PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11893171-B2
Application Number: US-202217651163-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Mountable tool computer input

Abstract:
Computing systems and input devices can include a chassis with a computing device and an input tool with a sensor, such as a pen- or rod-like input tool, that can be positioned relative to the chassis in multiple configurations. In one configuration, the tool can be spaced away from the chassis and its sensor output can cause a first output signal in response to input provided to the sensor. In another configuration, the tool can be contacting the chassis and its sensor output can cause a second output signal in response to input provided to the sensor. For example, an input tool can be stowed in a recess of a keyboard housing or device chassis, and the input tool can produce a first output when it is in the recess and a second input when it has been removed from the chassis.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A computing device system, comprising:
 a computing device including:
 a housing having a surface; and 
 a first magnetic element positioned in the housing; 
 
 an input tool mountable to the surface of the housing and having a second magnetic element magnetically attractable to the first magnetic element to retain the input tool to the surface of the housing; and 
 a haptic driver connected to at least one magnetic element of the first magnetic element or the second magnetic element, the haptic driver being operable to move the at least one magnetic element in response to detecting an input force or touch applied to the input tool and induce movement of the input tool relative to the housing, wherein the input force or touch is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the input tool. 
 
     
     
       2. The computing device system of  claim 1 , wherein the input tool includes a sensor to transduce the force or touch applied to the input tool, wherein the haptic driver is operable to move the at least one magnetic element in response to a signal sensed by the sensor. 
     
     
       3. The computing device system of  claim 1 , wherein the surface of the housing is positioned in a recess defined by the housing. 
     
     
       4. The computing device system of  claim 1 , wherein the haptic driver comprises a coil, a third magnetic element, a motor, a piezoelectric driver, or a vibrator controllable by the computing device. 
     
     
       5. The computing device system of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one magnetic element comprises a structure having reversible magnetic polarity, and wherein the haptic driver is controllable to reverse polarity of the structure. 
     
     
       6. The computing device system of  claim 1 , wherein the haptic driver is configured to repel the input tool from the housing. 
     
     
       7. The computing device system of  claim 1 , wherein the movement of the input tool relative to the housing is in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the input tool. 
     
     
       8. The computing device system of  claim 1 , wherein the haptic driver is configured to induce a movement of the input tool relative to the housing in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the input tool. 
     
     
       9. The computing device system of  claim 1 , wherein the haptic driver is configured to produce an audible indicator. 
     
     
       10. A computing input device system, comprising:
 an input tool including a first magnetic element; and 
 a computing device having a housing, a processor, a memory device, and a second magnetic element configured to magnetically attract the first magnetic element to a first position, wherein in the first position, the input tool contacts the housing; 
 wherein the memory device includes electronic instructions encoded thereon that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to detect a movement of the input tool from the first position to a second position in response to a force applied by a user object, wherein in the second position, the input tool contacts the housing. 
 
     
     
       11. The computing input device system of  claim 10 , wherein the movement is a sliding movement against the housing. 
     
     
       12. The computing input device system of  claim 10 , wherein the input tool is biased from the second position to the first position by the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element. 
     
     
       13. The computing input device system of  claim 10 , wherein the movement is at least partially directed parallel to a longitudinal axis of the input tool. 
     
     
       14. The computing input device system of  claim 10 , wherein the movement is a lateral movement relative to a longitudinal axis of the input tool. 
     
     
       15. The computing input device system of  claim 10 , wherein the housing includes a recess, the input tool is positioned in the recess while in the first position, and the input tool is positioned in the recess while in the second position. 
     
     
       16. An input device feedback system, comprising:
 a chassis; 
 a computing device; 
 an input tool including a sensor and a feedback driver, the input tool being positionable relative to the chassis in a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein: 
 in the first configuration, the input tool is spaced away from the chassis and the feedback driver is configured to detect a first input provided to the input tool by a user of the input tool via the sensor of the input tool and, in response to the first input, output a first signal; 
 in the second configuration, the input tool contacts the chassis and the feedback driver is configured to detect a second input provided to the input tool by the user via the sensor of the input tool and, in response to the second input, output a second signal, the first signal being unique relative to the second signal. 
 
     
     
       17. The input device feedback system of  claim 16 , wherein the feedback driver is configured to output visual feedback. 
     
     
       18. The input device feedback system of  claim 16 , wherein the feedback driver is configured to output haptic feedback. 
     
     
       19. The input device feedback system of  claim 16 , wherein the first input or the second input is a touch on a surface of the input tool and the sensor is configured to detect the touch on the surface of the input tool. 
     
     
       20. The input device feedback system of  claim 16 , wherein the sensor comprises a first sensor and a second sensor separate from the first sensor, wherein the first input is provided to the first sensor, and wherein the second input is provided to the second sensor.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/789,173, filed 12 Feb. 2020, and entitled “MOUNTABLE TOOL COMPUTER INPUT,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to input device systems. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to input devices incorporating a stylus that is removably mounted to a keyboard or similar input device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A variety of handheld input devices are used to detect user input. For example, a stylus is often used to provide input by contacting a digitizer or touch-sensitive panel of an electronic device. The touch panel may include a touch-sensitive surface that, in response to detecting a touch event, generates a signal that can be processed and used by other components of the electronic device. A display component of the electronic device may display textual and/or graphical display elements representing selectable virtual buttons or icons, and the touch sensitive surface may allow a user to navigate and change the content displayed on the display screen. Typically, a user can move one or more input devices, such as a stylus, across the touch panel in a pattern that the device translates into an input command. Some styluses can be touch- and force-sensitive to provide writing or drawing input to the electronic device. Functions of the stylus or electronic device can also be remotely controlled by interacting with a sensor on the stylus while the stylus is handheld. 
     SUMMARY 
     Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a computing system comprising a chassis, a computing device, and an input tool having a sensor, with the input tool being positionable relative to the chassis in a first configuration and in a second configuration. In the first configuration, the input tool can be spaced away from the chassis and the computing device can be configured to output a first signal in response to input provided to the sensor. In the second configuration, the input tool can contact the chassis and the computing device can be configured to output a second signal in response to input provided to the sensor, with the first signal being unique relative to the second signal. 
     In some embodiments, the input tool is generally rod-shaped. The chassis can comprise a recess to receive the input tool in the second configuration. The second signal can produce haptic feedback at a surface of the input tool or can indicate a scrolling input. The input tool can be positioned at an end of a trackpad in the chassis when in the second configuration. The input tool can be positioned at an edge of a key-based input device positioned in the chassis when in the second configuration. The input tool can be positioned at an outer side surface of the chassis when in the second configuration. 
     Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a computing system comprising a housing having a tool retention portion, a keyboard apparatus supported by the housing, a tool removably positioned in the tool retention portion, with the tool having an object sensor, and an electronic component in electronic communication with the sensor and configured to detect an object at the tool retention portion via a signal generated by the object sensor. 
     In some cases, the electronic component can be further configured to adjust an appearance of a user interface in response to detecting the object. The user interface can be a graphical user interface displayed by a display screen. Adjusting the appearance of the user interface can include changing the appearance of a light emitted from the keyboard apparatus. The object sensor can be configured to generate the signal in response to detecting a portion of a hand of a user. The housing can further comprise a cover over the tool when the tool is positioned in the tool retention portion, wherein the object can be detectable by the object sensor through the cover. 
     Still another aspect of the disclosure relates to a user interface device comprising an input tool having a length, a tip, and a transducer, with the transducer being configured to sense a force applied at the tip, an input device body having an input tool retention portion, wherein the input tool is movable between a first position retained to the input device body at the input tool retention portion and a second position spaced away from the input tool retention portion, a light source within the input tool or within the input device body, and a set of indicators at a surface of the input tool and distributed along the length of the input tool, with the set of indicators being illuminated by the light source when the input tool is in the first position. 
     In some cases, the set of indicators can comprise a set of symbols positioned along the length of the input tool. The user interface device can further comprise a light guide positioned in the input tool, with the light guide directing light from the light source to the set of indicators. The set of indicators can comprise a first row of indicators extending lengthwise along a first side of the input tool and a second row of indicators extending lengthwise along a second side of the input tool, with the second side being angularly offset relative to the first side about a longitudinal axis of the input tool. The set of indicators can be configured to be illuminated by diffusion of light through the input tool and can comprise a display positioned at or within the surface of the input tool. 
    
    
     
       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    shows a block diagram of a computing system. 
         FIG.  2    shows a perspective view of a computing system including a computing device and an input tool. 
         FIG.  3    shows a perspective view of a lower housing of a computing device. 
         FIGS.  4 A- 4 C  show side views of embodiments of input tools. 
         FIG.  5    shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input tool as taken through section lines  5 - 5  in  FIG.  3   . 
         FIG.  6    shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input tool. 
         FIG.  7    shows partial top views of a housing and input tool. 
         FIG.  8    shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input tool being illuminated. 
         FIG.  9    shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input tool being illuminated. 
         FIG.  10    shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input tool being illuminated. 
         FIG.  11    shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess and input tool being illuminated. 
         FIG.  12    shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input tool. 
         FIG.  13    shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess and input tool. 
         FIG.  14    shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing recess and input tool. 
         FIG.  15    shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing and input tool. 
         FIG.  16    shows a diagrammatic perspective view of an input tool being operated in a recess of a housing. 
         FIG.  17    shows another diagrammatic perspective view of an input tool being operated in a recess of a housing near a trackpad. 
         FIG.  18    shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess and input tool. 
         FIG.  19    shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess and input tool. 
         FIG.  21    shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input tool with airflow passages in the housing. 
         FIG.  22    shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input tool with a cover. 
         FIG.  23    shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess and input tool. 
     
    
    
     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, they are 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. 
     Makers and users of electronic devices and systems are in constant need for user interface improvements to make them easier, more efficient, and more comfortable to use. Input devices such as touchscreens can beneficially achieve these goals by being adaptable and reconfigurable to the context and content of the user&#39;s utilization of the touchscreen electronic device. For example, some computing devices, such as laptop computers, can have a touch screen positioned in or adjacent to a keyboard of the device that can be configured to provide many more functions than a set of traditional keys. The touch screen can show information in addition to information shown on a main display screen, can simulate key-based typing inputs (and can change which keys are simulated and shown), can receive touch input and gesture input (e.g., one or more sliding touches) across its surface, and more. 
     However, an ancillary touch screen can be difficult to use in some cases. Touch typists may dislike using the touch screen because it lacks tactile feedback as compared to a set of mechanical, moving keys. The touch screen is also generally positioned near the user&#39;s hands and therefore may be prone to being obscured from the user&#39;s vision by their own hands. Also, even when the user looks at the touch screen, it is positioned at a different focal distance from the user as compared to the main display, so the user must readjust their head or eyes to effectively read and interact with the touch screen, particularly when the touch screen is positioned at a flat angle while the main display is not. Furthermore, as the benefits of stylus-based input for computing devices have become more and more apparent over time, the inclusion of an ancillary touch screen in the electronic device in addition to the stylus can make the device become overly complex, expensive, and difficult to use. Styluses can have touch sensitivity and display capability, so using a stylus and separate ancillary touch screen with the same device can be redundant. 
     Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure relate to computing systems in which a computing device is configured to interact with an input tool, such as a stylus, that can be stored in or on a chassis or housing of the computing device. The input tool can be used as a first type of input device (e.g., a touch- or force-sensitive writing instrument) when it is removed from the chassis and can be used as a second type of input device (e.g., a touch-sensitive button, a touch pad, a set of simulated keyboard keys, or a mechanical input interface) when it is stored on or in the chassis. The input tool can be touch-sensitive at its outer surfaces in a manner that allows a user to tap, touch, or press the outside of the tool to provide a signal to the computing device whether or not the tool is mounted to the computing device. Also, in some cases, the input tool or chassis can comprise features for displaying information to a user, and the information can be visible to the user on or through the input tool when it is handheld or mounted to the chassis. 
     Accordingly, the input tool can be used to replace or replicate many of the functions and capabilities of an ancillary touch screen while also being able to provide separate stylus-like functionality, thereby reducing the redundancy, cost, and size of the computing system. The input tool can comprise an internal display or set of indicators that interacts and electrically communicates with a keyboard or other associated computing device when the tool is positioned in a socket or recess of the keyboard chassis, and the tool can therefore function similar to an ancillary touch screen or a set of keyboard keys when it is the socket or recess. Removing the tool from the chassis can change the function of the tool or change the meaning and function of its electrical and sensor signals so that it is operable as a stylus or wand input device. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1  through  23   . 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    shows a block diagram of a computing system  100  including a chassis  102 , a computing device  104 , and an input tool  106 . The input tool  106  can be positionable relative to the chassis  102  in a first configuration  107  and a second configuration  108 . In the first configuration  107 , the tool  106  can be mounted to, held against, locked to, supported by, disposed within or attached to the chassis  102 . For example, a magnet or mechanical latch can hold the tool  106  to a portion of the chassis  102 . See, e.g.,  FIG.  18    and its related descriptions. In the second configuration  108 , the tool  106  can be spaced away from the chassis  102  or substantially spaced away from the chassis  102  (e.g., only the tip  110  or another small fraction of the tool  106  contacts a part of the chassis  102 ). The tool  106  can also comprise a sensor  112  electrically connected to an electronic communication interface  114  of the tool  106 . 
     The computing system  100  can comprise a computer such as a laptop computer, tablet computer, desktop computer, or other device configured to receive input from an input tool  106  and associated with the chassis  102 . For example, the chassis  102  can be a housing or enclosure of a keyboard, notebook computer body, a tablet computer body, a computer accessory or case, or a similar device. The chassis  102  can contain the computing device  104  (e.g., when the chassis is part of a laptop computer) or the computing device  104  can be part of a separate component to which the device of the chassis  102  is connected (e.g., the computing device  104  is in a desktop or tablet computer housing and the chassis  102  is a keyboard electrically connected to the computer housing; see  FIG.  2   ). 
     The computing device  104  can comprise computer components enabled to receive and send electrical signals between component devices of the system  100  and to and from a user. For example, the computing device  104  can comprise a processor, memory device, electronic storage device, display screen, input adapter interface (e.g., to communicate with electronic communications interface  114  of the tool  106  or to connect to a keyboard), output adapter interface (e.g., to communicate and control a connected display screen), related components, or combinations thereof connected to each other via a bus interface. Accordingly, the computing device  104  can be enabled to electronically interface with the input tool  106  when it is in the first or second configuration  107 ,  108  by receiving signals from (and potentially sending signals to) the input tool  106 . 
     In the first and second configurations  107 ,  108  of the tool  106 , the sensor  112  of the tool  106  can sense or detect user input. For example, the sensor  112  can comprise an input device (e.g., a touch sensor or mechanical switch) that, when operated by a user, can generate a signal that is transmitted to the computing device  104  using the communications interface  114  or that is detected by the computing device  104  (e.g., using an antenna). Thus, a user can interact with the sensor  112  to provide an input signal  116  when the tool  106  is in the first configuration  107  or an input signal  118  in the second configuration  108 . The input signals  116 ,  118  can be the same or different from each other. The tip  110  can also comprise a sensor that can be used to provide an input signal (e.g.,  116  or  118 ) via the communications interface  114  when the tip  110  is operated (e.g., touched or pressed against a surface) in the first or second configuration  107 ,  108 . 
     In some embodiments, the input signals  116 ,  118  sent to the computing device  104  can be identical. Accordingly, operations of the sensor  112  or tip  110  can send the same information to the computing device  104  whether the tool  106  is in the first or second configuration  107 ,  108 . The computing device  104  can receive and react to the input signals  116 ,  118  identically in either configuration  107 ,  108 . For example, a touch detected by the sensor  112  can be treated as a mouse “click” input in both cases. 
     In some embodiments, the computing device  104  can receive or react to the input signals  116 ,  118  differently. The computing device  104  can react differently to each input signal  116 ,  118  by storing or displaying different information for the user for each input signal  116 ,  118  or by interpreting the input signals  116 ,  118  differently. Accordingly, different input signals  116 ,  118  can cause different operations to be performed by the computing device  104 . For instance, one of the input signals  116 ,  118  can be treated as a binary input (e.g., an on/off permanent or temporary toggle or switch), and the other signal can be treated as a graded or variable input (e.g., a measurement of force or position on the tool  106 ). In some embodiments, one input signal  116 ,  118  can be treated as a keyboard key input (e.g., a key-based typing input), and the other input signal can be treated as a remote control input for the computing device  104 . Additional variations and embodiments are described in connection with the following figures. 
       FIG.  2    shows a perspective view of a computing system  200  including a computing device  202  having a lower housing  204  and an upper housing  206 . In some embodiments, such as when the computing device  202  is a laptop or notebook computer, a hinge  208  joins the lower and upper housings  204 ,  206 . In some embodiments, the lower and upper housings  204 ,  206  can be separate components in electrical communication with each other by a wired or wireless interface, such as when the computing device  202  is a desktop or tablet computer and components in the housings  204 ,  206 . Thus, at least one of the upper and lower housings  206 ,  204  can contain a processor, memory, a battery, an electronic storage medium, a wireless electronic communications interface, a display, and other computer features and components typically found in a laptop or tablet computing device. 
     The upper housing  206  can include a display screen  210  in this embodiment. In some cases, the upper housing  206  can comprise components configured to sense and detect the presence of an input tool (i.e.,  218 ) at its surface, such as a touch sensor for detecting the presence of an input tool  218  touching the upper housing  206  at the display screen  210 . 
     The lower housing  204  can include a keyboard  212  having a set of keys, a substantially flat input area  214  (e.g., a touch-sensitive trackpad or digitizer/pen tablet region), and a tool retainer portion  216 .  FIG.  3    shows a perspective view of the top of the lower housing  204 . As shown in  FIGS.  2  and  3   , the lower housing  204  can have a top surface  220 , a front surface  222 , lateral side surfaces (e.g.,  224 ), and a back surface  226 . The input area  214  and tool retainer portion  216  can be positioned at the top surface  220 . In some embodiments, the tool retainer portion  216  can be located on another side (e.g., surface  222 ,  224 , or  226 ) of the lower housing  204 , as shown, for example, by tool retainer portion  228  in  FIG.  3   .  FIG.  3    also shows that the tool retainer portion  216  can be located at a back end of the lower housing  204 , wherein the tool retainer portion  216  is positioned between the keyboard  212  and the back surface  226  or hinge  208 . In some embodiments, the tool retainer portion  216  is positioned amid keys of the keyboard  212 , as shown by optional keys  230  in  FIG.  3   . The tool retainer portion  216  can therefore have keyboard keys  230  positioned on two opposite sides of the tool retainer portion  216 . In some embodiments, the tool retainer portion  216  has keyboard keys (e.g., keys  230  and keyboard  212 ) that are on three sides of the tool retainer portion  216 . The three sides of the retainer portion  216  can be positioned in three orthogonal directions from a center of the tool retainer portion  216 . Thus, the tool retainer portion  216  can hold an input tool  218  adjacent to or among a set of keyboard keys. This can be beneficial in making the input tool  218  easy to access and use when it is operated to provide key-based typing input and similar inputs as it is stored in the tool retainer portion  216 . See, e.g.,  FIG.  7    and its related descriptions. 
     The input tool  218  can comprise an elongated shape configured to be handheld by a user in a manner similar to a wand, stylus, or pencil while it is being used and separated from the lower housing  204 . Thus, in some embodiments, the input tool  218  can be referred to as having a rod- or pen-like shape. The input tool  218  can be referred to as being a user interface device or a computer input interface.  FIGS.  4 A- 4 C  show various embodiments of input tools  300 ,  302 ,  304  that can be used as input tool  218  with lower housing  204 . 
     Each input tool  300 ,  302 ,  304  can comprise a first end  306  and a second end  308  separated by an elongated body  310 . In some embodiments, at least one end  306 ,  308  is touch- or force-sensitive, wherein a sensor in the input tool  300 ,  302 ,  304  is configured to transduce a force or touch applied to the end  306 ,  308 . For example, the first end  306  can be force-sensitive to transduce pressure applied to the first end  306  when a user contacts the first end  306  to a surface in a writing or drawing movement. In some embodiments, the first end  306  can be tapered similar to a pen or pencil. 
     The elongated body  310  can contain electronic components within the input tool  300 ,  302 ,  304 . In some embodiments, the elongated body  310  contains a touch or force sensor (e.g., sensor  112 ) configured to detect a capacitive touch or input force of a user object (e.g., a finger or appendage) against the outer surface of the elongated body  310  or one of the ends  306 ,  308 . The touch or force sensor can be configured to detect a touch or force on various different portions of the input tool  300 ,  302 ,  304 . For example, as shown by input tool  300 , the input tool  300  can have a touch- or force-sensitive side input region  312  extending only partially along an overall length of the elongated body  310 . Accordingly, the input tool  300  can have a non-input segment  314  along a remainder of the elongated body  310 . The non-input segment  314  can be positioned along a portion of the elongated body  310  having parallel sides  316 ,  318  (e.g., a cylindrical section or a polygonal prism section of the elongated body  310 ). 
     In some embodiments, such as input tool  302 , the touch or force sensor can be configured to detect a touch or force on a full length of the elongated body  310 , as indicated by input region  320 . In some embodiments, an end input region  322  can also be included at at least one end  306 ,  308 . Thus, the full length of the elongated body  310  (e.g., along the entire cylindrical or polygonal prism-shaped midsection of the input tool  302 ) can be configured to receive an input touch or force. Furthermore, in some cases, the touch or force sensor can be configured to detect a position of the application of the touch or force against the outer surface of the elongated body  310 , wherein a longitudinal position (i.e., along axis X in  FIG.  4 B ) and a rotational/angular position (i.e., along direction Y in  FIG.  4 B ) can be determined by the sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor only detects one position (along X or Y). In some embodiments, the sensor only detects whether an input is being provided or not (i.e., it produces an on/off, binary-type signal). 
     In another embodiment, the input tool  304  can comprise a touch or force sensor that has an input region  324  with at least one middle section  326 ,  328  that is not touch- or force-sensitive. A middle section  326 ,  328  can be a location where other input is provided, such as positions of side buttons or switches on the input tool  304 . In some embodiments, a middle section  326 ,  328  is positioned external to an inductive charging coil within the elongated body  310 . The coil can be used to provide electrical power to the input tool  304  when the tool  304  is mounted to a tool retainer portion  216 . See also  FIG.  21   . 
     In some embodiments, the input tools  300 ,  302 ,  304  can comprise at least one display or internal light source. For example, the input regions  312 ,  320 ,  324  can comprise a display or light source (e.g., a touchscreen display). In some cases, a non-input segment  314  or  326 / 328  can comprise a display a light source or light guiding feature. In this manner, the display or internal light source can be used to provide or indicate information to a user through the surface of the input tool  300 ,  302 ,  304 . See also  FIGS.  14 - 15   . 
     As shown in  FIG.  2   , the tool retainer portion  216  of the lower housing  204  can comprise a recess, groove, or socket in which an input tool  218  can be held or secured.  FIG.  5    shows a side section view of an example recess  500  in a housing  502  with an input tool  504  located in the recess  500 . The section view can be taken along section lines  5 - 5  in  FIG.  3   . As shown in  FIG.  5   , the recess  500  can have a bottom surface  506 , a front side surface  508 , and a rear side surface  510  that are positioned under and below a top surface  512 . The recess  500  can therefore have a generally rectangular-U-shaped cross-sectional profile in which the input tool  504  contacts the bottom surface  506  thereof. In some embodiments, the recess  500  can have two side surfaces, such as a recess with a generally V-shaped cross-sectional profile. In some embodiments, the recess  500  can have another cross-sectional shape, such a curve (e.g., a round profile or round U-shaped profile) or a profile having more than three side surfaces. 
     The input tool  504  can have a cross-sectional profile with a curved side surface  514  and a relatively flattened or planar side surface  516 . In some embodiments, the input tool  504  has an entirely round or elliptical cross-sectional profile. In some embodiments, the input tool  504  can have a polygonal cross-sectional profile, such as a hexagonal profile, as shown by input tool  600  in  FIG.  6   . Various cross-sectional profiles can provide different grip features for the comfort and convenience of the user handling the input tool  500 / 600 . Additionally, different side surfaces can display different information to the user. For example, in input tool  600 , a top surface  602  can display one set of information (e.g., a first set of symbols or a first display screen), and side surfaces  604 ,  606  can display other information (e.g., a second or third set of symbols or display screens). Each set of information can therefore be angularly offset or displaced from another set of information. In some embodiments, the information shown on one side (e.g.,  602 ) of the input tool  600  can also be displayed on a different side (e.g.,  604 / 606  or bottom surface  608 ) so that the input tool  600  can display the same amount or type of information to the user no matter which surface  602 ,  604 ,  606 ,  608 , etc. is facing upward. Thus, multiple rotated orientations of the input tool  600  relative to the recess  500  can display different information (or different instances of the same information) to a user. 
     The input tool  504  can be positioned in the recess  500  with a curved surface  514  contacting one of the side surfaces of the recess  500 . In some embodiments, the input tool  504  can be positioned in the recess  500  with a planar side surface  516  contacting one of the side surfaces. With a planar side surface  516  contacting the recess  500 , the input tool  504  can be less able or unable to roll in the recess  500 . With a planar side surface  516  exposed and facing out of the recess  500 , information or a display on the planar side surface  516  can be more visible to a viewer while the input tool  504  is held in the recess  500 . With a curved surface contacting the recess  500 , the input tool  504  can be rolled or otherwise rotated relative to the recess  500  more easily. See also  FIGS.  16 - 17    and their related descriptions. 
     The recess  500  can have a depth substantially equal to the thickness T of the input tool  504 . The thickness T can be a minimum thickness of the input tool  504  (as opposed to the diameter of the curved surface  514  which is larger than thickness T). In this manner, the top-most surface (e.g.,  516 ) of the input tool  504  can be substantially level with or at the same vertical position as the top surface  512  of the housing  502 . Thus, the input tool  504  can be positioned in the recess  500  without protruding from the top surface  512 . This can be beneficial to avoid contact between the input tool  504  and objects above the top surface  512 , such as when an upper housing (e.g.,  202 ) closes and the display screen (e.g.,  210 ) is positioned over the keyboard  212 . 
     In some embodiments, the recess  500  and input tool  504  can have dimensions wherein the top surface of the input tool  504  protrudes from the recess  500  to a height substantially equal to the height of the keys of the keyboard  212 . In this manner, the top surface of the input tool  504  can be comfortably positioned in the same horizontal plane as the keys so that the user does not need to reach higher or lower relative to the keys to reach and touch the input tool  504 . In some embodiments, the input tool  504  can have a top surface that is positioned below the plane of the top surface  512  of the housing. Thus, the input tool  504  can be placed in a manner less likely to be accidentally touched by the user or dislodged from the recess  500 . 
       FIG.  7    shows partial top views of a housing  700  having a recess  702  and a keyboard  704 . An input tool  706  is positioned longitudinally aligned with and within the recess  702 . The input tool  706  can have a pointed tip  708  positioned at one end of the recess  702  and a relatively flatter tip at the opposite end thereof. The length of the recess  702  can be larger than the total longitudinal length of the input tool  706  in order to accommodate the entire length of the input tool  706 . The width of the recess  702  (shown vertically in  FIG.  7   ) can also be sized to receive the width of the input tool  706 . A small gap or space can be formed between the outer limits of the input tool  706  and the inner limits of the recess  702 . A user can therefore use a finger to press down on the tip  708  to make the input tool  706  rotate out of the recess  702  and to be graspable by the user on its side surfaces. 
     The recess  702  can be positioned adjacent to the keyboard  704 , wherein at least portions of the input tool  706  are visible or accessible to the user as the user moves their hands across the keys to provide typing input. The recess  702  can be positioned parallel to a row of keys (e.g., the number-row keys, as shown in  FIG.  7   ). In some embodiments, the recess  702  can be parallel to a top row of keys of the keyboard  704  (e.g., the row of keys configured to be furthest from the user or the row of keys furthest from the spacebar). In some embodiments, the recess  702  can have a length substantially equal to a width of a set of keys of the keyboard  704 , such as a length equal to the width of about 10 keys to about 12 keys. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the recess  702  can receive an input tool  706  having a longitudinal length in a range of the width of about 9 keys to about 11 keys. 
     The size and position of the recess  702  and input tool  706  can enable the user to more easily interact with the input tool  706  while it is stored in the recess  702 . In some embodiments, touches applied to the input tool  706  can be sensed, detected, or transduced while it is stored in the recess  702 . Thus, while the input tool  706  is positioned in the recess  702 , the user can provide input to the input tool  706  in addition to providing input via the keyboard  704 . The input provided through the input tool  706  can be used, for example, to trigger a function of a key of a conventional keyboard that is missing from the keyboard  704  or that duplicates a function of the keyboard  704 . For example, the input tool  706  can comprise a surface  710  that, when touched or pressed by the user, is sensed as being a user input similar to a key function of a keyboard, such as one of the function keys (i.e., “F-keys”, such as F 3 , shown in  FIG.  7   ). Contact with other portions of the surface of the input tool  706  can be detected and produce other outputs, such as the outputs of other function keys (e.g., F 1 , F 2 , etc.), system function controls (e.g., screen brightness, keyboard backlight brightness, volume controls, power, sleep, display settings, application settings (e.g., font, size, or color for a word processing or art application), etc.), or other conventional keyboard outputs (e.g., letters, symbols, modifier keys, etc.). As a result, the input tool  706  can be used to provide keyboard input similar to a row of keys while it is positioned in the recess  702 . When the user touches the same surface  710  while the input tool  706  is displaced from the recess  702 , the input can be ignored or can be interpreted differently (e.g., replicating a mouse “click”). 
     A set of indicators  712  (e.g., words, letters, numbers, icons, shapes, lights, etc.) can be visible at the surface of the input tool  706  at least while it is positioned in the recess  702 . In some embodiments, the indicators  712  are recessed into or protrude from the surface of the input tool  706 . For example, the indicators  712  can be engraved into the input tool  706 . In some embodiments, the indicators  712  are displayed using a display screen (e.g., a touch screen) within the input tool  706  (see  FIG.  14   ). In other embodiments, the indicators  712  comprise a different material or color than the surrounding material of the input tool  706  (e.g., black or clear plastic indicators flush inset into a white plastic housing or metal indicators flush inset into a wooden housing) (see  FIGS.  9 ,  12 - 13 , and  15   ). In further embodiments, the indicators  712  are visible due to light projected, reflected, or diffused onto the outer surface of the input tool  706  or light projected, reflected, or diffused through the material of the housing of the input tool  706  (see  FIGS.  8 ,  10 ,  11 , and  15   ). 
       FIG.  8    illustrates an end view of an example embodiment of a housing  800  having a recess  802  in which an input tool  804  is positioned. The housing  800  can comprise a light source  806  in a sidewall  808  of the recess  802 . The light source  806  can be configured to project light  810  against a side surface  812  of the input tool  804  that is reflected and diffused in a manner visible to the user. Accordingly, an indicator  712  can be generated by reflecting light from a light source  806  that is emitted onto a side surface of the input tool  706 . 
     In some embodiments, the light source  806  can comprise a laser, a light-emitting diode (LED) (e.g., a micro LED), a similar device, or combinations thereof. The light source  806  can be positioned in the recess  802  or can pass through a wall of the recess  802 . For example, the light source  806  can be used to backlight a keycap (e.g., for keyboard  704 ), and some of the light from that backlight can be redirected (e.g., by a reflector, fiber optic, light guide, or similar feature) from beneath the keycap to the sidewall  808  of the recess  802 . 
     The light source  806  is shown at the top end of the recess  802  near the mouth thereof in  FIG.  8   . The light source  806  can therefore be positioned at or above a top half of the input tool  804  (e.g., above mid-height line  814 ). This can be beneficial for an input tool  804  having a generally rounded cross-sectional profile since the light  810  can be reflected in an upward direction and out of the recess  802  toward the user. In some embodiments, a light source  815  can be positioned below the midline of the tool  804  and can reflect light  816  around the lower portion of the recess  802  without reflecting directly upward or out of the recess  802 . In this manner, the recess  802  can have diffuse illumination that can help illuminate one or both elongated sides of the input tool  804  rather than having localized illumination or a specific symbol showing on the tool. In various embodiments, a plurality of light sources (e.g.,  806 ,  815 ) can be spaced out along the length of the recess  802  to provide multiple points of illumination for the tool  804  and recess  802 . These multiple points can make the illumination of the tool  804  and recess  802  more even and consistent. 
       FIG.  9    shows another embodiment of a housing  900  having a recess  902  in which an input tool  904  is positioned. In this case, a light source  906  is positioned in a sidewall  908  of the housing  900 , and the input tool  904  comprises a transparent portion  910  and an opaque portion  912 . An internal reflective surface  914  can be located between the transparent portion  910  and the opaque portion  912 . Light  916  emitted from the light source  906  can be reflected from the reflective surface  914  and out of the recess  902  to a user&#39;s viewing position. 
     The reflective surface  914  can comprise a smooth, mirror-like finish of the transparent portion  910  or opaque portion  912  so that parallel light  916  is reflected at substantially the same angle from the reflective surface  914 . Accordingly, the light source  906  can beneficially be an array of light sources (e.g., an array of pixel lights or a display screen) configured to generate indicators (e.g.,  716 ) that are reflected from a mirror-like, flat surface (e.g.,  914 ) of the input tool  904 . The indicators can therefore have an appearance of being generated from within the input tool  904 . In some embodiments, the transparent portion  910  can be omitted, at least where the light source  906  is located, and the reflective surface  914  can be an external surface of the input tool  904 . The light source  906  can have a longitudinal length substantially equal to a length of the reflective surface  914  or a length of a touch-sensitive portion of the input tool  904 . 
       FIG.  10    shows another similar end view of a housing  1000  having a recess  1002  in which an input tool  1004  is located. An outer surface  1006  of the input tool  1004  can contact an inner surface  1008  of the recess  1002 . A light source  1010  in the recess  1002  can emit light  1012  into the outer surface  1006 , and the light  1012  can be diffused through the input tool  1004 . At the sides or top of the input tool  1004 , the light  1012  can make the surfaces of the input tool  1004  appear to glow or have its own internal light source. To do so, the input tool  1004  can comprise a translucent material configured to allow light to diffuse and pass through the input tool  1004  from the outer surface  1006  to surfaces viewable by the user. 
     In some embodiments, the input tool  1004  can comprise partially diffuse material, wherein some surfaces (e.g., top surface  1014 ) can comprise a translucent material, and other surfaces (e.g., the sides of the tool) can comprise opaque material configured to prevent transmission of light from the light source  1010 . Accordingly, certain portions of the perimeter of the input tool  1004  can be internally illuminated by a light source  1010  that is external to the perimeter of the input tool  1004 . 
       FIG.  11    shows a diagram of a side view of a housing  1000  as viewed from section lines  11 - 11  in  FIG.  3   . In some embodiments, multiple light sources  1010 ,  1016 ,  1018  can be configured to emit light into the input tool  1004  at different points along the length of the input tool  1004 . The input tool  1004  can therefore have multiple segments  1100 ,  1102 ,  1104  that each diffuse light received from a separate light source  1010 ,  1016 ,  1018 . In some embodiments, the input tool  1004  can comprise internal dividers  1106 ,  1108  configured to reduce or prevent diffusing light from one segment (e.g.,  1100 ) into a neighboring segment (e.g.,  1102 ). In this manner, different functions or status indicators can be visually displayed by different segments  1100 ,  1102 ,  1104  of the input tool  1004 . For example, each segment  1100 ,  1102 ,  1104  can indicate a different feature of the computing device or can signify a different keyboard function that is performed when the segment  1100 ,  1102 ,  1104  is touched or pressed by the user. Using the light sources  1010 ,  1016 ,  1018 , the input tool  1004  does not need to have indicators (e.g.,  712 ) on its surface to be able to indicate that different inputs can be provided at each of the segments  1100 ,  1102 ,  1104  because the light passing through the input tool  1004  provides a visible indication for each segment. 
       FIG.  12    illustrates another end-facing section view of a housing  1200  having a recess  1202  containing an input tool  1204 . Similar to light source  1010  in  FIG.  10   , a light source  1210  can contact an outer surface  1206  of the input tool  1204  and can emit light into the surface  1206  of the input tool  1204 . In this case, the light  1212  is emitted into a light guide portion  1214  of the input tool  1204  which extends through an external portion  1216  of the input tool  1204 . The light guide portion  1214  extends diametrically across the input tool  1204 . In some embodiments, the light guide portion  1214  can extend through a curved or angled path through the input tool  1204  that connects one outer surface  1206  to another, opposite outer surface  1217 . 
     The external portion  1216  can comprise an opaque material, and the light guide portion  1214  can comprise a transparent or translucent material. Thus, when light  1212  is emitted into the surface  1206 , the light  1212  can reflect or diffuse through the light guide portion  1214  before being visible at an outer surface (e.g., top surface  1217 ) of the input tool  1204 . In some embodiments, the light guide portion  1214  can comprise a surface shape perimeter or geometry that forms at least one symbol or other indicator. Thus, light  1212  passing through the input tool  1204  can be emitted from a portion of the top surface  1217  that forms a shape or signal to the user such as an indicator  712 . In some embodiments, light can be internally reflected by sides of the light guide portion  1214  or external portion  1216  in order to preserve brightness of the light  1212  as it emerges from the top surface  1217 . Accordingly, the light guide portion  1214  can comprise a material configured for total internal reflection of the light  1212  that enters at the outer surface  1206  before it reaches the top surface  1217 . 
       FIG.  13    shows a diagrammatic side view of a housing  1300  having a recess  1302  containing an input tool  1304 . In this case, the input tool  1304  can comprise a set of light guides  1306 ,  1308 ,  1310 ,  1312  that extend from a terminal end  1314  of the input tool  1304 , longitudinally through at least a portion of the length of the input tool  1304 , and end at or near a top surface  1316  of the input tool  1304 . A light source  1318  of the recess  1302  can emit light into the terminal end  1314 , and light can thereby enter the light guides  1306 ,  1308 ,  1310 ,  1312  and can be directed through the light guides to the top surface  1316 . The ends of the light guides  1306 ,  1308 ,  1310 ,  1312  at the top surface  1316  can be spaced apart to indicate different features and functions at different parts of the length of the top surface  1316 . 
     In some embodiments, a cap or retainer  1320  can be positioned between the terminal end  1314  and the light source  1318 , and the retainer  1320  can help direct light from the light source  1318  into the light guides  1306 ,  1308 ,  1310 ,  1312 . In some cases, the light source  1318  can be positioned in the retainer  1320 . The retainer  1320  can have an inner surface that follows a contour or surface shape of the terminal end  1314  and can therefore help prevent leakage of light around the terminal end  1314 . For example, the retainer  1320  can have a surface having a radius of curvature that is substantially equal to a radius of curvature of the terminal end  1314  of the input tool  1304 . 
     Furthermore, in some embodiments, the retainer  1320  can apply pressure to the input tool  1304  to ensure tight-fitting contact between the terminal end  1314  and the retainer  1320 . For example, the retainer  1320  can comprise a resilient material configured to deflect when contacting the terminal end  1314  or the entire retainer  1320  can move relative to the recess  1302  (e.g., via a spring-loaded fitting) to come into contact with the input tool  1304 . The user can place the input tool  1304  into the recess  1302  and, with the same application of force, apply pressure to the retainer  1320  to move the retainer into a tight fit against the terminal end  1314 . 
     In some embodiments, the retainer  1320  can comprise electrical contacts configured to engage a connector of the input tool  1304 , thereby providing electrical power or other electrical data communication between the input tool  1304  and the housing  1300 . The electrical contacts can be radially spaced apart at the terminal end  1314  and on the retainer  1320  in a manner that allows electrical connection between the input tool  1304  and the retainer  1320  in multiple different orientations of the input tool  1304 . 
       FIG.  14    shows an end-facing section diagram of another embodiment of a housing  1400  having a recess  1402  in which an input tool  1404  is located. In this embodiment, the input tool  1404  can comprise an internal light source  1406 . The light source  1406  can comprise an LED, bulb, or similar light-producing device, and in some cases the light source  1406  can comprise a display screen (e.g., a backlit liquid crystal display (LCD), micro-LED or organic LED (OLED) display, or similar apparatus). The light source  1406  can emit light that is visible through an outer surface  1408  of the input tool  1404  and that is made visible to the user. The light source  1406  can be configured to display patterns, colors, shapes, symbols, or other indicators. In some embodiments, the light source  1406  is configured to duplicate or supplement information displayed on a main display (e.g.,  210 ). 
     In some embodiments, the light source  1406  is at the outer surface  1408  of the input tool  1404 , and in some cases, the light source  1406  is recessed below the outer surface  1408  or is covered by a transparent or translucent cover  1410  (e.g., a clear panel, lens, light diffuser, or related device). The outer surface  1408  in  FIG.  14    is shown at the top of the input tool  1404  while the tool is located in the recess  1402  so that the top of the tool  1404  can be viewed by the user without the sides of the recess  1402  blocking line of sight. In some embodiments, the input tool  1404  can be rotated, and the outer surface  1408  can be positioned at a side or bottom of the input tool  1404 . The light emitted from the light source  1406  can emerge toward the sides  1412  or bottom  1414  of the recess  1402  to either restrict viewing of the light to certain viewing angles or to illuminate the recess  1402 . The internal light source  1406  can be powered by an internal energy storage device (e.g., a battery) of the input tool  1404  or can be powered by current induced via a wireless power transmission coil in the housing  1400 . See also  FIG.  20    and its related descriptions herein. In some configurations, multiple light sources  1406  can be positioned along the length of the input tool  1404 . 
       FIG.  15    shows a diagrammatic side view of an electronic device  1500  having a transparent cover  1502 , a sensor array  1504 , and a display  1506 . The electronic device  1500  can be a computing device  202  of computing system  200 . The cover  1502  can protect the sensor array  1504  and display  1506  from being contacted by external objects (e.g., input tool  1508  or a user&#39;s appendage). The sensor array  1504  can be configured to sense the position or presence of an object (e.g., input tool  1508 ) contacting or slightly above the cover  1502 . Thus, the sensor array  1504  can be a capacitive touch sensor array configured to detect a change in capacitance caused by an object at the cover  1502 . The display  1506  can comprise a set of light-emitting devices  1510  (e.g., OLED or micro-LED pixels) that emit light through the sensor array  1504  and cover  1502 . Alternatively, the display  1506  can comprise a backlit LCD or similar conventional display device. 
     The input tool  1508  can comprise an internal light source  1512  and a transparent or translucent tip portion  1514 . The display  1506  can emit a color or set of colors from the light-emitting devices  1510  that are positioned adjacent to or below the tip portion  1514  of the input tool  1508 . A signal representing the color or set of colors from the light-emitting devices  1510  adjacent to or below the tip portion  1514  can be transmitted from a device controller (e.g.,  104 ) to a receiver or controller of the input tool  1508  (e.g., via a wireless electronic communications interface  114 ), and the signal can be used to control the color properties (e.g., hue, saturation, and brightness) of the light source  1512 . In some embodiments, the color properties of the light source  1512  can be controlled to be a reflection of the color properties of the light-emitting devices  1510 . For example, the light source  1512  can be controlled to emit light having a similar hue as the color of the devices  1510  or an average hue (or other representative hue) of multiple pixels or light-emitting devices  1510  in the display  1506 . As the input tool  1508  is moved relative to the display  1506 , the color properties of light emitted by the light source  1512  can be changed corresponding to different light-emitting devices  1510  that are in different adjacent parts of the display  1506 . 
       FIG.  16    shows a perspective view of an electronic device housing  1600  having a recess  1602  in which an input tool  1604  is located. The input tool  1604  can comprise a rounded outer surface  1606  that is touch-sensitive, similar to the embodiments of  FIGS.  4 A- 4 C  and other input tools described in connection with the other figures herein. The input tool  1604  can be configured to be rotatable about its longitudinal axis while positioned in the recess  1602 , as indicated by arrows  1608  and  1610 . The input tool  1604  can be prevented from rolling off of the housing  1600  by contacting side surfaces of the recess  1602  as it rotates. Alternatively, at least one counter-roller positioned in the housing  1600  can roll in contact with and beneath the input tool  1604  to help prevent the input tool  1604  from translating along the direction of motion of a user appendage  1611  moving along an axis  1612  perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the input tool  1604 . Additionally, a retainer (e.g.,  1320 ) can keep the input tool  1604  from moving out of the recess  1602 . 
     As the input tool  1604  rotates about its longitudinal axis, a measurement device can measure and determine the amount or rate of angular displacement of the input tool  1604 . For example, the measurement device can comprise an inertial measurement unit (IMU) within the input tool  1604  can determine the amount of rotation by use of an accelerometer, gyroscope, or similar apparatus. Alternatively, rotation of a counter-roller or movement of an outer surface of the input tool  1604  can be measured by a sensor in the housing  1600 . In some embodiments, a touch-sensitive outer surface  1606  can track the position of an object (e.g.,  1611 ) relative to the outer surface  1606  as the input tool  1604  rotates, and the movement of the object across the outer surface  1606  can be used to determine the rotation of the input tool  1604 . For example, the circumferential distance that an object moves around the outer surface  1606  as the input tool  1604  rotates can be used to determine the angular displacement of the input tool  1604 . 
     The rotation of the input tool  1604  can be measured and tracked as a user input to the electronic device. In some embodiments, the rotation of the input tool  1604  can be used to control functions of an electronic device that are conventionally controlled by a rotatable wheel-like device, such as a mouse wheel that controls scrolling, zoom, or size adjustment functions. Rotation of the input tool  1604  can therefore cause the electronic device to perform those scrolling, zoom, or size adjustment functions. Furthermore, in some embodiments, rotation of the input tool  1604  can be used to adjust the position of a symbol or object displayed on a main display (e.g.,  210 ) of the electronic device. For instance, rotating the input tool  1604  about its longitudinal axis can cause a mouse or text cursor to move vertically across the main display. 
     In some embodiments, a sensor (e.g., a touch sensor) can track the position of an object (e.g.,  1611 ) as it moves relative to the outer surface  1606  of the input tool  1604  in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the input tool  1604 , such as in directions  1614  and  1616  in FIG.  16 . The position of the object can be used to control scrolling, zoom, or size adjustment at a main display or other functions of an electronic device that are conventionally controlled by a mouse or scroll wheel. In some embodiments, movement of the object across the outer surface  1606  parallel to the longitudinal axis of the input tool  1604  can cause a mouse or text cursor to move horizontally across a main display. Accordingly, rotation of the input tool  1604  can provide a first type of control signal to the electronic device (e.g., moving a cursor or scrolling vertically), and translation of a user object relative to the outer surface  1606  can provide a second type of control signal to the electronic device (e.g., moving a cursor or scrolling horizontally). The movement of the input tool  1604  can be confined to the limits of the recess  1602 , thereby making the input tool  1604  a compact scrolling or pointing input device that is alternatively usable as a writing, drawing, or pointing tool when removed from the recess  1602 . 
     The recess  1602  can be positioned at various locations on the housing  1600 . In some cases, the recess  1602  can be located at an end of, or along a side of, a keyboard, similar to the recess  702  of  FIG.  7   .  FIG.  17    shows an embodiment wherein the recess  1602  is located adjacent to a trackpad  1700  touch input device. A user object can provide touch input to the trackpad  1700  to control the electronic device. In addition, the same user object can provide touch or rotational input to the input tool  1604  in the recess  1602 . 
     The input provided to each input device  1700 ,  1604  can have a substantially similar function (e.g., both can control cursor movement), can supplement each other, or can be used for separate functions. For example, a motion of the user object detected by the trackpad  1700  can be supplemented when a user object causes movement of the input tool  1604 . One user object (e.g., one hand of the user) can provide input to the trackpad  1700  while the another object (e.g., their other hand) can provide input to the input tool  1604 . Accordingly, multiple functions of the electronic device can be controlled independently and simultaneously by the trackpad  1700  and input tool  1604 . 
     Furthermore, in some cases, a motion of a user object can be continued across each input device  1700 ,  1604 . For example, when a user performs an upward sliding movement across the trackpad  1700  (e.g., along arrow  1702 ) with a user object, the object can transition from contacting the trackpad  1700  and engage contact with the input tool  1604 , thereby rotating the input tool  1604  about its longitudinal axis, as indicated by arrow  1704 . Thus, providing input to the input tool  1604  can effectively extend a gesture or touch input provided to the trackpad  1700 . A cursor moving upward on a display (as the user object moves along arrow  1702 ) can continue to move upward as the input tool  1604  begins to rotate due to the user object coming into contact with the input tool  1604  at the edge  1706  of the trackpad  1700 . Similarly, a diagonal swiping movement (i.e., along arrow  1708 ) of a user object on the trackpad  1700  can be continued as the user object reaches the edge  1706  and rotates the input tool  1604  while moving longitudinally parallel to the axis of the input tool  1604 , as indicated by arrows  1704  and  1710 . 
     Moreover, input that is provided to the input tool  1604  can be continued or extended as the user object transitions from the input tool  1604  to the trackpad  1700 . A rotational movement of the input tool  1604  (e.g., arrow  1712 ) followed by linear movement across the trackpad  1700  (e.g., arrow  1714 ) can result in a continuous result on a display screen, such as a continuous vertical movement of a cursor or continuous vertical scrolling. Similarly, rotational and lateral movement of the user object on the input tool  1604  as indicated by arrows  1712  and  1716  that is followed by movement of the user object on the trackpad  1700  along arrow  1718  can result in continuous diagonal movement of an object on a main display. 
     In some embodiments, the input tool can be used to provide feedback to a user or can have features by which it is retained to the housing.  FIG.  18    shows a diagrammatic side view of a housing  1800  having a recess  1802  in which an input tool  1804  is located. The input tool  1804  can comprise a magnetic element  1806 , and the recess  1802  can comprise a magnetic element  1808  configured to be paired with and located adjacent to the magnetic element  1806  of the input tool  1804 . 
     The magnetic elements  1806 ,  1808  can comprise magnetic or magnetizable materials that are magnetically attracted to each other, thereby providing a force attracting the input tool  1804  into the recess  1802  and helping to retain the input tool  1804  in the recess  1802  while it is not being carried by the user. For example, the magnetic elements  1806 ,  1808  can comprise a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, a semi-permanent magnet (i.e., a magnet with reversible polarity), a ferrous/magnetically attracted material, or a similar apparatus or material. Accordingly, the magnetic elements  1806 ,  1808  can magnetically hold the input tool  1804  to the housing  1800 . 
     In some embodiments, a housing magnetic element  1808  can be positioned in the housing  1800  separate from the recess  1802 , such as being within a tool retainer portion (e.g.,  228 ) on a front, side, or top surface (e.g.,  222 ,  224 ,  220 ) of the housing  1800 . See also  FIG.  2   . For example, a magnetic element  1810  can be positioned at a front outer surface  222  of lower housing  204 . 
     At least one of the magnetic elements  1806 ,  1808  can also be connected to a feedback driver. For example, as shown in  FIG.  18   , the housing magnetic element  1808  can be connected to haptic driver  1812 . In some embodiments, the tool magnetic element  1806  can also be connected to a haptic driver in the input tool  1804 . The haptic driver  1812  can comprise a winding, a coil, an additional magnetic element, a motor, a piezoelectric driver, a vibrator, or another structure configured to move one of the magnetic elements  1806 ,  1808 , the housing  1800 , or the input tool  1804 . In some embodiments, the feedback driver can comprise a visual or audible indicator configured to produce a feedback indicator that is visible or audible to a user, such as a light source  1512 . Furthermore, in some embodiments a magnetic element  1806 ,  1808  can comprise temporarily reversible polarity, and the computing system can be configured to change the polarity of one or both magnetic elements  1806 ,  1808  to repel each other and to help eject the input tool  1804  from the recess  1802 . For example, a magnetic element  1806 ,  1808  can comprise an aluminum-nickel-cobalt (Al—Ni—Co) magnetic structure enabled to have its polarity reversed in response to application of an input electrical signal to the magnetic element. A magnetic element with reversible polarity can be used to repel the input tool  1804  from the recess  1802 . 
     In some embodiments, when the input tool  1804  is located in the recess  1802  and a user object  1814  (e.g., appendage) contacts, is detected by, or applies a force to the input tool  1804 , the feedback driver (e.g.,  1812 ) can produce feedback for the user. For example, when a user presses the input tool  1804  into the bottom of the recess  1802 , the haptic driver  1812  can produce a haptic output that slightly shakes, vibrates, pulses, or otherwise drives movement of the input tool  1804  relative to the recess  1802 . In some embodiments, the haptic driver  1812  can apply a magnetic force to the tool magnetic element  1806  to cause the input tool  1804  to move. Similarly, the feedback driver can provide a visual or audible feedback indicator to the user (e.g., production of light or sound). In some embodiments, the feedback driver&#39;s feedback is actuated by application of a threshold amount of force applied to the input tool  1804  by the user object. In this manner, the output of the feedback driver can be provided only when the user presses against the input tool  1804  with a force in excess of the threshold. Alternatively, one type of feedback can be provided when a force below the threshold is applied (e.g., a small vibration or emission of light), and a second type of feedback can be provided when a force exceeding the threshold is applied (e.g., a heavier vibration, brighter light, or audible noise). 
     When a haptic feedback is produced using the haptic driver  1812 , the input tool  1804  can be moved parallel to a longitudinal axis  1816  or in a radial direction  1818  relative to the longitudinal axis  1816 . Thus, in some cases the haptic feedback force can drive movement of the input tool  1804  in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction of the input force applied by the user object  1814 , parallel to the length of the recess  1802 , or parallel to the longitudinal axis  1816  of the input tool  1804 . 
     Furthermore, in some cases the magnetic elements  1806 ,  1808  can be configured to transduce movement of the input tool  1804  relative to the housing  1800  or to transduce a force applied along the longitudinal axis  1816 . For example, a user object  1814  can apply a force at least partially directed parallel to the longitudinal axis  1816  of the input tool  1804 , and the magnitude of the force component that is parallel to the longitudinal axis  1816 , or the sliding movement of the input tool  1804  relative to the recess  1802 , can be detected or measured as a type of user input to the input tool  1804 . In some embodiments, when the input tool  1804  has moved in this manner, the magnetic elements  1806 ,  1808  can then bias the input tool  1804  back to a default position in the recess  1802 , thereby allowing the user to repeat the sliding input again, similar to how a mouse button returns to a default position after it has been “clicked”. Accordingly, the input tool  1804  can laterally or longitudinally translate or deflect to “click” in addition to rotating or providing haptic feedback when contacted or pressed by a user. 
       FIG.  19    shows another embodiment of a housing  1900  having a recess  1902  containing an input tool  1904 . In this embodiment, the input tool  1904  comprises an internal feedback driver  1906  and a sensor  1908  configured to detect a user object  1909  contacting or applying a force to the outer surface  1910  of the input tool  1904 . The sensor  1908  can be a sensor  112  described in connection with  FIG.  1   . The feedback driver  1906  can comprise a haptic, audible, or visual feedback generator configured to actuate in response to a signal generated by the sensor  1908  (or a connected controller) when the user object  1909  is detected. For example, in some embodiments, the feedback driver  1906  can be a light source (e.g.,  1512 ). The feedback driver  1906  can therefore indicate to the user (via feel, sight, or sound generated within the input tool  1904 ) that the sensor  1908  has detected the user object  1909  or an action performed by the user object  1909 . Furthermore, when the input tool  1904  is separated from the housing  1900 , the feedback driver  1906  can be used to generate feedback in response to other user inputs to the input tool  1904 , such as touching or pressing against the outer surface  1910 , pressure against the tip  1912 , or reorientation of the input tool  1904  in space (e.g., via an IMU; see  FIG.  23   ). 
       FIG.  20    provides a diagrammatic end view of a housing  2000  having a recess  2002  in which an input tool  2004  is located. The housing  2000  can comprise an inductive winding or coil  2006  adjacent to a bottom surface  2008  of the recess  2002 . In some embodiments, the coil  2006  can be located in a side surface of the recess  2002 . The input tool  2004  can comprise a corresponding winding or coil  2010  configured to be positioned proximate to the surface  2008  in which the housing coil  2006  is positioned. These coils  2006 ,  2010  can be paired to provide current to the input tool  2004  via induction, and the current can be used to power electronic components in the input tool  2004 , such as to charge a battery or power a display (e.g.,  1406 ) in the input tool  2004 . 
     In some embodiments, the input tool  2004  can comprise an additional coil  2012  configured to be used in place of, or to supplement, the other tool coil  2010 . Thus, the input tool  2004  can receive current by approximating a first side surface  2014  with the bottom surface  2008  and thereby positioning the first coil  2010  within current-generating range of the housing coil  2006 . The input tool  2004  can alternatively receive current by approximating the opposite side  2016  to the bottom surface  2008  and thereby positioning the second coil  2012  within range of housing coil  2006 . In this manner, the input tool  2004  can have multiple different orientations relative to the recess  2002  in which the input tool  2004  can receive current. In some embodiments, multiple coils can be positioned in the housing  2000 , and the input tool  2004  can comprise one coil that is configured to be positioned near one of the multiple housing coils. Moreover, the housing  2000  and input tool  2004  can each comprise multiple coils for an even greater number of possible working positions. 
       FIG.  21    shows a diagrammatic end view of a housing  2100  of an electronic device having a recess  2102  containing an input tool  2104 . In this embodiment, the input tool  2104  can be used as an airflow guide for the housing  2100 . For instance, the housing  2100  can comprise an exhaust passage  2106  with an exhaust opening  2108  linking the exhaust passage  2106  to the recess  2102 . Airflow through the exhaust passage  2106  can be driven via a fan  2110  or other airflow driver (e.g., convection) through the opening  2108  and into the recess  2102 . The airflow can be directed upward and out of the recess  2102  rather than passing mainly horizontally from the opening  2108  due to the airflow coming into contact with and being redirected by a side surface  2112  of the input tool  2104 . Accordingly, the presence of the input tool  2104  can help improve directing heated air away from the housing  2100 . 
     Additionally, in some embodiments, the housing  2100  can comprise an intake opening  2114  that leads to an intake passage  2116 . Airflow can be drawn by a fan  2118  or other airflow driver through the opening  2114  and into the intake passage  2116 . For example, the fan  2118  can draw cool external air into the housing  2100  to cool internal components of the electronic device. The input tool  2104  can comprise a side surface  2120  configured to help direct airflow that comes from a position outside the recess  2102  into the intake opening  2114 . In some embodiments, the fans  2110 ,  2118  can be a single fan configured to provide both exhaust and intake flow. 
     Furthermore, in some embodiments, the housing  2100  can comprise both an exhaust opening  2108  and an intake opening  2114 , and the input tool  2104  can beneficially block the direct passage of airflow from one opening  2108  to the other opening  2114 . In other words, the intake opening  2114  can face the exhaust opening  2108 , and the input tool  2104  can comprise a surface positioned directly between the openings  2114 ,  2108  in a manner that prevents flow along a linear path between the openings  2114 ,  2108 . The bifurcation of the recess  2102  and airflow into and out of the recess  2102  can help ensure that cooler air passes into the intake opening  2114  and that warmer air passes from the exhaust opening  2108 , thereby improving the efficiency of the cooling system of the electronic device. More efficient flow paths around the input tool  2104  can allow the recess  2102  to have smaller (e.g., less visible and less susceptible to intake of debris) airflow openings. 
       FIG.  22    shows a diagrammatic end view of another embodiment of a housing  2200  having a recess  2202  holding an input tool  2204 . A cover  2206  can be positioned at the top end of the recess  2202  or above the recess  2202  to reduce or eliminate visibility of the inside of the recess  2202  when the cover  2206  is closed and to help retain the input tool  2204  in the recess  2202 . In some embodiments, the cover  2206  can be translucent or transparent to allow light coming from the input tool  2204  or within the recess  2202  to be visible external to the cover  2206 . In some embodiments, the cover  2206  can comprise a material and thickness that enables the input tool  2204  to detect a user touch applied to the cover  2206 . For example, the cover  2206  can comprise a material that is substantially transparent to or that transfers an electric field generated by a user object (e.g., a finger) contacting the cover  2206 , and the input tool  2204  can therefore sense the object from the opposite side of the cover  2206 . 
     The cover  2206  can be connected to the housing  2200 , for example, by a hinge  2208 . The hinge  2208  can allow the cover  2206  to pivot relative to the housing  2200 , such as by allowing the cover  2206  to pivot to the position at indicator numeral  2210 . Accordingly, the cover  2206  can move about the hinge  2208  to expose or cover the input tool  2204  and recess  2202 . Exposing the recess  2202  can enable the user to insert or remove the input tool  2204 , and covering the recess  2202  can limit access to the input tool  2204  and provide additional security in retaining the input tool  2204  to the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the cover  2206  and input tool  2204  can be reversibly attachable and detachable from each other, wherein the input tool  2204  can be attached to the cover  2206  and can move with the cover as it rotates, as indicated by indicator  2212 . Thus, the input tool  2204  can move relative to the recess  2202  as the cover  2206  moves relative to the housing  2200 . Additionally, the input tool  2204  can be attachable to the cover  2206  when the cover  2206  is in an open configuration (i.e., at  2210 ) so that the cover  2206  stows the input tool  2204  in the recess  2202  as the cover  2206  moves to the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the cover  2206  is not attached to the input tool  2204 , and movement of the cover  2206  relative to the housing  2200  can actuate or manipulate a mechanism in the housing  2200  that pushes the input tool  2204  or otherwise ejects it out of the recess  2202 , thereby making it easier for the user to remove the input tool  2204  from the recess  2202 . For example, rotating the cover  2206  can actuate an electromagnet (e.g.,  1808 ) to eject the input tool  2204  from the recess  2202 . 
       FIG.  23    illustrates another diagrammatic side view of a housing  2300  having a recess  2302  holding an input tool  2304 . This input tool  2304  is shown with an inertial measurement unit (IMU)  2306  configured to transduce translation or rotation of the input tool  2304 . For instance, the IMU  2306  can track rotation of the input tool  2304  about its longitudinal axis in a manner similar to an IMU of input tool  1604 . The IMU  2306  can also be used to track tilt and translation of the input tool  2304 . Thus, output signals of the IMU  2306  can be used to determine whether the input tool  2304  is positioned external to or within the recess  2302  or whether or not the tool  2304  is positioned on a flat surface. When the input tool  2304  is tilted or determined to be outside a recess  2302  or out of contact with the housing  2300 , the input tool  2304  can provide a first type of functionality, such as functionality similar to a pen input device, input tool  1508 , and a first set of touch signals when a user touches or presses against the outer surface of the input tool  2304 . When the input tool  2304  is contacting the recess  2302 , lying on a horizontal surface, or against a housing  2300 , it can provide a different type of functionality, such as functionality similar to the input tools described in connection with  FIGS.  5 - 14  and  16 - 22   . Accordingly, tracking the position and orientation of the input tool  2304  can control how movements and inputs provided to the input tool  2304  are interpreted by a controller. 
     In some cases, the input tool  2304  can be used as a wand-like device to provide inputs to an electronic device (e.g., via gesture control using the input tool  2304 ). The position and orientation of the input tool  2304  can be used as inputs to control applications and features of the electronic device. Furthermore, the electronic device can comprise tracking components to supplement or enhance the position and orientation tracking of the input tool  2304 . For example, the electronic device can comprise an infrared emitter/receiver or a camera configured to detect the input tool  2304  in space relative to the housing of the electronic device. Movement of the input tool  2304  while being detected by the sensors of the electronic device can improve the determination of the position and orientation of the input tool  2304  using the IMU  2306 . In some embodiments, the recess  2302  can comprise a sensor to detect the presence of the input tool  2304  in a manner supplementing the output of the IMU  2306  to determine the orientation of the input tool  2304  within the recess  2302 . 
     Referring again to  FIG.  2   , the computing system  200  can comprise a display screen  210  used to display graphical information to a user. In some embodiments, the positioning or detection of the input tool  218  relative to the lower housing  204  (e.g., relative to a tool retainer portion  216 ) can affect the provision of information via the display screen  210 . For example, a first piece of information  250  can be shown on the display screen  210  when the input tool  218  is retained in or detected in the tool retainer portion  216 . Upon removal of the input tool  218  from the lower housing  204 , the first piece of information  250  can be replaced or added to by a second piece of information  252  on the display screen  210 . Thus, movement of the input tool  218  relative to the lower housing  204  or relative to the tool retainer portion  216  can cause a change in the information displayed by the display screen  210 . In some embodiments, the display screen  210  can show neither the first nor second pieces of information  250 ,  252 , and movement of the input tool  218  can initiate the display of one or both pieces of information  250 ,  252 . 
     In some embodiments, pieces of information  250 ,  252  shown on the display screen  210  can include a menu or set of graphical symbols indicating a status of the input tool  218 . For example, movement of the input tool  218  can cause the computing system  200  to display information regarding the battery state of charge or other information about the settings or features of the input tool  218 . The information  250 ,  252  can be shown persistently or temporarily on the display screen  210 . 
     In some embodiments, the computing system  200  can detect the presence of a user object adjacent to the tool retainer portion  216 . For example, the input tool  218  can comprise a capacitive or motion sensor (e.g., an infrared emitter/receiver) configured to detect the presence of an appendage of the user over the tool retainer portion  216 . The input tool  218  can be positioned in the tool retainer portion  216  when the user object is detected. Upon detection of the user object using a sensor of the lower housing  204 , in the tool retainer portion  216 , or of the input tool  218 , the computing system  200  can be configured to display a piece of information  250  or  252  on the display screen  210 . 
     In some embodiments, the information  250 / 252  shown can indicate a function of the computing system  200  that will be enabled or actuated upon the user object making contact with (or applying sufficient force to) the input tool  218  while it is in the tool retainer portion  216 . For example, an input tool  218  can display a duplicate set of the set of indicators  712  across the display screen  210  as part of the information  252 . In some embodiments, no indicators  712  are provided on the input tool  218 , and the indicators  712  are instead only shown in the information  252  on the display screen  210 . In some embodiments, indicators  712  are provided on the input tool  218 , and supplementary or secondary functions of the input tool  218  are shown in the information  252  on the display screen  210 . In some embodiments, removing the user object from proximity to the tool retainer portion  216  (e.g., moving it over the keyboard  212  or away from the lower housing  204  entirely) can change or remove the information  250 ,  252  shown on the display screen  210 . 
     In some embodiments, the position of the user object relative to the tool retainer portion  216  can be detected, and the information  250 / 252  shown can be controlled as a reflection of the position of the user object. For example, if the user object is positioned adjacent to the left end of the input tool  218 , the left end of a menu of information  252  can be highlighted. Similarly, the position of the display of information  250 / 252  can move according to the position of the user object relative to the input tool  218 . 
     Furthermore, in some embodiments, the input area  214  can comprise an internal display or indicator  254 . The input tool  218  can be used to provide input at the input area  214 , such as by tapping or swiping on the input area  214 . In some embodiments, information displayed on the internal display or indicator  254  can change in response to the operation of the input tool  218  on the input area  214 . For example, a user may making a writing motion on the input area  214  with the input tool  218 , and the display or indicator  254  can display a line as if the user were writing on the input area  214 . The information shown by the internal display or indicator  254  can change (e.g., being activated or deactivated) based on the status and position of the input tool  218  relative to the tool retainer portion  216 . For example, the internal display or indicator  254  can be dimmed or off when the input tool  218  is stowed at the tool retainer portion  216 , and the internal display or indicator  254  can be brightened or show different information when the input tool  218  is removed from the tool retainer portion  216  or when the input tool  218  is detected or determined to be positioned adjacent to the input area  214 . 
     Features and aspects of the input devices and housings described in connection with one embodiment of the present disclosure can be combined with or replaced by features and aspects of other embodiments disclosed herein. Accordingly, the embodiments described herein can be used in many different combinations and permutations to obtain a variety of computing systems and input devices that are not described in connection with a single figure or numerical indicator herein. 
     To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use of data available from various sources can be used to improve the delivery to users of invitational content or any other content that may be of interest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID&#39;s, home addresses, data or records relating to a user&#39;s health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information. 
     The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefit of users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user. Accordingly, use of such personal information data enables users to calculated control of the delivered content. Further, other uses for personal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user&#39;s general wellness, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals. 
     The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with well-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personal information data private and secure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users, and should be updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving the informed consent of the users. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access to such personal information data and ensuring that others with access to the personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted for the particular types of personal information data being collected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US, collection of or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country. 
     Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to, personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of advertisement delivery services, the present technology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” of participation in the collection of personal information data during registration for services or anytime thereafter. In another example, users can select not to provide mood-associated data for targeted content delivery services. In yet another example, users can select to limit the length of time mood-associated data is maintained or entirely prohibit the development of a baseline mood profile. In addition to providing “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use of personal information. For instance, a user may be notified upon downloading an app that their personal information data will be accessed and then reminded again just before personal information data is accessed by the app. 
     Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect a user&#39;s privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and/or other methods. 
     Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use of personal information data to implement one or more various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing such personal information data. That is, the various embodiments of the present technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content can be selected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personal information, such as the content being requested by the device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery services, or publicly available information. 
     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 target 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: 20220215
Publication Date: 20240206
Grant Date: 20240206
Priority Date: 20200212
Inventors: WANG, PAUL X.
MATHEW, DINESH C.
CAMP, JOHN S.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F3/03545", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/038", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0485", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03545", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03545", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0362", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/0339", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0485", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/038", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 77178334