Apple Inc.
Customizable control system

Abstract:

A system is provided that includes a display or other support surface to which a repositionable control device may be removably mounted. The display may emit light. The repositionable control device may be a repositionable knob that has light sensors. The display may be directed to emit the light in a predetermined time-varying search pattern while the light sensors make measurements of the emitted light. The repositionable knob may wirelessly transmit the light sensor measurements to control circuitry associated with the display. The control circuitry may process the light sensor measurements or other sensor measurements to determine the location of the repositionable control device on the display. Visible tick marks or other scale information may be displayed around the periphery of the knob. An electromagnetic actuator may provide adjustable detents. Wireless power may be received by the knob.