Abstract: An apparatus that includes a self-capacitance touch screen, a capacitive sensing module and a touch detection module is disclosed. The self-capacitance touch screen comprises a set of row electrodes and a set of column electrodes. The capacitive sensing module is electrically coupled with the self-capacitance touch screen. The touch detection module electrically coupled with the capacitive sensing module. The touch detection module is configured to determine from scan data received from the capacitive sensing module respective spatial locations of a first touch and a substantially simultaneous second touch of the self-capacitance touch screen.

Abstract: A new patterning technique, known as Strategic Geometry Isolation (SGI), is used to pattern conductive film structures using laser ablation. In addition to ITO films, SGI may also be used to pattern any other conductive film amenable to ablation with a laser or other directed energy beam. Instead of ablating large areas of ITO to create an ITO void through which underlying layers in a MIPC can project a capacitive field, the SGI patterning technique involves leaving in place, but electrically isolating, the areas that would have been ablated. The electrical isolation of these areas may be accomplished with a single pass of the ablation path. In use, the electrically isolated areas behave similarly to the ITO voids/ablated areas, allowing the underlying capacitive field to project through them. The coupling provided by the electrically isolated areas for the combined layers enhances the capacitive field of the underlying layers.

Abstract: A display includes a substrate having front and rear sides and defining one or more optical paths. A light source corresponding to each optical path is associated with the rear side of the substrate. Light propagates from the light source to the front side of the substrate through the corresponding optical path. Offsetting the light source from the centerline of the optical path improves light diffusion by promoting light reflection off the sides of the optical path. Multiple light sources of different colors can be associated with each optical path to provide for variable color output from each optical path at the front side of the substrate.

Abstract: An intelligent shelving system integrates touch sensors, displays, lighting, and other components into shelves. Touch sensors can be used as limit switches to control shelf motion, to monitor items borne on shelves, to detect spills, and to control lighting and other devices and functions. Displays can provide information relating to objects stored in the shelving system and the operation and status of the shelving system.

Abstract: A touch switch apparatus for detecting the presence of an object such as a human appendage, the apparatus having a touch pad, an electric field generated about the touch pad and also having a preferably integrated and local control circuit connected to the touch pad and to a controlled device. Practical applications for touch switch apparatus, including use of touch switch apparatus in connection with other structure to emulate mechanical switches.

Abstract: A lighting apparatus includes multiple point light sources housed in a reflector housing. The reflector housing diffuses the light produced by the point light sources to emulate a linear light source. Power supplies are provided to energize the light sources, to control heat generation and energy usage, and to provide thermal protection.