Patent ID: 9178509
Filing Date: 2015-11-03
Classification: G06F,H01H,H03K

Abstract:
1. A key for a computing device keyboard, comprising: a key cap; a force sensor at least partially contained within the key cap and coupled to an internal top surface of the key cap, the force sensor configured to measure an amount of force imparted to a surface of the key cap; and an output line configured to carry a signal that indicates an amount of force imparted to the key cap through a force signal that varies based on the force measured by the force sensor; wherein the force sensor is a strain gauge that changes a resistance by deforming in response to the force imparted to the surface of the key cap, the change in resistance being used to modulate the force signal, further comprising an input line configured to receive an excitation signal responsive to the force signal, and an actuator contained within the key cap, the actuator configured to excite the key cap in response to the excitation signal such that an opposing force is imparted to the key cap responsive to the force that is imparted to the surface of the key cap, wherein the actuator is a piezoelectric material that excites the key cap by deforming under a mechanical strain that is induced in the piezoelectric material in response to the excitation signal, and wherein the opposing force imparted to the key cap causes movement of the keycap.