PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8446360-B2
Application Number: US-35373209-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Force sensor for use in an input device and methods for constructing and using the sensor

Abstract:
The disclosure addresses a force sensor that is scalable in size and adaptable to a variety of form factors, including those suitable for use in an input device for a computer or other processing system, and in some cases including those of the configuration normally referred to as a computer mouse. The force sensor will include at least two structural members that are cooperatively attached one another as to be displaced from one another in response to a force acting upon one of the structural members. In some examples, the engagement between the two structural members will be specifically configured to allow such displacement in response to forces acting laterally on the force sensor. The force sensor will also include one or more sensing mechanisms to provide a measurement of the sensed deflection.

Claims:
We claim: 
     
       1. A force sensor configured for use in an input device to a processing system, comprising:
 a first support member; 
 a second support member coupled in movable relation to the first support member along at least a first axis; 
 a third support member coupled in movable relation to the second support member along at least a second axis orthogonal to the first axis; 
 a first sensor arranged to provide a first signal reflective of the degree of movement between the first and second support members relative to at least the first axis; and 
 a second sensor arranged to provide a second signal reflective of the degree of movement between the second and third support members relative to at least the second axis; 
 wherein the first and second support members are coupled in movable relation through a first flexure assembly extending between the first support member and the second support member; further comprising: 
 a second flexure assembly; and 
 a third flexure assembly extending between the first support member and the second support member, the third flexure assembly in spaced relation to the first flexure assembly; and 
 wherein the first and third flexure assemblies each comprise a generally planar flex element, and 
 wherein the two flex elements extend in generally parallel planes to one another. 
 
     
     
       2. The force sensor of  claim 1 , wherein the second and third support members are coupled in movable relation through the second flexure assembly extending between the second support member and the third support member. 
     
     
       3. The force sensor of  claim 1 , wherein the first flexure assembly extending between the first and second support members comprises a flexible metal plate extending in a plane generally perpendicular to the first axis. 
     
     
       4. The force sensor of  claim 1 , wherein the input device comprises a hand-operated input device. 
     
     
       5. The force sensor of  claim 1 , wherein the input device comprises a computer mouse. 
     
     
       6. The force sensor of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first flexure assembly, the second flexure assembly, or the third flexure assembly comprises a flexible elastomer. 
     
     
       7. The force sensor of  claim 6 , wherein the flexible elastomer comprises a silicon-based elastomer. 
     
     
       8. The force sensor of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first flexure assembly, the second flexure assembly, or the third flexure assembly comprises a flexible metal. 
     
     
       9. The force sensor of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first flexure assembly, the second flexure assembly, or the third flexure assembly comprises a flexible plastic. 
     
     
       10. The force sensor of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first support member, the second support member, or the third support member comprises a rigid metal. 
     
     
       11. The force sensor of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first support member, the second support member, or the third support member comprises a rigid glass-filled plastic. 
     
     
       12. An input device, comprising:
 a first support wing including, a first central web portion, and angled arms extending generally in a first direction relative to the central web portion; 
 a second support wing including, a second central web portion, a first pair of angled arms extending generally in a second direction relative to the central web portion, the second direction generally opposite to the first direction; and 
 a second pair of angled arms extending in generally the first direction relative to the central web portion, the second pair of angled arms extending generally orthogonally to the first pair of arms; 
 front and rear flex plates coupling the first and second support wings to one another through the angled arms, 
 the front and rear flex plates extending in spaced, generally parallel, relation to one another, 
 wherein the support wing having the lowermost web portion has its angled arms coupled to the relatively upper end of each flex plate, and 
 wherein the support wing having the uppermost web portion has its angled arms coupled to the relatively lower end of each flex plate; 
 a third support wing having a third central web portion, and angled arms extending generally in the second direction relative to the central web portion; 
 left and right flex plates coupling the second and third support wings to one another through the angled arms, the left and right flex plates extending in spaced, generally parallel, relation to one another, 
 wherein the support wing having the lowermost web portion has its angled arms coupled to the relatively upper end of each flex plate, and 
 wherein the support wing having the uppermost web portion has its angled arms coupled to the relatively lower end of each flex plate; 
 a first sensor assembly having a first component supported by the first support wing and a second component carried by the second support wing, and configured to provide a first signal reflective of the degree of movement between the first and second support wings relative to at least the first axis; and 
 a second sensor assembly having a first component supported by the second support wing and a second component carried by the third support wing, and configured to provide a first signal reflective of the degree of movement between the second and third support wings relative to at least the second axis. 
 
     
     
       13. The input device of  claim 12 , wherein the input device comprises a computer mouse. 
     
     
       14. The input device of  claim 12 , wherein the input device comprises a hand-operated input device. 
     
     
       15. The input device of  claim 12 , wherein at least one of the front and rear flex plates or the left and right flex plates comprise a flexible elastomer. 
     
     
       16. The input device of  claim 15 , wherein the flexible elastomer comprises a silicon-based elastomer. 
     
     
       17. The input device of  claim 12 , wherein at least one of the first the front and rear flex plates or the left and right flex plates comprise a flexible metal. 
     
     
       18. The input device of  claim 12 , wherein at least one of the first the front and rear flex plates or the left and right flex plates comprise a flexible plastic. 
     
     
       19. The input device of  claim 12 , wherein at least one of the first support wing or the second support wing comprises a rigid glass-filled plastic. 
     
     
       20. The input device of  claim 12 , wherein at least one of the first support wing or the second support wing comprises a rigid metal.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to force sensors, and more specifically relates to improved force sensors sized and configured to be suitable for inclusion in a hand-held device, and to methods for constructing such input devices; and further to methods for sensing deflection in an input device as an indicator of direction of movement of the input device. 
     Input devices for computers and other processing systems, such as those typically referred to individually as a computer “mouse,” are well-known for use to provide data used to incrementally move an indicator such as a cursor on a display, to control the processing system. Many such “mice” operate through direct communication with an external surface. Well-known examples of such mice include various devices that operate through physical contact of a caged ball rolling on a support surface to provide an indication of movement through detection of the movement by orthogonally-arranged sensors detecting relative X-Y directional components of the ball movement, as it rolls in any direction relative to the surface. Similarly, mice are well-known which utilize an optical sensor to detect movement of the device relative to a support surface. 
     Input devices such as a computer mouse have recently been proposed by persons employed by the assignee of the present application, that function in the absence of the described physical or optical interaction with a support surface. These recently-proposed input devices operate using other types of sensors, as will be described in more detail later herein, without the need for such mechanical contact or optical elements. One example of such an input device is described in U.S. application Ser. No. 12/242,343, filed Sep. 30, 2008, and entitled “Method And Apparatus For Operating An Input Device,” the specification of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. These recently-proposed input devices maybe in the form of conventional devices such as those normally thought of as “ mice.” However, these input devices may also be of such other configurations as may be desired in any particular context to provide directional and/or positional input. 
     One example of such an input device utilizes a force sensor assembly to detect lateral force applied to the input device, such as by a user. This force detection is preferably made relative to at least two intersecting axes to provide resolution of the direction of movement in a single plane, i.e., relative to a supporting surface. In these recently-proposed input devices, a second sensor assembly is used to provide a measure of the speed of the movement. In some examples, a vibration sensor is used to provide this speed measure. Thus the two sensor assemblies together provide measures of the direction and speed of movement of the input device that can be combined to provide positioning data based on the movement of the mouse. 
     In these recently-proposed devices, although virtually any type of force sensor able to detect loading applied relative to at least two different axes could be utilized, optimal performance is believed to be best obtained by a force sensor constructed to withstand the rigors of use over an extended time period, and by potentially by multiple persons with a wide range of operating tendencies. While at the same time, the force sensor will preferably fit within a conventionally-sized input device form factor, and is preferably a device that may be relatively straightforward to manufacture without undue expense. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention includes a force sensor adaptable to a variety of input device form factors, and particularly to form factors for hand held use. For the examples described herein, the input device will be a computer mouse, and thus the described force sensor is one sized and configured for use within a spatial envelope suitable for that type of hand-operated input device. The present invention, in part, provides a force sensor configured to provide signals representative of relative displacement between two components of the input device. 
     In one example of the invention, the inventive input device will include at least two structural members, such as external housing members forming the outer “shell” of a mouse that may be assembled to provide a unit wherein the two structural members form a single unit, although one in which the two structural members may be displaced a small dimension relative to one another, such displacement being possible relative to at least two intersecting axes. In one example, the force sensor will be constructed as a discrete assembly that may be mounted to engage both structural members (such as the example housing components) and to provide signals relative to any displacement between the structural members. 
     In one embodiment of force sensor as will be described herein, the force sensor will include a plurality of frame members held in general relation proximate one another, but with relative displacement allowed by flexure elements extending between the frame members. One or more of the frames will carry force or position sensors arranged to detect the above-described displacements when they occur. In some examples, these position sensors will include capacitance sensors providing varying signals in response to varying proximity between two plates in spaced relation to one another. More details on these examples, as well as on additional structural and operational variations that may be implemented in various examples of the inventive subject matter are provided in the description that follows. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  depicts a representation of an input device in association with a computer in one common operating environment and configuration. 
         FIGS. 2A-B  depicts a schematic representation of one example of a force sensor as will be described herein, depicted in only a partial view in  FIG. 2A ; and depicted in a complete view and rotated 90 degrees in  FIG. 2B . 
         FIG. 3  depicts an example configuration for an input device for processing system, and including a force sensor in one example configuration. 
         FIG. 4  depicts the force sensor from the input device of  FIG. 3 , depicted from a lower elevation perspective. 
         FIG. 5  depicts the force sensor from the input device of  FIG. 3 , depicted from an aerial perspective. 
         FIGS. 6A-B  depict an alternate configuration for a force sensor in accordance with the present invention, depicted in  FIG. 6A  from a side view, and partially in vertical section; and in a further alternative configuration in  FIG. 6B . 
         FIG. 7  depicts a flow chart identifying one example of a method for operating an input device utilizing a force sensor in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  depicts an isolated view of an alternative configuration for forming a flexible connection between structural members of a force sensor in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings that depict various details of examples selected to show how the present invention may be practiced. The discussion addresses various examples of the inventive subject matter at least partially in reference to these drawings, and describes the depicted embodiments in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Many other embodiments may be utilized for practicing the inventive subject matter than the illustrative examples discussed herein, and many structural and operational changes in addition to the alternatives specifically discussed herein may be made without departing from the scope of the inventive subject matter. 
     In this description, references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment,” or to “one example” or “an example” mean that the feature being referred to is, or may be, included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. Separate references to “an embodiment” or “one embodiment” or to “one example” or “an example” in this description are not intended to necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example; however, neither are such embodiments mutually exclusive, unless so stated or as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Thus, the present invention can include a variety of combinations and/or integrations of the embodiments and examples described herein, as well as further embodiments and examples as defined within the scope of all claims based on this disclosure, as well as all legal equivalents of such claims. 
     For the purposes of this specification, a “processor-based system” or “processing system” includes a system using one or more processors, microcontrollers and/or digital signal processors or other devices having the capability of running a “program,” (all such devices being referred to herein as a “processor”). A “program” is any set of executable machine code instructions, and as used herein, includes user-level applications as well as system-directed applications or daemons. Examples of processing systems include communication and electronic devices such as cell phones, music and multi-media players, and Personal Digital Assistants (PDA); as well as computers, or “computing devices” of all forms (desktops, laptops, servers, palmtops, workstations, etc.). 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , therein is depicted an input device  102  as one example of many possible configurations that may be used to implement the present invention. Input device  102  is connected to a processing system, in this example, a desktop computer  106  having a display device  108  associated therewith, in one example of an operative configuration. Input device  102  and computer  106  are both supported by a surface  104 , depicted here as a tabletop. In this example, input device  102  is a computer mouse that will determine positioning information (including direction and speed of movement information) primarily in response to sliding movement of input device  102  relative to supporting surface  104 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 2A-B , the figures schematically depict, in highly idealized representation, one example of a force sensor  200  in accordance with the present invention. This idealized schematic representation is used to illustrate the fundamental principles of construction and operation of one example configuration to be described in more detail later herein. Referring now particularly to  FIG. 2A , the figure shows a schematic representation of a first frame member  202  and a second frame member  204 . Frame member  202  includes a pair of angled arms  206   a ,  206   b , where each arm  206   a ,  206   b  is inclined generally upwardly relative to a respective opposing end of a central web portion  208 . Similarly, second frame member  204  includes a central web portion  210  positioned generally above central web portion  208  of first frame member  202 . Second frame member  204  includes a pair of angled arms  212   a ,  212   b  inclined generally downwardly from respective opposing ends of central web portion  210 . 
     First and second frame members  202 ,  204  are coupled to one another by mechanism that allows relative deflection (or movement) between the two frame members. In this example, that movement is generally restrained to be primarily along a single axis. However, configurations where movement is facilitated relative to multiple axes are contemplated. In various configurations, this deflection mechanism may be in the form of either a coupling material or a mechanical assembly coupling the two members. The deflection mechanism may include either a single assembly or a plurality of assemblies. In the depicted example of  FIG. 2A , the deflection mechanism is provided by first and second flexure assemblies  214   a ,  214   b  coupled between proximate pairs of angled arms  206   a ,  212   a  and  206   b ,  212   b  of first and second frame members  202 ,  204 . 
     Flexure assemblies  214   a ,  214   b  may be formed of a variety of materials and conformations so long as they allow deflection within a limited range between the two frame members  202 ,  204 . For example, the deflection within a force sensor such as that suitable for use within a computer mouse will preferably be deflection of less than 1 mm, and more preferably within the range of 0.1 to 0.5 mm; and in some examples, less than approximately 0.1 mm. In most use situations, the mouse will be exposed to loads of less than about 250 grams. Many possible configurations may be envisioned for flexure assemblies  214   a ,  214   b.  For example, flexure assemblies  214   a ,  214   b  could be formed of a material that would be generally solid, but be sufficiently deformable to allow the described deflection. As just one example of such material, a flexible elastomer, such as a silicon-based elastomer could be used. 
     In the example of  FIG. 2A , the described configuration of first and second frame members  202 ,  204  is specifically suited for use with a generally rigid but flexible element in each flexure assembly  214   a ,  214   b . For example, flexible elements formed of various suitable plastics, metals or other compounds can be used to form, in essence, a spring extending between the two frame members  202 ,  204 . In one example of the invention, as will be described in more detail later herein, each flexure assembly will include a flexible member  218   a ,  218   b  of this type, formed of a flexible metal band. One advantage of using a flexible member  218   a ,  218   b  such as a metal band is that when such a structure is supported across its upper and lower surfaces, then the member is typically flexible generally along an axis extending laterally and generally in parallel to the support locations; and thus in such a structure each flexible member allows relative movement primarily along an axis extending perpendicular to that to that flex axis, as depicted generally at  216 . In the embodiment depicted in  FIG. 2A , the flexible members  218   a ,  218   b  are generally planar and generally parallel in a vertical orientation when in an “at rest” orientation, and thus the axis of movement extends generally perpendicular to not only the flex axis but also to the plane of the material when in the “at rest” position. It should be readily understood however that the flexible members  218   a ,  218   b  are not required to be either vertical or parallel to one another. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2B , the figure schematically depicts the assembly of  FIG. 2A , rotated 90 degrees, and as viewed through a partial vertical cross-section, and with a third support member  220  added to assembly  200  of that figure. The depiction is of a vertical slice only, and for clarity no attempt is made to show surfaces that would be visible in the background in a true vertical section. This view thus depicts that second support member  204  also includes a second pair of angled arms  222   a ,  222   b  extending generally upwardly relative to central web portion  210 . Thus, second support member  204  includes a first pair of arms  212   a ,  212   b  extending generally downwardly to a first side of central web portion  210  (shown in  FIG. 2A ), and a second pair of arms  222   a ,  222   b  extending generally upwardly to a second side of central web portion  210 . As is apparent from  FIGS. 2A-B , the terms “upwardly” and “downwardly” are not intended to suggest truly opposite, or 180 degree offset orientation; but only to designate the relative orientation relative to the central web portion of the support member in question. 
     The newly-depicted third support member  220 , as with first and second support members, again includes a central web portion  224  and a pair of angled arms  226   a ,  226   b  extending from respective ends of central web portion  224 . In this example, the arms extend generally downwardly or below central web portion  224 . As previously described relative to  FIG. 2A , a pair of flexure assemblies  228   a ,  228   b  are coupled between proximate pairs of angled arms  222   a ,  226   a  and  222   b ,  226   b  of second and third frame members  204 ,  220 . Flexure assemblies  228   a ,  228   b  may be constructed similarly to first and second flexure assemblies  214   a ,  214   b , as described above. However, such similar construction is not required. Where each flexure assembly  228   a ,  228   b  includes a flexible member  230   a ,  230   b  similar to those described in reference to  FIG. 2A , then the permitted deflection between second support member  204  and third support member  220  will be generally along axis  232  which extends generally perpendicular to axis  216 , the axis of the permitted deflection between first support member  202  and second support member  204 . 
     Thus, as is apparent from the above discussion,  FIGS. 2A-B  schematically depicted a stacked structure in which deflection of each adjacent pair of support members is restricted primarily to one of two orthogonal axes. It should also be apparent that the stacked structure could include additional support members such that the deflection in either direction could be permitted by a completely independent structure rather than through the shared structure in which second support member  204  is coupled to both the lowermost first support member  202  and the uppermost second support member  220 . However, the shared structure, as depicted, is believed to offer some advantages, such as requiring reduced vertical space, and is thus preferable for applications where vertical dimension is a possible consideration. 
     The above-described idealized schematic representation identifies the fundamental structural principles utilized in the device depicted in  FIG. 3 , discussed below. The above-described schematic representation does not identify any sensors or components thereof to provide signals representative of any translational displacement that occurs between support members connected through flexure assemblies. As will be identified in the discussion of  FIG. 3 , components of such sensors will preferably be attached to the interconnected support members. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , the figure depicts a mouse assembly indicated generally at  300 , including a force sensor assembly, indicated generally at  302 . Mouse assembly  300  includes two structural members that cooperatively form the external housing of the mouse, lower plate  304  and upper shell  306 , depicted in phantom representation. The following description may also be considered in reference to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , which depict force sensor assembly  302  from opposing elevation perspectives.  FIG. 4  depicts force sensor assembly  302  from a lower elevation view, thereby viewing force sensor assembly  302  looking upwardly toward lower-facing surfaces; and  FIG. 5  depicts force sensor assembly  302  from an upper elevation view looking generally downwardly, from a side viewing point. 
     The structural members of force sensor  302  that correspond in general function to the three structural members  202 ,  204 ,  220  of  FIG. 2 , will be referred to in relative positional terms as a “lower wing  308 ,” a “middle wing  310 ,” and an “upper wing  312 .” The description of these three components in terms of relative position is not intended to suggest that components need necessarily be placed in that same vertical orientation, or in any vertical orientation whatsoever. Similarly the use of the term “wing” is not used to in any way describe or suggest any shape or function to the identified structures beyond that otherwise expressly described, but is used only to provide a nomenclature that improves the clarity of the description in view of the relative complexity of the depicted configurations of the various components in force sensor assembly  302 . For clarity in the Figures, middle wing  310 , as well as a two capacitor plates carried by the wing ( 350   a ,  350   b ) have been depicted with a surface texture, denoted by stippling of those parts. Such surface texture is not necessarily a desirable feature of the device, but is used solely to assist in distinguishing between the complexly-shaped components assembled in  FIGS. 3-5 . 
     Lower wing  308  includes a central web portion  314  with upwardly extending arms, indicated generally at  316  and  318 . Lower wing  308 , like middle wing  310  and upper wing  312 , will preferably be constructed of a material that will be generally rigid under the conditions to which the assembly is subjected. For example, metals, such as cast aluminum, forged steel, or metal injection molded (MIM) steel may be used. However, composite materials, such as for example, a glass-filled plastic, might also be used. As can best be seen in  FIG. 5 , each arm  316 ,  318  terminates in a laterally extending upper support bar  320 ,  322 , respectively. Similarly, middle wing  310  includes a first pair of downwardly extending arms, indicated generally at  322  and  324  (see  FIG. 5 ). Each of these middle wing downwardly extending arms  322 ,  324  terminates in a respective laterally extending lower support bar  326 ,  328 . As adjacent pairs of lower wing arms  316 ,  318  and middle wing arms  322 ,  324  cross past one another, laterally extending upper support bars  320 ,  322  (of lower wing  302 ) and laterally extending lower support bars  326 ,  328  (of middle wing  304 ) are each wider than the respective arm from which they extend. Each pair of proximately adjacent support bars  320  and  326 , and  322  and  328  supports a respective flexure assembly, indicated generally at  330  and  332 . 
     Flexure assemblies  330 ,  332  each preferably include a flexible element coupled between each respective pair of supports to allow a limited degree of translational deflection between the two wings to which the flexure assemblies are attached. Additionally, in some examples as depicted here, it is preferable that each flexure assembly provides some degree of resistance to such translational deflection; and again in some examples, it is preferable that each flexure assembly be capable of providing some degree of relative structural support between the wing members to which it is attached. Accordingly, to depict a device in which these various optional capabilities are implemented, the depicted flexure assemblies  330 ,  332  comprise a flex band  334 ,  336  formed of a generally stiff but resilient material. In this example, this material is a metal band formed of spring steel, having a thickness of approximately 0.04 inch; and in this one example, having an area of approximately 0.6 square inch. The use of these metal bands in flexure assemblies  330 ,  332 , as depicted in this example, offers the advantage of facilitating deflection, while avoiding bearings or sliding surfaces that would introduce friction. Force sensors constructed in the manner of the depicted example therefore offer the advantage of sensitivity to movement with minimal hysteresis. Although many mounting systems for flex bands  334 ,  336  may be envisioned, in the depicted example, flex bands  334 ,  336  are mounted to each support bar by a mounting bar  342   a ,  342   b ,  342   c ,  342   d  that engages the exterior surface of each flex band  334 ,  336  and which is bolted (by a plurality of bolts indicated typically at  338  extending through apertures, indicated typically at  340 ) to a respective support bar. In this example, recesses  392 ,  394  have been provided in bottom plate  304  to assure freedom of movement of the lower end of each flex band  334 ,  336 . 
     As described in reference to  FIG. 2 , because flex bands  334 ,  336  are metal, and are supported along their upper and lower surfaces between a respective support bar and mounting bar, there is some resistance to torsional deflection. This construction of flex bands  334 ,  336  thereby contributes to maintaining a generally fixed lateral alignment between lower wing  308  and middle wing  310 , while allowing a generally longitudinal deflection (extending through the longer axis  344  through force sensor assembly  302 , as depicted). Also as previously mentioned in reference to  FIG. 2 , although flex bands  334  and  336  are each disposed in spaced generally parallel and vertical relation, that orientation is a design choice, and other orientations could readily be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. 
     As can best be seen in  FIG. 4 , in this example, central web portion  314  of lower wing  308  is not uniformly contiguous, but defines a recess, indicated generally at  346 . Recess  346  is provided in this example as a convenient location within which other components may be mounted within mouse assembly  300 . For example, another sensor, such as a vibration sensor, indicated in phantom representation at  348 , may conveniently be placed within recess  346 . 
     In the example configuration of mouse assembly  300  and force sensor  302 , a measurement of deflection between lower wing  308  and middle wing  310 , and also between middle wing  310  and upper wing  312 , will be made through use of electrical sensors, preferably in the form of capacitance sensors. The visible physical components of each of these capacitance sensors are respective pairs of capacitor plates at  350   a ,  350   b , and at  352   a,    352   b . Capacitor plates  350   a ,  350   b , are used to provide a measurement that may be used to generate a signal representative of deflection between lower wing  308  and middle wing  310 ; while capacitor plates  352   a ,  352   b  are used to provide a measurement that may be used to generate a signal representative of deflection between middle wing  310  and upper wing  312  (which, as is apparent from the discussion of  FIG. 2  will be along a lateral axis extending generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis  344 ). Accordingly, capacitor plate  350   b  is mounted on an extension  354  from arm  316  of lower wing  308 ; while capacitor plate  350   a  is mounted to a support  356  formed as a portion of middle wing  310 . Similarly, capacitor plate  352   a  is also mounted to support  356  of middle wing  310 , but to a surface extending generally perpendicular to that upon which capacitor plate  350   a  is mounted. 
     Preferably, when all wings are in an “at rest” position, capacitor plate pairs  350   a,    350   b  and  352   a ,  352   b  will be spaced apart a sufficient distance to accommodate the desired range of deflection while providing the necessary resolution of deflection through capacitance change. In a configuration as described herein, with a deflection range of approximately 0.03 inch, a spacing between approximately 0.035 to 0.05 inch may be used, with a spacing of approximately 0.4 inch being preferred. Because the capacitance sensors formed using capacitor plates  350   a ,  350   b  will be used to identify a relatively small deflection and to provide a quantitative measurement of that deflection, and because reasonable precision is desired, it can be seen that one plate of each pair of capacitor plates ( 350   b ,  352   b ) is sized smaller than the corresponding plate with which it interacts ( 350   a ,  352   a ). This sizing difference helps to avoid edge effects between the plates that could otherwise diminish the accuracy of the measurements. Capacitor plates  350   a ,  350   b  will be in electrical communication with electronic circuitry, as indicated at  358 . The electrical configuration of the capacitance sensors may be achieved in a conventional manner, as known to those skilled in the art. Electronic circuitry  358  may also include such processors and other components as may be used to implement some or all of the processing functions described herein, for example, those functions described in reference to the flow chart of  FIG. 7 . 
     This description will now further address the connections between middle wing  310  and upper wing  312 . In a manner similar to that depicted in reference to the schematic representation of  FIG. 2 , middle wing  310  further includes a pair of relatively upwardly extending arms  360 ,  362 , which extend generally perpendicular to the direction of downwardly extending arms  322 ,  324 , thereby extending to the relative “sides” of force sensor assembly  302 . Again, each arm  360 ,  362  terminates in a respective support bar  364 ,  366 . 
     As can be seen from the figures, upper wing  312  preferably extends between the two upwardly extending arms  360 ,  362  of middle wing  310 , and thus extends generally above and along lower wing  308 . In this example, upper wing  312  is coupled in laterally movable relation to the wings below it, and in pivoting relation to upper shell  306 , such as through a pivot connection  368  between upper wing  312  and upper shell  306 . Pivot connection  368  preferably includes a pivot pin  370  that engages apertures in upper wing  312  and surfaces in shell  306  to provide an axis of rotation between those components. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, this pivoting motion may be used to provide a controlled, vertical range of motion between shell  306  and lower plate  304  of mouse assembly  300 , thereby facilitating the well-known “mouse click” movement, with the electrical functionality of the mouse click provided by conventional circuitry within mouse assembly  300 . 
     Upper wing  312  includes a pair of downwardly extending arms  372 ,  374  that end in generally longitudinally extending supports  380 ,  382  attached to the lower extent of “lateral” flexure assemblies, indicated generally at  384  and  386 . In this example, flexure assemblies  384 ,  386  are constructed essentially identically to flexure assemblies  330  and  332 . Each flexure assembly  384 ,  386  includes a respective flex band  388 ,  390  which extends between a respective pair of support bars  360  and  380 , and  362  and  382 , and is secured thereto by mounting bars  356   a ,  356   b ,  356   c ,  356   d . As will be apparent from the discussion above, flexure assemblies  384 ,  386  will generally resist movement other than along a generally lateral axis extending generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis  344 . 
     Referring now primarily to  FIG. 3 , therein is shown that when force sensor assembly  302  is assembled within mouse assembly  300 , it will be at least partially maintained in orientation within the mouse assembly by engagement between force sensor assembly  302  and lower support plate  304 . That engagement may be made through use of screws or any other suitable attachment mechanism. 
     Additionally, it can be seen that any downward pressure applied to mouse assembly  300  may be applied from the upper shell  306  through the three wings of force sensor  302 . The structure described above has each wing coupled to the lower extent of a flexure assembly attached to the wing below it, which in turn, is then attached to the upper extent of the flexure assembly in question. This structure serves to cause downward or compressive force on mouse assembly  300  to be transmitted through force sensor  302  by placing each flexure assembly in tension, rather than compression. This provides increased stability within force sensor  302 , and also avoids possible damage that could occur, such as buckling, if the flex assemblies were placed in compression, rather than tension. While the principles described herein may be used with a force sensor in which the flexure assemblies would be placed in compression, the need for structure that can withstand that compression could complicate the design and configuration of those flexure assemblies. Accordingly, in at least some examples of the invention utilizing a flexure assembly including a flex band or other member, as depicted in these Figures, this placing of the flexure assemblies in tension in response to applied force is a desirable feature. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6A , the figure depicts an example of an alternative design for a force sensor assembly, indicated generally at  600 . In contrast to force sensor assembly  302 , which generally restricts movement between structural members to either of two perpendicular axes, force sensor assembly  600  allows 360 degrees of movement of a first structural member relative to a second structural member. In force sensor assembly  600 , although the movement is allowed to occur freely, the measurement of the movement will be determined through reference to measurements along two axes, such as through capacitance-based position sensors, as discussed previously. 
     Force sensor  600  includes a support platform  602 , serving as a relatively stationary, or reference, structural member. A central pillar  604  extends from support platform  602  and supports an upper platform  606 . Upper platform  606  is used to suspend a floating platform  608 . Floating platform  608  may be suspended by any sufficiently flexible mechanism that will allow deflection of floating platform  608  relative to support platform  602 , preferably through 360 degrees of movement, as discussed above. In one embodiment, a plurality of flexible strands or cables  610  are used as suspension members to suspend floating platform  608 . Such strands or cables may be secured in place by enlarged heads or other mechanisms, indicated generally at  622  for terminating such devices. The suspension members may be distributed in any pattern to provide even and flexible support. For example, placement of cables at four corners of a square upper platform  606 , or along perpendicular diameter lines of a circular platform, are examples that could be used. 
     As identified above, force sensor assembly  600  includes a first capacitance sensor indicated generally at  612 , and a second capacitance sensor indicated generally at  614  with the capacitance plate sensing pairs  616   a ,  616   b  and  618   a ,  618   b , arranged in spaced relation relative to two orthogonal axes to measure deflection relative to the two axes. In this example, a first capacitance plate of each sensor is supported by lower plate  602 , and the other capacitance sensor plates  616   b ,  618   b  are each supported by floating platform  608 . The general structure and operation of capacitance sensors  612  and  614  is otherwise similar to that previously described. As shown in  FIG. 6B , a resistance mechanism  624 , such as an annular deformable member can be placed within aperture  620  in plate  608  (surrounding support pillar  604  to allow freedom of movement of floating platform  608 ), so as to provide a resistance within force sensor assembly  600  to the deflection that results from a force acting on floating platform  608 . Such a resistance mechanism could be, for example, a silicon rubber sleeve. 
     As noted above, in some examples of input devices in which a force sensor as described and illustrated herein may be used, such as the computer mouse  300  identified in reference to  FIG. 3 , the force sensor measurements will be used in combination with a speed measurement to provide an output indicating planar coordinates (X, Y) which may be used in a conventional manner to provide updated coordinates for a cursor relative to pixels on a display screen. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , therein is depicted a flowchart  700  graphically depicting this method of operation of an input device incorporating a force sensor constructed in accordance with the teachings herein. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, some processing of the signals from such a force sensor, in combination with the signals from at least one other sensor, will be required to provide complete input device functionality. Although conceptually, much of this processing could be done within the processing system to which the input device will be attached, a preferred configuration is to perform at least a portion of the processing through one or more processors within the input device. Accordingly, it should be understood that the below-described method of operation may be performed entirely by processors within the input device, or may be performed, at least in part through a processor within the processing system to which the input device is attached. Each such processor will have appropriate signal inputs, and will include some machine-readable media. In most cases, the processors will also be operatively coupled to additional machine-readable media. Such machine-readable media will preferably be in the form of some form of solid-state memory, as may be formed using electrical, optical or magnetic, or any other type of information storage mechanism, suitable for temporarily or relatively permanently storing information for access by a machine. The term “machine-readable media” as used herein is expressly includes both single and plural instances of any such storage mechanisms. Although those skilled in the art will recognize many possible configurations for devices for performing the processing functionality, one example configuration is seen in  FIG. 3 , wherein a processing module  358  is depicted. Processing module  358  may be relatively simple, including one or more processors, any external machine-readable media, and any additional required components contained on a printed circuit board, as depicted. 
     As discussed above, the force sensor will yield at least two, and possibly more, measurements of deflection. Where only two measurements are used, the most straightforward configurations will have those measurements along orthogonally arranged (X-Y) axes. Accordingly, using this simple case, the algorithm begins with receiving the X direction deflection signal  702 , and receiving the Y direction deflection signal  704  from the deflection sensors, such as the described capacitance sensors of mouse  300 . The act of receiving the signals from the deflection sensors includes any desired processing of those deflection signals. For example, in the case of capacitance measurement signals, it will often be desirable to filter or otherwise smooth the output signals. Additionally, depending upon the desired configuration for performing further operations with the signals, it may be preferable to digitize those signals for further processing. Other types of processing are, of course, possible. After the signals have been received and processed as desired, the signals may be combined in a conventional manner to yield a directional vector  706 , the directional vector representing the direction of the lateral, or planar, movement of the input device along the support surface. 
     As noted earlier herein, the directional information from the force sensor will be combined with another measurement, such as a speed signal, which will be received in the algorithm  708 , been processed any further matter desired. One preferred mechanism for generation of that speed signal is a vibration sensor. In such a system, the vibration signal from the sensor may be analyzed, for example to determine the number of signal spikes within a predetermined time interval (or alternatively, the number of zero crossings) to generate a vibration frequency measurement. Where such measurements are made in response to a time interval, an interval such as approximately 8 ms (or a sample rate of approximately 125 Hz), may conveniently be used. Alternatively, a portion of the vibration response spectrum, representing a response during a selected time interval, may be modeled in subjected to a Fourier transformation to provide an estimate of the speed. Additional explanations of various methods for determining speed of an input device from vibration measurements may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/235,326, filed Sep. 22, 2008, and entitled “Using Vibration to Determine the Motion of an Input Device;” and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/182,799, filed Jul. 30, 2008, and entitled “Velocity Stabilization for Accelerometer Based Input Devices;” each of which is assigned to the assignee of the present application; and each of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. 
     The speed signal and the direction vector will then be used to determine a positioning signal  710 , and then to generate a position signal output  712 . The position signal may, for example, include incremental input device coordinates (ΔX, ΔY) which are then processed in a conventional manner to provide updated coordinates for a cursor relative to pixels on a display screen. The signal output may then be communicated through a conventional connection, such as may be provided through a USB link, to the processing system with which the input device is being used. The processing system will then typically implement suitable drivers to translate incremental input device coordinates (ΔX, ΔY) and/or any other portions of the position signal output into incremental movement along pixels of the display device. 
     An alternative implementation of a processing algorithm may be used wherein no direction vector is directly determined, but wherein the X and Y deflection signals are combined directly with the speed signal to generate a positioning signal. For example, one way of performing such combination is to multiply each of the X and Y deflection signals by the magnitude of the speed measurement, to generate the incremental input device coordinates (ΔX, ΔY). 
     There are many additional alternative constructions that may be envisioned to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings of this disclosure. For example, force sensor assembly  300  of  FIGS. 3-5  depicts flexure elements achieved through flex bands, which deflect in response to applied force, and then return to essentially their original position and state. Force sensor assembly  600  of  FIG. 6  depicts a flexible member which suspends a structural member through flexible elements to facilitate the necessary displacement in response to applied force. However, alternative flexible yet resilient interconnections may be envisioned. For example,  FIG. 8  depicts a connection  800  as might be implemented between two structural members  802 ,  804  through placement of a resilient elastomeric element  806  between the two members. Such elastomeric element could be formed, as just one example, by a resilient silicone compound. In the depicted connection  800 , the structural members are configured with complementary extending lips  808 ,  810  that embrace opposite sides of elastomeric element  806 . However, where elastomeric element  806  would be formed through a material that either had adhesive properties or could be used in combination with an appropriate adhesive, such lips would not be required; and a resilient connection could be established just through just the adhesive coupling between the two structural members, conceivably between purely planar portions of such structural members. 
     Many additional modifications and variations may be made in the techniques and structures described and illustrated herein. For example, for any of the described force sensor assemblies, even those restricted to motion that is generally restricted to just two axes, it could be desirable to use additional deflection measurement sensors. For example, depending upon the ability of the input device exterior components (such as base  302  and outer shell  304  of  FIG. 3 ), to resist uneven deflection, such as yaw (rotating relative to a vertical axis extending through the input device), it could be desirable to have an additional pair of deflection sensors proximate opposite ends of the force sensor assembly. In such configuration, the measurements from the sensors can be averaged or otherwise referenced with one another to optimize the accuracy of the measurement in the direction to which the sensors are responsive to an applied force. Additionally, a speed signal could be generated by alternative structures, including mechanical contact sensors, optical sensors, etc. Additionally, other systems than the capacitance sensors described herein may be used for determining the relative movement between components. Examples of systems that could be used in place of electrically-based systems are distance sensing mechanisms based on light (such as laser systems), sound (such as ultrasonic sensors), or pressure (such as piezoelectric systems). Accordingly the scope of the invention should be expressly understood to be limited only by the scope of the claims that are supported by the present specification, as well as all equivalents of such claims.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20090114
Publication Date: 20130521
Grant Date: 20130521
Priority Date: 20080930
Inventors: BASKETT LAWRENCE JARED
AMM DAVID THOMAS
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G01L5/165", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03543", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01L5/223", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01L5/223", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G01L5/165", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03543", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 42058338