Patent ID: 8723832
Filing Date: 2014-05-13
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A method for actuating a dynamic tactile interface comprising a tactile layer and a substrate, the tactile layer defining a tactile surface, a deformable region cooperating with the substrate to define a cavity, and a peripheral region adjacent the deformable region, the tactile layer coupled to the substrate opposite the tactile surface, the method comprising: displacing fluid into the cavity to transition the deformable region from a retracted setting to an expanded setting, the deformable region flush with the peripheral region in the retracted setting and offset above the peripheral region in the expanded setting; detecting a first input at a first location on the tactile surface adjacent the deformable region; detecting a second input at a second location on the tactile surface adjacent the deformable region and substantially opposite the first location; identifying a gesture according to progression of the first input to a third location on the tactile surface and progression of the second input to a fourth location on the tactile surface; interpreting the gesture as a command associated with the deformable region; and displacing fluid out of the cavity, according to the command, to retract the deformable region.