Method for making area actuated switch

Abstract

Disclosed is an area actuated switch which can be used, by way of example, in a keyboard for a calculator, learning aid or the like. An area actuated switch array is formed using two insulating sheets made of polyester or polycarbonate; the insulating sheets overlie one another such that one side of each sheet faces one another. Groups of spaced conductors formed on each of the facing sides also overlie one another, and selected conductors traverse the periphery of the keyboard. A plurality of raised, insulating spacer areas or points are positioned on the facing sides and are in registration and contact with each other. An insulating substrate is formed over the conductors traversing the periphery and this insulating substrate has substantially the same thickness as the spacer points such that the spacer points and the insulating substrate prevent the spaced conductors from making electrical contact. An adhesive coating, which may be heat or pressure sensitive, is applied to the spacer points and the insulating substrate to bond these two parts together. The bond created by the adhesive coating over the insulating substrate prevents contamination of the keyboard from dust, humidity and the like. The keyboard structure, therefore, may have an infinite active area such that when pressure is applied anywhere within the periphery of the switch array, electrical contact is made.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.