Abstract: Methods and Apparatus for providing haptic feedback to non-input locations are described. One described apparatus comprises a first surface, an input element distinct from the first surface, the input element operable to generate an input signal, and an actuator configured to provide haptic feedback to the first surface based at least in part on the input signal.

Abstract: The present invention comprises products and processes for providing haptic feedback at a location other than an input device. For example, when an input device disposed in a hand-held device is activated, instead of providing haptic feedback at the input device itself or to the entire device, haptic feedback is provided to a different area of the device (such as, for example, the side of the device opposite the side on which the input device resides).

Abstract: Methods and Apparatus for providing haptic feedback to non-input locations are described. One described apparatus comprises a first surface, an input element distinct from the first surface, the input element operable to generate an input signal, and an actuator configured to provide haptic feedback to the first surface based at least in part on the input signal.

Abstract: A flexure mechanism for an interface device that interfaces a user with a computer system. An interface device includes a manipulandum physically contacted by the user. A five-bar closed-loop mechanism is coupled to the manipulandum to provide two rotary degrees of freedom to the manipulandum. The mechanism includes members coupled to each other by flexible couplings allowing rotation of the members. In preferred embodiments, four or five of the members are coupled together by flexible couplings that allow bending, thereby forming a unitary piece, where the couplings are oriented along axes of rotation of the mechanism. A senor senses a position of the manipulandum outputs a sensor signal, and in some embodiments actuators are coupled to the mechanism to output a force to the manipulandum in particular degrees of freedom. The manipulandum can be a joystick handle or portion of a sphere, where the device in one embodiment can be a handheld gamepad or similar controller.

Abstract: The present invention comprises products and processes for providing haptic feedback at a location other than an input device. For example, when an input device disposed in a hand-held device is activated, instead of providing haptic feedback at the input device itself or to the entire device, haptic feedback is provided to a different area of the device (such as, for example, the side of the device opposite the side on which the input device resides).