PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8754340-B2
Application Number: US-201313735539-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Multiple function inline controller with buttons extending along different axes

Abstract:
Methods, apparatus and systems which provide buttons oriented at angles relative to each other as a part of a multiple function switch are described. In one embodiment, the multiple function switch is part of an inline controller that is suitable for use to control features or functions of a portable electronic device. A multiple function switch may be incorporated in a cable associated with an earpiece arranged to be interfaced with a portable electronic device.

Claims:
The invention claimed is: 
     
       1. A multi-button switch apparatus comprising:
 a circuit board; 
 a plurality of buttons electrically connected to the circuit board and arranged along a longitudinal axis of the circuit board; 
 a single moveable cover disposed around each of the circuit board and each button of the plurality of buttons to form a single unit, wherein the single moveable cover is operative to interact with each button of the plurality of buttons; and 
 a cap comprising:
 an uninterrupted surface and at least one contour; 
 wherein the cap and the at least one contour are positioned over the circuit board and the plurality of buttons such that the cap is disposed between the single moveable cover and the plurality of buttons. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The multi-button switch apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the single moveable cover is operative to interact with each button of the plurality of buttons to control at least one audio playback operation of an electronic device. 
     
     
       3. The multi-button switch apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the single moveable cover is operative to interact with the third button by moving in a direction opposite the second direction. 
     
     
       4. The multi-button switch apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the single moveable cover is flexible. 
     
     
       5. The multi-button switch apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the circuit board comprises a flexible circuit board. 
     
     
       6. The multi-button switch apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the plurality of buttons comprises: a first button and a second button each disposed to face a first direction; and a third button disposed to face a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. 
     
     
       7. The multi-button switch apparatus of  claim 6 , wherein the single moveable cover is operative to interact with each of the first button and the second button by moving in a direction opposite the first direction. 
     
     
       8. The multi-button switch apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the cap comprises a plurality of landing points that each of which correspond to a corresponds to a button of the plurality of buttons. 
     
     
       9. The multi-button switch apparatus of  claim 8 , wherein each landing point of the plurality of landing points comprises a respective indentation of the cap. 
     
     
       10. An apparatus comprising:
 a circuit board; 
 a plurality of switches coupled to the circuit board along a longitudinal axis of the circuit board and comprising:
 a first depressible switch facing a first direction and configured to be actuated from the first direction; and 
 a second depressible switch facing a second direction that is different from the first direction and configured to be actuated from the second direction; 
 a cap comprising:
 an uninterrupted surface and at least one contour; 
 wherein the cap and the at least one contour are positioned over the circuit board and at least one of the plurality of switches; and 
 
 a flexible member configured to:
 surround the cap, the circuit board and the plurality of switches to form a single unit and enable interaction with each switch of the plurality of switches, wherein the flexible member comprises a tube. 
 
 
 
     
     
       11. The apparatus of  claim 10 , wherein the plurality of switches further comprises a third switch facing the second direction. 
     
     
       12. The apparatus of  claim 10 , wherein the first direction is orthogonal to the second direction. 
     
     
       13. The apparatus of  claim 10  further comprising a carrier base configured to support the circuit board. 
     
     
       14. The apparatus of  claim 13 , wherein the flexible member is further configured to surround the carrier base. 
     
     
       15. An apparatus comprising:
 a circuit board having a plurality of user input surfaces coupled along a first axis of the circuit board, wherein a first user input surface of the plurality of user input surfaces resides on a first portion of the circuit board and is actuated along a second axis, and wherein a second user input surface of the plurality of user input surfaces resides on a second portion of the circuit board and is actuated along a third axis; 
 a cap comprising:
 an uninterrupted surface having a shape that covers at least one of the first user input surface and the second user input surface, as well as the circuit board; and 
 
 a tube disposed around the cap, the circuit board, the first user input surface, and the second user input surface to form a single unit, and configured to interact with each of the first user input surface and the second user input surface. 
 
     
     
       16. The apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein the tube is composed of flexible material. 
     
     
       17. The apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein the cap comprises a first indent that corresponds to the first user input surface and a second indent that corresponds to the second user input surface. 
     
     
       18. The apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein the circuit board further comprises a third portion, and wherein the first portion of the circuit board is disposed between the second portion of the circuit board and the third portion of the circuit board. 
     
     
       19. The apparatus of  claim 18  wherein a third user input surface of the plurality of user input surfaces resides on the third portion of the circuit board. 
     
     
       20. The apparatus of  claim 19 , wherein the first user input surface is configured to at least one of turn ON an electronic device, turn OFF the electronic device, effect the electronic device to playback audio, and effect the electronic device to pause audio playback. 
     
     
       21. The apparatus of  claim 20 , wherein the second user input surface is configured to increase a volume setting of the electronic device and the third user input surface is configured to decrease the volume setting.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/239,500, filed Sep. 26, 2008 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,350,167), which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/041,160, filed Mar. 31, 2008, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to remote switches and, more particularly, to inline remote switches (controllers) for portable electronic devices. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Portable electronic devices, such as mobile phones, MP3 players and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), are often used by individuals on a personal basis. In other words, it is not uncommon for a person to carry a portable electronic device with them throughout their day. Often, these portable electronic devices store media data for subsequent playback by their user. 
     Many users keep their portable electronic device in his or her pocket or in a wearable holder, while at least partially controlling the device using a remote switch located on a headphone assembly. The use of “remote” switches to control portable electronic devices enhances the enjoyment of the portable electronic devices. Remote switches can also be referred to as controllers or remote controllers. By way of example, incorporating a remote switch onto a headphone assembly that is plugged into or otherwise interfaced with a portable electronic device allows a user to at least partially control the portable electronic device without accessing controls actually on the portable electronic device. Consequently, a remote switch (e.g., controller) can be used to at least partially control a portable electronic device remote from the portable electronic device itself. 
     If a remote switch is relatively large, it may be unwieldy. For example, if a relatively large remote switch is coupled to an earpiece assembly, a user may find the presence of the switch to be inconvenient and cumbersome. As such, the convenience of having a remote switch may be hindered. On the other hand, if a remote switch is relatively small, it may be difficult to activate accurately. For instance, if a relatively small remote switch is coupled to a headphone assembly and includes buttons which control different features of a portable electronic device, a user may inadvertently activate one feature while attempting to activate another feature, as actuating small buttons that are closely positioned can be difficult. Moreover, a user may wish to use a remote switch without looking at the remote switch. Hence, the user may effectively be using his or her sense of touch to identify a desired button to actuate. That is, the user may use his or her tactile senses to locate a desired button to actuate. When a remote switch is relatively small, there may be relatively high likelihood that the user will either actuate the wrong button on the switch, or may inadvertently actuate more than one button on the switch. 
     Therefore, there is a need for an improved controller that provides more accurate use yet is relatively small and easy to use. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention pertains to a multiple function switch having buttons oriented at different angles. In one embodiment, the multiple function switch is part of an inline controller that is suitable for use to control features or functions of a portable electronic device. The present invention may be implemented in numerous ways, including, but not limited to, as a method, system, device, or apparatus. Example embodiments of the present invention are discussed below. 
     According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus can include a circuit board, a plurality of switches, a base, a first structural member, and a pliable member. The switches can be mounted on the circuit board along a first axis. The circuit board can support a first switch which can be arranged about a second axis, as well as a second switch which can be arranged about a third axis. The base can support the circuit board, and the first structural member can be positioned over the plurality of switches. The pliable member can fit substantially around the base and the first structural member. In one embodiment, the first structural member can be a polypropylene cap, while the pliable member can be either a silicone tube or a rubber tube. 
     According to another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus includes a circuit board on which a plurality of switches is mounted along a first axis. The circuit board can be arranged such that a first switch is arranged about a second axis and a second switch is arranged about a third axis, that is approximately perpendicular to the second axis. The apparatus can also include a cover arrangement which is positioned at least over the switches. 
     In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus can include a cable and an inline switch assembly. The inline switch assembly can be coupled to the cable, and include first, second, and third buttons that are aligned along a longitudinal axis. The second button can be oriented at an angle of up to approximately ninety degrees relative to the first button and the third button. The inline switch assembly can also include a circuit that supports the first button, the second button, and the third button. 
     According to still another aspect of the present invention, an inline controller, such as for use in controlling a portable electronic device, can include at least an inline switch assembly, wherein the inline switch assembly includes a plurality of user input surfaces aligned along a longitudinal axis, and wherein adjacent ones of the user input surfaces are oriented at different angles. 
     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 invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a block diagram representation of an inline switch arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a diagrammatic representation of an inline switch arrangement that is a part of an earpiece assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3A  is a cross-sectional side-view block diagram representation of an inline switch arrangement which includes a tube covering in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3B  is side-view block diagram representation of the inline switch arrangement of  FIG. 3A  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a process flow diagram which illustrates a method of forming an inline switch arrangement which includes a tube covering in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5A  is a cross-sectional side-view block diagram representation of an inline switch arrangement which includes a shell cover in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5B  is side-view block diagram representation of the inline switch arrangement of  FIG. 5A  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a process flow diagram which illustrates a method of forming an inline switch arrangement which includes a shell cover in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a block diagram representation of various dimensions associated with an inline switch in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a block diagram representation of an angle between button positioned inline along a longitudinal axis in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9A  is a diagrammatic side-view representation of an inline switch arrangement which depicts two landing points associated with buttons in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9B  is a diagrammatic side-view representation of an inline switch arrangement, e.g., inline switch arrangement  900  of  FIG. 9A , which depicts a middle landing point in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a diagrammatic three-dimensional representation of an inline switch arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Example embodiments of the present invention are discussed below with reference to the various figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes, as the invention extends beyond these embodiments. 
     The invention relates to methods and systems which provide buttons oriented at angles relative to each other as a part of a multiple function switch that may be used to control features or functions of a portable electronic device. In one embodiment, a switch is substantially inline with a cable that is interfaced with portable device. An inline switch may be relatively compact, and may be positioned on a cable associated with an earpiece that is arranged to be interfaced with, e.g., plugged into, a portable electronic device. The use of the inline switch allows functions or features of the portable electronic device to be controlled. For instance, if the portable electronic device is a digital media player, the inline switch may control playback of files on the digital media player. Alternatively, if the portable electronic device is a mobile (e.g., cellular phone), the inline switch may allow phone calls to be answered and/or terminated and also control the volume associated with the mobile phone. 
     The orientation of buttons or domes on an overall inline switch is typically critical, as it is often important to effectively ensure that a user of the overall inline switch is unlikely to accidentally actuate one button while trying to actuate another button. That is, the orientation of buttons is important to ensure that the buttons, which generally correspond to separate switches, may be separately activated. By orienting adjacent buttons along a longitudinal axis at different angles, a user may readily identify the different buttons, i.e., the user may differentiate between adjacent buttons. That is, by positioning buttons at different angles along a longitudinal axis, the buttons may effectively be separated such that they are less likely to be inadvertently substantially simultaneously activated. For example, if a volume control button and a call hang-up or termination button of an inline switch are oriented along a longitudinal axis at approximately ninety degrees relative to each other, a user may press the volume control button without accidentally pressing the call hang-up button and, thereby, prematurely terminating a phone call. 
     Referring initially to  FIG. 1 , an inline switch arrangement that includes adjacent buttons or domes placed inline along a longitudinal axis at different angles will be described in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. An inline switch arrangement  100  includes a button plate board  112  with separate button plates  112   a - c  along an x-axis  120   a . Button plate board  112  generally includes electronic circuitry and components (not shown) that enables inline switch arrangement  100  to be used to control features associated with a portable electronic device (not shown). Button plates  112   a - c  are arranged to enable buttons  104   a ,  104   b  and button  108  to be positioned along a longitudinal axis, e.g., x-axis  120   a . As shown, button plate  112   a  supports a first button  104   a , button plate  112   b  supports button  108 , and button plate  112   b  supports a third button  104   a.    
     In one embodiment, button plate board  112  is a flex circuit that is twisted such that such that buttons  104   a ,  104   b  are arranged to be actuated approximately along a z-axis  120   c , while button  108  is arranged to be actuated approximately along a y-axis  120   b . It should be appreciated, however, that button plate board  112  is not limited to being a twisted flex circuit. For example, circuit board  112  may instead be a hard printed circuit board or flex origami. 
     Button  108  or, more generally, an individual switch arrangement, can be configured to be positioned at approximately ninety degrees relative to buttons  104   a ,  104   b . The positioning of button  108  at approximately ninety degrees relative to buttons  104   a ,  104   b  enables a user of inline switch arrangement  100  to efficiently activate or actuate button  108 , without inadvertently activating at least one of buttons  104   a ,  104   b . Similarly, the positioning of button  108  relative to buttons  104   a ,  104   b  as shown also enables a user to efficiently activate any of buttons  104   a ,  104   b  substantially without inadvertently activating button  108 . 
     Buttons  104   a ,  104   b  and button  108  may be arranged to serve a variety of different purposes. When inline switch arrangement  100  is associated with an earpiece arrangement, e.g., when inline switch arrangement  100  is coupled to a cable  116  that terminates at one end to an earpiece (not shown) and at another end at a connection to a portable electronic device (not shown), buttons  104   a ,  104   b  and button  108  may be arranged to effectively “remotely” control functions of the portable electronic device. By way of example, buttons  104   a  may be arranged to substantially control the volume associated with the portable electronic device (not shown) such that one button  104   a  is arranged to cause the volume to increase and the other button  104   b  is arrange to cause the volume to decrease. Button  108  may be arranged to turn the portable electronic device (not shown) on and off, i.e., button  108  may effectively be an on/off switch or a play/pause switch. In one embodiment, if the portable electronic device (not shown) with which inline switch arrangement  100  is used is a cellular phone, button  108  may be arranged to answer a phone call and to hang up on a phone call, i.e., button  108  may effectively be an answer/hang-up switch. 
     As mentioned above, a multiple function inline switch may be a part of an earpiece assembly.  FIG. 2  is a diagrammatic representation of an inline switch arrangement that is a part of an earpiece assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. An earpiece assembly  224  includes an earpiece  228  that is coupled to a cable  216 . Earpiece  228  may be a part of an overall headset apparatus. Cable  216 , as shown, terminates at an adapter or a plug  232 . It should be appreciated that plug  232  is one configuration of a general interface which may be used to substantially connect earpiece assembly  224  to a portable electronic device. 
     An inline switch arrangement  200  is coupled to cable  216 . Inline switch arrangement  200  is arranged to be substantially inline relative to cable  216 , or substantially incorporated as a part of cable  216 . Cable  216  may include two separate pieces, e.g., halves, that are coupled by inline switch arrangement  200 , or cable  216  may be a substantially single piece that is incorporated into inline switch arrangement  200 . Inline switch arrangement  200  includes buttons  204   a ,  204   b  and button  208 . Buttons  204   a ,  204   b  and button  208  are substantially aligned relative to a longitudinal axis  220   a . In the described embodiment, buttons  204   a ,  204   b  are arranged to be actuated when force is applied in a z-direction  220   c , while button  208  is arranged to be actuated when force is applied in a y-direction  220   b . Hence, button  208  is oriented at approximately ninety degrees from both button  204   a  and button  204   b.    
     An inline switch arrangement or assembly such as inline switch arrangement  200  generally includes a cover arrangement that protects buttons and circuitry, and also provides structural support within inline switch arrangement  200 . A cover arrangement may be relatively flexible, or may be relatively inflexible. With reference to  FIGS. 3A and 3B , an inline switch arrangement with a relatively flexible cover will be described in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, and with reference to  FIGS. 5A and 5B , an inline switch arrangement with a relatively inflexible cover will be described in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  are representations of an inline switch arrangement which includes a relatively flexible cover in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 3A  is a side-view representation of an inline switch arrangement  300  taken in an xy-plane, while  FIG. 3B  is a side-view representation of inline switch arrangement  300  associated with an xz-plane. Inline switch arrangement  300  includes a board  312  which, in one embodiment, is a flex circuit. Buttons  304 ,  308  are mounted on board  312  such that button  308  is arranged to be actuated when pressed in a y-direction  320   b , while buttons  304  are arranged to be actuated when pressed in a z-direction  320   c . In general, buttons  304 ,  308  are substantially aligned along a longitudinal axis  320   a.    
     Board  312  is supported in a carrier base or a frame  336 , which may be formed from substantially any suitable material, such as plastic. A cap  340  can be positioned over board  312  and buttons  304 ,  308  to provide protection for board  312  and buttons  304 ,  308 . Cap  340  may be formed from a material such as polypropylene, or substantially any other suitable material. Generally, cap  340  is shaped to substantially cover buttons  304 ,  308 . In one embodiment, cap  340  may be shaped such that landing points are substantially positioned over buttons  304 ,  308 . Landing points will be discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 9A and 9B . In general, landing points enable a user of inline switch arrangement  300  to effectively feel where buttons  304 ,  308  are located. 
     A tube  344 , or a relatively flexible cover, is arranged over cap  340  and frame  336 . Tube  344 , which is typically formed from a soft, pliable material, is fitted over cap  340  and frame  336  and may serve to maintain cap  340  and frame  336  in desired orientations relative to each other. That is, tube  344  may effectively hold cap  340  and frame  336  substantially against each other with board  312  therebetween. The soft, pliable material from which cap  340  is formed may include, but is not limited to including, silicone and other stretchable materials. 
       FIG. 4  is a process flow diagram which illustrates a method of forming an inline switch arrangement which includes a tube covering in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. A process  401  of forming an inline switch arrangement which includes a tube covering, e.g., a relatively soft covering, begins at step  405  in which a circuit or a board is obtained. The circuit typically includes buttons oriented approximately along a longitudinal axis at a predetermined angle relative to one another. As previously described, in one example, the predetermined angle may be approximately ninety degrees. In one embodiment, the circuit may be a flex circuit that is twisted to enable the buttons to be oriented at a predetermined angle relative to one another. 
     After the circuit is obtained, the circuit is coupled to a cable in step  409 . Coupling the circuit to a cable, e.g., a cable associated with an earpiece or a headset assembly, may include soldering portions of the cable to portions of the circuit. Once the circuit is coupled to the cable, the circuit is placed in a carrier base or frame in step  413 . Then, in step  417 , a cap is placed over the circuit. The cap, which may be formed from polypropylene, may be substantially interlocked with the carrier base, in one embodiment. Placing the cap over the circuit may include aligning the cap appropriately over the circuit such that appropriate portions of the cap are positioned over buttons on the circuit. Additionally, placing the cap over the circuit may include adding structures, e.g., shims, between the cap and the circuit to provide structural support for the cap. 
     In step  421 , a tube or a sleeve is positioned over the cap and the carrier base. Positioning the tube over the cap and the carrier base may include sliding the tube over the cap and the carrier base. The tube, which may be formed from silicone, may include grooves or other structural features on an inner surface that are configured to prevent tube from sliding off of the cap and the carrier base. Once the tube is positioned over the cap and the carrier base, the process of forming an inline switch arrangement is completed. 
     As previously mentioned, an inline switch arrangement may include a relatively inflexible cover, e.g., a hard cover, in lieu of a flexible cover, e.g., a tube. With reference to  FIGS. 5A and 5B , an inline switch arrangement which includes a hard or stiff cover will be described in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 5A  is a side-view representation of an inline switch arrangement  500  taken in an xy-plane, while  FIG. 5B  is a side-view representation of inline switch arrangement  500  associated with an xz-plane. Inline switch arrangement  500  includes a board  512  in which buttons  504 ,  508  are supported along a longitudinal axis  520   a . Board  512  may be, in one embodiment, a flex circuit that is substantially twisted to enable button  508  to be actuated when pressed in a y-direction  520   b , while buttons  504  may be actuated when pressed in a z-direction  520   c.    
     Board  512  is supported in a carrier base or a frame  536  which, in turn, is positioned in a bottom shell  548   b . A top shell  548   a  is positioned over board  512  and buttons  504 ,  508  to provide protection for board  512  and buttons  504 ,  508 . Top shell  548   a  may be fixed to board  512 , while bottom shell  548   b  may be fixed to frame  536 . Top shell  548   a  may be fixed or otherwise coupled to board  512  using a structural member (not shown) and/or adhesive. By way of example, top shell  548   a  may be fixed to board  512  using a structural member (not shown) that is positioned between buttons  504 . Similarly, bottom shell  548   b  may be fixed to frame  536  using a structural member (not shown) and/or adhesive. 
     Top shell  548   a  and bottom shell  548   a  effectively form a cover for inline switch arrangement  500 . In general, top shell  548   a  may be shaped to define landing points that essentially identify the location of buttons  504 ,  508  located under top shell  548   a . Top shell  548   a  and bottom shell  548   b  may be formed from a material such as plastic, although top shell  548   a  and bottom shell  548   b  are not limited to being formed from plastic. 
     To facilitate the actuation of buttons  504 ,  508  when force is applied to the cover formed by top shell  548   a  and bottom shell  548   b , posts  552  may provided on top shell  548   a . As shown, posts  552  are aligned with buttons  504 . Alternatively, or in addition to posts  552 , shims or other support members (not shown) may be provided on top shell  548   a  and/or board  512  to protect against collateral actuation of buttons  504 ,  508 . By way of example, shims (not shown) may be added between buttons  504  to prevent forces which are applied to actuate one button  504  from also actuating the other button  504 . Such shims (not shown) may also serve to effectively couple top shell  548   a  to board  512 . 
     In one embodiment, a gap G  550  is present between top shell  548   a  and bottom shell  548   b  to compensate for the amount of travel associated with buttons  504 . When buttons  504  are actuated, for instance, they may travel up to around approximately 0.2 millimeters (mm) relative to z-direction  520   c . Hence, gap G  550  may be sized such that when substantially no force is applied to either top shell  548   a  or bottom shell  548   b , gap G  550  is greater than approximately 0.2 mm, e.g., gap G  550  may be approximately 0.25 mm. Generally, gap G  550  may be chosen to be larger than the expected amount of travel associated with buttons  504 . Gap G  550  may be located at corners of inline switch arrangement  500  such that button  508 , for example, may move up and down. 
     Referring next to  FIG. 6 , a method of forming an inline switch arrangement which includes a cover formed from a top shell and a bottom shell will be described in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. A process  601  of forming an inline switch arrangement which includes a cover begins at step  605  in which a circuit is obtained. The circuit or board typically includes buttons oriented approximately along a longitudinal axis at a predetermined angle relative to one another. The circuit may be a flex circuit that is twisted to enable the buttons to be oriented at the predetermined angle relative to one another. 
     Once the circuit is obtained, the circuit is coupled to a cable in step  609 . Upon coupling the circuit to the cable using any suitable method, the circuit is placed in a carrier base or frame in step  613 . After the circuit is placed in the carrier base, the carrier base is placed in a bottom shell in step  617 . Placing the carrier base in the bottom shell may include coupling the carrier base to the bottom shell such that the carrier base is effectively secured to the bottom shell. 
     From step  617 , process flow moves to step  621  in which a top shell is positioned over the circuit. Positioning the top shell over the circuit may include aligning the top shell over the circuit such that appropriate portions of the top shell are positioned over buttons on the circuit, and such that an appropriate gap may be maintained between the top shell and the bottom shell. In addition, positioning the top shell over the circuit may include coupling the top shell to the circuit, e.g., using a structural member or a shim. That is, positioning the top shell over the circuit may include effectively coupling the top shell to the bottom shell. After the top shell is positioned, the process of forming an inline switch arrangement is completed. 
     The dimensions associated with an inline switch arrangement or a multiple function inline switch may vary. With reference to  FIG. 7 , one set of suitable dimensions associated with a multiple function inline switch will be described in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. An inline switch arrangement  700  includes a button plate board  712  which, in the described embodiment, is a flex circuit. Buttons  704   a ,  704   b  and  708  are located on board  712 , and are positioned along a longitudinal axis  720   a  such that button  708  is oriented at approximately ninety degrees relative to buttons  704   a ,  704   b . As shown, button  708  is arranged to be actuated when a force is applied along a y-axis  720   b , while buttons  704   a ,  704   b  are arranged to be actuated when a force is applied along a z-axis  720   c.    
     Button  704   b  and button  708  are such that a distance D 1   772  between an axial centerline of button  704   b  and a line through button  708  may be approximately 3 mm or more. The separation between button  704   b  and button  708  is a distance D 2   776 , which may be approximately 5 mm or more. The overall width D 3   780  of inline switch arrangement  700  along longitudinal axis  720   a  may be approximately 10 mm (e.g., 20 mm). 
     As discussed above, an inline switch may generally include either a tube or a shell. In general, a tube or a shell effectively define a top surface  768   a  and a bottom surface  768   b  of inline switch arrangement  700 . Top surface  768   a  and bottom surface  768   b  may be surfaces of a tube, e.g., a silicone tube, or surfaces of a shell. A height D 4   784  of inline switch arrangement  700 , as measured along z-axis  720   c  between top surface  768   a  and bottom surface  768   b , may be in the range of between approximately 2 mm and 5 mm. 
     The relative angle at which buttons are oriented relative to each other may vary.  FIG. 8  is a block diagram representation of an angle between button positioned inline along a longitudinal axis in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. A button  804  is arranged to be actuated along an axis  888  that is associated with a z-direction  820   c , while a button  808  is arranged to be actuated along an axis  892  that is associated with a y-direction  820   b . More generally, button  804  is arranged about axis  888 , while button  808  is arranged about axis  892 . For ease of illustration, buttons  804 ,  808  are illustrated as being separate pieces, although it should be appreciated that buttons  804 ,  808  may typically be substantially aligned along a common longitudinal axis. In addition, although a single button  804  which may be actuated in z-direction  820   c  is shown, it should be appreciated that there is generally at least a second button (not shown) which may be actuated in z-direction  820   c.    
     Axis  888  and axis  892  are separated by an angle Ø  894 . Hence, button  808  is oriented about angle Ø  894  relative to button  804 . In the described embodiment, angle Ø  894  may be approximately ninety degrees. It should be appreciated, however, that angle Ø  894  is not limited to being approximately ninety degrees. By way of example, angle Ø  894  may be between approximately ninety degrees and approximately 180 degrees. Alternatively, angle Ø  894  may be substantially any angle that is greater than zero degrees and less than 360 degrees. Typically, adjacent buttons will positioned at angular positions that different from about at least 20 degrees up to about 340 degrees. 
     In order to facilitate the ability of a user to identify the relative locations of buttons of an inline switch, the overall shape of the inline switch may include landing points. By way of example, a cap or a hard shell of an inline switch may be shaped or otherwise configured to include landings that may be readily identified by touch. An inline switch may include a landing associated with each button such that a user may feel the inline switch, e.g., run his or her finger along the length of the inline switch, to determine where each button is approximately located. 
       FIGS. 9A and 9B  are diagrammatic side-view representations of an inline switch arrangement which is shaped to include landing points that are associated with buttons in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. An inline switch arrangement  900  is shaped such that it includes three landing points  996 ,  998  which correspond to three buttons contained associated with inline switch arrangement  900 . Landing points  996  correspond to buttons that are arranged to be activated by the application of forces in a z-direction  920   c , while landing point  998  corresponds to a button that is arranged to be activated by the application of a force in a y-direction  920   b.    
     A user may identify landing points  996 ,  998  by feeling inline switch arrangement  900  for indentations. For example, a user may use his or her fingers to locate landing point  998  as an indentation substantially near a middle portion of inline switch arrangement  900 . Hence, by pressing on landing point  998 , the user may be fairly certain that he or she is actuating an underlying button. As landing point  998  is associated with a button that is at approximately a ninety degree angle from the buttons associated with landing points  996 , the user may press on or apply force to landing point  998  in y-direction  920   b  substantially without inadvertently pressing on landing points  996 . 
       FIG. 10  is a diagrammatic perspective representation of one embodiment of an inline switch arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. An inline switch arrangement  100  includes a cable  1016  and a switch cover  1044 . Switch cover  1044  may be substantially any covering which fits over buttons (not shown) of switch arrangement  1000  and allows the buttons to be actuated therethrough. By way of example, switch cover  1044  may be formed as a relatively hard shell or as a flexible tube member. 
     Although only a few embodiments of the present invention have been described, it should be understood that the present invention may be embodied in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present invention. By way of example, while an inline switch within which buttons or individual switch arrangements are positioned at different angles along a longitudinal axis has been described as including three buttons, an inline switch may generally include any number of buttons. That is, an inline switch may include fewer than or more than three buttons. In general, buttons may be arranged such that alternating buttons are arranged at different angles. For instance, an inline switch which includes four buttons may include a first button arranged to be actuated along a y-axis, an adjacent second button arranged to be actuated along a z-axis, a third button arranged to be actuated along the y-axis that is adjacent to the opposite side of the second button from the first button, and a fourth button arranged to be actuated along the z-axis that is adjacent to the opposite side of the third button from the second button. 
     A post such as post  552  of  FIGS. 5A and 5B  may be incorporated into a cap, e.g., a polypropylene cap, in an inline switch with a tube covering without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present invention. Such a post may be arranged to facilitate the actuation of a button. Additionally, various shims may be incorporated into a cap, and/or onto a flex circuit, to prevent a deflection of the cap from causing a button to be inadvertently actuated. 
     A multiple function inline switch has been shown and described as being incorporated into an earpiece assembly. It should be understood that such a switch is not limited to being associated with an earpiece assembly. By way of example, a multiple function inline switch may be included in, but is not limited to being included in, a headset assembly, an earpiece assembly, a microphone assembly or an assembly that includes both an earpiece and a mouthpiece. 
     The shape of a cap, e.g., a polypropylene cap or piece, of an inline switch that is to be positioned over buttons and under a tube, e.g., a silicone tube, may vary widely. For instance, a cover piece may be shaped to include indentations which are to be positioned over buttons. As such, the ability of a user to “feel” where the various buttons of an inline switch are located relative to one another may be facilitated. Similarly, the shape of a hard shell cover may also vary widely. 
     Buttons on a multiple function inline switch may be oriented at different angles relative to one another. By way of example, a middle button of a three button switch may be oriented at one angle relative to a first button, and at a second angle relative to a second button. Generally, however, the middle button of a three button switch is oriented at substantially the same angle relative to a first button and relative to a second button. 
     In general, an inline switch has been described as including a plurality of buttons. Each button that is included in an overall inline switch arrangement may be associated with a separate switch. In other words, an inline switch arrangement effectively includes a plurality of components that are individual switches. Such individual switches may be embodied as buttons. That is, a button is an example of a part of a component switch which is included in an overall inline switch arrangement. It should be appreciated, however, that although buttons are described, component switches of an overall inline switch arrangement are not limited to having buttons. 
     The steps associated with the methods of the present invention may vary widely. Steps may be added, removed, altered, combined, and reordered without departing from the spirit of the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present examples are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein, but may be modified within the scope of the appended claims.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20130107
Publication Date: 20140617
Grant Date: 20140617
Priority Date: 20080331
Inventors: PREST CHRISTOPHER
STIEHL KURT
FRAZIER CAMERON
CROOIJMANS WIM
YU MICHELLE
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01H9/0228", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H9/02", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2009/048", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2217/024", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2009/048", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2217/024", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2009/0257", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2009/0257", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H9/0228", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2217/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/1041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01H2217/002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R1/1041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 41115463