Variable sensor having tactile feedback in a game control

Abstract

A variable sensor having a variable electrical output used to variably control electronic game imagery shown on a television according to variable depressive force applied by a finger of a human user to the variable sensor. The variable sensor comprising: a circuit sheet supporting electrically conductive material, positioned above the circuit sheet is located a depressible resilient structure, the resilient structure shaped to provide, upon depression, a snap tactile feedback, whereby when the finger of the user applies depressive pressure to the variable sensor a tactile feedback is provided to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is activated, and releasing of pressure applied to the variable sensor provides a tactile feedback to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is deactivated.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/PATENTS

[0001] This is a continuation of pending allowed U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/599,095 filed Jun. 21, 2000 which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/122,269 filed Jul. 24, 1998 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,135,886, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/942,450 filed Oct. 1, 1997 and now U.S. Pat. No. 6,102,802. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/599,095 is also a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/677,378 filed Jul. 5, 1996 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,222,525 which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/847,619 filed Mar. 5, 1992 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,589,828. A priority claim under 35 USC 120 is made to the above Applications.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates generally to sensors utilizing flexible dome-caps such as are used in the prior art as simple momentary-On electrical switches. The present invention is specifically directed toward new uses of elastomeric flexible injection molded dome-cap sensors, specifically teaching such devices as analog sensors having tactile feedback especially well suited for electronic game control.

[0004] 2. Description of the Related Prior Art

[0005] While there is a substantial amount of prior art of record, none of the prior art alone or in proper combination teaches or suggests the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The following detailed description is of best modes and preferred structures for carrying out the invention, and although there are clearly some changes which can be made to that which is specifically herein described and shown, for the sake of briefness of this disclosure, all of these changes which fall within the scope of the present invention have been not herein detailed, but will become apparent to those skilled in the art with a study of this disclosure. The specification of my pending and allowed U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/599,095 as well as my U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,565,891; 5,589,828; 5,999,084; 6,102,802; 6,135,886; 6,208,271; 6,222,525; and 6,310,606 are all herein incorporated by reference for the positive data therein useful for supporting the more rapid understanding/appreciation of the present invention.

[0007] The elastomeric injection molded dome-cap provide an extremely low cost member capable of serving multiple functions all of which can be advantageous and beneficial for a variable sensor, preferably one engineered with a break-over or threshold snap tactile feedback used or incorporated with electronic game control. Such multiple functions of the elastomeric one-piece injection molded dome-cap can include: the dome-cap serving as an inexpensive return spring for ensuring termination of pressure on the active element; the top exterior of the dome-cap providing a finger engagement surface when properly fashioned for serving as a finger placement surface on which a user can press absent a requirement of additional button caps or triggers atop the dome-cap; a seal or debris excluder over electric component surfaces which could be adversely affected by the entrance of foreign matter; tactile feedback to the user upon actuation and de-actuation of the active element or sensor; an ergonomically correct depressible surface which is variably depressible through a wide range, generally absent an uncomfortable hard-stop at the bottom of the depressive stroke; and the injection molded dome-cap providing these functions can be mounted on various base materials such as flexible membrane circuit sheets, rigid circuit sheets or boards and flexible membranes supported or stiffened by rigid sheet boards which can themselves possess circuitry.

[0008] Additionally, the injection molded dome-cap can be manufactured in multiple dome-caps in a single injection molded sheet wherein all of the dome-caps can be utilized as novel pressure sensors or some of the dome-caps can be novel pressure sensors mixed with other dome-caps used as traditional momentary-On switches. Such multiple dome-cap sheets can be highly useful in devices such as television, and the like, remote control devices wherein many functions may be best served with momentary-On switches while other functions (e.g. channel and/or volume scrolling buttons) can be best served with variable-conductance pressure sensors, preferably using the teachings herein.

[0009] Durable and low cost pressure-sensitive analog sensors would be of benefit in many host devices to offer the user increased control options, the ability to variably increase and reduce the sensor output dependent on pressure exerted by the user to the dome-cap so that, for example, images may selectively move faster or slower on a display, timers, settings within a range, adjustments and the like may change faster or slower dependant on the pressure applied by the user.

[0010] Another benefit of the use of my discovery is in game pads of the type which traditionally have elastomeric dome-cap sensors used only as momentary-On sensors, but with the present invention, the user can press harder to make a controllable character jump higher or run faster for example.

[0011] Another benefit of the use of my discovery is in mouse type computer control devices which may have a two or four way rocker for scrolling windows. These currently existing mouse controllers utilize momentary-on switches, some being elastomeric dome-caps, and all would be greatly advantaged with use of the novel analog dome-cap sensors described herein.

[0012] Another benefit of the use of my discovery is in keyboard type computer control devices which may have a two or four way rocker, or independent keys, for scrolling windows. Such a novel computer keyboard would be greatly advantaged with use of the novel analog dome-cap sensors described herein.

[0013] Another benefit of the use of my discovery is in joystick type devices having buttons and/or trigger on the handle or graspable member. Such buttons and/or trigger, which in the prior art are momentary-On switches, can be benefited by implementation of the present invention.

[0014] Another benefit of the use of my discovery is in ease of changeover by manufactures who currently make host devices including housings with circuit boards therein, elastomeric dome-cap sensors associated with the circuit boards, openings through the housings to allow access to the dome-caps to allow depression thereof, and in some cases button and/or trigger style covers over the injection molded dome-caps. In order to gain the benefit of the present invention, such manufacturers will only need to apply new or modified circuitry on the circuit boards capable of reading any one of at least three readable states (electric states) or many more of the dome-cap sensor indicative of at least three states of the dome-cap and active element which can represent at least: 1) no pressure thereon, 2) low pressure and 3) high pressure applied to the dome-cap and thus the active element. Preferably, the dome-cap sensor will be employed in a manner wherein not just three but many states are read, thus ensuring high resolution reading of a variably changing input.

[0015] Yet another benefit of the use of my discovery is that not only can a typical prior art dome-cap style switch be used as a pressure-sensitive variable-conductance sensor (analog sensor or variable sensor), but if desired, such a sensor can also supply the user with a tactile feedback on actuation of the sensor, and even further upon de-activation of the sensor. Benefits of the tactile feedback include a reduction of potential confusion on the part of the user as to when the sensor is actuated and de-actuated. For example, if an analog sensor or sensor used as an analog sensor of the type not having tactile feedback is minimally activated, it is difficult for the user in some instances to determine whether the sensor is still minimally activated or is entirely de-activated. If the user is playing an electronic game utilizing a variable pressure analog sensor to control movement as he slowly approaches the edge of a cliff which he might fall off of, and the user desires to get very close to the edge but not fall off, the user would be depressing very lightly on the sensor, and absent tactile feedback would not be immediately aware when he inadvertently decreased the depression enough to fully deactivate the sensor.

[0016] These, and other advantages and benefits of the present invention will become increasingly appreciated with continued reading, a review of the included drawings; and a reading of the specifications and review of the drawings of my patents and patent applications which are herein incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 shows a median cross section view of an elastomeric injection molded one-piece dome-cap sensor. The sensor is shown with the active element attached to the underside or bottom of the raised dome-cap and thus the active element is carried by and within the dome-cap.

[0018] FIG. 2 shows a simple electrical circuit arranged to be an analog sensing circuit and utilizing the elastomeric dome-cap sensor of FIG. 1 as a pressure-sensitive variable-conductance sensor in accordance with the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 3 shows a median cross section view of an elastomeric injection molded one-piece dome-cap sensor. The shown sensor is a structural arrangement wherein the active element is shown atop and spanning across the two proximal conductive elements and within the injection molded dome-cap but not carried by the dome-cap. The elastomeric injection molded dome-cap is shown in a raised position above the active element.

[0020] FIG. 4 shows a simple electrical circuit arranged to be an analog sensing circuit and utilizing the elastomeric dome-cap sensor of FIG. 3 as a variable-conductance sensor in accordance with the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 5 shows a median cross section view of an elastomeric dome-cap sensor with the dome-cap depressed and representing the dome-cap sensors of either FIG. 1 or FIG. 3 in a state wherein compression or force of some level is applied to the active element. The active element is shown within the dome-cap and could be carried by the dome-cap as shown in FIG. 1, or within the dome-cap but not carried by the dome-cap as shown in FIG. 3.

[0022] FIG. 6 shows a median cross section view of an elastomeric injection molded one-piece dome-cap using sensor. The active element is shown sandwiched between two membrane sheets which are separated by a center membrane sheet having a hole which is filled with the active element. The active element is shown beneath the underside center of the raised one-piece injection molded elastomeric dome-cap and below or outside of the dome-cap. In this illustration, the active element is shown neither carried by the dome-cap nor within the dome-cap.

[0023] FIG. 7 shows an elastomeric dome-cap sensor indicated as a variable resistor connected to an analog-to-digital conversion circuitry (ADC) which is shown coupled to digital circuitry for storing and outputting digital information.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0024] FIG. 1 shows a median cross section view of an elastomeric dome-cap sensor 10 in accordance with the prior art as can be used in a novel new use of such a sensor in accordance with the present invention, and in a novel new structural arrangement as herein disclosed in accordance with the present invention. Sensor 10 is shown in the deactivated state or condition with the elastomeric one-piece injection molded dome-cap 12 raised and thus the active element 14, i.e., conductive pill is shown raised and disengaged from the two proximal conductive elements 16, 18. The active element 14 is attached to the underside of dome-cap 12 and is thus carried by the dome-cap, the attaching most commonly being by the dome-cap 12 being formed by injection molding to the pre-formed active element 14 which has been inserted into the molding cavity prior to the injecting of the thermoset rubber commonly used to make highly durable dome-caps 12. Multiple shot injection or adhesive attachment or any other suitable connection can be used to connect active element 14 to injection molded dome-cap 12. Conductive elements 16, 18 are shown attached to or supported by a typically non-conductive base 20 which is a circuit board, flexible membrane sheet, combination thereof or the like. Dome-cap 12 is typically hemi-spherically or alternatively conically shaped and smaller at the end thereof furthest from base 20, and thus typically annular at the larger end thereof; and is shown with an outward extending flange 22 at it's bottom end extending parallel to base 20. Flange 22 is typically integrally injection molded or in one-piece with the balance of dome-cap 12. Flange 22 can be adhered in place to base 20 such as with adhesives or dome-cap 12 can be otherwise held in proper location to base 20 and conductive elements 16, 18 such as with mechanical restraints, as for example by sandwiching flange 22 between portions of a housing or the like, or by having the upper portion of dome-cap 12 positioned within a movement restricting opening in a housing which only allows the upper portion to move toward and away from base 20 and conductive elements 16, 18.

[0025] FIG. 1 shows the most preferred sensor embodiment for use with or in conjunction with the present invention for such reasons as, ubiquitous familiarity, ready availability, proven durability, exceptional low cost and superior functionality. The superior functionality in comparison to the sensors of FIGS. 3 and 6 is in the fact that active element 14 is not in constant contact with conductive elements 16, 18 when dome-cap 12 is not depressed. This provides a positive deactivated state wherein no current can flow between conductive elements 16 and 18 when dome-cap 12 is not depressed. Injection molded dome-caps 12 are also commonly available having pre-engineered different tactile feedback producing levels.

[0026] FIG. 2 shows a simple electrical circuit structured to be an analog sensing circuit and utilizing the elastomeric dome-cap sensor 10 of FIG. 1 as a pressure-sensitive variable-conductance sensor. “Analog sensing circuit” is one which is structured to be at least in part manipulated or controlled by operation of an analog sensor. Also specifically shown is a battery 24 as an example of an electrical power source in the circuit, and a meter 26 including an electro-magnetic coil engaged to a moveable indicating needle adjacent a printed scale or range gauge and capable of showing varying conductivity across the elastomeric dome-cap sensor 10. The dome-cap sensor 10 is indicated in the circuit as being in what could be considered a first or open state in this example. It should be understood that depressive pressure applied to the dome-cap 12 will move the raised portion of the dome-cap 12 toward base 20 sufficiently to bring the active element 14 into contact with both conductive elements 16, 18, and with sufficient pressure, and varying pressure well within a range readily applied by a human finger, the sensor 10 will be moved to second and third, etc. states with increasing applied pressure, and the different states in this example, because this is an analog circuit, will be indicated by the needle of the meter 26 being positioned left, right or at various states in between on the scale. The scale of meter 26 in this example includes marks which the needle moves through, in this example the needle moving to the right as the resistivity of the active element 14 decreases. It can be appreciated that while the marks are only printed on the scale, each mark represents a position the needle can pass through, and an electrical state of the sensor in which each can have a digital bit assignment associated therewith. In this example, higher pressure to dome-cap 12 and active element 14 would move the needle further to the right indicating lower resistivity, i.e. greater conductivity of active element 14. As those skilled in the art can appreciate and as will be further discussed below, digital bit assignments can be made for any level or state of conductivity and at least two bits of digital information are required for identifying more than two readable states.

[0027] FIG. 3 shows a median cross section view of an elastomeric dome-cap sensor 28 structured with the active element 14 mounted atop and spanning across the two proximal conductive elements 16, 18. The dome-cap 12 is shown in a raised position above the active element 14 and the sensor is shown in what can be used as or considered as a deactivated state or condition since no compressive pressure or force is being applied to active element 14. The pill or active element 14 of a typical prior art dome-cap sensor is a moderate to poor conductor when not compressed and becomes a much improved conductor under compression, and this means that if active element 14 of the FIG. 3 sensor is made of the same material commonly used as the active element in prior art dome-cap sensors, then when the dome-cap is raised as shown in FIG. 3, minimal current can flow between the two proximal conductive elements 16, 18. Such minimal current flow is to a lessor extent than if the active element were under compression, and so this lessor extent, if desired, can be treated as and assigned a bit assignment representing a deactivated state with the activated states being associated with the varying conductivity of the active element 14 when under varying degrees of compression. Active element 14 is shown in FIG. 3 within the dome-cap but not carried by the dome-cap 12.

[0028] FIG. 4 shows a simple electrical circuit arranged to be an analog sensing circuit and utilizing the elastomeric dome-cap sensor 28 of FIG. 3 as a pressure-sensitive variable-conductance sensor in combination with a meter 26. The needle of meter 26 is shown moved somewhat to the right to indicate compressive force being applied to active element 14 with dome-cap 12 depressed as shown in FIG. 5 wherein the sensor is in an activated state.

[0029] FIG. 5 shows a median cross section view of an elastomeric dome-cap sensor with the sensor shown in the activated state or condition with the dome-cap 12 depressed and representing the dome-cap sensors of either FIG. 1 or FIG. 3 in the activated state, i.e., activated state herein meaning with the active element 14 is under a degree of compression from the depressed dome-cap 12. Deactivated state meaning the active element 14 is not being compressed by the dome-cap 12.

[0030] FIG. 6 shows a median cross section view of an elastomeric dome-cap sensor 30 in the deactivated state or condition with active element 14 sandwiched between two non-conductive flexible membrane sheets 32, 34 which are separated by a center membrane sheet 36 which includes a hole therein which contains active element 14. The membrane sheets are shown atop a stiff base 20 beneath the underside center of the raised dome-cap 12 which is mounted atop the upper most membrane sheet. Two proximal conductive elements 16, 18 are shown between the membrane sheets 32, 34 and contacting opposite sides of active element 14. The proximal conductive elements 16, 18 can be printed conductive ink on membranes 32 and 34. Active element 14 which is not carried by dome-cap 12 is shown beneath the underside center of the raised dome-cap 12 and outside of, or not within dome-cap 12, but rather is below the bottom surface of flange 22. The dome-cap 12 can be manually depressed to move toward base 20 to apply pressure on the nearest membrane sheet 32 which will flex and transfer depressive force into active element 14 which will alter it's conductivity relative to the degree of compression or force, thus altering the conductivity through active element 14 between proximal conductive elements 16, 18.

[0031] FIG. 6 additionally shows that dome-cap 12 can be manufactured with uniform wall thickness such as to accommodate certain materials which mold and perform in an improved manner when kept uniform in thickness, as opposed to those embodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 5 which have an upper portion of much greater thickness than the lower portion of the dome-cap 12.

[0032] The embodiment of FIG. 6 shows active element 14 sandwiched between conductive elements 16 and 18 as taught in the Mitchell U.S. Pat. No. 3,806,471 and further sandwiched between membrane sheets as shown in the Eventoff U.S. Pat. No. 4,315,238 as a bounceless On/Off switch. My addition of the elastomeric injection molded one-piece dome-cap 12 in this embodiment creates a novel sensor with some, but not all, of the above discussed advantages afforded to an injection-molded dome-cap sensor having analog or pressure sensitive properties. While the embodiment of FIG. 6 falls within the scope of the broadest definitions of this invention, it is not the most preferred sensor discussed herein for certain reasons such as: this embodiment is not the lowest cost manufacturing technology discussed herein, or the easiest to manufacture, or the best performing sensor embodiment described herein.

[0033] FIG. 7 shows a variable resistor representing active element 14 of any of the above described elastomeric dome-cap sensors such as 10, 28 or 30 connected to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) or equivalent circuitry which is shown coupled to digital circuitry for temporarily storing in at least one storage register and outputting digital information which is representative of the read state of active element 14.

[0034] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the digital representation in FIG. 7 is one which would be in a completed circuit such as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4.

[0035] In order to gain the benefits of the present invention, manufacturers using prior art style dome-caps 12 will only need to apply new or modified circuitry on the circuit boards capable of reading any one of at least three readable states of the dome-cap sensor 10 indicative of at least three states of the dome-cap 12 and active element 14. Such readable states, for example, can be: 1) a first level of electrical resistance being relatively high resistance or open across the proximal conductive elements indicating the dome-cap as raised; 2) a second level of electrical resistance being less than the first level but allowing current flow between the proximal conductive elements and being indicative of the dome-cap being lightly depressed and lightly compressing the active element 14; and 3) a third level of electrical resistance being less than the first and second levels and allowing current flow between the proximal conductive elements 16, 18 and being indicative of the dome-cap being depressed and compressing (applying force) active element 14 more firmly or with greater pressure compared to the second level or state.

[0036] For the purposes of this disclosure the wording “storing, as digital information, a read state of the active element, the storing requiring at least two digital bits” or equivalent wording thereto, means that the active element 14, being variably conductive, i.e., variably resistive or variably rectifying, can achieve numerous possible states of electrical conductivity, and those states can be described with digital information (bits). The number of bits necessary (required) to describe a specific possible number of states is well known by those skilled in the art, as the possible described states is a factor of the bits required to describe such states. For example: two different states require at least one digital bit to describe, On or OFF, the bit is a zero or a one; three different states require at least two digital bits to describe; and three bits are required to describe a minimum of 5 states; to describe a somewhat smoothly variable active element having 256 states requires at least eight bits of digital information, etc. The term storing means that a representative value of a read state of the active element 14 is at least stored in some register at some time within the digital electronics processing the status of the active element 14.

[0037] The conductive pill or active element 14 of typical prior art elastomeric dome-cap sensors is variably conductive and pressure-sensitive to a degree quite useful in an analog sensing circuit as herein disclosed. Such prior art active elements are believed to be primarily carbon within an elastomeric or rubbery binder. However, within the scope of the invention, variable conductance can be achieved with other materials having either variable resistive properties or variable rectifying properties. For the purpose of this disclosure and the claims, variable-conductance and equivalents thereto means either variably resistive or variably rectifying. Material having these qualities can be achieved utilizing various chemical compounds or formulas some of which I will herein detail for example. Additional information regarding such materials can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 3,806,471 issued to R. J. Mitchell describing various feasible pressure-sensitive variable-conductance material formulas which can be utilized.

[0038] While it is generally anticipated that variable resistive type materials for defining active element 14 are optimum for use in pressure sensor(s), variable rectifying materials are also usable within the scope of the present invention.

[0039] An example formula or compound having variable rectifying properties can be made of any one of the active materials copper oxide, magnesium silicide, magnesium stannide, cuprous sulfide, (or the like) bound together with a rubbery or elastomeric type binder having resilient qualities such as silicone adhesive or the like.

[0040] An example formula or compound having variable resistive properties can be made of the active material tungsten carbide powder (or other suitable material such as molybdenum disulfide, sponge iron, tin oxide, boron, and carbon powders, etc.) bound together with a rubbery or elastomeric type binder such as silicone rubber or the like having resilient qualities. The active materials may be in proportion to the binder material typically in a rich ratio such as 80% active material to 20% binder by volume, but can be varied widely from this ratio dependent on factors such as voltages to be applied, level or resistance range desired, depressive pressure anticipated, material thickness of the active element, surface contact area between the variable-conductance material and conductive elements of the circuit, binder type, manufacturing technique and specific active material used. I have found that tungsten carbide powder bound with a rubbery or elastomeric type binder such as silicone rubber or the like provides a wider range of varying resistance than the typical carbon pill or active element 14 of the prior art dome-cap switches and thus may be preferred particularly for application requiring high resolution. Also, the tungsten carbide based active element is more predictable in it's pressure sensitive varying conductivity over a wider temperature range than the typical carbon based active element used in prior art dome-cap switches.

[0041] From the drawings and above details it can be appreciated that the present invention can readily be described in numerous ways including the following descriptions provided for the sake of positive clarity and which reiterate certain details, expand on and combine others. For example, the invention from one view point is an improved method for using the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap sensor of the type wherein the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap 12 carries the active element 14 which is positioned over a portion of an electronic circuit. The elastomeric injection molded dome-cap being depressible for transferring force into active element 14, with the active element when under force electrically contacting proximal conductive elements of the electronic circuit. The electronic circuit being structured for reading the active element as being in any one of a plurality of states, the plurality of states in the prior art being two states only, On or Off;

[0042] wherein the novel improvement disclosed herein comprises the steps of:

[0043] depressing variably on the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap so as to apply force against the active element of various degrees;

[0044] reading the active element as being in any one of at least three readable states; and

[0045] storing, as digital information, a read state of the active element, the storing as digital information requiring at least two digital bits. The invention can of course be more narrowly or broadly described as indicated by this disclosure as a whole, and can be described in different manners or from different view points such as in the below examples.

[0046] From another view point, the invention is an improved method for reading the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap sensor of the type wherein the active element 14 is positioned within the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap 12 which is positioned over a portion of an electronic circuit such as conductive elements 16 and 18 of the circuit. The elastomeric injection molded dome-cap being depressible for transferring force into the active element with the active element when under force electrically contacting conductive elements 16, 18 of the electronic circuit. The electronic circuit being structured for reading the active element as being in any one of two readable states in the prior art; but with the present invention wherein the improvement comprises the step:

[0047] structuring the electronic circuitry for reading the active element as being in any one of at least three readable states. The invention can be more narrowly or broadly described as indicated by this disclosure as a whole, and can be described in different manners or from different view points such as in the below examples.

[0048] From another view point, the invention is an improved method for storing a read state of the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap sensor of the type wherein the active element 14 is positioned within elastomeric injection molded dome-cap 12 which is positioned over a portion of an electronic circuit, the portion being proximal conductive element 16 and 18 or equivalents thereto. The elastomeric injection molded dome-cap 12 being depressible for transferring force into the active element 14 with the active element when under force electrically contacting the conductive elements 16, 18 of the electronic circuit. The electronic circuit being structured for reading the active element as being in any one of a plurality of states, and storing a read state as digital information, the storing of the read state requiring one digital bit only in the prior art; but with the present invention wherein the improvement comprises the step:

[0049] storing, as digital information, a read state of the active element, the storing of the read state requiring at least two digital bits, because more than two states are read by the electronic circuit. Three different states require at least two digital bits to describe; and five different states require at least three bits to describe; likewise, nine states requires at least four bits to describe, seventeen states requires at least five bits and a smoothly variable or higher resolution range of 129 to 256 states requires at least eight bits to describe.

[0050] From another view point, the invention is an improved method of depressing the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap sensor of the sensor type wherein the active element 14 is positioned within the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap 12 which is positioned over a portion of an electronic circuit, the portion being conductive element 16, 18 or equivalents thereto. The elastomeric injection molded dome-cap 12 being depressible for transferring force into active element 14 with the active element when under force electrically contacting conductive elements of the electronic circuit. The electronic circuit being structured for outputting information representing states of the active element; but in the present invention wherein the improvement comprises the step of:

[0051] depressing the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap 12 (sensor) with varying force to apply varying force to active element 14 for causing the electronic circuit to output information representing at least three states representative of the varying force. The invention can be more narrowly or broadly described as indicated by this disclosure as a whole, and can be described in different manners or from different view points such as in the below examples.

[0052] From another view point, the invention is an improved analog sensing circuit of the type including a user manipulable variable-conductance sensor and circuitry for reading the sensor; wherein the improvement in accordance with the present invention comprises: the variable-conductance sensor being the elastomeric injection molded one-piece dome-cap 12 positioned over the pressure-sensitive variable-conductance material, i.e., active element 14, and more narrowly with the active element 14 positioned within the dome-cap, and even more specifically with the dome-cap being of molded thermoset rubbery (or polymer flexible material) material and carrying the active element. This arrangement could, as described above, also employ the injection molded dome-cap of the specific type which produces a user discernable tactile feedback upon depressive pressure being applied to the dome-cap. Tactile feedback is highly desirable and beneficial in some applications, but not all applications.

[0053] From another view point, the invention is an improved electrical circuit of the type having circuitry for reading states of the active element 14 within the elastomeric injection molded one-piece dome-cap 12; wherein the improvement in accordance with the present invention comprises: the electrical circuit structured for reading any one of at least three readable states of the active element 14, and preferably many more states to allow for higher resolution, such as nine states or 129 states for examples. More narrowly the active element 14 is carried by the dome-cap 12 and the dome-cap is made of molded thermoset rubbery material. This arrangement could, as described above, also employ the injection molded dome-cap of the specific type which produces a user discernable tactile feedback.

[0054] The invention from another view point is an improved method for outputting a read state of the elastomeric injection molded dome-cap sensor of the type wherein the active element 14 is positioned within the elastomeric injection molded one-piece dome-cap 12 which is positioned over a portion of an electronic circuit. The elastomeric injection molded dome-cap being depressible for transferring force into the active element with the active element when under force electrically contacting conductive elements such as 16 and 18 of the electronic circuit. The electronic circuit is structured for reading the active element as being in any one of a plurality of readable states, and outputting a read state as digital information; the outputting requiring at least one digital bit in accordance with the prior art, but in accordance with the present invention the improvement comprises: outputting from electronic circuitry, as digital information, a read state of the active element, the outputting of the read state requiring at least two digital bits in accordance with the invention. The invention can of course be more narrowly or broadly described as indicated by this disclosure as a whole. Clearly, the ability to read a higher number of states is advantageous in representing a higher resolution of depressive pressure applied to the dome-cap sensor.

[0055] From a reading of this disclosure it can be appreciated that it is quite possible to use a very inexpensive and durable elastomeric dome-cap sensor as a pressure-sensitive variable-conductance sensor, or as a pressure-sensitive variable-conductance sensor which includes tactile feedback in association with electronic circuitry structured for control or manipulation by the elastomeric dome-cap sensor applied as an analog sensor. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a very inexpensive pressure-sensitive variable-conductance sensor would be useful and of benefit.

[0056] Although I have specifically described the best modes of the invention for example, it should be understood that changes in the specifics described and shown can clearly be made without departing from the true scope of the invention in accordance the broadest possible reasonable interpretation of the appended claims. The specification is intended to be teaching of the invention and not limiting.

Claims

1. A variable sensor having a variable electrical output used to variably control electronic game imagery shown on a television according to variable depressive force applied by a finger of a user to said variable sensor, said variable sensor comprising:

a portion of a rigid circuit board supporting interdigitated electrically conductive circuit traces, said circuit board at least in part supporting

a flexible membrane sheet, said flexible membrane sheet positioned between said circuit board and

a depressible resilient structure, said resilient structure shaped to provide, upon depression, a snap tactile feedback to a human user, whereby when the finger of the user applies depressive pressure to the variable sensor a tactile feedback is provided to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is activated, and releasing of pressure applied to the variable sensor provides a tactile feedback to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is deactivated.

2. A variable sensor having a variable electrical output used to variably control electronic game imagery shown on a television according to variable depressive force applied by a finger of a human user to said variable sensor, said variable sensor comprising:

a circuit board supporting electrical circuit traces, positioned above said circuit board is located

a depressible resilient structure, said resilient structure shaped to provide, upon depression, a snap tactile feedback to the human user, whereby when the finger of the user applies depressive pressure to the variable sensor a tactile feedback is provided to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is activated, and releasing of pressure applied to the variable sensor provides a tactile feedback to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is deactivated.

3. A variable sensor according to claim 2 wherein a flexible membrane sheet is positioned between said circuit board and said resilient structure

4. A variable sensor according to claim 3 wherein said resilient structure includes a deformable surface having an apex located to contact said flexible membrane sheet.

5. A variable sensor according to claim 4 wherein said flexible membrane sheet supports electrically conductive material.

6. A variable sensor according to claim 5 wherein said conductive material is located to contact said circuit traces.

7. A variable sensor according to claim 6 wherein said circuit traces are interdigitated.

8. A variable sensor according to claim 2 wherein said variable sensor is positioned at least in part within a hand held device, said hand held device includes a operationally pivotal first button, said pivotal first button positioned to be pivotally operated by a first human finger of the human user, said pivotal first button structured to operate a proportional sensor, whereby variable operation of said pivotal first button variably controls the electronic game imagery.

9. A variable sensor according to claim 8 wherein said hand held device includes an operationally pivotal second button, said pivotal second button positioned to be pivotally operated by a second human finger of the human user, said pivotal second button structured to operate a proportional sensor, whereby variable operation of said pivotal second button variably controls the electronic game imagery.

10. A variable sensor according to claim 9 wherein said hand held device includes active tactile feedback structures.

11. A variable sensor according to claim 10 wherein said active tactile feedback structures comprise a motor and offset weight.

12. A variable sensor according to claim 11 wherein said hand held device includes a sensor having an output signal representing only On/Off data.

13. A variable sensor according to claim 12 wherein said variable sensor outputs signals representing On/off data and proportional data.

14. A variable sensor according to claim 2 wherein said variable sensor is positioned at least in part within a hand held device, said hand held device includes a right-hand area and a left-hand area, said variable sensor is located in said right-hand area.

15. A variable sensor according to claim 14 wherein said variable sensor is activated by depression of a thumb depressible button, said thumb depressible button located in said right-hand area and positioned to be depressed by a right hand thumb of the user.

16. A variable sensor according to claim 15 wherein said variable sensor outputs signals representing On/off data and proportional data.

17. A variable sensor according to claim 16 wherein said hand held device includes a second variable sensor located in said right-hand area.

18. A variable sensor according to claim 17 wherein said hand held device includes a third variable sensor and a fourth variable sensor, the second, third and fourth sensors associated with second, third and fourth independent buttons, the buttons located in said right-hand area positioned to be depressed by a right-hand thumb of the user.

19. A variable sensor having a variable electrical output used to variably control electronic game imagery shown on a television according to variable depressive force applied by a finger of a human user to said variable sensor, comprising:

a rigid support board supporting

an electrically non-conductive flexible membrane sheet supports at least one electrical conductor, positioned above said flexible membrane sheet is located

a depressible resilient structure carrying electrically conductive material, said electrically conductive material having a deformable substantially convexed surface having an apex, said apex positioned to contact said at least one electrical conductor; said resilient structure shaped to provide, upon depression

a soft snap tactile feedback to the human user, whereby when the finger of the user applies depressive pressure to the variable sensor a tactile feedback is provided to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is activated, and releasing of pressure applied to the variable sensor provides a tactile feedback to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is deactivated;

a hand held housing includes said variable sensor; further included in said hand held housing is

means for active tactile feedback;

a four way rocker is located in a left-hand area of said housing;

a second variable sensor is positioned within a right-hand area of said housing, said second variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a second single individual button;

a third variable sensor is positioned within said right-hand area of said housing, said third variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a third single individual button;

a fourth variable sensor is positioned within said right-hand area of said housing, said fourth variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a fourth single individual button;

an On/Off sensor is positioned within said housing located between said right-hand area and said left-hand area.

20. A variable sensor having a variable electrical output used to variably control imagery of an electronic game shown on a television according to variable depressive force applied by a finger of a hand of a human user to said variable sensor, comprising:

a circuit board supporting

a flexible membrane sheet supporting electrically conductive material, positioned above said flexible membrane sheet is located

a depressible resilient structure, said resilient structure shaped to provide, upon depression,

a soft snap tactile feedback to the human user, whereby when the finger of the user applies depressive pressure to the variable sensor a tactile feedback is provided to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is activated, and releasing of pressure applied to the variable sensor provides a tactile feedback to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is deactivated;

said variable sensor is combined with structure providing active tactile feedback, whereby the electronic game causes said structure providing active tactile feedback to create vibration felt by the hand of the user.

21. A variable sensor according to claim 20 wherein the variable depressive force applied by the finger of the human user to said variable sensor is applied through a single independent button which presses against said depressible resilient structure.

22. A variable sensor according to claim 20 wherein said circuit board supports at least two electrically conductive circuit traces.

23. A variable sensor according to claim 22 wherein said at least two electrically conductive circuit traces are interdigitated at a location under said conductive material.

24. A variable sensor according to claim 23 wherein upon depression of said depressible resilient structure said conductive material contacts the interdigitated portion of said circuit traces.

25. A variable sensor according to claim 24 wherein said variable sensor is located in a hand held housing having a right-hand area and a left-hand area.

26. A variable sensor according to claim 25 wherein a four way rocker is located in said left-hand area of said housing, and said variable sensor is located in said right-hand area of said housing.

27. A variable sensor according to claim 26 wherein a On/Off sensor is located in said housing between said right-hand area and said left-hand area.

28. A variable sensor according to claim 27 wherein a second variable sensor is positioned within said right-hand area of said housing, said second variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a second single individual button.

29. A variable sensor according to claim 24 wherein said variable sensor outputs signals representing On/Off data and proportional data.

30. A variable sensor according to claim 29 wherein said variable sensor is located in a hand held housing having a right-hand area and a left-hand area.

31. A variable sensor according to claim 30 wherein a four way rocker is located in said left-hand area of said housing, and said variable sensor is located in said right-hand area of said housing.

32. A variable sensor having a variable electrical output used to variably control electronic game imagery shown on a television according to variable depressive force applied by a finger of a human user to said variable sensor, comprising:

a rigid support board supporting

a flexible membrane sheet supporting electrically conductive material, said conductive material positioned to contact at least one electrical circuit trace;

a depressible resilient structure having a deformable surface having an apex, said apex positioned to contact said flexible membrane upon depression of said depressible resilient structure; depression of said depressible resilient structure also creating

a soft snap tactile feedback to the human user, whereby when the finger of the user applies depressive pressure to the variable sensor a tactile feedback is provided to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is activated, and releasing of pressure applied to the variable sensor provides a tactile feedback to the finger indicating that the variable sensor is deactivated;

a hand held housing includes said variable sensor; further included in said hand held housing is

means for active tactile feedback;

a four way rocker is located in a left-hand area of said housing;

a second variable sensor is positioned within a right-hand area of said housing, said second variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a second single individual button;

a third variable sensor is positioned within said right-hand area of said housing, said third variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a third single individual button;

a fourth variable sensor is positioned within said right-hand area of said housing, said fourth variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a fourth single individual button;

an On/Off sensor is positioned within said housing located between said right-hand area and said left-hand area.

33. A variable sensor according to claim 32 wherein a third variable sensor is positioned within said right-hand area of said housing, said third variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a third single individual button, and a fourth variable sensor is positioned within said right-hand area of said housing, said fourth variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a fourth single individual button.

34. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry, said variable sensor operated by variable depression of a single button, said single button variably depressed by a single finger of a hand of a user, variable operation of said variable sensor variably controls electronic game imagery, and operation of said variable sensor at least provides a soft snap tactile feedback to the finger of the user.

35. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry according to claim 34 wherein said electrical circuitry reads said variable sensor and said electrical circuitry enables active tactile feedback to be sent to the hand of the user.

36. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry according to claim 34 wherein said variable sensor includes a resilient dome cap depressible by said button.

37. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry according to claim 36 wherein said dome cap supplies said soft snap tactile feedback through said button to the finger of the user.

38. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry according to claim 37 wherein said dome cap comprises rubber material.

39. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry according to claim 37 wherein said dome cap comprises metallic material.

40. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry, said variable sensor operated by variable depression of a single button, said single button variably depressed by a single finger of a hand of a user, variable operation of said variable sensor variably controls electronic game imagery, and operation of said variable sensor at least provides a soft snap tactile feedback to the finger of the user; said electrical circuitry reads said variable sensor and said electrical circuitry enables active tactile feedback to be sent to the hand of the user; said variable sensor includes a resilient dome cap depressible by said button, said dome cap supplies said soft snap tactile feedback through said button to the finger of the user.

41. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry and elements according to claim 40 are supported by a hand grasped housing, said housing further including a first proportional sensor activated by depression of a first pivotal button, and a second proportional sensor activated by depression of a second pivotal button.

42. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry according to claim 41 wherein said single button is positioned for thumb depression.

43. A variable sensor and associated electrical circuitry according to claim 42 wherein said hand grasped housing includes structuring enabling active tactile feedback.

44. A variable sensor combined with electronic imagery controls, said variable sensor structured for receiving variable depressive force applied to a single independent button by only a single human finger, said variable sensor including a depressible resilient dome cap, said dome cap structured to provide, upon depression of said dome cap, a soft snap tactile feedback to the human finger.

45. A variable sensor according to claim 44 wherein electrically conductive material is carried by said dome cap.

46. A variable sensor according to claim 45 wherein said conductive material deforms under said depressive force.

47. A variable sensor according to claim 46 wherein said variable sensor is located in a right-hand area of a housing, and a four way rocker is located in a left-hand area of said housing.

48. A variable sensor according to claim 46 wherein said variable sensor is structured in combination with means for providing active tactile feedback.

49. A variable sensor according to claim 46 wherein said variable sensor outputs signals representing On/off data and proportional data.

50. A variable sensor according to claim 49 wherein said variable sensor is structured in combination with means for providing active tactile feedback.

51. A variable sensor according to claim 50 wherein said variable sensor is activatable by depression of a button, said sensor and said button are positioned in a right-hand area of a housing, and a four way rocker is positioned in a left-hand area of said housing.

52. A variable sensor according to claim 51 wherein said electronic imagery is an electronic game displayed by a television.

53. A variable sensor according to claim 52 wherein said housing is hand-held, and said means for providing active tactile feedback is located within said housing.

54. A variable sensor according to claim 53 wherein a second variable sensor is positioned within said housing, said second variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a second button, said second button located in said right-hand area of said housing.

55. A variable sensor according to claim 54 wherein a third variable sensor is positioned within said housing, said third variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a third single individual button positioned in said right-hand area of said housing, and a fourth variable sensor is positioned within said housing, said fourth variable sensor actuated by variable depression of a fourth single individual button positioned in said right-hand area of said housing.

56. A method of using a variable pressure analog sensor, depressed by a human thumb, to control variable movement of imagery in an electronic game, said method including the acts:

a) decreasing pressure on said analog sensor, followed by

b) receiving a soft snap tactile feedback, followed by

c) increasing pressure on said analog sensor, said increasing pressure applied according to said imagery and substantially because of said receiving a soft snap tactile feedback.

57. A method according to claim 56 wherein said variable movement of imagery is movement of a viewpoint through three-dimensional graphics.

58. A method according to claim 56 wherein said variable movement of imagery is variable movement of a game object.

59. A method according to claim 58 wherein said game object is a three-dimensional game object located within a three-dimensional graphics display.

60. A method according to claim 56 wherein said variable movement of imagery is movement of a game character in three-dimensional graphics.

61. A method of using a variable sensor depressed by a human finger to variably control movement in an electronic game, said method including the acts:

a) depressing said variable sensor with varying pressure;

b) receiving a user snap-through discernable tactile feedback.

62. A method according to claim 61 wherein said depressing includes depressing harder to make a controllable game character, of said electronic imagery, jump higher.

63. A method according to claim 61 wherein said depressing includes increasing depressive pressure to make a simulated race car, of said electronic imagery, slow according to the increasing depressive pressure.

64. A method of variably controlling electronic imagery by using a variable sensor, said method including the acts:

a) pressing, with a human finger, a button associated with the variable sensor;

b) receiving, through said finger, a snap-through threshold tactile feedback.

65. A method of controlling electronic imagery according to claim 64 wherein said pressing includes pressing harder to make a controllable game character, of said electronic imagery, jump higher.

66. A method of controlling electronic imagery according to claim 64 wherein said pressing includes increasing pressure to make a simulated race car, of said electronic imagery, slow according to the increasing pressure.

67. A method of interacting with an electronic game displayed on a television, comprising:

receiving a first signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said first signal representing variable input applied to a variable sensor by a single finger of a hand of a human user;

sending a tactile feedback signal to cause vibration to be felt by the hand of the user;

receiving a second signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said second signal representing variable input applied to a second variable sensor;

receiving a first bi-directional signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said first bi-directional signal representing variable input applied to a first bi-directional proportional sensor;

receiving a second bi-directional signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said second bi-directional signal representing variable input applied to a second bi-directional proportional sensor;

receiving a third bi-directional signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said third bi-directional signal representing variable input applied to a third bi-directional proportional sensor;

receiving a fourth bi-directional signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said fourth bi-directional signal representing variable input applied to a fourth bi-directional proportional sensor.

68. A method of interacting with an electronic game displayed on a television according to claim 67 wherein said first signal represents variable pressure applied to the variable sensor.

69. A method of interacting with an electronic game displayed on a television, comprising:

receiving a first signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said first signal representing variable input applied to a variable sensor by a single finger of a hand of a human user;

sending a tactile feedback signal to cause vibration to be felt by the hand of the user.

70. A method of interacting with an electronic game displayed on a television according to claim 69 wherein said method further includes

receiving a second signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said second signal representing variable input applied to a second variable sensor.

71. A method of interacting with an electronic game displayed on a television according to claim 70 wherein said method further includes

receiving a first bi-directional signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said first bi-directional signal representing variable input applied to a first bi-directional proportional sensor;

receiving a second bi-directional signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said second bi-directional signal representing variable input applied to a second bi-directional proportional sensor.

72. A method of interacting with an electronic game displayed on a television according to claim 71 wherein said method further includes

receiving a third bi-directional signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said third bi-directional signal representing variable input applied to a third bi-directional proportional sensor;

receiving a fourth bi-directional signal useful for controlling the electronic game, said fourth bi-directional signal representing variable input applied to a fourth bi-directional proportional sensor.

73. A method of interacting with an electronic game displayed on a television according to claim 72 wherein said first signal represents variable pressure applied to the variable sensor.

74. A method of using a variable pressure analog sensor, depressed by a human thumb, to control variable movement of imagery in an electronic game, said method comprising:

a) decreasing pressure on said analog sensor, followed by

b) receiving a soft snap tactile feedback, followed by

c) increasing pressure on said analog sensor, said increasing pressure applied according to said imagery and substantially because of said receiving a soft snap tactile feedback.

75. A method according to claim 74 wherein said variable movement of imagery is movement of a viewpoint through three-dimensional graphics.

76. A method according to claim 75 wherein said variable movement of imagery is variable movement of a game object.

77. A method according to claim 75 wherein said game object is a three-dimensional game object located within a three-dimensional graphics display.

78. A method according to claim 74 wherein said variable movement of imagery is movement of a game character in three-dimensional graphics.

79. A method of using a variable sensor depressed by a human finger to variably control movement in an electronic game, said method comprising:

a) depressing said variable sensor with varying pressure;

b) receiving a user snap-through discernable tactile feedback.

80. A method according to claim 79 wherein said depressing includes depressing harder to make a controllable game character, of said electronic imagery, jump higher.

81. A method according to claim 79 wherein said depressing includes increasing depressive pressure to make a simulated race car, of said electronic imagery, slow according to the increasing depressive pressure.

82. A method of variably controlling electronic imagery by using a variable sensor, said method comprising:

a) pressing, with a human finger, a button associated with the variable sensor;

b) receiving, through said finger, a snap-through threshold tactile feedback.

83. A method of controlling electronic imagery according to claim 82 wherein said pressing includes pressing harder to make a controllable game character, of said electronic imagery, jump higher.

84. A method of controlling electronic imagery according to claim 82 wherein said pressing includes increasing pressure to make a simulated race car, of said electronic imagery, slow according to the increasing pressure.