PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9367151-B2
Application Number: US-201414166784-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Touch pad with symbols based on mode

Abstract:
A multifunctional handheld device capable of operating in different modes includes a single input arrangement that provides inputs for each mode of the multifunctional handheld device. The single input arrangement includes at least an input pad that provides signals when touched or pressed. The input pad may for example be a touch pad. The input pad is divided into one or more input areas that change in accordance with the current mode of the multifunctional handheld device. The multifunctional handheld device also includes a display device that presents graphical elements to indicate the configuration of the input areas at the input pad. Each mode of the multifunctional handheld device provides a different configuration of input areas and graphical elements associated therewith.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A clickable trackpad, including:
 a touch surface configured for detecting multiple touches occurring on the trackpad at about the same time; 
 at least one depressible mechanical button capable of being activated by pressure at the touch surface; and 
 a processor capable of
 designating a plurality of regions on the touch surface as click regions, 
 detecting a mechanical click of the trackpad due to an application of pressure anywhere on the touch surface, the mechanical click itself being nondeterminative of a location of a touch on the touch surface, 
 detecting a touch at about the same time as the detection of the mechanical click, 
 determining the click region at which the touch was detected, and 
 determining an operation to be performed in accordance with the determined click region. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The clickable trackpad of  claim 1 , wherein the touch surface is unmarked. 
     
     
       3. The clickable trackpad of  claim 1 , the processor further capable of allocating an area of one or more of the click regions in accordance with button usage patterns. 
     
     
       4. The clickable trackpad of  claim 1 , the processor further capable of allocating a location of one or more of the click regions in accordance with button usage patterns. 
     
     
       5. The clickable trackpad of  claim 1 , the processor further capable of dynamically designating the one or more click regions in accordance with current device usage. 
     
     
       6. The clickable trackpad of  claim 1 , the processor further capable of triggering a left-click action upon the detection of the touch and mechanical click if the particular click region is a primary click region in the touch sensor panel. 
     
     
       7. The clickable trackpad of  claim 1 , the processor further capable of triggering a right-click action upon the detection of the touch and mechanical click if the particular click region is a secondary click region in the touch sensor panel. 
     
     
       8. A method of initiating an operation on a clickable trackpad having at least one depressible mechanical button, including:
 configuring a touch surface of the trackpad to detect multiple touches occurring at about the same time; 
 designating a plurality of regions on the touch surface as click regions, 
 detecting a mechanical click of the trackpad due to an application of pressure anywhere on the touch surface, the mechanical click itself being nondeterminative of a location of a touch on the touch surface, 
 detecting a touch at about the same time as the detection of the mechanical click, 
 determining the click region at which the touch was detected, and 
 determining an operation to be performed in accordance with the determined click region. 
 
     
     
       9. The method of  claim 8 , wherein the touch surface is unmarked. 
     
     
       10. The method of  claim 8 , further including allocating an area of one or more of the click regions in accordance with button usage patterns. 
     
     
       11. The method of  claim 8 , further including allocating a location of one or more of the click regions in accordance with button usage patterns. 
     
     
       12. The method of  claim 8 , further including dynamically designating the one or more click regions in accordance with current device usage. 
     
     
       13. The method of  claim 8 , further including triggering a left-click action upon the detection of the touch and mechanical click if the particular click region is a primary click region in the touch sensor panel. 
     
     
       14. The method of  claim 8 , further including triggering a right-click action upon the detection of the touch and mechanical click if the particular click region is a secondary click region in the touch sensor panel. 
     
     
       15. A clickable trackpad, including:
 means for triggering a click of the trackpad; 
 means for configuring a touch surface of the trackpad to detect multiple touches occurring at about the same time; 
 means for designating a plurality of regions on the touch surface as click regions, 
 means for detecting a mechanical click of the trackpad due to an application of pressure anywhere on the touch surface, the mechanical click itself being nondeterminative of a location of a touch on the touch surface, 
 means for detecting a touch at about the same time as the detection of the mechanical click, 
 means for determining the click region at which the touch was detected, and 
 means for determining an operation to be performed in accordance with the determined click region. 
 
     
     
       16. The clickable trackpad of  claim 15 , wherein the touch surface is unmarked. 
     
     
       17. The clickable trackpad of  claim 15 , further including means for allocating an area of one or more of the click regions in accordance with button usage patterns. 
     
     
       18. The clickable trackpad of  claim 15 , further including means for allocating a location of one or more of the click regions in accordance with button usage patterns. 
     
     
       19. The clickable trackpad of  claim 15 , further including means for dynamically designating the one or more click regions in accordance with current device usage. 
     
     
       20. The clickable trackpad of  claim 15 , further including:
 triggering a left-click action upon the detection of the touch and mechanical click if the particular click region is a primary click region in the touch sensor panel, and 
 triggering a right-click action upon the detection of the touch and mechanical click if the particular click region is a secondary click region in the touch sensor panel.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/591,752, filed Nov. 1, 2006, which claims priority to Provisional Patent Application No. 60/755,656 entitled “TOUCH PAD WITH FEEDBACK” filed Dec. 30, 2005 which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     This application is related to the following applications, all of which are herein incorporated by reference: 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/188,185, titled “TOUCH PAD FOR HANDHELD DEVICE”, filed Jul. 1, 2002; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/722,948, titled “TOUCH PAD FOR HANDHELD DEVICE”, filed Nov. 25, 2003; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/643,256, titled “MOVABLE TOUCH PAD WITH ADDED FUNCTIONALITY”, filed Aug. 18, 2003; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/057,050, titled “DISPLAY ACTUATOR”, filed Feb. 11, 2005; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/840,862, titled “MULTIPOINT TOUCH SCREEN”, filed May 6, 2004; 
     U.S. Patent Application No. 60/658,777, titled “MULTIFUNCTIONAL HAND HELD DEVICE”, filed Mar. 4, 2005; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/115,539, titled “HANDHELD ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH MULTIPLE TOUCH SENSING DEVICES”, filed Apr. 26, 2005; 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/394,493, TITLED “ILLUMINATE TOUCHPAD”, filed Mar. 31, 2006. 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/483,008, titled “CAPACITANCE SENSING ELECTRODE WITH INTEGRATED I/O MECHANISM”, filed Jul. 6, 2006. 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/482,286, titled “MUTUAL CAPACITANCE TOUCH SENSING DEVICE”, filed Jul. 6, 2006. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to touch pads that provide visual feedback. More particularly, the present invention relates to touch pads with symbols that adapt based on mode. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     There exist today many styles of input devices for performing operations in a computer system. The operations generally correspond to moving a cursor and/or making selections on a display screen. By way of example, the input devices may include buttons or keys, mice, trackballs, touch pads, joy sticks, touch screens and the like. 
     Touch pads, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular because of their ease and versatility of operation as well as to their declining price. Touch pads allow a user to make selections and move a cursor by simply touching an input surface via a finger or stylus. In general, the touch pad recognizes the touch and position of the touch on the input surface and the computer system interprets the touch and thereafter performs an action based on the touch event. 
     Touch pads typically include an opaque touch panel, a controller and a software driver. The touch panel registers touch events and sends these signals to the controller. The controller processes these signals and sends the data to the computer system. The software driver translates the touch events into computer events. 
     Although touch pads work well, improvements to their form feel and functionality are desired. By way of example; it may be desirable to provide visual stimuli at the touch pad so that a user can better operate the touch pad. For example, the visual stimuli may be used (among others) to alert a user when the touch pad is registering a touch, alert a user where the touch is occurring on the touch pad, provide feedback related to the touch event, indicate the state of the touch pad, and/or the like. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates, in one embodiment, to a multifunctional handheld device capable of operating in different modes. The multifunctional handheld device includes a single input arrangement that provides inputs for each mode of the multifunctional handheld device. The single input arrangement includes at least an input pad that provides signals when touched or pressed. The input pad can be divided into one or more input areas that change in accordance with the current mode of the multifunctional handheld device. The multifunctional handheld device also includes a display mechanism that presents graphical elements to indicate the configuration of the input areas at the input pad. Each mode of the multifunctional handheld device provides a different configuration of input areas and graphical elements associated therewith. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a multifunctional handheld computing device capable of operating in different modes. The multifunctional computing device includes a touch device having a touch surface (e.g., touch pad). The multifunctional computing device also includes a means for presenting input identifiers that indicate the locations of the touch surface designated for actuating inputs associated with the input identifiers. The multifunctional computing device further includes a means for indicating which input area is ready for actuation. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a touch pad that displays graphical elements to indicate input areas of the touch pad. Each input area represents a different functionality. The input areas and graphical elements changing in accordance with different input modes. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a touch pad. The touch pad includes a touch sensing layer. The touch pad also includes a first set of symbols that only illuminate with a first light. The touch pad further includes a second set of symbols that only illuminate with a second light. The touch pad additionally includes a light system capable of generating the first and second light. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a circular touch pad. The circular touch pad includes a circular light diffusing cover. The circular touch pad also includes a circular transparent touch sensing layer disposed below the light diffusing cover. The circular touch pad further includes a circular organic light emitting device (OLED) disposed below the transparent touch sensing layer. The circular touch pad additionally includes a printed circuit board disposed below the organic light emitting device (OLED). The printed circuit board carries a controller that is operatively coupled to the transparent touch sensing layer and the organic light emitting device. The controller receives touch data from the transparent touch sensing layer and instructs the organic light emitting device (OLED) how to present graphical information. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a method of operating a multifunctional hand held electronic device having a touch surface. The method includes displaying symbols in a circular fashion. Each symbol represents a different input to be made in the hand held electronic device. The method also includes mapping individual symbols being displayed to individual regions of the touch surface. The method further includes detecting a touch on the touch surface. The method additionally includes determining the region of the touch surface being touched. Moreover, the method includes highlighting only the symbol associated with the region of the touch surface being touched. The method also includes detecting a selection event and implementing the input associated with the symbol being highlighted when the selection event is initiated. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a method of operating a handheld electronic device having a touch device. The method includes designating input regions within a touch surface of the touch device. Each input region represents a different location within the touch surface. The method also includes assigning symbols to the input regions. The symbols characterize the functionality of the input regions. The method further includes displaying the symbols associated with the input regions, the location of the symbols indicating the location of the input area within the touch surface. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention may best be understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a simplified diagram of a multifunctional hand held device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a diagram of a phone mode user interface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a diagram of a phone mode user interface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective diagram of a multifunctional handheld device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a method of operating a multifunctional device having a plurality of modes, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a method of configuring a UI of a hand held device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a method of activating a UI as for example at start up or when a mode is changed, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 8A-8E  illustrates one example of a handheld device with a keyless phone system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 9A-9E  illustrate one example of a handheld device with a keyless phone system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a simplified diagram of a touch pad, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a simplified diagram of a touch pad, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a diagram of a graphics generator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a diagram of a graphics generator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a diagram of a graphics generator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a diagram of a graphics generator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 16  is a diagram of a graphics generator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a diagram of a graphics generator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a diagram of a graphics generator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 19  is a diagram of a graphics generator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 20  is a diagram of a graphics generator, accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 21  is a diagram of a graphics generator including a light panel, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 22  is a diagram of a graphics generator including a light panel, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 23  is a diagram of a graphics generator including a light panel, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 24  is a graphical layer which can be used in a phone mode, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 25  is a graphical layer which can be used in a phone mode, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 26  is a graphical layer which can be used in a phone mode, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 27  is a graphical layer which can be used in a music player mode, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 28  is a graphical layer which can be used in a music player mode, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 29  is a variation of the graphical layers given above, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 30  is a diagram of a touch pad assembly, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 31  is a diagram of a touch pad assembly, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 32  is a diagram of a touch pad assembly, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 33  is a diagram of a touch pad assembly, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 34  is a diagram of a touch pad assembly, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 35  is an exploded perspective diagram of a touch pad, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Recently, the functionality of individual hand held devices has been converging into a single hand held device with multiple functionality. For example, music player functionality has been added to cell phones and PDAs. While combining devices has advantages, it does create some design challenges. For one, each of these devices requires a different set of input devices, and thus it becomes a non trivial problem to create an input layout that can support multifunctional devices (especially when the input devices are at fixed locations). Examples of multifunctional devices may be found in U.S. Provisional Patent Application 60/658,777, which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     The invention pertains to a user interface for controlling an electronic device, particularly a multifunctional electronic device that is capable of operating in multiple modes as for example a phone mode for communications and a media player mode for playing audio files, video files, and the like. 
     In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the user interface includes a configurable input region for navigating, making selections and initiating commands with respect to the electronic device. The input region is configured to adjust its input areas based on mode so that the inputs being provided match the current mode of the electronic device. The input region may be widely varied and may include a touch or proximity sensing area that generates signals for one or more of the operations mentioned above when an object is positioned over a sensing surface. The sensing area is typically mapped according to mode of the electronic device. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the user interface also includes a display mechanism for presenting input identifiers that indicate particular locations of the input region capable of actuating inputs associated with the input identifiers. Generally speaking, the display mechanism is utilized in order to replace fixed printed graphics or indicia on or near the input region and to allow the graphical information to change or adjust in accordance with a current input mode (e.g., the graphics or indicia can be reconfigured on the fly). As such, a single input region can also be used to provide feedback associated with inputting. For example, it may be used to indicate which input area is ready for actuation (e.g., highlight). 
     In one embodiment, the display mechanism is configured to present graphical information proximate the input region so that it can be seen when inputs are being performed at the input region. For example, the display mechanism may be located above, below or next to the input region. In another embodiment, the display mechanism is configured to present graphical information at the input region. For example, the display mechanism may be integrated with a sensing surface of the input region. In either case, the graphics or indicia typically follows or is mapped to the desired input layout of the input region. For example, the adjustable graphics or indicia is located at the same position as their counterpart input areas of the input region. As such, physical fixed graphics and indicia can be removed from the input region without impairing the use of the input region (e.g., the user knows how to input based on the layout of the presented graphics and indicia). 
     Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 135 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. 
       FIG. 1  is a simplified diagram of a multifunctional hand held device  10 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The multifunctional device is capable of operating in different modes including for example a phone mode and a media player mode (e.g., audio, video, etc.). By way of example, in the phone mode, the handheld device operates like a phone. For example, a user is able to dial a phone number, receive and send phone calls, etc. In the media player mode, the handheld device operates like a media player. For example, a user is able to traverse through lists of songs or videos, select and play a song or video from the lists of songs, and videos, etc. 
     In accordance with one embodiment, the multifunctional device  10  includes a single user interface  12  generally includes a display region  14  and an input region  16 . The location of these regions may be widely varied. In one embodiment, the display region and input region are disposed at the front surface of the multifunctional device for easy access and viewing while the device is being held in the user&#39;s hand. 
     The display region  14  allows the handheld electronic device  10  to interact with the user. For example, displaying a graphical user interface GUI associated with each mode. The GUI provides an easy to use interface between a user of the handheld device and the operating system or applications running thereon. Generally speaking, the GUI represents, programs, files and various selectable options with graphical images. The GUI can additionally or alternatively display information, such as non interactive text and graphics, for the user of the handheld electronic device. The display may also be used to display images or play video. 
     The input region  16  allows a user to interact with the hand held electronic device  10 . For example, it allows a user to navigate, make selections and initiate commands into the handheld electronic device  10 . In most cases, the input region  16  may be simplified so as not to clutter and confuse the user interface. For example, the input region  16  may not be complexly arranged and may include a limited number of individualized input mechanisms. In one implementation, the input region is a single integrated unit for performing a majority if not all of the inputting of the handheld electronic device (e.g., operates each mode). 
     In most cases, the input region  16  provides signals when touched and/or pressed. The signals generated at the input region  16  are configured to provide one or more control functions for controlling various applications associated with the hand held device  10 . For example, the control functions may be used to move an object on the display, to make selections or issue commands associated with operating the various modes of the handheld device  10 . 
     The shape of the input region  16  may be widely varied. By way of example, and not by way of limitation, the input pad  18  may have a substantially rectangular, triangular, circular, square, oval, plus, and/or pill shape (among others). In the that circular input regions are easier to manipulate when operating handheld devices. 
     In accordance with one embodiment, the input region  16  is configurable based on mode. In this embodiment, the input region  16  is divided into one or more input areas  22  that change in accordance with the current mode of the handheld device  10 . For example, each mode may divide the input region  16  into different input areas  22  and assign different functions thereto (e.g., each input area has a different task associated therewith based on mode). 
     The layout including shape and position of the input areas  22  within the input region  16  may be widely varied. The layout typically depends on the needs of each mode and the shape of the input region  16 . By way of example, and not by way of limitation, the input areas  22  may have a substantially rectangular, triangular, circular, square, oval, plus, L, and/or pill shape (among others). 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the circular input region  16  is divided into angularly segmented input areas  22  with each segmented area  22  representing a different function. By way of example; in. the case of a phone mode, the circular input region  16  may be divided into angularly segmented input areas  22  with each segmented area  22  representing a different key. For example, the input region  16  may include twelve individual areas  22  associated with 0-9, * and #. In the case of a media player mode, the circular input region may be divided into angularly segmented areas  22  with each segmented region  22  representing a different playback control. By way of example, the input region  16  may include four individual input areas  22  associated with standard music playback including menu, play/pause, seek forward, and seek back. The input region  16  may further include a central input area  22  contained within the outer segmented input areas  22 . 
     It should be appreciated, that the invention is not limited to circular shapes and layouts thereof. For example, a substantially rectangular input region with substantially rectangular, square or L shaped input areas may be used. Furthermore, the circular input region may be divided into radially segmented input areas solely or in addition to the angularly segmented input areas. 
     The UI configuration described above can be widely varied. In one embodiment, the UI is embodied with a fullscreen display and a touch screen disposed over all or a portion of the fullscreen display. In this embodiment, the display region and input regions are a graphical elements being displayed within the fullscreen display. The touchscreen, which covers at least the graphical elements of the input region, provides the means for inputting when a places their finger over the input region (e.g., virtual input region). This arrangement may be further embodied as display actuator that includes a movable component for initiating button signals. Examples of touchscreens may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/840,862, and which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     In another embodiment, the UI is embodied with a physical display and a physical input pad that can be divided input various input areas based on mode. In this embodiment, the display defines the display region, and the input pad defines at least a portion if not all of the input region. The input pad may for example be a touch device that provides one or more touch signals when touched, a clickable or actuatable pad that provides one or more button signals when moved (e.g., pressed), or a clickable or actuatable touch device that provides one or more button signals when moved (e.g., pressed) and one or more touch signals when touched. 
     One or more touch or clickable buttons that provide button signals when touched or pressed may also be provided with the input pad. Although distinct from the input pad, the buttons may be integrated with the input pad. Furthermore, the buttons may be disposed outside the input pad, surround the input pad, and/or be disposed within the input pad. In one example, the central input area is embodied as a single central clickable button that is integrated with and disposed in the middle of the input pad. The buttons may also have assignable functions based on mode. 
     In one implementation, the input pad is a touch pad built into the housing of the hand held device. A touch pad is a touch sensing device with an extended continuous touch sensing surface. The touch pad may be rigid or fixed or it may be a movable actuator that provides button or clicking actions (e.g., a clickable or actuatable touch pad). Examples of touch pads may be found in U.S. Patent incorporated by reference. 
     In another implementation, the input pad is not a touch pad but rather a touch sensitive portion of a housing of the hand held device. A touch sensitive housing is a housing that includes touch sensing components integrated therewith (rather than a touch pad which is built into the housing). Examples of touch sensitive housing may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/115,539, which are herein incorporated by reference. 
     In another implementation, the input pad is a movable or clickable actuator that is built into the housing of the handheld device. The movable or clickable actuator typically moves to a plurality of different positions to create button signals. This arrangement may be referred to as a navigation pad. Each position can be assigned a different function based on mode. 
     In any of the embodiments described above, the display may be selected from flat panel devices although this is not a requirement and other types of displays may be utilized. Flat panel devices typically provide a planar platform that is suitable for hand-held devices. By way of example, the display may correspond to a liquid crystal display (LCD) such as a character LCD that is capable of presenting text and symbols or a graphical LCD that is capable of presenting images, video, and graphical user interfaces (GUI). Alternatively, the display may correspond to a display based on organic light emitting diodes (OLED), or a display that is based on electronic inks. 
     Because the input region  16  is used over multiple platforms (e.g., modes), the device further includes a means for displaying or presenting information indicative of how the input region  16  is to be used or set up in each mode as well as to provide feedback when inputs are made. The information may be in the form of symbols including for example icons and/or characters such as letters and numbers. 
     In one embodiment, the display region  14  used to present this information. In this embodiment, the display region  14  displays graphical element that indicate functions which can be implemented with the input region. The graphical elements may be in the form of symbols including for example icons and/or characters such as letters and numbers. In most cases, the graphical elements are laid similarly to the various areas of the input region  16  so that a user knows the meaning of the input areas. That is, each graphical element is arranged in the same position as their counterpart input areas in the input region  16 . By way of example, in the case of a circular touch sensing area  18  that is divided into angularly segmented regions, the graphical elements may be arranged in a circular manner with each circularly positioned graphical element located at the angular position of the angular segmented region they represent. Furthermore, if a button area  20  is disposed in the center of the touch sensing area  18 , then an additional graphical element representative of the button area  18  may be displayed in the center of the circularly oriented graphical elements. Generally speaking, there is a one to one relationship between the graphical element and the region they represent. 
     Using a phone mode as an example, and referring to  FIG. 2 , the display  14  may present a circularly oriented number layout including for example 0-9, * and # positioned in a clocklike manner (e.g., 0 is located at 12 oclock, 1 is located at 1 oclock, 2 is located at 2 oclock, 3 is located at 3 oclock, 4 is located at 4 oclock, 5 is located at 5 oclock, 6 is located at 6 oclock, 7 is located at 7 oclock, 8 is located at 8 oclock, 9 is located at 9 oclock, * is located at 10 oclock, and # is located at 11 oclock). Furthermore, the input region  16 , particularly the touch sensing area  18  may be segmented into twelve regions  22 , each of which corresponds to the similarly positioned number in the circularly oriented number layout. As such, the user knows what regions to press for what number by looking at the display  14  and touching the appropriate area of the touch sensing area  18 . 
     In another embodiment, the input region  16  is used to present this information. In this embodiment, the input region  16  displays graphical elements that indicate functions which can be implemented with each region  22 . Like above, the graphical elements may be in the form of symbols including for example icons and/or characters such as letters and numbers. In most cases, the graphical elements are positioned within or at the appropriate input region  22  so that a user knows the meaning of the input region  22 . By way of example, in the case of a circular touch sensing area that is divided into angularly segmented regions  22 , individual graphical elements may be positioned in the angular segmented region they represent. Furthermore, if a button area  20  is disposed in the center of the touch sensing area  18 , then an additional graphical element representative of the button area  20  may be displayed in the center of the button area. Generally speaking, there is a one to one relationship between the graphical element and the region they represent. 
     Using a phone mode as an example, and referring to  FIG. 3 , the input region  16  may present a circularly oriented number layout including for example 0-9, * and # positioned in a clocklike manner (e.g., 0 is located at 12 oclock, 1 is located at 1 oclock, 2 is located at 2 oclock, 3 is located at 3 oclock, 4 is located at 4 oclock, 5 is located at 5 oclock, 6 is located at 6 oclock, 7 is located at 7 oclock, 8 is located at 8 oclock, 9 is located at 9 oclock, * is located at 10 oclock, and # is located at 11 oclock). Furthermore, the input region  16 , particularly the touch sensing area  18  may be segmented into twelve regions  22 , each of which corresponds to the similarly positioned character in the circularly oriented number layout. As such, the user knows what regions to press for what number by looking at the input region  16  and touching the appropriate area of the touch sensing area  18 . 
       FIG. 4  is a perspective diagram of a multifunctional handheld device  40 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The multifunctional handheld device  40  is capable of being operated in various modes including for example a phone mode and a media player mode. By way of example, the multifunctional handheld device  40  may be a media player with added phone functionality. For example, the media player may be an iPod manufactured by Apple Computer Inc of Cupertino Calif., with additional components for operating the media player like a phone. 
     The multifunctional handheld device  40  includes a display  42  and further a configurable input arrangement  44  consisting of a clickable and circular touch pad  46  and a central clickable button  48 . The display  42  and configurable input arrangement  44  are used for substantially all modes of the multifunctional device  40 . The display  42  presents graphical elements including a graphical user interface for each mode of the device  40 . The configurable input arrangement  44  provides inputs for each mode of the device  40 . Particularly, the touch pad  46  provides position signals when touched, and one or more button signals when pressed. The button  48  also provides a button signal when pressed. The signals generated by the various device can be used to drive the modes in different ways. 
     In accordance with one embodiment, the configurable input arrangement changes its inputting including layout and functionality based on the current mode of the device. When a phone mode is active, for example, the configurable input arrangement is configured for phone inputting. By way of example, the touch pad may be divided into angular input areas that represent the keys of a phone. When a media player mode is active, on the other hand, the configurable input arrangement is configured for navigating and playing media. By way of example, the touch pad may be divided into angular input areas that represent various playback controls (e.g., menu, next, previous, and play/pause). In addition, the central clickable button may be used for making selections in both modes. 
     In accordance with another embodiment, the handheld device also includes a means for presenting input identifiers that indicate the locations and functionality of input areas of the touch pad. In one implementation, the input identifiers are presented on the display. Additionally or alternatively, the input identifiers may be presented at the surface of the touch pad and possibly the clickable button. Additionally or alternatively, the input identifiers may be presented at the surface of the housing around the touch pad. In all of these cases, the input identifiers are positioned in a circular fashion similarly to the input areas. The handheld device may further include a means for indicating which input area is ready for actuation/selection (e.g., highlighting). This indication may also be provided by the display, a touch pad surface and/or a housing surface around the touch pad. 
     As mentioned before, it is generally believed that circular input devices are easier to manipulate when operating handheld devices. This is especially true for circular touch pads as shown in  FIG. 4 . For example, one advantage of a circular touch pad is that the touch sensing area can be continuously actuated by a simple swirling motion of a finger, i.e., the finger can be rotated through 360 degrees of rotation without stopping. Another advantage of a circular touch pad is that the user can rotate his or her finger tangentially from all sides thus giving it more range of finger positions. For example, a left handed user may choose to use one portion of the touch sensing area while a right handed user may choose to use another portion of the touch sensing area. Yet another advantage of a circular touch pad is that it allows an intuitive way to navigate a display screen. For example, in the case of scrolling, the user can manipulate the his or her finger side to side for horizontal scrolling and the user can manipulate his or her finger backwards and forwards for vertical scrolling. 
       FIG. 5  is a method  100  of operating a multifunctional device having a plurality of modes, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The method  100  begins at block  102  where a command is received to initiate a mode of the multifunctional device. The command can be generated by the device itself as for example at start up or by the user when they desire to change modes from one mode to another. In the case of start up, either the current mode at shut down or some default mode or a user preference start up mode is initiated. In the case of a user, the mode selected by the user is initiated. 
     Once a command is initiated, the method  100  proceeds to block  104  where the UI is configured in accordance with the new mode. For example, the current UI associated with the current mode is deactivated and the new UI associated with the new mode is activated. By way of example, switching from a phone mode to a music player mode may include removing the input symbol layout associated with the phone mode from the display and/or the touch pad and presenting a new input symbol layout associated with the music player on the display and/or the touch pad. Activation may further include reassigning the regions of the touch pad and the functionality associated therewith. 
       FIG. 6  is a method  110  of configuring a UI of a hand held device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The method  110  includes block  112  where different functions are assigned to different regions of a touch pad based on the mode. In block  114 , symbols associated with the different regions of the touch pad based on the new mode are presented. The symbols generally provide meaning to the regions. The symbols may for example be presented on the display and/or the touch pad. When presented on the display, the symbols are typically arranged similarly to the corresponding regions of the touch pad. When presented on the touch pad, the symbols are typically positioned at their corresponding region of the touch pad. The symbols may be presented with a transition effect such as fading in/out. In some cases, the new symbols fade in as the old symbols fade out. In block  116 , the touch pad waits for touch events to be performed thereon. 
       FIG. 7  is a method  120  of activating a UI as for example at start up or when a mode is changed. The method  120  begins at block  122  where symbols are presented. The symbols may be presented on a display and/or a touch pad. The symbols are typically tied to different regions or locations of the touch pad. 
     Thereafter, in block  124 , a determination is made as to whether a touch is detected at the touch pad. If a touch is not detected, the method  120  waits for a touch or possible a new mode command. 
     If a touch is detected, the method  120  proceeds to block  126  where the absolute touch position associated with the touch is read from the touch pad. For example, the coordinates of the touch relative to the touch surface may be ascertained. 
     Thereafter, in block  128  the symbol associated with the touch position is highlighted. For example, the touch position may be mapped to a touch region, and the symbol associated with the touch region is highlighted. 
     Thereafter, in block  130 , a determination is made as to whether or not a selection event has been performed. The determination may be based on the amount of pressure that is applied on the touch pad, i.e., whether or not the touch pad has been pressed (rather than just touched). This can be accomplished by analyzing the area of the touch (if the area of the touch increases then a press is being made). This can also be accomplished with actuators (sensors, switches) that sense pressure at the touch pad surface. In one implementation, the touch pad is a clickable touch pad that moves relative to a housing in order to provide a clicking action. When clicked, one or more tact switches are activated. An activated switch indicates a press and therefore a selection event. 
     Thereafter, in block  132 , the input or function associated with the region where the symbol is highlighted when the selection event occurs is implemented. This may include referring to a table that maps a particular entry and symbol to a particular touch region, and thereafter entering and presenting the entry. 
       FIGS. 8A-8E  illustrates one example of a handheld device with a keyless phone system. The handheld device  150  includes a display  152  and a circular touch wheel  154  with a button  156  disposed in the center. As shown in  FIG. 8A , when placed in a phone mode, the display  152  is configured to present a virtual wheel  158  with phone characters  160  such as numbers, * and # placed at locations around the wheel  158 . The locations of the characters  160  correspond to regions of the touch wheel  154  that may be touched in order to enter the character. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8B , when a touch is detected at the touch wheel  154 , the character  160  assigned to the region of the touch wheel  154  where the touch is detected is highlighted. For example, if the user touches the touch wheel at 2 oclock, the character 2 is highlighted. In the illustrated embodiment, the character  160  is highlighted with a circle member  162 . In one implementation, the circle member  162  is black and when highlighted by the black circle member  162  the character  160  is turned to white. In another implementation, the circle member  162  is a semi transparent overlay. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8C , when the finger is moved to a new region of the touch wheel  154 , a new character  160  is highlighted based on the new location of the touch. In cases where the finger stays in contact with the touch pad (sliding across), each character  160  between the starting position and the ending position is consecutively highlighted as the finger is moved over the various regions. The user therefore knows what region of the touch pad they are positioned on. In cases where the finger is picked up and moved to a new locations, only the new touch location is highlighted. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8D , when a finger performs a selection event as for example by clicking or tapping the touch wheel, the highlighted character  160  is entered into the system and presented on the display  152  along with the virtual wheel  158 . For example, a portion of the display may be dedicated to number entries (e.g., above or below the virtual wheel). Utilizing the steps shown in  FIGS. 8B-8D , any number of characters can be entered and presented on the display. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8E , once the desired group of numbers/characters  168  have been entered, a send command may be performed. For example, the center button  156  can be activated in order to generate a send command. The send command informs the handheld device  150  to call/transmit the group of numbers that were entered. 
     In some cases, the display may further present letters associated with the numbers. This may follow the same circular pattern discussed above with the letters being displayed around the inner periphery and the numbers being display around the outer periphery. Alternatively, the display may include a letter region that displays the letters when the numbers are highlighted. This region may for example be found underneath the virtual wheel. 
       FIGS. 9A-9E  illustrate one example of a handheld device with a keyless phone system. The handheld device  150  includes a display  152  and a circular touch wheel  154  with a button  156  disposed in the center. As shown in  FIG. 9A , when placed in a phone mode, the touch wheel  154  is configured to present phone characters  160  such as numbers, * and # at different angular locations around the wheel  154 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 9B , when a touch is detected at the touch wheel  154 , the character  160  assigned to the region of the touch wheel  154  where the touch is detected is highlighted. In one implementation, the entire segmented region is highlighted. In another implementation, the segmented region is surrounded by a highlight line. Furthermore, the highlighted character  160  is presented on the display  152  in the area of the display  152  dedicated to number entries. 
     As shown in  FIG. 9C , when the finger is moved to a new region of the touch wheel, a new character  160  is highlighted and presented on the display  152 . In cases where the finger stays in contact with the touch wheel (sliding across), each consecutive character  160  between the starting position and the ending position is highlighted and presented on the display  152  as the finger is moved over the various regions. The user therefore knows what region of the touch wheel  154  they are positioned on. 
     As shown in  FIG. 9D , when a finger performs a selection event as for example by clicking or tapping the touch wheel, the highlighted character  160  is entered into the system. Utilizing the steps shown in  FIGS. 9B-9D , any number of characters can be entered and presented on the display  152 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 9E , once the desired group of numbers/characters have been entered, a send command may be performed. For example, the center button can be activated in order to generate a send command. The send command informs the handheld device  150  to transmit the numbered that was entered. 
       FIG. 10  is a simplified diagram of a touch pad  200 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the touch pad  200  includes an optically transmissive touch sensing device  202  disposed over a graphics generator  204 . Both the touch sensing device  202  and the graphics generator  204  communicate with a controller  206  that monitors touch inputs of the touch sensing device  202  and that directs the graphics generator  204  to generate graphics in a controlled manner. 
     The touch sensing device  202  may be widely varied. The touch sensing device  202  may for example be selected from any of those used for touch screens. An example of a touch screen that may be used can be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/840,862, which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     The graphics generator  204  may also be widely varied. In one embodiment, the graphics generator  204  includes one or more light sources  208  for generating light (visible and/or non visible) and one or more graphics layers  210  having features  212  for creating symbols such as characters from the generated light. The light sources  208  may be placed at a variety of locations depending on the configuration of the graphics layers  210 . By way of example, the light sources  208  may be placed below, above and/or to the side of the graphics layers  210 . Furthermore, light carriers such as light pipes and light distribution panels may be used to help distribute the light to the graphics layer  210 . By way of example, a light distribution panel may help distribute light from side firing light sources  208  to the entire graphics layer  210 . The light distribution panel can be disposed above, below and even in between various graphics layers. 
     The features  212 , on the other hand, are typically configured in the desired symbol shape. The features  212  may include masking elements (e.g., openings in the layer) and/or light excitable elements (photo sensitive portions of the layer). In the case of masking elements, when a light source is turned on, light is emitted through the masking elements thereby making one or more symbols appear at the surface. In the case of light excitable elements, when a light source is turned on, the light is absorbed by the light excitable elements and reemitted thereby making one or more symbols appear at the surface. In most cases, the light excitable elements are configured to absorb non visible light and reemit visible light. In some cases, the light excitable elements may even be sensitive to a certain wavelength range (only absorb certain wavelengths of light). As such, different sets of features can be activated with different wavelength ranges. This is very beneficial when designing a touch pad to serve multiple modes of a hand held electronic device. 
     The touch pad  200  can also include a cover  216  for protecting the various layers. In some cases, the cover  216  may also act as a light diffuser for normalizing the intensity of light, and helping hide the various layers from view. By way of example, the cover may act as a canvas for the graphics generator (i.e., place where illuminated symbols are projected). 
     The touch pad  200  may further include a light panel  218  for producing other visual effects, either separately or together with the graphics generator  204 . In one embodiment, the light panel  218  may be used to highlight the features  212  generated via the graphics generator  204 . The light panel  218  may be placed above or below the graphics generator  204  (depending on the optical properties of the graphics generator). 
     Alternatively or additionally, the graphics generator  204  may be embodied as an OLED. 
       FIG. 11  is a simplified diagram of a touch pad  220 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the touch pad  220  includes an opaque or alternatively an optically transmissive touch sensing device  222  disposed below a graphics generator  224 . Both the touch sensing device  222  and the graphics generator  224  communicate with a controller  226  that monitors touch inputs of the touch sensing device  222  and that directs the graphics generator  224  to generate graphics in a controlled manner. 
     The touch sensing device  222  may be widely varied. The touch sensing device  222  may for example be selected from any of those used for touch pads or touch screens. An example of a touch pad that may be used can be found in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/188,182, 10/722,948, 10/643,256 and 11/483,008, all of which are herein incorporated by reference. 
     The graphics generator  224  may also be widely varied. Unlike the graphics generator discussed in  FIG. 10 , this graphics generator herein needs to allow touch sensing to occur therethrough. For example, it may be formed from a dielectric material so that touch sensing can occur with impediments (e.g., capacitance). In all other aspects it can be configured similarly to the graphics generator described above. For example, the graphics generator includes light sources and a graphics layer consisting of masking elements and/or light excitable elements. 
     Furthermore, like the touch pad mentioned above the touch pad can also include a cover for protecting the various layers and a light panel for producing other visual effects. 
       FIG. 12  is a diagram of a graphics generator  240 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The graphics generator  240  includes an opaque masking layer  242  and a light system  244 . The masking layer  242  includes a plurality of openings  246  shaped as symbols. During operation, the light system  244  emits light below the masking layer  242 . Light that intersects the masking layer  242  is blocked while light that intersects the openings  246  travels through the openings  246  to the other side thereby forming illuminated symbols. 
     In order to produce symbol layouts for different modes, the masking layer  242  may include different sets of openings  246 A and  246 B with each set having a dedicated light system  244 A and  244 B dedicated thereto. When the device is in a mode A, the light system  244 A emits light below the masking layer  242 , and more particularly directly behind the openings  246 A such that illuminated symbols associated with mode A are formed. When the device is in mode B, the light system  244 B emits light below the masking layer,  242  and more particularly directly behind the openings  246 B such that illuminated symbols associated with mode B are formed. 
       FIGS. 13-20  are diagrams of graphics generators  250 , in accordance with several embodiments of the present invention. The graphics generators  250  include one or more light systems  252 , one or more light distribution panels  254 , and one or more graphics layer  256  with light excitable elements  258  shaped as symbols. The light system  252  is configured to generate light, the light distribution panel  254 , which is formed from an optically transmissive material (e.g., transparent) is configured to distribute the light to the graphics layers  256  with light excitable elements  258 , and the light excitable elements  258  are configured to absorb and reemit the generated light. The light system  252  may be placed at various locations relative to the light excitable elements  258 . For example, it may be placed above, below, and/or to the side. Furthermore, the light excitable elements  258  may be placed on the front and/or back or within the light distribution panel  254 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 13 , the light excitable elements  258  are placed on the front of the light distribution panel  254 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 14 , the light excitable elements  258  are placed on the back of the light distribution panel  254 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 15 , the: light excitable elements  258  are placed on both the front and the back of the light distribution panel  254 . 
     Alternatively or additionally, as shown in  FIG. 16 , a portion of the light excitable elements  258  may be placed on a first light distribution panel  254 A, and a second portion may be placed on a second light distribution panel  254 B. 
     Alternatively or additionally, as shown in  FIGS. 17 and 18 , the light excitable elements  258  may be placed on a separate carrier  255  disposed above or below the light distribution panel  254 . 
     Alternatively or additionally, as shown in  FIG. 19 , a first portion of the light excitable elements  258  may be placed on an smaller diameter light distribution panel  254 , and a second portion of the light excitable elements  258  may be placed on larger diameter light distribution panel  254 . 
     In one embodiment, which can be applied to the various embodiments described above, during operation, the light system  252  emits non visible light into the light distribution panel  254 , and the light distribution panel  254  transmits the non visible light to the light excitable elements  258 . The light excitable elements  258  then absorbs the non visible light directed thereon and reemits it as visible light thereby forming illuminated symbols. 
     In order to produce symbol layouts for different modes, the graphics layer  256  with light excitable elements  258  shaped as symbols may include different sets of light excitable elements  258 A and  258 B with each set having a dedicated light system  252 A and  252 B. In this embodiment, each set of light excitable elements  258  is excited with a different wavelength of light. When the device is in mode A, the light system  252 A emits a first wavelength of light into the light distribution panel  254  thereby exciting the first set of light excitable elements  258 A and not exciting the second set of light excitable elements  258 B. When the device is in mode B, the light system  252 B emits a first wavelength of light into the light distribution panel  254  thereby exciting the second set of light excitable elements  2588  and not exciting the first set of light excitable elements  258 A: When excited, the first set of light excitable elements  258 A creates illuminated symbols associated with mode A, and the second set of light excitable elements  2588  creates illuminated symbols associated with mode B. 
       FIG. 20  is a diagram of a graphics generator  270 , in accordance With another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment of the graphics generator  270  combines the masking layer of  FIG. 12  with light excitable elements of the other embodiments of  FIGS. 13-18 . That is, the light excitable elements  258  are placed in front of, within or behind the openings  246  of the masking layer  242 . As such, when non visible (or visible) light is directed towards or through the opening  246 , the light excitable elements  258  are excited (absorb and reemit) thereby forming illuminated symbols. 
     In all of the embodiments described above, the configuration of the light system  244 ,  252  may be widely varied. For example, they may be embodied as LEDs, light panels, etc. Furthermore, the light excitable elements  258  may be formed from any photoluminescence (PL) material. The material selected may depend on whether the graphics layer  256  is disposed above or below a touch sensing device. For example, in cases where it is disposed above a capacitive touch sensing layer, the PL material needs to be formed from a dielectric material. 
     The PL material may be widely varied. Generally a PL material is classified as a material that radiates visible light after being energized. In the embodiments described herein, the PL material is energized with visible or non visible light. By way of example, the PL material may contain phosphors that are energized with ultraviolet light of various wavelengths. The UV light may be produced by LEDs. LEDs offer many advantages. 
     In order to highlight the various symbols produced by the graphics generators, the graphics generators may include highlight features and symbol features on the same graphics layer. In this embodiment, each symbol includes its own highlight feature. Further, the symbol features typically operate with the same light system while each highlight feature typically operates with its own dedicated light system. During operation, all the symbol features are turned on when a mode is activated, and then when a touch is detected over a particular symbol, the highlight feature associated with that symbol is turned on. This is typically accomplished with a controller. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the graphics generators may include dedicated graphics layers, one or more for the symbol features and one or more for the highlight features. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the graphics generators may include light panels for highlighting the symbol features. The light panel can be disposed above, below or in between the graphics layers. The light. Panels are configured to distribute light in a segmented manner. For example, the light panel can be configured with separately controlled light regions, each of which corresponds to a particular symbol feature. During operation, all the symbol features are turned on when a mode is activated, and then when a touch is detected over a particular symbol, the light region associated with that symbol is turned on. This is typically accomplished with a controller.  FIGS. 21-23  show three simplified examples of this embodiment. In  FIG. 21 , a light panel  280  is disposed above a graphics generator  282 . In  FIG. 22 , the light panel  280  is disposed below the graphics generator  282 . In  FIG. 23 , the light panel  280  is disposed between two graphics generators  282 . Although only these examples are shown, it should be appreciated that any number of configurations can be used to produce the desired effect. Furthermore, it should be pointed out that the light panel can be used for other visual effects (e.g., not limited to highlighting). 
       FIGS. 24-29  show several top views of graphical layers that can be used, in accordance with several embodiments of the present invention. In each of these embodiments, the touch pad in which the graphical layer is used has an annular and circular configuration. The area in the middle may for example be used for button inputting while the annular area may for example be used for touch inputting. Furthermore, in each of these embodiments, the graphical layer includes various symbols formed from masking elements and/or light excitable elements. 
       FIG. 24  is a graphical layer  300  which can be used in a phone mode. The graphical layer  300  includes the numbers and other characters  302  needed for phone inputting as for example 0-9, * and #. Each number is positioned in an angular manner around the touch pad. 0 is at 12 oclock, 1 is at 1 oclock, 2 is at 2 oclock, 3 is at 3 oclock, 4 is at 4 oclock, 5 is at 5 oclock, 6 is at 6 oclock, 7 is at 7 oclock, 8 is at 8 oclock, 9 is located at 9 oclock, * is at 10 oclock, and # is located at 11 oclock. In one embodiment, all the numbers and other characters are formed from a light excitable material with the same light sensitivity such that they can be turned on a with a single light source. In another embodiment, all the numbers and other characters are formed from light excitable materials with different light sensitivities such that they can be individually controlled. 
       FIG. 25  is a variation of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 24 . In this embodiment, the graphics layer  300  further includes the letters  303  that go along with the numbers  302  of the phone. The numbers are placed along the outer periphery while the letters are placed at the inner periphery. In one embodiment, both the numbers and letters are formed from a light excitable material with the same light sensitivity such that they can all be turned on a with a single light source. In another embodiment, the set of numbers is formed from a first light excitable material (same light sensitivity) and the set of letters is formed a second light excitable material (same light sensitivity) that is different than the light sensitivity of the first light excitable material such that they can be individually controlled. 
       FIG. 26  is a variation of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 24 . In this embodiment, the graphics layer  300  further includes highlighting bars  304  that go along with the numbers  302  of the phone (and/or letters). The individual highlighting bars  304  surround each of the numbers and other characters  302 . The numbers and other characters  302  are formed from a. first light excitable material with the same light sensitivity and each of the. highlight bars  304  are formed from light excitable materials with light sensitivities that differ from each other and the numbers and other characters  302 . In this manner, the highlight bars  304  can be individually controlled. 
       FIG. 27  is a graphical layer  310  which can be used in a music player mode. The graphical layer  310  includes the symbols  312  needed for navigating a music player as for example menu, &lt;&lt;, &gt;&gt; and play/pause. Each symbol is positioned in an angular manner around the graphics layer  310 . Menu is at 12 oclock, &gt;&gt; is at 3 oclock, play/pause is at 6 oclock, and &lt;&lt; is at 9 oclock. In one embodiment, all the symbols are formed from a light excitable material with the same light sensitivity such that they can be turned on a with a single light source. In another embodiment, all the symbols are formed from light excitable materials with different light sensitivities such that they can be individually controlled. 
       FIG. 28  is a variation of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 27 . In this embodiment, the graphics layer  310  further includes highlighting bars  316  that go along with the symbols  312 . The individual highlighting bars  316  surround each of the symbols  312 . The symbols  312  are formed from a first light excitable material with the same light sensitivity and each of the highlight bars  316  is formed from light excitable materials with light sensitivities that differ from each other and the symbols  312 . In this manner, the highlight bars  316  can be individually controlled. 
       FIG. 29  is a variation of all the examples given above. In this embodiment, the graphics layer  340  includes the phone numbers  302  formed from light sensitive materials with the same light sensitivity, and music player symbols  312  formed from light sensitive materials with the same light sensitivity but different than the light sensitivity of the light sensitive materials of the phone numbers  302 . Furthermore, the graphics layer  340  includes highlight bars  304  for each of the phone numbers  302 , and highlight bars  316  for each of the music player symbols  312 . Each of the highlight bars  304  and  316  are formed from light sensitive materials with light sensitivities differing from each other as well as the light sensitivities of the phone numbers and music player symbols  302  and  312 . 
     It should be appreciated that the examples given above are by way of example and not by way of limitation. For example, graphics layers may include features associated with other modes including for example modes associated with PDA, calendaring, GPS, remote control’, video, game, etc. Furthermore, the features of the graphics layers are not limited to a single graphics layer and may be applied to multiple graphical layers depending on the needs of each touch pad. 
     Although the touch pad can take a variety of forms using the techniques mentioned above, one particular implementation will now be described in conjunction with  FIGS. 30-34 . 
       FIGS. 30-34  are diagrams of a touch pad assembly  350 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The touch pad assembly  350  includes a frame  352  and a circular touch pad  354  assembled within the frame  352 . The frame  352  may be a separate component or it may be integrated or part of a housing of a handheld device. The circular touch pad  354  includes various layers including a cover  356 , a light panel  358 , a graphics panel  360 , an electrode layer  362  and a printed circuit board (PCB)  364 . The electrode layer  362  is positioned on the PCB  364 . The graphics panel  360  is disposed above the electrode layer  362 . The light panel  358  is disposed above the graphics panel  360 . And the cover  356  is disposed above the light panel  358 . The touch pad  354  further includes a button  366  disposed at the center of the touch pad  354 . As such, the various layers are annular in shape. 
     The electrode layer  362  includes a plurality of spatially separated electrodes configured to detect changes in capacitance at an upper surface of the touch pad  354 . Each of the electrodes is operatively coupled to a controller  368  located on the backside of the printed circuit board  364 . During operation, the controller  368  monitors the changes in capacitance and generates signals based on these changes. 
     In one embodiment, various regions of the electrode layer  362  are mapped to various functions (e.g., button functions) depending on the mode of a device. During operation, if the capacitance of electrodes mapped to a region change significantly, then the function associated with the region is implemented. The mapping may be widely varied. By way of example, in a phone mode, the electrode layer  362  may be mapped in such a way so as to simulate the keys associated with a phone. In a music player mode, the electrode layer  362  may be mapped in such a way so as to simulate the buttons associated with a music player. 
     The graphics panel  360  is configured to generate symbols that visually indicate the meaning of the various regions when in a particular mode. The graphics panel  360  includes a light distribution panel  370  disposed over the electrode layer  362 . The light distribution panel  370  is configured to redirect the light made incident thereon to light activated symbols  372 . The light distribution panel  370  is also configured to serve as a dielectric layer that covers the electrode layer  362  in order to help form the capacitance sensing circuit of the touch pad  354 . The light distribution panel  370  may include any number of light activated symbol  372 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the light distribution panel  370  includes a first set of symbols  372 A associated with a first mode and a second set of symbols  372 B associated with a second mode. The symbols in each of the sets  372  are angularly dispersed around the light distribution panel  370  in a uniform and equal manner. The first set  372 A is disposed around the outer periphery and the second set  372 B is disposed around the inner periphery. Furthermore, the first set of symbols  372 A are formed from a light sensitive material sensitive to a first wavelength of light and the second set of symbols  372 B are formed from a light sensitive material sensitive to a second wavelength of light. Although the sets  372  may be widely varied, in the illustrated embodiment, the first set  372 A is associated with a phone mode and the second set  372 B is associated with a music player mode. As such, the first set  372 A includes 0-9, * and # while the second set  372 B includes menu, &gt;&gt;, play/pause, and &lt;&lt;. 
     It should be noted that the graphics panel is not limited to only two sets and other sets may be provided. The number of sets is typically determined by the number of modes offered by the device in which the touch pad is placed. 
     The graphics panel  360  also includes separate light emitting diode(s)  374 A and  374 B dedicated to each set of symbols  372 . The light emitting diodes  374  are positioned next to the light distribution panel  370  so that light generated therefrom can be directed into the light distribution panel  370  and ultimately to the light activated symbols  372 . The light emitting diodes  374  may for example be placed in the center area provided by the annular shape. The light emitting diodes  374  are configured to generate non visible light such as ultraviolet or infrared light in the wavelength needed to drive the set of the symbols associated therewith. In the illustrated embodiment, the first light emitting diode(s)  374 A are configured to generate non visible light having the first wavelength, and the second light emitting diode(s)  374 B are configured to generate non visible light having a second wavelength. As shown, the LEDs  374  are attached to the printed circuit board  364  and operatively coupled to the controller  368  located on the backside of the printed circuit board  364 . During operation, the controller  368  selectively adjusts the intensity of each of the LEDs  374  to illuminate the symbols  372  in a controlled manner. By way of example, in a first mode, the first LED  374 A may be turned on and the second LED  374 B turned off. And in a second mode, the second LED  374 B may be turned on and the first LED  374 A turned off. 
     Although only a single graphics panel  360  is shown, it should be appreciated that this is not a limitation and that additional graphics panels may be used. For example, one or more graphics panels may be further positioned underneath the first graphics panel described above. 
     Referring now to the light panel  358 , the light panel  358  is configured to generate light for highlighting the light activated symbols  372  that are being touched. The light panel  358  includes a light distribution panel  380  disposed over the graphics panel  360  and one or more side mounted light emitting diodes  382  disposed around the periphery of the light distribution panel  380 . The side mounted light emitting diodes  382  are configured to direct light into a different portion of the light distribution panel  380 . Alternatively, a light pipe may be used to direct light from an LED located away from the light distribution panel. The light distribution panel  380  is configured to redirect the light made incident thereon via the light emitting diodes  382  to an upper surface of the light distribution panel  380  thereby illuminating the touch pad surface. The light distribution panel  380  is also configured to serve as a dielectric layer that covers the electrode layer  362  in order to help form the capacitance sensing circuit of the touch pad. 
     As shown, the LEDs  382  are attached to the printed circuit board  364  and operatively coupled to the controller  368  located on the backside of the printed circuit board  364 . During operation, the controller  368  selectively adjusts the intensity of each of the LEDs to illuminate portions of or all of the light distribution panel  380  in a controlled manner. 
     The light distribution panel  380  can be widely varied. In the illustrated embodiment, the light distribution panel  380  typically includes a portion that extends below the inner surface of the frame. This portion provides a light receiving area at the sides of the light distribution panel  380  for receiving light emitted by the side mounted LED&#39;s  382 . Furthermore, the light distribution panel  380 , which can be formed from a single or multiple layers, is typically formed from translucent or semi-translucent dielectric materials including for example plastic materials such as polycarbonate, acrylic or ABS plastic. It should be appreciated, however, that these materials are not a limitation and that any optically transmittable dielectric material may be used (the same materials can be used for the graphic panel). 
     Further, the light distribution panel  380  is broken up into plurality of distinct nodes  384 , each of which includes its own dedicated light emitting diode  382  for individual illumination thereof. During operation, when light is released by a light emitting diode  382 , the light is made incident on the side of the light distribution panel  380  at the node  384 . The node  384  redirects and transmits the light from its side to an upper surface of the node  384 . In order to prevent light bleeding between adjacent nodes  384 , each node  384  may be optically separated by a reflecting or masking region disposed therebetween. 
     Each of the nodes  384  may be formed from a solid piece of material or it may be formed from a combination of elements. In one embodiment, each of the nodes  384  is formed from a translucent or semi-translucent plastic insert that when combined with the other inserts forms the light distribution panel  380 . In another embodiment, each of the nodes is formed from a bundle of fiber optic strands. 
     The configuration of the nodes  384  including layout, shape and size may be widely varied. Because the touch pad  354  is circular in the illustrated embodiment, the nodes  384  are embodied as distinct angular segments (e.g., pie shaped). Furthermore, the number of nodes  384  is typically based on the symbol set  372  with the largest number of symbols. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, this would be twelve, one for each symbol of the phone mode. In one configuration, in order to highlight a phone number, the node corresponding to the phone number (disposed directly above) is illuminated, and in order to highlight a music symbol, multiple nodes corresponding to the music. symbol are illuminated (in the example provided, three nodes would be illuminated for each music symbol). 
     In one embodiment, all the LEDs  382  are powered at the same time to produce a fully illuminated touch pad  354 . This may be analogous to backlighting. In another embodiment, the LEDs  382  are powered in accordance with the capacitance changes measured by each of the electrodes. For example, the node  384  above the detected region may be illuminated while the segments above the undetected regions may be turned off. This provides indication to the user as to their exact location on the touch surface, i.e., which symbol and thus which function will be implemented. In yet another embodiment, selected segments may be illuminated to encourage a user to place their finger in a particular area of the touch pad. 
     Although only a single light panel  358  is shown, it should be appreciated that this is not a limitation and that additional light panels may be used. For example, one or more light panels may be further positioned underneath the first light panel described above. In one embodiment, each light panel in a group of light panels is configured to distribute a different color. For example, three light panels including a red, green and blue light panel may be used. Using this arrangement, different colored segments may be produced. By controlling their intensity, almost any color can be produced (mixed) at the touch surface. In another embodiment, each light panel in the group of light panels may have a different orientation. For example, the angularly segmented nodes of the light distribution panel may be rotated relative to the other light panels so that they are placed at ‘different positions about an axis (e.g., partially overlapping and angularly offset). Using this arrangement, leading and trailing illumination can be produced. 
     In most cases, some component of the touch pad  354  includes light diffusing elements to diffuse the light produced therefrom in order to normalize the light intensity, to produce a characteristic glow, and/or to hide the physical parts of the touch pad  354  located underneath the input surface. By way of example, the component may be the light distribution panel  380  of the light panel or the cover  356  disposed thereover. The light diffusing elements may be provided on an inner surface, outer surface of the component or they may be embedded inside the component. In one embodiment, the light diffusing element is an additive disposed inside the light distribution panel. In another embodiment, the light diffusing element is a layer, coating and/or texture that is applied to the inner, side or outer surfaces of the panel. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the light diffusing element is disposed in the cover  356 . The cover  356  may for example be a label adhered to the top surface of the light distribution panel  380 . The cover label may be formed from transparent or semitransparent dielectric materials such as Mylar or Polycarbonate or any other dielectric material that is thin, optically transmittable and includes some sort of light diffusing means. 
     Referring to the button  366 , both the light distribution panel  370  and  380  as well as the electrode layer  362  have an annular shape that creates a void at the center of the touch pad  354  for placement for the button  366 . The button  366  includes a translucent button cap  390  that is movable trapped between the cover  356  and a spring loaded switch  392 . The switch  392  is mounted to the printed circuit board  364  and operatively coupled to the controller  368 . When the button cap  390  is pressed, it moves against the actuator of the spring loaded switch  392  thereby generating a button event that is read by the controller  368 . The button cap  390  may be illuminated with an LED  394  to indicate when a signal has been read by the controller  368 . Furthermore, the button cap  390  may include a graphical layer  396  with one or more symbols that are driven by dedicated light emitting diodes  398 A and  398 B similar to the graphical panel  360  described above. In the illustrated embodiment, the graphical layer  396  includes a first symbol  399 A associated with a first mode (e.g., phone) and a second symbol  399 B associated with a second mode (e.g., music notes). 
     In accordance with one embodiment, the functionality of a button (or buttons) is also incorporated directly into the touch pad  354  such that the touch pad  354  acts like a button along with its touch sensing capabilities. That is, the touch pad  354  forms a platform that can be clicked relative to the frame  352  in order to activate one or more actuators such as switches. 
     To elaborate, the touch pad  354  is capable of moving relative to the frame  352  so as to create a clicking action at various regions of the touch pad  354 . The clicking actions are generally arranged to actuate one or more movement indicators  402  contained inside the frame  352 . That is, a portion of the touch pad  354  moving from a first position (e.g., upright) to a second position (e.g., depressed) is caused to actuate a movement indicator  402 . The movement indicators  402  are configured to sense movements of the touch pad  354  during the clicking action and to send signals corresponding to the movements to the host device. By way of example, the movement indicators  402  may be switches, sensors and/or the like. 
     Because the touch pad  354  is used for different modes that require different inputs, the largest set of inputs is typically used as the base for determining the number of movement indicators  402 . This may be done for signal purposes (although not a requirement) and/or for stability reasons (provide the same feel to each zone). In the illustrated embodiment, the touch pad  354  includes a movement indicator  402  for each of the regions required for a phone mode. That is, there is a movement indicator  402  disposed beneath each of the phone numbers and characters. 
     The movements of the touch pad  354  may be provided by various rotations, pivots, translations, flexes and the like. In one embodiment, the touch pad  354  is configured to gimbal relative to the frame  352  so as to generate clicking actions for each of the button zones. By gimbal, it is generally meant that the touch pad is able to float in space relative to the frame while still being constrained thereto. The gimbal may allow the touch pad  354  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  0   x    0   y    0   z ). 
     The movement indicators  402  may be widely varied, however, in this embodiment they take the form of mechanical switches. The mechanical switches are typically disposed between the circuit board  364  and the frame  352 . The mechanical switches may be attached to the frame  352  or to the printed circuit board  364 . A stiffening plate may be provided to stiffen the circuit board. In the illustrated embodiment, the mechanical switches are attached to the backside of the circuit board  364  and operatively coupled to the controller thus forming an integrated unit. They are generally attached in location that places them beneath the appropriate button zone (e.g., beneath each of the phone numbers or characters). As shown, the mechanical switches include actuators that are spring biased so that they extend away from the circuit board  364 . As such, the mechanical switches act as legs for supporting the touch pad  354  in its upright position within the frame  352  (i.e., the actuators rest on the frame). 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  354  and switches  402  is restrained within a space provided in the frame  352 . The integrated unit is capable of moving within the space while still being prevented from moving entirely out of the space via the walls of the frame  352 . The shape of the space generally coincides with the shape of the integrated unit. As such, the unit is substantially restrained along the X and Y axes via a side wall of the frame and along the Z axis and rotationally about the X and Y axis via a top wall and a bottom wall of the frame. A small gap may be provided between the side walls and the platform to allow the touch pad  354  to move to its four positions without obstruction (e.g., a slight amount of play). In some cases, the circuit board may include tabs that extend along the X and Y axis so as to prevent rotation about the Z axis. Furthermore, the top wall includes an opening for providing access to the touch sensitive surface of the touch pad  354 . The spring force provided by the mechanical switches  402  places the touch pad  354  into mating engagement with the top wall of the frame  352  (e.g., upright position) and the gimbal substantially eliminates gaps and cracks found therebetween. 
       FIG. 35  is an exploded perspective diagram of a touch pad  420 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The touch pad  420  may be a stationary fixed touch pad or a it may be integrated into a clickable touch pad. The touch pad  420  includes various layers including a light diffusing cover  422 , a transparent touch sensing layer  424 , an organic light emitting device (OLED)  426 , and a printed circuit board  428 . The light diffusing cover  422  is disposed over the touch sensing layer  424 , the touch sensing layer  424  is disposed over the OLED  426 , and the OLED  426  is disposed over the printed circuit board  428 . The touch sensing layer  424  and OLED  426  are operatively coupled to a controller  430  located on the printed circuit board  428 . The controller receive data from the touch sensing layer and instructs the OLED how to present graphical information. The graphical information may be based on the touch data. The touch sensing layer  424  may include its own carrier or it may be applied to the bottom surface of the cover  422  and/or the top surface of the OLED  426 . In the illustrated embodiment, the touch pad  420  is circular. Furthermore, the circular touch pad  420  may include a button and therefore it may further include circularly annular OLED  426 , circularly annular touch sensing layer  424 , and a circularly annular cover  422  to provide space for the button. 
     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. For example, although the invention was primarily directed at a circular touch pad, it should be appreciated that this is not a limitation and that the principles disclosed herein may equally applied to other shaped touch pads. It should also be noted that there are many alternative ways of implementing the methods and apparatuses of the present invention. For example, with regards to light based touch pads, the light ‘sources may be integrated with touch sensing nodes as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/483,008, which is herein incorporated by reference. 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: 20140128
Publication Date: 20160614
Grant Date: 20160614
Priority Date: 20051230
Inventors: MCKILLOP CHRIS
GRIGNON ANDREW
ORDING BAS
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F3/0485", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0416", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/0338", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/04886", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/04886", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/0338", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0485", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/04886", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0416", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0416", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 37698289