System for extended key actions and haptic feedback and optimized key layout for a solid-state keyboard and touchpad

Abstract

A haptic keyboard or touchpad of an information handling system comprising a coversheet to identify an extended action key of the haptic keyboard or extended action touchpad, a support layer, a contact foil, and piezoelectric elements placed between the contact foil and support layer to receive an applied mechanical stress at the extended action key or extended action touchpad of the coversheet and generate an electric actuation signal. A controller receive the electric actuation signal from a piezoelectric element placed under the mechanical stress via the contact foil and determine the level of mechanical stress applied to the piezoelectric element from the electric actuation signal to select a function from a plurality of function levels based on the mechanical stress level applied to the extended action key or extended action touchpad and providing a response haptic feedback control signal to cause the piezoelectric element to generate haptic feedback.