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Pressure-sensitive input device for data processing systems

  • US 7,324,095 B2
  • Filed: 11/01/2004
  • Issued: 01/29/2008
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/01/2004
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A pressure-sensitive input device for data processing systems comprising:

  • a transferable overlay having;

    an inner surface oriented toward a supporting structure, and an outer surface spaced a distance above the inner surface;

    a plurality of substantially parallel conductive columns disposed within the transferable overlay proximate to the inner surface;

    a plurality of substantially parallel conductive rows disposed within the transferable overlay proximate to the outer surface and oriented to cross the conductive columns; and

    a deformable isolation layer, disposed between the conductive columns and the conductive rows, wherein the user input deforms the isolation layer and changes a distance between the conductive columns and the conductive rows, and further wherein the change in distance between the conductive columns and the conductive rows alters a flow of current conducted across the conductive columns and conductive rows;

    a controller to detect at least one analog response signal generated in response to pressure exerted on the outer surface by a user input; and

    a processor, in electronic communication with the controller, wherein the processor receives the analog response signal and calculates both a location of the user input on the outer surface, and a differential in pressure exerted on the outer surface by the user input.

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