Abstract: Input devices having a thin profile and good comfort and feel are disclosed. In embodiments, an input device includes a sensor layer configured to effectuate a key press upon application of an activation force, and a collapsible layer coupled to the sensor layer. The collapsible layer may be configured to collapse in response to a collapsing force that is substantially equal to the activation force. When the collapsible layer collapses, the sensor layer may simultaneously effectuate the key press in response to application of the collapsing force.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention include an input device (e.g., a computer mouse) including a processor, a housing including a top side, the housing configured to support a user's hand, and a detachable cover plate configured to attach to the top side of the housing and support a user's hand. The cover plate can include a shape memory polymer (SMP) disposed thereon, where the SMP is pliable and operable to conform to the user's hand when a temperature of the SMP is at or above a threshold value. Furthermore, the SMP can be firm and non-conforming when the temperature of the SMP falls below the threshold value. A heating unit controlled by the processor can be configured to control the temperature of the shape memory polymer. The detachable cover plate can include the shape memory polymer disposed in areas configured to contact a user's palm and thumb.

Abstract: Input devices having a thin profile and good comfort and feel are disclosed. In embodiments, an input device includes a sensor layer configured to effectuate a key press upon application of an activation force, and a collapsible layer coupled to the sensor layer. The collapsible layer may be configured to collapse in response to a collapsing force that is substantially equal to the activation force. When the collapsible layer collapses, the sensor layer may simultaneously effectuate the key press in response to application of the collapsing force.

Abstract: Input devices having a thin profile and good comfort and feel are disclosed. In embodiments, an input device includes a sensor layer configured to effectuate a key press upon application of an activation force, and a collapsible layer coupled to the sensor layer. The collapsible layer may be configured to collapse in response to a collapsing force that is substantially equal to the activation force. When the collapsible layer collapses, the sensor layer may simultaneously effectuate the key press in response to application of the collapsing force.

Abstract: Input devices having a thin profile and good comfort and feel are disclosed. In embodiments, an input device includes a sensor layer configured to effectuate a key press upon application of an activation force, and a collapsible layer coupled to the sensor layer. The collapsible layer may be configured to collapse in response to a collapsing force that is substantially equal to the activation force. When the collapsible layer collapses, the sensor layer may simultaneously effectuate the key press in response to application of the collapsing force.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention include an input device (e.g., a computer mouse) including a processor, a housing including a top side, the housing configured to support a user's hand, and a detachable cover plate configured to attach to the top side of the housing and support a user's hand. The cover plate can include a shape memory polymer (SMP) disposed thereon, where the SMP is pliable and operable to conform to the user's hand when a temperature of the SMP is at or above a threshold value. Furthermore, the SMP can be firm and non-conforming when the temperature of the SMP falls below the threshold value. A heating unit controlled by the processor can be configured to control the temperature of the shape memory polymer. The detachable cover plate can include the shape memory polymer disposed in areas configured to contact a user's palm and thumb.

Abstract: An input device including a housing, a cover plate, and a shape-memory polymer (SMP) disposed between the cover plate and the housing. The SMP being a rectangular flat lattice structure formed into a cylinder, the cylinder having a top portion and a bottom portion, where the top portion is coupled to the cover plate, and where the bottom portion is coupled to the housing. The SMP can be conformable at temperatures at or above a threshold value, and non-conformable at temperatures below the threshold value. The input device can include a heating element coupled to the SMP and configured to control the temperature of the SMP. The SMP can be comprised of a conductive ink formed of a density of conductive particulates, an etched conductor structure on a non-conductive substrate, or a conductive and stretchable yarn formed into a coil.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention include an input device (e.g., a computer mouse) including a processor, a housing including a top side, the housing configured to support a user's hand, and a detachable cover plate configured to attach to the top side of the housing and support a user's hand. The cover plate can include a shape memory polymer (SMP) disposed thereon, where the SMP is pliable and operable to conform to the user's hand when a temperature of the SMP is at or above a threshold value. Furthermore, the SMP can be firm and non-conforming when the temperature of the SMP falls below the threshold value. A heating unit controlled by the processor can be configured to control the temperature of the shape memory polymer. The detachable cover plate can include the shape memory polymer disposed in areas configured to contact a user's palm and thumb.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention include an input device (e.g., a computer mouse) including a processor, a housing including a top side, the housing configured to support a user's hand, and a detachable cover plate configured to attach to the top side of the housing and support a user's hand. The cover plate can include a shape memory polymer (SMP) disposed thereon, where the SMP is pliable and operable to conform to the user's hand when a temperature of the SMP is at or above a threshold value. Furthermore, the SMP can be firm and non-conforming when the temperature of the SMP falls below the threshold value. A heating unit controlled by the processor can be configured to control the temperature of the shape memory polymer. The detachable cover plate can include the shape memory polymer disposed in areas configured to contact a user's palm and thumb.