Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University have designed a unique OLED panel that features a protrusion filled with liquid that can function as a keyboard on the same panel.
According to NotebookCheck, Craig Schultz and Chris Harrison from Carnegie Mellon claim that this pop-up keyboard mechanism can be deformed using an electroosmotic pump (EEOP) system. This innovative development could be the key to a “physical” keyboard for OLED panels in the future.
At the CHI 2023 Conference, it was mentioned that this technology is sophisticated enough for “keys” formed by mini bubbles that take the shape of other objects. So, these “keys” can have shapes like the “Power” icon or even media controls.
The screen used for this pop-up keyboard innovation should be coated with soft silicone instead of protective glass, so this innovation may be suitable for devices like foldable smartphones in the next generation.
Of course, since it is still under development, it cannot be seen for consumer products yet.
