PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11394385-B1
Application Number: US-201715422404-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B1

Title: Input device having adjustable input mechanisms

Abstract:
Disclosed herein is an input device having adjustable input mechanisms. The input mechanisms of the input device may be dynamically adjusted based on one or more input characteristics associated with a user. Accordingly, the input device may be customized to fit a user&#39;s input preferences.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A key mechanism, comprising:
 an input mechanism operative to move from a first position to a second position in response to a received input, the input mechanism including a sensor or switch, the sensor or switch being configured to initiate an input signal in response to movement of the input mechanism to the second position, the input mechanism comprising a keycap; 
 a first magnetic component coupled to the keycap; 
 a second magnetic component spaced apart from the first magnetic component and spaced apart from the keycap, wherein a magnetic force between the first and second magnetic components is adjustable; 
 a third magnetic component coupled to the keycap; 
 a fourth magnetic component spaced apart from the third magnetic component and spaced apart from the keycap, wherein a magnetic force between the third and fourth magnetic components is adjustable; and 
 a drive circuit operable to dynamically alter a magnetic property of at least one of the first and second magnetic components and at least one of the third and fourth magnetic components; 
 wherein in a first condition of the keycap mechanism, the drive circuit is configured to alter the magnetic property of the at least one of the first and second magnetic components, wherein the second magnetic component interacts with the first magnetic component to produce a first haptic output in response to the received input, the first haptic output comprising a movement of the input mechanism perpendicular to the received input in a first direction; and 
 wherein in a second condition of the input device, the drive circuit is configured to alter the magnetic property of the at least one of the third and fourth magnetic components, wherein the fourth magnetic component interacts with the third magnetic component to produce a second haptic output in response to the received input, the second haptic output comprising a movement of the input mechanism perpendicular to the received input in a second direction, the first direction being different from the second direction. 
 
     
     
       2. The keycap mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein the keycap is positioned in a keyboard. 
     
     
       3. The keycap mechanism of  claim 1 , further comprising a compliant member positioned between the input mechanism and an enclosure that is adjacent the input mechanism. 
     
     
       4. The keycap mechanism of  claim 1 , further comprising a fifth magnetic component having an adjustable magnetic force configured to change a travel distance of the input mechanism between the first position and the second position. 
     
     
       5. The keycap mechanism of  claim 1 , further comprising a second sensor operative to detect an input characteristic associated with the received input, wherein the input characteristic includes at least one of: a magnitude of force applied to the input mechanism, a hand size of a user, a finger size of a user, a hand placement on the input device, a finger placement on the input device, and a speed of input applied to the input mechanism. 
     
     
       6. The keycap mechanism of  claim 4 , wherein the fifth magnetic component is operative to retract the input mechanism by magnetically attracting the input mechanism from the first position to the second position. 
     
     
       7. The keycap mechanism of  claim 4 , wherein the fifth magnetic component is operative to repel the input mechanism from the second position to the first position. 
     
     
       8. A key mechanism, comprising:
 a keycap; 
 an enclosure defining an aperture in which the keycap is positioned; 
 a first magnetic component positioned on the keycap; 
 a second magnetic component coupled to the enclosure, wherein at least one of the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component comprises a first electromagnet configured to move the keycap in a first lateral direction within the aperture to provide a first haptic output; 
 a third magnetic component positioned on the keycap; 
 a fourth magnetic component coupled to the enclosure, wherein at least one of the third magnetic component and the fourth magnetic component comprises a second electromagnet configured to move the keycap in a second lateral direction within the aperture to provide a second haptic output, the second lateral direction being non-parallel to the first lateral direction; and 
 a drive circuit operable to dynamically alter a magnetic property of the first electromagnet to provide the first haptic output and operable to dynamically alter a magnetic property of the second electromagnet to provide the second haptic output. 
 
     
     
       9. The key mechanism of  claim 8 , wherein the first electromagnet comprises a coil operative to change a magnetic force of the second magnetic component in response to the drive circuit applying a current to the coil. 
     
     
       10. The key mechanism of  claim 8 , wherein the first electromagnet comprises a coil operative to change a magnetic force of the first magnetic component in response to the drive circuit applying a current to the coil. 
     
     
       11. The key mechanism of  claim 8 , wherein the second magnetic component is configured to attract the first magnetic component to produce the first haptic output. 
     
     
       12. The key mechanism of  claim 8 , wherein a height of the input mechanism is dynamically alterable in response to a user preference. 
     
     
       13. The input device of  claim 1 , wherein in the first condition of the input device, the second magnetic component attracts the first magnetic component and the third magnetic component repels the fourth magnetic component to produce the first haptic output. 
     
     
       14. The input device of  claim 1 , wherein the input mechanism comprises a keycap, wherein the first magnetic component is positioned in a first side of the keycap, wherein the third magnetic component is positioned in a second side of the keycap, the first and second sides being perpendicular to each other. 
     
     
       15. The input device of  claim 1 , wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to an input device. More specifically, the embodiments described herein are directed to an input device having adjustable input mechanisms. Each of the adjustable input mechanisms of the input device may be automatically adjusted or otherwise tuned based on a user preference. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventional input devices, such as keyboards, are typically static. As such, a user cannot adjust the feel and/or travel of a translatable input mechanism of the input device (such as a key or button). Typically, different users have different typing preferences based on their hand size, gender, typing style and so on. However, because the feel and/or travel of the translatable input mechanism of the input device is static, the user may have to settle for an input device that does not match his typing preferences. 
     SUMMARY 
     Disclosed herein is an input device having adjustable input mechanisms. In some embodiments, the input device is a keyboard and the input mechanisms may be the various individual keys of the keyboard. In other embodiments, the input device may be a controller (e.g., a game controller), a remote (e.g., a remote control) a keypad of a telephone, a calculator and so on. In these examples, the input mechanisms may be one or more buttons on the controller, the remote, the telephone, the calculator and so on. Although specific examples have been given, the embodiments described herein may be used with various other electronic or mechanical devices that include one or more translatable input mechanisms. In each case, the travel distance, feel and force profile of the input mechanisms of the input device may be customized to fit a user&#39;s input preferences. 
     In one implementation, the input device includes an input mechanism operative to move from a first position to a second position in response to a received input. A first magnetic component is coupled to the input mechanism and a second magnetic component is spaced apart from the first magnetic component. The input device also includes a coil that is operative to change a magnetic force of the second magnetic component in response to a received signal. 
     Also disclosed herein is an input mechanism having an input surface, a first magnet, and a second magnet. The first magnet is connected to the input surface and the second magnet interacts with the first magnet to dynamically alter a travel profile of the input mechanism. The travel profile of the input mechanism is used to control generation of an input signal. 
     The present disclosure also describes a method for adjusting a travel profile of an input mechanism of input device. This method includes determining an input characteristic associated with the input mechanism, and changing a magnetic property of a magnetic component associated with the input mechanism. In some embodiments, the change in the magnetic property is based, at least in part, on the input characteristic. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an example electronic device that may use or incorporate an adjustable input device such as described herein; 
         FIG. 2A  illustrates a sample cross-section view of an input mechanism of an adjustable input device in a first position according to a first embodiment; 
         FIG. 2B  illustrates a sample cross-section view of the input mechanism of  FIG. 2A  in a second position; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a sample cross-section view of an input mechanism of the adjustable input device according to a second embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a sample cross-section view of an input mechanism of the adjustable input device according to a third embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a sample cross-section view of an input mechanism of the adjustable input device according to a fourth embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a sample cross-section view of an input mechanism of the adjustable input device according to a fifth embodiment; 
         FIG. 7A  illustrates a first example force displacement curve of the input mechanism described herein; 
         FIG. 7B  illustrates a second example force displacement curve of the input mechanism described herein; 
         FIG. 7C  illustrates a third example force displacement curve of the input mechanism described herein; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates an input device having multiple input mechanisms in different positions; 
         FIG. 9A  illustrates a top-down view of an input mechanism in a first position; 
         FIG. 9B  illustrates a top-down view of the input mechanism of  FIG. 9A  in a second position; 
         FIG. 9C  illustrates a top-down view of the input mechanism of  FIG. 9A  in a third position; 
         FIG. 10A  illustrates an exploded view of various components of an example electromechanical system that can be used in with the various input mechanisms described herein; 
         FIG. 10B  illustrates the assembled electromechanical system of  FIG. 10A ; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a second example arrangement of various components of an electromechanical system; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a third example arrangement of various components of an electromechanical system; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates an exploded view of a fourth example arrangement of various components of an electromechanical system; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates fifth example arrangement of various components of an electromechanical system; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a sample cross-section view of an input mechanism of the adjustable input device according to a sixth embodiment; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a sample cross-section view of an input mechanism of the adjustable input device according to a seventh embodiment; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a method for adjusting one or more input mechanisms of an adjustable input device; and 
         FIG. 18  illustrates example components of an electronic device that may use or incorporate an adjustable input device such as described herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     Embodiments described herein are directed to an input device having adjustable input mechanisms. As one example, the input device may be a keyboard. When the input device is a keyboard, each individual key of the keyboard (or certain keys of the keyboard) may be dynamically adjusted based on user preference. More specifically, the travel distance of a key may be dynamically adjusted based on user preferences. Likewise, a tactile or haptic feel or output of the individual keys may also be dynamically adjusted. The amount of force required to actuate the key may also be dynamically adjusted. Although a keyboard is specifically mentioned, the embodiments described herein may be used with a variety of input devices and/or input mechanisms. For example, the input mechanism may be a button on a mobile phone or other electronic device. In other examples, the input mechanisms may be one or more buttons on a remote control device, a calculator, or any other electronic or mechanical device having a translatable input mechanism. 
     The input device of the present disclosure may include a sensor that determines one or more input characteristics associated with a user of the input device. In one example, the sensor may be a light sensor that measures a change in detected light as the user moves his fingers and hands over the input device. This information may be used to determine the relative hand and/or finger size of a user and/or preferred hand/finger placement on the input device. In another implementation, the sensor may be a capacitive sensor that measures a change in capacitance between a user&#39;s fingers and/or hands and the input mechanisms of the input device. The amount of change in capacitance may also indicate the position of the user&#39;s fingers on the input mechanisms and/or the relative size of the user&#39;s hands or fingers. In yet another implementation, the sensor may also be a force sensor that measures a magnitude of force applied to the various input mechanisms of the input device. In some embodiments, an input signal provided by the input mechanism when it is actuated may be used to determine the speed at which the user is providing input. 
     Once this information is collected, it may be analyzed to determine various settings for the input device. For example, in one implementation and based on the analyzed data, the height of one or more of the input mechanisms may be automatically adjusted. In another example, an amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism may be automatically adjusted. 
     In order to effect the changes described above, each input mechanism of the input device may include one or more magnetic components. More specifically, in one implementation, a first magnetic component is coupled to or is otherwise associated with an input mechanism of the input device while a second magnetic component is positioned beneath and/or adjacent the first magnetic component. A coil may surround or otherwise be adjacent to the second magnetic component. When a current in a first direction is applied to the coil, an attractive magnetic force between the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component increases. When a current in a second direction is applied to the coil, a repulsive magnetic force between the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component increases. Accordingly, the force of the input mechanism may be tuned or may otherwise be changed in a precise manner. In addition, the height of the input mechanism may change which changes the amount of travel of the input mechanism. 
     The input mechanism may include also include a switch that initiates an input signal when the input mechanism is actuated. In some embodiments, the switch may be omitted and a sensor may be used to determine when the input mechanism is actuated. For example, the input mechanism may include a Hall effect sensor or a magnetometer that detects or otherwise determines a position or movement of the first magnetic component relative to the second magnetic component thereby indicating the input mechanism has been actuated. Although specific examples have been given, actuation of the input mechanism may be determined in a number of different ways. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-11 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an example electronic device  100  that may use or otherwise incorporate an input device  110 . The input device  110  may have a number of different input mechanisms  120  that provide different input to the electronic device  100 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the example electronic device  100  may be a laptop computer. As such, the input device  110  may be a keyboard and the input mechanism  120  may be a key of the keyboard. Although a laptop computer with a keyboard is specifically shown and described, the electronic device  100  may be any type of electronic device including, but not limited to, a desktop computer, a tablet computing device, a smartphone, a gaming device, a digital music player, a wearable computing device, a health monitoring device, and so on. Likewise, while a keyboard is specifically mentioned, the input device  110  may be any type of input device having a translatable input mechanism. For example, the input mechanism  120  may be a key, a button, a switch, and so on. 
     As will be described herein, a configuration of each input mechanism  120  of the input device  110  may be dynamically adjusted based on one or more input characteristics. In some implementations, the input characteristics may be associated with a user. Accordingly, a sensor associated with the input device  110  and/or the input mechanism  120  may detect one or more of these input characteristics. 
     In some embodiments, the sensor may determine one or more input characteristics or typing characteristics of a user that is using the input device  110 . For example, the sensor may determine a size of the user&#39;s hands or fingers, the position of the user&#39;s hands or fingers on the input device  110 , a magnitude of force provided on each input mechanism  120  and so on. Although a sensor is specifically mentioned, other components associated with the input device  110  may determine one or more input characteristics of the user. For example, a processing unit associated with the input device  110  may detect the speed at which the user provides input. 
     Once one or more of these input characteristics are determined, a position (e.g., the height), and thus the travel distance, of each input mechanism  120  may be dynamically adjusted. In addition, the amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism  120  may also be dynamically adjusted. 
     Changing a height of the input mechanism may provide additional functionality and/or characteristics for the associated electronic device. For example, the keys of a keyboard (or other buttons) on a laptop computer may be retracted to be flush with, or even recessed into, a keyweb or other structure defined by the housing of the laptop computer. This may reduce the overall thickness of the laptop computer, for example when it is closed. In some embodiments, closing a laptop (for example, by rotating a portion of the laptop about a hinged connector) may automatically cause the keys to retract, as may putting the laptop to sleep or otherwise powering off, or any other change in operational state. When the laptop is opened, powered on, woken, or the like, the keys may return to a default height/position. 
     In some implementations, the detected input characteristics may be compared against an input characteristic database. The input characteristic database may contain information about input preferences from various individual users. For example, the information in the input characteristic database may indicate that a first subset of users with a particular hand size typically provide input with a first amount of force. As such, a first input device configuration having a first force profile may be selected for the input device. Likewise, the input characteristic database may also indicate that at second subset of users with a smaller hand size typically provide input with a second amount of force. Accordingly, a second input device configuration having a second force profile may be selected for the input device. In other examples, the information in the input characteristic database may indicate that users that are able to quickly provide input (e.g., fast typists) prefer their input mechanisms to have smaller travel distances than users that provide input more slowly. Accordingly, a third input device configuration with low travel input mechanisms may be selected for the input device. 
     When the input device configuration is determined, the input mechanisms  120  of the input device may be dynamically adjusted. In other embodiments, each individual user may program the input device  110 , and/or each individual input mechanism  120 , to have user-selected configurations. In some implementations, the input device may adjust its configuration over time. For example, as a user gets more familiar with the input device  110 , her input preferences may change. In such situations, the input device  110  may dynamically change its configuration to coincide with the user&#39;s change in preference. 
       FIG. 2A  shows a cross-section view of an input mechanism  200  taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1 . The input mechanism  200  may include an input surface. As used herein, an “input surface” may be a structure configured for a user to contact in order to provide or otherwise initiate an input. Some input surfaces may include keycaps, track pad surfaces, an exterior of a mouse, touch-sensitive surfaces and/or force-sensitive surfaces, displays, and the like. In the embodiments illustrated in  FIG. 2A , the input surface is shown as a keycap  205 . The keycap  205  may have a generally rectangular shape although this is not required. In some implementations, the keycap  205  may be square, circular, or have any other shape. The keycap  205  may include a flange  210  that extends from a bottom portion of the keycap  205 . 
     The keycap  205  is positioned within an aperture  215  defined by an enclosure  220 . The enclosure  220  may be adjacent to or may at least partially surround the keycap  205 . The flange  210  may be disposed underneath the enclosure  220  of the input mechanism  200 . The flange  210  may act to secure the keycap  205  within the enclosure  220 . For example, the flange  210  may abut or otherwise come into contact with an underside of the enclosure  220  when the keycap  205  is in a first position and may be separated or otherwise spaced apart from the underside of the enclosure  220  when it is in a second position. 
     In some embodiments, and in order to minimize damage or stress to the keycap  205 , a compliant member  230  may be positioned on an underside of the enclosure  220 . The compliant member  230  may serve to protect the keycap  205  from damage as the keycap  205  may repeatedly come into contact with the underside of the enclosure  220  as it is actuated and subsequently released. In some embodiments and as will be described below, the input mechanism  200  may provide a haptic output. The compliant member  230  may be used to eliminate or minimize any damage that may occur to the keycap  205  as a result of the haptic output. The compliant member  230  may also serve to secure or otherwise maintain the keycap  205  within the enclosure  220 . 
     The input mechanism  200  may also include a first magnetic component  225  and a second magnetic component  235 . The first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component interact with one another to change a travel profile of the input mechanism  200  and also interact with one another to produce a haptic output. 
     The first magnetic component  225  may be positioned within or adjacent the keycap  205 . The second magnetic component  235  may be positioned beneath the keycap  205  and the first magnetic component  225 . The second magnetic component  235  may also be spaced apart from the first magnetic component  225 . In some embodiments, the second magnetic component  235  is a hollow disc magnet or otherwise has an annular shape. In some embodiments, the first magnetic component  225  may have a protrusion or other portion that is received within the hollow portion of the second magnetic component  235  as the magnetic components move closer together (e.g., in response to an input force). In other embodiments, each of the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  may have any shape or configuration. In some embodiments, the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  may be comprised of ferromagnetic materials such as, for example, iron, steel, aluminum nickel cobalt, and so on. 
     The first magnetic component  225  may have a polarity that opposes the polarity of the second magnetic component  235 . As such, the keycap  205  may be maintained in its nominal position such as shown in  FIG. 2A . However, when a force is applied to a top surface of the keycap  205 , the keycap  205  may be depressed (such as shown in  FIG. 2B ). Once the force is removed from the top surface of the keycap  205 , a repulsive magnetic force between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  causes the keycap  205  to return to its nominal state. 
     Keycaps  205  (or other input mechanisms) may be retracted by operating coil  240  with a high current in order to pull the key fully down such that it abuts the magnetic material  235 . In some embodiments, the magnetic material  235  may be magnetized by operation of the coil  240 , so that the key is held in its retracted position even if no current flows through the coil. Current may be reversed through the coil  240  in order to change the polarity of the magnetic material  235 , thereby freeing the key from its retracted position as generally described above. As discussed elsewhere herein, the strength of the magnetic field may be varied by adjusting the degree of magnetization of the magnetic material  235 , for example by varying the amount of current through the coil  240 , the length of time the coil  240  is energized, and so on. 
     In some embodiments, the compliant member  230  may be comprised of or otherwise include a magnetic component. As such, the compliant member  230  may exert an attractive magnetic force on the first magnetic component  225  in order to help return the keycap  205  to its nominal position. 
     In some embodiments, the degree or force of repulsion between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  may be dynamically adjusted. As such, the nominal position and/or the height of the keycap  205  may be dynamically adjusted. Likewise, an amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism  200  may also be dynamically adjusted. For example, as the degree or force of repulsion between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  increases, the amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism  200  also increases. 
     The input mechanism  200  includes a coil  240 . The coil  240  may surround or otherwise be associated with the second magnetic component  235 . As such, the coil  240  may set the magnetic profile of the second magnetic component  235 . For example, when a current in a first direction is applied to the coil  240 , the degree or force of repulsion between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  may change. As the repulsion between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  changes, the position of the keycap  205  may also change. As a result, a travel profile of the input mechanism  200  may be dynamically adjusted. 
     For example, the travel profile of the input mechanism  200  may include a travel distance of the input mechanism  200  and an amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism  200 . Thus, as the repulsion between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  changes, the travel distance and/or the amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism  200  and generate an input signal, may dynamically change. In some embodiments, the travel distance may include a continuous range of travel distances. Likewise, the amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism  200  may be a continuous range of force values. 
     In other implementations, the coil  240  may change the degree or force of attraction between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235 . For example, when a current in a second direction is applied to the coil  240 , the degree or force of attraction between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  may increase. As such, the position of the keycap  205 , and the amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism  200 , may also change accordingly. 
     The input mechanism  200  may include a drive circuit  250 . The drive circuit  250  may be positioned on a circuit board  245  of the input mechanism  200  and provide the directional current to the coil  240 . Once the coil  240  is energized, the coil  240  may alter the magnetic properties of the second magnetic component  235  such as described above. 
     In some embodiments, the coil  240  may cause a change in the polarity of the second magnetic component  235 . As such, the second magnetic component  235  may attract the first magnetic component  225 . In other embodiments, the current provided by the drive circuit  250  may cause the coil  240  to generate an attractive force that at least partially overcomes the repulsive force between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235 . 
     The coil  240  may also be used to produce a haptic output for the input mechanism  200 . For example, the drive circuit  250  may provide a pulse to the coil  240 . The pulse may cause the keycap  205  to move quickly in a particular direction (e.g., upward or downward) as the magnetic repulsion (or attraction) between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  changes. In some implementations, the haptic output may simulate a click sensation. 
     In other implementations, the pulse provided by the drive circuit  250  may be shaped to cause the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  to produce a vibration. For example, the pulse provided by the drive circuit  250  may cause alternating repulsive and attractive forces between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235 . 
     In some embodiments, the haptic output may be a reduction or an increase in a force curve between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235 . As such, the haptic output provided by the input mechanism  200  may have a variety of force displacement curves that provide a variety of force to click profiles such as shown in  FIGS. 7A — 7 C. As such, the input mechanism  200  of the present disclosure may have a continuous range of force input profiles and associated click ratios instead of binary force click ratios present in conventional input mechanisms. 
     The input mechanism  200  may also include a sensor  255 . The sensor  255  may determine one or more input characteristics associated with the user of the input mechanism  200 . The input characteristics may be the amount of force provided on the input mechanism  200 , the size of a user&#39;s hands and/or fingers and so on. For example, and as briefly described above, the sensor  255  may be a capacitive sensor that detects a change in capacitance between a user&#39;s fingers and/or hands and the keycap  205 . The amount of the change in capacitance may indicate the position of the user&#39;s finger on a particular input mechanism  200  and/or the relative size of the user&#39;s hands and/or fingers. The sensor  255  may also be a force sensor that measures a magnitude of force applied to keycap  205 . Although specific sensors are mentioned, various other types of sensors may be used including, but not limited to, optical sensors, motion sensors, magnetic sensors, Hall effect sensors, Anisotropic Magneto-Resistive sensors, tunnel magnetoresistance sensors and so on. 
     In addition to determining the various input characteristics of the user, the sensor  255  may be used to detect when the input mechanism  200  has been actuated. For example, the sensor  255  may be a Hall effect sensor that detects or otherwise determines a position or movement of the first magnetic component  225  relative to the second magnetic component  235  thereby indicating the input mechanism  200  has been actuated. 
     In some embodiments, when the sensor  255  determines that the keycap  205  of the input mechanism  200  has traveled a certain distance, the sensor  255  may provide that information to the drive circuit  250  (via a processing unit). The drive circuit  250  may then provide a current to the coil  240 , which subsequently provides haptic output in the manner described above. 
     In some embodiments, the input mechanism  200  may include a switch  260 . The switch  260  may be coupled to the circuit board  245  and may have a contact that is actuated by a portion of the keycap  205 . When actuated, the switch  260  initiates an input signal that indicates the input mechanism  200  has been actuated. When the switch  260  has been actuated, the drive circuit  250  may provide a current to coil  240  in the manner described above to provide a haptic output. Although  FIG. 2A  shows the switch  260  positioned within the second magnetic component  235 , this is for illustrative purposes only. The switch  260  may be positioned at various locations within the input mechanism  200  or it may be omitted. 
     Once the input characteristics have been determined, the force to click ratio of the input mechanism  200  may be dynamically adjusted. In some embodiments, the user may be able to select a desired force to click ratio for each individual input mechanism  200  or for the input device as a whole. In other embodiments, the force to click ratio of the input device or the individual input mechanisms  200  may be adjusted based on one or more predefined settings. For example, the input device (or the electronic device that uses or incorporates the input device) may access a database of stored input device configurations and/or settings. The stored input device configurations or settings may be based on various input characteristics. Thus, when a user&#39;s input characteristics match or otherwise correspond to a stored input device configuration, the input device of the user, or individual input mechanisms  200  of the input device, may be automatically adjusted to have the determined configuration. 
     In some embodiments, each input mechanism  200  of the input device may be independently adjustable and/or controllable. In one example, the drive circuit  250  may provide a pulse that energizes the coil  240  such that the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  provide a repulsive force that causes the keycap  205  to move rapidly upward or downward to provide a haptic output to a user. For example, if the input device is a keyboard of a computing device and a processor of the computing device determines that the user misspells a word, a haptic output, such as a vibration, may be provided on the key that was the cause of the misspelled word. 
     In still yet other examples, each input mechanism  200  may be configured to move from its nominal state (such as shown in  FIG. 2A ) to a second state (such as shown in  FIG. 2B ) based on the operating state of the electronic device. For example, when the electronic device is powered off, in a sleep state or, in the case of a laptop computer, when the cover is moved from an open position to a closed position, the drive circuit  250  may cause the coil  240  to be charged such that the polarity of the second magnetic component  235  changes. 
     Due to the attractive magnetic force between the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235 , the top of the keycap  205  moves from a first state, in which the keycap  205  extends beyond the enclosure  220 , to a second state, in which the top surface of the keycap  205  is flush, substantially flush or recessed with respect to the enclosure  220 . In this particular embodiment, because the polarity of the second magnetic component  235  is changed, additional power is not consumed in order to keep the input mechanisms  200  in the second state. 
     When the electronic device exits the sleep state (or when any other operational state changes), or when the cover is moved from the closed position to the open position, the drive circuit  250  may provide a directional current to the coil  240  that causes the second magnetic component  235  to exert a repulsive magnetic force on the first magnetic component  225 . As such, the keycap  205  may return to its nominal position. 
     In the example embodiments described above, the input mechanisms  200  may be configured to effectively “float” in place. For example, the first magnetic component  225  and the second magnetic component  235  may provide a sufficient magnetic force to keep the input mechanism  200  at a particular position. As such, the enclosure  220  that surrounds the input mechanism  200  may be reduced or eliminated. Reducing or eliminating the enclosure  220  may enable a thickness and/or a width of the computing device to be substantially reduced. 
       FIG. 3  shows a cross-section view of an input mechanism  300  of an input device according to a second embodiment. The cross-section view of the input mechanism  300  may be taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1 . Like the input mechanism  200  of  FIG. 2A , the input mechanism  300  may include an input surface, such as, for example, a keycap  305 . The keycap  205  may include a flange  310 . The keycap  305  may also be positioned within an aperture  315  defined by an enclosure  320 . 
     The input mechanism  300  also includes a compliant member  330 , a first magnetic component  325 , a second magnetic component  335 , a coil  340 , a drive circuit  350  coupled to a circuit board  345 , a sensor  355  and one or more switches  360 . Each of these components may function in a similar manner as described above. 
     However, in this particular implementation, a current provided by the drive circuit  350  may cause an attractive magnetic force between the first magnetic component  325  and the second magnetic component  335  to increase thereby reducing the amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism  300 . As the keycap  305  is actuated, a spring mechanism  365  positioned between the first magnetic component  325  and the second magnetic component  335  buckles or is otherwise actuated. Buckling of the spring mechanism  365  may provide a haptic output to the user. After the input mechanism  300  is actuated, the current may be removed from the coil  340 . Once the current is removed, the attractive force between the first magnetic component  325  and the second magnetic component  335  is reduced, and the spring mechanism  365  causes the keycap  305  to move back to its nominal position. 
     In some embodiments, and as shown in  FIG. 3 , the spring mechanism  365  is a dome mechanism. The dome mechanism may be made of rubber, plastic, metal, or a combination thereof. In other implementations, the spring mechanism  365  may have one or more hinges. For example, the spring mechanism  365  may be a scissor mechanism, a butterfly mechanism, and so on. 
       FIG. 4  shows a cross-section view of an input mechanism  400  of an input device according to a third embodiment. The cross-section view of the input mechanism  400  may be taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1 . The input mechanism  400  may include an input surface, such as, for example, a keycap  405 , positioned within an aperture  415  defined by an enclosure  420 . The keycap  405  may include a flange  410  that extends from a bottom portion. 
     The input mechanism  400  also includes a compliant member  430 , a first magnetic component  425 , a second magnetic component  435 , a coil  440  at least partially surrounding or otherwise adjacent the first magnetic component  425 , a drive circuit  450  coupled to a circuit board  445 , a sensor  455  and one or more switches  460 . Each of these components may function in a similar manner as described above. 
     However, in this embodiment, the first magnetic component  425  extends from a bottom surface of the keycap  405 . When the drive circuit  450  applies a current to the coil  440 , a magnetic field moves the first magnetic component  425  toward the second magnetic component  435 . When the current is removed from the coil  440 , a repulsive magnetic force between the second magnetic component  435  and the first magnetic component  425  causes the keycap  405  to move back to its nominal position. 
       FIG. 5  shows a cross-section view of an input mechanism  500  of an input device according to a fourth embodiment. The cross-section view of the input mechanism  500  may be taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1 . The input mechanism  500  may include an input surface, such as, a keycap  505 , positioned within an aperture  515  defined by an enclosure  520 . The keycap  505  may include a flange  510  such as described above. 
     The input mechanism  500  may also include a compliant member  530 , a first magnetic component  525 , a second magnetic component  535 , a coil  540  at least partially surrounding or otherwise adjacent a bottom portion of the keycap  505  but positioned above the first magnetic component  425 . The input mechanism  500  also includes a drive circuit  550  coupled to a circuit board  545 , a sensor  555  and one or more switches  560 . Each of these components may function in a similar manner as described above. 
     As with the embodiment described in  FIG. 4 , when the drive circuit  550  applies a current to the coil  540 , a magnetic field moves the first magnetic component  525  toward the second magnetic component  535 . In some embodiments, and as with the other embodiments described herein, an increase in the current adjusts a force curve between the magnetic components. When the current is removed from the coil  540 , a repulsive force between the second magnetic component  535  and the first magnetic component  525  causes the keycap  505  to move back to its nominal position. 
       FIG. 6  shows a cross-section view of an input mechanism  600  of an input device according to a fifth embodiment. The cross-section view of the input mechanism  600  may be taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1  and may include similar components to the input mechanism  200  described above with respect to  FIG. 2A . For example, the input mechanism  600  may include an input surface, such as, for example, a keycap  605 , positioned within an aperture  615  defined by an enclosure  620 . The keycap  605  may include a first magnetic component  625 . However, in this particular embodiment, the first magnetic component  625  may extend along an entire bottom surface of the keycap  605 . 
     The input mechanism  600  may also include a compliant member  630 , a second magnetic component  635 , and a coil  640  adjacent the second magnetic component  635 . The input mechanism  600  may also include a drive circuit  650  coupled to a circuit board  645 , a sensor  655  and one or more switches  660 . Each of these components may function in a similar manner as described above. 
       FIGS. 7A-7C  illustrate various force displacement curves that may characterize force responses of the various input mechanisms described above. In the described embodiments, the input mechanism may be tuned to provide a specific force response, such as the force response characterized by the force displacement curve  700  shown in  FIG. 7A . Furthermore, the input mechanism may be configurable to exhibit different force responses at different times or under different conditions by changing the magnetic force between magnetic components in the input mechanism. The magnetic forces between the magnetic components may be static or fixed for a desired force response, or they may dynamically change over the travel distance of the input mechanism. 
       FIG. 7A  illustrates a first example force displacement curve  700 . More specifically, the force displacement curve  700  simulates a typical dome switch in a key, and thus may resemble a standard mechanically actuated key. In this implementation, an actuation force causes an input surface of the input mechanism to move. As the input surface moves, a first magnetic component coupled to the input surface approaches a second magnetic component. In some embodiments, the second magnetic component may exert a repulsive magnetic force on the first magnetic component. Here, the magnets&#39; strength may vary with the input surface&#39;s travel in order to increase the resistive force of the input structure, but have the increase in resistive force decrease with displacement in region A. Put another way, in region A the resistive force increases, but the rate of increase decreases. 
     Accordingly, the force response (e.g., the force imparted by the input mechanism in an opposition direction to the actuation force) of the input mechanism may increase (represented in the force displacement curve  700  as the initial upslope of the curve) until an inflection point  705  is reached. The inflection point  705  may correspond to a peak force required to translate the input mechanism during actuation and/or prior to the input mechanism reaching or approaching its travel limit, actuation travel, or the like. 
     In some embodiments, the second magnetic component may exert a repulsive magnetic force on the first magnetic component up until the inflection point  705  is reached (represented as region A in the force displacement curve  700 ). Once the inflection point  705  is reached, the magnetic force exerted by the second magnetic component on the first magnetic component is reduced or otherwise changed such that the repulsive force between the magnetic components decreases. In some embodiments, the change or decrease in the repulsive force is caused by passing a current through a coil that surrounds or is otherwise associated with the second magnetic such as described above. Thus, the force required to translate the input mechanism decreases. At the inflection point  705 , the user may experience a haptic output similar to that of a mechanical dome collapsing in a typical mechanically actuated key (e.g., a “click” feeling) 
     After the inflection point  705 , the magnetic force between the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component may change until it reaches an operating point  710 . As briefly described above, the change in the magnetic force may be a decrease in a repulsive magnetic force between the magnetic components. Alternately, the change in the magnetic force may equate to changing the repulsive magnetic force to an attractive magnetic force. The change in the magnetic force may occur in region B of the force displacement curve  700 . 
     The operating point  710  may be at or near a maximum travel distance of the input mechanism. In other embodiments, the operating point  710  may be a point at which the magnetic force exerted by the second magnetic component on the first magnetic component restricts movement of the input mechanism, thereby signaling actuation of the input mechanism (and, optionally, generating an input signal). After the input mechanism reaches the maximum travel distance, the force required to move the input mechanism increases asymptotically. This is region C in the force displacement curve  700 . 
       FIG. 7B  illustrates a second example force displacement curve  720 . Like the force displacement curve described above, the force response of the input mechanism may increase until an inflection point  725  is reached. In this embodiment, the second magnetic component may exert a repulsive magnetic force on the first magnetic component (represented as region A in the force displacement curve  720 ). At this point, the user may experience a haptic output corresponding to a click. In this embodiment, the magnetic strength of both magnets is constant in region A, such that the rate of increase of the resistive force also increases with displacement. 
     Once this point is reached, the magnetic force exerted by the second magnetic component on the first magnetic component may be reduced or otherwise changed such as described above. This is represented as region B in the force displacement curve  720 . 
     Once operating point  730  is reached, the magnetic force exerted on the first magnetic component may change again. For example, the second magnetic component may again exert the original (or a different) repulsive magnetic force on the first magnetic component (represented as region C in the force displacement curve  720 ). The repulsive magnetic force may slow, restrict or otherwise stop the travel of the input mechanism indicating the actuation travel has been achieved (represented as region D in the force displacement curve  720 ). 
     In some embodiments, the actuation travel limit may be different from the physical travel limit of the input mechanism. For example, changing the repulsive magnetic force exhibited by the second magnetic component on the first magnetic component, such as described above, may prevent the input mechanism from traveling farther even if physical space between the components of the input mechanism exists. 
     In some embodiments, the distance between the inflection point  725  and the operating point  730  and/or the rate of the decrease of the curve between the two points, causes the haptic output to be more distinct or pronounced. In addition, the actuation travel of the input mechanism may be dynamically adjusted by varying when the change in the magnetic field occurs such as previously described. 
       FIG. 7C  illustrates a third example force displacement curve  740 . In this example, a force response of the input mechanism increases and decreases multiple times over the travel distance of the input mechanism. In some embodiments, the various peaks and valleys of the force displacement curve  740  may be the result of alternating or otherwise changing the magnetic force exhibited by the second magnetic component on the first magnetic component such as described above. For example, the force displacement curve  740  may exhibit various peaks and valleys, each of which may provide a haptic output. Accordingly, the input mechanism may exhibit multiple clicks or otherwise provide a vibration sensation to the user instead of a single haptic output or a single click. 
     Although specific examples have been given, the force displacement curves provided above are not necessarily to scale. However, each of the example force displacement curves may be utilized by a single input mechanism to provide various haptic sensations to a user. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates an example input device  800  having multiple input mechanisms in different states. In this example, the input device  800  is a keyboard. The keyboard may have multiple keys. Each key may be in a different state. For example, a first set of keys  810  may be in a nominal state such that the input surface of each key extends above a frame  830  or enclosure of the input device  800 . Further, the input surfaces of a second set of keys  820  may be flush, substantially flush or recessed with respect to the frame  830  of the input device  800 . As discussed above, each of the keys of the input device  800  may use one or more magnetic components to position the keys in either the nominal state or the recessed state. 
     In some embodiments, the input device  800  may provide haptic output to assist individuals as they use the input device  800 . In one implementation, if the user is typing a word and has entered a certain letter combination, haptic output may be provided on one or more keys that may be used to complete the word. For example, if a user has input the letters “appl” on the input device  800 , the key with the letter “e” may vibrate to suggest that the user is going to input “apple.” Likewise, the key with the letter “i” may also vibrate to suggest that the user is going to type the word “application.” Although specific examples have been given, other combinations are contemplated. 
     As one additional example, individual keys  810  may be raised and/or lowered to create a user-customizable keyboard. The height of keys (and of individual keys) may be set by a user, by an application, by an associated electronic device, and so on. Further, individual keys  810  may have varying heights; some keys may be retracted, some may be fully extended, and some may be at any height in between. In addition to the predictive typing discussed above, other functionality may be generated through such customizability. For example, a home row of keys (such as those representing the initial positions of a touch typist&#39;s fingers) may be raised with respect to other keys. Further, this home row may be raised (or lowered) only initially; once an input is provided by depressing any key, the raised (or lowered) keys may return to a default height. The same is true for any function that raises or lowers one or more keys. 
     In other examples, the input device  800  may lower or raise one or more of its keys in response to user input. For example, if the user has input the characters “appl,” the keys that are associated with the characters “i” and “e” may be maintained in their nominal position (like the first set of keys  810  or may be raised) while all other keys are moved to a second position (like the second set of keys  820 ). 
     In some embodiments, and continuing with the keyboard example, locator keys (e.g., the “f” and “j” keys that typically have nubs on the input surface to indicate where index fingers typically rest) or home keys may be raised above other keys on the keyboard. Thus, a user may be able to quickly identify particular keys on the keyboard as well as quickly identifying proper placement of the user&#39;s hands on the keyboard. 
     In yet another example, keys of the input device  800  that are typically actuated by different fingers may have different force to click ratios. For example, keys that are typically actuated by index fingers may require a first magnitude of force to be actuated while keys that are typically actuated by the pinkie fingers may require a second magnitude of force to be actuated. 
     In yet other examples, key of the input device  800  may all simultaneously retract to reduce a height of the keyboard. This may be useful when storing the keyboard or when the keyboard is incorporated into another electronic device. For example, in portable electronic devices thickness is generally sought to be reduced and/or minimized; by retracting the keys, the overall thickness of the electronic device may be reduced when it is not operating. 
     In other scenarios, a force required to actuate an input mechanism of an input device may be changed based on an application that receives input from the input device or is otherwise running on an electronic device. For example, if a gaming application is running on an electronic device, the input device may use a first travel profile. The first travel profile may have a first travel distance and a first force profile (e.g., an amount of force required to actuate the input mechanism) for each input mechanism. However, if a word processing application is running on the electronic device, the input device may use a second travel profile. 
     Although the embodiments described herein have described movement of various input mechanisms in an upward and downward direction to provide haptic output, the various input mechanisms described herein may also move in a variety of directions in order to provide haptic output. For example,  FIGS. 9A-9C  illustrate movement of an input mechanism  900  in a variety of directions due to varying attractive and/or repulsive magnetic forces between various magnetic components and/or the positioning of various magnetic components within the input mechanism  900 . The input mechanism  900  shown in  FIGS. 9A-9C  may be similar to the input mechanisms described herein. 
       FIG. 9A  is a top-down view of an input mechanism  900  in a first position. The input mechanism  900  may include an input surface, such as, for example, a keycap  910 , positioned within an aperture  920  defined by an enclosure  930 . The keycap  910  may include a first magnetic component  940  and a second magnetic component  960 . A third magnetic component  950  may be positioned adjacent the first magnetic component  940  and a fourth magnetic component  970  may be positioned adjacent the second magnetic component  960 . 
     In order to move the keycap  910  in a first direction within the aperture  920 , such as shown in  FIG. 9B , an attractive magnetic force between the fourth magnetic component  970  and the second magnetic component  960  may increase in a similar manner as described above. In some embodiments, a repulsive magnetic force between the third magnetic component  950  and the first magnetic component  940  may also increase to assist with the movement of the keycap  910  within the aperture  920 . As the keycap  910  moves, haptic output may be provided to the user. 
     In order to move the keycap  910  in a second direction within the aperture  920 , such as shown in  FIG. 9C , an attractive magnetic force between the third magnetic component  950  and the first magnetic component  940  may increase in a similar manner as described above. Likewise, to assist with the movement of the keycap  910  within the aperture  920 , a repulsive magnetic force between the fourth magnetic component  970  and the second magnetic component  960  may increase in a similar manner as described above. As the keycap  910  moves in the second direction, a second haptic output may be provided to the user. 
     In some embodiments, the first magnetic component  940  and the second magnetic component  960  may be contained within the keycap  910  such as described above. In other embodiments, the first magnetic component  940  and the second magnetic component  960  may be positioned at various locations within or on the keycap  910 . For example, one or both of the first magnetic component  940  and the second magnetic component  960  may be positioned on a side or a flange of the keycap  910 . Likewise, the third magnetic component  950  and the fourth magnetic component  970  may be coupled to the enclosure  930  or otherwise be positioned adjacent the first magnetic component  940  and the second magnetic component  960 . 
     In other embodiments, the first magnetic component  940  may be positioned within the underside of the keycap  910 , and the second magnetic component  960  may be positioned on a flange or a sidewall of the keycap  910 . Although specific examples have been given, the positioning of the various magnetic components, as well as the number of magnetic components, may vary. 
       FIG. 10A  illustrates an exploded view of various components of an electromechanical system  1000  that may be used to produce a haptic output and/or movement in various devices. For example, in some implementations, the electromechanical system may be used in the various input mechanisms described above. In other implementations, the components of the electromechanical system  1000  may be arranged in various other configurations to provide additional functionality. These include, but are not limited to, cores of loudspeaker drivers, cores of servomechanisms, cores of pulsed relays, shock absorbers, linear or circular actuators and so on. These and other examples will be explained in greater detail below. 
     The electromechanical system  1000  described herein may be implemented without the use of permanent magnets or other rare earth elements. Accordingly, the overall cost of the components in which the electromechanical system  1000  is implemented, and the cost of the electromechanical system  1000  itself, may be reduced. 
     The electromechanical system  1000  includes a coil  1010 . The coil  1010  may be made of any conductive material such as silver, copper, gold and so on. The coil  1010  may have any number of turns or rings. The coil  1010  may be wrapped around or otherwise be associated with a core  1020  that acts to increase or enhance a magnetic field generated by the coil  1010 . The core  1020  may be made of a ferromagnetic material such as, steel, iron, iron-cobalt, nickel and so on. Although  FIG. 10A  shows the core  1020  being associated within the coil  1010 , in some implementations, the core  1020  may be omitted. 
     The electromechanical system  1000  may also include bimetallic plate  1030  or disk. The bimetallic plate  1030  includes a first layer  1040  of a conductive material (e.g., copper) and a second layer  1060  of a ferromagnetic material (e.g., steel, iron-cobalt etc.). The second layer  1060  may be coupled to the first layer  1040  using an adhesive, a clip, or other securement mechanism. The second layer  1060  is positioned behind the first layer  1040  such that the first layer  1040  is nearer the coil  1010 . Although plate  1030  is shown, other geometric shapes may be used. For example, the plate  1030  may be shaped as a box, a sphere, a rectangle and so on. In such embodiments, the first layer  1040  may partially or entirely cover the second layer  1060 . For example, if the a sphere is used, the outer layer of the sphere may be made of a conductive material while the inner layer of the sphere is a ferromagnetic material. 
     The first layer  1040  may include an aperture  1050  or other opening. The aperture  1050  defines a current path for an electromagnetic field produced by the coil  1010  when a current is applied to it. More specifically, when the electromechanical system  1000  is in an assembled state such as shown in  FIG. 10B , the bimetallic plate  1030  may be placed a distance away from the coil  1010  and the core  1020 . When the coil  1010  is energized such as, for example, by an electrical circuit, the bimetallic plate  1030  is either repelled from, or attracted to, the coil  1010 . Movement of the bimetallic plate  1030  may be used for a variety of purposes including providing haptic output, moving an input mechanism from a first position to a second position and so on. 
     In some embodiments, the coil  1010  may be energized by different pulses or a series of pulses which cause the bimetallic plate  1030  to act in certain ways. For example, if a short pulse (or series of short pulses) with a short rise time is applied to the coil  1010 , eddy currents will be produced in the first layer  1040  of the bimetallic plate  1030 . The eddy currents in the first layer  1040  will produce a magnetic field that opposes the magnetic field generated by the coil  1010 . As a result, the bimetallic plate  1030  will be repelled from the coil  1010 . As discussed above, the aperture  1050  in the first layer  1040  may enhance the effects of the eddy currents. 
     In some embodiments, the short pulse may have a rise time of approximately 2-3 μs and a width of approximately 10 μs although other values may be used. The short pulse may be a positive voltage or a negative voltage. 
     In other embodiments, the pulse applied to the coil  1010  may be a full cycle pulse containing both positive and negative voltages. In such embodiments, the coil  1010  will produce two consecutive repulsive forces. Depending on the timing between the pulses, the repulsive forces may build on one another. As such, various pulses may be repeated until a desired momentum and velocity of the bimetallic plate  1030  is reached. 
     In addition to creating repulsive forces, the first layer  1040  may also act as a shield for the second layer  1060 . For example, when short pulses are applied to the coil  1010 , the first layer  1040  effectively blocks the magnetic field originating from the coil  1010  and prevents the magnetic field from reaching or otherwise affecting the second layer  1060 . 
     In addition to producing repulsive forces that cause the bimetallic plate  1030  to move away from the coil  1010 , the electromechanical system  1000  may also be used to produce attractive forces on the bimetallic plate  1030 . The attractive forces are caused by one or more long pulses with a long rise time being applied to the coil  1010 . In some embodiments, the rise time of the long pulse may be approximately 1 ms or more and the pulse length may also be approximately 1 ms or more although other values may be used. 
     A long pulse will not produce significant eddy currents in the first layer  1040  of the bimetallic plate  1030 . In some situations, the first layer  1040  may be transparent or substantially transparent to the pulse. As a result, the bimetallic plate  1030  will not be repelled from the coil  1010 . However, the second layer  1060  of the bimetallic plate  1030  may absorb the magnetic flux originating from the coil  1010 . As a result, the second layer  1060  will be attracted to the coil  1010  and will move toward it. As with the short pulse, the long pulse can be a negative voltage, a positive voltage, or a full cycle pulse. The long pulse can also be repeated until a desired momentum and velocity of the bimetallic plate  1030  is reached. 
     In some embodiments, short pulses and long pulses may be combined in any number of ways to produce a desired movement of the bimetallic plate  1030 . For example, a short pulse and a series of long pulses may be provided to the coil  1010  to cause the bimetallic plate  1030  to move away from the coil  1010  and subsequently be attracted to the coil  1010 . Likewise, a long pulse may be followed by a short pulse to cause the bimetallic plate  1030  to move toward the coil  1010  and subsequently move away from the coil  1010 . Likewise, the pulses may have various shapes. For example, the pulses may be square waves, sawtooth waves, or other non-linear waves. 
     In some embodiments, the first layer  1040  and the second layer  1060  may have different masses or the same masses. The masses may affect the momentum and velocity of the bimetallic plate  1030 . As such, different masses may be used in different implementations. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates another example arrangement of components of an electromagnetic system  1100 . In this particular implementation, the electromagnetic system  1100  includes a coil  1110  and a plate  1120  contained within the coil  1110 . The coil  1110  may be similar to the coil  1010  described above and the plate  1120  may be similar to the bimetallic plate  1030  described above. In another embodiment, the plate  1120  may be similar to the first layer  1040  of the bimetallic plate  1030  only. 
     When various pluses (e.g., short pulses or long pulses) are applied to the coil  1110 , the plate  1120  may move away from and/or outside of the coil  1110  as the pulse may cause the coil  1110  to generate repulsive forces on the coil  1110 . In cases where the plate  1120  includes a ferromagnetic material, a long pulse applied to the coil  1110  may cause the plate  1120  to be attracted to the coil  1110  such as described above. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates another example arrangement of components of an electromagnetic system  1200 . In this embodiment, the electromagnetic system  1200  includes a first coil  1210 , a second coil  1240  and a plate  1220 . The plate  1220  may be made of a conductive material (e.g., copper). An aperture  1230  may also be included in the plate  1220  and function in a similar manner as described above. 
     In this embodiment, the plate  1220  may be placed between the first coil  1210  and the second coil  1240 . The plate  1220  may move depending on which coil is activated. For example, if the first coil  1210  generates a first magnetic field, the plate  1220  will move away from the first coil  1210  toward the second coil  1240 . Likewise, if the second coil  1240  generates a second magnetic field, the plate  1220  will move away from the second coil  1240  and toward the first coil  1210 . 
     In some implementations, the first coil  1210  and the second coil  1240  may be activated simultaneously or substantially simultaneously. For example a first pulse having a first rise time and a first width may be applied to the first coil  1210  and a second pulse having a second rise time and a second width may be applied to the second coil  1240  at the same time or substantially the same time. In some embodiments, the second pulse may be used to offset the movement of the plate  1220  caused by the first pulse. In another embodiment, the first coil  1210  may be configured to receive a positive voltage of a single pulse and the second coil  1240  may be configured to get a negative voltage of the single pulse. 
     Using all of the above examples, the movement of the plate  1220  (including the bimetallic plate  1030  and the plate  1130 ) may be precise or otherwise tuned to move a desired distance at a particular frequency. As such, the electromechanical systems described above may be implemented as an analog speaker, the core of a speaker driver and so on. 
     In another example, the first coil  1210  and the second coil  1240  may be activated simultaneously with the same or a similar pulse which causes the plate  1220  to maintain its position. In this example, the electromagnetic system  1200  may function as a core of a servomechanism. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an exploded view of another arrangement of components of an electromechanical system  1300 . In this implementations, the electromechanical system  1300  includes a first coil  1310 , a first layer  1320  having an aperture  1330 , a second layer  1340 , a third layer  1350  having an aperture  1360 , and a second coil  1370 . 
     The first coil  1310  and the second coil  1370  function in a similar way to the coil  1010  described above. Likewise, the first layer  1320  and the third layer  1350  may be similar to the first layer  1040  of  FIG. 10A  and the second layer  1340  may be similar to the second layer  1060  of  FIG. 10A . Each of the first layer  1320 , the second layer  1340  and the third layer  1350  may be coupled together to form a single plate. 
     As pulses are applied to the first coil  1310  and the second coil  1370 , the plate may move in a particular manner. More specifically, firing opposing and/or complimentary short pulses and long pulses on each of the first coil  1310  and the second coil  1370  may double the forces on the plate. 
     In each of the examples above, the electromechanical system, and more specifically, the plates of each electromechanical system can be moved in a variety of ways and for a variety of purposes. For example, the plates can be used in various servomechanisms or the plate can move in a manner that drives a piston or other oscillatory mechanism. The electromechanical system, and more specifically the movement of the plate can act as an ultrasonic welder. The plate may also be configured to vibrate in such a manner that it acts as a core of a speaker. In another embodiment, a toggle mechanism may be added to the one or more of the examples set forth above and the electromechanical system may be a core or other component of a pulsed relay. In another example, a plate of the electromechanical system may be configured to respond to an external force with a hard or soft reaction which causes the electromechanical system to act as a shock absorber. 
     Although specific examples are given, the electromechanical systems described herein may be used in a variety of situations and for a variety of functions. As discussed above, a variety of different pulses may be provided to the coils of the electromechanical systems in order to cause them to behave in such a manner. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates another arrangement of components of an electromechanical system  1400 . In this example, the electromechanical system  1400  includes any number of coils labeled in  FIG. 14  as  1410 ,  1320  and  1430 . Although three coils are shown, fewer or more coils may be used. 
     The electromechanical system also includes a plate  1440  moveably coupled to a shaft  1470 . The plate  1440  may include a first layer  1450  and a second layer  1460 . For example, the first layer  1450  may be a conductive material similar to the first layer  1040  described above and the second layer  1460  may be made of a ferromagnetic material similar to the second layer  1060 . 
     As various pulses are applied to each of the coils, the plate  1440  may move along the shaft in the direction of the arrow  1480 . In one specific implementation, the electromechanical system  1400  shown in  FIG. 14  may function as a linear actuator or a circular actuator. 
     For example, if a short pulse is applied to the second coil  1420 , a repulsive force between the plate  1440  and the second coil  1420  will cause the plate  1440  to move toward the third coil  1430 . Likewise, if a short pulse is applied to the coil  1430 , the plate  1440  will move along the shaft  1470  toward the second coil  1420  and the first coil  1410 . In this particular embodiment, the electromechanical system  1400  may act as a linear actuator to provide haptic output. 
     Although the plate  1440  and the coils  1410 ,  1420 , and  1430  are shown in a linear configuration, other arrangements are possible. For example, each of the coils may be arranged in a three dimensional pattern. In such embodiments, the plate  1440  may move in a three dimensional space defined by the position of the coils. Further, although a plate is described in each of the embodiments described above, other shapes may be used. For example, the electromechanical systems described herein may use or incorporate boxes, spheres or other geometric shapes in lieu or in addition to the various plates described above. In such embodiments the sphere or box may have an outer layer formed of a conductive material and an inner layer formed from a ferromagnetic material. In addition, other components such as springs, slides, switches and the like may be added to the electromechanical systems described herein. 
       FIG. 15  shows a cross-section view of an input mechanism  1500  of an input device according that may use or otherwise incorporate an electromechanical system such as described above. The cross-section view of the input mechanism  1500  may be taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1 . Like the input mechanisms described above, the input mechanism  1500  may include an input surface, such as, for example, a keycap  1505 . The keycap  1505  may include a flange  1510 . The keycap  1505  may also be positioned within an aperture  1515  defined by an enclosure  1520 . 
     The input mechanism  1500  also includes a compliant member  1530 , a first layer  1535  and a second layer  1525 . The first layer  1535  and the second layer  1525  may be coupled to or otherwise associated with the keycap  1505 . The first layer  1535  is made of a conductive material (e.g., copper) and the second layer  1525  may be made of a ferromagnetic material (e.g., steel, iron-cobalt etc.). The input mechanism  1500  also includes a coil  1540 . The coil  1540  may be made of any conductive material such as silver, copper, gold and so on. The coil  1540 , the first layer  1535  and the second layer  1525  may function in a similar manner to the coil  1010 , the first layer  1040  and the second layer  1060  of the electromechanical system  1000  described above with respect to  FIG. 10A . 
     For example, depending on the pulse that is applied to the coil  1540  by a drive circuit  1550 , the first layer  1535  may be repelled by the coil  1540  or the second layer  1525  may be attracted to the coil  1540 . As the various layers are either repelled from or attracted to the coil  1540 , the keycap  1505  moves from a first position to a second position. In some embodiments, the coil  1540 , the first layer  1535  and the second layer  1525  may provide a haptic output that simulates a click sensation as the keycap  1505  moves such as described above. 
     The input mechanisms  1500  may also include a sensor  1555  and one or more switches  1565  coupled to a circuit board  1545 . Each of these components may function in a similar manner as described above. For example, the sensor  1555  may be used to determine a position of the keycap  1505  and more specifically a position of the first layer  1535  and the second layer  1525 . 
     The input mechanisms  1500  may also include a spring  1560 . The spring  1560  may function to keep the keycap  1505  in its nominal position. The spring  1560  may also enable the keycap to be actuated in response to a received force and also cause the keycap  1505  to return to its nominal position when the force is removed. 
     As with prior embodiments, the input mechanisms  1500  may be retractable, collapsible, or the like. For example, the input mechanisms  1500  may be configured such that top surfaces of the keycaps  1505  are flush with a housing of an electronic device when the input mechanisms are not in use. Generally, a force gradient of the coil  1540 , when activated, is much greater than a force gradient of the spring  1560 . At relatively larges distances between the coil  1540  and the first and second layers  1535 ,  1525 , the spring exerts more force on the layers and keycap  1505  than does a transient signal through the coil (or no signal). This biases the keycap upward, to the position shown in  FIG. 15 . 
     The input mechanism  1500  may be retracted, for example such that a top surface of the keycap  1505  is flush (or near-flush) with a top surface of the enclosure  1520 , by activating the coil with a relatively strong and sustained electrical signal. This energizes the coil  1540 , thereby generating an attraction force that draws the second layer  1525  toward it. This attractive magnetic force may overcome the biasing force of the spring. Accordingly, the keycap  1505  and first layer  1535  likewise move toward the coil. Generally, the stronger a sustained electrical current through the coil is, the greater the magnetic field produced and the stronger the attractive force exerted on the second layer is. By generating a sufficiently strong attractive magnetic force, the keycap  1505  may be drawn downward and held in a retracted/collapsed position. 
       FIG. 16  shows a cross-section view of another input mechanism  1600  of an input device that may use or otherwise incorporate an electromechanical system such as described above. The cross-section view of the input mechanism  1600  may be taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1 . Like the input mechanisms described above, the input mechanism  1600  may include a keycap  1605  having a flange  1610  and positioned within an aperture  1615  defined by an enclosure  1620 . 
     The input mechanism  1600  also includes a compliant member  1630  coupled to the enclosure  1620 , and a first layer  1635  and a second layer  1625  positioned underneath or otherwise coupled to the keycap  1605 . The first layer  1535  is made of a conductive material (e.g., copper) and the second layer  1525  may be made of a ferromagnetic material (e.g., steel, iron-cobalt etc.). The input mechanism  1600  also includes a coil  1640 . The coil  1640  may be made of any conductive material such as described above. The coil  1640 , the first layer  1635  and the second layer  1625  may function in a similar manner to the coil  1010 , the first layer  1040  and the second layer  1060  of the electromechanical system  1000  described above. 
     The input mechanism  1600  may also include a drive circuit  1650  that provides one or more pulses to the coil  1640 . The drive circuit  1650  is coupled to a circuit board  1545 . A sensor  1655  and one or more switches  1670  may also be included. Each of these components may function in a similar manner as described above. In addition, the input mechanism  1600  may also include a spring  1665 . The spring  1665  may function in a similar manner to the spring  1560  described above. 
     In addition to these components, the input mechanism  1600  may also include a core  1660  within the coil  1640 . The core  1660  may be a magnet or other material and function to increase the repulsive or attractive force provided by the coil  1640  on the first layer  1635  and the second layer  1625  of the input mechanism  1600 . In addition, the core  1660 , when magnetized, may hold the keycap  1605  in a depressed position once the input mechanism  1600  has been actuated. 
       FIG. 17  illustrates a method  1700  for adjusting a travel profile one or more input mechanisms of an input device. For example, the method  1700  may be used to dynamically adjust an operating force, a force to click ratio, and a travel of the various input mechanisms described herein. 
     Method  1700  begins at operation  1710  in which one or more input characteristics of a user are determined. The input characteristics may be determined by one or more sensors provided in the input device. In some embodiments, the input characteristics may be determined by other components of the input device. For example, a processor associated with the input device may determine the speed of input based on the rate at which a switch associated with each input mechanism is actuated. In other embodiments, a user may manually enter or otherwise provide the input characteristics. 
     As described above, the input characteristics may include a hand or finger size of the user, a magnitude of force applied to the various input mechanisms, the speed of input, gender, and so on. 
     Once the input characteristics are determined, flow proceeds to operation  1720  and a configuration of the input device is determined. In some embodiments, the configuration of the input device is based, at least in part, on the input characteristics. 
     The configuration of the input device may be selected based on a predefined set of input characteristics. For example, a user with a first set of input characteristics may be assigned a first predefined input device configuration while a user with a second set of input characteristics may be assigned a second, different predefined input device configuration. 
     In other embodiments, the configuration of the input device may be selected using only the detected input characteristics. For example, if the sensor of the input mechanism determines that the user provides a high magnitude of force when typing, the resistance between the magnetic components may increase. Likewise, if the sensor of the input mechanism determines that the user provides a low magnitude of force when typing, the resistance between the magnetic components may decrease. 
     Flow then proceeds to operation  1730  in which a current is provided to one or more coils of the input device. As described above, each input mechanism of the input device may have a coil associated with a magnetic component. The coil may receive a current that enhances, weakens or otherwise changes the magnetic properties of the magnetic component. The change in the magnetic properties, which effectively changes the magnetic force between the magnetic components, may be based, at least in part, on the input characteristics. 
     Once the coil receives the current, the magnetic force between the magnetic components dynamically changes  1740 . In some embodiments, the adjustment may occur in real-time or substantially real-time such as, for example, while the user is providing input. In other embodiments, the adjustments may be made after the input has been provided. Regardless of when the adjustments are made, the input device may continually adjust its configuration based on received input over time. As such, multiple users may use a single input device, and the input device may adjust its configuration based on the current user&#39;s input characteristics. 
       FIG. 18  illustrates example components of an electronic device  1800  that may use or incorporate an adjustable input device such as described above. As shown in  FIG. 18 , the electronic device  1800  includes at least one processor  1805  or processing unit configured to access a memory  1810 . The memory  1810  may have various instructions, computer programs, or other data stored thereon. The instructions may be configured to perform one or more of the operations or functions described with respect to the electronic device  1800 . For example, the instructions may be configured to control or coordinate the operation of the display  1835 , one or more input/output components  1815 , actuation of the drive circuit such as described above, one or more communication channels  1820 , one or more sensors  1825 , a speaker  1830 , and/or one or more haptic actuators  1840 . 
     The processor  1805  may be implemented as any electronic device capable of processing, receiving, or transmitting data or instructions. For example, the processor  1805  can be a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or combinations of such devices. 
     The memory  1810  can store electronic data that can be used by the electronic device  1800 . For example, the memory  1810  can store electrical data or content such as, for example, audio and video files, documents and applications, device settings and user preferences, timing and control signals or data for the various modules, data structures or databases, and so on. The memory  1810  may also store the predefined input device configurations or settings that are based on various input characteristics. 
     The memory  1810  may be any type of memory such as, for example, random access memory, read-only memory, Flash memory, removable memory, or other types of storage elements, or combinations of such devices. 
     The electronic device  1800  may include various input and output components represented in  FIG. 18  as Input/Output  1815 . Although the input and output components are represented as a single item, the electronic device  1800  may include a number of different input components, including buttons, input surfaces, microphones, switches, rotatable crowns, dials and other input mechanisms for accepting user input. The input and output components may include one or more touch sensors and/or force sensors. For example, the display  1835  may be comprised of a display stack that includes one or more touch sensors and/or one or more force sensors that enable a user to provide input to the electronic device  1800 . 
     The electronic device  1800  may also include one or more communication channels  1820 . These communication channels  1820  may include one or more wireless interfaces that provide communications between the processor  1805  and an external device or other electronic device. In general, the one or more communication channels  1820  may be configured to transmit and receive data and/or signals that may be interpreted by instructions executed on the processor  1805 . In some cases, the external device is part of an external communication network that is configured to exchange data with other devices. Generally, the wireless interface may include, without limitation, radio frequency, optical, acoustic, and/or magnetic signals and may be configured to operate over a wireless interface or protocol. Example wireless interfaces include radio frequency cellular interfaces, fiber optic interfaces, acoustic interfaces, Bluetooth interfaces, Near Field Communication interfaces, infrared interfaces, USB interfaces, Wi-Fi interfaces, TCP/IP interfaces, network communications interfaces, or any conventional communication interfaces. 
     The electronic device  1800  may also include one or more sensors  1825 . Although a single representation of a sensor  1825  is shown in  FIG. 18 , the electronic device  1800  may have many sensors. These sensors may include resistive sensors, light sensors, capacitive sensors, biometric sensors, temperature sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, barometric sensors, moisture sensors, and so on. The sensors may also include optical sensors, magnetic sensors, Hall effect sensors, Anisotropic Magneto-Resistive sensors, tunnel magnetoresistance sensors, and so on. 
     One or more acoustic modules or speakers  1830  may also be included in the electronic device  1800 . The speaker  1830  may be configured to produce an audible sound or an acoustic signal. 
     As also shown in  FIG. 18 , the electronic device  1800  may include one or more haptic actuators  1840 . The haptic actuators  1840  may be any type of haptic actuator including rotational haptic devices, linear haptic actuators, piezoelectric devices, vibration elements, and so on. The haptic actuator  1840  is configured to provide punctuated and distinct feedback to a user of the electronic device  1800 . In some embodiments, the haptic actuator  1840  may work in conjunction with the magnetic components to provide further distinctive haptic or tactile output. For example, the haptic actuator  1840  may be actuated at or near the same time that the repulsion or attraction between the magnetic components changes or is otherwise altered. As a result, the strength or perceptibility of the haptic output may be increased. 
     The electronic device  1800  may also include an internal battery  1845 . The internal battery  1845  may be used to store and provide power to the various components and modules of the electronic device  1800  including the haptic actuator  1840 . The battery  1845  may be configured to charge using a wireless charging system although a wired charging system may also be used. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20170201
Publication Date: 20220719
Grant Date: 20220719
Priority Date: 20160920
Inventors: WANG, PAUL X.
DIFONZO, JOHN C.
QU, DAYU
GAO, ZHENG
ZHANG, CHANG
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F1/1662", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/972", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/96062", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/972", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2017/9713", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2017/9713", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/972", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 82385123