Dynamic input surface for electronic devices

#The disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to a dynamic input surface for an electronic device, and a method of reconfiguring the dynamic input surface.

#Conventional electronic devices typically include a variety of distinct input devices or input surfaces formed from a variety of components. For example, conventional laptop computing devices typically include a keyboard and a track pad to allow a user to interact with the laptop. Each of these devices includes components that may be positioned both inside and outside of the casing of the laptop. For example, the keyboard may include keycaps protruding from the casing, and corresponding internal dome switches, electrical contacts and traces positioned within the casing. In order for the keycaps to protrude from the casing and maintain contact with the internal components, keycap apertures are formed through the casing of the electronic device.

#Conventional input devices, such as keyboards or track pads for a laptop, are susceptible to damage. For example, debris and other contaminants may enter the casing of the electronic device through the keycap apertures and may subsequently damage the internal components of the electronic device. The damage to the internal components may render the electronic device inoperable. Likewise, the mechanical structures forming the input devices may be especially vulnerable to a drop or mechanical shock.

#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. 1A shows an electronic device including a dynamic input surface, according to embodiments.

#FIG. 1B shows a top view of the electronic device of FIG. 1A, according to embodiments.

#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 generally to electronic devices, and more particularly to a dynamic input surface for electronic devices, and a method of reconfiguring the dynamic input surface.

#In a particular embodiment, a dynamic input surface of an electronic device is configurable, such that the size, shape and/or positioning of the input surface can be changed and/or customizable. The size, shape and/or positioning of the input surface may be customized based on a user's desire and/or interaction within the electronic device. Increasing the size of the dynamic input surface allows a user more space for scrolling gestures, which may eliminate the need of a user having to lift their fingers from the input surface to continue scrolling. Additionally, changing the position or shape of the dynamic input surface allows a user to move dynamic input surface to a preferred side of the casing for easier or more comfortable use of the dynamic input surface and/or to move the dynamic input surface to a side when the dynamic input surface is not being utilized by a user interacting with the electronic device. The dynamic input surface may function as a track pad, for example, or other input device.