Abstract: A computing device may include a keyboard, a switch in mechanical communication with an underside of a key arranged in the keyboard, a processor, a transmit line electrically connected to the processor, a sense line electrically connected to the processor, and the transmit line and the sense line are selectively connectable through the switch when the key is depressed, memory in communication with the processor, and programmed instructions stored in the memory that, when executed, cause the processor to identify changes in capacitance from the sense line when the key is not depressed, identify a hand gesture performed proximate the keyboard based on the changes in capacitance, and execute an action based on at least one the identification of the hand gesture.

Abstract: An input device includes a keyboard system where the keyboard system includes a keyboard transmit line electrically connected to an integrated circuit, a keyboard sense line electrically connected to the integrated circuit, and the keyboard transmit line and the keyboard sense line are selectively connectable through a switch incorporated into the keyboard system. The input device also includes a capacitive touch system where the capacitive touch system includes a touch transmit line electrically connected to the integrated circuit, and a touch sense line electrically connected to the integrated circuit. The keyboard system and the capacitive touch system use at least one common component of the integrated circuit during operation, and the keyboard system and the capacitive touch system are executable simultaneously.

Abstract: A computing device may include a keyboard, a switch in mechanical communication with an underside of a key arranged in the keyboard, a processor, a transmit line electrically connected to the processor, a sense line electrically connected to the processor, and the transmit line and the sense line are selectively connectable through the switch when the key is depressed, memory in communication with the processor, and programmed instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to measure at least one change in capacitance from the sense line, identify the at least one change as a capacitive characteristic indicative that the key is depressed, identify that logic configured to indicate that the key is depressed from measurements associated with a temporary connection made between the transmit line and the sense line failed to identify the key is depressed, and execute a command to indicate that the key is depressed.

Abstract: A system and method that combines skimmer detection technology with a waterproof and sealed touch sensor keypad that may be used outdoors in wet environments, and is capable of being operated by a user wearing gloves.

Abstract: A deformable sensor may detect changes in capacitance due to relative motion of electrodes in the deformable sensor, or due to a proximate object. In some cases, a controller circuit may communicate with a motion interface system to alter motion of system components when a deformation or proximate object is sensed.

Abstract: A system and method that combines skimmer detection technology with a waterproof and sealed touch sensor keypad that may be used outdoors in wet environments, and is capable of being operated by a user wearing gloves.

Abstract: Improved driven shield electrodes used with capacitance sensors are described in this application. Typical capacitance sensors suffer from parasitic capacitance that can make proximity sensing difficult. The driven shield described herein is divided into multiple portions and an increased drive voltage is applied to at least one of these portions. This increase voltage enhances the electric field of the capacitance sensor and increases the proximity sensitivity. Other embodiments are described.

Abstract: A system and method for activating a trigger on an input device, where a capacitive sensor is used for proximity detection of a finger, and wherein the trigger may provide a range of signal levels instead of an on/off signal.

Abstract: A system and method for activating a trigger on an input device, where a capacitive sensor is used for proximity detection of a finger, and wherein the trigger may provide a range of signal levels instead of an on/off signal.

Abstract: A miniature touchpad disposed underneath a single key cap of a keyboard, wherein the touchpad is disposed within the key cap and provides sensing through the key cap to the key cap surface, wherein a user moves a finger across the key cap surface in order to manipulate a cursor on a display screen, wherein velocity of the cursor on the display screen and direction of movement are both relative to the distance and radial direction of the fingertip from the center of the key cap.