U.S. patent application number 10/956836 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-02 for accepting user control.
Invention is credited to Gelfond, Neil, Hotary, James T., Killough, Joseph A., Olcott, Andrew, Santoro, Peter C., Zamir, Lee.
Application Number | 20050115816 10/956836 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34915799 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050115816 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gelfond, Neil ; et
al. |
June 2, 2005 |
Accepting user control
Abstract
The invention is directed to an improvement in mechanisms and
techniques for accepting user input. An apparatus for accepting a
user input is described comprising a display, detector and
controller. The display is configured to show an initial output.
The detector is positioned in a location with respect to the
display such that the detector detects placement of a trigger, such
as a user's hand, proximate to the display. Various methods of
detection such as infra-red detection, ultrasonic detection,
capacitive detection, etc. may alternatively be used. The
controller is configured to, upon placement of the trigger in a
relative position with respect to the detector, cause the display
to display an alternative output. After a pre-determined period of
time, the display automatically reverts to the initial output or
similar reduced-content output.
Inventors: |
Gelfond, Neil; (Shrewsbury,
MA) ; Zamir, Lee; (Cambridge, MA) ; Killough,
Joseph A.; (Brookline, MA) ; Olcott, Andrew;
(Newton, MA) ; Santoro, Peter C.; (Shirley,
MA) ; Hotary, James T.; (Princeton, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FISH & RICHARDSON PC
225 FRANKLIN ST
BOSTON
MA
02110
US
|
Family ID: |
34915799 |
Appl. No.: |
10/956836 |
Filed: |
October 1, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10956836 |
Oct 1, 2004 |
|
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10820233 |
Apr 5, 2004 |
|
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10820233 |
Apr 5, 2004 |
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10626349 |
Jul 23, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
200/339 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01H 25/041 20130101;
H01H 2221/078 20130101; B60K 37/06 20130101; H01H 2019/143
20130101; G06F 3/0362 20130101; H01H 19/11 20130101; G06F 3/0482
20130101; H01H 2219/012 20130101; B60K 2370/143 20190501; G06F
3/0481 20130101; G06F 3/0489 20130101; B60K 2370/126 20190501; B60K
2370/145 20190501 |
Class at
Publication: |
200/339 |
International
Class: |
E03B 001/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for accepting a user input comprising: a display,
wherein the display is configured to show an initial output; a
control, located proximate to the display, a detector, wherein the
detector is positioned with respect to the display such that the
detector detects placement of a trigger proximate to a portion of
the display associated with the control; and a controller, wherein
the controller is configured to, upon placement of a trigger
proximate to the portion of the display, cause the display to
display different information, the information associated with the
control.
2. An apparatus for accepting a user input comprising: a display,
wherein the display is configured to show an initial output; a
detector, wherein the detector is positioned with respect to the
display such that the detector detects placement of a trigger
proximate to the display; and a controller, wherein the controller
is configured to, upon placement of a trigger in a relative
position with respect to the detector, cause the display to display
an alternative output.
Description
RELATED U.S. APPLICATION DATA
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 10/820,233 Filing Date: Apr. 5, 2004, which is a
continuation in part of application No. 10/626,349 filing date Jul.
23, 2003. The entire contents of both applications are incorporated
here by reference.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Embodiments of the invention are directed to a system and
method for accepting user input provided as a force exerted on a
selected segment of a pressure member (e.g. a surface area of
plastic, metal, glass or other material to which the user can apply
a force) and/or provided by the operation of two controls (e.g.
knobs, buttons, shafts, etc.). In particular, in one embodiment,
the pressure member is a sheet of plastic that is coupled and/or
mounted on four switches (e.g. a device capable of detecting a user
input such as a force or "push"; other switches include capacitive,
resistive, piezoelectric, mechanical, etc.) located around the
periphery (e.g at the corners of a rectangular shaped pressure
member ). In one embodiment, the pressure member is an optically
transparent sheet of material (e.g. plastic, glass, etc) disposed
in front of a display such that the display is visible through the
pressure member (the display will be described in more detail
later). The display shows options (e.g. input options, menu
options) that are spatially associated with sections of the
pressure member. When the user exerts a force within a selected
section of the pressure member that is close to where the pressure
member is mounted and/or coupled to one of the switches, the
pressure member transmits a resulting force on the nearby switch,
thus actuating the switch.
[0003] A section of the pressure member is defined here as an area
of the pressure member associated with a switch, such that a force
applied by a user within the area of the section is capable of
actuating the associated switch. By selecting an appropriate
section (e.g. the closest of multiple locations or portions of the
pressure member to a particular switch) of the pressure member to
apply the force to, the user effectively chooses which (e.g. the
closest of multiple locations or portions of the pressure member to
a particular switch) of the pressure member to apply the force to,
the user effectively chooses which switch to activate. The switch
actuation in turn changes the system state (e.g. parameters,
settings, operations performed, functions, data stored in memory
locations, etc.), either directly or through the action of a
control circuit coupled to the various switches. In one embodiment,
the system is a media player, and in particular is a media player
designed for use within a vehicle. Media players may alternatively
be media control units, receivers, radios, CD players, video
players or other DVD players, or other media devices. Accordingly,
the system and method provides a way to accept user input with a
less costly alternative than the use of touch screens but offering
more flexibility than is provided by fixed controls such as
pushbuttons, switches, etc. Embodiments of the invention provide a
large surface for users to locate by "tactile feedback" thereby
increasing the likelihood of the user being able to initiate input
without looking at the input device as contrasted with dedicated
push-buttons, knobs and other similar controls. The pressure member
is equipped with raised touch areas that allow the user to locate
and discern different sections of the pressure member by feel.
[0004] Embodiments of the invention additionally provide mechanisms
to give haptic feedback (e.g. the provision of physical feedback
which the user can sense by touch and/or feeling) to the user
through manipulation of the pressure member and/or knobs. For
example, in one embodiment, a knob is configured to cause a
vibration, equivalent to a "click" that a user traditionally feels
when the knob reaches a new selection such as a new source (e.g. a
new media source), mode or media content item. The embodiments are
configured to provide other types of such haptic feedback to the
user, as well. These features are particularly valuable in
automotive applications which seek to reduce distraction of the
driver away from driving-related activities.
[0005] In addition to the control operations that the user
initiates by exerting a force close to where the pressure member is
coupled to one of a plurality of switches (e.g. one of four
switches located near the corners of the pressure member),
embodiments of the invention are configured to detect a force
exerted on the pressure member at a distance from a particular one
of the plurality of switches (e.g. the user exerting a force closer
to the center of the pressure member, at a location of the pressure
member in-between two switch locations, etc.). In order to detect
such a force, exerted a distance from a switch location, the
control circuit identifies the existence of two or more essentially
simultaneous switch actuations as having come from the center push
or in-between pushes, etc. If the switch actuations occur
simultaneously, the control circuit identifies the simultaneous
actuations as a center or in-between push. If the switch actuations
occur sequentially but within a pre-determined time interval, the
control circuit also identifies the switch actuations as a center
or in-between push.
[0006] According to one embodiment of the invention, the system is
configured to treat reception of a user input in the form of the
center push or the in-between push as a distinct input (i.e. a
different input than the inputs resulting from the forces applied
near the switch locations). In one embodiment, the system is
configured to interpret the center push or in-between push as a
command to operate in either "browse" or "standard" display mode,
each of which provides different levels of detail. For example, in
a media player operating in the browse display mode, a list of
abbreviated media content item identifiers is displayed to the
user. For example, in the browse display mode the media content
item artist names "Alice Cooper, Alicia Keys, America, Beatles and
Billy Joel, etc." may be displayed to the user. If the user
deselects the browse display mode in favor of the standard display
mode by initiating a center push, the media player display instead
shows a more detailed listing of the selected media content item
(e.g. the media content item that is currently playing) including,
for example, such information as the name, artist and duration
(e.g. The Beatles, Octopus' Garden, 2.45 of 3.59 min.). The browse
display and standard display options operate for various modes
(e.g. artist, title, album, time, etc.) that are applicable to each
of the different sources that may be selectable in a media
player.
[0007] In addition to the embodiments of the invention using a
center or in-between push to select between browse display mode and
standard display mode, pressure member forces and pushes can be
designated to perform other functions, as well. For example, the
pressure member might be configured to change sources when a force
is applied to the pressure member (i.e. at a specific location).
According to other embodiments, the pressure member may be
configured to be a modifier upon application of forces and/or
pushes (e.g. much like a "function" key or "shift" key of a
computer keyboard) that causes a change in the available selection
options of other controls. The pressure member forces and/or pushes
can be assignable to other functions, as well.
[0008] Embodiments of the invention provide additional mechanisms
and methods for accepting user input such as the manipulation of
knobs. A knob can be configured to operate as a multiple degree of
freedom control. In one example, one degree of freedom of the knob
is associated with pressing of the knob; the second degree of
freedom is associated with rotation of the knob. Other degrees of
freedom for controls are also possible, such as for example,
simultaneously pushing and rotating as an alternative form of user
input.
[0009] According to one embodiment, a first knob configured to
operate as a multiple degree of freedom control is used in a media
player. The first knob is configured to, as a result of the user
pressing the first knob, select the next in a list of sources (e.g.
uIndex.TM. (e.g. uIndex.TM. is a method and mechanism for
identifying media content items that are available from multiple
sources thereby providing users with a broader range of media
content item options.), AM, FM, Satellite Radio, CD, Hard Drive
(HD), uMusic (e.g. A method and mechanism for storing and managing
media content. The method and mechanism provides storage facilities
for media content items and identifies the media content items by
user preference and/or other parameters in order to provide more
effective user access of the media content items.) and DVD, etc.,.
The sources may be maintained in any order.
[0010] In one example, if a currently-selected source is AM (i.e.
AM radio), then by pressing the first knob, the user will cause a
media player to switch to FM (i.e. FM radio). By repeatedly
pressing the first knob, the user can select any source from a set
of source alternatives. In connection with such a user source
selection, embodiments of the invention provide visual and/or
audible confirmation of the user's selection. In one embodiment of
the invention, rotating the first knob performs the traditional
operation of controlling media player volume or some other media
function.
[0011] As the user changes source by pressing the first knob, a
displayed color identifies the source selected, for example, red
for AM, blue for FM, green for CD, etc. Each time the user presses
the first knob to change source, the color changes. Embodiments of
the invention provide mechanisms and methods for changing the color
of the knob (e.g. by LED's, other light sources, etc.) itself and
for changing the color of the display. Identification of the
selected source by displaying a color that represents the selected
source reduces the level of user attention required. In other
embodiments of the invention in which clear or translucent knobs
are disposed over a display, alphanumeric, text, or graphic
information and/or colors may be displayed through the knob(s) that
are associated with source and mode selections. Other information,
such as levels and/or progress indications can be displayed near or
through the knobs. In addition, an audible cue, such as a "click"
played through the audio output of the media player provides
notification to the user, even if the user is not looking at the
media player at the time of initiating the change. Alternatively,
spoken, synthesized, etc. audio feedback may be provided, as
well.
[0012] A second knob configured as a multiple degree of freedom
control is also used to accept user input. By pressing the second
knob, the user selects the next mode from a list of modes. Each
source has a different subset of modes defined for the individual
source. By pressing the second knob, the user can select from among
the mode alternatives defined for any source selected by
manipulating the first knob.
[0013] For example, assume that a user wants to operate the media
player by using the hard drive source. First, the user selects the
hard drive source by pressing on the first knob as many times as
are necessary to select the hard drive source. Each time the user
presses the first knob, a new source is selected. Once the hard
drive source has been chosen, the user refrains from further
pressing of the first knob. Next the user selects from among the
four mode options available for the hard drive (i.e. artist, title,
album, time) until the desired mode has been selected. For example,
if the user wants to display a list of media content items stored
on the hard drive in alphabetical order by title, the user presses
the second knob until the title display mode has been selected.
Upon the user's successful selection of the title display mode, the
media player displays the available hard drive media content items
in title order. If the user presses the second knob again until the
artist mode has been selected, the list of media content items will
now be displayed in alphabetical order by artist.
[0014] The user, having successfully selected the artist display
mode as described above, is then presented with a list of available
media content items in alphabetical order by artist, for example,
Alice Cooper, Alicia Keys, America, Beatles, Billy Joel, etc. in
which the selected/currently playing media content item is
highlighted. In an alternative example, if the user selects the
title display mode, the list displayed to the user is ordered by
title (e.g. How Come You Don't Call Me, Lost in America, Michelle
Ma Belle, Piano Man, etc.).
[0015] The second knob is configured as a multiple degree of
freedom control. Specifically, one degree of freedom of the second
knob is associated with pressing the second knob; the second degree
of freedom is associated with rotation of the second knob.
Therefore, in addition to selecting modes by pressing the second
knob, a user can also select media content items from a list of
available media content items by rotating the second knob.
Accordingly, the user selects the media content item of choice by
rotating the second knob until the desired media content item has
been selected. The different modes that are selectable by the
second knob are capable of displaying media content items in the
browse mode or standard mode, as described above.
[0016] In order to provide the second degree of freedom, knobs
(e.g. either the first knob or the second knob) are configured to
recognize a user rotation of the knob and convert the rotation into
a control signal. A mechanism for providing the second degree of
freedom of the knob comprises an optical light source (e.g. an
infra-red light emitting diode), one or more optical receivers, the
knob and the optically transparent member (e.g. the optically
transparent member may or may not be the same as the pressure
member according to different embodiments of the invention). The
knob is mounted on the optically transparent member in such a
fashion that the user can rotate the knob clock-wise or
counter-clock-wise. Bands of reflective surface are attached around
the circumference of the knob at regular intervals.
[0017] The optical light source is mounted to a circuit board that
is positioned at the perimeter of the optically transparent member.
The optical light source is angled toward the center of the knob
and is aimed through the optically transparent member, according to
one embodiment of the invention, to a point on the circumference of
the knob. According to one embodiment of the invention the optical
light source has a beam angle of plus or minus 8 degrees. The
optical receivers are positioned on both sides of the emitter, for
example, mounted on the circuit board.
[0018] According to one embodiment of the invention, the optically
transparent member is coated (e.g. using a light restricting
material) in order to block transmission of extraneous sources of
light that could be misinterpreted as coming from the optical light
source, if detected by the optical receiver. Such coatings (e.g.
optical coatings) can block excessive light from being transmitted
either by the display or an external source that might otherwise
"swamp" the optical receiver making the optical receiver and or the
optical receiver-related circuitry inoperable.
[0019] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, select
frequencies of light transmitted from extraneous sources in the
frequency range of the light emitted by the optical light source
are blocked to avoid such a misinterpretation of the light detected
by the optical receiver. According to another alternative
embodiment of the invention, light emitted by the optical light
source is modulated in such a fashion that the modulated light
received by the optical receiver can be distinguished from other
light received from extraneous sources.
[0020] During the operation of the system, the optical light source
emits light (e.g. infra-red light). When the knob is rotated by a
user, the infra-red light from the optical light source is
reflected toward the optical receiver by a band of reflective
surfaces attached to the knob. Upon detecting the light reflected
toward the optical receiver, the optical receiver's output which is
normally at a high state (e.g. 5 volts) transitions to a low state
(e.g. 0 volts). Continuation of rotation of the knob by the user
results in movement of attached band of reflective surface such
that at a particular position of the knob, the reflective surface
no longer reflects infra-red light toward the optical receiver. At
that point the optical receiver's output returns to a high
state.
[0021] Upon rotation of the knob by a user, the first of the two
optical receivers to detect light from the optical light source
indicates the direction of motion of the knob. A circuit (e.g. a
microcontroller) translates the changes in optical receivers'
outputs into a control signal that is representative of rotation of
the knob.
[0022] The knob and optically transparent member are constructed
from plastic or other material (e.g. clear plastic, acrylic
plastic, etc.). A friction sleeve (made of low-friction material
such as PTFE, i.e. Teflon.RTM., etc.) secured to the circumference
of the knob permits the knob to rotate; a capture member holds the
knob in position on the optically transparent member.
[0023] Additional embodiments of the invention provide an improved
user interface for multimedia and other devices. Among other
advantages of embodiments of the invention, the improved user
interface simplifies the display of a multimedia device in
automotive applications so that the display can be easily
understood and cause less distraction to drivers than would
otherwise be possible using other input and/or control mechanisms.
In particular, the multimedia device, so configured, limits the
amount of information displayed to a user until such time as the
user is ready to perform a control operation. At that time, the
multimedia device expands the information displayed in order to
provide sufficient information upon which the user can select a
desired control operation.
[0024] Embodiments of the invention are particularly useful in
multimedia systems and automotive applications.
[0025] In one embodiment the system for accepting user input,
comprises a plurality of switches and pressure member. The pressure
member is coupled to the plurality of switches. The pressure member
has multiple sections, wherein each section of the multiple
sections is associated with a switch of the plurality of switches.
The pressure member is positioned in relation to the plurality of
switches such that when the user exerts a force to one of the
multiple sections the pressure member transmits a resulting force
to a switch associated with the one of the multiple sections. This
causes actuation of the switch associated with the one of the
multiple sections.
[0026] In another embodiment, the system includes a display. The
display displays at least one input option. At least one of the
multiple sections of the pressure member is spatially associated
with the at least one input option displayed.
[0027] In another embodiment, at least a portion the pressure
member is optically transparent. The pressure member is further
positioned in front of the display so that the display is visible
through the pressure member. The plurality of switches is further
located adjacent to the display and the at least one input option
displayed is viewed through the pressure member.
[0028] In another embodiment, the system operates in a motor
vehicle.
[0029] In yet another embodiment the system operates as a component
of a media system.
[0030] In one embodiment, one of the multiple sections has a
tactile element The tactile element reduces the requirement for a
visual location, by the user, of the at least one of the multiple
sections of the pressure member.
[0031] In yet another embodiment, the pressure member includes four
sections, wherein each section is associated with one of the four
switches.
[0032] In one embodiment, the pressure member transmits a resulting
force to a single switch associated with the one of the multiple
sections.
[0033] In one embodiment, the pressure member transmits a resulting
force to at least two switches associated with the one of the
multiple sections.
[0034] In another embodiment, the switch actuation initiates a
system operation.
[0035] In one embodiment, the mechanical characteristics of the
pressure member are spatially varied, in order to focus forces
exerted upon a selected section of the pressure member to effect a
desired switch actuation.
[0036] In yet another embodiment, the system comprises a first
switch of the plurality of switches, a second switch of the
plurality of switches and a control circuit. As a result of the
exertion of a force by the user to the pressure member, the
pressure member transmits a first resulting force to a first switch
associated with one of the multiple sections of the pressure
member. The pressure member also transmits a second resulting force
to a second switch associated with another of the multiple sections
of the pressure member. This causes an actuation of the first
switch of the plurality of switches and an actuation of the second
switch of the plurality of switches. The control circuit identifies
the multiple switch activation as an inferred system state.
[0037] In another embodiment, the system comprising a fulcrum that
localizes deflection of the pressure member resulting from forces
exerted by a user, in order to affect which switches are actuated
by the exerted force.
[0038] In one embodiment, the system, in response to the exertion
of a force on the pressure member by the user, provides
confirmation of a user input to the user.
[0039] In one embodiment, the system further comprises an indicator
light. The indicator light, upon the exertion of a force to the
pressure member by the user, is configured to illuminate in order
to provide a visual confirmation of the switch actuation to the
user.
[0040] In yet another embodiment, the system is configured to
provide an audible confirmation of the switch actuation to the
user.
[0041] In still another embodiment, the audible confirmation of the
switch actuation is a synthetic voice.
[0042] In one embodiment, the system for accepting a user input
comprises a first control configured to select a media source in
response to an actuation of the first control by a user. The system
also includes a second control. The second control has two degrees
of freedom in actuation, configured to choose a mode from a set of
modes for the selected media source in response to an actuation of
the first degree of freedom of the second control by the user. The
actuation of the second degree of freedom by the user of the second
control is configured to identify a media content item selection. A
display displays one of the media source, mode and media content
item.
[0043] In one embodiment, the system for accepting user input
comprises a pressure member coupled to the plurality of switches.
The pressure member has multiple sections. Each section of the
multiple sections is associated with a switch of the plurality of
switches. The pressure member is positioned in relation to the
plurality of switches such that when a force is applied by a user
to one of the multiple sections, the pressure member transmits a
resulting force to a switch associated with the one of the multiple
sections. Accordingly the switch associated with the one of the
multiple sections is actuated.
[0044] In one embodiment a control comprises a shaft. The shaft is
mounted within a void of the pressure member and secured by a
fastener.
[0045] In one embodiment, the system delays for a predetermined
time before executing either a user media source selection, mode
selection or media content item selection.
[0046] In one embodiment, upon the occurrence of one of a user
media source selection, mode selection, or media content item
selection, the system provides a sub-menu of options to the
user.
[0047] In one embodiment, the display is configured to provide a
visual confirmation of the media source selected. In yet another
embodiment, the display displays a color cue based on a media
source selected.
[0048] In one embodiment, the display provides a position indicator
depicting to the user, the relative position of a selected media
content item within a browsable list of media content items. The
position indicator is displayed in a radial format.
[0049] In another embodiment, the display is a touch screen. The
touch screen is configured to process a user input.
[0050] In one embodiment, the control is configured to provide a
visual confirmation of a user input. In another embodiment, the
visual information is text. In yet another embodiment, the visual
information is a graphic. In one embodiment, the visual information
is a color change.
[0051] In yet another embodiment, at least a portion of the control
is optically transparent. The control is positioned over the
display and information displayed by the display is visible through
the control.
[0052] In one embodiment, the audible confirmation of the media
source selected is a synthetic voice.
[0053] In yet another embodiment a second control is positioned in
front of the display. The second control accepts actuation of the
second degree of freedom by the user, as a user input.
[0054] In one embodiment, the system for accepting user input,
comprises at least one switch, a display, a pressure member,
display and at least one control. The display depicts menu options
including media content information and control options. The
control options are displayed on the display near the switch. The
pressure member is disposed over the display wherein at least a
portion of the display is visible through the pressure member. The
pressure member is further coupled to the at least one switch such
that a resulting force transmitted by the pressure member in
response to a user applied force causes a switch actuation. The at
least one control is configured to accept one of a push and turn
(e.g. first degree of freedom and second degree of freedom) in
order to select one of the menu options.
[0055] In still another embodiment, at least a portion of the at
least one control is optically transparent. The at least one
control is positioned over the display. The information displayed
by the display is visible through the at least one control.
[0056] In one embodiment, the display displays a color to provide
user feedback. In another embodiment, the at least one control
displays a color to provide user feedback.
[0057] In yet another embodiment, the at least one control displays
a symbolic representation of a selected one of the media content
source, mode or media content item.
[0058] In one embodiment a user input comprises a first control.
The first control has two degrees of freedom in actuation.
Actuation of the second degree of freedom is associated with
control of system volume. Actuation of the first degree of freedom
is associated with selection of a media source.
[0059] The at least one control is disposed over the display and at
least a portion of the control is optically transparent such that
at least a portion of the display is visible through the at least
one control.
[0060] In yet another embodiment a media player for use in a motor
vehicle comprises a plurality of switches, a display, a pressure
member and two controls. The display for displays one of the media
source, mode and media content item. The pressure member is coupled
to at least one of the plurality of switches. The pressure member
is disposed over the display. At least a portion of the display is
visible through the pressure member. The pressure member is
configured to accept a force exerted by a user within a section of
the pressure member. Each of the two controls is located to one
side of the display and has two degrees of freedom in
actuation.
[0061] In still another embodiment, the system displays a set of
options on a display to prompt for a user selection. At least a
portion of the display is visible through a pressure member, the
pressure member being positioned in front of the display. The
system generates a switch actuation in response to a force exerted
by the user on a section of the pressure member wherein the section
of the pressure member corresponds to a desired option. The switch
is arranged in an array of switches adjacent to the display. Based
on the switch actuation the system changes a system state.
[0062] In one embodiment, the system provides a confirmation in
response to the exertion of the force to the section of the
pressure member by the user.
[0063] In yet another embodiment, based on the system state, the
system initiates a system operation.
[0064] In still another embodiment, the system detects a first
switch actuation and a second switch actuation caused by the
transmission of a resulting force by the pressure member to the
first switch and the second switch. Then the system generates an
inferred system state.
[0065] In still another embodiment, the inferred system state
initiates a browse function.
[0066] In yet another embodiment, the system accepts actuation of
the first degree of freedom of a first control to select one of the
following sources: uIndex, AM, FM, satellite radio, compact disk,
hard drive, uMusic, DVD, HVAC/climate, core navigation.
[0067] In one embodiment, the system accepts actuation of the first
degree of freedom of a second control to select one of the
following modes: AM presets, AM seek, AM tune, FM preset, FM seek,
FM tune, FM station, FM song, FM genre, FM artist, satellite radio
presets, satellite radio station, satellite radio category,
satellite radio station, satellite radio song, satellite radio
genre, satellite radio artist, CD Track, CD time, CD Disk, CD
Artist, CD Song, CD Genre, hard drive title, hard drive track, hard
drive artist, hard drive time, hard drive genre, uMusic track,
uMusic time, DVD Chapter, HVAC/climate temperature, HVAC/climate
fan, core navigation origin, core navigation destination, core
navigation directions.
[0068] In one embodiment, the system displays a list of options
pertinent to the selected mode. The system selects a desired option
based on actuation of the first degree of freedom of the second
control.
[0069] In another embodiment, a control mechanism comprises an
optically transparent member and a knob. The knob is rotatable by a
user and rotationally coupled to the optically transparent member.
The knob also has a reflective surface, an optical light source for
directing light toward the knob and at least one optical receiver.
The at least one optical receiver detects light from the optical
light source that is reflected toward the optical receiver by the
one of the reflective surface.
[0070] In one embodiment, the control mechanism comprises a
circuit. The circuit converts the reflected light received by the
at least one optical receiver into a control signal. Upon rotation
of the knob by a user, reflected light detected by the receiver is
converted into a control signal.
[0071] In still another embodiment, the control mechanism comprises
a modulator for modulating the output light produced by the optical
light source and a demodulator. The demodulator is configured to
convert the modulated light into the control signal by demodulating
the modulated light received by the at least one optical receiver
from the light source.
[0072] In another embodiment, the reflective surface comprises
bands of reflective surface that alternate with bands of
non-reflective surface.
[0073] In yet another embodiment, the control mechanism further
comprises a first optical receiver and a second optical receiver
wherein the direction of rotation of the knob is determined by
comparing the outputs of the first and second optical
receivers.
[0074] In another embodiment, when detection by the first optical
receiver of light reflected from one band of reflective surface is
followed by detection by the second optical receiver of light
reflected from the one of the bands of the reflective surface, the
circuit identifies a knob turn in a first direction. When detection
by the second optical receiver of light reflected from the one of
the bands of the reflective surface is followed by detection by the
first optical receiver of light reflected from the one of the bands
of the reflective surface, the circuit identifies a knob turn in a
second direction.
[0075] In still another embodiment,,when knob rotation is in a
direction of the shortest rotation between a position of the knob
upon detection by the first optical receiver of light reflected
from one band of reflective surface and a position of the knob upon
detection by the second optical receiver of light reflected from
the one of the bands of the reflective surface.
[0076] In another embodiment, when the display is positioned in the
area behind the optically transparent member, the display viewable
through the optically transparent member.
[0077] In still another embodiment, when the knob is constructed of
transparent material, and at least a portion of the display is
positioned in an area behind the optically transparent knob, the
display is viewable through the knob.
[0078] In another embodiment, a knob surface area has a
transmissive material. The transmissive material is capable of
projecting the portion of the display positioned in the area behind
the optically transparent knob on the knob surface area.
[0079] In still another embodiment, the optical light source
projects the light transversely through the optically transparent
member.
[0080] In another embodiment, light directed by the optical light
source toward the knob is infrared light.
[0081] In yet another embodiment, the optically transparent member
is positioned between a source of ambient light and the at least
one optical receiver. The optical coating on the optically
transparent member blocks transmission of ambient light from an
extraneous source to the at least one optical receiver over a
predetermined range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
[0082] In another embodiment a surface area of the optically
transparent member is coated with an optical coating.
[0083] In yet another embodiment, the light directed toward the
knob by the optical light source is electromagnetic energy. The
optical coating on the optically transparent member reduces the
transmission of the electromagnetic energy in at least a portion of
the frequency range in which the at least one optical receiver
operates.
[0084] In another embodiment the optical coating on the optically
transparent member reduces the transmission of the electromagnetic
energy in a frequency range of the electromagnetic spectrum that is
common to both the frequency range of the optical light source and
the frequency range that the at least one optical receiver responds
to.
[0085] In yet another embodiment the optically transparent member
contains a dye such that the dye blocks transmission of light from
extraneous sources of light to the at least one optical receiver
over a predetermined range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
[0086] In another embodiment at least one optical receiver is
coated with an optical coating such that the optical coating on the
at least one optical receiver blocks transmission of ambient light
from an extraneous source to the at least one optical receiver.
[0087] In still another embodiment, the optically transparent
member is constructed from one of polycarbonate material, acrylic,
cyclic olephins, thermoset material, and plastic.
[0088] In another embodiment the optical source and at least one
optical receiver are positioned in locations relative to the
optically transparent member so as to permit transmission and
reception of light transversely through the optically transparent
member.
[0089] In another embodiment the control mechanism operates in a
motor vehicle.
[0090] In another embodiment operates as the control mechanism for
a media player.
[0091] In another embodiment the control mechanism operates as the
control mechanism for a portable device.
[0092] In another embodiment when the user presses the knob, the
knob transmits a force to the optically transparent member
whereupon the optically transparent member transmits a resulting
force to a switch associated with a desired control function.
[0093] In another embodiment the control mechanism accepts
additional user input from either a voice recognition, motion
detection or proximity detection device.
[0094] In another embodiment a proximity detector detects the
presence of a user's hand near the control mechanism. Upon
placement of the user's hand near the control mechanism, the
control mechanism is configured to change information content of
the display.
[0095] In another embodiment the information content is a set of at
least one menu option.
[0096] In another embodiment the proximity detector-based control
mechanism is configured to change the information content of a
multi-media device employed in a vehicle.
[0097] In another embodiment, the control mechanism, based upon
detection of the presence of a user's hand proximate to the control
mechanism, increases the information content displayed.
[0098] In another embodiment the control mechanism, based upon an
absence of detection of the presence of a user's hand proximate to
the control mechanism, decreases the information content
displayed.
[0099] In yet another embodiment the proximity sensor further
comprises a transmitter and receiver. In addition to sensing a
signal indicating proximity of the user's hand to the control
mechanism, the receiver detects a signal transmitted by a remote
control.
[0100] In another embodiment when the signal indicating proximity
of the user's hand and the signal transmitted by the remote control
are modulated according to different modulation schemes, the
receiver distinguishes between the signal indicating proximity of
the user's hand and the signal transmitted by the remote control by
identifying one of the modulation and coding of both signals.
[0101] In yet another embodiment, a friction sleeve is affixed to
the circumference of the knob thereby providing a friction surface.
The friction surface slides rotatably within a holding mechanism
for the knob.
[0102] In another embodiment the friction sleeve is constructed of
a material having a low coefficient of friction.
[0103] In another embodiment the material with a low coefficient of
friction is PTFE.
[0104] In another embodiment the friction sleeve is in contact with
the optically transparent member, leaving a gap between the portion
of the knob with reflective surfaces and the optically transparent
member.
[0105] In another embodiment, the capture member is attached to the
circumference of the knob. The capture member applies a positioning
pressure to the rear side of the optically transparent member
thereby holding the knob in a position relative to the optically
transparent member.
[0106] In yet another embodiment, either the optical light source
or the at least one optical receiver is mounted on the optically
transparent member.
[0107] In another embodiment a transparent knob is connected to the
shaft of a rotational combination control, a display is positioned
in the area behind the knob. The display projects output that is
viewable through knob. A circuit converts a user-applied force into
a control signal that is representative of the positional control
location associated with an input selection desired by the
user.
[0108] In another embodiment, a spatial relationship exists between
a multiple of positional control locations of the knob. The
rotational combination control accepts a transverse force vector
resulting from a direct force applied by the user to the knob at a
distance from a center location of the knob representative of a
desired user input.
[0109] In another embodiment the knob is rotatable by a user. In
response to rotation of the knob by the user, the control mechanism
identifies a control indication.
[0110] In another embodiment, in response to the identification of
a control indication by the control mechanism, the control
mechanism displays a set of user input options. The individual user
input options are associated with rotational positions of the
knob.
[0111] In still another embodiment, the display is configured to
display the set of input options associated with the rotational
positions of the knob. The input options are viewable by a user
through the rotational pressure member.
[0112] In another embodiment of the system comprises a plurality of
switches and an optically transparent member coupled to the
plurality of switches. The optically transparent member has
multiple sections. Each section of the multiple sections is
associated with a switch of the plurality of switches. The
optically transparent member is positioned in relation to the
plurality of switches such that when a force is applied by a user
to one of the multiple sections, the pressure member transmits a
resulting force to a switch associated with the one of the multiple
sections. The switches of the plurality of switches detect the
intensity of the force applied by the user.
[0113] In yet another embodiment, the system comprises a first
switch of the plurality of switches, a second switch of the
plurality of switches and a control circuit. As a result of the
exertion of a force by the user to the optically transparent
member, the optically transparent member transmits a first
resulting force to a first switch associated with one of the
multiple sections of the optically transparent member and a second
resulting force to a second switch associated with another of the
multiple sections of the optically transparent member. Accordingly,
a state change of the first switch of the plurality of switches and
a state change of the second switch of the plurality of switches is
caused whereupon the control circuit infers a first system state if
the first resulting force is greater than the second resulting
force or a second system state if the second resulting force is
greater than the first resulting force.
[0114] In another embodiment the control mechanism has a knob. The
knob is rotationally coupled to an optically transparent member, is
rotatable by a user and has alternating bands of reflective surface
and non-reflective surface. Accordingly, a method for accepting a
user input comprises the steps of, from the band of the reflective
surface on the knob, reflecting the light received from the optical
light source to the at least one optical receiver and detecting, by
the at least one optical receiver, the light reflected by the band
of the reflective surface on the knob.
[0115] In another embodiment the system converts the detected light
into a control signal.
[0116] In still another embodiment a modulator, modulates the light
directed by the light source and a demodulator, demodulates, into
the control signal, the modulated light received from the light
source by the at least one optical receiver.
[0117] In another embodiment the control mechanism comprises a
first optical receiver and a second optical receiver wherein a
method comprises the steps of, when detection by the first optical
receiver of light reflected from the band of reflective surface is
followed by detection by the second optical receiver of light
reflected from the band of reflective surface, identifying a knob
turn in a first direction. When detection by the second optical
receiver of light reflected from the band of reflective surface is
followed by detection by the first optical receiver of light
reflected from the band of reflective surface, identifying a knob
turn in a second direction.
[0118] In another embodiment a display is positioned in the area
behind the optically transparent member, further comprising the
step of the display projecting an image for viewing through the
optically transparent member.
[0119] In yet another embodiment, the knob is constructed of
transparent material and the display is located behind the knob
wherein the display shows an image through the knob for
viewing.
[0120] In another embodiment, light projects transversely through
the optically transparent member.
[0121] i In still another embodiment the optically transparent
member has an optical coating. The optical coating blocks
transmission of ambient light from an extraneous source to the at
least one optical receiver over a predetermined range of the
electromagnetic spectrum.
[0122] In another embodiment the optically transparent member
contains a dye. The dye blocks transmission of ambient light from
an extraneous source to the at least one optical receiver over a
predetermined range of the electromagnetic spectrum
[0123] In yet another embodiment, the optically transparent member
transmits a resulting force to a switch associated with a desired
control function, in response to a user pressing the knob wherein
the resulting force is caused by the user application of a force to
the knob.
[0124] In yet another embodiment, the control mechanism accepts
additional user input from one of a voice recognition device, a
motion detection device and a proximity detection device.
[0125] In another embodiment, the control mechanism changes the
value of the user input based on the additional user input accepted
from either the voice recognition device, the motion detection
device and the proximity detection device.
[0126] In yet another embodiment, upon detecting the presence of a
user's hand proximate to a proximity detector coupled to the
control mechanism, the control mechanism changes the information
content of the display.
[0127] In another embodiment the control mechanism, based upon the
detection of the presence of the user's hand proximate to the
control mechanism, changes at least one menu option.
[0128] In another embodiment the control mechanism, based upon the
detection of the presence of the user's hand proximate to the
control mechanism, increases the information content displayed.
[0129] In another embodiment the control mechanism, based upon
absence of the detection of the presence of the user's hand
proximate to the control mechanism, decreases information content
displayed.
[0130] In another embodiment, in addition to sensing a signal
indicating proximity of the user's hand to the control mechanism,
the receiver detects a signal transmitted by a remote control.
[0131] In another embodiment when the signal indicating proximity
of the user's hand and the signal transmitted by the remote control
are modulated according to different modulation schemes, the
receiver distinguishes between the signal indicating proximity of
the user's hand and the signal transmitted by the remote control by
identifying one of the modulation and coding of both signals.
[0132] In another embodiment invention the system for accepting
user input comprises a plurality of switches and a pressure member
coupled to the plurality of switches. The pressure member has
multiple sections. Each section of the multiple sections is
associated with a switch of the plurality of switches. The pressure
member is positioned in relation to the plurality of switches such
that when a force is applied by a user to one of the multiple
sections, the pressure member transmits a resulting force to a
switch associated with the one of the multiple sections which
causes actuation of the switch associated with the one of the
multiple sections. At least one switch of the plurality of switches
is interposed between the pressure member and a frame.
[0133] In another embodiment, when, in response to the exertion of
pressure by the user to the one of the multiple sections of the
pressure member, the pressure member is moved from the pressure
member's neutral position. The actuator of a switch associated with
the one of the multiple sections causes the system to identify a
switch activation associated with the one of the multiple
sections.
[0134] In another embodiment the system further comprises a
suspension-mounted retainer that moveably couples the pressure
member to the frame.
[0135] In another embodiment the suspension-mounted retainer
includes a compressable spacer.
[0136] In another embodiment, when in response to exertion of
pressure to one of multiple sections of a pressure member by a
user, a section of the pressure member is moved from the pressure
member's neutral position, an actuator of a switch associated with
the one of the multiple sections of the pressure member causes the
system to identify a switch activation associated with the one of
the multiple sections of the pressure member.
[0137] In another embodiment a control mechanism comprises a user
input area, a controller and a proximity detector. The proximity
detector detects the presence of a user's hand near the user input
area. Upon placement of the user's hand near the control mechanism,
the controller is configured to change the information content of
the display.
[0138] In another embodiment the information content comprises a
set of at least one menu option.
[0139] In yet another embodiment the controller is configured to
change the information content of a multi-media device employed in
a vehicle.
[0140] In yet another embodiment, the controller is configured to,
based upon detection of the presence of a user's hand proximate to
the control mechanism, increase the information content
displayed.
[0141] In another embodiment the controller is configured to, based
upon an absence of detection of the presence of a user's hand
proximate to the control mechanism, decrease the information
content displayed.
[0142] In another embodiment, the proximity sensor further
comprises a transmitter and receiver. In addition to sensing a
signal indicating proximity of the user's hand to the control
mechanism, the receiver detects a signal transmitted by a remote
control.
[0143] In another embodiment, when the signal indicating proximity
of the user's hand and the signal transmitted by the remote control
are modulated according to different modulation schemes, the
receiver distinguishes between the signal indicating proximity of
the user's hand and the signal transmitted by the remote control by
identifying one of the modulation and coding of both signals.
[0144] In another embodiment of the invention, a display is
configured to show an initial output. A detector is positioned,
relative to the display such that when the detector detects
placement of a trigger near the display, a controller is configured
to cause the display to display an alternative output upon
placement of a trigger near the detector.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0145] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of
the invention will be apparent from the following more particular
description of preferred embodiments of the invention, as
illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference
characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views.
The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being
placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.
[0146] FIG. 1 shows a front view of the system for accepting a user
input, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0147] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the pressure member assembly,
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0148] FIG. 3 shows a side view of the pressure member assembly
after the user has applied a force to the pressure member,
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0149] FIG. 4 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention
employing a fulcrum to focus the force applied to a section of the
pressure member, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0150] FIG. 5 depicts a pressure member with raised tactile
feedback areas, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0151] FIG. 6 shows two knobs configured to accept a user selection
of the content source, mode of operation, and/or specific media
content items, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0152] FIG. 7 shows a display displaying a media content item
selection in standard mode, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0153] FIG. 8 shows a display displaying a list of available media
content items in browse mode, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0154] FIG. 9 demonstrates an assembly of components as described
previously with respect to FIGS. 1 through 6, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0155] FIG. 10 depicts a configuration of a knob used to accept
user input, according to one embodiments of the invention.
[0156] FIG. 11 depicts an alternative configuration of the knob
used to accept user input employing a pulley and belt, according to
one embodiment of the invention.
[0157] FIG. 12 depicts an alternative configuration of a knob used
to accept user input employing infra-red detector circuits and a
corresponding edge-stripped first knob and/or edge-stripped second
knob, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0158] FIG. 13 is a flow chart of a procedure for accepting a user
input, according to one embodiment of the invention
[0159] FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a procedure for selecting media,
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0160] FIG. 15 shows detail features of a control mechanism capable
of detecting knob rotation, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0161] FIG. 16 shows a block diagram depicting an apparatus for
transmitting light, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0162] FIG. 17 depicts a side view of the optically transparent
member having an optical coating and a display having an optical
coating, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0163] FIG. 18 depicts a side view of an arrangement of components
configured to detect the rotation of a knob, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0164] FIG. 19 shows a position of the light source with respect to
the optical receiver such that the transmission of light between
the light source and optical receiver is other than through the
edge of and transversely through the optically transparent member,
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0165] FIG. 20 depicts an arrangement of knobs attached to the
optically transparent member showing interconnection of the knob,
friction sleeve and capture member, according to one embodiment of
the invention.
[0166] FIG. 21 shows a side view of two knobs attached to the
optically transparent member, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0167] FIG. 22 depicts a knob with bands of reflective surface
attached to the circumference of the knob, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0168] FIG. 23 is a depiction demonstrating the progress of
rotation detection of a knob in a first direction by a first
optical receiver and a second optical receiver, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0169] FIG. 24 is a depiction demonstrating the progress of
rotation detection of a knob in a second direction by a second
optical receiver and a first optical receiver, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0170] FIG. 25 is a depiction of an alternative configuration in
the form of a handheld remote control, according to one embodiment
of the invention.
[0171] FIG. 26 shows a side view of a component of the handheld
remote control, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0172] FIG. 27 shows the side view 128 of the rotational
combination control 70 which has been depressed by a user at the
push control location for a center control input, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0173] FIG. 28 shows the side view of the optically transparent
member which has been depressed at a location designated for an
individual input, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0174] FIG. 29 is an example circuit diagram of the control
circuit, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0175] FIG. 30 shows the assembly of an optically transparent
member and the frame, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0176] FIG. 31 shows a side view of the assembly of an optically
transparent member and the frame, in which the optically
transparent member is positioned in its initial location, according
to the one embodiment of the invention.
[0177] FIG. 32 shows a side view of the assembly of the optically
transparent member and the frame, in which the optically
transparent member is positioned in a second location, according to
the one embodiment of the invention.
[0178] FIG. 33 shows the optical light source and optical receivers
mounted to the optically transparent member, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0179] FIG. 34 shows the display displaying a media content item
selection along with menu command options, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0180] FIG. 35 shows the display displaying only the media content
item selection, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0181] FIG. 36 is page one of an example circuit diagram of the
control circuit, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0182] FIG. 37 is page two of the example circuit diagram of the
control circuit, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0183] FIG. 38 is page one of an example circuit diagram of a
proximity sensor circuit, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0184] FIG. 39 is page two of the example circuit diagram of the
proximity sensor circuit, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0185] FIG. 40 is an apparatus 100 for accepting user input for use
in a multimedia device, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0186] FIG. 41 shows an alternative display format according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0187] FIG. 42 shows an example of a display displaying variety of
control information, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0188] FIG. 43 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention
showing expanded information display, according to one embodiment
of the invention.
[0189] FIG. 44 shows an example of an embodiment of the invention
in which the artist mode has been selected by the user.
[0190] FIG. 45 shows a different example of the embodiment of the
invention in which the album has been selected by the user.
[0191] FIG. 46 shows an example use of a tool tip in a multimedia
device other than a computer, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0192] FIG. 47 shows a pair of concentric knobs, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0193] FIG. 48 is a cutaway view of the inner knob and outer knob
mounted on a plane, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0194] FIG. 49 is an assembly of the inner knob and split ring,
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0195] FIG. 50 is an assembly of the inner knob and split ring,
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0196] FIG. 51 shows a configuration of multiple sets of emitters
and detectors, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0197] FIG. 52 shows a method of masking the inner and outer knobs
in order to prevent cross-coupling, according to one embodiment of
the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0198] Now, with particular reference to individual drawings, FIG.
1 shows a front view of the system 100 for accepting a user input.
The system 100 includes a pressure member 12 (e.g. sheet of plastic
or sheet of clear plastic), two switches 14-1, 14-2 (i.e. two
switches are shown in cutaway view; the pressure member is also
mounted on two additional switches, not shown, located in position
behind the two other corners of the pressure member 12), a control
circuit 16 and a frame 18.
[0199] The pressure member 12 extends to reach a sufficient
distance such that the pressure member 12 is positioned over and in
contact with the switches 14 (e.g. in this example embodiment, the
pressure member 12 extends over four switches positioned at each
corner of the pressure member 12). Upon the exertion of a force by
the user on the pressure member 12, the pressure member 12 is
depressed in the area near the location of one or more switches
14.
[0200] In one embodiment, the frame 18 holds the pressure member
12, in position, around the edges of the pressure member 12 such
that the pressure member 12 is in the correct position to exert a
resulting force on one or more individual switches 14 within a
plurality (e.g. an array) of switches. This permits the pressure
member 12, in response to a force exerted by a user upon the
pressure member 12, to transmit a resulting force to one or more
switches 14 that causes actuation of one or more of the switches
14. The switches in the array can be arranged in a variety of
different patterns (e.g. spaced evenly, spaced with different
distances between switches so as to provide a different sensitivity
to resulting forces applied at different locations on the pressure
member 12, etc.), according to different embodiments of the
invention.
[0201] A variety of alternative methods for securing the pressure
member 12 are contemplated besides the method of holding the
pressure member 12 in position above the switches 14 using a frame
18. Such alternative configurations are considered to be within the
spirit and scope of the invention described herein. For example,
the pressure member 12 may be attached to a frame 18 or the circuit
board 16 by a spring-loaded device that allows for depression of
the pressure member 12 against the switch 14. In another example,
rather than the frame 18 holding the pressure member 12 in
position, the pressure member 12 is permanently positioned by some
method of attachment of the pressure member 12 to the switch(s)
14.
[0202] The system 100 also includes a control circuit 16, coupled
to each of multiple switches 14 in such a manner that the control
circuit 16, based on the switch 14 actuation(s), changes the system
state (e.g. parameters, settings, operations performed, functions,
data stored in memory locations, etc.). In turn, a media player, an
audio system or other controllable device can perform appropriate
actions based on the translated system state.
[0203] FIG. 2 shows a side view 101 of the pressure member
assembly, according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2
shows a side view of the system 100 including the pressure member
12, a frame 18 and two switches 14. The frame 18 holds the pressure
member 12 in a position such that by exerting a force against the
pressure member 12 a resulting force can be exerted upon the switch
14-3, 14-4 that is located behind the pressure member 12.
[0204] FIG. 3 shows a similar side view 102 of the system 100
including the pressure member 12, a frame 18 and two switches 14-3,
14-4. In contrast to FIG. 2, however, in FIG. 3 the user has
exerted a force 24 upon the pressure member 12 at a location close
to switch 14-3. In response to the exerted force 24, the pressure
member 12 transmits a resulting force against the switch 14-3
causing the switch 14-3 to actuate. Accordingly, the user, by
exerting a force upon the section of the pressure member 12 nearby
to the switch 14-3 associated with a desired control function,
effectively selects the desired control function for operation. The
control circuit 16 translates the switch 14 actuation occurring in
response to the user's applied force into a circuit state for
performing the desired control function.
[0205] The pressure member 12 may exhibit one or more different
responses to the exertion of a force on the pressure member 12,
depending upon the configuration of the pressure member 12, the
number and locations of switches 14 and/or the configuration of the
frame 18 and other components of the system. In one embodiment,
exertion of a force on the pressure member 12 results in movement
of the end of the pressure member 12 to which the force is being
applied in the direction of the nearby switch 14, thereby causing a
resulting force to activate the nearby switch 14. However, in an
alternative embodiment, a section of the pressure member 12 bends
in the direction of the nearby switch 14 such that only a portion
of the pressure member 12 causes the resulting force to be exerted
against the pressure member 12, in the area of the switch 14
affected. In one such example also, when the user exerts a force on
the pressure member 12, the frame 18 holds the portion of the
pressure member 12 not exposed to the exerted force from rising too
far in the in the direction away from the switch 14 array and/or
from falling out of position with respect the array of switches 14.
In certain situations, depending upon the location of the force
applied to the pressure member 12, more than one switch 14 may be
activated.
[0206] In addition to the effect of the frame 18 on the movement,
bending and other motions of the pressure member 12, fulcrums may
also be located beneath the pressure member 12 to localize the
effect of forces exerted on the pressure member 12 and the
resulting forces that cause switch 14 actuations, such that only
limited number of section(s) of the pressure member 12 bend toward
and activate switches 14 as a result of the exertion of forces on
the pressure member 12 by the user. The use of such fulcrums will
be described in more detail later.
[0207] FIG. 4 shows an alternative embodiment 103 of the invention
employing a fulcrum to focus the force applied to a section of the
pressure member 12 according to one embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4 depicts the system 100 without the frame 18 (i.e. for
convenience of demonstration) but including a pressure member 12,
four switches 14-1, 14-2, 14-3, 14-4, as described earlier and a
control circuit 16. The pressure member 12 has groove(s) 13 (e.g.
located near the fulcrum(s) ). Grooves are used to modify the local
bending stiffness of the pressure member. Grooves may be formed by
scoring the surface in a machining operation, or can be effectively
formed by molding a part with a different sectional thickness in
areas where it is desired to reduce the bending stiffness of the
pressure member. In addition, FIG. 4 includes two additional
switches 14-5, 14-6 and four fulcrums 34-1, 34-2, 34-3, 34-4. The
fulcrums 34-1, 34-2, 34-3 and 34-4 support the pressure member 12
at various positions on the pressure member 12 located between
various pairs of switches 14-1, 14-5; 14-2, 14-6; 14-3, 14-5; 14-4,
14-6 which are located at the ends and center of the pressure
member 12. For example, fulcrum 34-3 provides physical support to
the pressure element 12 at a position that is located between
center-located switch 14-5 and corner-located switch 14-3. The
fulcrums 34 focus the user forces, exerted on the pressure member
12, to increase the likelihood of desired switch 14 actuations.
[0208] In one example, a force exerted on the pressure member near
the fulcrum location 124-1 will not be transmitted to the end
switch 14-3 due to the support provided by the nearby fulcrum 34-3.
Accordingly, such a fulcrum reduces the likelihood that a user
force, exerted in the area of the fulcrum 34-3, would cause switch
actuation.
[0209] Conversely, in an alternative example, depicted in FIG. 4,
the force 124-2 exerted against the pressure member 12 at a
position closer to the center switches 14-5, 14-6 and away from the
fulcrum 34-3 causes switch 14-5 and 14-6 actuations. Force 124-2 is
less likely to result in a deflection of the pressure member in the
vicinity of switches 14-3, 14-4, 14-1, or 14-2, due to the action
of fulcrums 34. Force 124-2 causes the middle section of pressure
member 12 to be deflected inward. Grooves 13 facilitate the bending
of pressure member to allow this deflection, and the fulcrums cause
the inward directed force 124-2 to cause outward deflection of the
outside sections of pressure member 12, away from switches 14-1,
14-2, 14-3, and 14-4. Equivalently, the force 124-3 exerted against
the pressure member 12 at a position closer to the corner switch
14-4 causes actuation of the corner switch 14-4, and does not
affect other switches. These examples demonstrate the way in which
fulcrums 34, and fulcrums in combination with local variations in
bending stiffness of the pressure member, focus forces on the
pressure member 12 in a manner that reduces the likelihood of
unintended switch 14 actuations.
[0210] According to one embodiment of the invention, the shape,
geometry, and physical properties of the pressure member 12 may be
designed in such a manner as to appropriately focus the movement
and/or bending behavior of the pressure member 12 and, in turn, the
resulting force exerted by the pressure member 12 on the switches
14. Grooves 13 in the pressure member 12 provide the appropriate
variation in the bending stiffness of the pressure member 12 so
that a user force, exerted in the appropriate section of the
pressure member 12 causes the pressure member 12 to bend and
generate desired switch 14 actuations. Scores, notches, bevels,
thinning or other modifications of the pressure member 12, etc. may
alternatively be added to provide such desired directional
control.
[0211] The system is capable of differentiating between the
application of forces to the pressure member in the vicinity of
individual switches from the application of forces to the pressure
member spaced away from individual switches. In order to detect a
force exerted on the pressure member 12 by the user in a location
other than near a switch 14, the control circuit 16 identifies the
existence of two or more switch 14 actuations as having come from
such a center push or in-between push, etc., rather than having
been generated by the user exerting the force to the pressure
member 12 near one of the switches (e.g. near switches 14-1, 14-2,
14-3, 14-4 located at corners of the pressure member 12). Note that
the use of fulcrums can modify the number of switches that may be
activated due to the application of a force. For example, force
124-1 does not result in a switch activation due to the presence of
fulcrums 34-3 and 34-4. If these fulcrums were not present, force
124-1 could result in as many as 4 switch activations. After the
control circuit 16 detects any multiple switch 14 actuation, the
control circuit 16 translates the multiple switch 14 actuations
into a circuit state for performing a desired control function.
Also, such multiple switch 14 actuations may occur sequentially
rather than simultaneously.
[0212] One method for detecting multiple switch actuations is the
following. The method identifies essentially simultaneously switch
14 actuations, that is, switch 14 actuations that are either
simultaneous or which occur within a short, predetermined time
interval.
[0213] 1. Switch 14 states from all switches 14 are logically OR'ed
by the control circuit 16 to create a single actuation state.
Accordingly, actuation of any switch 14 results in a single
actuation state.
[0214] 2. In response to a single actuation state, the control
circuit 16 samples the state of each switch 14 to determine which
switch 14 has been actuated.
[0215] 3. The control circuit 16 enables a timer to monitor a
switch 14 debounce period. The switch 14 debounce period is an
elapsed time period during which any additional single actuation
states are ignored. The debounce period is an adjustable parameter
stored in memory which is used by the software performing the
detection of multiple switch actuations.
[0216] 4. During this debounce period the control circuit 16 tests
individual switch 14 states to identify multiple switch 14
actuations. Switch 14 states of any more than two switches 14
occurring during the debounce period represent simultaneous switch
14 actuations.
[0217] 5. After the debounce period expires, if a single switch 14
state was detected, the control circuit 16 identifies a switch 14
identification of the switch 14 experiencing the switch 14 state;
if multiple switch 14 states were detected, the control circuit 16
identifies the existence of the center push or in-between push.
[0218] According to one embodiment of the invention, the system is
configured to treat reception of a user input in the form of the
center push or the in-between push as a distinct input (i.e. a
separate input from those resulting from forces applied near the
switch locations). In one embodiment, the system is configured to
interpret the center push or in-between push as a command for a
media player to operate in either "browse" or "standard" display
mode. Details of the browse and standard display mode will be
provided later.
[0219] FIG. 5 depicts a pressure member 104 (e.g. 12) with raised
tactile feedback areas 26 (e.g. tactile elements), according to one
embodiment of the invention. The "tactile element" (e.g. raised
tactile feedback areas 26) provide the user with tactile feedback
area 26 location points on the pressure member 12 for finding a
desired section of the pressure member 12 at which to exert a force
24. Accordingly, the user can identify the tactile feedback areas
26 by feel, thus reducing the need to look at the pressure member
12. The location of the tactile feedback areas 26 may also be
configured such that the tactile feedback areas' 26 location(s) on
the pressure member 12 identify the optimal points for the user to
exert the force 24 within any section of the pressure member 12. In
other words, the tactile feedback areas 26 identify the location(s)
at which the exertion of the user force 24 (i.e. to the pressure
member 12) most effectively focuses the resulting force to activate
an appropriate switch 14 or combination of switches 14 thereof.
[0220] FIG. 6 shows two knobs 105 configured to accept a user
selection of the source, mode of operation (e.g. in the case of a
media player), and/or media content items, according to one
embodiment of the invention. The figure includes the pressure
member 12, the first knob 20-1 and the second knob 20-2. The first
knob 20-1 and the second knob 20-2 may be mounted in different
locations and/or ways according to different embodiments of the
invention. According to one embodiment, the first knob 20-1 and the
second knob 20-2 are mounted on the pressure member 12, itself. In
other embodiments the first knob 20-1 and the second knob 20-2 are
mounted on a circuit board positioned beneath the pressure member
12. The first knob 20-1 and second knob 20-2 accept user inputs in
the form of pressing and/or rotating either knob 20. Such first
knobs 20-1 and second knobs 20-2 can be conventional push/rotate
analog or digital controls with knobs 20 attached to control
shafts, appropriately configured for use as part of the invention,
other control mechanisms providing the same control inputs or knobs
20 with mechanisms as described below.
[0221] Embodiments of the invention provide additional mechanisms
and methods for accepting user input such as the manipulation of
knobs 20. A knob 20 is configured to provide control based on two
degrees of freedom of the knob 20. In one example, one degree of
freedom of the knob 20 is based on the user pressing the knob 20;
the second degree of freedom of the knob 20 is based on the user
rotating the second knob.
[0222] In one embodiment, a colored light source, alphanumeric or
graphic display is positioned beneath either of the first knob 20-1
and/or second knob 20-2 for the display of color cues through the
first knob 20-1 and/or second knob 20-2 for observation by the
user. Pressing of the first and second knobs 20 results in
selecting different items that are configured to be selectable by
the knobs 20, where colors visible through the first knob 20-1 and
second knob 20-2 are changed according to the items selected
[0223] In one embodiment of a media player, the first knob 20-1 is
configured to, as a result of the user pressing the first knob
20-1, select the next source from a sequence of sources. For
example, with respect to a list including sources uIndex.TM., AM,
FM, Satellite Radio, CD, HD uMusic, DVD, etc. (e.g. in any order)
if a currently selected source is AM (i.e. AM radio), by pressing
the first knob 20-1, the user will cause the media player to switch
to FM (i.e. FM radio), as described earlier. When the user changes
source by pressing the first knob 20-1, a displayed color (e.g.
color of the first knob 20-1, LCD display, or any other particular
visual display associated with the media player, etc.) identifies
the source selected, for example, red for AM, blue for FM, green
for CD's (i.e. compact disks). Each time the user presses the first
knob 20-1 to change source, the color of the first knob 20-1
changes.
[0224] The second knob 20-2 is also configured to accept user
input. In response to the user pressing the second knob 20-2, the
second knob 20-2 causes the next mode from a sequence of available
modes to be operational. Mode selection for the second knob 20-2 is
based on a subset of available modes specific to each particular
media content source. In other words, the second knob 20-2 is
configured such that by pressing the second knob 20-2, the user
selects among the mode alternatives defined for whatever source the
user selected by the user's manipulation of the first knob
20-1.
[0225] As described earlier with respect to the first knob 20-1,
operation of the second knob 20-2, in one embodiment, also
incorporates providing audible and visual cues to confirm user
selections to the user. In particular, with respect to the color
coding displayed either on the display or transmitted through the
second knob 20-2, one color scheme is to display different colors
to represent modes of operation associated with the second knob
20-2. An alternative color scheme uses different shades of the
color displayed in association with first knob 20-1 source
selections to depict the second knob 20-2 modes selected. Other
color schemes and audible and/or visual cues are also feasible.
[0226] Finally, the second knob 20-2 is configured to also select a
desired media content item from among multiple media content items
in a list of available media content items. Accordingly, in
response to the user selecting a particular mode, the second knob
20-2 is configured such that rotating second knob 20-2 causes the
media player to successively select different individual media
content items from the available media content items. In one
embodiment of the invention, the second knob is positioned in front
of the display and the second knob accepts rotation by the user as
a user input.
[0227] The sequence order of the media content item selections
depends upon the mode selected (e.g. song, artist, genre, etc.
order), as described later in more detail.
[0228] FIG. 7 shows a display 106 (e.g. 27) displaying a media
content item selection 28 in standard mode, according to one
embodiment of the invention. The figure includes a first knob 20-1
and second knob 20-2, options 35-1, 35-2, 35-4, a media content
item selection 28 and a radial scroll bar 29. The first knob 20-1
and second knob 20-2 accept user inputs, as described above with
respect to FIG. 6.
[0229] FIG. 7 depicts an alternative embodiment of the invention in
which a clear or translucent first knob 20-1 and/or second knob
20-2 provide a visual cue with respect to the source and/or mode
selected. For example, the first knob 20-1 may show the hard disk
source as having been selected or alternatively show additional
command options such as "X" (See FIG. 8) for "cancel" or "escape",
or to display options such as selections/commands used as submenu
options. In one such embodiment, the knobs 20 are mounted in front
of the display such that letters displayed on the display screen
are projected through the first knob 20-1 and/or second knob 20-2,
as depicted with respect to the first knob 20-1. For example, the
display 16 shows that the "hard drive" is the selected source and
that, as depicted with respect to the second knob 20-2, the
selected mode is "track".
[0230] In addition, the display 27 displays options 35-1, 35-2,
35-4 (e.g. that project through a transparent pressure member 12)
that coincide with available options for the selected source (e.g.
hard disk, as depicted in FIG. 7). Notably, the display options
35-1, 35-2, 35-4 are spatially associated with the switches 14 that
operate the options 35. The options are displayed such that when a
user exerts a force on the pressure member 12 near the option 35,
the switch 14 actuation resulting from the exertion of the force
causes a system state to change that is related to the displayed
option 35. Exemplary options include: for uIndex.TM. Mode: search
by song, reset search, search by artist, search by genre; for AM:.
add to presets; for FM: RDS Options, add to presets, continuous
play; for satellite radio: add to presets, continuous play; for CD:
name current, store CD, eject, play mode-current; for HD: rename
song, store in favorites, play mode-current; for uMusic: plus more
songs like this, minus less songs like this; for DVD audio track,
subtitle, eject, display.
[0231] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first knob
and/or second knob are configured to accept alternative sets of
command options, such as options for mode selections and for
sub-selections (e.g. sub-menus). The second set of alternatives
(i.e. the sub-selections or sub-menus, etc.) may be automatically
made available to the user after a pre-determined period of time,
or the set of alternatives may be activated by a selection such as
a pressure member 12 input, such as a fixed button, or other
control, etc.
[0232] For example, in one embodiment, when a user wants to select
a mode, the user first selects the mode (e.g. such as the title
mode) by pressing the second knob 20-2 until the title mode is
selected. After 5 seconds, the system 100 automatically displays a
sub-menu of title mode options such as: "sort a-z", "sort z-a",
"sort by most played". In one such embodiment, the sub-menu of mode
options is displayed from in the main display 28; alternatively,
the sub-menu of mode options may be displayed as a set of pressure
member 12 usable menu options. According to yet other embodiments,
such a sub-menu of mode options may be selected by pressing a fixed
button or other control device.
[0233] In another example, having selected an artist from a list of
artists depicted in browse mode, multiple songs may, in the case of
a popular artist, have been selected for the artist in question.
Accordingly the system 100 provides the user with sub-menu options
such as "by album", "by track", etc. by which the user can select
specific media content item selections (e.g. "by album", "by
track", etc.) from the list of available media content items for
the previously-selected artist. Other such sub-menu option
selections are also possible (e.g. source, mode, other commands,
etc. sub-menu selections). As described earlier, in one embodiment,
the system 100 is configured to automatically present the sub-menu
options to the user after a predetermined elapsed time (e.g. 5
seconds). Alternatively a different user input device (e.g. such as
a separate "touch screen", pressure member 12 or other user
selection mechanism) may be provided to initiate presentation of
the sub-menu options to the user.
[0234] According to one embodiment of the invention, upon selection
of a source (e.g. by pressing the first knob 20-1 until the desired
source has been selected), a mode (e.g. by pressing the second knob
20-2 until the desired mode has been selected) or a media content
item (e.g. by rotating the second knob 20-2 until the desired media
content item has been selected), the system 100 delays execution of
the selection made until a predetermined time has elapsed. This
avoids the problem of jumping from source to source, mode to mode
or from performing multiple media content items as the first knob
20-1 or second knob 20-2 is being repeatedly pressed or
scrolled.
[0235] The media player display also shows a detailed or standard
display 16 mode listing 28 of the selected media content item (e.g.
the media content item that is playing) including, for example,
such information as the name, artist and duration (e.g. The
Beatles, Octopus' Garden, 2.45 of 3.59 min.).
[0236] Finally, the radial scroll bar 29-1, 29-2 provides a
position indicator of a selection from the lists of sources, modes,
content items, etc. by displaying, to the user, the relative
position in such lists of the selected source, mode, or content
item, etc.
[0237] FIG. 8. shows a display 106 (e.g. 27) displaying a list 30
of available media content items in browse display mode, according
to one embodiment of the invention. The figure includes a first
knob 20-1 and second knob 20-2, options 35-5, 35-6, 35-7, analogous
to those described with respect to FIG. 7 and a list of available
media content items 30. The list 30 of available media content
items includes entries representing available media content items
listed sequentially (i.e. in "artist mode" i.e. alphabetical order
by artist), including media content items sequentially prior and
subsequent to the selected media content item 32.
[0238] According to one embodiment of the invention, the system 100
is configured to treat reception of a user input in the form of the
center push or the in-between push as a distinct input (i.e. a
distinct input from the inputs resulting from forces exerted on the
pressure member 12 near the switch locations). In one embodiment,
the system 100 is configured to interpret the center push or
in-between push as a command for the media player to change
operation between "browse" or "standard" display mode. In the
browse display mode, a list of abbreviated media content item
identifiers 30 is displayed to the user. For example, in the browse
display mode the media content item artist names "Alice Cooper,
Alicia Keys, America, Beatles and Billy Joel, etc." may be
displayed to the user. If the user deselects the browse display
mode in favor of the standard display mode by initiating a center
push, the media player display instead shows more detailed
information (See FIG. 7, 28) about the selected media content item
32 (e.g. the media content item that is playing) including, for
example, such information as the name, artist and duration (e.g.
The Beatles, Octopus' Garden, 2.45 of 3.59 min.). The browse
display and standard display options operate within various source
modes (e.g. artist, title, album, time, etc.).
[0239] In addition to the embodiments of the invention using a
center or in-between push to select between browse and standard
display mode, pressure member 12 forces and pushes can be
designated to perform other functions, as well. For example, in one
embodiment, the pressure member 12 is configured such that forces
and/or pushes exerted on the pressure member 12 perform operations
that were otherwise performed by knob 20 push operations as
described below with respect to a first knob 20-1 and second knob
20-1. According to other embodiments, the center push and/or
in-between pushes may be configured to be treated as a modifier
that causes a change in the available options of other controls
(e.g. one or more of the knobs 20) in much the same way as a
function or shift key operates on a computer keyboard. The pressure
member 12 forces and/or pushes can be designated to other uses, as
well.
[0240] FIG. 9 demonstrates an assembly of components 108 as
described previously with respect to FIGS. 1 through 6, according
to one embodiment of the invention.
[0241] FIG. 9 includes the control circuit 16, the display 36, the
switches 14-1, 14-2, 14-3, 14-4, the pressure member 12, the first
knob 20-1, the second knob 20-2 and the frame 18 combined in one
physical unit. In this configuration, the control circuit 16 is
mounted in the same enclosure as other components of the system
100. The control circuit 16 can be provided in various
configurations including, among others, being mounted as a separate
component of the system 100, being mounted in other locations such
as in a separate enclosure, as part of a cable or other component,
or performed as software functions on a computer, etc. The display
36, in this configuration, is mounted behind the pressure member
12. Accordingly, the pressure member 12 provides a protective
shield for the display 36 (such as a fragile LCD display).
[0242] Alternatively, the display 36 could be mounted independently
of the other components, such as in a separate location (e.g.
mounted above the pressure member 12 such that options 35 displayed
still show a spatial correspondence to the switches 14 that control
the control functions). The display 36 could be mounted in other
places, as well.
[0243] The pressure member 12, is located such that switches 14 are
coupled to the pressure member 12. The switches 14 can be activated
by a resulting force exerted upon the switch or switches 14 in
response to the exertion of a force by the user upon the pressure
member 12. First knobs 20-1 and second knobs 20-2 may be mounted on
the pressure member 12 or through holes/voids in the pressure
member 12, as described above or in other alternative locations and
ways. In one embodiment, the knob(s) 20 fit into a hole/void(s) in
the pressure member 12 and the knob(s) 20 is held in place in the
pressure member 12 by a pressure pin or other similar device. The
frame 18 is mounted in such a fashion that it holds the pressure
member 12 in place with respect to the location of the
switches.
[0244] Although FIG. 9 depicts a configuration of the invention
combining the pressure members and knobs along with the display
operating within the same physical device, alternative
configurations employing individual components are also feasible.
For example, one embodiment may only include the pressure member 12
mounted on switches 14 capable of accepting user input by pressing
the pressure member 12. Alternatively, in another configuration,
only the first knob 20-1 and/or second knob 20-2 are provided in
order to provide those features corresponding to the knobs. Various
other embodiments of the invention, based on alternative
combinations of the components described herein, are also
contemplated as being within the scope of the invention.
[0245] FIGS. 10, 11 and 12 depict alternative configurations (i.e.
109, 110, 111) of the knobs 14 used to accept user input, according
to various embodiments of the invention. In particular, the three
embodiments depicted provide mechanisms for accepting a user input
that do not interfere with the line of sight for color or other
cues (e.g. alphanumeric display) that shine through the back of
either the first knob 20-1 and/or the second knob 20-2 for viewing
by the user. In certain configurations, the pressure member 12 may
be opaque in the location in front of the mechanisms, so as to hide
the mechanisms from the view of the user. One embodiment of the
invention comprises one or more transparent knobs 20 positioned
over the pressure member 12 and the display 27 in such a manner
that the user can observe selection options on the display 27 in
order to make user selections by rotating a knob 20 (e.g. first
knob 20-1 or second knob 20-2) and/or by pushing the pressure
member 12.
[0246] FIG. 10 includes a first drive gear 40-1 for the first knob
20-1 and a second drive gear 40-2 for the second knob 20-2. Each
drive gear 40 is driveably coupled to the corresponding knob 20
(e.g. gear coupling, friction coupling, belt, etc.) such that
rotating the first knob 20-1 and/ or the second knob 20-2 causes
rotating in each respective drive gear 40, that in turn operates a
rotary control (e.g. a potentiometer, rotary digital encoder, etc.)
mechanism of the media player or other controllable device.
[0247] FIG. 11 depicts an alternative arrangement using a pulley 42
and belt 44 according to one embodiment of the invention. Each
pulley 42 is driveably coupled via the belt 44 to the corresponding
knob 20. In turn, the pulley 42 operates a rotary control (e.g. a
potentiometer, rotary digital encoder, etc.) mechanism of the
system 100.
[0248] FIG. 12 depicts an arrangement using infra-red detector
circuits 46 and corresponding edge-striped knobs 20. According to
the embodiment depicted in FIG. 12, the infra-red detectors detect
changing infra-red light reflected from stripes on the first knob
20-1 and/or the second knob 20-2. In turn, the control circuit 16
converts a signal created by the infra-red detector circuits into
control signals (e.g. to change a system state) to control the
system 100. The benefit to this arrangement is that no mechanisms
for coupling knobs to control devices are visible to the user, or
cover sections of the display.
[0249] Each drive mechanism described in FIGS. 10, 11, 12 (i.e.
gear drive 40, pulley 42 and/or infrared detector circuit 46) is
positioned near the outside edge of the pressure member 12.
Accordingly, the rear side of the first knob 20-1 and/or second
knob 20-2 are left free from obstruction for the transmission of
light and/or color through the first knob 20-1 and/or second knob
20-2. Accordingly, in one embodiment of the invention a light
source projects colored light through a clear or translucent first
knob 20-1 and/or second knob 20-2 in order to provide a visual cue
with respect to the source and/or mode selected, as described
earlier.
[0250] Having described the system 100 for accepting user input,
the following describes a procedure for accepting user input.
[0251] FIG. 13 is a flow chart 112 of a procedure for accepting a
user input, according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0252] In step 210, the system 100 displays a set of menu options
on a display 16 to prompt for a user selection. Various different
mechanisms for displaying the set of options are feasible. For
example, such display mechanisms may include video and cathode ray
tube (CRT) monitors, liquid crystal display (LCD), plasma display,
digital read out devices, etc. mounted behind the pressure member
12, in a nearby location, or elsewhere.
[0253] In step 212, the system 100 detects a switch 14 actuation,
in response to a force 24 exerted by the user on a section of the
pressure member 12. Sections of the pressure member 12 are
associated with menu options from the set of options displayed in
step 210. The media player uses the switch 14 actuation to enact
the user's desired activity (e.g. selection of a particular media
content item, enacting a system command, etc.). The switch 14
actuation is the switch 14 actuation caused by the user's choice of
the section of the pressure member 12 on which the user exerts a
force.
[0254] The multiple (e.g. array) of switches 14 are coupled to the
pressure member 12 so that one or more of the switches 14 are able
to be activated depending upon which section of the pressure member
12 the user exerts a force. For example, assume that menu option
one is "Rename Song" and menu option two is the "Store in
Favorites". The user can select "Store in Favorites", for example,
by exerting a force to a section of the pressure member 12
associated with (i.e. near, in an analogous position, etc.) the
switch 14-3 that translates the switch 14-3 actuation to a system
state. The system state, in turn, causes performance of a function
defined by menu option 2 (e.g. "Store in Favorites").
[0255] In step 213, the control circuit 16 sets a debounce timer,
used to measure an elapsed time period starting from the time of
the first switch 14 actuation for a predetermined debounce period.
The debounce period is an adjustable parameter stored in memory,
during which period any additional switch 14 actuations will be
considered to have been part of a multiple switch 14 actuation.
During the debounce period, the control circuit 16 tests individual
switch 14 states to identify multiple switch 14 actuations.
[0256] In step 214, the control circuit 16 provides a confirmation
(audible, visual, tactile, as well as changes in color, etc.) in
response to the exertion of the force to the section of the
pressure member 12, by the user. For example, in one embodiment,
the system plays a familiar "click" to confirm the switch 20
actuation, in response to the user input
[0257] In step 216, the control circuit 16 determines which switch
14 has been activated.
[0258] In step 218, the control circuit 16 continues to
periodically test switches 14 in order to determine which
additional switches 14 are activated, if any. The control circuit
16 continues checking for additional switch 14 actuations (See
steps 222, 224) until the expiration of the debounce time
period.
[0259] In step 220, if the control circuit 16 has detected multiple
switch actuations, the system state is changed according to the
identified center push. If multiple switch activations have not
been detected, the system proceeds to step 222.
[0260] In step 222, the control circuit 16 checks the elapsed time
remaining on the debounce timer. Step 222 and the step of checking
to see if the debounce timer has expired (i.e. step 224) are
repeated until the debounce timer expires. Once the debounce timer
has expired (e.g. without the occurrence of additional switch 14
actuations) the control circuit 16 determines that only one single
switch 14 actuation has occurred. Accordingly, in step 226, the
control circuit 16, changes the system state in accordance with the
single switch actuation detected. In turn, the media player or
controllable device uses the system state as the basis for
conducting a control operation.
[0261] FIG. 14 is a flow chart 113 of a procedure for operating a
media player according to one embodiment of the invention. The
procedure describes the process of first selecting a source then
selecting the appropriate mode of operation of the media player
followed by the user selecting the desired content item.
[0262] In step 230, the system 100 detects the first knob 20-1 push
(i.e. second degree of freedom) by the user in order to select a
source of the media player. The system 100 detects repeated user
presses of the first knob 20-1 thereby cycling to subsequent next
sources in a sequence, namely: uIndex.TM., AM radio, FM radio,
satellite radio, compact disk, hard drive, uMusic, digital video
disk (DVD), etc.
[0263] In step 232, the source is changed. For example, the first
knob 20-1 push may switch from the uIndex.TM. source to the AM
radio source. Upon pressing the first knob 20-1, the source may
immediately switch to the newly selected source (i.e. AM) and the
media player begins to provide media content from the new source.
According to another embodiment, there is a delay from the time
that the user pushed the first knob 20-1 (e.g. thereby selecting
the next source in a sequence) to the time that the system 100
starts playing media content from the new source which reduces the
effect of thrashing through multiple sources in succession.
[0264] In step 234, confirmation to the user of the change is made
and the display is updated. The system 100 provides visual and/or
auditory confirmation of the source selected such as displaying
colors from the first knob 20-1, from the display 27, playing an
audible click, etc. as described earlier.
[0265] In step 236, the system 100 determines if the desired source
has been selected. The user moves on to select mode the (See Step
238). If the correct source hasn't been selected step 230-234 are
repeated.
[0266] In step 238, the system 100 detects the second knob user
press (i.e. first degree of freedom) selecting from among the
available modes for the current source (i.e. the source selected by
the first knob 20-1 press) including: uSearch mode(s): select
letter; AM radio modes: seek, tune, presets; FM radio modes: seek,
tune, station, presets, artist, song, genre; satellite radio modes:
station, presets, artist, song, genre/category; compact disks
modes: genre, artist, song, track, time (fast forward/rewind); hard
disk modes: artist, song, album, time (fast forwarding/rewind);
uMusic modes: track, time (fast forward/read write); DVD mode:
chapter.
[0267] In step 240, the mode is changed.
[0268] In step 242, the system 100 provides visual and/or auditory
confirmation of the mode selected such as displaying appropriate
colors from the second knob 20-2, from the display 27, displaying
different shades of the color used to confirm source selections on
either the second knob 20-2 and/or the display 27, etc.
[0269] In step 244, if the correct mode has been selected, the user
continues to the next step. If the correct mode has not been
selected, steps 238-242 are repeated until the correct mode is
selected.
[0270] In step 246, the system detects a second knob rotation to
select a media content item.
[0271] In step 248, the system 100 selects a desired media content
item from among multiple media content items in a list of available
media content items. The selected item is displayed, and the system
may begin playing the item. According to one embodiment, there is a
delay from the time that the user selects the media content item to
the time that the system 100 starts playing the media content which
reduces the effect of thrashing through multiple media content
items in succession.
[0272] In step 250, if the desired media content item has been
selected, the process ends. If the desired media content item has
not been selected, the user repeats steps 246-248 until the desired
item has been selected.
[0273] FIG. 15 shows detail features of a control mechanism 114
configured to detect knob 20 rotation, according to one embodiment
of the invention.
[0274] The figure shows the optically transparent member 12, two
knobs 20-1, 20-2 affixed to the optically transparent member 12,
multiple instances of reflective surface 48-1, 48-2 attached to
each of the circumferences of the knobs 20-1, 20-2, two sets of
optical receivers 51-1, 53-1 and 51-2, 53-2, light 54-2 directed
toward a knob 20-1 by the light source 52-1, light 54-1, 54-3
reflected by the reflective surface 48-1, a display 36, an optical
coating 37 on the display 36 and extraneous light 55.
[0275] In addition to the acrylic and plastic materials, mentioned
previously, the optically transparent member 12 and/or the knob
20-1 may be made of polycarbonate, cyclic olephins, thermoset
materials, or other materials.
[0276] Multiple knobs 20 used in a media player or other electrical
device operate in a similar fashion, except that the knobs 20
provide user input with respect to different control functions.
Embodiments of the invention may be configured so as to have two
optical receivers 51-1, 53-1. Each individual optical receiver
51-1, 53-1 can operate so as to detect light 54-1, 54-3, reflected
by the reflective surface 48-1. The detected light 54-1, 54-3 is
representative of user rotation of the knob 20-1. Used in
combination with logic circuitry (e.g. and other operational
circuitry, as will be described later, all functioning as part of
the circuit 46), the two optical receivers 51-1, 53-1 also identify
direction of the knob 20-1 rotation.
[0277] According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least
one optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 (hereafter referred to as the
optical receiver) is a detector such as a semiconductor device
configured to normally output a logic high output (e.g. 5 volts,
3.3 volts, or any other commonly used logic reference voltage
level). When the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 senses the light 54-1,
54-3 reflected by the reflective surface 48-1, the optical receiver
51-1, 53-1 output transitions to a low output (e.g. 0 volts).
Alternatively, the semiconductor device (i.e. optical receiver
51-1, 53-1) may be configured to operate in a normally low state
and transition to a high state upon detection of light 54-1, 54-3
by the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1.
[0278] The optically transparent member 12 may be the same
component, providing the same functions (i.e. the function of
accepting user input in the form of a force exerted by the user on
the pressure member) as a pressure member, described earlier. It is
possible, also, according to other embodiments of the invention,
for the optically transparent member 12 to be configured in such a
fashion as to not provide the functions of the pressure member. The
optically transparent member 12 may, according to various
alternative embodiments of the invention, have various shapes,
forms or compositions. According to one embodiment, the optically
transparent member 12 is a clear sheet of plastic, such as for
example, a sheet of acrylic plastic.
[0279] According to one embodiment of the invention, a display 36
(e.g. liquid crystal display (LCD), thin film transistor (TFT),
plasma or other video display, etc.) may be positioned in the area
behind the optically transparent member 12 such that the display 36
can be viewed by the user through the optically transparent member
12. As described earlier, the display 36 may display user options,
menu options, etc. or other content such as video content, etc.
[0280] The knob 20-1 is rotationally coupled to the optically
transparent member 12, as will be described in more detail later.
The knob 20-1 is rotatable by a user. Accordingly, by rotating the
knob 20-1, the user is able to perform control selections.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the knob 20-1 is
constructed of transparent material such that the display 36,
positioned behind the optically transparent member 12, shows
through the knob 20-1. For example, the display 12 may be
configured to show, in the middle of the display 12, a list of
compact disk (CD) tracks available to be played on an audio player
and/or configured to show, at the position behind the knob 20-1, an
alphanumeric symbol or icon signifying that the audio player is
operating in the CD mode. According to one embodiment of the
invention, the knob 20-1 surface area comprises a transmissive
material capable of projecting the portion of the display
positioned in the area behind the optically transparent knob on the
top surface of the knob 20-1. The knob 20-1 may also be configured
with detents that provide the user with feedback of the nature of a
physical and/or audible "click" at points representing different
input selections along rotation of the knob 20-1.
[0281] Attached to the knob 20-1 are alternating bands of
reflective surface 48-1 and non-reflective surface. The bands of
reflective surface 48-1 and non-reflective surface are arranged
around the circumference of the knob 20-1 such that as the user
turns the knob 20-1 into a particular position, light 54-2 (e.g.
infrared light) that is emitted by the light source 52-1 in the
direction of the knob 20-1 is reflected by a band of reflective
surface 48-1 back toward at least one optical receiver 51-1, 53-1.
The light source 52-1 continually emits a modulated pulse train.
Although the light source 52-1 may, in some configurations, provide
a wide beam of light 54-2, FIG. 15 shows a line representing the
most direct beam of light 54-2 that is reflected by the reflective
surface 48-1 to either of the optical receivers 51-1, 53-1.
[0282] As will be described in more detail later, the circuit 46-1
converts the changes in light 54-1, 54-3 detected by the optical
receiver 51-1, 53-1 into control signals. In effect, the changes
observed in the light 54-1, 54-3 that is reflected toward the
optical receiver 51-1, 53-1, as the result of the reflective
surface 48-1 on the knob 20-1 changing position, are converted into
a control signal that is representative of the rotation of the knob
20-1.
[0283] According to one embodiment of the invention, the
alternating bands of reflective surface 48-1 and non-reflective
surface are affixed around the circumference of the knob 20-1 at a
distance from the end of the knob 20-1 that coincides with the
location of the optically transparent member 12. Accordingly, the
light 54-2 emitted by the optical light source 52-1 is directed
transversely through the optically transparent member 12 toward the
alternating reflective surfaces 48-1 that are located in a position
on the knob 20-1 such that the alternating bands of reflective
surface 48-1 and non-reflective surface are inconspicuous or even
invisible to the user. Since the optically transparent member 12
and/or the knob 20-1 may be transparent, the knob 20-1 mounted on
the optically transparent member 12 appears to operate without the
use of either mechanical or electromechanical transducers or drive
mechanisms, thereby providing a striking stylistic feature.
[0284] Other detector/sensor/circuit configurations are also
possible that provide the functions of detecting light 54-1, 54-3
directed from a light source 52-1 to optical receivers 51-1, 53-1
by the optical surface 48-1 (i.e. that is affixed to a knob 20-1,
the knob 20-1 coupled to an optically transparent member 12) in a
fashion that provides outputs capable of driving control circuitry.
These configurations are considered to fall within the scope of the
invention described herein.
[0285] The details of the operation of one of the knobs 20-1 and
associated components are described herein by way of example, and
also apply with respect to the second knob 20-2 or other additional
knobs, etc.
[0286] One or more of several different techniques may be employed
to isolate the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 from receiving light
generated by unintended sources that might result in undesired
control signals or otherwise interfere with normal operation of the
optical receivers. According to one such technique, an optical
coating 37 is applied to the optically transparent member 12 to
block transmission of light from extraneous sources of light 55 to
the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1. The optical coating 37 on the
optically transparent member 12 reduces the transmission of
electromagnetic energy in at least a region of the electromagnetic
spectrum that is the same region of the electromagnetic spectrum in
which the optical light source 52-1 outputs light directed toward
knob 20-1.
[0287] For example, sunlight 55 originating from outside the media
player case pointed toward the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 may be
blocked by the optical coating 37 applied to the optically
transparent member 12. Alternatively, an optically transparent
member 12 may have a polarizing layer that selectively blocks
undesired light 55 from reaching the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1.
Therefore ambient light reaching the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1
only has energy in the passband of the optical coating.
[0288] Improved detection of light output from light source 52-1 in
the presence of unintended sources of light 55 can be obtained by
modifying the light 54-2 transmitted by the light source 52-1 in
such a fashion that makes it distinguishable from other light 55
(e.g. extraneous light from other sources such as room light,
sunlight, etc.) received by the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1.
Accordingly, light 54-2 may be modulated and later de-modulated in
such as fashion as to be distinguishable from other undesired
sources of light.
[0289] FIG. 16 shows a block diagram depicting an apparatus for
transmitting light, according to one embodiment of the invention.
The apparatus includes a modulator 57-1, a light source 52-1, two
optical receivers 51-1, 53-1, two demodulators 58-1, 59-1 and a
logic device 60-1.
[0290] Accordingly, modulator 57-1 first modulates a signal, which,
in turn is applied to the light source 52-1. Modulation imparts a
predetermined time varying structure onto the signal applied to the
light source (e.g. a pulse train of a certain frequency, such as 40
Hz). The light source 52-1 then generates a modulated light output
54-2. The signal may be further encoded in any of a variety of ways
if desired, such as for example, by a pulse code length (e.g. RECS
80, RC5, etc.) or other scheme. The modulated light 54-2 is then
transmitted by the light source 52-1 to the first optical receiver
51-1, for example, via reflection by the reflective surfaces
48-1.
[0291] The optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 outputs a signal
representing the intensity of all light received, including
modulated light 54-1, 54-3 and ambient light, to the demodulator
58-1 for demodulation. If an optical coating is applied to the
optically transparent member 12, then the ambient light that
impinges on the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 via transmission
through the optically transparent member 12 will only have energy
in the passband of the optical coating (e.g. optical filter
coating). If an optical filter is placed in front of the optical
receiver 51-1, 53-1, then all light that reaches the optical
receiver 51-1, 53-1 will only have energy in the passband of the
optical filter.
[0292] The output of the optical receiver 51-1. 53-1 is an
electrical signal representative of the time varying intensity of
light that impinges on it. The demodulator 58-1 receives the signal
output of the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 and looks for the
presence of the modulated signal. The demodulator outputs a signal
representative of whether or not a modulated signal is present at
its input. This signal represents the conditions of light being
reflected off reflective surfaces of knobs 20 or not. A logic
device 60-1 compares the outputs of demodulators 58-1 and 59-1 to
determine the direction of rotation of knobs 20. The logic device
60-1 further associates direction of rotation with a desired
control function to enact circuit-controlled actions such as
changing volume, changing modes or implementing user selections,
etc. The logic device 60-1 and control circuit 46 may be part of
the same circuitry or separate circuits.
[0293] An additional function performed by the optically
transparent member 12 (e.g. simultaneously performing the functions
of the pressure member 12, as described above) is for the optically
transparent member 12, upon the exertion of a force on the knob 20
by a user, to transmit a resulting force to one or more switches 14
associated with a desired control function.
[0294] For example, a user desiring to change a mode of operation
of a media player from CD mode to FM mode presses the left knob
20-1 on the media player. The force exerted by the user on the knob
20-1 is, in turn, transmitted to the optically transparent member
12. Because of the location of the knob 20-1, mounted on the left
side of the optically transparent member 12, the force applied to
the optically transparent member 12 causes the activation of two
switches 14-1, 14-2 on the left side of the optically transparent
member 12 (i.e. pressure member). In turn, the system for accepting
a user input 100 interprets the activation of the two switches
14-1, 14-2 as being a user control input for changing from CD to FM
mode.
[0295] The apparatii and methods described for the control
mechanism described herein are particularly useful for controlling
operations of a media player in motor vehicles.
[0296] FIG. 17 depicts a side view 116 of the optically transparent
member 12 having an optical coating 37, and display 36 having an
optical coating 38, according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0297] The figure shows the optically transparent member 12, the
knob 20-1 (shown as the left hand knob 20-1 by way of example) of a
multi-media player (e.g. or other device), the knob 20-1 having
multiple instances of reflective surface 48 attached to the
circumference of the knob 20-1), two optical receivers 51-1, 53-1
and light 54-1, 54-3 initially directed from the light source 52-1.
As described in more detail earlier, light 54-1, 54-3 reflected by
the reflective surface 48-1 is detected by a first and/or second
optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 and converted by a circuit 46-1 into
the control signal.
[0298] FIG. 17 shows a optical coating 37 on the optically
transparent member 12 capable of blocking extraneous light 55 from
being transmitted into the optically transparent member 12 and
toward one of the optical receivers 51-3, 53-1 that would otherwise
cause either generation of un-intended control signals or
"swamping" of the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 with excessive
light.
[0299] In addition, the display 36 also has an optical coating 38
capable of blocking transmission of light in an undesired frequency
range by the display 36 toward the optical receivers 51-1, 53-1. As
described with respect to the optical coating 37 on the optically
transparent member 12, such blocking of undesired light from the
display 36 reduces possible generation of un-intended control
signals or "swamping" of the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 that could
otherwise make the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 and/or the optical
receiver-related circuitry 46-1 inoperable. It should be noted that
use of coatings is optional, and may not be required in all
applications.
[0300] For example, if the optical sources 52-1, 52-2 were chosen
such that the spectrum of their light output does not overlap
significantly with the spectrum of the light output of the display
36, the optical coating 38 would no longer be necessary or useful
and could be omitted. If an embodiment of the invention is employed
in an environment where extraneous sources of light do not have
appreciable energy in the frequency range of the light output of
sources 52-1, 52-2, the optical coating 37 could be omitted.
Alternatively, modulation techniques could be employed that would
be sufficient to allow discrimination of the light output from
sources 52-1, 52-2 from the light generated by extraneous sources
of light.
[0301] In addition to options of providing optical coatings 37, 38
on either the optically transparent member 12 or the display 36,
other alternatives are available for blocking extraneous light 55
according to other embodiments of the invention. For example,
optical coatings may be applied to the optical receivers 51-1, 53-1
to block the extraneous light 55 from impinging on the receivers.
Also, dyes may be added into the optically transparent member 12
during fabrication, capable of blocking extraneous light from being
transmitted within the optically transparent member 12 to the
optical receivers 51-1, 53-1.
[0302] FIG. 18 depicts a side view 117 of an arrangement of
components 117 configured to detect the rotation of a knob 20,
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0303] FIG. 18 includes the optical light source 52-1, the optical
receiver 51-1, 53-1, light 54-2 directed by the optical light
source 52-1 toward the knob 20, light 54-1, 54-3 reflected by the
reflective surface 48-1 toward the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1, the
optically transparent member 12 and the knob 20-1. Attached to the
circumference of the knob 20-1 are a friction sleeve 61 and a
capture member 62.
[0304] According to one embodiment of the invention, the knob 20-1
is affixed to a void in the optically transparent member 12 in such
a fashion that the knob 20-1 is held in place on the optically
transparent member 12 and is rotatable by the user. A friction
sleeve 61 fits over the knob 20-1 encircling the circumference of
the knob 20-1. The inside of the friction sleeve 61 attaches to the
knob 20-1; the outside of the friction sleeve 61 slides against the
inside of the void (e.g. circular hole) in the optically
transparent member 12 thereby allowing the knob 20-1 to rotate. At
the rear end of the knob 20-1 a capture member 62 is attached to
the knob 20-1 in such a position on the knob 20-1 that the capture
member 62 holds the knob 20-1 to the optically transparent member
12 from behind the optically transparent member 12 so that the knob
20-1 will not slide off the optically transparent member 12.
[0305] FIG. 18 shows the optically transparent member 12 and the
optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 positioned in locations relative to the
optically transparent member 12 so as to permit transmission of
light 54-2, 54-1 transversely through the optically transparent
member 12. The optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 detects the light 54-2
from the optical light source 52-1 that is reflected toward the
optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 by the one of the bands of the
reflective surface (See FIG. 15) 48-1.
[0306] FIG. 19 depicts positioning of the light source 52-1 with
respect to the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 such that the
transmission of light 54-1 between the light source 52-1 and
optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 is other than through the edge of and
transversely through the optically transparent member 12, according
to one embodiment of the invention.
[0307] FIG. 19 shows the same components 118 as described with
respect to FIG. 18 except that the optically transparent member 12
is configured such that transmission of light 54-1 and 54-2 (e.g.
and 54-3 as depicted in FIG. 15), according to one embodiment of
the invention, between the light source 52-1 and optical receiver
51-1, 53-1 is not transmitted transversely through the edge of the
optically transparent member 12. As depicted in the figure, by way
of example, the path of light 54-2 from the light source 52-1 to
reflective surface 48-1 on the knob 20-1 is such that the light
source 52-1 is located beneath the rear surface of the optically
transparent member 12. The reflective surface 48-1 is directed at
such an angle that the reflective surface 48-1 reflects the light
54-2 toward the optical receiver 53-1 also located behind the rear
surface of the optically transparent member 12.
[0308] According to another embodiment of the invention, the rear
end of the knob 20-1 and the attached bands of reflective surface
48-1 extend beyond the rear surface of the optically transparent
member 12.
[0309] According to another embodiment in which the display 36 (See
FIG. 15) is positioned behind the optically transparent member 12,
the (1) optical light source 52-1, (2) alternating bands of the
reflective surface 48-1 and non-reflective surface, and/or (3) the
optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 are positioned such that the path of
the light traveling between the optical light source 54-2,
alternating bands of the reflective surface 48-1 and non-reflective
surface, and/or (3) the optical receiver 51-1, 53-1 is located
partially or wholly in a space between the transparent member 12
and the display 36.
[0310] FIG. 20 depicts an arrangement 119 of knobs 20 attached to
the optically transparent member 12 showing interconnection of the
knobs 20, friction sleeves 61 and capture members 62 according to
one embodiment of the invention.
[0311] Accordingly, the friction sleeve 61-1 (as described with
respect to a first knob 20-1) is fixed to the knob 20-1. The
friction sleeve 61-1 is configured with a multiple of bands of
reflective surface 48-1 and a surface or surfaces around the outer
edge of the friction sleeve 61-1 to allow the knob to slide within
the hole (i.e. allow the knob rotate in a void) within the
optically transparent member 12. Attached to the knob 20-1, behind
the optically transparent member 12, is a capture member 62-1 for
holding the knob 20-1 in position within the hole in the optically
transparent member 12. In a configuration comprising two knobs
20-1, 20-2, such as the example depicted in FIG. 19, an additional
set of components (i.e. knob 20-2, friction sleeve 61-2 and capture
member 62-2 are assembled and operate in an analogous manner).
[0312] FIG. 21 shows a side view 120 of two knobs 20-1, 20-2
attached to the optically transparent member 12 according to one
embodiment of the invention. Also included are friction sleeves
61-1, 61-2 and pressure members 62-1, 62-2.
[0313] Described here with respect to a single knob 20-1, the
friction sleeve 61-1 is affixed to the circumference of the knob
20-1, thereby providing a friction surface (i.e. the friction
sleeve is in contact with the optically transparent member 12). The
friction surface slides rotatably within a holding mechanism that
is associated with the optically transparent member 12 (e.g. a
holding mechanism such as a hole or a void) enabling the knob 20-1
to rotate either clock-wise or counter-clockwise. However, the
friction sleeve 61-1 is configured such that there is a gap between
the portion of the knob 20-1 with reflective surfaces attached and
the optically transparent member 12. The friction sleeve is
constructed (e.g. or coated) with low-friction material such as,
for example, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, otherwise known as
Teflon.RTM.).
[0314] In addition, the capture member 62-1 is positioned on the
circumference of the knob 20-1. The capture member 62-1 is attached
to the knob 20-1 and from that position applies a positioning
pressure to the rear side of the optically transparent member 12 in
order to hold the knob 20-1 in a position relative to the optically
transparent member 12 (i.e. holds the knob 20-1 in a position
within the void of the optically transparent member 12).
[0315] The second knob 20-2 and associated components operates in
an analogous manner.
[0316] FIG. 22 is a depiction 121 of a knob 20 with bands of
reflective surface 48 attached to the circumference of the knob 20
according to one embodiment of the invention. The figure also
includes a friction member 61.
[0317] The figure shows one embodiment of the invention in which
the bands of reflective surface 48 are attached to the friction
sleeve 61 which is attached to the circumference of the knob 20.
The bands of reflective surface 61 are attached in areas of the
friction sleeve 61 where there is a gap between the friction member
61 itself and the edge of the optically transparent member 12 (i.e.
within the void of the optically transparent member 12 wherein the
knob 20 is held).
[0318] Other configurations of the embodiments of the invention are
also possible. For example, according to one embodiment, rather
than attach the reflective surfaces 48 within gaps on the friction
member 61, the reflective surfaces 48 are attached to an additional
ring affixed to the knob 20 or to the knob 20 itself (e.g. in the
case of either attaching the reflective surfaces 48 to an
additional ring or to the knob 20 itself, a gap is provided between
the reflective surfaces 48 and the position of the optically
transparent member 12) rather than the friction member 61.
Additional alternative configurations are also possible.
[0319] FIG. 23 demonstrates the detection of a knob 20-1 rotation
in a first direction 57 by a first optical receiver 51-1 and a
second optical receiver 51-3 according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0320] Shown in the figure are five different depictions (132-1 to
132-5) of light 54-2 directed toward a knob 20-1 having reflective
surfaces 48. The depictions (132-1 to 132-5) show different
exemplary rotational positions of the knob 20-1 which demonstrate,
in order, (1) no reflection of the light 54-2 by reflective surface
48 (132-1), (2) reflection of the light 54-1 by a first reflective
surface 48-1-1 toward the first optical receiver 51-1 (132-2), (3)
reflection of the light 54-1, 54-3 by the reflective surface 48-1-1
toward both the first optical receiver 51-1 and the second optical
receiver 53-1 (132-3), (4) reflection of the light 54-3 by the
reflective surface 48-1-1 toward the second optical receiver 53-1
(132-4) and finally, (5) no reflection of the light 54-2 by the
reflective surfaces 48 (132-5).
[0321] When detection by the first optical receiver 51-1 of light
54-1 reflected from one of the bands of the reflective surface
48-1-1 is followed by detection by the second optical receiver 53-1
of light 54-3 reflected from the one of the bands of the reflective
surface 48-1-1, the circuit 46-1 identifies a knob 20-1 rotation in
a first direction 57 (e. g. counter-clockwise rotation).
[0322] Two graphs show five output graph points (i.e. 131-1, 131-2,
131-3, 131-4 and 131-5) for the first optical receiver 51-1 and
second optical receiver 53-1 respectively. Output levels of the
first optical receiver 51-1 and second optical receiver 53-1 are
depicted as either a "high" or "low" circuit state. Beneath each of
five output graph points (i.e. 131-1, 131-2, 131-3, 131-4 and
131-5) are corresponding depictions of light 54-2 emitted by the
light source 52-1 based on five different positions (i.e. 132-1,
132-2, 132-3, 132-4 and 132-5) of the knob 20-1 corresponding to
the five output graph points (i.e. 131-1, 131-2, 131-3, 131-4 and
131-5), respectively, during rotation of the knob 20-1 by a user,
in one example.
[0323] In FIG. 23, at point one 132-1 the light source 52-1
transmits light 54-2 toward the knob 20-1. Since the position of
the knob 20-1 is such that the reflective surface 48 attached to
the knob 20-1 does not reflect light 54-2 toward either of the
first optical receiver 51-1 or the second optical receiver 53-1,
the outputs 131-1 of the first optical receiver 51-1 and the second
optical receiver 53-1 remain unchanged.
[0324] At point two 132-2, user rotation of the knob 20-1 causes a
band of reflective surface 48-1-1 to move into the path of light
54-2 transmission from the optical source 52-1 such that light 54-2
is reflected toward the first optical receiver 51-1 where the light
54-1 is detected by the first optical receiver 51-1. As a result,
the output 131-2, as depicted on the graph, of the first optical
receiver 51-1 changes from a high output to a low output.
[0325] At point three 132-3, additional user rotation of the knob
20-1 causes the band of reflective surface 48-1-1 to move to a
position in the path of light 54-2 transmission from the optical
source 52-1 such that light 54-1, 54-3 is reflected, in the
interim, to both the first optical receiver 51-1 and the second
optical receiver 53-1. As a result, the output 131-3, as depicted
on the graph, of the second optical receiver 51-3 changes from a
high output to a low output.
[0326] At point four 132-4, additional user rotation of the knob
20-1 causes the band of reflective surface 48-1-1 to move to a
position in the path of light 54-2 transmission from the optical
source 52-1 such that the light 54-3 is reflected toward the second
optical receiver 53-1 where the light 54-3 is detected by the
second optical receiver 53-1, and light is no longer reflected
toward receiver 51-1. As a result, the output 131-4, as depicted on
the graph, of the first optical receiver 51-1 changes from a low
output to a high output.
[0327] At point five 132-5, additional user rotation of the knob
20-1 results in the band of reflective 48-1-1 surface moving to a
position where there is no reflection of light 54-2 from the
optical source 52-1, and the output of second receiver 53-1 returns
to a high state.
[0328] Accordingly, the circuit 46-1 identifies a knob 20-1
rotation in the first direction 57 (e.g. counterclockwise) in
response to an initial detection of light 54-1 by the first optical
receiver 51-1 (at point two) followed later by detection of light
54-3 by the second optical receiver 53-1 (as demonstrated at point
four).
[0329] FIG. 24 demonstrates the detection of a knob 20-1 rotation
in a second direction 58 by a second optical receiver 51-3 and a
first optical receiver 51-1 according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0330] Shown in the figure are five different depictions (134-1 to
134-5) of light 54-2 directed toward a knob 20-1 having reflective
surfaces 48. The depictions (134-1 to 134-5) show different
exemplary rotational positions of the knob 20-1 demonstrating, in
order, (1) no reflection of the light 54-2 by the reflective
surfaces 48 (134-1), (2) reflection of the light 54-3 by a
reflective surface 48-1-8 toward the second optical receiver 53-1
(134-2), (3) reflection of the light 54-3 by the reflective surface
48-1-8 toward both the first optical receiver 51-1 and the second
optical receiver 53-1 (134-3), (4) reflection of the light 54-1 by
the reflective surface 48-1-8 toward the first optical receiver
51-1 (134-4), and finally, (5) no reflection of the light 54-2 by
the reflective surfaces 48 (132-5).
[0331] When detection by the second optical receiver 53-1 of light
54-3 reflected from one of the bands of the reflective surface
48-1-8 is followed by detection by the first optical receiver 51-1
of light 54-1 reflected from one of the bands of the reflective
surface 48-1-8, the circuit 46 identifies a knob 20-1 rotation in a
second direction 58 (i.e. clockwise).
[0332] Two graphs show five output graph points (i.e. 133-1, 133-2,
133-3, 133-4 and 133-5) for the first optical receiver 51-1 and
second optical receiver 53-1. Output levels of the first optical
receiver 51-1 and second optical receiver 53-1 are depicted as
either a "high" or "low" circuit state. Beneath each of the five
output graph points (i.e. 133-1, 133-2, 133-3, 133-4 and 133-5) are
corresponding depictions of light 54-2 emitted by the light source
52-1 based on five positions (i.e. 134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4 and
134-5) of the knob 20-1 corresponding to the five output graph
points (i.e. 133-1, 133-2, 133-3, 133-4 and 133-5) respectively,
during rotation of the knob 20-1 by a user, in one example.
[0333] This figure presents a representation of knob 20-1 rotation,
in the opposite direction, as that described above with respect to
FIG. 23.
[0334] For example, as depicted in FIG. 24, at point one 134-1 the
light source 52-1 transmits light 54-2 toward the knob 20-1. Since
the position of the knob 20-1 is such that the reflective surface
48 attached to the knob 20-1 does not reflect light 52-1 toward
either of the first optical receiver 51-1 or the second optical
receiver 53-1, the output 133-1 of the first optical receiver 51-1
and the second optical receiver 53-1 remains unchanged, in a logic
high state.
[0335] At point two 134-2, user rotation of the knob 20-1 causes a
band of reflective surface 48-1-8 to move into the path of light
54-2 transmission from the optical source 52-1 such that light 54-3
is reflected toward the second optical receiver 53-1 where the
light 54-3 is detected by the second optical receiver 53-1. As a
result, the output 133-2, as depicted on the graph, of the second
optical receiver 53-1 changes from a high output to a low
output.
[0336] At point three 134-3, additional user rotation of the knob
20-1 causes the band of reflective surface 48-1-8 to move to a
position in the path of light 54-2 transmission from the optical
source 52-1 such that the light 54-3, 54-1 is reflected to both the
first optical receiver 51-1 and the second optical receiver 53-1.
As a result, the output 133-3, as depicted on the graph, of the
first optical receiver 51-1 changes from a high output to a low
output, while the output of receiver 53-1 remains low.
[0337] At point four 134-4, additional user rotation of the knob
20-1 causes the band of reflective surface 48-1-8 to move to a
position in the path of light 54-2 transmission from the optical
source 52-1 such that the light 54-1 is reflected toward the first
optical receiver 51-1 where the light 54-1 is detected by the first
optical receiver 51-1, and not towards the second receiver 53-1. As
a result, the output 133-4, as depicted on the graph, of the second
optical receiver 53-1 changes from a low output to a high output,
while the output of the first receiver 51-1 remains low.
[0338] At point five 134-5, additional user rotation of the knob
20-1 results in the band of reflective surface 48-1-8 moving to the
position where there is no reflection of light 54-2 from the
optical source 52-1, and the output of first receiver 51-1 returns
to a high state.
[0339] Accordingly, the circuit 46-1 identifies a knob 20-1
rotation in the second direction 58 (e.g. clockwise) in response to
an initial detection of light 54-3 by the second optical receiver
53-1 in point two 134-2 followed later by detection of light 54-1
by the first optical receiver 51-1 as demonstrated at point four
134-4.
[0340] FIG. 25 is a depiction of an alternative configuration in
the form of a handheld remote control according to one embodiment
of the invention.
[0341] The figure includes a pressure member/optically transparent
member 12, a knob 20-1, switches 14-1 to 14-8, a rotational
combination control 70 having eight (8) positional control
locations 72-1 to 72-8 and one push control location 72-9, options
35-1, 35-2, etc. and a selection listing 28. According to other
embodiments of the invention there may also be a greater or smaller
number of switches 14, positional control locations 72, options 35,
etc. In effect, the embodiment of the invention depicted
incorporates a pressure member 12 used in conjunction with switches
14 as described earlier, an optically transparent member 12 as
described earlier, together with the rotational combination control
70 explained in the description that follows. An example of a
rotational combination control 70 is an eight-direction switch and
encoder with a center push, such as the RKJXTIE120001 control
manufactured by Alps Electric, Inc.
[0342] In the example embodiment of FIG. 25, the pressure
member/optically transparent member 12 has a different dimensional
aspect ratio than the example embodiment described earlier, though
both embodiments are functionally equivalently.
[0343] However, the rotational combination control 70 differs in
its' operation from embodiments previously described. Accordingly,
the rotational combination control 70 provides multiple positional
control locations 72-1 to 72-8 that a user can select by pressing
the rotational combination control 70 at the desired positional
control location 72 thereby affecting a sideways force vector on
the stem 75 (See FIG. 26) of the rotational combination
control.
[0344] A similarity of the rotational combination control 70 to the
knob 20 and pressure member 12 described earlier is that the
rotational pressure member 74 (See FIG. 26) component of the
rotational combination control 70, positioned in front of the
display 36, in one configuration, is transparent. Accordingly, the
display 36 can display output such as menu options, control options
or a portion of them that are viewable through the rotational
pressure member 74. The menu options or controls displayed by the
rotational combination control 70 are spatially associated with
positional control locations 72-1 to 72-8 of the rotational
combination control 70. The user is able to select menu or control
options viewed through the rotational pressure member 74. The
rotational combination control 70 is similar to the knob 20
additionally in that the rotational combination control 70 accepts
user rotation of the rotational combination control 70, thereby
affecting similar control indications as those provide by rotation
of the knob 20, as described earlier.
[0345] One feature of the rotational combination control 70 is
that, in the same way as described with respect to the knobs 20
disclosed earlier, when used in combination with other rotational
combination controls 70 or knobs 20, embodiments of the invention
can be configured such that a user selection of a positional
control location 72 input engages the selection of alternative sets
of positional control location options of a second rotational
combination control 70 or other control (e.g. knob 20):
[0346] For example, if a first rotational combination control 70-1
is configured to present positional control location 72-1, 72-2,
72-3, etc. menu options: AM, FM, CD, etc., respectively, upon
selection of the first positional control location option 72-1
(i.e. AM), the second rotational combination control 70-2 (e.g. or
alternatively, menu options provided in conjunction with a knob
20-2) displays a first set of rotational combination controls 70-2
(e.g. or alternatively, the first set of menu options provided in
conjunction with the knob 20-2) menu options: AM presets, AM seek,
AM tune as the positional control locations 72 for the second
rotational combination controls 70-2 (e.g. or the menu options
provided in conjunction with the knob 20-2). Upon selection of the
second positional control location option 72-2 (i.e. FM), the
second rotational combination control 70-2 displays menu options:
FM preset, FM seek, FM tune, FM station, FM song, FM genre, FM
artist, etc. as the positional control locations 72 for the second
rotational combination control 70-2 (e.g. or the menu options
provided in conjunction with the knob 20-2.
[0347] Other combinations and numbers of knob-based 20 controls,
rotational combination controls 70, pressure members 12 and
optically transparent members 12 working independently and together
are also possible according to other embodiments of the
invention.
[0348] Also, since the rotational combination control 70 can accept
a rotational user input in a clockwise or counterclockwise
direction, as described earlier, the rotational combination control
70, according to one embodiment, could be configured to change menu
option sets presented to a user in response to the user rotating
the rotational combination control 70.
[0349] For example, assume that certain multi-media systems have
more functional operations (on/off, play, record, fast forward,
etc.) than could be assigned to the eight positional control
locations 72 available on one rotational combination control 70.
For this example, also assume that rotation of the rotational
combination control 70 is divided into eight positions of rotation
(i.e. In other words, the rotational combination control 70 has
eight positional control locations 72-1 to 72-8 that the user
selects by pressing the rotational combination control 70 at the
desired positional control location 72 and positions of rotation
locations that the user selects by rotating the rotational
combination control 70 to a desired position.).
[0350] Accordingly, in this situation the display 36 positioned
behind the rotational combination control 70 may be configured to
first show one set of menu options (i.e. menu options that are
selected for the first eight functional operations). Upon a user
turning the rotational combination control 70, the display 36 shows
a second set of menu options behind the rotational combination
control 70 for handling additional functional operation input.
Based on such a configuration, sixty-four (8.times.8=64) menu
options could be assigned to one rotational combination control 70.
Other menu option combinations and schemes, as would be known by
individuals skilled in the art, are also, possible employing the
rotation capability of the rotational combination control 70. The
rotational capability of the rotational combination control 70
could alternatively be used for other functions such as tuning,
volume level control, etc.
[0351] FIG. 26 shows a side view 126 of the rotational combination
control 70 of a handheld remote control according to one embodiment
of the invention. The figure includes an optically transparent
member 12, a rotational pressure member 74 attached to a stem 75 of
the rotational combination control 70, the rotational combination
control case 76, and a pressure member/optically transparent
member/frame 12 (note, the component designated by the single
identification number "12" may perform one or more of the functions
of a pressure member, optically transparent member and/or frame).
For example, the functions of a pressure member 12 may be
configured to accept a user-exerted force as input. The force, is,
in turn, transmitted by the pressure member 12 to one or more
switches 14, as described earlier. Alternatively, or in combination
with a pressure member 12, other configurations may include an
optically transparent member 12 that allows users to view an
underlying set of menu options (e.g. equivalent to the menu options
30 described earlier with respect to knobs 20) displayed on a
display 36. Alternatively, instead of a pressure member and/or
optically transparent member 12, a frame 12 may be substituted or
included that simply provides structural support and positioning
for the rotational combination control 76.
[0352] The rotational combination control 70 is a transducer that
is capable of converting a variety of different forces generated by
a user into different control indications, including control
indications from forces pushing the control stem 75 in a direction
toward the control case 76 (i.e. at the push control location 72-9)
or control indications resulting from pushing the rotational
pressure member 74 toward the control case 76 from various
positions 72-1 to 72-8 over a 360 degree circumference of the
rotational pressure member 74. In effect, the rotational
combination control 70 is a mechanism capable of providing, for
example, nine different positional control location 70
selections.
[0353] As shown in the figure, according to one embodiment, the
control case 76 of the rotational combination control 70 is mounted
underneath the pressure member/optically transparent member 12 with
the control stem 75 of the rotational combination control 70
reaching through a void in the pressure member/optically
transparent member 12. According to other embodiments of the
invention, a frame designed simply to provide support replaces the
pressure member/optically transparent member 12.
[0354] Within certain embodiments, the pressure member/optically
transparent member may be mounted and operate independently of the
rotational combination control 70; within other embodiments, the
rotational combination control 70 is mounted on the pressure
member/optically transparent member 12. Other configurations of the
combination of the rotational combination control 70 and pressure
member/optically transparent member 12 than these are also
contemplated as being within the scope of the embodiments of the
invention. For example, in one configuration, the rotational
combination control 70 operating with nine different positional
control locations 70 has no pressure member/optically transparent
member 12. According to another example the rotational combination
control 70 is configured to operate in conjunction with a pressure
member 12/switch 14 device.
[0355] FIG. 27 shows the side view 128 of the rotational
combination control 70 which has been depressed by a user at the
push control location 72-9 (See FIG. 25) for a center control input
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0356] By pushing the rotational combination control 70 toward the
control case 76 at the push control location 72-9 the user
generates a ninth control indication.
[0357] FIG. 28 shows the side view 129 of the rotational
combination control 70 which has been depressed at a location (e.g.
72-1 to 72-8) designated for an individual input according to one
embodiment of the invention. By pressing the rotational combination
control 70 at a distance from the center of the rotational
combination control 70, a user generates a transverse force vector
applied to the rotational combination control 70 that is equivalent
to the force that would be generated by pushing the control stem of
the rotational combination control 70 sideways. This feature
provides a mechanism for allowing a user to push on the rotational
combination control 70 near one of the positional control locations
72-1 to 72-8 (e.g. at a distance from a center location of the
rotational pressure member 74) to accept a user input associated
with a menu option of a set of menu options displayed by the
display 36 that is positioned under the pressure member/optically
transparent member 12.
[0358] Accordingly, the features of the handheld control 125
embodiment of the invention, as described above, provide an
alternative control mechanism comprising a rotational combination
control 70, a display 36 and a circuit 46. According to the
embodiment described, the rotational combination control 70 is
transparent, rotatable (e.g. providing the same functions with
respect to rotation as the knob 20 described earlier) by a user and
capable of accepting application of force to the rotational
combination control 70 by a user. The display 36 is positioned in
the area behind the rotational combination control 70 and projects
output (e.g. images, video, menu options, control options, etc.)
that are viewable through the rotational combination control 70.
Output locations (e.g. depicting individual images, menu options,
control options, etc.) displayed (i.e. on the display 36) spatially
relate to the positional control locations 72 that are configured
for acceptance of the user input. The circuit 46 converts the force
(i.e. the force applied to the positional combination control 70)
into a control signal that is representative of the user input.
[0359] Various embodiments of the invention using a pressure member
12, as described above, employ different alternative switch 14
technologies such as touch, strain, optical, capacitive,
temperature, multi-axis switch 14 technology. In one such example,
strain technology employed in a switch 14 measures the intensity of
force applied to the switch 14. Accordingly, user-applied forces to
a pressure member 12 propagate to multiple switches 14 such that
the force intensities of each of the multiple switches 14 can be
compared for identification of the switch 14 experiencing the
higher force intensity. Comparison of the relative force
intensities (e.g. change of state) of the multiple switches 14
provides a more accurate measure of the intended user input.
[0360] Such an intensity-based switch 14 system comprises a
plurality of switches 14 and an optically transparent member 12.
The optically transparent member 12 couples to the plurality of
switches 14. The optically transparent member 12 has multiple
sections that are each associated with one of the switches 14. When
a user applies a force to one of the multiple sections, the
pressure member 12 transmits a resulting force to the switch 14
associated with the section to which the force is applied in order
to cause actuation of the associated switch 14. The switches 14
detect the intensity of the force applied by the user.
[0361] An apparatus for comparing the intensity of multiple
switches 14 comprises a first switch 14-1 and a second switch 14-2
of the plurality of switches 14 and a control circuit 46. (Note:
Although the control circuit 16 was described earlier used in
conjunction with a pressure member 12 and other circuits 46 are
described later that perform other functions (e.g. infra-red
detection circuitry), the individual circuit components can be
arranged in different configurations, combined, etc.
[0362] As a result of the exertion of a force by the user to the
optically transparent member 12, the optically transparent member
12 transmits a first resulting force to a first switch 14-1 (e.g.
strain gauge or other switch) and a second resulting force to a
second switch 14-2 (e.g. strain gauge or other switch). Each switch
14 is associated with a section of the optically transparent member
12. Accordingly, the control circuit 46 identifies state change of
the switches (i.e. the first switch 14-1 and the second switch
14-1) as an inferred system state change based on a higher
intensity of force of the first switch 14-1 or the second switch
14-2 of the multiple switches. In other words, the system infers
one system state if a greater force is transmitted to one of the
switches than the other switch but a different system state if the
amount of force applied to each of the switches is reversed.
[0363] FIG. 29 is an example circuit diagram 130 of a circuit 16
comprising six switches (e.g. s1-s6 used as described with
reference to FIG. 1) 14 for detecting forces applied to a pressure
member 12 and a circuit 46 (i.e. used as described with reference
to FIG. 15) employing optical receivers 51-1, 53-1 (e.g. QSE-157
manufactured by Fairchild Semiconductors, Inc., etc.) that detect
light 54-1, 54-3 reflected from a light source 52-1 (e.g. MLED81
manufactured by Motorola, Inc., etc.). The switches 14 and optical
receivers 51-1, 53-1 share a micro-processor (e.g. PIC 16F819
manufactured by MicroChip, Inc. etc.). The microprocessor
interprets the signals from the switches 14 and optical receivers
51-1, 53-1 to generate control signals
[0364] FIG. 30 shows an assembly 140 of an optically transparent
member 12 and frame 18, according to one embodiment of the
invention in which the optically transparent member 12 is mounted
directly to the frame 18. The figure also includes the switches 14,
the switch actuators 15, suspension-mounted retainers 17,
compressible grommets 19, one part of the circuit 46-1, the light
source 52-2 and the optical receivers 51-2, 53-2. Finally, FIG. 30
also depicts a proximity sensor arrangement including a transmitter
23, receiver 25, lens 29 and sensor-related portion of the control
circuit 46-3 (e.g. a user input area, a controller and a proximity
detector).
[0365] According to an improved configuration of the system,
depicted in the figure, each switch 14 of the plurality of switches
is interposed between the pressure member 12 and a frame 18. By
positioning the switches 14 between the pressure member 12 and the
frame 18, less space is required than would be necessary if the
switches 14 where mounted on a separate platform (e.g. a circuit
board, other mechanism, or mounting plane, etc.) located behind the
pressure member 12. Thus the pressure member 12 and frame 18
combination embodiment of the invention depicted in the figure
takes less space. In addition, the pressure member 12 and frame 18
combination embodiment of the invention depicted can be assembled
in the form of single unit thereby simplifying the assembly
process.
[0366] According to this embodiment of the invention, the switches
14 are positioned in an initial location between the pressure
member 12 and the frame 18. In order to hold the pressure member
12, the system assembly 140 also includes a suspension-mounted
retainer 17 that moveably couples the pressure member 12 to the
frame 18. Positioned, as such, in its neutral position, the switch
actuators 15 are compressed. According to one embodiment of the
invention, when the actuators 15 are compressed, the switches 14
operate in a closed circuit state. Accordingly the circuit 46 is
configured to identify such a closed circuit state as equivalent to
non-activation of the switch 14. According to an alternative
embodiment of the invention, switches 14 are configured to operated
in an open circuit state when the actuators 15 are compressed and
the circuit 46 identifies such the open circuit state as equivalent
to non-activation of the switch 14.
[0367] The system 140 is configured to also identify switch 14
activation. Accordingly, in response to user-applied pressure
against the pressure member 12, a resulting force is exerted by the
pressure member 12 on the actuator 15 of one or more of the
switches 14 (i.e. of the switches 14 each of which is associated
with one of the multiple sections representing a desired control
function). When the actuator 15 of such a switch 14 is
de-compressed, the switch 14 operates in an open state. Upon
transition of the switch 14 from a closed state to an open state,
the system 140 identifies a switch 14 activation.
[0368] According to this embodiment of the invention the
suspension-mounted retainer 17 that moveably couples the pressure
member 12 to the frame 18 includes a compressable grommet 19 (e.g.
or other compressable spacer also providing spacing between the
pressure member 12 and the frame 18). The compressable grommet 19,
upon being positioned between the pressure member 12 and the frame
18 applies a force to the pressure member 12 that holds the
pressure member 12 in its initial position (i.e. its initial
position pushed against the frame 18). Additionally, the grommet 19
also exerts lateral forces on the pressure member 12 in order to
counteract lateral movements of the pressure member 12.
[0369] According to one embodiment of the invention, a proximity
sensor arrangement is provided that is configured to detect the
presence of a user's hand near the front of the optically
transparent member 12. Detection of the user's hand near the
optically transparent member 12 causes modification of the display
106. Accordingly, the proximity sensor arrangement provides an
apparatus and method that identifies an appropriate time to change
the information content of the display 106 (e.g. in order to
minimize information overload to a driver). In other words, the
system 140 is configured to present the user only with the
information that he/she needs, in some cases reducing the set of
displayed information and other cases enhancing the set of
displayed information depending upon whether the proximity sensor
detects that the user is about to use the system 140. Although such
embodiments of the invention are particularly well suited to
applications in a vehicle, the embodiments of the invention may
also be useful in freestanding devices as well as a variety of
other device configurations and environments in which the devices
may be employed.
[0370] In one example, the display 106 is configured to show the
artist, song title, album name and elapsed time of a song that is
playing as well as several command menu options 35 such as options
to rename a song, store the song in favorites and a normal play
mode option. However, according to one embodiment of the invention,
when the command menu options 35 are not needed, they can be
automatically removed from the display 106. Accordingly, detection
of placement of the user's hand near the proximity sensor
arrangement mounted to the optically transparent member 12
identifies when the command menu options 27 will be displayed.
[0371] The proximity sensor arrangement comprises a transmitter 23,
receiver 25, lens 29 and sensor-related portion of the control
circuit 46-3. The transmitter 23 transmits an electromagnetic wave
such as an infra-red signal, visible light, etc. through a lens 29
toward a location proximate to the optically transparent member 12
where a user would position his/her hand prior to, during and/or
after operation of any of the controls (e.g. optically transparent
member 12, knobs 20, etc.) of the system for accepting user input.
An ultrasonic signal may alternatively be transmitted toward a
position proximate to the optically transparent member 12. The
receiver 25 is also positioned to detect signals from a location
proximate to the optically transparent member 12 where a user would
position his/her hand prior to, during and/or after operation of
any of the controls (e.g. optically transparent member 12, knobs
20, etc.) of the system for accepting user input such that the
receiver 25 is able to detect a disturbance or change (e.g.
reflection of the electromagnetic or other wave, etc.) of the
electromagnetic wave (e.g. or ultrasonic signal) caused by the
user's hand. Upon placement or removal of the user's hand from
proximate to the optically transparent member 12, the command menu
options 35 are changed. A depiction of such a removal of command
menu options 35 in response to the user removing his/her hand from
proximate to the optically transparent member 12 is provided in
FIGS. 35 to 36.
[0372] In addition to changing displayed information based on
detection of the proximate placement of a user's hand proximate to
the system 140, as described above, the proximity sensor
arrangement may be configured to perform other functions as well.
The proximity sensor arrangement may even perform different
functions simultaneously. For example, in one such embodiment, the
proximity sensor arrangement is configured to transmit and receive
infra-red signals to perform both a proximity sensing function and
a remote control sensing function. Accordingly, such a proximity
sensor arrangement consists of the infra-red transmitter/receiver
combination that transmits and receives infra-red signals to and
from the location of a user's hand. In addition, the sensor
component of the proximity sensing arrangement is configured to
also accept a signal (e.g. infra-red, visible light, capacitive,
ultrasonic, capacitive, inductive or other signals, etc.)
transmitted by a remote control device. Although this multiple use
configuration of the proximity sensing device has applications
within motor vehicles, such configurations are also useful in other
applications such as freestanding and integrated multi-media
devices, computer and other computing devices, home and industrial
controls, etc.
[0373] Such multiple-use configurations of the proximity sensing
arrangement may also incorporate other enhancements, according to
other embodiments of the invention. For example, the transmitting
and sensing components of the proximity sensing arrangement may be
configured to employ coded and/or modulated signals thereby
enabling the proximity arrangement to more accurately distinguish
between the signals received from different sources. Such
modulation techniques include the methods described earlier for
modulation with respect to the method for distinguishing between
desired rotary control signals and extraneous signals as well as
other techniques known by individuals who are skilled in the
art.
[0374] FIG. 31 shows a side view of the assembly 141 of the
optically transparent member 12 and the frame 18, in which the
optically transparent member 12 is positioned in its initial
location, according to one embodiment of the invention. According
to the embodiment of the invention depicted, no suspension-mounted
retainer 17 is used. However, a grommet 19 holds the pressure
member 12 against the switch 14 actuator 15-1 (i.e. thereby holding
the switch 14-1 actuator 15-1 in a compressed position). In the
compressed position, the actuator 15-1 causes the switch 14-1 to
operate in a closed state. As described earlier, the circuit 46 is
configured to identify such a closed circuit state as
non-activation of the switch 14-1.
[0375] FIG. 32 shows a side view of the assembly 142 of the
optically transparent member 12 and the frame 18, in which the
optically transparent member 12 is positioned in a second location,
according to one embodiment of the invention. Accordingly, upon the
exertion of pressure against the pressure member 12 by a user, the
actuator 15-1 of the switch 14-1 is released. As described earlier,
the circuit 46 is configured to identify such an opened circuit
state as the switch activation.
[0376] FIG. 33 shows a configuration 143 of the optical light
source 52 and optical receivers 51, 53 mounted to the optically
transparent member 12, according to one embodiment of the
invention. The figure shows the optically transparent member 12,
two different circuits 46-1, 46-2 having optical sources 52-1, 52-2
and receivers 51-1, 53-1 and 51-2, 53-2 respectively and
suspension-mounted retainers 17-1, 17-2, 17-3, 17-4, 17-5 and 17-6.
In contrast to the embodiment of the invention described earlier,
mounting the circuit 46 (i.e. and circuit board), optical sources
52 and receivers 51, 53 on the optically transparent member 12
results in the circuit 46, optical source 52 and receivers 51, 53
moving along with the optically transparent member 12 when a force
is applied to the optically transparent member 12. Thus,
registration of the light's direction of travel between the optical
sources 52, reflective surface 48-1 of the knob 20 and receivers
51, 53 is improved thereby improving accuracy of user input
detection and reliability of the system 143.
[0377] FIG. 34 shows the display 106 displaying a media content
item selection 28 along with menu command options 35, according to
one embodiment of the invention. In response to detection of a
user's hand being positioned proximately to the proximity sensor
arrangement, the display 106 shows a more populated display 106
that also includes both the media content item selection 28 and the
menu command options 35. Thus, upon placement of his/her hand
proximate to the display 106 (e.g. providing a user input), the
user is presented with a more complete display 106 from which to
choose. FIG. 35 shows the display 106 displaying only the media
content item selection 28 after menu command options 35 have been
removed (i.e. thereby providing alternative control output and
control options), according to one embodiment of the invention.
Accordingly, after the user's hand has been removed from proximity
to the optically transparent member 12, the display 106 provides a
less-intricate display of information that is easier to read and
less distracting to a driver.
[0378] FIG. 36 is page one 145 of an example circuit diagram of the
control circuit 46, according to one embodiment of the invention in
which the optically transparent member 12 is mounted directly to
the frame 18 as depicted in FIGS. 30-33. FIG. 37 is page two 146 of
the same example circuit diagram of the control circuit 146. The
circuit diagram includes switches (e.g. s1-s4) 14 for detecting
forces applied to a pressure member 12; an additional part of the
circuit 46 employs optical receivers 51, 53 (e.g. QSE-157
manufactured by Fairchild Semiconductors, Inc., etc.) that detect
light 54 reflected from a light source 52 (e.g. 1N6254 light
emitting diode manufactured by Fairchild Semiconductors, etc.). The
switches 14 and optical receivers 51, 53 share a micro-processor
(e.g. UI 16F819 manufactured by MicroChip, Inc., etc.). Transistors
(e.g. Q2N4401 general purpose transistors, etc.) are used to
identify when a switch 14 has been opened. Accordingly, the switch
14 is opened when a user exerts a force on the pressure member 12.
A resistor (e.g. R1) pulls transistor Q1 base high which the
micro-processor, in turn identifies as either a switch activation
or non-activation. The circuit diagrams also includes a Max 282
integrated circuit (i.e. for generating serial interface output
signals), serial data outputs, power supply circuitry, etc.
[0379] FIG. 38 is page one of an example circuit diagram of the
proximity sensor arrangement, according to one embodiment of the
invention. According to the example depicted by the circuit
diagram, an integrated circuit (e.g. a Vishay TSOP 1838SS3V)
includes sub-circuitry to modulate a source signal, transmit the
modulated signal, receive the reflected (i.e. transmitted) signal
and de-modulate the received signal. Additional circuitry based on
Schmitt triggers (e.g. 74ACT14 manufactured by Fairchild
Semiconductors, etc.) convert the received signal into a control
signal. FIG. 39 is page two of a circuit diagram according to one
embodiment of the invention in which a microcontroller is instead
used to convert the received signal (i.e. also de-modulated by the
Vishay TSOP 1838SS3V). As depicted in FIG. 39, the microcontroller
(e.g. a PIC16F628 manufactured by HVW Technologies) detects and
converts the modulated signal received by the Vishay TSOP 1838SS3V
integrated circuit, thereby replacing the Schmitt trigger circuits
and related components.
[0380] Thus, as described in detail above, embodiments of the
invention provide a system and method for accepting a user input.
Accordingly, the optically transparent member, knob, means for
directing, reflecting and detecting light are operationally
associated so as to accept the user input.
[0381] While this invention has been particularly shown and
described with references to preferred embodiments thereof, it will
be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in
form and details may be made therein without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the appended
claims. For example, embodiments of the invention may be applied to
media systems. Embodiments of the invention may also be applied to
automotive systems. The embodiments of the invention described
herein, may also applied to a variety of control application
settings.
[0382] With respect to the different components of embodiments of
the invention described herein, the display 36 may be integrated
with the pressure member 12 in a single arrangement; in other
embodiments of the invention the display 36 and pressure member 12
may be separate. Also, certain embodiments of the invention, as
described herein, may partly incorporate traditional touch screen
technology and push-button switch, etc. technology, in place of the
pressure member 12-based user touch capability described herein.
For example, embodiments of the invention using a first knob 20-1
and a second knob 20-2 to accept selection of control source, mode
and media content item selections may accept sub-menu selections
from traditional touch screen input devices. In another example, a
traditional touch screen or pushbutton array may be used as the
input device for selection of sources. Also, the control circuit 17
described here can be implemented in a variety of forms and/or
located in different locations, such as on a separated circuit
board, integrated within the system, in a separated component of a
larger system, etc. Various other combinations of the components of
embodiments of the invention, described herein, are possible within
the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0383] According to one embodiment of the invention, a knob 12 is
used in combination with a touch screen. Accordingly, the knob 12
is moveably mounted such that the knob 12 sits slightly above the
touch screen. In response to a user-applied pressure to the knob
12, the knob 12 moves to come in contact with the touch screen
thereby resulting in a touch screen activation.
[0384] It should also be understood that the knob 20 can be formed
into various shapes for either decorative or functional purposes
while still being capable of performing the features of the
invention as described herein. For example, according to an
embodiment of the invention, the hand-held portion of the knob 20
is wider than the circumference of the friction sleeve 61-1. The
extra width of the knob 20 provides an overlap over the optically
transparent member 12 to prevent dust and/or dirt from slipping
between the knob 20 and the friction sleeve 61-1 to interfere with
rotation of the knob 20.
[0385] An additional feature of embodiments of the invention is the
ability to accept and process inputs provided in other forms used
in conjunction with the inputs provided by knob 12 rotation and
user-applied pressure, etc., as described above. For example,
according to one embodiment of the invention, a motion or proximity
detector senses motion of a finger positioned near a particular
location (e.g. the upper left hand corner of a user input area) of
the pressure member. In turn, a sensed motion indication is used as
an additional input to identify a desired input selection (e.g. to
identify that the user has pressed the corner or the pressure
member rather than the center of the pressure member). According to
another embodiment of the invention, when the user places a finger
or hand within range of the proximity detector, the controller
causes the control mechanism to display alternative control or menu
options. In turn, when the user removes his finger/hand, displayed
menu options change back to the original menu options.
[0386] The control mechanism may accept other forms of input, as
well, such as a voice control or other form of input. According to
certain embodiments of the invention, the voice, or other input may
identify a separate input (e.g. turn on, turn off the device,
etc.). Alternatively, the voice control input may be used in
conjunction with other inputs. For example, the control mechanism,
upon receiving a voice input stating a particular source (e.g. CD,
FM, etc.), may interpret future inputs as being inputs for commands
related to the stated source (e.g. for a "CD" voice command,
interpret a change command as a change track input; for an "FM"
voice command, interpret a change command as a change station
input, etc.).
[0387] Additional embodiments of the invention provide an improved
user interface for multimedia and other devices. Among other
advantages of embodiments of the invention, the improved user
interface simplifies the display of a multimedia device in
automotive applications so that the display can be easily
understood and cause less distraction to drivers than would
otherwise be possible using other input and/or control mechanisms.
In particular, the multimedia device, so configured, limits the
amount of information displayed to a user until such time as the
user is ready to perform a control operation. At that time, the
multimedia device expands the information displayed in order to
provide sufficient information upon which the user can select a
desired control operation.
[0388] Referring now to FIG. 40, the user interface component of a
multimedia device 300 is shown which includes a controller 305 such
as a head unit (e.g. a control and multiple audio source unit, for
use in a vehicle infotainment system, home entertainment system,
portable entertainment system, etc.), digital player, etc., a left
knob 310-1 (e.g. in one embodiment turning the left knob 310-1
controls volume, pressing the left knob 310-1 mutes the output of
the multimedia device) a right concentric knob assembly, with inner
concentric knob 310-2 and outer concentric knob 311-2, a display
320, a set of preset controls 330-1 to N, a set of peripheral
button controls 340-1 to 340-4, a set of mode control buttons 350-1
to 350-N, an output selection display 360 and proximity detectors
380-1 to 380-3. Although a single left knob and a dual concentric
right knob assembly are described, either or both knobs/knob
assemblies could be dual concentric knob assemblies or individual
knobs.
[0389] As depicted, with a trigger (e.g. user's hand or other body
part) positioned away from the multimedia device 300 (i.e. in FIG.
40 the users hand shown is not proximate to the display), the
multimedia device 300 is configured to provide a reduced display
output 360 (i.e. the elements displayed to a user are reduced
compared the full complement of controls labels and reporting that
would otherwise be displayed, primarily including the frequency and
call letters of a selected station and little other information).
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 40, device 300 is shown providing
reduced information, and is operating in the FM mode. By providing
reduced information as part of the initial output, the user is able
to immediately see which station is selected, thereby reducing the
amount of time required for the driver to look away from the
driving activity. Accordingly, the elements displayed to a user are
reduced compared the full complement of controls labels and
reporting that would otherwise be displayed and which would
otherwise cause more significant user/driver distraction.
[0390] According to one embodiment of the invention, the multimedia
device 300 is configured to return to a state where display 320
shows its initial reduced output (e.g. or some other condition
where the display provides reduced information) automatically,
after removal of the user's hand from the proximity of the
multimedia device 300. According to one configuration, for example,
the multimedia device 300 returns back to the initial reduced
output after some pre-determined time (e.g. 30 seconds) has elapsed
since the removal of the user's hand from a position near the
multimedia device 300.
[0391] In addition to the aforementioned control, the multimedia
device 300 has other buttons as well. For example, along the top
edge of the multimedia device 300 are found multiple preset buttons
330 that may be programmed or configured to select, for example,
from between radio stations or other such choices. On the bottom
edge of the multimedia device 300 are found multiple mode control
buttons 350-1 to 350-N. The mode control buttons 350 may be used to
control operations such as source selections (e.g. entertainment,
telephone, navigation, car settings, etc). For example, the
entertainment button may be used to engage one of multiple sources
for entertainment such as a CD changer, XM radio, FM radio, etc.
The mode control buttons 350 buttons may perform additional
functions, as well. In particular, each one of a set of multiple
presses of the entertainment button causes the multimedia device
300 operation to alternate to the next in sequence from among the
different multiple sources. In other words pressing the first mode
button once selects FM radio, pressing it a second time selects XM
radio, and pressing it a third time selects AM radio, according to
one embodiment of the invention. The preset buttons and mode
buttons may be positioned in different locations, as well,
according to other alternative embodiments of the invention.
[0392] In FIG. 41, the user has positioned his or her hand
proximate to the multimedia device 300. In response to detection of
the user's hand proximate to the multimedia device 300, the
multimedia device will display additional control or menu options,
as depicted in FIG. 41. Accordingly, a complete range of stations
and frequencies 376 and music categories 372 are displayed.
[0393] In order to signal the need for a change to the more
complete display, first a proximity detector 380 detects the
placement of the user's hand proximate to the multimedia device
300. Various techniques may be employed to detect proximity of the
user's hand near the multimedia device 300. For example, one method
of detecting proximity is to emit an infra-red signal from an
infra-red emitter to the location where a hand would be placed.
Then from a position to which the infra-red signal would be
reflected by a hand placed near the multimedia device, detect the
reflected infra-red signal (e.g. certain emitter-detectors
combinations 380-1 are co-located). Detection of the infra-red
signal serves to identify placement of the hand near the multimedia
device 300. Other alternative infra-red methodologies may be
employed to increase the accuracy of infra-red proximity
detection.
[0394] One such infra-red methodology employs modulation of the
transmitted infra-red signal using a digital signature code. Upon
receipt of the infra-red signal, an infra-red detector demodulates
the signal with its code in order to identify the source of the
infra-red signal. By doing so, a received infra-red signal can be
distinguished from extraneous infra-red signals or infra-red
signals from unintended sources. Alternatively, ultrasonic or other
signals may also be employed in a similar fashion to the
infra-red-based signal methodologies. In addition, the ultrasonic
(e.g. and other types of signals) signals may be modulated with a
digital code so that upon detection they may, in a similar fashion,
be distinguished from extraneous or undesired ultrasonic signals.
Such embedded codes and/or modulated signals may also provide
information from which to distinguish from between multiple
infrared (e.g. or other signal sources). After distinguishing from
between the multiple sources, a processor 305 configured to analyze
signals received, may use resulting information in order to
determine the location of a user's hand. Uses for this information
will be described in more detail later.
[0395] FIG. 41 also shows a multiple-level display 320 for use in
conjunction with the concentric knobs 310-2 and 311-2. On the
display 320, each of the two arcs 371, 374 show lists of category
labels 372-1 to 372-N, and item labels 376-1 to 376-N. Individual
item labels 376-1 to 376-N rotate in a circular fashion as if
rotating in a circle centered at the location of the concentric
knobs 310-2, 311-2, when inner knob 310-2 is rotated. Each arc 371,
374 represents a different command structure level. The position of
the arcs 371, 374 with respect to each other is similar to the
relative positions of the concentric knobs 310-2, 311-2 with
respect to each other.
[0396] According to one example embodiment of the invention, there
is a logical relationship between the two knobs 310-2, 311-2 in
which the category label 372 associated with the outer concentric
knob 311-2 determines which subset of individual item labels 376
will become visible. As a user rotates the inner concentric knob
310-2, additional individual item labels 376 rotate into view for
possible user selection.
[0397] For example, if a user turns the left arc 371 (i.e. using
the outer concentric knob 311-2) until a country music category
label 372 selection has been made, individual country music items
376 will be displayed on the right hand arc 374 for possible
user-selection. The user may turn the right the hand arc 374 using
the inner concentric knob 310-2 in order to display additional
country songs. As the user does so country songs will either fall
off or be added to the top or bottom of the display. If the user
rotates outer concentric knob 311-2 until the category label
"strong signals" is centered in the display, individual stations
that have strong signals will be displayed in the right hand arc
for possible user selection.
[0398] Another example of such a logical relationship between the
arcs is a "large" to "small" or hierarchical relationship, such as
selecting an album using the outer concentric knob 311-2 and
selecting the individual song found on the selected album using the
inner concentric knob 310-2. In a hierarchical relationship, in one
embodiment, categories that are associated with a higher level in
the hierarchy are displayed in the arc with the larger effective
radius (i.e. outer arc), and sub categories that are associated
with a lower level in the hierarchy are associated with an arc with
smaller effective radius (i.e. inner arc). In other mappings, this
relationship may be reversed. In one embodiment using concentric
knobs, knobs with larger radii are associated with arcs with larger
effective radii, and knobs with smaller radii are associated with
arcs with smaller effective radii.
[0399] In contrast to the push-button method of selecting sources
for a multimedia device 300, as described above with respect to
operation of mode control button 350, one of the concentric knobs
may be configured to accept a user push operation for a source
selection input (e.g. entertainment, phone, navigation, car
settings) according to one alternative embodiment of the invention.
Other alternative configurations of control button options are
envisioned such as designating static or programmable pushbuttons
(e.g. pushbuttons mounted near screen corners with re-programmable
pushbutton legend near the button locations). Alternative functions
envisioned that can be associated with operation of pushbutton
controls include functionality such as: CD storing, cd recordings
to hard disk, play mode; hard disk: umusic-on/off, play mode, .+-.,
radio: am, fm, etc., switching between tuning and seeking, etc.
[0400] According to one embodiment of the invention, user movement
(i.e. turning) of the inner knob 310-2 causes rotation of the inner
arc 374 and user movement (i.e. turning) of the outer knob 311-2
causes rotation of the left arc 371 thereby resulting in a natural
sensation for the user between the user's movement (i.e. turning)
of the individual knobs 310-2, 311-2 and the resulting changes in
the corresponding arcs 371, 376.
[0401] FIG. 42 depicts an alternative embodiment of the invention
that provides a reduced information output according to one
embodiment of the invention. The primary benefit to reducing the
information displayed of the multimedia device display is a
reduction of driver distraction in an automobile. In the embodiment
of the invention depicted of FIG. 42, the disc name, title/track
name and elapsed time 366 are displayed. Located near the left hand
knob 310, the upper leg of a semi-circle symbol 368 indicates, for
example, that the volume is very low or zero or mute. Located near
the right hand knob 310-2, 311-2, the upper leg of a semi-circle
symbol 369 indicates, for example, the elapsed time of the compact
disk that is being played. Accordingly, fewer elements are
displayed to a user compared the full complement of controls labels
and reporting that would otherwise be displayed. As such,
displaying only the display indicators, 367-1, 369 and data 366,
and having an absence of other information (FIG. 42 shows the
alternative display in which additional information is displayed in
connection with preparation being undertaken by the user to
activate a control operation) serves to reduce user/driver
distraction.
[0402] Most of the time there is little need for the user to have
direct access to all of the detailed control indications,
information, etc. Accordingly, there is less need to display all of
the control information available. The reduced information display
is configured, according to one embodiment of the invention, to
operate when there is no interaction between the user and the
multimedia device. On the other hand, if a user demonstrates an
intention to operate a control or menu option by placement of his
or her hand in the proximity of the multimedia device 300, the
multimedia device 300 will display additional control or menu
information, as depicted in FIG. 42.
[0403] FIG. 43 shows an example of a display 320 displaying a
variety of control information, according to one embodiment of the
invention. The display 320 shows programmable pushbutton labels
362-1, 362-2, a volume/mute indicator 367-1, with a mute icon
367-2, a progress indicator 369, a set of preset labels 365-1 to
365-N (e.g. preset buttons such as programmable stations, channels,
etc.) and a current track display 366 including a disk name, track
number and elapsed time for the current track. The information
shown on the display 320 appears when the user places his or her
hand in a proximate location with respect to the display 320.
Although it is not necessary to provide detailed control
information when the user is not operating controls of the
multimedia device 300, the multimedia device 300 display is
configured to provide additional information when a control action
is about to be undertaken. Accordingly, as depicted, when a user
places his or her hand in the proximity of multimedia device 300,
the multimedia device 300 is configured to add to the display, the
programmable pushbutton labels 362-1, 362-2, a volume/mute
indicator 367-1, with a mute icon 367-2, a progress indicator 369,
a set of preset labels 365-1 to 365-N, or other information that
may be helpful to the user.
[0404] FIG. 44 shows an example embodiment of the invention in
which the artist mode has been selected by the user. The multimedia
device 300 shown in FIG. 44 is operating in a hard disc mode, but
this display could also represent any mode in which some form of
metadata fro music tracks was available (XM or satellite radio
reception, FM reception where RDS data is available, etc.). In
response to a user selection of the artist mode, the multimedia
device 300 displays the selected artist mode on the left hand arc
371. Accordingly, the detailed selection options corresponding to
the artist mode are displayed on the right hand arc 376 (i.e.
artist's names such as Simone, Bruce Springstein, Sting, etc.).
[0405] In keeping with the objective of minimizing display 320
complexity, the multimedia device 300 is configured to minimize the
number of category labels 372 displayed in the left arc 371.
Accordingly, in the case of certain commonly known categories such
as title, artist, album and genre it may not be necessary to
display all of the category titles 371. Alternatively, according to
one embodiment of the invention, as depicted in FIG. 44, only the
selected artist 372-10 category title is displayed. However, in the
case of lists 371 of other category titles 372, which are less
well-known by users, all of the category titles 372 may be
displayed (i.e. all signals, strong signals, classical, country,
dance, etc.), as depicted in FIG. 41.
[0406] The multimedia device 300 may be configured to accept user
selections of mode or detailed items in different ways. For example
according to one embodiment of the invention, the multimedia device
300 may be configured to identify a user selection by accepting a
user press of a knob (e.g. right knob, left knob, push-button,
etc.) when the desired mode or detailed selection label is centered
on the display. Alternatively according to another embodiment of
the invention, the multimedia device may automatically choose the
mode or detail selection that is centered in the display 320, after
some preset amount of time has elapsed after it has been rotated by
the user into the centered position, without the user further user
interaction (i.e. pressing on a button or knob 310).
[0407] FIG. 45 shows an alternative example in which the multimedia
device 300, in response to user selection of an album category,
displays the album name (e.g. album 2) and track numbers associated
with the named album are provided to the user for possible user
selection.
[0408] Other types of information may also be displayed to the user
in response to the identification by the multimedia device 300 of
the position of the user's hand in a location proximate to the
device. For example, so-called "tool-tips" that provide explanatory
information about the usage of a particular control may be
displayed by the multimedia device 300. FIG. 46 shows an example of
such a tool tip employed within a multimedia device 300. As shown
in FIG. 46, in response to a user placing his or her finger near
the first mode control button 350-1, the multimedia device 300
displays a label containing the options for FM radio, AM radio or
XM radio. Thus, when a user places his or her finger near the first
mode control 350-1, the multimedia device 300, after identifying
the location of the user's finger near the mode control button
350-1, informs the user that by repetitively pressing of the first
mode control button 350-1 the user will be able to select between
the FM radio, AM radio and XM radio options.
[0409] One of the features of the multimedia device 300 is its
concentric knob combination comprised of an inner knob 310-2 and an
outer knob 310-2. FIG. 47 shows such a pair of knobs 310-2, 311-2
positioned concentrically according to one embodiment of the
invention. Both the inner concentric knob 310-2 and outer knob
311-2 are mounted to a plane as depicted in FIG. 47. According to
one embodiment of the invention, the height of the inner concentric
knob 310-2 extends farther from the display 320 surface than the
height of the outer concentric knob 311-2.
[0410] The inner knob 310-2 is mounted within a void in the center
of the outer knob 311-2. The plane may be a lens covering a video
display, according to one embodiment of the invention. The center
of the inner knob 310-2 is fabricated from transparent material
that permits transmission of light and/or information by the
multimedia device 300 for user observation.
[0411] For example, the multimedia device 300 may be configured to
display different colors representative of the different modes of
operation of the multimedia device 300. Such light transmission may
be accomplished by positioning a light source behind the
transparent inner knob 310-2 or as described earlier, by mounting
the concentric knob 310-2 in such a position that an underlying
video display 320 transmits light through the knob 310-2.
[0412] FIG. 48 is a cutaway view of the inner knob 310-2 and outer
knob 311-2 mounted on a plane such as a display 320. The cutaway
view shows the outer knob 311-2, the inner knob 310-2 having a
transparent center (e.g. acrylic).
[0413] Embodiments of the invention include a mechanism for
providing detents during knob rotation. FIGS. 49 and 50 show
details of embodiments for accomplishing detent behavior for inner
and outer concentric knobs 310-2, 311-2. The designs shown are
applicable to individual or dual concentric knobs, and are
particularly useful where a knob is transparent or clear. Both the
inner knob 310-2 and the outer knob 311-2 have a series of
depressions 312, 314 surrounding the circumference of the bottom of
the knobs 310-2, 311-2. A ring 324 is positioned underneath the
bottom edges of the inner knob 310-2 and outer knob 311-2. FIG. 49
is a perspective view of the ring 324 and the inner knob 310-2
assembly showing a series of indentations 314 around the
circumference of the bottom of the inner knob 310-2. The ring 324
is split, thereby creating two separate independently-operating
spring sections with raised dimples 326-1, 326-2 such that the
dimples 326-1, 326-2 extend into the indentations 312, 314 on the
underneath of both the inner knob 310-2 and outer knob 311-2
respectively, engaging the inner knob 310-2 and outer knob 310-2
with the multiple indentations 312, 314. The ring 324 is positioned
in a grove in the plane 320 (the groove in plane 320 is not shown)
directly underneath the knobs 310-2, 311-2. The raised dimples
326-1, 326-2 of the ring 324 (e.g. made of spring material) extend
into indentations 312, 314 on the underneath of the inner knob
310-2 and the outer knob 311-2 respectively, in effect causing the
knobs 310-2, 311-2 to "click" into place as a user turns either of
the knobs 310-2, 311-2. FIG. 50 is a drawing depicting an assembly
including the ring 324 and an outer knob 311-2.
[0414] In order to identify individual control signals from each of
the two knobs 310-2, 311-2, the multimedia device 300 is equipped
with infra-red emitters and detectors 326 as described in the
parent of this continuation-in-part patent application. In order to
separately interpret multiple control signals provided by each of
the two concentric control knobs 310-2, 311-2, the multimedia
device 300 is equipped with multiple sets of infra-red emitters and
detectors 326-1, 326-2. FIG. 51 shows the configuration of the
multiple sets of emitters and detectors 326-1, 326-2. Accordingly
the emitter/detector combination device for the inner concentric
knob 310-2 transmits an infra-red signal 315-2 to a set of
reflectors 328-2. Infra-red light reflected 313-2 by the reflectors
328-2 is detected by the detectors 326-2 thereby identifying motion
of the inner concentric knob 310-1, as previously described in more
detail in the parent to the present patent application.
[0415] A second set of infra-red emitters and detectors 326-1,
offset from the first set of infra-red emitters and detectors 326-2
is directed to reflective material 328-1 on the outer concentric
knob 311-2 and used to identify motion of the outer concentric knob
311-2.
[0416] In order to prevent cross-coupling between the
emitter/detector combinations 326-1, 326-2 associated with the
inner concentric knob 310-2 and the outer concentric knob 311-2 as
depicted in FIG. 52, areas 329-1,329-2 in front of the each of the
two knobs 310-2, 311-2 are masked so as to prevent
transmission/reception of an unintended infra-red signal to/from
the wrong (i.e. unintended) emitter/detector 326-1, 326-2.
Accordingly, because of the masking 329-1, 329-2, the
emitter/detector 326-1 associated with the inner concentric knob
310-2 is only able to reflect infra-red light 313-1 to the
detector(s) 326-1 designated to identify signals related to the
user rotation of the inner concentric knob 310-2 and the
emitter/detector 326-2 associated with the outer concentric knob
311-2 is only able to reflect infra-red light 313-2 to the detector
326-2 designated to identify signals related to the user rotation
of the outer concentric knob 311-2. Other methods for preventing
cross-coupling include using different modulation schemes for each
of the emitter/detector assemblies 326-1, 326-2, emitting and
detecting in different frequency regions for each of the
assemblies, or at different times, etc.
[0417] Thus, as described in detail above, embodiments of the
invention provide methods and mechanisms for accepting user input
in various devices such as multimedia devices.
[0418] While this invention has been particularly shown and
described with references to preferred embodiments thereof, it will
be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in
form and details may be made therein without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the appended
claims. For example, embodiments of the invention may be configured
to use any of a variety of combinations of different types of
controls such as knobs, concentric knobs, pushbuttons and
programmable pushbuttons to perform the functions described by the
invention. As described above, for example, one embodiment of the
invention of a multimedia device has a set of concentric knobs
positioned at the right hand side of the multimedia device.
However, embodiments of the invention could be configured with
concentric knobs on the left hand side or on both the right and
left hand side of a multimedia device or other device or in
combination with other controls, etc. as well, which combinations
may be known by individuals who are experienced in the art.
[0419] The functional assignments to knobs, controls, etc. as
described herein are presented by way of example, only. Alternative
assignments are also possible and considered to fall within the
scope of the invention. For example, instead of employing the mode
controls described herein, the mode control functions could
alternatively be assigned to knobs that are repeatedly pressed to
engage different modes of operation, as described in the parent of
this patent application. Alternatively, mode operations described
herein could also be assigned to programmable pushbutton controls
which are also known in the art. The mode and other operations can
alternatively be assigned to buttons and/or controls in different
locations, for example, at the top, bottom or sides of a multimedia
or other device according to various embodiments of the
invention.
[0420] Methods used to identify the proximity and/or position of a
user's hand (e.g. finger, etc.), as described earlier, may
alternatively employ different techniques other than IR sensing
that was previously described. For example capacitive sensors,
pyroelectric sensors, video cameras, etc. may be employed to
perform proximity detection.
[0421] Various embodiments of the invention may employ different
types of knobs and/or controls such as clear knobs and clear
concentric knobs, concentric knobs, two or more concentric knobs
alone and in combination, etc.
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