WO2008004049A2 - Tactile user interface device - Google Patents
Tactile user interface device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2008004049A2 WO2008004049A2 PCT/IB2007/001652 IB2007001652W WO2008004049A2 WO 2008004049 A2 WO2008004049 A2 WO 2008004049A2 IB 2007001652 W IB2007001652 W IB 2007001652W WO 2008004049 A2 WO2008004049 A2 WO 2008004049A2
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- substrate
- input
- surface area
- topology
- contact surface
- Prior art date
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/016—Input arrangements with force or tactile feedback as computer generated output to the user
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
- G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to input devices and more specifically with haptic/tactile input devices and more particularly with haptic/tactile user interface input devices for electronic devices.
- buttons, sliders, levers and touch elements that are permanently present on the user interface surface of the device.
- the status, availability and function of the device is generally identified visually, e.g. with lights and labels that are controlled by software in the device.
- the input devices are permanently present on the surface of the user interface and available in all contexts and conditions which leads to user errors and confusion, due to the need to indicate that the function is not available or that a given command (of several available) was executed. Visual identification is not suitable for visually impaired users which affects the accessibility of the device for such users.
- a novel concept of a haptic/tactile input device in which the behavior and/or appearance of the mechanical user interface input is configured to be adapted by the software components to the function and context of an electronic device to give feedback and cues to the user.
- the mechanical input embodying the invention for example, buttons, sliders, levers, and other input devices are made appear on the surface of the user interface when needed.
- the input is configured to change its behavior based on context, for example: a button is not made available at the user interface surface when the function is not available and is brought up and made available at the user interface surface only when the corresponding function is available; a button cannot be pressed or operated and it is frozen or made rigid for movement when the function is not available; the touching pressure is variable as a button is made more resistive to movement as the value of an associated parameter is high or a limit is approached.
- the topography of the surface or contact surface area of an input such as for example, a given key or button alters its contact surface characteristic in accordance with a given function of an electronic device for providing a haptic/tactile input when the input is active.
- the surface area of the input is flat or recessed when the input is inactive and bulges out when the input is active.
- the input surface topology may also be made to change repetitively to guide a user, for example, a user with impaired vision, to attract the user's attention, to direct the user's attention to a certain desired direction on the display screen or on the electronic device.
- the input device surface topology may also be made to perform a secondary task by providing simulative feedback to a user by controlled rhythmic movement to create user delight and/or to support the notion of a living object.
- the electronic device may be configured for example, for operation as a mobile terminal, music player, personal assistant, gaming unit or other such electronic devices and include features and functions such as camera functionality, GPS functionality and other functions and features well know by the purchasing public.
- Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective fragmentary view of an input device embodying the present invention shown in an unavailable operative position;
- Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective fragmentary view of the input device of Fig.
- Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of an electronic device embodying the input device of the present invention
- Fig. 4 is a top plan view of the electronic device shown in Fig. 3;
- Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-section view taken along the line 5-5 in Fig. 4 showing the input device embodying the present invention in an unavailable operative position
- Fig. 6 is a schematic side view of the electronic device presented in Fig.3 showing the input device of the present invention in an available operative position
- Fig. 7 is a top plan view of the electronic device shown in Fig. 6;
- Fig. 8 is a schematic cross-section view taken along the line 8-8 in Fig. 7 showing the input device embodying the present invention in an available operative position;
- Fig. 9 is an exploded schematic view of an embodiment of the input device of the present invention as viewed from the underside of an electronic device with which the input device may be used;
- Fig. 10 is an exploded schematic view of an embodiment of the input device of the present invention as viewed from the upperside of an electronic device with which the input device may be used;
- an electronic device such as a mobile telephone, includes a printed circuit board, generally designated at 12, which carries various electrical components, memory devices, controllers, and other associated components necessary to carry out the intended function of the electric device.
- the printed circuit board 12 includes a dome switch 14 on the surface 16 of the printed wiring board 12 to complete an electrical circuit path when the dome switch 14 is operated as is well known and understood by those skilled in the art.
- a user interface or keypad generally designated 18 is appropriately located and carried by the electronic device and is made in this example of an elastomer/rigid two-component plastic part wherein the elastomer portion generally designated 20 is deformable and configured to stretch or bulge above the surface 22 such that the surface topology contact area 24 defines keys 26, 26 when the input device 10 is active or in a first operative state, as illustrated in Fig. 2.
- An actuator mechanism such as for example a piezoelectric motor generally designated 30 is appropriately mounted to the printed circuit board 12 and includes a shaft 32 extending axially lengthwise of the piezoelectric motor 30.
- a sheet spring steel band generally designated 34 has one end 36 attached to the printed circuit board 12 and its opposite end 38 suitably attached to the shaft 32 of the piezoelectric motor 30, for example by inserting the end 38 into a complementary shape and size to slack 40 in the shaft 32.
- the sheet spring steel band 34 is somewhat "C" shaped and is located over the dome switch 14. The sheet spring steel band 34 is in contact with a downward extending foot 42 of the elastomer portion 20 defining the key 24.
- the surface area topology 26 of the key 24 is flush with the surface 22 of the user interface 18 indicating the key is unavailable.
- the elastomer portion defining the key 24 is permitted to return to its unstretched state when the shaft 32 of the piezoelectric motor 30 rotates in a clockwise direction as indicated by the rotation arrow 50 such that the end 38 of the sheet spring steel band 34 rotates with the shaft 32, thereby shortening the length of the sheet spring steel band 34, causing the band 34 to flatten and approach the surface 16 of the printed circuit board 12, removing the upward bias on the elastomer foot 42.
- the shaft 32 may accommodate a number of sheet spring steel bands 34, each of which are associated with a key 24, and the number of keys 24 are determined in accordance with the requirements of the electronic device with which the input device 10 of the present invention is used.
- a piezoelectric motor which may be utilized with the input device of the present invention is available, for example, from New Scale Technologies, Inc. under the trademark name Squiggle Motor to provide the desired actuation and appearance and disappearance of the keys as described above.
- Squiggle Motor to provide the desired actuation and appearance and disappearance of the keys as described above.
- the operation of such piezoelectric motors is well understood by those skilled in the art and the reader is referred to the manufacturer's literature which is incorporated herein by reference for a more detailed description of the piezoelectric motor and its operation.
- an electronic device such as a mobile telephone, embodying the input device of the present invention is illustrated therein and generally designated 100, wherein only the cover portion generally designated 102 of the electronic device 100 is illustrated for purposes of explanation.
- the electronic device 100 includes a printed circuit board 104 suitably arranged and carried in the cover 102.
- An elastomer/rigid two-component plastic part keypad generally designated 106 is suitably arranged and carried on an outward facing side 108 of the cover 102.
- the keypad 106 includes an elastomer portion 112 whose outward facing surface 114 is substantially flush with the surface 110 of the keypad 106.
- the input device embodying the present invention is generally designated 120 and is located at one end 116 of the electronic device 100 in the region of the elastomeric portion 112 of the keypad 106.
- the elastomeric portion 112 includes a downwardly extending foot 118 of sufficient length to contact a sheet spring steel band 130 having one end 132 connected to the printed circuit board 104 and an opposite end 134 suitably attached to the shaft 136 of a piezoelectric motor or other suitable actuator generally designated 138 mounted on the printed circuit board 104.
- the sheet spring steel band 130 is located and arranged over a dome switch 140 carried on the printed circuit board 104 and beneath the foot 118 such that the sheet spring steel band 130 is located between the foot 118 and the dome switch 140.
- the keys defined by the elastomer portion 112 are not accessible and available for use.
- the electronic device 100 illustrated in Figs. 3-5 is illustrated therein, wherein the haptic/tactile input device embodying the present invention is activated to make a key or button 150 available for access and use by causing the topography of the contact surface area 152 to bulge or project above the surface topography 114 of the user interface or keypad 106.
- the shaft 136 of the piezoelectric motor 138 is caused to rotate in a counterclockwise direction as indicated by the direction arrow 154 allowing the sheet spring steel band 130 to increase its length allowing it to return to its "C" shaped state, thereby pushing the foot 118 of the elastomer portion 112 upward in the direction indicated by arrow 156 to cause the key 150 to be formed in the surface 114 of the elastomer portion 112 of the user interface.
- Figs. 9 and 10 an exploded schematic view of the electronic device 100 illustrated in Figs. 3-8 is shown therein as viewed from the underside in Fig. 9 and as viewed from the upperside in Fig. 10, wherein like reference numerals correspond to like parts.
- the elastomer portion 112 of the keypad 106 may be molded or shaped to accommodate the requirements of the particular electronic device as defined by the aperture in the cover 102 to align with the sheet spring steel bands 130 and dome switches 140. It should also be recognized that the dome switches 140 are not necessary, and the electrical contact may be created by the sheet spring steel band 130 to complete the electrical circuit connection that is made by the dome switch.
- the keypad 106 may be made as a single molded unit with a rigid portion and an elastomer portion or there may be a rigid plunger in contact with the sheet spring steel band to push down on the band and dome switch.
- the foot 118 formed in the elastomer portion 112 of the keypad 118 may be connected to the sheet spring steel band 130 to make a recessed key in the surface topology of the keypad 106.
- Example 1 the mobile telephone is in the phone or communication mode and the user interface surface is flat.
- the camera trigger button appears on the surface of the user interface. If the camera function is available in the mobile telephone, but something needs to be done before the picture can be taken, the button can be locked temporally into an upward state to indicate that a picture cannot be taken until the item requiring attention is corrected or attended to.
- the pressing force on the camera trigger button can be altered or increased to provide a warning that the memory for pictures is low requiring more pressing force to on the button to take a picture. The increased pressing force required indicates that attention should be paid to the status of the memory.
- Example 2
- the mobile telephone is in the phone or communication mode and the user interface surface topology is flat.
- the media player buttons corresponding to available functions for example, play/next/prev., appear and obtrude on the user interface surface topology. If a user is on the first track, there is no prev. button available. The function availability may also be accented by switching on a backlight for this button contact surface area.
- the mobile telephone device is in the phone or communication idle mode and the user interface surface topology is flat.
- the answering button appears on the user interface surface. Because the answer function requires the user's immediate attention, the button can be made to indicate the urgency by moving partially to capture user's tactile or visual attention.
- the user answers the call by pressing the button and the button then disappears from the user interface surface, and another button for ending the call appears on the user interface surface.
- the appearance of a button on the user interface surface indicates the availability of the associated function and since the button is only present when the function is available it avoids that the user would press this button accidentally in a situation where he/she is not intending to operate the button.
- the mechanical obtrusion of buttons is avoided and does not present an obstacle when inserting or sliding the mobile telephone device into a pocket.
- an array of particles which can be controlled with electricity, magnetics or temperature to change the particle movement, flexibility or other feature may be sandwiched between the substrate surface a flexible material coating.
- the arrays form the input devices, for example, buttons, sliders etc., which are visible and haptically detectable.
- the adaptation may be achieved by multiple technologies.
- the polarity of a magnetic field between certain parts within the input device may be changed such that the parts to repel to create a topological hill, i.e active key, or to attract one another to flatten the bump, i.e to make the key inactive.
- adaptation may be made directly to the material forming the dome of a regular keypad to alter the topology of the surface of the dome.
- bimetals may be used by following a thermometer principle to bulge or protrude the key by making a bimetal part to straighten and curl depending on a temperature change created by and initiated by a device lead to the bimetal causing the surface topology to change accordingly.
- thermoactive liquid is suitably embedded in the substrate material to alter the surface topology by warming the substance to turn it from solid to a liquid and vice versa which changes the volume of the liquid.
- the extent or amount of the bulging and resistivity to pressure from a user's finger may be adaptable to accommodate and achieve a desired operating characteristic.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Telephone Set Structure (AREA)
- Input From Keyboards Or The Like (AREA)
Abstract
A haptic/tactile input in which the behavior and/or appearance of the mechanical user interface input is configured to be adapted to the function and context of an electronic device to give feedback and cues to the user. The mechanical input for example, buttons, sliders, levers, and other input devices are made appear on the surface of the user interface when needed.
Description
USER INTERFACE INPUT DEVICE
TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates generally to input devices and more specifically with haptic/tactile input devices and more particularly with haptic/tactile user interface input devices for electronic devices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
There is a strong demand to create electronic devices that have selectable multiple functions, particularly mobile telephone devices, all of which functions require a user interface typically provided by a haptic/tactile input device including buttons, sliders, levers and touch elements that are permanently present on the user interface surface of the device. The status, availability and function of the device is generally identified visually, e.g. with lights and labels that are controlled by software in the device. The input devices are permanently present on the surface of the user interface and available in all contexts and conditions which leads to user errors and confusion, due to the need to indicate that the function is not available or that a given command (of several available) was executed. Visual identification is not suitable for visually impaired users which affects the accessibility of the device for such users. Hiding or making certain input devices not visible in certain modes by a mechanical change in the device for example, by a slide, hinge or twist or body parts, adds size and cost to the device. From the user's cognitive load and also styling points of view there is a need to make devices as uncluttered as possible
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a broad aspect of the invention, a novel concept of a haptic/tactile input device is presented in which the behavior and/or appearance of the mechanical user interface input is configured to be adapted by the software components to the function and context of an electronic device to give feedback and cues to the user. The mechanical input embodying the invention, for example, buttons, sliders, levers, and other input devices are made appear on the surface of the user interface when needed.
CONFIRMATION COPY
In a further aspect, the input is configured to change its behavior based on context, for example: a button is not made available at the user interface surface when the function is not available and is brought up and made available at the user interface surface only when the corresponding function is available; a button cannot be pressed or operated and it is frozen or made rigid for movement when the function is not available; the touching pressure is variable as a button is made more resistive to movement as the value of an associated parameter is high or a limit is approached.
In a further aspect, the topography of the surface or contact surface area of an input such as for example, a given key or button alters its contact surface characteristic in accordance with a given function of an electronic device for providing a haptic/tactile input when the input is active. In essence the surface area of the input is flat or recessed when the input is inactive and bulges out when the input is active. The input surface topology may also be made to change repetitively to guide a user, for example, a user with impaired vision, to attract the user's attention, to direct the user's attention to a certain desired direction on the display screen or on the electronic device. The input device surface topology may also be made to perform a secondary task by providing simulative feedback to a user by controlled rhythmic movement to create user delight and/or to support the notion of a living object. The electronic device may be configured for example, for operation as a mobile terminal, music player, personal assistant, gaming unit or other such electronic devices and include features and functions such as camera functionality, GPS functionality and other functions and features well know by the purchasing public.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Additional features and benefits of the user interface input embodying the present invention will become readily apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings wherein:
Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective fragmentary view of an input device embodying the present invention shown in an unavailable operative position; Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective fragmentary view of the input device of Fig.
1 shown in an available operative position;
Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of an electronic device embodying the input device of the present invention;
Fig. 4 is a top plan view of the electronic device shown in Fig. 3;
Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-section view taken along the line 5-5 in Fig. 4 showing the input device embodying the present invention in an unavailable operative position; Fig. 6 is a schematic side view of the electronic device presented in Fig.3 showing the input device of the present invention in an available operative position;
Fig. 7 is a top plan view of the electronic device shown in Fig. 6;
Fig. 8 is a schematic cross-section view taken along the line 8-8 in Fig. 7 showing the input device embodying the present invention in an available operative position;
Fig. 9 is an exploded schematic view of an embodiment of the input device of the present invention as viewed from the underside of an electronic device with which the input device may be used;
Fig. 10 is an exploded schematic view of an embodiment of the input device of the present invention as viewed from the upperside of an electronic device with which the input device may be used;
WRITTEN DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Turning now to the drawings and considering the invention in further detail, a schematic perspective fragmentary view of an input device embodying the present invention is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 and generally designated at 10, wherein the input device 10 is shown in an unavailable operative position in Fig. 1 and is shown in an available operative position in Fig. 2. In this example, an electronic device, such as a mobile telephone, includes a printed circuit board, generally designated at 12, which carries various electrical components, memory devices, controllers, and other associated components necessary to carry out the intended function of the electric device. For purposes of illustration, the printed circuit board 12 includes a dome switch 14 on the surface 16 of the printed wiring board 12 to complete an electrical circuit path when the dome switch 14 is operated as is well known and understood by those skilled in the art. A user interface or keypad generally designated 18 is appropriately located and carried by the electronic device and is made in this example of an elastomer/rigid two-component plastic part wherein the elastomer portion generally designated 20 is deformable and configured to stretch or bulge above the
surface 22 such that the surface topology contact area 24 defines keys 26, 26 when the input device 10 is active or in a first operative state, as illustrated in Fig. 2.
An actuator mechanism, such as for example a piezoelectric motor generally designated 30 is appropriately mounted to the printed circuit board 12 and includes a shaft 32 extending axially lengthwise of the piezoelectric motor 30. A sheet spring steel band generally designated 34 has one end 36 attached to the printed circuit board 12 and its opposite end 38 suitably attached to the shaft 32 of the piezoelectric motor 30, for example by inserting the end 38 into a complementary shape and size to slack 40 in the shaft 32. The sheet spring steel band 34 is somewhat "C" shaped and is located over the dome switch 14. The sheet spring steel band 34 is in contact with a downward extending foot 42 of the elastomer portion 20 defining the key 24. When the key 24 is pressed or otherwise pushed downward in a direction toward the surface 16 of the printed circuit board 12, as indicated by the direction arrow 44, the bottom 46 of the foot 42 contacts the sheet spring steel band 34 pushing it into contact with the dome switch 14 to operate the switch 14. When the downward pressure is removed from the key 24, the sheet spring steel band 34 returns to its "C" shaped configuration pushing the foot 42 upward to make the key 24 available.
In a situation in which the key 24 is not available, for example when the electric device does not have a given function associated with the key 24 available for the particular mode selected, the surface area topology 26 of the key 24 is flush with the surface 22 of the user interface 18 indicating the key is unavailable. The elastomer portion defining the key 24 is permitted to return to its unstretched state when the shaft 32 of the piezoelectric motor 30 rotates in a clockwise direction as indicated by the rotation arrow 50 such that the end 38 of the sheet spring steel band 34 rotates with the shaft 32, thereby shortening the length of the sheet spring steel band 34, causing the band 34 to flatten and approach the surface 16 of the printed circuit board 12, removing the upward bias on the elastomer foot 42. As shown in the Figures 1 and 2, the shaft 32 may accommodate a number of sheet spring steel bands 34, each of which are associated with a key 24, and the number of keys 24 are determined in accordance with the requirements of the electronic device with which the input device 10 of the present invention is used.
A piezoelectric motor which may be utilized with the input device of the present invention is available, for example, from New Scale Technologies, Inc. under
the trademark name Squiggle Motor to provide the desired actuation and appearance and disappearance of the keys as described above. The operation of such piezoelectric motors is well understood by those skilled in the art and the reader is referred to the manufacturer's literature which is incorporated herein by reference for a more detailed description of the piezoelectric motor and its operation.
Turning now to Figures 3-8, an electronic device, such as a mobile telephone, embodying the input device of the present invention is illustrated therein and generally designated 100, wherein only the cover portion generally designated 102 of the electronic device 100 is illustrated for purposes of explanation. The electronic device 100 includes a printed circuit board 104 suitably arranged and carried in the cover 102. An elastomer/rigid two-component plastic part keypad generally designated 106 is suitably arranged and carried on an outward facing side 108 of the cover 102. The keypad 106 includes an elastomer portion 112 whose outward facing surface 114 is substantially flush with the surface 110 of the keypad 106. The input device embodying the present invention is generally designated 120 and is located at one end 116 of the electronic device 100 in the region of the elastomeric portion 112 of the keypad 106. The elastomeric portion 112 includes a downwardly extending foot 118 of sufficient length to contact a sheet spring steel band 130 having one end 132 connected to the printed circuit board 104 and an opposite end 134 suitably attached to the shaft 136 of a piezoelectric motor or other suitable actuator generally designated 138 mounted on the printed circuit board 104. The sheet spring steel band 130 is located and arranged over a dome switch 140 carried on the printed circuit board 104 and beneath the foot 118 such that the sheet spring steel band 130 is located between the foot 118 and the dome switch 140. As illustrated in Figs. 3-5, the keys defined by the elastomer portion 112 are not accessible and available for use.
With reference to Figs. 6-8, the electronic device 100 illustrated in Figs. 3-5 is illustrated therein, wherein the haptic/tactile input device embodying the present invention is activated to make a key or button 150 available for access and use by causing the topography of the contact surface area 152 to bulge or project above the surface topography 114 of the user interface or keypad 106. In this situation, the shaft 136 of the piezoelectric motor 138 is caused to rotate in a counterclockwise direction as indicated by the direction arrow 154 allowing the sheet spring steel band 130 to increase its length allowing it to return to its "C" shaped state, thereby pushing the
foot 118 of the elastomer portion 112 upward in the direction indicated by arrow 156 to cause the key 150 to be formed in the surface 114 of the elastomer portion 112 of the user interface.
Turning now to Figs. 9 and 10, an exploded schematic view of the electronic device 100 illustrated in Figs. 3-8 is shown therein as viewed from the underside in Fig. 9 and as viewed from the upperside in Fig. 10, wherein like reference numerals correspond to like parts. As shown, the elastomer portion 112 of the keypad 106 may be molded or shaped to accommodate the requirements of the particular electronic device as defined by the aperture in the cover 102 to align with the sheet spring steel bands 130 and dome switches 140. It should also be recognized that the dome switches 140 are not necessary, and the electrical contact may be created by the sheet spring steel band 130 to complete the electrical circuit connection that is made by the dome switch.
It should also be recognized that the keypad 106 may be made as a single molded unit with a rigid portion and an elastomer portion or there may be a rigid plunger in contact with the sheet spring steel band to push down on the band and dome switch.
It should also be recognized that the foot 118 formed in the elastomer portion 112 of the keypad 118 may be connected to the sheet spring steel band 130 to make a recessed key in the surface topology of the keypad 106.
The following describes several examples of usage of the haptic/tactile input device embodying the present invention for purposes of providing a fuller understanding of the invention. Example 1 In this example, the mobile telephone is in the phone or communication mode and the user interface surface is flat. When the mobile telephone is switched into the camera mode, the camera trigger button appears on the surface of the user interface. If the camera function is available in the mobile telephone, but something needs to be done before the picture can be taken, the button can be locked temporally into an upward state to indicate that a picture cannot be taken until the item requiring attention is corrected or attended to. For example, the pressing force on the camera trigger button can be altered or increased to provide a warning that the memory for pictures is low requiring more pressing force to on the button to take a picture. The
increased pressing force required indicates that attention should be paid to the status of the memory. Example 2
In this example, the mobile telephone is in the phone or communication mode and the user interface surface topology is flat. When the mobile telephone is switched into media player mode, the media player buttons corresponding to available functions, for example, play/next/prev., appear and obtrude on the user interface surface topology. If a user is on the first track, there is no prev. button available. The function availability may also be accented by switching on a backlight for this button contact surface area. Example 3
In this example, the mobile telephone device is in the phone or communication idle mode and the user interface surface topology is flat. When the mobile telephone receives an incoming call, the answering button appears on the user interface surface. Because the answer function requires the user's immediate attention, the button can be made to indicate the urgency by moving partially to capture user's tactile or visual attention. The user answers the call by pressing the button and the button then disappears from the user interface surface, and another button for ending the call appears on the user interface surface. In the examples described above, it will be recognized that the appearance of a button on the user interface surface indicates the availability of the associated function and since the button is only present when the function is available it avoids that the user would press this button accidentally in a situation where he/she is not intending to operate the button. Furthermore, the mechanical obtrusion of buttons is avoided and does not present an obstacle when inserting or sliding the mobile telephone device into a pocket.
It should be recognized by those skilled in the art that there are other mechanisms and methods that may be employed to alter the surface area topology for providing the haptic/tactile input embodying the invention. For example, an array of particles, which can be controlled with electricity, magnetics or temperature to change the particle movement, flexibility or other feature may be sandwiched between the substrate surface a flexible material coating. The arrays form the input devices, for
example, buttons, sliders etc., which are visible and haptically detectable. The adaptation may be achieved by multiple technologies.
In one example, the polarity of a magnetic field between certain parts within the input device may be changed such that the parts to repel to create a topological hill, i.e active key, or to attract one another to flatten the bump, i.e to make the key inactive.
In another example, adaptation may be made directly to the material forming the dome of a regular keypad to alter the topology of the surface of the dome.
In a further example, bimetals may be used by following a thermometer principle to bulge or protrude the key by making a bimetal part to straighten and curl depending on a temperature change created by and initiated by a device lead to the bimetal causing the surface topology to change accordingly.
In a further example, a thermoactive liquid is suitably embedded in the substrate material to alter the surface topology by warming the substance to turn it from solid to a liquid and vice versa which changes the volume of the liquid.
It will be recognized and appreciated that in all the implementations described above, the extent or amount of the bulging and resistivity to pressure from a user's finger may be adaptable to accommodate and achieve a desired operating characteristic.
Claims
1. " Apparatus, comprising: an input having a surface area configured for altering its surface topology characteristic in accordance with a given function of an electronic device for providing a haptic operative input corresponding to said given function.
2. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said input surface area is arranged in a deformable portion of a surface of a suitable substrate.
3. The apparatus as defined in claim 2 wherein said input device is further configured such that said input surface area topology is flush with said surface of said substrate for indicating an unavailable operative input state and protrudes from said surface of said substrate for indicating an available operative input state.
4. The apparatus as defined in claim 2 wherein said deformable portion of said substrate is made of a suitable elastomer material.
5. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein said input is further configured so as to form and define a contact surface area arranged with an actuation mechanism in co-operative engagement with said contact surface area for protruding said contact surface area from said substrate surface for haptic recognition of the presence of said input and for retracting said contact surface area from said substrate surface for haptic recognition of the absence of said input.
6. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 further comprising a plurality of inputs, a first number of which are selectively enabled in accordance with a given operative mode of said electronic device and another number of which are selectively enabled in accordance with another given operative mode of said electronic device.
7. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said input surface area is further configured for providing a variable pressure haptic operative input such that a higher pressing force corresponds to an alert to respond to a condition of said given function of said input.
8. An input module, comprising: a substrate having at least one defined contact surface in a deformable portion of said substrate, and an actuator mechanism suitably arranged and configured for altering the surface topology of said substrate at said at least one defined contact surface area.
9. The input module as defined in claim 8 wherein said deformable portion of said substrate is a suitable elastomer material.
10. The input module as defined in claim 8 wherein said surface topology of said substrate at said at least one defined contact surface area protrudes beyond the surface topology of said substrate defining an input key.
11. The input module as defined in claim 8 wherein said actuator mechanism further comprises a piezoelectric motor arranged for imparting a driving force against said substrate at said at least one defined contact surface area.
12. A method, comprising: a substrate surface topology having at least one defined contact surface area in a deformable portion of said substrate responding to a force imparted from a substrate surface topology altering mechanism, and a contact surface area protruding from said deformable portion of said substrate for providing a haptic operative input in response to said force imparted from said substrate surface topology altering mechanism.
13. Apparatus, comprising: surface topology altering means for changing the topology of a substrate having at least one defined contact surface area in a deformable portion of said substrate, and contact surface means protruding from the surface topology of said substrate in response to said surface altering means for providing a haptic operative input.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP07766565A EP2036315A2 (en) | 2006-06-30 | 2007-06-20 | User interface input device |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/478,832 | 2006-06-30 | ||
US11/478,832 US7916002B2 (en) | 2006-06-30 | 2006-06-30 | Haptic operative user interface input apparatus |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2008004049A2 true WO2008004049A2 (en) | 2008-01-10 |
WO2008004049A3 WO2008004049A3 (en) | 2008-04-24 |
Family
ID=38894932
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/IB2007/001652 WO2008004049A2 (en) | 2006-06-30 | 2007-06-20 | Tactile user interface device |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US7916002B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2036315A2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN101480024A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2008004049A2 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP2224697A1 (en) | 2009-02-27 | 2010-09-01 | Research In Motion Limited | Actuator notification system for use with mobile communications device, method of automatically driving an actuator on mobile communications device, and mobile communications device utilizing same |
US8099126B2 (en) | 2009-02-27 | 2012-01-17 | Research In Motion Limited | Actuator notification system for use with a mobile communications device, a method of automatically driving an actuator on a mobile communications device, and a mobile communications device utilizing same |
US8659555B2 (en) | 2008-06-24 | 2014-02-25 | Nokia Corporation | Method and apparatus for executing a feature using a tactile cue |
WO2014182492A1 (en) * | 2013-05-08 | 2014-11-13 | Cambridgesoft Corporation | Systems and methods for providing feedback cues for touch screen interface interaction with chemical and biological structure drawing applications |
US10572545B2 (en) | 2017-03-03 | 2020-02-25 | Perkinelmer Informatics, Inc | Systems and methods for searching and indexing documents comprising chemical information |
Families Citing this family (56)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8199033B2 (en) | 2007-07-06 | 2012-06-12 | Pacinian Corporation | Haptic keyboard systems and methods |
US7741979B2 (en) * | 2007-07-06 | 2010-06-22 | Pacinian Corporation | Haptic keyboard systems and methods |
US8154527B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2012-04-10 | Tactus Technology | User interface system |
US8179377B2 (en) * | 2009-01-05 | 2012-05-15 | Tactus Technology | User interface system |
US9367132B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2016-06-14 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US9557915B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2017-01-31 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface |
US8970403B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2015-03-03 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Method for actuating a tactile interface layer |
US8922502B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2014-12-30 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US8456438B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2013-06-04 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US8922510B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2014-12-30 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US9760172B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2017-09-12 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface |
US9052790B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2015-06-09 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface and methods |
US9720501B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2017-08-01 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface |
US9372565B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2016-06-21 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface |
US9612659B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2017-04-04 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US9588683B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2017-03-07 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface |
US8570295B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2013-10-29 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US8243038B2 (en) | 2009-07-03 | 2012-08-14 | Tactus Technologies | Method for adjusting the user interface of a device |
US8179375B2 (en) * | 2008-01-04 | 2012-05-15 | Tactus Technology | User interface system and method |
US8922503B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2014-12-30 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US8547339B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2013-10-01 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | System and methods for raised touch screens |
US9274612B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2016-03-01 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US9063627B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2015-06-23 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface and methods |
US9298261B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2016-03-29 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Method for actuating a tactile interface layer |
US9423875B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2016-08-23 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface with exhibiting optical dispersion characteristics |
US9552065B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2017-01-24 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface |
US8947383B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2015-02-03 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system and method |
US9128525B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2015-09-08 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface |
US8553005B2 (en) | 2008-01-04 | 2013-10-08 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US8310444B2 (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2012-11-13 | Pacinian Corporation | Projected field haptic actuation |
US8294600B2 (en) * | 2008-02-15 | 2012-10-23 | Cody George Peterson | Keyboard adaptive haptic response |
US8203531B2 (en) | 2008-03-14 | 2012-06-19 | Pacinian Corporation | Vector-specific haptic feedback |
US20090319893A1 (en) * | 2008-06-24 | 2009-12-24 | Nokia Corporation | Method and Apparatus for Assigning a Tactile Cue |
US8427433B2 (en) * | 2008-10-17 | 2013-04-23 | Honeywell International Inc. | Tactile-feedback touch screen |
WO2010078596A1 (en) | 2009-01-05 | 2010-07-08 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | User interface system |
US9588684B2 (en) | 2009-01-05 | 2017-03-07 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Tactile interface for a computing device |
CN102483675B (en) | 2009-07-03 | 2015-09-09 | 泰克图斯科技公司 | User interface strengthens system |
US9239623B2 (en) | 2010-01-05 | 2016-01-19 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface |
US8619035B2 (en) * | 2010-02-10 | 2013-12-31 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Method for assisting user input to a device |
KR20130136905A (en) | 2010-04-19 | 2013-12-13 | 택투스 테크놀로지, 아이엔씨. | User interface system |
US9791928B2 (en) * | 2010-04-26 | 2017-10-17 | Nokia Technologies Oy | Apparatus, method, computer program and user interface |
US9733705B2 (en) * | 2010-04-26 | 2017-08-15 | Nokia Technologies Oy | Apparatus, method, computer program and user interface |
US9715275B2 (en) | 2010-04-26 | 2017-07-25 | Nokia Technologies Oy | Apparatus, method, computer program and user interface |
CN103154857B (en) * | 2010-08-23 | 2019-03-15 | 诺基亚技术有限公司 | For providing the device and method of tactile and audible feedback in the user interface of touch sensible |
US9021344B2 (en) * | 2010-08-31 | 2015-04-28 | New River Kinematics, Inc. | Off-line graphical user interface system and method for three-dimensional measurement |
WO2012054780A1 (en) | 2010-10-20 | 2012-04-26 | Tactus Technology | User interface system |
KR20140043697A (en) | 2010-10-20 | 2014-04-10 | 택투스 테크놀로지, 아이엔씨. | User interface system and method |
US8780060B2 (en) | 2010-11-02 | 2014-07-15 | Apple Inc. | Methods and systems for providing haptic control |
WO2014047656A2 (en) | 2012-09-24 | 2014-03-27 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface and methods |
US9405417B2 (en) | 2012-09-24 | 2016-08-02 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Dynamic tactile interface and methods |
US9836150B2 (en) * | 2012-11-20 | 2017-12-05 | Immersion Corporation | System and method for feedforward and feedback with haptic effects |
US9330544B2 (en) * | 2012-11-20 | 2016-05-03 | Immersion Corporation | System and method for simulated physical interactions with haptic effects |
US9557813B2 (en) | 2013-06-28 | 2017-01-31 | Tactus Technology, Inc. | Method for reducing perceived optical distortion |
KR102313364B1 (en) * | 2015-04-01 | 2021-10-18 | 삼성디스플레이 주식회사 | Display apparatus |
US11099650B1 (en) | 2015-09-07 | 2021-08-24 | Oliver Markus Haynold | Camera with improved shutter button |
US9898903B2 (en) | 2016-03-07 | 2018-02-20 | Immersion Corporation | Systems and methods for haptic surface elements |
Citations (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4202615A (en) * | 1977-12-28 | 1980-05-13 | Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. | Single lens reflex camera with electrical shutter |
US4314750A (en) * | 1981-01-12 | 1982-02-09 | Vivitar Corporation | Tactile indication and control system |
US4327985A (en) * | 1979-12-13 | 1982-05-04 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Battery-voltage indicator of camera |
DE4319795A1 (en) * | 1993-06-15 | 1994-01-13 | Jochen Dr Guelker | Computer pointing device with tactile feedback response - uses resistance change by electromagnetic attraction to mouse pad and button reaction |
GB2306078A (en) * | 1995-10-02 | 1997-04-23 | Motorola Inc | Telephone User Interface Using Icons |
US5926119A (en) * | 1996-12-20 | 1999-07-20 | Motorola, Inc. | Numeric keypad configuration |
US6218966B1 (en) * | 1998-11-05 | 2001-04-17 | International Business Machines Corporation | Tactile feedback keyboard |
US20030022701A1 (en) * | 2001-07-25 | 2003-01-30 | Aloke Gupta | Buttonless communication device with touchscreen display |
KR20030048697A (en) * | 2001-12-12 | 2003-06-25 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Device and method for activating key button selectively in key pad assembly |
JP2004117950A (en) * | 2002-09-27 | 2004-04-15 | Fuji Photo Film Co Ltd | Camera system |
WO2004042685A2 (en) * | 2002-11-01 | 2004-05-21 | Immersion Corporation | System and method for providing passive haptic feedback |
WO2004068521A1 (en) * | 2003-09-22 | 2004-08-12 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | A device, a keypad, and a steering wheel |
JP2005223616A (en) * | 2004-02-05 | 2005-08-18 | Canon Inc | Image pickup apparatus |
JP2006003746A (en) * | 2004-06-18 | 2006-01-05 | Fujinon Corp | Camera |
KR20060027655A (en) * | 2004-09-23 | 2006-03-28 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Key button assembly for portable wireless terminal and management method of it |
US20070152974A1 (en) * | 2006-01-03 | 2007-07-05 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Haptic button and haptic device using the same |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5496174A (en) * | 1994-08-04 | 1996-03-05 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Administrator Of The National Aeronautics And Space Administration | Method and device for producing a tactile display using an electrorheological fluid |
US6667738B2 (en) * | 1998-01-07 | 2003-12-23 | Vtech Communications, Ltd. | Touch screen overlay apparatus |
FI117811B (en) * | 2000-05-15 | 2007-02-28 | Nokia Corp | Device and method for implementing a key |
US6459364B2 (en) * | 2000-05-23 | 2002-10-01 | Hewlett-Packard Company | Internet browser facility and method for the visually impaired |
JP4577955B2 (en) | 2000-07-12 | 2010-11-10 | 沖電気工業株式会社 | Automatic cash transaction equipment |
US6967642B2 (en) * | 2001-01-31 | 2005-11-22 | Microsoft Corporation | Input device with pattern and tactile feedback for computer input and control |
US6636202B2 (en) * | 2001-04-27 | 2003-10-21 | International Business Machines Corporation | Interactive tactile display for computer screen |
US7009599B2 (en) * | 2001-11-20 | 2006-03-07 | Nokia Corporation | Form factor for portable device |
-
2006
- 2006-06-30 US US11/478,832 patent/US7916002B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2007
- 2007-06-20 CN CNA2007800243887A patent/CN101480024A/en active Pending
- 2007-06-20 WO PCT/IB2007/001652 patent/WO2008004049A2/en active Application Filing
- 2007-06-20 EP EP07766565A patent/EP2036315A2/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4202615A (en) * | 1977-12-28 | 1980-05-13 | Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. | Single lens reflex camera with electrical shutter |
US4327985A (en) * | 1979-12-13 | 1982-05-04 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Battery-voltage indicator of camera |
US4314750A (en) * | 1981-01-12 | 1982-02-09 | Vivitar Corporation | Tactile indication and control system |
DE4319795A1 (en) * | 1993-06-15 | 1994-01-13 | Jochen Dr Guelker | Computer pointing device with tactile feedback response - uses resistance change by electromagnetic attraction to mouse pad and button reaction |
GB2306078A (en) * | 1995-10-02 | 1997-04-23 | Motorola Inc | Telephone User Interface Using Icons |
US5926119A (en) * | 1996-12-20 | 1999-07-20 | Motorola, Inc. | Numeric keypad configuration |
US6218966B1 (en) * | 1998-11-05 | 2001-04-17 | International Business Machines Corporation | Tactile feedback keyboard |
US20030022701A1 (en) * | 2001-07-25 | 2003-01-30 | Aloke Gupta | Buttonless communication device with touchscreen display |
KR20030048697A (en) * | 2001-12-12 | 2003-06-25 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Device and method for activating key button selectively in key pad assembly |
JP2004117950A (en) * | 2002-09-27 | 2004-04-15 | Fuji Photo Film Co Ltd | Camera system |
WO2004042685A2 (en) * | 2002-11-01 | 2004-05-21 | Immersion Corporation | System and method for providing passive haptic feedback |
WO2004068521A1 (en) * | 2003-09-22 | 2004-08-12 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | A device, a keypad, and a steering wheel |
JP2005223616A (en) * | 2004-02-05 | 2005-08-18 | Canon Inc | Image pickup apparatus |
JP2006003746A (en) * | 2004-06-18 | 2006-01-05 | Fujinon Corp | Camera |
KR20060027655A (en) * | 2004-09-23 | 2006-03-28 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Key button assembly for portable wireless terminal and management method of it |
US20070152974A1 (en) * | 2006-01-03 | 2007-07-05 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Haptic button and haptic device using the same |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8659555B2 (en) | 2008-06-24 | 2014-02-25 | Nokia Corporation | Method and apparatus for executing a feature using a tactile cue |
EP2224697A1 (en) | 2009-02-27 | 2010-09-01 | Research In Motion Limited | Actuator notification system for use with mobile communications device, method of automatically driving an actuator on mobile communications device, and mobile communications device utilizing same |
US8099126B2 (en) | 2009-02-27 | 2012-01-17 | Research In Motion Limited | Actuator notification system for use with a mobile communications device, a method of automatically driving an actuator on a mobile communications device, and a mobile communications device utilizing same |
WO2014182492A1 (en) * | 2013-05-08 | 2014-11-13 | Cambridgesoft Corporation | Systems and methods for providing feedback cues for touch screen interface interaction with chemical and biological structure drawing applications |
US10572545B2 (en) | 2017-03-03 | 2020-02-25 | Perkinelmer Informatics, Inc | Systems and methods for searching and indexing documents comprising chemical information |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2036315A2 (en) | 2009-03-18 |
US20080010593A1 (en) | 2008-01-10 |
WO2008004049A3 (en) | 2008-04-24 |
US7916002B2 (en) | 2011-03-29 |
CN101480024A (en) | 2009-07-08 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7916002B2 (en) | Haptic operative user interface input apparatus | |
US5921382A (en) | Magnetically enhanced membrane switch | |
US6102802A (en) | Game controller with analog pressure sensor(s) | |
US6760015B2 (en) | Double-sided keyboard for use in an electronic device | |
AU733239B2 (en) | Touch screen overlay apparatus | |
US7094979B2 (en) | Switching device and portable terminal device | |
US20020054030A1 (en) | Touch screen overlay apparatus | |
US20010008848A1 (en) | Controller with convexed surface analog pressure sensor | |
US20080100568A1 (en) | Electronic device providing tactile feedback | |
KR20120048655A (en) | Input device | |
KR20080075804A (en) | Tilting touch control panel | |
JP2006086099A (en) | Button structure and portable electronic equipment | |
CN111712396B (en) | Multifunctional switch device | |
MX2007008862A (en) | Switch and method for operation thereof. | |
US7158054B2 (en) | General purpose input board for a touch actuation | |
JP4426209B2 (en) | Slide input key | |
JP4334816B2 (en) | INPUT DEVICE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING THE SAME | |
WO2011149604A1 (en) | Passive user input attachments engaging compressible conductive elements and method for the same | |
JP2008146679A (en) | Input device and electronic device equipped therewith | |
US7663070B2 (en) | Four-way rocker switch with display | |
JP2002229478A (en) | Electronic equipment having display device with formed control button | |
EP3619729B1 (en) | Keypad device with rocker button mechanism | |
JP4937994B2 (en) | Multi-directional slide switch | |
KR100732398B1 (en) | Keypad assembly of which input mode can be changed and mobile terminal comprising the same | |
JPS63318030A (en) | Soft keyboard |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
WWE | Wipo information: entry into national phase |
Ref document number: 200780024388.7 Country of ref document: CN |
|
121 | Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application |
Ref document number: 07766565 Country of ref document: EP Kind code of ref document: A2 |
|
WWE | Wipo information: entry into national phase |
Ref document number: 2007766565 Country of ref document: EP |
|
NENP | Non-entry into the national phase |
Ref country code: DE |
|
NENP | Non-entry into the national phase |
Ref country code: RU |