Data Input Device with Enhanced Tactile Sensation
AssigneeThales
InventorJean-Louis Bigand
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The invention relates to a data input device produced by means of a switch operated by a stem. A return spring enables the stem to return to a stable position. According to the invention, the device comprises a circular element that can be displaced roughly perpendicularly to the displacement of the stem, a cam attached to the stem, and elastic means holding the circular element pressed against the cam, the cam comprising a slope, a high point and a counter-slope on which the circular element bears in succession when the stem is operated from its stable position to a position in which the switch is operated.
Claims11
A data input device comprising:
- a switch making it possible to input data,
- a stem that is mobile relative to a module, the stem making it possible to operate the switch,
- a return spring enabling the stem to return to a stable position in which the stem is not operated, and
- means for modulating a force exerted by the return spring in order to define a peak of force at a point of the travel of the stem beyond which the switch is operated,
- wherein the means for modulating the force further comprises
- a circular element that can be displaced roughly perpendicularly to the displacement of the stem,
- a cam attached to the stem,
- elastic means holding the circular element pressed against the cam,
- the cam comprising a slope, a high point and a counter-slope on which the circular element bears in succession when the stem is operated from its stable position to a position in which the switch is operated.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.