Abstract: A force/displacement touch device, this invention employs a base-plane 32 and flexible mounting material to suspend, or “float,” a non-rigidly mounted touch-plane 12, and uses sensors at each mounting point 22 to measure Z-axis deflection of the floating touch-plane 12. The system adapts existing planes in typical LCD assemblies to implement touch screens. This floating touch detection system provides an accurate, sensitive, compact and low-cost solution. It mitigates XY friction to improve detection of Z-forces. This approach provides latitude in locating sensors 34, allows for additional mid-plane sensors, enables greater accuracy and resolution, and adds features such as “multi-touch” sensitivity.

Abstract: A touch input device and method for manufacturing a touch input device are described. Each embodiment includes a touch surface, a mounting fixture, a sensing-suspension system, and a locating system. The touch surface may be an integral component of a host system, such as a display, which would result in a touch screen, or a touchpad input device. The touch surface is a floating plane, where the suspension positions, attaches and motion-enables the touch surface within the host system, and where the force exerted on the touch surface causes displacement of the touch surface, which motion is interpreted to calculate a touch location.

Abstract: A force/displacement touch device, this invention employs a base-plane 32 and flexible mounting material to suspend, or “float,” a non-rigidly mounted touch-plane 12, and uses sensors at each mounting point 22 to measure Z-axis deflection of the floating touch-plane 12. The system adapts existing planes in typical LCD assemblies to implement touch screens. This floating touch detection system provides an accurate, sensitive, compact and low-cost solution. It mitigates XY friction to improve detection of Z-forces. This approach provides latitude in locating sensors 34, allows for additional mid-plane sensors, enables greater accuracy and resolution, and adds features such as “multi-touch” sensitivity.