PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10831276-B2
Application Number: US-201916250938-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Tungsten frame of a haptic feedback module for a portable electronic device

Abstract:
According to some embodiments, a haptic feedback module for generating a haptic feedback event is described. The haptic feedback module includes an enclosure having walls that define a cavity. The enclosure is capable of carrying operational components within the cavity that include a frame that includes tungsten, a magnetic coil element that is capable of generating a magnetic field, a magnetic element that is carried within an aperture of the frame, linear-actuation end stops that are welded to a first end of the frame and a second end of the frame that opposes the first end, and springs that couple together the walls of the enclosure to the linear-actuation end stops.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A haptic feedback module for generating a haptic feedback event, the haptic feedback module comprising:
 an enclosure defining a cavity to house operational components; 
 a frame disposed in the cavity; 
 a magnetic element coupled to the frame; 
 a magnetic coil element configured to generate a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic element to displace the frame; and 
 a first end stop coupled to and overhanging a first upper surface and a first lower surface of a first end of the frame and a second end stop coupled to and overhanging a second upper surface and a second lower surface of a second end of the frame opposite the first end. 
 
     
     
       2. The haptic feedback module of  claim 1 , further comprising a sensor configured to determine a position of the frame. 
     
     
       3. The haptic feedback module of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a support plate that is overlaid by the frame, the support plate welded to the frame and at least one of the first end stop or the second end stop. 
 
     
     
       4. The haptic feedback module of  claim 1 , wherein the frame moves in a linear orientation that is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the enclosure. 
     
     
       5. The haptic feedback module of  claim 4 , further comprising springs that inhibit the frame from displacing in an orientation that is non-parallel with the longitudinal axis. 
     
     
       6. The haptic feedback module of  claim 5 , wherein prior to generating the haptic feedback event, the frame is in an initial position, and subsequent to generating the haptic feedback event, the springs cause the frame to return to the initial position. 
     
     
       7. The haptic feedback module of  claim 1 , further comprising a dampening element configured to minimize vibrations associated with generating the haptic feedback event. 
     
     
       8. The haptic feedback module of  claim 7 , wherein the dampening element is a compressed layer damper. 
     
     
       9. A portable electronic device comprising:
 an enclosure having walls that define a cavity to house components; 
 a processor disposed in the cavity and configured to provide instructions; and 
 a feedback system disposed in the cavity and in communication with the processor, the feedback system configured to generate a haptic feedback event, the feedback system comprising:
 a frame coupled to a magnetic element; 
 magnetic coil elements configured to generate a magnetic field in response to instructions from the processor, the magnetic field interacting with the magnetic element to cause the frame to oscillate in a generally linear direction; and 
 end stops that are coupled to opposite ends of the frame, the end stops comprising overhangs that overlay upper and lower surfaces of the frame. 
 
 
     
     
       10. The portable electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein a direction of the oscillation of the frame is defined by the end stops. 
     
     
       11. The portable electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein the end stops prevent the frame from contacting the walls of the enclosure in any of three spatial dimensions. 
     
     
       12. The portable electronic device of  claim 9 , wherein the feedback system further comprises springs that are coupled to the end stops. 
     
     
       13. The portable electronic device of  claim 12 , wherein the springs comprise a first spring and a second spring disposed adjacent to first and second ends of the frame, respectively. 
     
     
       14. The portable electronic device of  claim 13 , wherein the end stops comprise first and second brackets that are welded to the first and second ends of the frame. 
     
     
       15. The portable electronic device of  claim 14 , wherein prior to generating the haptic feedback event, the frame is in an initial position, and subsequent to generating the haptic feedback event, the springs cause the frame to return to the initial position. 
     
     
       16. A portable electronic device comprising:
 a housing having walls that define a cavity; 
 a processor disposed in the cavity; and 
 a feedback module disposed in the cavity and in communication with the processor, the feedback module comprising:
 a frame and a magnetic element; 
 brackets positioned at opposing ends of the frame, the brackets coupled to and overhanging upper and lower surfaces of the frame; 
 a variable magnetic element that generates a magnetic field in response to the feedback module receiving instructions from the processor, wherein the magnetic field generated by the variable magnetic element interacts with the magnetic element to cause the frame to actuate in a generally linear direction. 
 
 
     
     
       17. The portable electronic device of  claim 16 ,
 wherein when the feedback module is exposed to a load event, the brackets prevent the frame from contacting sides of the feedback module. 
 
     
     
       18. The portable electronic device of  claim 17 , wherein the feedback module further comprises springs that are coupled to the brackets. 
     
     
       19. The portable electronic device of  claim 17 , wherein the feedback module further comprises a stainless steel support plate that is overlaid by the frame and welded to the lower surface of the frame. 
     
     
       20. The portable electronic device of  claim 17 , wherein the brackets apply tension against the upper and lower surfaces of the frame.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/728,484, entitled “TUNGSTEN FRAME OF A HAPTIC FEEDBACK MODULE FOR A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE,” filed Sep. 7, 2018, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
     This patent application is related and incorporates by reference in their entirety the co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/691,483, entitled “HAPTIC ARCHITECTURE IN A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE,” filed Aug. 30, 2017. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to a feedback system for executing a haptic feedback event. More particular, the descried embodiments involve the feedback system including a frame that includes tungsten. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventional portable electronic devices can include feedback components for executing haptic feedback in conjunction with providing a notification to a user. However, these portable electronic device may be covered with cases, folios, or other accessory devices that reduce the impact of the haptic feedback that is generated. Accordingly, there is a need to generate haptic feedback that is more perceptible to a user without modifying the operational components of the feedback component and/or the dimensions of the feedback component. 
     SUMMARY 
     This paper describes various embodiments that relate to a feedback system for executing a haptic feedback event. More particular, the descried embodiments involve the feedback system including a frame that includes tungsten. 
     According to some embodiments, a haptic feedback module for generating a haptic feedback event is described. The haptic feedback module includes an enclosure having walls that define a cavity. The enclosure is capable of carrying operational components within the cavity that include a frame that includes tungsten, a magnetic element that is carried by the frame, a magnetic coil element that is capable of generating a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic element such as to displace the frame, and linear-actuation end stops that are coupled to a first end of the frame and a second end of the frame that opposes the first end. 
     According to some embodiments, a portable electronic device is described. The portable electronic device includes an enclosure having walls that define a cavity, where the enclosure is capable of carrying components that include a processor capable of providing instructions and a feedback system in communication with the processor. The feedback system includes a frame comprised of tungsten, where the frame carries a magnetic element. The feedback system further includes magnetic coil elements that are in communication with the processor, where when the magnetic coil elements receive the instructions from the processor, the magnetic coil elements generate a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic element such as to cause the frame to oscillate in a generally linear direction, and end stops that are coupled to the frame. 
     According to some embodiments, a portable electronic device is described. The portable electronic device includes a housing having walls that define a cavity, where the walls are capable of carrying operational components within the cavity that include a processor capable of providing instructions and a feedback module in communication with the processor and coupled to at least one of the walls. The feedback module is capable of carrying operational components within the cavity that include a frame formed from tungsten, where the frame includes a magnetic element. The feedback module further includes a variable magnetic element that is capable of generating a magnetic field in response to the feedback module receiving the instructions from the processor, where the magnetic field generated by the variable magnetic element interacts with the magnetic element such as to cause the frame to actuate in a generally linear direction. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the described embodiments. 
     This Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example embodiments so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above-described features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following Detailed Description, Figures, and Claims. 
    
    
     
       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: 
         FIGS. 1A-1B  illustrate perspective views of a portable electronic device that is configured to implement different aspects of the various techniques described herein, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a top view of a portable electronic device that is configured to implement different aspects of the various techniques described herein, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a magnified perspective view of a portable electronic device that is configured to implement different aspects of the various techniques described herein, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of a haptic feedback module that is configured to implement different aspects of the various techniques described herein, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  illustrate side views of haptic feedback modules that are configured to implement different aspects of the various techniques described herein, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 6A-6B  illustrate top views of an exemplary sequence diagram of a haptic feedback module that is configured to implement different aspects of the various techniques described herein, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a flowchart for executing haptic feedback, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a flowchart for executing haptic feedback, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 9  illustrate a block diagram of a portable electronic device that is configured to implement different aspects of the various techniques described herein, in accordance with some embodiments. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Representative applications of methods and apparatus according to the present application are described in this section. These examples are being provided solely to add context and aid in the understanding of the described embodiments. It will thus be apparent to one skilled in the art that the described embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the described embodiments. Other applications are possible, such that the following examples should not be taken as limiting. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting; such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     The embodiments described herein relate generally to a feedback system for executing a haptic feedback event. More particular, the descried embodiments involve the feedback system including a frame that includes tungsten. 
     Although portable electronic devices include feedback components for executing haptic feedback in conjunction with providing a notification to a user, these portable electronic devices may be utilized in an environment and/or situation where the user does not readily perceive the haptic feedback. For example, these portable electronic devices may be covered with cases, folios, or other accessory devices that reduce the impact of the haptic feedback that is generated. Additionally, these portable electronic devices may be carried within a pocket of a user&#39;s jacket, within a user&#39;s purse, or laid on a surface of a cushion of a couch. In all of the aforementioned scenarios, the environment and/or situation may diminish the impact of the haptic feedback event. Although the feedback components may be modified to increase the amount of perceptible feedback, such as increasing the dimensions of the feedback component, great care should be taken to avoid increasing the dimensions of the feedback component. Indeed, conventional feedback components may already occupy a large amount of space within a cavity. Accordingly, increasing the dimensions of the feedback components further reduces the amount of available space. 
     To cure the aforementioned deficiencies, the systems and technique described herein relate to a feedback module that includes a frame formed from tungsten. In some examples, the frame is formed entirely from tungsten. Tungsten has a high density and mass per volume ratio relative to other materials. Accordingly, the feedback module that includes a tungsten frame is able to generate up to 25% greater user perception and feel without significantly modifying the structure and/or dimensions of the feedback module. 
     According to some embodiments, a haptic feedback module for generating a haptic feedback event is described. The haptic feedback module includes an enclosure having walls that define a cavity. The enclosure is capable of carrying operational components within the cavity that include a frame that includes tungsten, a magnetic element that is carried by the frame, a magnetic coil element that is capable of generating a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic element such as to displace the frame, and linear-actuation end stops that are coupled to a first end of the frame and a second end of the frame that opposes the first end. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-9 ; 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. 
       FIGS. 1A-1B  illustrate a portable electronic device that includes a haptic feedback module, in accordance with some embodiments. According to some examples, the portable electronic device can include a computing device, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a wearable consumer device, and the like. 
       FIG. 1A  illustrates a first perspective view of a portable electronic device  100 , where the portable electronic device  100  includes an enclosure  110  having walls that define a cavity, where one or more operational components are carried within the cavity. The enclosure  110  includes a top wall  112 -A, a bottom wall  112 -B, and side walls  112 -C. The enclosure  110  of the portable electronic device  100  can also be referred to as a housing. 
       FIG. 1A  illustrates that the portable electronic device  100  includes a display assembly  102  that covers a majority of a top surface of the enclosure  110 . The display assembly  102  can include a capacitive unit and/or a force detection unit that is capable of detecting an input at the display assembly  102  and presenting a corresponding graphical output at the display assembly  102 . In some embodiments, the display assembly  102  is overlaid by a protective cover  108 , where the protective cover  108  is secured with a trim structure  106 . In particular, the trim structure  106  may be joined to the enclosure  110  with an attachment feature, such as an adhesive, a weld, and the like. The protective cover  108  may prevent surface abrasions and scratches from damaging the display assembly  102 . The protective cover  108  may be formed from a transparent material, such as glass, plastic, sapphire, or the like. 
     In some embodiments, the top wall  112 -A may be separated from the bottom wall  112 -B by a dielectric material  116 -A, B, and the side walls  112 -C may be separated from the top wall  112 -A and the bottom wall  112 -B by the dielectric material  116 -A, B. The dielectric material  116 -A, B can include plastic, injection-molded plastic, polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”), polyether ether ketone (“PEEK”), ceramic, and the like. By incorporating the dielectric material  116 -A, B, the walls  112 -A, B, C are capable of being electrically isolated from each other. 
     According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  100  includes buttons or switches  142 ,  144  that are carried along the side wall  112 -C. The bottom wall  112 -B includes a connector  120  that is capable of providing data and/or power to the portable electronic device  100 . In some examples, the connector  120  refers to a bus and power connector. According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  100  includes a notch  122  in proximity to the top wall  112 -A. As illustrated in  FIG. 1A , the notch  122  is defined by a cut-out of the protective cover  108 . The notch  122  includes one or more electronic components  124  (e.g., infrared detector, front-facing camera, etc.). In some examples, the one or more electronic components  124  may be utilized for facial recognition. The bottom wall  112 -B can include an opening for a speaker  134  that is capable of emitting acoustic feedback (i.e., audible sound). Additionally, the bottom wall  112 -B can include an opening for a microphone  132  that is capable of detecting a sound effect. In some examples, the speaker  134  and the microphone  132  may be in electrical communication with each other such as to coordinate to dynamically adjust an output of the speaker  134 , such as volume, duration, and the like based on the noise in the environment surrounding the portable electronic device  100 . 
     According to some examples, at least one of the top wall  112 -A, the bottom wall  112 -B, or the side wall  112 -C may be formed of material other than metal. Beneficially, the use of non-metal material can reduce the amount of electromagnetic interference associated with the enclosure  110  and a wireless transceiver that is carried within the enclosure  110 . Additionally, the use of non-metal material reduces the amount of parasitic capacitance between any metal support structures that are carried within the cavity and the enclosure  110 . According to some examples, the non-metal material includes glass, plastic, ceramic, and the like. Although non-metal material such as glass is beneficial in permitting electromagnetic waves to pass through the enclosure  110 , the glass is also more susceptible than metal to cracking or deforming when the portable electronic device  100  experiences a drop event. 
       FIG. 1B  illustrates a second perspective view of the portable electronic device  100 , in accordance with some embodiments. As illustrated in  FIG. 1B , a camera  150  is carried at least in part within a protruding trim structure  140 . The protruding trim structure  140  is disposed in proximity to a corner of the enclosure  110 . As illustrated in  FIG. 1B , the protruding trim structure  140  is secured to and extends from a back wall  130  of the portable electronic device  100 . According to some examples, the back wall  130  is formed of a material other than metal. The non-metal material enables a magnetic field to pass through the enclosure  110  in order to charge wireless charging coils  160 , such as magnetic cores that include ferrites. 
     According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  100  carries one or more operational components within a cavity (not illustrated) of the portable electronic device  100 . These operational components may include a circuit board, an antenna, a multi-core processor, a haptic feedback module, a camera, a sensor, an IR detector, an inductive charging coil, and the like. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a top view of a portable electronic device—e.g., the portable electronic device  100 —in accordance with some embodiments. In particular,  FIG. 2  illustrates the top view of the portable electronic device  100  where the protective cover  108  is removed such as to reveal internal operational components carried within the cavity  216  of the portable electronic device  100 .  FIG. 2  illustrates the enclosure  110  carries a main logic board  210 , a camera  212 , electronic components  214 , a power supply  220 -A, B (e.g., a battery), a wireless antenna  244 , a flex cable  240 , and a haptic feedback module  250 . The main logic board  210  can include a processor, a subscriber identity module (SIM) reader, and a memory. The flex cable  240  is capable of transmitting data signals between the wireless antenna  244 , the haptic feedback module  250 , and the main logic board  210 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates that the haptic feedback module  250  is carried in a lower portion of the cavity  216  defined by the enclosure  110 . As will be described in greater detail herein, the haptic feedback module  250  is positioned away from a center of rotation  204  of the portable electronic device  100 . The center of rotation  204  refers to a point in the interior cavity  216  that does not undergo planar movement. Positioning the haptic feedback module  250  further away from the center of rotation  204  can amplify the haptic feedback that is generated by the haptic feedback module  250 . For example, the corners of the enclosure  110  are more likely to be held by the user&#39;s hand. As the haptic feedback module  250  is positioned close to a corner of the enclosure  110 , the haptic feedback generated by the haptic feedback module  250  is more likely to be perceived by the user. In conjunction with generating the haptic feedback, the user&#39;s appendage may be in contact with the corner of the enclosure  110 . Thus, there is less distance for the force generated by the haptic feedback module  250  to reach the user&#39;s appendage in contrast if the haptic feedback module  250  were positioned in proximity to the top wall  112 -A of the portable electronic device  100 . 
     The haptic feedback module  250  is configured to generate haptic feedback in conjunction with a user-initiated request or a device-initiated request. In some embodiments, the haptic feedback module  250  is configured to generate multiple haptic feedback events in conjunction with any combination of user-initiated and device-initiated requests. As described herein, the term haptic feedback (or haptic feedback event) can refer to simulating a sensation of touch by applying force, vibrations, or motions that can be perceived by a user. In some examples, the haptic feedback can stimulate nerves within the user&#39;s fingers/hands. 
     In some embodiments, the user-initiated request to generate haptic feedback can be initiated by a user action. In some cases, the user action can include pressing against the display  102 . In some examples, the display  102  includes a capacitive touch layer that is capable of detecting a change in capacitance when a user&#39;s appendage comes into contact with the protective cover  108 . In some examples, the haptic feedback module  250  is capable of generating varying haptic feedback (e.g., duration, intensity, etc.) based upon at least one of the duration, pressure, or force, and the like that is applied by the user&#39;s appendage against the protective cover  108 . In some embodiments, the portable electronic device  100  includes a memory or storage device, as described in more detail with reference to  FIG. 9 , where the memory is configured to dynamically associate different types of contact with different types of haptic feedback to be generated. In one example, quickly touching the protective cover  108  can cause the haptic feedback module  250  to generate a short and quick burst of haptic feedback, which is associated with short frequency and high momentum. In another example, touching the protective cover  108  for a longer duration of time can cause the haptic feedback module  250  to generate a long, prolonged burst of haptic feedback, which is associated with high frequency and low momentum. 
     In another example, the user-initiated request can refer to the user speaking a voice command that is detected by a microphone of the portable electronic device  100  so as to cause an instruction to be executed. For example, the user may utter a voice command requesting “Play My Music”, whereupon the portable electronic device  100  can provide a haptic feedback as confirmation to the user that the instruction will be executed. 
     In some embodiments, the haptic feedback module  250  is configured to generate haptic feedback in conjunction with a device-initiated request. In contrast to the user-initiated request, the device-initiated request can be initiated by the portable electronic device  100  without user involvement. For example, the device-initiated request can be initiated by the processor in conjunction with an occurrence of an environmental event. In some examples, the environmental event can refer to a phone call, a calendar alert, an indication of a short messaging service (SMS) message, and the like. In conjunction with the occurrence of the environmental event, the processor can be configured to receive a request to generate haptic feedback, whereupon the processor can then be configured to generate a haptic feedback parameter that is based on the type of the environmental event. In some examples, the haptic feedback module  250  is capable of communicating with any one of the operational components described herein (e.g., the electronic components  214 , the main logic board  210 , etc.) to execute haptic feedback. 
     In some embodiments, the speaker  134  is configured to supplement the haptic feedback that is generated by the haptic feedback module  250 . For example, oscillation of a frame (or mass) that is internally carried within the haptic feedback module  250  can function in a manner similar to a diaphragm in that the vibration of the frame can produce ambient sound. In some embodiments, the processor can be configured to amplify the ambient sound that is output through use of the speaker  134  so that the sound can be readily perceived by the user. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view of a haptic feedback component  350  carried by an interior cavity  308  of the portable electronic device  300 , in accordance with some embodiments.  FIG. 3  illustrates that the haptic feedback component  350  is adjacent to a power/data connector  302 . The power/data connector  302  can be configured to provide power to the portable electronic device  300  from an external power source for charging the power supply  320 . In addition, the power/data connector  302  can be configured to transmit and receive data to/from at least one of the electronic components  214  or the main logic board  210 . In some embodiments, the power supply  320  can be configured to provide power to the haptic feedback component  350  via a board-to-board connector  354 . 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view of a portable electronic device—e.g., the portable electronic device  100 —that includes a haptic feedback module, in accordance with some embodiments.  FIG. 3  illustrates that a haptic feedback module  350  includes a retaining structure  356 . The retaining structure  356  includes at least one of sides, a bottom, and a top that define a cavity that is capable of carrying a frame (or mass) that actuates in a generally linear direction parallel to the X-axis to provide haptic feedback. The retaining structure  356  includes mounting tabs  352 -A, B that are included at first and second ends of the retaining structure  356 . In some examples, the first and second mounting tabs  352 -A, B are positioned offset from each other so that they are misaligned. In some examples, the corner of the enclosure  110  is more likely to flex than a center of the enclosure  110  (i.e., the center of rotation  204 ). To compensate for the additional amount of flex at the corner in conjunction with executing the haptic feedback, the retaining structure  356  can include two sets of fasteners at the first mounting tab  352 -A. Furthermore, as the haptic feedback module  350  is coupled to the walls of the enclosure  110  by the first and second mounting tabs  352 -A, B, any force that is generated by displacement or oscillation of a frame of the haptic feedback module  350  is translated to the wall of the enclosure  110  via the first and second mounting tabs  352 -A, B. 
     The mounting tabs  352 -A, B may be formed of a material (e.g., stainless steel, titanium, etc.) having sufficient rigidity such as to resist deformation while the haptic feedback module  350  generates haptic feedback. Additionally, the rigidity of the material also prevents the haptic feedback module  350  from becoming misaligned. In particular, the first and second mounting tabs  352 -A, B couple the haptic feedback module  350  to the enclosure  110 . In some embodiments, the first and second mounting tabs  352 -A, B of the retaining structure  356  are each coupled to a protruding attachment feature (e.g., boss) that protrudes from a wall of the enclosure  110 . In some embodiments, the retaining structure  356  of the haptic feedback module  350  is separated from a back wall  130  of the enclosure  110  by a gap in the Z-axis such as to allow the haptic feedback module  350  to displace in the Z-axis direction when the portable electronic device  100  is subject to a load event (e.g., dropped on the ground). Beneficially, the gap provides room in the Z-axis to prevent the haptic feedback module  350  from crashing against the back wall  130 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the haptic feedback module  350  is electrically coupled to the main logic board  210  by a board-to-board connector  354 . Additionally, via the board-to-board connector  354  or other cable, the haptic feedback module  350  is electrically coupled to a power supply  320  (e.g., battery) that provides an electric current to a magnetic coil element of the haptic feedback module  350 . In turn, the magnetic coil element generates a magnetic field. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of a haptic feedback module  400 , in accordance with some embodiments. In some examples, the haptic feedback module  400  corresponds to the haptic feedback modules  250 ,  350  as described herein. As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the haptic feedback module  400  is characterized as having a generally elongated shape having a longitudinal axis that is generally parallel to the X-axis of the portable electronic device  100 . 
     The haptic feedback module  400  includes a retaining structure  490  having a bottom, sides that extend from the bottom, and a top (not illustrated) that define a cavity that is capable of carrying a frame  420 . In some embodiments, the frame  420  may also be referred to as a mass. The frame  420  is capable of actuating or oscillating in a linear direction that is generally parallel to the X-axis. In particular, the frame  420  is capable of oscillating between first and second ends  420 -A, B of the retaining structure  490 . In other words, the frame  420  has dimensions (e.g., width, length, height) that are less than the dimensions of the retaining structure  490 . 
     In some examples, the retaining structure  490  can be fabricated from stainless steel. In particular, the retaining structure  490  can be shaped through a computerized numerical control (CNC) machining process. Beneficially, stainless steel lends itself to being easily machined via the CNC machining process according to a number of different shapes, such as rectangular, circular, polygonal, etc.  FIG. 4  illustrates a first mounting tab  412 -A and a second mounting tab  412 -B that are included at opposing first and second ends  420 -A, B of the retaining structure  490 . The first and second mounting tabs  412 -A, B include threaded openings for receiving fasteners  416  for coupling the retaining structure  490  to at least one of the walls of the enclosure  110 . 
       FIG. 4  illustrates the frame  420  is overlaid by plates  422 . In particular, the frame  420  includes upper and lower surfaces, and the upper and lower surfaces are both overlaid by the plates  422 . In some examples, each of the plates  422  has a shape that generally matches the shape of the frame. In particular, each of the plates  422  carries at least one magnetic coil element  428 . Although  FIG. 4  illustrates that the plates  422  carry three magnetic coil elements  428 , it should be noted that any number of magnetic coil elements  428  may be carried by the plates  422 . The magnetic coil elements  428  overlay permanent magnetic elements  430 , where the permanent magnetic elements  430  are carried within apertures of the frame  420 . 
     According to some embodiments, the frame  420  is comprised of tungsten. In some examples, the frame  420  is comprised entirely from tungsten or comprised generally from tungsten. In some examples, the frame  420  is comprised of a series of individual tungsten balls. In some examples, the series of individual tungsten balls can be secured to brackets  440  via an adhesive  424 . 
     In particular, the frame  420  includes tungsten in substitution of stainless steel. Tungsten has a greater density (19.3 g/cm 3 ) than stainless steel (7.7 g/cm 3 ). As a result, tungsten provides a greater amount of mass per volume than stainless steel. Beneficially, a frame  420  that is comprised from tungsten provides a stronger lower resonant frequency than the use of stainless steel in the frame  420 . Tungsten is a denser material than stainless steel, and as a result, the tungsten may require more energy by the haptic feedback module  400  to get up to speed compared to stainless steel. However, once the frame  420  is up to speed, the tungsten may generate a greater amount of feel by the user than an equivalent frame that is comprised of stainless steel. In some examples, the use of tungsten in the frame  420  results in a 15-25% gain in user feel relative to the use of stainless steel. 
     According to some examples, the frame  420  is comprised of sintered tungsten. Sintering involves compacting and forming a solid mass of tungsten by applying heat or pressure without melting the tungsten. In some examples, the solid mass of tungsten is sintered to a threshold temperature that is below the melting point of tungsten such that the atoms in individual tungsten particles diffuse with atoms in other tungsten particles to form a single piece of metal. Beneficially, the use of sintered tungsten results in a frame  420  that is significantly more stiff and dense than stainless steel. 
     It should be noted that the haptic feedback module  400  includes (i) a travel-limited region, and (ii) an energy-limited region. Of note that the travel-limited region refers to an amount of space that accommodates for displacement of the frame  420  along the X-axis. However, the amount of displacement within the X-axis is limited due to the space limitations of the cavity  216 . The energy-limited region refers to getting the frame  420  up to speed to generate the necessary amount of force that can be perceived by a user. 
     Returning to the magnetic coil elements  428 , the magnetic coil elements  428  are carried by the plate  422  that overlays the upper surface of the frame  420 . As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the magnetic coil elements  428  may be positioned over permanent magnetic elements  430  that are carried within apertures of the frame  420 . In some examples, the permanent magnetic elements  430  may be secured to the frame  420  with an adhesive. In this manner, when the haptic feedback module  400  generates haptic feedback, the frame  420  and the permanent magnetic elements  430  are configured to displace together in a synchronous manner. In some examples, the magnetic coil elements  428  are insulated. In some embodiments, the permanent magnetic elements  430  are formed of a metal or a metal alloy that includes at least one of nickel, aluminum, or iron, and the like. 
     According to some embodiments, the haptic feedback module  400  includes brackets  440  that are disposed at the first and second ends  420 —A, B of the haptic feedback module  400 . The brackets  440  may be welded to first and second ends of the frame  420 . Additionally, the brackets  440  include c-shaped clamps or overhangs that overlay the upper and lower surfaces of the frame  420 , as will be described in greater detail with reference to  FIGS. 5A-5C . According to some embodiments, the brackets  440  act as end stops that prevent the frame  420  from displacing in any one of the X-axis, the Y-axis, or the Z-axis such as when the portable electronic device  100  is subject to a load event (e.g., the portable electronic device  100  is dropped on the floor). The brackets  440  prevent the frame  420  from crashing against the sides and/or bottom of the retaining structure  490 . 
     According to some embodiments, the haptic feedback module  400  includes springs  446  A-B that are disposed at the first and second ends  420 -A, B of the haptic feedback module  400 . In particular, a first spring  446 -A is welded and/or glued to a first end of the frame  420 , and a second spring  446 -B is welded to a second end of the frame  420 . The springs  446 -A, B are capable of amplifying the linear displacement of the frame  420  along the X-axis. Furthermore, the springs  446 -A, B are welded to the sides of the retaining structure  490 . It should be noted that the springs  446 -A, B are not welded directly to the frame  420  because the springs  446 -A, B are subject to a significant amount of fatigue when the frame  420  oscillates. 
     In some examples, each of the springs  446 -A, B includes a coupling arm  448  that couples together distal ends of each spring  446 . Each distal end of the spring  446  can include a dampener  444  that can be configured to compress against another dampener  444  of another distal end of the same spring  446  when the distal ends of the spring  446  are compressed together. Additionally, the dampener  444  may prescribe a minimum/maximum displacement range for the frame  420  in conjunction with generating the haptic feedback. In addition, the dampener  444  can be configured to reduce or prevent ambient sounds caused by the displacement of the frame  420 . 
     Additionally, coupling the frame  420  to the springs  446  A-B may prevent undesirable rocking motion of the frame  420  along the Y-axis/Z-axis while executing the haptic feedback. Consider, for example, that while executing the haptic feedback, the frame  420  may be susceptible to swaying along the Y-axis/Z-axis. However, this swaying motion can be detrimental to the haptic feedback module in that the frame  420  may crash against the sides of the retaining structure  490 . 
     In some embodiments, the retaining structure  490  can include a dampening element  426  that can be dispersed throughout the permanent magnetic elements  430 . The dampening element  426  can be configured to minimize or stop the displacement of the permanent magnetic elements  430  in conjunction with the haptic feedback module  400  generating haptic feedback. In some examples, the dampening element  426  is a ferrofluid, which can refer to a liquid that becomes strongly magnetized in the presence of the magnetic field that is generated by the magnetic coil elements  428 . The ferrofluid includes nanoscale ferromagnetic or ferromagnetic particles suspended in a carrier fluid (e.g., solvent). In some examples, the ferrofluid can be configured to dampen or minimize the ambient noise generated during oscillation of the frame  420 . In some embodiments, the dampening element  426  may refer to a compressed layer damper (CLD). The CLD may include polymeric layers that are capable of dissipating energy that occurs through generating the haptic feedback. In some examples, the polymeric layers may undergo deformation of the polymeric material for dissipating energy such as to minimize and/or prevent noise and vibrations. In some examples, the CLD includes foam, where the foam may undergo compressed and uncompressed states in order to dampen vibrations. Beneficially, CLD is light-weight and can be used to increase damping. 
     According to some examples, the processor of the main logic board  210  may provide instructions that cause the haptic feedback module  400  to execute one or more haptic feedback events. An electrical current is provided from the power supply  320  to the magnetic coil elements  428  that cause the magnetic coil elements  428  to generate a variable magnetic field. In turn, the variable magnetic field generated by the magnetic coil elements  428  interacts with respective magnetic fields generated by the permanent magnetic elements  430 , such as through establishing a magnetic circuit and/or magnetic communication between the magnetic coil elements  428  and the permanent magnetic elements  430 . The permanent magnetic elements  430  may be repelled or attracted to the magnetic coil elements  428  depending on a change in a polarity of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic coil elements  428 . As the permanent magnetic elements  430  are carried by the frame  420 , the frame  420  is correspondingly displaced based on the permanent magnetic elements  430  being repelled or attracted to the magnetic coil elements  428 . Oscillation of the frame  420  is amplified by the springs  446 -A, B such that force associated with the oscillation is transferred from the springs  446 -A, B to the sides of the retaining structure  490 . As a result, the force may be transferred to at least one of the walls of the enclosure  110  via the mounting tabs  412 -A, B. In some examples, the range of force that is generated in conjunction with generating haptic feedback is between about 0.1 N to about 3 N. 
     In some embodiments, the magnetic fields generated or established by the magnetic coil elements  428  are adjusted/variable according to at least one haptic feedback parameter that is generated by the processor. In some examples, the at least one haptic feedback parameter includes at least one of polarity, amplitude, frequency, or pulse of the electrical current. The electrical current can be received at the haptic feedback module  400  via a connector  450  (e.g., a flex cable, board-to-board connector, etc.). Adjusting the electrical current provided to the magnetic coil elements  428  may affect the magnetic field generated by the magnetic coil elements  428  thus affecting at least one of a position, velocity, acceleration, momentum, or frequency of the displacement of the frame  420 . 
     According to some embodiments, the haptic feedback module  400  includes a sensor  452 —e.g., a magnetic field sensor—to detect a position of the frame  420  that is being oscillated in conjunction with executing haptic feedback. In particular, the magnetic field sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor, a TMR sensor, etc.) is configured to generate an electrical signal (e.g., output voltage) based on the magnetic field flux density that surrounds the magnetic field sensor. When the permanent magnetic element  430  (and the frame  420 ) displace in proximity of the magnetic coil elements  428 , the permanent magnetic element  430  can alter the magnetic field that is detected by the magnetic field sensor. For example, as the permanent magnetic element  428  displaces in closer proximity to the magnetic field sensor, the change in the magnetic field is correspondingly increased. In some cases, the magnetic field sensor provides a detection signal that indicates the change in the magnetic field, thus providing an indication of whether the permanent magnetic element  430  (and the frame  420 ) are in close proximity to the magnetic field sensor. 
     In some cases, the sensor  452  is configured to provide a digital output—either an “on state” or an “off state.” When the change in the magnetic field surrounding the sensor  452  exceeds a magnetic field threshold (e.g., disrupts the surrounding magnetic field), the sensor  452  can be configured to provide a digital output that corresponds to the “on state.” The digital output of the “on state” can indicate a discrete position of the permanent magnetic element  430 , such as indicating when the permanent magnetic element  430  is in its closest proximity to the sensor  452 . Accordingly, the sensor  452  is capable of providing the digital output when the frame  420  is in close proximity to the sensor  452 . Alternatively, when the change in the magnetic field is less than the magnetic field threshold, then the sensor  452  provides a digital output that corresponds to the “off state,” which indicates that the permanent magnetic element  430  is not in close proximity to the sensor  452 . In some examples, the haptic feedback module  400  can include multiple sensors  452  that are positioned throughout various locations along the length (e.g., along the X-axis) of the retaining structure  490  in order to detect multiple discrete positions of the frame  420  as it is being displaced in conjunction with executing the haptic feedback. 
     In some examples, a maximum value of the change in the magnetic field corresponds to the current position of the frame  420  being in closest proximity to the sensor  452 . In some examples, when the current position of the frame  420  is in closest proximity to the sensor  452 , the maximum value of the change in the magnetic field satisfies a magnetic field threshold value. 
     In some cases, the sensor  452  is configured to provide an analog output that is proportional to the change in the magnetic field that surrounds the sensor  452 . In particular, the sensor  452  generates the analog output in order to provide a continuous voltage output that relates to the strength/weakness of the magnetic field surrounding the sensor  452 . In one example, as the change in the magnetic field increases, the output signal by the sensor  452  (utilizing an amplifier) correspondingly increases. In some cases, the change in voltage output generated by the sensor  452  may be used to detect a relative current position of the frame  420 . For example, an analog-to-digital converter can utilize a lookup table to correlate the change in voltage output to an actual current position of the frame  420 . In this manner, the analog output can indicate an infinite number of current positions associated with the frame  420 . 
     Other types of sensors can be utilized to detect the position of the frame  420  while it is being displaced in conjunction with executing haptic feedback. In one example, the sensor can refer to an optical light sensor that can be configured to utilize a measured amount of light reflectivity to detect the position of the frame  420 . In one example, the frame  420  can include a reflective component (e.g., reflective tape) that is affixed to the frame  420 . As the frame  420  displaces in the linear direction, the optical light sensor can measure the amount of light reflected by the reflective component in order to determine a relative position of the frame  420 . 
     According to some embodiments, the haptic feedback module  400  is a sensor-less system that can rely upon measuring a counter-electromotive force/back electromotive force (back EMF). For example, the back EMF can refer to a voltage drop caused by the magnetic field inducing an electrical current inside the magnetic coil elements  428 . In particular, the magnetic field changes due to displacement of the permanent magnetic element  430 . For example, the strength of the back EMF can provide an indication as to the movement of the permanent magnetic element  430  relative to the magnetic coil elements  428 . Thus, when the magnetic coil element  428  is inactive (e.g., not generating a magnetic field), the permanent magnetic element  430  does not generate back EMF. Alternatively, when the permanent magnetic element  430  generates the magnetic field, the haptic feedback component  400  can monitor for the back EMF generated by the permanent magnetic element  430 . In some examples, the shape of the waveform of the back EMF signal can indicate a position of the permanent magnetic element  430  relative to the magnetic coil elements  428 . Thus, the haptic feedback component  400  can determine a position of the permanent magnetic element  430  based on the back EMF, and can selectively adjust an amount of a subsequent haptic feedback based on the position of the permanent magnetic element  430 . Beneficially, monitoring for changes in the back EMF can contribute to establishing an accurate sensor-less closed loop feedback system for the haptic feedback component  400  that can improve system reliability and longevity while reducing costs associated with implementing sensors. 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  illustrate side views of a haptic feedback module, in accordance with various embodiments.  FIG. 5A  illustrates a side view of a haptic feedback module  500 -A that includes a retaining structure  590 . The retaining structure  590  includes a bottom wall, side walls, and a top wall that define a cavity. The retaining structure  590  includes a frame  520  that is overlaid by plates  522 . In particular, the plates  522  overlay upper and lower surfaces of the frame  520 . The frame  520  includes permanent magnetic elements  530  that are carried within apertures  532  of the frame  520 . In other words, the permanent magnetic elements  530  are fixedly positioned within the apertures  532  of the frame  520 . 
     Each of the plates  522  include magnetic coil elements  528  that are capable of generating a variable magnetic field in response to receiving an electrical current from a power supply—e.g., the power supply  320 . The variable magnetic field generated by the magnetic coil elements  528  is capable of interacting with a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnetic elements  530 . In some examples, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnetic elements  530  has a static intensity. 
     According to some embodiments, the magnetic coil elements  528  and/or the permanent magnetic elements  530  are arranged in a row. Upper and lower surfaces of each of the permanent magnetic elements  530  may be flanked by magnetic coil elements  528 . Additionally, the magnetic coil elements  528  can be separated by an air gap  548 . 
       FIG. 5A  further illustrates one or more magnetic field sensors  570  that are positioned within a recess of the magnetic coil element  528 . As previously described herein, the magnetic coil elements  528  are coupled to the retaining structure  590  and fixed in position. Thus, in executing the haptic feedback, the frame  520  oscillates relative to the magnetic coil elements  528  and the magnetic field sensors  570 . Accordingly, and as previously described herein, the magnetic field sensors  570  are configured to determine a position of the frame  520  that is displacing in conjunction with executing haptic feedback. 
     The haptic feedback module  500 -A includes springs  546 -A, B that are disposed at the first and second ends  520 -A, B of the haptic feedback module  500 -A. In particular, a first spring  546 -A is welded and/or glued to a first end of the frame  520 , and a second spring  546 -B is welded to a second end of the frame  520 . The springs  546 -A, B are capable of amplifying the linear displacement of the frame  520  along the X-axis. The dampener  544  is capable of compressing against another dampener  544  of the same spring  546  when the distal ends of the spring  446  are compressed together. 
     According to some embodiments, the haptic feedback module  500  includes brackets  540  that are disposed at the first and second ends  520 —A, B of the haptic feedback module  500 . The brackets  540  may be welded to first and second ends of the frame  520 . Additionally, the brackets  540  include overhangs  550  that overlay the upper and lower surfaces of the frame  520 . The overhangs  550  may also be welded to the upper and lower surfaces of the frame  520 . In some embodiments, the brackets  540  are welded to at least one of the ends or the upper and lower surfaces of the frame  520  at heat—affected zones  542 . Laser welding may be used to weld the brackets  540  to the frame  520 . Additionally, the brackets  540  may also be joined to the frame  520  with an adhesive. Beneficially, the use of the adhesive reduces the amount of stress on each of the welds. Additionally, a support plate  560  may be overlaid by the frame  520 , where the support plate  560  is welded to the frame  520  and one of the brackets  540 . 
     According to some embodiments, the brackets  540  that are welded to the frame  520  apply an amount of tension against the upper and lower surfaces of the frame  520 . The tension applied by the brackets  540  act as end stops that prevent the frame  520  from displacing in any one of the X-axis, the Y-axis, or the Z-axis such as when the portable electronic device  100  is subject to a load event (e.g., the portable electronic device  100  is dropped on the floor). The brackets  540  prevent the frame  520  from crashing against the sides and/or bottom of the retaining structure  590 . According to some examples, the brackets  540  are comprised of stainless steel. 
       FIG. 5A  illustrates that the brackets  540  are integrally formed with the overhangs  550  such that they are of a unibody construction. Beneficially, this increases the stiffness and rigidity of the brackets  540 . As illustrated in  FIG. 5A , the overhangs  550  cover the upper and lower surfaces of the frame  520 . 
       FIG. 5B  illustrates a side view of a haptic feedback module  500 -B that is similar to the haptic feedback module  500 -A except that the brackets  540  are not integrally formed with the overhangs  550 . Instead the brackets  540  are separately formed from the overhangs  550  and subsequently each of the overhangs  550  and the brackets  540  are separately welded to the frame  520  and/or to each other. As illustrated in  FIG. 5B , the overhangs  550  are welded to a lower surface of the frame  520 . 
       FIG. 5C  illustrates a side view of a haptic feedback module  500 -C that is similar to the haptic feedback module  500 -A except that the brackets  540  include multiple overhangs  550 . As illustrated in  FIG. 5C , the overhangs  550  are welded to lower and upper surfaces of the frame  520 . 
       FIGS. 6A-6B  illustrate exemplary top views of a haptic feedback module in a non-actuation mode and an actuation mode, respectively, in accordance with some embodiments.  FIG. 6A  illustrates the haptic feedback module  600  in a non-actuation mode. In the non-actuation mode, the haptic feedback module  600  does not receive an electrical current and/or the amount of the electrical current received by the haptic feedback module  600  is not sufficient to cause the magnetic coil elements  628  to generate a magnetic field that causes the frame  620  to oscillate between first and second ends  620 -A, B of the haptic feedback module  600 . 
       FIG. 6A  illustrates springs  646 -A, B are coupled to the first and second ends of the frame  620 . A distance between dampers  644  of the spring  646 -A is set to a distance A 1  and a distance between dampers of the spring  646 -B is set to a distance B 1 . 
       FIG. 6B  illustrates the haptic feedback module  600  in an actuation mode, in accordance with some embodiments. In the actuation mode, the haptic feedback module  600  receives an electrical current that is sufficient to cause the magnetic coil elements  628  to generate a magnetic field. The magnetic field interacts with a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnetic elements  630 , thereby causing the permanent magnetic elements  630  to be repelled or attracted by the magnetic coil elements  628 . 
     For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 6B , if the permanent magnetic elements  630  and the magnetic coil elements  628  share a similar polarity, the permanent magnetic element  630  are repelled from the magnetic coil element  628 . As illustrated in  FIG. 6B , the permanent magnetic elements  630  may be repelled from the magnetic field generated by the magnetic coil elements  628 , thereby causing the frame  620  to be directed towards the first end of the haptic feedback module  600 . As illustrated in  FIG. 6B , the spring  646 -A is compressed such that dampers  644  come into contact with each other. The distance between the dampers is set at a distance A 2  where A 2 &lt;A 1 . Additionally, the spring  646 -B is expanded such that the dampers  644  become further spread out from each other. The distance between the dampers is set at a distance B 2  where B 2 &gt;B 1 . 
     According to some examples, the frame  620  may oscillate back-and-forth between the first and second ends  620 -A, B of the haptic feedback module  600  while executing the haptic feedback. In some examples, the frame  620  may oscillate in one or more repetitious cycles. Subsequent to executing the haptic feedback, the frame  620  may return to an initial position—i.e., the position illustrated in the non-actuation mode of  FIG. 6A . 
     In some embodiments, the actuation mode can be characterized with a specific waveform profile. The waveform profile can provide a functional relationship between frequency (Hz) and momentum (g*mm/s). In some examples, the frequency can have a range between e.g., about 50 Hz to about 500 Hz. In some examples, the momentum can have a range between about 0 g*mm/s to about 3000 g*mm/s. In some embodiments, the haptic feedback parameter specifies an amount of power (e.g., electrical current) that is provided to the haptic feedback module  600 . Subsequently, changing the power provided to the haptic feedback module  600  can cause a change in displacement of the frame  620 , which can affect the waveform profile associated with the displacement of the frame  620 . In some examples, a specific waveform profile can be associated with a specific type of haptic feedback to be generated. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a method  700  for executing haptic feedback at a portable electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments. As illustrated in  FIG. 7 , the method begins at step  702 , where the portable electronic device  100  receives a request to generate haptic feedback. In some examples, the request to generate haptic feedback is made in conjunction with a user-initiated request and/or a device-initiated request. 
     At step  704 , the portable electronic device  100  generates a haptic feedback parameter that is based on the request. In some examples, the haptic feedback parameter refers to an amplitude, frequency, pulse, or polarity of an electrical current that is to be transmitted from the power supply  320  to the haptic feedback module—e.g., the haptic feedback module  400 . 
     At step  706 , the portable electronic device  100  causes an electrical signal to be transmitted to the haptic feedback module  400  such as to generate haptic feedback that is based on the haptic feedback parameter. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates a method  800  for executing multiple haptic feedback events, in accordance with some embodiments. In some examples, the method  800  refers to an exemplary scenario where while a haptic feedback module—e.g., the haptic feedback module  400 —is generating an initial haptic feedback event, the portable electronic device  100  receives a request to generate a subsequent haptic feedback event. In another example, the portable electronic device  100  concurrently receives multiple requests to generate multiple haptic feedback events, and the portable electronic device  100  determines an order of executing these haptic feedback events based on the respective priority of each of the requests. 
     At step  802 , the portable electronic device  100  causes the haptic feedback module  400  to generate a first haptic feedback event by actuating a frame—e.g., the frame  420 —of the haptic feedback module  400 . 
     At step  804 , in conjunction with the haptic feedback module  400  generating the first haptic feedback event, the portable electronic device  100  receives a request to generate an additional haptic feedback event. 
     At step  806 , the portable electronic device  100  determines a position of the frame  420  in conjunction with executing the first haptic feedback event. In some cases, the portable electronic device  100  determines the position of the frame  420  based on an amount of the magnetic stray flux that is associated with the one or more permanent magnetic elements  430 . 
     At step  808 , the portable electronic device  100  generates a haptic feedback parameter for the additional haptic feedback event in accordance with the position of the frame  420 . In some examples, the haptic feedback parameter is characterized by at least one of e.g., amplitude, frequency, voltage, pulse, or polarity that is associated with the request. For example, a haptic feedback parameter associated with a phone call may be greater in frequency or amplitude than a haptic feedback parameter associated with a calendar alert. 
     At step  810 , the portable electronic device  100  causes the haptic feedback module  400  to generate the additional haptic feedback event in accordance with the haptic feedback parameter. By determining the position of the frame  420 , the haptic feedback module  400  is capable of readily and accurately adjusting at least one of a position, velocity, orientation, or acceleration of the frame  420  to readily accommodate for the additional haptic feedback event to be generated. In one example, the portable electronic device  100  is configured to immediately interrupt or prevent the haptic feedback module  400  from further generating the first haptic feedback event in order to accommodate the additional haptic feedback event. In another example, the portable electronic device  100  is configured to allow the first haptic feedback event to complete its execution before providing instructions to cause the additional haptic feedback event to be generated. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a block diagram of a portable electronic device  900  configured to implement the various techniques described herein, according to some embodiments. In particular, the detailed view illustrates various components that can be included in the portable electronic device  100  as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , the portable electronic device  900  can include a processor  910  for controlling the overall operation of the portable electronic device  900 . The portable electronic device  900  includes a display  990 . The display  990  can be a touch screen panel that can include a sensor (e.g., capacitance sensor). The display  990  may be controlled by the processor  910  to display information to the user. A data bus  902  can facilitate data transfer between at least a memory  920  and the processor  910 . The portable electronic device  900  can also include a network/bus interface  904  that couples a wireless antenna  960  to the processor  910 . 
     The portable electronic device  900  includes a user input device  980 , such as a switch. The user input device  980  can refer to a solid state switch relay that can be configured to detect a change in capacitance when a user&#39;s appendage makes contact with the user input device  980 . 
     In some embodiments, the portable electronic device  900  includes a haptic feedback module  950  configured to generate haptic feedback based on a haptic feedback parameter that is generated by the processor  910 . In some examples, the haptic feedback can be generated in conjunction with a user-initiated request. For example, the user-initiated request can be initiated by a user pressing down on the user input device  980 . In other examples, the haptic feedback can be generated in conjunction with a device-initiated request. For example, the device-initiated request can be initiated by the portable electronic device  900  receiving a notification (e.g., phone call, text message, etc.) via the wireless antenna  960 . 
     According to some embodiments, the portable electronic device  900  includes a position sensor  970  that can be configured to detect a position of a movable mass—e.g., the frame  420 —in conjunction with the haptic feedback module  950  executing a first haptic feedback event, as previously described herein. By utilizing the position of the frame  420 , the processor  910  can adjust a feedback parameter of the frame  420  (e.g., velocity, acceleration, and the like) in conjunction with executing an additional haptic feedback event. In this manner, the haptic feedback module  950  prevents any mis-fires or delays in executing the additional haptic feedback event. The processor  910 , the position sensor  970 , and the haptic feedback module  950  may establish a closed loop feedback system (or feedback control system). 
     According to some embodiments, the processor  910  can utilize the position of the frame  420  to optimize the amount that the frame  420  displaces within the haptic feedback module  950 . For example, the processor  910  can detect an amount of clearance (e.g., space not occupied by the mass  820 ) that is present in the haptic feedback module  950 . In turn, the haptic feedback module  950  can adjust the feedback parameter (e.g., velocity, acceleration, amplitude, frequency, waveform, etc.) such that the mass  820  maximizes the amount of clearance without knocking against the walls of the retaining structure  490  of the haptic feedback module  950 . 
     According to some embodiments, the closed feedback loop system established by the haptic feedback module  950  and the position sensor  970  can be utilized to adjust a respective waveform for each haptic feedback event. In some cases, in conjunction with interrupting the first haptic feedback event, the processor  910  can establish a feedback parameter (e.g., waveform) for the additional haptic feedback event that builds from the waveform of the first haptic feedback event. In one example, although the respective waveforms associated with the first and subsequent haptic feedback events can be similar (e.g., operating at ˜900 Hz), the processor  910  can modify the frequency of the subsequent haptic feedback event in order to build off the momentum generated by the waveform of the initial haptic feedback event. Beneficially, in this manner, the portable electronic device  900  can conserve some amount of power in executing the subsequent haptic feedback event. Additionally, building off the momentum generated by the waveform of the initial haptic feedback event can facilitate a smooth transition to the subsequent haptic feedback event that is perceivable by the user. 
     According to some embodiments, the closed feedback system established by the haptic feedback module  950  and the position sensor  970  can be configured to compensate for any deficiencies of the haptic feedback module  950  in conjunction with executing a haptic feedback event. Consider, for example, a scenario where the adhesive that couples the frame  420  to a retaining structure—e.g., the retaining structure  490 —of the haptic feedback module  950  degrades over time. As a result, the degradation of the adhesive causes the frame  420  to “stick” in position (making it more difficult to displace). Thus, the haptic feedback module  950  may be required to generate more power (relative to a normal operating level) in order to displace the frame  420  from its “stuck” position. By utilizing the position sensor  970 , the processor  910  can determine that the haptic feedback module  950  is not operating at its normal operating level, and, in turn, the processor  910  can compensate for these deficiencies by generating a modified amount of haptic feedback—which the user will perceive as being identical in strength to the haptic feedback generated by the haptic feedback module  950  while operating at its normal level. In this manner, the haptic feedback module  950  can be configured to maintain an optimal level of haptic feedback regardless of the wear of the hardware components. Beneficially, this prevents any need to modify the hardware components/replace hardware components. 
     The portable electronic device  900  also includes a memory  920 , which can comprise a single disk or multiple disks (e.g., hard drives), and includes a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within the memory  920 . In some embodiments, the memory  920  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. The portable electronic device  900  can also include a Random Access Memory (RAM) and a Read-Only Memory (ROM). The ROM can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM can provide volatile data storage, and stores instructions related to the operation of the portable electronic device  900 . 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, DVDs, magnetic tape, hard disk drives, solid state drives, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     Any ranges cited herein are inclusive. The terms “substantially”, “generally,” and “about” used herein are used to describe and account for small fluctuations. For example, they can refer to less than or equal to ±5%, such as less than or equal to ±2%, such as less than or equal to ±1%, such as less than or equal to ±0.5%. 
     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 intended 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. 
     As described above, one aspect of the present technology is the gathering and use of data available from various sources to improve the delivery to users of personal 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 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.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20190117
Publication Date: 20201110
Grant Date: 20201110
Priority Date: 20180907
Inventors: CINCIONE, Dominic P.
DOMBACH, MATTHEW D.
AMIN-SHAHIDI, DARYA
RIDEL, SCOTT D.
HONG, VU A.
SPELTZ, ALEX J.
CHEN, DENIS G.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1658", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/014", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B06B1/045", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B06B1/045", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/02", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/02", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/014", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B06B1/045", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 69720742