Abstract: An electronic device includes a touch surface that can be physically engaged by a user. The touch surface is operably connected to an actuator arm which, in turn, is connected to an actuator array. Drive electronics sense a user's movement relative to the touch surface and, responsively, drive the actuator array effective to move the actuator arm and, in turn, provide haptic feedback to the user through the touch surface.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide a keyboard that adaptively provides haptic feedback to a user. In at least some embodiments, an actuation of a key or keyboard element of the keyboard is detected. This can be accomplished by detecting the closure of an associated switch caused by a user depressing the key or keyboard element. In response to detecting the actuation, an electrically-deformable material is utilized as an actuating mechanism to impart single or multi-vectored movement to the key or keyboard element according to drive parameters. This movement produces a perceived acceleration of the key or keyboard element, thus providing haptic feedback which simulates a “snapover” effect.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide keyboards that utilize electrically-deformable material as an actuating mechanism to provide haptic feedback to a user of the keyboard. In at least some embodiments, the electrically-deformable material is utilized to impart, to a depressed key or keyboard element, a multi-vectored movement that produces a perceived acceleration of the key or keyboard element thus providing a user with haptic feedback which simulates a snapover movement.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide keyboards that utilize electrically-deformable material as an actuating mechanism to provide haptic feedback to a user of the keyboard. In at least some embodiments, the electrically-deformable material is utilized to impart, to a depressed key or keyboard element, a multi-vectored movement that produces a perceived acceleration of the key or keyboard element thus providing a user with haptic feedback which simulates a snapover movement. In at least some embodiments, a key or keyboard element can be associated with comparatively little or no actuation force and/or travel distance. As a result, the amount of work necessary to actuate the key or keyboard element can be significantly decreased or eliminated.

Abstract: A mobile terminal and method for operating a touch keypad, the mobile terminal including a touch keypad, a touch sensor processor for sensing a signal inputted from a key selected by a user on the touch keypad and outputting location information corresponding to the selected key based upon the sensed signal, a Control Processor (CPU) for outputting at least one or more control signals based upon the outputted location information, and a light emitting diode controller for independently driving a light emitting diode corresponding to the selected key based upon the outputted control signals.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide keyboards that utilize electrically-deformable material as an actuating mechanism to provide haptic feedback to a user of the keyboard. In at least some embodiments, the electrically-deformable material is utilized to impart, to a depressed key or keyboard element, a multi-vectored movement that produces a perceived acceleration of the key or keyboard element thus providing a user with haptic feedback which simulates a snapover movement. In at least some embodiments, a light source can be mounted or otherwise positioned relatively close to and beneath the top surface of one or more keys or keyboard elements to backlight a portion or portions of a keyboard.

Abstract: A tactile input to a system having a speaker located in an enclosure with an audio port can be detected by generating a sound wave in response to a signal and sensing the phase relationship between the current phase and the voltage phase of the signal. While the audio port is open a baseline current and voltage phase difference is established. When the audio port is obstructed by a finger touch, the current and voltage phase difference is altered in response to the obstruction. While the altered phase difference is detected, a tactile event is indicated.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a stiffener having a plurality of recesses defined therein, a flexible printed circuit defining a plurality of venting holes, each venting hole in correspondence with one of the plurality of recesses, and a dome sheet provided on top of the flexible printed circuit and including a plurality of domes, each of the domes in correspondence with one of the plurality of venting holes.

Abstract: A keypad includes discrete keys formed by touch sensors or virtual keys on a touch sensitive area. The discrete or virtual keys are mechanically linked to a biased switch. The key that has been touched during a keystroke is identified through a signal from the touch sensors whilst a keystroke is recorded upon a signal from the biased switch. The combination of the touch sensors with a biased switch provides tactile feedback. The use of touch sensors or a touch sensitive area allows the keypad to be constructed with a substantially flush surface without parting lines.

Abstract: An electronic device providing number input is an input combination of a number input system. The number input system comprises three horizontal elements and four vertical elements arranged in the shape of the number “8.” The electronic device provides a mechanism for a user to input numbers by pressing combinations of the elements.

Abstract: A data input arrangement may include a first array of input keys defining a first shape extending across a first typing surface thereof; and a second array of input keys defining a second shape extending across a second typing surface thereof. The first and second arrays are contiguous with one another so that the first and second shapes create a non-linear surface extending across the data input arrangement. The non-linear surface enables users to tactilely locate individual keys of the first and second arrays.

Abstract: A wireless communication device (100) includes a communicating module (16), a sensor module (26) and a decoding module (28). The communicating module receives and sends character messages. The sensor module receives vibration and transforms the vibration into input signal. The decoding module is electronically connected to the communicating module and the sensor module. The decoding module receives the input signals from the sensor module and transforms the input signals into character messages and transfers the character messages to the communicating module to send.

Abstract: A miniature keyboard wherein the keys are arranged in a way to improve data entry and decrease the chance of depressing multiple keys at a time. Accordingly, the height of the keys are patterned to decrease the chance of multiple key depressions thus increasing the accuracy of data input into the personal digital assistant. In one embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated down the individual rows of keys. In another embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated across individual columns of keys. Similarly, in another embodiment, the heights of the keys are arranged in a checkered pattern on the keyboard. In addition, another embodiment staggers the heights of the keys and incorporates embodiments mentioned above. By incorporating different key arrangements and alternating the height of the keys, key differentiation, key navigation, and data input accuracy is greatly improved due to the improved tactile feedback provided by the miniature keyboard.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide keyboards that utilize electrically-deformable material as an actuating mechanism to provide haptic feedback to a user of the keyboard. In at least some embodiments, the electrically-deformable material is utilized to impart, to a depressed key or keyboard element, a multi-vectored movement that produces a perceived acceleration of the key or keyboard element thus providing a user with haptic feedback which simulates a snapover movement.

Abstract: A force feedback system provides components for use in a force feedback system including a host computer and a force feedback interface device. An architecture for a host computer allows multi-tasking application programs to interface with the force feedback device without conflicts. One embodiment of a force feedback device provides both relative position reporting and absolute position reporting to allow great flexibility. A different device embodiment provides relative position reporting device allowing maximum compatibility with existing software. Information such as ballistic parameters and screen size sent from the host to the force feedback device allow accurate mouse positions and cursor positions to be determined in the force feedback environment. Force feedback effects and structures are further described, such as events and enclosures.

Abstract: A curve-shaped touch-sensitive keyboard comprises a keyboard casing in form of a curve surface, in which upper and lower ends of the keyboard casing are warped upwards along a whole length of the keyboard casing to form two convex sections and a concave section is formed between the two convex sections; a key region disposed on an upper surface of the concave section, in which the key region is composed of a plurality of keys and each of the keys is provided with a trigger sensor; and a printed circuit board provided within the keyboard casing, in which a plurality of electronic sensors are mounted on the printed circuit board and each of the electronic sensors corresponds to one of the keys. With the present keyboard, accidental touches on the keys could be avoided effectively.

Abstract: A keypad structure comprises a plurality of dome switches. Each of the plurality of dome switches provides a first tactile feedback to a user when pressed. At least one vibratory element is electrically connected to the dome switches to actuate when one of the plurality of dome switches is pressed. The at least one vibratory element provides a second tactile feedback to the user.

Abstract: A mobile terminal and method for operating a touch keypad, the mobile terminal including a touch keypad, a touch sensor for sensing a signal inputted from a key selected by a user on the touch keypad and outputting location information corresponding to the selected key based upon the sensed signal, a Control Processor (CPU) for outputting at least one or more control signals based upon the outputted location information, and a light emitting diode controller for independently driving a light emitting diode corresponding to the selected key based upon the outputted control signals.

Abstract: There is described a remote controller for a vehicle. A storage module stores control data to be transmitted to an in-vehicle Transceiver. A transceiver switch has a transmit mode to transmit a data signal to the in-vehicle transceiver and a receive mode to listen for an acknowledgement signal from the in-vehicle transceiver. A user interface has at least one translucent key switch to contact the transceiver switch and thereby activate transmission of the data signal. A light source is provided beneath the translucent key switch to illuminate the translucent key switch when the acknowledgement signal has been received. Control circuitry is adapted to receive a command from the translucent key switch when it is depressed, retrieve the control data from the storage module, and provide the control data to the transceiver switch for transmission as the data signal, and to cause the light source to illuminate when the acknowledgement signal has been received.

Abstract: A force feedback apparatus of the present invention includes: jetting means that includes a nozzle and that can control a jet amount or a jet direction of gas or liquid jetted from the nozzle; jet control means for controlling the jet amount or the jet direction of the gas or the liquid according to a position or an orientation of a receiver that receives pressure by the gas or the liquid jetted from the jetting means so as to provide force feedback to an operator. When the receiver has a concave shape of a diameter D, intervals for placing the nozzles in the jetting means are set such that at least one nozzle exists within a region having a diameter of a constant×D.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide keyboards that utilize electrically-deformable material as an actuating mechanism to provide haptic feedback to a user of the keyboard. In at least some embodiments, the electrically-deformable material is utilized to impart, to a depressed key or keyboard element, a multi-vectored movement that produces a perceived acceleration of the key or keyboard element thus providing a user with haptic feedback which simulates a snapover movement.

Abstract: A compact input device for fast text input. Ten perimeter regions are defined in a decagon shaped ring on a touch pad, and nine more center regions arranged in a 3 by 3 matrix are defined at the center of the perimeter regions. In alphanumeric mode, each of the ten perimeter regions represents a numeral or a character of the same order, found on a corresponding key of the ten numeric keys, 0 to 9, found on a standard 12-key telephone keypad. All perimeter regions synchronously switch to another group of characters of the same order, in accordance with the direction of a swipe on any of the perimeter regions. A tap on a perimeter region selects the character represented by the region at the moment. In addition, it is capable of operating in a standard 12-key telephone keypad mode, pointing device mode, and symbol mode.

Abstract: A wearable communication device includes a bone conduction actuator which is applicable for being in contact with a user's wrist, hand, back of the hand, finger or nail in order to transmit voice signals. The user inserts the user's finger into the user's ear canal, or touches the user's finger to a part near the user's ear, or puts the user's fingertip or nail on the user's ear canal so as to block the user's ear canal when the user uses the wearable communication device.

Abstract: Methods of programming a pump and insulin pumps. One method include displaying a first screen on a display of the pump. The method also includes, upon displaying the first screen, emitting a first sound. The method further includes displaying a second screen on the display of the pump, the second screen different from the first screen. The method also includes, upon displaying the second screen, emitting a second sound different from the first sound.

Abstract: An electronic device employing a flexible display module overlying a key module enable a virtual key to be positioned on the display module to overlap at least one physical key on the key module and to enable an actuation force applied to a virtual key by the user to be transferred to the at least one physical key to provide an indication of the actuating of the virtual key to a processor of the electronic device.

Abstract: A method provides tactile feedback emulating a click like feedback provided by one or more low cost, thin piezoelectric devices (142) to an input device (110) of an electronic device (100), the piezoelectric devices (142) being driven by two or more low voltage pulses (804, 806) within the temporal acuity of human touch.

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed that provides for a shape changing upper surface of an adaptive display screen on a wireless handheld communication device. The system and method include visually displaying visibly different key arrangement to an operator of the device in dependence upon the mode of operation of the incorporating device. The shape changing upper surface is presented to the operator for selective digital press-engagement. The shape changing upper surface also changes shape in dependence upon the presented key arrangement.

Abstract: An improved handheld electronic device and keypad include tactile features that help a user to identify certain keys of the keypad In the present exemplary embodiment, the keypad includes keys in a predetermined region that can be employed during a telephone operation. The keypad additionally includes other keys outside the predetermined region. The keys in the predetermined region include tactile features that enable the user to identify and actuate the keys in the predetermined region during a telephone operation with the user directing minimal visual attention to the handheld electronic device.

Abstract: A riser, ridge based touch keypad for a portable electronic device (e.g., mobile phone or flex pointer) is disclosed such that either in a dark environment a person with good eyesight or a person with decreased visual acuity may feel the riser(s) and the ridges representing a unique pattern with the finger in order to find the desired hidden key associated with the unique pattern prior to pressing. A couple of embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: A key activation system for use in an electronic device is provided. The system comprises an activation mechanism associated with a key in the system, a first feedback system and a second feedback system. The activation mechanism is associated with the key activation system and provides a first feedback sense when the activation mechanism has triggered the first activation condition. The second feedback system provides a second feedback sense indicating when the key triggers the second activation condition. In the system, the second feedback system operates independently from the activation mechanism and the first activation condition is triggered before the second activation condition when the activation mechanism is initially engaged. An activation mechanism may be centrally located for a set of keys.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods, systems, and computer program products for receiving input from a multi-function momentary switch by providing feedback from a user interface for each function associated with the switch. According to one method, alphanumeric input values are associated with a momentary switch. Each of the alphanumeric input values is associated with a different active time duration for the switch and at least two of the alphanumeric input values are associated with a same alphanumeric text entry mode. A duration of time the switch is in the active state is monitored. At least one of tactile and audible feedback is provided each time the duration of time matches a duration associated with an alphanumeric input value. The alphanumeric input value associated with the alphanumeric text entry mode and duration for the last feedback provided is selected as input from the switch.

Abstract: A keyboard provides an analog sound signal for a sound producing device. The keyboard includes an interface circuit that couples the keyboard to a digital sound source through a universal serial bus (USB) cable. The keyboard further includes an audio rendering circuit that receives digital sound samples from the interface circuit and converts the digital sound samples to an analog sound signal and a connector coupled to the audio rendering circuit that is configured to couple the analog sound signal to a sound producing device.

Abstract: A miniature keyboard wherein the keys are arranged in a way to improve data entry and decrease the chance of depressing multiple keys at a time. Accordingly, the height of the keys are patterned to decrease the chance of multiple key depressions thus increasing the accuracy of data input into the personal digital assistant. In one embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated down the individual rows of keys. In another embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated across individual columns of keys. Similarly, in another embodiment, the heights of the keys are arranged in a checkered pattern on the keyboard. In addition, another embodiment staggers the heights of the keys and incorporates embodiments mentioned above. By incorporating different key arrangements and alternating the height of the keys, key differentiation, key navigation, and data input accuracy is greatly improved due to the improved tactile feedback provided by the miniature keyboard.

Abstract: A key activation system for use in a handheld communication device is provided. The system comprises an activation mechanism associated with a key in the system, a first feedback system and a second feedback system. The activation mechanism is associated with the key activation system and provides a first feedback sense when the activation mechanism has triggered the first activation condition. The second feedback system provides a second feedback sense indicating when the key triggers the second activation condition. In the system, the second feedback system operates independently from the activation mechanism and the first activation condition is triggered before the second activation condition when the activation mechanism is initially engaged. An activation mechanism may be centrally located for a set of keys.

Abstract: A manual control system for a vehicle includes a touch sensitive input element actuatable in response to proximity of a user's appendage. A tactile feedback generator produces a perceptible tactile stimulus. An audible feedback generator produces a perceptible audible stimulus. A sound level characterizer generates a sound characterization signal indicative of a sound-related parameter of the vehicle. A controller generates a feedback event in response to an actuation of the input element. The controller includes the perceptible tactile stimulus and the perceptible audible stimulus in the feedback event according to the sound characterization signal.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic device and a method of managing a virtual keyboard of the electronic device. The device comprises a touch pad (106), a processing unit (600) and a feedback unit (612), which provides tactile feedback unit (612) for the user. The processing unit (600) is configured to determine a virtual keyboard (104) for the touch pad (106) and a tactile appearance of the keyboard (104), receive information generated by the pressing of a keyboard (104) key and identify the key that was pressed on the basis of the information. The processing unit (600) is further configured to collect information on the key presses and carry out an analysis of them, and re-determine the tactile appearance of the keyboard (104) on the basis of the collected information and the analysis carried out so as to make the keyboard more ergonomic for the user, which makes it easier to use the keyboard (104) and/or the pressing of a wrong key less likely.

Abstract: A method and system for assembling a keypad or a keypad module to a processing portion of an electronic device is described. The keypad module is a sealed unit connectable to the pre assembled processing portion through a common interface. The keypad module includes a bezel substrate that has a locally thin region where an accessory can be placed. For example, a speaker may be included in the keypad module. The keypad module itself may be its own an electromechanical entity.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for simultaneously controlling multiple control systems is provided. The resulting hybrid control system provides for sharing of inputs and outputs on a control surface membrane between the multiple distinct control systems. A unified tactile/LED interface for both systems is achieved, allowing for a single hybrid control system experience for operators in industrial, manufacturing and control-room environments.

Abstract: A computer-based system permitting a visually impaired user to interact with tactile graphic-based interactive software applications is provided. The system includes a host computer having a data processor and a drive for running the interactive software applications and a pressure sensitive work pad. The work pad has X and Y pressure sensitive members disposed in a grid array for providing unique location output signals corresponding to each different location on the grid array. The work pad is operatively connected to the host computer and an overlay comprising a sheet is placed over an upper surface of the work pad. The overlay having a work space which bears tactile indicia which corresponds to a selected one of the interactive software applications and also includes a tactile graphical user interface (TGUI) formed thereon. The TGUI has a plurality of tactile control members which generate location output signals when pressed.

Abstract: A flexible touch-sense switch includes a force sensitive composite and an at least one proximity sensor. The force sensitive composite includes a plurality of force sensors disposed between a first layer and a second layer of polymide film defining a displacement region. The at least one proximity sensor generates an electromagnetic field that defines a detection region. The force sensitive composite and the at least one proximity sensor are mounted to the first layer of the polymide film for forming a flexible printed circuit board. A control circuit is electrically connected to the force sensitive composite and the at least one proximity sensor for selectively controlling the touch-sense switch activation in response to coincident actuation thereof.

Abstract: An apparatus has a keyboard panel with a QWERTY array of alphabetic key actuation indicia. The apparatus further has a QWERTY array of keys that are free of alphabetic key actuation indicia, and are located adjacent to corresponding alphabetic key actuation indicia on the keyboard panel. Other parts of the apparatus include an output device responsive to actuation of the keys, and a processing device operatively coupled between the keys and the output device. Summarized alternatively, the apparatus includes a keyboard with keys arranged in arcuate horizontal rows. The keys in each row have centerlines projecting radially from a respective common centerpoint.

Abstract: A apparatus and method are provided which assist the use of electronic documents in both a word processor (17) and Braille environment (16). The apparatus and methods facilitate conversion of electronic documents between various formats for subsequent use on word processor equipment (15) and Braille equipment (10) as required. The translation utilizes a temporary file (90, 91) in an intermediary format which retains formatting information relating the manner in which the document should be rendered in each environment (16,17). The transfer of electronic documents is transparent to the user in a manner that it appears only one document is being worked with.

Abstract: The present invention provides a kind of computer keyboard being able to detect the pressing pressure of keys. The computer keyboard comprises: a plurality of keys; a detecting unit, which outputs a detecting signal according to the pressing pressure of the plurality of keys; and a keyboard controller, which generates a key code according to the detecting signal and sends the key code to a digital device.

Abstract: A computer keyboard providing an audible alert and a visual alert to the user when the keyboard is in the CAPS LOCK mode of operation. A computer system including a computer keyboard providing an audible alert and a visual alert to the user when the keyboard is in the CAPS LOCK mode of operation. A computer keyboard and a computer system having a timer to turn off the CAPS LOCK mode after a period of time during which no keyboard keys are struck.

Abstract: This application relates to an electrotactile system and method for delivering tactile stimuli to a skin surface of a user. The system includes one or more electrotactile modules each comprising an array of electrodes electrically connected to an integrated circuit. Each integrated circuit has data processing and current driving capability. The current delivered from the integrated circuit to each electrode is relatively small, preferably less than 4 milliamps. The modules may be connected to a flexible PC board by spring-loaded connectors. In one embodiment a plurality of electrotactile modules may be grouped together to from an electrotactile device. Multiple electrotactile devices may in turn be deployed as part of a wearable article for use in virtual reality, telepresence, telerrobotics or other haptic feedback applications. The system is capable receiving and transmitting tactile data via a communication link, such as a conventional data network.

Abstract: A motor allowing multiple degrees of output freedom includes a stator having an interior surface forming at least a portion of a sphere or curved surface and first and second substantially orthogonally positioned stator coils wound on the interior surface. A rotor is fixed to an output shaft and movably supported adjacent the stator with an air gap disposed between the rotor and the stator. The rotor includes a plurality of magnets disposed thereon and is movable along the interior surface in directions defining at least first and second degrees of freedom. Upon energization of the first stator coil, a first magnetic field is established to urge at least a first one of the magnets and the rotor in a direction of the first degree of freedom and upon energization of the second stator coil, a second magnetic field is established to urge at least a second one of the magnets and the rotor in a direction of the second degree of freedom.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing a tactile stimulus to a part of the body of a physical operator when a virtual operator, created by movements of the physical operator, encounters a virtual object defined by a computer. A signalling unit communicates with the computer and emits a signal when the virtual operator encounters a virtual object. A stimulus unit responsive to the signalling unit is disposed in close proximity to a part of the body of the physical operator for providing a tactile stimulus when the virtual operator encounters a virtual object. The stimulus unit may comprise a segment of memory metal which undergoes a martensitic transformation to a different form or a solenoid having a member which moves in response to a signal emitted by the signalling unit. A vibrating member, such as a piezoceramic bender may be used instead of or in addition to the solenoid or memory metal.

Abstract: A functional and decorative key mask is disclosed that is printable and has a uniquely functional geometry for easy and clean removable attachment to the keyfaces of a keyboard or keypad. The materials and design combine to provide a durable and reusable key mask. In the preferred embodiment, the key mask is has a body and a tab extending outward, and a pressure sensitive adhesive adhered to the back surface. It is die-cut from a face stock that is attached by the adhesive to a coated release liner. Mask sets include several key masks having similar or individualized graphic illustrations that enable the user to make unique associations with the keys of the keyboard or keypad, and thus enhance their learning, skill, performance, and enjoyment of a standard keyboard or keypad, or one having specialized key assignments.

Abstract: A keyboard allowing typists to use approximate QWERTY finger movements on a more compact, collapsible, and portable keyboard. The keyboard size is made more compact by using thin capacitance-responsive surfaces as key switches for the rows above and below the home row. The bottom, space-bar row is also touch-sensitive and is placed on the side of the keyboard facing the typist. The capacitance-responsive surface for the row of keys switches above the home row has a convex profile, and the capacitance-responsive surface for the row of keys switches below the home row has a concave profile, such that the keyboard can fold compactly upon itself. The home row retains depressible key switches in order to provide standard rest positions for the fingers. Characters and commands assigned to the rows above and below the home row are engaged by sliding the fingers over the capacitance-responsive surfaces adjacent to the home row.

Abstract: A stand alone alarm system and kit for vehicles are disclosed. The alarm system includes an alarm module connected to an audio and visual device and at least one sensor. The alarm system also includes an input device coupled to the alarm module. The alarm system also includes a housing that encloses the alarm module, battery, anti-tamper devices, a transmitter, a receiver, an unauthorized connect sensor, a reefer fault sensor, and a keypad. Upon triggering the alarm module, a signal is transmitted to a remote device or a receiving device. The alarm system further includes a mechanism for automated, long-term tracking of events relating to operation of the vehicle.