Key in a keypad of an electronic device providing feedback
AssigneeResearch In Motion Limited
InventorVahid MOOSAVI
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The embodiments relate to a key in a keypad of an electronic device and a system to control the value associated with the key. The key comprises: a programmable display to generate a character associated with the key; and a switch assembly associated with the key to register activation of the key. In the key, part of the display deflects inwardly into the device when external pressure is applied to the key, and the display transmits the external pressure to the switch assembly. The key have an elastomer located between the display and the switch assembly. The display may be a cholesteric liquid crystal display.
Claims20
A key in a keypad of an electronic device, comprising:
- a programmable display to generate a character associated with said key;
- a switch assembly associated with said key to register activation of said key,
- wherein part of said display deflects inwardly into said device when external pressure is applied to said key, and said display transmits said external pressure to said switch assembly.
A system providing a programmable key in a keypad of an electronic device, comprising:
- a microprocessor;
- a keypad module providing instructions to said microprocessor to set values for said programmable key;
- a display to generate a character associated with said programmable key responsive to instructions from said keypad module;
- a switch assembly associated with said key to register activation of said key;
- and
- data providing a plurality of values for said programmable key,
- wherein
- said keypad module selectively assigns a value of said plurality of values for said key and instructs said display to generate an image of said value;
- part of said display deflects into said device when external pressure is applied to said key, transmitting said external pressure to said switch assembly;
- and
- upon activation of said switch assembly from deflection of said display, said system initiates additional instructions responsive to said activation.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.