PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11275451-B2
Application Number: US-202016795270-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Deployable key mouse

Abstract:
A computer input device can include a housing, a set of key switch mechanisms positioned in the housing, and a removable key structure that is operable between a first configuration positioned in the housing and a second configuration detached from the housing. The removable key can have a position sensor, wherein in the first configuration, the removable key structure is operable to provide a key-based typing input, and, in the second configuration, the removable key structure is operable as a computer pointing device using the position sensor. The removable key structure can therefore allow comfortable, portable, and precise pointer input for a computer input system.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A computer input device, comprising:
 a housing; 
 a set of key switch mechanisms positioned in the housing; 
 a removable key structure operable between a first configuration positioned within a receptacle in the housing and a second configuration detached from the housing, the removable key structure comprising a position sensor configured to detect movement of the removable key structure; and 
 wherein in the first configuration, the removable key structure is operable to provide a key-based typing input; 
 wherein in the second configuration, the removable key structure is operable as a computer pointing device using the position sensor by detecting movement of the removable key structure. 
 
     
     
       2. The computer input device of  claim 1 , wherein the removable key structure further comprises an input transducer to detect a user touch on, or movement of, a top surface of the removable key structure. 
     
     
       3. The computer input device of  claim 1 , wherein the removable key structure is positioned in a socket in the housing in the first configuration. 
     
     
       4. The computer input device of  claim 1 , wherein the removable key structure comprises an internal key switch mechanism and a second housing, wherein the internal key switch mechanism is deflectable relative to the second housing, the second housing being detachable from the housing. 
     
     
       5. The computer input device of  claim 1 , wherein the removable key structure comprises a body portion having an expandable side feature. 
     
     
       6. The computer input device of  claim 1 , wherein the removable key structure is detachable from a key switch mechanism of the set of key switch mechanisms. 
     
     
       7. The computer input device of  claim 1 , wherein the removable key structure is detachable from a keycap connected to the housing. 
     
     
       8. The computer input device of  claim 1 , wherein the removable key structure further comprises an internal energy storage device, wherein the internal energy storage device is configured to receive energy in the first configuration. 
     
     
       9. The computer input device of  claim 1 , wherein the removable key structure further comprises a bottom surface and a spacer configured to separate the bottom surface from a support surface when the removable key structure is in the second configuration. 
     
     
       10. A computer input system, comprising:
 a base structure; 
 an input device having a housing containing an optical sensor operable to output an electronic position signal of the housing; 
 a support structure to connect the housing of the input device to the base structure; 
 wherein in a first configuration, the housing of the input device is movable between an upward-biased first position relative to the base structure while retained to the support structure, and a depressed second position relative to the base structure while retained to the support structure; 
 wherein in a second configuration, the housing of the input device is detached from the support structure and the input device is operable to output the electronic position signal. 
 
     
     
       11. The computer input system of  claim 10 , further comprising a switch, wherein a force applied to the top surface of the input device actuates the switch upon depression of the input device relative to the base structure. 
     
     
       12. The computer input system of  claim 10 , wherein the input device and the support structure are coupled by a magnetic structure attracting the input device to the support structure. 
     
     
       13. The computer input system of  claim 10 , wherein the support structure comprises a key stabilizer reversibly attachable and detachable to the input device. 
     
     
       14. The computer input system of  claim 10 , wherein the support structure comprises a keycap reversibly attachable and detachable to the input device. 
     
     
       15. The computer input system of  claim 10 , wherein application of an off-center force to a top surface of the input device separates the input device from the support structure. 
     
     
       16. The computer input system of  claim 10 , wherein if the input device deflects relative to the base structure below a threshold distance, the input device is locked to the support structure when the force is removed, and if the input device deflects relative to the base structure at or above the threshold distance, the input device is unlocked from the support structure when the force is removed. 
     
     
       17. A computer input system, comprising:
 a keyboard apparatus including: 
 a housing; 
 a set of key switch mechanisms positioned in the housing; and 
 a controller in electronic communication with the set of key switch mechanisms; and 
 an input device removably attachable to the housing among the set of key switch mechanisms, the input device including:
 a body; 
 a sensor positioned in the body; 
 wherein in a first configuration of the input device, the input device is attached to the keyboard apparatus and the sensor produces a first output registered by the controller as a first input type wherein the first input type includes a key-based typing input; 
 wherein in a second configuration of the input device, the input device is positioned spaced away from the keyboard apparatus and the sensor produces a second output that is registered by the controller as a second input type, wherein the second input type is an input of a relative movement of the input device. 
 
 
     
     
       18. The computer input system of  claim 17 , wherein the first input type is a position or movement of an appendage of a user relative to the sensor. 
     
     
       19. The computer input system of  claim 17 , wherein the sensor includes an optical sensor. 
     
     
       20. The computer input system of  claim 17 , wherein the second input type is a mouse click. 
     
     
       21. The computer input device of  claim 1 , wherein the removable key structure is positioned among the set of key switch mechanisms with spacing equal to adjacent keys of the set of key switch mechanisms.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to computer systems and computer input devices. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to a keyboard with a removable key usable as a separate input device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The computer mouse has become an essential component of desktop computing since graphical user interface was popularized in the 1980s with the introduction of the Apple Macintosh. In the succeeding years, the computer mouse has undergone a series of innovations including the addition of a right- and left-click button, a scroll wheel, an optical sensor, a track ball sensor, a laser sensor, and wireless communication to the host computer. A mouse typically incorporates an ergonomic shape to fit comfortably into the hand, which is one factor that has kept its size relatively stable. Handheld mouse input is also well-suited for many types of precise tasks, such as graphic design, computer-assisted design and modeling, and editing large and complex documents. 
     In some cases, portable computing devices such as laptop and tablet computers benefit from using a peripheral mouse input device. However, the user is then burdened with carrying the separate mouse with the computer, and the separate device can be redundant when the computer already has built-in pointing devices. Accordingly, there is a constant need for improvements and innovations to input devices for computer systems. 
     SUMMARY 
     An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a computer input device comprising a housing, a set of key switch mechanisms positioned in the housing, and a removable key structure operable between a first configuration positioned in the housing and a second configuration detached from the housing. The removable key can comprise a position sensor. In the first configuration, the removable key structure can be operable to provide a key-based typing input, and in the second configuration, the removable key structure can be operable as a computer pointing device using the position sensor. 
     In some embodiments, the removable key structure further comprises an input transducer to detect a user touch on, or movement of, a top surface of the removable key structure. The removable key structure can be positioned in a socket or recess in the housing in the first configuration. The removable key structure can comprise an internal key switch mechanism and a second housing, wherein the internal key switch mechanism can be deflectable relative to the second housing, and the second housing can be detachable from the housing of the computer input device. The removable key structure can comprise a body portion having an expandable side feature. The removable key structure can be detachable from a key switch mechanism of the set of key switch mechanisms. The removable key structure can be detachable from a keycap or subkey connected to the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the removable key structure can further comprise an internal energy storage device, wherein the internal energy storage device is configured to receive energy in the first configuration. The removable key structure can also further comprise a bottom surface and a spacer configured to separate the bottom surface from a support surface when the removable key structure is in the second configuration. 
     Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a computer input system comprising a base structure, an input device operable to output an electronic position signal, and a support structure to connect the input device to the base structure. In a first configuration, the input device can be coupled to the support structure, and a force applied to a top surface of the input device can deflect the input device relative to the base structure. In a second configuration, the input device can be detached from the support structure, and the input device can be operable to output the electronic position signal. 
     In some embodiments, the input system can further comprise a switch, wherein the force applied to the top surface of the input device actuates the switch upon deflection of the input device relative to the base structure. The input device and the support structure can also be coupled by a magnetic structure attracting the input device to the support structure. The support structure can comprise a key stabilizer reversibly attachable and detachable to the input device. The support structure can comprise a keycap reversibly attachable to, and detachable from, the input device. 
     In some embodiments, application of an off-center force to the top surface of the input device can separate the input device from the support structure. If the input device deflects relative to the base structure below a threshold distance, the input device can be locked to the support structure when the force is removed, and if the input device deflects relative to the base structure at or above the threshold distance, the input device can be unlocked from the support structure when the force is removed. 
     Yet another aspect of the disclosure relates to a computer input system that comprises a keyboard apparatus including a housing, a set of key switch mechanisms positioned in the housing, a controller in electronic communication with the set of key switch mechanisms, and an input device removably attachable to the housing among the set of key switch mechanisms. The input device can include a body and a sensor positioned in the body, wherein in a first configuration of the input device, the input device is attached to the keyboard apparatus and output of the sensor is registered by the controller as a first input type, and wherein in a second configuration of the input device, the input device is positioned spaced away from the keyboard apparatus and output of the sensor is registered by the controller as a second input type. 
     In some embodiments, the first input type can be a position or movement of an appendage of a user relative to the sensor. The second input type can be a position or movement of the body of the input device. The first input type can be a key-based typing input and the second input type can be a mouse click. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows an isometric, partially-exploded view of a computer input device. 
         FIG. 1A  shows a partial and partially-exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a computer input device. 
         FIG. 1B  shows a partial and partially-exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a computer input device. 
         FIG. 2  shows a simplified, diagrammatic side view of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 2A  shows a partial and simplified isometric view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 2B  shows a partial and simplified side view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 2C  shows a partial and simplified side view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 3  shows an isometric view of a top portion of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 4  shows a simplified side section view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 5  shows a simplified side section view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 6  shows a simplified side section view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 7  shows a simplified side section view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 8  shows a simplified side section view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device on a base surface and support structure. 
         FIG. 9  shows a simplified side section view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device on a base surface and support structure. 
         FIG. 10  shows a simplified side view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device on a subkey. 
         FIG. 11  shows a simplified bottom view of an embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 12  shows a simplified bottom view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 13  shows a simplified side section view of a removable input device in an enclosure recess. 
         FIG. 14  shows a simplified side section view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device in an enclosure recess. 
         FIG. 15  shows a simplified side section view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device in an enclosure recess. 
         FIG. 16  shows a simplified isometric view of an embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 17  shows a simplified isometric view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 18  shows a simplified isometric view of an alternative embodiment of a removable input device. 
         FIG. 19  shows a simplified side view of a removable input device on a support body. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     Trackpads, pointing sticks (e.g., “eraser head” mice), trackballs, and similar pointing devices for computer equipment can be difficult and straining to use over long periods of time and for certain types of work with a computer. Additionally, trackpads, pointing sticks, and trackballs take up valuable space in portable electronic devices that have constantly dwindling size and thicknesses. A sliding handheld mouse is generally more comfortable for fine pointer operations or extended use, but handheld mice are also large, are of limited portability, or require particular work environments (e.g., ones with a proper mouse tracking surface) to be used effectively. 
     Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure relate to input devices where a keyboard is provided that has at least one deployable and removable input device that is specialized for input similar to a handheld mouse, stylus, wand, or other remote, handheld input to a computing device when the deployable input device is separated from the keyboard. For example, the specialized key can be removable from the keyboard and can comprise input and sensor features configured to receive a “click” input from a user and to track the position or movement of the deployed key as it moved across a tracking surface. In some embodiments, the removable key is operable between a first configuration wherein it is usable as a key having a first function when attached to or positioned in the housing of the keyboard, such as a key switch input function, and having a second configuration with a second function when separated from the housing, such as a mouse input function. 
     Accordingly, the removable key can comprise features and elements that enable the key to operate as a mouse or other remote input device, such as an optical tracking sensor configured to face and sense the position or movement of a surface below the optical tracking sensor. The key can also have a button, touch sensor, or similar structure for sensing a click input from a user. 
     In some embodiments, the computer input device can have a base structure (e.g., a housing for a keyboard), an input device (e.g., a key) operable to output an electronic position signal (e.g., a signal from an optical position tracker, an inertial measurement unit, etc.), and a support structure or key switch mechanism to connect the input device to the base structure (e.g., a hinge, scissor mechanism, butterfly mechanism, or similar structure with or without a supporting subkey). In a first configuration, the input device can be coupled to the support structure and a force applied to the top surface of the input device can deflect the input device relative to the base structure. In some embodiments, this deflection can be registered by a controller as a key input. In a second configuration, the input device can be detached from the support structure, and the input device can be operable to output the electronic position signal, such as by indicating a location or movement of the input device relative to a reference surface or reference direction (e.g., relative to a gravitational direction). 
     Furthermore, some aspects of the disclosure relate to a computer input system having a keyboard apparatus with a controller and an input device that is removably attachable to a housing of the keyboard apparatus among other key switch mechanisms. The input device can have a sensor within its body that can output a signal that is registered as a first input type (e.g., a key make) when in a first configuration and that can be registered as a second input type (e.g., a mouse click) when in a second configuration spaced away from the keyboard apparatus. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1 through 19 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  shows an isometric view of a computer input system  100  according to an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein a keyboard  102  has a removable key  104  (i.e., a removable or deployable key structure).  FIG. 1A  shows a partial view of an embodiment of the system  100  of  FIG. 1  wherein a deployable set of keys  106  is removable from the keyboard  102 .  FIG. 1B  shows another partial view of an embodiment of the system  100  of  FIG. 1  wherein a key  108  and its own independent housing  110  are removable from the keyboard  102 , and wherein the independent housing  110  fits alongside and fills a gap or opening through or within the housing  114  of the keyboard  102 . 
     Accordingly, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the input system  100  can comprise a keyboard  102  with a set of fixed keys (e.g., key switch mechanisms/keys  112 ) positioned in or attached to a housing  114 . At least one removable key  104  can be mounted to the housing  114  or one of the fixed keys. The removable key  104  can be used as a separately-movable input device and can be used to provide input that is different in nature from the keyboard  102 . 
     The keyboard  102  is shown with a reduced-size form factor in  FIG. 1 , but in various embodiments, the keyboard  102  can comprise more or fewer keys, such as, for example, a tenkeyless layout, full-size layout, numpad or “tenkey” layout, 60 percent, 65 percent, 75 percent, ergonomic or split hand layout, or another variation of keyboard layout. Thus, the keyboard  102  of  FIG. 1  is shown as an illustrative example of one of many possible keyboards that could be used with a removable input device. 
     The keyboard  102  can be a keyboard for a computing device (not shown) such as a desktop, laptop, or tablet computer and can be configured to provide key-based typing input to the computing device. In some embodiments, the keyboard  102  is part of the computing device, such as by being built into a chassis or enclosure of a laptop or tablet device. The housing  114  can therefore be a standalone, peripheral housing or can be integrated into a housing for other computer components (e.g., batteries, processor, memory, etc.). In some embodiments, the keyboard  102  can comprise a wired or wireless interface for electrical communication with an external or connected computing device. The keyboard  102  can also comprise a connection to a power source such as an external power source (e.g., power provided by a port of a computer or an internal battery) or an internal power source (e.g., a battery within the keyboard  102 ). 
     As used herein, “key-based typing input” refers to the type of input provided using a conventional keyboard, wherein each one of the keys (e.g.,  112 ) is configured with at least two input states, with those input states including a first state in which a first signal (or no signal) is produced, and the key is at rest, and a second state in which a second signal is produced, and the key has been actuated and produces or triggers a keycode at a keyboard controller. This type of input can be transduced by a series of switches (e.g., deflecting conductors paired with collapsible domes) that are actuated when a key is pressed and are unactuated when the key is released. In some embodiments, the keys  112  are configured to provide binary (i.e., on/off) signal output to a controller (e.g., a keyboard controller or computer controller). In some cases, the keys  112  can provide a range of output signals (e.g., signals that correspond to force applied to a key or that correspond to a range of different deflection amounts of the key). 
     The removable key  104  can be positioned in the keyboard  102  among the other keys (e.g.,  112 ). In this manner, the removable key  104  can be positioned adjacent to a neighboring key or set of neighboring keys with the same spacing that is applied to other keys of the keyboard  102 . In some embodiments, the removable key  104  is positioned in a standard position in the keyboard  102 , wherein the removable key  104  replaces or stands in place of a key in a conventional keyboard layout. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the removable key  104  can be positioned where a conventional left “CTRL” key is located. Thus, the removable key  104  can be positioned in an extreme bottom corner of the keyboard  102 . In another example embodiment, the removable key  104  can be located in another corner of the keyboard, in a central part of the keyboard, or on an edge of the keyboard. In some embodiments, the removable key  104  can replace one or more keys elsewhere on the keyboard  102 , such as an “ESC” key, “ENTER” key, “SHIFT” key, “F” or “J” homing key, “ALT” key, “COMMAND” key, “SPACEBAR” key, etc. In some embodiments, it can be beneficial for the removable key  104  to replace or cover a large key (i.e., greater than one keyboard key size unit) in the keyboard  102  so that the removable key  104  has a larger body to grasp by the user and so that the key  104  has more volume for storage of its own internal components. See  FIG. 2 . 
     In some embodiments, the removable key  104  can be positioned within the housing  114  of the keyboard  102 . Thus, the key  104  can be located between side walls  116 ,  118 ,  120 ,  122  of the housing  114 . For a keyboard  102  with a generally horizontal rectangular key input area (e.g., as defined by the keys shown in  FIG. 1 ), the removable key  104  can be positioned within the perimeter of the rectangular area. In some embodiments, the keys (e.g.,  104 ,  112 ) can be “floating” or otherwise protrude above the top surface  124  of the housing. Accordingly, the removable key  104  can be considered “within the housing” when it is attached to the housing and positioned among other keys of the housing. In some embodiments, the removable key  104  has other keys positioned next to it in at least two perpendicular directions (e.g., keys  126 ,  128 ). In some embodiments, the removable key  104  (or a removable structure of  FIGS. 1A-1B ) can be retained to the housing  114  until it is released or deployed by the user pressing a button or other key (e.g., keys  126 ,  128  or a button on a side (e.g.,  118 ) of the housing  114 ). 
     In some embodiments, the removable key  104  is positionable in a recess  130 , socket, or receptacle in the housing  114 . In some cases, the removable key  104  is positionable upon a key or support structure that is positioned in the recess  130 , even if the removable key  104  itself is not within the recess  130 . See, e.g.,  FIG. 9 . The recess  130  can hide and protect the sides or bottom of the removable key  104 , its support structures, and electrical charging or control features of the removable key  104  or keyboard  102 . See also  FIGS. 8, 9, 13, 14, and 15 . The recess  130  can be a recess having a bottom surface or base structure that is positioned below and faces the removable key  104  when the removable key  104  is coupled to the keyboard  102 . See, e.g.,  FIGS. 8, 9, 13 , and  14 . In some embodiments, the recess  130  can instead be a through-hole that does not have a bottom surface below the removable key  104 , wherein the bottom surface of the removable key  104  faces a support surface below the keyboard  102 . See  FIG. 15 . In some cases, the recess  130  can have lateral sides that are open to the supporting structures of neighboring keys (e.g., as shown below keys  129  in  FIG. 1B ). In other cases, the sides of the recess  130  can be covered by a barrier or can have a sidewall or web structure (e.g.,  131  in  FIG. 1A ). The barrier, sidewall, or web structure can prevent intrusion of invasive materials (e.g., debris or fluids) beneath other keys, can improve the aesthetic appearance of the recess  130 , and can improve the rigidity of the housing  114  at the recess  130 . 
     The removable key  104  can be removable from the keyboard  102  by removing a key or a portion of a key assembly, as shown in  FIG. 1 . In some cases, the key or portion of the assembly is removable in a vertical direction from the keyboard  102 , as also shown in  FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, the key or portion of the assembly can be removed horizontally from the keyboard  102  (e.g., similar to  FIG. 1B ) or is removable by rotation away from the keyboard  102  (e.g., similar to  FIG. 9 ). In some embodiments, when the removable key  104  is removed, a subkey or other structure positioned below the position where the removable key  104  was removed can be operated to provide key-based typing input in the absence of the removable key  104 . See also  FIGS. 9-10  and their related descriptions herein. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1A , a set of keys  106  can be removable from the keyboard  102  and utilized as a remote input device. The set of keys  106  can comprise their own housing  132  and their own individual support structures positioned in the housing  132  (e.g., their own switches, stabilizers, movements mechanisms, internal light source, etc.). Thus, each key of the set of keys  106  can be operated independently when they are positioned in the housing  114  or when they are removed from the housing  114 . In this manner, the set of keys acting as a remote input device  106  can have multiple different buttons that provide different operations or functions. The inclusion of multiple keys and a separate housing  132  can also increase the amount of available volume for components of the removable input device and for grasping by the user. The housing  132  can be attachable to the housing  114  in a recess  134 . When the housing  132  is attached to the keyboard housing  114 , it can be stationary or can be translatable relative to the keyboard housing  114 . For example, the housing  132  can itself be operated as a key for key-based typing input. The recess  134  below the set of keys  106  can have similar functions and structures as the recess  130  below removable key  104 . The set of keys  106  can be incorporated in other embodiments of input devices disclosed elsewhere herein. 
     The embodiment of  FIG. 1B  shows that a single removable key  108  can comprise its own housing  110 , and that that housing  110  can be configured to fit within and as a part of the housing  114  of the keyboard  102 . For example, the housing  114  can have a receptacle  136  to receive the housing  110 , and the outer edges and surfaces of the housing  110  can follow the shape and contour of the outer edges and surfaces of the housing  114  when the removable key  108  is attached to the keyboard  102 . The embodiment of  FIG. 1B  can conveniently be detachable from the keyboard  102  by rotating the removable key  108  relative to the housing  114  (e.g., as indicated by arrow A) or by translating the removable key  108  (e.g., as indicated by axis X). In some embodiments, the key  108  can be removed by moving it vertically (similar to the direction of the broken lines for key  104  shown in  FIG. 1 ). See also  FIG. 15  and its related description below. 
     The removable keys  104 ,  106 ,  108  can be beneficially stored and carried by the keyboard  102  while the keyboard  102  and keys  104 ,  106 ,  108  are in a typing configuration, wherein all keys (including keys  104 ,  106 ,  108 ) are configured to provide key-based typing input. In this state, the keyboard  102  as a whole can be highly portable and compact as compared to devices where a keyboard and trackpad, peripheral mouse, or other pointing device are used together. Accordingly, the keyboard  102  can be efficiently implemented in the small body constraints of laptops and other portable electronic devices to provide key-based typing input, yet the keyboard  102  can also be reconfigured (via the removable keys  104 ,  106 ,  108 ) to provide the functionality that a peripheral mouse provides, as explained in further detail below. 
       FIG. 2  shows a diagrammatic side view of a removable input device  200  configured to be reversibly attached and detached from a keyboard (e.g., keyboard  102 ). The removable input device  200  can correspond to removable key  104  of input system  100 , and features and elements of removable input device  200  can be implemented in the other removable keys  106 ,  108  of  FIGS. 1A and 1B . The removable input device  200  can comprise a body or housing  202  and a top button  204  (or top input device). The housing  202  can contain a set of electronic components such as, for example, a processing and control unit  206 , an inertial measurement unit  208 , an optical sensor  210 , a battery  212 , and a switch  214 . In some embodiments, a magnetic structure  216  is also located in the housing  202 . While not specifically shown, the removable input device may also include sensors, actuators and other devices configured to provide haptic or sensory feedback (e.g., vibration or force feedback) to a user. The housing  202  can comprise a bottom surface  218  to which one or more bottom support pads  220  or spacers can be attached. The simplified diagram of  FIG. 2  has exaggerated proportions in order to preserve clarity in the description of the parts. Additionally, electronic components in this and other figures herein can have electrical connections (e.g., to power sources, controllers, etc.) as needed to function in harmony with their descriptions herein. In some embodiments, the input device  200  can comprise an audio input sensor (e.g., a microphone) configured to sense audio input that can be relayed to a connected computing device. For example, the input device  200  can be used to receive and record or transmit sounds and voices (e.g., whispers) to provide input to the computing device. Positioning an audio input sensor on the input device  200  can beneficially help the user provide audio input from a location that is remote from the rest of the keyboard (e.g., near their mouth) to reduce the amount of background noise or to reduce the required sound volume to record the input. 
       FIG. 2A  shows that in some embodiments, the housing  202  can comprise a side surface  222  that can include a retractable body portion  224 . The retractable body portion  224  can be extendable from the side surface  222  to increase the size of the housing  202 , as indicated by numeric indicator  226 , which shows an extended configuration relative to the housing  202 . The body portion  224  can therefore alternatively be referred to as an expandable side feature of the housing  202 . The body portion  224  can therefore be deployable from the side surface  222  of the housing  202  to increase the graspable size of the removable input device  200  or to make space within the removable input device  200  (e.g., for operational movement of the top button  204  or movable bottom supports (see  FIGS. 2B-2C )). In some embodiments, the retractable body portion  224  can be automatically deployed upon removal of the removable input device  200  from a housing (e.g.,  114 ), subkey, charger, or other part of a keyboard (e.g.,  102 ). In some embodiments, the housing  202  can comprise multiple retractable body portions  224  positioned on one or multiple sides of the housing  202 , thereby allowing the removable input device  200  to expand in size in multiple directions. In some embodiments, the removable input device  200  can comprise a retractable body portion  224  with an extendable or expandable central feature  1706  on a top or bottom surface of the housing  202  so that the removable input device  200  is expandable in multiple different directions (e.g., in two directions that are perpendicular to each other), thereby increasing the height and width, or the width in multiple directions, simultaneously. 
     The retractable body portion  224  can comprise a “push-push” mechanism, wherein when the retractable body portion  224  is in the state shown in solid lines in  FIG. 2A , application of an inward-directed force against the outer surface  228  thereof can release a mechanism within the retractable body portion  224  and allow the body portion  224  to translate out to the position shown in broken lines in  FIG. 2A  (i.e.,  226 ). Application of an inward-directed force against the outer surface  228  while in the position shown by numeric indicator  226  can cause the mechanism to re-latch to the position shown by numeric indicator  226 . Accordingly, a user can push the outer surface  228  to release and can also push the outer surface  228  to retract the retractable body portion  224 . 
     In some embodiments, the push-push mechanism can be operated based on deflection. For instance, if the retractable body portion  224  deflects relative to the housing beyond a threshold distance, the body portion  224  can be in the retracted position (i.e.,  224 ) when an inward-directed force is removed from the body portion  224 . If the body portion  224  deflects relative to the housing  202  at or above the threshold distance, the body portion can be unlocked and can extend from the housing (e.g., to the position indicated by  226 ). 
     In some embodiments, the retractable body portion  224  can be operable as a button, wherein the retractable body portion  224  is configured to extend from the side surface  222  unless it is depressed and deflected toward or into the housing  202 , and the deflection/depression can be sensed or can trigger a signal for the removable input device  200 . In some embodiments, the retractable body portion  224  can therefore provide an input location on the removable input device  200  in addition to the top button  204 . In some embodiments, the retractable body portion  224  can be positioned and extendable from the bottom surface  218  or top surface  230 . See  FIG. 2 . For example, the retractable body portion  224  can be a bottom support pad  220  or top button  204 . 
     The bottom support pads  220  can extend from the bottom surface  218  to space the bottom surface  218  away from a support surface (e.g., a desktop or tabletop) positioned below the removable input device  200 . Thus, the support pads  220  can prevent the housing  202  from being scratched or soiled by contact with the support surface. The bottom support pads  220  can comprise a durable material such as a rubber or durable polymer (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), delrin, or nylon) to help prevent the support pads  220  from being damaged by the support surface. 
     The bottom support pads  220  can be spaced apart from each other (or can have an opening) to accommodate and leave an open space for the optical sensor  210 . In some embodiments, a single bottom support pad  220  is positioned on the housing  202 , and it comprises a shape or opening configured to ensure that the pad  220  does not cover the optical sensor  210  or obscure light or other signals emitted from (or received by) the sensor  210 . 
     In some embodiments, the bottom support pads  220  can have a consistent shape while the removable input device  200  is being used. Accordingly, the material used in the support pads  220  can be firm. This configuration can be beneficial when the input device  200  is used on a hard, planar surface. In some embodiments, the input device  200  can be used on an irregular or rougher surface  231 , and a compliant bottom support pad  232  can be used. See  FIG. 2B . The compliant bottom support pad  232  can continuously conform to the shape of the surface  231  on which it is placed in order to smooth and keep level the movement of the input device  200  across the surface  231 . In another embodiment, a set of rollers  234  can be positioned in the bottom surface  218  and can be rotatable within the bottom surface  218  to provide rolling support for the housing  202 . See  FIG. 2C . In some cases, the rollers  234  can be translatable in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface  218 , such as in a direction along axis B. In this case, the rollers  234  can dynamically adjust to the texture or surface features of the support surface (e.g.,  231 ) as the housing  202  moves substantially level and horizontally across the support surface. 
     The embodiments of  FIGS. 2B and 2C  can be beneficially used with a removable key (e.g.,  104 ) of the keyboard  102  in order to allow the removable key to be used with the keyboard keys (e.g.,  112 ) and housing  114  as the support surface. In other words, the user can operate the deployable input device by moving it across and keeping it in contact with the keys of the keyboard  102 . In this case, the rollers  234  or compliant bottom support pad  232  can conform to the shape of the keys (e.g.,  112 ) in order to smooth out the motion of the deployable input device as it moves over the keys and their housing. This configuration can be beneficial to take advantage of the large surface area of the keyboard for tracking a mouse and thereby allowing other parts of the keyboard or computer housing to be used for other functions. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 2 , the top button  204  can comprise a top surface  236  to receive user input. The top surface  236  can be substantially planar, but in some cases can have surface features to improve the finger feel, definition, or registry of edges or center of the keys. For example, the top surface  236  can be concave, recessed, textured, or ridged. In some embodiments, the top surface  236  can be convex, as shown by surface  336  in  FIG. 3 . A convex top surface  336  can be positioned on a rectangular key housing  202  or on an elliptical or cylindrical housing  202 . A concave or convex top surface  236 ,  336  can beneficially have increased surface area as compared to a flat, planar top surface and can therefore provide additional surface area against which a user can provide touch or sliding input to the removable input device  200 , as indicated by bidirectional arrows  300 . In some embodiments the top button  204  extends across the entire top of the housing  202 , and in some cases the top button  204  can extend partially across the housing  202  (e.g., when other keys of a set of keys  106  are included in the housing  202 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , in some embodiments, the top button  204  can comprise a top plate  238  and a touch sensor  240  attached to the top plate  238 . The top plate  238  can be a rigid and durable structure configured to receive touch input and pressure from a user object (e.g., a finger or other body appendage). The touch sensor  240  can be configured to detect the presence or position of the user object on the top surface  236  of the top plate  238 . For instance, the touch sensor  240  can be a capacitive touch sensor configured to detect a change in capacitance caused by the presence of the user object (e.g., a user finger) near the touch sensor  240  (e.g., on the top surface  236 ). The touch sensor  240  can therefore be used to detect a tap or press of a user object against the top surface  236  and can produce a signal that can be used to electronically indicate that a user has provided an input to the top surface  236 . The input can be determined to be a mouse button press (i.e., a “click”) or similar input when the removable input device  200  is separated from its host keyboard  102 . When the input device  200  is attached or mounted to the keyboard  102 , the signal from the touch sensor  240  can indicate a key-based typing input (e.g., a keycode such as “Ctrl” or “Enter”). 
     Furthermore, in some embodiments, the touch sensor  240  can be used to detect the position of the user object relative to the top surface  236 , such as by determining the location of the user object on the top surface  236  in two or three dimensions. A user object can therefore touch one side of the top surface  236  to produce a first signal via the touch sensor  240  and can touch a second side of the top surface  236  to produce a second signal via the touch sensor  240 . Alternatively, the touch sensor  240  can be used to track the position of the user object over time, such as by detecting a swiping or sliding movement of the user object across the top surface  236 . These features can allow the input device  200  to have multiple input functions, including, for example, a “left click”, “right click”, and scroll or gesture input. In some embodiments, these location-based or time-based inputs can be ignored or reinterpreted as a different input (e.g., key-based typing input) while the input device  200  is attached or mounted to a host keyboard  102 . In some cases, these inputs can be enabled while attached to the keyboard  102  in addition to providing key-based typing input for certain types of sensor outputs. Accordingly, the input device  200  can provide functionality that either matches or differs from other keys of the keyboard  102  while the input device  200  is depressible or actuatable as a key of the keyboard  102 . 
     In some embodiments, the top plate  238  and touch sensor  240  can be configured to vertically translate relative to the housing  202 , as indicated by the vertical double-sided arrow in  FIG. 2 . The input device  200  can comprise a stabilizer  242  or button guide to orient the top button  204  as it moves relative to the housing  202 . In some embodiments, the stabilizer  242  can stabilize movement of the top surface  236  so that it remains parallel to the bottom surface  218  or the top end of the housing  202  as it translates relative to the housing  202 . 
     The switch  214  can comprise a transducer for detecting movement of the top button  204  relative to the housing  202 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the switch  214  can comprise a collapsible dome switch, such as a rubber or metal dome configured to output a signal to the control unit  206  when the switch  214  is compressed, buckles, collapses, or deflects. In some embodiments, the switch  214  can deflect to cause contact between two conductive members within the housing  202 , and that contact can produce a signal sent to the control unit  206 . In some embodiments, the switch  214  can be used to transduce a button press of the top button  204  (e.g., a mouse click), and the touch sensor  240  can be used to detect the location of contact between the top surface  236  and a user object or sliding movement across the top surface  236 . Accordingly, the switch  214  and touch sensor  240  can be used in tandem to detect or transduce different types of user inputs to the input device  200 . 
     The processing and control unit  206  can comprise a processor, memory, electronic data storage, input/output adapters, and related components connected to the various other electrical devices in the input device  200 . In some embodiments, the control unit  206  can comprise an electronic communications adapter, such as a wireless electronic communications adapter, to send and receive signals from the input device  200  to an external computer or controller such as a controller of the keyboard  102  or a controller of a computer for which the input device  200  is used as a mouse, trackpad, or similar pointing device. Wireless electronic communications capability of the input device  200  is symbolized by the wave symbol on the left side of the housing  202 . Alternatively, a wired connection can link the input device  200  to its host keyboard. 
     The inertial measurement unit  208  can comprise a set of sensors used to track the position or orientation of the input device  200  relative to a reference point, axis, or plane. For example, the inertial measurement unit  208  can comprise an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, or combinations thereof that track the acceleration and movement of the input device  200 . In some embodiments, the inertial measurement unit  208  can use a gravitational direction as a reference axis or direction. In some embodiments, a starting point in space can be used as a reference point. In some embodiments, the inertial measurement unit  208  can use a support surface as a reference plane, such as a surface against which the bottom support pads  220  are resting. The inertial measurement unit  208  can therefore produce signals that indicate movement of the input device  200  in multiple degrees of freedom, and that information can be used to determine where or how much to change a graphical user interface on a computing device to which the input device  200  is connected. For example, translation or rotation of the input device  200  can be detected by the inertial measurement unit  208  and can be converted into a movement of a cursor or graphical object depicted on a display screen connected to a controller in communication with the input device  200 . In this manner, the input device  200  can be moved by a user in order to provide input to a computing device. 
     In some embodiments, the orientation of the input device  200  can be used to affect the type of signal output by the input device  200 . For example, if the input device  200  is oriented with the bottom surface  218  facing gravitationally downward or toward a support surface, the signals of the optical sensor  210  can be used to indicate the position of the input device  200  relative to the support surface. If the input device is oriented with the bottom surface  218  facing upward, the signals of the optical sensor  210  can be used for other purposes, such as determining the presence, movement, or texture of a user object within range of the optical sensor  210 . In some embodiments, the signals can therefore correspond to a finger sensor or fingerprint sensor when the optical sensor  210  faces upward, but the signals of the optical sensor  210  can correspond to mouse cursor movement when the optical sensor  210  faces downward. 
     The optical sensor  210  can comprise a light source and a light detector to detect the presence, movement, or position of a reflective surface. For instance, the optical sensor  210  can comprise a light-emitting diode (LED) and an array of photodiodes to detect movement of the input device relative to a tracking or textured support surface. In some embodiments, the optical sensor  210  can comprise a highly compact size, such as by being In some embodiments, multiple optical sensors  210  can be employed to detect different types of inputs or objects. See also  FIGS. 4 and 5 . In some embodiments, the optical sensor  210  can be referred to as an electronic position sensor, and the data transduced by the optical sensor can be processed to produce an electronic position signal that indicates a position or relative movement of the removable input device  200 . 
     The battery  212  can be an energy storage device configured to provide energy to the control unit  206  and other electronic components of the input device  200 . The battery  212  can be connected to a set of contacts (see  FIGS. 9, 11, 12, 13, and 15 ) or a coil (see  FIG. 14 ) to provide charge to the battery  212  when it is mounted or attached to the keyboard  102 . 
     The magnetic structure  216  can comprise a magnet (e.g., a permanent magnet or electromagnet) or magnetic material (e.g., a ferrous material) configured to attract or be attracted to a magnetic structure external to the housing  202 . See also  FIGS. 9-10, 14, and 15 . The magnetic structure  216  can therefore be used as part of a system of parts that hold or attract the input device  200  to the keyboard  102  or subcomponents thereof. In some embodiments, the magnetic structure  216  can be used as a biasing apparatus configured to apply a magnetic force to the input device  200  to push it away from another magnetic structure. See also  FIG. 14 . 
       FIG. 4  shows a diagrammatic side view of an input device  400  according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The input device  400  can be an alternative to the input device  200  and can have many similar features and functions described in connection with input device  200 . In this case, the input device  400  has a housing  402  containing multiple optical transducers  410 ,  411 . One optical transducer  410  can be configured to both emit electromagnetic radiation (e.g., infrared or visible light) and sense the reflection of that light from a support surface  444 , as indicated by arrow  446 . This transducer  410  can therefore be referred to as an input/output transducer that is the source of the signal that it is measuring or detecting. In some alternative embodiments, the optical transducer  410  can emit light that is reflected and sensed by a second optical transducer  448 , as indicated by arrow  450 . In this case, the transducer  410  can be an emitter and the second transducer  448  can be a receiver or detector. The optical transducer(s)  410  (or  410  and  448 ) can therefore be used to monitor and track movement of the input device  400  across the support surface  444  as it tracks and senses changes in the optical signals along light paths  446  or  450 . 
     Another optical transducer  411  can be configured to direct light away from the support surface  444 , such as light directed upward toward a button pad  452  of the input device  400 . Here, the transducer  411  can be an input/output transducer. In some embodiments, the light is emitted toward a bottom surface  454  of the button pad  452 , such as toward a bottom surface of a cover plate or touch sensor of the button pad  452 . The optical transducer  411  can be configured to receive and detect reflected light from the bottom surface  454  to track movement of the bottom surface  454 , such as when a user presses against the button pad  452  and displaces the button pad  452  relative to the housing  402 . This type of transducer is indicated with bidirectional arrow along light path  456 . In some embodiments, a similar operation can be performed by an optical transducer  411  that emits light toward the bottom surface  454  and a separate transducer  458  that detects the light, as illustrated by light paths  460 . Thus, movement of the bottom surface  454  relative to the housing  402  can be detected by changes in the light paths  460  sensed at the separate transducer  458 . In either case, the movement of the button pad  452  can be used to trigger a “click” or similar input provided to the input device  200 . 
     In yet another embodiment, the optical transducer  411  can emit a light signal (e.g., along light path  462 ) configured to pass through the button pad  452 . This light can be configured to reflect back to the optical transducer  411  or another light sensor in the input device  200  that detects the presence or position of a user object  464  relative to the button pad  452 . In this case, detection or position of the user object  464  can indicate the “click” function rather than the user object applying a force to the button pad  452  or a deflection of the button pad  452 . The embodiments described in connection with  FIG. 4  can beneficially allow the input device  400  to have minimized internal complexity and moving parts (e.g., a switch  214  or moving stabilizer) and can therefore advantageously reduce the overall size or thickness of the input device  400 . 
       FIG. 5  shows yet another embodiment of an input device  500  wherein a button pad  552  is movable relative to a housing  502  (as indicated by arrow  501 ) and the housing  502  is movable relative to a support surface  544 . Thus, the input device  500  can have features and components in common with input device  200 . In this case, an optical transducer  510  can emit light substantially vertically downward and perpendicular to the support surface  544 , as indicated by light path  550 , and that light can be detected and received at least in part by the same optical transducer  510 . In some embodiments, a second transducer (similar to  448 ) can receive this signal. This reception of light signal from path  550  can be used to detect and track movement of the housing  502  relative to the support surface  544 . Light may also be emitted from the optical transducer  510  at an angle wherein the light is not reflected back to the transducer  510  but is instead reflected around or away from the transducer  510  (or another receiver, e.g.,  448 ), as indicated by light paths  553  and  554 . This light can be received and detected by sensors  560 ,  562  at a bottom surface  555  of the button pad  552 . Light reflected around or away from the emitter of transducer  510  can be used to detect movement of the button pad  552  relative to the support surface  544  or housing  502  using at least one of the sensors  560 ,  562 . Accordingly, a click or button pad  552  deflection can be detected using the same light source as the light source used to detect movement or a pattern in a support surface  544  for the input device  500 . This embodiment can therefore beneficially reduce the amount of parts needed for the input device  500  to perform basic functions of a pointing device, namely, two-dimensional position tracking and receiving a “click” or button-press input. 
       FIG. 6  shows a further embodiment of an input device  600  having a housing  602  with an at least partially deflectable or resilient portion  604 . As indicated in connection with input devices  200 ,  400 , and  500 , movement or translation of a top button or button pad can be detected as a “click” or button-press input. In some cases, this means the entire top button or button pad translates along an axis of motion (e.g., as supported by a stabilizer  242 ). In an embodiment such as input device  600 , the button-press input can be provided by deformation of the deflectable or resilient portion  604  of the housing  602 . For instance, a top portion of the housing  602  can comprise a flexible material (e.g., rubber, polymer, or thin metal layer) configured to buckle or bend from a first shape configuration (shown by  605 ) to a second shape configuration (shown by  604 ) in response to a downward force  606  on its outer surface. This bending or flexure movement of the resilient portion  604  can be detected by strain gauges, light-based position sensors, deflectable switches, and similar devices. Thus, a button-press input for the input device  600  can be provided by deflecting the outer surface of the input device  600 . Additionally, if the input device  600  is attached or mounted to a keyboard or other support structure, the deflection or bending of the resilient portion  604  can be sensed and registered as a key-based typing input at the resilient portion  604 . Thus, rather than deflecting the entire input device  600  or an entire subcomponent of the input device  600  (e.g., top button  204 ), a portion of a subcomponent the input device  600  can collapse, bend, or deflect to provide a key-based typing input. 
       FIG. 7  shows another example embodiment of an input device  700  having a housing  702  with an at least partially deflectable or resilient portion  704 . As indicated in connection with input devices  200 ,  400 , and  500 , movement or translation of a top button or button pad can be detected as a “click” or button-press input. Input device  700  shows that an input device can have a top pad or plate  706  that is translatable relative to a bottom pad or plate  708  separated by the resilient portion  704 . In this case, application of a downward force  710  to the top plate  706  can cause deformation, bending, or buckling in the resilient portion  704  to move the top plate  706  from a default or at-rest position  712  to a second, lower position (indicated by  706 ). The resilient portion  704  can reduce its height by compression or outward (or inward) buckling or bending. Accordingly, the deflection of the top plate  706  can be registered as a key-based typing input when the input device  700  is in a first configuration and can be registered as a button-press or “click” input when in a second configuration. 
     Additionally, in some embodiments the input device  700  can be enabled to allow horizontal movement of the top plate  706  relative to the bottom plate  708 , as indicated by arrow  714 . In this case, the top plate  706  can move horizontally across relative the bottom plate  708  while remaining substantially parallel to the bottom plate  708 . The horizontal position of the top plate  706  can be tracked relative to the bottom plate  708 . In some embodiments, the flexure of the resilient portion  704  can be tracked to determine the amount of horizontal offset of the top plate  706  relative to the bottom plate  708 . Thus, a user object on the top plate  706  can provide multi-directional input by contacting and sliding the top plate  706  relative to the bottom plate  708 . In some embodiments, this input can comprise a directional arrow input (e.g., up, down, left, and right arrows) or input to move a cursor or other pointer indicator (e.g., a text bar) on a display screen. In some embodiments, the vertical and horizontal positions of the top plate  706  relative to the bottom plate  708  can be tracked to detect or provide multiple types of simultaneous inputs or inputs in three dimensions. In some embodiments, the position or movement of the top plate  706  can be measured by measurement of a capacitance between the top and bottom plates  706 ,  708 . Furthermore, in some embodiments the resilient portion  704  can comprise an elastically deformable material, wherein releasing pressure on the top plate  706  causes the top plate  706  to spring back into a default position (e.g.,  712 ) relative to the bottom plate  708 . In this sense, the top plate  706  can be operated similar to a joystick or pointing stick (“eraser head”) pointing device that tends to assume a default, central position when input forces on the device are released or reduced. 
       FIG. 8  is a diagrammatic side view of an input device  800  positioned on a support structure  802  that is attached to a chassis or base structure  804  of a keyboard (e.g.,  102 ). The input device  800  may also have a switch  803  positioned between its bottom surface  818  and the base structure  804 . The input device  800  can be an input device such as described in connection with  FIGS. 1 and 2-7 . The support structure  802  can be a key stabilizer, a movement mechanism or a switch such as a scissor mechanism, a butterfly hinge, a collapsible dome switch, similar devices, or combinations thereof. The input device  800  can have a bottom surface  818  at which a connector apparatus  820  is configured to mechanically attach to at least part of the support structure  802 . The connector apparatus  820  can comprise a hinge or mechanical interlock to prevent the input device  800  from falling off of the support structure  802  while it is attached to the keyboard. In some embodiments, the connector apparatus  820  can join the input device  800  to the support structure  802  by magnetic attraction. Thus, the input device  800  can operate as a keycap, wherein pressing on the input device  800  causes the input device  800  to translate downward toward the base structure  804  and to collapse or bend the support structure  802  and switch  803 . This translation can result in key-based typing input being detected by a controller of the keyboard or control unit  206 . The connector apparatus  820  can alternatively be disconnected, wherein the input device  800  is separated from the support structure  802  to be used remotely from the keyboard, as described elsewhere herein. 
       FIG. 9  is a diagrammatic side view of another input device  900  positioned over a subkey  901  and a support structure  902  supporting the subkey  901  over a base surface  904 . The input device  900  can therefore have a bottom surface  918  attachable to the subkey  901 . A connector apparatus  920  can attach or attract the input device  900  to the subkey  901  so that movement of the input device  900  is synchronized with movement of the subkey  901  when a user presses the input device  900  toward the base surface  904 . Movement of the input device  900  with the subkey  901  can produce a key-based typing input signal. The subkey  901  can therefore comprise a keycap-shaped structure with a substantially planar or concave/ridged top surface with outer dimensions substantially equal to the outer dimensions of the maximum width or the base of the input device  900 . In some embodiments, the outer dimensions of the subkey  901  can be substantially similar, but narrower than, a space between web structures  922  or other rigid housing members adjacent to the support structure  902  and subkey  901 . The input device  900  can be reversibly detachable from, or attachable to, the subkey  901 , so when the input device  900  is removed from the subkey  901 , the subkey  901  can function as a keycap for the support structure  902  and can receive key-based typing input in the absence of the input device  900 . 
     In some embodiments, the subkey  901  and support structure  902  can support the input device  900  such that the vertical position of the top of the input device  900  is substantially equal to the vertical position of the tops of adjacent keys  924  of the keyboard. When the input device  900  is removed, the top of the subkey  901  can therefore be lower than the tops of the adjacent keys  924 . In some embodiments, the subkey  901  or support structure  902  can be reconfigured when the input device  900  is removed so that the top of the subkey  901  is positioned at a substantially equal height as the adjacent keys  924 . In yet other embodiments, the subkey  901  has a top surface configured to be at the same vertical height as adjacent keys  926 , and the input device  900  protrudes above the adjacent keys  926  when attached to the subkey  901 . 
     The connector apparatus  920  can comprise a magnetic structure configured to keep the input device  900  attached to the subkey  901  in a first configuration wherein the input device  900  and subkey  901  are used to provide key-based typing input. The connector apparatus  920  can comprise a first component in or on the input device  900  and a second component in or on the subkey  901 , wherein the two components are magnetically attracted to each other and retain the input device  900  to the subkey  901 . The connector apparatus  920  can also horizontally align the input device  900  and subkey  901 . In some embodiments, the input device  900  can be horizontally movable relative to the subkey  901 , wherein pushing on a lateral side surface (e.g.,  928 ) can move the input device  900  horizontally across the top surface of the subkey  901 . For example, a user can grasp the input device  900  to move the input device  900  laterally in two directions (left/right and up/down) relative to the subkey  901 . The connector apparatus  920  can permit this relative lateral movement while also biasing the input device  900  back to the position shown in  FIG. 9  so that the input device  900  moves in a manner comparable to a joystick or pointing stick pointing device that tends to assume a default, central position when input forces on the input device  900  are released or reduced. 
       FIG. 9  also shows how the support structure  902  can comprise one or more movable or pivotable arms  930  that connect the base surface  904  to the subkey  901 . One or more of the arms  930  can comprise a conductive structure  932  that provides an electrically conductive path between the base surface  904  and the subkey  901 . The conductive structure  932  can be configured to provide the conductive path throughout a cycle of motion of the subkey  901  relative to the base surface  904 , such as while the arm  930  rotates or translates in response to a key press on the input device  900  or subkey  901 . The conductive structure  932  can also stiffen the support structure  902 . The subkey  901  can also comprise at least one conductor  934  electrically connecting the conductive structure  932  to at least one conductor  936  on the input device  900 . The input device  900  can therefore be electrically connected to a source of electrical energy or a path for electronic communication and data in the base surface  904 . Accordingly, electrical charge can be provided to the input device  900  via the conductors  932 ,  934 ,  936  and structures in the base surface  904 . This can beneficially power the input device  900  for operation while mounted to the subkey  901  or charge a battery  212  therein for operation while disconnected from the subkey  901 . Similarly, conductive structure  932  can be provided in the support structure  802  and can provide a path for electrical charge or communication to an input device (e.g.,  800 ) directly mounted to the support structure  802 . Additional examples of charging and electrical communications features are described below in connection with  FIGS. 11-15 . 
       FIG. 9  also shows that the subkey  901  can comprise an angled top edge portion  940 . When the input device  900  is attached to the top surface of the subkey  901 , a small gap or open space can be positioned between the input device  900  and the subkey  901  at the angled top edge portion  940 , as shown in  FIG. 9 . When the top surface of the input device  900  is pressed down under normal conditions, the connector apparatus  920  can keep the input device  900  held to the subkey  901 .  FIG. 10  illustrates that in some embodiments, application of a downward or diagonally downward-oriented force (e.g., along arrow  1000 ) on the input device  900  can induce rotation of the input device  900  relative to the subkey  901  into the space or gap at the angled top edge portion  940  of the subkey  901 . This pivoting movement of the input device  900  relative to the subkey  901  can overcome the attraction or interlocking forces between attachment elements (e.g., magnetic elements) used in the connector apparatus  920 , thereby easing the separation of the input device  900  from the subkey  901 . 
     The support structure  902  can in some cases be operable as a push-push mechanism. Thus, in some embodiments, the push-push mechanism can be operated based on deflection to make the subkey  901  have an at-rest position at the height of keycaps of the keys  926  or to make the subkey  901  have an at-rest position at the height of keycaps of the keys  924 . For instance, if the input device  900  or subkey  901  deflects relative to the base surface  904  below a threshold distance of downward displacement, the input device  900  and subkey  901  can remain in the retracted position (i.e., the subkey  901  is horizontally aligned with adjacent keys  926 ) when an inward-directed force is removed from the input device  900 . If the input device  900  or subkey  901  deflects relative to the base surface  904  at or above the threshold distance of downward displacement, the input device  900  or subkey can be unlocked and extend from the housing (e.g., to the position where the subkey  901  is aligned with adjacent keys  924 ). 
       FIG. 10  also shows that the connector apparatus  920  can be positioned enclosed or encapsulated by a housing or outer surface of the input device  900  or subkey  901 , whereas  FIG. 9  shows the parts of the connector apparatus  920  diagrammatically shown exposed at the outer surfaces thereof. 
       FIG. 11  shows a diagrammatic bottom view of an input device  1100  having a bottom surface  1102  with a set of conductors  1104  configured to face downward when the input device  1100  is attached to a subkey (e.g.,  901 ), a support structure (e.g.,  802 ), an enclosure (e.g., in recess  130 ), or another conductor below the bottom surface  1102 . In some embodiments, the input device  1100  can comprise at least three conductors  1104 , wherein one conductor is configured to provide a voltage source to the input device  1100 , a second is configured to provide a ground source to the input device  1100 , and a third is configured to provide a data communications path to the input device  1100 . The set of conductors  1104  can be vertically centered on the input device  1100  in a manner allowing the input device  1100  to be reversibly connected to a set of three contacts below the input device  1100 . For example, the input device  1100  can be rotated 180 degrees between two different orientations configured to engage all three of the conductors  1104 . 
       FIG. 12  shows a similar diagrammatic bottom view of an input device  1200  having a bottom surface  1202  with a set of conductors  1204  configured to face downward when the input device  1200  is attached to a subkey, support structure, enclosure, or another conductor below the bottom surface  1202 . The input device  1200  can have three concentric conductors  1204  that are separated by rings of insulating material. In this case, the three conductors  1204  can provide the same types of connections as the set of conductors  1104  described above but they are also rotatable through additional possible orientations relative to three contacts below the bottom surface  1202 . In an example embodiment, the set of conductors  1204  can be rotated between four different orientations that are each 90 degrees rotated from the next orientation. Thus, the input device  1200  can be more easily placed onto a subkey (e.g.,  901 ) or other support member and can provide an electrical interface without having to pay as much attention to the orientation of the input device  1200 . This can be especially beneficial when a circular input device is used (e.g., the embodiment of  FIG. 3 ). 
       FIG. 13  shows a diagrammatic side view of an input device  1300  positioned in a recess  1330  of an enclosure  1302 . The input device  1300  can comprise a set of conductors  1304  exposed at a bottom surface thereof that are configured to contact a set of conductive deflectors  1306  in the recess  1330 . The conductive deflectors  1306  can be respectively electrically connected to a voltage source  1308  and to ground  1310  that are in or connected to the enclosure  1302 . The conductive deflectors  1306  can comprise an elastically compressible or deflectable material configured to deform when a downward force is applied to the input device  1300 . For example, the conductive deflectors  1306  can comprise a conductive rubber or polymer material configured to compress when pressure is applied by the bottom surface of the input device  1300 . Accordingly, the conductive deflectors  1306  can provide electrical communication with the input device  1300  (e.g., for charging) while the input device  1300  is being used for key-based typing input and is being displaced or translated relative to the recess  1330 . Additionally, the flexibility of the conductive deflectors  1306  can help ensure that the deflectors  1306  and the conductors  1304  remain electrically engaged (i.e., sufficiently in contact with each other) while the input device  1300  is in the recess  1330 , whether or not the input device  1300  is moving. For example, for an input device having a collapsible body or button configuration (e.g., as shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 ), the input device can remain in electrical communication with the recess  1330 . 
     In some embodiments, the conductive deflectors  1306  can be positioned horizontally adjacent to the lateral sides of the input device  1300 . The conductors  1304  can also face laterally outward to contact and engage the conductive deflectors  1306 . In this way, the housing of the input device  1300  can move relative to the recess  1330  while remaining in electrical communication with the deflectors  1306 . For example, the amount of contacting surface area between the deflectors  1306  and the conductors  1304  (or vice versa) can be less than the entire possible surface area in which they can come into contact. The conductors  1304  can then move along the deflectors  1306  while remaining in electrical communication with them. See also  FIG. 15 . 
       FIG. 14  shows another embodiment of an input device  1400  positioned in a recess  1430  of an enclosure  1402 . In this case, an input device charging coil  1404  and an enclosure charging coil  1406  can be positioned adjacent to each other when the input device  1400  is in the recess  1430 . A series of coil loops for the coils  1404 ,  1406  are shown in  FIG. 14 . The enclosure charging coil  1406  can be a transmit coil configured to emit a field that is converted to electrical power by the input device charging coil  1404 . The input device charging coil  1404  can therefore receive electrical power via a wireless charging interface with the recess  1430 . In this manner, the input device  1400  can be operated and charged without contacting the recess  1430  or another electrical conductor on the keyboard. 
       FIG. 14  also shows that the input device  1400  can comprise an enclosure magnetic structure  1408  configured to be positioned adjacent to a corresponding input device magnetic structure  1410 . In some embodiments, these magnetic structures  1408 ,  1410  can attract each other to pull the input device  1400  into the recess  1430  and to help retain the input device  1400  therein. In some cases, the magnetic structures  1408 ,  1410  can repel each other to help remove the input device  1400  from the recess  1430 . For example, one of the magnetic structures  1408 ,  1410  can comprise an electromagnet that can control its polarity to either attract or repel the other magnetic structure, thereby moving the input device  1400  relative to the recess  1430 . In one embodiment, a magnetic structure  1408 ,  1410  can comprise an aluminum-nickel-cobalt alloy that can have its polarity semi-permanently changed to produce a similar switchable magnetic force (attraction or repulsion) effect. In some embodiments, the magnetic structures  1408 ,  1410  can be configured to repel each other to provide force feedback (i.e., resistance to downward movement) for the input device  1400 . 
       FIG. 15  shows another embodiment of an input device  1500  positioned in an enclosure  1502  having a through-hole  1530  opening for the input device  1500 . For example, the enclosure  1502  can comprise a bottom plate  1504  with a portion through which the through-hole  1530  extends. The input device  1500  can therefore have a bottom surface  1506  that is exposed to a support surface  1508  below the enclosure  1502 . The input device  1500  can vertically translate within the through-hole  1530 , such as by moving to a position within or below the broken-line boundary shown in  FIG. 15 , wherein the bottom surface  1506  is aligned with a bottom surface of the bottom plate  1504  of the enclosure  1502 . The input device  1500  can therefore have electrical conductors  1510  that engage electrical pads  1512  on the enclosure  1502  (e.g., on side surfaces of the through-hole  1530 ). The electrical pads  1512  can have a length exceeding the length of the electrical conductors  1510  so that the input device  1500  can remain in electrical communication with the enclosure  1502  while the input device  1500  moves relative to the enclosure  1502  in the through-hole. 
     In some embodiments, the input device  1500  and enclosure  1502  can comprise corresponding magnetic structures  1514 ,  1516  that can be used to help retain the input device  1500  in the through-hole  1530  and help bias the input device  1500  into the position shown in  FIG. 15 . Accordingly, in some cases, the magnetic structures  1514 ,  1516  can pull the input device  1500  from a lower position (e.g., as shown in broken lines in  FIG. 15 ) to the position shown in solid lines in  FIG. 15  after the input device  1500  is pressed downward. In this way, the input device  1500  can be operated to receive key-based typing input while positioned in the through-hole  1530 . The magnetic structures  1514 ,  1516  can beneficially also retain the input device  1500  in a position that is substantially similar in height to neighboring keys (e.g.,  1515 ) when the input device  1500  is at rest. Thus, using the input device  1500  among the other keys  1515  can be more comfortable and can result in fewer inadvertent touches or depressions of the input device  1500 . 
     Additionally, in some embodiments, the input device  1500  can comprise an optical sensor  1518  configured to face downward from the bottom surface  1506  of the input device  1500 . The optical sensor  1518  can direct light toward the support surface  1508  while the input device  1500  is still being retained in the through-hole  1530 . Accordingly, the optical sensor  1518  can be used to track movement of the input device  1500  or enclosure  1502  relative to the support surface  1508 . Accordingly, the entire enclosure  1502  (with the input device  1500  mounted thereto) can be moved to provide pointing device-like input to a controller or processor. Additionally, the optical sensor  1518  can be used to detect vertical movement of the input device  1500 , such as when key-based typing input is provided by pressing on and moving the input device  1500  in the through-hole  1530 . 
     Furthermore, in some cases the input device  1500  can be pushed through the through-hole  1530  to release the input device  1500 . In that case, pressing the input device  1500  to a first distance through the through-hole  1530  (e.g., to the position shown in broken lines) can allow the input device  1500  to return to a raised, mounted position (e.g., the position shown in solid lines) when the downward input force is released. Thus, the input device  1500  can remain locked to the enclosure  1502 . The input device  1500  can return to the raised position due to an upward biasing force applied by the magnetic structures  1514 ,  1516 . When the input device  1500  is deflected to a distance through the enclosure  1502  that is at or above a threshold distance, such as by moving it below the position shown in broken lines in  FIG. 15 , the input device  1500  can be unlocked from the enclosure  1502  when the input force is released, and the input device  1500  can then pass completely through the through-hole  1530  to a position separated from the enclosure  1502 . In this case, the attraction between the magnetic structures  1514 ,  1516  can be overcome sufficient for the input device  1500  to no longer be retained in place by the magnetic structures  1514 ,  1516 . 
       FIG. 16  shows a simplified view of another embodiment of an input device  1600 . In this case, the input device  1600  can include a housing  1602  with an outer surface  1604  having a central feature  1606 . In some embodiments, the central feature  1606  is an optical or touch sensor configured to detect the presence, surface features, or movement of a user object external to the outer surface  1604 . Thus, a user can provide input to the input device  1600  by approximating a user object to the central feature  1606  and allowing the sensor to perceive the user object. In one example, the central feature  1606  can be a fingerprint scanner. When the input device  1600  orientation is turned over so that the outer surface  1604  faces downward instead of the upward direction shown in  FIG. 16 , the central feature  1606  can be used as a tracking or position locating device, such as an optical sensor of a mouse or similar pointing device. 
     In some embodiments, the input device  1600  can comprise a central feature  1606  that comprises a “push-push” mechanism. In this case, when the central feature  1606  is in the state shown in  FIG. 16 , application of an inward-directed force against the central feature  1606  can release a mechanism within the housing  1602  and can allow the central feature  1606  to translate out to the position shown in  FIG. 17  (i.e., central feature  1706 ). Application of an inward-directed force against the central feature  1706  while in the position shown by  FIG. 17  can cause the mechanism to re-latch to the position shown in  FIG. 16 . Accordingly, a user can push the central feature  1606  to release and push the central feature  1706  to retract the central feature  1606 . Extending the central feature  1606 / 1706  from the housing  1602  can provide additional surface area to grasp the input device  1600 . Additionally, the extended central feature  1706  can provide additional side surface area  1708  that allows a user to manipulate the input device  1600  by rotating or deflecting the input device  1600  via pressure against the side surface area  1708 , similar to a joystick or pointing stick pointer device. 
       FIG. 18  shows a similar embodiment of an input device  1800  wherein a central feature  1806  of an outer surface  1804  is pivotable from a flush or horizontal position (shown in solid lines) to an extended or vertical position (shown in broken lines). While in the extended position  1808 , the central feature can provide additional height and side surface area for grasping or turning the input device  1800 . 
       FIG. 19  shows yet another embodiment of an input device  1900  of the present disclosure. In  FIG. 19 , the input device  1900  is shown mounted to a handheld support body  1902  that is separate from a keyboard. Thus, the input device  1900  can be removed from its host keyboard and mounted to a separate support body  1902  when it is to be used in a separated condition. While the input device  1900  is mounted to the support body  1902 , the input device  1900  can be easier to grasp and move in a user&#39;s hand. In some embodiments, the support body  1902  can comprise an attachment feature to help retain the input device  1900  to the support body  1902 , such as a magnetic structure or mechanical latch to keep the input device  1900  in place while the support body is moved by a user. In this embodiment, position tracking of the input device  1900  can be provided by an inertial measurement unit (e.g.,  208 ) if the support body  1902  renders an optical sensor (e.g.,  210 ) inoperative or if the input device  1900  lacks an optical sensor. 
     The input devices  104 ,  106 ,  108 ,  200 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 ,  900 ,  1100 ,  1200 ,  1300 ,  1400 , and  1500  and their related keyboards, supports, and enclosures disclosed herein can share features or have interchangeable features. Accordingly, a feature of one input device can be used in another input device where that feature is not shown or can be used in addition to similar features shown in the other input device. In this manner, the disclosure related to each input device or other related component disclosed herein should be understood as being exemplary of features that can be implemented in any of the input devices or their respective related components, as will be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art. 
     To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use of data available from various sources can be used to improve the delivery to users of invitational content or any other content that may be of interest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathered data may include personal information data that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specific person. Such personal information data can include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID&#39;s, home addresses, data or records relating to a user&#39;s health or level of fitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information. 
     The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefit of users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user. Accordingly, use of such personal information data enables users to calculated control of the delivered content. Further, other uses for personal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may be used to provide insights into a user&#39;s general wellness, or may be used as positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellness goals. 
     The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with well-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personal information data private and secure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users, and should be updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving the informed consent of the users. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access to such personal information data and ensuring that others with access to the personal information data adhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should be adapted for the particular types of personal information data being collected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards, including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US, collection of or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained for different personal data types in each country. 
     Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to, personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of advertisement delivery services, the present technology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” of participation in the collection of personal information data during registration for services or anytime thereafter. In another example, users can select not to provide mood-associated data for targeted content delivery services. In yet another example, users can select to limit the length of time mood-associated data is maintained or entirely prohibit the development of a baseline mood profile. In addition to providing “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosure contemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use of personal information. For instance, a user may be notified upon downloading an app that their personal information data will be accessed and then reminded again just before personal information data is accessed by the app. 
     Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personal information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once it is no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including in certain health related applications, data de-identification can be used to protect a user&#39;s privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, when appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g., collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and/or other methods. 
     Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use of personal information data to implement one or more various disclosed embodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the various embodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing such personal information data. That is, the various embodiments of the present technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all or a portion of such personal information data. For example, content can be selected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based on non-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personal information, such as the content being requested by the device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery services, or publicly available information. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not target to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20200219
Publication Date: 20220315
Grant Date: 20220315
Priority Date: 20200219
Inventors: WANG, PAUL X.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F3/03547", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0213", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0227", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03543", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0216", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0317", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/03543", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0383", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0202", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0219", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0219", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0216", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 77271836