Low volume antenna for mobile electronic devices

Abstract

A system may include an antenna feed having various antenna feed components. The system may also include a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor that is secured to at least a portion of the support structure. The system may further include a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, so that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed. Various other mobile electronic devices and apparatuses are also disclosed.

Description

LOW VOLUME ANTENNA FOR MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of and priority to U.S. non-provisional application Ser. No. 18 / 591,355 filed February 29, 2024.SUMMARY

[0002] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system comprising: a support structure; an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components; a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor that is secured to at least a portion of the support structure; and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

[0003] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a choking component configured to block signals having a frequency above a specified threshold value.

[0004] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a second antenna feed, wherein the antenna feed is configured to operate at a first specified frequency, and wherein the second antenna is configured to operate at a second, different frequency.

[0005] In some embodiments, the conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor comprises a spring clip.

[0006] In some embodiments, the antenna feed components comprise an impedance matching circuit configured to cause resonation at a specified frequency.

[0007] In some embodiments, the impedance matching circuit is positioned on the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

[0008] In some embodiments, the impedance matching circuit is positioned on a main logic board.

[0009] In some embodiments, the system further comprises at least one trace that electrically links the antenna feed to at least one processor on a main logic board (MLB).

[0010] In some embodiments, the trace that electrically links the antenna feed to the processor on the MLB is shared by at least one additional electronic component.

[0011] In some embodiments, the at least one additional electronic component comprises at least one of: a sensor, a microphone, a battery, or a speaker.

[0012] In some embodiments, the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor includes a capacitive touch surface layer, a ground flood layer, and a structural layer.

[0013] In some embodiments, the structural layer includes one or more traces of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

[0014] In some embodiments, the antenna feed is electrically attached to the traces on the structural layer of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

[0015] In some embodiments, the antenna feed is electrically attached to the capacitive touch surface layer of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a mobile electronic device comprising: a support structure; an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components; a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor that is secured to at least a portion of the support structure; and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

[0017] In some embodiments, the mobile electronic device comprises a pair of augmented reality glasses.

[0018] In some embodiments, the augmented reality glasses comprise a first temple arm and a second temple arm, and wherein the first temple arm is electrically isolated from the second temple arm.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first and second temple arms each include antennas that are configured to communicate with and synchronize with each other.

[0020] In some embodiments, the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor is electrically attached to a conductive hinge in the mobile electronic device's support structure.

[0021] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus comprising: a support structure; an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components; a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor that is secured to at least a portion of the support structure; and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

[0022] It will be appreciated that any features described herein as being suitable for incorporation into one or more aspects or embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to be generalizable across any and all aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure. Other aspects of the present disclosure can be understood by those skilled in the art in light of the description, the claims, and the drawings of the present disclosure. Theforegoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the claimsBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings illustrate a number of exemplary embodiments and are a part of the specification. Together with the following description, these drawings demonstrate and explain various principles of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a capacitive touch sensor implemented as an antenna within a mobile electronic device.

[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a capacitive touch sensor implemented as an antenna within a mobile electronic device.

[0026] FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom view an alternative embodiment of a capacitive touch sensor implemented as an antenna within a mobile electronic device.

[0027] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment of a capacitive touch sensor implemented as an antenna within a mobile electronic device.

[0028] FIG. 5 illustrates a zoomed in view of an alternative embodiment of a capacitive touch sensor implemented as an antenna within a mobile electronic device.

[0029] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a temple arm of a pair of augmented reality (AR) glasses that implement the capacitive touch sensor antenna described herein.

[0030] FIG. 7 is an illustration of exemplary augmented-reality glasses that may be used in connection with embodiments of this disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 8 is an illustration of an exemplary virtual-reality headset that may be used in connection with embodiments of this disclosure.

[0032] Throughout the drawings, identical reference characters and descriptions indicate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. While the exemplary embodiments described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the present disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0033] This application is directed to a system that implements a capacitive touch sensor as an antenna within a pair of augmented reality (AR) glasses or other similar mobileelectronic devices. AR glasses continue to shrink in size and weight. This reduction in size may result in the placement of antennas near other components that may cause interference. In some cases, for example, antennas may be moved from positions in the sidearms of the AR glasses to the front face of the AR glasses (e.g., in the lens rims or on the lenses themselves). Such placements may avoid some interference between components. That said, the antennas are still separate components that take up valuable real estate within the AR glasses.

[0034] In contrast to systems that implement separate antennas within AR glasses, the embodiments described herein may implement an existing component as an antenna (or, more specifically, as an antenna radiator). At least in some embodiments, the systems herein may implement a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor as an antenna. This multi-layer capacitive touch sensor may be used primarily to detect touch inputs provided by a user.

[0035] For instance, in some embodiments, a pair of AR glasses may include a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor on a side arm of the glasses. The user can provide inputs to the AR glasses via the capacitive touch sensor. In some cases, the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor may be directly fed by an antenna feed, which causes the touch sensor to act as an antenna radiator. In this manner, the use of separate antennas may be reduced or avoided, thereby saving weight and cost in the AR glasses. Such embodiments may be used with virtually any type of AR glasses, virtual reality (VR) devices, smartwatches, or other electronic devices that may implement a capacitive touch sensor, as will be explained in greater detail below with regard to FIGS. 1-8.

[0036] Features from any of the embodiments described herein may be used in combination with one another in accordance with the general principles described herein. These and other embodiments, features, and advantages will be more fully understood upon reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims.

[0037] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a system 100 that may be used in conjunction with a pair of AR glasses or with other mobile electronic devices. The system 100 may include a housing or support structure 109. The support structure 109 may be made of metal, plastic, or other structurally sturdy material. In some cases, the support structure (or parts of the support structure) may be electrically conductive, while in other cases, the support structure is nonconductive. In some cases, the support structure 109 may act as an electrical ground for one or more electronic components (e.g., sensors, batteries,microphones, cameras, antennas, etc.).

[0038] In some cases, the support structure 109 may include mounting elements that allow electronic components, such as a main logic board (MLB), to be mounted and secured thereto. The support structure 109, at least in some cases, may run for a portion of or the full length of the AR glasses' sidearms. These sidearms may, in turn, be hingedly connected to a frame and a pair of AR glasses lenses. Here, it should be noted that, while the majority of the embodiments described herein are directed to AR glasses, the principles and components described herein may be implemented on substantially any electronic device that implements a capacitive touch sensor in any form, including VR devices, smart watches, or other wearable devices.

[0039] The system 100 may also include an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components. In some cases, the system may include a single antenna feed (e.g.,105), while in other cases, the system 100 may include multiple antenna feeds (e.g., 105 and106). In some cases, these antenna feeds may be designed to operate at specified frequencies (or within specified frequency ranges) including, for example, 2.4GHz and 5-7GHz, respectively. Other frequencies and frequency ranges may also be used, depending on the design of the antenna.

[0040] The antenna feed may include a plurality of different electronic components that may be positioned on an MLB 108 fastened to the support structure 109. The electronic components may include amplifiers, signal processors, tuners, impedance matching circuits, or other components positioned between the MLB and the antenna feed (e.g., 105). Each antenna feed 105 / 106 may have its own set of antenna feed components. Some of these components (e.g., the impedance matching circuits) may allow the capacitive touch sensor 101 to be used as an antenna and, more specifically, may allow the capacitive touch sensor to operate as an antenna at different designated frequencies.

[0041] The multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 101 of system 100 may be secured to at least a portion of the support structure 109. The multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 101 may have different layers including a capacitive touch surface layer, a ground flood layer, and a structural layer (see FIG. 5 for further details). The capacitive touch surface layer may include capacitance sensors designed to detect changes in capacitance due to human touch and provide indications of those touches to a processor. The ground flood layer may provide grounding for the capacitive touch layer (among other components), while the structural layermay provide structural rigidity to withstand repeated touching by a user. In some cases, the capacitive touch sensor 101 may be positioned on an outside surface of at least one sidearm of the AR glasses. Other positions on a smartwatch or on a VR headset or on a handheld controller or other device are also possible.

[0042] The system 100 may further include a conductive element 111 that electrically connects the antenna feed 105 to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 101. The conductive element 111 may be a spring clip, an electrically conductive wire, or other conductive element. The conductive element 111 may connect the antenna feed 105 to the capacitive touch sensor 101 to cause the capacitive touch sensor to radiate wireless signals as an antenna. Indeed, the antenna and antenna feed may cause electrical signals to be transmitted directly to the capacitive touch sensor 101 to cause the touch sensor to resonate (or receive wireless radiation) in a transmission or receiving mode. As such, at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 101 may act as a radiator for the antenna feed 105 / 106. These embodiments will be described in greater detail below with regard to FIGS. 2-6.

[0043] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a system 200 that includes a capacitive touch sensor 201. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the capacitive touch sensor 201 has been removed so that antenna feed 206 is visible. Antenna feed 205 (underneath the capacitive touch sensor 201) may also be attached to at least a portion of the capacitive touch sensor 201. In some cases, the capacitive touch sensor 201 may include different portions that are electrically isolated from each other. In such embodiments, the first antenna feed 205 may be connected to one portion, while the second antenna feed 206 may be electrically connected to a different portion. This may allow both isolated portions of the capacitive touch sensor 201 to operate simultaneously at different frequencies (e.g., 2.4GHz and 5-7GHz).

[0044] In other embodiments, the capacitive touch sensor 201 may be formed in a single portion but may be alternatively operated at different frequencies at different times using the two antenna feeds 205 / 206. It should be noted that, at least in some embodiments, the capacitive touch sensor 201 may be divided into substantially any number of individual sections, each of which may have its own antenna feed and each of which may operate at its own frequency.

[0045] In some cases, at least a portion of the capacitive touch sensor 201 may overlap with other elements or components of the system 200, including a main logic board204, a button 210 and associated components, a battery (e.g., 102 of FIG. 1), a connecting clip 103, a board-to-board connector 107, an input mechanism 110, the support structure 109, or other components. In some cases, the capacitive touch sensor 201 may be positioned on an upper exterior portion of the AR glasses sidearm, on an outer exterior portion, or on a bottom exterior portion of the sidearm.

[0046] Still further, at least in some cases, some or all of the capacitive touch sensor 201 may be positioned on the front frame of the AR glasses or in any other position that is reachable by the user's finger. The capacitive touch sensor 201 may allow the user to interact with virtual user interfaces or other virtual objects that are visible to the user through the AR glasses lenses.

[0047] In some embodiments, the antenna feed components may include at least one choking or matching component configured to block signals having a frequency above a specified threshold value. For instance, a matching component that is part of the antenna feed components for antenna feed 205 may be configured to block frequencies above 2.5GHz (in embodiments where WiFi is used only in the 2.4-2.5GHz band). Additionally or alternatively, a matching component that is part of the antenna feed components for antenna feed 206 may be configured to block frequencies above 7.1GHz, depending on the design requirements for the AR glasses. At least in some cases, these matching components may be used to match the antenna to the RF trace (e.g., at 50 Ohms). It should also be noted that the embodiments described herein may be used in global positioning system (GPS) antennas, ultrawideband (UWB) antennas, cellular antennas, or other antennas operating at different radio frequency bands.

[0048] Thus, one or more matching components may be implemented as antenna feed components to tailor the frequencies generated or received by the capacitive touch sensor 201 functioning as an antenna. Similarly, the antenna feed components for the antenna feeds 205 and / or 206 may include tuners. These tuners may also be used to tune or otherwise control the frequency or frequency range in which the antenna is operating (or in which each portion of the antenna is operating).

[0049] FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom-up perspective view in which the system 300 is shown from the bottom looking up. The bottom of the AR glasses sidearm may include a battery 302 and an input module 303 for receiving inputs from peripheral devices such as microphones. The AR glasses sidearm may also include a board-to-board connector 307 thatconnects the battery to the main logic board 308. The main logic board 308 may include multiple electronic components including a first antenna feed 305 that is configured to operate at a first specified frequency, and a second antenna feed 306 that is configured to operate at a second, different frequency.

[0050] The antenna feeds 305 and 306 may connect to the capacitive touch sensor 301 at different locations along the sensor. This may allow the various antenna feeds to cause (or receive) resonation at different frequencies. A structural element 309 may allow the main logic board to be connected to a hinge and, thereby, to the front frame of the AR glasses. Interactive buttons 310 or other elements may allow the wearer of the AR glasses to select features or otherwise interact with software running on the AR glasses.

[0051] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a system 400 that may implement a capacitive touch sensor 401 as an antenna. The system 401 may include a capacitive touch sensor 401 having different sections or areas. The capacitive touch sensor 401 may be electrically connected to an antenna feed 405. In some cases, the conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the capacitive touch sensor 401 may be a spring clip. In other cases, a wire or other electrically conductive element may be used to connect the antenna feed 405 to the capacitive touch sensor 401.

[0052] As noted previously, in some embodiments, the capacitive touch sensor 401 may include different sections. In such cases, each of these areas may be connected to a different antenna feed. For instance, the system 400 of FIG. 4 may include areas 402 and 403 that are part of capacitive touch sensor 401. At least in some cases, each of these areas may be electrically isolated from the other capacitive touch sensing areas and may be connected to different antenna feeds. In this manner, the capacitive touch sensor 401 may resonate at different frequencies simultaneously. In other cases, the capacitive touch sensor 401 is a single unit comprising a plurality of different touch sensing capacitive cells. In such cases, a single antenna feed or multiple antenna feeds may be connected to the capacitive touch sensor 401. The different antennas may operate in sequential manner in which one operates while the other is silent, and then transitions to the other antenna feed while the former is silent.

[0053] The main logic board 404 of system 400 may include multiple different antenna feeds and other components 406 to assist in the generation and proliferation of wireless signals. In some cases, for instance, the antenna feed components may include oneor more impedance matching circuits that are configured to cause resonation at a specified frequency. The impedance matching circuit(s) may be positioned on or near the capacitive touch sensor 401 or on the main logic board 404. The impedance matching circuit may be implemented to impedance match the signal between the capacitive touch sensor 401 (or from 402 or 403) and the antenna feed. This impedance matching may allow the capacitive touch sensor 401 to operate at a specified frequency or within a range of different frequencies.

[0054] In some embodiments, the system 400 may include electronic traces between components including antennas, batteries, speakers, sensors, cameras, processors, microphones, and other components. In some cases, these traces may be used exclusively by the linked components, and in other cases, the traces may be shared. Thus, in some embodiments, a trace that electrically links the antenna feed 405 to at least one processor on the main logic board 404 may be exclusively used by the antenna feed and the processor on the MLB, or in other cases, the trace that electrically links the antenna feed 405 to the processor on the MLB may be shared by at least one additional electronic component. This additional electronic component may be a sensor, a microphone, a battery, a speaker, or other component. In such cases, the trace sharing may result in a smaller bill of materials for the electronic device, may result in less complexity, and may result in reduced cost for the device.

[0055] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a system 500 that includes a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 501. The multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 501 may include a capacitive touch surface layer 507A, a ground flood layer 507B, and a routing layer 507C. The capacitive touch surface layer 507A may be comprised of a grid of capacitive, touch-sensitive cells capable of detecting changes in capacitance. These detected changes in capacitance are then converted to electrical values and processed by a processor to determine where and how a user is interacting with the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 501. The capacitive touch surface layer 507A may be a single unit or may be divided into individually isolated sections. The capacitive touch surface layer 507A may be configured to detect not only single touches, but multiple simultaneous touches as well as swipes or gestures provided by the user.

[0056] The ground flood layer 507B may act as an electrical ground for the multilayer capacitive touch sensor 501. Additionally or alternatively, the ground flood layer 507Bmay act as an electrical ground for other electronic components including other sensors, batteries (e.g., 502), speakers, cameras, processors, or other components (e.g., 503-506). In some cases, the ground flood layer 507B may be connected to a grounded subframe that extends along a sidearm of the AR glasses or other electronic device. The routing layer 507C may provide trace routing for the components of the capacitive touch surface layer 507A, including the speaker and the microphone. In some cases, the routing layer 507C may include electronic traces of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor. In such cases, the antenna feed 505 may be electrically attached to the traces on the structural layer of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor. Alternatively, the antenna feed 505 may be electrically attached to the capacitive touch surface layer of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 501.

[0057] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate embodiments in which a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 601 may be part of a pair of AR glasses 600 worn on a user's head. While the full glasses are not shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the AR glasses may appear similar to those shown in system 700 of FIG. 7. The AR glasses may have sidearms or temple arms 603. The multilayer capacitive touch sensor 601 may be located on the exterior surface of the temple arm 603. The multi-layer capacitive touch sensor may be connected to an antenna feed 602 and may radiate in a radiation pattern shown in FIG. 6B. Indeed, the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 601, when stimulated by signals provided by the antenna feed 602, may radiate in a pattern generally shown around user 604's head as radiation pattern 605. Other frequencies may have different radiation patterns.

[0058] In some cases, each temple arm 603 (on the right and left side of the user's head) may have multi-layer capacitive touch sensors. In such cases, the augmented reality glasses may include a left-side temple arm and a right-side temple arm, each of which may be electrically isolated from each other. In this example embodiment, the right and left temple arms may each include antennas that are configured to communicate with and synchronize with each other. Thus, one side may transmit and receive at 2.4GHz, for example, and the other side may transmit and receive at 5-7GHz. Other frequencies and frequency ranges are, of course, possible.

[0059] In some cases, the two temple arms may each have their own MLBs, processors, batteries, and other components. In such cases, the two sides may communicate with each other and synchronize their external communications with each other. This may increase the strength and reliability of the AR glasses' connections with external devices.

[0060] In other embodiments, the right and left temple arms may be electrically connected to each other, either through flexible connectors that pass through the respective hinges, or through electrically conductive hinges and a linking wire across the lens frame. In such cases, the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor 601 may be electrically attached to a conductive hinge in the mobile electronic device's support structure. The two hinges may also be electrically connected, thereby connecting the two temple arms to each other. Accordingly, single-sensor embodiments and multi-sensor embodiments may be implemented, where the AR glasses have a single multi-layer capacitive touch sensor or have multi-layer capacitive touch sensors on both sides of the glasses. Each of these capacitive touch sensors may be tuned to operate within a desired frequency range that allows the AR glasses (or other mobile device) to communicate wirelessly with other surrounding electronic devices or wireless networks.

[0061] In addition to the system described above, a corresponding mobile electronic device may include: a support structure, an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components, a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor that is secured to at least a portion of the support structure, and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

[0062] A corresponding apparatus may include: a support structure, an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components, a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor that is secured to at least a portion of the support structure, and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

[0063] Example Embodiments

[0064] Example 1. A system may include: a support structure, an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components, a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor that is secured to at least a portion of the support structure, and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

[0065] Example 2. The system of example 1, further comprising a chokingcomponent configured to block signals having a frequency above a specified threshold value.

[0066] Example 3. The system of any of examples 1-2, further comprising a second antenna feed, wherein the antenna feed is configured to operate at a first specified frequency, and wherein the second antenna is configured to operate at a second, different frequency.

[0067] Example 4. The system of any of examples 1-3, wherein the conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor comprises a spring clip.

[0068] Example 5. The system of any of examples 1-4, wherein the antenna feed components comprise an impedance matching circuit configured to cause resonation at a specified frequency.

[0069] Example 6. The system of any of examples 1-5, wherein the impedance matching circuit is positioned on the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

[0070] Example 7. The system of any of examples 1-6, wherein the impedance matching circuit is positioned on a main logic board.

[0071] Example 8. The system of any of examples 1-7, further comprising at least one trace that electrically links the antenna feed to at least one processor on a main logic board (MLB).

[0072] Example 9. The system of any of examples 1-8, wherein the trace that electrically links the antenna feed to the processor on the MLB is shared by at least one additional electronic component.

[0073] Example 10. The system of any of examples 1-9, wherein the at least one additional electronic component comprises at least one of: a sensor, a microphone, a battery, or a speaker.

[0074] Example 11. The system of any of examples 1-10, wherein the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor includes a capacitive touch surface layer, a ground flood layer, and a structural layer.

[0075] Example 12. The system of any of examples 1-11, wherein the structural layer includes one or more traces of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

[0076] Example 13. The system of any of examples 1-12, wherein the antenna feed is electrically attached to the traces on the structural layer of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

[0077] Example 14. The system of any of examples 1-13, wherein the antenna feed is electrically attached to the capacitive touch surface layer of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

[0078] Example 15. A mobile electronic device may include: a support structure, an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components, a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor that is secured to at least a portion of the support structure, and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

[0079] Example 16. The mobile electronic device of example 15, wherein the mobile electronic device comprises a pair of augmented reality glasses.

[0080] Example 17. The mobile electronic device of example 15 or Example 16, wherein the augmented reality glasses comprise a first temple arm and a second temple arm, and wherein the first temple arm is electrically isolated from the second temple arm.

[0081] Example 18. The mobile electronic device of any of examples 13-17, wherein the first and second temple arms each include antennas that are configured to communicate with and synchronize with each other.

[0082] Example 19. The mobile electronic device of any of examples 13-18, wherein the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor is electrically attached to a conductive hinge in the mobile electronic device's support structure.

[0083] Example 20. An apparatus may include: a support structure, an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components, a multi-layer capacitive touch sensor that is secured to at least a portion of the support structure, and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

[0084] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include or be implemented in conjunction with various types of artificial-reality systems. Artificial reality is a form of reality that has been adjusted in some manner before presentation to a user, which may include, for example, a virtual reality, an augmented reality, a mixed reality, a hybrid reality, or some combination and / or derivative thereof. Artificial-reality content may include completely computer-generated content or computer-generated content combined with captured (e.g.,real-world) content. The artificial-reality content may include video, audio, haptic feedback, or some combination thereof, any of which may be presented in a single channel or in multiple channels (such as stereo video that produces a three-dimensional (3D) effect to the viewer). Additionally, in some embodiments, artificial reality may also be associated with applications, products, accessories, services, or some combination thereof, that are used to, for example, create content in an artificial reality and / or are otherwise used in (e.g., to perform activities in) an artificial reality.

[0085] Artificial-reality systems may be implemented in a variety of different form factors and configurations. Some artificial-reality systems may be designed to work without near-eye displays (NEDs). Other artificial-reality systems may include an NED that also provides visibility into the real world (such as, e.g., augmented-reality system 700 in FIG. 7) or that visually immerses a user in an artificial reality (such as, e.g., virtual-reality system 800 in FIG. 8). While some artificial-reality devices may be self-contained systems, other artificialreality devices may communicate and / or coordinate with external devices to provide an artificial-reality experience to a user. Examples of such external devices include handheld controllers, mobile devices, desktop computers, devices worn by a user, devices worn by one or more other users, and / or any other suitable external system.

[0086] Turning to FIG. 7, augmented-reality system 700 may include an eyewear device 702 with a frame 710 configured to hold a left display device 715(A) and a right display device 715(B) in front of a user's eyes. Display devices 715(A) and 715(B) may act together or independently to present an image or series of images to a user. While augmented-reality system 700 includes two displays, embodiments of this disclosure may be implemented in augmented-reality systems with a single NED or more than two NEDs.

[0087] In some embodiments, augmented-reality system 700 may include one or more sensors, such as sensor 740. Sensor 740 may generate measurement signals in response to motion of augmented-reality system 700 and may be located on substantially any portion of frame 710. Sensor 740 may represent one or more of a variety of different sensing mechanisms, such as a position sensor, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), a depth camera assembly, a structured light emitter and / or detector, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, augmented-reality system 700 may or may not include sensor 740 or may include more than one sensor. In embodiments in which sensor 740 includes an IMU, the IMU may generate calibration data based on measurement signals from sensor 740. Examples ofsensor 740 may include, without limitation, accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, other suitable types of sensors that detect motion, sensors used for error correction of the IMU, or some combination thereof.

[0088] In some examples, augmented-reality system 700 may also include a microphone array with a plurality of acoustic transducers 720(A)-720(J), referred to collectively as acoustic transducers 720. Acoustic transducers 720 may represent transducers that detect air pressure variations induced by sound waves. Each acoustic transducer 720 may be configured to detect sound and convert the detected sound into an electronic format (e.g., an analog or digital format). The microphone array in FIG. 7 may include, for example, ten acoustic transducers: 720(A) and 720(B), which may be designed to be placed inside a corresponding ear of the user, acoustic transducers 720(C), 720(D), 720(E), 720(F), 720(G), and 720(H), which may be positioned at various locations on frame 710, and / or acoustic transducers 720(1) and 720(J), which may be positioned on a corresponding neckband 705.

[0089] In some embodiments, one or more of acoustic transducers 720(A)-(J) may be used as output transducers (e.g., speakers). For example, acoustic transducers 720(A) and / or 720(B) may be earbuds or any other suitable type of headphone or speaker.

[0090] The configuration of acoustic transducers 720 of the microphone array may vary. While augmented-reality system 700 is shown in FIG. 7 as having ten acoustic transducers 720, the number of acoustic transducers 720 may be greater or less than ten. In some embodiments, using higher numbers of acoustic transducers 720 may increase the amount of audio information collected and / or the sensitivity and accuracy of the audio information. In contrast, using a lower number of acoustic transducers 720 may decrease the computing power required by an associated controller 750 to process the collected audio information. In addition, the position of each acoustic transducer 720 of the microphone array may vary. For example, the position of an acoustic transducer 720 may include a defined position on the user, a defined coordinate on frame 710, an orientation associated with each acoustic transducer 720, or some combination thereof.

[0091] Acoustic transducers 720(A) and 720(B) may be positioned on different parts of the user's ear, such as behind the pinna, behind the tragus, and / or within the auricle or fossa. Or, there may be additional acoustic transducers 720 on or surrounding the ear in addition to acoustic transducers 720 inside the ear canal. Having an acoustic transducer 720 positioned next to an ear canal of a user may enable the microphone array to collectinformation on how sounds arrive at the ear canal. By positioning at least two of acoustic transducers 720 on either side of a user's head (e.g., as binaural microphones), augmented- reality system 700 may simulate binaural hearing and capture a 3D stereo sound field around about a user's head. In some embodiments, acoustic transducers 720(A) and 720(B) may be connected to augmented-reality system 700 via a wired connection 730, and in other embodiments acoustic transducers 720(A) and 720(B) may be connected to augmented- reality system 700 via a wireless connection (e.g., a BLUETOOTH connection). In still other embodiments, acoustic transducers 720(A) and 720(B) may not be used at all in conjunction with augmented-reality system 700.

[0092] Acoustic transducers 720 on frame 710 may be positioned in a variety of different ways, including along the length of the temples, across the bridge, above or below display devices 715(A) and 715(B), or some combination thereof. Acoustic transducers 720 may also be oriented such that the microphone array is able to detect sounds in a wide range of directions surrounding the user wearing the augmented-reality system 700. In some embodiments, an optimization process may be performed during manufacturing of augmented-reality system 700 to determine relative positioning of each acoustic transducer 720 in the microphone array.

[0093] In some examples, augmented-reality system 700 may include or be connected to an external device (e.g., a paired device), such as neckband 705. Neckband 705 generally represents any type or form of paired device. Thus, the following discussion of neckband 705 may also apply to various other paired devices, such as charging cases, smart watches, smart phones, wrist bands, other wearable devices, hand-held controllers, tablet computers, laptop computers, other external compute devices, etc.

[0094] As shown, neckband 705 may be coupled to eyewear device 702 via one or more connectors. The connectors may be wired or wireless and may include electrical and / or non-electrical (e.g., structural) components. In some cases, eyewear device 702 and neckband 705 may operate independently without any wired or wireless connection between them. While FIG. 7 illustrates the components of eyewear device 702 and neckband 705 in example locations on eyewear device 702 and neckband 705, the components may be located elsewhere and / or distributed differently on eyewear device 702 and / or neckband 705. In some embodiments, the components of eyewear device 702 and neckband 705 may be located on one or more additional peripheral devices paired with eyewear device 702,neckband 705, or some combination thereof.

[0095] Pairing external devices, such as neckband 705, with augmented-reality eyewear devices may enable the eyewear devices to achieve the form factor of a pair of glasses while still providing sufficient battery and computation power for expanded capabilities. Some or all of the battery power, computational resources, and / or additional features of augmented-reality system 700 may be provided by a paired device or shared between a paired device and an eyewear device, thus reducing the weight, heat profile, and form factor of the eyewear device overall while still retaining desired functionality. For example, neckband 705 may allow components that would otherwise be included on an eyewear device to be included in neckband 705 since users may tolerate a heavier weight load on theirshoulders than they would tolerate on their heads. Neckband 705 may also have a larger surface area over which to diffuse and disperse heat to the ambient environment. Thus, neckband 705 may allow for greater battery and computation capacity than might otherwise have been possible on a stand-alone eyewear device. Since weight carried in neckband 705 may be less invasive to a user than weight carried in eyewear device 702, a user may tolerate wearing a lighter eyewear device and carrying or wearing the paired device for greater lengths of time than a user would tolerate wearing a heavy standalone eyewear device, thereby enabling users to more fully incorporate artificial-reality environments into their day-to-day activities.

[0096] Neckband 705 may be communicatively coupled with eyewear device 702 and / or to other devices. These other devices may provide certain functions (e.g., tracking, localizing, depth mapping, processing, storage, etc.) to augmented-reality system 700. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, neckband 705 may include two acoustic transducers (e.g., 720(1) and 720(J)) that are part of the microphone array (or potentially form their own microphone subarray). Neckband 705 may also include a controller 725 and a power source 735.

[0097] Acoustic transducers 720(1) and 720(J) of neckband 705 may be configured to detect sound and convert the detected sound into an electronic format (analog or digital). In the embodiment of FIG. 7, acoustic transducers 720(1) and 720(J) may be positioned on neckband 705, thereby increasing the distance between the neckband acoustic transducers 720(1) and 720(1) and other acoustic transducers 720 positioned on eyewear device 702. In some cases, increasing the distance between acoustic transducers 720 of the microphone array may improve the accuracy of beamforming performed via the microphone array. Forexample, if a sound is detected by acoustic transducers 720(C) and 720(D) and the distance between acoustic transducers 720(C) and 720(D) is greater than, e.g., the distance between acoustic transducers 720(D) and 720(E), the determined source location of the detected sound may be more accurate than if the sound had been detected by acoustic transducers 720(D) and 720(E).

[0098] Controller 725 of neckband 705 may process information generated by the sensors on neckband 705 and / or augmented-reality system 700. For example, controller 725 may process information from the microphone array that describes sounds detected by the microphone array. For each detected sound, controller 725 may perform a direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation to estimate a direction from which the detected sound arrived at the microphone array. As the microphone array detects sounds, controller 725 may populate an audio data set with the information. In embodiments in which augmented-reality system 700 includes an inertial measurement unit, controller 725 may compute all inertial and spatial calculations from the IMU located on eyewear device 702. A connector may convey information between augmented-reality system 700 and neckband 705 and between augmented-reality system 700 and controller 725. The information may be in the form of optical data, electrical data, wireless data, or any other transmittable data form. Moving the processing of information generated by augmented-reality system 700 to neckband 705 may reduce weight and heat in eyewear device 702, making it more comfortable to the user.

[0099] Power source 735 in neckband 705 may provide power to eyewear device 702 and / or to neckband 705. Power source 735 may include, without limitation, lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, primary lithium batteries, alkaline batteries, or any other form of power storage. In some cases, power source 735 may be a wired power source. Including power source 735 on neckband 705 instead of on eyewear device 702 may help better distribute the weight and heat generated by power source 735.

[0100] As noted, some artificial-reality systems may, instead of blending an artificial reality with actual reality, substantially replace one or more of a user's sensory perceptions of the real world with a virtual experience. One example of this type of system is a head-worn display system, such as virtual-reality system 800 in FIG. 8, that mostly or completely covers a user's field of view. Virtual-reality system 800 may include a front rigid body 802 and a band 804 shaped to fit around a user's head. Virtual-reality system 800 may also include output audio transducers 806(A) and 806(B). Furthermore, while not shown inFIG. 8, front rigid body 802 may include one or more electronic elements, including one or more electronic displays, one or more inertial measurement units (IMUs), one or more tracking emitters or detectors, and / or any other suitable device or system for creating an artificial-reality experience.

[0101] Artificial-reality systems may include a variety of types of visual feedback mechanisms. For example, display devices in augmented-reality system 700 and / or virtual- reality system 800 may include one or more liquid crystal displays (LCDs), light emitting diode (LED) displays, microLED displays, organic LED (OLED) displays, digital light projector (DLP) micro-displays, liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) micro-displays, and / or any other suitable type of display screen. These artificial-reality systems may include a single display screen for both eyes or may provide a display screen for each eye, which may allow for additional flexibility for varifocal adjustments or for correcting a user's refractive error. Some of these artificial-reality systems may also include optical subsystems having one or more lenses (e.g., concave or convex lenses, Fresnel lenses, adjustable liquid lenses, etc.) through which a user may view a display screen. These optical subsystems may serve a variety of purposes, including to collimate (e.g., make an object appear at a greater distance than its physical distance), to magnify (e.g., make an object appear larger than its actual size), and / or to relay (to, e.g., the viewer's eyes) light. These optical subsystems may be used in a non-pupil- forming architecture (such as a single lens configuration that directly collimates light but results in so-called pincushion distortion) and / or a pupil-forming architecture (such as a multilens configuration that produces so-called barrel distortion to nullify pincushion distortion).

[0102] In addition to or instead of using display screens, some of the artificial-reality systems described herein may include one or more projection systems. For example, display devices in augmented-reality system 700 and / or virtual-reality system 800 may include micro-LED projectors that project light (using, e.g., a waveguide) into display devices, such as clear combiner lenses that allow ambient light to pass through. The display devices may refract the projected light toward a user's pupil and may enable a user to simultaneously view both artificial-reality content and the real world. The display devices may accomplish this using any of a variety of different optical components, including waveguide components (e.g., holographic, planar, diffractive, polarized, and / or reflective waveguide elements), light-manipulation surfaces and elements (such as diffractive, reflective, and refractive elements and gratings), coupling elements, etc. Artificial-reality systems may alsobe configured with any other suitable type or form of image projection system, such as retinal projectors used in virtual retina displays.

[0103] The artificial-reality systems described herein may also include various types of computer vision components and subsystems. For example, augmented-reality system 700 and / or virtual-reality system 800 may include one or more optical sensors, such as two-dimensional (2D) or 3D cameras, structured light transmitters and detectors, time-of- flight depth sensors, single-beam or sweeping laser rangefinders, 3D LiDAR sensors, and / or any other suitable type or form of optical sensor. An artificial-reality system may process data from one or more of these sensors to identify a location of a user, to map the real world, to provide a user with context about real-world surroundings, and / or to perform a variety of other functions.

[0104] The artificial-reality systems described herein may also include one or more input and / or output audio transducers. Output audio transducers may include voice coil speakers, ribbon speakers, electrostatic speakers, piezoelectric speakers, bone conduction transducers, cartilage conduction transducers, tragus-vibration transducers, and / or any other suitable type or form of audio transducer. Similarly, input audio transducers may include condenser microphones, dynamic microphones, ribbon microphones, and / or any other type or form of input transducer. In some embodiments, a single transducer may be used for both audio input and audio output.

[0105] In some embodiments, the artificial-reality systems described herein may also include tactile (i.e., haptic) feedback systems, which may be incorporated into headwear, gloves, bodysuits, handheld controllers, environmental devices (e.g., chairs, floor mats, etc.), and / or any other type of device or system. Haptic feedback systems may provide various types of cutaneous feedback, including vibration, force, traction, texture, and / or temperature. Haptic feedback systems may also provide various types of kinesthetic feedback, such as motion and compliance. Haptic feedback may be implemented using motors, piezoelectric actuators, fluidic systems, and / or a variety of other types of feedback mechanisms. Haptic feedback systems may be implemented independent of other artificial-reality devices, within other artificial-reality devices, and / or in conjunction with other artificial-reality devices.

[0106] By providing haptic sensations, audible content, and / or visual content, artificial-reality systems may create an entire virtual experience or enhance a user's real-world experience in a variety of contexts and environments. For instance, artificial-reality systems may assist or extend a user's perception, memory, or cognition within a particular environment. Some systems may enhance a user's interactions with other people in the real world or may enable more immersive interactions with other people in a virtual world. Artificial-reality systems may also be used for educational purposes (e.g., for teaching or training in schools, hospitals, government organizations, military organizations, business enterprises, etc.), entertainment purposes (e.g., for playing video games, listening to music, watching video content, etc.), and / or for accessibility purposes (e.g., as hearing aids, visual aids, etc.). The embodiments disclosed herein may enable or enhance a user's artificial-reality experience in one or more of these contexts and environments and / or in other contexts and environments.

[0107] As detailed above, the computing devices and systems described and / or illustrated herein broadly represent any type or form of computing device or system capable of executing computer-readable instructions, such as those contained within the modules described herein. In their most basic configuration, these computing device(s) may each include at least one memory device and at least one physical processor.

[0108] In some examples, the term "memory device" generally refers to any type or form of volatile or non-volatile storage device or medium capable of storing data and / or computer-readable instructions. In one example, a memory device may store, load, and / or maintain one or more of the modules described herein. Examples of memory devices include, without limitation, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), flash memory, Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), Solid-State Drives (SSDs), optical disk drives, caches, variations or combinations of one or more of the same, or any other suitable storage memory.

[0109] In some examples, the term "physical processor" generally refers to any type or form of hardware-implemented processing unit capable of interpreting and / or executing computer-readable instructions. In one example, a physical processor may access and / or modify one or more modules stored in the above-described memory device. Examples of physical processors include, without limitation, microprocessors, microcontrollers, Central Processing Units (CPUs), Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) that implement softcore processors, Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), portions of one or more of the same, variations or combinations of one or more of the same, or any other suitable physical processor.

[0110] Although illustrated as separate elements, the modules described and / or illustrated herein may represent portions of a single module or application. In addition, in certain embodiments one or more of these modules may represent one or more software applications or programs that, when executed by a computing device, may cause the computing device to perform one or more tasks. For example, one or more of the modules described and / or illustrated herein may represent modules stored and configured to run on one or more of the computing devices or systems described and / or illustrated herein. One or more of these modules may also represent all or portions of one or more special-purpose computers configured to perform one or more tasks.

[0111] In addition, one or more of the modules described herein may transform data, physical devices, and / or representations of physical devices from one form to another. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the modules recited herein may transform a processor, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and / or any other portion of a physical computing device from one form to another by executing on the computing device, storing data on the computing device, and / or otherwise interacting with the computing device.

[0112] In some embodiments, the term "computer-readable medium" generally refers to any form of device, carrier, or medium capable of storing or carrying computer- readable instructions. Examples of computer-readable media include, without limitation, transmission-type media, such as carrier waves, and non-transitory-type media, such as magnetic-storage media (e.g., hard disk drives, tape drives, and floppy disks), optical-storage media (e.g., Compact Disks (CDs), Digital Video Disks (DVDs), and BLU-RAY disks), electronic- storage media (e.g., solid-state drives and flash media), and other distribution systems.

[0113] The process parameters and sequence of the steps described and / or illustrated herein are given by way of example only and can be varied as desired. For example, while the steps illustrated and / or described herein may be shown or discussed in a particular order, these steps do not necessarily need to be performed in the order illustrated or discussed. The various exemplary methods described and / or illustrated herein may also omit one or more of the steps described or illustrated herein or include additional steps in addition to those disclosed.

[0114] The preceding description has been provided to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize various aspects of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein. This exemplary description is not intended to be exhaustive or to be limited to any precise formdisclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects illustrative and not restrictive. Reference should be made to the appended claims and their equivalents in determining the scope of the present disclosure.

[0115] Unless otherwise noted, the terms "connected to" and "coupled to" (and their derivatives), as used in the specification and claims, are to be construed as permitting both direct and indirect (i.e., via other elements or components) connection. In addition, the terms "a" or "an," as used in the specification and claims, are to be construed as meaning "at least one of." Finally, for ease of use, the terms "including" and "having" (and their derivatives), as used in the specification and claims, are interchangeable with and have the same meaning as the word "comprising."

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system comprising: a support structure; an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components; a multi4ayer capacitive touch sensorthat is secured to at least a portion of the support structure; and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi4ayer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a choking component configured to block signals having a frequency above a specified threshold value.

3. The system of claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a second antenna feed, wherein the antenna feed is configured to operate at a first specified frequency, and wherein the second antenna is configured to operate at a second, different frequency.

4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor comprises a spring clip.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the antenna feed components comprise an impedance matching circuit configured to cause resonation at a specified frequency.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the impedance matching circuit is positioned on the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor; and / or wherein the impedance matching circuit is positioned on a main logic board.

7. The system of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising at least one trace that electrically links the antenna feed to at least one processor on a main logic board (MLB).

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the trace that electrically links the antenna feed to the processor on the MLB is shared by at least one additional electronic component.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one additional electronic component comprises at least one of: a sensor, a microphone, a battery, or a speaker.

10. The system of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor includes a capacitive touch surface layer, a ground flood layer, and a structural layer.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the structural layer includes one or more traces of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the antenna feed is electrically attached to the traces on the structural layer of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor; and / or wherein the antenna feed is electrically attached to the capacitive touch surface layer of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor.

13. A mobile electronic device comprising: a support structure; an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components; a multi-layer capacitive touch sensorthat is secured to at least a portion of the support structure; and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

14. The mobile electronic device of claim 13, further comprising at least one of the following features:(i) wherein the mobile electronic device comprises a pair of augmented reality glasses; and, optionally, wherein the augmented reality glasses comprise a first temple arm and a second temple arm, and wherein the first temple arm is electrically isolated from the second temple arm; and, optionally, wherein the first and second temple arms each include antennas that are configured to communicate with and synchronize with each other; and / or(ii) wherein the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor is electrically attached to a conductive hinge in the mobile electronic device's support structure.

15. An apparatus comprising: a support structure; an antenna feed including one or more antenna feed components; a multi-layer capacitive touch sensorthat is secured to at least a portion of the support structure; and a conductive element that electrically connects the antenna feed to the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor, such that at least a portion of the multi-layer capacitive touch sensor acts as a radiator for the antenna feed.

Images