US 2013/0093679 A1 · User Interface with Localized Haptic Response

Abstract

An interface peripheral (101) for delivering haptic feedback includes a plurality of user input elements (107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112) that can be configured as keys. An engagement layer (222) or mechanical sheet spans two or more of the keys. One or more motion generation components (228, 229) can be coupled to the engagement layer. When a user actuates a key, it translates to close a switch, which can be a membrane switch or force sensing resistive switch. A control module (2105) actuates a motion generation component and the engagement layer (222) engages the actuated key or keys via either compression engagement or translation engagement. A haptic response (617) is delivered to the engaged key via the engagement layer.

Claims20

Dependent claims

An interface peripheral, comprising:

a plurality of keys;
an engagement layer spanning two or more of the plurality of keys;
and
a motion generation component coupled to the engagement layer;
wherein:
the engagement layer defines two or more apertures corresponding to the two or more of the plurality of keys;
and
the engagement layer is configured to mechanically engage at least one key of the two or more of the plurality of keys and deliver a haptic response to the at least one key when the motion generation component actuates.

5 more elements

A haptic user interface system, operable with an electronic device, the haptic user interface system comprising:

a plurality of user input elements, each being moveable along a first axis to close a switch;
a mechanical layer spanning the plurality of user input elements along a second axis and a third axis, the second axis and the third axis being orthogonal with the first axis, the mechanical layer defining a plurality of apertures corresponding to the plurality of user input elements on a one-to-one basis;
and
one or more haptic devices, operable to impart force upon the mechanical layer;
wherein movement of a user input element along the first axis engages at least part of a perimeter of an aperture of the mechanical layer;
and
actuation of the one or more haptic devices delivers a haptic response to the user input element when engaged with the mechanical layer.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Facts

Application

13/274,417Filed 17 Oct 2011

Published

18 Apr 2013

Term ends

Not estimatedThe source records don’t support an estimate.

Classification5 codes

G06F 3/016
Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer: input arrangements with force or tactile…
G06F 1/1632
For portable computers: external expansion units, e.g. docking stations
G06F 3/0202
Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials: constructional details or processes of manufacture of the…
G06F 3/0393
Accessories therefor, e.g. mouse pads: accessories for touch pads or touch screens, e.g. mechanical guides added to touch screens for drawing…

User Interface with Localized Haptic Response

Life of this patent

User Interface with Localized Haptic Response

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20