Multi-layer solid state keyboard

• US 20050062620A1
• Filed: 04/22/2004
• Published: 03/24/2005
• Est. Priority Date: 11/20/2001
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Touchsensor Technologies LLC (Methode Electronics Incorporated)
• Original Assignee: Touchsensor Technologies LLC (Methode Electronics Incorporated)
• Inventors: Schaefer, William David
• Granted Patent: US 7,532,131 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 341/22
• CPC Class Codes: H01H 13/702 with contacts carried by or formed from layers in a multilayer structure, e.g. membrane switches
• CPC Class Codes: H01H 13/703 characterised by spacers between contact carrying layers
• CPC Class Codes: H01H 2209/014 composed of different layers; Lubricant in between
• CPC Class Codes: H01H 2209/038 transparent
• CPC Class Codes: H01H 2209/06 transparent
• CPC Class Codes: H01H 2209/082 transparent
• CPC Class Codes: H01H 2219/002 replaceable; adaptable

Abstract

A keypad includes a substrate and one or more layers of decorative material on the substrate. Transparent and/or conventional conductive materials are disposed on the decorative material. Electrical circuit components are soldered to the conductive layers.

Claims

1. A keypad, comprising:

a substrate;

at least one layer of decorative material disposed on said substrate;

at least one layer of conductive material disposed on at least one of said substrate and said decorative material; and

at least electrical circuit component disposed on said at least one layer of conductive material.