Apple seeks patent for a finger-sensing keyboard technology

Apple is looking for patent for a groundbreaking keyboard technology that can sense fingers, getting ready for typing. The idea was brought into reality by three charismatic inventors, Aleksandar Pance, Michael Sinclair and Brett Bilbrey. The technology works on an air feedback system that can sense the fingers of a computer user even before his/her fingers hit the keys. The facility is basically meant to enhance user experience on keyboards of smaller devices like laptops, notebooks and mobile communication devices, the patent application from Apple mentions.

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The patent application titled, “Input Devices and Methods of Operation,” elaborately explains what the finger sensing keyboard is. The concept makes use of proximity sensors that can improve perceptible reaction from keystrokes for an immediate action. According to Apple, the very idea of the technology was developed from the potential insufficiency of smaller keyboards of laptops and netbooks in providing better user experience. There is indeed a notable disparity between conventional keyboards and those on laptops like Apple MacBook Air in user experience. Apple indents to bridge the gap with the new technology that can boost user experience of smaller keypads.

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The new concept says that a particular key on a keyboard will begin to respond when the user just moves a finger over the key. The keyboard will “flow air from the input device proximate the key in question,” says the Apple patent filing, which was released by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The air may originate from micro-perforated keys or holes adjacent to the key. Another system mentioned in the patent application is that the key will be pneumatically pushed away when the user’s finger approaches the key. Apple says that both the air-based key striking methods will be combined with a device for greater performance.

Via: DigitalTrends