Apple Inc.
Force feedback surface for an electronic device

Abstract:

An accessory device having a first and second body is described. The second body may include a force feedback mechanism that responds to an input received at the first body causing a force feedback. The force feedback mechanism includes coils distributed throughout the second body, with each coil configured to receive an electrical current such that each coil provides an external magnetic field to magnetically couple with one or more magnets disposed in the first body, causing the first body to move in a direction toward the second body. The first body may return to its original position when the external magnetic field is no longer applied. In this regard, the movement of the first body defines the force feedback. Also, the first body may include a keyboard or a touch screen functioning with the force feedback mechanism. The accessory device may be used in conjunction with an electronic device.