U.S. patent application number 11/234703 was filed with the patent office on 2006-01-19 for wearable computing, input, and display device.
Invention is credited to Shakoor N. Siddeeq.
Application Number | 20060012566 11/234703 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29218993 |
Filed Date | 2006-01-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060012566 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Siddeeq; Shakoor N. |
January 19, 2006 |
Wearable computing, input, and display device
Abstract
A wearable computing, input, and display device is disclosed.
One embodiment of the invention includes a band wrappable around a
wrist of a user, one or more input mechanisms, a display mechanism,
and a computing mechanism. The input mechanisms are attached to the
band and have recessed and extended positions. In the recessed
position, the input mechanisms are positioned under the wrist of
the user. In the extended position, the input mechanisms are
substantially positioned at the user's fingertips. The display
mechanism is attached to the band such that it is over the wrist of
the user, whereas the computing mechanism is attached to the band
and operably coupled to the input and display mechanisms. In an
alternate embodiment, the display mechanism is additionally
rotatable from a flat position to a raised position, and
vice-versa, where the raised position is user controlled for
optimal viewing by the user.
Inventors: |
Siddeeq; Shakoor N.;
(Lithonia, GA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LAW OFFICES OF MICHAEL DRYJA
704 228TH AVENUE NE
PMB 694
SAMMAMISH
WA
98074
US
|
Family ID: |
29218993 |
Appl. No.: |
11/234703 |
Filed: |
September 24, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10419542 |
Apr 19, 2003 |
6970157 |
|
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11234703 |
Sep 24, 2005 |
|
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60374589 |
Apr 23, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
345/156 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01H 2009/0221 20130101;
G06F 1/163 20130101; H01H 2223/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/156 |
International
Class: |
G09G 5/00 20060101
G09G005/00 |
Claims
1. A thumb-held mobile computing device comprising: a housing; at
least one of a computing mechanism and a wireless communication
mechanism embedded within the housing; an input mechanism having a
folded position and an unfolded position, the input mechanism
comprising a plurality of thin sections, each section containing
one of a plurality of keys and a pointing device, the thin sections
having one or more folds; one of a thumb loop and an elastic band
attached to one of the sections of the input mechanism into which a
thumb of a hand of a user is inserted such that fingers of the hand
of the user are able to use the plurality of keys in a one-handed
manner; and, a flexible connector at each fold of the thin sections
connecting the sections together at least one of physically and
electrically.
2. The computing device of claim 1, wherein in the folded position
the sections of the input mechanism are one of collapsed and folded
on top of one another such that the one of the plurality of keys
and the pointing device of each section is one of compressed and
sandwiched in between the sections, and wherein in the unfolded
position the sections of the input mechanism are unfolded such that
the one of the plurality of keys and the pointing device of each
section is exposed and useable by the user in the one-handed
manner, lateral movement of the thumb rotating the sections of the
input mechanism about an axis perpendicular to a plane of the
sections such that lateral movement of the fingers of the hand
substantially decreases.
3. The computing device of claim 2, wherein the sections of the
input mechanism have alternate male and female connections, such
that male-female connectors thereof mate in the unfolded position
and separate in the folded position, the male-female connectors
serving to at least one of substantially lock in place the sections
of the input mechanism while in the unfolded position and
electrically connect the sections.
4. The computing device of claim 3, wherein the sections of the
input mechanism have at least one of embedded circuitry and
electrical connectors, the embedded circuitry, the electrical
connectors, and the male-female connectors located at one of
slightly thicker areas and layers of the sections.
5. The computing device of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality
of keys of at least one of the sections of the input mechanism has
a default non-depressed position and a depressed position, each key
comprising: at least four sides; an electrical contact beneath the
key; a resilient and compressible support attached to at least one
of the sides of the key; one of an axial hinge and a flexible
connector attached to exactly one of the sides of the key, wherein
each key in the non-depressed position rises at an angle from a
plane of the section of the input mechanism and the resilient and
compressible material is non-depressed such that the material
supports an upper most part of the key above the plane while the
one of the axial hinge and the flexible connector lies within the
plane of the section at a lower side of the key, and wherein each
key in the depressed position rotates downward about the one of the
axial hinge and the flexible connector until all the sides of the
key and the resilient compressible support lie within the plane of
the section and complete an electrical circuit.
6. The computing device of claim 5, wherein each of the plurality
of keys has two sections directly adjoining one another with a
width of a first section slightly smaller than a width of a second
section, and each section being independently operable.
7. The computing device of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality
of keys of at least one of the sections of the input mechanism has
a default non-depressed position and a depressed position, such
that the plurality of keys comprises at least one smaller key and
at least one larger key, each smaller key enclosed within a
corresponding larger key, each smaller key and each larger key
having an independent resilient support pad and electrical contact
underneath, each key in the depressed position lying within a plane
of the section of the input mechanism and completing an electrical
circuit, and each key in the non-depressed position lying above the
plane.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is a divisional patent application
of the patent application filed on Apr. 19, 2003, and assigned Ser.
No. 10/419,542 (confirmation number 1527), which itself claims
priority to the provisional patent application filed on Apr. 23,
2002, having the inventor Shakoor Nelson Siddeeq, and assigned Ser.
No. 60/374,589 (confirmation number 5635).
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to computing, input, and/or
display devices, and more particularly to such devices that are
wearable by the user.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Using computers has become a ubiquitous activity in today's
society. Many users require constant access to their computing
devices to maintain their professional or personal lives. For some
users, this means that they are tethered to their desktop computers
all day long. For other users, this means that they constantly
carry laptop or notebook computers that they can access. Still
other users carry personal-digital assistant (PDA) devices or
cellular phones all day long.
[0004] All of these solutions, however, present disadvantages to
users to some degree. Users who rely solely upon desktop computers
cannot access them when they are away from the places in which the
desktop computers are located. Users who rely upon laptop or
notebook computers have to lug them around everywhere they go. Even
the latest generation of such portable computers are still somewhat
unwieldy and heavy to be constantly carried. PDA devices and
cellular phones are easily misplaced and lost, and some of these
devices are overly large and difficult to store.
[0005] A new field of computers that attempts to overcome these
difficulties is the wearable computer. A wearable computer is a
computing device that a user literally wears on his or her body, as
if it were, for example, a piece of clothing, a piece of jewelry,
or a wristwatch. Current wearable computer designs, however, are
less than ideal. For a wearable computer to be truly useful, the
user should be able to easily view and input data when desired, but
the wearable computer should otherwise not get in the way of
day-to-day activities. However, current wearable computer designs
are often unwieldy, and fail these design objectives, either not
allowing the user to both easily view and input data, and/or not
being readily put out of the way when not needed.
[0006] For these and other reasons, therefore, there is a need for
the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The invention relates to a wearable computing, input, and
display device. One embodiment of the invention includes a band
wrappable around a wrist of a user, one or more input mechanisms, a
display mechanism, and a computing mechanism. The input mechanisms
are attached to the band and have a recessed position and an
extended position. In the recessed position, the input mechanisms
are positioned under the wrist of the user. In the extended
position, the input mechanisms are substantially positioned at the
user's fingertips. The display mechanism is attached to the band
such that it is over the wrist of the user, whereas the computing
mechanism is attached to the band and operably coupled to the input
and display mechanisms. In an alternate embodiment, the display
mechanism is additionally rotatable from a flat position to a
raised position, and vice-versa, where the raised position is user
controlled for optimal viewing by the user.
[0008] Embodiments of the invention provide for advantages over the
prior art. The wearable computer of at least some embodiments of
the invention is a complete computing solution, providing,
computing, input, and display capabilities via a device that has a
band to wrap around the wrist of the user to wear like a
wristwatch. When the user does not wish to use the computer, its
display and input mechanisms are out of the way and do not
interfere with the user. This is because the input mechanisms can
be put in a recessed position under the band, whereas the display
mechanism can be rotated flat against the band. When the user
wishes to input data, he or she merely has to extend the input
mechanisms to their extended position, whereas when the user wishes
to view the display mechanism, he or she can rotate the mechanism
in one embodiment so that it is optimally viewable.
[0009] Still other aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the
invention will become apparent by reading the detailed description
that follows, and by referring to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The drawings referenced herein form a part of the
specification. Features shown in the drawing are meant as
illustrative of only some embodiments of the invention, and not of
all embodiments of the invention, unless otherwise explicitly
indicated, and implications to the contrary are otherwise not to be
made.
[0011] FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 show a front view, a side view, and a
perspective view, respectively, of a computing device, according to
an embodiment of the invention, in which the input mechanisms are
in a recessed position.
[0012] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a computing device in
which the input mechanisms are between a recessed position and an
extended position, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0013] FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 show a perspective view, a side
view, a top view, a bottom view, and a front view, respectively, of
a computing device, according to an embodiment of the invention, in
which the input mechanisms are in an extended position.
[0014] FIGS. 10 and 11 show side views of a computing device being
used by a user, according to an embodiment of the invention, in
which the input mechanisms are in a recessed position and in an
extended position, respectively.
[0015] FIG. 12 shows a top view of a computing device, according to
an alternative embodiment of the invention, in which the device is
in a rotated, two-handed state.
[0016] FIG. 13 shows a front view of a computing device, according
to an alternative embodiment of the invention, in which the display
mechanism is rotatable from a flat position to a raised
position.
[0017] FIGS. 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 are diagrams of varying
views showing the keys of a computing device can be implemented,
according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0018] FIGS. 21, 22, and 23 show a top view, a side view, and a
front view, respectively, of a thumb-held computing and/or input
device, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0019] FIGS. 24 and 25 show a side-view cross section and a top
view, respectively, of how keys of a device can be implemented,
according to another embodiment of the invention.
[0020] FIGS. 26 and 27 show a front-view cross-section and a
side-view cross section, respectively, of a wrist-worn computing
device, according to an embodiment of the invention, in a recessed
position.
[0021] FIGS. 28 and 29 show a front-view cross-section and a
top-view cross section, respectively, of the mechanical gears and
components used to adjust wristbands of a wrist-worn computing
device, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0022] FIGS. 30, 31, and 32 show a front view, a side-view cross
section, and a side view of a wrist-worn computing device that
employs a slide-out mechanism to switch between a recessed position
and an extended position, according to an embodiment of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] In the following detailed description of exemplary
embodiments of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying
drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of
illustration specific exemplary embodiments in which the invention
may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient
detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the
invention. Other embodiments may be utilized, and logical,
mechanical, and other changes may be made without departing from
the spirit or scope of the present invention. The following
detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting
sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by
the appended claims.
[0024] It is noted that like reference numbers among the figures
identify identical components of the computing device depicted in
the figures. As a result, in any given figure more reference
numbers may be indicated than are described in the detailed
description for that figure. However, the components identified by
these reference numbers are described in relation to other figures,
and such description may be referenced to determine the
functionality and identification of the components in figures in
which the reference numbers for these components are not
particularly described.
[0025] FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 show a front view, a side view, and a
perspective view, respectively, of a computing device, according to
an embodiment of the invention. The computing device depicted in
FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 as having its input mechanisms 10 in a recessed
position. While reference is made to a plurality of input
mechanisms 10, the input mechanisms 10 may also be considered as a
single input mechanism having multiple sections, as can be
appreciated by those of ordinary skill within the art, such that
the terminology of having a single input mechanism 10 with multiple
sections is encompassed by the description of embodiments of the
invention herein. The computing device preferably includes a
computing mechanism 1 that contains all the electronic components
necessary to achieve computing functionality. The outer case may be
composed of a rigid polymer, or any other firm material. The shape,
length, width, size, or other parameters of the computing device,
including the display mechanism 15, may vary from those shown in
the figures.
[0026] In embodiments of the invention not including the computing
mechanism 1 and the display mechanism 15, the device depicted in
FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 is alternatively an input device having the input
mechanisms 10. Likewise, in embodiments not including the computing
mechanism 1 and the input mechanisms 10, the device depicted in
FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 is alternatively a display device having the
display mechanism 15. Further, the input mechanisms 10 may include
one or more of a pointing device, such as a touch pad device, a
keyboard having a number of keys, and/or another type of input
device. Additionally, the display mechanism 15 and the computing
mechanism 1 may be encased within a common housing, such that the
housing is detachable from the wristband for use of the computing
and the display mechanisms 1 and 15 independent of the input
mechanisms 10 and apart from the band. Thus, the computing device
in one embodiment is modular.
[0027] The display mechanism 15 is optional, and may be a
liquid-crystal display (LCD) in one embodiment. In alternative
embodiments, the computing device may include wireless
communication circuitry that could communicate, for instance, with
a heads-up display, a remote personal-digital assistant (PDA)
device, or another display mechanism. The wireless communication
circuitry may also be used in addition to the display mechanism 15.
The computing device may include various buttons, electrical card
slots, and other features not depicted in the figures.
[0028] The adjustable wristband 2 is wrappable around a wrist of a
user, and allows for the computing device to fit on differently
sized user wrists. The adjustable wristband 2 may be made from any
flexible material that allows it to wrap around a user's wrist. The
top outer layer is preferably firmer than the bottom layer that
rests against the user's skin. The bottom layer may be fabricated
from a soft cushion-like material. The shape, length, width,
thickness, size, and other parameters of the adjustable wristband 2
may vary from that depicted in the figures. The wristband 2 may
also be made of a number of band sections hingeably linked or
otherwise attached to one another.
[0029] The wristband 2 includes a non-adjustable wristband
component 3 that serves as an electrical conduit. It contains the
electrical wiring and insulation that connects the computing
mechanism 1 to the input mechanisms 10. The non-adjustable
wristband component 3 may be made of any flexible material that
allows it to wrap around the user's wrist. The top outer layer is
firmer than the bottom layer. The internal layer contains
electrical wiring and insulation, which may be fabricated from any
type of flexible printed circuit board material. The bottom layer
may be made from a soft cushion-like material. The shape, length,
width, thickness, size, and other parameters of the non-adjustable
wristband component 3 may vary from that depicted in the
figures.
[0030] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the computing device in
which the input mechanisms 10 is between its recessed and extended
positions, according to an embodiment of the invention. By
comparison, FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 show a perspective view, a side
view, a top view, a bottom view, and a front view, respectively, of
the computing device in which the input mechanisms 10 are in the
extended position, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Furthermore, FIGS. 10 and 111 show a side view of the computing
device as being used by a user in which the inputs mechanisms 10
are in the recessed position and in the extended position,
respectively, according to an embodiment of the invention. The
recessed position is for storage of the input mechanisms 10,
whereas the extended position is for use by the user of the input
mechanisms 10.
[0031] The primary support hinge 4 allows the input mechanisms 10
to be rotated out into its extended position, as specifically
depicted in FIG. 5. The primary support hinge 4 also acts in
conjunction with the device support base 8 to support the weight of
the input mechanisms 10 and its attached extenders 12, 14A, and
14B, and the forces resulting from the user using the input
mechanisms 10. The primary support hinge 4 is attached to either
side by the device support base 8 and the lower extender 14A. The
primary support hinge 4 may be a spring-loaded torque hinge. As
such, the primary support hinge 4 may spring out from the recessed
position to the extended position once the release button 9 is
pressed. In the extended position, it may further be adjusted
manually by using the lower extender 14A and the upper extender 14B
as a torque lever. Electrical wiring may run through and/or around
the primary support hinge 4. The shape, length, width, thickness,
compartments, type, material, and other parameters of the primary
support hinge 4 may vary from that depicted in the figures.
[0032] A flexible connector 5 attaches the upper input mechanism
part 10A to the lower input mechanism part 10B. The flexible
connector may be made from any flexible and stretchable material.
When the upper input mechanism part 10A and the lower input
mechanism part 10B are collapsed and folded over, as specifically
depicted in FIG. 4, the flexible connector 5 is stretched to
accommodate the change in position. The flexible connector 5 is
depicted in its most stretched state in FIG. 1, whereas it is
depicted in its most relaxed state in FIG. 7. The shape, length,
width, thickness, size, type, material, and other parameters of the
flexible connector 5 may vary from that depicted in the
figures.
[0033] The support base 6 connects the lower input mechanism part
10B to the hinge 11, and supports the overall structure of the
input mechanisms 10. The support base 6 may be made from a
polymer-like material. The support base 6 contains the electrical
wiring and connectors that electrically connect the input
mechanisms 10 to the computing mechanism 1. The shape, length,
width, thickness, size, type, material, and other parameters of the
support base 6 may vary.
[0034] The wristband lock 7 acts to lock in place or unlock the
adjustable wristband 2 by engaging or releasing a locking mechanism
that mates with the wristband holes 21. The type of locking
mechanism may be a rocker switch or another type of engaging and
releasing locking mechanism. The shape, length, width, thickness,
size, type, material, method, and other parameters of the wristband
lock 7 and its mechanism may vary.
[0035] The support base 8 serves as an anchor for the computing
mechanism 1 and as a support for weight of the input mechanisms 10
and their extenders. The structure of the support base 8 may be
composed of a rigid polymer-based material. The top outer layer
that lies flush against the user's wrist may have a soft
cushion-like material. The internal structure contains electrical
wiring and connectors that connect it to the non-adjustable
wristband component 3 and the primary support hinge 4. The support
base 8 has a hollow slot for the adjustable wristband 2 to pass
through and also contains the components for the locking mechanism
used in conjunction with the wristband lock 7. The shape, length,
width, thickness, size, type, material, arrangement, compartments,
and other parameters of the support base 8 may vary.
[0036] The release button 9, when depressed, causes the input
mechanisms 10 to be released from the slot 18 while the input
mechanisms 10 are in their recessed position. Once the release
button 9 is depressed the input mechanisms 10 spring out into the
partially extended position depicted in FIG. 4 and possibly further
into the extended position depicted in FIG. 5, depending on the
properties of the primary support hinge 4, the type of secondary
support hinge, and the type of hinge 11 incorporated in the
construction of a particular embodiment of the invention.
[0037] The input mechanisms 10 serve as a very thin and flexible
data input interface that wraps about the user's wrist when in the
recessed position, as depicted in FIG. 3, and lies substantially at
and beneath the user's fingers in the extended position, as
depicted in FIG. 11. The input mechanisms 10 include a lower input
mechanism part 10B and an upper input mechanism part 10A connected
by the flexible connector 5. Each of the parts 10A and 10B may be
made from a very thin flexible polymer or dielectric-based or any
other suitable material. The materials chosen are thin and flexible
enough to wrap around a user's wrist, and preferably have a default
horizontal state and requires an external force to be put in the
recessed position. In an alternative embodiment, such as in FIG.
30, the material of the input mechanism parts 10A and 10B may have
a default curved state in the recessed folded position. The
materials chosen also are preferably sufficiently strong to
withstand continual flexing between the recessed and extended
positions with minimal hysteresis or distortion. The shape, length,
width, thickness, size, type, material, arrangement, compartments
and other parameters of the parts 10A and 10B may vary.
[0038] Each of the parts 10A and 10B have two slightly thicker
endpoints, an upper endpoint 16A and a lower endpoint 16B, on
either side. The shape, length, width, thickness, size, type,
material, arrangement, and other parameters of these endpoints may
vary. The endpoint 16A has a male connector 17A that snaps and
locks into the female slot 17B on the lower endpoint 16B. The
male-female connectors act to stabilize the endpoints 16A and 16B
when the input mechanisms 10 are in the extended position and being
used by the user. The locations of the connector 17A and the slot
17B may be interchanged during construction of a particular
embodiment of the invention. The connector 17A and the slot 17B
also contain electrical connectors that make contact and complete
an electrical circuit when the two connectors are mated and the
input mechanisms 10 are in the extended position, as depicted in
FIG. 5. The shape, length, width, thickness, size, type, material,
arrangement, compartments, and other parameters of the connector
17A and the slot 17B may vary.
[0039] Running along the bottom, top, internal, or any partial
combination thereof of input mechanism sections 10A and 10B is
electrical wiring on a flexible printed circuit board that may or
may not contain via holes. The electrical wiring transmits key
presses and input device movement signals to the computing
mechanism 1. The input mechanisms 10 preferably contain both
keyboard keys 20 and an input device touch pad 19. The keys 20 may
be partially raised or totally flat. In the case of the keys 20
being raised, the top part may be made of a very thin polymer or
silicone rubber-based material with a very thin electrode attached
on its bottom side to close the switch, as is described later in
the detailed description. The sidewalls or support structure for
the top part of the keys 20 may be made of a very thin silicone
rubber-based material, or any material that easily compressed under
the application of an external force, as is also described later in
the detailed description.
[0040] Alternatively, the keys 20 may be flat and require only
visible ink or print to show the corresponding layout. The key
press for such a flat layout may be determined by using the
conductivity of the user's fingers in completing a circuit and
determining the position. The touch pad 19 is a flat area and may
use the conductivity or pressure of the user's finger to determine
its position and movement. The shape, length, width, thickness,
height, size, type, material, arrangement, compartments, electrical
characteristics, layout, configuration, structure, key press
detection mechanism, addition or omission of keys or input device
buttons, and other parameters of the keys 20 and the touch pad 19
may vary.
[0041] The hinge 11 allows the rotation of the input mechanisms 10
to accommodate various user preferences as well as to support and
connect both structurally and electrically to the support base 6
and the extender 12. The hinge 11 may be a spring-loaded torque
hinge and mimic the basic internal and external structure and
function of the primary support hinge 4 already described. The
shape, length, width, thickness, size, compartments, type,
material, and other parameters of the hinge 11 may vary.
[0042] The extender 12 acts as a lever and allows the user to
adjust the height and angle of the input mechanisms 10 and also
supports the weight of the input mechanisms 10. The extender 12 may
be made from a lightweight polymer material with a hollow interior
to allow flexing and movement of the electrical wiring during
positional state changes. Internally it may contain loose-fitting
flexible electrical wiring and connectors that connect it to the
hinge 11 and the secondary support hinge 13. The shape, length,
width, thickness, size, compartments, type, material, and other
parameters of the extender 12 may vary.
[0043] The secondary support hinge 13 allows the rotation of the
upper extender 14B and the extender 12 to accommodate various use
preferences as well as to support and connect both structurally and
electrically to the upper extender 14B and the extender 12. The
secondary support hinge 13 may be a spring-loaded torque hinge and
mimic the basic internal and external structure and function of the
primary support 4 that has been described. The shape, length,
width, thickness, size, compartments, type, material, and other
parameters of the secondary support hinge 13 may vary.
[0044] The lower extender 14A acts in conjunction with the upper
extender 14B as a lever that allows the user to adjust the angle
and height of the input mechanisms 10 and also supports the weight
of the input mechanisms 10. The upper extender 14B also has the
ability to slide forward and extend or length the resultant
distance of the input mechanisms 10. This allows users with
different sized or length hands or fingers to adjust a particular
embodiment of the invention to accommodate their preferences.
[0045] The lower extender 14A and the upper extender 14B may be
made from a thin rigid lightweight polymer material with a hollow
interior to allow flexing and movement of the electrical wiring
during positional state changes. The upper extender 14B is attached
to the lower extender 14A by a grooved sliding connector or
connectors. The lower extender 14A internally may contain
loose-fitting flexible electrical wiring and connectors that
connect it to the primary support hinge 4 and to the groove sliding
connector(s). The upper extender 14B internally may contain
loose-fitting flexible electrical wiring and connectors that
connect it to the secondary support hinge 13 and to the grooved
sliding connector(s). The shape, length, width, thickness, size,
compartments, type, material, and other parameters of the lower and
upper extenders 14A and 14B may vary, although such variations are
not depicted in the figures.
[0046] FIG. 12 shows the top view of the computing device,
according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. The
computing device is depicted in FIG. 12 in the extended positioned,
and in which it is in a rotated, two-handed state. The touch pad
pivot 23 allows the input mechanisms 10 to slightly rotate. The
touch pad hinge 11 is attached to a pivot extender 22. The pivot
extender 22 acts as a rotating brace in conjunction with the
extender 12 that has a female slot to allow for the pivot extender
22 to rotate in and out. A similar arrangement is also used for the
primary support hinge 4 and the lower extender 14A. The shape,
length, width, thickness, size, compartments, type, mechanisms,
material, and other parameters may vary from that depicted in FIG.
12.
[0047] FIG. 13 shows the front view of the computing device,
according to another alternative embodiment of the invention. The
computing device is depicted in FIG. 13 in the recessed position
with the display mechanism 15 at an angle. The display mechanism 15
may be rotated about an axial hinge 24. The axial hinge 24 also has
electrical wire running through or around it that connects the
display mechanism 15 to the rotational connector 27. The display
mechanism 27 is also attached to the rotational connector 27 by a
connector hinge 25 that is connected to an adjustable support rod
26, which is connected to torqued notched grooves or tracks on
either edge and side of the rotation connector 27. The display
mechanism 27 is thus rotatable from a flat position to a raised
position, and vice-versa, such that the raised position is user
controlled for optimal viewing of the display mechanism 27.
[0048] The adjustable support rod 26 moves up and down the torqued
notched grooves or tracks on the rotational connector 27 when the
user applies an external force to move the adjustable support rod
26 forward or back a notch by lifting or pushing down the display
mechanism 15. The rotational connector 27 allows the display
mechanism 15 to be rotated about a hollow cylindrical axis in the
center of the rotational connector 27. The hollow cylindrical axis
allows the rotational connector 27 rotate about the computing
mechanism 27 and also allows loosely connected and flexible wiring
to electrically connect the connector 27 to the computing mechanism
27 through the hollow cylindrical axis connector. The shape,
length, width, thickness, size, compartments, type, mechanisms,
material, and other parameters of these components may vary from
that depicted in FIG. 13.
[0049] FIGS. 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 show how the keys 20 of
the computing device can be implemented, according to some
embodiments of the invention. FIG. 14 is a side-view cross section
of the keyboard sections 100 with the electrical wiring being
routed via the male connector 104 and the female receptor 105 upon
contact. There is a flexible connector 101 connecting the keyboard
sections 100 with one another. The keyboard sections 100 include
electrical circuitry 102, and a bottom keyboard section 103. FIG.
15 shows a side-view cross section of an alternative embodiment in
which the electrical wiring is routed through the flexible
connector 101.
[0050] FIG. 16 is a front-view cross section of the keyboard
sections 100. The bottom keyboard section 103 contains a thicker
midsection to house the electrical circuitry 102 and the electrical
connectors, both to the keyboard section 100 and the keyboard
extender support 125, the latter which is not shown in FIG. 16. The
keypad endpoints are slightly thinner. FIG. 17 is a side-view cross
section of collapsed or folded keyboard sections. FIG. 18 shows a
top view of a dual-section key having a left section 107B that is
smaller than the right section 107A. Both key sections have
separate electrical pads, or contacts. The key has a key top
divided into a regular key section and miniature key section, each
of which can go between a depressed position and a non-depressed
position. The left section 107B acts as a shift between one key and
other key, without taking up the full space or size of a separate
key. Pressing the right section 107A registers only the right
section 107A, while pressing either the left section 107B or both
the right and the left sections 107A and 107B simultaneously
registers the left section 107B.
[0051] FIG. 19 is a top view of a single-section key 108. The key
108 is attached at a pivot point or axis 109 that equally
distributes the force across the entire plane of the key during a
key press, similar to the scissors utilized in laptop computer
keyboards, but without the necessity of the scissor components.
This is accomplished with a compressible and resilient support 106
on the outer edges, as opposed to being underneath. The support 106
may be rubber silicone or another type of material. This design
allows for optimal compression into the plane of the keypad
sections 100 and 103 and a very thin profile. FIG. 20 is a
side-view cross section showing a depressed key 108 and a
compressed support 106 lying in the plane of the bottom keyboard
section 103, as well as a non-compressed support 106 and
non-depressed key 108. An electrical pad 110 is on the underside of
the key 108.
[0052] FIGS. 21, 22, and 23 show a top view, a side view, and a
front view, respectively, of a computing device and/or an input
device, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.
The device of FIGS. 21, 22, and 23 is a thumb-held wired or
wireless device, and is specifically depicted as a wireless device
in FIGS. 21, 22, and 23. The wireless electrical circuitry may be
included in the bottom keyboard section 100B, and the electrical
connections are the same as described for the device of FIGS. 1-11.
In this embodiment of the invention, the user may store the device
in a pocket, for instance, and quickly pull out the device for
utilization. The device allows for one-handed use without the
needed for a flat surface, by being supported by the user's
thumb.
[0053] The user's thumb slides into an elastic band 111 and thus
supports the weight of the device, enabling the user to use the
fingers of his or her hand to utilize the keys of the keyboard
sections. The elastic band 111 is more generally considered a thumb
loop. The thumb-held device may include one or more folds
separating the keyboard sections, with the device of the embodiment
of FIGS. 21, 22, and 23 depicting two folds separating the keyboard
sections 100A, 100B, and 103A. Each keyboard section supports a
number of keys, not shown in the figures, which may be implemented
as has been described in conjunction with FIGS. 14-19, or in
another manner. When the keyboard sections fold out, they are
substantially extended end to end with respect to one another in an
extended position, enabling the user to use the device. By
comparison, in a folded position, the keyboard sections are folded
over one another, such that the device can be stored.
[0054] FIGS. 24 and 25 show a side-view cross section and a top
view of how the keys of the device of FIGS. 21-23 and/or the device
of FIGS. 1-11 may be implemented, according to a specific
embodiment of the invention. The keys 112 and 113 are shown as
depressed and not depressed in FIG. 24. That is, the keys 112 and
113 have key tops that can go between a depressed position and a
non-depressed position. The keys 112 and 113 are similar to those
found on standard laptop computer devices, where the scissor
supports are not shown for illustrative clarity, except that the
keys 112 and 113 are thinner and contain a miniature key within the
larger standard-sized key 113, with corresponding supports 114 and
115, respectively. This allows for the saving of space. The keys
112 and 113 lie in the plane of a keyboard section to ensure a thin
profile. The supports 114 and 115 are preferably compressible and
resilient, and may be fabricated from rubber silicone. The supports
114 and 115 preferably include electrical pads, or contacts, that
register their depression. Alternative key designs may be used as
well.
[0055] FIGS. 26 and 27 show a front-view cross-section and a
side-view cross section, respectively, of a wrist-worn computing
device, according to an embodiment of the invention, in the
recessed position. The left and the right endpoints of the keyboard
sections 100 and 103 are particularly in their recessed position on
the user's wrist. This shows how the lengths of the keyboard
sections 100 and 103 can be adjusted to fit differently sized,
wrists. A smaller radius wrist may show the keyboard end points on
the left and right closer together, whereas a larger radius wrist
may show the left and the right keyboard endpoints farther apart
within the slot 117. The structural casing 116 and the hollow
keyboard slot 117 house the keyboard sections 100 and 103 in the
recessed position.
[0056] FIGS. 28 and 29 show a front-view cross section and a
top-view cross section, respectively, of the mechanical gears and
components used to adjust a user's wristbands 124A and 124B of a
wrist-worn computing device, according to an embodiment of the
invention. The wristbands 124A and 124B can be adjusted for
differently sized wrists. Rotation of an adjustable wristband gear
rotator 118A causes an adjustable wristband gear rotational
translator 121A to rotate, which via its gear teeth causes the gear
teeth of an adjustable wristband gear rotational translator 121B to
rotate in the opposite direction.
[0057] This mechanism causes the adjustable wristband 124A and 124B
to increase and decrease simultaneously in and out of the hollow
non-adjustable wristband sleeves 123A and 123B, thus keeping the
wristband keyboard support 130 stationery and centered beneath the
user's wrist. The rotator 118A, and its counterpart rotator 118B,
are supported by the support 119. The translator 121B has a
counterpart translator 121A as well. Also depicted are the
adjustable wristband gear hole receptors 122A and 122B. All of
these components may be considered in sum as an adjustable gear
rotational mechanism in one embodiment of the invention, to adjust
the band to fit the user's wrist.
[0058] FIGS. 30, 31, and 32 show a front view, a side-view cross
section, and a side view of a wrist-worn computing device,
according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 31
the wrist-worn computing device is in the recessed position,
whereas in FIG. 32 the wrist-worn computing device is in the
extended position. The computing device of FIGS. 30, 31, and 32
differs from that of FIGS. 1-11 in that a slide-out mechanism is
used to switch between the recessed position and the extended
position, as opposed to a fold-out mechanism. The internal
electrical wiring is attached via a loose connection connected at
no less than two endpoints of the extreme endpoints of the slider
extender support 125 and the slider endpoint connector 127.
Alternatively, the wiring may be embedded in the casing of the
slider support 125 to maintain physical contact during expansion
and contraction. Also depicted are the display mechanism 126, an
extender support torque hinge 128, an input mechanism support
torque hinge 129, and a wristband keyboard support 130.
[0059] It is noted that, although specific embodiments have been
illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those
of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement is calculated to
achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific
embodiments shown. This application is intended to cover any
adaptations or variations of the present invention. Therefore, it
is manifestly intended that this invention be limited only by the
claims and equivalents thereof.
* * * * *