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Variable resistor utilizing an elastomeric actuator

  • US 5,376,913 A
  • Filed: 07/12/1993
  • Issued: 12/27/1994
  • Est. Priority Date: 07/12/1993
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A variable resistor for varying a resistance between first and second terminals, comprising:

  • a substrate having formed thereon a resistor network for providing the resistance, wherein the resistor network is electrically coupled between the first and second terminals;

    an elastomeric actuator having opposing upper and lower surfaces, wherein the lower surface is conductive, and wherein the lower surface electrically couples the first terminal to successive portions of the resistor network as an increasing force is applied to the upper surface of the elastomeric actuator, in response to which the resistance between the first and second terminals varies, wherein the elastomeric actuator further includes integral attachment means formed from the elastomeric material for securing the elastomeric actuator to the substrate; and

    wherein the lower surface comprises at least first, second, and third sub-surfaces electrically coupled together, wherein the second sub-surface is formed at a first height with respect to the first sub-surface and the third sub-surface is formed at a second height with respect to the second sub-surface such that, as the increasing force is applied to the upper surface of the elastomeric actuator, each of the first, second, and third sub-surfaces successively contacts the successive portions of the resistor network, in response to which the resistance between the first and second terminals varies incrementally.

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