Abstract: In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a base element; a key top configured to pivot in relation to the base element; a first electrode coupled with the key top; a second electrode coupled with the base element; an isolating layer; the key top having a first pivoted position in which the first electrode, the second electrode, and the isolating layer form a capacitor with a first capacitance, and a second pivoted position in which the first electrode, the second electrode, and the isolating layer form a capacitor with a second capacitance.

Abstract: In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a base element; a key top configured to pivot in relation to the base element; a first electrode coupled with the key top; a second electrode coupled with the base element; an isolating layer; the key top having a first pivoted position in which the first electrode, the second electrode, and the isolating layer form a capacitor with a first capacitance, and a second pivoted position in which the first electrode, the second electrode, and the isolating layer form a capacitor with a second capacitance.

Abstract: In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus comprises an element having at least one elongated member, the at least one elongated member having at least one conductive end and being extendable from a retracted position to at least one extended position; a component coupled with said element, the component having at least one conductive surface at least partially opposing a side of said at least one conductive end when said at least one elongated member is in said at least one extended position; and a dielectric disposed on at least one of said at least one conductive end and said at least one conductive surface.