Abstract: Finger navigation methods, devices and systems are disclosed. In one embodiment the system comprises a light source configured to radiate a light beam towards a tactile surface. The system also comprises a photo detector module configured to sense speckle beams emitted by a target surface navigating the tactile surface in response to light hitting the target surface. The system further comprises a processor configured to track a movement of the target surface with respect to the tactile surface based on output from the photo detector module and a conductor structure for capacitive sensing of the target surface with respect to the tactile surface. The conductor structure is configured to determine a plurality of navigational functionalities based on the capacitive sensing of the target surface with respect to the tactile surface, including at least one of single click, double click, and scrolling.

Abstract: One embodiment relates to a laser positioning device for sensing relative movement between a data input device and a surface by determining displacement of image features in a succession of images of the surface. The device forms a single integrated package, which includes a planar substrate and a transparent encapsulant that also embodies a collimating lens. Both a coherent light source and a sensor array and associated circuitry are configured on the planar substrate. Another embodiment relates to a method of sensing relative movement between a data input device and a surface. Coherent light is emitted from a laser and collimated so as to form a collimated illumination beam with a predetermined diameter, D, and a substantially uniform phase front. A speckle pattern is generated by impingement of the collimated illumination beam on the surface and detected by a sensor array. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: One embodiment relates to an optical navigation device. The device includes a lead frame having reference features, a laser, a detector array, and an optical component having alignment features. The laser is attached to the lead frame and positioned in reference to the reference features of the lead frame. The detector array is attached to the lead frame and positioned in reference to the reference features of the lead frame. The optical component is coupled to the lead frame so that its alignment features register to the reference features of the lead frame. In this way, the molded optical component is passively aligned to the laser and the detector array. Other embodiments are also disclosed.