HK1248013B - Input devices incorporating biometric sensors - Google Patents

Description

Input devices incorporating biometric sensors

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Patent Cooperation Treaty patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/235,538, filed on September 30, 2015, entitled “Input Devices Incorporating Biometric Sensors,” and U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 15/239,977, filed on August 18, 2016, entitled “Input Devices Incorporating Biometric Sensors,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

Technical Field

The embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to user input devices and, more particularly, to input devices configured to biometrically authenticate their users.

Background Art

An electronic device may include one or more buttons. A button is typically associated with one or more functions or operations of the electronic device. In some instances, a user of the electronic device may wish to restrict control of (and/or access to) the functions or operations associated with a particular button to a limited set of authorized users.

Upon button activation, the conventional electronic device may require a password or passcode before implementing the restricted function or operation of the button, thereby suspending certain operations of the conventional electronic device until the password or passcode is provided.

Summary of the Invention

Certain embodiments described herein generally relate to buttons that incorporate biometric sensors. The biometric sensor associated with such a button can be used by an electronic device to restrict access to features or functions of the electronic device associated with the button. Such a button is generally referred to herein as a "restricted access button."

For example, an electronic device, such as that described herein, may include a housing having a top portion and a bottom portion connected by a hinge. The electronic device may integrate a primary display into the top portion of the housing, a keyboard into the bottom portion of the housing, an auxiliary display into the bottom portion of the housing between the keyboard and the hinge, and a restricted-access button adjacent to one end of the auxiliary display within the bottom portion of the housing. The restricted-access button may include a biometric sensor, such as a fingerprint sensor. In these embodiments, each time the restricted-access button is pressed by a user, the electronic device may obtain an image of the fingerprint. The electronic device may then determine whether the obtained fingerprint image matches a previously authorized user's fingerprint image, and if so, the electronic device may perform an action.

Additional embodiments relate to assemblies and kits that can be used to form restricted-access buttons, such as those described herein. For example, in some embodiments, in addition to a biometric sensor, a button kit can include an electrical switch, such as a compressible dome switch. The compressible dome switch can be formed from a variety of suitable materials, including, but not limited to, metal, plastic, rubber, conductive or non-conductive polymers, gels, and the like. In some cases, the electrical switch can be an inverted dome switch, but this is not required in all embodiments. The electrical switch can be placed below the biometric sensor so that the operation of the biometric sensor is not negatively impacted by the presence of the electrical switch.

In some embodiments, a seal (e.g., a sealing ring, a sealing gasket, caulking, etc.) may be placed around the standoffs to seal the gap between the standoffs and the sidewalls of the through-holes. In many cases, the seals can provide a liquid-tight barrier between the standoffs and the through-hole sidewalls. Additionally, one or more seals may be positioned between either (or both) surfaces of the spring plate and the housing of the electronic device.

In some embodiments, the biometric sensor and the electrical switch can be coupled to a flexible circuit. The flexible circuit can be configured to fold over the top surface of the housing of the electronic device and below the button assembly. The flexible circuit can be hidden behind a unit or feature of the electronic device that is placed adjacent to the button assembly. For example, in one embodiment, the button assembly can be placed next to a substantially flat input surface, such as (but not limited to) a touch-sensitive display, an adaptive input row, a force-sensitive input surface, etc. In other examples, the flexible circuit can be hidden behind another feature of the electronic device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made to the representative embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a preferred embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents that may be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

FIG. 1A depicts an exemplary electronic device incorporating a limited-access button.

1B depicts a detailed view of section A-A depicted in FIG. 1A , illustrating an embodiment of an electronic device in which the limited-access button extends protruding from a housing surface of the electronic device.

1C depicts a detailed view of section A-A depicted in FIG. 1A , illustrating an embodiment of an electronic device in which the limited-access button is flush with a housing surface of the electronic device.

FIG. 2A depicts an exploded cross-sectional assembly view of the button assembly of FIG. 2B .

FIG. 2B depicts the assembled button assembly of FIG. 2A .

FIG3A depicts a cross-sectional view of the button assembly of FIG2B taken through section B-B of FIG2B.

FIG. 3B depicts the button assembly of FIG. 3A deflected in response to a downward force, such as may be applied by a user.

FIG. 3C depicts a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a button assembly.

4 depicts a bottom view of the spring plate of the button assembly of FIG. 3A .

FIG5 depicts exemplary operations of a method of coupling a button assembly to a housing of an electronic device.

FIG6 depicts exemplary operations of a method of operating a button incorporating a biometric sensor.

The use of the same or similar reference numbers in different drawings indicates similar, related or identical items.

Cross-hatching or shading used in the drawings is generally provided to clarify boundaries between adjacent elements and also to facilitate legibility of the drawings. Accordingly, the presence or absence of cross-hatching or shading does not convey or suggest any preference or requirement for particular materials, material properties, element properties, element specifications, commonality of similarly illustrated elements, or any other characteristic, quality, or property of any element shown in the drawings.

It should also be understood that the (relative or absolute) proportions and specifications of the various features and units, and the boundaries, separations and positional relationships given therebetween, are provided in the accompanying drawings merely to facilitate understanding of the various embodiments described herein and therefore may not necessarily be presented or illustrated to scale, and are not intended to indicate any preference or requirement for the embodiments shown to the exclusion of the embodiments described with reference thereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The embodiments described herein generally relate to input components for electronic devices incorporating biometric sensors. The input components described herein can be any suitable input components, such as (but not limited to) buttons, keys, scroll wheels, joysticks, force sensors, touch sensors, and the like. Thus, while many of the embodiments described below refer to buttons or keys as exemplary input components, it will be appreciated that any suitable input component can be incorporated with a biometric sensor using the systems and methods described herein.

In some embodiments, a button of an electronic device incorporates a biometric sensor. As used herein, the term "biometric sensor" generally refers to a sensor configured to obtain data regarding one or more physiological or biometric identification characteristics of a biological subject. Electronic devices may utilize biometric sensors to determine and/or authenticate the identity of a user of the electronic device. In many embodiments, the biometric sensor may be incorporated into the power button of the electronic device.

In other cases, electronic devices utilize biometric sensors on specific buttons to control and/or restrict access to functions or operations of the electronic device associated with the button to a limited set of previously authorized users. Such restrictions are generally referred to herein as "restricted actions" or "restricted functions" of the button, which can only be implemented after the biometric sensor is used to authenticate the identity of the user pressing the button.

For example, in one embodiment, the power button of an electronic device may incorporate a biometric sensor (e.g., a fingerprint sensor). One or more functions associated with the power button may be restricted functions that can only be performed by authorized users. For example, turning the electronic device on or off may be a restricted function that can only be performed by an authorized user or group of users. In this example, when the power button is pressed, an image of the fingerprint may be obtained and compared to previously obtained fingerprint images of a limited set of authorized users. If it is determined that the obtained image matches one of the previously obtained fingerprint images of the limited set of authorized users, the electronic device may perform the operation associated with the power button (e.g., turning on, turning off, entering standby mode, etc.). Alternatively, if it is determined that the obtained image does not match one of the previously obtained fingerprint images of the limited set of authorized users, the electronic device may not perform the operation associated with the power button. In some cases, the electronic device may notify the user that access has been denied. In other cases, the electronic device may not respond.

In many cases, the biometric sensor incorporated into the button can be a fingerprint sensor; however, this may not be required in all embodiments, and other suitable biometric sensors may be included, such as (but not limited to) a heart rate sensor, a skin temperature sensor, a galvanic skin response sensor, a vein imaging sensor, an iris imaging system, and the like. Therefore, although many embodiments are described below with reference to a fingerprint sensor, it will be appreciated that any suitable or implementation-specific sensor may be substituted. A button incorporating a fingerprint sensor is referred to herein as a "restricted access button."

The restricted access button may be incorporated into the electronic device in any appropriate manner. For example, in some embodiments, the restricted access button may extend a certain distance from the housing of the electronic device incorporating the restricted access button. For example, such a button may be (but not limited to): a keyboard key, a function button, a command button, a replacement button, a control button, a power button, a shutter button, a space bar, an eject button, a mode button, a setting button, a network connection button, a restart button, a reset button, a factory settings restore button, an erase button, a shortcut button, an audio volume button, an exit button, a discard button, a multi-function button, and the like. The electronic device incorporating such a button may be (but not limited to): a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a tablet computer, a peripheral input device, an imaging device, a head-mounted unit device, a navigation device, an industrial control device, a wearable electronic device, a multimedia device, and the like.

For many of the embodiments described herein, a restricted-access button is a multi-function and multi-mode button. For example, the button may be a shutter button on a camera device, which, when pressed by a user, causes an image or video of a subject to be captured. In other words, the shutter button may be associated with an image capture mode, a video capture mode, an autofocus mode, or any other appropriate mode. In these instances, different modes of the button may be associated with restricted functionality, while other modes of the button may be associated with unrestricted functionality. As used herein, the phrases "unrestricted functionality" or "unrestricted action" refer to functions or actions associated with a button that incorporates a fingerprint sensor and can be performed without using the fingerprint sensor to authenticate the identity of the user pressing the button. In other words, it should be appreciated that a restricted-access button, such as that described herein, can be configured to implement both restricted and unrestricted functionality. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that in certain configurations, a restricted-access button can be adapted to implement only unrestricted functionality; in other words, the fingerprint sensor of a restricted-access button can be disabled and/or configured to be used in a manner unrelated to the functionality of the button incorporated therein.

Returning to the example given above, the shutter button of a camera device can be a restricted-access button. In some instances, the shutter button can be a multi-mode button associated with both restricted and unrestricted functions. For example, the image capture function can be a restricted function, while the autofocus function can be an unrestricted function. The camera can change the restriction status of a particular function at any time. Here, the phrase "restriction status" generally refers to whether the particular function of a restricted-access button is a restricted function or an unrestricted function.

In many embodiments, the restricted access button is configured to be integrated with other input components of the electronic device. For example, the restricted access button can be incorporated as a key on a keyboard. In other cases, every key on the keyboard can be a restricted access button.

In these embodiments, the restricted-access button can include appearance and characteristics that match other input components or other features of the electronic device near the restricted-access button. In one example, the top surface of the restricted-access button is aligned with and substantially coplanar with the top surface of another input component located adjacent to the button. The other component can be, without limitation, another button; another restricted-access button; a portion of the housing of the electronic device; another input device, such as a trackpad, keyboard, touchscreen, scroll bar, microphone, etc.; a non-input device, such as a display, speaker grille, or input/output port; etc. In many embodiments, the restricted-access button can form a substantially continuous and/or contiguous surface with the other nearby components.

A limited-access button, such as the one described herein, is typically formed from multiple separate components, collectively referred to as a "button assembly." In one example, the button assembly includes a button cap, an electrical switch, a fingerprint sensor, a support post, and a spring plate. In many cases, the button assembly is configured to be coupled to the housing of an electronic device. Typically and broadly speaking, the button cap is positioned above the fingerprint sensor, which in turn is positioned above the electrical switch. The button cap, fingerprint sensor, and electrical switch are collectively referred to herein as the "upper assembly portion" of the button assembly for the limited-access button.

The upper assembly portion can be coupled to the housing of the electronic device by any suitable means. In some embodiments, the upper assembly portion can be movable relative to the housing, but this is not required (e.g., the upper assembly portion can be fixed relative to the housing for some embodiments). Herein, an upper assembly portion that is fixed relative to the housing is referred to as a "fixed upper assembly," and an upper assembly portion that is movable relative to the housing is referred to as a "movable upper assembly."

The fixed upper assembly is typically arranged so that the limited-access button is flush with the housing of the electronic device incorporating the limited-access button. However, in other instances, the fixed upper assembly may extend beyond the surface of the housing of the electronic device incorporating the fixed upper assembly. In these instances, the height of the fixed upper assembly may be selected to be approximately equal to the height of elements adjacent to the limited-access button. In one instance, the fixed upper assembly is positioned above the keys of a keyboard; the height of the fixed upper assembly may be approximately equal to the height of the keys of the keyboard. In many embodiments, the electrical switch of the fixed upper assembly may be a soft button, such as a capacitive button, that detects the presence of a user's fingertip. In other cases, the electrical switch may be a force-sensitive switch that detects and/or measures the force applied by the user's fingertip to the button assembly. In some cases, the fingerprint sensor itself may be used as the soft button; the electrical switch may be omitted in certain embodiments implementing the fixed upper assembly.

The movable upper assembly of a movable button can be constrained in one direction and allowed to move in another direction (e.g., an axis). In one embodiment, the movable upper assembly can be substantially constrained in the X and Y directions, while being unconstrained in the Z direction (although bounded). In other words, the upper assembly portion can be allowed to translate in the Z direction without specific bounds. In other cases, the movable upper assembly can be bounded in another manner. In one embodiment, the movable upper assembly can be configured as a cantilever. In many embodiments, the electrical switch of the movable upper assembly can be a compressible switch (such as a dome switch) that collapses when a user's fingertip applies force. In many instances, the dome switch can be placed in contact with the housing of an electronic device incorporating a restricted access switch; when downward force is applied to the button cap, the dome switch pushes against the housing of the electronic device to facilitate the collapse of the dome. The compressible portion of the dome switch can be formed from a variety of suitable materials, including but not limited to metal, plastic, rubber, conductive or non-conductive polymers, gel, and the like. In some cases, the electrical switch can be an inverted dome switch, but this is not required in all embodiments. The electrical switch is typically placed below the fingerprint sensor so that the operation of the fingerprint sensor may not be negatively affected by the presence of the electrical switch.

In many embodiments, the fingerprint sensor and the electrical switch can be coupled to a flexible circuit. The flexible circuit can be configured to fold over the top surface of the housing of the electronic device incorporating the button assembly and under the button assembly. The flexible circuit can be hidden behind a unit or feature of the electronic device placed adjacent to the button assembly. For example, in one embodiment, the button assembly can be placed next to a substantially flat input surface, such as (but not limited to) a touch-sensitive display, an adaptive input row, a force-sensitive input surface, etc. In other examples, the flexible circuit can be hidden behind another feature of the electronic device.

These and other embodiments will be discussed below with reference to Figures 1 to 6. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

Figures 1A-1C generally depict an exemplary electronic device that may incorporate a restricted-access button. As shown, the electronic device is a foldable laptop computer, but such implementation is not required. In the illustrated embodiment, the foldable laptop computer (more generally, a "laptop computer") includes a top flap portion and a bottom flap portion. The bottom flap portion incorporates a keyboard with multiple rows of depressible keys. The restricted-access button is positioned adjacent to a linear display area (e.g., a touch-sensitive display), which itself is typically positioned adjacent to the topmost row of keys and below the display incorporated into the laptop's top flap portion. In some cases, the restricted-access button abuts one end of the linear display. Typically, the top flap portion is connected to the bottom flap portion by a hinge, but this is not required in all embodiments; the top flap portion may be removable relative to the bottom flap portion. The restricted-access button may have a fixed or removable upper cover and may extend beyond the keyboard housing (e.g., Figure 1B) or may be flush with the keyboard housing (e.g., Figure 1C). In the illustrated embodiment, the restricted-access button is configured to form a substantially continuous surface with the linear display area.

More specifically, FIG1A depicts a laptop computer 100 in an open position. The laptop computer 100 includes a keyboard 102 having multiple rows of depressible keys, each of which extends from (or is flush with) a lower housing portion 104a (e.g., a bottom flap portion) of the laptop computer 100. The laptop computer 100 also includes a main display 106 in an upper housing portion 104b (e.g., a top flap portion). A user of the laptop computer 100 can utilize the keyboard 102 as an interface for interacting with the laptop computer 100. More specifically, the user can utilize the laptop computer 100 to interact with a user interface that is at least partially presented by the laptop computer 100 on the main display 106.

The laptop computer 100 also includes a touch-sensitive display 108. The touch-sensitive display 108 can be generally located above the topmost row of keys of the keyboard 102. The touch-sensitive display 108 can include a secondary display that is used to present a set of indicia or visual cues corresponding to a set of commands or functions that can be selected by a user of the laptop computer 100. The touch-sensitive display 108 can respond to user touch or force input. In some cases, the touch-sensitive display 108 can be used to implement functions similar to the traditional static function row of a traditional keyboard.

As previously mentioned, the touch-sensitive display 108 can be configured to display a set of visual indicia corresponding to one or more input modes of the laptop computer 100 or keyboard 102. The indicia on the display can correspond to one or more of (without limitation): a hardware-based input mode used to control one or more devices or hardware units of the laptop computer 100 or keyboard 102; a software-based input mode used to control one or more aspects of a software program being executed on the laptop computer 100; a user-defined mode that can be configured by a user of the laptop computer 100 or keyboard 102; and other input mode examples described herein. The display of the touch-sensitive display 108 can be used to present a set of static indicia, one or more animated indicia, or a combination of static and animated indicia.

The display of the touch-sensitive display 108 may be integrated with one or more touch sensors and/or force sensors configured to detect various combinations of user touch and force input (e.g., gestures) on the surface of the touch-sensitive display 108. The touch and/or force sensors may provide a touch-sensitive surface that is configured to detect the location of a touch, the amount and/or direction of an applied force, and/or the movement of a touch along the touch-sensitive display 108. The touch and/or force sensors may be used alone or in combination to interpret a wide range of user inputs, such as (without limitation) touch-based gestures, force-based gestures, touch patterns, tap patterns, single-finger gestures, multi-finger gestures, multi-force gestures, and the like.

The restricted-access button 110 is located adjacent to the touch-sensitive display 108. In many embodiments, the restricted-access button 110 includes a fingerprint sensor that can optionally be used to obtain an image of a user's fingerprint by pressing the user's fingertip against the restricted-access button 110. As mentioned with respect to other embodiments described herein, the restricted-access button 110 can be used by the laptop computer 100 and/or keyboard 102 to facilitate controlled access to features and/or operations associated with the restricted-access button 110.

In one embodiment, the top surface 110′ of the restricted-access button 110 can be configured to be substantially flush with the top surface 108′ of the touch-sensitive display 108 (e.g., see FIG. 1B ) and/or flush with the lower housing portion 104a. In other cases, the top surface 110′ of the restricted-access button 110 can be configured to be substantially flush with the top surface 102′ of the lower housing portion 104a of the laptop computer 100 (e.g., see FIG. 1B ). In many cases, and as shown, the restricted-access button 110 can be positioned proximate to or adjacent to the touch-sensitive display 108, such that a gap 112 between the touch-sensitive display 108 and the restricted-access button 110 can be substantially hidden (e.g., see FIG. 1B-1C ). Although the restricted-access button 110 can be adjacent to the touch-sensitive display 108, there can be a small gap (e.g., less than 5 mm) between the two components. In some cases, the touch-sensitive display 108 and the restricted-access button 110 can be formed from the same material and/or share some of the same components. In these embodiments, the restricted access button 110 forms part of the touch-sensitive display 108 .

In one example, the limited-access button 110 is a multi-mode power button that can be configured to change the power state of the laptop computer 100 and/or the power state of the keyboard 102 .

In one example, when a user presses the power button, keyboard 102 may send a signal to laptop computer 100 indicating that the button has been pressed. In response, laptop computer 100 may transition to a different power state, such as, but not limited to, an on power state, an off power state, a standby power state, a low power state, or any other suitable power state. One or more functions of the power button may be restricted functions, while other functions of the power button may be unrestricted functions. More specifically, in this example, the transition operations between the various power states implemented by laptop computer 100 may be restricted actions or unrestricted actions. In one example, transitioning from the off power state to the on power state may be an unrestricted action, while transitioning from the on power state to the off power state may be a restricted action. In another non-limiting wording, laptop computer 100 may allow any user to turn on laptop computer 100 or another associated electronic device, while only allowing specific users to turn off laptop computer 100.

In these examples, when the user presses the restricted-access button 110, the laptop computer 100 can first determine whether the action or function sought to be performed by the laptop computer 100 or keyboard 102 is a restricted action or an unrestricted action. If the action is a restricted action, an image of the fingerprint can be obtained by the fingerprint sensor of the restricted-access button 110. The obtained fingerprint image can then be compared with each fingerprint image (or template) of a collection of previously obtained fingerprint images (or templates) to determine whether the user who pressed the restricted-access button 110 is authorized to perform the requested function. Alternatively, if the action is an unrestricted action, the laptop computer 100 can perform the action without first obtaining a fingerprint image.

In other embodiments, the restricted access button 110 can be configured to operate in a different manner. For example, the restricted access button 110 can be configured to record and/or log the identity of the user who most recently touched the restricted access button 110 and/or information about unrecognized fingerprints obtained by the restricted access button 110.

In some cases, the operations of obtaining a fingerprint image and comparing the fingerprint to a set of known images may be performed by laptop computer 100. In other instances, the operations may be performed by laptop computer 100. In still other instances, the operations may be performed by a processor or circuit coupled to or disposed within restricted-access button 110.

After recognizing a fingerprint obtained by the fingerprint sensor of the restricted-access button 110, one of a variety of actions may be performed by the laptop computer 100, the keyboard 102, or the restricted-access button 110. For example, in one embodiment, after recognizing a fingerprint image obtained by the fingerprint sensor of the restricted-access button 110, the keyboard 102 may send a signal to the laptop computer 100, thereby instructing the laptop computer 100 to perform the requested action. In another embodiment, after recognizing a fingerprint image obtained by the fingerprint sensor of the restricted-access button 110, the keyboard 102 may send an encrypted signal, a security certificate, a password, or other information to the laptop computer 100, thereby notifying the laptop computer 100 that the keyboard 102 has recognized the user. The laptop computer 100 may analyze the received information to determine whether the user is authorized to perform the requested task.

In other embodiments, laptop computer 100 and/or keyboard 102 may utilize a fingerprint sensor separately from a button containing the sensor. For example, fingerprint image data may be obtained from a user of laptop computer 100 without pressing a button containing the fingerprint sensor. In other cases, a fingerprint sensor may be configured to image a user's fingerprint separately from activation of a corresponding button or an associated action. More specifically, a button may have a default function that may be implemented by laptop computer 100, which may only be changed, updated, enhanced, or augmented after a fingerprint image is later recognized. For example, in these embodiments, a fingerprint image may be obtained after a button is securely pressed.

In many cases, the laptop computer 100 and/or keyboard 102 may require both a full button press and an authenticated fingerprint in order to perform a task. For example, if the button is a power button, a full button press by an authenticated user may be required to turn on the laptop computer 100 or keyboard 102. In this way, two different types of input are required to power on the electronic device.

In other embodiments, the laptop computer 100 and/or keyboard 102 may utilize a fingerprint sensor within the restricted-access button 110 in a manner unrelated to the various functions and/or operations of the restricted-access button 110. For example, the laptop computer 100 may periodically request a user of the laptop computer 100 or keyboard 102 to authenticate the user's identity by placing the user's fingertip on the restricted-access button 110. The laptop computer 100 may request the user of the laptop computer 100 to authenticate his or her identity in order to, without limitation, grant access to an application or program executed by the laptop computer 100, grant access to a feature of an application or program executed by the laptop computer 100, complete an electronic purchase, access confidential and/or proprietary information stored on the laptop computer 100 or otherwise accessible to the laptop computer 100, access system-level files and/or directories stored on the laptop computer 100 or otherwise accessible to the laptop computer 100, approve or deny establishment of a communication link between the laptop computer 100 and another local or remote electronic device, apply settings associated with a particular user to the laptop computer 100 or an application or program operating thereon, and the like.

The foregoing description of the embodiment depicted in Figures 1A-1C and its various alternatives and variations is generally given for the purpose of explanation and to promote a thorough understanding of the embodiments described in detail herein. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that some of the specific details given herein may not be required to practice the specific embodiments described or their equivalents. It should therefore be understood that the foregoing and following descriptions of the specific embodiments are given for the limited purpose of illustration and description. These descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the exact form cited herein. On the contrary, those skilled in the art will recognize that, based on the foregoing teachings, many modifications and variations are possible. It is particularly understandable that the restricted access button depicted in Figures 1A-1C can be implemented by a variety of appropriate and implementation-specific approaches.

FIG2A depicts an exploded cross-sectional assembled view of the button assembly of FIG1C . The button assembly 200 includes an upper assembly portion 202 and a lower assembly portion 204. The upper assembly portion 202 includes a button cap 206, a fingerprint sensor 208, and a compressible dome switch 210. The lower assembly portion 204 includes a spring plate 212 and one or more fasteners 214.

Reference will first be made to the interaction between the upper assembly portion 202, the lower assembly portion 204, and the housing 216 of an electronic device to which the button assembly 200 may be coupled, such as the laptop computer 100 depicted in FIG. 1C.

Generally and broadly speaking, the upper and lower housing portions 202, 204 are configured to couple to each other via an aperture defined in the housing 216. The housing 216 can be formed as a single piece, or can be formed from multiple components that are removably or permanently adhered or otherwise attached to each other. Portions of the housing 216 can be formed from any suitable material, including, but not limited to, metal, amorphous metal, glass, sapphire, plastic, ceramic, synthetic material, organic material, or the like, or any suitable implementation-specific combination or blend of such materials. In some cases, portions of the housing 216 can exhibit anisotropic or isotropic electrical or magnetic properties. The housing 216 can be formed in any suitable manner, such as, but not limited to, machining, molding, insert molding, transfer molding, casting, or any other suitable process or combination of processes.

The housing 216 is shown in a cutaway view, exposing a portion of a recess 218 into which the upper kit portion 202 can be placed. The recess 218 extends from the top surface of the housing 216 into the housing. The depth of the recess 218 can vary from embodiment to embodiment. The recess 218 is generally sized to conform to the perimeter shape of at least one unit of the upper kit portion 202. For example, as shown, the recess 218 takes the overall shape of a rounded rectangle. In other cases, the recess 218 can take another shape. The recess 218 can be formed in the housing by any number of suitable means, such as, but not limited to, machining, molding, transfer molding, casting, or any other suitable process or combination of processes.

Recess 218 defines four separate through-holes, each designated as a through-hole 220. Upper housing portion 202 includes a portion extending through through-hole 220 to couple to lower housing portion 204. In many embodiments, through-hole 220 is substantially cylindrical in shape, but this is not required in all embodiments. Similarly, while many embodiments include four through-holes, this is not required. In other embodiments, a greater or fewer number of through-holes 220 may be implemented.

As previously described, the upper assembly portion 202 includes the button cap 206, the fingerprint sensor 208, and the compressible dome switch 210. The various parts, components, and features of the button cap 206 will now be referred to.

The button cap 206 can be formed as a single piece, or can be formed by multiple parts that are removably or permanently adhered to each other or attached by other means. Certain portions of the button cap 206 can be formed from any suitable material, including but not limited to: metal, glass, sapphire, plastic, ceramic, synthetic material, organic material, etc., or any suitable implementation-specific combination or mixture of the materials. In some cases, certain portions of the button cap 206 can exhibit anisotropic or isotropic electrical or magnetic properties. As shown in the figure, in many embodiments, the button cap 206 can have a substantially flat upper surface (e.g., a top surface). In many cases, the upper surface of the button cap 206 can be at least partially formed from a material that exhibits properties that are particularly suitable for a button cap that can be pressed many times by a user during its operating life. Suitable properties may include: oleophobic properties, hydrophobic properties, anti-reflective properties, mirror quality, anti-scratch properties, anti-fouling properties, etc.

In some embodiments, button cap 206 may include a frame and a cover (as shown in Figures 3A-3C). Portions of the frame of button cap 206 may be formed from any suitable material, including, but not limited to, metal, glass, sapphire, plastic, ceramic, synthetic materials, organic materials, or any suitable implementation-specific combination or hybrid of these materials. The cover is typically formed from a dielectric or insulating material, such as, but not limited to, sapphire, glass, or plastic.

The button cap 206 can be supported by four independent support columns, each of which is configured to rest in one of the through holes 220. The support columns are identified as support columns 222 in Figure 2A. Each support column 222 can be formed as a whole, or can be formed by multiple parts that are removably or permanently adhered to each other or attached by other means. Some parts of a separate support column can be formed by any appropriate material, including but not limited to: metal, glass, sapphire, plastic, ceramic, synthetic material, organic material, etc., or any appropriate implementation-specific combination or mixture of the materials. In some cases, some parts of the separate support column 222 can exhibit anisotropic or isotropic electrical or magnetic properties. In many embodiments, the support column 222 takes a substantially cylindrical shape, but not all embodiments require this. Similarly, although four support columns are included in many embodiments, this is not required. In other embodiments, a greater or fewer number of support columns can be implemented.

In many cases, each support column can be made of the same material, but this is not required. Support column 222 can be respectively rigid or can be respectively flexible, or different support columns can have different relative flexibility. In some embodiments, support column 222 can be formed as a part of the frame of button cap 206.

In some embodiments, a seal (e.g., a sealing ring, a sealing gasket, a caulking, etc.) can be placed around the support posts 222 to seal the gap between each support post and the sidewall of the through-hole 220. In some cases, the seal can provide a liquid-tight barrier between the support posts 222 and the sidewall of the through-hole 220. In other cases, the seal can electrically isolate the button assembly 200 from the housing 216. In addition, one or more seals can be placed between either (or both) surfaces of the spring plate 212 and the housing 216 of the electronic device.

The button cap 206 may further include a bumper 224. The bumper 224 may be configured to extend from the rear surface of the button cap 206. The bumper 224 may be formed from the same material as a portion of the button cap 206, but this is not required. For example, the bumper 224 may be formed from materials such as (but not limited to): rubber, foam, plastic, silicone, and the like.

The bumper 224 can be configured to impact the surface of the recess 218. In this way, the bumper 224 controls and/or limits the travel of the button cap 206 when pressed downwardly by a user.

As shown, in some cases, only a single bumper may be included. In these embodiments, the bumper 224 may also act as a cantilever and/or fulcrum. In other words, once the button cap 206 is depressed by the user a sufficient distance so that the bumper 224 strikes the surface of the recess 218, the button cap 206 may be cantilevered from the bumper 224 at an angle.

As previously described, the upper assembly portion 202 includes the button cap 206, the fingerprint sensor 208, and the compressible dome switch 210. The fingerprint sensor 208 and the compressible dome switch 210 will be referred to next.

As previously mentioned with respect to other embodiments described herein, the restricted access button can include any number of suitable biometric sensors, one of which can be a fingerprint sensor. In the illustrated embodiment, the fingerprint sensor 208 has a generally square shape, but this is not required in all embodiments. For example, in some cases, the fingerprint sensor 208 can have a circular or rectangular shape.

Fingerprint sensor 208 can be implemented using any suitable fingerprint imaging or detection technology, including, but not limited to, capacitive sensing, optical sensing, electrical impedance sensing, acoustic impedance sensing, and the like. In some examples, fingerprint sensor 208 may include multiple independent electrical components in addition to the electrical components configured to obtain a fingerprint image. For example, fingerprint sensor 208 may include, but not limited to, analog circuit components, digital circuit components, a processor, digital logic circuits, memory circuits, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the fingerprint sensor 208 may include a two-dimensional electrode array, such as a capacitive sensor, an electrical impedance sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, etc. The fingerprint sensor 208 may be arranged on the bottom surface of the button cap 206 (or its cover) so that when the user touches the button cap 206 with a fingertip, an image of the user's fingerprint may be obtained.

The compressible dome switch 210 can be any suitable dome switch configured to complete an electrical circuit when compressed. In many examples, the compressible dome switch 210 includes a compressible dome that can be made of many suitable materials, including, but not limited to, metal, plastic, glass-doped plastic, polymers, and the like. In other examples, the compressible dome switch 210 can be included solely to provide tactile feedback.

Next, the order of assembly of the various units and components of the upper kit portion 202 will be mentioned. In many embodiments, as shown, the fingerprint sensor 208 can be located below the button cap 206. The fingerprint sensor 208 can abut the bottom surface of the button cap 206. For embodiments in which the button cap 206 includes a frame and a cover, the fingerprint sensor 208 can be at least partially disposed within the frame and can be positioned adjacent to the underside of the cover.

In many cases, the fingerprint sensor 208 can be positioned within the area surrounded by the support posts 222. For example, the fingerprint sensor 208 can be aligned so that each corner of the fingerprint sensor 208 is adjacent to one of the support posts 222. In another example, the fingerprint sensor 208 can be aligned at an angle relative to the support posts 222. For example, the fingerprint sensor 208 can be rotated forty-five degrees relative to the layout of the support posts 222.

In many embodiments, the compressible dome switch 210 is located below the fingerprint sensor 208. This configuration ensures that the operation of the fingerprint sensor 208 is not affected by the presence of the compressible dome switch 210. In some examples, the fingerprint sensor 208 and the compressible dome switch 210 can be coupled to each other; for example, the compressible dome switch 210 can be adhered or otherwise attached to the rear surface of the fingerprint sensor 208. In other embodiments, the compressible dome switch 210 and the fingerprint sensor 208 can be separated by one or more intermediate elements, such as, but not limited to, foam pads, dividers, spacers, shims, and the like.

The compressible dome switch 210 can be located above the surface of the recess 218. In this way, when the user presses the button cap 206 in a downward direction (e.g., in the negative Z direction), the compressible dome switch 210 can be compressed between the fingerprint sensor 208 and the surface of the recess 218.

As previously mentioned, in many embodiments, the fingerprint sensor 208 is configured to move with the button cap 206 in response to a user's force. In other cases, the fingerprint sensor 208 can be stationary and the button cap 206 can move relative to the fingerprint sensor 208.

Reference will now be made to the lower housing portion 204 which includes a spring plate 212 and one or more fasteners 214 .

Generally and broadly speaking, the spring plate 212 is used to provide an upward biasing force to the button cap 206 via the support column 222. The spring plate 212 can be implemented in many suitable ways. For example, in the embodiment shown, the spring plate 212 is formed as a flat plate with two oppositely directed cutouts that form two independent tongues, which are labeled as an inner tongue 226 and an outer tongue 228. The inner tongue 226 is defined within the outer tongue 228. In many cases, the spring plate 212 is formed of metal, but this is not required in all embodiments. For example, the spring plate 212 can be formed by a layer or laminate of one or more of the following materials: metal, plastic, reinforced plastic, acrylic fiber, etc.

In a typical embodiment, the spring plate 212 can be fastened to the inner surface of the housing 216. In many cases, one or more fasteners 214 can be used to attach the spring plate 212 to the housing 216. In one embodiment, the inner tab 226 is directly coupled to the housing 216. In this manner, the remainder of the spring plate 212 can be configured to deflect into the housing 216. More specifically, the perimeter of the spring plate 212, along with the outer tab 228, can be configured to deflect away from the inner surface of the housing 216. In many examples, this configuration allows for substantially uniform (e.g., substantially planar in the Z direction and constrained in the X and Y directions) downward translation of the button cap 206. In many examples, as previously described, after the button cap 206 has translated downward a certain distance, the bumper 224 of the button cap 206 can impact the surface of the recess 218. For example, the bumper 224 of the button cap 206 can impact the surface of the recess 218 located between two through-holes 220 therein. After the bumper 224 impacts the surface, the button cap 206 can continue downward in a cantilevered manner, thereby pivoting on the bumper 224 as a fulcrum. It will be appreciated that the configuration of the spring plate 212 can also facilitate this cantilevered movement; in this way, the spring plate 212 facilitates a substantially planar downward movement in addition to the cantilevered movement.

Furthermore, in many embodiments, the inner and outer tabs 226, 228 are formed as linearly aligned cutouts in the spring plate 212. As shown, the cutouts can be U-shaped. In the illustrated example, the inner tab 226 is in the form of a small, inverted U that is inserted into a larger, U-shaped outer tab 228. In these and other embodiments, the inner and outer tabs 226, 228 are aligned in a direction that allows the button cap 206 to move in a cantilevered manner after the bumper 224 impacts the surface of the recess 218 of the housing 206. In other non-limiting terms, it can be understood that the tabs of the spring plate 212 are aligned so that the spring plate 212 can flex and deflect in the Z and Y directions while remaining substantially constrained in the X direction. In many embodiments, this configuration allows for tight tolerances between the housing 206 and the button cap 206 of the electronic device. Similarly, this configuration allows for tight tolerances between the button cap 206 and a linear display area 232 (e.g., a touch-sensitive display).

Thus, generally and broadly speaking, for many of the embodiments described herein, the spring plate 212 can serve several purposes, including, but not limited to: providing an upward biasing force to the button cap of the button assembly; facilitating substantially planar downward translation along the Z direction; facilitating cantilevered or partially angled translation along the Y direction; constraining any motion or translation along the X direction; and the like.

It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the spring plate 212 may be implemented in another manner suitable for providing more or less constrained movement of a button cap, such as the button cap 206. It should also be appreciated that the specific geometry of the spring plate 212 depicted in Figures 2A-2B is merely an example; other configurations of the spring plate 212 may be appropriate in different embodiments.

In many embodiments, the support post 222 of the button cap 206 extends through the housing 216 to couple to portions of the outer tongue 228 of the spring plate 212. In this manner, when a user presses the button cap 206, the support post 222 can travel into the housing 216 via the through-hole 220, thereby causing the outer tongue 228 of the spring plate 212 to bend inward relative to the housing. When the user releases the button cap 206, the spring plate 212 provides an upward biasing force to return the button cap 206 to its original position.

The manner in which the fingerprint sensor 208 and/or the compressible dome switch 210 may be coupled to another circuit incorporated into the electronic device will be mentioned next.

In the illustrated embodiment, the fingerprint sensor 208 and the electrical switch can be coupled to a flexible circuit 230. The flexible circuit 230 can be configured to fold over the top surface of the housing 216 of the electronic device, underneath the upper housing portion 202. The flexible circuit 230 can be hidden behind a unit or feature of the electronic device placed adjacent to the button housing 200, such as a linear display area 232. The linear display area 232 can correspond to the touch-sensitive display 108 of Figures 1A-1C.

As mentioned with respect to other embodiments described herein, when the button assembly 200 is assembled (as shown in FIG2B ), the top surface 206′ of the button cap 206 can be substantially flush with the top surface 232′ of the linear display area 232 (or another unit located nearby). In many embodiments as shown, the top surface 206′ of the button cap 206 can also be substantially flush with the top surface 216′ of the housing 216 of the electronic device.

In many cases, the material of the button cap 206 can be substantially the same as the material of the top surface 232' of the linear display area 232. In one example, the material can be glass or sapphire.

As with the other embodiments described herein, the foregoing description of the embodiment depicted in Figures 2A-2B and its various alternatives and variations are generally given for purposes of explanation and to facilitate a thorough understanding of the embodiments described in detail herein. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that some of the specific details given herein may not be required to practice the particular embodiments described or their equivalents. It should therefore be understood that the foregoing and following descriptions of specific embodiments are given for the limited purpose of illustration and description. These descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the exact form cited herein. On the contrary, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. It will be particularly appreciated that the button assembly depicted in Figures 2A-2B may be implemented in a variety of appropriate and implementation-specific ways and with more or fewer components than described above.

Generally and broadly, Figures 3A-3C depict the button assembly of Figure 2B taken along section line B-B. These figures illustrate the relationship between the various components of the button assembly once it is fully assembled into the housing of the electronic device.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 3A , a cross-sectional view of the button assembly of FIG. 2B is shown, taken along section B-B of FIG. 2B . The button assembly 200 is depicted as having an upper assembly portion coupled to a lower assembly portion via an aperture defined in the housing 216 . The button cap 206 is shown as having a frame 234 supporting a cover 236 . The cover 236 is supported within the frame 234 by a lip 238 extending from the frame 234 . The fingerprint sensor 208 includes a sensor portion 240 and a base portion 242 and is disposed beneath the cover 236 . In some cases, and as shown, the fingerprint sensor 208 is at least partially located behind the lip 238 . The compressible dome switch 210 is coupled to the underside of the base portion 242 of the fingerprint sensor 208 . The support post 222 extends through the housing 216 and is coupled to the spring plate 212 via fasteners 214 .

In this configuration, the button cap 206 is substantially flush with the linear display area 232 and the top surface of the housing 216. In these circumstances, the gap 244 between the button cap 206 and the linear display area 232 can be minimized. In many embodiments, the gap 246 between the button cap 206 and the edge of the sidewall of the recess 218 (not shown) can have a width selected to facilitate partial cantilevered rotation of the button cap 206 when the button cap 206 is depressed and the bumper 224 impacts the top surface of the recess 208 of the housing 216, as shown in FIG3B , which shows a portion of the inner tongue 226 partially deflected as a result of the downward force F applied by the user.

This cantilevered rotation allows the button cap 206 to compress without bumping, touching, transferring loads, or otherwise interfering with the operation of the linear display area 232. The gap 246 can also be selected to prevent the button cap 206 from contacting the housing 216. In other words, the gap 246 can be selected to maintain electrical isolation between the button cap 206 and the housing 216. In many embodiments, this electrical isolation can aid in the operation of the fingerprint sensor 208. In some cases, either or both gaps 244, 246 can be filled with a flexible material such as silicone.

In some cases, the cover 236 may extend over only a portion of the frame 234, as shown in Figures 3A-3B. In other cases, the cover 236 may extend over the entire top surface of the button cap 206, as shown in Figure 3C. In some cases, the frame 234 may be conductive and may be electrically connected to the fingerprint sensor 208. In one example, as shown in Figures 3A-3B, the frame 234 may serve as a ground ring for the fingerprint sensor 208. In other cases, as shown in Figure 3C, the frame 234 may serve as a non-contact ground ring.

FIG4 depicts a bottom view of the spring plate of the button assembly of FIG3A , showing the lower assembly portion 204. The lower assembly portion 204 includes a spring plate 212 coupled to the upper assembly portion 202 via support posts 222, which extend through through-holes 220 defined in the outer cover 216. The spring plate 212 is coupled to the outer cover 216 at an inner tongue 226 via fasteners 214. In this manner, in response to depression of the button cap 206 (not shown), the outer tongue 228 and the remainder of the spring plate 212 are free to extend into the outer cover 216.

2A-4 is merely one exemplary embodiment of a button assembly that can be used to attach a limited-access button to a housing of an electronic device. It should be understood that many variations and implementations are possible based on the disclosure provided herein.

FIG5 depicts exemplary operations of a method for coupling a button assembly to a housing of an electronic device. Method 500 begins at operation 502, where a spring plate is attached to an interior portion of a housing of the electronic device. The spring plate can be permanently or removably secured to the housing by any suitable means, including, but not limited to, an adhesive disposed between the housing and the spring plate, a mechanical fastener (such as a screw or rivet) coupling the housing and the spring plate, welding the spring plate to the housing, and the like.

Generally speaking, as mentioned with respect to the embodiment depicted in Figures 2A-2B, the spring plate can be secured to the housing below an aperture defined in the housing. The aperture allows a portion of the frame of the button assembly to extend through the housing and couple to the spring plate. Thus, at operation 504, the method continues by securing the button frame to the spring plate. The button frame can be permanently or removably secured to the housing by any number of suitable means, including, but not limited to, an adhesive disposed between the button frame and the spring plate, mechanical fasteners (such as screws or rivets) coupling the button frame to the spring plate, welding the button frame to the spring plate, and the like.

FIG6 illustrates exemplary operations for a method of operating a button incorporating a biometric sensor. Method 600 may be implemented by an electronic device, such as laptop computer 100 or keyboard 102 as depicted in FIG1A-1C. In other examples, method 600 may be implemented, without limitation, at least in part by one or more processors, one or more digital circuits, one or more analog circuits, one or more computing devices in communication with one another (remote or local), computer- or processor-executable instructions stored in non-transitory memory, or any combination thereof.

Method 600 begins at operation 602, where a button press may be detected. The button press may be detected by, without limitation, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, an electrical impedance sensor, a collapsible dome switch, a tilt switch, a piezoelectric charge detector, or the like. In some cases, the button press may be detected by a biometric sensor. In other cases, the button press may be detected by an electrical switch, such as a dome switch.

Next, at operation 604, biometric data may be obtained via a biometric sensor. In many examples, the biometric data may be a fingerprint. In other examples, the biometric data may be any other suitable biometric data, such as, but not limited to, heart rate, blood oxygenation, respiratory rate, median arterial pressure, galvanic skin response, venous pattern, and the like. In some examples, multiple biometric characteristics may be obtained. For example, in one embodiment, a fingerprint and heart rate may be measured. In other examples, a fingerprint and galvanic skin response may be measured. In other cases, different biometric characteristics or combinations of characteristics may be measured or obtained through other means.

Next, at operation 606, the biometric data obtained at operation 604 can be analyzed. In one example, the biometric data can be compared to previously obtained data (or template data derived from previously obtained data). For example, the fingerprint image obtained at operation 604 can be compared to each of a set of previously obtained fingerprint images and/or templates derived from previously obtained fingerprint images.

The biometric data can be compared to previously acquired data (or template data) to determine a statistical likelihood that the biometric data acquired at operation 604 matches at least one of the previously acquired data (or templates). In some examples, the statistical likelihood can be a match coefficient that represents a confidence interval that the acquired biometric data is a match for at least one of the previously acquired biometric data. In many cases, the match coefficient can be compared to a threshold; a positive match is identified only if the match coefficient exceeds the threshold.

In other cases, the biometric data may be compared directly to a threshold to determine whether a positive match should be identified. For example, if the biometric data relates to the user's heart rate, analyzing the biometric data may include determining whether the user's measured heart rate exceeds a certain minimum threshold. In other cases, a maximum threshold may be used. In still other cases, it may be determined whether the biometric data falls within a certain range.

Once a positive match is determined (e.g., by comparison with previously obtained biometric data and/or by comparison with a predetermined threshold), the method can continue to operation 608 and invoke the command associated with the button. In some cases, if a positive match is not determined and/or the user is not authorized to perform the function or command associated with the button, the button press can be ignored or suppressed by the device.

While many of the embodiments described and depicted herein relate to a restricted-access button incorporated within a keyboard device, it should be appreciated that other implementations may take other form factors. Therefore, the various embodiments described herein and their functions, operations, components, and capabilities may be combined with other units as necessary, and any physical, functional, or operational discussion of any unit or feature should not be construed as limiting only to a particular embodiment to the exclusion of other embodiments.

For example, although the electronic device is shown as a laptop computer keyboard in Figures 1A-1C, it will be appreciated that other electronic devices are also contemplated. For example, the electronic device can be implemented as different peripheral input devices, desktop computing devices, handheld input devices, tablet computing devices, cellular phones, wearable devices, etc.

1A-1C for simplicity of illustration. For example, the electronic device may include a processor coupled to or in communication with a memory, a power supply, one or more sensors, one or more communication interfaces, and one or more input/output devices, such as a display, a speaker, a rotary input device, a microphone, an on/off button, a mute button, a separate biometric sensor, a camera, a force-sensitive and/or touch-sensitive trackpad, and the like.

In some embodiments, the communication interface provides electronic communication between the electronic device and an external communication network, device (such as laptop computer 100) or platform. The communication interface can be implemented as a wireless interface, Bluetooth interface, universal serial bus interface, Wi-Fi interface, TCP/IP interface, network communication interface or any traditional communication interface. In addition to communication, the electronic device can also provide information, messages, videos, operating commands, etc. related to external connections or communication devices and/or software executed on such devices (and any of the aforementioned can be received from external devices). As previously mentioned, for ease of illustration, many of these units are not shown when depicting the electronic device in Figures 1A-1C, each of which can be partially, optionally or completely included in the laptop computer 100.

As used herein, the phrases "laptop computer" and "laptop computing device" (and related phrases and terms) generally refer to a class of personal, business, and/or industrial computing devices having a form factor that accommodates and facilitates mobile and/or portable use of the device. Such devices may be referred to interchangeably, without limitation, as laptop computers, notebooks, netbooks, ultrabooks, game consoles, detachable devices, tablet devices with keyboards, portable terminals, portable workstations, all-in-one devices, hybrid computing devices, and the like. Typically, a laptop computer includes a keyboard portion and a main display portion separated by a hinge or other removable or fixed coupling, but other implementations are possible. More specifically, the keyboard portion may be detachable, removable, or permanently attached to the main display portion. In many instances, a laptop computer may include a battery or other untethered power source, but this is not required. It will be appreciated that the specific examples of a "laptop computer" listed above are not exhaustive; additional portable device implementations may also be considered laptop computers within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

However, for simplicity of description and to emphasize that the embodiments presented herein are not limited to a particular type of electronic device or implementation, the following embodiments will be described simply with reference to an "electronic device." The electronic device referred to in the following embodiments and examples may be any suitable electronic device. For example, the electronic device may be a mobile, stationary, or portable electronic device, such as (but not limited to) a laptop computing device (such as the laptop computer 100 depicted in Figures 1A-1C), a desktop computer, a tablet computer, a cellular phone, an automobile or vehicle control system, an industrial control system, a home or commercial appliance, a home automation device, or any other suitable electronic device.

In some embodiments, the exemplary electronic device can be configured to at least partially surround a display, such as a touch-sensitive display 108. As previously described, in many embodiments, the touch-sensitive display 108 can incorporate an input device configured to receive touch input, force input, etc., and/or can be configured to output information to a user. The touch-sensitive display 108 can include a display that can be implemented using any suitable technology, including, but not limited to, a multi-touch or multi-force sensing touch screen using liquid crystal display technology, light emitting diode technology, organic light emitting display technology, organic electroluminescent technology, or another type of display technology.

The exemplary electronic device can form an exterior surface and a portion of an exterior surface and a protective housing for internal components of the electronic device. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device is formed in a substantially rectangular shape, but such a configuration is not required. The electronic device can be formed from one or more components that are operably connected together, such as a front member and a back member or a top flap and a bottom flap. Alternatively, the electronic device can be formed from a single member (e.g., a unified body or a single body).

It will also be appreciated that while reference is made herein to the orientation of specific objects and elements, it will be understood that such orientation may be modified or altered in specific embodiments. Similarly, the orientations and directions discussed herein are generally provided with respect to the accompanying drawings herein. Thus, terms such as "upper," "lower," "above," "below," "front," "back," and "side" are intended to be relative, not absolute, terms.

It should also be recognized that the various embodiments described herein and their functions, operations, components and capabilities can be combined with other units or embodiments as necessary, and therefore any physical, functional or operational discussion regarding any unit, feature, structure or the relationship between them should not be limited to only specific embodiments to the exclusion of other embodiments.

It will be appreciated that although many embodiments have been disclosed above, the operations and steps described herein are intended to be exemplary and not exhaustive. It will also be appreciated that alternative step sequences or fewer or more steps may be required or desired for a particular embodiment.

Although the foregoing disclosure has been described in terms of various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it should be understood that the applicability of the various features, aspects, and functions described in one or more individual embodiments is not limited to the specific embodiments described therewith, but rather can be applied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the embodiments of the present invention, regardless of whether such embodiments are described and whether such features are provided as part of the described embodiments. Accordingly, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the foregoing exemplary embodiments, but rather by the claims set forth herein.

The present disclosure recognizes that personal information data (including biometric data) in the present technology can be used to benefit users. For example, the use of biometric authentication data can be used to facilitate access to device features without the need for a password. In other examples, user biometric data is collected to provide users with feedback on their health or fitness levels. In addition, the present disclosure also contemplates other uses of personal information data (including biometric data) that benefit users.

The present disclosure also contemplates that entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transmission, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with prevailing privacy policies and/or privacy practices. Specifically, such entities will implement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that are generally considered to meet or exceed industry or government requirements for keeping personal information data private and secure, including the use of data encryption and security methods that meet or exceed industry or government standards. For example, personal information from users should be collected for the entity's legal and reasonable uses and should not be shared or sold outside of these legal uses. In addition, such collection should only occur after receiving the user's informed consent. In addition, such entities should take any necessary steps to defend and protect access to such personal information data and ensure that others who can access the personal information data comply with their privacy policies and procedures. In addition, such entities can be evaluated by a third party to demonstrate that they comply with widely accepted privacy policies and practices.

Notwithstanding the foregoing disclosure, the present disclosure also contemplates embodiments in which a user selectively blocks the use of or access to personal information data, including biometric data. That is, the present disclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software units may be provided to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, in the case of a biometric authentication method, the technology of the present invention may be configured to allow a user to optionally bypass the biometric authentication step by providing security information known to those skilled in the art, such as a password, personal identification number (PIN), contact gesture, or other authentication method, either alone or in combination. In another example, a user may choose to remove, disable, or restrict access to a particular health-related application that collects the user's personal health or fitness data.

Claims (22)

1. A laptop computing device, comprising: The outer cover includes: Top section; Hinges; and The hinge connects the top portion to the bottom portion; The main display is integrated into the top portion of the outer casing; The keyboard is integrated into the bottom portion of the outer casing; A touch-sensitive display located above the keyboard, between the keyboard and the hinge; and It includes a fingerprint sensor located at one end of the touch-sensitive display and a restricted access button on the top side of the keyboard. 2. The laptop computing device of claim 1, wherein the restricted access button is configured to function as a power button. 3. The laptop computing device according to claim 1, wherein the first top surface of the restricted access button is flush with the second top surface of the touch-sensitive display. 4. The laptop computing device of claim 1, wherein the touch-sensitive display extends along the length of the keyboard. 5. The laptop computing device of claim 1, wherein the restricted access button is associated with the power function of the laptop computing device. 6. The laptop computing device of claim 1, wherein the top portion of the outer casing is removable from the bottom portion. 7. A portable electronic device, comprising: Outer cover; A set of buttons that at least partially extends through at least one aperture defined by the outer casing; A touch-sensitive display, at least partially arranged within the opening defined by the outer casing and along one side of the set of buttons; and A power button is arranged at least partially within the opening and adjacent to the touch-sensitive display, wherein: The power button is configured to capture biometric input when a user of the portable electronic device presses the power button; and The power button is configured to be pressed down in a cantilever manner, thereby causing the power button pivot to move away from the touch-sensitive display and not to transfer load to the touch-sensitive display. 8. The portable electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the touch-sensitive display includes one or more of the following: a force sensor or a touch sensor. 9. The portable electronic device of claim 7, wherein the power button is configured to change the power state of the portable electronic device when it is determined that the biometric input matches a previously obtained biometric input. 10. The portable electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the power button includes a fingerprint sensor. 11. The portable electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the power button is offset from the touch-sensitive display by a gap. 12. The portable electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the power button comprises: Fingerprint sensor; and A compressible dome switch located below the fingerprint sensor. 13. The portable electronic device of claim 7, wherein the power button includes a buffer configured to collide with the surface of the housing when the power button is pressed by the user. 14. A method of operating a restricted access button integrated in a laptop computing device and positioned adjacent to an auxiliary display within an aperture defined through a lower portion of the laptop computing device, the auxiliary display also being located within the aperture and parallel to a keyboard extension of the laptop computing device, the restricted access button being configured to pivot away from the auxiliary display when actuated so as not to transmit load to the auxiliary display due to the actuation, the method comprising: The pressing of the restricted access button is detected by one or more of the electrical switches or biosensors within the restricted access button; Bioassay data are obtained using the aforementioned bioassay sensor; The obtained bioassay data were compared with the template data; and When it is determined that the obtained bioassay data matches the template data, the command associated with pressing the restricted access button is invoked. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising ignoring the pressing of the restricted access button in response to the obtained bioassay data not matching the template data. 16. An electronic device comprising: One or more processors; and A memory for storing instructions that can be executed by the one or more processors to implement the method according to any one of claims 14-15. 17. An electronic device comprising: Define the opening and a set of apertures for the outer casing; A set of buttons that at least partially extends through the set of apertures; A display at least partially disposed within the opening; and A power button is at least partially disposed within the opening, the power button being configured to capture biometric input when pressed by a user of the electronic device, the power button being disposed adjacent to a linear display area of the display; wherein The edge of the power button is configured to be pressed down in a cantilever manner, such that when the power button is pressed by the user, the power button pivots away from the display and does not transfer load to the linear display area. 18. The electronic device of claim 17, wherein the linear display area is coupled to at least one of a force sensor or a touch sensor. 19. The electronic device of claim 17, wherein the power button is configured to change the power state of the electronic device when it is determined that the biometric input matches a previously obtained biometric input. 20. The electronic device of claim 17, wherein the power button includes a bioassay sensor. 21. The electronic device of claim 17, wherein the power button comprises: Fingerprint sensor; and A compressible dome switch located below the fingerprint sensor. 22. The electronic device of claim 17, wherein the power button includes a buffer configured to collide with a surface of the housing when the power button is pressed by the user.