Abstract: Optical stylus interaction techniques are described. In an implementation, a display of a computing device includes optical sensors capable of detecting images projected by a stylus. A stylus may include a projection system to project various images used to convey interaction information that may be interpreted by the computing device. Based on recognition of different projected images, a context for interaction of the stylus may be ascertained and corresponding operations may be performed by the computing device. This may include resolving a spatial position of the stylus relative to the display device as well as movement of the stylus and images that defines various stylus-based gestures. In addition, the environment for optical stylus interaction enables a writing mode that emulates natural writing by mapping different projectable images to changes in pressure applied to the stylus when in contact with the display.

Abstract: A light concentrator assembly includes a concentrator portion having multiple light concentrators. The light concentrator assembly concentrates light received from different parts of a light source, such as a light emitting diode, and outputs light beams that have an angular spectrum narrower than the light beam received from the light source. Each concentrator of the light concentrator assembly concentrates light from one or more parts of the same light source. Light can optionally be routed from the different parts of the light source to different ones of the multiple light concentrators using multiple angular rotators that maintain the angular spectrum of the light output by the different parts of the light source.

Abstract: Optical stylus interaction techniques are described. In an implementation, a display of a computing device includes optical sensors capable of detecting images projected by a stylus. A stylus may include a projection system to project various images used to convey interaction information that may be interpreted by the computing device. Based on recognition of different projected images, a context for interaction of the stylus may be ascertained and corresponding operations may be performed by the computing device. This may include resolving a spatial position of the stylus relative to the display device as well as movement of the stylus and images that defines various stylus-based gestures. In addition, the environment for optical stylus interaction enables a writing mode that emulates natural writing by mapping different projectable images to changes in pressure applied to the stylus when in contact with the display.

Abstract: A data input device for use with an optically rough tracking surface comprising a substantially coherent light source for projecting a substantially coherent light beam onto the tracking surface for scattering the substantially coherent light beam. An optic guides the projected substantially coherent light beam toward the tracking surface and comprises a first boundary facing the substantially coherent light source and a second boundary opposite the first boundary. A detector detects at least a portion of the scattered light beam comprising a speckle pattern. The optic is arranged such that the tracking surface is spaced from the second boundary by a distance sufficient to inhibit any substantial retro-reflection of the substantially coherent light beam striking the second boundary from striking the detector. A controller responsive to the detector operates the device in a tracking mode for utilizing the detected speckle pattern to track relative movement between the device and the tracking surface.

Abstract: A keypad includes a light emitting source, a light detector and waveguide assembly adapted to receive light from the light emitting source and having a plurality of waveguide branches adapted to conduct light to the light detector. A plurality of user actuated keys is provided. Each key includes a moveable engaging member disposed proximate a waveguide branch to engage the waveguide branch as a function of key operation.

Abstract: An ergonomic keyboard includes a top case having a plurality of key planes that are non-parallel with one another. A plurality of keyswitch bases are positioned within respective ones of the plurality of key planes and are formed with the top case as a single, continuous piece of material.