Abstract: A variable capacitance unit is formed between one portion of a human body and an opposed electrode facing it through a casing of a robot toy (electronic device) when the one portion of the human body such as a hand or a finger approaches the surface of the casing of the robot. Since the capacitance of the variable capacitance unit varies according to the facing area and the facing distance of the one portion of the human body and the opposed electrode, it is possible to detect the one portion of the human body approaching or touching the robot toy by detecting this change. Since the opposed electrode forming the touch sensor can be provided within the casing, the touch sensor cannot be seen directly from the outside of the robot toy.

Abstract: A system and method for allocation of actuators is provided. Electrodes having several voltages are assigned to actuators within correlation regions of the actuators. By varying the voltages, a desired actuation profile for the actuators may be achieved.

Abstract: A method for providing debounce and jog control for a keyboard includes loading a first electronic storage register with a value indicative of a debounce period for the keyboard and loading a second electronic storage register with a value indicative of a jog period for the keyboard. The keyboard is scanned for a pressed key, and a signal indicative of the pressed key is debounced. The method further includes providing electronic signals for key status and jog and asserting an interrupt in accordance with the indicated debounce period and the indicated jog period while the debounced signal indicates the pressed key is down. Keys of the keyboard other than the pressed key are prevented from being scanned until the debounced signal indicates that the pressed key has come up.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided with a first plurality of input keys. Each of the first plurality of input keys is associated with at least one numeric value and at least one alphabetic value and arranged in a numeric and first alphabetic telephone keypad arrangement. The apparatus is also provided with a second plurality of input keys that are at least partially surrounding the first plurality of input keys. At least some of the second plurality of input keys are associated with at least one alphabetic value. Further, input keys of the first and the second plurality of input keys are arranged relative to each other to form a second alphabetic arrangement.

Abstract: Various techniques are provided for reducing the impact of tangential forces on touch location in a touch location device. For example, in one aspect, shunt connections are provided that impede lateral motion of the touch surface structure at the level of the touch plane, thereby reducing to insignificant magnitude reactions to tangential force passing through the sensing connections. In another aspect, sensing connections incorporate elastic means so adjusted as to turn that connection's reaction to tangential touch force perpendicular to its axis of sensitivity. In another aspect, sensing connections incorporate sensing means so adjusted as to turn that connection's axis of sensitivity perpendicular to its reaction to tangential force.

Abstract: A remote controller includes a casing, a support seat, an actuator, and a control circuit. The support seat has a base, and a post that extends from the base and into the casing and that is pivoted to the casing so as to permit the casing to be tiltable relative to the support seat from a horizontal position to an inclined position. The actuator is mounted on the post within the casing. The control circuit is mounted in the casing, and is co-tiltable with the casing relative to the actuator in such a manner that the control circuit is actuated by the actuator when the casing is disposed at the inclined position.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method (200) of generating an array (100, 300, 400) having a reduced number of input/outputs (114, 314, 414). The method includes the steps of, for each array row input/output, grouping (212) at least one set of rows (124, 324, 424) in which the set of rows is coupled to the array row input/output and, for each combination of the array row input/outputs, selectively coupling (216) non-set rows (326, 426) to the array row input/outputs that comprise the combination. At least a portion of a number of rows (110, 310, 410) for the array is equal to the number of rows in each set of rows multiplied by the number of array row input/outputs plus the number of non-set rows coupled to the array row input/output combinations.

Abstract: New techniques are presented for providing proportional activation of model railroad functions and effects with control keys on a model railroad layout control system. This permits for example a throttle device connected to a digital layout control system to provide for a “playable” or variable-pitch whistle sound effect where prior art was severely limited in providing this effect realistically. This invention allows proportional keys with the added ability to control multiple aspects of any effect and to latch proportional values at any state. This invention also allows the expansion of the wireless and Internet connection capabilities of the network of a layout control system so the new proportional capabilities can be carried across these connections.

Abstract: A method, system, apparatus, and program product for moving a pointer on a display screen. A ring capable of being worn by a user contains a sensor unit having multiple sensors. When the user activates one of the sensors, the pointer on the display screen moves in a corresponding direction.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for simultaneously controlling multiple control systems is provided. The resulting hybrid control system provides for sharing of inputs and outputs on a control surface membrane between the multiple distinct control systems. A unified tactile/LED interface for both systems is achieved, allowing for a single hybrid control system experience for operators in industrial, manufacturing and control-room environments.

Abstract: A computer keyboard includes a frame, a grid of conductors located on the frame and forming a plurality of intersections, and a plurality of keys located above the plurality of intersections. Each key is associated with an intersection and configured to create an electrical connection between the conductors of the associated intersection during a key press. The keyboard further includes a base, a plurality of force sensors located between the base and the frame; and a microprocessor. The microprocessor has a plurality of conductor pins each in electrical contact with one of the conductors of the grid, and is also coupled to the force sensors so as to receive force data output from the force sensors.

Abstract: A keypad assembly utilizes touch-detecting apparatus such as force sensors or touchpad assemblies for registering key presses. In exemplary embodiments, the keypad assembly is suitable for use in electronic devices such as a mobile telephones, calculators, hand-held computers, or the like, having single piece molded housings wherein the keypad assembly is at least partially encapsulated within the housing.

Abstract: A portable unit for the input of data in a digital device, includes a control panel (1) on which is located a table (2) with a group of symbols (16) in a number of fields (13), and a base plate (3) with pressure contacts (4, 5). Two selection elements (8, 9) can be moved parallel to the rows (14) and the columns (15) of the table (2) until they are situated opposite to or above a pressure contact (4, 5) in the extension of a selected row (14) or column (15); a pressure mechanism (7) changes the position of the pressure contacts (4, 5) by means of the selection elements (8, 9) situated opposite to or under the latter; and a number of additional pressure contacts (6) which can be manually operated, whose number is equal to the maximum number of symbols (16) of a field (13) is provided.

Abstract: A flexible touch-sense switch includes a force sensitive composite and an at least one proximity sensor. The force sensitive composite includes a plurality of force sensors disposed between a first layer and a second layer of polymide film defining a displacement region. The at least one proximity sensor generates an electromagnetic field that defines a detection region. The force sensitive composite and the at least one proximity sensor are mounted to the first layer of the polymide film for forming a flexible printed circuit board. A control circuit is electrically connected to the force sensitive composite and the at least one proximity sensor for selectively controlling the touch-sense switch activation in response to coincident actuation thereof.

Abstract: A device with a human-machine interface for use as a user control interface, particularly in a an automotive environment, which temporarily indication of the function of a control organ perceptible, when the user begins to actuate it, but has not yet definitively actuated it. The device with a human-machine interface helps the user to find the right control organ, or warms about dangerous control organs. Moreover, ways to finding groups of control organs and verifying the setting of groups of control organs are made possible.

Abstract: A pointing device may be directly soldered to a printed circuit board. In one embodiment, a bottom substrate defines a sensing region with a plurality of interdigitated conductive trace regions. Each trace region includes interdigitated common and sense traces. At least one via passes through the bottom substrate for each trace. Each via supports a conductive path from one trace to at least one lead element. Each lead element is solderable to a printed circuit board. A flexible substrate is constructed from a heat resistant polymer. The flexible substrate has a resistive layer deposited on a bottom side. A raised pedestal is formed on the bottom substrate top face around at least a portion of the sensing region. The pedestal separates the interdigitated conductive traces from the flexible substrate resistive layer. A button on a keypad membrane may be used to depress the flexible substrate onto the trace region.

Abstract: A remote control device that is combined with a modified RFID circuit that allows an individual to enter information into different types of equipment. When an individual touches graphite contacts on the modified RFID circuit with his/her finger, the circuit will activate a RFID reader causing an action on another device.

Abstract: A door lock handle. The door lock handle having a fingerprint recognition module comprises a handle body having an installing groove with a designated size so as to installing the fingerprint recognition module, a handle cover having an exposing groove corresponding to the installing groove so as to expose a fingerprint recognition plate of the fingerprint recognition module installed on the handle body, a switch hole formed by perforating a part of the handle body, and a protruded conductor installed on the switch hole, the conductor serving to sense the grip of the door lock handle of the user. Herein, the conductor is electrically connected to a touch switch circuit mounted on a door lock controlling unit, and the touch switch circuit senses the grip of the door lock handle by the user and provides the sensed signal to the door lock controlling unit.

Abstract: A key sensing device comprises a first conductive contact and a second conductive contact spaced from one another by a low-force spacer element which includes a low-force aperture disposed between the first conductive contact and the second conductive contact. A third conductive contact and a fourth conductive contact are spaced from one another by a high-force spacer element which includes a high-force aperture disposed therebetween. The low-force aperture and the high-force aperture are configured to be aligned with a keyboard key so that a pressing of the keyboard key with a sufficient force causes contact between the first conductive contact and the second conductive contact through the low-force aperture and contact between the third conductive contact and the fourth conductive contact through the high-force aperture. The low-force aperture is larger in size than the high-force aperture.

Abstract: Capacitive proximity sensing is carried out by detecting a relative change in the capacitance of a “scoop” capacitor formed by a conductor and a surrounding ground plane. The conductor may be a plate provided in the form of an adhesive label printed with conductive ink. Charge is transferred between the “scoop” capacitor and a relatively large “bucket” capacitor, and a voltage of the bucket capacitor is applied to an input threshold switch. A state transition (e.g., from low to high, or high to low) of the input threshold switch is detected and a value (TouchVal) indicative of a number of cycles of charge transfer required to reach the state transition is determined. The presence or absence of an object or body portion in close proximity to or contact with a device can be determined by comparing TouchVal with a predetermined threshold value (TouchOff). TouchOff can be adjusted to take into account environmentally induced (non-touch related) changes in the capacitance of the scoop capacitor.

Abstract: A multi-point touch pad device having a base with a top surface that defines a plane. A support layer has a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface of the support layer contains a plurality of strain gauges that are disposed on the top surface of the support layer in a matrix configuration. A touch layer is disposed on top of the strain gauge matrix; the touch layer is joined to the top of the strain gauge matrix. Sensor wires connect the strain gauges to a processor which is programmed with an algorithm to measure the location and pressure of simultaneous, multiple touches.

Abstract: The present invention provides a kind of computer keyboard being able to detect the pressing pressure of keys. The computer keyboard comprises: a plurality of keys; a detecting unit, which outputs a detecting signal according to the pressing pressure of the plurality of keys; and a keyboard controller, which generates a key code according to the detecting signal and sends the key code to a digital device.

Abstract: The input device of the invention includes: a lower sheet on which four resistors are formed in a manner that each two of them with a center put in between are placed to face each other circumferentially with a spacing of about 90°; an upper sheet overlying the lower sheet with a spacing, on which conductors are formed to face the respective resistors; elastic bodies disposed over the upper sheet to face the respective conductors; and an operation member to retain upper parts of the elastic bodies. And, when the operation member is pressed downward, the elastic bodies are brought into contact with the resistors with interventions of the conductors on the upper sheet.

Abstract: An electronic device is formed at least partially from a deflectable material that generates an electrical signal in response to contact. The first material is integrated with a display module to provide a shaped feature on the exterior surface of the display module. The shaped feature detects contact with an external object on one or more contact points, where contact with the contact points corresponds to a defined input for a processor of the electronic device.

Abstract: A remote controller includes a main body where a plurality of accommodation portions are provided, at least one selection button accommodated in one of the accommodation portions to be capable of being replaceable, an ID determination portion which determines an ID assigned to the selection button, and a signal generating portion which generates a remote control signal corresponding to the ID determined by the ID determination portion according to operation of the selection button. Thus, since a user can freely arrange buttons at desired positions, a remote controller can be configured suitable for the taste of the user. Also, the remote controller is flexible to addition or removal of functions of electronic apparatuses to be controlled.

Abstract: An identification apparatus comprises an array of conductive pins fixed onto a base component placed onto a primary device and in communication therewith. A set of shaped identifiers has a plurality of holes through which respective pins on the array of fixed pins pass. Each identifier is uniquely configured with at least one distinct location containing a conductive sleeve fitted therein which allows the passage therethrough of that particular pin for further use by subsequently placed identifiers. Each pin is in individual communication with the primary device such that the primary device can thereafter identify the placed identifiers so as to subsequently perform certain functions or other desired operations based on the type, configuration, and/or number of identifiers placed thereon.

Abstract: An operating device is capable of both digital operation and analog operation by using a pressing operation continuously. The operating device has detecting elements (e.g., pressure-sensitive elements) for outputting analog signals according to the pressing operations of operators, and is configured such that the analog signals output from the detecting elements are subjected to level dividing by a level dividing unit and converted into multi-bit digital signals corresponding to the output levels thereof by an A/D converting unit. The operating device is also configured so as to output single-bit digital signals according to a change in the analog signals output from the detecting element. A switching unit outputs one or the other of the multi-bit digital signals and single-bit digital signals.

Abstract: A rotary knob, particularly an illuminant rotary knob, provides function selection and execution through single-handed operation. The invention includes a light transparent light guide to couple with a compiling controller to facilitate user operations. A plurality of illuminant elements are located around the compiling controller to project light through the light guide to give the rotary knob an illuminant effect.

Abstract: A keyboard allowing typists to use approximate QWERTY finger movements on a more compact, collapsible, and portable keyboard. The keyboard size is made more compact by using thin capacitance-responsive surfaces as key switches for the rows above and below the home row. The bottom, space-bar row is also touch-sensitive and is placed on the side of the keyboard facing the typist. The capacitance-responsive surface for the row of keys switches above the home row has a convex profile, and the capacitance-responsive surface for the row of keys switches below the home row has a concave profile, such that the keyboard can fold compactly upon itself. The home row retains depressible key switches in order to provide standard rest positions for the fingers. Characters and commands assigned to the rows above and below the home row are engaged by sliding the fingers over the capacitance-responsive surfaces adjacent to the home row.

Abstract: The present invention provides a button apparatus for an electrical device having a circuit board with M switch devices wherein M is a positive integer number. The button apparatus includes a body and a pillar. The body has M protrusions respectively corresponding to the M switch devices for selectively actuating the M switch devices. The pillar has a first end and a second end. The second end has a projection used as a pivot. The first end presses against a central part of the body. When the body is pushed downward, the body presses upon the first end and the projection touches against the circuit board for controlling one of the M protrusions to selectively actuate one corresponding switch device.

Abstract: The keypad interface element of this invention uses a relaxation oscillator and a digital keypad processor having a counter/timer to decode specific keys. The RC portion of the relaxation oscillator includes a resistance ladder and a set of momentary on pushbutton switches disposed change resistance dependent upon which key is pressed. This causes the relaxation oscillator to produce an output signal having a corresponding frequency. The counter/timer of the digital keypad processor produces a count corresponding to the oscillator frequency. The digital keypad processor latches and holds a binary number specifically identifying the depressed key. A state machine in the digital keypad processor provides transient-free, noise immune keypad decoding.

Abstract: A self-calibrating touch sensor generally includes a dielectric switch pad in electrical communication with a controller. A forcing function waveform is delivered to the dielectric switch pad. The step response waveform of the dielectric switch pad is then monitored by the controller to detect changes in the dielectric properties of the dielectric switch pad. Upon startup of a system in which the self-calibrating touch sensor is embedded or upon detection of an event indicative of a persistent change in the dielectric environment about the dielectric touch pad, the controller processes the step response waveform to determine the time constant of the circuit comprising the dielectric switch pad. The determined time constant is stored as baseline value by the controller. The controller then monitors the step response waveform for temporary changes from the stored value, indicative of a key press event.

Abstract: The inventive code key comprises a bendable element and a strain gauge connected to the bendable element. The strain gauge changes resistance when the bendable element is moved.

Abstract: An electronic computer keyboard is constructed to provide the minimum keystroke resistance sufficient to prevent accidental switch closures otherwise resulting from the weight of the operator's fingers resting on the keys. This forces the operator to move his or her hands over the keyboard with locked wrists. It also eliminates the need of the operator to hold his or her hands up to prevent inadvertent key depressions thereby reducing stress and fatigue on the operator's shoulders, forearms, wrists and hands.

Abstract: A device and method for implementing a key, in which a field applied to a layer comprising a material whose volume is responsive to the magnitude of field is altered at a specified position to create a key in said position; said field being one of the following: electric field, magnetic field, both of the above.

Abstract: A keyboard data input device includes a one-hand module having a finger section with groups of keys each of which fixedly assigned to a finger of the operator. The keyboard has a cover part which includes a palm rest section and grooves. A group of keys is sequentially arranged at the ground of said grooves to be reached by the outstretched or bent fingers when the operator's hand is in contact with the palm rest section. A thumb section located adjacent to the forefinger groove comprises a flat area which includes groups of command keys, and comprises further keys at an upright wall adjacent to the forefinger groove. The keyboard may be used for two-hand operation by providing two separate one-hand modules. The keyboard comprises a graphical multipurpose display visualize control information and characters typed in. The keyboard may further include a bar code scanner.

Abstract: A control for a window lifter of a motor vehicle includes a sensor in the form of a physical matrix having a pressure sensitive surface. The control also includes keys that define a pressure point. When pressed, the keys influence the pressure sensitive surface. The keys can be fixed to the sensor or can be connected to a support against which the sensor is fixed. The control can easily be reconfigured for different keys without modifying the sensor.

Abstract: The method relates to the input of a security code by means of a touch screen of an electronic device such as a watch for access to a specific function, an apparatus or a given location. This touch screen comprises control keys, which can be activated by a manual action of a user using a finger or a stylus. Each key is linked to a microprocessor unit of the electronic device.

Abstract: An identification apparatus and method comprising an array of retractable pins in association with a housing attached to a base component through which each pin individually passes. The apparatus is attached to a primary device and in communication therewith. Each retractable pin is in individual physical contact with tension springs positioned below the pin and located in a containment sleeve within the housing. Each spring continuously exerts pressure on the base of their respective pins so as to push the pin up through the base component. At the base of each spring is a pressure sensitive pad in communication with the primary device.

Abstract: New techniques are presented for providing proportional activation of model railroad functions with control keys. This permits for example a compact throttle device connected to a digital layout control system to provide for a “playable” or variable-pitch whistle sound effect where prior art was severely limited in providing this effect realistically. This invention allows multiple proportional keys in a cost-effective manner that is compatible with existing keyboard designs.

Abstract: The position of an object, which may be a user's finger, along a body is sensed capacitively. A measurement circuit meters the simultaneous injection of electrical charge into the two ends of the body, which may be shaped as a straight line or as a curve. A computing device computes the ratio of the relative changes in the amount of charge injected into each end of the element. The result of this computation is a one dimensional coordinate number plus a detection state indication, both of which can be fed to another functional element, such as an appliance controller, which interprets the coordinate and detection state as a command or measurement.

Abstract: Each of an excitation element for exciting surface acoustic waves in two directions and a receiving element for receiving surface acoustic waves from two directions is constructed by forming a comb-like electrode on the front surface of a piezoelectric body in the form of a thin film and a plate electrode on the rear surface thereof. The comb-like electrode on the front surface has one line of bus electrode, and a plurality of electrode fingers which are extended from the bus electrode and bent in V-shape in the middle. The voltage in the excitation element and in the receiving element is controlled by providing a terminal resistance for preventing reflection of an applied AC voltage at the terminal end, between the terminal end portion of the comb-like electrode and the plate electrode, or adjusting the resistance value of the bus electrode and/or the plate electrode, or adjusting the capacitance value between the electrode finger and the plate electrode.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a portable unit for the input of data in a digital device, which unit comprises a control panel (1) upon which is provided a table (2) with a group of symbols (16) in a number of fields (13), and a base plate (3) with pressure contacts (4, 5). The unit comprises two selection elements (8, 9) which can be moved parallel to the rows (14) and the columns (15) of the table (2) until they are situated opposite to or above a pressure contact (4, 5) in the extension of a selected row (14) or column (15), a pressure mechanism (7) to change the position of the pressure contacts (4, 5) by means of the selection elements (8, 9) situated opposite to or under the latter, and a number of additional pressure contacts (6) which can be manually operated, whose number is equal to the maximum number of symbols (16) of a filed (13).

Abstract: A compact key input apparatus interface includes a resistive element and a number of key contacts on the resistive element. The keys of a key input apparatus are disposed to provide electrical contact between a voltage source and the resistive element at a particular contact point when a corresponding key is depressed, such that a path from the voltage source to ground is made through the resistive element. The keys are arranged along the length of the resistive element so that the depression of any key provides a different conductive path to ground and therefore a different magnitude of current through the conductive path. A corresponding sense voltage measured at a sampling point provides a single-line input to a key decoder, which determines which key is depressed based on the level of the sense voltage.

Abstract: The invention is related a keystroke structure (3) for an electronic device which includes a shell (2) defining an opening (22). The keystroke structure comprises a cap (32) made of hard plastics such as ABS resin, a flange (34) fixed to a bottom of a periphery of the cap, wherein the flange is made of a material, such as rubber which is more elastic than that for forming the cap. The cap has a portion extending upward through the opening. A rod (42) extends downwardly from a bottom of the cap. A switch assembly (4) consisting of four first switches (44) for cursor direction control and a second switch (46) for “enter” control. The first switches are activated by the rod when the cap is titled, and the second switch is activated by the rod when the cap is vertically depressed. When the cap is titled to activate one of the first switches, the flange engage with a bottom face of the shell.

Abstract: An operation panel 30 is provided with a plurality of operation buttons 36. A string-like resistor body 41 is held in a resistor holding plate 31. The resistor body 41 has a tube-like elastic outer resistor member 42, an inner resistor member 43 loosely arranged within the outer resistor member and insulating spacers 44 arranged between the inner resistor member and the outer resistor member at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction of the inner resistor member so that the inner periphery of the outer resistor member 42 and outer periphery of the inner resistor member 43 are constantly separated from each other. A control unit 53 is provided to produce an operation signal.

Abstract: A keyboard unit capable of making large the stroke of a key top and a sure click touch. In one aspect of the invention, the keyboard unit of the present invention comprises an elastic material such as a domed reversible return spring. In another aspect, a predetermined space is formed between a piezoelectric element and the base plate. The piezoelectric elements may extend underneath two support bodies from a first support body to a second support body. Each membrane switch and the return spring is depressed and reversed by a stem, wherein each of the piezoelectric elements is driven through the contact point of the respective membrane switch. The resulting driving force is transmitted to the respective key top through the stem. The stem is then elastically deformed and contracted by the inertia force pressing the key top to produce the stroke of the key top.

Abstract: A pointing stick device has a substrate, a rectangular-shaped hollow structure installed on the substrate having a central axis substantially vertical to the substrate, at least one strain gauge installed on the rectangular-shaped hollow structure, and a claw structure. The claw structure has at least one claw, and is used to impart a pressure onto the rectangular-shaped hollow structure and curve the rectangular-shaped hollow structure. When the claw of the claw structure imparts pressure on the rectangular-shaped hollow structure, the strain gauge distorts, following the curve of the rectangular-shaped hollow structure, to produce corresponding pointing signals.

Abstract: A pattern sheet 1 made of a flexible synthetic resin film forms, as a single-piece structure, a strain sensor support portion 11 having on the back thereof four resistance films 14 arranged equidistantly about a hole 17 and a wire lead-out portion 12 having formed thereon wires for the resistance films 14 and leads 15; an actuation panel 2 made of a square thin sheet of resilient metal has an actuation-deformable portion 21 with its four corner portions downturned to form step-shaped fixing pieces 22; a joystick 3 is press-fitted in a centrally-disposed hole 23 of the actuation panel 2; the strain sensor support portion 11 is adhesive bonded to the actuation-deformable portion 21 with edges 17 of the support portion 11 held in line contact with the fixing pieces 22; and the fixing pieces 22 are adhesive bonded or welded to a mounting plate 4.

Abstract: An input device with a user-selectable key that includes a proximity detector associated with the key. The proximity detector detects the proximity or touch of a user's finger and provides user feedback related to the function of the key, without actually activating the function of the key. This allows a user to determine what a particular key on a keyboard or other device will do by simply hovering the user's finger near the top of the key, or lightly touching the key without depressing it.