Importance

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Abstract

A controller has a light source, such as a light emitting diode ('LED') and a photosensitive element, such as a photodiode mounted on a substrate, such as a printed circuit board ('PCB'). The controller also includes a flexible element having a first shape (e.g. a substantially flat shape) and located adjacent to the substrate opposite to the light source and the photosensitive element. The flexible element transfers a first portion of light from the light source to the photosensitive element. On application of a force to the flexible element (e.g. by touching the flexible element), the flexible element deforms elastically from the first shape into a second shape. In the second shape, the flexible element transfers a second portion of light to the photosensitive element. On cessation of application of the first force, the flexible element reverts back to the first shape, and so transfers the first portion of light to the photosensitive element. The portion of light transferred by the flexible element in the second shape depends on the deformation of the flexible element, and can be calibrated to measure the amount of such deformation.

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First Claim