasing element 548 such as a coil spring or other biasing mechanism can maintain contact between the leg 534 and the cam 546. As the cam 546 rotates due to the shaft rotation provided by the actuator 536, the vertical positioning of the leg 534 can change and the leg 534 can extend into and out of the aperture 520.

[0069] One or more other examples may include haptic components utilizing other actuation components and methods. In one or more examples, the haptic component may include a magnetically actuated foot. One or more examples may include solenoids, various types of motors (including stepper motors, brushless DC motors, brushed DC motors, AC motors), gears and gear boxes, etc.

[0070] Figure 5 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 5 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0071] Figure 6A perspective view of an example of an input device 600 is illustrated that includes a grip portion 614 illustrated with dashed lines indicating transparency in order to illustrate various components within the input device 600. In the illustrated example, three separate haptic components 640a, 640b, and 640c are disposed within the input device 600. The various haptic components 640a, 640b, and 640c may be collectively referred to as haptic components 640. Each haptic component 640 may include a respective actuator 636a-c and legs 634a-c that align with and selectively extend through apertures 620a-c defined by the lower portion 616 of the input device 600.

[0072] Processor 638 can be disposed within input device 600 and electrically coupled to each haptic component 640a-c via one or more wires or other circuits 642 illustrated in phantom. In one or more other examples, the size, number, and positioning of each haptic component 640a-c can vary. Figure 6 The illustrated example illustrates three haptic components 640a-c that selectively extend three legs 634a-c through three corresponding apertures 620a-c to vary the frictional properties of the input device 600 relative to a supporting surface.

[0073] As described above with reference to other examples, processor 638 may cause one or more actuators 636a-c to extend tactile feet 634a-c through apertures 620a-c based on the position of a cursor controlled by input device 600 on a display screen of the computing device.

[0074] 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 any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Figure 6 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0075] Figure 7 An example of an input device 700 being manipulated by a user's hand 706 on a support surface including a first support surface 750a and a second support surface 706b is illustrated. The input device 700 may be referred to as a mouse or computer mouse configured to manipulate a visual object such as a cursor 708 on a display screen 704 of a computing device. Figure 7 Also shown is a computing device (also referred to as display device 702) including a display screen 704. Figure 7As shown, the display screen 704 can visually present separate surfaces, surface textures, or physical features in various areas or locations on the display screen 704. Figure 7 In the illustrated display screen 704, four different display areas 709a, 709b, 709c, and 709d of the display screen 704 each visually present an object having a different surface texture, material, and other features.

[0076] For example, the first display area 709a visually depicts a "diamond plate" sheet metal material, and the second display area 709b depicts a wood material. The third display area 709c of the display screen 704 depicts a gradient of varying friction, wherein dark areas represent higher friction, and light areas represent lower friction or sliding resistance. When a user manipulates the input device 700 to control the positioning of the cursor 708 on the display screen 704 (such as the third display area 709c), the user may receive tactile feedback from the input device 700 due to the input device 700 changing its sliding resistance relative to the first support surface 706a, as described elsewhere herein. The sliding resistance on the first support surface 706a may be changed based on and corresponding to the positioning of the cursor 708 relative to the dark and light areas with larger and smaller friction, respectively, represented in the third display area 709c. The fourth display area 709d illustrates a glass surface.

[0077] In some embodiments, as the user manipulates the input device 700 with his or her hand 750 on one or more support surfaces 706a and 706b, a cursor 708 or other graphical interface object or indicator displayed on the display screen 704 may correspondingly move on the display screen 704. As the cursor 708 moves across different display regions 709a-d, the input device 700 is configured to vary the friction conditions and positioning of the legs of the input device 700, as described herein, to physically mimic and tactilely simulate different surface textures, features, and friction conditions illustrated on the display screen 704. For example, when the user moves the cursor 708 on the display screen 704 over the image of a diamond plate metal sheet displayed in the first display region 709a, the input device 700 may extend and retract the legs to correspond with the diamond protrusions, thereby physically creating the tactile sensation of the diamond protrusions to the user's hand 750. When the cursor 708 is manipulated over the second display area 709b, the input device 700 may also create the physical sensation of dragging the mouse over the wood surface (including references to portions of the wood grain) as displayed at that area.

[0078] Although in Figure 7Specific surface features and textures are shown on the display screen 704 depicted in , but it should be understood that these are for exemplary and illustrative purposes only. One or more other examples of input devices and display screens can generate and simulate any number of surfaces, textures, features, or other situations, where physical conditions are visually presented on the display screen 704 and the user tactilely feels those simulated situations by adjusting one or more legs of the input device. For example, these situations can include adjusting the horizontal movement of the input device 700 to be easier or more difficult for the user depending on the game conditions (e.g., the virtual state or virtual positioning of the game character, such as when the character is injured, wading through water, or wearing heavy equipment is more difficult than when the character is healthy or unencumbered).

[0079] In the third display area 709c, when the user manipulates the cursor 708 over the friction gradients displayed on the display screen 704, the input device 700 can mimic these friction gradients, even if the friction characteristics of the first support surface 706a are otherwise consistent (i.e., the first support surface 706a has a consistent texture, material, smoothness, etc. where the input device 700 moves). In some embodiments, when the user moves the input device over multiple support surfaces (e.g., 706b and 706a) to move the cursor 708 on the display screen 704 to the fourth display area 709d, the input device 700 can adjust the sliding resistance between the device 700 and each surface 706a, 706b so that the user feels like he or she is moving the input device 700 over a consistent piece of glass, which is virtually displayed in the area 709d. Thus, even if the user physically moves the input device 700 across two surfaces 706a, 706b (which would otherwise have different frictional feel and sliding resistance characteristics for a non-adjustable input device), the input device 700 can dynamically adjust its sliding resistance as the device 700 moves from one surface to another, thereby reducing or eliminating the difference in sliding resistance or texture feel experienced by the user as he or she slides the device 700.

[0080] In addition, in at least one example, a user may slide the device 700 over different support surfaces that may have different friction interactions with the input device 700, but the input device 700 is configured to modify its lower surface so that the sliding resistance or friction between the input device 700 and the support surface remains constant, as perceived by the user. This may be done regardless of the state of the cursor 708 or graphic (e.g., any of 709a-d) shown on the display 702. In one example, the first support surface 706a may include the upper surface of a mouse pad. The second support surface 706b may include a smoother surface having a lower coefficient of friction with the lower portion or foot of the input device 700 than the coefficient of friction between the first support surface 706a and the input device 700.

[0081] In this case, when the user slides the input device 700 from the first support surface 706a to the second support surface 706b with his or her hand 750, the difference in sliding resistance or friction between the input device 700 and the respective support surfaces 706a and 706b is not felt, and the input device 700 can be configured to switch from the first condition to the second condition that increases the coefficient of friction between the input device 700 and the second support surface 706b. For example, the total contact surface area between the input device 700 and the support surface can be dynamically adjusted. In this way, when the user moves the input device 700 on the two support surfaces 706a and 706b, the coefficient of friction between the input device 700 and the two support surfaces 706a and 706b can remain constant. This constant sliding resistance sensed by the user or the user's hand 750 can produce a pleasant and consistent user experience using the input device, even when moving on inconsistent support areas.

[0082] 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 any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures described herein. Figure 7 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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 defining an interior volume and a lower portion defining an aperture; an input sensor disposed in the interior volume; and A tactile component, the tactile component is disposed in the internal volume, the tactile component comprising: Actuator; and A foot is coupled to the actuator and aligned with the aperture.

2. The input device according to claim 1, wherein: The input sensor includes a plurality of capacitive sensing elements disposed on the housing; and The foot is movable via the actuator between a first position and a second position, wherein in the second position the foot extends through the aperture.

3. An input device according to claim 2, wherein a first coefficient of friction between the lower portion and the support surface on which the input device rests when the foot is in the first position is different from a second coefficient of friction between the foot and the support surface when the foot is in the second position.

4. The input device of claim 1, wherein the actuator is operable to selectively extend the foot through the aperture.

5. The input device of claim 1, wherein the lower portion comprises a support protrusion having a lower surface.

6. The input device of claim 1, wherein the lower portion defines a lower surface configured to support the input device on a support surface.

7. The input device of claim 6, wherein the actuator is configured to extend the foot through the aperture such that a contact surface of the foot supports the input device on the support surface.

8. The input device of claim 7, wherein friction between the input device and the support surface on which the input device rests changes when the contact surface of the foot supports the input device.

9. A mouse, comprising: A housing, the housing defining: Orifice; and lower surface; and A foot, the foot being movable between a first position and a second position, wherein: In the first orientation, the lower surface defines a bottom-most surface of the mouse; and In the second orientation, the foot extends through the aperture and defines a bottom-most surface of the mouse.

10. The mouse of claim 9, wherein the bottom-most surface is configured to contact a support surface on which the mouse rests when the foot is in the first position or when the foot is in the second position.

11. The mouse according to claim 9, further comprising: An actuator is coupled to the leg, the actuator being configured to selectively extend the leg through the aperture.

12. The mouse of claim 11, wherein a sliding resistance between the contact surface and a support surface on which the mouse rests varies based on whether the foot is in the first position or the foot is in the second position.

13. The mouse according to claim 9, wherein: The support leg is a first support leg; The orifice is a first orifice; The housing defines a second aperture. And The mouse includes a second foot extendable through the second aperture.

14. The mouse according to claim 9, wherein: The housing is circular about a central axis; The input device also includes: touch sensor; and a processor electrically coupled to the touch sensor; 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.

15. An input device comprising: a first condition having a first sliding resistance on a surface; a second condition having a second sliding resistance on the surface, the second sliding resistance being different from the first sliding resistance; an actuator for selectively switching the input device from the first condition to the second condition; and An input sensor is used to detect input from a hand of a user grasping the input device.

16. The input device of claim 15, wherein the actuator is a motorized actuator operable to extend a foot relative to a bottom surface of the input device.

17. The input device of claim 15, wherein the actuator is configured to selectively switch between the first condition and the second condition based on a texture pattern.

18. The input device according to claim 15, wherein: In the first condition, the input device includes a lower portion defining a first lower contact surface and an orifice; and In the second condition, the input device includes a foot extending through the aperture and defining a second lower contact surface spaced apart from the first lower contact surface.

19. The input device of claim 18, wherein the actuator selectively switches the input device from the first condition to the second condition by extending the foot through the aperture.

20. The input device according to claim 19, further comprising: A processor is programmed to control the actuator to extend the leg through the aperture based on a position of a cursor controlled by the input device on the display screen.

Images