Input device

Abstract

To provide an input device that takes the form of a control surface of a color collection system.SOLUTION: A control surface 100 includes a housing having an upward control panel 110. In the control panel 110, track balls 120A, 120B, and 120C include balls 122A, 122B, and 122C and control rings 124A, 124B, and 124C, so that the balls 122A, 122B, and 122C generate a multi-dimensional control signal based on an action of the balls in cooperation with at least one encoder and the control rings 124A, 124B, and 124C generate a one-dimensional control signal based on a rotary action of the control rings 124A, 124B, and 124C in cooperation with at least one encoder.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to input devices. [Background technology]

[0002] The input device takes the form of a control surface for a color correction system.

[0003] In the context of this disclosure, a color correction system generally includes a color correction application running on a computer system. The color correction application may be a stand-alone color correction application or an application such as non-linear editing that has color correction capabilities as a subset of its functionality. One example of such a color correction application is Davinci Resolve from Blackmagic Design. In some embodiments, the color correction system may include a dedicated computer system, such as a video processor, video card, etc., that performs color correction of video and still images. The color correction system includes a display device that includes a graphical user interface for the color correction system and a screen for a user to view the images or video being color corrected.

[0004] As used herein (including as an adjective or a noun), the term "color correction" is intended to include the term "color grading" and color adjustments performed on images for digital video and other purposes.

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention are configured for use in a color correction system that includes a portable display device, and in a preferred embodiment, the present invention is configured for use in a color correction system that includes a color correction application that operates on or through a tablet computer, smartphone, or other device having a similar form factor.

[0006] The systems, devices, methods, approaches and components thereof described herein are known to the inventors, and therefore, unless otherwise stated, it should not be assumed that any such systems, devices, methods, approaches or components thereof may be cited as prior art merely by virtue of their inclusion in the relevant section of this specification, or that such systems, devices, methods, approaches and components would be commonly known to a person skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In a first aspect, a control surface for controlling a color correction system is provided, the control surface including a housing including an upwardly facing control panel, the control panel having a proximal edge closest to a user in normal use and a distal edge furthest from the user in normal use, the control panel including a plurality of controls, the control portions including: a plurality of trackballs, each trackball including a ball and a control ring, the ball in communication with at least one encoder for generating a multi-dimensional control signal based on movement of the ball, the control ring in communication with at least one encoder for generating a one-dimensional control signal based on rotational movement of the ring, the ball of the trackball being mounted concentrically with the control ring; With multiple control buttons; a plurality of knobs coupled to respective rotary encoders; The control surface further comprises: a display stand adjacent a distal edge of said control panel for supporting a display device of the color correction system in an upright position in use; a power storage system contained within the housing and arranged to provide power to the control surface in use; and a wireless communication interface through which control signals from the plurality of control units are transmitted for use in controlling the color correction system.

[0008] In some embodiments, the power supply system includes one or more batteries and a charging system.

[0009] In some embodiments, the wireless communication interface operates according to one of the following wireless communication schemes: IEEE 802.11 standard, Bluetooth, ZigBee or other IEEE 802.15 standard, free space optical communication.

[0010] The display stand may include one or more of the following: Bosses, protrusions, ribs, lips, flanges, beams, grooves, steps, holes, recesses, openings, indentations, slots, cushions, gripping surfaces, frames, walls, ledges, shelves, hooks, and cradles.

[0011] Such elements of the display stand perform any one or more of the following functions: Supports the weight of the color correction system's display device when in use; Restraining any one or more of slippage, twisting, or tilting of a display device of the color correction system when in use; Acting as a fulcrum to support a display device of the color correction system when in use; When in use, it grips the display device of the color correction system.

[0012] In some embodiments, the display stand includes a groove extending adjacent a distal edge of the control panel, the groove being configured to receive an edge of a display device of the color correction system in use, the groove having a front support surface that limits proximal movement of the supported display device of the color correction system and a rear support surface that inhibits distal tilt of the supported display device of the color correction system.

[0013] Supporting the display device of the color correction system in an upright position may include supporting the display device of the color correction system so that it is tilted distally at an angle of more than 10 degrees from vertical.

[0014] The display stand includes an affordance adjacent a bottom edge of a screen for allowing a user to touch the screen of a supported display device of the color correction system. The affordance may allow a user to touch a central portion of the bottom edge of the screen. The affordance may be a recess, depression, groove, or gap.

[0015] In some embodiments, the trackballs are positioned symmetrically about the centerline of the control panel.

[0016] In some embodiments, the display stand can support the display device of the color correction system in a position such that the screen of the display device is symmetrical about said center line. The display stand can be symmetrical about said center line.

[0017] In some embodiments, the buttons on the control panel are arranged in groups, the groups being symmetrically arranged about a centerline of the control panel, and at least one pair of buttons in the symmetrically arranged groups may have different arrangements from one another.

[0018] In some embodiments, the knobs are positioned symmetrically about a centerline of the control panel.

[0019] In some embodiments, the control ring has an upper surface with an outer radius and an inner radius, and the surface profile extends radially and generally tapers more than halfway from the outer radius to the inner radius. The surface profile may generally taper less than halfway from the inner radius to the outer radius. The control ring may include a generally cylindrical surface on its outer periphery.

[0020] The ball of the trackball is mounted relative to the top surface of the control panel such that the maximum projection of the ball from the top surface of the control panel exceeds 30% of the radius of the ball, the projection being measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the control ring.

[0021] The maximum projection may be greater than 35% of the radius of the ball. The maximum projection may be greater than 37% of the radius of the ball. The maximum projection may be greater than 40% of the radius of the ball. The maximum projection may be about 40.5% of the radius of the ball.

[0022] In some embodiments, the control ring may have coupling portions that engage corresponding coupling portions that are mounted in a fixed position relative to the control panel, such that when the control ring is coupled to the corresponding coupling portions, the control ring holds the balls of the individual trackballs in an operative position within the control panel.

[0023] The connector of the control ring may be magnetically attracted to a corresponding connector of the control panel, the corresponding connector may have one or more magnets that attract non-magnetic components of the connector of the control ring.

[0024] In some embodiments, supporting the display device of the color correction system in an upright position includes supporting the display device of the color correction system so that it is tilted in a distal direction at an angle of less than 40 degrees from vertical. The display device of the color correction system may be tilted in a distal direction at an angle of less than 20 degrees from vertical. The display device of the color correction system may be tilted in a distal direction at an angle of about 17 degrees from vertical.

[0025] In some embodiments, the ball of the trackball may extend higher than the highest point of its respective control ring by more than 15% of the radius of the ball, measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the control ring.

[0026] A trackball may extend beyond the highest point of its respective control ring by 23% to 24% of the radius of the ball.

[0027] In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the control ring may be greater than 90% of the diameter of the ball of the respective trackball. The inner diameter of the control ring may be less than 100% of the diameter of the ball of the respective trackball. The inner diameter of the control ring may be approximately 95% of the diameter of the ball of the respective trackball.

[0028] In some embodiments, the control surface is a battery-powered, portable control surface capable of controlling the color correction system via a wireless communication channel.

[0029] In another aspect, A computer system that executes a color correction application; a display arranged to display a graphical user interface for the color correction application; a control surface according to an embodiment of the first aspect; A color correction system is provided, wherein the control surface is in data communication with a computer system, and user input made using any one or more of the plurality of trackballs, the plurality of buttons, and the plurality of knobs is communicated as a control signal to the computer system to control the color correction application.

[0030] In some embodiments, the display forms part of a tablet computer, which is supported by a display stand of the control surface.

[0031] In some embodiments, the tablet computer includes a computer system and a display in a single unit.

[0032] In some embodiments, the computer system running the color correction application may be separate from the tablet computer and in data communication with the tablet computer.

[0033] In some embodiments, the computer system includes a computer server, the tablet computer includes a client in data communication with the computer server, and a graphical user interface of the color correction application is provided by the client.

[0034] In some embodiments, the control surface is in data communication with the computer system via at least one wireless network connection.

[0035] While the invention(s) disclosed herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and have been described in detail. It is to be understood, however, that such drawings and detailed description are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. Moreover, any combination of two or more of the individual features shown in or apparent from the specification and drawings comprises the disclosure of additional aspects or inventions which may be the subject of the claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] 1 shows a control surface according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a top view of the control surface of FIG. 1 showing the location of the illustrated cross-sectional views. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a side view of the control surface of FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the electrical system of the control surface according to one embodiment. [Diagram 5] 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line YY in FIG. 2, showing the shape of a display stand according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line ZZ in FIG. 2, showing the shape of an affordance provided on a display stand in one embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. 2, showing the trackball in detail. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV of FIG. 2, particularly showing the detailed arrangement of the control ring mounting; [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line WW of FIG. 2, particularly showing the detailed arrangement of the control ring mounting and the encoder. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a color correction system according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a color correction system according to one embodiment that includes a control surface and a tablet computer. [Figure 12] 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a color correction system according to one embodiment, including a client computer system and a server computer system. [Figure 13A] 1 illustrates an embodiment of a control surface with a display stand. [Figure 13B] 1 illustrates an embodiment of a control surface with a display stand. [Figure 13C] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13D] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13E] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13F] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13G] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13H] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13I] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13J] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13K] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13L] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13M] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. [Figure 13N] 1 shows an embodiment of a control surface with different display stands. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0037] In the following description, numerous specific embodiments are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent that the present invention may be practiced without these specific embodiments. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the points in too much detail.

[0038] 1 shows a first view of a control surface 100 for controlling a color correction system according to a first embodiment. The control surface 100 takes the form of a color grading panel that can interface with a computer system (not shown) that runs a software application that performs the functions of color correction.

[0039] Generally, the control surface 100 includes a control panel 110. The control panel in this embodiment is generally rectangular in shape, having a proximal edge (leading edge) 112 that is closest to a user in normal use, and a distal edge (trailing edge) 114 that is furthest from the user in normal use.

[0040] Above the control panel 110 are a series of controls mounted in a location that is easily accessible to the user, allowing the user to control the color correction system. The control panel 110 forms the top portion of a housing 300 of the control surface 100. The housing 300 also includes a lower enclosure portion 350. The lower enclosure portion 350 may include one or more panels, moldings, chassis, frames, or other members that collectively form the structure of the housing 300 of the control surface 100.

[0041] The control panel includes a plurality of trackballs 120. In this embodiment, three trackballs (120A, 120B, 120C) are used. Each trackball (120A, 120B, 120C) includes a ball (122A, 122B, 122C) that interacts with one or more encoders (not shown) to generate multi-dimensional control signals based on the motion of the ball (122A, 122B, 122C). The ball (122A, 122B, 122C) of each trackball (120A, 120B, 120C) is partially exposed above the control panel 110 to allow a user to interact with the ball (122A, 122B, 122C) and is surrounded by a respective control ring (124A, 124B, 124C). Each ring (124A, 124B, 124C) is associated with at least one encoder (not shown) such that as the control ring (124A, 124B, 124C) rotates, the rotation is sensed by the respective encoder and a one-dimensional control signal is generated. Each ball (122A, 122B, 122C) is mounted concentrically with its respective control ring (124A, 124B, 124C).

[0042] The control panel 110 further includes a number of control buttons 130. The buttons may be physical buttons as shown, or buttons on a touch screen interface. In such an embodiment, the control panel includes a touch screen at a predetermined location or in addition to the physical buttons. When using the buttons 130, a user can provide a predetermined input to the color correction system. The particular input generated by actuating one or more buttons may be fixed or may be assigned by the user or the color correction system. In some embodiments, the input generated by actuating one or more buttons may vary depending on the background. The buttons 130 on the control panel may be arranged together in groups (132A, 132B, 132C, 132D, 132E). The groups may be arranged approximately symmetrically about a center line CC of the control panel 110. For example, a central group 132E is arranged on the center line CC, and the arrangement of the buttons within that group is also symmetrical about the center line CC. The sets of groups 132C and 132D are arranged symmetrically to each other about the center line CC. Similarly, the sets of groups 132A and 132B are arranged symmetrically with respect to each other about the center line CC. However, although the arrangement of the two groups 132A and 132B is symmetrical with respect to the center line CC, the buttons within the groups 132A and 132B are not identical to each other, nor are the arrangements of the buttons a mirror image of each other.

[0043] The control panel 110 also includes a number of knobs 136 coupled to respective rotary encoders. These knobs allow a user to adjust the levels of the inputs in a user-friendly and intuitive manner. The knobs may also be arranged symmetrically about a center line CC.

[0044] The color control surface 100 also includes a display stand 140 that can support a display device of the color correction system in an upright position during use. In this embodiment, the display stand 140 is disposed adjacent the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110. The display stand 140 is located between the knobs 136 on the last row of input controls and the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110. However, in other embodiments, the display stand 140 can be partially or completely rearward of the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110 (i.e., away from the user) or in line with the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110.

[0045] The display stand 140 of this embodiment has a groove 142 that extends along the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110. The groove 142 is sized and shaped to receive an edge of a display device of a color correction system in use. In FIG. 5, a cross-sectional view of the display stand 140 taken along the location YY of the groove 142 is shown. Additionally, FIGS. 5 and 6 show the bottom of a display device of a color correction system as it is supported by the display stand 140 in normal use. As can be seen in FIG. 5, the front support surface 144 of the groove 142 is vertical or slightly sloped. This front support surface 144 limits the proximal (forward) movement of the supported display device of a color correction system. The slight distal (rearward) slope creates an overhang to minimize the possibility of the display device tipping backward and the bottom edge sliding up the front support surface. The rear support surface 146 of the groove 142 is sloped rearward and rounded at the top and bottom. The rear support surface 146 inhibits the force of tilting the supported display device backward when the display device is supported by the display stand 140. The bottom surface 148 of the groove 142 is located downward and supports the display device when in use. The rounded portion at the top of the rear support surface 146 provides a lead-in to the groove. The top of the front support surface 144 is also provided with a forwardly inclined lead-in segment 144A. The lead-in assists the user in inserting the display device into the display stand. By tilting the front lead-in forward, the user can feel the display device engage securely with the display stand when the display device is inserted in a nearly vertical orientation. The bottom roundness that connects to the bottom surface 148 of the groove 142 pushes the supported display device 50 forward so that the front lower corner of the display device is held against the front support surface 144. The outer end of the groove 142 of the display stand 140 can be either open or closed. When closed, it limits the lateral movement of the display device.

[0046] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the display device 50 of the color correction system is generally supported on a display stand 140 and tilted backward (i.e., distally) at an angle of more than 10 degrees and less than 40 degrees from the vertical. In this embodiment, when the display device is supported on the display stand 140, it is supported at an angle of 15 degrees to 20 degrees from the vertical. In particular, it is held at 17 degrees in this example. The exact angle will vary according to the dimensions and shape of the edge of the display device relative to the display stand 140. For example, if a tablet computer or smartphone includes the computer system of the color correction system, the tablet computer or smartphone itself will also be a display device. For a tablet computer or smartphone with a thickness of about 6.5 mm, the display device is held on the display stand at an angle close to 17 degrees from the vertical.

[0047] The display stand 140 is further arranged in size, position, shape, and / or layout with respect to the control panel 110 to support a display device of the color correction system such that the screen of the display device is disposed substantially symmetrically about a centerline CC of the control panel, which in some embodiments is accomplished by making the display stand 140 symmetrical about the centerline CC of the control panel 110, as shown in this example.

[0048] In this embodiment, the display stand 140 also includes a structure that functions as an affordance 150 that allows access to the display device adjacent the bottom edge of the screen. The affordance 150 in this embodiment takes the form of an indentation in the front support surface 144 of the groove 142, thereby locally increasing the width of the groove 142. The indentation that constitutes the affordance 150 is located in the center of the groove 142 and allows physical and visual access to the edge of the display. This is particularly useful when the display device has special purpose or commonly used interface elements at or near the edge of the display device, such as a home button, a front camera, a sensor, or a "swipe up" interface feature such as the "dock" of an iOS device. Such features are more easily accessible and usable when a user uses the affordance 150 to insert a finger, stylus, or other instrument into the locally increased location of the groove 142 to touch the touch screen or buttons of the display device or to bring into view sensors located at that location, making them more easily accessible and usable through the indentation of the display stand 114. In some embodiments, the lateral positions of the affordances can be selected to suit a particular pre-configured configuration of the display device.

[0049] A cross-sectional view of groove portion 142 taken along line ZZ (shown in FIG. 2) is shown in FIG.

[0050] In the cross-section of the groove 142 along line ZZ, the normal shape of the front support surface 144 of the groove 142 (shown in dotted lines) has been modified. Thus, instead of the front support surface 144 (shown in dotted lines) being nearly vertical or forming a small overhang, the front surface 151 of the groove 142 at the affordance 150 slopes significantly forward (proximally) to expand the width of the entrance toward the top of the groove. The rear support surface 146 of the groove 142 is the same as shown in cross-section YY. The recess 150 is located on the centerline C-C 112 of the control panel 110.

[0051] In other embodiments, the display stand is shaped differently and includes different elements. For example, the stand can include any one or more of the following: bosses, protrusions, ribs, lips, flanges, beams, grooves, steps, shelves, holes, recesses, openings, indentations, slots, cushions, gripping surfaces, frames, walls, ledges, hooks, or flaps. These structures, alone or in combination with other structures, can perform one or more of the following functions: Supports the weight of the display device of the color correction system when in use; Restraining any one or more of slippage, twisting, or tilting of a display device of the color correction system when in use; When in use, acts as a fulcrum to support a display device of the color correction system; When in use, it grips the display device of the color correction system.

[0052] 13A-13L show six alternative examples of display stands that may be used in other embodiments.

[0053] In embodiments with a support stand having a different shape than the embodiment described in Figures 1-12, the affordances will also be different shapes, for example, an affordance may be a gap or space between elements that make up the support structure of the display stand, exposing a similar portion of the screen of the display device.

[0054] The display stand 140 of this embodiment does not protrude beyond the top surface of the control panel 110. Additionally, since the display stand provides a straight rear edge for the control panel 110, the display stand facilitates the color correction panel 100 having a smooth edge. The display stand is disposed between the rearmost control portion (knob 136) and the distal edge, which facilitates positioning the protruding elements of the control panel 110 (such as knob 136) away from the distal edge of the control panel 110. This is an advantage of this embodiment when used as a portable device, as there are no additional protrusions or physical structures that may catch or snag when the control surface 100 is placed in or removed from a carrier such as a bag, backpack, sleeve, or case.

[0055] Many conventional color grading control surfaces position their trackball far from the proximal edge of the control panel, which makes it easier for a user to position their hand over the trackball while resting their hand and wrist on the control panel during use. In contrast, embodiments of the present control surface 100 facilitate use of the control surface using any one or more of the following factors: a) a relatively low profile control panel 110; b) tilting the control panel 110 forward; c) Proximal position of trackball 120.

[0056] 3 shows a side view of the control surface 100. As can be seen from the side view, the control panel 110 of the control surface 100 has a forward slope from its distal edge 114 to its proximal edge 112.

[0057] Additionally, the height of the proximal edge 112 above the surface on which the control surface is placed (e.g., a tabletop, etc.) is relatively low. This height is between 20 mm and 28 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, it is about 25 mm. The height of the distal edge 114 of the control surface is between 30 mm and 50 mm above the surface on which it is placed. In some embodiments, the height of the distal edge 114 of the control surface is between 35 mm and 40 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal edge 114 of the control panel is about 40 mm high and adjacent the distal edge of the knob 136 is about 38 mm high. The highest point of the ball 122 of the trackball 120 may be less than 55 mm, or less than 50 mm, above the surface on which the control surface 100 is placed in use. In the illustrated embodiment, it is about 45 mm above the surface. The highest point of the control ring 124 may be less than 45 mm, or less than 40 mm above the surface on which the control surface is placed. In the illustrated embodiment, it is about 37 mm above the surface.

[0058] The track ball 120 is located in the proximal half of the control panel, i.e., from the center of the control panel 110 towards the proximal edge 112 of the control surface. The center of the track ball 120 may be less than 70 mm from the proximal edge 112, or less than 65 mm. In some embodiments, the center of the track ball may be between 55 mm and 60 mm from the proximal edge 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the center of the track ball is located approximately 56 mm from the proximal edge 112. In some embodiments, the rearmost edge of the control ring 124 of the track ball may be less than 100 mm from the proximal edge 112, or may be less than 95 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, the rearmost edge of the control ring 124 of the track ball 120 is approximately 93 mm.

[0059] By utilizing the above general geometry, some embodiments may maintain a good user experience without having to rely on the bulky traditional color grading control surfaces. In such embodiments, a user of the control surface 100 may position their hands over the trackball 120 to use it, while still allowing their hands and wrists to rest on a desk, table, or other supporting surface during use, much the same way as when using a conventional computer keyboard (with wrist support pads, if necessary).

[0060] Such an application also facilitates ease of use of the control surface 100, as the control surface 100 can maintain its overall compact size and usability.

[0061] 4 is a schematic block diagram 400 of the electronic components of the control surface 100. Overall control is provided by a processor 405, which receives input from various sources, described below, and generates control signals for output to the I / O system.

[0062] Circuit 400 includes at least one, and in some embodiments two or more, encoders 422A, 422B, 422C for each trackball 120A, 120B, 120C that sense the movement of ball 122A, 122B, 122C of respective trackball 120A, 120B, 120C; and at least one encoder 424A, 424B, 424C that senses the rotational movement of ring 124A, 124B, 124C of respective trackball 120A, 120B, 120C. Encoders 422A, 422B, 422C for each ball generate multi-dimensional control signals for use in controlling a color correction system based on the movement of ball 122A, 122B, 122C. Each encoder may generate a one-dimensional output that is combined with the output of another encoder to generate a multi-dimensional control signal for that ball, or one or more encoders may generate a multi-dimensional output that may be used alone (or in combination with other outputs from other encoders) to generate a multi-dimensional control signal corresponding to the movement of the ball. One or more encoders associated with the control ring each generate a one-dimensional control signal based on the rotational movement of the ring. Multiple encoders may be used to allow for increased resolution or averaging of outputs.

[0063] The circuit 400 also includes a number of control buttons (or keys) 132. An LED driver 410 is also optionally provided for illumination of the control panel. For example, the buttons may be backlit and selectively illuminated or modulated to indicate status. A rotary encoder 436 is adjustable via the knob 136 on the control panel 110, allowing the user to adjust the input.

[0064] The circuit 400 further includes a power supply system 438. The power supply system 438 includes a power storage system 446 (e.g., one or more batteries) arranged to power the control surface 100 when in use. The power supply system 438 may optionally include a charger 448 for charging the power storage system 446. However, in some embodiments, the power storage system 446 may be rechargeable with an external charging system or may be removable or replaceable. The power supply system 438 in this embodiment further includes a power supply 450 for connecting the power storage system 446 to the rest of the circuit and for providing power at an appropriate voltage if the required voltage differs from the system voltage. For example, the power supply 450 may include one or more regulators (e.g., linear regulators or switched capacitor regulators) and / or switches that operate independently of the system voltage to provide power at the required voltages for different components.

[0065] In this example, circuit 400 includes a wired interface 444 that provides power to a battery charger 448, as well as an optional data connection to a color correction system, allowing control signals and other data to be exchanged between the control surface and the color correction system. In one embodiment, wired interface 444 is a USB-C port.

[0066] In one embodiment, when the control surface 100 is connected to a power source via the wired interface 444, power is preferentially drawn from the wired interface 444 instead of the power storage system 446. This can be done by using a charger 448 to send power to the power source 450 instead of the power storage system 446. Excess power is sent to the power storage system 446 for charging. When the wired interface 444 is not connected, power is sent from the power storage system 446 to the power source 450 for powering the aforementioned devices. As previously mentioned, the power storage system 446 may accept removable or replaceable batteries, so the wired interface system 444 may be omitted in some embodiments.

[0067] The interface system 440 includes a wireless communication interface 442 that is configured, in use, to exchange data and control signals with the color correction system to enable the control surface 100 to control the color correction system. The wireless communication interface 442 may operate according to any wireless communication method or protocol, but is preferably selected from any of the following: IEEE 802.11 wireless standard, Bluetooth, ZigBee, or other IEEE 802.15 standard, or may use free space optical communication.

[0068] The use of a widely accepted wireless communication protocol can facilitate interoperability with different color correction systems. In an illustrative example, wireless communication interface 442 is a Bluetooth communication interface.

[0069] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line XX shown in FIG. 2 and showing the control ring 124A and ball 122A through the trackball 120A. The control ring 124A can be seen to have a top surface 200A. The size of the ring 124A is generally defined by its outer radius 202 and inner radius 204. The top surface 200A has a radial surface profile as shown in the cross-section of FIG. 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface profile has three main sections. There is a generally cylindrical surface 206 that surrounds the outer periphery of the control ring and this surface appears as a generally vertical section of the surface profile. The cylindrical surface 206 provides a perimeter or edge that allows the user to easily manipulate the control ring 124A. Typically, the user manipulates the ring with the thumb of the hand that manipulates the corresponding ball 122A using the cylindrical surface 206. The provision of the cylindrical surface 206 and / or edges thereon provides the user with good tactile feedback. This is advantageous to the user since typically the user will be manipulating the controls of the control surface 100, including the control rings 124A, 124B, 124C, while focusing their attention on viewing the display of the color correction system.

[0070] Moving radially inward from the cylindrical surface 206, the surface profile slopes upward on the outer beveled portion 205A to a point of maximum height 208, which may be a point 208 located more than halfway along the surface profile of the ring to the inner edge 210. The surface profile then slopes downward along the inner beveled portion 205B to the inner edge 210. In this embodiment, the control ring has a surface profile that includes a generally linear slope, but in other embodiments, the slope may meet in a broad rounded curve or may be a smooth curve (e.g., an arc) from the end of the cylindrical surface to the inner edge 210. The outer beveled portion 205A is preferably sloped at an angle that allows a user's fingers to easily hook over it during use. The outer beveled portion, or preferably the entire top surface 200A, is preferably textured. In this embodiment, the outer beveled portion 205A has a pattern of ribs 205C. The rib pattern can also be clearly seen in Figures 1 and 2. As mentioned above, since a user typically manipulates control rings 124A, 124B, 124C while focusing their eyes on the display of the color correction system, the texture on ribs 205C can provide tactile feedback to the user and improve grip.

[0071] Providing a control ring shape with an outer cylindrical portion and a gradually increasing height toward the center of the control ring helps address the dual desires of ease of use of the control ring and ease of storage in a portable device.

[0072] Exemplary embodiments of the control surface 100 of the present invention may be further adapted for use as a portable device by minimizing the vertical height and thickness of the control surface 100. This also allows the control surface 100 to be easily transported when not in use.

[0073] The illustrated embodiment facilitates this by providing balls 122A, 122B, 122C with a relatively small diameter. The diameter of balls 122A, 122B, 122C may impose constraints on the minimum thickness of control surface 100. Thus, using smaller balls for trackballs may reduce the overall height and thickness of control surface 100. However, the user experience and control precision may be compromised when using smaller trackballs.

[0074] The diameter of balls 122A, 122B, 122C in this embodiment is between about 35 mm and 45 mm, with a preferred diameter of about 40 mm. However, although balls 122A, 122B, 122C are smaller than trackballs used in conventional color correction control surfaces, any anticipated degradation in usability is mitigated by mounting them relatively high on control panel 110 and / or relative to their respective control rings.

[0075] For example, the trackball balls 122A, 122B, 122C are mounted such that the maximum projection (214) of the ball from the top surface of the control panel 110 (shown by line 215 in FIG. 7) is greater than 30% of the radius of the ball on the control panel 110. The height of the balls 122A, 122B, 122C above the control panel surface may be greater than 35%, 37%, or 40% of the radius of the balls 122A, 122B, 122C. In the illustrated embodiment, the maximum height of the balls 122A, 122B, 122C is approximately 40.5% of the radius of the balls. The height of the trackball is measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 220 of the control ring 124A in FIG. 7.

[0076] In some embodiments, the trackball ball may extend beyond the highest point of its corresponding control ring by more than 15% of the ball's radius. Note that the amount of trackball extension may be measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 220 of control ring 124A in FIG. 7. In this example, line 225 is perpendicular to axis of rotation 220 and defines a plane tangent to highest point 208 of control ring 124A. The trackball ball may extend beyond this highest point of its corresponding control ring by more than 20% of the ball's radius. In the illustrated embodiment, the trackball ball extends approximately 23.5% of the ball's radius beyond the highest point of its corresponding control ring (as shown by dimension line 226). In some embodiments, the ball may extend even more, e.g., more than 25% to as much as 40%.

[0077] Advantageously, a substantial portion of ball 122A is also exposed through the opening in control ring 124A of trackball 120A. That is, the inner diameter of control ring 124A (i.e., twice the size of radius 204 in FIG. 7) can be relatively large compared to the diameter of the ball. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the control ring can be greater than 90% of the diameter of the ball of the trackball, but less than the diameter of the trackball. The inner diameter of the control ring can be greater than 93% of the diameter of the ball of the trackball. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner diameter of the control ring is approximately 95% of the diameter of the ball.

[0078] The increased relative projection of the balls 122A, 122B, 122C through the control rings 124A, 124B, 124C increases the surface area of ​​the balls 122A, 122B, 122C exposed for the user to manipulate the trackballs 120A, 120B, 120C, and increases the diameter of the portion of the ball exposed for user interaction when viewed in plan. These combined effects allow the trackball to be controlled in a manner similar to using a larger trackball on a conventional color control surface. Advantageously, the inner beveled portion 205B of the control ring (e.g., 124A) slopes downward relative to the plane of the control panel 110, allowing the user to easily access the entire exposed surface of the ball (e.g., 122A) without touching the control ring (124A) in the process.

[0079] FIG. 7 also shows a cross section of some components of a housing 300 that supports and surrounds the internal components of the control surface 100, generally designated by the reference numeral 300. An encoder 302, which is an optical character reader, can also be seen mounted below the ball 122A. A number of such encoders are used to track the movement of the ball 122A and generate an output signal for control of the color correction system. The encoder 302 is fitted with a cover or lens 304 to protect the optical components from contamination. As will be described in detail in connection with FIGS. 8 and 9, the control ring 124A also includes bearings 306. In this embodiment, the bearings 306 are a set of ball bearings in a race that are interference-fitted into a recess formed by a downwardly depending flange 308. The flange 308 extends around the periphery of the bottom surface of the control ring 124A, and the bearings 306 are pressed into an annular rim formed by the flange 308.

[0080] Figures 8 and 9 show further details of trackball 120A of one embodiment of control surface 100. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in Figure 2, while Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line WW in Figure 2. As can be seen, all trackballs in the illustrated embodiments are identical to one another, and the location of the cross-section has been chosen for clarity of Figure 2, rather than to show the differences between trackballs 120B and 120C.

[0081] Section VV shown in FIG. 8 shows a section through ball 122B and control ring 124B, illustrating the coupling of control ring 124B to control panel 110. A removable control ring is convenient because from time to time balls 122A, 122B, 122C and encoder sensor cover 304 need to be removed for cleaning. Thus, it is advantageous to be able to relatively easily release the coupling of control ring 124B to the rest of the control panel. For convenience, the coupling is described as being between the control ring and the control panel. The actual component or components to which the control ring is coupled may be part of a separable trackball assembly, a control panel chassis, a housing component, or other physical structure. What is essential, however, is that the control ring is coupled to a structure that is in fixed relationship to the control panel during use. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling uses magnetic forces to hold these parts together.

[0082] A magnet 310 is attached to the control panel 110 at a fixed location along cross section VV. When the control ring 124B is in the correct operating position, the magnet aligns with the control ring 124B. Specifically, the bearing race 306 attached to the control ring 124B includes or is made of a ferromagnetic material that is attracted to the magnet 310 when properly aligned. In this embodiment, the bearing race inner ring 306i aligns with the magnet 310 and is made of steel so that the control ring 124B is magnetically coupled to the control panel. Multiple such couplings can be made at different points around the control ring 124B. For example, cross section VV can be repeated around the control ring (e.g., at regular intervals of 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 180 degrees, etc.). The flange 308 can be provided with one or more bosses 309 or ridges along its inner circumference to ensure that the bearing 306 is seated in a rim formed by the flange 308. In this embodiment, the control ring 124B does not include a magnetized element that rotates with the control ring 124B in use - any such magnetic element is located in a fixed position relative to the control panel 110. This arrangement minimizes induced currents and therefore minimizes electrical interference with the control circuitry of the control surface 100.

[0083] FIG. 8 further illustrates ball bearings 315 and supports 320, which support ball 122B in use to provide proper rolling performance. Additionally, and most clearly shown in FIG. 7, the housing component 300 and the general mounting of balls 122A, 122B, 122C form a cup 301 in which balls 122A, 122B, 122C float. However, cup 301 does not completely cover the bottom of the balls, but rather provides an opening 301A on the underside through which balls 122A, 122B, 122C protrude. This opening eliminates the need for an extra wall between balls 122A, 122B, 122C and the bottom of the housing, or clearance between balls 122A, 122B, 122C and cup 301, which helps minimize the overall height of control surface 100.

[0084] FIG. 9 shows a cross section of WW through ball 122C and control ring 124C, illustrating the control ring 124C and the control panel 110 in detail. In particular, FIG. 9 also shows an additional encoder 330, which is one of multiple encoders that interact with control ring 124C. In this embodiment, encoder 330 is a photointerrupter that detects the position of flange 308 of control ring 124B. Flange 308 includes a castellated lower edge 332, e.g., alternating gaps and protrusions, that alternately block or pass a light beam of the photointerrupter to detect rotational movement of ring 124B and generate a control signal. In one embodiment, lower edge 332 may be castellated.

[0085] FIG. 9 further illustrates a cone-shaped alignment element, called tapered fin 334, in which multiple fins are arranged at fixed locations around the ball 122C. The fins 334 determine the precise radial alignment of the control ring 124C with respect to the ball 122C and the coupling magnet. The outer edge of the fins 334 determines the precise radial location of the inner edge of the control ring mounting structure (in this case the inner bearing race 306i). The top of the fins 334 is tapered to form a lead-in, allowing for convenient alignment when replacing the control ring 124C. Instead of individual fins, the alignment element may be a full or partial annular rim. The cross section WW may be repeated around the control ring (e.g. at regular intervals of 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 180 degrees), although it is not necessary to repeat the additional encoder 330 at each location.

[0086] 10 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a color correction system 500 that includes the control surface 100 described above and a computer system 1000 that executes a color correction application. The computer system 1000 includes a bus 1002 or other communication mechanism for communicating information, and a hardware processor 1004 coupled to the bus 1002 for processing information. The hardware processor 1004 may be, for example, one or more general-purpose microprocessors, one or more graphics processing units, or other types of processing units, or a combination thereof.

[0087] Computer system 1000 also includes a main memory 1006, such as a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device, coupled to bus 1002 for storing information and instructions executed by processor 1004. Main memory 1006 is also used for storing temporary variables and other intermediate information during execution of instructions to be executed by processor 1004. Such instructions, when stored on a non-transitory storage medium accessible to processor 1004, turn computer system 1000 into a special-purpose machine that is customized to perform operations specified by the instructions.

[0088] The computer system 1000 further includes a read only memory (ROM) 1008 or other static storage device coupled to the bus 1002 for storing static information and instructions for the processor 1004. A storage device 1010, including a storage medium such as a magnetic disk, SSD, or optical disk, is provided and coupled to the bus 1002 for storing information and instructions including color correction applications and / or image and video data that is subject to color correction.

[0089] Computer system 1000 includes a display 1012 (such as one or more LCD, LED, touch screen display, or other displays) coupled via bus 1002 for displaying information to a user. Computer system 1000 also includes an input device 1014, such as a keyboard including alphanumeric and other keys, coupled to bus 1002 for communicating information and command selections to processor 1004. Computer system 1000 also includes a cursor control 1016 (such as a mouse, trackball, or cursor direction keys) for communicating directional information and command selections to processor 1004 and for controlling cursor movement on display 1012.

[0090] According to at least one embodiment, the techniques herein are performed by the computer system 1000 in response to the processor 1004 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in the main memory 1006. Such instructions may be read into the main memory 1006 from another storage medium, such as a remote database. Execution of the sequences of instructions contained in the main memory 1006 causes the processor 1004 to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, hardware circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions. The storage medium may also be used to store image or video files on which color correction is performed.

[0091] As used herein, the term "storage media" or "storage medium" refers to non-transitory storage media that store data and / or instructions to perform a particular manner of operation of a machine. Such storage media include non-volatile and volatile media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical and magnetic disks, such as storage device 1010. Volatile media include dynamic memory, such as main memory 1006. Common forms of storage media include, for example, floppy disks, hard disk drives, solid state drives (SSDs), magnetic tape or other magnetic data storage media, CD-ROMs, other optical data storage media, physical storage media with patterns of holes, RAM, PROM, EPROM, FLASH-EPROM, NVRAM, and other memory chips or cartridges. The storage media may be local, in the sense of being connected to bus 1002, or remote, in the sense of being communicatively coupled to computer system 1000 via a network connection. In this regard, computer system 1000 also includes a communication interface 1018 connected to bus 1002.

[0092] The communication interface 1018 provides a bidirectional data communication connection with a communication network 1050 or other device. For example, the communication interface 1018 includes an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) card, a cable modem, an Ethernet card, a satellite modem, a USB interface, or the like. By way of example, the communication interface 1018 may be a local area network (LAN) card for providing a data communication connection to a compatible LAN. A wireless link may also be implemented. In this example, the communication interface 1018 includes a wireless interface 1020. The wireless interface 1020 may operate according to any wireless communication method, but is preferably selected from any of the following: IEEE 802.11 wireless standard, Bluetooth, ZigBee, or other IEEE 802.15 standard. Alternatively, free space optical communication may be used.

[0093] In any such implementation, communication interface 1018 sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information.

[0094] The color correction system 500 also includes a control surface 100. The control surface 100 includes the circuitry 400 shown in FIG.

[0095] The control surface 100 is communicatively coupled to the computer system 1000 via a network connection 1060. In particular, the wireless communication interface 442 of the control surface 100 and the wireless interface 1020 of the computer system 1000 form a wireless link for exchanging data therebetween. In this embodiment, the network connection 1060 is a Bluetooth connection, but may also be a connection according to different communication methods described herein.

[0096] Computer system 1000 accepts user control inputs from control surface 100 via wireless link 1060 to control the operation of a running color correction application.

[0097] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary color correction system 1100, generally corresponding to system 500 of FIG. 10, including a computer system 1000 in the form of a tablet computer with a touch screen, and a control surface 100. The computer system 1000 runs a non-linear editing application with color correction capabilities, such as Davinci Resolve by Blackmagic Design. A color correction graphical user interface 1102 is displayed on the screen of a display 1012 of the computer system 1000. Since the computer device 1000 is a tablet computer, the display 1012 is integrally formed with the computer system 1000. In this case, the computer system 1000, and therefore the display 1012, is supported in an upright position on a display stand 140 of the control surface 100. Although the computer system 1000 and the control surface 100 are in physical contact with each other, data communication between them is performed via a wireless communication channel using Bluetooth as described above. Through a wireless connection to the control surface 100, user inputs made using any one or more of the trackballs, buttons, and / or knobs are transmitted as control signals to the computer system 1000 to control a color correction application.

[0098] For example, in one embodiment, a user provides input to a color correction application by manipulating balls 122A, 122B, 122C of control surface 100 to adjust the color of an image based on the tonal range of lift, gamma, and gain, respectively. These inputs correspond to moving indicator points on corresponding two-dimensional graphical elements 1104A, 1104B, 1104C of graphical user interface 1102. In some embodiments, multiple trackballs may be manipulated simultaneously. Additionally, control rings 124A, 124B, 124C are used to set master levels for each variable.

[0099] Control knobs 136 are provided to allow a user to provide input to the color correction application to adjust image parameters, including but not limited to contrast, saturation, hue, temperature, tint, mid-tone detail, color boost, shadows, and highlights.

[0100] FIG. 12 illustrates a further embodiment of a color correction system 500. Features common to existing figures in this figure are labeled with common reference numbers and will not be described again for the sake of brevity. The control surface 100 is of the type described in FIGS. 1 to 9 and includes the circuitry 400 shown in FIG. 4. Accordingly, details of the circuitry 400 have been omitted for ease of understanding. This embodiment differs from the above embodiment in that the display is part of a device separate from the computer system that runs the color correction application. Such an embodiment has particular application in a cloud computing environment where the color correction application (or some of its functionality) runs on a cloud service. In this embodiment, the display 1012 forms part of a client computer system 1000 that communicates with a server computer system 1000S that runs the color correction application. This arrangement is advantageous when the client computer system 1000 is a tablet computer, smartphone, smart television, or other computing device with relatively low computational and data storage capabilities, although it can also be used in embodiments without such performance constraints.

[0101] The client computer system 1000 hosts a client application (e.g., a dedicated client application or a web browser) that provides a graphical user interface to the color correction application. The control surface 100 is in data communication with the client computer system 1000 using a wireless link 1200 between the client computer 1000's wireless communication interface 1020 and the control surface's wireless communication interface 442. Control signals representing user inputs from the multiple controls of the control surface 100 are transmitted to the client computer system 1000 via the wireless link 1200. The client computer system 1000 is also in data communication with a server computer system 1000S via a second communication connection 1202. The server computer system 1000S may be closer or farther from the client computer system 1000, so that communication between them may be in any suitable form. In some embodiments, the client computer system 1000 and the server computer system 1000S may both be connected to a local area network, for example using wired Ethernet. In other embodiments, they may be connected to each other via the Internet, a WAN, or other networks using any suitable network connection mechanism. The communication connection 1202 may or may not be a direct connection and may not involve the transmission of data therebetween over the communications network 1050. Furthermore, it may include a combination of wired and wireless network connections.

[0102] The client computer system 1000 transmits, among other things, control signals from the controls of the control surface 100 to the server computer system 1000S via the communication connection 1202 for use in controlling the color correction application. The server computer system 1000S transmits, among other things, display data for generating a graphical user interface that is displayed on the display 1012 of the client computer system 1000. Because the display of the color correction system is located remotely from the server computer system 1000S, the server computer system 1000 may not have a display 1012S, or if it does, it may be used for tasks other than displaying the graphical user interface of the color correction application. When in use, the client computer system 1000 is placed on the display stand 140 of the control surface 100 so that the display 1012 is viewable by a user of the control surface 100.

[0103] 13A through 13N show seven other embodiments of a control surface with a display stand having different features, in which features common to previous embodiments are labeled with common reference numerals and will not be described again for the sake of brevity.

[0104] In each case, the display stand 140 can support the display device of the color correction system in an upright position when in use. In the embodiment of Figures 13E through 13N, the display stand 140 is located between the knobs 136 on the last row of input controls and the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110. In the embodiment of Figures 13A through 13D, the display stand 140 is at or behind the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110.

[0105] In the embodiment of Figures 13A and 13B, the display stand 140 includes a step 1302 that forms a shelf 1304 generally behind the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110. The display stand 140 also includes a flap 1306 attached to a hinge 1308. The flap 1306 is rotatable between a storage position 1310 (shown in dashed lines in Figure 13B) and a working position 1312 (shown in solid lines in Figures 13A and 13B). When the flap 1306 is in the working position, the display of the color correction system is supported on the shelf 1304 and can be positioned against the flap 1306, which is tilted slightly backward for convenient viewing by the user. The front edge of the display of the color correction system abuts the front-most 1302A of the step 1302 to prevent it from sliding forward. Typically, the front-most 1302A of the step 1302 coincides with the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110.

[0106] In the embodiment of Figures 13C and 13D, the display stand 140 includes a step 1322 that forms a shelf 1324 generally rearward of the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110. The display stand 140 also includes three protrusions in the form of posts 1326A, 1326B, 1326C disposed along the distal edge of the shelf 1324. In use, the color correction system display is supported on the shelf 1324 and can be positioned against the slightly rearwardly angled flap 1326 for convenient viewing by the user. The front edge of the color correction system display abuts against the front-most surface 1322A of the step 1322 to prevent it from sliding forward. Typically, the front-most surface 1322A of the step 1322 coincides with the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110.

[0107] In the embodiment of Figures 13E and 13F, the display stand 140 includes a channel 1332 that generally extends across the width of the control panel 110. The channel 1332 has generally vertical side walls and a flat bottom. A grip surface 1334 is provided on the front wall of the channel 1332. In use, the display of the color correction system is positioned to be supported by the channel 1332 as in the first embodiment. However, rather than having an overhang on the front wall 1336 of the channel 1332 to minimize the possibility of the front edge of the display sliding up the wall and causing the display to tip backwards, the grip surface 1334 has extra friction to prevent slipping. The grip surface 1334 may be formed in a number of ways, including, but not limited to, providing a textured surface on the channel walls 1336, using a textured or resilient material along the channel walls 1336, or by providing a rubber coating or overmolding on the channel walls 1336. Additionally, groove 1332 has an arched enlargement 1338 in the middle to create an affordance 150 that allows the user to easily touch the bottom of the display screen or other interface element.

[0108] 13G and 13H, the display stand 140 includes a long, slot-shaped opening 1340 between the knob 136 and the distal end 114 of the control panel 110. The opening 1340 spans nearly the entire width of the control panel 110. The display stand also includes a shelf 1348 that protrudes from the rear wall of the housing 300.

[0109] In use, the color correction system display is inserted into the opening 1340 so that it is supported by an underlying shelf 1348. The display is held within the opening 1340 so that it cannot tip backwards, but is supported at a tilted backwards angle against the rear edge 1344 of the opening.

[0110] The shelf 1348 may be provided with a cushioned surface 1346. The cushioned surface 1346 may be a resilient material, such as a rubber strip or a rubberized or overmolded surface of the shelf 1348, which serves to prevent the display from sliding backwards off the shelf 1348. The front end surface 1342 and the rear end surface 1344 of the opening 1340 may be angled at a desired display support angle to prevent the display from sliding backwards off the shelf 1348. The opening 1340 has an enlarged portion 1349 in its center to create an affordance 150 to allow the user to easily access the bottom of the display screen or other interface elements.

[0111] 13I and 13J show a further embodiment. In this example, a display stand includes a number of flanges 1350, 1352, 1354 on the top surface of the control panel 110 that run parallel to its distal edge 114. The rear flange 1350 is relatively tall and the front flanges 1352 and 1354 are somewhat shorter. The rear flange 1350 is spaced apart from the front flanges 1352 and 1354 to form a groove 1356 for receiving a display of a color correction system. In use, the display of the color correction system is supported on the top surface of the control panel within the groove 1356 between the flange 1350 and the flanges 1352 and 1354. The front edge of the display abuts the front flanges 1352 and 1354 to restrain it from moving forward, and the rear of the display rests against the flange 1350, which holds the display at a slight backward angle for easier viewing by the user. A gap 1358 between the two front flanges 1352 and 1354 provides an affordance 150 that allows the bottom central portion of the display to remain unobstructed.

[0112] 13K and 13L show a further embodiment including a foldable display stand 140. In this example, the display stand 140 includes two foldable frames 1360. Each frame 1360 includes a J-shaped element 1362 including a long rear frame leg 1364 and a short front frame leg 1366. The J-shaped elements are attached to hinges 1368 and can move between a stowed position 1372 (shown in dotted lines in FIG. 13K) and an active position 1370 (shown in solid lines in FIGS. 13K and 13L). When the J-shaped element 1362 is in the active position, the display of the color correction system is positioned and supported between the frame legs 1364 and 1366. The bottom edge of the display rests on the hinge 1368 and is prevented from sliding forward by the short front frame leg 1366. The display tilts back and rests against the long rear frame leg 1364, providing a slight backward angle for easier viewing by the user.

[0113] 13M and 13N show a further embodiment. In this example, the display stand 140 is in the form of a screen rest 1380 that runs parallel to the distal edge 114 of the control panel 110. The screen rest 1380 is shaped to support a display device at a preferred tilt angle without requiring special structure and to securely position or hold the display on the screen rest 1380. The stand includes a back support 1382 having a front surface 1384 that is tilted at the desired tilt angle. The floor surface 1388 of the screen rest 1380 is tilted in the opposite direction to the front surface 1384 of the back support 1382 and meets it at a 90 degree angle. The display can be placed on the floor surface 1388 of the screen rest 1380 and tilted backward against the back support 1382. In some embodiments, the floor surface can include a cushion or grip surface as previously described to help hold the bottom of the display.

[0114] Item 1. A control surface for controlling a color correction system, the control surface comprising: a housing including an upwardly facing control panel, the control panel having a proximal edge closest to a user in normal use and a distal edge furthest from a user in normal use, the control panel including a plurality of controls, the plurality of controls including: a plurality of trackballs, each trackball including a ball and a control ring, the ball in communication with at least one encoder for generating a multi-dimensional control signal based on movement of the ball, the control ring in communication with at least one encoder for generating a one-dimensional control signal based on rotational movement of the ring, the ball of the trackball being mounted concentrically with the control ring; With multiple control buttons; a plurality of knobs coupled to respective rotary encoders; The control surface further comprises: a display stand adjacent a distal edge of said control panel for supporting a display device of the color correction system in an upright position in use; a power storage system contained within the housing and arranged to provide power to the control surface in use; A control surface including: a wireless communication interface through which control signals from a plurality of control units are transmitted for use in controlling the color correction system.

[0115] Item 2. The power supply system includes one or more: Battery and; Item 1. The control surface of item 1, comprising: a charging system;

[0116] Item 3. A control surface according to any one of items 1 or 2, wherein the wireless communication interface operates according to one of the wireless communication methods of the IEEE 802.11 wireless standard, Bluetooth, ZigBee or other IEEE 802.15 standard, or free space optical communication.

[0117] Item 4. The display stand is Supporting the weight of the display device of the color correction system when in use; Restraining any one or more of slippage, twisting, or tilting of a display device of the color correction system when in use; Acting as a fulcrum to support the display device of the color correction system when in use; The control surface of any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising one or more of a boss, a protrusion, a rib, a lip, a flange, a beam, a groove, a step, a hole, a recess, an opening, a depression, a slot, a cushion, a gripping surface, a frame, a wall, a ledge, a shelf, a hook, and a cradle, arranged to perform one or more of the following: gripping a display device of the color collection system during use.

[0118] Item 5. The control surface of any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the display stand includes a groove extending adjacent a distal edge of the control panel, the groove being configured to receive an end of a display device of a color correction system in use, the groove having a front support surface that limits proximal movement of the supported display device of the color correction system, and a rear support surface that inhibits distal tilt of the supported display device of the color correction system.

[0119] Item 6. A control surface described in any one of items 1 to 5, wherein supporting the display device of the color correction system in an upright position includes supporting the display device of the color correction system tilted distally at an angle of more than 10 degrees from vertical.

[0120] Item 7. The control surface of any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the display stand includes an affordance adjacent a bottom edge of a screen of a supported display device of a color correction system to enable a user to touch the screen.

[0121] Item 8. The control surface of item 7, wherein the affordance allows a user to touch a center portion of a bottom edge of the screen.

[0122] Item 9. The control surface of any one of items 7 or 8, wherein the affordance is a recess, a depression, a groove, or a gap.

[0123] Item 10. The control surface according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the trackballs are arranged symmetrically about a center line of the control panel.

[0124] Item 11. The control surface described in Item 10, wherein the display stand is capable of supporting the display device of the color correction system so that the screen of the display device is symmetrical about the center line.

[0125] Item 12. The control surface of item 11, wherein the display stand is symmetrical about the center line.

[0126] Item 13. The control surface described in any one of items 10 to 12, wherein the buttons on the control panel are organized into groups, and the groups of buttons are arranged symmetrically about a center line of the control panel.

[0127] Item 14. The control surface according to item 13, wherein at least one pair of buttons among a group of symmetrically arranged buttons has a mutually different arrangement.

[0128] Item 15. The control surface according to any one of items 10 to 14, wherein the knobs are arranged symmetrically about a center line of the control panel.

[0129] Item 16. The control surface of any one of items 1 to 15, wherein the control ring has an upper surface with an outer radius and an inner radius, and the surface profile extends radially and generally slopes toward a position more than halfway from the outer radius to the inner radius.

[0130] Item 17. The control surface of item 16, wherein the surface profile is generally tapered from its inner radius to a position less than halfway from its outer radius.

[0131] Item 18. The control surface according to any one of items 1 to 17, wherein the control ring includes a substantially cylindrical surface on its outer periphery.

[0132] Item 19. A control surface described in any one of items 1 to 18, wherein the ball of the trackball is attached to the top surface of the control panel such that the maximum protrusion of the ball from the top surface of the control panel exceeds 30% of the radius of the ball, the protrusion being measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the control ring.

[0133] Item 20. The control surface according to item 19, wherein the maximum launch amount is greater than 35% of the radius of the ball.

[0134] Item 21. The control surface according to item 19, wherein the maximum launch amount is greater than 37% of the radius of the ball.

[0135] Item 22. The control surface according to item 19, wherein the maximum launch amount is greater than 40% of the radius of the ball.

[0136] Item 23. The control surface according to item 19, wherein the maximum launch amount is approximately 40.5% of the radius of the ball.

[0137] Item 24. A control surface described in any one of items 1 to 23, wherein each control ring has a connecting portion that engages with a corresponding connecting portion mounted in a fixed position relative to the control panel, and when the control ring is connected to the corresponding connecting portion, the control ring holds the balls of the respective trackballs in an operating position within the control panel.

[0138] Item 25. The control panel according to item 24, wherein the connection portion of the control ring is magnetically attracted to a corresponding connection portion of the control panel.

[0139] Item 26. The control panel of item 25, wherein the corresponding coupling portion has one or more magnets that attract non-magnetic components of the coupling portion of the control ring.

[0140] Item 27. A control surface described in any one of items 1 to 26, wherein supporting the display device of the color correction system in an upright position includes supporting the display device of the color correction system so that it is tilted in a distal direction at an angle of less than 40 degrees from vertical.

[0141] Item 28. A control surface described in any one of items 1 to 27, wherein supporting the display device of the color correction system in an upright position includes supporting the display device of the color correction system so that it is tilted in a distal direction at an angle of less than 20 degrees from vertical.

[0142] Item 29. A control surface described in any one of items 1 to 28, wherein supporting the display device of the color correction system in an upright position includes supporting the display device of the color correction system so that it is tilted in a distal direction at an angle of approximately 17 degrees from vertical.

[0143] Item 30. A control surface described in any one of items 1 to 29, wherein the ball of the trackball protrudes higher than the highest point of its respective control ring and by more than 15% of the radius of the ball, the protrusion being measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the control ring.

[0144] Item 31. The control surface of item 30, wherein the trackball ball extends beyond the highest point of its respective control ring by 23% to 24% of the radius of the ball.

[0145] Item 32. The control surface according to any one of items 1 to 31, wherein the inner diameter of the control ring is greater than 90% of the diameter of the ball of the trackball.

[0146] Clause 33. The control surface of clause 32, wherein the inner diameter of the control ring is less than 100% of the ball diameter of the trackball.

[0147] Clause 34. The control surface of clause 32, wherein the inner diameter of the control ring is approximately 95% of the diameter of the ball of the trackball.

[0148] Item 35. A computer system for executing a color correction application, a display configured to display a graphical user interface for the color correction application; A control surface according to any one of the preceding clauses; The control surface is in data communication with a computer system, and user inputs made using any one or more of the plurality of trackballs, the plurality of buttons, and the plurality of knobs are transmitted as control signals to the computer system to control the color correction application.

[0149] Item 36. The color correction system according to item 35, wherein the display constitutes part of a tablet computer.

[0150] Item 37. The color correction system of item 36, wherein the tablet computer is supported by a display stand of the control surface.

[0151] Item 38. The color correction system according to items 35 and 36, wherein the tablet computer includes a computer system and a display in a single unit.

[0152] Item 39. The color correction system according to items 35 and 36, wherein the computer system executing the color correction application is separate from the tablet computer and in data communication with the tablet computer.

[0153] Item 40. The color correction system of Item 39, wherein the computer system includes a computer server, the tablet computer includes a client in data communication with the computer server, and a graphical user interface of the color correction application is provided by the client.

[0154] Item 41. The color correction system according to any one of items 35 to 40, wherein the control surface is in data communication with a computer system via at least one wireless network connection.

[0155] The definitions of terms contained in the appended claims set forth herein govern the meaning of those terms as used in the claims. No limitation, element, feature, feature, advantage, or attribute not expressly recited in a claim shall limit the scope of the claim in any manner.

[0156] As used herein, the terms "include" and "comprise" and variations of these terms, such as "including," "includes," "comprising," "comprises," "comprised," etc., are intended to be inclusive and are not intended to exclude additional features, components, integers, or steps. For aspects of the disclosure described using flowcharts, the steps of a given flowchart may be performed in a variety of ways and by a variety of devices, systems, or system modules. A given flowchart step may be divided into multiple steps and / or multiple flowchart steps may be combined into a single step, unless otherwise specified where it is essential not to do so. Additionally, the order of steps may be changed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified where it is essential not to do so.

Claims

1. A control surface for controlling a color correction system, wherein the control surface is: The housing includes an upward-facing control panel, the control panel having a proximal edge closest to the user in normal use and a distal edge furthest from the user in normal use, the control panel includes a plurality of control units, the plurality of control units being: A plurality of trackballs, each including a ball and a control ring, wherein the ball works in conjunction with at least one encoder to generate a multidimensional control signal based on the ball's movement, and the control ring works in conjunction with at least one encoder to generate a one-dimensional control signal based on the ring's rotational movement, and the ball of the trackball is mounted concentrically with the control ring; Multiple control buttons and; Includes multiple knobs connected to individual rotary encoders; The aforementioned control surface further: Adjacent to the distal edge of the control panel is a display stand that supports the display device of the color correction system in an upright position when in use; A power storage system housed within the housing and arranged to supply power to the control surface when in use; A control surface including a wireless communication interface from which control signals from multiple control units are transmitted for use in controlling a color correction system.

2. The aforementioned display stand is To support the weight of the color correction system's display device during use; To suppress one or more of the following during use: slippage, twisting, or tilting of the display device of the color correction system; To act as a pivot point supporting the display device of a color correction system during use; Grip the display device of the color correction system while using it; The control surface according to claim 1, comprising one or more bosses, protrusions, ribs, lips, flanges, beams, grooves, steps, holes, recesses, openings, indentations, slots, cushions, grip surfaces, frames, walls, ledges, shelves, hooks, and cradles, arranged to perform one or more of the following:

3. The control surface according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the display stand includes a groove extending adjacent to the distal edge of the control panel, the groove being configured to receive the end of the display device of the color correction system when in use, and the groove having a front support surface that restricts the proximal movement of the supported display device of the color correction system, and a rear support surface that restricts the distal tilt of the supported display device of the color correction system.

4. The control surface according to claim 1, wherein supporting the display device of the color correction system in an upright position includes supporting the display device of the color correction system so that it is tilted distally at an angle greater than 10 degrees from the vertical.

5. The control surface according to claim 1, wherein the display stand includes an affordance adjacent to the lowest edge of the screen so that a user can touch the screen of a supported display device of a color correction system.

6. The control ring has an upper surface having an outer radius and an inner radius, the surface shape expands radially and is generally inclined towards a point beyond the halfway point from the outer radius to the inner radius, according to claim 1.

7. The control surface according to claim 1, wherein the control ring includes a substantially cylindrical surface on its outer circumference.

8. The control surface according to claim 1, wherein the ball of the trackball is mounted on the upper surface of the control panel such that the maximum amount the ball protrudes from the upper surface of the control panel exceeds 30% of the radius of the ball, and the amount of protrusion is measured in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the control ring.

9. The control surface according to claim 8, wherein the maximum ejection amount is approximately 40.5% of the radius of the ball.

10. The control surface according to claim 1, wherein each control ring has a connecting portion that engages with a corresponding connecting portion mounted in a fixed position relative to the control panel, and when the control ring is connected to the corresponding connecting portion, the control ring holds the balls of the individual trackballs in an operating position within the control panel.

11. The control panel according to claim 10, wherein the connecting portion of the control ring is magnetically attached to the corresponding connecting portion of the control panel.

12. The control surface according to claim 1, wherein the ball of the trackball extends higher than the highest point of each of its control rings and protrudes by more than 15% of the radius of the ball, and the amount of protrusion is measured parallel to the axis of rotation of the control rings.

13. The control surface according to claim 1, wherein the inner diameter of the control ring exceeds 90% of the diameter of the ball of the trackball.

14. A computer system running a color correction application, a display positioned to show a graphical user interface for the color correction application; Includes; a control surface as described in any one of the above paragraphs; A color correction system in which the control surface communicates data with the computer system, and user input created using one or more of the multiple trackballs, multiple buttons, and multiple knobs is transmitted to the computer system as a control signal to control the color correction application.

15. The color correction system according to claim 14, wherein the display constitutes part of a tablet computer.

16. The color correction system according to claim 15, wherein the tablet computer includes a computer system and a display in a single unit.

17. The color correction system according to claim 15, wherein the computer system that runs the color correction application is disconnected from the tablet computer and communicates data with the tablet computer.

18. The color correction system according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the control surface communicates data with the computer system via at least one wireless network connection.

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