Patent Document

RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/175,454 filed May 4, 2009, the specification of which is herein incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The invention generally relates to an apparatus and a method for providing haptic feedback. 
     BACKGROUND INFORMATION 
     Handheld electronic devices, such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), pocket personal computers (PCs), gamepads, and camcorders, generally have multiple of buttons that allow one to interface with the device by inputting information. The capabilities of these devices are increasing while their size and weight are decreasing to enhance their portability. For example, mobile phones, in addition to their traditional role as voice-communication devices, now include functions traditionally associated with other devices, such as electronic games, PDAs, and digital cameras. At the same time, consumers seek smaller, lighter devices. 
     To support these multiple functions, a screen display is often used. Thus, the area on devices devoted to user input, i.e., the activating or input area, is becoming increasingly complex in terms of the number of functions available to be input, while the physical size of the input area is decreasing. Moreover, the available size of the input area must compete with the size of the visual display. 
     To permit effective interaction with these devices, visual and audio cues or feedback are provided by the conventional device. In addition to conventional visual and audio feedback, some of these devices attempt to enhance the effectiveness of device feedback by providing tactile cues or feedback. Some devices utilize structural tactile methods. One such example is to provide raised surfaces on the input surface, e.g., keypad, of the device. Such methods, however, are inherently static and thus cannot offer a wide array of, or effective, tactile feedback. 
     Active methods of providing tactile feedback include incorporating haptics into handheld electronic devices. These active methods of providing haptic cues generally include vibrating the entire device. Some devices have incorporated haptic feedback into a surface of the device instead of vibrating the entire device. In such devices, the haptic feedback is provided to the input area, i.e., the activating area. However, the limited size of the input area in a handheld device provides a very limited area in which to provide meaningful haptic feedback. Furthermore, the amount of physical contact with the input area is generally limited to a small surface of a finger while inputting information to the device. Moreover, in typical active methods, the frequencies at which the devices are vibrated have been in very limited ranges—typically between 20 Hz and 28 Hz. The number of haptic cues that can be conveyed in such a range is very limited. 
     SUMMARY 
     One embodiment is a handheld apparatus that includes a top surface that includes a touch screen defining a plurality of keys, and a bottom surface on an opposite side of the first surface. The apparatus further includes a processor and an actuator coupled to the processor and located on the bottom surface. The processor is adapted to detect an object moving across the keys and in response generate an actuation signal to the actuator to generate a haptic feedback on the back surface. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a mobile phone according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a surface of an off-activating area of the mobile phone of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of another surface of the off-activating area of the mobile phone of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an internal surface of the mobile phone of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a block diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a block diagram of another embodiment of a method according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a text communication device according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of an off-activating area of the text communicating device of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a second mobile phone according to another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a plan view of an off-activating area of the mobile phone of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a camcorder according to another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a gamepad according to another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of an off-activating surface of the gamepad of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of a touch surface of a device according to various embodiments of the invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of an off-activating surface of a device according to various embodiments of the invention. 
         FIGS. 16A and 16B  are perspective views of an actuating paddle assembly according to various embodiments of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention include products and processes for providing haptic feedback at an area different than the input area. In some interface devices, kinesthetic feedback (such as, without limitation, active and passive force feedback), and/or tactile feedback (such as, without limitation, vibration, texture, and heat), is also provided to the user, more generally known collectively as “haptic feedback.” In certain embodiments, haptic feedback is provided only at an area different from the input area. In other embodiments, haptic feedback is also provided at the input area. The invention may be embodied in handheld devices, such as mobile phone, PDAs, pagers, and camcorders, but may be embodied in other devices as well. 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view showing a mobile phone  100  according to an embodiment of the present invention. The phone  100  includes a first surface  110 , a second surface  120 , and a plurality of walls  130 . The plurality of walls  130  define a volume  140  (shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 ). As shown in  FIG. 1 , the walls  130  are coupled to the first surface  110  and the second surface  120 . The first surface  110  and the second surface  120  may be distinct. While the first and second surfaces  110 ,  120  shown in  FIG. 1  are separate from one another. In an alternate embodiment, the first and second surfaces  110 ,  120  can be contiguous. 
     The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1-4  includes a means for receiving an input signal. The means for receiving an input signal includes means for detecting a plurality of distinct pressures. The means for receiving an input signal and the means for detecting a plurality of distinct pressures in the embodiment shown in the  FIG. 1  includes a keypad  114 , a switch  116 , and a touch-sensitive screen  118 . The keypad  114 , the switch  116 , and the touch-sensitive screen  118  are described further below. Other means for receiving an input signal and means for detecting a plurality of distinct pressures may be used in other embodiments, for example, a D-pad, scroll wheel, and toggle switch. Structures described herein for receiving an input signal and for detecting a plurality of distinct pressures, or other structures may be used. Any suitable structure that can receive an input signal and that can detect a plurality of distinct pressures may be used. 
     Disposed in the first surface  110  are several input elements  112 . Other embodiments may include one input element (such as a touch-screen). The input elements  112  shown in  FIG. 1  include the keypad  114 , switch  116 , and touch-sensitive screen  118 . The touch-sensitive screen  118  is disposed in a video display screen  119 . In other embodiments, input elements can include, for example, D-pads, scroll wheels, and toggle switches. 
     Information—through the generation of a signal—is generally input into the phone  100  through the input elements  112  disposed in the first surface  110  (hereinafter referred to as the “input surface”). Information can be input by physically contacting the input elements  112  with a digit of a hand, or with a device, such as a stylus. Alternatively, data can be input in the phone  100  remotely. For example, data can be transmitted wirelessly from a remote processor (not shown) to the phone  100 . In another example, the phone  100  can be placed in a cradle-like device (not shown), which is operative to communicate with the remote processor and the phone  100 . Data can be entered into the phone  100  placed in the cradle-like device through the remote processor by keying in data on a keyboard, which is operative to communicate with the remote processor. 
       FIG. 2  shows an exterior surface  124  of the second surface  120  (hereinafter referred to as the “off-activating surface” to indicate that it is different from the input surface) of the phone  100 . The off-activating surface  120  is formed from a battery cover panel  150 . Alternatively, an off-activating surface can be formed of a separate panel (not shown) coupled with the phone. The off-activating surface  120  shown is formed of a flexible material. Alternatively, the off-activating surface  120  can include a flexural member. In one embodiment, the off-activating surface  120  is formed of plastic. Alternatively, any other suitable material can be used. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , two grooves  122  are disposed in the off-activating surface  120 . The grooves  122  increase the flexibility of the off-activating surface  120 . The term “flexibility” refers to any displacement that is generally perceptible—by sight, sound, or touch—to one observing or holding the phone. Increased flexibility of the off-activating surface  120  provides a greater range of frequencies—especially those frequencies detectable by the hand—at which the off-activating surface  120  can vibrate. Preferably, the grooves  122  are disposed through an entire thickness of the off-activating surface  120 . Alternatively, the grooves  122  can be disposed partially through the off-activating surface  120 . The grooves  122  can be formed in the off-activating surface  120  during molding of the battery cover panel  150 . Alternatively, the grooves  122  can be formed into the battery cover panel  150  subsequent to molding the battery cover panel  150 . 
     In one embodiment, the grooves  122  extend substantially along a major length of the battery cover panel  150 . Alternatively, the grooves  122  can extend in any suitable length along the battery cover panel  150 . In one embodiment, the grooves  122  are disposed substantially parallel and proximate to the edges  152  of the battery cover panel  150 . Alternatively, the grooves  122  can be disposed in any other suitable configuration. The configuration, i.e., length, depth, shape, number and position of the grooves  122  can be varied to obtain the desired resonant characteristics of the off-activating surface  120 . 
     In one embodiment, formed in the exterior surface  124  of the off-activating surface  120  is a plurality of channels  180 . The channels  180  shown are recessed to accept digits of a hand. The channels  180  guide a user&#39;s hand when holding the phone  100  and maximize the amount of physical contact between the hand and the off-activating surface  120 . 
     The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1-4  includes a means for providing haptic feedback and a means for producing a plurality of distinct haptic sensations. The means for providing haptic feedback and the means for producing a plurality of distinct haptic sensations in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1-4  comprises an actuator  160  in combination with a local processor (not shown). The actuator  160  and the local processor are described further below. Other means for providing haptic feedback and for producing a plurality of distinct haptic sensations may be used in other embodiments. For example, a voice coil and a permanent magnet, rotating masses, a piezo material such as quartz, Rochelle Salt, and synthetic polycrystalline ceramics, piezoelectric ceramics, piezoelectric films, and electroactive polymers can be used. Additionally, a remote processor can be used. Structures described herein for providing haptic feedback and for producing a plurality of distinct haptic sensations, or other structures may be used. Any suitable structure that can provide haptic feedback and that can produce a plurality of distinct haptic sensations may be used. 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of an interior surface  126  of the off-activating surface  120  of the phone  100 . As can be seen in  FIG. 3 , the grooves  122  are disposed entirely through the battery cover panel  150  from the exterior surface  124  of the off-activating surface  120  to the interior surface  126  of the off-activating surface  120 . Disposed in the volume  140  is an actuator  160 . In other embodiments, two or more actuators are so disposed. 
     The actuator  160  shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4  includes an actuator magnet  162  and an actuator voice coil  164 . In one embodiment, the actuator magnet  162  is a permanent magnet and the actuator voice coil  164  is an electromagnet. Alternatively, the actuator  160  can be formed of a piezo material such as quartz, Rochelle Salt, and synthetic polycrystalline ceramics. Other alternative actuators can include rotating masses, piezoelectric ceramics, piezoelectric films, and electroactive polymers. Any other suitable actuator can be used. Piezo material is bi-directional in its displacement, and actuates when an electric field is applied to it. In one embodiment, the actuator  160  is disposed proximate the base  154  of the battery cover panel  150 . Alternatively, the actuator  160  can be disposed in any other suitable area of the volume  140 . 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 , the actuator  160  is coupled to the off-activating surface  120 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the actuator  160  is coupled directly to the interior surface  126  of the off-activating surface  120  by the actuator magnet  162 . Alternatively, the actuator  160  can be coupled to the off-activating surface  120  by a coupling (not shown), i.e., an intermediary element. Alternatively, the actuator  160  can indirectly, i.e., without a direct physical connection, actuate the off-activating surface  120  by transmitting energy, such as sound waves or electromagnetic pulses, to the off-activating surface  120 . 
       FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an internal surface of the phone  100  of  FIGS. 1-3 . The actuator voice coil  164  is coupled to a rigid surface  170 . In an alternative embodiment, the actuator voice coil  164  is coupled to a dampening member. A dampening member is either inflexible itself or, over a period of time, deadens or restrains physical displacement. The rigid surface  170  is disposed in the volume  140  of the phone  100 . In one embodiment, the rigid surface  170  is a PC board of the phone  100 . Alternatively, the actuator voice coil  164  can be coupled with any other suitable surface. The actuator voice coil  164  shown is disposed proximate the actuator magnet  162 . Alternatively, the actuator voice coil  164  can be disposed in any other suitable location in the volume  140 . 
     The actuator voice coil  164  is electrically connected to the power supply (not shown) of the phone  100 —generally the phone  100  is powered by a direct current (DC) power source, such as a battery. The actuator voice coil  164  is electrically connected to the power supply of the phone  100  by a first power supply wire  166  and a second power supply wire  168 . Alternatively, the actuator voice coil  164  can have a power source (not shown) separate from the power source of the phone  100 . 
     The rigid surface  170  preferably remains substantially static with respect to the off-activating surface  120 . The term “substantially static” does not mean that the rigid surface  170  is completely devoid of any measurable movement. The rigid surface  170  can be displaced when the actuator  160  imparts energy to actuate the off-activating surface  120 . Rather, “substantially static” means that any displacement of the rigid surface  170  is generally imperceptible, or only minimally perceptible, to one observing or holding the phone  100 . Alternatively, the rigid surface  170  can be displaced when the actuator  160  causes the off-activating surface  120  to actuate such that it is perceptible to one observing or holding the phone  100 . The rigid surface  170  can be displaced at a same or different frequency than that at which the off-activating surface  120  actuates. 
     The actuator  160  shown is operative to actuate the off-activating surface  120  at a frequency in a range between approximately 10 Hz and 300 Hz. When the actuator voice coil  164  is energized by the power source of the phone  100 , the actuator magnet  162  is displaced toward the actuator voice coil  164 . As the actuator magnet  162  is coupled with the off-activating surface  120 , the off-activating surface  120  is also displaced toward the actuator voice coil  164  when the actuator voice coil  164  is energized. 
     Varying the amount of current to the actuator voice coil  164  can vary the amount of displacement of the actuator magnet  162  toward the actuator voice coil  164 . Thus, the amount of displacement of the off-activating surface  120  can be regulated. When the actuator voice coil  164  is de-energized, the actuator magnet  162  is no longer displaced toward the actuator voice coil  164 , and returns substantially to its original position. Likewise, the off-activating surface  120  returns substantially to its original position. 
     Repeatedly energizing and de-energizing the actuator voice coil  164  causes the actuator magnet  162 , as well as the off-activating surface, to reciprocate between its original position and a position proximate the actuator voice coil  164 . Thus, variations in the current delivered to the actuator voice coil  164  and the period between energizing and de-energizing the actuator voice coil resonates the off-activating surface  120 . 
     The embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1-4  includes a means for sending an actuation signal and a means for varying at least one of the frequency, waveform and magnitude of the haptic sensations. The means for sending an actuation signal and the means for varying at least one of the frequency, waveform and magnitude of the haptic sensations comprise the local processor. The local processor is described further below. Other means for determining pressure may be used in other embodiments. Other structures may be used, for example a remote processor. Any structure that can send an actuation signal and that can vary at least one of the frequency, waveform and magnitude can be used. 
     In one embodiment, a local processor (not shown) controls the actuation of the off-activating surface  120  by regulating the current delivered to the actuator voice coil  164 , the duration of the current delivered to the actuator voice coil  164 , the time between cycles of energizing the voice coil  164 , and the number of cycles of energizing the voice coil  164 . These conditions, i.e., frequency, waveform, and magnitude, can be varied to obtain desired resonant characteristics of the off-activating surface  120 . Alternatively, the processor can be remote, i.e., separate from the phone  100 . Thus, haptic feedback can be provided to the off-activating surface  120 . 
     The local processor monitors the input elements  112  in the phone  100 . When a plurality of input elements  112  is included, the processor can either monitor each input element  112  sequentially or in parallel. Monitoring the input elements  112  is preferably done as a continuous loop function. 
     The processor is in communication with the input elements  112  to receive input signals therefrom. The processor can also receive additional information from the input elements  112 , including the position of the input elements  112  and the amount of pressure applied to the input elements  112 . In one embodiment, the input signal includes information related to the amount of pressure applied to the input elements  112 , information related to the position of the input elements  112 , or a combination of information about pressure and position. In addition to being in communication with the input elements  112 , the processor is in communication with the actuator  160  to produce a haptic response in the actuator  160  corresponding to the input or input signal received by the actuator  160  from the input elements  112 . 
     The processor is located in a suitable location according to the needs of the device in which it is placed. In one embodiment, the processor is coupled (not shown) to the rigid surface  170 . Suitable processors include, for example, digital logical processors capable of processing input, executing algorithms, and generating output as needed to create the desired haptic feedback in the off-activating surface  120  in response to the inputs received from the input elements  112 . 
     Such processors can include a microprocessor, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), and state machines. Such processors include, or can be in communication with media, for example computer readable media, which stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the steps described herein as carried out, or assisted, by a processor. 
     One embodiment of a suitable computer-readable medium includes an electronic, optical, magnetic, or other storage or transmission device capable of providing a processor, such as the processor in a web server, with computer-readable instructions. Other examples of suitable media include, but are not limited to, a floppy disk, CD-ROM, magnetic disk, memory chip, ROM, RAM, ASIC, configured processor, all optical media, all magnetic tape or other magnetic media, or any other medium from which a computer processor can read. Also, various other forms of computer-readable media may transmit or carry instructions to a computer, including a router, private or public network, or other transmission device or channel. 
       FIG. 5  shows an embodiment of a method  600  of providing haptic feedback to a location other than an input area. The method  600  may be employed in the phone  100  described above, and items shown in  FIGS. 1-4  are referred to in describing  FIG. 5  to aid understanding of the embodiment  600  shown. However, embodiments of methods according to the present invention may be employed in a wide variety of devices, including, without limitation, gamepads, PDAs, pagers, and automotive structures. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , a user activates an input device (such as a button  112 ) on a first area  110  of the mobile telephone  100 . The input device  112  provides an input signal, comprising an indication that the input device  112  has been activated. In the embodiment shown, the input signal is received by a local processor (not shown) within the device  100 . In other embodiments, the input signal is received by an actuator, a remote processor, or other product. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 5 , the next step  620  in the method shown  600  comprises providing haptic feedback to a second area  120  that is different from the input device  112 . In the embodiment shown, this step  620  comprises the local processor sending an actuation signal to an actuator  160  that is in communication with the second area  120 . The actuation signal comprises an indication that the actuator  160  should actuate (e.g., vibrate). The actuator  160  receives the actuation signal, and actuates. The communication between the second area  120  and the actuator  160  is configured such that the actuator&#39;s actuation provides haptic feedback (in the form of vibrations in the embodiment shown) to the second area  120 . In other embodiments, this step  620  may comprise the actuator  160  receiving the input signal from the input device, and then actuating to provide haptic feedback to the second area  120 . 
     Referring still to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5 , different input signals generate different actuation signals, and different input devices are configured to provide different input signals. In other embodiments, the processor includes an algorithm that is configured to provide desired haptic feedback in response to designated input signals or series of input signals. 
     As discussed above, in one embodiment, the actuator is a voice coil. Alternatively, the actuator can be a piezoceramic material. The operation of actuators has been described above and will not be repeated here. The actuator is in communication with a feedback area. The actuator can provide haptic feedback by actuating the feedback area. As discussed above, different haptics are provided by regulating the current delivered to the actuator, the duration of the current delivered to the actuator, the time between cycles of energizing the actuator, and the number of cycles of energizing the actuator. These conditions can be varied to produce a variety of haptics to the feedback area. 
       FIG. 6  shows an embodiment of a method  700  of providing haptic feedback to a feedback area of a device, such as the phone  100  described above. As indicated by block  710 , the method  700  includes disposing an actuator in a volume formed by a plurality of walls. As discussed above, the actuator can be formed from a voice coil and a permanent magnet. Alternatively, the actuator can be formed of a piezo material, such as quartz, Rochelle Salt, and synthetic polycrystalline ceramics. In one embodiment, the actuator is coupled to a rigid surface disposed in the volume, and is electrically connected to a power supply and a processor disposed in the volume. Alternatively, the actuator can be configured to communicate with a remote power supply. Likewise, the actuator can be configured to communicate with a remote processor. For example, the actuator can be configured to communicate with a remote processor wirelessly. 
     As indicated by block  720 , the method  700  includes coupling an input area and a feedback area with the walls. Preferably, the input and feedback areas are distinct. In one embodiment, the input and feedback areas are separate from one another. Alternatively, the input and feedback areas can be contiguous. As shown by block  730 , the method includes disposing an input element in the input surface. As described above, the input element is preferably a keypad, a switch, and a touch-sensitive screen. Alternative input elements are described above. 
     As indicated by block  740 , the method includes communicating the actuator with the feedback area. As described above, the actuator can directly contact the feedback area. With reference to the embodiment of the apparatus described above, the actuator magnet can be coupled directly to the feedback area. Alternatively, the actuator can be indirectly coupled to the feedback area. For example, the actuator can transmit energy, such as sound waves or electromagnetic pulses to the feedback area. In one embodiment, the method  700  includes disposing a coupling between the actuator and the feedback area. In one embodiment, the coupling is a mechanical linkage although any other suitable coupling can be used. The method  700  further includes communicating one end of the coupling with the actuator and communicating the other end of the coupling with the feedback area. In another embodiment, the method  700  includes actuating the feedback area at a first frequency. In one embodiment, the first frequency is in a range between approximately 10 Hz and 300 Hz. 
     In one embodiment the method  700  includes forming at least one groove in the feedback area. The configuration, i.e., length, depth, width, number, and shape, of the grooves can be varied to obtain varying resonant characteristics of the feedback area. Actuating the off-activating surface with a voice coil and a permanent magnet has been described above. 
     Alternate embodiments of the apparatus according to the present invention will next be described with reference to  FIGS. 7-17 . Descriptions of like structures with the previously-described embodiments will not be repeated. 
       FIG. 7  shows a perspective view of a text communication device  300  according to another embodiment of the present invention. An input surface  310  of the text communication device  300  preferably includes a plurality of input elements  312 , a display screen  317 , and a base  319 . The plurality of input elements  312  includes a keypad  314  and a touch-sensitive screen  318  disposed in the display screen  317 . Alternatively, there may only be one input element  312 , such as a touch-sensitive screen  318 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , a perspective view of an off-activating surface  320  of the text communication device  300  of  FIG. 7  is shown. The off-activating surface  320  includes an exterior surface  324 . Disposed in the exterior surface  324  of the off-activating surface  320  are a groove  322  and a plurality of channels  380 . The channels  380  shown are recessed to accept digits of a hand. The channels  380  guide a user&#39;s hand when holding the text communication device  300  and maximize the amount of physical contact between the hand and the off-activating surface  320 . 
     The groove  322  is formed through an entire thickness of the off-activating surface  320 . Preferably, the groove  322  is substantially continuous and forms a substantially circular panel  328  in the off-activating surface  320 . Alternatively, the groove  322  can form any other suitable configuration. In this embodiment, the panel  328  is cantilevered from the off-activating surface  320 . Thus, the off-activating surface  320  does not actuate with a uniform frequency. For example, the portion of the panel  328  proximate the base  319  actuates with a greater frequency than the off-activating surface proximate the display screen  317 . The actuator (not shown) is disposed proximate the panel  328 . As described above, the actuator is in one embodiment coupled directly to the panel  328 . Alternatively, the actuator can be coupled indirectly with the panel  328 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a perspective view of a mobile phone  400  according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. An input surface  410  of the mobile phone  400  includes a plurality of input elements  412 , a display screen  417 , and a base  419 . In one embodiment, the input elements  412  include a keypad  414  and a touch-sensitive screen  418  disposed in the display screen  417 . Alternatively, there can only be one input element  412 , such as the touch-sensitive screen  418 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 10 , a perspective view of an off-activating surface  420  of the mobile phone  400  of  FIG. 9  is shown. The off-activating surface  420  includes an exterior surface  424 . Disposed in the exterior surface  424  of the off-activating surface  420  are first and second grooves  422  and  423  and a plurality of channels  480 . The channels  480  shown are recessed to accept digits of a hand. The channels  480  guide a user&#39;s hand when holding the phone  400  and maximize the amount of physical contact between the hand and the off-activating surface  420 . 
     The first and second grooves  422  and  423  are formed through an entire thickness of the off-activating surface  420 . In one embodiment, the first and second grooves  422  and  423  have substantially the same configuration. Alternatively, the first and second grooves  422  and  423  can be formed of different configurations. In one embodiment, the first and second grooves  422  and  423  are substantially continuous and form substantially circular first and second panels  428  and  429  in the off-activating surface  420 . Alternatively, the first and second grooves  422  and  423  can form any other suitable panel. 
     In this embodiment, first and second panels  428  and  429  are cantilevered from the off-activating surface  420 . Thus, the off-activating surface  420  does not actuate with a uniform frequency. For example, first and second panels  428  and  429  proximate the display screen  417  actuate with a greater frequency than the off-activating surface  420  proximate the base  419 . 
     In one embodiment, a first actuator (not shown) is disposed proximate the first panel  428  and a second actuator (not shown) is disposed proximate the second panel  429 . Alternatively, a single actuator (not shown) can be coupled with both or either the first and second panels  428  and  429 , as required. As described above, the first and second actuators can be coupled directly to the first and second active panels  428  and  429 . Alternatively, the first and second actuators can be coupled indirectly with the first and second active panels  428  and  429 . The single actuator can be coupled directly or indirectly with the first and second active panels  428  and  429 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11 , a camcorder  500  according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. An input surface  510  of the camcorder  500  includes an input element  512 . The input element  512  shown is a touch-sensitive screen, which is disposed in a display screen  517 . When the input surface  510  is fully extended, it is disposed substantially orthogonal to an off-activating surface  520 . The off-activating surface  520  includes an exterior surface  524 . Disposed in the exterior surface  524  are first and second grooves  522  and  523  and a plurality of channels  580 . 
     As described above, the channels  580  shown are recessed to accept digits of a hand. The channels  580  guide a user&#39;s hand when holding the camcorder  500  and maximize the amount of physical contact between the hand and the off-activating surface  520 . In one embodiment, first and second grooves  522  and  523  are formed through an entire thickness of the off-activating surface  520 . Alternatively, the first and second grooves  522  and  523  can be formed partially through the thickness of the off-activating surface  520 . 
     In one embodiment, the grooves  522  and  523  have substantially the same configuration. Alternatively, the grooves  522  and  523  can be formed of different configurations. For example, the grooves  522  and  523  can be formed linearly and substantially along a perimeter of the off-activating surface  520 , similar to that described above in  FIGS. 1-4 . In one embodiment, the grooves  522  and  523  are substantially continuous and form substantially circular first and second panels  528  and  529  in the off-activating surface  520 . Alternatively, the first and second grooves  522  and  523  can form any other suitable panel. 
     The first and second panels  528  and  529  are cantilevered from the off-activating surface  520 . As described above, the off-activating surface  520  does not actuate with a uniform frequency. As described above, a first actuator (not shown) is disposed proximate the first panel  528  and a second actuator (not shown) is disposed proximate the second panel  529 . Alternatively, a single actuator (not shown) can be coupled with both or either the first and second panels  528  and  529 , as required. As described above, the first and second actuators can be coupled directly with the first and second panels  528  and  529 . Alternatively, the first and second actuators can be coupled indirectly with the first and second panels  528  and  529 . The single actuator can be coupled directly or indirectly with the first and second panels  528  and  529 . 
       FIG. 12  shows a perspective view of a gamepad  800  according to another embodiment of the invention. An input surface  810  of the gamepad  800  includes a plurality of input elements  812 , including buttons  814 , a directional controller  815 , and joysticks  816 . Alternatively, any other suitable number or combination of input elements can be used. The gamepad  800  also includes two wings  818  to facilitate grasping the device with two hands. 
     As shown in  FIG. 13 , the gamepad  800  includes an off-activating surface  820 . The off-activating surface  820  includes an exterior surface  824 . Disposed in the exterior surface  824  are first and second grooves  822  and  823  and a plurality of channels  880 . The first and second grooves  822  and  823  and the channels  880  are formed proximate the wings  818 . 
     The channels  880  shown are recessed to accept digits of a hand. The channels  880  guide a user&#39;s hand when holding the gamepad  800  and maximize the amount of physical contact between the hand and the off-activating surface  820 . In one embodiment, first and second grooves  822  and  823  are formed through an entire thickness of the off-activating surface  820 . In one embodiment, the grooves  822  and  823  have substantially the same configuration. Alternatively, the grooves  822  and  823  can be formed of different configurations. For example, the grooves  822  and  823  can be formed to substantially follow the perimeter of the wings  818 . In one embodiment, the grooves  822  and  823  are substantially continuous and form substantially circular first and second panels  828  and  829  in the off-activating surface  820 . Alternatively, the first and second grooves  822  and  823  can form any other suitable panel. 
     The first and second panels  828  and  829  are cantilevered from the off-activating surface  820 . In one embodiment, the first and second panels  828  and  829  are also input elements  812 . As described above, the off-activating surface  820  does not actuate with a uniform frequency. In one embodiment, a first actuator (not shown) is disposed proximate the first panel  828  and the second panel  829 . Alternatively, a single actuator (not shown) can be coupled with both or either the first and second panels  828  and  829 , as required. The first and second actuators can be coupled indirectly with the first and second panels  828  and  829 . 
     One problem associated with “soft” keyboards (e.g., a “keyboard” user interface displayed and implemented with a touch screen) is a lack of tactile feedback to a user of the soft keyboard. Replacing mechanical keys with keys on the soft keyboard remove tactile information provided by the mechanical keys when pressing as well as 1) the static haptic information provided by the edges of the mechanical keys, and 2) the kinesthetic information provided by the normal travel of the button when pressed. 
     Certain forms of haptic feedback have brought back part of the tactile information in the form of “clicks” generated by, for example, vibrating motors. However this haptic feedback still does not completely recreate completely the interaction of the original mechanical keys. As a result, the interaction with soft keyboards may be slow, and not satisfying from a user experience point of view. 
     Another problem associated with soft keyboards is occlusion with the soft keyboards implemented in hand held devices. The size of the keys can be very small and even medium size fingers may partially cover, and in some cases completely cover, more than one key at the time. This often results in an incorrect key being recognized as being pressed, thereby slowing down text entry and increasing the error rate of soft keyboards when compared to mechanical keyboards in hand held devices. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a perspective view of a touch surface  1410  of a device  1400  according to various embodiments of the invention. As illustrated, touch surface  1410  includes a soft keyboard  1440  having a plurality of keys such as a first key  1420  and a second key  1430 . While described in reference to soft keyboard  1440 , the invention is not so limited and may pertain to various soft keys implemented in connection with a touch screen as would be appreciated. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates a perspective view of an off-activating surface  1510  of device  1400  according to various embodiments of the invention. As illustrated, off-activating surface  1510  includes two portions  1520 , each of which has disposed therein an actuating paddle  1530 . While two actuating paddles  1530  are illustrated in  FIG. 15 , other numbers of actuating paddles may be used. While actuating paddles  1530  are illustrated as vertically arranged, horizontally aligned with one another, and substantially parallel, other configurations may be used. For example, actuating paddles  1530  may be horizontally arranged; aligned with vertical and/or horizontal offsets from one another, and/or not parallel. Other configurations may be used as would be appreciated. While actuating paddles  1530  are illustrated in  FIG. 15  as a block, any shape and/or size may be used, symmetrical or otherwise as would be appreciated. Portions  1520  in one embodiment are rubber housing that allows a user to feel the rotation of paddles  1530  through the rubber. 
     According to various embodiments of the invention, either or both of actuating paddles  1530  operate in connection with a user touching (or in some implementations proximate to) a key, such as key  1420 , or an edge of a key. In some embodiments of the invention, as a user holds device  1400  with thumbs proximate to touch surface  1410  and other fingers proximate to off-activating surface  1510 , one or both of actuating paddles  1530  provide haptic feedback to the user&#39;s other fingers as the user passes his/her thumbs over, across, or on a key, such as key  1420 . In particular, actuating paddles  1530  provide haptic feedback to the user in connection with an edge being traversed by at least one thumb. While described as operating in connection with thumbs on touch surface  1520 , other digits may be used, for example, when the user holds device  1400  in one hand and uses, for example, an index finger on another hand to interact with touch surface  1410 . 
     In some embodiments of the invention, actuating paddle  1530  moves when actuated to provide the haptic feedback. In some embodiments of the invention, actuating paddle  1530  moves by rotating back and forth by a small amount (e.g., 1-10 degrees or more) when actuated. In some embodiments, actuating paddle  1530  moves by rotating in a first direction in response to a digit moving left to right over touch screen  1410  and/or in a second direction in response to a digit moving right to left over touch screen  1410 . In some embodiments, actuating paddle  1530  moves by rotating by an amount in a first direction from a rest position and then returns to the rest position by rotating by the amount in the reverse direction. In some embodiments of the invention, actuating paddle  1530  moves by longitudinally translating by some amount when actuated. In some embodiments of the invention, actuating paddle  1530  moves by rotating and longitudinally translating in response to a digit moving over touch screen  1410 . In some embodiments of the invention, actuating paddle  1530  moves by translating in and out with respect to off-activating surface  1510 . 
     In some embodiments of the invention, the actuating paddle  1530  that is proximate to a user&#39;s right hand fingers provides haptic feedback to the user when the right thumb passes over, across or on a key. In some embodiments of the invention, the actuating paddle  1530  that is proximate to a user&#39;s left hand fingers provides haptic feedback to the user when the left thumb passes over, across or on a key. In some embodiments of the invention, both actuating paddles  1530  may move in response to fingers moving over, across, or on a key. 
     In some embodiments of the invention, device  1400  includes one or more detectors (not otherwise illustrated) for determining which hand is holding device  1400 . In some embodiments of the invention, device  1400  includes one or more detectors for determining whether both hands are holding device  1400 . In these embodiments of the invention, either or both actuating paddles  1530  may provide haptic feedback to the user depending on whether either or both hands are holding device  1400 . 
     In some embodiments of the invention, when, for example, touch surface  1410  includes a capacitive touch screen, one or more actuating paddles  1530  may provide haptic feedback to the user as one or more of the user&#39;s digits “hover” over one or more keys on soft keyboard  1440 . In this embodiment, the term “hover” could require either physical contact with a conventional touch screen, or close proximity to a more advanced touch screen that can sense the finger before it is in contact (i.e., a touch screen equivalent to a “mouse-over”). 
       FIG. 16  illustrates views of an actuating paddle assembly  1610  from different perspectives according to various embodiments of the invention. Actuating paddle assembly  1610  includes actuating paddle  1530 , a motor mount  1620 , a bearing  1630 , and an axle  1640 . A motor (not otherwise illustrated in  FIG. 16 ) rests in motor mount  1620  and is coupled to axle  1640 . Axle  1640  is coupled to actuating paddle  1530  and bearing  1630 . The motor drives axle  1640  in either direction thereby rotating paddle  1530  to generate haptic feedback. 
     Instead of rotating paddles  1530 , in other embodiments different structures can be used to generate the haptic feedback on the oft-activating surface  1510  of device  1400 . In one embodiment, piezoelectric material can be placed directly on surface  1510 . The piezoelectric material will bow outwards when current is applied to it. The bowing can be felt by a user&#39;s fingers that are contacting the piezoelectric material. In this embodiment, the portion or housing  1530  may be eliminated because a user can directly contact the piezoelectric material. In one embodiment, the piezoelectric material may be Macro Fiber Composite (“MFC”) material from Smart Material Corp., or may be any monolithic or composite piezo. 
     In one embodiment, the function of the paddle or piezoelectric material or strip is to push against or move the user&#39;s finger a small amount to generate haptic feedback. Any other type of actuator that can perform this function can be used. For example, a pin that moves up and down can be used as the actuator. 
     Several embodiments are specifically illustrated and/or described herein. However, it will be appreciated that modifications and variations of the disclosed embodiments are covered by the above teachings and within the purview of the appended claims without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention.

Technology Category: 3