Apple Inc.

Shan Wu

Alex Joseph Lehmann

Qiliang Xu

Xianwei Zhao

Ming Yu

Xiaonan Wen

Xiaofan Niu

Paul Xiaopeng Wang

Dinesh C Mathew

Keith J Hendren

Simon R Lancaster-Larocque

An electronic device includes an input device. The input device has an input/output module below or within a cover defining an input surface. The input/output module detects touch and/or force inputs on the input surface, and provides haptic feedback to the cover. In some instances, a haptic device is integrally formed with a wall or structural element of a housing or enclosure of the electronic device.

Electronic device having a touch sensor, force sensor, and haptic actuator in an integrated module

Keyboards and other input devices are provided with membranes that extend under the keycaps or buttons. The membranes are flexible and can support conductive structures, traces, and electrical switch connections to enable effective key switches, lighting, and fluid-tightness for the keyboard. The flexible membrane is positioned near the keycaps to prevent ingress of fluids and debris into the lower portions of the key assemblies. In some cases, the flexible membrane also provides support for an interstitial layer that extends between keycaps.

Electrical key support membrane

Growing community of inventors

Cupertino, CA, United States of America

Shan Wu