Patents by Inventor David H. Bloom
David H. Bloom has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Publication number: 20240103643Abstract: A computer system can include an input device having a housing defining an internal volume. The housing can include a grip portion and a base portion defining an aperture. The computer system can also include a tilt sensor disposed in the internal volume, a position sensor disposed at the aperture, and a processor. The processor can be electrically coupled to the position sensor, the tilt sensor, and a memory component storing electronic instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to receive a first input from the tilt sensor, receive a second input from the position sensor, determine, based on the first and second inputs, if the base is in contact with a support surface and an angle of the base relative to the support surface. The processor can also output a signal based on the angle if the base is in contact with the support surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2023Publication date: March 28, 2024Inventors: Megan M. Sapp, Brian T. Gleeson, Steven J. Taylor, David H. Bloom, Maio He, Seung Wook Kim, Evangelos Christodoulou, Kristi E. Bauerly, Geng Luo, Bart K. Andre
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Publication number: 20240103645Abstract: A computer input system includes a mouse including a housing having an interior surface defining an internal volume and a sensor assembly disposed in the internal volume. A processor is electrically coupled to the sensor assembly and a memory component having electronic instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor, causes the processor to determine an orientation of the mouse relative to a hand based on a touch input from the hand detected by the sensor assembly. The mouse can also have a circular array of touch sensors or lights that detect hand position and provide orientation information to the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2023Publication date: March 28, 2024Inventors: Bart K. Andre, Brian T. Gleeson, Kristi E. Bauerly, William D. Lindmeier, Matthew J. Sundstrom, Geng Luo, Seung Wook Kim, Evangelos Christodoulou, Megan M. Sapp, Kainoa Kwon-Perez, David H. Bloom, Steven J. Taylor, John B. Morrell, Maio He, Hamza Kashif
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Publication number: 20240103656Abstract: An input device, such as a mouse, can include a housing defining an exterior grip portion and an internal volume, a sensor assembly disposed in the internal volume, and an emitter electrically coupled to the sensor assembly. In response to the sensor assembly detecting a first touch input on the housing, the emitter sends a first signal including information regarding an angular position of the grip portion. In response to the sensor assembly detecting a second touch input on the housing, the emitter sends a second signal including information regarding a direction of a force exerted on the housing from the second touch input.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2023Publication date: March 28, 2024Inventors: Bart K. Andre, Brian T. Gleeson, Kristi E. Bauerly, William D. Lindmeier, Matthew J. Sundstrom, Geng Luo, Seung Wook Kim, Evangelos Christodoulou, Megan M. Sapp, Kainoa Kwon-Perez, David H. Bloom, Steven J. Taylor
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Patent number: 11921926Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to content-based tactile outputs. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with content-based tactile outputs are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with end-of-content tactile outputs are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with moving a user interface in response to different types of input are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with adjustable item-based tactile outputs are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with input velocity-based tactile outputs are described.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2022Date of Patent: March 5, 2024Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Camille Moussette, David H. Bloom, Gary Ian Butcher, Alan C. Dye, Dylan Ross Edwards, Jules K. Fennis, Brian T. Gleeson, Miao He, Matthew J. Sundstrom
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Patent number: 11914780Abstract: A finger-mounted device may include finger-mounted units. The finger-mounted units may each have a body that serves as a support structure for components such as force sensors, accelerometers, and other sensors and for haptic output devices. The body may have sidewall portions coupled by a portion that rests adjacent to a user's fingernail. The body may be formed from deformable material such as metal or may be formed from adjustable structures such as sliding body portions that are coupled to each other using magnetic attraction, springs, or other structures. The body of each finger-mounted unit may have a U-shaped cross-sectional profile that leaves the finger pad of each finger exposed when the body is coupled to a fingertip of a user's finger. Control circuitry may gather finger press input, lateral finger movement input, and finger tap input using the sensors and may provide haptic output using the haptic output device.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2022Date of Patent: February 27, 2024Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Paul X Wang, Alex J. Lehmann, Michael J. Rockwell, Michael Y. Cheung, Ray L. Chang, Hongcheng Sun, Ian M. Bullock, Kyle J. Nekimken, Madeleine S. Cordier, Seung Wook Kim, David H. Bloom, Scott G. Johnston
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Publication number: 20230345155Abstract: Embodiments are directed to a wearable audio device, such as an earbud. The earbud may be configured to detect input using various sensors and structures. For example, the earbud may be configured to detect gestures, physical manipulations, and so forth performed along or on the earbud. In response to the detected inputs, the earbud may be configured to change various outputs, such as an audio output or a haptic output of the device. The earbud may also include a microphone to register voice commands. In some cases, the microphone may be used to control the earbud using the registered voice command in response to one or more detected gestures or physical manipulations.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2023Publication date: October 26, 2023Inventors: Benjamin G. Jackson, Brenton A. Baugh, David H. Bloom, Gemma A. Roper, Karlin Y. Bark, Thomas S. Hulbert
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Patent number: 11743623Abstract: Embodiments are directed to a wearable audio device, such as an earbud. The earbud may be configured to detect input using various sensors and structures. For example, the earbud may be configured to detect gestures, physical manipulations, and so forth performed along or on the earbud. In response to the detected inputs, the earbud may be configured to change various outputs, such as an audio output or a haptic output of the device. The earbud may also include a microphone to register voice commands. In some cases, the microphone may be used to control the earbud using the registered voice command in response to one or more detected gestures or physical manipulations.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2020Date of Patent: August 29, 2023Assignee: APPLE INC.Inventors: Benjamin G. Jackson, Brenton A. Baugh, David H. Bloom, Gemma A. Roper, Karlin Y. Bark, Thomas S. Hulbert
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Publication number: 20230012223Abstract: An electronic device with a first off-display input region detects a first portion of an input on the input region. In response to the first portion of the input: when the first portion of the input meets first criteria without a characteristic intensity of the first input increasing above a first intensity threshold, the electronic device provides a first output that indicates a current state of a first attribute of the electronic device without altering the first attribute. The electronic device detects a second portion of the input. In response to the second portion of the input: if the second portion of the first input meets second criteria that require the characteristic intensity of the input increases above the first intensity threshold, the electronic device performs a first operation that alters the first attribute of the electronic device; and otherwise, the electronic device forgoes performing the first operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2022Publication date: January 12, 2023Inventors: Brian T. Gleeson, Brigit E. Lamberson, Camille Moussette, Madeleine S. Cordier, Megan A. McClain, Michael J. Beyhs, Thayne M. Miller, Jacob L. Matlick, Jean-Pierre M. Mouilleseaux, David H. Bloom, Miao He, Peter C. Tsoi
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Publication number: 20230004227Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to content-based tactile outputs. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with content-based tactile outputs are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with end-of-content tactile outputs are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with moving a user interface in response to different types of input are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with adjustable item-based tactile outputs are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with input velocity-based tactile outputs are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2022Publication date: January 5, 2023Inventors: Camille MOUSSETTE, David H. BLOOM, Gary Ian BUTCHER, Alan C. DYE, Dylan Ross EDWARDS, Jules K. FENNIS, Brian T. GLEESON, Miao HE, Matthew J. SUNDSTROM
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Publication number: 20220382376Abstract: A finger-mounted device may include finger-mounted units. The finger-mounted units may each have a body that serves as a support structure for components such as force sensors, accelerometers, and other sensors and for haptic output devices. The body may have sidewall portions coupled by a portion that rests adjacent to a user's fingernail. The body may be formed from deformable material such as metal or may be formed from adjustable structures such as sliding body portions that are coupled to each other using magnetic attraction, springs, or other structures. The body of each finger-mounted unit may have a U-shaped cross-sectional profile that leaves the finger pad of each finger exposed when the body is coupled to a fingertip of a user's finger. Control circuitry may gather finger press input, lateral finger movement input, and finger tap input using the sensors and may provide haptic output using the haptic output device.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2022Publication date: December 1, 2022Inventors: Paul X. Wang, Alex J. Lehmann, Michael J. Rockwell, Michael Y. Cheung, Ray L. Chang, Hongcheng Sun, Ian M. Bullock, Kyle J. Nekimken, Madeleine S. Cordier, Seung Wook Kim, David H. Bloom, Scott G. Johnston
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Patent number: 11507215Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments, a method is performed at an electronic device with a display, an input region that is distinct from the display, and one or more tactile output generators for generating tactile outputs. The method includes: detecting a press input on the input region with a finger; and in response to detecting the press input on the input region: in accordance with a determination that the input region is not separated from the finger by an interstitial material, generating a first tactile output; and in accordance with a determination that the input region is separated from the finger by a first interstitial material, generating a second tactile output that is different from the first tactile output.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2021Date of Patent: November 22, 2022Assignee: APPLE INC.Inventors: Brian T. Gleeson, Brigit E. Lamberson, Camille Moussette, Madeleine S. Cordier, Megan A. McClain, Michael J. Beyhs, Thayne M. Miller, Jacob L. Matlick, Jean-Pierre M. Mouilleseaux, David H. Bloom, Miao He
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Patent number: 11435888Abstract: Systems are provided that include electronic equipment and electronic devices. A system may include electronic equipment such as a thermostat or other equipment in a vehicle or home, vehicle navigation equipment, networking equipment, computer equipment, equipment with speakers for playing audio, and other electronic equipment. An electronic device such as a portable electronic device may be placed in the vicinity of electronic equipment by a user. In response to detecting that the electronic device is adjacent to the electronic equipment, control circuitry in the electronic device can automatically display content of the electric device such as a user control interface for the electronic device or information related to operation of the electronic equipment. The system may monitor the position of the electronic device relative to the electronic equipment and can dynamically update the displayed content based on the current device position.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2017Date of Patent: September 6, 2022Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Brian T. Gleeson, Adam S. Meyer, David H. Bloom, Peter M. Arnold
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Patent number: 11435830Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to content-based tactile outputs. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with content-based tactile outputs are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with end-of-content tactile outputs are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with moving a user interface in response to different types of input are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with adjustable item-based tactile outputs are described. In some embodiments, user interfaces associated with input velocity-based tactile outputs are described.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2020Date of Patent: September 6, 2022Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Camille Moussette, David H. Bloom, Gary Ian Butcher, Dylan Ross Edwards, Jules K. Fennis, Brian T. Gleeson, Miao He, Alan C. Dye
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Patent number: 11416076Abstract: A finger-mounted device may include finger-mounted units. The finger-mounted units may each have a body that serves as a support structure for components such as force sensors, accelerometers, and other sensors and for haptic output devices. The body may have sidewall portions coupled by a portion that rests adjacent to a user's fingernail. The body may be formed from deformable material such as metal or may be formed from adjustable structures such as sliding body portions that are coupled to each other using magnetic attraction, springs, or other structures. The body of each finger-mounted unit may have a U-shaped cross-sectional profile that leaves the finger pad of each finger exposed when the body is coupled to a fingertip of a user's finger. Control circuitry may gather finger press input, lateral finger movement input, and finger tap input using the sensors and may provide haptic output using the haptic output device.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2020Date of Patent: August 16, 2022Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Paul X. Wang, Alex J. Lehmann, Michael J. Rockwell, Michael Y. Cheung, Ray L. Chang, Hongcheng Sun, Ian M. Bullock, Kyle J. Nekimken, Madeleine S. Cordier, Seung Wook Kim, David H. Bloom, Scott G. Johnston
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Patent number: 11231784Abstract: Touch-based input devices, such as a stylus, can provide feedback in the form of shear forces applied to the user. A stylus can produce shear forces that act on a user to provide unique tactile sensations. For example, a shear device can be included at a grip region of a stylus to provide shear sensations at the user's hands (e.g., fingers). The shear forces can be unaligned forces that urge one part of the user's hand in one direction and another part of the user's hand in an opposite direction or that tend to maintain the other part of the user's hand in a stationary location.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2021Date of Patent: January 25, 2022Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: David H. Bloom, Benjamin G. Jackson, Steven J. Taylor
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Patent number: 11184708Abstract: A wearable audio output device in a physical environment includes an input device and one or more microphones. While ambient sound from the physical environment is being detected by the microphone(s), the wearable audio output device: while in a first mode, provides a first audio output including one or more pass-through audio components selected so as to increase audio pass-through of the ambient sound; detects an input via the input device; in response to detecting the input, and in accordance with a determination that the input is a first type of gesture, transitions from the first mode to a second mode; and, while in the second mode, provides a second audio output including one or more cancellation audio components selected so as to increase audio cancellation of the ambient sound.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2020Date of Patent: November 23, 2021Assignee: APPLE INC.Inventors: Taylor G. Carrigan, David C. Graham, Thomas S. Hulbert, Dustin A. Hatfield, Gemma A. Roper, Karlin Y. Bark, David H. Bloom, Benjamin G. Jackson, Brenton A. Baugh, Shota Aoyagi
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Patent number: 11137830Abstract: A control device for an interactive computing system includes a first elongated member, a second elongated member, and a biasing actuator. The first elongated member and the second elongated member are pivotably coupled at a pivot axis. The biasing actuator is coupled to the first elongated member and the second elongated member to provide an output torque between the first elongated member and the second elongated member about the pivot axis. The control device is configured to receive user input for controlling a virtual device displayed by the interactive computing system to visually resemble a physical device. The biasing actuator is controllable to provide tactile feedback to simulate physical behavior of the physical device. The control device is movable freely in space.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2018Date of Patent: October 5, 2021Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Benjamin G. Jackson, Seung Wook Kim, David H. Bloom, Brenton A. Baugh, Steven J. Taylor, Madeleine S. Cordier
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Publication number: 20210200318Abstract: Touch-based input devices, such as a stylus, can provide feedback in the form of shear forces applied to the user. A stylus can produce shear forces that act on a user to provide unique tactile sensations. For example, a shear device can be included at a grip region of a stylus to provide shear sensations at the user's hands (e.g., fingers). The shear forces can be unaligned forces that urge one part of the user's hand in one direction and another part of the user's hand in an opposite direction or that tend to maintain the other part of the user's hand in a stationary location.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2021Publication date: July 1, 2021Inventors: David H. BLOOM, Benjamin G. JACKSON, Steven J. TAYLOR
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Publication number: 20210165520Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments, a method is performed at an electronic device with a display, an input region that is distinct from the display, and one or more tactile output generators for generating tactile outputs. The method includes: detecting a press input on the input region with a finger; and in response to detecting the press input on the input region: in accordance with a determination that the input region is not separated from the finger by an interstitial material, generating a first tactile output; and in accordance with a determination that the input region is separated from the finger by a first interstitial material, generating a second tactile output that is different from the first tactile output.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2021Publication date: June 3, 2021Inventors: Brian T. Gleeson, Brigit E. Lamberson, Camille Moussette, Madeleine S. Cordier, Megan A. McClain, Michael J. Beyhs, Thayne M. Miller, Jacob L. Matlick, Jean-Pierre M. Mouilleseaux, David H. Bloom, Miao He
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Patent number: 11009955Abstract: Touch-based input devices, such as a stylus, can provide feedback in the form of shear forces applied to the user. A stylus can produce shear forces that act on a user to provide unique tactile sensations. For example, a shear device can be included at a grip region of a stylus to provide shear sensations at the user's hands (e.g., fingers). The shear forces can be unaligned forces that urge one part of the user's hand in one direction and another part of the user's hand in an opposite direction or that tend to maintain the other part of the user's hand in a stationary location.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2018Date of Patent: May 18, 2021Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: David H. Bloom, Benjamin G. Jackson, Steven J. Taylor