Abstract: A microcontroller identifies a maximum x-axis charge time and a maximum y-axis charge time, along with x-axis sensor locations and y-axis that correspond to the maximum charge times (maximum charge time sensor locations). Next, the microcontroller identifies sensor locations that are adjacent to the maximum charge time sensor locations and computes adjacent charge time ratios based upon their corresponding charge times. In turn, the microcontroller uses the largest adjacent charge time ratios and the maximum charge time sensor locations to compute and map an x-axis position and a y-axis position of a user's contact location on a two-dimensional grid.

Abstract: A microcontroller identifies a maximum x-axis charge time and a maximum y-axis charge time, along with x-axis sensor locations and y-axis that correspond to the maximum charge times (maximum charge time sensor locations). Next, the microcontroller identifies sensor locations that are adjacent to the maximum charge time sensor locations and computes adjacent charge time ratios based upon their corresponding charge times. In turn, the microcontroller uses the largest adjacent charge time ratios and the maximum charge time sensor locations to compute and map an x-axis position and a y-axis position of a user's contact location on a two-dimensional grid.

Abstract: “Electrical field (“E-field”) sensor systems that sense displacement or change in displacement of one body relative to another.” In general, the bodies 110, 112 are within an electrical field and displacement of a body causes a change in the E-field. A field sensor 290 detects this change and a processor 275 translates it to a change in position of the displaced body 110. The E-fields are generated by electrodes (or an electrode and a ground member) that generate the E-field. The systems include detectors 240 that detect changes in the E-field, such as capacitance, and transmit these to the processor 275.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides several systems. In general, it provides E-field sensor systems that utilize at least one electrode 100 adapted for creating an E-field in an area 210 within a detection volume where fluid presence 400 or presence of a solid body 300 is to be detected. The electrical field sensor is configured to generate a detected signal responsive to a change in capacitance of the electric field, and is communicatively coupled to the electrode 100. In addition, a processor 275 is configured to determine a quantitative measure of a fluid or solid body within the detection volume in accordance with a capacitive relationship with the detection volume. Described are examples of the system for fluid presence detection, fluid level measurement and measurement of proximity to a solid object.

Abstract: A closed loop audio amplifier system and method of powering up/down the system without producing audible artifacts are provided. During power up, a prebias voltage is provided to each output connected to a speaker to increase the voltage to a nominal output level. High impedance switches are then driven at a 50% duty cycle. Feedback from the output is supplied to a servo, which is enabled to fine tune the output voltage. Low impedance switches are then driven at a 50% duty cycle at a quarter cycle timing. The order of the feedback loop depends on which of the high or low impedance switches are driven. The prebias voltage is then removed before audio signals to be amplified are supplied to the system. Timing of driving of the switches is programmable. To power down, essentially the reverse sequence is provided.

Abstract: A system and method that converts sound energy into electronic control signals. The control signals can be used either to control a secondary object, or to control a display in the playing of a game. A player first creates an audible note or sequence of notes by humming or singing. The system analyzes the audible notes by determining the primary pitch of each of the notes. The primary pitch is then electronically compared to the pitch of other standardized notes. The standardized notes may be the notes of a song or the primary notes in an octave. If the sung notes match the predetermined notes, a first control signal is created that can be use to activate a light or drive a motor. If the sung notes do not match the predetermined notes, secondary control signals are produced that depend upon the degree of derivation between notes.

Abstract: A digital-to-analog (D/A) converter for connecting to a computer's parallel port, while allowing another peripheral to be attached to, and use, the same port. The D/A converter requires no external power supply. The D/A converter may be used to produce speech, music or other sounds.