Method and apparatus for controlling one or more haptic actuators of a peripheral device

Abstract

A method and a device for controlling a user input component of a peripheral device are provided. To achieve this object, a first travel distance (TD1) associated with a first movement (41) of the user input component is determined depending on an actuation direction. When the first travel distance (TD1) exceeds a first distance (AT0), an actuation signal and a first haptic signal are generated. A second travel distance (TD2) associated with a second movement (42) of the user input component is determined depending on a release direction. When the second travel distance (TD2) exceeds a second distance (AR), a release signal and a second haptic signal are generated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to the field of tactile sensing, and more specifically to the generation of tactile signals for controlling one or more tactile actuators of a peripheral device to produce tactile effects. The invention also relates to a method and apparatus for responsively controlling the tactile actuators of a peripheral device to user input component operations. Background Technology

[0002] This section of the invention is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects that may relate to aspects of at least one embodiment of the invention described below and / or requested. This discussion should help provide the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the invention.

[0003] In a broad sense, haptic technology refers to any technology that, in addition to visual and audio information, reproduces tactile sensation in a user interface by applying force, vibration, motion, and other senses (such as temperature) to provide information to end users when presenting multimedia content.

[0004] Haptic feedback encompasses a wide range of possible stimulation methods, but is mainly divided into tactile tactile techniques and kinesthetic tactile techniques: tactile tactile feedback (or tactile tactile effect) refers to sensations such as vibration, friction, or micro-deformation, while kinesthetic tactile feedback (or kinesthetic tactile effect) refers to sensations that provide force, which can stimulate mechanical stimuli as well as stimuli related to body position and movement.

[0005] Haptic feedback, or tactile effects, are achieved using one or more tactile devices, corresponding to an arrangement of one or more tactile actuators located on one or more parts of the user's body. For example, vibratory tactile effects can be achieved using tactile devices such as ECM (eccentric rotating mass), LRA (linear resonant actuators), VCM (voice coil motors), PZT (piezoelectric actuators), SMA (shape memory alloys), or pressure-based actuators with high bandwidth. Kinematic effects can be achieved by actuators applying forces that impede limb movement; this effect is felt only in muscles and tendons, not on the skin. Other examples of tactile devices include resistive feedback devices, active forced feedback devices, and skin indentation devices.

[0006] Haptic feedback can be used to increase the immersion of users when watching video content or playing video games. Haptic feedback can also be used to provide feedback for user interaction with video games or any simulated or virtual content through one or more input components of peripheral devices such as game controllers, keyboards, and mice.

[0007] There is still room for improvement in the control of user input components for peripheral devices. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The following sections present a simplified overview of at least one exemplary embodiment to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This overview is not a comprehensive overview of the exemplary embodiments. It is not intended to identify key or essential components of the embodiments. The following overview presents only some aspects of at least one exemplary embodiment in a simplified form, as a premise for a more detailed description provided elsewhere in the document.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling a user input component of a peripheral device is provided, the method comprising the following steps:

[0010] - Determine the first travel distance related to the first movement of the user input component based on the actuation direction of the user input component;

[0011] - When the first travel distance is greater than the first threshold representing the first distance, an actuation signal and a first tactile signal are generated, and the first tactile signal represents the first tactile effect;

[0012] - Determine a second travel distance related to the second movement of the user input component based on the release direction of the user input component, wherein the release direction is opposite to the actuation direction, and the second movement temporarily follows the first movement; and

[0013] - When the second travel distance is greater than the second threshold representing the second distance, a release signal and a second tactile signal are generated, and the second tactile signal represents the second tactile effect.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the user input component is configured to be in an idle state and a pressed state, a first movement brings the user input component from the idle state to the pressed state, and the user input component is in the pressed state at the end of a second movement. The method further includes:

[0015] - Determine a third travel distance related to the third movement of the user input component based on the actuation direction; the third movement temporarily follows the second movement; and

[0016] - When the third travel distance is greater than the third threshold representing the third distance, an actuation signal and a third tactile signal are generated. The third tactile signal represents the third tactile effect.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the first tactile effect, the second tactile effect, and the third tactile effect correspond to the same tactile effect.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, the first tactile effect and the third tactile effect correspond to the same effect representing a transition to an actuated state of the user input component, and the second tactile effect represents a transition to a released state of the user input component.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the second threshold and the third threshold correspond to the same threshold, and the second distance is equal to the third distance.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes adjusting at least one of a first threshold, a second threshold, and a third threshold.

[0021] In a further exemplary embodiment, the method further includes presenting a first tactile effect, a second tactile effect, and a third tactile effect in a user input component based on a first tactile signal, a second tactile signal, and a third tactile signal, respectively.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, the first tactile effect, the second tactile effect, and the third tactile effect all correspond to a vibration effect.

[0023] In a further exemplary embodiment, the second distance is less than the first distance, and the third distance is less than the first distance.

[0024] In another exemplary embodiment, each determination includes determining a value representing a change in the magnetic field.

[0025] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is a device for controlling a user input component of a peripheral device, wherein the device includes memory associated with at least one processor and is configured to implement the method as described in the first aspect of the invention.

[0026] According to a third aspect of the invention, a peripheral device as described in the second aspect of the invention is provided, the peripheral device comprising a user input component group of at least one user input component, each user input component of at least a portion of the user input component group comprising a haptic actuator, each user input component in the user input component group and each haptic actuator being communicatively coupled to the device.

[0027] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a computer program product is provided, comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the method according to a first aspect of the invention.

[0028] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a non-transient storage medium is provided, which carries instructions for performing program code according to a first aspect of the invention.

[0029] The specific nature of at least one exemplary embodiment, as well as other objects, advantages, features, and uses of the at least one exemplary embodiment, will become apparent from the following description of the examples in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The accompanying drawings, by way of example, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a peripheral device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another peripheral device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0033] Figure 3A and Figure 3B According to at least one exemplary embodiment, it is shown as follows Figure 1 or Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the user input components of the peripheral device.

[0034] Figure 4 It is shown according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 3A and Figure 3B A control diagram of the user input component.

[0035] Figure 5 According to at least one exemplary embodiment, control is shown. Figure 3A and Figure 3B A block diagram illustrating the steps of the user input component's method.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating examples of devices or systems that implement various aspects and exemplary embodiments.

[0037] In different diagrams, similar component symbols can be used to represent similar components. Detailed Implementation

[0038] At least one exemplary embodiment will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which examples of at least one exemplary embodiment are illustrated. However, the exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many alternative forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples described herein. Therefore, it should be understood that this document is not intended to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed. Rather, this document is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0039] The exemplary embodiments described below can be combined with each other, or each exemplary embodiment can be implemented separately, for example as an alternative embodiment.

[0040] At least one aspect of the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for controlling a user input component of a peripheral device. The peripheral device corresponds to an input device, or an input / output device, configured to be coupled to an electronic device (e.g., a computer device, game console, set-top box, smartphone, television) for interacting with content (e.g., video content, games, applications, etc.). Therefore, the peripheral device may correspond to a game controller (also simply called a controller), a keyboard, a mouse, or a remote control containing one or more user input components (e.g., keys, buttons, triggers).

[0041] Peripheral devices include, for example, one or more tactile actuators, such as LRA(s), VCM(s), ERM, PZT and / or SMA.

[0042] Control of the user input component includes determining or measuring a travel distance associated with continuous movement of the user input component to alternately actuate and release the user input component. Depending on the actuation direction, when a first travel distance associated with a first movement of the user input component exceeds a first threshold representing a first distance, an actuation signal and a first tactile signal are generated. When a second travel distance associated with a second movement of the user input component (the second movement temporarily follows the first movement and occurs in a release direction opposite to the actuation direction) exceeds a second threshold representing a second distance, a release signal and a second tactile signal are generated.

[0043] Each of the first and second thresholds represents a distance relative to the starting point, allowing the user input component to alternate between an actuated and released state without passing through the idle / free position of the user input component. The user input component can successfully alternate between actuated and released states while maintaining a press, increasing the actuation frequency of the user input component.

[0044] Each time the user input component is actuated and released, a tactile signal is generated to provide feedback to the user operating the user input component and to notify the user when the user input component is actuated and released.

[0045] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a peripheral device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0046] Figure 1 This shows a peripheral device corresponding to a game controller, also known as a controller.

[0047] The game controller includes a set of user input components, each of which is configured to be manipulated and controlled by a user, specifically by one or more fingers held in the user's hand.

[0048] The game controller is configured to be coupled to an electronic or computer device, which corresponds to any device or apparatus configured to run application software and / or games, such as a computer, laptop, game console, set-top box, etc. The game controller is configured to be coupled to or connected to the electronic or computer device via a wired connection (e.g., USB) or a wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi®).

[0049] according to Figure 1 An example, a set of user input components includes:

[0050] - The left trigger 11 and the right trigger 12 are each configured to be actuated (e.g., pressed) by a user's finger (e.g., the index or middle finger of the left hand for the left trigger 11 and the index or middle finger of the right hand for the right trigger 12).

[0051] - Directional panel 13, which includes four buttons, each related to direction, such as forward, backward, left sweep and right sweep;

[0052] - Start button 14, which includes, for example, four buttons associated with specific actions or functions, depending on the application software or game controlled by game controller 1; and

[0053] - The left stick 15 and the right stick 16 are configured to be driven or manipulated by the user's left and right fingers, respectively.

[0054] Actions or functions are associated with each user input component, and these actions or functions vary depending on the user input component. The actions or functions associated with the user input component may further depend on the game the user is playing using the game controller 1.

[0055] For example, the left trigger 11 and / or the right trigger 12 can be actuated to fire or sweep, and the steering plate 13 and / or the left stick 15 and the right stick 16 can be used to control the movement of a character in a real environment.

[0056] One or more haptic actuators are integrated into the game controller.

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment, each user input component in at least a portion of the set of user input components includes a haptic actuator. For example, each left trigger 11 and right trigger 12 includes a haptic actuator configured to produce a vibratory tactile effect on the finger that triggers the trigger. According to variations of the embodiment, the haptic actuator is configured to present various tactile sensations, corresponding to, for example, magnetorheological actuators (e.g., magnetorheological fluid-based haptic actuators) or actuators based on DC motors (e.g., ERM). Using such haptic actuators, tactile effects can be obtained by controlling or changing friction or resistance. For example, a magnetorheological actuator is described in the article "Investigation of a haptic actuator made with magneto-rheological fluids for haptic shoes applications" by Hong Hae Heo et al., December 29, 2020.

[0058] According to another exemplary embodiment, one or more haptic actuators are disposed in the housing 10 of the game controller 1 to cause the housing 10 to vibrate. For example, one or more haptic actuators may be disposed in the housing 10 to cause the housing 10, in which the palm of a user holding the game controller 1 is located, to vibrate.

[0059] One or more haptic actuators are controlled by haptic signals generated by circuitry or a processing unit included in the game controller 1. According to a variation of the embodiment, the haptic signals are generated by a remote processing unit and transmitted via a wired or wireless connection coupled to the remote processing unit to one or more haptic actuators. Controlling one or more haptic actuators by circuitry or a processing unit reduces the delay between actuation of the user input component and the presentation of a haptic effect by the one or more haptic actuators, requiring the delay to be less than 10 ms.

[0060] An exemplary embodiment of the processing unit will be referred to Figure 6 As described below.

[0061] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another peripheral device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0062] Figure 2 This shows the peripheral devices corresponding to the keyboard. The keyboard can be a standard keyboard or a gaming keyboard. Compared to a standard keyboard, a gaming keyboard has a limited number of keys.

[0063] The keyboard includes settings for user input components corresponding to buttons or keypads 21, which can be used as switches.

[0064] Each key corresponds to a function; when the corresponding key is pressed, that function is executed. When playing games using a standard keyboard, only some keys are used, such as the WASD keys on a QWERTY keyboard and the ZQSD keys on an Azur Lane keyboard. In computer games, the WASD keys are typically used to control character movement, the W and S keys are used to control forward and backward movement, and the A and D keys are used to control left and right sweeping attacks. Other keys, such as the spacebar, control keys, and the Shift key, are used to control character actions, such as jumping, crouching, dashing, shooting, and attacking.

[0065] When used as an input interface device for applications running on a computer other than gaming, the actions or functions associated with key 21 may differ. When used as a text input interface, the keyboard is used to input text, numbers, and symbols in applications such as word processors, web browsers, or social media applications. Some keys may prompt the computer to execute system commands.

[0066] The interpretation of key presses can be left to the software. The message sent to the computer (i.e., the so-called scan code) tells the software which physical key(s) is actuated (or pressed) or released.

[0067] One or more haptic actuators are integrated into the keyboard.

[0068] According to an exemplary embodiment, each user input component (i.e., button) of at least a portion of the user input components (buttons) 21 includes a haptic actuator. For example, each button includes a haptic actuator, or at least each button used as a game input interface includes a haptic actuator. For example, the haptic actuator is embedded in a button cap and configured to generate vibration to transmit a vibratory tactile effect to the finger that presses the button.

[0069] According to another embodiment, one or more haptic actuators are disposed in the casing (or housing) of the keyboard to cause the casing 20 to vibrate.

[0070] According to a variation of the embodiment, the palm pad 22 is associated with a keyboard, for example, coupled to the keyboard via a wired or wireless connection. According to this variation, one or more haptic actuators may be provided in the palm pad 22 to vibrate and / or apply resistance when a user presses a key 21.

[0071] One or more haptic actuators are controlled by haptic signals generated by circuitry or a processing unit included in the keyboard 2. According to a variation of the embodiment, the haptic signals are generated by a remote processing unit and transmitted to one or more haptic actuators via a wired or wireless connection coupled to the remote processing unit through the keyboard 2.

[0072] An exemplary embodiment of the processing unit will be referred to Figure 6As described below.

[0073] Of course, the peripheral devices of the present invention are not limited to Figure 1 and Figure 2 This extends beyond examples to any peripheral device, such as a mouse or joystick, including one or more buttons configured to be actuated and released by the user.

[0074] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Schematic diagrams illustrating user input component 3 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0075] For example, user input component 3 corresponds to key 21 of keyboard 2, left trigger 11, right trigger 12, any button or joystick of game controller 1, mouse button, or any button of any peripheral device used as an input or input / output interface for games, application software, or video content.

[0076] The user input component 3 has a movable part that moves relative to the fixed part. The movable part includes a cap 31 and a valve stem 32 or a plunger. The cap 31 can be separated from the valve stem 32, or the cap 31 and the valve stem 32 can be formed as a single piece.

[0077] Figure 3A This indicates that the user input component 3 is in a first position or the corresponding state of the user input component 3 is idle or stationary.

[0078] Figure 3B The user input component 3 is shown in a second position, or in the corresponding state of the user input component 3, as a pressed position / state. The pressed state of the user input component 3 is obtained by the user's finger 30 pressing the moving part of the user input component along the actuation direction. The actuation direction 300 is indicated by a dashed arrow, which is... Figure 3B The top points downwards.

[0079] User input component 3 may further include a return spring (not shown) disposed between the movable part and the fixed part of user input component 3. The return spring is configured to return the movable part upward in the release direction when no pressure is applied to the movable part, that is, to change the user input component 3 from a pressed state to an idle / stationary state. As long as the pressure applied to the movable part exceeds the spring return force, the movable part will move in the actuation direction until the movable part is fully depressed (and reaches the blocking point).

[0080] The release direction is opposite to the actuation direction of user input component 3.

[0081] When the movable part is pressed with finger 30, the movable part is given movement, for example, corresponding to translation along the longitudinal axis of the user input component 3. According to another example, for example, when the user input component 3 corresponds to a trigger containing a lever, the movement of the movable part is given to rotation or translation along the radial axis.

[0082] The key travel of the movable part (labeled "KT") corresponds to the movable part in... Figure 3A The maximum distance that can be traveled between the idle / rest position and the maximum press position. The maximum press position is achieved when the movable part is fully pressed, that is, when it reaches the blockage point when pressure is applied in the actuation direction.

[0083] exist Figure 3A In one example, the key travel "KT" is defined according to the vertical axis of the user input component 3. According to a variation of the embodiment, for example, when the user input component corresponds to a trigger, the key travel "KT" can be defined according to the radial axis of the user input component.

[0084] User input component 3 advantageously includes means for measuring the distance traveled in relation to the movement of user input component 3 according to actuation direction 300, i.e., the distance traveled by the movable part when pressure is applied to the movable part with finger 30.

[0085] The travel distance is, for example, between 0 (when the user input component 3 is idle / stationary) and the key travel "KT". For example, the key travel "KT" is equal to 3, 4, 5 or 6 mm.

[0086] When the travel distance is strictly greater than 0 or strictly greater than the minimum distance (e.g., equal to 0.1, 0.2 or 0.3 mm), the user input component 3 is in a pressed state.

[0087] The device for measuring distance traveled corresponds to magnetic devices, optical devices, and pressure devices that are well known to those skilled in the art.

[0088] For example, a magnetic device includes:

[0089] - A first magnetic component 302 is disposed on a movable part of the user input component 3, for example, on the valve stem 32;

[0090] - A second magnetic component 304 is disposed in the fixed portion of the user input component 3, for example, in the components constituting the base 33 of the user input component 3. This base is, for example, fixed to the housing of the user input component 3, or is part of the housing; and

[0091] - Hall effect sensor 303 is used to measure the change in magnetic field generated when the first magnetic component 302 moves relative to the second magnetic component 304 while the movable part of the user input component 3 is moved.

[0092] The Hall effect sensor 303 is disposed between the first magnetic component 302 and the second magnetic component 304, for example, disposed on the outer surface of the base 33 of the user input component 3, facing the outer surface of the valve stem 32.

[0093] The Hall effect sensor 303 is communicatively coupled to the circuitry or processing unit of a peripheral device, which is configured to determine the travel distance based on data received from the Hall effect sensor 303. For example, the Hall effect sensor 303 is mounted on or connected to a PCB (printed circuit board). Figure 3A and 3B (Not shown in the image) On the PCB, which is part of the circuitry or processing unit of a peripheral device.

[0094] In one embodiment, the user input component 3 further includes a haptic actuator 301 configured to transmit tactile effects generated by the haptic actuator 301 to a finger 30 pressing the user input component 3. For example, the haptic actuator 301 is embedded in a cap 31 of the user input component 3. The material of the cap 31 is suitable for transmitting vibrations generated by the haptic actuator 301 to the finger 30. This material may, for example, be a flexible and / or deformable material.

[0095] The tactile actuator 301 is configured to generate a tactile effect from a tactile signal received from the circuitry or processing unit of a peripheral device, such as a vibratory tactile effect or a resistive tactile effect. The tactile actuator 301 corresponds to a wide-bandwidth actuator such as an ERM (eccentric rotating mass), LRA (linear resonant actuator), VCM (voice coil motor), or PZT (piezoelectric actuator).

[0096] The tactile effect presented by the tactile actuator 301 is generated, for example, according to the principal direction orthogonal to the outer surface of the cap 31 that receives the pressure applied by the finger 30.

[0097] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control of user input component 3 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0098] Figure 4 The timing sequence of actuation and release of user input component 3 is shown, that is, the timing sequence of actuation and release of user input component 3 according to time "t".

[0099] The movement of user input component 3, steps 41, 42, and 43, is represented by solid arrows. The direction of the arrows indicates the direction of movement, i.e., the actuation or release direction. Figure 4 The actuation direction corresponds to the downward direction, and the release direction corresponds to the upward direction, which is opposite to the actuation direction.

[0100] The actuation direction and release direction can correspond to horizontal, vertical, tilted or any other direction, depending on the position of the user input component 3 on the peripheral device and / or the position and orientation of the peripheral device in world space.

[0101] The maximum distance that the movable part of user input component 3 can move when subjected to pressure is called the key travel. Figure 4 The key travel "KT" is marked as "KT". The key travel "KT" is between the first position 401 (i.e., its movable part) of the user input component 3 and the position corresponding to the idle / static position or state of the user input component 3, and the second position 402 (i.e., its movable part) of the user input component 3 and the position corresponding to the fully pressed position or state of the user input component 3.

[0102] The process of controlling the user input component of the peripheral device (e.g., user input component 3 of the peripheral device) is implemented by one or more processors (e.g., one or more processors of the processing unit included in the peripheral device).

[0103] This process can correspond to the process of determining the successive actuation and release states of the user input component under the action of pressure applied by the user to the user input component (i.e., on the movable part of the user input component 3).

[0104] In the first operation of this process, a first travel distance (marked as "TD1") relative to the user input component 3 is determined or measured based on the actuation direction 300 of the user input component 3.

[0105] Such as about Figure 3B The first movement 41 is obtained at time "t0" by applying pressure to the outer surface of the movable part of the user input component 3 through the user's finger.

[0106] The first travel distance “TD1” is between the first position 401 of the movable part of the user input component 3 and the first intermediate position 412 where the movable part is at the end of the first movement 41, that is, when the force applied by the user on the outer surface of the movable part is equal to the return force of the return spring.

[0107] When the first movement distance “TD1” is less than the key travel “KT”, the user input component 3 is in a pressed state when the first movement 41 ends.

[0108] The first travel distance “TD1” is, for example, as known to those skilled in the art, determined or measured based on data obtained from (and received from) the Hall effect sensor 303, and the travel distance is determined based on the change in the magnetic field generated by the displacement of the first magnetic component 302 relative to the second magnetic component 304.

[0109] According to a variation of the embodiment, when the user input component 3 includes an optical device for determining the travel distance of the movable part, the first travel distance "TD1" is determined or measured based on data obtained from an optical sensor associated with the light-emitting device. As known to those skilled in the art, the optical sensor is configured to determine the propagation time between light emitted by the light-emitting device and light received by the optical sensor, the light propagating from the light-emitting device to the movable part and then to the optical sensor.

[0110] According to a variation of another embodiment, when the user input component 3 includes a pressure measuring device to determine the distance traveled by the movable part, the first travel distance "TD1" is determined or measured based on data obtained from the pressure sensor.

[0111] In the second operation of this process, when the first travel distance “TD1” is greater than the first threshold representing the first distance “ΔT0”, a drive signal and a first tactile signal are generated. The first tactile signal represents a first tactile effect, such as a vibration tactile effect.

[0112] Based on data received by the Hall effect sensor 303 (or any sensor capable of measuring the travel distance of the movable part of the user input component 3), an actuation signal and a first tactile signal are generated when the first travel distance "TD1" exceeds a first threshold, i.e., when the movable part reaches a first pressing position 411 defined relative to the first position 401, where the first threshold represents a first distance "ΔT0". The first pressing position 411 corresponds to a point from the first position 401 to the first distance "ΔT0".

[0113] This indicates that the threshold value of the first distance "ΔT0" is less than the value of the key distance "KT", i.e., ΔT0 <KT。

[0114] For example, if KT = 4 mm, then ΔT0 can be between 2 and 3 mm or between 1.5 and 3.5 mm, that is, ΔT0 lies between the minimum and maximum values, both of which depend on KT.

[0115] A predetermined value ΔT0 is stored in the memory of the processing unit that implements the process. In a variant of the embodiment, ΔT0 corresponds to a system parameter that can be adjusted by the user through a graphical user interface (GUI) associated with application software executable by a computing device connected to the peripheral device. According to this variant of the embodiment, ΔT0 corresponds to an adjustable or tunable parameter of the control system of the user input component 3 and / or the peripheral device. ΔT0 corresponds to a unique parameter, for example, applied to all user input elements of the peripheral device. According to another embodiment, ΔT0 is specific and unique for each user input component 3 of the peripheral device and can be adjusted individually for each user input component 3.

[0116] The actuation signal switches or transmits the user input component 3 to the actuation state.

[0117] The actuation signal is transmitted to the computing device running the application software or game and coupled to the peripheral device. The function or action related to the actuation of the user input component 3 is executed by the computing device in response to the received drive signal.

[0118] In the third operation of this process, the first tactile signal is transmitted from the processing unit of the peripheral device (to reduce delay) to the tactile actuator 301, which generates a first tactile effect in response to the received first tactile signal.

[0119] The first tactile effect provides feedback to the user pressing the user input component 3, informing the user that the user input component 3 has been actuated, thereby triggering a related action or function. When the actuation point of the user input component 3 corresponding to the first pressing position 411 is reached, the tactile feedback will notify the user.

[0120] In the fourth operation of this process, a second travel distance (labeled "TD2") associated with the second movement 42 of the user input component 3 is determined or measured based on the release direction of the user input component 3. The release direction is opposite to the actuation direction.

[0121] Such as about Figure 3B The second movement 42 is achieved at time "t1" by releasing the pressure applied by the user on the outer surface of the movable part of the user input component 3.

[0122] The second movement 42 temporarily follows the first movement 41. When information is received that the user input component 3 has been actuated, that is, when the haptic actuator 301 generates or presents the first haptic effect, the user reduces the pressure applied to the user input component 3. For example, when the force generated by the pressure applied by the user is less than the restoring force of the return spring, the second movement 42 of the user input component 3 is obtained.

[0123] The second travel distance “TD2” is between the first intermediate position 412 where the movable part is at the end of the first movement 41 and the second intermediate position 422 where the movable part is at the end of the second movement 42, for example, when the force applied by the user to the outer surface of the movable part is equal to the restoring force of the return spring.

[0124] The second movement distance “TD2” is less than the first movement distance “TD1”, and the user input component 3 remains pressed when the second movement 42 ends.

[0125] The determination or measurement of the second travel distance “TD2” is similar to that of the first movement 41, for example, based on data obtained from the Hall effect sensor 303 (and data received from the Hall effect sensor 303).

[0126] In the fifth operation of this process, when the second travel distance “TD2” is greater than the second threshold representing the second distance “ΔR” (also known as the release distance threshold), a release signal and a second tactile signal are generated. The second tactile signal represents a second tactile effect, which may be the same as or different from the first tactile effect, such as different vibration tactile effects.

[0127] According to an exemplary embodiment, when the first tactile effect and the second tactile effect correspond to the same tactile effect, the second tactile signal is the same as the first tactile signal.

[0128] According to another exemplary embodiment, the first tactile signal is different from the second tactile signal. For example, the amplitude and / or frequency of the first tactile signal is different from the amplitude and / or frequency of the second tactile signal, which results in different first tactile effects and second tactile effects (e.g., different amplitudes and / or frequencies).

[0129] A first tactile signal and its associated first tactile effect can represent the transition of the user input component 3 to an actuated state, while a second tactile signal and its associated second tactile effect (when different from the first tactile signal and its associated first tactile effect) can represent the transition of the user input component 3 to a released state. The first tactile effect can have characteristics (amplitude and / or frequency) representing the transition to the actuated state, while the second tactile effect can have characteristics (amplitude and / or frequency) different from those of the first tactile effect, representing the transition to the released state. The user can then distinguish between the transition to the actuated state and the transition to the released state through tactile feedback.

[0130] Based on data received by the Hall effect sensor 303 (or any sensor capable of measuring the travel distance of the movable part of the user input component 3), a release signal and a second tactile signal are generated when the second travel distance "TD2" exceeds a second threshold, i.e., when the movable part reaches the second pressing position 421, defined relative to the first intermediate position 412 reached at the end of the first movement 41, and the second threshold representing a second distance "ΔR". The second pressing position 421 corresponds to a point at a second distance "ΔR" from the first intermediate position 412.

[0131] Advantageously, the value of the second threshold representing the second distance "ΔR" is less than the value of the first threshold representing the first distance "ΔT0", i.e., ΔR < ΔT0. This ensures that the user input component 3 remains pressed at the end of the second movement. This allows the user input component 3 to remain in the pressed state 42 at the end of the second movement.

[0132] The predetermined ΔR value is stored in the memory of the processing unit implementing the process. In a variation of the embodiment, ΔR corresponds to a system parameter that can be adjusted by the user through a graphical user interface (GUI) associated with application software executable by a computing device connected to the peripheral device. According to this variation, ΔR corresponds to an adjustable or tunable parameter of the control system of the user input component 3 and / or the peripheral device. For example, ΔR corresponds to a unique parameter applied to all user input elements of the peripheral device. According to another embodiment, ΔR is specific and unique for each user input component 3 of the peripheral device and can be adjusted individually for each user input component 3.

[0133] The release signal switches or transmits the user input component 3 to the release state, even if the user input component 3 remains pressed.

[0134] Switching to the released state allows the user to input that component 3 can be actuated again.

[0135] The released signal can be transmitted, for example, to a computing device running application software or a game and coupled to an interface device.

[0136] In the sixth operation of this process, the second tactile signal is transmitted from the processing unit of the peripheral device to the tactile actuator 301, and the tactile actuator 301 generates a second tactile effect in response to the received second tactile signal.

[0137] The second tactile effect provides feedback to the user who presses the user input component 3, informing the user that the user input component 3 has been released. When the release point of the user input component 3 corresponding to the second press position 421 is reached, the tactile feedback will notify the user.

[0138] In the seventh operation of this process, a third travel distance (labeled "TD3") associated with the third movement 43 of the user input component 3 is determined or measured based on the driving direction of the user input component 3.

[0139] Such as about Figure 3B The third movement 43 is obtained at time "t2" by increasing the pressure applied by the user on the outer surface of the movable part of the user input component 3.

[0140] The third movement 43 temporarily follows the first movement 41. When a message is received that the user input component 3 has been released, that is, when the haptic actuator 301 generates or presents a second haptic effect, the user increases the pressure applied to the user input component 3. For example, when the force generated by the pressure applied by the user is greater than the restoring force of the return spring, the user input component 3 undergoes a third movement 43.

[0141] The third travel distance “TD3” is between the second intermediate position 422 where the movable part is at the end of the second movement 42 and the third intermediate position 432 where the movable part is at the end of the third movement 43, for example, when the force applied by the user to the outer surface of the movable part is equal to the restoring force of the return spring.

[0142] The method of determining or measuring the third travel distance “TD3” is similar to that of the first movement 41 and the second movement 42, for example, based on the data obtained from the Hall effect sensor 303 (and the data received from the Hall effect sensor 303).

[0143] In the eighth operation of this process, when the third travel distance “TD3” is greater than the third threshold representing the third distance “ΔT” (also known as the actuation distance threshold), an actuation signal (same as the second operation) and a second tactile signal are generated. The third tactile signal represents the third tactile effect, which may be the same as the first tactile effect or different, such as different vibration tactile effects.

[0144] According to an exemplary embodiment, the third tactile signal is the same as the first tactile signal, and the first tactile effect and the third tactile effect correspond to the same tactile effect, which indicates that the user input component 3 has switched to an actuated state.

[0145] According to another exemplary embodiment, the first tactile signal is different from the third tactile signal, for example, the amplitude and / or frequency of the first tactile signal is different from the amplitude and / or frequency of the third tactile signal, which results in different first tactile effects and third tactile effects (e.g., different amplitudes and / or frequencies).

[0146] Based on data received by the Hall effect sensor 303 (or any sensor capable of measuring the travel distance of the movable part of the user input component 3), a drive signal and a third tactile signal are generated when the third travel distance "TD3" exceeds a third threshold, i.e., when the movable part reaches the third pressing position 431, defined relative to the second intermediate position 422 reached at the end of the second movement 42, and the third threshold represents a third distance "ΔT". The third pressing position 431 corresponds to the point at the third distance "ΔT" from the second intermediate position 422.

[0147] The value of the third threshold representing the third distance "ΔT" is, for example, less than the value of the first threshold representing the first distance "ΔT0", i.e., ΔR < ΔT0.

[0148] Advantageously, ΔR and ΔT can be selected or set in such a way that the continuous release and actuation of the user input component 3 keeps the user input component 3 in a pressed state.

[0149] According to one specific embodiment, the second threshold and the third threshold are equal and represent the same distance, i.e., ΔR = ΔT.

[0150] The predetermined ΔT value is stored in the memory of the processing unit that performs the process. In a variation of the embodiment, ΔT corresponds to a system parameter that can be adjusted by the user through a graphical user interface (GUI) associated with application software executable by a computing device connected to the peripheral device. According to this variation, ΔT corresponds to an adjustable or tunable parameter of the control system of the user input component 3 and / or the peripheral device. For example, ΔT corresponds to a unique parameter applied to all user input elements of the peripheral device. According to another embodiment, ΔT is specific and unique for each user input component 3 of the peripheral device and can be adjusted individually for each user input component 3.

[0151] The actuation signal switches or transmits the user input component 3 to the actuation state.

[0152] The actuation signal is transmitted to the computing device running the application software or game and coupled to the peripheral device. The function or action related to the actuation of the user input component 3 is executed by the computing device in response to the received drive signal.

[0153] In the ninth operation of this process, the third tactile signal is transmitted from the processing unit of the peripheral device to the tactile actuator 301, and the tactile actuator 301 generates a third tactile effect in response to the received third tactile signal.

[0154] The first tactile effect provides feedback to the user pressing the user input component 3, informing the user that the user input component 3 has been actuated again. When the actuation point of the user input component 3 corresponding to the third pressing position 413 is reached, the tactile feedback will notify the user.

[0155] This process can continue to perform further operations, in which the user input component 3 alternates between an actuated state and a released state, and the fourth to ninth operations will be repeated as long as the user operates the user input component in the manner described in the fourth to ninth operations.

[0156] This process allows the user to repeatedly actuate the user input component 3 and trigger actions or functions associated with that actuation, while keeping the user input component 3 in a pressed state. This allows the user to accelerate the triggering of actions or functions associated with the actuation of the user input component 3, as the user input component 3 needs to experience an idle state between two consecutive actuations. The tactile effects produced each time the user input component 3 is actuated and released provide the user with tactile feedback on when the user input component 3 transitions from one state (i.e., actuated or released) to another state (i.e., released or actuated respectively).

[0157] When the user stops pressing user input component 3, the process ends, and then user input component 3 returns to an idle / static state or position.

[0158] According to an exemplary embodiment, the process of the present invention involves a continuous transition between an actuated state and a released state of the user input component 3 when the user input component 3 is pressed, i.e., in a pressed state. According to this exemplary embodiment, the first movement 41 begins when the user input component 3 is pressed.

[0159] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the steps of a method for controlling a user input component of a peripheral device, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0160] In the first step 51, a first travel distance related to the first movement of the user input component is determined based on the actuation direction of the user input component.

[0161] In the second step 52, when the first travel distance is greater than the first threshold representing the first distance, an actuation signal and a first tactile signal are generated, and the first tactile signal represents the first tactile effect.

[0162] In the third step 53, a second travel distance related to the second movement of the user input component is determined based on the release direction of the user input component, which is opposite to the actuation direction, and the second movement temporarily follows the first movement.

[0163] In the fourth step 54, when the second travel distance is greater than the second threshold representing the second distance, a release signal and a second tactile signal are generated, and the second tactile signal represents the second tactile effect.

[0164] According to an exemplary embodiment of the method, the method further includes the following steps:

[0165] - Determine a third travel distance related to the third movement of the user input component based on the actuation direction; the third movement temporarily follows the second movement; and

[0166] - When the third travel distance is greater than the third threshold representing the third distance, an actuation signal and a third tactile signal are generated. The third tactile signal represents the third tactile effect.

[0167] Figure 6 This is a block diagram showing an example of device 6 implementing various aspects and exemplary embodiments.

[0168] Device 6 can be embedded as one or more means including the various components described below. In various embodiments, device 6 can be configured to implement one or more aspects of the invention.

[0169] Examples of devices that can form all or part of device 6 include peripheral devices such as game controllers or controllers, keyboards, mice, or any peripheral device including one or more user input components configured to connect to a personal computer, laptop, smartphone, tablet computer, digital multimedia set-top box and its associated processing system, head-mounted display device (HMD, X-ray glasses), "cave" (a system including multiple displays), server, or other communication device. Components of device 6 may be embodied individually or in combination in a single integrated circuit (IC), multiple ICs, and / or independent components. For example, in at least one embodiment, the processing and encoder / decoder components of device 6 may be distributed across multiple ICs and / or discrete components. In various embodiments, device 6 may be communicatively coupled to other similar devices or other electronic devices via, for example, a communication bus or through dedicated input and / or output ports.

[0170] Other examples of devices that may constitute all or part of device 6 include personal computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, digital multimedia set-top boxes and related processing equipment, head-mounted display devices (HMDs, X-ray glasses), "caves" (systems including multiple displays), servers, or other communication devices.

[0171] Device 6 may include at least one processor 61 configured to execute instructions loaded therein for implementing various aspects, such as those described in this invention. Processor 61 may include embedded memory, input / output interfaces, and various other circuitry known in the art. Device 6 may include at least one memory 62 (e.g., volatile and / or non-volatile storage devices). Device 6 may include storage device 64, which may include non-volatile and / or volatile memory, including but not limited to electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), flash memory, disk drives, and / or optical drives. As a non-limiting example, storage device 64 may include internal storage, additional storage, and / or network-accessible storage.

[0172] Device 6 may include an encoder / decoder module 63 configured, for example, to process data to provide encoded / decoded tactile signals or data, and the encoder / decoder module 63 may include its own processor and memory. The encoder / decoder module 63 may represent a module that can be included in the device to perform encoding and / or decoding functions. It is well known that a device may include one or both encoding and decoding modules. Furthermore, the encoder / decoder module 63 may be implemented as a separate component of device 6 or may be incorporated into processor 61 as a combination of hardware and software known to those skilled in the art.

[0173] Program code to be loaded onto processor 61 or encoder / decoder 63 to execute the various aspects described in this invention may be stored in storage device 64 and subsequently loaded onto memory 62 for execution by processor 61. According to various embodiments, one or more of processor 61, memory 62, storage device 64, and encoder / decoder module 63 may store one or more various items during the execution of the processes described in this invention. Such stored items may include, but are not limited to, data representing audio content, data representing video content, haptic-related data, bitstreams, matrices, variables, and intermediate or final results from equations, formulas, operations, and arithmetic logic processing.

[0174] In some embodiments, the memory inside the processor 61 and / or encoder / decoder module 63 can be used to store instructions and provide working memory for processes that can be performed during data processing, encoding, or decoding.

[0175] However, in other embodiments, memory located outside the processing device (e.g., the processing device may be a processor) may be used for one or more of these functions. External memory may be memory 62 and / or storage device 64, such as dynamically volatile memory and / or non-volatile flash memory. In at least one embodiment, fast external dynamically volatile memory, such as RAM, may be used as working memory for data processing.

[0176] As shown in block 65, input to components of device 6 can be provided through various input devices. Such input devices include, but are not limited to, (i) an RF section capable of receiving RF signals, for example, transmitted over a network, (ii) a composite input terminal, (iii) a USB input terminal, and (iv) an HDMI input terminal.

[0177] Various embodiments may rearrange the order of the above (and other) components, remove some of these components, and / or add other components that perform similar or different functions.

[0178] Adding components may include inserting components between existing components, such as inserting amplifiers and analog-to-digital converters. In various embodiments, the RF section may include an antenna.

[0179] Additionally, the USB and / or HDMI terminals may include corresponding interface processors for connecting device 6 to other electronic devices via the USB and / or HDMI connectors. It should be understood that various aspects of input processing can be implemented, for example, by analog-to-digital conversion, time-domain to frequency-domain conversion, downsampling, bandpass or low-pass filtering, Reed-Solomon debugging, etc., and may be implemented, for example, within a separate input processing IC or within processor 61, as needed. Similarly, various aspects of USB or HDMI interface processing may be implemented, as needed, within a separate interface IC or within processor 61. The processed stream can be provided to various processing components, including, for example, processor 61 and encoder / decoder 63, which operates in conjunction with memory and storage components to process the data stream as needed for presentation on the output device.

[0180] The various components of device 6 can be housed in an integrated housing. Within the integrated housing, the various components can be interconnected and transmit data therebetween using appropriate connection arrangements, such as internal buses known in the art, including I2C buses, wiring, and printed circuit boards.

[0181] Device 6 may include a communication interface 66 that enables communication with other devices via communication channel 660. Communication interface 66 may include, but is not limited to, a transceiver configured to send and receive data via communication channel 660. Communication interface 66 may include, but is not limited to, a modem or network card, and communication channel 660 may be implemented, for example, in wired and / or wireless media.

[0182] Device 6 can provide output signals to various output devices, including display 670, computing device or game console 680 and other electronic devices 690 and / or tactile devices / actuators.

[0183] In various embodiments, control signals can be transmitted between device 6 and display 670, computing device or game console 680 and other electronic devices 690 using methods such as AV.Link (audio / video link), CEC (Consumer Electronics Control), audio protocols, etc.

[0184] The output device can be connected to device 6 via dedicated connection through the corresponding interfaces 67, 68 and 69.

[0185] Alternatively, the output device can be connected to device 6 via communication interface 66 using communication channel 660. Display 670, computing device or game console 680 and / or haptic device (actuator) can be integrated with other parts of device 6 into a single electronic unit.

[0186] The display 670, computing device or game console 680 and / or other electronic device 690 may alternatively be decoupled from one or more other components. In various embodiments where the display 670, computing device or game console 680 and / or other electronic device 690 may be external components, output signals may be provided via dedicated output connections, including, for example, HDMI ports, USB ports, or COMP outputs.

[0187] exist Figures 1 to 6 The document describes various methods, and each method includes one or more steps or actions for implementing the described method. Unless the correct operation of the method requires a specific order of steps or actions, the order and / or usage of specific steps and / or actions may be modified or combined.

[0188] Some examples are described using block diagrams and / or flowcharts. Each block represents the program code for a circuit component, module, or section, which includes one or more executable instructions to implement a specific logical function. It should also be noted that in other implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may not occur in the indicated order. For example, two blocks shown consecutively may actually execute approximately simultaneously, or these blocks may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved.

[0189] The implementations and aspects described herein can be implemented, for example, as methods or processes, devices, computer programs, data streams, bit streams, or signals. Even if discussed only in the context of a single form of implementation (e.g., discussed only as a method), the implementation of the discussed features can be implemented in other forms (e.g., devices or computer programs).

[0190] These methods can be implemented, for example, in a processor, which generally refers to a processing device, including, for example, a computer, microprocessor, integrated circuit, or programmable logic device. Processors also include communication devices.

[0191] Furthermore, these methods can be implemented via instructions executed by a processor, and such instructions (and / or data values ​​generated by implementation) can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium can take the form of a computer-readable program product embodied in one or more computer-readable media and having computer-executable computer-readable program code embodied thereon. Considering the inherent ability to store information therein and to provide the inherent ability to retrieve information therefrom, the computer-readable storage medium used herein can be considered a non-transitory storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium can be, for example, but not limited to, an electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor device, apparatus, or apparatus, or any suitable combination thereof. It should be understood that while more specific examples of computer-readable storage media to which this embodiment can be applied are provided below, they are merely illustrative and not exhaustive lists, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art: portable computer disks; hard disks; read-only memory (ROM); erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory); portable optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM); optical storage devices; magnetic storage devices; or any suitable combination thereof.

[0192] These instructions can form applications that are tangibly embodied on processor-readable media.

[0193] Instructions can be, for example, hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. For example, instructions can be found in an operating device, a standalone application, or a combination of both. Therefore, a processor can be represented, for example, as a means configured to execute processes and a means including a processor-readable medium (such as a storage device) having instructions for executing the processes. Furthermore, in addition to instructions, or in place of instructions, the processor-readable medium may also store data values ​​generated by the implementation.

[0194] The device can be implemented, for example, with appropriate hardware, software, and firmware. Examples of such devices include peripherals, input / output peripherals, personal computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, digital multimedia set-top boxes, digital television receivers, personal video recording systems, connected home appliances, head-mounted displays (HMDs, X-ray glasses), projectors, "caves" (devices containing multiple displays), servers, video and / or haptic encoders, video and / or haptic decoders, haptic engines, post-processors that process the output of video decoders, pre-processors that provide input to video encoders, web servers, set-top boxes, wirelessly connected wearable haptic devices, such as Bluetooth-connected wearable haptic devices, game controllers, mice, mouse pads, keyboards, palm rests, chairs, desks, XR headsets, headphones, wristbands, head and / or lumbar support devices or chairs, and any other device or communication device for processing haptic data or signals representing one or more haptic feedbacks or effects. It should be noted that the device can be portable.

[0195] The computer software can be implemented by the processor 61, by hardware, or by a combination of hardware and software. As a non-limiting example, the embodiment can also be implemented by one or more integrated circuits. The memory 62 can be of any type suitable for the technical environment and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, semiconductor-based storage devices, fixed memory, and removable memory, as non-limiting examples. As a non-limiting example, the processor 61 can be of any type suitable for the technical environment and can include one or more of microprocessors, general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, and processors based on multi-core architectures.

[0196] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that implementations can generate various signals formatted to carry information that can be stored or transmitted, for example. This information may include, for example, instructions for performing a method or data generated by one of the described implementations. For example, the signal may be formatted to carry a bitstream of the described embodiments. Such a signal may be formatted as, for example, electromagnetic waves (e.g., using the radio frequency portion of the spectrum) or a baseband signal. Formatting may include, for example, encoding the data stream and modulating a carrier wave with the encoded data stream. The information carried by the signal may be, for example, analog or digital information. As is known, the signal can be transmitted through various wired or wireless links. This signal may be stored on a processor-readable medium.

[0197] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising / including” and / or “including / containing” as used in this specification may specify stated features, integers, steps, operations, components, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, components, components, and / or groups thereof. Furthermore, when a component is referred to as “responding” or “connected” to another component, it may directly respond to or be connected to the other component, or there may be intermediate components. Conversely, when a component is referred to as “directly responding” or “directly connected” to another component, there are no intermediate components.

[0198] It should be understood that, for example, in the cases of “A / B,” “A and / or B,” and “at least one of A and B,” the use of any of the symbols / terms “ / ,” “and / or,” and “at least one” may be intended to cover selecting only the first listed option (A), or only the second listed option (B), or both options (A and B). As a further example, in the cases of “A, B, and / or C” and “at least one of A, B, and C,” such wording is intended to cover only the selection of the first listed option (A), or only the selection of the second listed option (B), or only the selection of the third listed option (C), or only the first and second listed options (A and B), or only the first and third listed options (A and C), or only the second and third listed options (B and C), or all three options (A, B, and C). As will be apparent to those skilled in the art and related fields, this can be extended to as many items as are listed.

[0199] Various numerical values ​​may be used in this invention. Specific values ​​may be used for exemplary purposes and the aspects described are not limited to these specific values.

[0200] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various components, these components are not limited to these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may be referred to as a first component, without departing from the teachings of the invention. There is no implied order between the first component and the second component.

[0201] References to "one embodiment" and other variations are frequently used to convey that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, etc. (described in relation to the embodiment / implementation) is included in at least one embodiment / implementation. Therefore, the phrases "in one exemplary embodiment" or "in an exemplary embodiment" or "in one implementation" or "in an implementation" appearing in various places of the invention, as well as the appearance of any other variations, are not necessarily all references to the same embodiment.

[0202] Similarly, references to "according to an embodiment / example / practice" or "in an embodiment / example / practice" and other variations are often used to convey that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic (described in conjunction with an embodiment / example / practice) may be included in at least one embodiment / example / practice. Therefore, expressions "according to an embodiment / example / practice" or "in an embodiment / example / practice" appearing in different places in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment / example / practice, and individual or alternative embodiments / examples / practices are not necessarily mutually exclusive with other embodiments / examples / practices.

[0203] The reference numerals appearing in the claims are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Although not explicitly described, embodiments / examples and variations of the invention may be employed in any combination or sub-combination.

[0204] When a diagram is presented as a flowchart, it should be understood that it also provides a block diagram of the corresponding device. Similarly, when a diagram is presented as a block diagram, it should be understood that it also provides a flowchart of the corresponding method / process.

[0205] Although some diagrams include arrows along the communication path to indicate the main direction of communication, it should be understood that communication can occur in the opposite direction to the arrows depicted.

[0206] Additionally, this invention can refer to "acquiring" various types of information. Acquiring information may include, for example, receiving information, determining information, estimating information, calculating information, or retrieving information from memory, one or more of these.

[0207] Furthermore, the application can refer to "accessing" various types of information. Accessing information may include one or more of the following: receiving information, retrieving information (e.g., from memory), storing information, action information, copying information, calculating information, determining information, or estimating information.

[0208] Additionally, this invention can refer to "receiving" various types of information. Like "access," receiving is a broad term. Receiving information can include, for example, accessing information or retrieving information (e.g., from memory) one or more of these. Furthermore, "receiving" generally refers to operations such as storing information, processing information, sending information, moving information, copying information, erasing information, calculating information, determining information, or estimating information in various ways.

[0209] Various implementations have been described herein. However, it should be understood that various modifications can be made. For example, elements of different implementations can be combined, supplemented, modified, or removed to generate other implementations. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that other structures and processes can replace the disclosed structures and processes, and the resulting implementations will perform at least substantially the same function in at least substantially the same manner to achieve at least substantially the same results as the disclosed implementations. Therefore, these and other implementations are contemplated in this invention.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a user input component (3) of a peripheral device, the method comprising the following steps: - Determine (51) the first travel distance (TD1) related to the first movement (41) of the user input component (3) based on the actuation direction (300) of the user input component (3). - When the first travel distance (TD1) is greater than the first threshold representing the first distance (ΔT0), an actuation signal (52) and a first tactile signal are generated, the first tactile signal representing the first tactile effect; - Determine (53) a second travel distance (TD2) related to the second movement (42) of the user input component (3) based on the release direction of the user input component (3), the release direction being opposite to the actuation direction, the second movement (42) temporarily following the first movement (41). - When the second travel distance (TD2) is greater than the second threshold representing the second distance (ΔR), a release signal (54) and a second tactile signal are generated, the second tactile signal representing the second tactile effect, and the second distance (ΔR) is less than the first distance (ΔT0). - Determine a third travel distance (TD3) associated with the third movement (43) of the user input component (3) based on the actuation direction (300), the third movement (43) temporarily following the second movement (42); as well as - When the third travel distance (TD3) is greater than the third threshold representing the third distance (ΔT), the actuation signal and the third tactile signal are generated, the third tactile signal representing the third tactile effect, and the third distance (ΔT) is less than the first distance (ΔT0).

2. The method as described in claim 1, wherein, The user input component (3) is configured to be in an idle state and a pressed state. The first movement (41) brings the user input component (3) from the idle state to the pressed state. The user input component (3) is in the pressed state at the end of the second movement (42) and at the end of the third movement (43).

3. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first tactile effect, the second tactile effect, and the third tactile effect correspond to the same tactile effect.

4. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first tactile effect and the third tactile effect correspond to the same effect representing a change to the actuation state of the user input component (3), and the second tactile effect represents a change to the release state of the user input component (3).

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The second threshold corresponds to the same threshold as the third threshold, and the second distance (ΔR) is equal to the third distance (ΔT).

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising adjusting at least one of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising presenting the first tactile effect, the second tactile effect and the third tactile effect in the user input component (3) based on the first tactile signal, the second tactile signal and the third tactile signal, respectively.

8. The method as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The first tactile effect, the second tactile effect, and the third tactile effect all correspond to vibration effects.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The first distance (ΔT0), the second distance (ΔR), and the third distance (ΔT) correspond to adjustable parameters.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, Each determination includes determining a value representing a change in the magnetic field.

11. A device (6) for controlling a user input component (3) of a peripheral device, wherein, The device (6) includes memory (62) associated with at least one processor (691) and is configured to implement the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A peripheral device comprising the device (6) as claimed in claim 11 and a group of user input components comprising at least one user input component (3), each user input component of at least a portion of the group of user input components comprising a haptic actuator (301), each user input component in the group of user input components being communicatively coupled to the device (6) and each haptic actuator (301).

13. A computer program product comprising instructions for program code, which, when executed on a computer, perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10.

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