U.S. patent application number 16/179870 was filed with the patent office on 2019-03-07 for rotary input mechanism for an electronic device.
The applicant listed for this patent is Apple Inc.. Invention is credited to Colin M. Ely, Duncan Kerr, John B. Morrell, Camille Moussette, Fletcher Rothkopf, Anna-Katrina Shedletsky, Christopher Matthew Werner.
Application Number | 20190072911 16/179870 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55632770 |
Filed Date | 2019-03-07 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190072911 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ely; Colin M. ; et
al. |
March 7, 2019 |
ROTARY INPUT MECHANISM FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE
Abstract
One embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to a
wearable electronic device. The wearable electronic device includes
an enclosure having a sidewall with a button aperture defined
therethrough, a display connected to the enclosure, and a
processing element in communication with the display. The device
also includes a sensing element in communication with the
processing element and an input button at least partially received
within the button aperture and in communication with the sensing
element, the input button configured to receive two types of user
inputs. During operation, the sensing element tracks movement of
the input button to determine the two types of user inputs.
Inventors: |
Ely; Colin M.; (Sunnyvale,
CA) ; Rothkopf; Fletcher; (Los Altos, CA) ;
Werner; Christopher Matthew; (San Jose, CA) ;
Morrell; John B.; (Los Gatos, CA) ; Moussette;
Camille; (Los Gatos, CA) ; Kerr; Duncan; (San
Francisco, CA) ; Shedletsky; Anna-Katrina; (Mountain
View, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Apple Inc. |
Cupertino |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55632770 |
Appl. No.: |
16/179870 |
Filed: |
November 2, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15854310 |
Dec 26, 2017 |
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16179870 |
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15261901 |
Sep 10, 2016 |
9886006 |
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15854310 |
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14966719 |
Dec 11, 2015 |
9753436 |
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15261901 |
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PCT/US2014/040728 |
Jun 3, 2014 |
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14966719 |
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PCT/US2013/045264 |
Jun 11, 2013 |
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PCT/US2014/040728 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G04C 3/004 20130101;
G04C 3/04 20130101; G04C 3/00 20130101; G04G 21/00 20130101; H01H
35/00 20130101; G04B 3/04 20130101; G04G 21/08 20130101; G06F
3/0362 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G04G 21/00 20100101
G04G021/00; G04C 3/04 20060101 G04C003/04; G06F 3/0362 20130101
G06F003/0362; G04G 21/08 20100101 G04G021/08; G04B 3/04 20060101
G04B003/04; G04C 3/00 20060101 G04C003/00 |
Claims
1-23. (canceled)
24. A watch, comprising: a watch enclosure defining an interior
volume and an opening extending to the interior volume; a
touch-sensitive display at least partially surrounded by the watch
enclosure and configured to depict a graphical output; an input
device configured to receive a rotational input and a translational
input, and comprising: a crown; a shaft extending into the opening;
and a biometric sensor configured to detect a biometric of a user;
a rotation sensor positioned within the interior volume of the
watch enclosure and configured to detect the rotational input; and
a translation sensor positioned within the interior volume of the
watch enclosure and configured to detect the translational input,
wherein the watch is configured to modify the graphical output of
the touch-sensitive display in response to each of the
translational input, the rotational input, and the biometric.
25. The watch of claim 24, wherein: the biometric sensor is
positioned in the crown; the watch further comprises: a processing
element within the watch enclosure; and a conductor positioned in
the interior volume of the watch enclosure and electrically
coupling the biometric sensor and the processing element; the
conductor contacts the shaft; and the shaft and the conductor
cooperate to electrically couple the biometric sensor and the
processing element.
26. The watch of claim 24, wherein: the watch further comprises a
processing element positioned in the interior volume of the watch
enclosure; the translation sensor is a tactile switch that contacts
the shaft; and the tactile switch and the shaft cooperate to
electrically couple the biometric sensor and the processing
element.
27. The watch of claim 24, wherein: the crown defines a conductive
surface; and the biometric sensor is configured to detect the
biometric of the user via a finger of the user contacting the
conductive surface.
28. The watch of claim 24, wherein the biometric comprises at least
one of a heart rate or a heartbeat regularity.
29. The watch of claim 24, wherein: the rotation sensor is an
optical sensor configured to detect the rotational input using
reflected light that is reflected from the shaft; and the
translation sensor is a tactile switch configured to detect the
translational input when the tactile switch is deformed by the
shaft.
30. The watch of claim 24, wherein the biometric sensor is further
configured to detect whether the user is contacting the crown.
31. The watch of claim 24, wherein: the touch-sensitive display is
configured to receive a touch input; and the watch is further
configured to modify the graphical output of the touch-sensitive
display in response to the touch input.
32. The watch of claim 24, wherein a haptic output is propagated
through the shaft to the crown of the input device in response to
motion of the input device.
33. The watch of claim 24, wherein: the rotation sensor is an
optical sensor positioned along a side of the shaft; and the
rotation sensor is configured to detect the rotational input and a
speed of the rotational input using reflected light that is
reflected from the shaft.
34. A watch, comprising: a watch enclosure; a display coupled to
the watch enclosure and configured to display a graphical output; a
crown positioned along a side of the watch enclosure and configured
to receive an input; and a shaft attached to the crown and
extending into the watch enclosure; a biometric sensor configured
to detect a biometric of a user through the crown; an optical
sensor positioned within the watch enclosure and facing a side of
the shaft, and configured to detect a rotation of the shaft; and a
translation sensor configured to detect a depressed position of the
shaft, wherein: the graphical output of the display is responsive
to each of the detected biometric, the rotation of the shaft, and
the depressed position of the shaft.
35. The watch of claim 34, wherein: the crown defines a conductive
surface; and the biometric sensor is configured to detect a heart
rate of the user via a finger of the user contacting the conductive
surface.
36. The watch of claim 34, wherein: the translation sensor is a
tactile switch configured to detect the depressed position of the
shaft as the shaft moves inward and collapses a dome of the tactile
switch; and the dome is configured to provide a return force that
biases the shaft outward.
37. The watch of claim 34, wherein: the shaft includes a trackable
element along a surface of the shaft; and the optical sensor is
configured to detect the rotation of the shaft by detecting light
that is reflected off the trackable element.
38. The watch of claim 34, wherein: the display is configured to
receive a touch input and depict graphical objects of the watch;
and in response to the rotation of the shaft or the touch input of
the display, the graphical objects are configured to scroll.
39. A watch, comprising: a watch enclosure defining an interior
volume and an opening extending to the interior volume; a display
positioned at least partially within the interior volume and
configured to display a graphical output; an input device
comprising: a crown; a shaft coupled to the crown and extending
through the opening and into the interior volume of the watch
enclosure; and a biometric sensor configured to detect a biometric
of a user of the watch; a rotation sensor configured to detect a
rotation of the input device; and a translation sensor configured
to detect an inward translation of the input device, wherein: the
watch is configured to modify the graphical output in response to
each of the detected biometric, the rotation of the input device,
and the inward translation of the input device.
40. The watch of claim 39, wherein: the watch further comprises a
processing element positioned in the watch enclosure; and the
translation sensor is a tactile switch configured to: detect the
inward translation of the input device using a dome deformed by the
shaft in response to the inward translation; and electrically
couple the biometric sensor and the processing element.
41. The watch of claim 39, wherein the watch further comprises: a
processing element positioned in the watch enclosure; and a
conductor positioned in the watch enclosure and electrically
coupling the biometric sensor and the processing element.
42. The watch of claim 39, wherein the rotation sensor is an
optical sensor configured to detect the rotation of the input
device using light reflected off the input device.
43. The watch of claim 39, wherein the biometric is a heart rate of
the user.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This patent application is a continuation patent application
of PCT/US2014/040728, filed Jun. 3, 2014, and titled "Rotary Input
Mechanism for an Electronic Device," which claims priority to PCT
Application No. PCT/US2013/045264, filed Jun. 11, 2013, and titled
"Rotary Input Mechanism for an Electronic Device," the disclosures
of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their
entireties.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to electronic
devices and, more specifically, to input devices for computing
devices.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Many types of electronic devices, such as smart phones,
gaming devices, computers, watches, and the like, use input
devices, such as buttons or switches to receive user input.
However, the enclosure for the devices includes an aperture or
other opening to allow the button or switch (or other selectable
item) to move. These apertures allow water, air, and other
environmental items to enter into the enclosure and potentially
damage the internal electronics. Additionally, many input devices,
such as buttons or switches, may allow for a single type of input.
For example, actuating a button may transmit one type of signal,
which is generated by compressing a dome switch that completes a
circuit. As electronic devices reduce in size, it may be desirable
to have fewer input buttons or devices, without reducing
functionality or the number of input types that can be used by a
user to provide information to a device.
SUMMARY
[0004] One example of the present disclosure includes a wearable
electronic device. The wearable electronic device includes an
enclosure having a sidewall with a button aperture defined
therethrough, a processing element housed within the enclosure, a
sensing element in communication with the processing element, and
an input device at least partially received within the button
aperture and in communication with the sensing element, the input
device configured to receive at least a first and a second type of
user input. Generally, the sensing element is operative to track a
movement of the input button and output a signal and the processing
element is operative to distinguish between the first and second
type of user input, based on the signal.
[0005] Another example of the disclosure includes a watch. The
watch includes a hub or watch face. The hub includes a processor, a
sensing element, and a crown. The crown includes a trackable
element and the sensing element is configured to sense movement of
the crown by tracking the movements of the trackable element. The
watch also includes a strap connected to the hub and configured to
wrap around a portion of a user.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a wearable electronic device
including a multi-input device.
[0007] FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of the wearable
electronic device.
[0008] FIG. 3 is a cross-section view of the wearable electronic
device taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 1.
[0009] FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of a crown or input button of
the wearable electronic device.
[0010] FIG. 5 is a cross-section view of the wearable electronic
device taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 1.
[0011] FIG. 6 is a cross-section view of the input button including
a first example of a retention component.
[0012] FIG. 7 is a cross-section of the input button including a
second example of a retention component.
[0013] FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of the wearable device
including two sensing elements positioned within the cavity of the
enclosure.
[0014] FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of an example of an input
button with the trackable element configured to detect movement of
the shaft.
[0015] FIG. 10 is a cross-section view the wearable device
including another example of the sensing element and trackable
element.
[0016] FIG. 11 is a cross-section view of an input button including
an electrical connection between the enclosure and internal
components of the wearable device and the input button.
[0017] FIG. 12 is a cross-section view of the input button
including an input sensor.
[0018] FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the
input button including a switch sensor positioned parallel to the
stem.
[0019] FIG. 13B is a cross-section view of the input button
illustrated in FIG. 13A with a force being applied to the head.
[0020] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of another example of the
input button illustrated in FIG. 13A.
[0021] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the input button
including a motor.
[0022] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the input button
including an input sensor connected to the head.
[0023] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the input button of
FIG. 16 including apertures defined through the head.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] In some embodiments herein, a wearable electronic device
including a multi-input button is disclosed. The wearable
electronic device may be a watch, portable music player, health
monitoring device, computing or gaming device, smart phone, or the
like. In some embodiments, the wearable electronic device is a
watch that can be worn around the wrist of a user. In embodiments,
the multi-input button forms a crown for the watch and is connected
to a sidewall of an enclosure for the device. The multi-input
button can be pressed to input a first type of input and can be
rotated to input a second type of input. Additionally, in some
instances, the button can be pressed on or off axis to activate a
third input.
[0025] In a specific implementation, the wearable device includes a
rotary encoder to detect rotation of the multi-input button, as
well as a sensor that receives non-rotational type inputs. In one
embodiment, the wearable device includes an enclosure and a flange
or head extending from the enclosure. The head or crown is
connected to a spindle or stem, which is received within the
enclosure and a trackable element or encoder is attached to a
bottom end of the spindle. The head extends from the enclosure and
as the head is rotated, such as due to a user turning the head, the
trackable element on the bottom of the stem rotates, passing over a
rotary sensor contained within the enclosure. The rotary sensor
senses movement of the stem and the head. Additionally, the stem
may be movably (e.g., slidably) connected to the enclosure such
that the user can press the head and the stem can move a
predetermined distance. In this example, a switch (such as a
tactile switch) or a sensor, can detect vertical or horizontal
movement of the stem. In this manner, the multi-input button can
detect rotational inputs, as well as compression-type inputs.
[0026] The stem and other portions of the multi-input button may
include sealing members, such as O-rings, seal cups, or membrane
seals that seal certain components of the wearable device from
environmental elements, such as water. The stem and the enclosure
aperture may be selected such that the stem may move within the
enclosure without breaking the seal or otherwise creating a flow
pathway into the internal component held within the enclosure. As
an example, the stem may have a slightly smaller diameter than the
enclosure aperture and an O-ring may be received around the stem
within the enclosure aperture. In this example, the O-ring is a
compressible material, such as foam, that can be compressed when a
user exerts a force. As one side of the O-ring compresses due to
the user force, the other side can expand to increase, maintaining
a seal of the enclosure aperture around the stem. This allows the
stem to move within the enclosure diameter, without unsealing a
pathway into the enclosure.
[0027] Additionally, in some embodiments, the multi-input button
can be actuated to provide haptic feedback to a user. For example,
in embodiments where the stem is movable within the enclosure a
device, such as an actuator, may move the stem. When actuated, the
stem may selectively move the head to provide feedback to a
user.
[0028] Turning now to the figures, an illustrative wearable
electronic device will now be discussed in more detail. FIG. 1 is a
top plan view of a wearable electronic device. FIG. 2 is a
simplified block diagram of the wearable electronic device of FIG.
1. With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the wearable electronic device
100 may include a hub 102 or computing center or element. In
embodiments where the electronic device 100 is configured to be
worn by a user, the device 100 may include one or more straps 104,
106 that may connect to opposite sides of the hub 102. Each of the
straps 104, 106 may wrap around a portion of a wrist, arm, leg,
chest, or other portion of a user's body to secure the hub 102 to
the user. For example, the ends of each of the straps 104, 106 may
be connected together by a fastening mechanism 108. The fastening
mechanism 108 can be substantially any type of fastening device,
such as, but not limited to, a lug, hook and loop structure,
magnetic fasteners, snaps, buttons, clasps or the like. However, in
one embodiment, such as the one shown in FIG. 1, the fastening
mechanism 108 is a buckle including a prong 134 or element that can
be inserted into one or more apertures 112 in the second strap 106
to secure the first and second straps 104, 106 together.
[0029] The hub 102 of the wearable electronic device generally
contains the computing and processing elements of the wearable
electronic device 100. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-section view of
the hub 102 taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 1. With reference to FIGS.
1-3, the hub 102 may include a display 116 at least partially
surrounded by an enclosure 114. In some embodiments, the display
116 may form a face of the hub 102 and the enclosure 114 may abut
the edges and/or a portion of the backside of the display 116.
Additionally, the internal components of the wearable device 100
may be contained within the enclosure 114 between the display 116
and the enclosure 114. The enclosure 114 protects the internal
components of the hub 102, as well as connects the display 116 to
the hub 102.
[0030] The enclosure 114 may be constructed out of a variety of
materials, such as, but not limited to, plastics, metals, alloys,
and so on. The enclosure 114 includes a button aperture 172 (see
FIG. 3) to receive the input button 110 or a portion thereof. The
button aperture 172 forms a channel within a sidewall 188 of the
enclosure 114 and extends from an outer surface 188 of the
enclosure 114 to an interior surface 190. The button aperture 172
generally is configured to correspond to a size/shape of, or
accept, a stem or spindle of the input button 110. That said, the
button aperture 172 may be otherwise shaped and sized.
[0031] The enclosure 114 may also include a groove 186 defined on a
top surface to receive the display 116. With reference to FIGS. 1
and 3, the display 116 may be connected to the enclosure 114
through adhesive or other fastening mechanisms. In this example,
the display is seated within a recessed portion or groove of the
enclosure and the enclosure extends at least partially around the
edges of the display and may be fastened or affixed thereto, but
may leave at least a portion of the rear of the display free or
unsupported by the housing. However, in other embodiments, the
display and enclosure may be otherwise connected together.
[0032] The display 116 may be substantially any type of display
screen or device that can provide a visual output for the wearable
device 100. As an example, the display 116 may be a liquid crystal
display, a light emitting diode display, or the like. Additionally,
the display 116 may also be configured to receive a user input,
such as a multi-touch display screen that receives user inputs
through capacitive sensing elements. In many embodiments, the
display 116 may be dynamically variable; however, in other
embodiments, the display 116 may be a non-electronic component,
such as a painted faceplate, that may not dynamically change.
[0033] The display 116 may show a plurality of icons 118, 120 or
other graphics that are selectively modifiable. As an example, a
first graphic 118 may include a time graphic that changes its
characters to represent the time changes, e.g., numbers to
represent hours, minutes, and seconds. A second graphic 120 may
include a notification graphic, such as, battery life, messages
received, or the like. The two graphics 118, 120 may be positioned
substantially anywhere on the display 116 and may be varied as
desired. Additionally, the number, size, shape, and other
characteristics of the graphics 118, 120 may be changed as
well.
[0034] The input button 110 extends from and attaches to or passes
through the enclosure 114. The input button 110 will be discussed
in more detail below, but generally allows a user to provide input
to the wearable electronic device 100, as well as optionally
provide haptic feedback to a user.
[0035] With reference to FIG. 2, the wearable electronic device
includes a plurality of internal processing or computing elements.
For example, the wearable electronic device 100 may include a power
source 122, one or more processing elements 124, a memory component
128, one or more sensors 126, and an input/output component 130.
Each of the internal components may be received within the
enclosure 114 and may be in communication through one or more
systems buses 132, traces, printed circuit boards, or other
communication mechanisms.
[0036] The power source 122 provides power to the hub 102 and other
components of the wearable device 100. The power source 122 may be
a battery or other portable power element. Additionally, the power
source 122 may be rechargeable or replaceable.
[0037] The processing element 124 or processor is substantially any
type of device that can receive and execute instructions. For
example, the processing element 124 may be a processor,
microcomputer, processing unit or group of processing units or the
like. Additionally, the processing element 124 may include one or
more processors and in some embodiments may include multiple
processing elements.
[0038] The one or more sensors 126 may be configured to sense a
number of different parameters or characteristics that may be used
to influence one or more operations of the wearable electronic
device 100. For example, the sensors 126 may include
accelerometers, gyroscopes, capacitive sensors, light sensors,
image sensors, pressure or force sensors, or the like. As will be
discussed in more detail below, one or more of the sensors 126 may
be used in conjunction with the input button 110 or separate
therefrom, to provide user input to the hub 102.
[0039] With continued reference to FIG. 2, the memory component 128
stores electronic data that may be utilized by the wearable device
100. For example, the memory component 128 may store electrical
data or content e.g., audio files, video files, document files, and
so on, corresponding to various applications. The memory 128 may
be, for example, non-volatile storage, a magnetic storage medium,
optical storage medium, magneto-optical storage medium, read only
memory, random access memory, erasable programmable memory, or
flash memory.
[0040] The input/output interface 130 may receive data from a user
or one or more other electronic devices. Additionally, the
input/output interface 130 may facilitate transmission of data to a
user or to other electronic devices. For example, the input/output
interface 130 may be used to receive data from a network, or may be
used to send and transmit electronic signals via a wireless or
wired connection (Internet, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet being a
few examples). In some embodiments, the input/output interface 130
may support multiple network or communication mechanisms. For
example, the network/communication interface 130 may pair with
another device over a Bluetooth network to transfer signals to the
other device, while simultaneously receiving data from a WiFi or
other network.
[0041] The input button 110 will now be discussed in more detail.
With reference to FIG. 3, the input button 110 includes a head 148
and a stem 150 or spindle. The stem 150 is received into the button
aperture 172 defined in the enclosure 114 and the head 148 extends
outwards from the stem 150 outside of the enclosure 114. In
embodiments where the wearable electronic device 100 is a watch,
the input button 110 forms a crown for the watch, with head 148
acting as a user engagement surface to allow the user to rotate,
pull, and/or push the crown 110 or input button.
[0042] With reference to FIG. 1, the head 148 is generally a flange
shaped member that may have a cylindrical body and a rounded or
flat top. Additionally, the head 148 may optionally include a
plurality of ridges 202 or other tactile features. The ridges 202
may enhance the friction between a user's finger or fingers and the
head 148, making it easier for the user to rotate or pull the head
148, and may provide indicators to a user (similar to mile markers
on a road) that allow a user to determine the number of rotations.
For example, the head 148 may include a ridge 202 every quarter
around the outer surface of the head 148 that can indicate to a
user when the head has rotated 90 degrees. However, in other
embodiments, the ridge 202 may be omitted or other features may be
used.
[0043] With reference again to FIG. 3, the stem 150 may be a
generally cylindrically shaped member and may extend from the head
148. The head 148 and the stem 150 may be integrally formed or may
be discrete components that are fixedly attached together. The stem
150 may also include a sealing groove 152 defined around a portion
of its outer circumference. The sealing groove 152 is configured to
receive a sealing member, such as an O-ring 154 or seal cup. In
some embodiments, the stem 150 has a longer length than a length of
the button aperture 172. In this manner, opposite ends of the stem
150 extend from either side of the button aperture 172. In these
embodiments, the head 148 may be spatially separated from the outer
surface of the enclosure by the length of the stem 150 that extends
outward from the outer end of the button aperture. However, in
other embodiments the stem 150 may have a length that is
substantially the same as a length of the button aperture 172 or
may be shorter than a length of the button aperture 172. In the
later example, one or more portions of the sensing circuitry
(discussed in more detail below) may be positioned directly beneath
the button aperture 172 or partially within the button aperture
172.
[0044] The input button 110 includes a trackable element 146 or
encoder positioned on a bottom of the stem 150. FIG. 4 is a bottom
plan view of the button 110. With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the
trackable element 146 may be connected to a bottom end of the stem
150 or may be connected to or defined on the outer surface of the
stem 150. The trackable element 146 interacts with a sensing
element 142 to allow the sensing element 162 to track movement of
the stem 150 by tracking movement of the trackable element 146. As
such, the trackable element 146 is connected to the stem 150 such
that as the stem 150 moves or rotates, such as due to a user input
to the head 148, the trackable element 146 will move
correspondingly.
[0045] The position, size, and type of material for the trackable
element 146 may be varied based on the sensing element 142, which
as discussed below may track different types of parameters, such
as, but not limited to, optical characteristics, magnetic
characteristics, mechanical characteristics, electrical
characteristics, or capacitive characteristics. As such, the
trackable element 146 can be modified to enhance tracking of the
stem 150.
[0046] With continued reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, in one
embodiment, the trackable element 146 is a magnet, either permanent
or electromagnetic. In this embodiment, the trackable element 146
may be a cylindrical disc including a first pole 182 and a second
pole 184. The first pole 182 may be the north pole of the trackable
element 146 and the second pole 184 may be the south pole of the
trackable element 146. The two poles 182, 184 may be diametrically
opposed, such that half of the trackable element 146 forms the
first pole 182 and other half of the trackable element 146 forms
the second pole 184, with the two poles 182, 184 forming
half-circle shapes. In other words, the bottom face of the
trackable element 146 is split in polarity along its diameter.
[0047] In some embodiments, the trackable element may include two
or more magnets positioned around the perimeter of the stem 150. In
these embodiments, the rotational sensor may be positioned within
the button aperture to track rotation of the stem 150.
[0048] The sensing element 142 and corresponding structures will
now be discussed in more detail. FIG. 5 is an enlarged
cross-section view of the wearable electronic device taken along
line 5-5 in FIG. 1. With reference to FIGS. 3 and 5, the sensing
element 142 is supported within the enclosure 114 and is configured
to detect rotational, vertical, and/or lateral movements of the
button 110. The sensing element 142 may be supported on a substrate
166 and includes one or more sensors. For example, the sensing
element 142 may include rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d and
a switch sensor 160. The rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d
and the switch sensor 160 may be positioned within a compartment
212 or other enclosure. The compartment 212 is supported on the
substrate 166 by a contact floor 170 that forms a bottom of the
sensing element 142. The compartment 212 and the contact floor 170
define a cavity 164 in which the sensors are received.
[0049] The rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d are configured
to detect rotation of the stem 150 or other portions of the crown
or button 110. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the
rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d may be magnetic sensors
that detect changes in magnetic polarity. For example, the rotation
sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d may be Hall-effect sensors. In other
words, the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d may be
transducers that vary an output signal in response to a magnetic
field. In another example, the rotational sensor and/or switch
sensor may be an optical sensor and the trackable element may
include one or more markings or visible indicators that can be used
by the optical sensor to track movement of the stem 150.
[0050] In some embodiments, the trackable element may be positioned
on the head 148 or exterior portion of the button 110. In these
embodiments, the rotational sensor may be in communication (either
optically or magnetically) with the input button 110 through the
housing or enclosure 114. For example, the enclosure may include a
transparent portion or window and an optical sensor may track
movement of the crown through the window.
[0051] In some examples, the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c,
210d may be spaced apart from one another and located at opposite
quadrants of the sensing element 142. This allows the rotation
sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d to track rotation of the trackable
element 146 as it enters and exits each quadrant or section of the
sensing element. However, it should be noted that in other
embodiments, there may be only two sensors that may be used to
track larger rotational distances of the trackable element 146.
[0052] The rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d may be in-plane
with one another or may be out of plane with one another. With
reference to FIG. 5, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3 and
5, the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d are aligned in plane
with one another.
[0053] Additionally, although the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5
shows four rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d, there may be
fewer or more sensors. For example, only two sensors may be used or
more than two force sensors may be used. The additional sensors may
provide additional information, such as orientation and/or speed,
as well as provide redundancy to reduce error. However, using only
two sensors may allow the sensing element 142 to detect rotation of
the stem 150, without additional components, which may reduce cost
and manufacturing complexities of the wearable device 100.
[0054] However, in other embodiments, the rotation sensors 210a,
210b, 210c, 210d may sense parameters other than magnetic fields.
For example, the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d may be
optical sensors (e.g., image or light sensors), capacitive sensors,
electrical contacts, or the like. In these embodiments, the number,
orientation, position, and size of the rotation sensors may be
varied as desired.
[0055] The switch sensor 160 includes an electrical contact element
168, a collapsible dome 214 and a tip 158. The electrical contact
element 168 interacts with a contact element on the floor 170 to
indicate when the switch sensor 160 has been activated. For
example, when the contact element 168 contacts the floor 170, a
circuit may be completed, a signal may be stimulated of created, or
the like. The dome 214 is a resilient and flexible material that
collapses or flexes upon a predetermined force level. The dome 214
may be a thin metal dome, a plastic dome, or other may be
constructed from other materials. The dome 214 may produce an
audible sound, as well as an opposing force, in response to a
collapsing force exerted by a user. The audible sound and opposing
force provide feedback to a user when a user compresses the dome
214. The tip 158 is connected to the dome 214 and when a force is
applied to the tip 158, the tip 158 is configured to collapse the
dome 214.
[0056] Although the switch sensor 160 is illustrated in FIGS. 3 and
5 as being a tactile switch, many other sensors are envisioned. For
example, the switch sensor 160 may be a magnetic sensor, a
capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor. In a
specific example, the switch sensor 160 may be a capacitive sensor
and can detect changes in capacitance as the button 110 is pressed
by a user and the stem 150 moves closer to the sensor 160. As such,
the discussion of any particular embodiment is meant as
illustrative only.
[0057] It should be noted that the sensing element 142 including
the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d and the switch sensor
160 may be an integrated sensing component or package that may be
installed into the hub 102 as one component. Alternatively, the
rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d and the switch sensors 160
may be discrete components that maybe installed as separate
components, and may include their own seals, substrates, and the
like. Moreover, the wearable electronic device 100 may include only
a single sensor, such as either the rotational sensor or the switch
sensor.
[0058] With continued reference to FIGS. 3 and 5, the sensing
element 142 is surrounded by a seal 144. The seal 144, which may be
pressure sensitive adhesive, heat activated film, silicone, or
other sealing materials, is positioned around a perimeter of the
compartment 212. For example, the seal 144 may be a rectangular
shaped element that extends around a perimeter of the compartment
212 and sealing member. The seal 144 defines an opening allowing
the rotation sensors and the switch sensor to be in communication
with the trackable element 146 and stem 150. A membrane 156 or
flexible seal extends over the opening and is positioned over the
sensing element 142. The membrane 156 acts along with the seal 144
to prevent water, debris, and other elements from reaching the
sensing element 142. For example, water and other elements may
travel through the button aperture 172 within the enclosure 114,
but due to the membrane and the seal 144 may not reach the sensing
element 142 and other internal components of the wearable
electronic device 100. As another example, in some embodiments, the
button 110 may be removable and the seal 144 and membrane 156
prevent water and other elements from damaging the sensing element
142 and/or other internal components of the wearable device 100
while the crown or button is removed.
[0059] With reference to FIG. 5, the tip 158 of switch sensor 160
may be positioned above the membrane 156, with a sealing ring 216
sealing the membrane 156 against the sidewalls of the tip 158. In
these embodiments, the membrane 156 may be flexible and allow the
tip 158 to move vertically without ripping or otherwise
compromising the seal of the membrane.
[0060] Operation of the input button 110 will now be discussed in
further detail. With reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 5, to provide a
first input to the wearable input device 100, the user applies a
push force F to the head 148 of the crown or button 110. As the
force F is exerted against the head 148, the head and the stem 150
move laterally along the length of the button aperture 172 in the
direction of the force F, towards the internal cavity 139 defined
by the enclosure 114. As the stem 150 moves into the cavity 139,
the bottom end of the stem 150, in some instances, the trackable
element 146, transfers at least a portion of the force F to the tip
158.
[0061] In response to the force F on the tip 158, the dome 214
collapses, moving the contact 168 into communication with a contact
(not shown) on the floor 170. As the dome 214 collapses, the user
is provided feedback (e.g., through the audible sound of the dome
collapsing or the mechanical feel of the dome collapsing). As the
contact 168 registers an input, a signal is produced and
transmitted to the processing element 124. The processing element
124 then uses the signal to register a user input. It should be
noted that in embodiments where the switch sensor 160 is positioned
off-axis from the stem 150 (discussed in more detail below), the
force F may be angled as shown by angled force AF. This angled
force AF may be registered as a second user input, in addition to
the on-axis force F.
[0062] In some embodiments, the button aperture may be sufficiently
large that the switch sensor 120 can be activated by the angled
force AF, even when the switch sensor is positioned beneath the
stem 150 as shown in FIG. 4. In other words, the angled force AF or
other off-axis force may activate the input button 110 when the
frictional engagement of the stem 150 with the button aperture 172
sidewall is insufficient to resist the angled force AF. As the
angle increases, the frictional force acting on the stem increases
and by varying the size of the stem and/or button aperture, a
predetermined angle range may be selected for which the angled
force AF can activate the switch. For example, a maximum angle of
the input force can be selected and when the force is below that
angle, the angled force can activate the switch 120 and when the
angled force is at or above the maximum angle, the input button may
not be activated. As an example, a force applied to the input
button at an angle up to 30 or 45 degrees may be able to activate
the switch sensor 120.
[0063] Additionally, the input button 110 can register rotational
inputs. For example, if a user applies a rotation force R to the
head 148, the head 148 and stem 150 rotate. As the stem 150
rotates, the trackable element 146 rotates correspondingly. The
rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d track movement of the
trackable element 146 and produce signals that are transmitted to
the processing element 124, which may use signals to determine the
rotation speed and direction.
[0064] With reference to FIGS. 3-5 in embodiments where the
rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d are Hall effect sensors and
the trackable element 146 is a magnet, the sensors 210a, 210b,
210c, 210d may use the changes in magnetic field to determine
rotation. With reference to FIG. 5, as the stem 150 rotates due to
the rotation force R (see FIG. 1), the trackable element 146
rotates along the rotation axis therewith. As the trackable element
146 rotates the two poles 182, 184 rotate over (or near) each of
the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d, causing the rotation
sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d to detect a change in the magnetic
field.
[0065] The changes in magnetic field can be used by the processing
element 124 to determine rotation speed and direction of the
trackable element 146 (and thus stem 150). In this manner, the user
may apply a rotational input to the button 110, which may be
detected by the sensing element 142. It should be noted that in
some embodiments, the speed and/or direction of the user input may
be used to activate different applications and/or may be provided
as separate input types of the processing element 124. For example,
rotation in a first direction at a first speed may correlate to a
first type of input and rotation in a second direction at a second
speed may correlate to a second input, and rotation in the first
direction at the second speed may be a third input. In this manner,
multiple user inputs can be detectable through the crown of the
wearable input device 100.
[0066] As described above, in some embodiments, the rotation
sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d may be Hall effect sensors that vary
an output signal in response to a change in a magnetic field, e.g.,
as the trackable element 146 changes orientation with respect to
each of the sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d. In these embodiments,
the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d typically draw current
from the power source 122 when activated. Thus, the sensors 210a,
210b, 210c, 210d may constantly draw power when searching for a
user input to the input button 110.
[0067] However, in some embodiments it may be desirable to reduce
power consumption of the wearable electronic device 100. For
example, it may be desirable for the power source 122 to provide
power to the device 100 for multiple days without recharging. In
these embodiments, the sensing element 142 can include an inductor
near the trackable element 146 or other magnetic element attached
to the crown. The inductor will generate a current when the
trackable element 146 moves (such as due to a user input to the
input button 110). The induced current may be used as a wake or
interrupt signal to the sensing element 142. The sensing element
142 may then activate the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d
to allow better rotational sensing for the position of the stem
150.
[0068] In the above embodiment, the wearable input device 100 may
detect user inputs during zero power or low-power sleep modes.
Thus, the life of the power source 122 may be enhanced, while not
reducing the functionality of the device 100. Moreover, the induced
current could be used to get direction and/or rotational velocity
measurements as the trackable element 146 is moved. For example,
the current direction and voltage induced by the inductor may be
used to determine rotational direction and speed.
[0069] In yet another embodiment, the sensing element 142 may
include a magnet or magnetic element as the trackable element 146
and the rotation sensor may include an inductor. In this example,
as the magnet is moved relative to the inductor, a current is
induced within the inductor, which as described above could be used
to determine rotational speed and/or velocity. In this manner, the
sensing element 142 may not require much, if any, power while still
tracking user inputs to the input button 110 or crown.
[0070] With reference to FIG. 3, the switch sensor 160 has been
illustrated as being positioned on-axis with the stem 150 of the
input button 110. However, in other embodiments, the switch sensor
160 may be positioned perpendicular to the stem 150 and/or
otherwise angled relative to the stem 150. In these embodiments,
the switch sensor 160 can sense off-axis movement, such as a user
pressing the head 148 downward at a 45 degree angle. For example,
the switch sensor 160 may be positioned within the button aperture
172 and/or adjacent the opening of the button aperture 172 into the
enclosure 114 and may track movement of the stem 150 vertically
(relative to FIG. 3) within the button aperture 172.
[0071] In other embodiments, the wearable device 100 may include
both on and off axis switch sensors to detect various types of user
inputs. For example, the user may press the top end of the head 148
to force the stem 150 inwards towards the enclosure 114, which may
be registered by the on-axis switch. As another example, the user
may press the head 148 downward at an angle relative to the button
aperture 172. The stem 150 may be pushed towards an inner wall of
the button aperture 172 (in which the switch sensor may be
positioned), allowing the switch sensor to detect that movement as
well. In this example, the button click may be activated by
pressing the crown vertically downwards and/or at an angle.
Alternatively, the switch sensor 160 may be activated through a
pivot point. In other words, the input to the crown or input button
110 may be on-axis, off-axis, perpendicular to the rotation
direction, and/or a combination of the different input types.
[0072] In some embodiments, the wearable electronic device 100 may
include components that may be used to retain the input button
within the button aperture 172. FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate
cross-section views of examples of retention components for the
input button. With initial reference to FIG. 6, in a first example,
the wearable electronic device 100 may include a clip 143 that
connects to a bottom end of the stem 150. For example, the clip 143
may be a C-clip that is received around a portion of the stem 150.
In this example, the clip 143 allows the stem 150 to rotate within
the button aperture 172, but prevents the stem 150 from being
removed from the button aperture 712. The clip 143 may have a
larger diameter than the button aperture 172 to prevent removal of
the input button 110 from the button aperture 172 or may be secured
to the enclosure 114 in a manner that prevents the input button
from being removed.
[0073] The stem 150 may also include a groove or other detent that
receives the retaining element 143. In this example, the retaining
element 143 clips into position and is secured to the stem 150. As
another example, the retaining element 143 may be a bearing, such
as a ball bearing, that is received around the outer surface of the
stem. In this embodiment, the bearing may have a low friction
connection to the stem 150 to allow the stem 150 to rotate, but may
have an increased diameter as compared to the stem 150, which helps
to secure the stem in position relative to the enclosure.
[0074] In some embodiments, the trackable element 146 may also act
as a retaining element for the input button 110. For example, the
clip 143 in FIG. 6 may be a diametric magnet that may be detectable
by the sensing element 142. In another example, with reference to
FIG. 7, the retaining element may be a retaining magnet 145. In
this example, the retaining magnet 145 may be formed integrally
with the stem 150 or connected to a bottom end thereof. The
retaining magnet 145 may have a diameter that is substantially the
same as the diameter of the stem 150, which allows the input button
110 to be inserted into the button aperture 172 with the retaining
magnet 145 connected thereto. In this embodiment, the trackable
element 146 is a second magnet that is positioned within the cavity
139 defined by the enclosure 114. The trackable element 146
includes an opposite polarization from the retaining magnet at
least on a side that interfaces with the retaining magnet 145. For
example, the retaining magnet 145 may be a plate with magnetic
properties, such as, but not limited to, a steel or metal plate, a
ferromagnetic material, or the like. In this manner, the trackable
element 146 and the retaining magnet 145 may experience an
attractive force towards one another.
[0075] In some embodiments, the trackable element 146 may be
separated from the retaining magnet 145 by a gap. In these
embodiments, the gap may be sufficiently dimensioned such that the
retaining magnet 145 is able to interact with the trackable element
146 and cause the trackable element 146 to move therewith.
Alternatively, the trackable element 146 may be positioned against
a surface of the retaining magnet 145
[0076] Due the varying polarizations, the trackable element 146
attracts the retaining magnet 145 pulling the input button 110 into
the cavity 139. The trackable element 146 may have a diameter
configured to retain the button 110 within the button aperture 172.
For example, the trackable element 146 may have a larger diameter
than a diameter of the button aperture 172 and larger than a
diameter of the retaining magnet 145. In these embodiments, the
attraction between the retaining magnet and the trackable element
may secure the two elements together, and prevent the stem 150 from
being pulled through the button aperture, at least because the
diameter of the trackable element may be larger than the button
aperture.
[0077] In some embodiments, the trackable element 146 may also be
detectable by the sensing element 142. For example, because the
trackable element 146 may be configured to retain the stem 150
within the button aperture 172, the larger diameter of the
trackable element 146, as compared to the trackable element shown
in FIG. 3 (which may have approximately the same diameter of the
stem) may allow the sensing element 142 to more easily track
movement of the trackable element 142. That is, the trackable
element in this example may have a larger surface area that may be
tracked by the sensing element 142, allowing the sensing element
142 to more easily detect its movements.
[0078] With continued reference to FIG. 7, in this embodiment, the
trackable element 146 rotates with the retaining magnet 145. For
example, as the stem rotates, the retaining magnet 145, which is
connected to the stem 150, rotates. Continuing with this example,
due to the magnetic force between the trackable element 146 and the
retaining magnet 145, the trackable element 146 rotates with the
stem 150. In these embodiments, the retaining magnet 145 may act to
retain the stem 150 to the trackable element 146 and because of the
increased size of the trackable element 146 as compared to the
retaining magnet 145, the trackable element 146 retains the button
110 within the button aperture 172. The trackable element 146 then
interacts with the sensing element 142 to allow the user inputs to
the input button 110 to be detected.
[0079] The retaining elements shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 are meant as
illustrative only. Many other types of retaining elements are
envisioned that may be used to connect the input button to the
enclosure 114, e.g., flanges, fasteners (such as screws), or the
like. In embodiments where the input button includes a retaining
element, the input button may have a better "feel" to the user as
it may feel less "squishy," which can detract from the user
experience. Additionally, the retaining elements 143, 145 help to
reduce water, fluid, and other debris from entering into the cavity
139 through the button aperture 172. In other words, because the
input button 110 may be securely connected to the enclosure 114,
certain elements can be blocked by the button or the retaining
member and prevented from entering into the cavity 139 via the
button aperture 172. Moreover, the retaining elements may help to
prevent the input button from becoming disconnected from the
electronic device.
[0080] In some embodiments, the sensing element may be spatially
separated from the trackable element and/or positioned out of
series with the movement of the stem. FIG. 8 is a cross-section
view of the wearable device including two sensing elements
positioned within the cavity of the enclosure. With reference to
FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the sensing element 342 may include a
first magnetometer 348 and a second magnetometer 350. Each
magnetometer 348, 350 is configured to sense magnetic fields and
optionally the direction of any sensed magnetic field. As one
example, each magnetometer 348, 350 may include three Hall effect
sensors, each of which may be used to sense a particular magnetic
field vector. In other words, each Hall effect sensor in the
magnetometers 348, 350 may be configured to measure components in
at least one direction, e.g., X, Y, and Z. In this example, each
Hall effect sensor may be oriented perpendicularly relative to the
other Hall effect sensors. The magnetic field vectors detected by
each Hall effect sensor can be combined to determine an overall
vector length and/or direction for one or more magnetic fields.
[0081] The magnetometers 348, 350 may be connected to a substrate
366, an internal wall of the enclosure 114, or another support
structure. Optionally, a shielding element 368 may be positioned
around at least a portion of the magnetometer 348, 350. For
example, in one embodiment both magnetometers 348, 350 may be
positioned beneath the display 116 and the shielding element 368
may reduce interference and noise between the sensing element 342
and the display 116. However, in other embodiments, the shielding
element 368 may be omitted or differently configured.
[0082] With continued reference to FIG. 8 in some embodiments, the
two magnetometers 348, 350 may be spaced apart by a distance D from
one another. The distance D may be used to determine user input to
the input button 310, and in particular movement of the trackable
element 142. In some embodiments, the distance D may be selected
such that the magnetometers 348, 350 may be able to sense movement
of the trackable element 146, as well as sensing the Earth's
magnetic field, which allows the magnetometers to be used as a
compass. In other words, the distance D may be sufficiently small
such that the Earth's magnetic field may be experienced by both
magnetometers in substantially the same manner, but may be
sufficiently large that movement of the trackable element may be
experienced differently by each magnetometer.
[0083] In operation, the sensing element 342 including the
magnetometers 348, 350 detects changes in a local magnetic field
due to the varying position of the trackable element 146. That is,
as the user rotates or otherwise provides an input to the input
button 310, the trackable element 146 varies its position relative
to the sensing element 342, causing a change in at least one
component of the magnetic field. In embodiments where the trackable
element 146 includes a magnetic component, varying the position of
the trackable element 146 relative to the magnetometers 348, 350
causes the magnetometers to detect a change in the magnetic field.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the distance D between the two
magnetometers 348, 350 is known and thus the delta or difference
between the signals of the two magnetometers 348, 350 can be
determined. This delta can then be used to determine the position
of the trackable element 146. In particular, the signals from each
magnetometer may be processed using the known distance D and the
signals may then be correlated to the user input.
[0084] In some embodiments, the two magnetometers 348, 350 may be
configured to detect the magnitude of the magnetic field of the
trackable element 146, as well as the direction. In this manner,
the processing element 124, which is in communication with the
sensing element 342, can determine the user input to the input
button 310, e.g., the direction, speed, and distance of a rotation
of the input button, all of which may be correlated to different
parameters of the user input to the button.
[0085] In instances where the magnetometers in the electronic
device can sense both the rotation of the input button and
extraneous magnetic fields, such as the Earth's magnetic field, the
encoder for the input button may be used simultaneously with a
compass function for the electronic device 100. This may allow a
user to provide input via the input button 310, while at the same
time viewing a compass output (e.g., arrow pointing towards north)
on the display 116.
[0086] In some embodiments, the sensing element 342 may be
calibrated to avoid detecting magnetic fields that may be part of
the wearable electronic device 100 or components it may interact
with. For example, in some instances, a charging cable, including a
magnetic attachment mechanism, may be used with the electronic
device. In this example, the magnetic field of the charging cable
can be calibrated out of the sensing element 342 such that it may
not substantially affect the sensing elements 342 ability to detect
the trackable element 146.
[0087] With continued reference to FIG. 8, although the sensing
element 342 of the input button 310 has been discussed as including
two magnetometers 348, 350, in some embodiments the sensing element
342 may include a single magnetometer. By including a single
magnetometer, the sensing element 342 may be less expensive to
implement as it may include fewer components. However, in these
embodiments, larger movements of the input button may be required
for the sensing element 342 to detect the user inputs, i.e., the
sensitivity may be reduced.
[0088] In some embodiments, the trackable element may detect
orientation, acceleration, or other parameters that can be used to
determine a user input. FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of an
example of an input button with the trackable element configured to
detect movement of the shaft. With reference to FIG. 9, in this
embodiment the input button 410 may be substantially similar to the
input button 110, but the trackable element 446 may be a gyroscope
or other element configured to detect changes in orientation or
acceleration. In these embodiments, the trackable element may
independently track movement of the stem 150 relative to the
enclosure 114. For example, the trackable element 446 is connected
to the shaft 150 and as the user provides an input to the button
410, the shaft rotates, and the trackable element 446 detects the
direction and speed of rotation.
[0089] The sensing element 442 in the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 9 may include a shaft contact 458. The shaft contact 458 is
electrically connected to the trackable element 446 and receives
signals therefrom. For example, the shaft contact 458 may be a
brush contact and be able to rotate, allowing the shaft contact 458
and the trackable element 446 to be in electrical communication
without substantially restricting rotation or other movement of the
shaft 150 (via the trackable element).
[0090] In operation, as a user rotates the shaft 150, for example,
by rotating the head 148, the trackable element 446 detects the
rotation. In particular, the trackable element 446 experiences the
rotation of the shaft 150 and detects the direction and speed of
rotation. The trackable element 446 then produces an electrical
signal that may be transmitted to the shaft contact 458. For
example, the shaft contact 458 brushes against the trackable
element 446 as the trackable element 446 is spinning with the shaft
150 and detects the signal produced by the trackable element
446.
[0091] The shaft contact 458 and the sensing element 442 provide
the signal from the trackable element 446 to the processing element
124. The processing element 124 may then compare the signal
detected by the trackable element 446 to a rotational signal
detected by one or more of the sensors 126 within the electronic
device 100. For example, the processing element 124 may subtract
the trackable element 446 signal from a signal from a gyroscope
sensor connected to the enclosure, logic board substrate 166, or
other element separated from the input button 410. In this manner,
the processing element 124 may determine the rotation and other
movement of the stem 150 separated from rotational movement of the
electronic device 100. For example, the wearable electronic device
100 may be moved while worn on the wrist of a user, and if the
readings from the device 100 as a whole are not subtracted from the
trackable element readings, the user input may be miscalculated.
However, in some instances the rotation experienced by the
trackable element 446 may be a sufficiently higher magnitude than
the rotation experienced by the wearable device 100 and the
processing element 124 may not need to subtract the sensor 126 data
from the data detected by the trackable element 446 to determine
the user input to the button 410.
[0092] In another example, the sensing element may detect features
defined on the shaft of the button or otherwise connected thereto.
FIG. 10 is a cross-section view the wearable device including
another example of the sensing element and trackable element. With
reference to FIG. 10, in this example, input button 510 may include
a head 548 and shaft 550 extending thereof. The input button 510
may be substantially similar to the input button 110, but the
trackable element 546 may be defined around a portion of the shaft
550. For example, the trackable element 546 may be a series of
notches, ridges, or other detectable markings (e.g., paint, colors,
etc.), or other features. The trackable element 546 may be
integrally formed with the shaft 550, such as grooves or ridges
formed during manufacturing/molding, or may be a separate element
connected to shaft. In some embodiments, the trackable element 546
may extend around a portion of a bottom end of the outer surface of
the shaft 550 or the trackable element 546 may extend around the
entire outer surface of the shaft 550.
[0093] With continued reference to FIG. 10, in this example, the
sensing element 542 may be connected to the enclosure 114 and may
be positioned adjacent at least a portion of the shaft 550 and
trackable element 546. For example, the sensing element 542 may be
positioned parallel with the portion of the shaft 550 that extends
into the cavity 139 and may be anchored to the enclosure 114
surrounding the button aperture 172. In some embodiments, the
sensing element 542 may surround the entire shaft 550 of the input
button and in other embodiments the sensing element 542 may
surround only portions (e.g., positioned on opposing sides) of the
shaft.
[0094] The sensing element 542 is configured to detect movement of
the shaft 550 by detecting the trackable element 546. As one
example, the trackable element 546 may be a magnetic element and
the sensing element 542 may be a Hall effect sensor. As a second
example, the trackable element may be a colored marking and the
sensing element 542 may be an optical sensor. As a third example,
the trackable element 546 may be a metallic element or other
capacitive sensitive element and the sensing element 542 may be a
capacitive sensor. As a fourth example, the trackable element 546
may be a ridge or extension connected to the shaft and the sensing
element 542 may be a mechanical contact that is compressed or
otherwise selected when the ridge passes over it. In this example,
the mechanical contact may also be a gear or other keyed element
that engages with the trackable element 546. In particular, the
trackable element 546 may be corresponding gears or teeth that
engage a mechanical element on the enclosure 114. As the stem 550
rotates, the trackable element 546 will rotate, meshing the gears
or teeth with the gears/teeth of the enclosure 114, which may allow
the sensing element to determine movement of the stem 550.
[0095] With reference to FIG. 10, in operation, the user rotates or
provides a push input to the head 548, and the stem 550 moves
correspondingly. As the stem 550 moves, the trackable element 546
rotates, translates, or otherwise moves relative to the sensing
element 542. The sensing element 542 provides a signal (or causes
another element connected thereto to provide a signal) to the
processing element 124, registering the user input to the input
button 510.
[0096] In some embodiments, the input button may include an
electrical connection between the stem and the enclosure. FIG. 11
is a cross-section view of an input button including an electrical
connection between the enclosure and internal components of the
wearable device and the input button. The input button 610 may be
substantially similar to the input button 110, but may include a
direct electrical connection between the stem of the input button
and the sensing element. With reference to FIG. 11, the input
button 610 may include a sensing element 642 connected to the
enclosure 114 and positioned above the aperture receiving the stem
650. The sensing element 642 may be an electrical contact or pad
that is connected to an interior sidewall 171 of the button
aperture 172. The sensing element 642 may be in communication with
the processing element 124 via one or more connections (not shown)
or wirelessly. As another example, the sensing element may be an
optical sensor that senses light (which need not be in the visible
spectrum) from a sidewall of the shaft. The shaft may be patterned,
colored or otherwise marked so that rotation of the shaft varies
the light received by the sensing element, thereby allowing the
sensing element to detect rotation and/or translation of the
shaft.
[0097] The trackable element 646 in this embodiment may be a
mechanical brush that is positioned on the stem 650. For example,
the trackable element 646 may include brush elements 643 positioned
on an outer surface of the stem 650 at predetermined positioned.
Alternatively, the brush elements 643 may be positioned around an
entire perimeter of the outer surface of the stem 650. The
trackable element 646 may be one or more conductive elements that
interact with the sensing element 642. For example, the brush
elements 643 may be copper bristles that electrically interact with
the sensing element 642.
[0098] With continued reference to FIG. 11, in some embodiments,
the trackable element 646 may be in electrical communication with a
crown sensor 630 or an input sensor connected to the button. The
crown sensor 630 may be positioned in the head 648 and/or stem 650
of the input button 610. The crown sensor 630 may be substantially
any type of sensor, such as, but not limited to, microphone,
speaker, capacitive sensor, optical sensor, biometric sensor, or
the like. The crown sensor 630 may be positioned substantially
anywhere on the head 648 and/or stem 650 and there may be two or
more crown sensors 630 each connected to location within the input
button 610.
[0099] In operation, as a user provides an input, such as a
rotational force to the head 648, the stem 650 rotates. As the stem
650 rotates, the trackable element 646 contacts the sensing element
642. In particular, the brush elements 643 intermittently or
continuously directly contact the sensing element 642 creating an
electrical connection between the trackable element 646 and the
sensing element 642. The sensing element 642 then creates an input
signal corresponding to the sensed movement and provides the input
signal to the processing element 124. In some embodiments, the
sensing element 642 may sense the rotational speed and/or number of
rotations of the stem 650 based on the number of contacts created
between the brush elements 643 and the sensing element 642.
[0100] In embodiments where the input button 610 includes the crown
sensor 630, the trackable element 646 may communicate one or more
signals from the crown sensor 630 to the sensing element 642 or
other components in communication with the sensing element 642
(e.g., processing element 124). As one example, the crown sensor
630 may be a biometric sensor that detects a user's heart rate
and/or regularity and provide that data to the processing element
within the enclosure 114 via the sensing element and trackable
element. As another example, the crown sensor 630 may be a
microphone and the trackable element 646 and sensing element 642
may be used to pull data from the microphone on the head 648 (or
other location) and provide that data to the processing element
124.
[0101] Alternatively or additionally, the sensing element 642 may
transfer power to the trackable element and the crown sensor 630.
For example, when the brush elements 643 contact the sensing
element 646, the sensing element 646 may transfer current through
the connection. The current transferred between the sensing element
642 and the trackable element 646 may be used to provide power to
the crown sensor 630, as well as any other components (e.g.,
displays) that are connected to the input button 610 and separated
from the cavity of the enclosure.
[0102] In some embodiments, the input button may sense a user input
via one or more sensors positioned on the head of the button. FIG.
12 is a cross-section view of the input button including an input
sensor. With reference to FIG. 12, in this embodiment, the input
button 710 may be substantially similar to the input button 110,
but may include an input sensor 730 connected to or defined on the
head 748 of the button 710. The input sensor 730 may be similar to
the crown sensor 630 and may be configured to detect one or more
characteristics that may be used to detect a user input. As an
example, the input sensor 730 may include one or more capacitive
sensors, optical sensors, resistive sensors, or the like. The input
sensor 730 may determine if a user positions his or her finger on
the head 648 and if the user moves his or her finger along a
portion of the head 648 (e.g., around the exterior perimeter of the
head). In one embodiment, the input sensor 730 may include a
plurality of sensing elements 731 positioned around the sidewalls
defining the head 748, which may be configured to detect a user
sliding his or her finger around the head 748.
[0103] The input sensor 730 may receive power in a manner similar
to the crown sensor, or may be connected to a power source
positioned within the enclosure. For example, the input sensor 730
may be connected via one or more wires to a power source within the
enclosure or may be inductively coupled to a power source to
receive power wirelessly.
[0104] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the input button
710, and in particular the stem 750 and head 748, may be prevented
from rotating. In other words, the input button 710 may translate
laterally relative to the button aperture 172, but may not rotate
within the button aperture 172. In these embodiments, the user may
provide a rotational input to the wearable device by rotating his
or her finger around the head 648 (or other areas of the input
button) and the input sensor 730 detects the movement of the finger
around the head and provides the input to the processing element.
In embodiments where the input button 710 translates laterally
within the button aperture 172, the stem 750 may be pushed by a
user against the switch sensor 160 to detect a user input. For
example, the user may press against the face of the head 748 and
provide a lateral force to the input button, causing the bottom
surface 745 of the stem 750 to press against the tip 158 of the
switch sensor 160, causing the switch sensor 160 to register a user
input.
[0105] In some embodiments, the input button 710 may be fixed
relative to the enclosure 114 or may be formed integrally
therewith. In these embodiments, the input sensor 730 may detect
"button press" inputs. In other words, the input sensor 730 may
detect a user input force F applied parallel to the stem 750 or
other inputs where the user provides a lateral force to the input
button. In this example, as the user presses his or her finger
against the face 747 of the head 748, the user's finger may expand
as it engages the face 747 or may conform to the shape of the face
748. As the force increases, the user's finger may interact with
more sensing elements 731 of the input sensor 730, which may be
correlated to the user input force F by the processing element 124.
For example the sensing elements 731 may be optical sensors and the
user's finger may cover more sensing elements 731 as the force F
increases or the sensing elements 731 may be capacitive sensors and
the user's finger may interact with more capacitive sensors as the
force increases. In these embodiments, the sensing elements 731 may
be positioned along the face 747, as well as sidewalls of the head
748 and may be positioned in a pattern, such as rows or circles, or
may be positioned randomly.
[0106] In some embodiments, the tactile switch positioned within
the enclosure may be positioned within a sidewall of the enclosure
surrounding the input button. These embodiments may allow
non-lateral forces, such as forces applied perpendicular to the
stem to register a user input, as well as provide a tactile
sensation to the user. FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view of an
embodiment of the input button including a switch sensor 106
positioned parallel to the stem. FIG. 13B is a cross-section view
of the input button illustrated in FIG. 13A with a force being
applied to the head. With initial reference to FIG. 13A, in this
embodiment, the button assembly may include the input button 810
positioned within an enclosure 814. The enclosure 814 may be
substantially similar to the enclosure 114 but may include a switch
cavity 816 defined therein. The switch cavity 816 may be formed as
an extension or pocket of the button aperture 872. As an example, a
defining the button aperture 872 on a first side of the button
aperture 872 may expand outwards to form a switch sidewall 860 that
defines the switch cavity 816. In these embodiments, the switch
cavity 816 may open into a device cavity 812 defined by the display
116 and the enclosure 814. In this manner, the switch cavity 816
may be formed as a recess in the sidewall 858 of the enclosure 814.
However, in other embodiments, the switch cavity may be at least
partially enclosed (see, e.g., FIG. 14).
[0107] With continued reference to FIG. 13A, the input button 810
includes a head 848 having a front face 847 and a stem 850
extending from a bottom surface of the head 848. The head 848 may
form a flange for the end of the stem 850 and may also include a
sidewall 845. The stem 850 may include an annular recess 852
defined around an outer surface thereof. The annular recess 852 may
be defined in a middle portion of the stem, towards an end of the
stem 850, or otherwise as desired. A sealing element 154 may be
received within the annular recess 852. The sealing element 154, as
discussed above, may be a compressible element, such as an O-ring
or seal cup.
[0108] The trackable element 146 may be connected to the bottom of
the stem 850 and may be in communication with the sensing element
142. The sensing element 142 is configured to detect movement or
rotation of the trackable element 146 to determine user inputs to
the input button 810. In some embodiments, the sensing element 142
may be aligned with the stem 850 and the button aperture 872 and
may be positioned adjacent to the bottom end of the stem. The
sensing element 142 may be supported by a substrate 866.
[0109] The button assembly illustrated in FIG. 13A may also include
the switch sensor 160. The switch sensor 160, as described in FIG.
3, includes the dome 214 and substrate 166. However, in this
embodiment, the switch sensor 160, or at least a portion thereof,
is received within the switch cavity 816. In particular, the switch
sensor 160 may be connected to the switch sidewall 860 but may
extend partially into the cavity 812. In this manner, the switch
sensor 160 may be connected to the substrate 866, to support the
substrate 866 and sensing element 142 within the cavity 812. The
switch sensor 160 and the switch cavity 816 may be configured such
that the tip 158 of the dome 214 may be positioned adjacent to the
outer sidewall 851 of the stem 850. In some embodiments, the tip
158 may even be positioned against the outer sidewall 851 of the
stem 850. The distance between the tip 158 and the sidewall 851 may
determine the amount of force applied to the head 848 in order to
activate the switch sensor 160. As an example, the further the
distance, the more force that may be required to activate the
switch sensor.
[0110] In operation, the user may rotate the head 848, which causes
the stem 850 to rotate correspondingly. As described in more detail
above with respect to FIG. 3, the sensing element 142 tracks the
rotation of the trackable element 146 to determine the rotation of
the stem 850. For example, the trackable element 146 may be a
magnetic element and the sensing element 142 may be a Hall effect
sensor, or another magnetic sensor that may detect movement of the
trackable element. In other embodiments, the trackable element and
the sensing element may be otherwise configured to detect user
input to the stem.
[0111] With reference to FIG. 13B, if a user applies a force F to
the sidewall 845 of the head 848 that angles relative to the button
aperture 872, the head 848 may deflect in downwards relative to the
button aperture 872. Although the stem 850 is illustrated as
impacting or deflecting the enclosure 814 in FIG. 13B, it should be
appreciated that the deflection of the stem may be exaggerated for
purposes of clarity. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a portion
of the enclosure may be deformable to a chamfer, or another space
may be defined in the enclosure to permit the stem to angularly
deflect as shown. That is, the head 848 may deflect in the
direction of the applied force F and may move vertically relative
to the button aperture 872 in a first direction D1. As the head 848
moves downward, the stem 850 may compress a bottom of the sealing
element 154 and pivots at pivot point 854. The bottom end 853 of
the stem 850 and trackable element 146 then move upwards towards
the switch sidewall 860 of the sensor cavity 816 in a second
direction D2. Movement of the bottom end 853 of the stem 850 in the
second direction D2 causes the sidewall 858 of the stem 850 to
compress the tip 158, collapsing the dome 214. As the dome
collapses, the switch sensor 160 registers an input and the dome
provides feedback to the user regarding activation of the switch
sensor 160.
[0112] In some embodiments, a middle portion of the stem may
activate the switch sensor. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of
another example of the button 810 illustrated in FIG. 13A. With
reference to FIG. 14, in this embodiment, the switch cavity 816 may
be defined towards an exterior of the enclosure 814 and may be
aligned with a middle portion, rather than a bottom end, of the
stem. Additionally, the seal cavity 816 may be somewhat enclosed
from the cavity 812 when the stem 850 is received into the button
aperture 872. In other words, the stem 850 may form a lid or cover
for the switch cavity 816.
[0113] Additionally, the annular recess 852 may be defined towards
the bottom end of the stem 850. In particular, when the stem 850 is
positioned within the button aperture 872, the sealing member 154
may be positioned between the cavity 812 and the seal cavity
816.
[0114] With continued reference to FIG. 14, a sensing seal 835 may
be positioned around the trackable element 146 and the button
aperture 872. In this manner, the sensing seal 835 may
substantially seal the cavity 812 from the button aperture 872 to
prevent fluids, debris, and the like from entering into the cavity
812 from the button aperture 872. Depending on the type of sensing
element 142 and trackable element 146, the sensing seal 835 may be
positioned between the trackable element 146 and the sensing
element 142. However, in other embodiments, the sensing seal 835
may be positioned around both the sensing element and the trackable
element.
[0115] In operation, with reference to FIG. 14, as a user applies a
force F to the sidewall 845 of the head 848, the head 848 may move
in the first direction D1 corresponding to the direction of the
input force F. The back end 853 of the stem 850 may move upwards,
but the middle portion or the belly of the stem 850 may move in the
direction D1 with the head 848 due to the pivot point 854 being
positioned towards the back end 853 of the stem 850. In other
words, as the pivot point 854 is located towards the end 853 of the
stem 850, the middle portion of the stem 850 moves in the same
direction D1 as the force F. The compressibility of the sealing
member 154 provides a pivot point for the stem 850, to allow the
stem 850 to move within the constraints of the button aperture 872
in order to activate the switch sensor 160.
[0116] With reference to FIGS. 13B and 14, depending on the
location of the pivot point 854, which may be determined by the
location of the sealing member 154, the switch sensor 160 may be
located at a number of different locations relative to the stem 850
and may be activated by forces applied in a variety of directions.
As such, the location of the switch sensor may be varied as
desired.
[0117] Generally, the sensor may output a signal in response to
motion of the stem 850 and/or head. The signal may vary depending
on the type of motion. For example, a rotational motion may cause a
first signal output, while a lateral motion causes a second signal
output and an angular motion causes a third signal output. The
processor may receive the signal or data based on the signal, and
may use the signal (or related data) to determine the input type
and execute or initiate an action based on the input type, as
appropriate. Further, in some embodiments, different sensors may
sense different types of motion, such that multiple sensors may be
used to sense multiple motions.
[0118] In some embodiments, the button assembly may further include
a motor coupled to the input button that may provide feedback to a
user as well as sense a user input to the button. FIG. 15 is a
cross-sectional view of the input button including a motor. With
reference to FIG. 15, the input button 810 may be substantially
similar to the input button 810 illustrated in FIG. 13A, but may
include a motor 880 attached to the stem 850. The motor 880
includes a drive shaft 882 and is configured to detect motion of a
trackable element 846, as well as cause motion of the trackable
element, via movement of the drive shaft 882. The motor 880 may be,
for example, a rotary or linear vibrating motor that is coupled to
the stem 850. The drive shaft 882 couples to the stem 850 via the
trackable element 846. For example, the trackable element may be
secured to the bottom surface of the stem 850 and then connects to
the drive shaft 882.
[0119] In a first mode, the motor 880 may act as a sensing element
and detect rotational user input to the input button 810. In
embodiments where the motor 880 is a rotary motor, as a user
provides a rotational input R to the head 848, the head 848 and
stem 850 may rotate correspondingly. As the stem 850 rotates, the
trackable element 846 rotates, rotating the drive shaft 882. As the
drive shaft 882 rotates, the motor 880 senses the movement and
provides a signal to the processing element 124. In embodiments
where the motor 880 is a linear motor, as a user provides a linear
input L to the head 848, e.g., by pushing the head 848 lateral
towards the enclosure 814, the stem 850 moves laterally within the
button aperture 872 and the trackable element 846 moves the drive
shaft 882 in the lateral direction. The movement of the drive shaft
882 in the lateral direction may be detected by the motor 880,
which creates a signal to provide to the processing element
124.
[0120] In a second mode, the motor 880 may be used to provide
feedback to the user. For example, in instances where the motor 880
is a rotary motor, the drive shaft 882 may rotate the trackable
element 846, which in turn rotates the stem 850 and head 848. The
rotational movement of the head 848 may be used to provide a visual
indication, as well as a tactile indication (when the user is
touching the head 848) to the user regarding the selection of a
particular input, a state of the device, or the other parameter
where feedback may be desired. In an embodiment where the motor 880
is a linear motor, the drive shaft 882 may move the stem 850
linearly within the button aperture 872 to provide feedback to the
user.
[0121] Additionally, the motor 880 may be used to provide dynamic
feedback to the user. For example, the motor 880 may be configured
to rotate or otherwise move the stem 850 that is used to provide a
"tick" or detent feel, without the requirement for a mechanical
detent. As an example, a user may rotate the input button 810 to
scroll through a list of selectable items presented on the display
116. As the user passes a selectable item, the motor 880 may move
the stem 850 to provide a click or tick feel. Additionally, the
motor 880 may selectively increase or decrease a force required to
rotate or move the input button. For example, the motor 880 may
exert a force in the opposite direction of the user input force,
and the user may be required to overcome the force exerted by the
motor 880 in order to rotate the input button 810. As another
example, motor 880 may be used provide a hard stop to limit the
rotation of the head 848. The hard stop may be set at a particular
rotational distance or may be based on a list of selectable items,
presented items, or the like. As with the feedback example, to
provide the hard stop, the motor 880 exerts a force on the stem 850
in the opposite direction of the user applied force, and the force
may be sufficiently high to prevent the user from overcoming the
force or may be set to indicate the user the location of the hard
stop. As yet another example, the motor 880 may provide a "bounce
back" or "rubber band" feedback for certain inputs. In this
example, as the user reaches the end of a selectable list, the
motor may rotate the stem 850 in the opposite direction of the user
applied force, which may cause the head 848 to appear to bounce
backwards off of the end of the list presented on the display
116.
[0122] Additionally or alternatively, the wearable device may
include a mechanical detent that may be used to provide feedback to
the user as the user provides input to the input button 810. In
this example, the mechanical detent may be defined on the inner
sidewall of the button aperture 872 and may provide feedback to a
user and/or may be used as a stop for limiting rotation of the stem
850. The detent may be used in conjunction with the motor 880 or
separate therefrom.
[0123] In some embodiments, the motor 880 may include a clutch that
selectively engages and disengages the stem 850 and the motor. In
these embodiments, the motor 880 may be disengaged to allow a user
to provide a manual input without feedback and then may be engaged
to provide feedback, prevent user rotation of the stem 850, or the
like.
[0124] In some embodiments, the input button may include one or
more sensors positioned within the head or other portion of the
input button that may be used to detect user input thereto. FIG. 16
is a cross-sectional view of the input button including an input
sensor connected to the head. With reference to FIG. 16, in this
embodiment, the input button 910 may include a head 948 having a
face 947 and a stem 950 extending from a back portion of the head
948. The head 948 may define a sensor cavity 932 that receives an
input sensor 930. The sensor cavity 932 may be configured to have
approximately the same dimensions as the input sensor 930 or may be
larger or smaller than the input sensor 930. In some embodiments,
the sensor cavity 932 may contain other components, such as a
communication component or processing element.
[0125] The input sensor 930 may be substantially any type of sensor
that may detect one or more parameters. As some non-limiting
examples, the sensor 930 may be a microphone, accelerometer, or
gyroscope, and may be used to detect user input to the head 948
and/or stem 950. As one example, the input sensor 930 may be an
accelerometer and as the user provides input, such as a lateral or
rotational force of the input button 910, the accelerometer may
detect the change in acceleration, which may be used by the
processing element 124 to determine the user input force to the
button. Continuing with this example, if the user provides a "tap"
or other input to the face 947 or other area of the head 948, the
accelerometer may be configured to detect the movement due to the
force in order to detect the user input force.
[0126] In another example, the input sensor 930 may be a
microphone. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the input button
910. In this example, one or more apertures 945 may be defined
through the face 947 of the head 948. The apertures 945 may be in
fluid communication with the sensor cavity 932 such that sound
waves may travel through the face 947 to reach the sensor 930
positioned within the sensor cavity 932. In this example, the input
sensor 930 may detect user input, such as taps, clicks, or presses
on the head 948, detecting the sounds created by the engagement of
a user's finger with the head 948. In particular, as the user
presses his or her finger against the head 948, the force may
create one or more sound waves that may travel through the
apertures 945 in the face 947 to reach the sensor 930. In these
embodiments, the head 948 may form an input port to receive use
inputs and may rotate or may not rotate. In other words, the head
may be secured in position or may be allowed to rotate to provide
the user with haptic feedback and tactile sensation as input is
provided to the input button.
[0127] It should be noted that although the head 948 shown in FIG.
17 has a plurality of apertures defined therethrough, in some
embodiments the apertures may be omitted. For example, the head 948
may be created out of a material that may not dampen sound waves,
e.g., a material that may transmit sound waves therethrough.
Additionally or alternatively, the input sensor 930 may be
positioned against the face 947 and the face 947 may have a
sufficiently thin thickness so as to allow sound waves to travel
therethrough.
[0128] Although the input sensor 930 and sensor cavity 932 have
been discussed as being in the head 948, in some embodiments, the
input sensor and sensor cavity may be positioned in the sidewalls
of the head 948. In these embodiments, the sidewalls may include
one or more apertures to allow sound waves to travel through.
[0129] The foregoing description has broad application. For
example, while examples disclosed herein may focus on a wearable
electronic device, it should be appreciated that the concepts
disclosed herein may equally apply to substantially any other type
of electronic device. Similarly, although the input button may be
discussed with respect to a crown for a watch, the devices and
techniques disclosed herein are equally applicable to other types
of input button structures. Accordingly, the discussion of any
embodiment is meant only to be exemplary and is not intended to
suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is
limited to these examples.
* * * * *