×

Configurable force-sensitive input structure for electronic devices

  • US 10,795,451 B2
  • Filed: 07/17/2017
  • Issued: 10/06/2020
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/30/2014
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
Patent Images

1. An electronic device comprising:

  • a casing defining an exterior surface of the electronic device, the exterior surface defining a virtual key region;

    a light source positioned within the casing;

    an input stack-up comprising a plurality of layers, positioned within the casing, and configured to detect;

    an input received at the virtual key region; and

    a location of the input, at least one layer of the plurality of layers configured to deform in response to the input;

    a transparent light guide layer distinct from and positioned above the input stack-up and below the casing, the transparent light guide layer configured to deform in response to the input and to direct light from the light source to illuminate the virtual key region and defining;

    a top surface parallel with the exterior surface of the electronic device;

    a bottom surface parallel with the exterior surface of the electronic device; and

    a side surface extending from the top surface to the bottom surface; and

    a processor configured to generate a user input signal based on the input received at the virtual key region, the user input signal corresponding to an actuation of the virtual key region;

    wherein the light source is configured to direct light into the side surface of the transparent light guide layer.

View all claims
  • 0 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×