Input device
US9477320B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 8, 2013 |
| Grant date | Oct 25, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 2, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F2203/04803
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention is a data entry device featuring a novel way of touch-typing on a small smart-device using two or more opposing touchpad surfaces positioned around a display, said surfaces comprising a housing. Bumps or other touch sensitive features are arrayed around the periphery of a digital display on the device. The bumps or other touch sensitive features provide both a locating means for finger placement and a zone for sensing the shift of a pressure point or sensing motion of the finger along the surface, the shift or motion in a preferred direction indicating a selection from a displayed menu to be made by lifting the finger from contact. A novel way of holding the device by its wrist band or handle or strap while fingering the bumps leads to a fluid method of keying functionalities for use as a phone and as an internet-enabled texting device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.