초록 ▼

Apparatus and methods are disclosed for simultaneously tracking multiple finger and palm contacts as hands approach, touch, and slide across a proximity-sensing, compliant, and flexible multi-touch surface. The surface consists of compressible cushion, dielectric, electrode, and circuitry layers. A

Apparatus and methods are disclosed for simultaneously tracking multiple finger and palm contacts as hands approach, touch, and slide across a proximity-sensing, compliant, and flexible multi-touch surface. The surface consists of compressible cushion, dielectric, electrode, and circuitry layers. A simple proximity transduction circuit is placed under each electrode to maximize signal-to-noise ratio and to reduce wiring complexity. Such distributed transduction circuitry is economical for large surfaces when implemented with thin-film transistor techniques. Scanning and signal offset removal on an electrode array produces low-noise proximity images. Segmentation processing of each proximity image constructs a group of electrodes corresponding to each distinguishable contact and extracts shape, position and surface proximity features for each group. Groups in successive images which correspond to the same hand contact are linked by a persistent path tracker which also detects individual contact touchdown and liftoff. Combinatorial optimization modules associate each contact's path with a particular fingertip, thumb, or palm of either hand on the basis of biomechanical constraints and contact features. Classification of intuitive hand configurations and motions enables unprecedented integration of typing, resting, pointing, scrolling, 3D manipulation, and handwriting into a versatile, ergonomic computer input device.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A sensing device that is sensitive to changes in self-capacitance brought about by changes in proximity of a touch device to the sensing device, the sensing device comprising:two electrical switching means connected together in series having a common node, an input node

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A sensing device that is sensitive to changes in self-capacitance brought about by changes in proximity of a touch device to the sensing device, the sensing device comprising:two electrical switching means connected together in series having a common node, an input node, and an output node;a dielectric-covered sensing electrode connected to the common node between the two switching means;a power supply providing an approximately constant voltage connected to the input node of the series-connected switching means;an integrating capacitor to accumulate charge transferred during multiple consecutive switching of the series connected switching means;another switching means connected in parallel across the integrating capacitor to deplete its residual charge; anda voltage-to-voltage translation device connected to the output node of the series-connected switching means which produces a voltage representative of the proximity of the touch device to the sensing device.