PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10007343-B2
Application Number: US-201615087306-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Force sensor in an input device

Abstract:
An input device can be integrated within an electronic device and/or operably connected to an electronic device through a wired or wireless connection. The input device can include one or more force sensors positioned below a cover element of the input device or an input surface of the electronic device. The input device can include other components and/or functionality, such as a biometric sensor and/or a switch element.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An input device for use with an electronic device, the input device comprising:
 a cover element; 
 a compliant layer having a center opening, the compliant layer positioned adjacent and below the cover element; 
 a fingerprint sensor positioned below the cover element and at least partially in the center opening, the fingerprint sensor configured to capture a fingerprint of a finger as the finger approaches or contacts the cover element; and 
 a force sensor positioned below the fingerprint sensor and over a support element, the force sensor configured to detect a force input applied to the cover element; 
 wherein 
 the compliant layer comprises a first layer, a second layer, and a compliant material positioned between the first layer and the second layer. 
 
     
     
       2. The input device of  claim 1 , wherein the fingerprint sensor is operably connected to a first circuit layer and the fingerprint sensor and the first circuit layer are positioned below the cover element. 
     
     
       3. The input device of  claim 1 , wherein the force sensor comprises:
 a second circuit layer comprising a first set of one or more electrodes; and 
 a third circuit layer spaced apart from the second circuit layer and comprising a second set of one or more electrodes, wherein each electrode in the first set is aligned in at least one direction with a respective electrode in the second set to produce one or more capacitors. 
 
     
     
       4. The input device of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the first layer comprises a first circuit layer comprising a first set of one or more electrodes; 
 the second layer comprises a second circuit layer comprising a second set of one or more electrodes; and 
 each electrode in the first set is aligned in at least one direction with a respective electrode in the second set to produce one or more capacitors. 
 
     
     
       5. The input device of  claim 1 , wherein the compliant layer comprises one or more discrete compliant layers. 
     
     
       6. The input device of  claim 1 , further comprising a trim at least partially surrounding the cover element. 
     
     
       7. The input device of  claim 6 , wherein the support element is attached to the trim. 
     
     
       8. The input device of  claim 6 , wherein the support element comprises a bottom surface of the trim. 
     
     
       9. The input device of  claim 8 , wherein the cover element, the fingerprint sensor, and the force sensor reside within the trim. 
     
     
       10. The input device of  claim 1 , further comprising a switch element positioned below the support element and configured to detect a user input when the force input exceeds a given amount of force. 
     
     
       11. An input device for use with an electronic device, the input device comprising:
 a cover element; 
 one or more first force sensors on a layer having a center opening, the one or more first force sensors positioned adjacent and below the cover element, each first force sensor configured to detect a first force input applied to the cover element; and 
 a second force sensor positioned below the cover element and at least partially in the center opening, the second force sensor configured to detect a second force input applied to the cover element; wherein 
 at least one of the one or more first force sensors or the second force sensor comprises:
 a first circuit layer comprising a first set of one or more electrodes; 
 a second circuit layer spaced apart from the first circuit layer and comprising a second set of one or more electrodes, wherein each electrode in the first set is aligned in at least one direction with a respective electrode in the second set to produce one or more capacitors; and 
 a compliant layer positioned between the first circuit layer and the second circuit layer. 
 
 
     
     
       12. The input device of  claim 11 , further comprising a biometric sensor positioned between the cover element and the second force sensor. 
     
     
       13. The input device of  claim 11 , further comprising a switch element positioned below the second force sensor and configured to detect a user input when the first or the second force input exceeds a given amount of force. 
     
     
       14. The input device of  claim 11 , wherein the one or more first force sensors and the second force sensor detect both the first force input and the second force input. 
     
     
       15. The input device of  claim 11 , further comprising a trim at least partially surrounding the cover element. 
     
     
       16. The input device of  claim 15 , wherein a support element is attached to the trim. 
     
     
       17. The input device of  claim 15 , wherein the support element comprises a bottom surface of the trim. 
     
     
       18. The input device of  claim 17 , wherein the cover element, the one or more first force sensor, and the second force sensor reside within the trim. 
     
     
       19. An input device for use with an electronic device, the input device comprising:
 a cover element; 
 a compliant layer having a center opening, the compliant layer positioned adjacent and below the cover element; 
 a fingerprint sensor positioned below the cover element and at least partially in the center opening, the fingerprint sensor configured to capture a fingerprint of a finger as the finger approaches or contacts the cover element; and 
 a force sensor positioned below the fingerprint sensor and over a support element, the force sensor configured to detect a force input applied to the cover element; 
 wherein 
 the compliant layer comprises one or more discrete compliant layers.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to force sensing. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to a force sensor in an input device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many electronic devices include one or more input devices for receiving user inputs. Devices such as smart telephones, tablet computing devices, laptop computers, wearable communication and health devices, and navigation devices, and displays can include, or be connected to, an input device. For example, an input device can provide information to a computing system regarding user interaction with a graphical user interface (GUI), such as selecting elements, returning to a home page, and other GUI features. In another example, an input device can capture or receive biometric data associated with a user and provide such biometric data to a computing system. 
     Generally, operation of an input device is binary. A key of a keyboard, for example, is either pressed sufficiently to collapse a dome switch and generate an output signal, or it is not. An input button is either pressed sufficiently to close a switch and select an icon, or it is not. 
     Binary inputs are inherently limited insofar as they can only occupy two states (present or absent, on or off, and so on). In some situations, it may be advantageous to also detect and measure the force of an input that is applied to an input device. In addition, when force is measured across a continuum of values, the detected force can function as a non-binary input. 
     SUMMARY 
     An input device can be included in an electronic device or operably connected to the electronic device using a wired or wireless connection. One or more force sensors in the input device is configured to detect a force input that is applied to a cover element. The cover element can be a portion of the housing of the electronic device or an input surface of the input device disposed in an aperture of the housing. 
     The force sensor can employ any suitable force sensing technology, such as capacitive, piezoelectric, piezoresistive, ultrasonic, and magnetic force sensing technologies. In one embodiment, the force sensor is a capacitive force sensor. The force sensor is formed with a first circuit layer that includes a first set of one or more electrodes and a second circuit layer that includes a second set of one or more electrodes. The second set of one or more electrodes is spaced apart from the first set of one or more electrodes by a compliant material (e.g., air, a silicone layer). Each electrode in the first set is aligned in at least one direction (e.g., vertically) with a respective electrode in the second set to produce one or more capacitors. When a force is applied to the cover element, the cover element bends or deflects which causes at least one electrode in the first set to move closer to a respective electrode in the second set. The capacitance of the capacitor formed by the two electrodes varies as the distance between the electrodes decreases. A force signal sensed from each capacitor represents a capacitance measurement of that capacitor. A processing device is configured to receive the force signal(s) and correlate the force signal(s) to an amount of force applied to the cover element. 
     In one aspect, the input device includes a fingerprint sensor positioned below the cover element. The fingerprint sensor is configured to capture a fingerprint of a finger as the finger approaches or contacts the cover element. A force sensor is positioned below the fingerprint sensor and over a support element. The force sensor is configured to detect a force input applied to the cover element. 
     In another aspect, an input device includes a cover element, one or more first force sensors positioned around a peripheral edge of the cover element, and a second force sensor positioned below the cover element. Each first force sensor is configured to detect a first force input applied to the cover element. The second force sensor is configured to detect a second force input applied to the cover element. The one or more first and the second force sensors can operate to detect force inputs in parallel, in series, or with a time offset. For example, one force sensor can be used initially to detect an amount of applied force. As the amount of applied force increases, that force sensor reaches a maximum detectable force. At this point, the other force sensor may be used to detect the applied force. Alternatively, in some embodiments, both the first and second force sensors can be used to detect a force input up to a given amount of force, and then one of the force sensors may be used to detect force inputs greater than the given amount of force. 
     In another aspect, an input device for use with an electronic device can include a cover element, a fingerprint sensor positioned below the cover element, and a force sensor positioned below the fingerprint sensor and over a support element. The fingerprint sensor may be configured to capture a fingerprint of a finger as the finger approaches or contacts the cover element. The force sensor can be configured to detect a force input applied to the cover element. The input device may also include a compliant layer positioned below the cover element and around at least a portion of the fingerprint sensor. 
     In some embodiments, the input device can include additional components that receive one or more inputs from a user in addition to a force input. For example, in one embodiment the input device includes a biometric sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the input device may include a switch element that detects a user input when a force input applied to the cover element exceeds a given amount of force. The switch element can generate or transmit a signal based on the detected user input, and a processing device can register the user input based on the signal received from the switch element. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows one example of an electronic device that can include a force sensor in one or more input devices; 
         FIGS. 2A-2B  show exploded views of a first input device that is suitable for use in the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  shows a cross-sectional view of the input device shown in  FIG. 2B  when the input device is assembled; 
         FIG. 4  shows an exploded view of one example of the compliant layer shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  shows an exploded view of another example of the compliant layer shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6  shows one example of a top view of the input device shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 7  shows another example of a top view of the input device shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 8  shows an exploded view of a second input device that is suitable for use in the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 9  shows a cross-sectional view of the second input device shown in  FIG. 8  when the input device is assembled; 
         FIG. 10  shows an exploded view of a third input device that is suitable for use in the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11  shows a cross-sectional view of the third input device shown in  FIG. 10  when the input device is assembled; and 
         FIG. 12  shows a block diagram of one example of an electronic device that can include a force sensor in one or more input devices. 
     
    
    
     The cross-hatching in the figures is provided to distinguish the elements or components from one another. The cross-hatching is not intended to indicate a type of material or materials or the nature of the material(s). 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     The following disclosure relates to an input device that includes one or more force sensors. The input device can be included in an electronic device and/or operably connected to an electronic device through a wired or wireless connection. In one embodiment, the input device is an input button, but any suitable input device can include a force sensor. 
     In a particular embodiment, the force sensor includes two circuit layers in a stack of components that form the input device. The circuit layers are spaced apart from each other and a compliant material or air is disposed between the circuit layers. Each circuit layer includes a set of one or more electrodes, and each electrode in one set is aligned in at least one direction (e.g., vertically) with a respective electrode in the other set to produce one or more capacitors. When a force is applied to a cover element of the input device, the cover element bends or deflects which causes at least one electrode in one circuit layer to move closer to a respective electrode in the other circuit layer. The capacitance of the capacitor formed by the two electrodes varies as the distance between the electrodes changes. A force signal sensed from each capacitor represents a capacitance measurement of that capacitor. A processing device is configured to receive the force signal(s) and correlate the force signal(s) to an amount of force applied to the cover element. 
     In another embodiment, the force sensor is included in a compliant layer positioned at one or more locations within the input device. In one non-limiting example, when the input device is an input button, the compliant layer may be positioned around a periphery of the input button. The compliant layer may be formed with a compliant material disposed between two circuit layers. Each circuit layer includes a set of one or more electrodes, and each electrode in one set is aligned in at least one direction (e.g., vertically) with a respective electrode in the other set to produce one or more capacitors. When a force is applied to an input surface of the input device, the compliant material compresses or deforms, which causes at least one electrode in one circuit layer to move closer to a respective electrode in the other circuit layer. The capacitance of the capacitor formed by the two electrodes varies as the distance between the electrodes decreases. A processing device is configured to receive force signals from the capacitor(s) and correlate the force signals to an amount of applied force. 
     In some embodiments, the input device can include additional components that receive one or more inputs from a user in addition to a force input. For example, in one embodiment the input device includes a biometric sensor. In a non-limiting example, the biometric sensor is a fingerprint sensor that captures at least one fingerprint when a user&#39;s finger (or fingers) approaches and/or contacts the input surface. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the input device may include a switch element that detects a user input when a force input exceeds a given amount of force. Any suitable switch element can be used. For example, an input device can include a dome switch that collapses when a force applied to an input surface exceeds a given magnitude. When collapsed, the dome switch completes a circuit that is detected by a processing device and recognized as an input (e.g., a selection of an icon, function, or application). 
     In many embodiments, force can function as a non-binary input. A force sensor can be configured to detect different amounts of force and the different amounts of force can be associated with different inputs to the electronic device, to an application, and/or to a function. For example, an increasing amount of force applied to an input device can be used to increase a level of sound output by a speaker in an electronic device. Additionally or alternatively, a first amount of force can be associated with a first input for an electronic device while a different second amount of force may be associated with a second input. For example, a first amount of force can be used to wake the electronic device from a sleep state while a larger second amount of force may be used to turn off the electronic device. Additionally or alternatively, increasing or decreasing amounts of force can be used to control an operation in a gaming application. For example, an increasing amount of force may increase the speed of a moving object in a game (e.g., a car) while decreasing the amount of force can reduce the speed of the moving object. The absence of a force input may be used as a braking function to stop the movement of the object. 
     Directional terminology, such as “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, “leading”, “trailing”, etc., is used with reference to the orientation of the Figure(s) being described. Because components of embodiments described herein can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is used for purposes of illustration only and is in no way limiting. When used in conjunction with layers of an input button or sensor, the directional terminology is intended to be construed broadly, and therefore should not be interpreted to preclude the presence of one or more intervening layers or other intervening features or elements. Thus, a given layer that is described as being formed, positioned, disposed on or over another layer, or that is described as being formed, positioned, disposed below or under another layer may be separated from the latter layer by one or more additional layers or elements. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-12 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  shows one example of an electronic device that can include a force sensor in one or more input devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device  100  is implemented as a smart telephone. Other embodiments can implement the electronic device differently. For example, an electronic device can be a laptop computer, a tablet computing device, a wearable computing device such as a smart watch or a health assistant, a digital music player, a display input device, a remote control device, and other types of electronic devices that include one or more input devices. 
     The electronic device  100  includes a housing  102  surrounding a display  104  and an input device  106 . In some embodiments, the input device  106  can be configured as an input/output device. As used herein, the phrase “input device” is intended to include both input devices and input/output devices. 
     The housing  102  can form an outer surface or partial outer surface for the internal components of the electronic device  100 , and may at least partially surround the display  104  and/or the input device  106 . The housing  102  can be formed of one or more components operably connected together, such as a front piece and a back piece. Alternatively, the housing  102  can be formed of a single piece operably connected to the display  104 . 
     The display  104  can provide a visual output for the electronic device  100  and/or function to receive user inputs to the electronic device. For example, the display  104  can be a multi-touch capacitive sensing touchscreen that can detect one or more user touch and/or force inputs. The display  104  may be substantially any size and may be positioned substantially anywhere on the electronic device  100 . The display  104  can be implemented with any suitable display, including, but not limited to, a multi-touch sensing touchscreen device that uses liquid crystal display (LCD) element, light emitting diode (LED) element, organic light-emitting display (OLED) element, or organic electro luminescence (OEL) element. 
     In some embodiments, the input device  106  can take the form of a home button, which may be a mechanical button, a soft button (e.g., a button that does not physically move but still accepts inputs), an icon or image on a display, and so on. Further, in some embodiments, the input device  106  can be integrated as part of a cover layer  108  and/or housing of the electronic device. Although not shown in  FIG. 1 , the electronic device  100  can include one or more other input devices, such as a microphone, a speaker, other input buttons (e.g., volume, on-off), a camera, and one or more ports such as a network communication port and/or a power cord port. 
     The cover layer  108  may be positioned over the front surface of the electronic device  100 . At least a portion of the cover layer  108  can receive touch and/or force inputs. In one embodiment, the cover layer  108  covers the display  104  and the input device  106 . Touch and force inputs can be received by the portions of the cover layer  108  that cover the display  104  and/or by the portion of the cover layer  108  that covers the input device  106 . In another embodiment, the cover layer  108  covers the display  104  but not the input device  106 . In such embodiments, the input device  106  can be positioned in an opening or aperture  110  formed in the cover layer  108 . The input device  106  can receive touch and/or force inputs as well as the portion of the cover layer  108  that covers the display  104 . 
     In other embodiments, the input surface of the input device may be integrated into the housing  102 . For example, the input surface may be part of the housing  102  with the force sensor and other components of the input device disposed below the housing  102 . A depression or recess in the housing  102  may indicate the location of an input device (e.g., an input button). 
     A force sensor or sensors can be included in one or more locations of the electronic device  100 . For example, in one embodiment one or more force sensors may be included in the input device  106  (and/or in other input buttons or areas of the electronic device  100 ). The force sensor(s) can be used to measure an amount of force and/or a change in force that is applied to the input device  106 . Additionally or alternatively, one or more force sensors can be positioned under at least a portion of the housing  102  to detect a force and/or a change in force that is applied to the housing  102 . Additionally or alternatively, one or more force sensors may be included in a display stack of the display  104 . The force sensor(s) can be used to measure an amount of force and/or a change in force that is applied to the display  104  or to a portion of the display  104 . 
     Embodiments described herein include one or more force sensors in the input device  106 . As described earlier, the input device  106  may also include additional operations or devices, such as a biometric sensor, other circuitry, support elements, and/or a switch element. In one embodiment, the various components and devices can be arranged in a device stack that is positioned below a cover element. 
       FIGS. 2A-2B  show exploded views of a first input device suitable for use in the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1 . With reference to  FIG. 2A , the input device stack  200  includes a cover element  202  and a trim  204 . In the illustrated embodiment, the trim  204  completely surrounds the sides of the cover element  202  and the perimeter of the top surface of the cover element  202 . Other embodiments are not limited to this configuration. For example, in one embodiment the sides and/or top surface of the cover element  202  can be partially surrounded by the trim  204 . Alternatively, the trim  204  can be omitted in other embodiments. 
     Both the cover element  202  and the trim  204  can be formed with any suitable opaque, transparent, and/or translucent material. For example, the cover element  202  can be made of glass, plastic, or sapphire and the trim  204  may be made of a metal or plastic. In some embodiments, one or more additional layers (not shown) can be positioned below the cover element  202 . For example, an opaque ink layer can be disposed below the cover element  202  when the cover element  202  is made of a transparent material. The opaque ink layer can conceal the other components in the input device stack  200  so that the other components are not visible through the transparent cover element  202 . 
     A first circuit layer  206  can be disposed below the cover element  202 . Any suitable circuit layer may be used. For example, the first circuit layer  206  may be a circuit board or a flexible circuit. The first circuit layer  206  can include one or more circuits, signal lines, and/or integrated circuits. In one embodiment, the first circuit layer  206  includes a biometric sensor  208 . Any suitable type of biometric sensor can be used. For example, in one embodiment the biometric sensor is a capacitive fingerprint sensor that captures at least one fingerprint when a user&#39;s finger (or fingers) approaches and/or contacts the cover element  202 . 
     The first circuit layer  206  may be attached to the bottom surface of the cover element  202  with an adhesive layer  210 . Any suitable adhesive can be used for the adhesive layer. For example, a pressure sensitive adhesive layer may be used as the adhesive layer  210 . 
     A compliant layer  212  is disposed below the first circuit layer  206 . In one embodiment, the compliant layer  212  includes an opening  214  formed in the compliant layer  212 . The opening  214  exposes the top surface of the first circuit layer  206  and/or the biometric sensor  208  when the device stack  200  is assembled. In the illustrated embodiment, the compliant layer  212  is positioned around an interior perimeter of the trim  204  and/or around a peripheral edge of the cover element  202  (see  FIG. 3 ). Although depicted in a circular shape, the compliant layer  212  can have any given shape and/or dimensions, such as a square or oval. The compliant layer  212  is shown as a continuous compliant layer in  FIG. 2 , but other embodiments are not limited to this configuration. In some embodiments, multiple discrete compliant layers may be used in the device stack  200 . Additionally, in some embodiments, the compliant layer  212  does not include the opening  214  and the compliant layer  212  extends across at least a portion of the input device stack  200 . For example, the compliant layer  212  may extend across the bottom surface of the cover element  202 , the bottom surface of the first circuit layer  206 , or a portion of the bottom surface of the cover element  202  (e.g., around the peripheral edge of the cover element) and the bottom surface of the first circuit layer  206 . 
     A second circuit layer  218  is positioned below the first circuit layer  206 . A flexible circuit and a circuit board are examples of a circuit layer that can be used in the second circuit layer  218 . In some embodiments, the second circuit layer  218  can include a first circuit section  220  and a second circuit section  222 . The first and second circuit sections  220 ,  222  can be electrically connected one another other. 
     The first circuit section  220  can include a first set of one or more force sensor components that are included in a force sensor. In some embodiments, the first circuit section  220  can be electrically connected to the first circuit layer  206 . For example, when the first circuit layer  206  includes a biometric sensor  208 , the biometric sensor  208  may be electrically connected to the first circuit section  220  of the second circuit layer  218 . 
     The second circuit section  222  can include additional circuitry, such as signal lines, circuit components, integrated circuits, and the like. In one embodiment, the second circuit section  222  may include a board-to-board connector  224  to electrically connect the second circuit layer  218  to other circuitry in the electronic device. For example, the second circuit layer  218  can be operably connected to a processing device using the board-to-board connector  224 . Additionally or alternatively, the second circuit layer  218  may be operably connected to circuitry that transmits signals (e.g., sense signals) received from the force sensor component(s) in the first circuit section  220  to a processing device. Additionally or alternatively, the second circuit layer  218  may be operably connected to circuitry that provides signals (e.g., drive signals, a reference signal) to the one or more force sensor components in the first circuit section  220 . 
     In some embodiments, the first circuit section  220  of the second circuit layer  218  may be attached to the bottom surface of the first circuit layer  206  using an adhesive layer  216 . In a non-limiting example, a die attach film may be used to attach the first circuit section  220  to the bottom surface of the first circuit layer  206 . 
     A third circuit layer  226  is disposed below the first circuit section  220  of the second circuit layer  218 . The third circuit layer  226  may include a second set of one or more force sensor components that are included in a force sensor. The third circuit layer  226  is supported by and/or attached to a support element  228 . In one embodiment, the support element  228  is attached to the trim  204  to produce an enclosure for the other components in the device stack  200 . The support element  228  may be attached to the trim  204  using any suitable attachment mechanism. 
     The first set of one or more force sensor components in the first circuit section  220  and the second set of one or more force sensor components in the third circuit layer  226  together form a force sensor. The force sensor can use any suitable force sensing technology. Example sensing technologies include, but are not limited to, capacitive, piezoelectric, piezoresistive, ultrasonic, and magnetic. 
     In the embodiments described herein, the force sensor is a capacitive force sensor. With a capacitive force sensor, the first set of one or more force sensor components can include a first set of one or more electrodes  230  and the second set of one or more force sensor components a second set of one or more electrodes  232 . Although shown in a square shape in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , each electrode in the first and second sets of one or more electrodes  230 ,  232  can have any given shape (e.g., rectangles, circles). Additionally, the one or more electrodes in the first and second sets  230 ,  232  may be arranged in any given pattern (e.g., one or more rows and one or more columns). 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  show two electrodes in the first and second sets of one or more electrodes  230 ,  232 . However, other embodiments are not limited to this configuration. The first and second sets of one or more electrodes  230 ,  232  may each be a single electrode or multiple discrete electrodes. For example, if the first set of one or more electrodes is a single electrode, the second set of one or more electrodes comprises multiple discrete electrodes. In some embodiments, the second set of one or more electrodes can be a single electrode and the first set includes multiple discrete electrodes. Alternatively, both the first and second sets of one or more electrodes may each include multiple discrete electrodes. 
     Each electrode in the first set of one or more electrodes  230  is aligned in at least one direction (e.g., vertically) with a respective electrode in the second set of one or more electrodes  232  to produce one or more capacitors. When a force input is applied to the cover element  202  (e.g., the input surface of the input device), at least one electrode in the first set  230  moves closer to a respective electrode in the second set  232 , which varies the capacitance of the capacitor(s). A force signal sensed from each capacitor represents a capacitance measurement of that capacitor. A processing device (not shown) is configured to receive the force signal(s) and correlate the force signal(s) to an amount of force applied to the cover element  202 . 
     In some embodiments, the force sensor is configured to detect a range of force inputs with at least two force inputs representing different user inputs. For example, a first force input can select an icon and a different second force input can turn off an electronic device. Additionally or alternatively, in another example a first force input can produce a scrolling operation that scrolls at a first speed and a different second force input may produce a scrolling operation that scrolls at a different second speed (e.g., faster). Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments the force sensor can replace other components in an input device. For example, a force sensor may replace a switch element. 
     In other embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2B , a switch element  234  can be positioned below the support element  228 . The switch element  234  registers a user input when a force input applied to the cover element  202  exceeds a given amount of force (e.g., a force threshold associated with closing the distance between the first circuit section  220  and the third circuit layer  226 ; see  FIG. 3 ). Any suitable switch element can be used. For example, the switch element  234  may be a dome switch that collapses when the force input applied to the cover element  202  exceeds the force threshold. When collapsed, the dome switch completes a circuit that is detected by a processing device and recognized as a user input (e.g., a selection of an icon, function, or application). In one embodiment, the dome switch is arranged such that the apex of the collapsible dome is proximate to the bottom surface of the support plate  228 . In another embodiment, the base of the collapsible dome can be proximate to the bottom surface of the support plate  228 . 
       FIG. 3  shows a cross-sectional view of the input device shown in  FIG. 2B  when the input device is assembled. In some embodiments, the trim  204  is positioned in an aperture formed in the housing of an electronic device (e.g., aperture  1010  in housing  102  in  FIG. 1 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the trim  204  includes a shelf  300  that extends inward from the trim  204  toward the input device stack. The compliant layer  212  is positioned between the shelf  300  and a peripheral edge of the cover element  202 . The compliant layer  212  may be made of any suitable material or materials. For example, in one embodiment the compliant layer  212  is a silicone layer. 
     In another embodiment, the compliant layer  212  can be formed as shown in  FIG. 4 . A compliant material  400  may be positioned between two intermediate layers  402 ,  404 . An exterior layer  406 ,  408  can be disposed over each intermediate layer  402 ,  404 . In one non-limiting embodiment, the compliant material  400  may be formed with silicone, the intermediate layers  402 ,  404  can be formed with a polyimide, and the exterior layers  406 ,  408  may be formed with a heat activated film. 
       FIG. 5  shows an exploded view of another example of the compliant layer shown in  FIG. 3 . A compliant material  500  may be positioned between two circuit layers  502 ,  504 . A first set of one or more force sensor components  506  is formed in or on the first circuit layer  502 . Similarly, a second set of one or more force sensor components  508  is formed in or on the second circuit layer  504 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second sets of one or more force sensor components each include one or more electrodes. 
     An exterior layer  510 ,  512  can be disposed over each circuit layer  502 ,  504 . In one non-limiting embodiment, the compliant material  500  may be formed with silicone, each circuit layer  502 ,  504  can be formed with a flexible circuit that includes a set of one or more electrodes (e.g.,  230 ,  232 ), and each exterior layer  510 ,  512  may be formed with a heat activated film. 
     The circuit layers  502 ,  504  allow the compliant layer  212  to act as a second force sensor. The second force sensor can be used in series, concurrently, or offset in time with the first force sensor formed by the second and third circuit layers  218 ,  226 . For example, one force sensor (e.g., the second force sensor) can be used initially to detect an amount of applied force. As the amount of applied force increases, the force sensor reaches a maximum detectable force. At this point, the other force sensor (e.g., the first force sensor) may be used to detect the applied force. Alternatively, in some embodiments, both the first and second force sensors can be used to detect force inputs up to a given amount of force, and then one of the force sensors may be used to detect force inputs greater than the given amount of force. 
     The second capacitive force sensor operates similarly to the first capacitive force sensor. Each electrode in the first set of one or more electrodes  506  is aligned in at least one direction (e.g., vertically) with a respective electrode in the second set of one or more electrodes  508  to produce one or more capacitors  514 . As described earlier, the capacitance of at least one capacitor  514  can vary when a user applies a force to the cover element  202  because the electrodes in at least one capacitor  514  move closer together. A user can apply the force to the cover element  202  with a device, such as a stylus, or with a body part (e.g., one or more fingers). Force signals produced by the one or more capacitors  514  represent capacitance measurement(s) of the one or more capacitors  514 . A processing device that receives the force signal(s) is configured to correlate the force signal(s) to an amount of force applied to the cover element  202 . 
     Retuning to  FIG. 3 , the compliant layer  212  can seal the interface between the bottom surface of the cover element  202  and the top surface of the shelf  300 . In some embodiments, the compliant layer  212  may act as an environmental seal that prevents contaminants, such as water, chemicals, and dirt, from entering the input device stack and/or the electronic device. 
     The first circuit layer  206  (with the biometric sensor  208 ) is positioned below the cover element  202 , and the second circuit layer  218  is positioned below the first circuit layer  206 . The third circuit layer  226  is disposed below the second circuit layer  218  and over the support element  228 . In the illustrated embodiment, the support element  228  is attached to the trim  204  using fasteners  302 . Any suitable type of fastener may be used, such as a screw, solder, and an adhesive. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a gap  304  is defined between the second and third circuit layers  218 ,  226 . The gap  304  is formed based at least in part by the downward step  305  in the support element  228 . As described earlier, when the force sensor is a capacitive force sensor, the electrode(s) in the first and second sets of one or more electrodes form a capacitor. The gap  304  separates the electrodes in the first and second sets and includes the dielectric material for the capacitor(s). Any suitable dielectric material can be used. For example, the dielectric material can include, but is not limited to, air, a compliant gel, a compliant material, and/or one or more compliant elements disposed between the second and third circuit layers  218 ,  226 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the cover element  202  and the trim  204  are fixed in position and do not move when a force is applied to the cover element  202 . The gap  304  permits the first circuit section  220  of the second circuit layer  218  to bend or deflect relative to the third circuit layer  226  when a force input is applied to the cover element  202 . This deflection varies the capacitance of one or more capacitors formed by the electrode(s) in the first circuit section  220  and third circuit layer  226 . 
     In some embodiments, additional circuitry and/or components may be attached and electrically connected to the second circuit layer  218 . For example, a second integrated circuit  306  may be attached and electrically connected to the second circuit layer  218 . In some embodiments, some additional circuitry may be encapsulated with a protective and/or insulting material  308 . The protective and/or insulating material  308  can filter noise from signals and circuitry in or on the second circuit layer  218 . In the illustrated embodiment, the protective and/or insulating material  308  extends into an opening  236  formed in the support element  228  (see  FIGS. 2A-2B ). 
     As discussed earlier, a switch element  234  may be disposed below the support element  228 . The switch element  234  is depicted as a dome switch in  FIG. 3 . As shown, the dome switch is arranged such that the base of the collapsible dome is proximate (e.g., attached) to the bottom surface of the support plate  228 . In other embodiments, the apex of the collapsible dome may be proximate to, or in contact with, the bottom surface of the support plate  228 . 
       FIG. 6  shows one example of a top view of the input device shown in  FIG. 3 . The cover element  202  is omitted for clarity. In this example embodiment, the compliant layer  212  is formed as a continuous ring of compliant material that is positioned around the trim  204  (e.g., over shelf  300  of the trim  204  in  FIG. 3 ). As discussed earlier, the compliant layer  212  may act as an environmental seal that prevents contaminants, such as water, chemicals, and dirt, from entering the input device stack and/or the electronic device. In such embodiments, the corners  600  of the first circuit layer  206  (and/or the biometric sensor  208 ) may be notched to ensure the compliant layer  212  meets all standards for an environmental seal, such as a width requirement. 
     The adhesive layer  210  is used to attach the first circuit layer  206  to the bottom surface of the cover element. Additionally, in some embodiments the second circuit layer  218  extends beyond the trim  204  and folds over itself to provide a circuit layer. For example, in some embodiments the third circuit layer  226  can be a part of the second circuit layer  218  that is folded over and positioned over the support element  228 . 
       FIG. 7  shows another example of a top view of the input device shown in  FIG. 3 . Again, the cover element  202  is omitted for clarity. In this example embodiment, the compliant layer  212  is formed as discrete compliant layers  700 ,  702 ,  704 ,  706  that are positioned at different locations around the trim  204  (e.g., over the shelf  300  in  FIG. 3 ). In such embodiments, the edges and corners of the first circuit layer  206  do not have to be modified or notched. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments the dimensions or size of the biometric sensor can be larger when discrete compliant layers are included in the input device. Although only four discrete compliant layers are shown in  FIG. 7 , other embodiments can include any number of discrete compliant layers. 
     An environmental seal can be formed with a material that fills the gaps  708  around the discrete compliant layers  700 ,  702 ,  704 ,  706  and between the cover element  202  and the trim  204 . In one embodiment, the material is water and chemical resistance and is compliant relative to the discrete compliant layers  700 ,  702 ,  704 ,  706 . The environmental seal prevents contaminants such as liquid, dirt, and dust from entering the input device stack and/or the electronic device. In a non-limiting example, a glue may be used to form the environmental seal. 
       FIG. 8  shows an exploded view of a second input device that is suitable for use in the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1 . The input device stack  800  is inverted in  FIG. 8 , with the cover element  802  shown at the bottom of the figure. As described earlier, one or more additional layers  804  can be positioned below the cover element  802 . The additional layer(s) can include, but are not limited to, an ink layer and/or an adhesive layer. 
     A first circuit layer  806  may be positioned below the cover element  802  (or below the additional layer(s)  804  when included in the input device stack  800 ). The first circuit layer  806  may be any suitable circuit layer, such as a circuit board or a flexible circuit. In one embodiment, the first circuit layer  806  includes a biometric sensor  808  formed on or in the first circuit layer  806  and operably connected to the first circuit layer  806 . In a non-limiting example, the biometric sensor  808  is a fingerprint sensor. 
     In some embodiments, the first circuit layer  806  and the biometric sensor  808  can be molded into a plastic mold or enclosure  809 . The plastic enclosure  809  can serve as an environmental seal for the first circuit layer  806  and the biometric sensor  808 . 
     A support layer  810  can be disposed below the first circuit layer  806 . The support layer  810  may include circuitry  812 ,  814 ,  816  electrically connected to a second circuit layer  818 . The second circuit layer  818  may be a flexible circuit or a circuit board. In the illustrated embodiment, the second circuit layer  818  is a flexible circuit that includes a second circuit layer tail  820  that extends into the opening  822  in the trim  824 . 
     In some embodiments, circuitry  812 ,  814 , and/or  816  may be electrically connected to contacts  826 ,  828  on the first circuit layer  806 . In some embodiments, at least a portion of circuitry  812  may extend into the opening  830  in the trim  824 . The circuitry  812 ,  814 , and/or  816  may be encapsulated with an insulating and/or protective material (not shown). 
     A compliant layer  832  is positioned below the support layer  810 . In the illustrated embodiment, the compliant layer  832  includes an opening  833  that permits the compliant layer  832  to reside around the interior perimeter of the trim  824  and/or around a peripheral edge of the cover element  802 . Although depicted in a circular shape, the compliant layer  832  can have any given shape and/or dimensions, such as a square or oval. As discussed earlier, the compliant layer  832  may include multiple discrete compliant layers in the device stack  800 . Additionally or alternatively, the compliant layer  832  may not include the opening  833  such that the compliant layer  832  extends across at least a portion of the input device stack  800 . For example, the compliant layer  832  may extend across the bottom surface of the cover element  802 , the bottom surface of the first circuit layer  806 , or a portion of the bottom surface of the cover element  802  (e.g., around the peripheral edge of the cover element) and the bottom surface of the first circuit layer  806 . 
     The compliant layer  832  may be made of any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, in one embodiment the compliant layer  832  can be formed with silicone. In other embodiments, the compliant layer  832  can be constructed as shown in  FIG. 4  or in  FIG. 5 . The compliant layer  832  may function as an additional force sensor when the compliant layer  832  is constructed as shown in  FIG. 5 . 
     A third circuit layer  834  may be disposed below the support layer  810 . The third circuit layer  834  may be any suitable circuit layer, such as a circuit board or a flexible circuit. In the illustrated embodiment, the third circuit layer  834  is a flexible circuit that includes a circuit layer tail  836  that extends into the opening  822  of the trim  824 . 
     The trim  824  forms a container or holder in that the trim  824  includes a cavity defined by the bottom surface and sides of the trim  824 . When constructed, the cover element  802 , the optional one or more additional layers  804 , the first circuit layer  806 , the support layer  810 , the second circuit layer  818 , the compliant layer  832 , and the third circuit layer  834  all reside within the cavity of the trim  824 . The bottom surface of the trim  824  acts as a support element for the third circuit layer  834 . 
     In one embodiment, the second and third circuit layers  818 ,  834  each include a set of one or more force sensor components that are included in a force sensor. The force sensor can use any suitable sensing technology. For example, with a capacitive force sensor, the second and third circuit layers  818 ,  834  each include one or more electrodes (not shown) that are used to sense changes in capacitance. The electrode(s) may be configured as shown and described in conjunction with  FIGS. 2A-2B . A processing device (not shown) receives force signals that represent capacitance values for the one or more capacitors formed by the electrode(s). A processing device (not shown) receives force signals from the one or more capacitors and correlates the force signals into an amount of force that is applied to the cover element  802 . 
       FIG. 9  shows a cross-sectional view of the second input device shown in  FIG. 8  when the input device is assembled. In the illustrated embodiment, the trim  824  is positioned in an aperture  900  formed in the housing  902  of an electronic device (e.g., housing  102  in  FIG. 1 ). Disposed within the trim  824  are the cover element  802  and the various layers of the input device stack  800  (e.g., the optional additional layer(s)  804 , the first circuit layer  806 , the support layer  810 , the second circuit layer  818 , the third circuit layer  834 , and the compliant layer  832 ). The second circuit layer tail  820  and the third circuit layer tail  836  extend out of the trim  824  through the opening  822 . The second and third circuit layer tails  820 ,  836  can be operably connected to other circuitry, such as a processing device and/or signal generator. 
     As discussed earlier, the second and third circuit layers  818 ,  834  can be included in a force sensor. The second and third circuit layers  818 ,  834  may each include a set of one or more force sensor components that are included in the force sensor. For example, with a capacitive force sensor the second and third circuit layers  818 ,  834  can each include a set of one or more electrodes (not shown). The one or more electrodes may be configured as shown and described in conjunction with  FIGS. 2A-2B . 
     As described earlier, the second and third circuit layer tails  820 ,  836  may be operably connected to one or more processing devices (not shown). The force signals received from the force sensor (e.g., capacitor(s) formed with electrodes) can be transmitted to a processing device using one circuit layer tail (e.g., second circuit layer tail  820 ). Additionally, drive or reference signals may be transmitted to the force sensor (e.g., capacitor(s) formed with electrodes) using the other circuit layer tail (e.g., third circuit layer tail  836 ). 
     A gap  912  is defined between the second and third circuit layers  818 ,  834 . As described earlier, when the force sensor is a capacitive force sensor, the gap  912  includes the dielectric material for the capacitor(s) that is formed with the sets of one or more electrodes in the second and third circuit layers  818 ,  834 . The gap  912  permits the second circuit layer  818  to move, bend, or deflect relative to the third circuit layer  834  when a force input is applied to the cover element  802 . This deflection varies the capacitance of one or more capacitors formed by the electrode(s) in the second and third circuit layers  818 ,  834 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the second circuit layer  818  is electrically connected to the first circuit layer  806  with bonding wires  904 . The bonding wires  904  may be covered or encapsulated by a protective and/or insulating material  906 . 
     In some embodiments, a seal  908  can be disposed between the trim  824  and the housing  902 . In one embodiment, the seal is an O-ring that is positioned within an indentation  910  formed along an exterior surface of the trim  824 . The seal  908  can function as an environmental seal that prevents contaminants such as liquid, dirt, and dust from entering the input device stack and/or the electronic device. 
       FIG. 10  shows an exploded view of a third input device that is suitable for use in the electronic device shown in  FIG. 1 . Like the embodiment shown in  FIG. 8 , the input device stack  1000  is shown inverted with the cover element  1002  shown at the bottom of the figure. In some embodiments, one or more additional layers  1004  can be positioned below the cover element  1002 . The additional layer(s) can include, but are not limited to, an ink layer and/or an adhesive layer. 
     A first circuit layer  1006  may be positioned below the cover element  1002  (or below the additional layer(s)  1004  when included in the input device stack  1000 ). The first circuit layer  1006  may be any suitable circuit layer, such as a circuit board or a flexible circuit. In one embodiment, the first circuit layer  1006  includes a biometric sensor  1008  formed on or in the first circuit layer  1006  and operably connected to the first circuit layer  1006 . In a non-limiting example, the biometric sensor  1008  is a fingerprint sensor. 
     Like the embodiment shown in  FIG. 8 , the first circuit layer  1006  and the biometric sensor  1008  can be molded into a plastic mold or enclosure  1009 . The plastic enclosure  1009  can serve as an environmental seal for the first circuit layer  1006  and the biometric sensor  1008 . 
     A support layer  1010  can be disposed below the first circuit layer  1006 . The support layer  1010  may include circuitry  1012 ,  1014 ,  1016  electrically connected to a second circuit layer  1018 . The second circuit layer  1018  may be a flexible circuit or a circuit board. In some embodiments, the circuitry  1012 ,  1014 , and/or  1016  may be electrically connected to one or both contacts  1020 ,  1022  on the first circuit layer  1006 . In some embodiments, at least a portion of the circuitry  1012 ,  1014 , and/or  1016  may extend into the opening  1024  in the trim  1026 . 
     A compliant layer  1028  is positioned below the support layer  1010 . In the illustrated embodiment, the compliant layer  1028  includes an opening  1030  that permits the compliant layer  1028  to reside around the interior perimeter of the trim  1026  and/or a peripheral edge of the cover element  1002 . Although depicted in a circular shape, the compliant layer  1028  can have any given shape and/or dimensions, such as a square or an oval. As discussed earlier, in some embodiments the compliant layer  1028  may be configured as multiple discrete compliant layers in the device stack  1000 . Additionally or alternatively, the compliant layer  1018  may not include the opening  1024  such that the compliant layer  1028  extends across at least a portion of the input device stack  1000 . For example, the compliant layer  1028  may extend across the bottom surface of the cover element  1002 , the bottom surface of the first circuit layer  1006 , or a portion of the bottom surface of the cover element  1002  (e.g., around the peripheral edge of the cover element) and the bottom surface of the first circuit layer  1006 . 
     The compliant layer  1028  may be made of any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the compliant layer  1028  functions as a force sensor and is constructed as shown in  FIG. 5 . The compliant layer  1028  includes a compliant layer tail  1032  that extends out of the opening  1024  (see  FIG. 11 ). The compliant layer tail  1032  is described in more detail in conjunction with  FIG. 11 . 
     When constructed, the cover element  1002  and the various layers of the input device stack  1000  (e.g., the optional one or more additional layers  1004 , the first circuit layer  1006 , the support layer  1010 , and the compliant layer  1028 ) all reside within the trim  1026 .  FIG. 11  shows a cross-sectional view of the third input device shown in  FIG. 10  when the input device is assembled. In the illustrated embodiment, the trim  1026  is positioned in an aperture  1100  formed in the housing  1102  of an electronic device (e.g., housing  102  in  FIG. 1 ). Disposed within the trim  1026  are the cover element  1002 , the first circuit layer  1006 , the biometric sensor  1008 , the support layer  1010 , the second circuit layer  1018 , and the compliant layer  1028 . The compliant layer tail  1032  extends out of the trim  1026  through the opening  1024 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the compliant layer  1028  is constructed as shown in  FIG. 5  and functions as a capacitive force sensor. The compliant layer tail  1032  includes a first flexible circuit  1104  and a second flexible circuit  1106 . Both the first and second flexible circuits  1104 ,  1106  each include one or more electrodes in at least the portion of the compliant layer  1028  that is disposed around the interior perimeter of the trim  1026 . For example, in one embodiment the electrode(s) can be configured as shown and described in conjunction with  FIG. 5 . 
     The flexible circuits  1104 ,  1106  are operably connected to a processing device (not shown). The processing device is adapted to cause a reference or drive signal to be transmitted by one of the flexible circuits (e.g.,  1104 ) to the one or more electrodes in that flexible circuit. The other flexible circuit (e.g.,  1106 ) receives force signals from the one or more capacitors in formed by the electrodes and transmits the force signals to a processing device (not shown). The processing device is adapted to correlate the force signals into an amount of force that is exerted on the cover element  1002 . 
     In some embodiments, a seal  1108  can be disposed between the trim  1026  and the housing  1102 . In one embodiment, the seal is an O-ring that is positioned within an indentation  1110  formed along an exterior surface of the trim  1026 . The seal  1108  can function as an environmental seal that prevents contaminants such as liquid, dirt, and dust from entering the input device stack and/or the electronic device. 
     It should be noted that the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 ,  FIGS. 8 and 9 , and  FIGS. 10 and 11  are exemplary only. In other examples, the input device may include fewer or more components than those described and/or shown in the figures. For example, the first circuit layer  206 ,  806 ,  1006  and the biometric sensor  208 ,  808 ,  1008  can be omitted in some embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, the switch element  234  may be omitted from the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 2B and 3 , or the switch element  234  may be included in the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 8 and 9  and/or  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
     Although the input device  106  is shown in  FIG. 1  as a circular input device, other embodiments are not limited to this configuration. An input device can have any given shape and/or dimensions. Similarly, the shape and/or dimensions of the components shown in  FIGS. 2-11  are illustrative only. Each component may have any given shape and/or dimensions. 
       FIG. 12  shows a block diagram of one example of an electronic device that can include a force sensor in one or more input devices. The electronic device  1200  can include one or more processing devices  1202 , memory  1204 , one or more input/output devices  1206 , a power source  1208 , one or more sensors  1210 , a network/communication interface  1212 , a display  1214 , and one or more input devices  1216  that include at least one force sensor  1218 . Each of these components is discussed in more detail below. 
     The one or more processors  1202  can control some or all of the operations of the electronic device  1200 . The processing device(s)  1202  can communicate, either directly or indirectly, with substantially all of the components of the device. For example, one or more system buses  1220  or other communication mechanisms can provide communication between the processing device(s)  1202 , the memory  1204 , the input/output device(s)  1206 , the power source  1208 , the one or more sensors  1210 , the network/communication interface  1212 , the display  1214 , the input device(s)  1216 , and/or the force sensor(s)  1218 . The processing device(s)  1202  can be implemented as any electronic device capable of processing, receiving, or transmitting data or instructions. Additionally, the processing device  1202  can be configured to receive the force signals from the force sensor  1218  and correlate the force signals to an amount of force. For example, the one or more processing devices  1202  can be a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or combinations of multiple such devices. As described herein, the term “processing device” is meant to encompass a single processor or processing unit, multiple processors, multiple processing units, or other suitably configured computing element or elements. 
     The memory  1204  can store electronic data that can be used by the electronic device  1200 . For example, the memory  1204  can store electrical data or content such as audio files, document files, timing and control signals, and image data. The memory  1204  can be configured as any type of memory. By way of example only, memory  1204  can be implemented as random access memory, read-only memory, Flash memory, removable memory, or other types of storage elements, in any combination. 
     The one or more input/output devices  1206  can transmit and/or receive data to and from a user or another electronic device. Example input/output device(s)  1206  include, but are not limited to, a touch sensing input device such as a touchscreen or track pad, a microphone, a vibration or haptic device, and/or a speaker. 
     The power source  1208  can be implemented with any device capable of providing energy to the electronic device  1200 . For example, the power source  1208  can be one or more batteries or rechargeable batteries, or a connection cable that connects the electronic device to another power source such as a wall outlet. 
     The electronic device  1200  may also include one or more sensors  1210  positioned substantially anywhere on or in the electronic device  1200 . The sensor or sensors  1210  may be configured to sense substantially any type of characteristic, such as but not limited to, images, atmospheric pressure, light, touch, temperature, heat, movement, relative motion, biometric data, and so on. For example, the sensor(s)  1210  may be an image sensor, a temperature sensor, a light or optical sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a magnet, a barometer, a health monitoring sensor, and so on. 
     The network communication interface  1212  can facilitate transmission of data to or from other electronic devices. For example, a network communication interface can transmit electronic signals via a wireless and/or wired network connection. For example, in one embodiment a communication signal is transmitted to a transmitter device and/or to a receiver device to permit the transmitter and receiver devices to communication with one another. Examples of wireless and wired network connections include, but are not limited to, cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared (IR), Ethernet, and Near Field Communication (NFC). 
     The display  1214  can provide a visual output to the user. The display  1214  can be implemented with any suitable technology, including, but not limited to, a multi-touch sensing touchscreen that uses liquid crystal display (LCD) element, light emitting diode (LED) element, organic light-emitting display (OLED) element, organic electroluminescence (OEL) element, or another type of display element. In some embodiments, the display  1214  can function as an input device that allows the user to interact with the electronic device  1200 . For example, the display can be a multi-touch touchscreen display. 
     The electronic device  1200  further includes one or more input devices  1216 . Each input device  1216  can include a force sensor  1218  that is configured as one of the force sensors shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3, 8 and 9 , or  10  and  11 . As described earlier, the processing device  1202  can process the force signals that are received from the force sensor(s)  1218  and correlate the force signals to an amount of force. 
     It should be noted that  FIG. 11  is exemplary only. In other examples, the electronic device may include fewer or more components than those shown in  FIG. 11 . Additionally or alternatively, the electronic device can be included in a system and one or more components shown in  FIG. 11  is separate from the electronic device but in communication with the electronic device. For example, an electronic device may be operatively connected to, or in communication with a separate display. As another example, one or more applications or data can be stored in a memory separate from the electronic device. As another example, a processing device in communication with the electronic device can control various functions in the electronic device and/or process data received from the electronic device. In some embodiments, the separate memory and/or processing device can be in a cloud-based system or in an associated device 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20160331
Publication Date: 20180626
Grant Date: 20180626
Priority Date: 20160331
Inventors: KIM, SORA
GRUNTHANER, MARTIN P.
JIN, Rui
WITTENBERG, MICHAEL B.
MCCORD, MICHAEL K.
LARSSON, HENRIC
GOZZINI, GIOVANNI
BROWNING, Lucy
MYERS, SCOTT A.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H03K17/964", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/975", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/960755", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F21/32", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/9625", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04105", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/9625", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F21/32", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/964", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04105", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/975", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/960755", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06V40/13", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/960755", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/975", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/964", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/9625", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F21/32", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0447", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0445", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/044", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/975", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04105", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F21/32", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/9625", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06K9/00013", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/960755", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/964", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06K9/00006", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06V40/13", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06V40/12", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0447", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0445", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K2217/960755", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/975", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/964", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H03K17/9625", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2203/04105", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F21/32", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0447", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0445", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/016", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0445", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/0447", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 58547832