PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9753436-B2
Application Number: US-201514966719-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Rotary input mechanism for an electronic device

Abstract:
One embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to a wearable electronic device. The wearable electronic device includes an enclosure having a sidewall with a button aperture defined therethrough, a display connected to the enclosure, a processing element in communication with the display. The device also includes a sensing element in communication with the processing element and an input button at least partially received within the button aperture and in communication with the sensing element, the input button configured to receive two types of user inputs. During operation, the sensing element tracks movement of the input button to determine the two types of user inputs.

Claims:
The invention claimed is: 
     
       1. A wearable electronic device, comprising:
 an enclosure having an aperture defined therethrough; 
 an input button having a stem that extends into the aperture and defines an axis extending along a length of the stem; 
 an optical sensor positioned along a side of the stem and configured to sense an optical characteristic of the stem to detect a rotation of the input button about the axis; 
 a switch including a collapsible dome positioned proximate an end of the stem and configured to detect a translation of the input button along the axis; and 
 an O-ring positioned around the stem and within the aperture, the O-ring maintaining contact with an interior surface of the aperture during the rotation of the input button and the translation of the input button. 
 
     
     
       2. The wearable electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a display positioned at least partially within the enclosure and having a touch sensor configured to detect touch input; and 
 a processing element operatively coupled to the display and configured to:
 modify a graphical output of the display in a first manner in response to the rotation of the input button; 
 modify the graphical output of the display in a second manner in response to the translation of the input button; and 
 modify the graphical output of the display in a third manner in response to the touch input. 
 
 
     
     
       3. The wearable electronic device of  claim 2 , wherein:
 modifying the graphical output of the display in the first manner includes scrolling a list of items displayed on the display; and 
 modifying the graphical output of the display in the second manner includes selecting an item of the list of items. 
 
     
     
       4. The wearable electronic device of  claim 3 , wherein:
 the optical sensor is configured to detect a direction of the rotation and a speed of the rotation; and 
 modifying the graphical output of the display in the first manner is in accordance with the direction and the speed of the rotation. 
 
     
     
       5. The wearable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the stem defines a groove along a surface of the stem and the O-ring is positioned partially within the groove; and 
 the O-ring is configured to move relative to the aperture in response to the translation of the input button. 
 
     
     
       6. The wearable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the end of the stem is configured to compress the collapsible dome in response to the translation of the input button; and 
 the collapsible dome is configured to produce a tactile output in response to the compression. 
 
     
     
       7. The wearable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the optical sensor is configured to detect the rotation of the input button using light reflected from a surface of the stem. 
     
     
       8. The wearable electronic device of  claim 7 , wherein the optical sensor detects trackable features formed on the surface of the stem using the reflected light. 
     
     
       9. A watch, comprising:
 an enclosure having an aperture formed in a sidewall of the enclosure; 
 an input button having a stem that extends into the aperture; 
 a sealing element positioned around the stem and forming a seal between the enclosure and the stem; 
 an optical sensor configured to sense an optical characteristic of the stem to detect a rotation of the input button about a longitudinal axis of the stem; and 
 a switch including a collapsible dome and configured to detect a translation of the input button toward the enclosure, wherein:
 the sealing element is configured to move within the aperture and maintain the seal during both the translation of the input button and the rotation of the input button. 
 
 
     
     
       10. The watch of  claim 9 , further comprising:
 a display positioned at least partially within the enclosure and having a touch sensor configured to detect touch input; 
 a processing element operatively coupled to the display and configured to:
 modify a graphical output of the display in response to the rotation of the input button; 
 modify the graphical output of the display in response to the translation of the input button; and 
 modify the graphical output of the display in response to the touch input. 
 
 
     
     
       11. The watch of  claim 9 , further comprising:
 a processing element configured to:
 perform a first function in response to the rotation of the input button; and 
 perform a second, different function in response to the translation of the input button. 
 
 
     
     
       12. The watch of  claim 11 , further comprising:
 a display operatively coupled to the processing element; wherein:
 the first function includes causing a list of items to scroll across the display in accordance with a direction of the rotation of the input button; and 
 the second function includes selecting one of the list of items in accordance with the translation of the input button toward the enclosure. 
 
 
     
     
       13. The watch of  claim 12 , wherein:
 the optical sensor is further configured to detect a speed of the rotation; and 
 a scrolling speed of the scrolling varies in accordance with the speed of the rotation of the input button. 
 
     
     
       14. The watch of  claim 9 , wherein the switch comprises:
 an electronic contact connected to the collapsible dome, wherein 
 the translation of the input button causes a compression of the collapsible dome to activate the electronic contact. 
 
     
     
       15. The watch of  claim 9 , wherein the optical sensor is configured to detect the rotation of the input button using light reflected from the stem. 
     
     
       16. The watch of  claim 9 , wherein the input button comprises:
 a head coupled to a first end of the stem; and 
 the switch is positioned proximate to a second end of the stem. 
 
     
     
       17. A wearable electronic device, comprising:
 an enclosure defining an aperture and an opening; 
 a display at least partially received within the opening; 
 an input button extending from an outside of the enclosure, through the aperture, and into an inside of the enclosure; 
 an optical sensing element within the enclosure and configured to sense a surface of the input button; 
 a switch having a collapsible dome positioned proximate to an end of the input button; and 
 a sealing element positioned within the aperture and around a portion of the input button, wherein: 
 the optical sensing element is operable to track a rotation of the input button about an axis by sensing the surface of the input button; 
 the switch is operable to detect a translation of the input button along the axis; and 
 the sealing element is configured to maintain a seal between the input button and the enclosure during both the rotation of the input button and the translation of the input button. 
 
     
     
       18. The wearable electronic device of  claim 17 , wherein:
 the display includes a touch sensor configured to detect touch input; and 
 the wearable electronic device further comprises a processing element operatively coupled to the display and configured to:
 modify a graphical output of the display in response to the rotation of the input button; 
 modify the graphical output of the display in response to the translation of the input button; and 
 modify the graphical output of the display in response to the touch input. 
 
 
     
     
       19. The wearable electronic device of  claim 17 , wherein the optical sensing element is operable to detect a direction and a speed of the rotation of the input button. 
     
     
       20. The wearable electronic device of  claim 19 , wherein a graphical output of the display is varied in accordance with the direction and the speed of the rotation of the input button.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This patent application is a continuation patent application of PCT/US2014/040728, filed Jun. 3, 2014, and titled “Rotary Input Mechanism for an Electronic Device,” which claims priority to PCT Application No. PCT/US2013/045264, filed Jun. 11, 2013, and titled “Rotary Input Mechanism for an Electronic Device,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to electronic devices and, more specifically, to input devices for computing devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many types of electronic devices, such as smart phones, gaming devices, computers, watches, and the like, use input devices, such as buttons or switches to receive user input. However, the enclosure for the devices includes an aperture or other opening to allow the button or switch (or other selectable item) to move. These apertures allow water, air, and other environmental items to enter into the enclosure and potentially damage the internal electronics. Additionally, many input devices, such as buttons or switches, may allow for a single type of input. For example, actuating a button may transmit one type of signal, which is generated by compressing a dome switch that completes a circuit. As electronic devices reduce in size, it may be desirable to have fewer input buttons or devices, without reducing functionality or the number of input types that can be used by a user to provide information to a device. 
     SUMMARY 
     One example of the present disclosure includes a wearable electronic device. The wearable electronic device includes an enclosure having a sidewall with a button aperture defined therethrough, a processing element housed within the enclosure, a sensing element in communication with the processing element, and an input device at least partially received within the button aperture and in communication with the sensing element, the input device configured to receive at least a first and a second type of user input. Generally, the sensing element is operative to track a movement of the input button and output a signal and the processing element is operative to distinguish between the first and second type of user input, based on the signal. 
     Another example of the disclosure includes a watch. The watch includes a hub or watch face. The hub includes a processor, a sensing element, and a crown. The crown includes a trackable element and the sensing element is configured to sense movement of the crown by tracking the movements of the trackable element. The watch also includes a strap connected to the hub and configured to wrap around a portion of a user. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a top plan view of a wearable electronic device including a multi-input device. 
         FIG. 2  is a simplified block diagram of the wearable electronic device. 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-section view of the wearable electronic device taken along line  3 - 3  in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a bottom plan view of a crown or input button of the wearable electronic device. 
         FIG. 5  is a cross-section view of the wearable electronic device taken along line  5 - 5  in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-section view of the input button including a first example of a retention component. 
         FIG. 7  is a cross-section of the input button including a second example of a retention component. 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-section view of the wearable device including two sensing elements positioned within the cavity of the enclosure. 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-section view of an example of an input button with the trackable element configured to detect movement of the shaft. 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-section view the wearable device including another example of the sensing element and trackable element. 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-section view of an input button including an electrical connection between the enclosure and internal components of the wearable device and the input button. 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-section view of the input button including an input sensor. 
         FIG. 13A  is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the input button including a switch sensor positioned parallel to the stem. 
         FIG. 13B  is a cross-section view of the input button illustrated in  FIG. 13A  with a force being applied to the head. 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of another example of the input button illustrated in  FIG. 13A . 
         FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional view of the input button including a motor. 
         FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional view of the input button including an input sensor connected to the head. 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of the input button of  FIG. 16  including apertures defined through the head. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In some embodiments herein, a wearable electronic device including a multi-input button is disclosed. The wearable electronic device may be a watch, portable music player, health monitoring device, computing or gaming device, smart phone, or the like. In some embodiments, the wearable electronic device is a watch that can be worn around the wrist of a user. In embodiments, the multi-input button forms a crown for the watch and is connected to a sidewall of an enclosure for the device. The multi-input button can be pressed to input a first type of input and can be rotated to input a second type of input. Additionally, in some instances, the button can be pressed on or off axis to activate a third input. 
     In a specific implementation, the wearable device includes a rotary encoder to detect rotation of the multi-input button, as well as a sensor that receives non-rotational type inputs. In one embodiment, the wearable device includes an enclosure and a flange or head extending from the enclosure. The head or crown is connected to a spindle or stem, which is received within the enclosure and a trackable element or encoder is attached to a bottom end of the spindle. The head extends from the enclosure and as the head is rotated, such as due to a user turning the head, the trackable element on the bottom of the stem rotates, passing over a rotary sensor contained within the enclosure. The rotary sensor senses movement of the stem and the head. Additionally, the stem may be movably (e.g., slidably) connected to the enclosure such that the user can press the head and the stem can move a predetermined distance. In this example, a switch (such as a tactile switch) or a sensor, can detect vertical or horizontal movement of the stem. In this manner, the multi-input button can detect rotational inputs, as well as compression-type inputs. 
     The stem and other portions of the multi-input button may include sealing members, such as O-rings, seal cups, or membrane seals that seal certain components of the wearable device from environmental elements, such as water. The stem and the enclosure aperture may be selected such that the stem may move within the enclosure without breaking the seal or otherwise creating a flow pathway into the internal component held within the enclosure. As an example, the stem may have a slightly smaller diameter than the enclosure aperture and an O-ring may be received around the stem within the enclosure aperture. In this example, the O-ring is a compressible material, such as foam, that can be compressed when a user exerts a force. As one side of the O-ring compresses due to the user force, the other side can expand to increase, maintain a seal of the enclosure aperture around the stem. This allows the stem to move within the enclosure diameter, without unsealing a pathway into the enclosure. 
     Additionally, in some embodiments, the multi-input button can be actuated to provide haptic feedback to a user. For example, in embodiments where the stem is movable within the enclosure a device, such as an actuator, may move the stem. When actuated, the stem may selectively move the head to provide feedback to a user. 
     Turning now to the figures, an illustrative wearable electronic device will now be discussed in more detail.  FIG. 1  is a top plan view of a wearable electronic device.  FIG. 2  is a simplified block diagram of the wearable electronic device of  FIG. 1 . With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the wearable electronic device  100  may include a hub  102  or computing center or element. In embodiments where the electronic device  100  is configured to be worn by a user, the device  100  may include one or more straps  104 ,  106  that may connect to opposite sides of the hub  102 . Each of the straps  104 ,  106  may wrap around a portion of a wrist, arm, leg, chest, or other portion of a user&#39;s body to secure the hub  102  to the user. For example, the ends of each of the straps  104 ,  106  may be connected together by a fastening mechanism  108 . The fastening mechanism  108  can be substantially any type of fastening device, such as, but not limited, to, as lug, hook and loop structure, magnetic fasteners, snaps, buttons, clasps or the like. However, in one embodiment, such as the one shown in  FIG. 1 , the fastening mechanism  108  is a buckle including a prong  134  or element that can be inserted into one or more apertures  112  in the second strap  106  to secure the first and second straps  104 ,  106  together. 
     The hub  102  of the wearable electronic device generally contains the computing and processing elements of the wearable electronic device  100 .  FIG. 3  is a partial cross-section view of the hub  102  taken along line  3 - 3  in  FIG. 1 . With reference to  FIGS. 1-3 , the hub  102  may include a display  116  at least partially surrounded by an enclosure  114 . In some embodiments, the display  116  may form a face of the hub  102  and the enclosure  114  may abut the edges and/or a portion of the backside of the display  116 . Additionally, the internal components of the wearable device  100  may be contained within the enclosure  114  between the display  116  and the enclosure  114 . The enclosure  114  protects the internal components of the hub  102 , as well as connects the display  116  to the hub  102 . 
     The enclosure  114  may be constructed out of a variety of materials, such as, but not limited to, plastics, metals, alloys, and so on. The enclosure  114  includes a button aperture  172  (see  FIG. 3 ) to receive the input button  110  or a portion thereof. The button aperture  172  forms a channel within a sidewall  188  of the enclosure  114  and extends from an outer surface  188  of the enclosure  114  to an interior surface  190 . The button aperture  172  generally is configured to correspond to a size/shape of, or accept, a stem or spindle of the input button  110 . That said, the button aperture  172  may be otherwise shaped and sized. 
     The enclosure  114  may also include a groove  186  defined on a top surface to receive the display  116 . With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 3 , the display  116  may be connected to the enclosure  114  through adhesive or other fastening mechanisms. In this example, the display is seated within a recessed portion or groove of the enclosure and the enclosure extends at least partially around the edges of the display and may be fastened or affixed thereto, but may leave at least a portion of the rear of the display free or unsupported by the housing. However, in other embodiments, the display and enclosure may be otherwise connected together. 
     The display  116  may be substantially any type of display screen or device that can provide a visual output for the wearable device  100 . As an example, the display  116  may be a liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, or the like. Additionally, the display  116  may also be configured to receive a user input, such as a multi-touch display screen that receives user inputs through capacitive sensing elements. In many embodiments, the display  116  may be dynamically variable; however, in other embodiments, the display  116  may be a non-electronic component, such as a painted faceplate, that may not dynamically change. 
     The display  116  may show a plurality of icons  118 ,  120  or other graphics that are selectively modifiable. As an example, a first graphic  118  may include a time graphic that changes its characters to represent the time changes, e.g., numbers to represent hours, minutes, and seconds. A second graphic  120  may include a notification graphic, such as, battery life, messages received, or the like. The two graphics  118 ,  120  may be positioned substantially anywhere on the display  116  and may be varied as desired. Additionally, the number, size, shape, and other characteristics of the graphics  118 ,  120  may be changed as well. 
     The input button  110  extends from and attaches to or passes through the enclosure  114 . The input button  110  will be discussed in more detail below, but generally allows a user to provide input to the wearable electronic device  100 , as well as optionally provide haptic feedback to a user. 
     With reference to  FIG. 2 , the wearable electronic device includes a plurality of internal processing or computing elements. For example, the wearable electronic device  100  may include a power source  122 , one or more processing elements  124 , a memory component  128 , one or more sensors  126 , and an input/output component  130 . Each of the internal components may be received within the enclosure  114  and may be in communication through one or more systems buses  132 , traces, printed circuit boards, or other communication mechanisms. 
     The power source  122  provides power to the hub  102  and other components of the wearable device  100 . The power source  122  may be a battery or other portable power element. Additionally, the power source  122  may be rechargeable or replaceable. 
     The processing element  124  or processor is substantially any type of device that can receive and execute instructions. For example, the processing element  124  may be a processor, microcomputer, processing unit or group of processing units or the like. Additionally, the processing element  124  may include one or more processors and in some embodiments may include multiple processing elements. 
     The one or more sensors  126  may be configured to sense a number of different parameters or characteristics that may be used to influence one or more operations of the wearable electronic device  100 . For example, the sensors  126  may include accelerometers, gyroscopes, capacitive sensors, light sensors, image sensors, pressure or force sensors, or the like. As will be discussed in more detail below, one or more of the sensors  126  may be used in conjunction with the input button  110  or separate therefrom, to provide user input to the hub  102 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 2 , the memory component  128  stores electronic data that may be utilized by the wearable device  100 . For example, the memory component  128  may store electrical data or content e.g., audio files, video files, document files, and so on, corresponding to various applications. The memory  128  may be, for example, non-volatile storage, a magnetic storage medium, optical storage medium, magneto-optical storage medium, read only memory, random access memory, erasable programmable memory, or flash memory. 
     The input/output interface  130  may receive data from a user or one or more other electronic devices. Additionally, the input/output interface  130  may facilitate transmission of data to a user or to other electronic devices. For example, the input/output interface  130  may be used to receive data from a network, or may be used to send and transmit electronic signals via a wireless or wired connection (Internet, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet being a few examples). In some embodiments, the input/output interface  130  may support multiple network or communication mechanisms. For example, the network/communication interface  130  may pair with another device over a Bluetooth network to transfer signals to the other device, while simultaneously receiving data from a WiFi or other network. 
     The input button  110  will now be discussed in more detail. With reference to  FIG. 3 , the input button  110  includes a head  148  and a stem  150  or spindle. The stem  150  is received into the button aperture  172  defined in the enclosure  114  and the head  148  extends outwards from the stem  150  outside of the enclosure  114 . In embodiments where the wearable electronic device  100  is a watch, the input button  110  forms a crown for the watch, with head  148  acting as a user engagement surface to allow the user to rotate, pull, and/or push the crown  110  or input button. 
     With reference to  FIG. 1 , the head  148  is generally a flange shaped member that may have a cylindrical body and a rounded or flat top. Additionally, the head  148  may optionally include a plurality of ridges  202  or other tactile features. The ridges  202  may enhance the friction between a user&#39;s finger or fingers and the head  148 , making it easier for the user to rotate or pull the head  148 , and may provide indicators to a user (similar to mile markers on a road) that allow a user to determine the number of rotations. For example, the head  148  may include a ridge  202  every quarter around the outer surface of the head  148  that can indicate to a user when the head has rotated  90  degrees. However, in other embodiments, the ridge  202  may be omitted or other features may be used. 
     With reference again to  FIG. 3 , the stem  150  may be a generally cylindrically shaped member and may extend from the head  148 . The head  148  and the stem  150  may be integrally formed or may be discrete components that are fixedly attached together. The stem  150  may also include a sealing groove  152  defined around a portion of its outer circumference. The sealing groove  152  is configured to receive a sealing member, such as an O-ring  154  or seal cup. In some embodiments, the stem  150  has a longer length than a length of the button aperture  172 . In this manner, opposite ends of the stem  150  extend from either side of the button aperture  172 . In these embodiments, the head  148  may be spatially separated from the outer surface of the enclosure by the length of the stem  150  that extends outward from the outer end of the button aperture. However, in other embodiments the stem  150  may have a length that is substantially the same as a length of the button aperture  172  or may be shorter than a length of the button aperture  172 . In the later example, one or more portions of the sensing circuitry (disused in more detail below) may be positioned directly beneath the button aperture  172  or partially within the button aperture  172 . 
     The input button  110  includes a trackable element  146  or encoder positioned on a bottom of the stem  150 .  FIG. 4  is a bottom plan view of the button  110 . With reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the trackable element  146  may be connected to a bottom end of the stem  150  or may be connected to or defined on the outer surface of the stem  150 . The trackable element  146  interacts with a sensing element  142  to allow the sensing element  162  to track movement of the stem  150  by tracking movement of the trackable element  146 . As such, the trackable element  146  is connected to the stem  150  such that as the stem  150  moves or rotates, such as due to a user input to the head  148 , the trackable element  146  will move correspondingly. 
     The position, size, and type of material for the trackable element  146  may be varied based on the sensing element  142 , which as discussed below may track different types of parameters, such as, but not limited to, optical characteristics, magnetic characteristics, mechanical characteristics, electrical characteristics, or capacitive characteristics. As such, the trackable element  146  can be modified to enhance tracking of the stem  150 . 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one embodiment, the trackable element  146  is a magnet, either permanent or electromagnetic. In this embodiment, the trackable element  146  may be a cylindrical disc including a first pole  182  and a second pole  184 . The first pole  182  may be the north pole of the trackable element  146  and the second pole  184  may be the south pole of the trackable element  146 . The two poles  182 ,  184  may be diametrically opposed, such that half of the trackable element  146  forms the first pole  182  and other half of the trackable element  146  forms the second pole  184 , with the two poles  182 ,  184  forming half-circle shapes. In other words, the bottom face of the trackable element  146  is split in polarity along its diameter. 
     In some embodiments, the trackable element may include two or more magnets positioned around the perimeter of the stem  150 . In these embodiments, the rotational sensor may be positioned within the button aperture to track rotation of the stem  150 . 
     The sensing element  142  and corresponding structures will now be discussed in more detail.  FIG. 5  is an enlarged cross-section view of the wearable electronic device taken along line  5 - 5  in  FIG. 1 . With reference to  FIGS. 3 and 5 , the sensing element  142  is supported within the enclosure  114  and is configured to detect rotational, vertical, and/or lateral movements of the button  110 . The sensing element  142  may be supported on a substrate  166  and includes one or more sensors. For example, the sensing element  142  may include rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  and a switch sensor  160 . The rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  and the switch sensor  160  may be positioned within a compartment  212  or other enclosure. The compartment  212  is supported on the substrate  166  by a contact floor  170  that forms a bottom of the sensing element  142 . The compartment  212  and the contact floor  170  define a cavity  164  in which the sensors are received. 
     The rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  are configured to detect rotation of the stem  150  or other portions of the crown or button  110 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3-5 , the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may be magnetic sensors that detect changes in magnetic polarity. For example, the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may be Hall-effect sensors. In other words, the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may be transducers that vary an output signal in response to a magnetic field. In another example, the rotational sensor and/or switch sensor may be an optical sensor and the trackable element may include one or more markings or visible indicators that can be used by the optical sensor to track movement of the stem  150 . 
     In some embodiments, the trackable element may be positioned on the head  148  or exterior portion of the button  110 . In these embodiments, the rotational sensor may be in communication (either optically or magnetically) with the input button  110  through the housing or enclosure  114 . For example, the enclosure may include a transparent portion or window and an optical sensor may track movement of the crown through the window. 
     In some examples, the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may be spaced apart from one another and located at opposite quadrants of the sensing element  142 . This allows the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  to track rotation of the trackable element  146  as it enters and exits each quadrant or section of the sensing element. However, it should be noted that in other embodiments, there may be only two sensors that may be used to track larger rotational distances of the trackable element  146 . 
     The rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may be in-plane with one another or may be out of plane with one another. With reference to  FIG. 5 , in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 5 , the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  are aligned in plane with one another. 
     Additionally, although the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 5  shows four rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d , there may be fewer or more sensors. For example, only two sensors may be used or more than two force sensors may be used. The additional sensors may provide additional information, such as orientation and/or speed, as well as provide redundancy to reduce error. However, using only two sensors may allow the sensing element  142  to detect rotation of the stem  150 , without additional components, which may reduce cost and manufacturing complexities of the wearable device  100 . 
     However, in other embodiments, the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may sense parameters other than magnetic fields. For example, the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may be optical sensors (e.g., image or light sensors), capacitive sensors, electrical contacts, or the like. In these embodiments, the number, orientation, position, and size of the rotation sensors may be varied as desired. 
     The switch sensor  160  includes an electrical contact element  168 , a collapsible dome  214  and a tip  158 . The electrical contact element  168  interacts with a contact element on the floor  170  to indicate when the switch sensor  160  has been activated. For example, when the contact element  168  contacts the floor  170 , a circuit may be completed, a signal may be stimulated of created, or the like. The dome  214  is a resilient and flexible material that collapses or flexes upon a predetermined force level. The dome  214  may be a thin metal dome, a plastic dome, or other may be constructed from other materials. The dome  214  may produce an audible sound, as well as an opposing force, in response to a collapsing force exerted by a user. The audible sound and opposing force provide feedback to a user when a user compresses the dome  214 . The tip  158  is connected to the dome  214  and when a force is applied to the tip  158 , the tip  158  is configured to collapse the dome  214 . 
     Although the switch sensor  160  is illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 5  as being a tactile switch, many other sensors are envisioned. For example, the switch sensor  160  may be a magnetic sensor, a capacitive sensor, an optical sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor. In a specific example, the switch sensor  160  may be capacitive sensor and can detect changes in capacitance as the button  110  is pressed by a user and the stem  150  moves closer to the sensor  160 . As such, the discussion of any particular embodiment is meant as illustrative only. 
     It should be noted that the sensing element  142  including the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  and the switch sensor  160  may be an integrated sensing component or package that may be installed into the hub  102  as one component. Alternatively, the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  and the switch sensors  160  may be discrete components that maybe installed as separate components, and may include their own seals, substrates, and the like. Moreover, the wearable electronic device  100  may include only a single sensor, such as either the rotational sensor or the switch sensor. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 3 and 5 , the sensing element  142  is surrounded by a seal  144 . The seal  144 , which may be pressure sensitive adhesive, heat activated film, silicone, or other sealing materials, is positioned around a perimeter of the compartment  212 . For example, the seal  144  may be a rectangular shaped element that extends around a perimeter of the compartment  212  and sealing member. The seal  144  defines an opening allowing the rotation sensors and the switch sensor to be in communication with the trackable element  146  and stem  150 . A membrane  156  or flexible seal extends over the opening and is positioned over the sensing element  142 . The membrane  156  acts along with the seal  144  to prevent water, debris, and other elements from reaching the sensing element  142 . For example, water and other elements may travel through the button aperture  172  within the enclosure  114 , but due to the membrane and the seal  144  may not reach the sensing element  142  and other internal components of the wearable electronic device  100 . As another example, in some embodiments, the button  110  may be removable and the seal  144  and membrane  156  prevent water and other elements from damaging the sensing element  142  and/or other internal components of the wearable device  100  while the crown or button is removed. 
     With reference to  FIG. 5 , the tip  158  of switch sensor  160  may be positioned above the membrane  156 , with a sealing ring  216  sealing the membrane  156  against the sidewalls of the tip  158 . In these embodiments, the membrane  156  may be flexible and allow the tip  158  to move vertically without ripping or otherwise compromising the seal of the membrane. 
     Operation of the input button  110  will now be discussed in further detail. With reference to  FIGS. 1, 3, and 5 , to provide a first input to the wearable input device  100 , the user applies a push force F to the head  148  of the crown or button  110 . As the force F is exerted against the head  148 , the head and the steam  150  move laterally along the length of the button aperture  172  in the direction of the force F, towards the internal cavity  139  defined by the enclosure  114 . As the stem  150  moves into the cavity  139 , the bottom end of the stem  150 , in some instances, the trackable element  146 , transfers at least a portion of the force F to the tip  158 . 
     In response to the force F on the tip  158 , the dome  214  collapses, moving the contact  168  into communication with a contact (not shown) on the floor  170 . As the dome collapses  214 , the user is provided feedback (e.g., through the audible sound of the dome collapsing or the mechanical feel of the dome collapsing). As the contact  168  registers an input, a signal is produced and transmitted to the processing element  124 . The processing element  124  then uses the signal to register a user input. It should be noted that in embodiments where the switch sensor  160  is positioned off-axis from the stem  150  (discussed in more detail below), the force F may be angled as shown by angled force AF. This angled force AF may be registered as a second user input, in addition to the on-axis force F. 
     In some embodiments, the button aperture may be sufficiently large that the switch sensor  120  can be activated by the angled force AF, even when the switch sensor is positioned beneath the stem  150  as shown in  FIG. 4 . In other words, the angled force AF or other off-axis force may activate the input button  110  when the frictional engagement of the stem  150  with the button aperture  172  sidewall is insufficient to resist the angled force AF. As the angle increases, the frictional force acting on the stem increases and by varying the size of the stem and/or button aperture, a predetermined angle range may be selected for which the angled force AF can activate the switch. For example, a maximum angle of the input force can be selected and when the force is below that angle, the angled force can activate the switch  120  and when the angled force is at or above the maximum angle, the input button may not be activated. As an example, a force applied to the input button at an angle up to 30 or 45 degrees may be able to activate the switch sensor  120 . 
     Additionally, the input button  110  can register rotational inputs. For example, if a user applies a rotation force R to the head  148 , the head  148  and stem  150  rotate. As the stem  150  rotates, the trackable element  146  rotates correspondingly. The rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  track movement of the trackable element  146  and produce signals that are transmitted to the processing element  124 , which may use signals to determine the rotation speed and direction. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 3-5  in embodiments where the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  are Hall effect sensors and the trackable element  146  is a magnet, the sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may use the changes in magnetic field to determine rotation. With reference to  FIG. 5 , as the stem  150  rotates due to the rotation force R (see  FIG. 1 ), the trackable element  146  rotates along the rotation axis therewith. As the trackable element  146  rotates the two poles  182 ,  184  rotate over (or near) each of the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d , causing the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  to detect a change in the magnetic field. 
     The changes in magnetic field can be used by the processing element  124  to determine rotation speed and direction the trackable element  146  (and thus stem  150 ). In this manner, the user may apply a rotational input to the button  110 , which may be detected by the sensing element  142 . It should be noted that in some embodiments, the speed and/or direction of the user input may be used to activate different applications and/or may be provided as separate input types of the processing element  124 . For example, rotation in a first direction at a first speed may correlate to a first type of input and rotation in a second direction at a second speed may correlate to a second input, and rotation in the first direction at the second speed may be a third input. In this manner, multiple user inputs can be detectable through the crown of the wearable input device  100 . 
     As described above, in some embodiments, the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may be Hall effect sensors that vary an output signal in response to a change in a magnetic field, e.g., as the trackable element  146  changes orientation with respect to each of the sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d . In these embodiments, the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  typically draw current from the power source  122  when activated. Thus, the sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  may constantly draw power when searching for a user input to the input button  110 . 
     However, in some embodiments it may be desirable to reduce power consumption of the wearable electronic device  100 . For example, it may be desirable for the power source  122  to provide power to the device  100  for multiple days without recharging. In these embodiments, the sensing element  142  can include an inductor near the trackable element  146  or other magnetic element attached to the crown. The inductor will generate a current when the trackable element  146  moves (such as due to a user input to the input button  110 ). The induced current may be used as a wake or interrupt signal to the sensing element  142 . The sensing element  142  may then activate the rotation sensors  210   a ,  210   b ,  210   c ,  210   d  to allow better rotational sensing for the position of the stem  150 . 
     In the above embodiment, the wearable input device  100  may detect user inputs during zero power or low-power sleep modes. Thus, the life of the power source  122  may be enhanced, while not reducing the functionality of the device  100 . Moreover, the induced current could be used to get direction and/or rotational velocity measurements as the trackable element  146  is moved. For example, the current direction and voltage induced by the inductor may be used to determine rotational direction and speed. 
     In yet another embodiment, the sensing element  142  may include a magnet or magnetic element as the trackable element  146  and the rotation sensor may include an inductor. In this example, as the magnet is moved relative to the inductor, a current is induced within the inductor, which as described above could be used to determine rotational speed and/or velocity. In this manner, the sensing element  142  may not require much, if any, power while still tracking user inputs to the input button  110  or crown. 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , the switch sensor  160  has been illustrated as being positioned on-axis with the stem  150  of the input button  110 . However, in other embodiments, the switch sensor  160  may be positioned perpendicular to the stem  150  and/or otherwise angled relative to the stem  150 . In these embodiments, the switch sensor  160  can sense off-axis movement, such as a user pressing the head  148  downward at a  45  degree angle. For example, the switch sensor  160  may be positioned within the button aperture  172  and/or adjacent the opening of the button aperture  172  into the enclosure  114  and may track movement of the stem  150  vertically (relative to  FIG. 3 ) within the button aperture  172 . 
     In other embodiments, the wearable device  100  may include both on and off axis switch sensors to detect various types of user inputs. For example, the user may press the top end of the head  148  to force the stem  150  inwards towards the enclosure  114 , which may be registered by the on-axis switch. As another example, the user may press the head  148  downward at an angle relative to the button aperture  172 . The stem  150  may be pushed towards an inner wall of the button aperture  172  (in which the switch sensor may be positioned), allowing the switch sensor to detect that movement as well. In this example, the button click may be activated by pressing the crown vertically downwards and/or at an angle. Alternatively, the switch sensor  160  may be activated through a pivot point. In other words, the input to the crown or input button  110  may be on-axis, off-axis, perpendicular to the rotation direction, and/or a combination of the different input types. 
     In some embodiments, the wearable electronic device  100  may include components that may be used to retain the input button within the button aperture  172 .  FIGS. 6 and 7  illustrate cross-section views of examples of retention components for the input button. With initial reference to  FIG. 6 , in a first example, the wearable electronic device  100  may include a clip  143  that connects to a bottom end of the stem  150 . For example, the clip  143  may be a C-clip that is received around a portion of the stem  150 . In this example, the clip  143  allows the stem  150  to rotate within the button aperture  172 , but prevents the stem  150  from being removed from the button aperture  712 . The clip  143  may have a larger diameter than the button aperture  172  to prevent removal of the input button  110  from the button aperture  172  or may be secured to the enclosure  114  in a manner that prevents the input button from being removed. 
     The stem  150  may also include a groove or other detent that receives the retaining element  143 . In this example, the retaining element  143  clips into position and is secured to the stem  150 . As another example, the retaining element  143  may be a bearing, such as a ball bearing, that is received around the outer surface of them stem. In this embodiment, the bearing may have a low friction connection to the stem  150 , to allow the stem  150  to rotate, but may have an increased diameter as compared to the stem  150 , which helps to secure the stem in position relative to the enclosure. 
     In some embodiments, the trackable element  146  may also act as a retaining element for the input button  110 . For example, the clip  143  in  FIG. 6  may be a diametric magnet that may be detectable by the sensing element  142 . In other example, with reference to  FIG. 7 , in another example, the retaining element may be a retaining magnet  145 . In this example, the retaining magnet  145  may be formed integrally with the stem  150  or connected to a bottom end thereof. The retaining magnet  145  may have a diameter that is substantially the same as the diameter of the stem  150 , which allows the input button  110  to be inserted into the button aperture  172  with the retaining magnet  145  connected thereto. In this embodiment, the trackable element  146  is a second magnet that is positioned within the cavity  139  defined by the enclosure  114 . The trackable element  146  includes an opposite polarization from the retaining magnet at least on a side that interfaces with the retaining magnet  145 . For example, the retaining magnet  145  may be a plate with magnetic properties, such as, but not limited to, a steel or metal plate, a ferromagnetic material, or the like. In this manner, the trackable element  146  and the retaining magnet  145  may experience an attractive force towards one another. 
     In some embodiments, the trackable element  146  may be separated from the retaining magnet  145  by a gap. In these embodiments, the gap may be sufficiently dimensioned such that the retaining magnet  145  is able to interact with the trackable element  146  and cause the trackable element  146  to move therewith. Alternatively, the trackable element  146  may be positioned against a surface of the retaining magnet  145   
     Due the varying polarizations, the trackable element  146  attracts the retaining magnet  145  pulling the input button  110  into the cavity  139 . The trackable element  146  may have a diameter configured to retain the button  110  within the button aperture  172 . For example, the trackable element  146  may have a larger diameter than a diameter of the button aperture  172  and larger than a diameter of the retaining magnet  145 . In these embodiments, the attraction between the retaining magnet and the trackable element may secure the two elements together, and prevent the stem  150  from being pulled through the button aperture, at least because the diameter of the trackable element may be larger than the button aperture. 
     In some embodiments, the trackable element  146  may also be detectable by the sensing element  142 . For example, because the trackable element  146  may be configured to retain the steam  150  within the button aperture  172 , the larger diameter of the trackable element  146 , as compared to the trackable element shown in  FIG. 3  (which may have approximately the same diameter of the stem) may allow the sensing element  142  to more easily track movement of the trackable element  142 . That is, the trackable element in this example may have a larger surface area that may be tracked by the sensing element  142 , allowing the sensing element  142  to more easily detect its movements. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 7 , in this embodiment, the trackable element  146  rotates with the retaining magnet  145 . For example, as the stem rotates, the retaining magnet  145 , which is connected to the stem  150 , rotates. Continuing with this example, due to the magnetic force between the trackable element  146  and the retaining magnet  145 , the trackable element  146  rotates with the stem  150 . In these embodiments, the retaining magnet  145  may act to retain the stem  150  to the trackable element  146  and because of the increased size of the trackable element  146  as compared to the retaining magnet  145 , the trackable element  146  retains the button  110  within the button aperture  172 . The trackable element  146  then interacts with the sensing element  142  to allow the user inputs to the input button  110  to be detected. 
     The retaining elements shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7  are meant as illustrative only. Many other types of retaining elements are envisioned that may be used to connect the input button to the enclosure  114 , e.g., flanges, fasteners (such as screws), or the like. In embodiments where the input button includes a retaining element, the input button may have a better “feel” to the user as it may feel less “squishy,” which can detract from the user experience. Additionally, the retaining elements  143 ,  145  help to reduce water, fluid, and other debris from entering into the cavity  139  through the button aperture  172 . In other words, because the input button  110  may be securely connected to the enclosure  114 , certain elements can be blocked by the button or the retaining member and prevented from entering into the cavity  139  via the button aperture  172 . Moreover, the retaining elements may help to prevent the input button from becoming disconnected from the electronic device. 
     In some embodiments, the sensing element may be spatially separated from the trackable element and/or positioned out of series with the movement of the stem.  FIG. 8  is a cross-section view of the wearable device including two sensing elements positioned within the cavity of the enclosure. With reference to  FIG. 6 , in this embodiment, the sensing element  342  may include a first magnetometer  348  and a second magnetometer  350 . Each magnetometer  348 ,  350  is configured to sense magnetic fields and optionally the direction of any sensed magnetic field. As one example, each magnetometer  348 ,  350  may include three Hall effect sensors, each of which may be used to sense a particular magnetic field vector. In other words, each Hall effect sensor in the magnetometers  348 ,  350  may be configured to measure components in at least one direction, e.g., X, Y, and Z. In this example, each Hall effect sensor may be oriented perpendicularly relative to the other Hall effect sensors. The magnetic field vectors detected by each Hall effect sensor can be combined to determine an overall vector length and/or direction for one or more magnetic fields. 
     The magnetometers  348 ,  350  may be connected to a substrate  366 , an internal wall of the enclosure  114 , or another support structure. Optionally, a shielding element  368  may be positioned around at least a portion of the magnetometer  348 ,  350 . For example, in one embodiment both magnetometers  348 ,  350  may be positioned beneath the display  116  and the shielding element  368  may reduce interference and noise between the sensing element  342  and the display  116 . However, in other embodiments, the shielding element  368  may be omitted or differently configured. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 8  in some embodiments, the two magnetometers  348 ,  350  may be spaced apart by a distance D from one another. The distance D may be used to determine user input to the input button  310 , and in particular movement of the trackable element  142 . In some embodiments, the distance D may be selected such that the magnetometers  348 ,  350  may be able to sense movement of the trackable element  146 , as well as sensing the Earth&#39;s magnetic field, which allows the magnetometers to be used as a compass. In other words, the distance D may be sufficiently small such that the Earth&#39;s magnetic field may be experienced by both magnetometers in substantially the same manner, but may be sufficiently large that movement of the trackable element may be experienced differently by each magnetometer. 
     In operation, the sensing element  342  including the magnetometers  348 ,  350  detects changes in a local magnetic field due to the varying position of the trackable element  146 . That is, as the user rotates or otherwise provides an input to the input button  310 , the trackable element  146  varies its position relative to the sensing element  342 , causing a change in at least one component of the magnetic field. In embodiments where the trackable element  146  includes a magnetic component, varying the position of the trackable element  146  relative to the magnetometers  348 ,  350  causes the magnetometers to detect a change in the magnetic field. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 8 , the distance D between the two magnetometers  348 ,  350  is known and thus the delta or difference between the signals of the two magnetometers  348 ,  350  can be determined. This delta can then be used to determine the position of the trackable element  146 . In particular, the signals from each magnetometer may be processed using the known distance D and the signals may then be correlated to the user input. 
     In some embodiments, the two magnetometers  348 ,  350  may be configured to detect the magnitude of the magnetic field of the trackable element  146 , as well as the direction. In this manner, the processing element  124 , which is in communication with the sensing element  342 , can determine the user input the input button  310 , e.g., the direction, speed, and distance of a rotation of the input button, all of which may be correlated to different parameters of the user input to the button. 
     In instances where the magnetometers in the electronic device can sense both the rotation of the input button and extraneous magnetic fields, such as the Earth&#39;s magnetic field, the encoder for the input button may be used simultaneously with a compass function for the electronic device  100 . This may allow a user to provide input via the input button  310 , while at the same time viewing a compass output (e.g., arrow pointing towards north) on the display  116 . 
     In some embodiments the sensing element  342  may be calibrated to avoid detecting magnetic fields that may be part of the wearable electronic device  100  or components it may interacts with. For example, in some instances a charging cable including a magnetic attachment mechanism may be used with the electronic device. In this example, the magnetic field of the charging cable can be calibrated out of the sensing element  342  such that it may not substantially affect the sensing elements  342  ability to detect the trackable element  146 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 8 , although the sensing element  342  of the input button  310  has been discussed as including two magnetometers  348 ,  350 , in some embodiments the sensing element  342  may include a single magnetometer. By including a single magnetometer, the sensing element  342  may be less expensive to implement as it may include fewer components. However, in these embodiments, larger movements of the input button may be required for the sensing element  342  to detect the user inputs, i.e., the sensitivity may be reduced. 
     In some embodiments, the trackable element may detect orientation, acceleration, or other parameters that can be used to determine a user input.  FIG. 9  is a cross-section view of an example of an input button with the trackable element configured to detect movement of the shaft. With reference to  FIG. 9 , in this embodiment the input button  410  may be substantially similar to the input button  110 , but the trackable element  446  may be a gyroscope or other element configured to detect changes in orientation or acceleration. In these embodiments, the trackable element may independently track movement of the stem  150  relative to the enclosure  114 . For example, the trackable element  446  is connected to the shaft  150  and as the user provides an input to the button  410 , the shaft rotates, and the trackable element  446  detects the direction and speed of rotation. 
     The sensing element  442  in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 9  may include a shaft contact  458 . The shaft contact  458  is electrically connected to the trackable element  446  and receives signals therefrom. For example, the shaft contact  458  may be a brush contact and be to rotate, allowing the shaft contact  458  and the trackable element  446  to be in electrical communication without substantially restricting rotation or other movement of the shaft  150  (via the trackable element). 
     In operation, as a user rotates the shaft  150 , for example, by rotating the head  148 , the trackable element  446  detects the rotation. In particular, the trackable element  446  experiences the rotation of the shaft  150  and detects the direction and speed of rotation. The trackable element  446  then produces an electrical signal that may be transmitted to the shaft contact  458 . For example, the shaft contact  458  brushes against the trackable element  446  as the trackable element  446  is spinning with the shaft  150  and detects the signal produced by the trackable element  446 . 
     The shaft contact  458  and the sensing element  442  provide the signal from the trackable element  446  to the processing element  142 . The processing element  142  may then compare the signal detected by the trackable element  446  to a rotational signal detected by one or more of the sensors  126  within the electronic device  100 . For example, the processing element  142  may subtract the trackable element  446  signal from a signal from a gyroscope sensor connected to the enclosure, logic board substrate  166 , or other element separated from the input button  410 . In this manner, the processing element  124  may determine the rotation and other movement of the stem  150  separated from rotational movement of the electronic device  100 . For example, the wearable electronic device  100  may be moved while worn on the wrist of a user, and if the readings from the device  100  as a whole are not subtracted from the trackable element readings, the user input may be miscalculated. However, in some instances the rotation experienced by the trackable element  446  may be a sufficiently higher magnitude than the rotation experienced by the wearable device  100  and the processing element  124  may not need to subtract the sensor  126  data from the data detected by the trackable element  446  to determine the user input to the button  410 . 
     In another example, the sensing element may detect features defined on the shaft of the button or otherwise connected thereto.  FIG. 10  is a cross-section view the wearable device including another example of the sensing element and trackable element. With reference to  FIG. 10 , in this example, input button  510  may include a head  548  and shaft  550  extending thereof. The input button  510  may be substantially similar to the input button  110 , but the trackable element  546  may be defined around a portion of the shaft  550 . For example, the trackable element  546  may be a series of notches, ridges, or other detectable markings (e.g., paint, colors, etc.), or other features. The trackable element  546  may be integrally formed with the shaft  550 , such as grooves or ridges formed during manufacturing/molding, or may be a separate element connected to shaft. In some embodiments, the trackable element  546  may extend around a portion of a bottom end of the outer surface of the shaft  550  or the trackable element  546  may extend around the entire outer surface of the shaft  550 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 10 , in this example, the sensing element  542  may be connected to the enclosure  114  and may be positioned adjacent at least a portion of the shaft  550  and trackable element  546 . For example, the sensing element  542  may be positioned parallel with the portion of the shaft  550  that extends into the cavity  139  and may be anchored to the enclosure  114  surrounding the button aperture  172 . In some embodiments, the sensing element  542  may surround the entire shaft  550  of the input button and in other embodiments the sensing element  542  may surround only portions (e.g., positioned on opposing sides) of the shaft. 
     The sensing element  542  is configured to detect movement of the shaft  550  by detecting the trackable element  546 . As one example, the trackable element  546  may be a magnetic element and the sensing element  542  may be a Hall effect sensor. As a second example, the trackable element may be a colored marking and the sensing element  542  may be an optical sensor. As a third example, the trackable element  546  may be a metallic element or other capacitive sensitive element and the sensing element  542  may be a capacitive sensor. As a fourth example, the trackable element  546  may be a ridge or extension connected to the shaft and the sensing element  542  may be a mechanical contact that is compressed or otherwise selected when the ridge passes over it. In this example, the mechanical contact may also be a gear or other keyed element that engages with the trackable element  546 . In particular, the trackable element  546  may be corresponding gear or teeth that engage a mechanical element on the enclosure  114 . As the stem  550  rotates, the trackable element  546  will rotate, meshing the gears or teeth with the gears/teeth of the enclosure  114 , which may allow the sensing element to determine movement of the stem  550 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 10 , in operation, the user rotates or provides a push input to the head  548 , the stem  550  moves correspondingly. As the stem  550  moves, the trackable element  546  rotates, translates, or otherwise moves relative to the sensing element  542 . The sensing element  542  provides a signal (or causes another element connected thereto to provide a signal) to the processing element, registering the user input to the input button  510 . 
     In some embodiments, the input button may include an electrical connection between the stem and the enclosure.  FIG. 11  is a cross-section view of an input button including an electrical connection between the enclosure and internal components of the wearable device and the input button. The input button  610  may be substantially similar to the input button  110 , but may include a direct electrical connection between the stem of the input button and the sensing element. With reference to  FIG. 11 , the input button  610  may include a sensing element  642  connected to the enclosure  114  and positioned above the aperture receiving the stem  650 . The sensing element  642  may be an electrical contact or pad that is connected to an interior sidewall  171  of the button aperture  172 . The sensing element  642  may be in communication with the sensing element  124  via one or more connections (not shown) or wirelessly. As another example, the sensing element may be an optical sensor that senses light (which need not be in the visible spectrum) from a sidewall of the shaft. The shaft may be patterned, colored or otherwise marked so that rotation of the shaft varies the light received by the sensing element, thereby allowing the sensing element to detect rotation and/or translation of the shaft. 
     The trackable element  646  in this embodiment may be a mechanical brush that is positioned on the stem  650 . For example, the trackable element  646  may include brush elements  643  positioned on an outer surface of the stem  650  at predetermined positioned. Alternatively, the brush elements  643  may be positioned around an entire perimeter of the outer surface of the stem  650 . The trackable element  646  may be one or more conductive elements that interact with the sensing element  642 . For example, the brush elements  643  may be copper bristles that electrically interact with the sensing element  642 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 11 , in some embodiments, the trackable element  646  may be in electrical communication with a crown sensor  630  or an input sensor connected to the button. The crown sensor  630  may be positioned in the head  648  and/or stem  650  of the input button  610 . The crown sensor  630  may be substantially any type of sensor, such as, but not limited to, microphone, speaker, capacitive sensor, optical sensor, biometric sensor, or the like. The crown sensor  630  may be positioned substantially anywhere on the head  648  and/or stem  650  and there may be two or more crown sensors  630  each connected to location within the input button  610 . 
     In operation, as a user provides an input, such as a rotational force to the head  648 , the stem  650  rotates. As the stem  650  rotates, the trackable element  646  contacts the sensing element  642 . In particular, the brush elements  643  intermittently or continuously directly contact the sensing element  642  creating an electrical connection between the trackable element  646  and the sensing element  642 . The sensing element  642  then creates an input signal corresponding to the sensed movement and provides the input signal to the processing element. In some embodiments, the sensing element  642  may sense the rotational speed and/or number of rotations of the stem  650  based on the number of contacts created between the brush elements  643  and the sensing element  642 . 
     In embodiments where the input button  610  includes the crown sensor  630 , the trackable element  646  may communicate one or more signals from the crown sensor  630  to the sensing element  642  or other components in communication with the sensing element  642  (e.g., processing element). As one example, the crown sensor  630  may be a biometric sensor that detects a user&#39;s heart rate and/or regularity and provide that data to the processing element within the enclosure  114  via the sensing element and trackable element. As another example, the crown sensor  630  may be a microphone and the trackable element  646  and sensing element  642  may be used to pull data from the microphone on the head  648  (or other location) and provide that data to the processing element  124 . 
     Alternatively or additionally, the sensing element  642  may transfer power to the trackable element and the crown sensor  630 . For example, when the brush elements  643  contact the sensing element  646 , the sensing element  646  may transfer current through the connection. The current transferred between the sensing element  642  and the trackable element  646  may be used to provide power to the crown sensor  630 , as well as any other components (e.g., displays) that are connected to the input button  610  and separated from the cavity of the enclosure. 
     In some embodiments, the input button may sense a user input via one or more sensors positioned on the head of the button.  FIG. 12  is a cross-section view of the input button including an input sensor. With reference to  FIG. 12 , in this embodiment, the input button  710  may be substantially similar to the input button  110 , but may include an input sensor  730  connected to or defined on the head  748  of the button  710 . The input sensor  730  may be similar to the crown sensor  630  and may be configured to detect one or more characteristics that may be used to detect a user input. As some example, the input sensor  730  may include one or more capacitive sensors, optical sensors, resistive sensors, or the like. The input sensor  730  may determine if a user positions his or her finger on the head  648  and if the user moves his or her finger along a portion of the head  648  (e.g., around the exterior perimeter of the head). In one embodiment, the input sensor  730  may include a plurality of sensing elements positioned around the sidewalls defining the head  748 , which may be configured to detect a user sliding his or her finger around the head  748 . 
     The input sensor may receive power in a manner similar to the crown sensor, or may be connected to a power source positioned with the enclosure. For example, the input sensor may be connected via one or more wires to a power source within the enclosure or may be inductively coupled to a power source to receive power wirelessly. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the input button  710 , and in particular the stem  750  and head  748 , may be prevented from rotating. In other words, the input button  710  may translate laterally relative to the button aperture  172 , but may not rotate within the button aperture  172 . In these embodiments, the user may provide a rotational input to the wearable device by rotating his or her finger around the head  648  (or other areas of the input button) and the input sensor  730  detects the movement of the finger around the head and provides the input to the processing element. In embodiments where the input button  710  translates laterally within the button aperture  172 , the stem  750  may be pushed by a user against the switch sensor  160  to detect a user input. For example, the user may press against the face of the head  748  and provide a lateral force to the input button, causing the bottom surface  745  of the stem  750  to press against the tip  158  of the switch sensor  160 , causing the switch sensor  160  to register a user input. 
     In some embodiments, the input button  710  may be fixed relative to the enclosure  114  or may be formed integrally therewith. In these embodiments, the input sensor  730  may detect “button press” inputs. In other words, the input sensor  730  may detect a user input force F applied parallel to the stem  750  or other inputs where the user provides a lateral force to the input button. In this example, as the user presses his or her finger against the face  747  of the head  748 , the user&#39;s finger may expand as it engages the face  747  or may conform to the shape of the face  747 . As the force increases, the user&#39;s finger may interact with more sensing elements  731  of the input sensor  730 , which may be correlated to the user input force F by the processing element  124 . For example the sensing elements  731  may be optical sensors and the user&#39;s finger may cover more sensing elements  731  as the force F increases or the sensing elements  731  may be capacitive sensors and the user&#39;s finger may interact with more capacitive sensors as the force increases. In these embodiments, the sensing elements  731  may be positioned along the face  747 , as well as sidewalls of the head  748  and may be positioned in a pattern, such as rows or circles, or may be positioned randomly. 
     In some embodiments, the tactile switch positioned within the enclosure may be positioned within a sidewall of the enclosure surrounding the input button. These embodiments may allow non-lateral forces, such as forces applied perpendicular to the stem to register a user input, as well as provide a tactile sensation to the user.  FIG. 13A  is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the input button including a switch sensor positioned parallel to the stem.  FIG. 13B  is a cross-section view of the input button illustrated in  FIG. 13A  with a force being applied to the head. With initial reference to  FIG. 13A , in this embodiment, the button assembly may include the input button  810  positioned within an enclosure  814 . The enclosure  814  may be substantially similar to the enclosure  114  but may include a switch cavity  816  defined therein. The switch cavity  860  may be formed as an extension or pocket of the button aperture  872 . As an example, a sidewall  858  defining the button aperture  872  on a first side of the button aperture  872  may expand outwards to form a switch sidewall  860  that defines the switch cavity  860 . In these embodiments, the switch cavity  860  may be open into a device cavity  812  defined by the display  116  and the enclosure  814 . In this manner, the switch cavity  860  may be formed as a recess in the internal wall  868  of the enclosure  814 . However, in other embodiments, the switch cavity may be at least partially enclosed (see, e.g.,  FIG. 14 ). 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 13A , the input button  810  includes a head  848  having a front face  847  and a stem  850  extending from a bottom surface of the head  848 . The head  848  may form a flange for the end of the stem  850  and may also include a sidewall  845 . The stem  850  may include an annular recess  852  defined around an outer surface thereof. The annular recess  852  may be defined in a middle portion of the stem, towards an end of the stem  850 , or otherwise as desired. A sealing element  154  may be received within the annular recess  852 . The sealing element  154 , as discussed above, may be a compressible element, such as an O-ring or seal cup. 
     The trackable element  146  may be connected to the bottom of the stem  850  and may be in communication with the sensing element  142 . The sensing element  142  is configured to detect movement or rotation of the trackable element  146  to determine user inputs to the input button  810 . In some embodiments, the sensing element  142  may be aligned with the stem  850  and the button aperture  872  and may be positioned adjacent to the bottom end of the stem. The sensing element  142  may be supported by a substrate  866 . 
     The button assembly illustrated in  FIG. 13A  may also include the switch sensor  160 . The switch sensor  160 , as described in  FIG. 3 , includes the dome  214  and substrate  166 . However, in this embodiment, the switch sensor  160 , or at least a portion thereof, is received within the switch enclosure  860 . In particular, the switch sensor  160  may be connected to the switch sidewall  860  but may extend partially into the cavity  812 . In this manner, the switch sensor  160  may be connected to the substrate  866 , to support the substrate  866  and sensing element  142  within the cavity  812 . The switch sensor  160  and the switch cavity  816  may be configured such that the tip  158  of the dome  214  may be positioned adjacent to the outer sidewall  851  of the stem  850 . In some embodiments, the tip  158  may even be positioned against the outer sidewall  851  of the stem  850 . The distance between the tip  158  and the sidewall  851  may determine the amount of force applied to the head  848  in order to activate the switch sensor  160 . As an example, the further the distance, the more force that may be required to activate the switch sensor. 
     In operation, the user may rotate the head  848 , which causes the stem  850  to rotate correspondingly. As described in more detail above with respect to  FIG. 3 , the sensing element  142  tracks the rotation of the trackable element  146  to determine the rotation of the stem  850 . For example, the trackable element  146  may be a magnetic element and the sensing element  142  may be a Hall effect sensor, or another magnetic sensor that may detect movement of the trackable element. In other embodiments, the trackable element and the sensing element may be otherwise configured to detect user input to the stem. 
     With reference to  FIG. 13B , if a user applies a force F to the sidewall  845  of the head  848  that angled relative to the button aperture  872 , the head  848  may deflect in downwards relative to the button aperture  872 . Although the stem  850  is illustrated as impacting or deflecting the enclosure  814  in  FIG. 13B , it should be appreciated that the deflection of the stem may be exaggerated for purposes of clarity. Alternatively, in some embodiments a portion of the enclosure may be deformable to a chamfer or other space may be defined in the enclosure to permit the stem to angularly deflect as shown. That is, the head  848  may deflect in the direction of the applied force F and may move vertically relative to the button aperture  872  in a first direction D 1 . As the head  848  moves downward, the stem  850  may compress a bottom of the sealing element  154  and pivots at pivot point  854 . The bottom end  853  of the stem  850  and trackable element  146  then move upwards towards the sensor sidewall  860  of the sensor cavity  816  in a second direction D 2 . Movement of the bottom end  853  of the stem  850  in the second direction D 2  causes the sidewall  858  of the stem  850  to compress the tip  158 , collapsing the dome  214 . As the dome collapses, the switch sensor  160  registers an input and the dome provides feedback to the user regarding activation of the switch sensor  160 . 
     In some embodiments, a middle portion of the stem may activate the switch sensor.  FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of another example of the button  810  illustrated in  FIG. 13A . With reference to  FIG. 14 , in this embodiment, the switch cavity  816  may be defined towards an exterior of the enclosure  814  and may be aligned with a middle portion, rather than a bottom end, of the stem. Additionally, the seal cavity  816  may be somewhat enclosed from the cavity  812  when the stem  850  is received into the button aperture  872 . In other words, the stem  850  may form a lid or cover for the switch cavity  816 . 
     Additionally, the annular recess  852  may be defined towards the bottom end of the stem  850 . In particular, when the stem  850  is positioned within the button aperture  872 , the sealing member  154  may be positioned between the cavity  812  and the seal cavity  816 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 14 , a sensing seal  835  may be positioned around the trackable element  146  and the button aperture  872 . In this manner, the sensing seal  835  may substantially seal the cavity  812  from the button aperture  872  to prevent fluids, debris, and the like from entering into the cavity  812  from the button aperture  872 . Depending on the type of sensing element  142  and trackable element  146 , the sensing seal  835  may be positioned between the trackable element  146  and the sensing element  142 . However, in other embodiments, the sensing seal  835  may be positioned around both the sensing element and the trackable element. 
     In operation, with reference to  FIG. 14 , as a user applies a force F to the sidewall  845  of the head  848 , the head  848  may move in the first direction D 1  corresponding to the direction of the input force F. The back end  853  of the stem  850  may move upwards, but the middle portion or the belly of the stem  850  may move in the direction D 1  with the head  848  due to the pivot point  854  being positioned towards the back end  853  the stem  850 . In other words, as the pivot point  854  is located towards the end  853  of the stem  850 , the middle portion of the stem  850  moves in the same direction D 1  as the force F. The compressibility of the sealing member  154  provides a pivot point for the stem  850 , to allow the stem  850  to move within the constraints of the button aperture  872  in order to activate the switch sensor  160 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 13B and 14 , depending on the location of the pivot point  854 , which may be determined by the location of the sealing member  154 , the switch sensor  160  may be located at a number of different locations relative to the stem  850  and may be activated by forces applied in a variety of directions. As such, the location of the switch sensor may be varied as desired. 
     Generally, the sensor may output a signal in response to motion of the stem  850  and/or head. The signal may vary depending on the type of motion. For example, a rotational motion may cause a first signal output, while a lateral motion causes a second signal output and an angular motion causes a third signal output. The processor may receive the signal or data based on the signal, and may use the signal (or related data) to determine the input type and execute or initiate an action based on the input type, as appropriate. Further, in some embodiments, different sensors may sense different types of motion, such that multiple sensors may be used to sense multiple motions. 
     In some embodiments, the button assembly may further include a motor coupled to the input button that may provide feedback to a user as well as sense a user input to the button.  FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional view of the input button including a motor. With reference to  FIG. 15 , the input button  810  may be substantially similar to the input button  810  illustrated in  FIG. 13A , but may include a motor  880  attached to the stem  850 . The motor  880  includes a drive shaft  882  and is configured to detect motion of a trackable element  846 , as well as cause motion of the trackable element, via movement of the drive shaft  882 . The motor  880  may be, for example, a rotary or linear vibrating motor that is coupled to the stem  850 . The drive shaft  882  couples to the stem  850  via the trackable element  846 . For example, the trackable element may be secured the bottom surface of the stem  850  and then connects to the drive shaft  882 . 
     In a first mode, the motor  880  may act as a sensing element and detect rotational user input to the input button  810 . In embodiments where the motor  880  is a rotary motor, as a user provides a rotational input R to the head  848 , the head  848  and stem  850  may rotate correspondingly. As the stem  850  rotates, the trackable element  846  rotates, rotating the drive shaft  882 . As the drive shaft  882  rotates, the motor  880  senses the movement and provides a signal to the processing element  124 . In embodiments where the motor  880  is a linear motor, as a user provides a linear input L to the head  848 , e.g., by pushing the head  848  lateral towards the enclosure  814 , the stem  850  moves laterally within the button aperture  872  and the trackable element  846  moves the drive shaft  882  in the lateral direction. The movement of the drive shaft  882  in the lateral direction may be detected by the motor  880 , which creates a signal to provide to the processing element  124 . 
     In a second mode, the motor  880  may be used to provide feedback to the user. For example, in instances where the motor  880  is a rotary motor, the drive shaft  882  may rotate the trackable element  846 , which in turn rotates the stem  850  and head  848 . The rotational movement of the head  848  may be used to provide a visual indication, as well as a tactile indication (when the user is touching the head  848 ) to the user regarding the selection of a particular input, a state of the device, or the other parameter where feedback may be desired. In an embodiment where the motor  880  is a linear motor, the drive shaft  882  may move the stem  850  linearly within the button aperture  872  to provide feedback to the user. 
     Additionally, the motor  880  may be used to provide dynamic feedback to the user. For example, the motor  880  may be configured to rotate or otherwise move the stem  850  that is used to provide a “tick” or detent feel, without the requirement for a mechanical detent. As an example, a user may rotate the input button  810  to scroll through a list of selectable items presented on the display  116 . As the user passes a selectable item, the motor  880  may move the stem  850  to provide a click or tick feel. Additionally, the motor  880  may selectively increase or decrease a force required to rotate or move the input button. For example, the motor  880  may exert a force in the opposite direction of the user input force, and the user may be required to overcome the force exerted by the motor  880  in order to rotate the input button  810 . As another example, motor  880  may be used provide a hard stop to limit the rotation of the head  848 . The hard stop may be set at a particular rotational distance or may be based on a list of selectable items, presented items, or the like. As with the feedback example, to provide the hard stop, the motor  880  exerts a force on the stem  850  in the opposite direction of the user applied force, and the force may be sufficiently high to prevent the user from overcoming the force or may be set to indicate the user the location of the hard stop. As yet another example, the motor  880  may provide a “bounce back” or “rubber band” feedback for certain inputs. In this example, as the user reaches the end of a selectable list, the motor may rotate the stem  850  in the opposite direction of the user applied force, which may cause the head  848  to appear to bounce backwards off of the end of the list presented on the display  116 . 
     Additionally or alternatively, the wearable device may include a mechanical detent that may be used to provide feedback to the user as the user provides input to the input button  810 . In this example, the mechanical detent may be defined on the inner sidewall of the button aperture  872  and may provide feedback to a user and/or may be used as a stop for limiting rotation of the stem  850 . The detent may be used in conjunction with the motor  880  or separate therefrom. 
     In some embodiments, the motor  880  may include a clutch that selectively engages and disengages the stem  850  and the motor. In these embodiments, the motor  880  may be disengaged to allow a user to provide a manual input without feedback and then may be engaged to provide feedback, prevent user rotation of the stem  850 , or the like. 
     In some embodiments, the input button may include one or more sensors positioned within the head or other portion of the input button that may be used to detect user input thereto.  FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional view of the input button including a input sensor connected to the head. With reference to  FIG. 16 , in this embodiment, the input button  910  may include a head  948  having a face  947  and a stem  950  extending from a back portion of the head  948 . The head  948  may define a sensor cavity  932  that receives an input sensor  930 . The sensor cavity  932  may be configured to have approximately the same dimensions as the input sensor  930  or may be larger or smaller than the input sensor  930 . In some embodiments, the sensor cavity  932  may contain other components, such as a communication component or processing element. 
     The input sensor  930  may be substantially any type of sensor that may detect one or more parameters. As some non-limiting examples, the sensor  930  may be a microphone, accelerometer, or gyroscope, and may be used to detect user input to the head  948  and/or stem  950 . As one example, the input sensor  930  may be an accelerometer and as the user provides input, such as a lateral or rotational force of the input button  910 , the accelerometer may detect the change in acceleration, which may be used by the processing element  124  to determine the user input force to the button. Continuing with this example, if the user provides a “tap” or other input to the face  947  or other area of the head  948 , the accelerometer may be configured to detect the movement due to the force in order to detect the user input force. 
     In another example, the input sensor  930  may be a microphone.  FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of the input button  910 . In this example, one or more apertures  945  may be defined through the face  947  of the head  948 . The apertures  945  may be in fluid communication with the sensor cavity  932  such that sound waves may travel through the face  947  to reach the sensor  930  positioned within the sensor cavity  932 . In this example, the input sensor  930  may detect user input, such as taps, clicks, or presses on the head  948  may detecting the sounds created by the engagement of a user&#39;s finger with the head  948 . In particular, as the user presses his or her finger against the head  948 , the force may create one or more sound waves that may travel through the apertures  945  in the face  947  to reach the sensor  930 . In these embodiments the head  948  may form an input port to receive use inputs and may rotate or may not rotate. In other words, the head may be secured in position or may be allowed to rotate to provide the user with haptic feedback and tactile sensation as he or her provides input to the input button. 
     It should be noted that although the head  948  is shown in  FIG. 17  has a plurality of apertures defined therethrough, in some embodiments the apertures may be omitted. For example, the head  948  may be created out of a material that may not dampen sound waves, e.g., a material that may transmit sound waves therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, the input sensor  930  may be positioned against the face  947  and the face  947  may have a sufficiently thin thickness so as to allow sound waves to travel therethrough. 
     Although the input sensor  930  and sensor cavity  932  have been discussed as being in the head  948 , in some embodiments, the input sensor and sensor cavity may be positioned in the sidewalls of the head  948 . In these embodiments, the sidewalls may include one or more apertures to allow sound waves to travel through. 
     The foregoing description has broad application. For example, while examples disclosed herein may focus on a wearable electronic device, it should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may equally apply to substantially any other type of electronic device. Similarly, although the input button may be discussed with respect to a crown for a watch, the devices and techniques disclosed herein are equally applicable to other types of input button structures. Accordingly, the discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be exemplary and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these examples.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20151211
Publication Date: 20170905
Grant Date: 20170905
Priority Date: 20130611
Inventors: ELY COLIN M.
ROTHKOPF FLETCHER
WERNER CHRISTOPHER MATTHEW
MORRELL JOHN B.
MOUSSETTE CAMILLE
KERR DUNCAN
SHEDLETSKY ANNA-KATRINA
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F3/0362", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04C3/004", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H35/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04C3/004", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04C3/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B3/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04C3/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04B3/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04C3/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01D5/26", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04C3/004", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01D5/241", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H35/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04G21/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G04C3/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 55632770