PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8749493-B2
Application Number: US-88200507-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Movable touch pad with added functionality

Abstract:
An input device is disclosed. The input device includes a movable touch pad capable of detecting an object in close proximity thereto so as to generate a first control signal. The input device also includes a movement indicator capable of detecting the movements of the movable touch pad so as to generate one or more distinct second control signals. The control signals being used to perform actions in an electronic device operatively coupled to the input device.

Claims:
The invention claimed is: 
     
       1. A portable media device comprising:
 a housing comprising a wall, 
 a touchpad comprising multiple layers including a touch sensitive surface, a platform and multiple button zones, wherein the touchpad is configured to move relative to the housing, generate tracking signals associated with rotational movement of a finger, contact the wall of the housing at multiple points of contact between the touchpad and the wall of the housing, pivot about the multiple points of contact between the touchpad and the wall of the housing and flex relative to the housing when depressed, wherein the touchpad pivots about a first point of contact between the platform and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a first zone located on a side of the touchpad opposite the first point, and the touchpad pivots about a second point of contact between the platform and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a second zone located on a side of the touchpad opposite the second point, and 
 a plurality of movement indicators located beneath the touchpad, such that when a substantial force is applied to the touchpad, at least a portion of the touchpad is depressed, thereby generating one or more button signals. 
 
     
     
       2. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the portable media device comprises a media player. 
     
     
       3. The portable media device of  claim 2 , wherein the button signals are associated with functionalities comprising accessing a menu on a display screen, seek forward through a list of songs, fast forward through a song, seek backward through a list of songs, fast rearward through a song, pause or stop. 
     
     
       4. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the touchpad is circular. 
     
     
       5. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein an input surface of the touchpad is substantially co-planer with an external surface of the housing. 
     
     
       6. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the touchpad is configured to provide both tracking signals and button signals at the same time. 
     
     
       7. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the touchpad is configured to only provide button signals when the touchpad is depressed and tracking signals when the touchpad is upright. 
     
     
       8. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the button signals are associated with functionalities comprising making selections or issuing commands associated with operating an electronic device. 
     
     
       9. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the button signals are associated with functionalities comprising selecting an item on a screen, opening a file, executing instructions, starting a program or viewing a menu. 
     
     
       10. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the button signals are associated with functionalities comprising zoom, scroll, opening menus, homing an input pointer, enter, delete, insert, page up or page down. 
     
     
       11. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the touch sensitive surface comprises an electrode layer and a protective layer. 
     
     
       12. The portable media device of  claim 11 , wherein the platform includes a circuit board. 
     
     
       13. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the first and second points of contact are movable. 
     
     
       14. The portable media device of  claim 1 , wherein the touchpad pivots about a third point of contact between the platform and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a third zone located on the side of the touchpad opposite the first point. 
     
     
       15. A portable media device comprising:
 a housing comprising a wall, 
 a touchpad comprising multiple button zones, wherein the touchpad is capable of moving relative to the housing while being constrained thereto to enable the touchpad to float relative to the housing, generate tracking signals associated with rotational movement of a finger, contact the wall of the housing at multiple points of contact between the touchpad and the wall, pivot about multiple points of contact between the touchpad and the wall of the housing and flex relative to the housing when depressed, wherein the touchpad pivots about a first floating point of contact between the touchpad and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a first zone located on a side of the touchpad opposite the first point, and the touchpad pivots about a second floating point of contact between the touchpad and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a second zone located on a side of the touchpad opposite the second point, and 
 a plurality of movement indicators located beneath the touchpad, such that when a substantial force is applied to the touchpad, at least a portion of the touchpad is depressed, thereby generating one or more button signals. 
 
     
     
       16. A portable media device, comprising:
 a housing comprising a wall, 
 an input device comprising a touchpad that is capable of moving relative to the housing while being constrained thereto to enable the touchpad to float relative to the housing and move perpendicular relative to a surface of the housing when an touch sensitive surface of the touchpad is parallel to the surface of the housing, wherein the touchpad pivots about a first floating point of contact between the touchpad and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a first area located on a side of the touchpad opposite the first point, and the touchpad pivots about a second floating point of contact between the touchpad and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a second area located on a side of the touchpad opposite the second point, and 
 a plurality of actuators located beneath the touchpad, such that when a substantial force is applied to the touchpad, at least a portion of the touchpad is depressed, thereby generating one or more button signals. 
 
     
     
       17. A portable media device comprising:
 a housing comprising a wall, 
 a touchpad configured to float in space relative to the housing while being constrained thereto and comprising multiple layers including a platform and a touch sensitive surface, 
 the platform includes a circuit board that pivots about a first point of contact between the platform and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a first area located on a side of the touchpad opposite the first point, and the touchpad pivots about a second point of contact between the platform and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a second area located on a side of the touchpad opposite the second point, where the first and second points of contact are configured to move, and 
 the touch sensitive surface includes an electrode layer and a protective layer, and is configured track finger movements. 
 
     
     
       18. A portable media device comprising:
 a housing comprising a wall, 
 a touchpad comprising multiple button zones, wherein the touchpad is configured to move perpendicular relative to a surface of the housing when an input surface of the touchpad is parallel to the surface of the housing while being constrained thereto to enable the touchpad to pivot about a first contact point between the touchpad and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a first zone located on a side of the touchpad opposite the first point, and the touchpad pivots about a second point of contact between the touchpad and the wall of the housing after the touchpad has moved parallel to the surface of the housing and a force is applied to the touchpad in the first zone, and 
 a plurality of actuators located beneath the touchpad, such that at least a portion of the touchpad is depressed when a substantial force is applied to the touchpad to generate one or more button signals. 
 
     
     
       19. A portable media device comprising:
 a housing comprising a wall, 
 a touchpad configured to float in a space relative to the housing while being constrained thereto and comprising multiple button zones, wherein the touchpad is configured to tilt relative to the surface of the touchpad that is parallel to the surface of the housing to enable the touchpad to pivot about a movable point of contact between the touchpad and the wall of the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a zone located on a side of the touchpad opposite the movable point of contact, and 
 a plurality of actuators only affixed to the touchpad, such that at least a portion of the touchpad is depressed when a force is applied to the touchpad to generate button signals. 
 
     
     
       20. A portable media device comprising:
 a housing, 
 a touchpad comprising multiple button zones, wherein the touchpad is configured to move relative to the housing while being constrained thereto to enable the touchpad to pivot about a first point of contact between the touchpad and the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a first zone located on a side of the touchpad opposite the first point of contact, the touchpad pivots about a second point of contact between the touchpad and the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a second zone located on a side of the touchpad opposite the second point of contact and the touchpad pivots about a third point between the touchpad and the housing when a force is applied to the touchpad in a third zone, wherein the first and third points of contact are different, and 
 a plurality of actuators affixed beneath the touchpad, such that at least a portion of the touchpad is depressed when a force is applied to the touchpad to generate button signals.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a Continuation of application Ser. No. 11/592,679, entitled “MOVABLE TOUCH PAD WITH ADDED FUNCTIONALITY” filed on Nov. 3, 2006, now abandoned which is a Divisional of application Ser. No. 10/643,256, filed Aug. 18, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,499,040 which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to touch pads. More particularly, the present invention relates to touch pads capable of moving in order to increase the functionality of the touch pad. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     There exist today many styles of input devices for performing operations in a consumer electronic device. The operations generally correspond to moving a cursor and making selections on a display screen. By way of example, the input devices may include buttons, switches, keyboards, mice, trackballs, touch pads, joy sticks, touch screens and the like. Each of these devices has advantages and disadvantages that are taken into account when designing the consumer electronic device. In handheld computing devices, the input devices are generally selected from buttons and switches. Buttons and switches are generally mechanical in nature and provide limited control with regards to the movement of a cursor (or other selector) and making selections. For example, they are generally dedicated to moving the cursor in a specific direction (e.g., arrow keys) or to making specific selections (e.g., enter, delete, number, etc.). In the case of hand-held personal digital assistants (PDA), the input devices tend to utilize touch-sensitive display screens. When using a touch screen, a user makes a selection on the display screen by pointing directly to objects on the screen using a stylus or finger. 
     In portable computing devices such as laptop computers, the input devices are commonly touch pads. With a touch pad, the movement of an input pointer (i.e., cursor) corresponds to the relative movements of the user&#39;s finger (or stylus) as the finger is moved along a surface of the touch pad. Touch pads can also make a selection on the display screen when one or more taps are detected on the surface of the touch pad. In some cases, any portion of the touch pad may be tapped, and in other cases a dedicated portion of the touch pad may be tapped. In stationary devices such as desktop computers, the input devices are generally selected from mice and trackballs. With a mouse, the movement of the input pointer corresponds to the relative movements of the mouse as the user moves the mouse along a surface. With a trackball, the movement of the input pointer corresponds to the relative movements of a ball as the user rotates the ball within a housing. Both mice and trackballs generally include one or more buttons for making selections on the display screen. 
     In addition to allowing input pointer movements and selections with respect to a GUI presented on a display screen, the input devices may also allow a user to scroll across the display screen in the horizontal or vertical directions. For example, mice may include a stroll wheel that allows a user to simply roll the scroll wheel forward or backward to perform a scroll action. In addition, touch pads may provide dedicated active areas that implement scrolling when the user passes his or her finger linearly across the active area in the x and y directions. Both devices may also implement scrolling via horizontal and vertical scroll bars as part of the GUI. Using this technique, scrolling is implemented by positioning the input pointer over the desired scroll bar, selecting the desired scroll bar, and moving the scroll bar by moving the mouse or finger in the y direction (forwards and backwards) for vertical scrolling or in the x direction left and right) for horizontal scrolling. 
     With regards to touch pads, mice and track balls, a Cartesian coordinate system is used to monitor the position of the finger, mouse and ball, respectively, as they are moved. The Cartesian coordinate system is generally defined as a two dimensional coordinate system (x, y) in which the coordinates of a point (e.g., position of finger, mouse or ball) are its distances from two intersecting, often perpendicular straight lines, the distance from each being measured along a straight line parallel to each other. For example, the x, y positions of the mouse, ball and finger may be monitored. The x, y positions are then used to correspondingly locate and move the input pointer on the display screen. 
     To elaborate further, touch pads generally include one or more sensors for detecting the proximity of the finger thereto. By way of example, the sensors may be based on resistive sensing, surface acoustic wave sensing, pressure sensing, optical sensing, capacitive sensing and the like. The sensors are generally dispersed about the touch pad with each sensor representing an x, y position. In most cases, the sensors are arranged in a grid of columns and rows. Distinct x and y position signals, which control the x, y movement of a pointer device on the display screen, are thus generated when a finger is moved across the grid of sensors within the touch pad. For brevity sake, the remaining discussion will be held to the discussion of capacitive sensing technologies. It should be noted, however, that the other technologies have similar features. 
     Capacitive sensing touch pads generally contain several layers of material. For example, the touch pad may include a protective shield, one or more electrode layers and a circuit board. The protective shield typically covers the electrode layer(s), and the electrode layer(s) is generally disposed on a front side of the circuit board. As is generally well known, the protective shield is the part of the touch pad that is touched by the user to implement cursor movements on a display screen. The electrode layer(s), on the other hand, is used to interpret the x, y position of the user&#39;s finger when the user&#39;s finger is resting or moving on the protective shield. The electrode layer (s) typically consists of a plurality of electrodes that are positioned in columns and rows so as to form a grid array. The columns and rows are generally based on the Cartesian coordinate system; and thus the rows and columns correspond to the x and y directions. 
     The touch pad may also include sensing electronics for detecting signals associated with the electrodes. For example, the sensing electronics may be adapted to detect the change in capacitance at each of the electrodes as the finger passes over the grid. The sensing electronics are generally located on the backside of the circuit board. By way of example, the sensing electronics may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that is configured to measure the amount of capacitance in epoch of the electrodes and to compute the position of finger movement based on the capacitance in each of the electrodes. The ASIC may also be configured to report this information to the computing, device. 
     Referring, to  FIG. 1 , a touch pad  10  will be described in greater detail. The touch pad is generally a small rectangular area that includes a protective shield  12  and a plurality of electrodes  14  disposed underneath the protective shield layer  12 . For ease of discussion, a portion of the protective shield layer  12  has been removed to show the electrodes  14 . Each of the electrodes  14  represents a different x, y position. In one configuration, as a finger  16  approaches the electrode grid  14 , a tiny capacitance forms between the finger  16  and the electrodes  14  proximate the finger  16 . The circuit board/sensing electronics measures capacitance and produces an x, y input signal  18  corresponding to the active electrodes  14  is sent to a host device  20  having a display screen  22 . The x, y input signal  18  is used to control the movement of a cursor  24  on a display screen  22 . As shown, the input pointer moves in a similar x, y direction as the detected x, y finger motion. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to touch pads capable of detecting an object in close proximity thereto. More particularly, the present invention relates to touch pads capable of moving in order to increase the functionality of the touch pad. For example, the touch pad may be depressible so as to provide additional button functionality. 
     The invention relates in one embodiment to an input device. The input device includes a movable touch pad configured to generate a first control signal when the movable touchpad is moved and a second control signal when an object is positioned over the movable touchpad. 
     The invention relates in another embodiment to an input device. The input device includes a frame. The input device also includes a rigid touch pad movably restrained to the frame. The rigid touch pad is configured to generate tracking signals when an object is positioned over the rigid touchpad. The input device further includes one or more movement indictors contained within the frame. The movement indicators are configured to generate one or more button signals when the rigid touch pad is moved relative to the frame. 
     The invention relates in another embodiment to an input device. The input device includes, a touch pad assembly and a housing assembly. The touch pad assembly includes a circuit board having a first side and a second side, an electrode layer positioned on the first side of the circuit board, a cosmetic plate positioned over the electrode layer, one or more switches positioned on the second side of the circuit board, and a stiffener plate positioned on the second side of the circuit board. The housing assembly includes a base plate, a frame and one or more retaining plates that cooperate to movably constrain at least a portion of the touch assembly within a space defined by the base plate, frame and one or more retaining plates. 
     The invention relates in another embodiment to a computing system. The computer system includes a computing device capable of receiving, processing and outputting data. The computer system also includes an input device configured to send data to the computing device in order to perform an action in the computing device. The input device includes a depressible touch pad configured to generate tracking signals, and one or more movement indicators configured to generate one or more button signals when the touch pad is depressed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a simplified diagram of a touch pad and display. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of an input device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  are simplified side views of an input device having a button touch pad, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is simplified block diagram of an input device connected to a computing device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a simplified perspective diagram of an input device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a side elevation view of a multi button zone touch pad, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 7A-7D  show the touch pad of  FIG. 6  in use, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective diagram of an input device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded perspective diagram of an input device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a side elevation, in cross section, of an input device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a side elevation, in cross section, of an input device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective diagram of a touch pad having switches on its backside, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective diagram of a media player, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective diagram of a laptop computer, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective diagram of a desktop computer with a peripheral input device connected thereto, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective diagram of a remote control utilizing an input device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is an exploded perspective diagram of a media player and input device assembly, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a side elevation view of the bottom side of a media player containing an input device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 19  is a simplified block diagram of a remote control, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 20A and 20B  are side elevation views, in cross section of an input device, in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to a few preferred embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known parts and methods have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention. 
       FIG. 2  is a simplified perspective view of an input device  30 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The input device  30  is generally configured to send information or data to an electronic device in order to perform an action on a display screen (e.g., via a graphical user interface). For example, moving an input pointer making a selection, providing instructions, etc. The input device may interact with the electronic device through a wired (e.g., cable/connector) or wireless connection (e.g., IR, bluetooth, etc.). The input device  30  may be a stand alone unit or it may be integrated into the electronic device. When a stand alone unit, the input device typically has its own enclosure. When integrated with an electronic device, the input device typically uses the enclosure of the electronic device. In either case, the input device may be structurally coupled to the enclosure as for example through screws, snaps, retainers, adhesives and the like. In some cases, the input device may be removably coupled to the electronic device as for example through a docking station. The electronic device to which the input device is coupled may correspond to any consumer related electronic product. By way of example, the electronic device may correspond to a computer such as desktop computer, laptop computer or PDA, a media player such as a music player, a communication device such as a cellular phone, another input device such as a keyboard, and the like. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the input device  30  includes a frame  32  (or support structure) and a touch pad  34 . The frame  32  provides a structure for supporting the components of the input device. The frame  32  in the form of a housing may also enclose or contain the components of the input device. The components, which include the touch pad  34 , may correspond to electrical, optical and/or mechanical components for operating the input device  30 . 
     The touch pad  34  provides an intuitive interface configured to provide one or more control functions for controlling various applications associated with the electronic device to which it is attached. By way of example, the touch initiated control function may be used to move an object or perform an action on the display screen or to make selections or issue commands associated with operating the electronic devices. In order to implement the touch initiated control function, the touch pad  34  may be arranged to receive input from a finger (or object) moving across the surface of the touch pad  34  (e.g., linearly, radially, rotary, etc.), from a finger holding a particular position on the touch pad  34  and/or by a finger tapping on a particular position of the touch pad  34 . As should be appreciated, the touch pad  34  provides easy one-handed operation, i.e., lets a user interact with the electronic device with one or more fingers. 
     The touch pad  34  may be widely varied. For example, the touch pad  34  may be a conventional touch pad based on the Cartesian coordinate system, or the touch pad  34  may be a touch pad based on a Polar coordinate system. An example of a touch pad based on polar coordinates may be found in patent application Ser. No. 10/188,182, entitled “TOUCH PAD FOR HANDHELD DEVICE”, filed Jul. 1, 2002, which is herein incorporated by reference. Furthermore, the touch pad  34  may be used in a relative and/or absolute mode. In absolute mode, the touch pad  34  reports the absolute coordinates of where it is being touched. For example x, y in the case of the Cartesian coordinate system or (r, θ) in the case of the Polar coordinate system. In relative mode, the touch pad  34  reports the direction and/or distance of change. For example, left/right, up/down, and the like. In most cases, the signals produced by the touch pad  34  direct motion on the display screen in a direction similar to the direction of the finger as it is moved across the surface of the touch pad  34 . 
     The shape of the touch pad  34  may be widely varied. For example, the touch pad  34  may be circular, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, and the like. In general, the outer perimeter of the touch pad  34  defines the working boundary of the touch pad  34 . In the illustrated embodiment, the touch pad is circular. Circular touch pads allow a user to continuously swirl a finger in a free manner, i.e., the finger can be rotated through 360 degrees of rotation without stopping. Furthermore, the user can rotate his or her finger tangentially from all sides thus giving it more range of finger positions. Both of these features may help when performing a scrolling function. Furthermore, the size of the touch pad  34  generally corresponds to a size that allows them to be easily manipulated by a user (e.g., the size of a finger tip or larger). 
     The touch pad  34 , which generally takes the form of a rigid planar platform, includes a touchable outer surface  36  for receiving a finger (or object) for manipulation of the touch pad. Although not shown in  FIG. 2 , beneath the touchable outer surface  36  is a sensor arrangement that is sensitive to such things as the pressure and motion of a finger thereon. The sensor arrangement typically includes a plurality of sensors that are configured to activate as the finger sits on, taps on or passes over them. In the simplest case, an electrical signal is produced each time the finger is positioned over a sensor. The number of signals in a given time frame may indicate location, direction, speed and acceleration of the finger on the touch pad  34 , i.e., the more signals, the more the user moved his or her finger. In most cases, the signals are monitored by an electronic interface that converts the number, combination and frequency of the signals into location, direction, speed and acceleration information. This information may then be used by the electronic device to perform the desired control function on the display screen. The sensor arrangement may be widely varied. By way of example, the sensors may be based on resistive sensing, surface acoustic wave sensing, pressure sensing (e.g., strain gauge), optical sensing, capacitive sensing and the like. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the touch pad  34  is based on capacitive sensing. As is generally well known, a capacitively based touch pad is arranged to detect changes in capacitance as the user moves an object such as a finger around the touch pad. In most cases, the capacitive touch pad includes a protective shield, one or more electrode layers, a circuit board and associated electronics including an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The protective shield is placed over the electrodes; the electrodes are mounted on the top surface of the circuit board; and the ASIC is mounted on the bottom surface of the circuit board. The protective shield serves to protect the underlayers and to provide a surface for allowing a finger to slide thereon. The surface is generally smooth so that the finger does not stick to it when moved. The protective shield also provides an insulating layer between the finger and the electrode layers. The electrode layer includes a plurality of spatially distinct electrodes. Any suitable number of electrodes may be used. In most cases, it would be desirable to increase the number of electrodes so as to provide higher resolution, i.e., more information can be used for things such as acceleration. 
     Capacitive sensing works according to the principals of capacitance. As should be appreciated, whenever two electrically conductive members come close to one another without actually touching, their electric fields interact to form capacitance. In the configuration discussed above, the first electrically conductive member is one or more of the electrodes and the second electrically conductive member is the finger of the user. Accordingly, as the finger approaches the touch pad, a tiny capacitance forms between the finger and the electrodes in close proximity to the finger. The capacitance in each of the electrodes is measured by ASIC located on the backside of the circuit board. By detecting changes in capacitance at each of the electrodes, the ASIC can determine the location, direction, speed and acceleration of the finger as it is moved across the touch pad. The ASIC can also report this information in a form that can be used by the electronic device. 
     In accordance with one embodiment, the touch pad  34  is movable relative to the frame  32  so as to initiate another set of signals (other than just tracking signals). By way of example, the touch pad  34  in the form of the rigid planar platform may rotate, pivot, slide, translate, flex and/or the like relative to the frame  32 . The touch pad  34  may be coupled to the frame  32  and/or it may be movably restrained by the frame  32 . By way of example, the touch pad  34  may be coupled to the frame  32  through axels, pin joints, slider joints, ball and socket joints, flexure joints, magnets, cushions and/or the like. The touch pad  34  may also float within a space of the frame (e.g., gimbal). It should be noted that the input device  30  may additionally include a combination of joints such as a pivot/translating joint, pivot/flexure joint, pivot/ball and socket joint, translating/flexure joint, and the like to increase the range of motion (e.g., increase the degree of freedom). When moved, the touch pad  34  is configured to actuate a circuit that generates one or more signals. The circuit generally includes one or more movement indicators such as switches, sensors, encoders, and the like. An example of a rotating platform which can be modified to include a touch pad may be found in patent application Ser. No. 10/072,765, entitled, “MOUSE HAVING A ROTARY DIAL,” filed Feb. 7, 2002, which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the touch pad  34  takes the form of a depressible button that performs one or more mechanical clicking actions. That is, a portion or the entire touch pad  34  acts like a single or multiple button such that one or more additional button functions may be implemented by pressing on the touch pad  34  rather tapping on the touch pad or using a separate button. As shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , according to one embodiment of the invention, the touch pad  34  is capable of moving between an upright position ( FIG. 3A ) and a depressed position ( FIG. 3B ) when a substantial force from a finger  38 , palm, hand or other object is applied to the touch pad  34 . The touch pad  34  is typically spring biased in the upright position as for example through a spring member. The touch pad  34  moves to the depressed position when the spring bias is overcome by an object pressing on the touch pad  34 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3A , in the upright position, the touch pad  34  generates tracking signals when an object such as a user&#39;s finger is moved over the top surface of the touch pad in the X,Y plane. As shown in  FIG. 3B , in the depressed position (Z direction), the touch pad  34  generates one or more button signals. The button signals may be used for various functionalities including but not limited to making selections or issuing commands associated with operating an electronic device. By way of example, in the case of a music player, the button functions may be associated with opening a menu, playing a song, fast forwarding a song, seeking through a menu and the like. In some cases, the input device  30  may be arranged to provide both the tracking signals and the button signal at the same time, i.e., simultaneously depressing the touch pad  34  in the z direction while moving planarly in the x, y directions. In other cases, the input device  30  may be arranged to only provide a button signal when the touch pad  34  is depressed and a tracking signal when the touch pad  34  is upright. The later case generally corresponds to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B . 
     To elaborate, the touch pad  34  is configured to actuate one or more movement indicators, which are capable of generating the button signal, when the touch pad  34  is moved to the depressed position. The movement indicators are typically located within the frame  32  and may be coupled to the touch pad  34  and/or the frame  32 . The movement indicators may be any combination of switches and sensors. Switches are generally configured to provide pulsed or binary data such as activate (on) or deactivate (off). By way of example, an underside portion of the touch pad  34  may be configured to contact or engage (and thus activate) a switch when the user presses on the touch pad  34 . The sensors, on the other hand, are generally configured to provide continuous or analog data. By way of example, the sensor may be configured to measure the position or the amount of tilt of the touch pad  34  relative to the frame when a user presses on the touch pad  34 . Any suitable mechanical, electrical and/or optical switch or sensor may be used. For example, tact switches, force sensitive resistors, pressure sensors, proximity sensors, and the like may be used. In some case, the spring bias for placing the touch pad  34  in the upright position is provided by a movement indicator that includes a spring action. 
       FIG. 4  is a simplified block diagram of a computing system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The computing system generally includes an input device  40  operatively connected to a computing device  42 . By way of example, the input device  40  may generally correspond to the input device  30  shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  3 A and  3 B, and the computing device  42  may correspond to a computer, PDA, media player or the like. As shown, the input device  40  includes a depressible touch pad  44  and one or more movement indicators  46 . The touch pad  44  is configured to generate tracking signals and the movement indicator  46  is configured to generate a button signal when the touch pad is depressed. Although the touch pad  44  may be widely varied, in this embodiment, the touch pad  44  includes capacitance sensors  48  and a control system  50  for acquiring the position signals from the sensors  48  and supplying the signals to the computing device  42 . The control system  50  may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that is configured to monitor the signals from the sensors  48 , to compute the angular location, direction, speed and acceleration of the monitored signals and to report this information to a processor of the computing device  42 . The movement indicator  46  may also be widely varied. In this embodiment, however, the movement indicator  46  takes the form of a switch that generates a button signal when the touch pad  44  is depressed. The switch  46  may correspond to a mechanical, electrical or optical style switch. In one particular implementation, the switch  46  is a mechanical style switch that includes a protruding actuator  52  that may be pushed by the touch pad  44  to generate the button signal. By way of example, the switch may be a tact switch. 
     Both the touch pad  44  and the switch  46  are operatively coupled to the computing device  42  through a communication interface  54 . The communication interface provides a connection point for direct or indirect connection between the input device and the electronic device. The communication interface  54  may be wired (wires, cables, connectors) or wireless (e.g., transmitter/receiver). 
     Referring to the computing device  42 , the computing device  42  generally includes a processor  54  (e.g., CPU or microprocessor) configured to execute instructions and to carry out operations associated with the computing device  42 . For example, using instructions retrieved for example from memory, the processor may control the reception and manipulation of input and output data between components of the computing device  42 . In most cases, the processor  54  executes instruction under the control of an operating system or other software. The processor  54  can be a single-chip processor or can be implemented with multiple components. 
     The computing device  42  also includes an input/output (I/O) controller  56  that is operatively coupled to the processor  54 . The (I/O) controller  56  may be integrated with the processor  54  or it may be a separate component as shown. The I/O controller  56  is generally configured to control interactions with one or more I/O devices that can be coupled to the computing device  42  as for example the input device  40 . The I/O controller  56  generally operates by exchanging data between the computing device  42  and I/O devices that desire to communicate with the computing device  42 . 
     The computing device  42  also includes a display controller  58  that is operatively coupled to the processor  54 . The display controller  58  may be integrated with the processor  54  or it may be a separate component as shown. The display controller  58  is configured to process display commands to produce text and graphics on a display screen  60 . By way of example, the display screen  60  may be a monochrome display, color graphics adapter (CGA) display, enhanced graphics adapter (EGA) display, variable-graphics-array (VGA) display, super VGA display, liquid crystal display (e.g., active matrix, passive matrix and the like), cathode ray tube (CRT), plasma displays and the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the display device corresponds to a liquid crystal display (LCD). 
     In most cases, the processor  54  together with an operating system operates to execute computer code and produce and use data. The computer code and data may reside within a program storage area  62  that is operatively coupled to the processor  54 . Program storage area  62  generally provides a place to hold data that is being used by the computing device  42 . By way of example, the program storage area may include Read-Only Memory (ROM), Random-Access Memory (RAM), hard disk drive and/or the like. The computer code and data could also reside on a removable program medium and loaded or installed onto the computing device when needed. In one embodiment, program storage area  62  is configured to store information for controlling how the tracking and button signals generated by the input device are used by the computing device  42 . 
       FIG. 5  is a simplified perspective diagram of an input device  70 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Like the input device shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 3 , this input device  70  incorporates the functionality of a button (or buttons) directly into a touch pad  72 , i.e., the touch pad acts like a button. In this embodiment, however, the touch pad  72  is divided into a plurality of independent and spatially distinct button zones  74 . The button zones  74  represent regions of the touch pad  72  that may be moved by a user to implement distinct button functions. The dotted lines represent areas of the touch pad  72  that make up an individual button zone. Any number of button zones may be used. For example, two or more, four, eight, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the touch pad  72  includes four button zones  74 A- 74 D. 
     As should be appreciated, the button functions generated by pressing on each button zone may include selecting an item on the screen, opening a file or document, executing instructions, starting a program, viewing a menu, and/or the like. The button functions may also include functions that make it easier to navigate through the electronic system, as for example, zoom, scroll, open different menus, home the input pointer, perform keyboard related actions such as enter, delete, insert, page up/down, and the like. In the case of a music player, one of the button zones may be used to access a menu on the display screen, a second button zone may be used to seek forward through a list of songs or fast forward through a currently played song, a third button zone may be used to seek backwards through a list of songs or fast rearward through a currently played song, and a fourth button zone may be used to pause or stop a song that is being played. 
     To elaborate, the touch pad  72  is capable of moving relative to a frame  76  so as to create a clicking action for each of the button zones  74 A-D. The frame  76  may be formed from a single component or it may be a combination of assembled components. The clicking actions are generally arranged to actuate one or more movement indicators contained inside the frame  76 . That is, a particular button zone moving from a first position (e.g., upright) to a second position (e.g., depressed) is caused to actuate a movement indicator. The movement indicators are configured to sense movements of the button zones during the clicking action and to send signals corresponding to the movements to the electronic device. By way of example, the movement indicators may be switches, sensors and/or the like. 
     The arrangement of movement indicators may be widely varied. In one embodiment, the input device may include a movement indicator for each button zone  74 . That is, there may be a movement indicator corresponding to every button zone  74 . For example, if there are two button zones, then there will be two movement indicators. In another embodiment, the movement indicators may be arranged in a manner that simulates the existence of a movement indicator for each button zone  74 . For example, trio movement indicators may be used to form three button zones. In another embodiment, the movement indicators may be configured to form larger or smaller button zones. By way of example, this may be accomplished by careful positioning of the movement indicators or by using more than one movement indicator for each button zone. It should be noted that the above embodiments are not a limitation and that the arrangement of movement indicators may vary according to the specific needs of each device. 
     The movements of each of the button zones  74  may be provided by various rotations, pivots, translations, flexes and the like. In one embodiment, the touch pad  72  is configured to gimbal relative to the frame  76  so as to generate clicking actions for each of the button zones. By gimbal, it is generally meant that the touch pad  72  is able to float in space relative to the frame  76  while still being constrained thereto. The gimbal may allow the touch pad  72  to move in single or multiple degrees of freedom (DOF) relative to the housing. For example, movements in the x, y and/or z directions and/or rotations about the x, y, and/or z axes (θx θy θz). 
     Referring, to  FIG. 6 , a particular implementation of the multiple button zone touch pad  72  of  FIG. 5  will be described. In this embodiment, the input device  70  includes a movement indicator  78  for each of the button zones  74 A-D shown in  FIG. 5 . That is, there is a movement indicator  78  disposed beneath each of the button zones  74 A-D. Furthermore, the touch pad  72  is configured to gimbal relative to the frame  76  in order to provide clicking actions for each of the button zones  74 A-D. The gimbal is generally achieved by movably constraining the touch pad  72  within the frame  76 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , the touch pad  72  includes various layers including a rigid platform  80  and a touch sensitive surface  82  for tracking finger movements. In one embodiment, the touch pad  72  is based on capacitive sensing and thus the rigid platform  80  includes a circuit board  84 , and the touch sensitive surface  82  includes an electrode layer  86  and a protective layer  88 . The electrode layer  86  is disposed on the top surface of the circuit board  84 , and the protective layer  88  is disposed over the electrode layer  86 . Although not shown in  FIG. 6 , the rigid platform  80  may also include a stiffening plate to stiffen the circuit board  84 . 
     The movement indicators  78  may be widely varied, however, in this embodiment they take the form of mechanical switches. The mechanical switches  78  are typically disposed between the platform  80  and the frame  76 . The mechanical switches  78  may be attached to the frame  76  or to the platform  80 . In the illustrated embodiment, the mechanical switches  78  are attached to the backside of the circuit board  84  of the platform  80  thus forming an integrated unit. They are generally attached in location that places them beneath the appropriate button zone  74 A-D. As shown, the mechanical switches  78  include actuators  90  that are spring biased so that they extend away from the circuit board  84 . As such, the mechanical switches  78  act as legs for supporting the touch pad  72  in its upright position within the frame  76  (i.e., the actuators  90  rest on the frame  76 ). By way of example, the mechanical switches may correspond to tact switches and more particularly, enclosed SMT dome switches (dome switch packaged for SMT). 
     Moving along, the integrated unit of the touch pad  72  and switches  78  is restrained within a space  92  provided in the frame  76 . The integrated unit  72 / 78  is capable of moving within the space  92  while still being prevented from moving entirely out of the space  92  via the walls of the frame  76 . The shape of the space  92  generally coincides with the shape of the integrated unit  72 / 78 . As such, the unit is substantially restrained along the X and Y axes via a side wall  94  of the frame  76  and along the Z axis and rotationally about the X and Y axis via a top wall  96  and a bottom wall  100  of the frame  76 . A small gap may be provided between the side walls and the platform to allow the touch pad to move to its four positions without obstruction (e.g., a slight amount of play). In some cases, the platform  80  may include tabs that extend along the X and Y axis so as to prevent rotation about the Z axis. Furthermore, the top wall  96  includes an opening  102  for providing access to the touch sensitive surface  82  of the touch pad  72 . The spring force provided by the mechanical switches  78  places the touch pad  72  into mating engagement with the top wall  96  of the frame  76  (e.g., upright position) and the gimbal substantially eliminates gaps and cracks found therebetween. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7A-7D , according to one embodiment, a user simply presses on the top surface of the touch pad  72  in the location of the desired button zone  74 A-D in order to activate the switch  78  disposed underneath the desired button zone  74 A-D. When activated, the switches  78  generate button signals that may be used by an electronic device. In all of these Figures, the force provided by the finger works against the spring force of the switch  78  until the switch  78  is activated. Although the platform  80  essentially floats within the space of the frame  76 , when the user presses on one side of the touch pad  72 , the opposite side contacts the top wall  96  thus causing the touch pad  72  to pivot about the contact point without actuating the opposite switch  78 . In essence, the touch pad  72  pivots about four different axis, although two of the axis are substantially parallel to one another. As shown in  FIG. 7A , the touch pad  72  pivots about the contact point  104 A when a user selects button zone  74 A thereby causing the mechanical switch  78 A to be activated. As shown in  FIG. 7B , the touch pad  72  pivots about the contact point  104  D when a user selects button zone  74 D thereby causing the mechanical switch  78 D to be activated. As shown in  FIG. 71C , the touch pad  72  pivots about the contact point  104 C when a user selects button zone  74 C thereby causing the mechanical switch  78 C to be activated. As shown in  FIG. 7D , the touch pad  72  pivots about the contact point  104 B when a user selects button zone  74 B thereby causing the mechanical switch  78 B to be activated. 
       FIGS. 8-11  are diagrams of an input device  120 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 8  is a perspective view of an assembled input device  120  and  FIG. 9  is an exploded perspective view of a disassembled input device  120 .  FIGS. 10 and 11  are side elevation views, in cross section, of the input device  120  in its assembled condition (taken along lines  10 - 10 ′ and  11 - 11 ′ respectively). By way of example, the input device  120  may generally correspond to the input device described in  FIGS. 5-7 . Unlike the input device of  FIGS. 5-7 , however, the input device  120  shown in these Figures includes a separate mechanical button  122  disposed at the center of the touch pad  124  having four button zones  126 A-D. The separate mechanical button  122  further increases the button functionality of the input device  120  (e.g., from four to five). 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9-11 , the input device  120  includes a circular touch pad assembly  130  and a housing  132 . The circular touch pad assembly  130  is formed by a cosmetic disc  134 , circuit board  136 , stiffener plate  138  and button cap  140 . The circuit board  136  includes an electrode layer  148  on the top side and four mechanical switches  150  or the backside (see  FIG. 12 ). The switches  150  may be widely varied. Generally, they may correspond to tact switches. More particularly, they correspond to packaged or encased SMT mounted dome switches. By way of example, dome switches manufactured by APLS of Japan may be used. Although not shown, the backside of the circuit board  136  also includes support circuitry for the touch pad (e.g., ASIC, connector, etc.). The cosmetic disc  134 , which is attached to the top side of the circuit board  136  is configured to protect the electrode layer  148  located thereon. The cosmetic disc  134  may be formed from any suitable material although it is typically formed from a non conducting material when capacitance sensing is used. By way of example, the cosmetic disc may be formed from plastic, glass, wood and the like. Furthermore, the cosmetic disc  134  may be attached to the circuit board  136  using any suitable attachment means, including but not limited to adhesives, glue, snaps, screws and the like. In one embodiment, double sided tape is positioned between the circuit board  136  and the cosmetic disc  134  in order to attach the cosmetic disc  134  to the circuit board  136 . 
     The stiffener plate  138 , which is attached to the back side of the circuit board  136 , is configured to add stiffness to the circuit board  136 . As should be appreciated, circuit boards typically have a certain amount of flex. The stiffener plate  138  reduces the amount of flex so as to form a rigid structure. The stiffener plate  138  includes a plurality of holes. Some of the holes  152  are configured to receive the four mechanical switches  150  therethrough while other holes such as holes  154  and  156  may be used for component clearance (or other switches). The stiffener plate  138  also includes a plurality of ears  158  extending from the outer peripheral edge of the stiffener plate  138 . The ears  158  are configured to establish the axes around which the touch pad assembly  130  pivots in order to form a clicking action for each of the button zones  126 A-D as well as to retain the touch pad assembly  130  within the housing  132 . The stiffener plate may be formed from any rigid material. For example, the stiffener plate may be formed from steel, plastic and the like. In some cases, the steel may be coated. Furthermore, the stiffener plate  138  may be attached to the circuit board  136  using any suitable attachment means, including but not limited to adhesives, glue, snaps, screws and the like. In one embodiment, double sided tape is positioned between the circuit board  136  and the stiffener plate  138  in order to attach the stiffener plate  138  to the circuit board  136 . 
     Furthermore, the button cap  140  is disposed between the cosmetic disc  134  and the top side of the circuit board  136 . A portion of the button cap  140  is configured to protrude through an opening  160  in the cosmetic disc  134  while another portion is retained in a space formed between the cosmetic disc  134  and the top surface of the (circuit board  134  (see  FIGS. 10 and 11 ). The protruding portion of the button cap  14 C may be pushed to activate a switch  150 E located underneath the button cap  140 . The switch  150 E is attached to the housing  132  and passes through openings in the stiffener plate  138 , circuit board  136  and cosmetic disc  134 . When assembled, the actuator of the switch  150 E via a spring element forces the button cap  140  into an upright position as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
     The housing  132 , on the other hand, is formed by a base plate  142 , a frame  144  and a pair of retainer plates  146 . When assembled, the retaining plates  146 , base plate  142  and frame  144  define a space  166  for movably restraining the stiffener plate  138  to the housing  132 . The frame  144  includes an opening  168  for receiving the stiffener plate  138 . As shown, the shape of the opening  168  matches the shape of the stiffener plate  138 . In fact, the opening  168  includes alignment notches  170  for receiving the ears  158  of the stiffener plate  138 . The alignment notches  170  cooperate with the ears  158  to locate the touch pad assembly  130  in the X and Y plane, prevent rotation about the Z axis, and to establish pivot areas for forming the clicking actions associated with each of the button zones  124 A-D. The base plate  142  closes up the bottom of the opening  168  and the corners of the retaining plates  146  are positioned over the ears  158  and alignment notches  170  thereby retaining the stiffener plate  138  within the space  166  of the housing  132 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the frame  144  is attached to the base plate  142  and the retaining plates  146  are attached to the frame  144 . Any suitable attachment means may be used including but not limited to glues, adhesives, snaps, screws and the like. In one embodiment, the retaining plates  146  are attached to the frame  144  via double sided tape, and the frame  144  is attached to the base plate  142  via screws located at the corners of the frame/base plate. The parts of the housing  132  may be formed from a variety of structural materials such as metals, plastics and the like. 
     In this configuration, when a user presses down on a button zone  126 , the ears  158  on the other side of the button zone  126 , which are contained within the alignment notches  170 , are pinned against the retaining plates  146 . When pinned, the contact point between the ears  158  and the retaining plates  146  define the axis around which the touch pad assembly  130  pivots relative to the housing  132 . By way of example, ears  158 A and  158 B establish the axis for button zone  126 A, ears  158 C and  158 D establish the axis for button zone  126 D, ears  158 A and  158 C establish the axis for button zone  126 C, and ears  158 B and  158 D establish the axis for button zone  126 D. To further illustrate, when a user presses on button zone  126 A, the touch pad assembly  130  moves downward in the area of button zone  126 A. When button zone  126 A moves downward against the spring force of the switch  150 A, the opposing ears  158 A and  158 B are pinned against the corners of retaining plates  146 . 
     Although not shown, the touch pad assembly  130  may be back lit in some cases. For example, the circuit board can be populated with light emitting diodes (LEDs) on either side in order to designate button zones, provide additional feedback and the like. 
     As previously mentioned, the input devices described herein may be integrated into an electronic device or they may be separate stand alone devices.  FIGS. 13 and 14  show some implementations of an input device  200  integrated into an electronic device. In  FIG. 13 , the input device  200  is incorporated into a media player  202 . In  FIG. 14 , the input device  200  is incorporated into a laptop computer  204 .  FIGS. 15 and 16 , on the other hand, show some implementations of the input device  200  as a stand alone unit. In  FIG. 15 , the input device  200  is a peripheral device that is connected to a desktop computer  206 . In  FIG. 16 , the input device  200  is a remote control that wirelessly connects to a docking station  208  with a media player  210  docked therein. It should be noted, however, that the remote control can also be configured to interact with the media player (or other electronic device) directly thereby eliminating the need for a docking station. An example of a docking station for a media player can be found in patent application Ser. No. 10/423,490, “MEDIA PLAYER SYSTEM,” filed Apr. 25, 2003, which is herein incorporated by reference. It should be noted that these particular embodiments are not a limitation and that many other devices and configurations may be used. 
     Referring back  FIG. 13 , the media player  202  will be discussed in greater detail. The term “media player” generally refers to computing devices that are dedicated to processing media such as audio, video or other images, as for example, music players, game players, video players, video recorders, cameras, and the like. In some cases, the media players contain single functionality (e.g., a media player dedicated to playing music) and in other cases the media players contain multiple functionality (e.g., a media player that plays music, displays video, stores pictures and the like). In either case, these devices are generally portable so as to allow a user to listen to music, play games or video, record video or take pictures wherever the user travels. 
     In one embodiment, the media player is a handheld device that is sized for placement into a pocket of the user. By being pocket sized, the user does not have to directly carry the device and therefore the device can be taken almost anywhere the user travels (e.g., the user is not limited by carrying a large, bulky and often heavy device, as in a laptop or notebook computer). For example, in the case of a music player, a user may use the device while working out at the gym. In case of a camera, a user may use the device while mountain climbing. In the case of a game player, the user can use the device while traveling in a car. Furthermore, the device may be operated by the users hands, no reference surface such as a desktop is needed. In the illustrated embodiment, the media player  202  is a pocket sized hand held MP3 music player that allows a user to store a large collection of music (e.g., in some cases up to 4,000 CD-quality songs). By way of example, the MP3 music player may correspond to the iPod MP3 player manufactured by Apple Computer of Cupertino, Calif. Although used primarily for storing and playing music, the MP3 music player shown herein may also include additional functionality such as storing a calendar and phone lists, storing and playing games, storing photos and the like. In fact, in some cases, it may act as a highly transportable storage device. 
     As shown in  FIG. 13 , the media player  202  includes a housing  222  that encloses internally various electrical components (including integrated circuit chips and other circuitry) to provide computing operations for the media player  202 . In addition, the housing  222  may also define the shape or form of the media player  202 . That is, the contour of the housing  222  may embody the outward physical appearance of the media player  202 . The integrated circuit chips and other circuitry contained within the housing  222  may include a microprocessor (e.g., CPU), memory (e.g., ROM, RAM), a power supply (e.g., battery), a circuit board, a hard drive, other memory (e.g., flash) and/or various input/output (I/O) support circuitry. The electrical components may also include components for inputting or outputting music or sound such as a microphone, amplifier and a digital signal processor (DSP). The electrical components may also include components for capturing images such as image sensors (e.g., charge coupled device (CCD) or complimentary oxide semiconductor (CMOS)) or optics (e.g., lenses, splitters, filters). 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the media player  202  includes a hard drive thereby giving the media player massive storage capacity. For example, a 20 GB hard drive can store up to 4000 songs or about 266 hours of music. In contrast, flash-based media players on average store up to 128 MB, or about two hours, of music. The hard drive capacity may be widely varied (e.g., 5, 10, 20 MB, etc.). In addition to the hard drive, the media player  202  shown herein also includes a battery such as a rechargeable lithium polymer battery. These type of batteries are capable of offering about 10 hours of continuous playtime to the media player. 
     The media player  202  also includes a display screen  224  and related circuitry. The display screen  224  is used to display a graphical user interface as well as other information to the user (e.g., text, objects, graphics). By way of example, the display screen  224  may be a liquid crystal display (LCD). In one particular embodiment, the display screen corresponds to a 160-by-128-pixel high-resolution display, with a white LED backlight to give clear visibility in daylight as well as low-light conditions. As shown, the display screen  224  is visible to a user of the media player  202  through an opening  225  in the housing  222 , and through a transparent wall  226  that is disposed in front of the opening  225 . Although transparent, the transparent wall  226  may be considered part of the housing  222  since it helps to define the shape or form of the media player  202 . 
     The media player  202  also includes the touch pad  200  such as any of those previously described. The touch pad  200  generally consists of a touchable outer surface  231  for receiving a finger for manipulation on the touch pad  230 . Although not shown in  FIG. 13 , beneath the touchable outer surface  231  is a sensor arrangement. The sensor arrangement includes a plurality of sensors that are configured to activate as the finger sits on, taps on or passes over them. In the simplest case, an electrical signal is produced each time the finger is positioned over a sensor. The number of signals in a given time frame may indicate location, direction, speed and acceleration of the finger on the touch pad, i.e., the more signals, the more the user moved his or her finger. In most cases, the signals are monitored by an electronic interface that converts the number, combination and frequency of the signals into location, direction, speed and acceleration information. This information may then be used by the media player  202  to perform the desired control function on the display screen  224 . For example, a user may easily scroll through a list of songs by swirling the finger around the touch pad  200 . 
     In addition to above, the touch pad may also include one or more movable buttons zones A-D as well as a center button E. The button zones are configured to provide one or more dedicated control functions for making selections or issuing commands associated with operating the media player  202 . By way of example, in the case of an MP3 music player, the button functions may be associated with opening a menu, playing a song, fast forwarding a song, seeking through a menu, making selections and the like. In most cases, the button functions are implemented via a mechanical clicking action. 
     The position of the touch pad  200  relative to the housing  222  may be widely varied. For example, the touch pad  200  may be placed at any external surface (e.g., top, side, front, or back) of the housing  222  that is accessible to a user during manipulation of the media player  202 . In most cases, the touch sensitive surface  231  of the touch pad  200  is completely exposed to the user. In the illustrated embodiment, the touch pad  200  is located in a lower, front area of the housing  222 . Furthermore, the touch pad  230  may be recessed below, level with, or extend above the surface of the housing  221 . In the illustrated embodiment, the touch sensitive surface  231  of the touch pad  200  is substantially flush with the external surface of the housing  222 . 
     The shape of the touch pad  200  may also be widely varied. Although shown as circular, the touch pad may also be square, rectangular, triangular, and the like. More particularly, the touch pad is annular, i.e., shaped like or forming a ring. As such, the inner and outer perimeter of the touch pad defines the working boundary of the touch pad. 
     The media player  202  may also include a hold switch  234 . The hold switch  234  is configured to activate or deactivate the touch pad and/or buttons associated therewith. This is generally done to prevent unwanted commands by the touch pad and/or buttons, an for example, when the media player is stored inside a user&#39;s pocket. When deactivated, signals from the buttons and/or touch pad are not sent or are disregarded by the media player. When activated, signals from the buttons and/or touch pad are sent and therefore received and processed by the media player. 
     Moreover, the media player  202  may also include one or more headphone jacks  236  and one or more data ports  238 . The headphone jack  236  is capable of receiving a headphone connector associated with headphones configured for listening to sound being outputted by the media device  202 . The data port  238 , on the other hand, is capable of receiving a data connector/cable assembly configured for transmitting and receiving data to and from a host device such as a general purpose computer (e.g., desktop computer, portable computer). By way of example, the data port  238  may be used to upload or down load audio, video and other images to and from the media device  202 . For example, the data port may be used to download songs and play lists, audio books, ebooks, photos, and the like into the storage mechanism of the media player. 
     The data port  238  may be widely varied. For example, the data port may be a PS/2 port, a serial port, a parallel port, a USB port, a Firewire port and/or the like. In some cases, the data port  238  may be a radio frequency (RF) link or optical infrared (IR) link to eliminate the need for a cable. Although not shown in  FIG. 12 , the media player  202  may also include a power port that receives a power connector/cable assembly configured for delivering powering to the media player  202 . In some cases, the data port  238  may serve as both a data and power port. In the illustrated embodiment, the data port  238  is a Firewire port having both data and power capabilities. 
     Although only one data port is shown, it should be noted that this is not a limitation and that multiple data ports may be incorporated into the media player. In a similar vein, the data port may include multiple data functionality, i.e., integrating the functionality of multiple data ports into a single data port. Furthermore, it should be noted that the position of the hold switch, headphone jack and data port on the housing may be widely varied. That is, they are not limited to the positions shown in  FIG. 13 . They may be positioned almost anywhere on the housing (e.g., front, back, sides, top, bottom). For example, the data port may be positioned on the bottom surface of the housing rather than the top surface as shown. 
       FIGS. 17 and 18  are diagrams showing the installation of an input device  250  into a media player  252 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. By way of example, the input device  250  may correspond to any of those previously described and the media player  252  may correspond to the one shown in  FIG. 13 . As shown, the input device  250  includes a housing  254  and a touch pad assembly  256 . The media player  252  includes a shell or enclosure  258 . The front wall  260  of the shell  258  includes an opening  262  for allowing access to the touch pad assembly  256  when the input device  250  is introduced into the media player  252 . The inner side  264  of the front wall  260  includes a channel or track  264  for receiving the input device  250  inside the shell  258  of the media player  252 . The channel  264  is configured to receive the edges of the housing  254  of the input device  250  so that the input device  250  can be slid into its desired place within the shell  258 . The shape of the channel has a shape that generally coincides with the shape of the housing  254 . During assembly, the circuit board  266  of the touch pad assembly  256  is aligned with the opening  262  and a cosmetic disc  268  and button cap  270  are mounted onto the top side of the circuit board  266 . As shown, the cosmetic disc  268  has a shape that generally coincides with the opening  262 . The input device may be held within the channel via a retaining mechanism such as screws, snaps, adhesives, press fit mechanisms, crash ribs and the like. 
       FIG. 19  is a simplified block diagram of a remote control  280  incorporating an input device  282  therein, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. By way of example, the input device  282  may correspond to any of the previously described input devices. In this particular embodiment, the input device  282  corresponds to the input device shown in  FIGS. 7-11 , thus the input device includes a touch pad  284  and a plurality of switches  286 . The touch pad  284  and switches  286  are operatively coupled to a wireless transmitter  288 . The wireless transmitter  288  is configured to transmit information over a wireless communication link so that an electronic device having receiving capabilities may receive the information over the wireless communication link. The wireless transmitter  288  may be widely varied. For example, it may be based on wireless technologies such as FM, RF, Bluetooth, 802.11 UWB (ultra wide band), IR, magnetic link (induction) and/or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless transmitter  288  is based on IR. IR generally refers wireless technologies that convey data through infrared radiation. As such, the wire less transmitter  288  generally includes an IR controller  290 . The IR controller  290  takes the information reported from the touch pad  284  and switches  286  and converts this information into infrared radiation as for example using a light emitting diode  292 . 
       FIGS. 20A and 20B  are diagrams of an input device  300 , in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is similar to those shown in  FIGS. 5-12 , however instead of relying on a spring component of a switch, the input device  300  utilizes a separate spring component  306 . As shown, the input device  300  includes a touch pad  302  containing all of its various layers. The touch pad  302  is coupled to a frame  304  or housing of the input device  300  via the spring component  306 . The spring component  306  (or flexure) allows the touch pad  302  to pivot in multiple directions when a force is applied to the touch pad  302  thereby allowing a plurality of button zones to be created. The spring component  306  also urges the touch pad  302  into an upright position similar to the previous embodiments. When the touch pad  302  is depressed at a particular button zone (overcoming the spring force), the touch pad  302  moves into contact with a switch  308  positioned underneath the button zone of the touch pad  302 . Upon contact, the switch  308  generates a button signal. The switch  308  may be attached to the touch pad  302  or the housing  304 . In this embodiment, the switch  308  is attached to the housing  302 . In some cases, a seal  310  may be provided to eliminate crack and gaps found between the touch pad  302  and the housing  304 . The spring component  306  may be widely varied. For example, it may be formed from one or more conventional springs, pistons, magnets or compliant members. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring component  306  takes the form of a compliant bumper formed from rubber or foam. 
     While this invention has been described in terms of several preferred embodiments, there are alterations, permutations, and equivalents, which fall within the scope of this invention. It should also be noted that there are many alternative ways of implementing the methods and apparatuses of the present invention. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims be interpreted as including all such alterations, permutations, and equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20070730
Publication Date: 20140610
Grant Date: 20140610
Priority Date: 20030818
Inventors: ZADESKY STEPHEN PAUL
LYNCH STEPHEN BRIAN
DEGNER BRETT WILLIAM
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/044", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1684", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0338", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/041", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04105", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0416", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0362", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04105", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0338", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1683", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04102", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1613", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0485", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0362", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04105", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0362", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04104", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0338", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0416", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/044", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 34216377