PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9396629-B1
Application Number: US-201414186888-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B1

Title: Haptic modules with independently controllable vertical and horizontal mass movements

Abstract:
Electronic devices and methods for creating various haptic effects. In one example, an electronic device may include a first haptic module for creating a first haptic effect, the first haptic module having a first weight member that selectively moves in a substantially vertical orientation relative to the first haptic module; a second haptic module for creating a second haptic effect, the second haptic module having a second weight member that selectively moves in a substantially horizontal orientation relative to the second haptic module; and a processor for controlling the first and second haptic modules. In one example, the processor selectively activates either the first haptic module or the second haptic module based on one or more events or conditions, such as the current orientation or position of the electronic device.

Claims:
I claim: 
     
       1. An electronic device, comprising:
 a planar surface; 
 a first haptic module for creating a first haptic effect, the first haptic module having a first weight member that selectively moves in a substantially perpendicular direction relative to the planar surface; 
 a second haptic module for creating a second haptic effect, the second haptic module having a second weight member that selectively moves in a substantially parallel direction relative to the planar surface; and 
 a processor for controlling the first and second haptic modules. 
 
     
     
       2. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the first haptic module includes a frame member, a weight member positioned within the frame member, and an actuator wire coupled with the weight member and the frame member. 
     
     
       3. The electronic device of  claim 2 , wherein the actuator wire is formed from a shape memory alloy. 
     
     
       4. The electronic device of  claim 2 , wherein when the actuator wire receives an electrical current, the actuator wire shortens, thereby moving the first weight member in the perpendicular direction from a first position to a second position. 
     
     
       5. The electronic device of  claim 4 , wherein when the electrical current decreases, the actuator wire returns to an original length and the first weight member moves in the perpendicular direction to return to the first position. 
     
     
       6. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the second haptic module includes a frame member, a weight member positioned within the frame member, and an actuator wire coupled with the weight member and the frame member, wherein the frame member defines one or more slots that guide movement of the weight member within the frame member. 
     
     
       7. The electronic device of  claim 6 , wherein the weight member has a pin and the actuator wire is routed around a portion of the pin. 
     
     
       8. The electronic device of  claim 6 , wherein when the actuator wire receives an electrical current, the actuator wire shortens, thereby moving the second weight member in the parallel direction from a first position to a second position. 
     
     
       9. The electronic device of  claim 8 , wherein when the electrical current decreases, the actuator wire returns to an original length and the second weight member moves in the parallel direction to return to the first position. 
     
     
       10. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the processor selectively activates either the first haptic module or the second haptic module based on one or more events. 
     
     
       11. The electronic device of  claim 10 , wherein the one or more events include an orientation of the electronic device. 
     
     
       12. An electronic device, comprising:
 a haptic module for creating a haptic effect, the haptic module having a frame, a weight member positioned within the frame, and an actuator wire coupled between the weight member and the frame, wherein when the actuator wire receives an electrical signal, the actuator wire shortens thereby moving the weight member within the frame to create the haptic effect; and 
 a processor for controlling the haptic module. 
 
     
     
       13. The electronic device of  claim 12 , wherein the haptic module is configured so that the weight member moves in a substantially vertical orientation relative to the frame. 
     
     
       14. The electronic device of  claim 12 , wherein the haptic module is configured so that the weight member moves in a substantially horizontal orientation relative to the frame. 
     
     
       15. The electronic device of  claim 12 , wherein the actuator wire is formed from a shape memory alloy. 
     
     
       16. The electronic device of  claim 12 , wherein the processor selectively activates the haptic module based on one or more events. 
     
     
       17. The electronic device of  claim 16 , wherein the one or more events include an orientation of the electronic device. 
     
     
       18. A method of creating a haptic feedback effect in an electronic device, comprising:
 determining an orientation of the electronic device; and 
 responsive to the determining operation, activating either a first haptic module to create a first haptic feedback effect or activating a second haptic module to create a second haptic feedback effect; wherein 
 the first haptic module is configured to move a first weight member in a substantially perpendicular direction relative to a planar surface of the electronic device to create the first haptic feedback effect; and 
 the second haptic module is configured to move a second weight member in a substantially parallel direction relative to the planar surface of the electronic device to create the second haptic feedback effect. 
 
     
     
       19. The method of  claim 18 , wherein if the determining operation determines that the orientation of the electronic device is substantially horizontal, then the activation operation activates the first haptic module to create the first haptic feedback effect. 
     
     
       20. The method of  claim 18 , wherein if the determining operation determines that the orientation of the electronic device is substantially vertical, then the activation operation activates the second haptic module to create the second haptic feedback effect. 
     
     
       21. The method of  claim 18 , wherein the planar surface is defined by a display screen. 
     
     
       22. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the planar surface is defined by a display screen.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to methods and apparatuses for providing haptic effects and haptic feedback, and more particularly relates to methods and apparatus for providing a rapid haptic effect. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Haptic effects or haptic feedback refers to touch or tactile sensations, such as a vibration or other physical sensations, of an electronic device which can be used to provide feedback or notifications to a user of the electronic device. 
     Many conventional electronic devices provide haptic effects utilizing vibration inducing devices, such as an electric motor connected to an eccentric unbalanced weight or mass which causes the electronic device to vibrate or buzz based on rotary motion of the weight. 
     As recognized by the present inventor, what is needed are differing types of haptic devices to provide additional types of haptic effects to a user. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to one broad aspect of one embodiment, disclosed herein is an electronic device that may include a first haptic module for creating a first haptic effect, the first haptic module having a first weight member that selectively moves in a substantially vertical orientation relative to the first haptic module; a second haptic module for creating a second haptic effect, the second haptic module having a second weight member that selectively moves in a substantially horizontal orientation relative to the second haptic module; and a processor for controlling the first and second haptic modules. 
     In one example, the first haptic module may include a frame member, a weight member positioned within the frame member, and an actuator wire coupled with the weight member and the frame member. In one example, the actuator wire may include a Nitinol material or other shape memory alloy, and when the actuator wire receives an electrical current, the actuator wire shortens, thereby vertically moving the first weight member from a first position to a second position and creating the first haptic effect. When the electrical current decreases or decays, the actuator wire returns to its original length and the first weight member returns to the first position. 
     In one example, the second haptic module may include a frame member, a weight member positioned within the frame member, and an actuator wire coupled with the weight member and the frame member. In one example, the actuator wire may include a Nitinol material or other shape memory alloy, and when the actuator wire receives an electrical current, the actuator wire shortens, thereby horizontally moving the second weight member from a first position to a second position and creating the second haptic effect. When the electrical current decreases or decays, the actuator wire returns to its original length and the second weight member returns to the first position. 
     In one example, the processor selectively activates either the first haptic module or the second haptic module based on one or more events or conditions, such as the current orientation or position of the electronic device. 
     According to another broad aspect of another embodiment, disclosed herein is an electronic device that may include a haptic module for creating a haptic effect, the haptic module having frame, a weight member positioned within the frame, and an actuator wire coupled between the weight member and the frame, wherein when the actuator wire receives an electrical signal, the actuator wire shortens thereby moving the weight member within the frame to create the haptic effect; and a processor for controlling the haptic module. 
     In one example, the haptic module is configured so that the weight member moves in a substantially vertical orientation relative to the frame, and in another example, the haptic module is configured so that the weight member moves in a substantially horizontal orientation relative to the frame. The actuator wire may include a Nitinol material or other shape memory alloy, and the processor may selectively activate the haptic module based on one or more events or conditions such as the orientation or position of the electronic device. 
     According to another broad aspect of another embodiment, disclosed herein is a method of creating a haptic feedback effect in an electronic device. In one example, the method may include providing a first haptic module configured to move a first weight member in a substantially vertical orientation relative to the first haptic module to create a first haptic feedback effect; providing a second haptic module configured to move a second weight member in a substantially horizontal orientation relative to the second haptic module to create a second haptic feedback effect; determining an orientation of the electronic device; and responsive to determining operation, activating either the first haptic module to create the first haptic feedback effect or activating the second haptic module to create the second haptic feedback effect. 
     In one example, if the determining operation determines that the orientation of the electronic device is substantially horizontal, then the activation operation may activate the first haptic module to create the first haptic feedback effect. In another example, if the determining operation determines that the orientation of the electronic device is substantially vertical, then the activation operation may activate the second haptic module to create the second haptic feedback effect. 
     Other embodiments are described herein. The features, utilities and advantages of various embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent from the following more particular description of embodiments as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an example of a haptic module creating a haptic effect based on vertical motion of a mass/weight member, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an example of a haptic module creating a haptic effect based on horizontal motion of a mass/weight member, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an example of a process for activating a haptic effect, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an example of a graph showing movement velocities of a weight member/mass of a haptic module, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  illustrate examples of a block diagram of a haptic module configured to be tuned to adjust the movement velocities of the weight member/mass, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a block diagram of an example of an electronic device having one or more haptic modules, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Described herein are various embodiments of haptic modules which can create differing haptic effects within an electronic device  18 , such as, but not limited to, portable electronic devices, mobile phones, smart phones, tablet computers, music and multi-media players, wearable devices, wearable health assistants, video game controllers, and other handheld, wearable or portable devices. The haptic effects may be selectively created based on vertical and/or horizontal movements of a mass or weight member. In this manner, different haptic effects can be utilized by an electronic device depending on differing situations, factors, or events, such as a current orientation or motion of the electronic device. Various embodiments are described in the present disclosure. 
     In one example, a haptic module  20  ( FIG. 1 ) can create haptic effects based on vertical movements of a mass/weight member  24  within the haptic module  20 , while in another example, haptic module  50  ( FIG. 2 ) can create haptic effects based on horizontal/lateral movements of a mass/weight member  54  within the haptic module  50 . In one embodiment, an electronic device  18  (see  FIG. 6 ) is provided with both haptic modules  20  and  50  so that electronic device  18  can provide differing haptic effects in response to different situations, scenarios or conditions. In another embodiment, an electronic device  18  may be provided with either haptic module  20  or haptic module  50 , as desired. 
     As described herein, a haptic effect is created when a haptic module (such as module  20  or module  50 ) within a portable device  18  rapidly moves one or more mass elements or weight members (such as  24  or  54 ), so as to temporarily physically move or jolt the portable device  18 . When a haptic effect occurs, a user holding, manipulating or otherwise in contact with the portable device  18  experiences or feels the temporary movement of the portable device  18 . Haptic effects as described herein can be provided within a portable device  18  in addition to or as a complement to traditional tactile feedback effects such as vibrational effects. In portable electronic devices  18 , especially very small ones, a haptic effect allows feedback or notifications to be provided to the user of the electronic device  18 . 
     In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, data from a conventional accelerometer (e.g.,  142  in  FIG. 6 ) that is included in a portable electronic device  18  can be utilized to determine the orientation of the electronic device  18 . When the electronic device  18  is in a vertical orientation (such as within a user&#39;s pocket), in one example, a haptic effect based upon lateral movement created by haptic module  50  ( FIG. 2 ) may be desired. In another example, when the electronic device  18  is in a horizontal orientation, such as when device  18  is resting on a table or a wearable electronic device is in a substantially horizontal orientation, a haptic effect based upon vertical movement created by haptic module  20  may be desired. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an example of a haptic module  20 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, which can be used with or incorporated into a portable electronic device  18 . In this example, haptic module  20  includes a frame member  22 , a weight member or mass  24  (which may include tungsten or other dense material) positioned within frame member  22 , and an actuator wire  26  (e.g., a shape memory alloy such as a Nitinol wire) connected between portions of frame member  22  and weight member  24  for controlling movement of weight member  24  within the frame member  22  in order to create haptic effects or provide haptic feedback in electronic device  18  through haptic module  20 . As described herein, actuator wire  26  rapidly changes shape and/or length under control of electronic device  18 , and in response, weight member  24  moves substantially upwardly or downwardly (i.e., linearly) relative to frame member  22 , thereby creating a haptic effect, movement or action such as but not limited to a tap, pop, jolt or other movement. The distance traveled by the weight member  24  within the frame member  22  can be configured or tuned in a particular implementation of a haptic module  20  to achieve a desired haptic effect. 
     The haptic module  20  of  FIG. 1  is generally planar in one example, which makes it suitable for use within a portable electronic device  18 . The frame member  22  can be configured to partially or completely encase or surround weight member  24 . In one example, frame member  22  prevents or restricts horizontal or lateral movement of weight member  24  with frame member  22 , while allowing a defined amount vertical movement of weight member  24  within frame member  22 . Frame member  22  may include upper or top portions  27 , and bottom portion  29 , in one example. 
     The frame member  22 , in one example, can have one or more openings  28  along one or more sides or surfaces  30  of the frame member  22 . In the example of  FIG. 1 , openings  28  are positioned along the sides  30  of frame member  22 , but in another example openings  28  could also be positioned along the ends of frame member  22 . 
     Weight member  24 , in one example, may include one or more extensions, nodes, tabs or protrusions  32  extending outwardly from one or more sides or services of weight member  24 . In the example of  FIG. 1 , the protrusions  32  are generally cylindrically shaped, and may include or define a channel  34  for receiving actuator wire  26 . For instance, protrusions  32  may include a cylindrical shaft portion  36  having a diameter, and a cylindrical cap portion  38  connected to the distal end of shaft portion  36 , wherein the cylindrical portion  38  has a diameter larger than the diameter of the cylindrical shaft portion  36 . 
     The openings  28  of frame member  22  are adapted to receive the one or more extensions/protrusions  32  of weight member  24 . In one example, openings  28  define a length that may have a generally vertical orientation, such as an oval, rectangle, or other shape which extends vertically along a side  30  of frame member  22 . In this manner, openings  28  support and guide movement of protrusions  32  of the weight member  24  within the openings  28 , for instance between various substantially vertical positions such as a first vertical position and a second vertical position. In another example, openings  28  can be angled in actuate or obtuse angular orientations relative to the frame member  22 , so as to create differing movement patterns of the weight member  24  relative to the frame member  22 , if desired. 
     Frame member  22  may also include one or more posts or nodes  40  extending outwardly from sides or surfaces  30  of the frame member. The posts  40  may be positioned along the same sides or services as the protrusions  32  of weight member  24 , and the posts  40  may include channels  42  to guide actuator wire  26  along posts  40 . Frame member  22  may also include a tab or extension  44  or other structure so that frame member  22  can be connected with a portable electronic device  18 . 
     In this example of  FIG. 1 , there are, along one side of frame member  22  and weight member  24 , three protrusions  32  and two posts  40  in an alternating arrangement. Protrusions  32  and posts  40  can be provided with a non-conductive coating in one example, so as to electrically insulate them from the current/voltage or other signals applied to or flowing through actuator wire  26 . 
     To create vertical movement of weight  24  within the frame member  22 , actuator wire  26  is routed under a first protrusion  32  of weight member  24 , over the adjacent post  40  of frame member  22 , under the second protrusion  32  of weight member  24 , over the second post  40  of frame member  22 , and under the third protrusion  32  of weight member  24 . The actuator wire may be secured to the frame member at each of its ends. 
     In one example, in a first state (such as a default state), the actuator wire  26  is in its normal state defining a first length. This default, first state can exist, for instance, when no voltage, current, heat or other energy or signal is applied to the actuator wire  26 . In this example, the weight  24  in the first state is in its lower vertical position relative to frame member  22 . 
     In a second state, when an excitation signal (such as current, voltage or other signal or energy) is applied to the actuator wire  26 , the wire heats up, contracts and shortens in length, which rapidly moves the weight member  24  upwardly, which creates a haptic effect of a tap, pop, jolt or other movement of the haptic module  20  and of the electronic device  18 . In the example of  FIG. 1 , since the actuator wire  26  is fixedly attached at its ends to frame member  22  and since the wire  26  is routed around posts  40  and routed under protrusions  32 , the shortened length of wire  26  applies an upward force on protrusions  32  which has the effect of rapidly moving weight member  24  upwardly to the second vertical position (which in one example is higher or above the first vertical position of the first state) which creates a haptic effect in the haptic module  20  and electronic device  18 . 
     When the excitation signal is then removed or discharges, the wire  26  restores to its default length, which thereby decreases and/or removes the upward force on protrusions  32  which has the effect of allowing weight member  24  to move downwardly, for instance back to its first position or default position. 
     In one example, a second set of openings  28 , protrusions  32  and posts  40  are provided on a second side or surface (for instance, an opposing side) of the frame member  22  and weight member  24 . A second actuator wire (similar to wire  26 ) can be securely connected at its ends to the second side or surface of frame member  22 , and routed through the second set of openings  28 , protrusions  32  and posts  40 . In this example, when both actuator wires are activated simultaneously (i.e., a current, voltage, or other signals or energies are applied simultaneously to both wires  26 ), the upward force applied to the weight member  24  is larger (e.g., double) than if a single wire  26  is used, which can also have the effect of increasing the rate at which the weight member  24  moves upwardly within the frame member  22 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates another example of a haptic module  50  for use in an electronic device  18 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
     In this example, haptic module  50  includes a frame member  52 , a weight member  54  positioned within frame member  52 , and an actuator wire  56  (e.g., a shape memory alloy such as a Nitinol wire) connected between weight member or mass  54  (which may include tungsten or other dense material) and frame member  52  for controlling movement of weight member  54  within the frame member  52  in order to create haptic effects or provide haptic feedback in electronic device  18  through haptic module  50 . As described herein, actuator wire  56  rapidly changes shape and/or length under control of the electronic device  18 , and in response, weight member  54  moves laterally within frame member  52 , thereby creating a haptic effect, movement or action such as but not limited to a tap, pop, jolt or other movement. The distance traveled by the weight member  54  within the frame member  52  can be configured or tuned in a particular implementation of haptic module  50  to achieve a desired haptic effect. 
     The haptic module  50  of  FIG. 2  is generally planar in one example, which makes it suitable for use within a portable electronic device  18 . 
     Frame member  52  may include one or more wire securing members  58  securing the ends of actuator wire  56  to frame member  52 . Frame member  52  may also include lateral guide slots  60 ,  62  along sides  64 ,  66  that, along with end member  68 , provide or define an area within frame member  52  wherein weight member  54  can laterally move from at least a first position to a second position in response to a change in the length and/or shape of actuator wire  56 . 
     Weight member  54  may include a wire attachment pin  70  receiving or coupling with a portion of actuator wire  56 , or in another embodiment, actuator wire  56  may be attached to or secured to a portion of weight member  54  depending upon the particular implementation. Pin  70  can be provided with a non-conductive coating in one example, so as to electrically insulate pin  70  from the current/voltage or other signals applied to or flowing through actuator wire  26 . 
     Frame member  52  may also include a stop member (e.g., L-shaped tab)  72  with the return spring  74  configured to be in contact with one end of the weight member  54 . In one example, stop member  72  and return spring  74  are positioned on an end opposing the end member  68  of frame member  52 . 
     The frame member  52  can be configured to partially or completely encase or surround weight member  54 . In one example, frame member  52  prevents or restricts vertical movement of weight member  54  with frame member  52 , while allowing a defined amount lateral, horizontal, or linear movement of weight member  54  within frame member  52 . 
     In another example, the guide slots  60 ,  62  of frame member  52  can be angled in acute or obtuse angular orientations relative to the frame member  52 , so as to create differing movement patterns of the weight member  54  relative to the frame member  52 , if desired. 
     Frame member  52  may also include structures so that frame member  52  can be connected with or secured within a portable electronic device  18 . 
     In this example of  FIG. 2 , to create lateral/horizontal movement of weight  54  within the frame member  52 , actuator wire  56  is routed around or connected with a wire attachment pin  70  (or other attachment structure depending on the implementation) of the weight member  54 , in one example. The actuator wire  56  may be secured to the frame member  52  at each of its ends. The return spring  74  is positioned between an end of the weight member  54  and the stop member  72 , such that the return spring  74  exerts a force upon the weight member to bias the position of weight member  54  towards end member  68  of frame member  52 . 
     In one example, in a first state (such as a default state), the actuator wire  56  is in its normal state defining a first length. This default, first state can exist, for instance, when no voltage, current, heat or other energy or signal is applied to the actuator wire  56 . In this example, the weight member  54  in the first state is in its horizontal position closest to end member  68  within frame member  52 , due to the spring force of return spring  74  onto weight member  54 . In this example of a first position/first state, the return spring  74  is generally uncompressed or slightly compressed (especially when compared with the second state described below). 
     In a second state, when an excitation signal (such as current, voltage or other signal or energy) is applied to the actuator wire  56 , the wire  56  heats up, contracts and shortens in length, which rapidly moves the weight member  54  laterally toward the stop member  72  and compresses the return spring  74 , and such rapid lateral movement of the weight member  54  creates a haptic effect of a tap, pop, jolt or other movement of the haptic module  50  and of the electronic device  18 . In the example of  FIG. 2 , since the actuator wire  56  is fixedly attached at its ends to frame member  52  and since the wire  26  is also routed around or connected with wire attachment pin  70  of weight member  54 , the shortened length of wire  56  applies a lateral force on wire attachment pin  70  which in one example overcomes the spring force of return spring  74 , and therefore has the effect of rapidly moving weight member  54  laterally to the second horizontal position (which in one example is closer to the stop member  72  than when in the first position or first state) which creates the haptic effect in the haptic module  50  and electronic device  18 . 
     When wire  56  has the excitation signal removed or discharged, the wire  56  restores or returns to its default length, which thereby decreases and/or removes the lateral force on wire attachment pin  70  on the weight member  54 , at which point the spring force of return spring  74  moves weight member  54  laterally back towards the first position or default (i.e., away from stop member  72  and towards end member  68  of frame member  52 ). 
     In one example, actuator wires  26 ,  56  may be approximately 15 mm in length or other lengths as desired, and when activated via the application of an electrical current, actuator wires  26 ,  56  may shrink in length on the order of approximately 2% to 4% or more. In one example, a capacitance of between approximately 300 to 400 μFarads (e.g., 330 μFarads), with approximately 10 to 15 volts applied thereto, can be discharged into wires  26 ,  56  in order to change the wire&#39;s length. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates an example of a method for creating haptic effects in an electronic device based upon horizontal or vertical movement of a weight member, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. At operation  80 , a haptic module is in a normal or default state, wherein the weight member is in a first position. Upon detection of a condition within an electronic device which warrants the initiation of a haptic effect, control is passed to operation  82 . 
     At operation  82 , the electronic device&#39;s orientation and/or movement is determined. In one example, operation  82  examines data from the electronic device&#39;s accelerometer(s) (or gyroscopes if present) in order to determine whether the device is currently substantially vertically oriented or substantially horizontally oriented. 
     In one example, if the electronic device is substantially horizontally oriented, it may be desired to provide haptic feedback based on vertical movements of the weight member within a haptic module, and in such a situation control is passed to operation  84 . Conversely, if the electronic device is substantially vertically oriented, it may be desired to provide haptic feedback based on lateral movements of the weight member within a haptic module, and in such a situation control is passed to operation  86 . Other conditions, variables, events or factors may be utilized to determine whether to pass control either to operation  84  for creation of haptic effects based on vertical movement of a weight member, or to operation  86  for creation of haptic effects based on horizontal/lateral movement of a weight member. 
     If control is passed to operation  84 , at operation  84  vertical movement of a weight member of a haptic module is activated, in one example by discharging a capacitor into an actuating wire of a haptic module to create rapid vertical movement of the weight member from the first position (of operation  80 ) to a second position, which creates a haptic effect. 
     If control is passed to operation  86 , at operation  86  horizontal/lateral movement of a weight member of a haptic module is activated, in one example by discharging a capacitor into an actuating wire of a haptic module to create rapid lateral movement of the weight member from the first position (of operation  80 ) to a second position, which creates a haptic effect. 
     At operation  88 , the signal applied by operations  84  or  86  is removed, decays or decreases so as to restore the haptic module to its normal/default/first state. At operation  90 , the weight member with the haptic modules moves or returns back to its first position. 
     At operation  92 , the process may wait until a new request for a haptic effect is received, upon which control may be returned to operation  82  in order to repeat operations  82 - 92 . 
     As described herein, haptic feedback or effects can be created and provided to the user of electronic device  18  based upon horizontal/lateral movements of weight member  54  in certain situations, while in other situations, haptic feedback or effects can be created and provided to the user of electronic device  18  based upon vertical movement of weight member  24 . 
     In addition, the type, frequency, amplitude or duration of haptic feedback created by an electronic device  18  can be dynamically changed or adjusted depending upon the orientation, position, movement, or other events of electronic device  18 . For instance, if it is desired to reduce or avoid the possible annoyance of an electronic device  18  that is resting on a table (detected such as through accelerometer data), the haptic feedback or haptic effect provided by electronic device  18  (for instance when an incoming phone call is received) could be dynamically adjusted to be for example one or more taps created by haptic modules  20  or  50 . This is in contrast with some conventional electronic devices which utilize large and extended vibrations of the electronic device to notify users of events such as incoming phone calls. 
     In another example, an electronic device  18  can be configured to test the level of noise that would be generated by haptic effects such as vibrations. In one example, an electronic device  18  may emit a test haptic pulse, and a microphone (e.g.,  140  in  FIG. 6 ) of the electronic device  18  checks to a level of noise generated by the test haptic pulse. For instance, when an electronic device  18  is resting on a steel table, a large amount of noise may be generated by the test haptic pulse, in contrast with when an electronic device  18  is resting on a softer surface or pillow which would not typically generate large amounts of resonance noise. If the electronic device  18  determines that the test haptic pulse generates an amount of noise above a desired threshold, then the electronic device  18  could dynamically change the type, frequency, amplitude or duration of the haptic feedback utilized (for instance to indicate an incoming call). 
       FIGS. 4-5  illustrate examples of tuning a response of a haptic module, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.  FIG. 4  illustrates a velocity curve  100  for movements of a weight within haptic device based on a changing shape of an actuator wire in response to capacitor discharge, as well as a desired gradual ramp-up velocity curve  102 . Curve  100  shows that a haptic device may have a very short range of motion of the weight movement, along with a very quick ramp up speed where peak velocity instantaneously achieved resulting in a very abrupt “tick” in the haptic module.  FIG. 5  illustrates an example of a tunable haptic module  110 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
     In  FIG. 5A , a leaf spring  112  is coupled between an actuator wire  114  and one end of the weight member/mass  116  in its initial first position, while the other end of the weight member/mass  116  is coupled with a return spring  118  that is fixed at its opposing end. When current is applied to the actuator wire  114  and the wire  114  shortens/shrinks, as shown in  FIG. 5B  the leaf spring  112  is extended which generates a pull force within the leaf spring  112  which begins to pull/move the weight member/mass  116  towards its second position. In  FIG. 5C , the mass  116  gradually increases velocity to its peak, at which point the mass  116  has moved to its second position, wherein the leaf spring  112  is returned to its initial state and the return spring  118  is extended. As the actuator wire  114  cools and returns (lengthens) to its original length, the return spring  118  shortens and the weight member/mass  116  returns to its first position as shown in  FIG. 5A . 
     In this example of the present disclosure, the speed of the wire  114  shrinkage is decoupled or buffered from the motion of the weight member/mass  116  by using the leaf spring  112 , wherein once loaded, the leaf spring  112  can be used to pull the weight member/mass  116  at a tunable or selectable speed. A return spring  118  (e.g., a weak return spring) can be coupled with the weight member/mass  116  to give a gradual increase in velocity; or, if desired, a stiff return spring  118  would provide a sharper increase in velocity. 
     Various embodiments may include alternative structures or arrangements. For example, a controlled electrical discharge from a capacitor (other voltage source) may be used to slowly heat the wire  114 , rather than providing an instantaneous or near-instantaneous shrinkage of the wire. As another example, a spring may be placed at only one side of the mass. As still another example, a spring may be placed within the length of the wire  114 , such that it splits the wire  114  into two pieces, each connected to a different side of the spring. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a block diagram of a non-limiting example of an electronic device  18 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. It is understood that electronic devices  18  could be formed using structures or architectures different than that as shown in  FIG. 6 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , electronic device  18  may include a processor  130 , memory  132  (which may include ROM and RAM for program memory and data stores), and communications interfaces  134  (such as but not limited to wireless interfaces, Bluetooth interfaces, USB interfaces, Wi-Fi interfaces, TCP/IP interfaces, network communications interfaces, or any conventional communication interfaces). 
     Electronic device  18  may include various input devices  136 , such as but not limited to, touch inputs  138  (which may be part of or separate from touchscreen  139 ), audio/microphone input  140 , data from accelerometer(s)  142  and other inputs such as buttons, keypads, switches, sliders or any other conventional input. Speaker or audio outputs  144  may also be provided. 
     In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, electronic device  18  may include one or more module(s)  20 ,  50  for generating haptic feedback. Module(s)  20 ,  50  may include one or more of the features, functions or processes disclosed herein; and module(s)  20 ,  50  may be implemented in various manners, such as but not limited to, as hardware devices, specialized integrated circuits, logic, computer program products, code modules operating on processor  130  or device  18 , or in any combination thereof. 
     In one example, electronic device  18  may be configured in the form of a wearable health assistant that provides health-related information (whether real-time or not) to the user, authorized third parties, and/or an associated monitoring device. Device  18  may be configured to provide health-related information or data such as but not limited to heart rate data, blood pressure data, temperature data, oxygen level data, diet/nutrition information, medical reminders, health-related tips or information, or other health-related data. The associated monitoring device may be, for example, a tablet computing device, phone, personal digital assistant, computer, and so on. 
     Depending on the particular implementation and the positioning of haptic modules  20 ,  50  within electronic device  18 , various haptic effects are possible. For instance and in one non-limiting example, if haptic modules  20 ,  50  are placed or integrated in a co-planar relationship with a display  139  (which may be a touchscreen) of an electronic device  18 , haptic module  20  could be configured to create haptic effects that include movements perpendicular to or normal to the plane of the touchscreen  139  of electronic device  18 , while haptic module  50  could be configured to create haptic effects that include movements which are generally in the plane of touchscreen  139  of electronic device  18 . Other orientations of the haptic modules and associated haptic movements are possible. 
     While embodiments of the present disclosure have been described with respect to haptic module  20  and haptic module  50  and their selective activation, it is understood that additional or multiple haptic modules can be incorporated into device  18 , and differing haptic effects can be created based on simultaneous, combined, overlapping, repeated, sequential or alternating activations of two or more of the haptic modules, or any combinations thereof. 
     Hence, it can be seen that various embodiments of the present disclosure provide for creating haptic effects and haptic feedback for use in portable electronic devices based on vertical and/or horizontal movements of a mass or weight member. 
     While the methods disclosed herein have been described and shown with reference to particular operations performed in a particular order, it will be understood that these operations may be combined, sub-divided, or re-ordered to form equivalent methods without departing from the teachings of the embodiments herein. Accordingly, unless specifically indicated herein, the order and grouping of the operations is not a limitation of the disclosed embodiments. 
     In this description, references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment,” or to “one example” or “an example” mean that the feature being referred to is, or may be, included in at least one embodiment or example. Separate references to “an embodiment” or “one embodiment” or to “one example” or “an example” in this description are not intended to necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example; however, neither are such embodiments mutually exclusive, unless so stated or as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Thus, embodiments within the scope of the disclosure may include a variety of combinations and/or integrations of the embodiments and examples described herein, as well as further embodiments and examples as defined within the scope of all claims based on this disclosure, as well as all legal equivalents of such claims. 
     It should be appreciated that in the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments, various features of the embodiments disclosed herein are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment, and each embodiment described herein may contain more than one inventive feature. 
     While various embodiments have been particularly shown and described herein, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various other changes in the form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20140221
Publication Date: 20160719
Grant Date: 20160719
Priority Date: 20140221
Inventors: WEBER DOUGLAS
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G03B2205/0076", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B6/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1684", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1684", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B6/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B6/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B2205/0076", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 56381693