Side Button Beam Assembly for Precise Input and Haptic Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing handheld electronic devices lack efficient mechanisms for differentiated user input detection and haptic feedback, particularly in controlling volume and mode settings, which can lead to inconsistent user experience and functionality.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a beam structure with strain sensing elements and a haptic actuation system, where user inputs are detected through deflection of the beam structure, allowing for precise determination of input location and gesture recognition, and providing tailored haptic feedback based on input conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a beam structure with multiple strain sensing elements is used to detect input location, then measurement precision of user input location is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser input location detection precisionVSAvoidinput button assembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The beam structure is segmented into multiple sections with strain sensing elements positioned at different locations along the beam. This segmentation allows the system to detect input location by measuring strain at multiple points simultaneously, achieving precise location detection while keeping each individual sensing element relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple strain sensing elements are merged into a single integrated beam structure that works together as one input detection mechanism. The beam combines both structural support and sensing functions, reducing the need for separate components and thereby managing device complexity while improving measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If a haptic actuation system with electromagnetic elements is added to provide haptic feedback, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and use of energy increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehaptic feedback qualityVSAvoidhaptic actuation system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The haptic actuation system uses electromagnetic elements to generate haptic feedback, replacing traditional mechanical actuators. This substitution allows for more precise and controllable haptic feedback with fewer moving parts, improving ease of operation while managing device complexity through electronic control rather than mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The haptic actuation system employs periodic electromagnetic actuation to create tactile feedback sensations. By cycling the electromagnetic force at specific frequencies, the system generates recognizable haptic patterns (such as clicks or vibrations) that enhance user interaction without requiring continuous high-energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple strain sensing elements are positioned at different locations on the beam structure, then adaptability for differentiated input detection is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedifferentiated input region detection capabilityVSAvoidstrain sensing element positioning precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Different sections of the beam structure have strain sensing elements positioned at specific locations to detect different input characteristics. Each sensing element is positioned to optimize detection for its specific region, allowing the system to differentiate between various input locations and types. This local quality approach enables differentiated detection while using standard manufacturing tolerances for each individual sensing point.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables precise detection of user inputs for differentiated device operations and enhanced haptic feedback, improving user interaction and functionality in handheld devices.

Implementation Method 1

The haptic actuation system may include a conductive coil coupled to the beam structure, and the haptic actuation system may energize the conductive coil to cause the beam structure to be deflected towards a ferromagnetic structure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic attraction: Electromagnet

Implementation Method 2

a first strain sensing element at a first location of the beam structure, and a second strain sensing element at a second location of the beam structure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectStrain sensing: Piezoresistive Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20260012523A1Handheld electronic device

Publication Date: 2026.01.08 APPLE INC

AI summary

An electronic device may include an input button assembly including an input member positioned along a side exterior surface of a housing component and defining a first input region proximate a first end of the input member and a second input region proximate a second end of the input member, the input member configured to receive a user input. The input button assembly may further include a beam structure at least partially within the enclosure and coupled to the input member, the beam structure configured to be deflected as a result of the user input, a first strain sensing element at a first location of the beam structure, and a second strain sensing element at a second location of the beam structure.