Abstract: A user input device utilizes a self-centering flat spring to allow a user interface structure of the device to be manipulated by a user and to return the user interface structure back to its initial position.

Abstract: An optical device and method for making the same is disclosed. The device includes having a circuit element that is located in an opaque enclosure. The circuit element includes a die having an optical integrated circuit mounted on a carrier. The carrier includes a plurality of conductors connected to the optical integrated circuit. The opaque enclosure has a transparent window therein. The carrier is positioned in the enclosure such that light entering the enclosure through the window illuminates the die. The enclosure further includes an aperture through which the conductors protrude from the enclosure. The enclosure is at least partially filled with a layer of optically transparent material that passes light utilized or generated by said optical integrated circuit. The enclosure can be preformed to a higher degree of precision than that obtainable on conventional packaging fabrication lines.

Abstract: An optical input device and method of optically sensing user inputs captures frames of image data using light reflected from an undersurface of a movable pad to estimate movements of the movable pad. Furthermore, the movable pad is automatically returned to an initial position when the movable pad is released.

Abstract: A user input device utilizes a self-centering flat spring to allow a user interface structure of the device to be manipulated by a user and to return the user interface structure back to its initial position.

Abstract: An optical device and method for making the same is disclosed. The device includes having a circuit element that is located in an opaque enclosure. The circuit element includes a die having an optical integrated circuit mounted on a carrier. The carrier includes a plurality of conductors connected to the optical integrated circuit. The opaque enclosure has a transparent window therein. The carrier is positioned in the enclosure such that light entering the enclosure through the window illuminates the die. The enclosure further includes an aperture through which the conductors protrude from the enclosure. The enclosure is at least partially filled with a layer of optically transparent material that passes light utilized or generated by said optical integrated circuit. The enclosure can be preformed to a higher degree of precision than that obtainable on conventional packaging fabrication lines.

Abstract: An optical navigation sensor apparatus for an optical mouse includes an optical navigation sensor having an electronic chip, an aperture plate and an imaging lens integrated into a single package. The imaging lens includes a lens housing surrounding the aperture and providing a barrier to the entry of foreign matter into the aperture. In one form, the optical navigation sensor also includes a light emitting diode (LED) for illuminating a small area of a surface under the sensor and generating a reflected image that is detected by the electronic chip. In a sensor having an integral LED, an integral collimating lens is included for receiving light from the LED and focusing the light from the LED on the surface to be illuminated. The collimating lens is incorporated into a lens housing surrounding the LED and protecting the LED from exposure to foreign material.

Abstract: An optical navigation sensor apparatus for an optical mouse includes an optical navigation sensor having an electronic chip, an aperture plate and an imaging lens integrated into a single package. The imaging lens includes a lens housing surrounding the aperture and providing a barrier to the entry of foreign matter into the aperture. In one form, the optical navigation sensor also includes a light emitting diode (LED) for illuminating a small area of a surface under the sensor and generating a reflected image that is detected by the electronic chip. In a sensor having an integral LED, an integral collimating lens is included for receiving light from the LED and focusing the light from the LED on the surface to be illuminated. The collimating lens is incorporated into a lens housing surrounding the LED and protecting the LED from exposure to foreign material.

Abstract: An optical navigation sensor apparatus for an optical mouse includes an optical navigation sensor having an electronic chip, an aperture plate and an imaging lens integrated into a single package. The imaging lens includes a lens housing surrounding the aperture and providing a barrier to the entry of foreign matter into the aperture. In one form, the optical navigation sensor also includes a light emitting diode (LED) for illuminating a small area of a surface under the sensor and generating a reflected image that is detected by the electronic chip. In a sensor having an integral LED, an integral collimating lens is included for receiving light from the LED and focusing the light from the LED on the surface to be illuminated. The collimating lens is incorporated into a lens housing surrounding the LED and protecting the LED from exposure to foreign material.

Abstract: A connector for an electronic or an optoelectronic component which is plug-in connected to a connecting part of an electrical device, comprising a supporting body which has a receiving recess for receiving the connecting part, the recess being open toward the outside. Further, the connector comprises an electronic or an optoelectronic component which is arranged on the supporting body, and at least one lead which is connected to the electronic or the optoelectronic component and extending therefrom into the recess, wherein an end section of the lead extends into the recess and forms a terminal for being connected to a corresponding terminal of the connecting part received within the recess. Further, a circuit board system comprises a circuit board having an edge on which a terminal is arranged to which the connector is connected.