RECONFIGURABLE TACTILE SENSOR INPUT DEVICE

摘要

A reconfigurable tactile input device includes a first rigid electrode layer 101, a compressible dielectric structure 102, and a second flexible electrode layer 103 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 105 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 with 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.