Patent Description:
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. <CIT> describes a switching mechanism for a multimode electronic timepiece including a setting stem mounted for rotational movement and positionable in a plurality of axial setting positions. <CIT> describes an electronic timepiece comprises: a winding knob; a detection section which detects positional information and rotation information of the winding knob.

There is provided an electronic watch as set out in the appended claims.

There is provided a method of providing dynamic feedback as set out in the appended claims.

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.

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.

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, maintain 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.

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.

Turning now to the figures, an illustrative wearable electronic device will now be discussed in more detail. <FIG> is a top plan view of a wearable electronic device. <FIG> is a simplified block diagram of the wearable electronic device of <FIG>. With reference to <FIG>, the wearable electronic device <NUM> may include a hub <NUM> or computing center or element. In embodiments where the electronic device <NUM> is configured to be worn by a user, the device <NUM> may include one or more straps <NUM>, <NUM> that may connect to opposite sides of the hub <NUM>. Each of the straps <NUM>, <NUM> may wrap around a portion of a wrist, arm, leg, chest, or other portion of a user's body to secure the hub <NUM> to the user. For example, the ends of each of the straps <NUM>, <NUM> may be connected together by a fastening mechanism <NUM>. The fastening mechanism <NUM> can be substantially any type of fastening device, such as, but not limited, to, as lug, hook and loop structure, magnetic fasteners, snaps, buttons, clasps or the like. However, in one embodiment, such as the one shown in <FIG>, the fastening mechanism <NUM> is a buckle including a prong <NUM> or element that can be inserted into one or more apertures <NUM> in the second strap <NUM> to secure the first and second straps <NUM>, <NUM> together.

The hub <NUM> of the wearable electronic device generally contains the computing and processing elements of the wearable electronic device <NUM>. <FIG> is a partial cross-section view of the hub <NUM> taken along line <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>. With reference to <FIG>, the hub <NUM> may include a display <NUM> at least partially surrounded by an enclosure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the display <NUM> may form a face of the hub <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM> may abut the edges and/or a portion of the backside of the display <NUM>. Additionally, the internal components of the wearable device <NUM> may be contained within the enclosure <NUM> between the display <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM>. The enclosure <NUM> protects the internal components of the hub <NUM>, as well as connects the display <NUM> to the hub <NUM>.

The enclosure <NUM> may be constructed out of a variety of materials, such as, but not limited to, plastics, metals, alloys, and so on. The enclosure <NUM> includes a button aperture <NUM> (see <FIG>) to receive the input button <NUM> or a portion thereof. The button aperture <NUM> forms a channel within a sidewall <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> and extends from an outer surface <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> to an interior surface <NUM>. The button aperture <NUM> generally is configured to correspond to a size/shape of, or accept, a stem or spindle of the input button <NUM>. That said, the button aperture <NUM> may be otherwise shaped and sized.

The enclosure <NUM> may also include a groove <NUM> defined on a top surface to receive the display <NUM>. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the display <NUM> may be connected to the enclosure <NUM> 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.

The display <NUM> may be substantially any type of display screen or device that can provide a visual output for the wearable device <NUM>. As an example, the display <NUM> may be a liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, or the like. Additionally, the display <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be dynamically variable; however, in other embodiments, the display <NUM> may be a non-electronic component, such as a painted faceplate, that may not dynamically change.

The display <NUM> may show a plurality of icons <NUM>, <NUM> or other graphics that are selectively modifiable. As an example, a first graphic <NUM> 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 <NUM> may include a notification graphic, such as, battery life, messages received, or the like. The two graphics <NUM>, <NUM> may be positioned substantially anywhere on the display <NUM> and may be varied as desired. Additionally, the number, size, shape, and other characteristics of the graphics <NUM>, <NUM> may be changed as well.

The input button <NUM> extends from and attaches to or passes through the enclosure <NUM>. The input button <NUM> will be discussed in more detail below, but generally allows a user to provide input to the wearable electronic device <NUM>, as well as optionally provide haptic feedback to a user.

With reference to <FIG>, the wearable electronic device includes a plurality of internal processing or computing elements. For example, the wearable electronic device <NUM> may include a power source <NUM>, one or more processing elements <NUM>, a memory component <NUM>, one or more sensors <NUM>, at least one of which is a light sensor, and an input/output component <NUM>. Each of the internal components may be received within the enclosure <NUM> and may be in communication through one or more systems buses <NUM>, traces, printed circuit boards, or other communication mechanisms.

The power source <NUM> provides power to the hub <NUM> and other components of the wearable device <NUM>. The power source <NUM> may be a battery or other portable power element. Additionally, the power source <NUM> may be rechargeable or replaceable.

The processing element <NUM> or processor is substantially any type of device that can receive and execute instructions. For example, the processing element <NUM> may be a processor, microcomputer, processing unit or group of processing units or the like. Additionally, the processing element <NUM> may include one or more processors and in some embodiments may include multiple processing elements.

The one or more sensors <NUM> 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 <NUM>. For example, the sensors <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be used in conjunction with the input button <NUM> or separate therefrom, to provide user input to the hub <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the memory component <NUM> stores electronic data that may be utilized by the wearable device <NUM>. For example, the memory component <NUM> may store electrical data or content e.g., audio files, video files, document files, and so on, corresponding to various applications. The memory <NUM> 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.

The input/output interface <NUM> may receive data from a user or one or more other electronic devices. Additionally, the input/output interface <NUM> may facilitate transmission of data to a user or to other electronic devices. For example, the input/output interface <NUM> 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 <NUM> may support multiple network or communication mechanisms. For example, the network/communication interface <NUM> 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.

The input button <NUM> will now be discussed in more detail. With reference to <FIG>, the input button <NUM> includes a head <NUM> and a stem <NUM> or spindle. The stem <NUM> is received into the button aperture <NUM> defined in the enclosure <NUM> and the head <NUM> extends outwards from the stem <NUM> outside of the enclosure <NUM>. In embodiments where the wearable electronic device <NUM> is a watch, the input button <NUM> forms a crown for the watch, with head <NUM> acting as a user engagement surface to allow the user to rotate, pull, and/or push the crown <NUM> or input button.

With reference to <FIG>, the head <NUM> is generally a flange shaped member that may have a cylindrical body and a rounded or flat top. Additionally, the head <NUM> may optionally include a plurality of ridges <NUM> or other tactile features. The ridges <NUM> may enhance the friction between a user's finger or fingers and the head <NUM>, making it easier for the user to rotate or pull the head <NUM>, 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 <NUM> may include a ridge <NUM> every quarter around the outer surface of the head <NUM> that can indicate to a user when the head has rotated <NUM> degrees. However, in other embodiments, the ridge <NUM> may be omitted or other features may be used.

With reference again to <FIG>, the stem <NUM> may be a generally cylindrically shaped member and may extend from the head <NUM>. The head <NUM> and the stem <NUM> may be integrally formed or may be discrete components that are fixedly attached together. The stem <NUM> may also include a sealing groove <NUM> defined around a portion of its outer circumference. The sealing groove <NUM> is configured to receive a sealing member, such as an O-ring <NUM> or seal cup. In some embodiments, the stem <NUM> has a longer length than a length of the button aperture <NUM>. In this manner, opposite ends of the stem <NUM> extend from either side of the button aperture <NUM>. In these embodiments, the head <NUM> may be spatially separated from the outer surface of the enclosure by the length of the stem <NUM> that extends outward from the outer end of the button aperture. However, in other embodiments the stem <NUM> may have a length that is substantially the same as a length of the button aperture <NUM> or may be shorter than a length of the button aperture <NUM>. In the later example, one or more portions of the sensing circuitry (disused in more detail below) may be positioned directly beneath the button aperture <NUM> or partially within the button aperture <NUM>.

The input button <NUM> includes a trackable element <NUM> or encoder positioned on a bottom of the stem <NUM>. <FIG> is a bottom plan view of the button <NUM>. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the trackable element <NUM> may be connected to a bottom end of the stem <NUM> or may be connected to or defined on the outer surface of the stem <NUM>. The trackable element <NUM> interacts with a sensing element <NUM> to allow the sensing element <NUM> to track movement of the stem <NUM> by tracking movement of the trackable element <NUM>. As such, the trackable element <NUM> is connected to the steam <NUM> such that as the stem <NUM> moves or rotates, such as due to a user input to the head <NUM>, the trackable element <NUM> will move correspondingly.

The position, size, and type of material for the trackable element <NUM> may be varied based on the sensing element <NUM>, 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 <NUM> can be modified to enhance tracking of the stem <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, in one embodiment, the trackable element <NUM> is a magnet, either permanent or electromagnetic. In this embodiment, the trackable element <NUM> may be a cylindrical disc including a first pole <NUM> and a second pole <NUM>. The first pole <NUM> may be the north pole of the trackable element <NUM> and the second pole <NUM> may be the south pole of the trackable element <NUM>. The two poles <NUM>, <NUM> may be diametrically opposed, such that half of the trackable element <NUM> forms the first pole <NUM> and other half of the trackable element <NUM> forms the second pole <NUM>, with the two poles <NUM>, <NUM> forming half-circle shapes. In other words, the bottom face of the trackable element <NUM> is split in polarity along its diameter.

In some embodiments, the trackable element may include two or more magnets positioned around the perimeter of the stem <NUM>. In these embodiments, the rotational sensor may be positioned within the button aperture to track rotation of the stem <NUM>.

The sensing element <NUM> and corresponding structures will now be discussed in more detail. <FIG> is an enlarged cross-section view of the wearable electronic device taken along line <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the sensing element <NUM> is supported within the enclosure <NUM> and is configured to detect rotational, vertical, and/or lateral movements of the button <NUM>. The sensing element <NUM> may be supported on a substrate <NUM> and includes one or more sensors. For example, the sensing element <NUM> may include rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d and a switch sensor <NUM>. The rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d and the switch sensor <NUM> may be positioned within a compartment <NUM> or other enclosure. The compartment <NUM> is supported on the substrate <NUM> by a contact floor <NUM> that forms a bottom of the sensing element <NUM>. The compartment <NUM> and the contact floor <NUM> define a cavity <NUM> in which the sensors are received.

The rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d are configured to detect rotation of the stem <NUM> or other portions of the crown or button <NUM>. In an embodiment that does not form part of the claimed invention, the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> 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 <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the trackable element may be positioned on the head <NUM> or exterior portion of the button <NUM>. In these embodiments, the rotational sensor may be in communication (either optically or, when not forming part of the claimed invention, magnetically) with the input button <NUM> through the housing or enclosure <NUM>. For example, the enclosure may include a transparent portion or window and an optical sensor may track movement of the crown through the window.

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 <NUM>. This allows the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d to track rotation of the trackable element <NUM> 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 <NUM>.

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>, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d are aligned in plane with one another.

Additionally, although the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> 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 <NUM> to detect rotation of the stem <NUM>, without additional components, which may reduce cost and manufacturing complexities of the wearable device <NUM>.

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). In examples that do not form part of the claimed invention, the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d may be 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.

The switch sensor <NUM> includes an electrical contact element <NUM>, a collapsible dome <NUM> and a tip <NUM>. The electrical contact element <NUM> interacts with a contact element on the floor <NUM> to indicate when the switch sensor <NUM> has been activated. For example, when the contact element <NUM> contacts the floor <NUM>, a circuit may be completed, a signal may be stimulated of created, or the like. The dome <NUM> is a resilient and flexible material that collapses or flexes upon a predetermined force level. The dome <NUM> may be a thin metal dome, a plastic dome, or other may be constructed from other materials. The dome <NUM> 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 <NUM>. The tip <NUM> is connected to the dome <NUM> and when a force is applied to the tip <NUM>, the tip <NUM> is configured to collapse the dome <NUM>.

Although the switch sensor <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> as being a tactile switch, many other sensors are envisioned. For example, the switch sensor <NUM> may be a magnetic sensor, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor. In a specific example, the switch sensor <NUM> may be capacitive sensor and can detect changes in capacitance as the button <NUM> is pressed by a user and the stem <NUM> moves closer to the sensor <NUM>. As such, the discussion of any particular embodiment is meant as illustrative only.

It should be noted that the sensing element <NUM> including the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d and the switch sensor <NUM> may be an integrated sensing component or package that may be installed into the hub <NUM> as one component. Alternatively, the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d and the switch sensors <NUM> 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 <NUM> may include only a single sensor, such as either the rotational sensor or the switch sensor.

With continued reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the sensing element <NUM> is surrounded by a seal <NUM>. The seal <NUM>, which may be pressure sensitive adhesive, heat activated film, silicone, or other sealing materials, is positioned around a perimeter of the compartment <NUM>. For example, the seal <NUM> may be a rectangular shaped element that extends around a perimeter of the compartment <NUM> and sealing member. The seal <NUM> defines an opening allowing the rotation sensors and the switch sensor to be in communication with the trackable element <NUM> and stem <NUM>. A membrane <NUM> or flexible seal extends over the opening and is positioned over the sensing element <NUM>. The membrane <NUM> acts along with the seal <NUM> to prevent water, debris, and other elements from reaching the sensing element <NUM>. For example, water and other elements may travel through the button aperture <NUM> within the enclosure <NUM>, but due to the membrane and the seal <NUM> may not reach the sensing element <NUM> and other internal components of the wearable electronic device <NUM>. As another example, in some embodiments, the button <NUM> may be removable and the seal <NUM> and membrane <NUM> prevent water and other elements from damaging the sensing element <NUM> and/or other internal components of the wearable device <NUM> while the crown or button is removed.

With reference to <FIG>, the tip <NUM> of switch sensor <NUM> may be positioned above the membrane <NUM>, with a sealing ring <NUM> sealing the membrane <NUM> against the sidewalls of the tip <NUM>. In these embodiments, the membrane <NUM> may be flexible and allow the tip <NUM> to move vertically without ripping or otherwise compromising the seal of the membrane.

Operation of the input button <NUM> will now be discussed in further detail. With reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, to provide a first input to the wearable input device <NUM>, the user applies a push force F to the head <NUM> of the crown or button <NUM>. As the force F is exerted against the head <NUM>, the head and the steam <NUM> move laterally along the length of the button aperture <NUM> in the direction of the force F, towards the internal cavity <NUM> defined by the enclosure <NUM>. As the stem <NUM> moves into the cavity <NUM>, the bottom end of the stem <NUM>, in some instances, the trackable element <NUM>, transfers at least a portion of the force F to the tip <NUM>.

In response to the force F on the tip <NUM>, the dome <NUM> collapses, moving the contact <NUM> into communication with a contact (not shown) on the floor <NUM>. As the dome collapses <NUM>, 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 <NUM> registers an input, a signal is produced and transmitted to the processing element <NUM>. The processing element <NUM> then uses the signal to register a user input. It should be noted that in embodiments where the switch sensor <NUM> is positioned off-axis from the stem <NUM> (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.

In some embodiments, the button aperture may be sufficiently large that the switch sensor <NUM> can be activated by the angled force AF, even when the switch sensor is positioned beneath the stem <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In other words, the angled force AF or other off-axis force may activate the input button <NUM> when the frictional engagement of the stem <NUM> with the button aperture <NUM> 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 <NUM> 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 <NUM> or <NUM> degrees may be able to activate the switch sensor <NUM>.

Additionally, the input button <NUM> can register rotational inputs. For example, if a user applies a rotation force R to the head <NUM>, the head <NUM> and stem <NUM> rotate. As the stem <NUM> rotates, the trackable element <NUM> rotates correspondingly. The rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d track movement of the trackable element <NUM> and produce signals that are transmitted to the processing element <NUM>, which may use signals to determine the rotation speed and direction.

With reference to <FIG> in embodiments not forming part of the claimed invention where the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d are Hall effect sensors and the trackable element <NUM> is a magnet, the sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d may use the changes in magnetic field to determine rotation. With reference to <FIG>, as the stem <NUM> rotates due to the rotation force R (see <FIG>), the trackable element <NUM> rotates along the rotation axis therewith. As the trackable element <NUM> rotates the two poles <NUM>, <NUM> 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.

The changes in magnetic field can be used by the processing element <NUM> to determine rotation speed and direction the trackable element <NUM> (and thus stem <NUM>). In this manner, the user may apply a rotational input to the button <NUM>, which may be detected by the sensing element <NUM>. 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 <NUM>. 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 <NUM>.

As described above, in some embodiments that do not form part of the claimed invention, 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 <NUM> 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 <NUM> when activated. Thus, the sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d may constantly draw power when searching for a user input to the input button <NUM>.

However, in some embodiments it may be desirable to reduce power consumption of the wearable electronic device <NUM>. For example, it may be desirable for the power source <NUM> to provide power to the device <NUM> for multiple days without recharging. In these embodiments, the sensing element <NUM> can include an inductor near the trackable element <NUM> or other magnetic element attached to the crown. The inductor will generate a current when the trackable element <NUM> moves (such as due to a user input to the input button <NUM>). The induced current may be used as a wake or interrupt signal to the sensing element <NUM>. The sensing element <NUM> may then activate the rotation sensors 210a, 210b, 210c, 210d to allow better rotational sensing for the position of the stem <NUM>.

In the above embodiment, the wearable input device <NUM> may detect user inputs during zero power or low-power sleep modes. Thus, the life of the power source <NUM> may be enhanced, while not reducing the functionality of the device <NUM>. Moreover, the induced current could be used to get direction and/or rotational velocity measurements as the trackable element <NUM> is moved. For example, the current direction and voltage induced by the inductor may be used to determine rotational direction and speed.

In yet another embodiment that does not form part of the claimed invention, the sensing element <NUM> may include a magnet or magnetic element as the trackable element <NUM> 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 <NUM> may not require much, if any, power while still tracking user inputs to the input button <NUM> or crown.

With reference to <FIG>, the switch sensor <NUM> has been illustrated as being positioned on-axis with the stem <NUM> of the input button <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the switch sensor <NUM> may be positioned perpendicular to the stem <NUM> and/or otherwise angled relative to the stem <NUM>. In these embodiments, the switch sensor <NUM> can sense off-axis movement, such as a user pressing the head <NUM> downward at a <NUM> degree angle. For example, the switch sensor <NUM> may be positioned within the button aperture <NUM> and/or adjacent the opening of the button aperture <NUM> into the enclosure <NUM> and may track movement of the stem <NUM> vertically (relative to <FIG>) within the button aperture <NUM>.

In other embodiments, the wearable device <NUM> 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 <NUM> to force the stem <NUM> inwards towards the enclosure <NUM>, which may be registered by the on-axis switch. As another example, the user may press the head <NUM> downward at an angle relative to the button aperture <NUM>. The stem <NUM> may be pushed towards an inner wall of the button aperture <NUM> (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 <NUM> may be activated through a pivot point. In other words, the input to the crown or input button <NUM> may be on-axis, off-axis, perpendicular to the rotation direction, and/or a combination of the different input types.

In some embodiments, the wearable electronic device <NUM> may include components that may be used to retain the input button within the button aperture <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate cross-section views of examples of retention components for the input button. With initial reference to <FIG>, in a first example, the wearable electronic device <NUM> may include a clip <NUM> that connects to a bottom end of the stem <NUM>. For example, the clip <NUM> may be a C-clip that is received around a portion of the stem <NUM>. In this example, the clip <NUM> allows the stem <NUM> to rotate within the button aperture <NUM>, but prevents the stem <NUM> from being removed from the button aperture <NUM>. The clip <NUM> may have a larger diameter than the button aperture <NUM> to prevent removal of the input button <NUM> from the button aperture <NUM> or may be secured to the enclosure <NUM> in a manner that prevents the input button from being removed.

The stem <NUM> may also include a groove or other detent that receives the retaining element <NUM>. In this example, the retaining element <NUM> clips into position and is secured to the stem <NUM>. As another example, the retaining element <NUM> may be a bearing, such as a ball bearing, that is received around the outer surface of them stem. In this embodiment, the bearing may have a low friction connection to the stem <NUM>, to allow the stem <NUM> to rotate, but may have an increased diameter as compared to the stem <NUM>, which helps to secure the stem in position relative to the enclosure.

In some embodiments, the trackable element <NUM> may also act as a retaining element for the input button <NUM>. For example, the clip <NUM> in <FIG> may be a diametric magnet that may be detectable by the sensing element <NUM>. In other example, with reference to <FIG>, in another example, the retaining element may be a retaining magnet <NUM>. In this example, the retaining magnet <NUM> may be formed integrally with the stem <NUM> or connected to a bottom end thereof. The retaining magnet <NUM> may have a diameter that is substantially the same as the diameter of the stem <NUM>, which allows the input button <NUM> to be inserted into the button aperture <NUM> with the retaining magnet <NUM> connected thereto. In this embodiment, the trackable element <NUM> is a second magnet that is positioned within the cavity <NUM> defined by the enclosure <NUM>. The trackable element <NUM> includes an opposite polarization from the retaining magnet at least on a side that interfaces with the retaining magnet <NUM>. For example, the retaining magnet <NUM> 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 <NUM> and the retaining magnet <NUM> may experience an attractive force towards one another.

In some embodiments, the trackable element <NUM> may be separated from the retaining magnet <NUM> by a gap. In these embodiments, the gap may be sufficiently dimensioned such that the retaining magnet <NUM> is able to interact with the trackable element <NUM> and cause the trackable element <NUM> to move therewith. Alternatively, the trackable element <NUM> may be positioned against a surface of the retaining magnet <NUM>.

Due the varying polarizations, the trackable element <NUM> attracts the retaining magnet <NUM> pulling the input button <NUM> into the cavity <NUM>. The trackable element <NUM> may have a diameter configured to retain the button <NUM> within the button aperture <NUM>. For example, the trackable element <NUM> may have a larger diameter than a diameter of the button aperture <NUM> and larger than a diameter of the retaining magnet <NUM>. In these embodiments, the attraction between the retaining magnet and the trackable element may secure the two elements together, and prevent the stem <NUM> from being pulled through the button aperture, at least because the diameter of the trackable element may be larger than the button aperture.

In some embodiments, the trackable element <NUM> may also be detectable by the sensing element <NUM>. For example, because the trackable element <NUM> may be configured to retain the steam <NUM> within the button aperture <NUM>, the larger diameter of the trackable element <NUM>, as compared to the trackable element shown in <FIG> (which may have approximately the same diameter of the stem) may allow the sensing element <NUM> to more easily track movement of the trackable element <NUM>. That is, the trackable element in this example may have a larger surface area that may be tracked by the sensing element <NUM>, allowing the sensing element <NUM> to more easily detect its movements.

With continued reference to <FIG>, in this embodiment, the trackable element <NUM> rotates with the retaining magnet <NUM>. For example, as the stem rotates, the retaining magnet <NUM>, which is connected to the stem <NUM>, rotates. Continuing with this example, due to the magnetic force between the trackable element <NUM> and the retaining magnet <NUM>, the trackable element <NUM> rotates with the stem <NUM>. In these embodiments, the retaining magnet <NUM> may act to retain the stem <NUM> to the trackable element <NUM> and because of the increased size of the trackable element <NUM> as compared to the retaining magnet <NUM>, the trackable element <NUM> retains the button <NUM> within the button aperture <NUM>. The trackable element <NUM> then interacts with the sensing element <NUM> to allow the user inputs to the input button <NUM> to be detected.

The retaining elements shown in <FIG> and <FIG> 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 <NUM>, 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 <NUM>, <NUM> help to reduce water, fluid, and other debris from entering into the cavity <NUM> through the button aperture <NUM>. In other words, because the input button <NUM> may be securely connected to the enclosure <NUM>, certain elements can be blocked by the button or the retaining member and prevented from entering into the cavity <NUM> via the button aperture <NUM>. Moreover, the retaining elements may help to prevent the input button from becoming disconnected from the electronic device.

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> is a cross-section view of the wearable device including two sensing elements positioned within the cavity of the enclosure. With reference to <FIG>, in this embodiment that does not form part of the claimed invention, the sensing element <NUM> may include a first magnetometer <NUM> and a second magnetometer <NUM>. Each magnetometer <NUM>, <NUM> is configured to sense magnetic fields and optionally the direction of any sensed magnetic field. As one example, each magnetometer <NUM>, <NUM> 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 <NUM>, <NUM> 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.

The magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM> may be connected to a substrate <NUM>, an internal wall of the enclosure <NUM>, or another support structure. Optionally, a shielding element <NUM> may be positioned around at least a portion of the magnetometer <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, in one embodiment that does not form part of the claimed invention both magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM> may be positioned beneath the display <NUM> and the shielding element <NUM> may reduce interference and noise between the sensing element <NUM> and the display <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the shielding element <NUM> may be omitted or differently configured.

With continued reference to <FIG> in some embodiments, the two magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM> 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 <NUM>, and in particular movement of the trackable element <NUM>. In some embodiments, the distance D may be selected such that the magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM> may be able to sense movement of the trackable element <NUM>, 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.

In operation, the sensing element <NUM> including the magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM> detects changes in a local magnetic field due to the varying position of the trackable element <NUM>. That is, as the user rotates or otherwise provides an input to the input button <NUM>, the trackable element <NUM> varies its position relative to the sensing element <NUM>, causing a change in at least one component of the magnetic field. In embodiments where the trackable element <NUM> includes a magnetic component, varying the position of the trackable element <NUM> relative to the magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM> causes the magnetometers to detect a change in the magnetic field. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, which does not form part of the claimed invention, the distance D between the two magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM> is known and thus the delta or difference between the signals of the two magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM> can be determined. This delta can then be used to determine the position of the trackable element <NUM>. 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.

In some embodiments that do not form part of the claimed invention, the two magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to detect the magnitude of the magnetic field of the trackable element <NUM>, as well as the direction. In this manner, the processing element <NUM>, which is in communication with the sensing element <NUM>, can determine the user input the input button <NUM>, 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.

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 <NUM>. This may allow a user to provide input via the input button <NUM>, while at the same time viewing a compass output (e.g., arrow pointing towards north) on the display <NUM>.

In some embodiments that do not form part of the claimed invention, the sensing element <NUM> may be calibrated to avoid detecting magnetic fields that may be part of the wearable electronic device <NUM> or components it may interacts 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 <NUM> such that it may not substantially affect the sensing elements <NUM> ability to detect the trackable element <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, although the sensing element <NUM> of the input button <NUM> has been discussed as including two magnetometers <NUM>, <NUM>, in some embodiments the sensing element <NUM> may include a single magnetometer. By including a single magnetometer, the sensing element <NUM> 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 <NUM> to detect the user inputs, i.e., the sensitivity may be reduced.

In some embodiments, the trackable element may detect orientation, acceleration, or other parameters that can be used to determine a user input. <FIG> 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>, in this embodiment the input button <NUM> may be substantially similar to the input button <NUM>, but the trackable element <NUM> 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 <NUM> relative to the enclosure <NUM>. For example, the trackable element <NUM> is connected to the shaft <NUM> and as the user provides an input to the button <NUM>, the shaft rotates, and the trackable element <NUM> detects the direction and speed of rotation.

The sensing element <NUM> in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> may include a shaft contact <NUM>. The shaft contact <NUM> is electrically connected to the trackable element <NUM> and receives signals therefrom. For example, the shaft contact <NUM> may be a brush contact and be to rotate, allowing the shaft contact <NUM> and the trackable element <NUM> to be in electrical communication without substantially restricting rotation or other movement of the shaft <NUM> (via the trackable element).

In operation, as a user rotates the shaft <NUM>, for example, by rotating the head <NUM>, the trackable element <NUM> detects the rotation. In particular, the trackable element <NUM> experiences the rotation of the shaft <NUM> and detects the direction and speed of rotation. The trackable element <NUM> then produces an electrical signal that may be transmitted to the shaft contact <NUM>. For example, the shaft contact <NUM> brushes against the trackable element <NUM> as the trackable element <NUM> is spinning with the shaft <NUM> and detects the signal produced by the trackable element <NUM>.

The shaft contact <NUM> and the sensing element <NUM> provide the signal from the trackable element <NUM> to the processing element <NUM>. The processing element <NUM> may then compare the signal detected by the trackable element <NUM> to a rotational signal detected by one or more of the sensors <NUM> within the electronic device <NUM>. For example, in an example that does not form part of the claimed invention, the processing element <NUM> may subtract the trackable element <NUM> signal from a signal from a gyroscope sensor connected to the enclosure, logic board substrate <NUM>, or other element separated from the input button <NUM>. In this manner, the processing element <NUM> may determine the rotation and other movement of the stem <NUM> separated from rotational movement of the electronic device <NUM>. For example, the wearable electronic device <NUM> may be moved while worn on the wrist of a user, and if the readings from the device <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be a sufficiently higher magnitude than the rotation experienced by the wearable device <NUM> and the processing element <NUM> may not need to subtract the sensor <NUM> data from the data detected by the trackable element <NUM> to determine the user input to the button <NUM>.

In another example, the sensing element may detect features defined on the shaft of the button or otherwise connected thereto. <FIG> is a cross-section view the wearable device including another example of the sensing element and trackable element. With reference to <FIG>, in this example, input button <NUM> may include a head <NUM> and shaft <NUM> extending thereof. The input button <NUM> may be substantially similar to the input button <NUM>, but the trackable element <NUM> may be defined around a portion of the shaft <NUM>. For example, the trackable element <NUM> may be a series of notches, ridges, or other detectable markings (e.g., paint, colors, etc.), or other features. The trackable element <NUM> may be integrally formed with the shaft <NUM>, such as grooves or ridges formed during manufacturing/molding, or may be a separate element connected to shaft. In some embodiments, the trackable element <NUM> may extend around a portion of a bottom end of the outer surface of the shaft <NUM> or the trackable element <NUM> may extend around the entire outer surface of the shaft <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, in this example, the sensing element <NUM> may be connected to the enclosure <NUM> and may be positioned adjacent at least a portion of the shaft <NUM> and trackable element <NUM>. For example, the sensing element <NUM> may be positioned parallel with the portion of the shaft <NUM> that extends into the cavity <NUM> and may be anchored to the enclosure <NUM> surrounding the button aperture <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sensing element <NUM> may surround the entire shaft <NUM> of the input button and in other embodiments the sensing element <NUM> may surround only portions (e.g., positioned on opposing sides) of the shaft.

The sensing element <NUM> is configured to detect movement of the shaft <NUM> by detecting the trackable element <NUM>. As one example that does not form part of the claimed invention, the trackable element <NUM> may be a magnetic element and the sensing element <NUM> may be a Hall effect sensor. As a second example, the trackable element may be a colored marking and the sensing element <NUM> may be an optical sensor. As a third example that does not form part of the claimed invention, the trackable element <NUM> may be a metallic element or other capacitive sensitive element and the sensing element <NUM> may be a capacitive sensor. As a fourth example that does not form part of the claimed invention, the trackable element <NUM> may be a ridge or extension connected to the shaft and the sensing element <NUM> 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 <NUM>. In particular, the trackable element <NUM> may be corresponding gear or teeth that engage a mechanical element on the enclosure <NUM>. As the stem <NUM> rotates, the trackable element <NUM> will rotate, meshing the gears or teeth with the gears/teeth of the enclosure <NUM>, which may allow the sensing element to determine movement of the stem <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, in operation, the user rotates or provides a push input to the head <NUM>, the stem <NUM> moves correspondingly. As the stem <NUM> moves, the trackable element <NUM> rotates, translates, or otherwise moves relative to the sensing element <NUM>. The sensing element <NUM> provides a signal (or causes another element connected thereto to provide a signal) to the processing element, registering the user input to the input button <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the input button may include an electrical connection between the stem and the enclosure. <FIG> 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 <NUM> may be substantially similar to the input button <NUM>, but may include a direct electrical connection between the stem of the input button and the sensing element. With reference to <FIG>, the input button <NUM> may include a sensing element <NUM> connected to the enclosure <NUM> and positioned above the aperture receiving the stem <NUM>. In one example that does not form part of the claimed invention, the sensing element <NUM> may be an electrical contact or pad that is connected to an interior sidewall <NUM> of the button aperture <NUM>. The sensing element <NUM> may be in communication with the sensing element <NUM> 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.

The trackable element <NUM> in this embodiment may be a mechanical brush that is positioned on the stem <NUM>. For example, the trackable element <NUM> may include brush elements <NUM> positioned on an outer surface of the stem <NUM> at predetermined positioned. Alternatively, the brush elements <NUM> may be positioned around an entire perimeter of the outer surface of the stem <NUM>. In one example that does not form part of the claimed invention, the trackable element <NUM> may be one or more conductive elements that interact with the sensing element <NUM>. For example, the brush elements <NUM> may be copper bristles that electrically interact with the sensing element <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, in some embodiments, the trackable element <NUM> may be in electrical communication with a crown sensor <NUM> or an input sensor connected to the button. The crown sensor <NUM> may be positioned in the head <NUM> and/or stem <NUM> of the input button <NUM>. The crown sensor <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be positioned substantially anywhere on the head <NUM> and/or stem <NUM> and there may be two or more crown sensors <NUM> each connected to location within the input button <NUM>.

In operation, as a user provides an input, such as a rotational force to the head <NUM>, the stem <NUM> rotates. As the stem <NUM> rotates, the trackable element <NUM> contacts the sensing element <NUM>. In particular, the brush elements <NUM> intermittently or continuously directly contact the sensing element <NUM> creating an electrical connection between the trackable element <NUM> and the sensing element <NUM>. The sensing element <NUM> then creates an input signal corresponding to the sensed movement and provides the input signal to the processing element. In some embodiments, the sensing element <NUM> may sense the rotational speed and/or number of rotations of the stem <NUM> based on the number of contacts created between the brush elements <NUM> and the sensing element <NUM>.

In embodiments where the input button <NUM> includes the crown sensor <NUM>, the trackable element <NUM> may communicate one or more signals from the crown sensor <NUM> to the sensing element <NUM> or other components in communication with the sensing element <NUM> (e.g., processing element). As one example, the crown sensor <NUM> 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 <NUM> via the sensing element and trackable element. As another example, the crown sensor <NUM> may be a microphone and the trackable element <NUM> and sensing element <NUM> may be used to pull data from the microphone on the head <NUM> (or other location) and provide that data to the processing element <NUM>.

Alternatively or additionally, the sensing element <NUM> may transfer power to the trackable element and the crown sensor <NUM>. For example, when the brush elements <NUM> contact the sensing element <NUM>, the sensing element <NUM> may transfer current through the connection. The current transferred between the sensing element <NUM> and the trackable element <NUM> may be used to provide power to the crown sensor <NUM>, as well as any other components (e.g., displays) that are connected to the input button <NUM> and separated from the cavity of the enclosure.

In some embodiments, the input button may sense a user input via one or more sensors positioned on the head of the button. <FIG> is a cross-section view of the input button including an input sensor. With reference to <FIG>, in this embodiment, the input button <NUM> may be substantially similar to the input button <NUM>, but may include an input sensor <NUM> connected to or defined on the head <NUM> of the button <NUM>. The input sensor <NUM> may be similar to the crown sensor <NUM> and may be configured to detect one or more characteristics that may be used to detect a user input. As some example, the input sensor <NUM> may include one or more capacitive sensors, optical sensors, resistive sensors, or the like. The input sensor <NUM> may determine if a user positions his or her finger on the head <NUM> and if the user moves his or her finger along a portion of the head <NUM> (e.g., around the exterior perimeter of the head). In one embodiment, the input sensor <NUM> may include a plurality of sensing elements positioned around the sidewalls defining the head <NUM>, which may be configured to detect a user sliding his or her finger around the head <NUM>.

The input sensor may receive power in a manner similar to the crown sensor, or may be connected to a power source positioned with the enclosure. For example, the input sensor 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.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the input button <NUM>, and in particular the stem <NUM> and head <NUM>, may be prevented from rotating. In other words, the input button <NUM> may translate laterally relative to the button aperture <NUM>, but may not rotate within the button aperture <NUM>. In these embodiments, the user may provide a rotational input to the wearable device by rotating his or her finger around the head <NUM> (or other areas of the input button) and the input sensor <NUM> detects the movement of the finger around the head and provides the input to the processing element. In embodiments where the input button <NUM> translates laterally within the button aperture <NUM>, the stem <NUM> may be pushed by a user against the switch sensor <NUM> to detect a user input. For example, the user may press against the face of the head <NUM> and provide a lateral force to the input button, causing the bottom surface <NUM> of the stem <NUM> to press against the tip <NUM> of the switch sensor <NUM>, causing the switch sensor <NUM> to register a user input.

In some embodiments, the input button <NUM> may be fixed relative to the enclosure <NUM> or may be formed integrally therewith. In these embodiments, the input sensor <NUM> may detect "button press" inputs. In other words, the input sensor <NUM> may detect a user input force F applied parallel to the stem <NUM> 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 <NUM> of the head <NUM>, the user's finger may expand as it engages the face <NUM> or may conform to the shape of the face <NUM>. As the force increases, the user's finger may interact with more sensing elements <NUM> of the input sensor <NUM>, which may be correlated to the user input force F by the processing element <NUM>. For example the sensing elements <NUM> may be optical sensors and the user's finger may cover more sensing elements <NUM> as the force F increases or the sensing elements <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be positioned along the face <NUM>, as well as sidewalls of the head <NUM> and may be positioned in a pattern, such as rows or circles, or may be positioned randomly.

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> is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the input button including a switch sensor positioned parallel to the stem. <FIG> is a cross-section view of the input button illustrated in <FIG> with a force being applied to the head. With initial reference to <FIG>, in this embodiment, the button assembly may include the input button <NUM> positioned within an enclosure <NUM>. The enclosure <NUM> may be substantially similar to the enclosure <NUM> but may include a switch cavity <NUM> defined therein. The switch cavity <NUM> may be formed as an extension or pocket of the button aperture <NUM>. As an example, a sidewall <NUM> defining the button aperture <NUM> on a first side of the button aperture <NUM> may expand outwards to form a switch sidewall <NUM> that defines the switch cavity <NUM>. In these embodiments, the switch cavity <NUM> may be open into a device cavity <NUM> defined by the display <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM>. In this manner, the switch cavity <NUM> may be formed as a recess in the internal wall <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the switch cavity may be at least partially enclosed (see, e.g., <FIG>).

With continued reference to <FIG>, the input button <NUM> includes a head <NUM> having a front face <NUM> and a stem <NUM> extending from a bottom surface of the head <NUM>. The head <NUM> may form a flange for the end of the steam <NUM> and may also include a sidewall <NUM>. The stem <NUM> may include an annular recess <NUM> defined around an outer surface thereof. The annular recess <NUM> may be defined in a middle portion of the stem, towards an end of the stem <NUM>, or otherwise as desired. A sealing element <NUM> may be received within the annular recess <NUM>. The sealing element <NUM>, as discussed above, may be a compressible element, such as an O-ring or seal cup.

The trackable element <NUM> may be connected to the bottom of the stem <NUM> and may be in communication with the sensing element <NUM>. The sensing element <NUM> is configured to detect movement or rotation of the trackable element <NUM> to determine user inputs to the input button <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sensing element <NUM> may be aligned with the stem <NUM> and the button aperture <NUM> and may be positioned adjacent to the bottom end of the stem. The sensing element <NUM> may be supported by a substrate <NUM>.

The button assembly illustrated in <FIG> may also include the switch sensor <NUM>. The switch sensor <NUM>, as described in <FIG>, includes the dome <NUM> and substrate <NUM>. However, in this embodiment, the switch sensor <NUM>, or at least a portion thereof, is received within the switch enclosure <NUM>. In particular, the switch sensor <NUM> may be connected to the switch sidewall <NUM> but may extend partially into the cavity <NUM>. In this manner, the switch sensor <NUM> may be connected to the substrate <NUM>, to support the substrate <NUM> and sensing element <NUM> within the cavity <NUM>. The switch sensor <NUM> and the switch cavity <NUM> may be configured such that the tip <NUM> of the dome <NUM> may be positioned adjacent to the outer sidewall <NUM> of the stem <NUM>. In some embodiments, the tip <NUM> may even be positioned against the outer sidewall <NUM> of the stem <NUM>. The distance between the tip <NUM> and the sidewall <NUM> may determine the amount of force applied to the head <NUM> in order to activate the switch sensor <NUM>. As an example, the further the distance, the more force that may be required to activate the switch sensor.

In operation, the user may rotate the head <NUM>, which causes the stem <NUM> to rotate correspondingly. As described in more detail above with respect to <FIG>, the sensing element <NUM> tracks the rotation of the trackable element <NUM> to determine the rotation of the stem <NUM>. For example, in one example that does not form part of the claimed invention, the trackable element <NUM> may be a magnetic element and the sensing element <NUM> 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.

With reference to <FIG>, if a user applies a force F to the sidewall <NUM> of the head <NUM> that angled relative to the button aperture <NUM>, the head <NUM> may deflect in downwards relative to the button aperture <NUM>. Although the stem <NUM> is illustrated as impacting or deflecting the enclosure <NUM> in <FIG>, 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 ro a chamfer or other space may be defined in the enclosure to permit the stem to angularly deflect as shown. That is, the head <NUM> may deflect in the direction of the applied force F and may move vertically relative to the button aperture <NUM> in a first direction D1. As the head <NUM> moves downward, the stem <NUM> may compress a bottom of the sealing element <NUM> and pivots at pivot point <NUM>. The bottom end <NUM> of the stem <NUM> and trackable element <NUM> then move upwards towards the sensor sidewall <NUM> of the sensor cavity <NUM> in a second direction D2. Movement of the bottom end <NUM> of the stem <NUM> in the second direction D2 causes the sidewall <NUM> of the stem <NUM> to compress the tip <NUM>, collapsing the dome <NUM>. As the dome collapses, the switch sensor <NUM> registers an input and the dome provides feedback to the user regarding activation of the switch sensor <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a middle portion of the stem may activate the switch sensor. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of another example of the button <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. With reference to <FIG>, in this embodiment, the switch cavity <NUM> may be defined towards an exterior of the enclosure <NUM> and may be aligned with a middle portion, rather than a bottom end, of the stem. Additionally, the seal cavity <NUM> may be somewhat enclosed from the cavity <NUM> when the stem <NUM> is received into the button aperture <NUM>. In other words, the stem <NUM> may form a lid or cover for the switch cavity <NUM>.

Additionally, the annular recess <NUM> may be defined towards the bottom end of the stem <NUM>. In particular, when the stem <NUM> is positioned within the button aperture <NUM>, the sealing member <NUM> may be positioned between the cavity <NUM> and the seal cavity <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, a sensing seal <NUM> may be positioned around the trackable element <NUM> and the button aperture <NUM>. In this manner, the sensing seal <NUM> may substantially seal the cavity <NUM> from the button aperture <NUM> to prevent fluids, debris, and the like from entering into the cavity <NUM> from the button aperture <NUM>. Depending on the type of sensing element <NUM> and trackable element <NUM>, the sensing seal <NUM> may be positioned between the trackable element <NUM> and the sensing element <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the sensing seal <NUM> may be positioned around both the sensing element and the trackable element.

In operation, with reference to <FIG>, as a user applies a force F to the sidewall <NUM> of the head <NUM>, the head <NUM> may move in the first direction D1 corresponding to the direction of the input force F. The back end <NUM> of the stem <NUM> may move upwards, but the middle portion or the belly of the stem <NUM> may move in the direction D1 with the head <NUM> due to the pivot point <NUM> being positioned towards the back end <NUM> the stem <NUM>. In other words, as the pivot point <NUM> is located towards the end <NUM> of the stem <NUM>, the middle portion of the stem <NUM> moves in the same direction D1 as the force F. The compressibility of the sealing member <NUM> provides a pivot point for the stem <NUM>, to allow the stem <NUM> to move within the constraints of the button aperture <NUM> in order to activate the switch sensor <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, depending on the location of the pivot point <NUM>, which may be determined by the location of the sealing member <NUM>, the switch sensor <NUM> may be located at a number of different locations relative to the stem <NUM> 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.

Generally, the sensor may output a signal in response to motion of the stem <NUM> 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.

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> is a cross-sectional view of the input button including a motor. With reference to <FIG>, the input button <NUM> may be substantially similar to the input button <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, but may include a motor <NUM> attached to the stem <NUM>. The motor <NUM> includes a drive shaft <NUM> and is configured to detect motion of a trackable element <NUM>, as well as cause motion of the trackable element, via movement of the drive shaft <NUM>. The motor <NUM> may be, for example, a rotary or linear vibrating motor that is coupled to the stem <NUM>. The drive shaft <NUM> couples to the stem <NUM> via the trackable element <NUM>. For example, the trackable element may be secured the bottom surface of the stem <NUM> and then connects to the drive shaft <NUM>.

In a first mode, the motor <NUM> may act as a sensing element and detect rotational user input to the input button <NUM>. In embodiments where the motor <NUM> is a rotary motor, as a user provides a rotational input R to the head <NUM>, the head <NUM> and stem <NUM> may rotate correspondingly. As the stem <NUM> rotates, the trackable element <NUM> rotates, rotating the drive shaft <NUM>. As the drive shaft <NUM> rotates, the motor <NUM> senses the movement and provides a signal to the processing element <NUM>. In embodiments where the motor <NUM> is a linear motor, as a user provides a linear input L to the head <NUM>, e.g., by pushing the head <NUM> lateral towards the enclosure <NUM>, the stem <NUM> moves laterally within the button aperture <NUM> and the trackable element <NUM> moves the drive shaft <NUM> in the lateral direction. The movement of the drive shaft <NUM> in the lateral direction may be detected by the motor <NUM>, which creates a signal to provide to the processing element <NUM>.

In a second mode, the motor <NUM> may be used to provide feedback to the user. For example, in instances where the motor <NUM> is a rotary motor, the drive shaft <NUM> may rotate the trackable element <NUM>, which in turn rotates the stem <NUM> and head <NUM>. The rotational movement of the head <NUM> may be used to provide a visual indication, as well as a tactile indication (when the user is touching the head <NUM>) 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 <NUM> is a linear motor, the drive shaft <NUM> may move the stem <NUM> linearly within the button aperture <NUM> to provide feedback to the user.

Additionally, the motor <NUM> may be used to provide dynamic feedback to the user. For example, the motor <NUM> may be configured to rotate or otherwise move the stem <NUM> 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 <NUM> to scroll through a list of selectable items presented on the display <NUM>. As the user passes a selectable item, the motor <NUM> may move the stem <NUM> to provide a click or tick feel. Additionally, the motor <NUM> may selectively increase or decrease a force required to rotate or move the input button. For example, the motor <NUM> 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 <NUM> in order to rotate the input button <NUM>. As another example, motor <NUM> may be used provide a hard stop to limit the rotation of the head <NUM>. 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 <NUM> exerts a force on the stem <NUM> 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 <NUM> 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 <NUM> in the opposite direction of the user applied force, which may cause the head <NUM> to appear to bounce backwards off of the end of the list presented on the display <NUM>.

Additionally, 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 <NUM>. In this example, the mechanical detent may be defined on the inner sidewall of the button aperture <NUM> and may provide feedback to a user and/or may be used as a stop for limiting rotation of the stem <NUM>. The detent may be used in conjunction with the motor <NUM> or separate therefrom.

In some embodiments, the motor <NUM> may include a clutch that selectively engages and disengages the stem <NUM> and the motor. In these embodiments, the motor <NUM> 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 <NUM>, or the like.

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> is a cross-sectional view of the input button including a input sensor connected to the head. With reference to <FIG>, in this embodiment, the input button <NUM> may include a head <NUM> having a face <NUM> and a stem <NUM> extending from a back portion of the head <NUM>. The head <NUM> may define a sensor cavity <NUM> that receives an input sensor <NUM>. The sensor cavity <NUM> may be configured to have approximately the same dimensions as the input sensor <NUM> or may be larger or smaller than the input sensor <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sensor cavity <NUM> may contain other components, such as a communication component or processing element.

The input sensor <NUM> may be substantially any type of sensor that may detect one or more parameters. As some non-limiting examples, the sensor <NUM> may be a microphone, accelerometer, or gyroscope, and may be used to detect user input to the head <NUM> and/or stem <NUM>. As one example, the input sensor <NUM> may be an accelerometer and as the user provides input, such as a lateral or rotational force of the input button <NUM>, the accelerometer may detect the change in acceleration, which may be used by the processing element <NUM> 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 <NUM> or other area of the head <NUM>, the accelerometer may be configured to detect the movement due to the force in order to detect the user input force.

In another example, the input sensor <NUM> may be a microphone. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the input button <NUM>. In this example, one or more apertures <NUM> may be defined through the face <NUM> of the head <NUM>. The apertures <NUM> may be in fluid communication with the sensor cavity <NUM> such that sound waves may travel through the face <NUM> to reach the sensor <NUM> positioned within the sensor cavity <NUM>. In this example, the input sensor <NUM> may detect user input, such as taps, clicks, or presses on the head <NUM> may detecting the sounds created by the engagement of a user's finger with the head <NUM>. In particular, as the user presses his or her finger against the head <NUM>, the force may create one or more sound waves that may travel through the apertures <NUM> in the face <NUM> to reach the sensor <NUM>. In these embodiments the head <NUM> 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 he or her provides input to the input button.

It should be noted that although the head <NUM> is shown in <FIG> has a plurality of apertures defined therethrough, in some embodiments the apertures may be omitted. For example, the head <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be positioned against the face <NUM> and the face <NUM> may have a sufficiently thin thickness so as to allow sound waves to travel therethrough.

Claim 1:
An electronic watch (<NUM>) comprising:
an enclosure (<NUM>) defining an aperture (<NUM>);
a processing element (<NUM>) positioned within the enclosure;
a crown (<NUM>) operably coupled to the processing element and configured to receive a rotational input, the crown comprising:
a user-rotatable head (<NUM>); and
a stem (<NUM>) coupled to the user-rotatable head and extending into the aperture; and
a rotation sensor (210a-d) positioned within the enclosure and operably coupled to the processing element,
the rotation sensor configured to detect the rotational input using light reflected from the stem; wherein:
the processing element is configured to cause the electronic watch to provide a tactile feedback to the user in response to the detection of the rotational input.