Manual user input device

Abstract

A manual user input device for translating physical movement into control signals in an electronic device such as a computer. The device has a control element which can be manipulated by the user, a base element which is movably connected to the control element in multiple degrees of freedom. The device is provided with a sensor arrangement for detecting the motion of the control element. The device has magnets and Hall effect sensors for detecting the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field using the Hall effect resulting from motion of the multiple magnets.

Description

[0001] MANUAL USER INPUT DEVICE

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The invention relates to a manual user input device for electronic devices, such as a computer, phone or tablet.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Controlling of electronic devices such as computers is often done by a keyboard, and a separate dedicated device for manipulating for example a cursor on a computer screen. The most commonly known dedicated manual input interface comprises a so- called mouse. Other variations are available, such as touchpads, mice, joysticks or trackballs, each of which have their special characteristics and applications. A mouse and the aforementioned variations with two degrees of freedom (hereafter DOF), i.e. movable in x and y direction, are typically very suitable for moving a cursor on a screen in a two-dimensional (2D) plane.

[0006] Since computer software is also capable of simulating three-dimensional (3D) environments or objects, such as in flight simulator games, devices have been developed, such as yokes, which are capable of simulating a virtual movement in a 3D environment, e.g. for controlling of a virtual airplane in a flight simulator.

[0007] Since the emergence of 3D computer aided design and drawing (CAD) programs, objects on a 2D screen need to be manipulated, drawn and edited in a virtual 3D environment as well. Instead of just moving the object, like in a flight simulator, now the object itself needs to be designed, which requires great precision and intuitive use, and the possibility to, for example, select parts of the object, draw the object, add and remove parts of the object, all in a 3D environment. At the same time, an additional input device such as a keyboard is usually needed to select functions, colours, shapes etc. For this purpose, 3D manipulators which comprise 6 DOF, e.g. by combining the motion of a mouse with a joystick and adding Z axis movement and yaw to it, are developed which may be operated by one hand without taking up much space and which may be used on a desktop together with, for example, a keyboard. Hereinafter patent publications are discussed which e.g. seek to provide 3D manipulators which may manipulate objects in up to six Degrees Of Freedom (abbreviated as 6DOF).

[0008] European patent application EP1585015 A1 by 3DConnexion GmbH is summarised as a device for manual input of control signals in a computer-related environment, the device comprises a base for supporting the device on a surface and a first input member mounted on the base for rotary movement about a vertical axis. A sensor arrangement is housed in a central space for detecting and interpreting rotary movement of the first input member relative to the base. Second input members are provided with a switch or relay to be actuated by application of finger pressure. Rotary movement of the first input member and / or actuation of the second input members is adapted to generate a corresponding control signal within the computer environment.

[0009] The sensor arrangement is undefined in above patent application, but a related product by 3DConnexion is known to have opto-electric sensors as for example disclosed in European patent application EP 1843243A1 by 3Dconnexion Holding SA, which is summarised as an optoelectronic device for determining relative movements or relative positions of two objects. The device has a first object fixed to a frame and a second object mounted in spaced relation to the first object and adapted for movement relative thereto. The device has cells for determining movement or displacement of the second object relative to the first object and a stop arrangement for limiting the movement of the second object relative to the first object. The stop arrangement has elongate members which, at one end thereof, are rigidly interconnected with one another and, at the other end thereof, are fixed relative to the frame of the device.

[0010] At least two problems emerge when applying the above prior art technologies.

[0011] Firstly, the control element acts as an intermediary filter between the emitter and receiver, this limits its range of motion. The room for interception and receiver mechanics and electronics has to be arranged within the limited space of the control element.

[0012] Secondly, the emitter, as well as the receiver, both require electrical power which further complicates the design.

[0013] LIS2017 / 0134024 discloses a user interface device including a floating actuator sub-assembly and a base assembly flexibly coupled to the floating actuator assembly. The floating actuator assembly includes a magnet array assembly with a plurality of magnets fixed relative to each other.

[0014] US2020 / 004345 provides a rotary input device that includes a base, a cover, a column, one or more first magnets, one or more second magnets, a plurality of magnetic sensors, and a signal processing circuit.

[0015] DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0016] It is an object of the present invention to provide a user input device which enables a user to control objects in a three-dimensional space. It is a further object to provide the device with a user interaction providing a controlled input with an electronic device such as a computer, whereby the controlled input is accurate and reliable. Furthermore, it is an object to provide a device which is easy to use, which is bespoke and / or may be customised for a specific user requirement or application. Further, an object is to provide a durable, reliable user input device, having good, efficient manufacturability.

[0017] According to the invention one or more of these objects are achieved by the features of independent claim 1. Further extra advantageous aspects of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0018] In an aspect of the invention a manual user input device is disclosed, which is arranged for translating physical movement into control signals in an electronic device such as a computer, the device configured with: a control element arranged for being manipulated by the user; a base element (for example having a centre piece) which is stationary relative to the control element; the base element comprising a connection means for movably connecting the control element to the base element, the connection means being arranged for allowing a motion of the control element in multiple degrees of freedom; a sensor arrangement, arranged for detecting the motion; one or more electrical circuits,

[0019] The sensor arrangement comprises: multiple magnets (preferably a ring of at least eight magnets); multiple Hall effect sensors, arranged for detecting the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field using the Hall effect resulting from motion of the multiple magnets.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the control element is resiliently connected to the base element with a resilient element (section), which allows translation and rotational movement along the x, y, and z axis in relation to the base element, for example a resilient element that comprises extending and interweaving ribs.

[0021] It has been found that good results can be achieved in case the control element is connected to the base element by resilient ribs, preferably by extending and interweaving ribs.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment the device includes resilient ribs that have been made in one-piece with the control element. This provides improved manufacturability and improved durability / reliability in view of known solutions.

[0023] Further, it has been found that good results can be achieved in case the ribs include S-shaped ribs. Such ribs be relatively long (to provide a desired resilient connection between control element and base element) and can still be accommodated in relatively small space (i.e. in an interior device space between an inner side of the control element and the respective base element).

[0024] Preferably, the ribs have rectangular cross-sections, it has been found that in his way, the ribs can provide different resiliencies in two respective orthogonal directions, allowing improved control different types of control element movements with respect to the base element.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the control element consists of a resilient material. This also provides improved manufacturability, reduction in respective costs and reduction in device complexity, in particular in case afire- mentioned ribs are made in one-piece with the control element.

[0026] Further, good results have been achieved in case the resilient section (element) has first ribs and second ribs, positioned in alternatingly manner when viewed along a circumferential direction of a center piece. Then preferably upper ends of the first ribs are connected to the base element, and wherein in particular upper ends of the second ribs are connected to the control element. In this way, relatively uniform control element operability can be achieved (in particular compared to conventional devices using metal coil springs), e.g. providing relatively linear operational force increase / decrease during control element manipulations.

[0027] Further, it is preferred that said ribs are made of a non-magnetisable material, in particular a non-metallic material, e.g. plastic, to avoid interference with magnetic interaction between said magnets and sensors.

[0028] Further, upper end of the second ribs preferably reach into a space between a top of the base element and an opposite top of the control element. In this way, relatively long second ribs can be implemented, leading to improved resilient action thereof, and improved control element operability.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment the device further includes a dial, the dial in particular having a rotational direction around an axis of rotation that is in parallel with a translation direction along a z-axis of the control element, wherein the dial is preferably located at a bottom section of the input device, wherein the device preferably includes a ball bearing to allow rotation of the dial. The dial is easily accessible by a user. Preferably, the device includes means to detect dial manipulations (i.e. dial rotations), e.g. means arranged for generating a dial manipulation signal, as will be clear to the skilled person.

[0030] Further, according to a preferred embodiment, said sensor arrangement comprises a ring of magnets, wherein the magnets are positioned such that the north pole and south pole of neighbouring magnets are pointing in opposite directions.

[0031] The following extra advantageous embodiments are also disclosed:

[0032] - The stationary base element may comprise one or more of:

[0033] • A first circuit of the one or more electrical circuits comprises a signal processing circuit coupled to the multiple Hall effect sensors, said Hall effect sensors being arranged for detecting the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field using the Hall effect, whereby the output voltage of the Hall sensor is directly proportional to the strength of the field, and whereby increasing or decreasing of said voltage is translated by the signal processing unit as a relative motion.

[0034] • A bottom section of the device can be configured with a ferromagnetic material which is arranged for magnetically coupling the device to an external holder which is configured with a magnet arranged for magnetically coupling the external holder to the device.

[0035] • A second circuit of the one or more electrical circuits comprises a calibration circuit, arranged for calibrating of signal processing by the signal processing circuit.

[0036] • The device comprises a tilting sensor, which is arranged for detecting a tilting of the device, whereby the calibration circuit is arranged for recalibrating when the sensor detects the tilting of the device.

[0037] • The tilting sensor comprises a gyroscope or an accelerometer.

[0038] • The device comprises a magnetic shielding material, such as a Mu-metal, which is arranged for shielding the circuits and / or the sensors from magnetic interference caused by a magnetic flux generated by the external holder, whereby the magnetic flux is led away from the circuits and / or the sensors.

[0039] • The device comprises a rechargeable battery which is arranged for providing electric power to the circuits and the sensors.

[0040] • The device comprises a charging means arranged for charging the battery by using an inductive charging device, the charging means configured with a secondary coil which is arranged for transforming electromagnetic induction generated by the inductive charging device, the charging device being configured with a primary coil for this purpose.

[0041] • The device comprises a shielding means arranged for shielding the circuits and / or the sensors from the electromagnetic induction, the shielding means comprising a shielding means such as a Faraday cage enclosing the circuits and / or the sensors, or a solid metal layer, positioned between the secondary coil and the circuits and / or the sensors.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment, the base element includes a centre piece. The base element and centre piece can e.g. be integrated with each other.

[0043] For example, the device can comprise a centre piece fixedly connected to the base element.

[0044] The control element is preferably attached via a compliant mechanism to the centre piece, which allows a movement in 6DOF in relation to the respective base element. The resilient element can e.g. comprise an elastomer extending at one end from the centre piece and at the other end connected to the control element.

[0045] A said resilient element can e.g. be comprised of multiple strips or strands positioned next to each other in a circular configuration extending at one end from the centre piece and at the other end connected to the control element.

[0046] According to an alternative embodiment the resilient element can e.g. comprises a foam-like or sponge-like element positioned at the inside of the control element, between the control element and the centre piece.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, a said resilient element is arranged for being replaceable with a resilient element (i.e. another resilient element) which is less or more resilient. It follows that the resilient element is preferably an exchangeable resilient element.

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment the centre piece can be mounted in between multiple Hall effect sensors on the stationary base element - or alternatively within the control element - and the control element, and can be attached to the control element which comprises a set of magnets, and whereby each of the magnets is preferably configured to move with the motion of the control element, whereby the position of a magnet of the multiple magnets is such that the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field around the magnet is detectable by a Hall effect sensor of the multiple Hall effect sensors on the stationary base element or alternatively within the control element.

[0049] The centre piece preferably comprises a cavity. The cavity can be at least partly filled with a weight. For example, wherein a battery can be positioned in the cavity (wherein the battery may be said weight).

[0050] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] The figures show views of non-limiting embodiments in accordance with the present invention.

[0052] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an example of the input device.

[0053] Figure 2 shows a back view of the input device of figure 1 .

[0054] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a first setup of a suspension of the input device, shown without cover.

[0055] Figure 4 shows a front view of the first setup of a suspension of figure 3. Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the input device with a variation of a suspension.

[0056] Figure 6A shows a front cross-sectional view of figure 5.

[0057] Figure 6B shows a cross-section over line B-B of Figure 6A.

[0058] Figure 7 shows a front view of a second setup of a suspension of the input device, shown without cover.

[0059] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the second setup of a suspension of the input device, shown without cover of figure 5.

[0060] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a third setup of a suspension of the input device, shown without cover.

[0061] Figure 10 shows a sectional front view of the inside of the input device.

[0062] Figure 11 shows a sectional bottom view at the location of part 130.

[0063] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of the input device positioned on or integrated with a keyboard.

[0064] Figure 13 shows a further embodiment of an input device according to the invention.

[0065] Figure 14 shows a side view of the example of Fig. 13.

[0066] Figure 15 shows a bottom view of the example of Fig. 13.

[0067] Figure 16 shows a perspective view of the example of Fig. 13 on or integrated with a keyboard.

[0068] Figure 17 shows a perspective top view of a device part of the example of Fig. 13.

[0069] Figure 18 shows a side view of the device part shown in Fig. 17.

[0070] Figure 19 shows a cross-section over line A-A of Fig. 18.

[0071] Figure 20 shows a perspective bottom view of the device part shown in Fig. 17.

[0072] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] The invention is now described by the following aspects and embodiments, with reference to the figures. To facilitate ease of reading of the figures, a list of reference numbers as used in the figures is shown hereafter. Corresponding or similar features are denoted by corresponding or similar reference signs in this application. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of the input device 100. The manual user input device is arranged for translating physical movement into control signals in an electronic device such as a computer. The device 100 is configured with: a control element 101 arranged for being manipulated by the user; a base element 108 (see Figures 5, 6, 10, 15,16, 18) which is stationary relative to the control element 101 ; the base element comprising a connection means (see the examples below) for movably connecting the control element 101 to the base element 108, the connection means being arranged for allowing a motion of the control element in multiple degrees of freedom; a sensor arrangement, arranged for detecting the motion of the control element 101 ; one or more electrical circuits.

[0074] As will be explained below, the sensor arrangement comprises: one or more magnets, preferably a ring of magnets 130 (the magnets preferably being spaced-apart and being evenly distributed with respect to a circumferential direction of the respective ring); multiple Hall effect sensors, arranged for detecting the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field using the Hall effect resulting from motion of the multiple magnets.

[0075] As follows from Figure 1 , the device optionally includes a rotary dial 110. Control element 101 is configured for being manipulated by a user. The inside of input device 100 preferably comprises means to detect these manipulations as explained further hereafter. The figure shows translations in x-, y-, z-axis and rotation in pitch, yaw and roll, as indicated by thick arrows 1001 , 1002, 1003, 1004, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1008, of which arrows 1005,1007 represent translations along the x-axis, and arrows 1006,1008 represent translation along y-axis. Therefore the arrows indicate 6DOF as explained in the above reference list. Arrow 1020 indicates an air gap between control element 101 and rotary dial 110, and the bottom section may comprise rotary dial 110. Air gap 1020 allows for free movement of control element 101 and especially tilting actions (i.e. rotary actions 1001 and 1002) and up and down movement (i.e. translation along z-axis 1003). Arrow 1010 indicates a rotational direction of rotary dial 110. Although four directions 1005,1006,1007,1008 are shown, the invented input device allows the user to move the control element 101 in any direction between those four directions. The same goes for tilting directions 1001 and 1002. A combination of directions is also possible. For example, a tilt (roll) 1001 may be combined with a rotation 1004 (yaw) and / or a movement in vertical direction 1003. As these movements are detected, the built-in printed circuit board (PCB) 112 is configured to translate the detected movements into signals which are processed and may for example be used by a CAD program to move objects in the virtual world of a computer screen. For this purpose the PCB preferably comprises the sensors for detecting the movements. A horizontal movement on the x-axis (1005) may for example be translated into a movement of a drawn object in a horizontal plane on the screen. Moving into a direction or holding control element 101 in a position after movement may be translated as having a different meaning for the exemplary CAD program.

[0076] Instead of or together with the built in PCB an external electronic circuit may be used for translating detected movement of control element 101 .

[0077] Figure 2 shows a back view of input device 100 of figure 1 . A foot 103 is shown which is configured for placing input device 100 on a table or to connect to input device 150 to e.g. a keyboard as shown in figure 12. For connection to other electronic equipment, connector 111 is configured. It will be appreciated that the foot 103 can be part of the base element, or can be fixed to the base element.

[0078] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a first setup of a suspension of input device 100, shown without a cover. Control element 101 is suspended by a suspension means comprised of spokes sets 120a and 121 a, whereby a first set of spokes 120a is provided in a lower section of the suspension means and a second set of spokes 121a is provided in a top section of the suspension means. Middle ring 106 is not rigidly connected to the control element 101 , but connects sets of spokes 120a with sets of spokes 121 a. Middle ring 106 is rigidly attached to a centre piece 108 of the base element, wherein only the bottom 104 of the centre piece 108 is visible in figure 3. The set of spokes 121 a is connected at the top to top ring 107, and at the bottom to middle ring 106. Top ring 107 is rigidly connected to control element 101. Set of spokes 120a is connected at the top to middle ring 106 and at the bottom to bottom ring 105. Bottom ring 105 is also connected to magnet bracket 131 as shown in figure 11 , preferably by means of a screw that also connects to the inner wall of control element 101 . The spokes may be made of a resilient or flexible material, such as plastic, which may comprise for example silicon, nylon, rubber, tetrapolyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The flexible material provides some resistance to movement, which is considered to feel pleasantly and provide more control when using the input device. Besides that, this also limits the movement to an equal amount in every direction. The resilience is such that, when releasing control element 101 , it automatically returns to a central default position (which position is shown in the drawings).

[0079] This is due to the so-called compliant mechanism. The shape has in-built stop conditions. Pulling control element 101 up (positive translation along z-axis) elongates the spokes until they cannot move further. Rotating in yaw will decrease the circumference of the suspension mechanism (which is not possible due to the rigidity of the cap), so it stops the movement. It also has external stop conditions: in the tilting directions (pitch and roll) as well as pushing it down (negative translation along the z- axis), the control element pushes against the base. In the horizontal directions (translation along x and y axis) the inside of the control element touches the battery case.

[0080] Figure 4 shows a front view of the first setup of a suspension of figure 3 to clarify the setup of control element 101 as shown in figure 3.

[0081] It will be appreciated that the centre piece 108 of the device 100 can have various shapes / designs.

[0082] Figure 5 shows an isometric view of control element 101 with a variation of a resilient element. Figure 6A shows a front, cross-sectional view of control element 101 as shown in figure 5 and respective centre piece (highlighting an alternative design of centre piece 108’ and its bottom portion 104’).

[0083] In particular, as follows from the drawings, the control element 101 can be resiliently connected to the base element with a resilient element / structure 120c, 121 c which allows translation and rotational movement along the x, y, and z axis in relation to the base element 108’, for example a resilient element that comprises extending and interweaving ribs 120c, 121 c.

[0084] In particular, in the present example, the control element 101 is connected to the base element 108 by resilient ribs 120c, 121 c, more particularly by said extending and interweaving ribs 120c, 121 c. As follows from the drawing, such resilient ribs 120c, 121c can be made in one-piece with the control element 101. Further, as follows from the drawing, these ribs can include S-shaped ribs 120c, 121c.

[0085] Moreover, as is depicted in more detail in Figure 6B, the ribs 120c, 121c preferably have rectangular (transversal) cross-sections. In this case, the two wide outer (longitudinal) rib surfaces 120w of each rib extend substantially in parallel with virtual circle lines that are concentric with a centre line CL of the centre piece 108’ (when the device is in an idle / initial device state). Similarly, in this example, the two short (longitudinal) outer rib surfaces 120s of each rib extend substantially normally with respect to virtual circle lines that are concentric with a centre line CL of the centre piece 108’ (when the device is in an idle / initial device state). As follows from Fig. 6B the width W1 of each of the wider external rib surfaces 120w is larger than the width W2 of each of the shorter external rib surfaces 120s.

[0086] According to an embodiment, the control element 101 is connected to the base element 108 by exactly sixteen ribs 120c, 121c (see Figures 5-6 and the example of Figures 19, 20) that are evenly distributed around the base element 108 (viewed in circumferential direction around a base element’s 108 centre line)

[0087] According to a preferred embodiment (see also Figure 19) the control element 101 entirely or substantially consists of a resilient material (examples of which are mentioned above).

[0088] It has been found that good results are achieved in case the resilient element has first ribs 120c and second ribs 121c, positioned in alternatingly manner when viewed along a circumferential direction of the centre piece 108’. In particular, upper ends of the first ribs are 120c connected to the base element 108 (see Fig. 6A), and upper ends of the second ribs 121c are preferably connected to the control element 101 (see Fig. 6A).

[0089] In the present example (see also the example of Figures 15-20), advantageously, the device includes a dial 110, the dial 110 in particular having a rotational direction 1010 around an axis of rotation that is in parallel with a translation direction along a z-axis 1003 of the control element 101 (the z-axis coinciding with the centre line CL of the centre piece 108’). The dial is preferably located at a bottom section of the input device 100. Also, the device preferably includes a ball bearing 140 to allow rotation of the dial 110 (see Fig .10). It follows that the resilient element preferably comprises (i.e. is provided by ) first ribs 120c and second ribs 121 c. As follows from the drawings, the first ribs 120c and the second ribs 121 c provide resilient connections between the control element 101 and the centre piece 108. The ribs 120c, 121 c are preferably interweaving ribs and relatively long and can therefore remain compliant, even with relatively thicker, wider, or different (e.g. stiffer, and relatively durable) material. This improves the durability and reliability of the resilient element. To reduce complexity in manufacturing, this design preferably also combines multiple parts into one (in particular by integrating the ribs with the control element 101 ), thereby rendering it much easier to assemble with respect to prior art solutions.

[0090] According to a preferred embodiment, the resilient control element 101 , including the integrated ribs 120c, 121 c , is made by a 3D-printing technique (known per se).For example, a respective cover element 102 can be manufactured separately with respect to the resilient element 100. Preferably, the cover section 102 can be made in one piece with a remaining part of the (rotational symmetric) control element 100 (as in figures 10, 13, 17-20).

[0091] Figure 7 shows a front view of a second setup of a suspension of input device 100, shown without a cover. Instead of sets of spokes 120b and 121 b, a resilient solid material is used as an embodiment, with upper resilient element 121 c and lower resilient element 120c. The working of this material is comparable with the working of the resilient elements of embodiments 120a-b and 121 a-b as shown in figures 3, 4, 5 and 6. The material may for example comprise a silicone rubber, or sponge-like substance.

[0092] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the second setup of a suspension of the input device, shown without cover of figure 5 to clarify the setup of input device 100 as shown in figure 5.

[0093] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a third setup of a suspension of input device 100, shown without a cover, whereby, instead of an upper and lower section of the suspension, one-piece 120d of material is used as suspension. In this case a piece of material is used which consists of designed holes and gaps which are positioned and dimensioned such that an optimised feel and control is achieved. The resilient piece of material may for example be 3D printed for this purpose. Providing input device 100 with these kinds of suspension allows a user to also interchange various types of suspension accommodated to his / her wishes and requirements. One may choose a stiffer material for example if more resistance is needed. A person with less hand strength or a desire for a more compliant suspension, may choose a more compliant suspension. The one-piece suspension of figure 9, as well as other variants depicted, for example may be designed to be more or less compliant, for a specific use or user. By leaving more gaps and holes, for example, there may be more flexibility achieved then with a denser setup.

[0094] Figure 10 shows a sectional front view of the inside of input device 100. The space marked 120e is an empty space where 120a-d and / or 121 a-d could be accommodated. As for the control element 101 , a sponge-like structure may be provided for example, but any proposed or other suspension may be provided. In this configuration PCB 112 is configured within the base element. In other configurations, one or more additional PCBs 112 may be placed within the control element as needed. In the example the bottom section comprises a rotary dial 110. A ball bearing 140 may be provided to allow smooth rotation of rotary dial 110.

[0095] As follows from the drawings, the base element has a centre piece 108, which may be used to hold a battery 150 (see figure 11 ).

[0096] Battery 150 is configured for providing power to for example a keyboard to which the input device is electrically connected. Battery 150 may also be used to provide power to PCB 112, and to the Hall effect sensor configuration which is disclosed in the present invention. Battery 150 is preferably a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which may for example be charged through connector 111 , or by means of wireless (inductive) charging, in which case a wireless charging power receiver unit, i.e. a secondary coil may be incorporated in input device 100. A primary coil may then be provided in an external device being powered with external power to provide the inductive charging. The primary coil may for example be incorporated in a desk mat configured for providing a stable underground for a keyboard to which input device 100 may be connected, such combination being shown in figure 10. The primary coil may also be incorporated in the keyboard itself. The charging of the modules may be done through a wired connection of the keyboard to an external power source. At the place of foot 103 the primary coil of the keyboard may be positioned, whereas the secondary coil may be built in foot 103 to receive the inductive charging and transfer the power to battery 150 for charging battery 150. Centre piece (i.e. the base element of the device) 108 may also comprise a cavity for optional weight 160, in which a weighted substance may be added or removed to alter the performance of the input device 100.

[0097] The Hall effect sensor setup is configured to detect motion of control-element 101 by measuring the so-called Hall effect which is generated by movement of a ring of magnets 130, 230 (as shown in figures 11 and 15) in comparison with Hall effect sensors below the magnets, whereby the magnets may be moved and the Hall effect sensors are stationary, i.e. connected to or part of a PCB 112 in the base element or alternatively connected to or part of a PCB 112 within the control element.

[0098] A said ring of magnets 130, 230 may comprise neodymium magnets (e.g. grade N42), which are permanent magnets known for having a strong magnetic field with a relatively small size and weight. Additional magnet materials, shapes or sizes may be used as needed for the ring of magnets 130, 230.

[0099] Preferably, the ring of magnets 130, 230 includes eight magnets (see Figures 11 and 15), which has found to provide good results.

[0100] Further, preferably, the magnets are positioned so that the north pole and south pole of neighbouring magnets are pointing in opposite directions, which also leads to good results. In particular (see Figure 15) the ring of magnets can include a plurality of first magnets 230a and a plurality of second magnets 230b, each second magnet 230b being positioned between a pair of first magnets 230a viewed along a circumferential direction of the magnets ring. The first magnets 230a and second magnets 230b can be supported in or fixed to a respective bracket 231. It follows that north poles of the first magnets 230a preferably face upwards (i.e. towards a top 202 of the control element 201 ) and north poles of the second magnets 230b face downwards (i.e. away from the top 202 of the control element 201 ), or vice-versa.

[0101] Figure 11 shows a sectional bottom view of the inside of control element 101 , which is provided with the ring of magnets 130 which are held in place by magnet bracket 131. Ring of magnets 130 are preferably placed with equal distance between them (i.e. between neighbouring magnets 130).

[0102] An equal distance is not strictly necessary, just a design choice and computationally easier to handle. The magnets of the ring of magnets 130 could however, be arranged in any manner, as long as there is a stable 'position O', where the control element 101 is not manipulated. From position 0, relative movement of the magnetic field from that position may be calculated. This allows translation of movement of the control element into a digital landscape. The characteristics of the magnetic field in position 0 is therefore less important. Various orientations and positions of the magnets of the ring of magnets 130 are therefore possible to create a detectable magnetic field.

[0103] Figure 12 shows input device 100 positioned on or integrated with a keyboard 150. This integration with keyboard 150 provides a complete set of input devices for a user. Input device 100 is secured by keyboard 150 and cannot slip away, e.g. By a magnetic connection. A specially shaped indent in the dock form fitting a similar protruding shape at the bottom of the module also prevents unwanted rotation of the device when placed in the dock. Such a special shape may for example comprise a teardrop shape.

[0104] The distance between input device 100 and the keyboard keys is minimised, which allows for an ergonomic use of keyboard 150 together with input device 100, which also increases productivity.

[0105] Figures 13-20 show a further, extra advantageous, embodiment 200 of the invention, which differs from the example shown in Figures 5, 6A, 6B in that it includes relatively long first ribs 220c. In particular, (see the drawing) upper end of the first ribs 220c reach into a space F between a top of the base element 108 and an opposite top 202 of the control element 201 . As follows from the drawings, in particular, the base element 108 extends centrally within an interior space defined by (within) the (hollow) control element 201 . Further, in particular, both the control element 201 and respective base element 208 can have respective circle-symmetrical shapes, and can both be concentrically positioned with respect to a centre line CL of the device 200 (the same holds for the examples 100 shown in Figures 1 -12), at least when the device 200 is in a respective -depicted- idle state.

[0106] More particularly, the first ribs 220c each preferably have a lower rib section ITS that extends in substantially radial directions with respect to the centre line CL of the base element 108. Also, each first rib 220c can have an upper rib section urs that extends in a substantially radial direction with respect to the centre line CL of the base element 208. Also, each first rib 220c can have an intermediate rib section irs that extends substantially in parallel with respect to the centre line CL of the base element 208 (the intermediate section irs being located between said upper ribs section urs and lower rib section ITS). Each said upper rib section urs of a first rib 220c is preferably spaced-apart from opposite surfaces of both the base element 208 and control element 201 . Also, as follows from the drawings, each of said rib sections urs, ITS, irs of a first rib 220c can be interconnected by integral curved rib sections (i.e. bend sections), providing respective substantially 90 degrees bends in the first rib 220c. Each of the upper, intermediate and lower rib sections urs, Irs, irs of a first rib 220c can be slightly curved viewed in side view. The end sections of the first ribs 220c can include U-shaped sections ers, which can e.g. be connected (e.g. glued) to the base element 208 via respective rib connection pad sections rps1. Similarly, end sections of the second ribs 221 c can include respective rib connection pad sections rps2 that are connected (e.g. glued) to the base element 208.

[0107] In particular, in the example of Figures 13-20, the control element 201 is connected to the base element 208 by resilient ribs 220c, 221 c, preferably by extending and interweaving ribs 220c, 221 c.

[0108] It follows that in this example, the base element 208 includes resilient ribs 220c, 221 c, wherein at least first ribs 220c have been made in one-piece with the control element 201. The ribs preferably include S-shaped second ribs 221 c. Also, the ribs 220c, 221 c each preferably have rectangular cross-sections. In this example, the control element 201 is (resiliently) connected to the base element 208 by exactly sixteen ribs 220c, 221c. In particular, the control element 201 (including respective integrated ribs 220c, 221 c, and preferably also including a respective cover section 202) entirely consists of a resilient material.

[0109] It also follows that the resilient element has first ribs 220c and second ribs 221 c, positioned in alternatingly manner when viewed along a circumferential direction of a center piece 208, wherein in particular upper ends of the first ribs are 220c connected to the base element 208, and wherein in particular upper ends of the second ribs 221 c are connected to the control element 201 . More particularly, lower ends of the first ribs 220c are connected to the control element 201 and lower ends of the second ribs 221 c are connected to the centre piece 208.

[0110] Also, the example 200 ha dial 210, the dial 210 in particular having a rotational direction around an axis of rotation that is in parallel with a translation direction along a z-axis of the control element 201 , wherein the dial is preferably located at a bottom section of the input device 200, wherein the device 200 preferably includes a ball bearing (mentioned above) to allow rotation of the dial 210.

[0111] As follows from Figure 14, for example, the device 200 can include a central support structure or foot structure 204, that can be integrated with or connected to said base element 208, e.g. for connecting the base element 208 to a foot structure 203 of the device.

[0112] Further, it is preferred that the control element 201 of the device 200, including its respective integrated ribs 220a, 221 c, is made in one piece using a 3D-printing technique, in particular using a printable resin that becomes a resilient material after printing (as will be appreciated by the skilled person).

[0113] Operation / user handling of the example 200 of Figures 13-20 follows the operation of the above-described examples 100 concerning Figures 1 -12. The example 200 of Figures 13-20 provides improved (more uniform) control element manipulation, in addition to very good reliability and durability.

[0114] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that a person skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. Use of the verb "to comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The article "the" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. In the device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0115] For example, as will be appreciated by the skilled person, a said hall effect sensor can in particular be configured for detecting presence / position, magnitude and direction / orientation of a magnetic field in 3D space.

[0116] Further, as will be clear to the skilled person, the control element can include the Hall-effect sensors and the base element can include the magnets. Alternatively, for example, the control element can include the magnets and the base element can include the Hall-effect sensors.

[0117] As an example, the multiple Hall effect sensors can be fixed on the control element, and configured to interact with respective magnets that are fixed on the base element (e.g. the centre piece).

[0118] Preferably, as an example, the multiple Hall effect sensors can be fixed on the (stationary) base element (e.g. the centre piece), and configured to interact with respective magnets that are fixed on the (movable) control element (as in the drawings).

[0119] In each case, the position of a magnet of the multiple magnets is preferably such that the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field around the magnet is detectable by a Hall effect sensor of the multiple Hall effect sensors.

[0120] Further, in particular, in each case, the magnets on one hand and the multiple Hall effect sensors on the other hand are configured to move (reposition) with respect to each other in case of a motion (repositioning) of the control element with respect to the base element.

[0121] Further, for example, a said gyroscope or accelerometer can include any or all of a 3-axis gyroscope, 3-axis accelerometer and 3-axis magnetometer. It is further preferred that the control element comprises the gyroscope or accelerometer, in particular for detecting tilting of the control element.

[0122] List of reference signs

[0123] 100, 200 Embodiment of the invention

[0124] 101 , 201 Control element

[0125] 102, 202 Top cover of control element 101

[0126] 103, 203 Foot

[0127] 104, 204 Bottom of centre piece 108

[0128] 104’ Alternate bottom of centre piece 108’

[0129] 105 Bottom ring

[0130] 106 Middle ring

[0131] 107 Top ring

[0132] 108 Centre piece, optionally including a (rechargeable) battery 150

[0133] 108’ Alternate version of centre piece 108 110, 210 Auxiliary rotary dial

[0134] 111 Connector

[0135] 112 Printed Circuit Board (PCB)

[0136] 120a-e Flexible section

[0137] 120c, 220c first rib

[0138] 121a-c Flexible section

[0139] 121c, 221c second rib

[0140] 130 Ring of magnets

[0141] 131 , 231 Magnet bracket

[0142] 140 Ball bearing

[0143] 150 Battery

[0144] 160 Cavity for optional weight

[0145] 150 Keyboard

[0146] 1001 Rotation in roll

[0147] 1002 Rotation in pitch

[0148] 1003 Translation along z-axis (vertical direction)

[0149] 1004 Rotation in yaw

[0150] 1005 Translation along x-axis (horizontal direction)

[0151] 1006 Translation along y-axis (horizontal direction)

[0152] 1007 Translation along x-axis (horizontal direction)

[0153] 1008 Translation along y-axis (horizontal direction)

[0154] 1010 Rotating direction of auxiliary rotary dial

[0155] 1020 Air gap

[0156] 230a first magnet

[0157] 230b second magnet

[0158] 120w wide rib surface

[0159] 120s short rib surface

[0160] W1 , W2 rib surface width

[0161] CL centre line of centre piece

[0162] F interior space irs intermediate rib section urs upper rib section

[0163] Irs lower rib section ers U-shaped rib section rps1 first rib connection pad section. rps2 second rib connection pad section

Claims

CLAIMS1. A manual user input device arranged for translating physical movement into control signals in an electronic device such as a computer, the device configured with:- a control element (101 ; 201 ) arranged for being manipulated by the user;- a base element (108; 208) which is stationary relative to the control element (101 ; 201 );- the base element comprising a connection means (120c, 121 c; 220c, 221 c) for movably connecting the control element (101 ; 201 ) to the base element (104, 108; 208), the connection means (120c, 121c; 220c, 221 c) being arranged for allowing a motion of the control element in multiple degrees of freedom;- a sensor arrangement (130), arranged for detecting the motion of the control element;- one or more electrical circuits, characterised in that, the sensor arrangement comprises:- one or more magnets (130; 230), preferably a ring of at least eight magnets (130; 230);- multiple Hall effect sensors (112), arranged for detecting the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field using the Hall effect resulting from motion of the multiple magnets.

2. The device according to claim 1 , characterised in that the control element (101 ; 201 ) is resiliency connected to the base element with a resilient element (120c, 121 c; 220c, 221 c), which allows translation and rotational movement along the x, y, and z axis in relation to the base element (108; 208), for example a resilient element (101 ; 201 ) that comprises extending and interweaving ribs (120c, 121 c; 220c, 221 c).

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the control element (101 ; 201 ) is connected to the base element (108; 208) by resilient ribs (120c, 121 c; 220c, 221 c), preferably by extending and interweaving ribs (120c, 121 c; 220c, 221 c), the ribs (120c, 121 c; 220c, 221 c) preferably made of a non-metallic material.

4. The device according to claim 3, including resilient ribs (120c, 121 c; 220c, 221 c) that have been made in one-piece with the control element (101 ; 201 ).

5. The device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the ribs include S-shaped ribs (120c, 121 c; 221 c).

6. The device according to any of claims 3-5, wherein the ribs (120c, 121 c; 220c, 221 c) have rectangular cross-sections.

7. The device according to any of claims 3-6, wherein the control element (101 ; 201 ) is connected to the base element (108; 208) by exactly sixteen ribs (120c, 121 c; 220c, 221 c).

8. The device according to any of claim 3-7, wherein the control element (101 ; 201 ) consists of a resilient material.

9. The device according to any of claims 3-8, wherein the resilient element has first ribs (120c; 220c) and second ribs (121 c; 221 c), positioned in alternatingly manner when viewed along a circumferential direction of a centre piece (108; 208), wherein in particular upper ends of the first ribs (120c; 220c) are connected to the base element (108; 208), and wherein in particular upper ends of the second ribs (121 c; 221 c) are connected to the control element (101 ).

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein upper end of the first ribs (220c) reach into a space between a top of the base element (108; 208) and an opposite top of the control element (201 ).11 . The device according to any of the preceding claims, including a dial (110), the dial (110) in particular having a rotational direction (1010) around an axis of rotation that is in parallel with a translation direction along a z-axis (1003) of the control element (101 ), wherein the dial is preferably located at a bottom section of the input device (100), wherein the device preferably includes a ball bearing (140) to allow rotation of the dial (110).

12. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that device comprises a centre piece fixedly connected to the base element, whereby the resilient element comprises an elastomer extending at one end from the centre piece and at the other end connected to the control element.

13. The device according to at least claim 2, characterised in that the resilient element is comprised of multiple strips or strands positioned next to each other in a circular configuration extending at one end from the centre piece and at the other end connected to the control element.

14. The device according to at least claim 2, characterised in that the resilient element comprises a foam-like or sponge-like element positioned at the inside of the control element.

15. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the resilient element is arranged for being replaceable with a resilient element which is less or more resilient.

16. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the base element holds a battery (150) in a cavity.

17. The device according to claim 16, is characterised in that the cavity is at least partly filled with a weight.

18. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the multiple Hall effect sensors are fixed on the base element and the magnets are fixed to the control element, , and whereby each of the magnets is configured to move with the motion of the control element, whereby the position of a magnet of the multiple magnets is such that the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field around the magnet is detectable by a Hall effect sensor of the multiple Hall effect sensors.

19. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that a first circuit of the one or more electrical circuits comprises a signal processing circuit coupled to the multiple Hall effect sensors, said Hall effect sensors being arranged for detecting the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field using the Hall effect, whereby the output voltage of the Hall effect sensor is directly proportional to the strength of the field, and whereby increasing or decreasing of said voltage is translated by the signal processing unit as a relative motion.

20. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the one or more electrical circuits and / or Hall-effect sensors are affixed to or distributed over one or more PCBs located within the base element and / or within the control element.21 . The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that a bottom section of the device is configured with a ferromagnetic material which is arranged for magnetically coupling the device to an external holder which is configured with a magnet arranged for magnetically coupling the external holder to the device.

22. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a second circuit of the one or more electrical circuits comprises a calibration circuit, arranged for calibrating of signal processing by the signal processing circuit.

23. The device according to claim 22, characterised in that the device comprises a sensor, for example a gyroscope or an accelerometer, which sensor can measure any kind of movement, which is arranged for detecting any kind of movement of the control element (101 ) of the device, whereby the calibration circuit is arranged for recalibrating when the sensor detects the tilting of the device.

24. The device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the control element comprises a gyroscope or an accelerometer.

25. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device comprises a magnetic shielding material, such as a Mu-metal, which is arranged for shielding the circuits and / or the sensors from magnetic interference caused by a magnetic flux generated by the external holder, whereby the magnetic flux is led away from the circuits and / or the sensors.

26. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device comprises a rechargeable battery which is arranged for providing electric power to the circuits and the sensors.

27. The device according to claim 26, characterised in that the device comprises a charging means arranged for charging the battery by using an inductive charging device, the charging means configured with a secondary coil which is arranged for transforming electromagnetic induction generated by the inductive charging device, the charging device being configured with a primary coil for this purpose.

28. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device comprises a shielding means arranged for shielding the circuits and / or the sensors from the electromagnetic induction, the shielding means comprising a shielding means such as a Faraday cage enclosing the circuits and / or the sensors, or a solid metal layer, positioned between the secondary coil and the circuits and / or the sensors.

29. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a ring of magnets (230), wherein the magnets are positioned so that the north pole and south pole of neighbouring magnets are pointing in opposite directions. ‘30. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control element (100, 200) is a 3D-printed element (100, 200).

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