US Patent 10409412 Multi-input element for electronic device

An electronic device utilizing an input component that is configured to receive various types of inputs is disclosed. The electronic device may include an enclosure including a top surface, a set of keys exposed on the top surface of the enclosure, and an input component. The input component may be a space bar included in the set of keys. Alternatively the input component may be a touchpad positioned adjacent the set of keys, which may not include a space bar. The input component is configured to receive or have various inputs performed thereon. The various inputs can include keypress inputs and touch-based gesture inputs. Additionally, the electronic device includes a process in electrical communication with the input component. The processing unit is configured to determine an input performed on the input component and subsequently provide a corresponding signal (e.g., keystroke signal, touch-based gesture signal) to the electronic device.