Patent ID: 8319734
Filing Date: 2012-11-27
Classification: G06F,H01H

Abstract:
1. A handheld electronic device, comprising: a processor; and an input apparatus having: a plurality of input members, each of the plurality of input members having an actuating portion and each being configured to move independently; a single user feedback device associated with the plurality of input members; a single actuating element having a plurality of reaction portions, each of the plurality of reaction portions being associated with an actuating portion of one of the plurality of input members, the single actuating element configured such that actuating one of the plurality of input members provides a first input to the processor, and causes its respective actuating portion to engage its associated reaction portion thereby moving the single actuating element to engage the input device, and shifting the other of the plurality of reaction portions to an unengageable position with respect to the actuating portions of the other of the plurality of input members; and a communication element including a plurality of electrical contacts arranged thereon; and wherein actuation of the one of the plurality of input members completes an electrical circuit to provide the first input and actuation of another of the plurality of input members provides a second input to the processor; and wherein when the single user feedback device is engaged due to actuation of the one of the plurality of input members, the second input is ignored by the processor.