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US 2013/0118877 A1Published application
Multiple function inline controller with buttons extending along different axes
AssigneeApple Inc.
InventorsChristopher Prest, Kurt Stiehl, Cameron Frazier, Wim Crooijmans, Michelle Yu
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Methods, apparatus and systems which provide buttons oriented at angles relative to each other as a part of a multiple function switch are described. In one embodiment, the multiple function switch is part of an inline controller that is suitable for use to control features or functions of a portable electronic device. A multiple function switch may be incorporated in a cable associated with an earpiece arranged to be interfaced with a portable electronic device.
Claims26
1-28. (canceled)
A multi-button switch apparatus comprising:
- a circuit board;
- a plurality of buttons electrically connected to the circuit board;
- and
- a single moveable cover disposed around each of the circuit board and the plurality of buttons, and operative to interact with each button of the plurality of buttons.
1 more element
An apparatus comprising:
- a circuit board;
- a plurality of switches coupled to the circuit board and comprising:
- a first switch facing a first direction;
- and
- a second switch facing a second direction that is different from the first direction;
- and
- a flexible member configured to:
- surround each of the circuit board and the plurality of switches;
- and
- allow a user of the apparatus to interact with each switch of the plurality of switches.
7 more elements
An apparatus comprising:
- a circuit board having a first portion that faces a first direction and a second portion that faces a second direction that is different from the first direction;
- a first user input surface residing on the first portion of the circuit board;
- a second user input surface residing on the second portion of the circuit board;
- and
- a tube disposed around each of the circuit board, the first user input surface, and the second user input surface, and configured to interact with each of the first user input surface and the second user input surface.
2 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.