Force sensor for use in an input device and methods for constructing and using the sensor

A force sensor, comprising:

• a first structure;
• first and second capacitive plates, the first capacitive plate coupled to the first structure;
• a first deflection member that comprises a first elastomer movably coupling the first and second capacitive plates;
• a second structure;
• third and fourth capacitive plates, the fourth capacitive plate coupled to the second structure such that a first plane bisecting the first structure passes through the first, second, third, and fourth capacitive plates and the third capacitive plate is misaligned with a second plane bisecting the first capacitive plate;
• and
• a second deflection member that comprises a second elastomer movably coupling the third and fourth capacitive plates;
• wherein:
• a force exerted on the force sensor causes deflection between the first structure and the second structure;
• the first deflection member and the second deflection member allow deflections of less than 1 millimeter;
• and
• an amount of the force is determinable at least based on a change in capacitance between the first and second capacitive plates or the third and fourth capacitive plates.

A force sensor, comprising:

• a first structure;
• first and second capacitive plates, the first capacitive plate coupled to the first structure;
• a first deflection member that comprises a first elastomer movably coupling the first and second capacitive plates;
• a second structure;
• third and fourth capacitive plates, the fourth capacitive plate coupled to the second structure such that the third and fourth capacitive plates are misaligned with the first and second capacitive plates in a plane bisecting the first structure;
• and
• a second deflection member that comprises a second elastomer movably coupling the third and fourth capacitive plates;
• wherein:
• a force exerted on the force sensor causes deflection between the first structure and the second structure;
• the first deflection member and the second deflection member allow deflections of less than 1 millimeter;
• and
• an amount of the force is determinable at least based on a change in capacitance between the first and second capacitive plates or the third and fourth capacitive plates.