PATENT FILED BY APPLE SUGGESTS IT MAY REPLACE THE KEYBOARD WITH A GIANT TOUCH PAD (PHOTOS)

A patent filed by Apple today shows a laptop similar to a MacBook that features a flat touch surface where a keyboard would normally be.

The invention, dubbed a 'configurable, force-sensitive input structure for an electronic device,' looks similar to its 'Force Touch' trackpads.

A patent filed by Apple today shows a laptop similar to a MacBook that features a flat touch surface where a keyboard would normally be located

These trackpads use haptic technology which senses movement from a user's fingers on the surface.

'The trackpad features built-in force sensors that allow you to click anywhere and haptic feedback that provides a responsive and uniform feel,' Apple says.

A tiny motor then vibrates to give the user feedback on what they are touching.

The patent suggests similar technology laptop keyboard, a number pad, or a track pad.

It claims 'micro-perforations' in the casing could light up to give the user an outline to where keys are on the flat keyboard.

The patent claims 'micro-perforations' in the casing could light up to give the user an outline to where keys are on the flat keyboard (left). The right image shows how the laptop might look like from behind

The invention, dubbed a 'configurable, force-sensitive input structure for an electronic device,' looks similar to its 'Force Touch' trackpads. These trackpads use haptic technology which senses movement from a user's fingers on the surface

APPLE'S PATENT FOR MULTI-TOUCH HOVER-GESTURE SENSORS

According to the patent's description, the aim is to use sensors to detect the movement of multiple digits hovering above them, as well as detect the user's body.

The technical specifications describe the use of infrared LEDs and photodiodes – which detect light.

The design sets out the possibility for users to push 'virtual buttons' on a touch panel without requiring a touch. 

If incorporated into an iPhone, it could mean the display would dim slightly when it comes close to the user's face, sparing the discomfort of a glaring screen.

Multiple sensors could potentially detect if the phone is in the user's pocket, keeping it in low-power mode.

And the position of the haptic keys could also be customised.

'As a result, the force-sensitive input structure can provide unique/configurable input devices or components to a user,' the patent says.

'The input devices can be moved to a specific location of the casing based on user preference,' it added.

The latest design follows a patent filed in February for 'proximity multi-touch sensors'.

The technology would help devices detect fingers or hands 'hovering above a touch-sensitive surface,' enabling users to type on virtual buttons and interact using mid-air hand gestures. 

According to the patent's description, the aim is to use sensors to detect the movement of multiple digits hovering above them, as well as detecting parts of the body.

This could mean that users would be able use the same multi-touch gestures for iPads, Macs and iPhones - such as a single finger to click, and two or more fingers to zoom or scroll – but without having to touch the device.