Patent attributes
A reconfigurable tactile input device includes a first rigid electrode layer, a compressible dielectric structure, and a second flexible electrode layer forming together a tactile sensor with appropriate electrode connection means to a control means. The control means may include a mixed-signal IC mounted next to the input device in a compact package and capable of measuring capacitance in real time. The dielectric structure may include a matrix of compressible geometric elements with voids therebetween optionally vented to atmosphere, making the entire assembly thin and facilitating its use for mobile phones and other small, portable electronic devices. Some embodiments provide the user wit tactile feedback upon compression of the electrodes. An optional flexible display may be mounted over the input device to indicate the present configuration to the user.
