Touchscreen-based keyboard input and computer application modules

Abstract

A module may include: a substrate; a plurality of capacitive electrodes on the substrate for forming a capacitive sensor; at least one haptic actuator; a controller resource in communication with the haptic actuator and the plurality of capacitive electrodes; and memory in communication with the controller resource, the controller resource having programming instructions that, when executed, cause the controller resource to receive keyboard input from a keyboard in communication with the controller resource and to change the touch mode of the capacitive module based on the keyboard input.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for capacitive modules that operate on keyboard-based input. In particular, this disclosure relates to systems and methods for touch modes of capacitive modules that operate on input received from a keyboard.

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 236,497, filed August 22, 2022, entitled "Selective Touch Modes Based on Keyboard Input" by Jon Bertrand et al. U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 236,497 has been assigned to the assignee of this application and is expressly incorporated herein by reference. Prior Technology

[0004] Touchpads are typically integrated into laptops and other devices to provide a mechanism for input. For example, a touchpad may be positioned adjacent to the laptop's keyboard and include a surface that can be touched by the user. Touchpads can operate using capacitive sensing, a technique that senses changes in capacitance when a finger touches the touchpad. In some examples, moving a finger, stylus, or other type of object near the touchpad can move a cursor on a display that communicates with the touchpad.

[0005] An example of a touchpad is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,400,318 to George Gerpheide et al. This reference discloses a touchpad and measurement circuitry for implementing input to a computer or other electronic device. The system includes an X electrode, a Y electrode, a common sensing electrode, and a "water" electrode, wherein these four separate electrodes can be implemented in various physical configurations to achieve the desired effect, wherein moisture and water droplets can be identified and compensated for to avoid interference with data entry, wherein noise suppression is achieved by utilizing a time aperture filtering method, wherein an improved scanning technique focuses the scanning around the identified input object, wherein a self-adjusting motion filter responds to the velocity and acceleration of the tracked object, and wherein the measurement circuitry has an increased dynamic range, enabling the touchpad to operate with greater manufacturing tolerance. The entire contents of this reference are incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] Keyboards are typically integrated into laptops and other devices to provide a mechanism for input to the device. For example, a keyboard may be positioned adjacent to a touchpad on a laptop and include multiple keys that can be pressed to input letters, numbers, symbols, or other commands into the laptop. In some examples, a keyboard may operate using an electrical short circuit as the primary input mechanism. In some examples, a keyboard may also have capacitive elements, possess capacitive functionality, or operate using capacitance.

[0007] An example of a keyboard is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,036,307 to John Green Elias et al. This reference discloses a touch-sensitive mechanical keyboard configured to enable a standard-looking and feel mechanical keyboard to sense subtle hand / finger movements on the key surfaces. Commands and cursor input (e.g., pointing and gestures) from the user can be received on the touch-sensitive mechanical keyboard without requiring the user to remove their hands from the keyboard. Subtle hand / finger movement detection can be achieved by embedding a group of capacitive sensors near the surface of the keyboard keys. The touch-sensitive mechanical keyboard can operate in two or more modes—e.g., typing mode and mouse mode—and can be conveniently operated in mouse mode or switched between modes by pressing and holding (pressing and holding) or tapping (pressing and releasing) any combination of keys, or by detecting the number of fingers on the touch-sensitive mechanical keyboard.

[0008] Each of these references incorporates its entire public content into this paper by reference. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The capacitive module may include: a substrate; a plurality of capacitive electrodes on the substrate for forming a capacitive sensor; at least one haptic actuator; a controller resource communicating with the at least one haptic actuator and the plurality of capacitive electrodes; and a memory communicating with the controller resource, the memory having programming instructions that, when executed, cause the controller resource to receive keyboard input from a keyboard communicating with the controller resource; and to change the touch mode of the capacitive module based on the keyboard input.

[0010] Changing the operating mode can include changing the touch mode from active touch mode to inactive touch mode.

[0011] At least one tactile actuator may be part of a plurality of tactile actuators.

[0012] The programming instructions can be further configured to cause the controller resources to operate multiple haptic actuators in the same operating mode when they are run.

[0013] The controller resource can communicate with at least one pressure sensor.

[0014] At least one pressure sensor can be incorporated into the haptic actuator.

[0015] At least one pressure sensor may be independent of the haptic actuator, wherein the at least one pressure sensor may be incorporated into the capacitive module.

[0016] The programming instructions can be configured to disable the pressure sensor when the capacitive module is in an inactive touch mode, when the module is being run.

[0017] The programming instructions can be configured to ignore pressure sensor measurements when the capacitive module is in an inactive touch mode during runtime.

[0018] Changing the operating mode can include changing the touch mode from active touch mode to partially active touch mode.

[0019] Some active touch modes include triggering the haptic actuator when user input is located in a first area adjacent to the substrate, and disabling the haptic actuator when user input is located in a second area adjacent to the substrate.

[0020] The first region adjacent to the substrate can be close to the keyboard input position.

[0021] The first area adjacent to the substrate can be within two inches of the keyboard input location.

[0022] A computer program product for using the module may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions executable by a processor to: receive keyboard input; and send instructions to change the operating mode of the haptic actuator incorporated in the capacitive module, at least in part, based on the location of the keyboard input.

[0023] Changing the operating mode can include changing the touch mode from active touch mode to inactive touch mode.

[0024] Changing the operating mode can include changing the touch mode from active touch mode to partially active touch mode.

[0025] Some active touch modes may include triggering the haptic actuator when user input can be located within a first area of ​​the touchpad, and disabling the haptic actuator when user input can be located within a second area of ​​the touchpad.

[0026] The first region adjacent to the substrate can be close to the keyboard input position.

[0027] The first area adjacent to the substrate can be within two inches of the keyboard input location.

[0028] One approach may include receiving keyboard input and sending instructions to change the operating mode of a haptic actuator incorporated in a capacitive module, at least in part, based on the location of the keyboard input. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0029] Figure 1 depicts an example of an electronic device according to this disclosure.

[0030] Figure 2 depicts an example of a substrate having a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes according to this disclosure.

[0031] Figure 3 depicts an example of a touchpad according to this disclosure.

[0032] Figure 4 depicts an example of a touch screen according to this disclosure.

[0033] Figure 5 depicts an example of an input surface according to this disclosure.

[0034] Figure 6 depicts an example of an input surface according to this disclosure.

[0035] Figure 7 depicts an example of keyboard input using a proximity capacitive sensor according to this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 8 depicts an example of keyboard input using a proximity capacitive sensor according to this disclosure.

[0037] Figure 9 depicts an example of keyboard input using a proximity capacitive sensor according to this disclosure.

[0038] Figure 10 depicts an example of a table of capacitive sensor patterns according to this disclosure.

[0039] Figure 11 depicts an example of a capacitance sensor according to this disclosure.

[0040] Figure 12 depicts an example of a capacitance sensor according to this disclosure.

[0041] Figure 13 depicts an example of a capacitive sensor communicating with a controller according to this disclosure.

[0042] Figure 14 depicts an example of a keyboard communicating with a controller according to this disclosure.

[0043] Figure 15 illustrates an example of a method for operating a capacitance sensor according to this disclosure.

[0044] Figure 16 illustrates an example of a method for operating a capacitance sensor according to this disclosure.

[0045] Figure 17 depicts an example of a keyboard communicating with a haptic actuator of a capacitive module according to this disclosure.

[0046] Figure 18 depicts an example of a keyboard communicating with a haptic actuator of a capacitive module according to this disclosure.

[0047] Figure 19 depicts an example of a keyboard communicating with a haptic actuator of a capacitive module according to this disclosure.

[0048] Figure 20 depicts an example of a table with touch modes according to this disclosure.

[0049] Figure 21 illustrates an example of a keyboard, haptic actuator, and capacitive electrodes communicating with controller resources according to this disclosure.

[0050] Figure 22 illustrates an example of a method for operating a capacitance sensor according to this disclosure.

[0051] While this disclosure is open to various modifications and substitutions, specific embodiments have been illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed. Rather, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Implementation

[0052] This description provides examples and is not intended to limit the scope, utility, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the following description will provide those skilled in the art with a valid description for carrying out embodiments of the invention. Various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements.

[0053] Therefore, various embodiments may omit, replace, or add various programs or elements as needed. For example, it should be understood that the method may be performed in a sequence different from the described order, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Moreover, aspects and elements described with respect to certain embodiments may be combined in various other embodiments. It should also be understood that the following systems, methods, apparatuses, and software may individually or collectively form part of a larger system, wherein other programs may be used preferentially or otherwise modified.

[0054] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "aligned" generally refers to parallel, substantially parallel, or forming an angle of less than 35.0 degrees. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "lateral" generally refers to perpendicular, substantially perpendicular, or forming an angle between 55.0 and 125.0 degrees. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "length" generally refers to the longest dimension of an object. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "width" generally refers to the dimension of an object from one side to the other, and may refer to a measurement of the object's length perpendicular to the object's dimensions.

[0055] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "electrode" may generally refer to a portion of an electrical conductor intended for use in making a measurement, and the terms "path" and "trace" generally refer to a portion of an electrical conductor in which a measurement is made. For the purposes of this disclosure, with respect to a circuit, the term "circuit" generally refers to a combination of an electrode and a portion of an electrical conductor that is a "path" or "trace". For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "Tx" generally refers to a transmission line, an electrode, or a portion thereof, and the term "Rx" generally refers to a sensing line, an electrode, or a portion thereof.

[0056] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "electronic device" can generally refer to a device that is transportable and includes batteries and electronic components. Examples may include notebook computers, desktop computers, mobile phones, tablet computers, personal digital devices, watches, game controllers, gaming wearables, wearable devices, measuring devices, automation devices, security devices, displays, computer mice, vehicles, infotainment systems, audio systems, consoles, other types of devices, motion tracking devices, tracking devices, card readers, purchasing stations, kiosks, or combinations thereof.

[0057] It should be understood that the terms "capacitive module," "touchpad," and "touch sensor" used throughout this document are interchangeable with "capacitive touch sensor," "capacitive sensor," "capacitive sensor type," "capacitive touch and proximity sensor," "proximity sensor," "touch and proximity sensor," "touch panel," "touchpad," "touch panel," and "touchscreen." Capacitive modules can be incorporated into electronic devices.

[0058] It should be understood that, as used herein, the terms “vertical,” “horizontal,” “horizontal,” “up,” “down,” “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” etc., can refer to the relative orientation or position of features in the disclosed apparatus and / or elements shown in the figures. For example, “up” or “top” can refer to a feature that is closer to the top of the page than another feature. However, these terms should be broadly interpreted to include apparatus and / or elements having other orientations (e.g., inverted or tilted orientations), where top / bottom, above / below, above / below, up / down, and left / right can be interchanged depending on the orientation.

[0059] In some cases, the capacitor module is located within a housing. The capacitor module may be located below the housing and capable of detecting objects outside the housing. In examples where the capacitor module can detect capacitance changes through the housing, the housing is a capacitance reference surface. For example, the capacitor module may be housed within a cavity formed by the keyboard housing of a computer (e.g., a laptop computer or other type of computing device), and the sensor may be located below the surface of the keyboard housing. In such examples, the keyboard housing adjacent to the capacitor module is the capacitance reference surface. In some examples, an opening may be formed in the housing, and a cover layer may be located within the opening. In this example, the cover layer is the capacitance reference surface. In such examples, the capacitor module may be positioned adjacent to the back of the cover layer, and the capacitor module can sense the presence of an object through the thickness of the cover layer. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "reference surface" can generally refer to a surface on which a pressure sensor, capacitance sensor, or other type of sensor is placed to sense pressure, presence, position, touch, proximity, capacitance, magnetism, electrical properties, other types of properties, or other characteristics, or combinations thereof, indicating input. For example, the reference surface may be a housing, a cover layer, or other type of surface that senses input. In some examples, the reference surface has no moving parts. In some examples, the reference surface may be made of any suitable type of material, including but not limited to plastics, glass, dielectric materials, metals, other types of materials, or combinations thereof.

[0060] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "display" may generally refer to a display or screen not depicted in the same area as the capacitive reference surface. In some cases, the display is incorporated into a notebook computer, where the keyboard is located between the display and the capacitive reference surface. In some examples where the capacitive reference surface is incorporated into a notebook computer, the capacitive reference surface may be part of a touchpad. Pressure sensors may be integrated into the stack that constitutes the capacitive module. However, in some cases, pressure sensors may be located in another part of the notebook computer, for example, below the keyboard housing but outside the area used for sensing touch input, on the side of the notebook computer, above the keyboard, on the side of the keyboard, at other locations on the notebook computer, or at other locations. In examples where these components are integrated into a notebook computer, the display may be pivotally connected to the keyboard housing. The display may be a digital screen, a touch screen, another type of screen, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the display and the capacitive reference surface are located on the same device, while in other examples, the display is located on a different device than the device on which the capacitive reference surface is located. For example, the display may be projected onto a different surface, such as a wall or a projector screen. In some examples, the reference surface may be located on an input or game controller, and the display may be located on a wearable device, such as a virtual reality or augmented reality screen. In some cases, the reference surface and the display are located on the same surface, but at different locations on that surface. In other examples, the reference surface and the display may be integrated into the same device, but located on different surfaces. In some cases, the reference surface and the display may be oriented at different angles relative to each other.

[0061] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "keyboard input" may generally refer to input on a keyboard that sends specific electrical signals to a controller communicating with the keyboard. In some examples, keyboard input may send a signal to the controller to indicate that a key on the keyboard has been pressed. In some examples, the controller communicating with the keyboard may determine the key, the key's position, the length of the key press, the pressure applied to the key, other attributes of the input, or combinations thereof. In some examples, keyboard input may correspond to an electrical short circuit created by pressing a key and making contact with the contact array on the keyboard. In other examples, keyboard input may correspond to a capacitance reading on the contact grid of an object moving close to the keyboard. In some examples, the keyboard is an input device separate from the capacitive module. In some cases, the controller controlling the operation of the keyboard is independent of another controller controlling the operation of the capacitive module. In some cases, the position of the keyboard input may determine the mode of touch input. In some examples, the position of the keyboard input may determine which part of the capacitive module operates in a different mode. For example, keyboard input via buttons located in front of the capacitive module (e.g., facing the laptop screen) and near the right side can allow the capacitive module to switch between different modes only on the right side of the capacitive module.

[0062] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "capacitive input keyboard" may generally refer to a keyboard that receives input based on capacitive signals from an object moving near the keyboard. In some examples, a capacitive input keyboard may be integrated into a touchscreen device. In some examples, a capacitive keyboard may change size, shape, or position based on input from a controller communicating with the keyboard. In some examples, a capacitive input keyboard may determine the position, amplitude, speed, other properties, or combinations thereof, of capacitive input from an object moving near the capacitive input keyboard.

[0063] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "active mode" generally refers to an operating mode in which a portion of a capacitance sensor receives a capacitance input and that input is output from a controller that communicates with the capacitance sensor.

[0064] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "inactive mode" generally refers to an operating mode in which a portion of the capacitive sensor does not receive capacitive input or the received input is not output from a controller communicating with the capacitive sensor. In some examples, the controller may receive signals from the capacitive sensor, but the controller does not output the signals to other systems. In some examples, the sensor may have one or more electrodes that are de-energized. In some examples, the electrical signals output by the capacitive sensor may be ignored by the controller.

[0065] Figure 1 depicts an example of an electronic device 100. In this example, the electronic device is a notebook computer. In the example shown, the electronic device 100 includes input elements (such as a keyboard 102) and capacitive modules (such as a touchpad 104), which are incorporated into a housing 103. The electronic device 100 also includes a display 106. Programs operated by the electronic device 100 can be displayed on the display 106 and controlled by a series of commands provided by the user via the keyboard 102 and / or via the touchpad 104. An internal battery (not shown) can be used to power the operation of the electronic device 100.

[0066] Keyboard 102 includes an arrangement of keys 108, which can be individually selected when a user presses a key with sufficient force, causing the key 108 to be pressed against a switch located below keyboard 102. In response to the selection of key 108, a program can receive instructions on how to operate; for example, a word processing program determines which types of words to process. The user can use touchpad 104 to provide different types of instructions to programs running on computing device 100. For example, a cursor displayed on display 106 can be controlled via touchpad 104. The user can control the cursor's position by sliding his or her hand along the surface of touchpad 104. In some cases, the user can move the cursor to or near an object on the display of the computing device and provide a command to select that object via touchpad 104. For example, the user can provide an object selection command by tapping the surface of touchpad 104 once or multiple times.

[0067] Touchpad 104 is a capacitive module comprising multiple layers disposed beneath the keyboard housing, beneath a cover layer (adapted into an opening in the keyboard housing), or beneath another capacitive reference surface. In some examples, the capacitive module is located in an area of ​​the keyboard surface where a user's palm can rest while typing. The capacitive module may include a substrate, such as a printed circuit board or other type of substrate. One layer of the capacitive module may include a sensor layer comprising a first set of electrodes oriented along a first direction and a second layer of electrodes oriented along a second direction transverse to the first direction. These electrodes may be spaced apart and / or electrically isolated from each other. Electrical isolation can be achieved by depositing at least a portion of the electrodes on different sides of the same substrate or by providing a dedicated substrate for each set of electrodes. Capacitance can be measured at the overlapping intersections between different sets of electrodes. However, the capacitance between the electrodes may change when an object with a dielectric value different from that of the surrounding air (e.g., a finger, stylus, etc.) approaches the intersection between the electrodes. This change in capacitance and the relative position of the object with respect to the capacitive module can be calculated to determine the position where the user touches or hovers the object within the detection range of the capacitive module. In some examples, the first and second sets of electrodes are equidistant from each other. Therefore, in these examples, the sensitivity of the capacitor module is the same in both directions. However, in other examples, the distance between the electrodes can be non-uniform to provide higher sensitivity for movement in certain directions.

[0068] In some cases, the display 106 is mechanically separate and movable relative to the keyboard via a connection mechanism 114. In these examples, the display 106 and the keyboard 102 can be connected to each other and movable relative to each other. The display 106 can be movable relative to the keyboard 102 within a range of 0 degrees to 180 degrees or greater. In some examples, when in the off position, the display 106 can fold over the upper surface of the keyboard 102, and when the display 106 is in the operating position, the display 106 can fold away from the keyboard 102. In some examples, when in use by a user, the display 106 can be oriented at an angle between 35 degrees and 135 degrees relative to the keyboard 102. However, in these examples, the display 106 can be positioned at any angle desired by the user.

[0069] In some examples, display 106 may be a non-touch-sensitive display. However, in other examples, at least a portion of display 106 is touch-sensitive. In these examples, the touch-sensitive display may also include a capacitive module located behind the outer surface of display 106. When a user's finger or other object approaches the touch-sensitive screen, the capacitive module can detect changes in capacitance as input from the user.

[0070] While the example in Figure 1 depicts a notebook computer as an example of an electronic device, capacitive sensors and touch surfaces can be incorporated into any suitable device. The non-exhaustive list of devices includes, but is not limited to, desktop computers, monitors, screens, kiosks, computing devices, tablet computers, smartphones, position sensors, card readers, other types of electronic devices, other types of devices, or combinations thereof.

[0071] Figure 2 depicts an example of a portion of a capacitor module 200. In this example, the capacitor module 200 may include a substrate 202, a first set of electrodes 204, and a second set of electrodes 206. The first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be oriented laterally relative to each other. Furthermore, the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be electrically isolated from each other, preventing the electrodes from short-circuiting. However, capacitance can be measured when the electrodes of the first set of electrodes 204 overlap with the electrodes of the second set of electrodes 206. The capacitor module 200 may include one or more electrodes from the first set of electrodes 204 or the second set of electrodes 206. This substrate 202 and electrode assembly may be incorporated into a touchscreen, touchpad, position sensor, game controller, button, and / or detection circuitry.

[0072] In some examples, the capacitor module 200 is a mutual capacitance sensing device. In such examples, the substrate 202 has a set of row electrodes 204 and a set of column electrodes 206 that define the touch / proximity sensing area of ​​the component. In some cases, the element is configured as a rectangular grid of an appropriate number of electrodes (e.g., 8×6, 16×12, 9×15, etc.).

[0073] As shown in Figure 2, the capacitive module 200 includes a touch controller 208. The touch controller 208 may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an analog front-end (AFE) including an amplifier, a peripheral interface controller (PIC), other types of microprocessors, and / or combinations thereof, and may be implemented using appropriate circuitry, hardware, firmware, and / or software as an integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a combination of logic gates, other types of digital or analog electrical design elements, or combinations thereof, to select from available operating modes.

[0074] In some cases, the touch controller 208 includes at least one multiplexing circuit to alternately operate which of the electrode groups 204, 206 as driving electrodes and sensing electrodes. Driving electrodes can be driven sequentially one at a time, or randomly, or multiple electrodes can be driven simultaneously in an coded mode. Other possible configurations include, for example, a self-capacitance mode where electrodes are simultaneously driven and sensed. The electrodes can also be arranged in a non-rectangular array, such as a radial pattern, linear string, etc. A masking layer (see Figure 3) can be placed under the electrodes to reduce noise or other interference. The masking layer can extend beyond the electrode grid. Other configurations are also possible.

[0075] In some cases, measurements are not performed using a fixed reference point. The touch controller 208 can generate signals that are sent directly to the first set of electrodes 204 or the second set of electrodes 206 in various modes.

[0076] In some cases, the element does not rely on absolute capacitance measurements to determine the position of a finger (or stylus, indicator, or other object) on the surface of the capacitive module 200. The capacitive module 200 can measure charge imbalances that act as sensing electrodes; in some examples, these sensing electrodes can be any electrodes specified in electrode groups 204, 206, or in other examples, dedicated sensing electrodes. When there is no pointing object on or near the capacitive module 200, the touch controller 208 can be in a balanced state, and there is no signal on the sensing electrodes. When a finger or other pointing object creates an imbalance due to capacitive coupling, changes in capacitance can occur at the intersections between electrode groups 204, 206 that constitute the touch / proximity sensing area. In some cases, changes in capacitance are measured. However, in alternative examples, absolute capacitance values ​​can be measured.

[0077] While this example has described the flexibility of the capacitor module 200 to switch electrode groups 204, 206 between sensing and transmitting electrodes, in other examples, each electrode group is dedicated to either transmitting or sensing functions.

[0078] Figure 3 depicts an example of a substrate 202 incorporated into a capacitor module, wherein a first set of electrodes 204 and a second set of electrodes 206 are deposited on the substrate 202. The first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be spaced apart from each other and electrically isolated from each other. In the example depicted in Figure 3, the first set of electrodes 204 is deposited on a first side of the substrate 202, and the second set of electrodes 206 is deposited on a second side of the substrate 202, wherein the second side is opposite to the first side and spaced apart by the thickness of the substrate 202. The substrate may be made of an electrically insulating material to prevent the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 from short-circuiting with each other. As depicted in Figure 2, the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be laterally oriented relative to each other. Capacitance measurements can be performed at the electrode intersections where the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 overlap. In some examples, a voltage may be applied to the emitter electrode, and the voltage of the sensing electrode overlapping the emitter electrode may be measured. The voltage of the sensing electrode may be used to determine the capacitance at the intersection where the sensing electrode and the emitter electrode overlap.

[0079] In the example of Figure 3 depicting a cross-section of the capacitor module, substrate 202 may be located between capacitor reference surface 212 and masking layer 214. Capacitor reference surface 212 may be a cover layer positioned above a first side of substrate 202 and at least partially permeable to an electric field. When a user's finger or stylus approaches capacitor reference surface 212, the presence of the finger or stylus may affect the electric field on substrate 202. When a finger or stylus is present, the voltage measured from the sensing electrodes may differ from the voltage measured when the finger or stylus is absent. Therefore, changes in capacitance can be measured.

[0080] Masking layer 214 may be a conductive layer that shields against electrical noise from internal components of the electronic device. This masking layer can prevent the influence of electric fields on substrate 202. In some cases, the masking layer is a conductive solid material. In other cases, the masking layer has a substrate and a conductive material disposed on at least one substrate. In other examples, the masking layer is a layer in a touchpad that performs functions and also shields electrodes from electrical interference noise. For example, in some examples, a primitive layer in a display application can form an image visible through a capacitive reference surface and also shield the electrodes from electrical noise.

[0081] The voltage applied to the emitting electrode can be transmitted via electrical connection 216 from the touch controller 208 to the appropriate electrode assembly. The voltage applied to the sensing electrode by the electric field generated from the emitting electrode can be detected via electrical connection 218 from the sensing electrode to the touch controller 208.

[0082] Although the example in Figure 3 is depicted as having two sets of electrodes deposited on the substrate, one set of electrodes deposited on the first side and the second set of electrodes deposited on the second side; in other examples, each set of electrodes may be deposited on its own dedicated substrate.

[0083] Furthermore, while the examples above describe touchpads with a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes, in some examples, the capacitive module has a single set of electrodes. In such examples, the electrodes of the sensor layer can act as both transmitting and receiving electrodes. In some cases, a voltage can be applied to the electrodes for a period of time, which changes the capacitance around the electrodes. At the end of that period, the voltage application is stopped. The voltage can then be measured from the same electrode to determine the capacitance. If there is no object (e.g., a finger, stylus, etc.) on or near the capacitive reference surface, the electrode voltage measured after the voltage interruption may coincide with the reference capacitance. However, if an object touches or is near the capacitive reference surface, the measured voltage can indicate the change in capacitance relative to the reference capacitance.

[0084] In some examples, the capacitor module has a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes, and the capacitor module communicates with a controller that is configured to perform mutual capacitance measurements (e.g., capacitance measurements using both the first and second sets of electrodes) or self-capacitance measurements (e.g., capacitance measurements using only one set of electrodes).

[0085] Figure 4 depicts an example of a capacitive module incorporated into a touchscreen. In this example, the substrate 202, electrode groups 204, 206, and electrical connections 216, 218 can be arranged similarly to those described in conjunction with Figure 3. In the example of Figure 4, a mask layer 214 is located between the substrate 202 and the display layer 400. The display layer 400 can be a pixel layer or a diode layer that emits light to generate an image. The display layer can be a liquid crystal display, a light-emitting diode display, an organic light-emitting diode display, an electroluminescent display, a quantum dot light-emitting diode display, an incandescent filament display, a vacuum fluorescent display, a cathode gas display, other types of displays, or combinations thereof. In this example, the mask layer 214, the substrate 202, and the capacitive reference surface 212 can all be at least partially optically transparent to allow a user to see the image displayed in the display layer through the capacitive reference surface 212. Such a touchscreen can be included in monitors, display elements, notebook computers, mobile phones, mobile devices, tablet computers, dashboards, display panels, infotainment devices, other types of electronic devices, or combinations thereof.

[0086] Figure 5 depicts an example cross-section of a capacitor module 200, wherein a substrate 202 may be located between a capacitor reference surface 212 and a masking layer 214. In this example, a first pressure sensor 500 and a second pressure sensor 502 are incorporated into the capacitor module board 200. As depicted in this example, pressure sensors 500, 502 may be positioned adjacent to the underside of the masking layer 214. However, in other examples, pressure sensors may be located at any suitable location, including but not limited to the underside of the capacitor reference surface 212, the underside of the masking layer, the underside of the substrate 202, other locations, or combinations thereof. In the example where pressure sensors 500, 502 are located below the substrate 202, pressure applied to the capacitor reference surface 212 can be transmitted through the capacitor reference surface 212, thereby applying pressure to the substrate 202, and consequently applying pressure to at least one of the pressure sensors 500, 502. In the example where the pressure sensors are positioned adjacent to the masking layer, pressure applied to the input surface can be transmitted to the masking layer, which in turn applies pressure to the pressure sensors. The pressure can be measured by pressure sensors 500 and 502 to determine the pressure value. In this example, the first pressure sensor 500 and the second pressure sensor 502 are spaced apart along the length, width, and / or other dimensions of the capacitive reference surface 212. This allows the first pressure sensor 500 and the second pressure sensor 502 to detect different levels of pressure depending on the location of the pressure input on the capacitive reference surface 212. In some cases, pressure sensors closer to the pressure input may detect greater pressure than those located further away. Different pressure values ​​can help determine the location of the pressure input.

[0087] While this example depicts a pressure sensor integrated with a capacitance sensor within a capacitance module, in other examples, the pressure sensor is not integrated with a capacitance sensor. Furthermore, any suitable type of pressure sensor can be used based on the principles described herein. For example, a non-exhaustive list of suitable pressure sensors includes, but is not limited to, piezoelectric sensors, magnetostrictive sensors, potentiometric pressure sensors, inductive pressure sensors, capacitive pressure sensors, strain gauge pressure sensors, variable magnetoresistive pressure sensors, other types of pressure sensors, or combinations thereof.

[0088] In some examples, the pressure sensor may also include the ability to provide tactile feedback. For example, a piezoelectric device can be used as both a pressure sensor and a touch device. When a piezoelectric material is compressed due to pressure applied through a capacitive reference surface, the piezoelectric material can generate an electrical signal that can be detected by a controller. In some cases, the controller can generate an electrical signal sent to the piezoelectric material to cause the piezoelectric material to expand, contract, and / or vibrate. Vibration from the piezoelectric material can cause the capacitive reference surface to vibrate. This vibration can convey a touch signal to the user. However, in some examples, the pressure sensor is not configured to provide a touch signal.

[0089] Figure 6 depicts an example of a reference surface 600. In this example, a first pressure sensor 602 and a second pressure sensor 604 are adjacent to the reference surface 600. In this example, the first pressure sensor 602 and the second pressure sensor 604 are not incorporated into a stack with capacitive sensors.

[0090] Figure 7 depicts an example of an electronic device 700, which includes a keyboard 701 located near a capacitive sensor 702. The capacitive sensor has a first portion 704 and a second portion 706. User input may include a finger 708 pressing a key 710 on the keyboard 701. A controller communicating with the keyboard and / or the capacitive sensor may receive input associated with the finger 708 pressing the key 710. In some examples, the controller may change the mode of one or both of the portions 704 and 706 of the capacitive sensor 702. In some examples, when the controller receives input from the finger 708 pressing the key 710, the controller may change the first portion 704 of the capacitive sensor to an inactive mode. In some examples, the second portion 706 may continue to operate in the active mode, while the first portion 704 operates in the inactive mode.

[0091] In some examples, the controller communicating with the keyboard 701 and the capacitive sensor 702 can determine the mode of portions 704 and 706 of the capacitive sensor 702 based at least in part on input on the keyboard. In some examples, any key press on a portion of the keyboard near the capacitive sensor may cause that portion of the capacitive sensor 702 to change mode. For example, if input corresponding to a key on the keyboard corresponding to a second portion 706 of the adjacent capacitive sensor 702 is detected, the second portion 706 may change mode. In some examples, any key press to the right of a predetermined key group may change the mode of the second portion 706 of the capacitive sensor 702, while any key press to the left of a predetermined key group may change the mode of the first portion 704 of the capacitive sensor 702.

[0092] In some examples, switching the mode of at least one part of the capacitance sensor may appear to the user as disabling the capacitance sensor. In some cases, the first mode may cause the controller to stop processing inputs to that part of the capacitance sensor, stop enabling the sensing electrodes of that part of the capacitance sensor, stop measuring that part of the capacitance sensor, stop sending outputs of the controller associated with that part of the controller, stop sending transmission signals to that part of the capacitance sensor, run other events that cause that part of the capacitance sensor to behave as disabled, or a combination thereof.

[0093] In some examples, the keyboard 701 can operate using an electrical short circuit. In some examples, when a key is pressed, the conductive terminal on the underside of the key can contact a live electrical grid and create an electrical short circuit. In some examples, this electrical short circuit can be detected as a pressed input by a controller communicating with the keyboard. In some examples, capacitance measurements can be detected on the power grid before a short circuit is triggered by a key press. In some examples, a moving finger near the power grid may affect capacitance measurements on the power grid. For example, if a hand is positioned on or near a key on the keyboard, the controller communicating with the keyboard can determine that the capacitance at the location corresponding to that key on the keyboard has changed. In such examples, the controller can determine that a finger is near a key even if no key is pressed.

[0094] In some examples, a controller communicating with keyboard 701 and / or capacitance sensor 702 can detect capacitance measurements on keyboard 701. In some examples, the controller can change the mode of portions 704, 706 of capacitance sensor 702 based at least in part on capacitance measurements on keyboard 701. For example, on a standard English keyboard, the "a" key is typically located on the left side of the keyboard. If a finger is detected capacitively near the "a" key, the controller communicating with the keyboard can determine that the hand is positioned on or near that key. The controller can determine, at least in part, that input detected on the left side of the capacitance sensor can be ignored based on the detected finger position.

[0095] In some examples, a controller communicating with capacitive sensor 702 can change the mode of portions 704 and 706 of capacitive sensor 702. In some examples, the mode of these portions can be changed in response to detecting electrical changes on keystrokes and / or portions of a keyboard. In some examples, the controller can electrically shut off one of portions 704 and 706. In some examples, the controller can ignore input on one of portions 704 and 706. In some examples, the controller can change how it interprets input on portions 704 and 706. In some examples, the controller can change the sensitivity of portions 704 and 706 of capacitive sensor 702. In some examples, the controller can change the priority of inputs received on portions 704 and 706.

[0096] In some examples, a controller communicating with capacitive sensor 702 can modify a portion of the sensor to be in palm detection mode. In palm detection mode, a portion of the sensor can interpret input with certain characteristics as a palm. For example, some measurements made by the capacitive sensor depicting a palm placed on a portion of the capacitive sensing area of ​​the laptop's working surface (adjacent to the capacitive sensor) may be similar to other measurements made by the capacitive sensor depicting a touch command. In some examples, it may be difficult to distinguish whether such measurements depict a touch command or a palm placed in the touch sensing area. In this case, keyboard input can cause the capacitive sensor's mode to change, allowing the controller to incorporate additional factors such as the user operating the keyboard, which can enable the controller to determine that the touch input is a palm placed in the touch sensing area.

[0097] In some gaming applications, users can place their palm over the first part of the capacitive sensor to frequently use a selected set of keyboard commands to instruct the game. Simultaneously, users can provide touch input to other parts of the capacitive sensor to provide additional input to the game. Therefore, the system can place the first part of the capacitive module in a mode that minimizes the use of the capacitive sensor, while still allowing other parts of the capacitive sensor to operate in touch mode. This allows users to issue keyboard commands while placing their palm on the touch-sensitive area and simultaneously issue capacitive commands only on different parts of the same capacitive sensor.

[0098] In some examples, a controller communicating with capacitive sensor 702 may modify how it interprets input on capacitive sensor 702, at least in part, based on input received on keyboard 701. In some examples, the controller may modify the interpretation of input on capacitive sensor based at least in part on the size, duration, shape, movement, other attributes, and / or combinations thereof. For example, if input on keyboard 701 is detected adjacent to portions 704, 706 of the capacitive sensor, the controller interprets the input on that portion as different from no input on the keyboard. For example, if a hand is specified to be located on the left side of the keyboard, input on the left portion of the capacitive sensor may be interpreted as a palm rather than a movement input. Input on the capacitive sensor may be larger, remain in the same or substantially the same position for a longer period, or have other characteristics different from movement or pressing inputs.

[0099] For example, in applications where a user types using a keyboard, a capacitive controller can receive a series of keyboard inputs. In such examples, the controller can switch modes between those parts of the capacitive module where the user's hand might be placed on the capacitive module when using those keys. In some cases, the mode will not switch until the keyboard input stream has reached a predetermined amount of time. In some cases, a predetermined amount of keyboard input must be received within the predetermined amount of time. In some cases, when the controller receives continuous or mostly continuous input, it can switch the mode of the appropriate part. In such examples, the keyboard can use a capacitive sensor integrated into the keyboard to determine the position of the user's hand. If the controller detects that the user's hand has hovered over the keyboard for a predetermined time, it can switch the mode. In some cases, if the user only performs a few keystrokes or the user's hand is detected to have hovered over the keyboard for only a few seconds, the mode may not switch. In some cases, if the user's hand remains relatively still over the keyboard for several seconds or other predetermined amounts of time, the associated part of the capacitive sensor can switch the mode. In some examples, the mechanical structure of the keyboard transmission lines in the first layer of the keyboard and the sensing lines in the second layer of the keyboard can be used to measure the capacitance of the fingers over the keyboard. In this example, capacitive keyboard measurements can be used to determine the position of the user's hand and change the mode of the appropriate part of the capacitive module.

[0100] In the depicted example, the capacitive sensor is divided into a first portion 704 and a second portion 706. In other examples, the capacitive sensor may be divided into three portions, four portions, or any suitable number of portions. In some examples, the capacitive sensor may be divided along the length of the sensor. In some examples, the sensor may be divided along the width of the sensor. In some examples, the different portions have similar dimensions. However, in other examples, these portions may include different lengths, widths, shapes, and / or other dimensions.

[0101] In some examples, the capacitive sensor may have electrodes positioned in a horizontal row and column pattern. For example, the capacitive sensor may have eight electrodes (column electrodes) extending along the width of the sensor and six electrodes (row electrodes) extending along the length of the capacitive sensor. These electrodes can operate using mutual capacitance to sense objects moving near the capacitive sensor. In some examples, the row electrodes may be transmitting electrodes and the column electrodes may be sensing electrodes. In other examples, the row electrodes may be sensing electrodes and the column electrodes may be transmitting electrodes. In some examples, the column electrodes may be controlled as two sets. In such examples, one set of column electrodes may be transmitting while the other set may be deactivated. For example, if a key on a keypad near the capacitive sensor is pressed near one set of electrodes, that set of electrodes may be deactivated while the other set may continue to transmit. In some examples, the column electrodes may be configured for receiving. In some examples, one set of column electrodes may be ignored, while the other set of column electrodes is measured by a controller communicating with the electrode set.

[0102] In some examples, each group of column electrodes can be part of a capacitive sensor. Each of these parts can operate independently. For example, if the capacitive sensor has eight column electrodes, the capacitive sensor can have eight parts. If keyboard input is detected near the leftmost electrode, a controller communicating with the electrode can change the electrode's mode. The leftmost electrode can be changed to the least sensitive mode, and the rightmost column electrode can be changed to the most sensitive mode. The second column electrode from the left can be switched to a mode that is more sensitive than the leftmost column electrode but less sensitive than the column electrode to its right. Each column electrode can be set to a similar mode, more sensitive than the column electrode to its left and less sensitive than the column electrode to its right.

[0103] In some examples, a portion of the capacitive sensor may include row and column electrodes. For example, if the capacitive sensor has eight transmit column electrodes and six sense row electrodes, a portion of the capacitive sensor may have the three column electrodes closest to the left and the two row electrodes closest to the top. In such an example, when keyboard input is detected near the upper left portion of the capacitive sensor, a controller communicating with the capacitive sensor may deactivate the three transmit column electrodes and ignore measurements on the two sense row electrodes. In such an example, the five column electrodes closest to the right of the capacitive sensor and the four row electrodes closest to the bottom of the capacitive sensor may continue to operate. While the above examples describe a capacitive sensor with an 8×6 mutual capacitance grid, capacitive sensors with any suitable number of rows or columns can be used. In some examples, capacitive sensor 702 may be a capacitive sensor with self-capacitance electrodes.

[0104] In some examples, a portion of the capacitance sensor may be modulated such that a subset of the emitting electrodes does not emit, a subset of the sensing electrodes does not receive, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the capacitance sensor may include self-capacitance electrodes that operate by both emitting and receiving. In some examples, a portion of the capacitance sensor may be modulated such that self-capacitance electrodes do not emit and / or do not receive.

[0105] In some examples, this mode allows the controller to ignore touch input initiated in the section of the capacitive sensor that switches between keyboard input modes. In some examples, if touch input begins in the section of the capacitive sensor that is receiving touch input, and the touch input moves to another section with a different mode, the capacitive sensor can continue to track the touch input even if that section of the capacitive sensor is operating in a different mode. In some examples, the controller interprets touch input initiated in the first section as non-palm placement, so when such touch input continues into the second section of the capacitive sensor, the controller can continue to interpret the input as it did in the previous section.

[0106] While the examples above describe a specific number of row and column electrodes, any suitable number of row and / or column electrodes can be used. Furthermore, in other examples, the capacitance sensor may use self-capacitance measurement techniques. In some cases, self-capacitance measurement techniques may involve only a single row or column of electrodes. In such examples, the capacitance sensor may have only a single set of electrodes.

[0107] Figure 8 depicts an example of an electronic device 800. A keyboard 801 is adjacent to a capacitive sensor 802. The capacitive sensor has a first portion 804 and a second portion 806. A hand 808 is adjacent to the capacitive sensor 802 and the keyboard 801. The fingers of the hand 808 are positioned above the keys of the keyboard 801. In some examples, the fingers of the hand 808 can press a key on the keyboard 801. In some examples, it can be detected that the palm of the hand 808 is adjacent to portion 804 of the capacitive sensor 802.

[0108] In some examples, a controller communicating with keyboard 801 and / or capacitive sensor 802 can determine the attributes of the input on the keyboard and / or capacitive sensor based on measurements on the keyboard and / or capacitive sensor. The controller can determine that a hand's fingers are adjacent to a key on the keyboard based on keyboard input, capacitance measurements, other appropriate measurements, or a combination thereof. The controller can determine that the palm of the hand is adjacent to a portion 804 of capacitive sensor 802 based on the attributes of capacitance measurements on the capacitive sensor. In some examples, the controller can determine that the palm of hand 808 is adjacent to capacitive sensor 802 at least in part based on the position of the hand's fingers relative to keyboard 801 determined by the controller via keyboard input. In some examples, the controller detecting that a hand 808's fingers are adjacent to a key on keyboard 801 can cause the controller to change the mode of portion 804 of capacitive sensor 802. In some examples, detecting that a hand 808's fingers are on a specific key and / or adjacent to a predetermined area of ​​keyboard 801 can cause the controller communicating with the capacitive sensor to change portion 804 to a palm placement mode. In such examples, portion 804 of capacitive sensor 802 can determine that an input with predetermined attributes can be a palm input. In some examples, determining that the input is a palm can cause the controller to ignore the input or otherwise disable that part of the capacitive sensor for the user.

[0109] Figure 9 depicts an example of an electronic device 900. A keyboard 901 is adjacent to a capacitive sensor 902. The capacitive sensor 902 has a first portion 904 and a second portion 906. A hand 908 is adjacent to the keyboard 901 and the first portion 904 of the capacitive sensor 902. A finger 910 is adjacent to the second portion 906 of the capacitive sensor 902. In some examples, the finger of the hand 908 is positioned to provide input to the keyboard 901. In some examples, a controller communicating with the capacitive sensor 902 and / or the keyboard 901 can change the mode of portions 904, 906 of the capacitive sensor 902. In the depicted example, the first portion 904 of the capacitive module 902 can be in a palm-placement mode. In some examples, the controller can change the first portion 904 to a palm-placement mode at least in part based on detecting that the finger of the hand 908 is adjacent to certain keys on the keyboard 901. In some examples, the second portion 906 of the capacitive sensor 902 can be in a touch / hover capacitive sensing mode.

[0110] Figure 10 depicts an example of a mode controller table 1000. In this example, keyboard input is represented by input column 1002. First mode column 1004 and second mode column 1006 can represent the modes of a first portion and a second portion of the capacitive sensor, respectively. First keyboard input 1008 can correspond to an input on the keyboard that is not adjacent to either the first or second portion of the capacitive sensor. The controller can set the mode of this portion of the capacitive sensor to a touch input mode, represented by touch input mode 1010 on the mode controller table 1000. Second keyboard input 1014 can cause the controller to change the mode of one of the portions of the capacitive module. This can be reflected in the detection of a second keyboard input 1014 that can be adjacent to the first portion of the capacitive sensor. The controller can change the first portion of the capacitive sensor to a palm placement mode represented by palm placement mode 1016. The controller can continue to operate the second portion of the capacitive sensor in the touch input mode represented by touch input mode 1010. The third keyboard input 1020 enables the controller to return the first part of the touch controller to touch input mode 1010, and can continue to operate the second part of the capacitive controller in touch input mode 1010.

[0111] In some examples, the controller can change one or both modes of a portion of the capacitive module to other modes. A fourth keypad input 1026 can cause the controller to change the first portion of the capacitive sensor to a low-priority mode 1028 and the second portion of the capacitive sensor to a high-priority mode 1030. In such examples, when multiple inputs are detected in both portions of the capacitive sensor, the controller can prioritize the input on the second portion of the capacitive sensor.

[0112] The fifth keypad input 1032 causes the controller to change the operation of the first part of the capacitive controller to a low-speed mode 1034 and the operation of the second part of the capacitive controller to a high-speed mode 1036. In such an example, an input on the first part of the capacitive sensor can operate at a first sensitivity, which is slower than a second sensitivity operating the second part of the sensor. For example, if the capacitive sensor is used to control a cursor in a display, an input on the first part of the capacitive sensor can cause the cursor to move a shorter distance than a similar input on the second part of the capacitive sensor.

[0113] Figure 11 depicts an example of a capacitive sensor 1100. The capacitive sensor 1100 has a first portion 1102 and a second portion 1104. In some examples, a controller communicating with the capacitive sensor 1100 can operate portions 1102 and 1104 in different modes based on other inputs received by the controller. In some examples, the controller's mode can be determined using inputs on a keyboard adjacent to the capacitive sensor.

[0114] In some examples, the first part 1102 and the second part 1104 can be combined into a single part and controlled as a single part by a controller communicating with these parts. In such examples, the controller can send signals to cause the entire capacitance sensor to operate in a specific mode. In some examples, if keyboard input is detected near the capacitance sensor, the controller communicating with the capacitance sensor can deactivate the capacitance sensor or ignore all capacitance measurements from the capacitance sensor.

[0115] Figure 12 illustrates an example of a capacitive sensor 1200. The capacitive sensor has a first portion 1202, a second portion 1204, and a third portion 1206. The three portions of the capacitive sensor can be operated by a controller that communicates with the capacitive sensor. The controller can operate the first portion in a first mode, the second portion in a second mode, and the third portion in a third mode. In some examples where a user is typing on a keyboard, the user's palm may be placed above portions 1202 and 1206 located on the sides of the capacitive sensor. In this case, the controller can make these portions 1202 and 1206 appear to be deactivated to the user, while allowing the middle portion 1204 to continue operating in touch / hover mode.

[0116] Figure 13 depicts an example of a capacitor module 1300. A first set of capacitor electrodes is positioned transversely to second portions 1306 and third portions 1308 of the capacitor electrodes. Portions 1304, 1306, and 1308 of the capacitor electrodes communicate with a controller 1302. In some examples, the controller 1302 communicates with a keyboard. In the depicted example, portions 1304 and 1308 are driven by the controller 1302. In the example shown, electrode portion 1306 is deactivated. In some examples, electrode portion 1306 can be deactivated based on input on the keyboard.

[0117] Figure 14 depicts an example of a keyboard 1400. A finger 1404 is pressing a key 1406 on the first layer 1403 of the keyboard 1400. A contact 1410 is located on the second layer 1405 of the keyboard 1400. When the finger presses the key 1406, the key moves downward and short-circuits the contact 1410 of the keyboard. A controller 1402, communicating with the keyboard 1400, can measure the voltage change on the contact 1410 when the key contacts the contact. The controller 1402 can determine that the key 1406 is pressed based at least in part on the voltage change measured on the contact 1410.

[0118] In some examples, the circuitry in the first layer 1403 and the second layer 1405 of the keyboard can be used to measure capacitance. This capacitance can change based on the position of the user's finger near the keyboard. This change in capacitance measurement can be used to detect the position of the user's finger. This capacitance input from the keyboard can be received by the controller and used as keyboard input to determine when a portion of the capacitance sensor changes its mode.

[0119] Figure 15 illustrates an example of a method 1500 for changing sensor modes. This method 1500 can be performed based on the description of the apparatus, module, and principles described with respect to Figures 1 through 14. In this example, method 1500 includes receiving keyboard input 1502 and sending an instruction 1504 based on the keyboard input to operate a first portion of the capacitive sensor in a first mode, while simultaneously operating a second portion of the capacitive sensor in a second mode.

[0120] Figure 16 illustrates an example of a method 1600 for changing a sensor mode. This method 1600 can be performed based on the description of the apparatus, module, and principles described with respect to Figures 1 through 14. In this example, method 1600 includes receiving keyboard input 1602 and determining 1604 whether the keyboard input is a known input for changing the mode of a first portion of a capacitive sensor. If the keyboard input is a known input for changing the mode of the first portion of the capacitive sensor, method 1600 further includes sending an instruction 1606 to change the mode of the first portion of the capacitive sensor based on the keyboard input, while continuing operation of a second portion of the capacitive sensor in the initial mode. If the keyboard input is not a known input for changing the mode of the first portion of the capacitive sensor, method 1600 includes determining 1608 whether the keyboard input is a known input for changing the mode of the second portion of the capacitive sensor. If the keyboard input is a known input for changing the mode of the second portion of the capacitive sensor, method 1600 includes sending an instruction 1610 to change the mode of the second portion of the capacitive sensor based on the keyboard input, while continuing operation of the first portion of the capacitive sensor in the initial mode.

[0121] Figure 17 depicts an example of operating a capacitor module. In this example, a keyboard 1700 is positioned adjacent to a capacitor reference surface 1702, wherein the keyboard 1700 and the capacitor reference surface 1702 are incorporated into the same electronic device. The capacitor reference surface 1702 may be a cover layer adjacent to a capacitance sensor, wherein the capacitance sensor is incorporated into the capacitor module. In other examples, the capacitor reference surface 1702 may be part of the housing of the electronic device. In the example shown, the capacitor module is obscured and not visible because it is located below the capacitor reference surface 1702.

[0122] Haptic actuators 1704, 1706, 1708, and 1710 can communicate mechanically with the capacitive module, or they can be incorporated into the capacitive module. In this example, four haptic actuators 1704, 1706, 1708, and 1710 are used to perform touch events. In other examples, different numbers of haptic actuators can be used. For example, the system can use a single haptic actuator, two haptic actuators, five haptic actuators, six haptic actuators, other numbers of haptic actuators, or combinations thereof. In some cases, touch events are triggered in response to pressure applied by the user to the capacitive reference surface 1702. However, in other examples, touch events can be triggered by another event, such as receiving a message, other events, or combinations thereof.

[0123] In this example, when a user provides input to the capacitive module via the capacitive reference surface 1702, each haptic actuator can operate in response to the appropriate event. However, in the example where the user provides keyboard input, the functionality of at least one haptic actuator can be disabled. When the user's hand is in a keyboard-operating position, the user's palm may inadvertently place on the capacitive reference surface 1702, thus unintentionally triggering a tactile response. However, when the controller resource receives keyboard input, the haptic actuator in this example is disabled, so that the haptic actuator does not activate when the user types using the keyboard.

[0124] In some cases, the haptic actuator is disabled by ignoring input received via the capacitive reference surface 1702 when the user is typing. In other examples, the pressure sensor or capacitive position sensor stops measuring when the user is typing. In some examples, the haptic actuator may be disabled only for input received via the capacitive reference surface 1702, while the haptic actuator can respond to other commands, such as commands to receive messages or commands from programs running on the electronic device to execute touch events.

[0125] Figure 18 depicts an example where only some haptic actuators are disabled in response to keyboard input. In this case, haptic actuators 1704 and 1706 are disabled, while haptic actuators 1708 and 1710 continue to operate in response to keyboard touch. In other examples, only one haptic actuator may be disabled. In other examples, any appropriate number of haptic actuators may be disabled in response to keyboard input.

[0126] In some examples, haptic actuators 1704, 1706, 1708, and 1710 work together to make the entire capacitive module vibrate simultaneously at the same rate. This can be achieved by activating each haptic actuator simultaneously. In some cases, each haptic actuator is activated at the same intensity. However, in some cases, the haptic actuators may be activated at different times and / or at different intensities. In some cases, when only a portion of the haptic actuators is activated, the user can only feel the area of ​​the capacitive reference surface 1702 near the haptic actuators. Thus, in this way, the portion of the user's hand placed on the capacitive reference surface adjacent to the keyboard input position can be disabled, while other areas of the capacitive reference surface 1702 can continue to provide tactile feedback based on user input sensed through the capacitive reference surface where no part of the hand is placed.

[0127] In some cases, the user may not place his or her hand on the capacitive reference surface, but if the user inadvertently touches the capacitive reference surface with his or her palm, the haptic actuators near the keyboard input location may still be disabled.

[0128] Figure 19 depicts an example of a user using one hand for keyboard input and the other hand for capacitive input detectable via capacitive reference surface 1702. In this specific case, none of the haptic actuators are completely disabled. In this example, each haptic actuator can be used collectively to output a touch event. However, for capacitive inputs made in the first region 1900 (the region near the location of the keyboard input), the haptic actuators are not triggered. For example, if keyboard input is detected near the first region 1900, any capacitive input detected in that first region can be ignored, or the capacitive module can stop measuring within the first region 1900. Thus, unintentional physical contact between the palm of the first hand and the capacitive reference surface does not inadvertently result in a touch event. The location of the capacitive input can be sensed using a capacitive sensor. In other examples, a pressure sensor can be used to determine the location of the capacitive input.

[0129] On the other hand, for user input detected in the second region 1902 (a region farther from the keyboard input location), the haptic actuators can trigger touch events. In some cases, each of the haptic actuators 1704, 1706, 1708, and 1710 can trigger touch events even if they are located within the first region. For example, user input detected in the second region 1902 can cause the haptic actuators in the first region 1900 to be activated. In other examples, only the haptic actuators in the second region 1902 are activated in response to user input detected in the second region 1902.

[0130] In some examples, when the user's palm is above the second area 1902, the user can use the keyboard with their first hand while simultaneously using their second hand to provide user input in the second area 1902. In this example, user input closer to the keyboard input may not trigger a touch event, while user input in an area farther away from the keyboard input may trigger a touch event.

[0131] In some cases, when user input is triggered by user input originating in the second region 1902, the touch event can be felt in both the first region 1900 and the second region 1902. However, in some of these examples, the touch event may only be felt by the user in the second region 1902. In some cases, each haptic actuator can provide a touch signal that is weak enough on its own that the user cannot feel the signal solely through the capacitive reference surface. However, the combination of these touch signals from more than one haptic actuator may interfere with each other advantageously, allowing the user to feel the combined signal. In this example, the haptic actuators in the first region 1900 and the second region 1902 can be triggered to provide input that the user can feel within the second region 1902. In this example, the haptic actuator in the first region 1900 can be triggered to generate a perceptible touch event in the second region 1902, while not performing user input detected in the first region 1900.

[0132] In some examples, in response to the detection of keyboard input, at least one haptic actuator is disabled for a predetermined amount of time. For example, in response to the detection of keyboard input, the haptic actuator may be disabled for 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 2 seconds or more, or a combination thereof.

[0133] In some cases, in response to detected keyboard input, the capacitive sensor can detect the capacitance distribution. The controller can disable at least one haptic actuator or disable touch events in a specific area of ​​the capacitive reference surface while the capacitance distribution remains substantially unchanged.

[0134] Figure 20 depicts an example of a touch mode table 2000. In this example, the touch mode is represented by a first column 2002. A first region column 2004 and a second region column 2006 may represent regions associated with a capacitive sensor. A first mode 2008 may correspond to no keyboard input detected. In this first mode 2008, each touch event associated with both the first and second regions may be triggered in response to the detection of user input via a capacitive reference surface.

[0135] The second mode 2014 can correspond to the detection of keyboard input. In this second mode 2014, when user input is detected through the capacitive reference surface, each of the haptic actuators associated with both the first and second regions can be disabled. In some cases, this second mode 2014 is triggered when only a single keyboard input is detected. However, in other examples, multiple keyboard inputs from different sides near the capacitive reference surface can be detected before the second mode 2014 is triggered. In such examples, the user may be using both hands to input on the keyboard.

[0136] The third mode 2020 can correspond to the detection of keyboard input. In this third mode 2020, only those touch events associated with either the first or second region can be disabled, but touch events associated with both regions cannot be disabled simultaneously. In some cases, this third mode 2020 is triggered when only a single keyboard input is detected. However, in other examples, the third region can be triggered when multiple keyboard inputs are detected on the same side near the capacitive reference surface.

[0137] Figure 21 depicts an example of a controller resource 2100 communicating with capacitive electrodes 2102 and haptic actuators 2104. In some examples, the controller resource may be a single processor or part of multiple processors. In some examples, the location of user input is detected using the capacitive electrodes 2102. In response to the detected location of user input, one or more haptic actuators 2104 may trigger a touch event. In some examples, a keyboard also communicates with the controller resource 2100. When the controller resource 2100 receives keyboard input from the keyboard 2106, one or more haptic actuators 2104 may be disabled, or only touch events associated with certain areas of the touch area may be disabled.

[0138] Figure 22 illustrates an example of a method 2200 for changing a touch mode. This method 2200 can be performed based on the description of the apparatus, module, and principles described in Figures 1 through 21. In this example, method 2200 includes receiving 2202 keyboard input and sending 2204 instructions to change the operating mode of a haptic actuator incorporated in a capacitive module, at least in part based on the location of the keyboard input.

[0139] It should be noted that the methods, systems, and apparatus discussed above are intended only as examples. It must be emphasized that various embodiments may omit, substitute, or add various procedures or elements as needed. For example, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the method may be performed in a different order than described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Moreover, features described for some embodiments may be combined in various other embodiments. Different aspects and elements of embodiments may be combined in a similar manner. Furthermore, it should be emphasized that technology is constantly evolving, and therefore many elements are exemplary in nature and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0140] Specific details are set forth in the description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that these embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques have been shown, but unnecessary details have not been shown to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

[0141] Furthermore, it should be noted that these embodiments can be described as processes shown in flowcharts or block diagrams. Although each embodiment can be described as a sequential process, many operations can be performed in parallel or simultaneously. Additionally, the order of operations can be rearranged. The process may have additional steps not included in the figures.

[0142] Several embodiments have been described, and those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents can be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the foregoing elements may only be components of a larger system, in which other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of the invention. Moreover, many steps may be taken before, during, or after considering the foregoing elements. Therefore, the foregoing description should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0143] 100: Electronic devices 102: Keyboard 103: Shell 104: Touchpad 106: Monitor 108: Buttons 114: Connection Mechanism 200: Capacitor Module 202:Substrate 204: First group of electrodes, electrode group 206: Second group of electrodes, electrode group 208: Touch controller 212: Capacitor Reference Surface 214: Masking layer 216, 218: Electrical connections 400: Display Layer 500: First pressure sensor, pressure sensor 502: Second pressure sensor, pressure sensor 600: Reference Surface 602: First pressure sensor 604: Second pressure sensor 700: Electronic Devices 701: Keyboard 702: Capacitive Sensor 704: Part 1, Section 706: Part Two, Section 710: Button 800: Electronic Devices 801: Keyboard 802: Capacitive Sensor 804: Part 1, Section 806: Part Two, Section 808:Hand 900: Electronic Devices 901: Keyboard 902: Capacitive Sensor 904: Part One, Section 906: Part Two, Section 908:Hand 1000: Mode Controller Table 1002: Input column 1004: First Pattern Column 1006: Second Pattern Column 1008: First Keyboard Input 1010: Touch Input Mode 1014: Second Keyboard Input 106: Hand Placement Mode 1020: Third Keyboard Input 1026: Fourth Keyboard Input 1028: Low priority mode 1030: High Priority Mode 1032: Fifth Keyboard Input 1034: Low Speed ​​Mode 1036: High-speed mode 1100: Capacitive Sensor 1102: Part One, Section 1104: Part Two, Section 1100: Capacitive Sensor 1102: Part One, Section 1104: Part Two, Section 1200: Capacitive Sensor 1202: Part One, Section 1204: Part Two, Part, Middle Part 1206: Part Three, Section 1300: Capacitor Module 1302: Controller 1304: Partial 1306: Part Two, Section, Electrode Section 1308: Part Three, Section, Electrode Section 1400: Keyboard 1402: Controller 1403: First Floor 1404: Fingers 1405: Second Floor 1406: Keypad 1410: Contact 1500: Method 1502, 1504: Steps 1600: Method 1602, 1604, 1606, 1608, 1610: Steps 1700: Keyboard 1702: Capacitor Reference Surface 1704, 1706, 1708, 1710: Tactile actuators 1900: Area 1 1902: Second District 2000: Touch Mode Table 2002: First column 2004: First Region Column 2006: Second Region Column 2008: The First Mode 2014: Second Mode 2024: The Third Mode 2100: Controller Resources 2102: Capacitor Electrode 2104: Tactile Actuator 2106: Keyboard 2200: Method 2202, 2204: Steps

Claims

1. A capacitor module, comprising: substrate; Multiple capacitive electrodes are located on the substrate to form a capacitive sensor; At least one tactile actuator; The controller resources communicate with the at least one haptic actuator and the plurality of capacitive electrodes; The memory communicates with the controller resource, which has programming instructions that, when executed, cause the controller resource to: receive keyboard input from a keyboard communicating with the controller resource; and change the touch mode of the capacitive module based on the keyboard input, wherein changing the touch mode of the capacitive module includes changing the touch mode from an active touch mode to a partially active touch mode, wherein the partially active touch mode includes disabling the function of the at least one haptic actuator when the user provides keyboard input.

2. The capacitive module according to claim 1, wherein changing the touch mode of the capacitive module includes changing the touch mode from an active touch mode to an inactive touch mode.

3. The capacitive module according to claim 1, wherein the at least one haptic actuator is part of a plurality of haptic actuators.

4. The capacitive module according to claim 3, wherein the programming instructions are further configured to, when run, cause the controller resources to operate the plurality of haptic actuators in the same operating mode.

5. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein the controller resource communicates with at least one pressure sensor.

6. The capacitive module according to claim 5, wherein the at least one pressure sensor is incorporated into the at least one tactile actuator.

7. The capacitive module according to claim 5, wherein the at least one pressure sensor is independent of the at least one tactile actuator, and the at least one pressure sensor is incorporated into the capacitive module.

8. The capacitive module according to claim 5, wherein the programming instructions are configured to disable the at least one pressure sensor when the capacitive module is in the inactive touch mode when it is run.

9. The capacitive module according to claim 5, wherein the programming instructions are configured to, when run, ignore measurements from the at least one pressure sensor when the capacitive module is in the inactive touch mode.

10. The capacitive module according to claim 1, wherein a partial active touch mode includes triggering the at least one haptic actuator when user input is located in a first area adjacent to the substrate, and disabling the at least one haptic actuator when the user input is located in a second area adjacent to the substrate.

11. The capacitor module according to claim 10, wherein a first region adjacent to the substrate is close to the keyboard input position.

12. The capacitor module according to claim 10, wherein a first region adjacent to the substrate is within two inches of the location of the keyboard input.

13. A computer program product using a module, the computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions, the instructions being processor-executable to: receive keyboard input; and send instructions to change an operating mode of a haptic actuator incorporated in a capacitive module at least in part based on the location of the keyboard input, wherein changing the operating mode of the haptic actuator incorporated in the capacitive module includes changing the touch mode from an active touch mode to a partially active touch mode, wherein the partially active touch mode includes: When the user provides keyboard input, the function of at least one of the haptic actuators is disabled.

14. The computer program product according to claim 13, wherein changing the operating mode of the haptic actuator incorporated in the capacitive module includes changing the touch mode from an active touch mode to an inactive touch mode.

15. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein the partial active touch mode includes triggering the haptic actuator when user input is located in a first area of ​​the touchpad, and disabling the at least one haptic actuator when the user input is located in a second area of ​​the touchpad.

16. The computer program product according to claim 13, wherein a first region of the substrate adjacent to the module is located near the keyboard input position.

17. The computer program product according to claim 13, wherein a first region of the substrate adjacent to the module is within two inches of the keyboard input location.

18. A method for operating a capacitor module, comprising: Receive keyboard input; And sending instructions to change the operating mode of the haptic actuator incorporated in the capacitive module, at least in part, based on the position of the keyboard input, wherein changing the operating mode of the haptic actuator incorporated in the capacitive module includes changing the touch mode from an active touch mode to a partially active touch mode, wherein the partially active touch mode includes: when the user provides keyboard input, the function of at least one of the haptic actuators is disabled.

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