Touch-based control device

Abstract

A touch-based control device may include: an outer panel including a recessed area and a surrounding area; one or more touch sensors for detecting touch input performed anywhere on a basic portion of the outer panel; and a sensing module including one or more processors for detecting touch input performed by a user on the outer panel via the one or more touch sensors. The sensing module may interpret the touch input based on at least one of (i) the area where the touch input occurs or (ii) the type of touch input, and control connected devices based on the interpreted touch input.

Description

[0001] Cross-citation of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to (i) each of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 141,972, filed January 5, 2021; (ii) Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 957,294, filed January 5, 2020; (iii) Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 957,297, filed January 5, 2020; and (iv) Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 957,302, filed January 5, 2020. Each of the foregoing priority applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to control devices, and more specifically, to touch-based control devices. Background Technology

[0004] Home control systems, such as lighting control systems for lighting fixtures, include binary analog switches and analog dimmer switches, which allow users to control one or more lights wired to an electrical box. These switches are connected to the electrical box. Furthermore, when a person wishes to activate or interact with a home system, they typically must interact with the actual device of the system or a dedicated or universal remote control and manually create an environment including activated or dimmed lights, audio system outputs, visual system outputs (e.g., television or digital image frame outputs), temperature, etc. Attached Figure Description

[0005] The disclosure herein is shown by way of example and not limitation in the various figures of the accompanying drawings. In the figures, the same reference numerals refer to similar elements, and wherein:

[0006] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A control device based on one or more examples is shown.

[0007] Figure 2A It is a front view of a printed circuit board (PCB) for a control module, based on one or more examples.

[0008] Figure 2B It is based on one or more examples Figure 2A Side view of the PCB.

[0009] Figure 2C It is based on one or more examples Figure 2A The control device is shown in the cross-sectional view along line AA.

[0010] Figure 3The sensor control logic for a control module of a touch-based control device is shown according to one or more examples.

[0011] Figure 4 Various touch inputs performed by a user on a touch-based control device according to the various aspects described herein are illustrated.

[0012] Figure 5 An example method for operating a touch-based control device is shown, based on one or more examples.

[0013] Figure 6A and Figure 6B It is a flowchart describing a method of controlling one or more controlled devices by a control device according to one or more examples.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a hardware diagram showing a processing device on which the example control device described herein can be implemented. Detailed Implementation

[0015] In various embodiments, the touch-based control device includes an external panel and a control module coupled to the external panel, wherein the control module is capable of detecting and interpreting touch input received at any location on at least a majority of the external panel. In other aspects, the control module may be configured with the external panel to detect touch input at any location on the external panel. In various examples, the control module detects and interprets touch input from a user based on at least one of the location where the touch input occurs and / or the type of touch input.

[0016] According to the example, a touch-based control device includes an external panel, one or more touch sensors, and a control module. The control module interprets touch input received on the external panel to control a set of controlled devices. In the example, the touch input is interpreted based on (i) the location where the touch input occurs, and / or (ii) the type of touch input.

[0017] In some examples, the touch-based control device is a wall-mounted device that responds to touch input received at any location on the external panel, such as in a corner or surrounding area of ​​the external panel. The control device can interpret the touch input as a command to control one or more connected devices.

[0018] Additionally, in the example, the touch-based control device includes three-dimensional input features, such as touch recesses. The control device can detect and interpret a first type of touch input received in the touch recess to execute a first type of command (e.g., setting a power level or other range value). Furthermore, the control device can detect and interpret a second type of touch input received in any surrounding panel area of ​​the outer panel as a second type of command (e.g., selecting a connected device to control, turn on, or turn off the connected device, etc.).

[0019] In a variant, an exemplary touch-based control device includes an external panel having various types of touch-sensitive input areas. In one example, the touch-based control device includes one or more touch input recesses, and the touch-based control device is capable of receiving touches within the recesses and / or along the recesses. In such an example, the touch-based control device operates to detect and interpret touch input received on the touch input recesses or on a surrounding panel area surrounding the touch input recesses. In some examples, touch input received on the touch input recesses can be interpreted differently than touch input received on the surrounding panel area. For example, touch input detected on the input recesses can be interpreted as a range value input, while touch input received on the surrounding panel area can be interpreted as an input supplying power to the control device or the device between high-power and low-power states (e.g., on / off).

[0020] The term “basically” or “essentially” used in conjunction with the examples described herein means at least 80% of the indicated quantity (e.g., the area of ​​an outer panel).

[0021] In some examples, the touch-based control device includes a touch recess that can detect and interpret a first type of input (e.g., brushing along the length of an input groove), while the surrounding panel area can receive a second type of input (e.g., tapping or double-tapping). In response to sensing touch input in the touch recess or the surrounding panel area, the touch-based control device performs an output function to control the connected device based on the touch input.

[0022] In some embodiments, the touch-based control device includes or corresponds to a home appliance controller for controlling one or more devices in a residence. In examples, the control device may be used to control a group of devices, including one or more devices selected from the group comprising lighting fixtures, ceiling fans, thermostats, appliances, security cameras, security systems, door locks, televisions, audio (or media) systems, or other types of devices. As an example, the touch-based control device includes or corresponds to a light controller for controlling a group of lights within a residence.

[0023] Furthermore, in some examples, a touch-based control device can be implemented as a wall-mounted control device (e.g., a light switch) that interprets and processes touch input from a user to control a set of devices (e.g., lights in a living room). In such examples, a touch-based control device can interpret one or more user inputs on a surrounding panel area to control the on / off function of a set of connected devices. Additionally, a touch-based control device can interpret one or more user inputs received on a touch recess as range value inputs (e.g., brightness or power level).

[0024] Furthermore, some examples provide a base assembly that can be combined with an external panel to form a wall-mounted control device. In such examples, the base assembly includes a control module that includes a sensor layer, and the control module is configured to position the sensor layer near the surface to which the external panel will be provided.

[0025] Touch-based control devices

[0026] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A touch-based control device according to one or more examples is illustrated. An exemplary touch-based control device 100 includes an external panel 110 covering a control module 120. As described in conjunction with some examples, the control device 100 may be wall-mounted or otherwise provided in a residence or room to control other devices based on user gestures and touch input. In the example, the external panel 110 covers a touch sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor layer) such that touch input can be detected and interpreted at various locations on a basic portion of the external panel 110. Furthermore, the control device 100 may be configured to detect touch input received at any location on the external panel 110.

[0027] In some of the examples shown, the outer panel 110 includes a touch recess 116 that designates an area where a user can provide a specific type of touch input. In variations, the outer panel 110 includes multiple input recesses that designate areas where touch input can be received. In variations, other forms of three-dimensional touch input features may be used instead of the touch recess 116, or other forms of three-dimensional touch input features may be used in addition to the touch recess 116. As an addition or alternative, the outer panel 110 may also be operated by the user using various touch inputs and gestures.

[0028] According to an example, control device 100 includes an external panel 110 and a base assembly 112 including a control module 120. Control device 100 may be wall-mounted, wherein the base assembly 112 is disposed within, for example, a wall recess or wall seat, and the panel 110 has a thickness formed on the corresponding wall. In such an example, base assembly 112 may also include an electrical interface 122 for electrically connecting control device 100 to a power supply line of a residence. Electrical interface 122 may include wiring and switching elements to enable control module 120 to generate switching outputs that control the configuration of the switching elements of electrical interface 122.

[0029] As described in conjunction with some examples, the controlled device 125 may include a load device and connected devices. A load device refers to a device having a power line (sometimes referred to as a "load line") that can be controlled by a control device. A controlled device refers to a device having a wireless or wired communication interface that can receive commands from the control device 100. Furthermore, the controlled device may include devices that can be controlled by power switching and commands. For example, many conventional types of load devices include a wireless receiver (e.g., a WiFi-enabled lighting device), and some types of devices can receive communication via a power line communication medium. In the example, the control device 100 may implement predetermined settings (or multiple settings) corresponding to the operation of the controlled device using switch configurations on the load device's power line and / or commands signaled via a wireless or wired medium from the connected device.

[0030] Control device 100 can control the operational aspects of a load device by controlling the power supply to the corresponding device. For example, controlled device 125 may include a group of load devices (e.g., light switches, ceiling fans, thermostats, etc.) directly connected to the power line of a residence. In this case, control device 100 may be wall-mounted to function as a switch (e.g., a light switch) to control the power supply to such devices. By controlling the power supply, control device 100 can control the operational aspects of the load devices, such as whether the load devices are on or off and / or the operating level of the load devices (e.g., the dimming level of a light, the fan speed of a ceiling fan, etc.). For example, control device 100 may implement one or more switching types of operation to control the operational aspects of the load devices, such as on / off and power levels (e.g., dimming of a light, ceiling fan speed, etc.). Control device 100 may implement switching operations or configurations via, for example, a switching element of electrical interface 122.

[0031] As an addition or variation, the control device 100 controls operational aspects of one or more controlled devices 125 by performing operations including sending one or more commands to the controlled device 125, wherein the commands cause the controlled device to perform specific operational aspects. In some examples, the control device includes a wireless transceiver that can wirelessly signal commands to the controlled device 125 directly or indirectly via an intermediary. As an addition or variation, the control device 100 can use a wired connection to send commands to the controlled device.

[0032] In some examples, the control device 100 may have the primary function of operating as a light switch to control a group of connected lights. As described in conjunction with some examples, the touch-based control device 100 may also control one or more devices (e.g., electrical appliances) via a wireless interface.

[0033] The external panel 110 may include multiple input areas capable of detecting and interpreting touch input. In some examples, the input areas of the external panel 110 include a touch recess 116 and one or more areas surrounding the touch recess 116. The touch recess 116 may be configured as an elongated (e.g., vertically elongated) recess within the external panel 110, and the surrounding area of ​​the touch panel may be flat or substantially two-dimensional. In such examples, the control device 100 may receive touch input (e.g., a swipe on the recess) within or on the touch recess 116, and also on the area surrounding the touch recess 116. The control device 100 may further map or otherwise interpret the touch input differently depending on the specific area where the input is received. For example, touch input received in the touch recess 116 may be interpreted as a first command, while touch input received on the area surrounding the external panel 110 may be interpreted as a second command.

[0034] Furthermore, in some examples, the control device 100 can detect and interpret touch input received at any location on the external panel 110. Thus, for example, touch input can be received or extended over the peripheral area of ​​the external panel 110. The control device 100 can respond by implementing output operations that control the operation of the control device or group of devices.

[0035] In a variant, the outer panel 110 may not have the touch recess 116, but instead comprise a flat panel formed of the same material as the rest of the outer panel portion 110. For example, the control device 100 may have a substantially planar surface operatively coupled to the underlying sensor layer of the control module 120, such as... Figures 2A to 2C As stated above.

[0036] Furthermore, in this variant, the external panel 110 has no display surface. Therefore, in such an example, the control device 100 can detect and interpret touch input at any location on the external panel 110 without a display, and may or may not have touch recesses or other surface features, depending on the specific circumstances.

[0037] Regarding the described example, control device 100 can determine the characteristics of a touch input, and control device 100 can detect and determine the input from the touch input. Furthermore, control device 100 can map or interpret detected gestures as specific inputs. In response, control device 100 can perform one or more operations (e.g., switching functions, command transmission) to control operational aspects of one or more controlled devices 125. As an example, control device 100 can control operational aspects of a set of controlled devices 125 in a dwelling (e.g., rooms in a house), wherein the set of controlled devices 125 may include one or more devices selected from the group including lighting fixtures, ceiling fans, thermostats, appliances, security cameras, security systems, door locks, televisions, audio (or media) systems, or other types of devices.

[0038] In some implementations, the control device 100 can be implemented as a wall-mounted control device that interprets touch input from a user and further interprets detected touch input to control operational aspects of a set of controlled devices 125. As an additional or variation, the control device 100 detects touch input as a gesture and, based on the detected gesture, further controls operational aspects of multiple controlled devices 125 at a time. Furthermore, as described in conjunction with some examples, the control device 100 implements a scene in response to the detection of a corresponding touch input on the external panel 110. For the control device 100, each scene may represent (i) a selection of one or more devices from the set of controlled devices 125, and (ii) the operational settings of each selected controlled device 125. The control device 100 can associate gestures with scenes such that when the control device 100 detects a user providing touch input detected as a gesture, the control device 100 automatically implements the scene. By implementing the scene, the control device 100 performs operations that result in the implementation of operational aspects of each controlled device 125, such that each controlled device operates under a specific setting or a set of settings. The control device 100 can achieve operational aspects by, for example, controlling the power supply (e.g., a lamp) of the controlled device 125 and / or by sending one or more commands to the selected devices to cause each of the devices to operate in a predetermined operating setting.

[0039] Reference Figure 1BThe control device 100 includes an external panel 110 with a touch recess 116 (shown in dashed lines) and a control module 120. In some examples, the control module 120 may include a touch-sensitive sensor that enables the control module 120 to detect gestures and other inputs received on the external panel 110. The control module 120 may also include control logic, circuitry, sensors, and other configurations for detecting touch input at any location on the external panel 110 and for interpreting the touch input as a gesture. The control module 120 may be configured to detect and interpret any one of a plurality of gestures, where each gesture is associated with a command or set of commands. Thus, for example, the control device 100 is capable of detecting multiple touch inputs or gestures.

[0040] Additionally, in various examples, control module 120 includes an electrical interface 122 for connecting control module 120 to an electrical switching element that controls the power supply to one or more controlled devices 125. When mounted against a wall below, electrical interface 122 can connect to electrical components and switching elements that can be housed within an electrical box 124 (e.g., a housing of an existing light switch panel). Control module 120 can be mounted against a wall, and an external panel 110 can be formed as the front or panel for control module 120. In some examples, touch-based control device 100 can be installed to replace an existing light switch panel in a residence, such as an analog light switch common in the art.

[0041] In one implementation, the control module 120 includes a circuit board comprising a touch sensor that generates a reactive signal in response to a touch input performed on the control device 100. In some aspects, the control module 120 may be configured to sense touch input anywhere on the external panel 110. The control module 120 includes a capacitive sensor that detects changes in the electric field around any point on the external panel 110 of the touch-based control device 100. The touch-based control device 100 may also include logic that associates the detected electric field changes with the user's touch input, and in some examples, may also associate the detected electric field changes with characteristics of the user's touch input.

[0042] In a further aspect, the sensor may also determine one or more characteristics of the touch input. The detected characteristics of the touch input may correspond to, for example, (i) direction of movement, (ii) length of movement, (iii) linear or two-dimensional path (or shape) of the touch input, (iv) duration of the touch input, (v) time interval between discrete touches of the touch input, (vi) speed or acceleration of the touch input, and / or (vii) other determined characteristics of the touch input. Furthermore, in some variations, the determined characteristics of the touch input may correspond to a touch force applied to a surface (e.g., such as that detectable using a force sensor), the speed of the touch input (e.g., the speed of a swipe), and / or the acceleration of the touch input. The control module 120 may include memory storing sensor logic executable by processing resources to interpret response signals. In some implementations, the execution of the sensor logic may enable the control module 120 to identify the location of the touch input on the external panel 110 and interpret the touch input as a gesture or set of gestures to control one or more functions of the controlled device 125.

[0043] The control device 100 may also include wireless communication resources to enable wireless communication with one or more controlled devices 125. The circuit board of the control module 120 may include one or more wireless transceivers and associated logic (e.g., a wireless chip) to enable the control module 120 to receive instructions and data from a user's mobile device, base station controller, and / or other controllable devices. In some examples, the wireless transceiver of the control device 100 may also use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, or other wireless communication channels to transmit commands and other information to one or more controlled devices 125. Once the control device 100 is installed and configured to control a group of controlled devices 125, a user can further operate an application on a mobile computing device to connect to the control device 100 and configure the control device 100 using, for example, a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection formed via the wireless transceiver of the control module 120.

[0044] The embodiments recognize that human touch can be irregular and imprecise, and that there can be considerable variation in touch input between users. According to various examples, the control module 120 can accurately interpret instances when a user's touch input is a click input (e.g., single click, double click, click pattern, etc.), a swipe input (e.g., short swipe, long swipe, 'S' or other similar gestures), or other types of touch input (e.g., click and hold). Furthermore, the control module 120 may include logic for detecting different touch inputs from different users (e.g., home users) when variations may exist between different users. For example, the control module 120 may define a touch input as a click input or a swipe input based on one or more characteristics of the touch input, including characteristics corresponding to the amount or distance of movement that occurs when the user touches panel 110, whether any linear movement relative to a chance touch occurs in the touch input, the duration of contact of the touch input, the initial position of the touch input, the ending position of the touch input, and whether the touch input occurs within the touch slot 116 or entirely on the external panel 110.

[0045] According to some implementations, control module 120 may include computing resources, such as one or more processors and a memory storing executable instructions that implement the interpretation and control functions described herein. In variations, control module 120 may include dedicated circuitry, such as one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or configured field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) that perform the interpretation and control functions described herein. In either case, control module 120 may perform a conflict resolution action that interprets sensor inputs performed on touch-based control device 100, determines control actions performed on controlled device 125, and performs the control action accordingly for each touch input.

[0046] In various implementations, the control module 120 can determine which control operation to perform (e.g., on / off, mode selection, device selection, range value setting, etc.) is based on whether the touch input is interpreted as a click or a swipe. For example, if the control module 120 interprets the touch input as a click, it can perform a switching operation via the electrical interface 122 to switch the load device. The switching operation can have the effect of switching the connected device from an on state to an off state or from an off state to an on state.

[0047] Conversely, if control module 120 interprets touch input as a swipe, it can implement a range value type command via electrical interface 122, where the range value is determined by the input. A range value command or operation sets a value between a minimum and a maximum value, representing a corresponding minimum or maximum parameter in terms of device operation. In the example, the range value could represent the brightness, volume, power level, fan speed, or other similar operating settings of the controlled device. In the example where control device 100 implements a range value type operation, control module 120 can use the detected amplitude, swipe distance, and / or swipe direction of the swipe input to determine the final power state of the controlled device 125 (e.g., dimming). Control module 120 can then implement the dimming operation accordingly via electrical interface 122.

[0048] In some implementations, the location of a touch input on the touch-based control device 100 allows the control module 120 to perform control operations. For example, if a touch input is performed within the touch recess 116, the control module 120 can automatically interpret the touch input as a range value command or setting for the controlled device 125. In a variant, the location of the touch input on the touch-based control device 100 is not important. Instead, the characteristics of the touch input itself can be consistently interpreted from anywhere on the surface of the touch-based control device 100. In this variant, the control module 120 can perform a conflict resolution function to determine whether any particular touch input performed on the touch-based control device 100 is a click or a swipe.

[0049] In a further implementation, the control module 120 can interpret touch input executed in the surrounding external area 110 as an on / off command—regardless of whether the touch input is, for example, a click, double-click, click and hold, double-click and hold, or a swipe—and the control module 120 can interpret it as either a click or a swipe when executed within the touch recess 116. According to such an example, the control module 120 can distinguish touch input within the touch recess 116 as a click input or a swipe input, which allows the control module 120 to execute, for example, on / off commands, device selection commands, mode selection commands, range value commands, and / or other types of commands.

[0050] According to various examples, upon sensing a touch input on the surface of the control device 100 or specifically within the touch recess 116 of the touch-based control device 100, the control module 120 may execute conflict resolution logic to determine whether a particular touch input is a click gesture or a swipe gesture. For example, the conflict resolution logic may be triggered when the confidence level corresponding to the touch input is below a certain threshold (e.g., 95%). Once triggered, the control module 120 may execute the conflict resolution logic by determining whether the linear movement of the touch input exceeds a certain threshold (e.g., one centimeter). If so, the sensing logic may interpret the touch input as a swipe input and execute, for example, a command to adjust the power level of the controlled device 125 (e.g., dimming on a lamp element). However, if not, the control module 120 may interpret the touch gesture as a click gesture based on the current state of the controlled device 125 and execute an on / off command.

[0051] While several examples are described for the reference control device 100, some embodiments may involve a base assembly 112 that can be mounted separately from the external panel 110 in a residence. In the example, the base assembly 112 is configured to position the control module 120 within a threshold proximity to the external panel, which is assembled onto the base assembly when the base assembly is mounted in the residence. The threshold proximity may be based on the sensitivity range of the sensor layer, particularly relative to the sensitivity range of the sensor layer that detects touch input on the external panel 110.

[0052] Touch any structure

[0053] Figures 2A to 2C A control module 120 is shown, configured according to one or more examples, to enable the control device 100 to sense touch input at any location on the external panel 110. Figure 2A This is a front view of a printed circuit board (PCB) 202 for control module 120, based on one or more examples. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Side view of PCB202. Figure 2C It is a cross-sectional view of the control device 100 along line AA according to one or more examples.

[0054] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe control module 120 includes a PCB 202 having a sensing layer 210, a reference plane 220 formed thereon, and sensing control logic 230 for detecting and interpreting sensor values ​​detected by the sensing layer 210. The sensing layer 210 can be formed using conventional PCB manufacturing techniques, such as etching a sensor into copper foil. In some examples, the reference plane 220 is a copper ground plane. The sensing control logic 230 can be implemented, for example, by a microprocessor electrically connected to a sensing element of the sensing layer 210. As shown, the sensing control logic 230 can be implemented, for example, by a microprocessor disposed on the back side of the PCB 202, along with other components (e.g., a wireless transceiver 232), circuit elements, and electrical interfaces (not shown).

[0055] During installation, the external panel 110 can be mounted directly on or adjacent to the sensing layer 210, allowing individual sensing elements of the sensing layer 210 to detect electric field fluctuations caused by the introduction of capacitive objects (e.g., a human finger inherently carrying capacitance). Reference Figure 2A The touch area 225 can represent the overlapping area of ​​the outer panel 110, corresponding to the area of ​​the outer panel 110 that can detect and interpret touch input. For example... Figure 2A As shown, the touch area 225 may include one or more areas extending over a region where no capacitive sensing element is provided. For example, the PCB 202 may include one or more structural void regions 242 corresponding to the shape or other structural features (e.g., vias) of the PCB 202 where no sensing element is present. As an addition or variation, the touch area 225 may extend over one or more peripheral regions 246, which may extend beyond the peripheral edge of the PCB 202 to surround, for example, the peripheral edge or thickness of the outer panel 110. In such an example, the control module 120 can still detect and interpret the user's touch input even when the touch input does not directly cover the sensing element of the sensing layer 210, for example when the touch input is located at or near the edge region of the outer panel 110 to directly cover the area outside the peripheral edge 201 of the PCB 202.

[0056] Furthermore, in some implementations, the reference plane 220 may include one or more sensor gap regions 244 designed to accommodate design aspects of the sensing layer 210. For example, the control module 120 may include sensor gap regions 244 that do not provide sensing elements to prevent interference with the antenna elements of the wireless transceiver 234.

[0057] refer to Figure 2CPCB 202 includes a sensing layer 210, a dielectric layer 206, and a reference plane 220. The reference plane 220 may be exposed on a peripheral region 246 (“exposed reference plane region 222”), and the sensing layer 210 and dielectric layer 206 have relatively reduced dimensions (denoted by d) compared to the reference plane 220. It is understood that exposure of the reference plane 220 at selected locations (e.g., near the peripheral region) causes the electric field of the sensing element covering the sensing layer 210 to be oriented skewed to better cover the peripheral region 246, which may extend beyond the peripheral edge 201 of PCB 202 to surround the peripheral corner or edge of the outer panel 110. In such an example, touch input received on or near the corner or peripheral region 211 of the outer panel 110 can be detected and interpreted by sensing control logic 230. Conversely, in a conventional approach, the peripheral region 246 would be a blind spot on the outer panel 110, coinciding with a location where touch input would be undetectable.

[0058] Therefore, refer to Figures 2A to 2C To allow touch response across the entire touch area 225, the example may also provide a PCB 202 configured to selectively expose the reference plane 220 such that the electric field used by sensing elements adjacent to the exposed reference plane is influenced in shape (e.g., curved, arcuate) by the exposed reference plane area 222. Specifically, the example provides exposing the reference plane 220 around or near areas of the PCB 202 where no sensing elements are provided, such as around the structural gap area 242, the sensor gap area 244, and the peripheral area 246. The selective exposure of the reference plane 220 causes a larger portion of the electric field used by adjacent and / or neighboring sensing elements to move laterally over and outside the exposed reference plane area, thereby increasing the coverage of the electric field over the structural gap area 242, the sensor gap area 244, and / or the peripheral area 246. In this way, the movement of the electric field enables touch inputs occurring in the corresponding structural gap region 242, sensor gap region 244, and / or peripheral region 246 to be detected by the corresponding proximity sensing element, such that, for example, the output of the corresponding proximity sensing element is distinguishable (or more distinguishable) from a baseline reference signal that is otherwise generated by the proximity sensing element when no touch input occurs.

[0059] Additionally, the examples provide that the sensing control logic 230 can be implemented with logic specific to a particular contact area or location on the external panel. In some examples, the sensitivity of the sensing control logic 230 in interpreting the raw sensor data generated from the sensing layer 210 can be adjusted based on the location of the touch contact (e.g., X / Y coordinates). For example, to detect touch contacts occurring in the structural gap region 242, the sensor gap region 244, and / or the surrounding region 246, the sensing control logic 230 can implement a lower threshold variation between the detected capacitance and the baseline level of the sensing layer 210. Furthermore, the sensing control logic 230 can determine different types of touch input based on the location of the touch contact (e.g., X / Y coordinates). For example, when the touch input overlaps with the touch notch 116, the sensing control logic 230 can detect the touch input as a stroke or movement. As another example, when the touch input occurs on one of the structural gap regions, the sensing control logic 230 can detect the touch input as a click or a double click.

[0060] Figure 3 An implementation of sensing control logic 230 according to one or more examples is shown. In the examples, sensing control logic 230 includes an interface 302 capable of receiving a plurality of sensor signals 301, each sensor signal 301 corresponding to the output of a corresponding sensing element. In some examples, sensing control logic 230 continuously receives sensor signals 301 from sensing layer 210, wherein each sensor signal 301 is generated by a sensor element or a discrete portion of sensing layer 210. Thus, each sensor signal 301 may be associated with at least one location (e.g., coordinates) of touch area 225. Each sensor signal 301 may correspond, for example, to a capacitive signal generated by an electric field above a corresponding sensing element or a portion of sensing layer 210. In the absence of any touch input, the sensing elements of sensing layer 210 continuously generate a baseline or noise signal, and when a touch input occurs, the sensor signals 301 affected by the touch input reflect changes compared to the baseline signal.

[0061] In the example, the sensing control logic 230 includes detection logic 310 that continuously monitors sensor signals 301 to detect the occurrence of touch input. The detection logic 310 can detect touch input as a change in the value of one or more sensor signals 301, wherein the change refers to a baseline or noise signal value of the sensing element. In the example, the detection logic 310 can register a touch input when the value of one or more sensor signals 301 changes from the baseline beyond a given minimum threshold (“touch trigger threshold”).

[0062] In a variant, detection logic 310 may implement additional conditions for recording changes in the value of sensor signal 301 as touch input. As an example, the additional conditions may include (i) a minimum threshold number of sensing elements that generate sensor signal 301, the change of sensor signal 301 from the baseline being greater than a touch trigger threshold region; and (ii) a minimum threshold time interval for detecting changes in sensor signal 301.

[0063] Additionally, when detecting touch input, detection logic 310 can perform calibration or sensitivity adjustment specifically for the location of the sensing element. Calibration or sensitivity adjustment can be performed in the context of determining whether the value of sensor signal 301 (alone or in combination with other signals) indicates touch input relative to noise. In this example, detection logic 310 incorporates calibration or sensitivity adjustment for sensor signal 301 for sensing elements located adjacent to or near a touch area 225 that does not directly cover any sensing element. For example, sensor signal 301 generated adjacent to or near one of the structural gap regions 242, sensor gap regions 244, and / or peripheral regions 246 of the circuit board can be calibrated to reflect greater sensitivity compared to sensor signal 301 generated from areas of the sensor layer that directly overlap with the presence of one or more sensing elements. Detection logic 310 can, for example, change the touch trigger threshold of each sensing element based on the location of the respective sensing element, where the touch trigger threshold is smaller for those sensing elements adjacent to one of the structural gap regions 242, sensor gap regions 244, and / or peripheral regions 246. In this way, the detection logic 310 can be more sensitive to touch inputs occurring in the touch area 225, for example, in locations that do not cover the sensing element (e.g., locations outside the peripheral edge of the PCB 202).

[0064] Furthermore, some examples recognize that a touch input can affect sensor signals 301 of multiple sensing elements (e.g., clusters) simultaneously, and that the number of sensing elements and the degree to which they are affected can vary based on the properties of the touch input within a given time interval during which the touch input occurs. In determining whether a touch input has occurred, detection logic 310 may process the sensor signals 301 to obtain properties indicative of a potential touch event, and may analyze said properties to determine whether a touch input has occurred. These properties may reflect, for example, (i) the number of sensing elements modulated by an output having a variation exceeding a predetermined threshold compared to a baseline output of the sensor elements, (ii) variations between the modulated sensor signals 301, (iii) the degree and / or duration of modulation of the sensor signals 301, and / or (iv) the location of the sensing element that generates the modulated sensor signal 301. Detection logic 310 may incorporate calibration or sensitivity adjustment based on the location of the sensing element to detect the corresponding modulated sensor signal 301 from the sensing element. In some examples, calibration or sensitivity adjustment may include weighting one or more properties determined from the sensing signal 301 near gaps or surrounding areas where no other sensing elements are provided. As an addition or variation, detection logic 310 can perform pattern matching on the detected attributes of sensor signal 301, for example by (i) representing the attributes of multiple modulated signals as feature vectors, and (ii) comparing the determined feature vectors with known feature vectors labeled to reflect input or no input (or optionally, a specific type of input). In this way, detection logic 310 can associate touch input, which includes attributes such as the location of the touch input at multiple time instances during the interval in which the touch input is detected.

[0065] In the example, the sensing control logic 230 may further include touch interpretation logic 320, which associates detected attributes associated with the touch input with the input type and / or value. As an example, the determined input type or value may correspond to a single click, double click, long touch, swipe, or tap. In some variations, the input type and / or value may also be associated with one or more location values. For example, a touch input in the first area of ​​touch area 225 may be interpreted differently than the same touch input in the second area of ​​touch area 225.

[0066] In the example, the sensing control logic 230 may include correlation logic 330 to correlate sensor change values, detected attributes, and input types with the output signal 305. The output signal 305 may be selected for one of a plurality of controlled devices 325. Additionally, the output signal 305 may specify settings or commands based on the connected device 325. In some variations, the output signal may be specific to the type or function of the connected device 325.

[0067] In the example, the sensing control logic 230 may further include touch interpretation logic 320, which may associate detected attributes associated with the sensor signal 301 with input type, characteristics, and / or values. As an example, the determined input type or value may correspond to a single click, double click, long touch, swipe or tap, two-dimensional gesture, etc. In the example, the touch interpretation logic 320 may associate attributes of the sensor signal 301 reflecting touch input as a specific type of touch input, such as a tap or other gesture, occurring at multiple adjacent but different locations within a given time interval. The touch interpretation logic 320 may also detect instances where the touch input reflects a touch input path indicating other gestures, such as an "S" shaped gesture, based on the attributes of the sensor signal 301 at multiple adjacent but different locations. Furthermore, the touch interpretation logic 320 may associate attributes of the sensor signal 301 reflecting touch input as a multi-tap input occurring at approximately the same location but at different time intervals (e.g., 0.5 seconds or less).

[0068] Furthermore, in some examples, the touch interpretation logic 320 can interpret one or more characteristics of the touch input based on the properties of the determined sensor signal 301. As an example, the interpretation logic 320 can determine characteristics of the touch input, including (i) direction of movement, (ii) length of movement, (iii) linear path (or shape) of the touch input, (iv) duration of the touch input, (v) time interval between discrete touches of the touch input, (vi) speed or acceleration of the touch input, and / or (vii) other characteristics of the position and movement of the touch input.

[0069] In some variations, the input type, command, and / or value determined by the interpretation logic 320 based on the touch input can also be associated with one or more location values. For example, a touch input in the first region of touch region 225 (e.g., around the upper half of touch recess 116) can be interpreted differently than the same touch input in the second region of touch region 225 (e.g., around the lower half of touch recess 116).

[0070] In the example, the sensing control logic 230 may include associated logic 330 to correlate the detected attributes of the sensor signal, as well as the input type, characteristics, and / or values, with the output signal 305. The output signal 305 can be selected from one of a plurality of controlled devices 325 (e.g., lights, ceiling fans, thermostats, appliances, security cameras, televisions, media systems, or other types of devices). Additionally, the output signal 305 may specify settings or commands based on the controlled device 325. In some variations, the output signal may be specific to the type or function of the controlled device 325.

[0071] In addition to other advantages, such as Figure 2A-2CThe example described in section 3 enables control device 100 to detect and interpret multiple types of touch input at any location on external panel 110. In this way, the ability of control module 120 to detect and interpret touch input is not hindered by “blind spots,” which would impede responsiveness and accuracy in conventional implementations. Furthermore, control module 120 can detect and interpret different types of touch input utilizing the periphery and edge areas of external panel 110. Therefore, control device 100 can respond to user input in the context of many scenarios common to wall-mounted devices, such as (i) a user accidentally approaching or walking past the control device, and (ii) a user touching the control device 100, for example, from a sitting position or as a result of the user being a child.

[0072] Exemplary touch-based control device

[0073] Figure 4 An example of a touch-based control device 100 according to various aspects described herein is illustrated. The touch-based control device 100 can associate different areas on an external panel 110 with different inputs (e.g., input types or devices that can be controlled). In some examples, the control module 120 logically divides the touch area 225 and / or the external panel 110 into predefined areas. For example, the logical partitioning of the touch area 225 may correspond to (i) the area of ​​the touch recess 116 and (ii) the area of ​​the external panel 110 surrounding the touch recess 116. In variations, the area of ​​the external panel 110 may include sub-areas (e.g., top and bottom areas, or upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right areas). Similarly, the area of ​​the touch recess 116 may also be logically divided; for example, the area of ​​the touch recess 116 may include top and bottom sub-areas and / or edge and center areas.

[0074] Reference Figure 4 For example, control module 120 logically divides touch area 225 to define an area of ​​outer panel 110, including left area 410, right area 420, and touch recess 116. Control module 120 can be configured to interpret touch input received on panel 110, for example, based on interpretation logic associated with each predefined area of ​​panel 110. Additionally, control module 120 can be configured to interpret touch input at least in part based on the type of touch input, such as whether the touch input is a click, double click, triple click, swipe, or gesture. Furthermore, for at least some types of touch input, control module 120 can use attributes detected from the touch input to determine values ​​associated with the touch input.

[0075] In various examples, the operation associated with a click can be interpreted based on the detection area of ​​the outer panel 110 where the click occurs. In some implementations, the touch-based control device 100 can be configured to interpret a click A occurring in the left area 410 of the panel 110 as different from a click B occurring in the right area 420 of the panel 110 (based on user input). For example, click A in the left area 410 can be interpreted as an on / off operation of a first controlled device 125, while click B in the right area 420 can be interpreted as an on / off operation of a second controlled device 125.

[0076] In some examples, a slide Z in the touch recess 116 can be interpreted as a power level command (e.g., dimming a lamp) or other range value command, wherein the power level command is influenced by one or more of the following: (i) direction of movement, (ii) start and end positions (or length of movement), (iii) speed of movement, and / or (iv) other characteristics of the position and movement of the touch input. Additionally, in some variations, a click X in the touch recess 116 can also be interpreted as an on / off command. Alternatively, when input to the touch recess 116, a click input X can be interpreted as a power level or other range value command. In such examples, the position of the click input X within the recess (in this case, the lower part of the recess) can determine how much the controlled device 125 should be dimmed. For click inputs within the central area of ​​the touch recess, a power level or other range value command may be more appropriate compared to click inputs towards the edges of the touch recess 116.

[0077] In some examples, control module 120 may include logic for detecting fuzzy touch input from a user. For example, a user may provide fuzzy touch input, such as a quasi-slide input C outside the touch recess 116. In such an example, the quasi-slide input can be interpreted as a slide input or a click input within or near the touch recess 116. Control module 120 may employ settings, user preferences, or rules to interpret the quasi-slide input C based on the detected location and / or linear movement of the input. For example, based on a conflict resolution operation performed by control module 120, fuzzy input C may be interpreted by control module 120 as a click input or a slide input.

[0078] In some respects, if the touch input occurs within the touch recess 116, the ambiguous input C will be weighted to favor swipe input. However, when an ambiguous input C occurs on the external panel 110, such as Figure 4As shown, input can be weighted more heavily to favor click input. Therefore, the location of touch input can cause the control module 120 to emphasize or influence the interpretation of whether the input is a click or a swipe. In some examples, swipe input performed by the user outside the touch recess 116 can be ignored and interpreted as an alternative input (e.g., a click), or interpreted as a swipe input. Similarly, swipe input that begins within or near the touch recess 116 and ends outside the touch recess 116 can be interpreted as a swipe, a click, or other input based on settings, user preferences, or rules.

[0079] method

[0080] Figure 5 A method for operating a touch-based control device according to one or more examples is shown. Figure 6A and Figure 6B A method for operating a touch-based control device to control one or more devices (e.g., a lamp) is illustrated according to one or more examples. In the description... Figure 5 , Figure 6A and Figure 6B When providing examples, for the purpose of illustrating the described steps or sub-steps, please refer to the relevant documentation. Figure 1A , Figure 1B And various elements shown and described elsewhere in this application.

[0081] According to the example, the control module 120 continuously monitors sensor signals 301 (510) generated by the sensing elements of the sensing layer 210. When one or more sensor signals 301 are modulated in a manner that potentially indicates touch input, the control module 120 can further detect instances (520). For example, the control module 120 can detect when the modulated sensor signal 301 exceeds a corresponding baseline value by an amount exceeding a touch trigger threshold.

[0082] The control module 120 can process the modulated sensor signal 301 to determine whether a touch input has occurred (530). Furthermore, during the determination, the control module 120 can perform calibration and / or sensitivity adjustment based on the position of the sensor signal 301 (532). Specifically, the control module 120 can perform calibration and / or sensitivity adjustment such that the modulated sensor signal 301 generated by one or more sensing elements in the adjacent gap or surrounding area can be appropriately detected and interpreted as a touch input.

[0083] As an addition or alternative, the control module 120 can analyze the modulation sensor signal 301 to identify attributes including (i) multiple modulation sensing elements, (ii) variations between modulation sensor signals 301, (iii) the degree and / or duration of modulation sensor signals 301, and (iv) the location attributes of modulation sensor signals 301. Additionally, the control module 120 can weight attributes determined by sensing elements near or adjacent to the gap or surrounding area to reflect higher sensitivity for better detection of touch input occurring in the gap or surrounding area.

[0084] In addition to other advantages, such as Figure 4 The examples described elsewhere in this application enable the detection of touch input at any location within the touch input area without so-called blind spots that would otherwise hinder the response under conventional methods.

[0085] Reference Figure 6A The touch-based control device 100 operates to detect touch input (610) received on any part of the outer panel 110 (including the touch recess 116). In some examples, the control device 100 can detect touch input received at any location on the outer panel 110. Furthermore, in a variant, the control device 100 detects touch input received at any location on the basic portion of the outer panel 110.

[0086] The control device 100 interprets the touch input based on at least one of the location (612) and / or the type of touch that occurred (614). For example, the control module 120 may divide the touch area 225 into sub-regions and further interpret the touch input based at least in part on the sub-regions or multiple sub-regions of the touch area 225 where the input was detected. As an addition or variation, the control module 120 may interpret the touch input based on type, such as whether the touch input is a click, double-click, triple-click, swipe, or other gesture input. To interpret the type of input, the control module 120 may detect one or more attributes of the touch input, such as the control module 120.

[0087] In the example, the type of touch input can be based on one or more detected characteristics of the touch input. In variations, the detected characteristics of the touch input can correspond to (i) the length or other dimensions of the touch input, (ii) the duration of the touch input, (iii) the direction of the input, and / or (iv) the shape, pattern, or other gesture formed by the touch input. In other variations, the properties of the detected touch input can correspond to, for example, the touch force applied to the surface (e.g., which can be detected using a force sensor), the speed of the touch input (e.g., the speed of a swipe), and / or the acceleration of the touch input.

[0088] In various implementations, the touch-based control device 100 controls a group of connected devices (620) based on interpreted touch input. As an example, each of the controlled devices in this group includes a light, ceiling fan, thermostat, appliance, wireless receiver (to control other devices), and / or media device. In other examples, the group of connected devices includes a wireless transceiver for another device (e.g., for a light). Based on the interpreted input, the control device 100 implements one of the range value commands, such as setting the power level of the connected device. In the example of FIG2, the control device implements dimming control (622) or on / off control (624) for a connected group of lights. When implementing range value control, the control module 120 may utilize the characteristics of the touch input to determine the range value. For example, the characteristics of the touch input can be used to determine the dimming output level of the connected lights within a range (e.g., from minimum brightness to maximum brightness). The characteristics of the touch input affecting the range value command may include, for example, the length of the slide, the start and / or end position of the slide, the duration of the slide, and / or the speed of the slide.

[0089] In some examples, control module 120 may execute sensing and control logic to facilitate user interaction with touch-based control device 100. As an example, control module 120 may interpret a detected touch as follows:

[0090] (i) If touch input is detected to occur within the touch recess 116, the control module 120 determines whether the touch input includes a click or a swipe (or other gesture). If the touch input is a click, the control module 120 interprets the touch input as an on / off input. If the touch input is a swipe, the control module 120 interprets the touch input as a range value command, where the range value is determined by the touch input.

[0091] (ii) If the touch input is detected to occur in the area surrounding the touch recess 116, the control module 120 does not interpret the touch input as a slide for determining a range value.

[0092] In the example, the action associated with a click can be configurable or user-selectable. Thus, for example, a user can select one of multiple controlled devices 125 (e.g., a light) to turn on / off using a click. In such an example, a user can configure the touch-based control device 100 to operate a specific controlled device 125 via an application interface on the user's mobile computing device (e.g., for a wirelessly connected smart light bulb). In a variant, the touch-based control device 100 can be hardwired to control power output to one or more load devices (such as light elements) using existing household wiring as described herein.

[0093] Figure 6BThis is a flowchart describing an example method for generating commands for a controlled device 125 (e.g., a lamp) by executing conflict resolution logic according to various examples. (See also...) Figure 6B The control module 120 detects touch input on the touch-based control device 100 (630). In some implementations, the control module 120 may initially determine whether the touch input is executed within the touch recess 116 (635). If so (637), the control module 120 may execute alternative commands, such as power level commands (e.g., dimming commands on lamp elements), based on the characteristics of the input (e.g., the linear direction and distance of the swipe input) (640).

[0094] However, if touch input (639) is performed on the outer panel 110 surrounding the touch recess 116, the control module 120 can determine whether the touch input is a tap or a swipe. In some examples, the touch input may include a slight linearity (e.g., a few millimeters), but the execution of the sensing logic by the control module 120 may not result in the confidence level necessary to execute the command. In this case, the control module 120 may first determine whether the touch input exceeds a threshold confidence level (e.g., 95%) (645). If so (647), the control module 120 may execute an on / off command or a range value command (650) based on the nature of the input (e.g., whether the input is a tap or a swipe). However, if the touch input does not exceed the confidence threshold (649), the sensing module may execute conflict resolution logic to determine the nature of the input (655).

[0095] As provided herein, the execution of the conflict resolution logic enables control module 120 to determine whether the linear movement of the touch input exceeds a time threshold (e.g., one-tenth of a second), a distance threshold (e.g., half a centimeter), and / or a distance and pressure threshold (e.g., the minimum force applied to the panel) during the linear movement (660). If the threshold is exceeded (662), control module 120 may execute a range value command (665) based at least in part on the linear movement of the swipe input. However, if the threshold is not exceeded (664), control module 120 may execute an on / off command for controlled device 125 based on the current state of controlled device 125 (670).

[0096] Hardware diagram

[0097] Figure 7This is a hardware diagram of a touch-based control device according to one or more examples. In various examples, control device 700 may include logic and processing performed through user interaction with touch-based control device 100, as shown and described in conjunction with various examples of this disclosure. In one implementation, control device 700 includes processing resources 710, memory 720, and communication interface 750. Control device 700 includes at least one processor 710 for processing information stored in main memory 720, such as information provided by random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage devices, for storing information and instructions executable by processor 710.

[0098] As provided herein, the control module 120 of the touch-based control device 100 may include a processor 710 or a combination of a processor 710 and a main memory 720, as per [reference to...]. Figure 7 As shown and described. In various embodiments, the control module 120 may be a general-purpose microprocessor, a microcontroller, a combination of one or more cooperating microprocessors and / or microcontrollers, and / or a touch sensor application-specific integrated circuit incorporated in or connected to one or more of these processing configurations. Additionally, the main memory 720 may be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions by the processor 710. The memory may also include ROM or other static storage devices for storing static information and instructions of the processor 710.

[0099] The communication interface 750 enables the control device 700 to communicate over one or more control networks 780 (e.g., Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, etc.) using one or more wireless network links. Using the network links, the control device 700 can communicate with one or more home appliances, one or more servers, or third-party intermediary communication modules. The executable instructions in the memory 720 may include interpretation instructions 722, which the computing device 700 can execute to detect and interpret input performed by a user on the surface (external panel 110) of the control device 700. The control device 700 can perform control operations in response to the detection and interpretation of touch input. For example, the processor 710 can execute instructions 722 to interpret sensor signals generated by a touch sensor layer 760 disposed beneath the external panel 110. In response to the detection and interpretation of touch input, the control device 700 generates control commands and performs other control operations to enable settings or other operational aspects of the controlled device.

[0100] The executable instructions stored in memory 720 may also include control connection instructions (not shown), which the control device 700 can execute to selectively connect the communication interface 750 to various smart home devices to send control commands from the processor 710 directly or via an intermediary device. As described herein, the control device 700 may be connected to one or more load devices 770 via a wired connection, or it may implement a wireless network protocol to connect to the smart home device 782 via a control network 780 to send control commands.

[0101] In some embodiments, the computing device 700 may be coupled to the AC controller 790, for example, by a clip providing electrical connection between a spring clip or spring-loaded single-leg pin on one side (e.g., a home controller or AC controller 790) and a conductive pad on the corresponding side. The AC controller 790 may include connections for line, load, neutral, and / or ground to wall wiring, and in some embodiments, may include L1 and L2 outputs for a 3-way configuration. In some embodiments, the AC controller 790 may include an AC microcontroller that receives instructions from the control device 700 and can control field-effect transistors, triac switches, switches, and / or other dimming mechanisms, such as those discussed above. In some examples, the AC controller 790 may include a dimming FET 795 that connects the AC controller 790 to the line conductors and load conductors of existing wiring (e.g., a light switch). Figure 7 In the example shown, the load wire connects the AC controller 790 to one or more wired home appliances 770 (e.g., lights), and the line wire connects the AC controller 790 (touch-based control device 100) to the power supply 799.

[0102] Processor 710 is configured with software and / or other logic to perform one or more processes, steps, and other functions described in the implementation, such as those described in the various examples relating to this disclosure. The examples described herein relate to implementing the techniques described herein using computing device 700. According to one example, these techniques are executed by computing device 700 in response to processor 710 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in main memory 720. These instructions may be read into main memory 720 from another machine-readable medium. Execution of the sequence of instructions contained in main memory 720 causes processor 710 to perform the processing steps described herein. In alternative implementations, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to implement the examples described herein. Therefore, embodiments are not limited to any particular combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0103] The examples described herein are intended to extend to the individual elements and concepts described herein, and are not related to other concepts, ideas, or systems, and the examples are intended to include combinations of elements stated anywhere in this application. Although examples have been described in detail herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that these concepts are not limited to these precise examples. Therefore, many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the concepts be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, it is contemplated that a particular feature described alone or as part of an example may be combined with other separately described features or as part of other examples, even if the other features and examples do not mention the particular feature. Therefore, the absence of a described combination should not exclude claims to such combinations.

Claims

1. A control device comprising: An outer panel, which includes a touch recess and a region surrounding the touch recess; A sensor layer, comprising one or more touch sensors, is arranged below the outer panel to sense touch input performed on the touch recess and the area surrounding the touch recess; A control module connected to the sensor layer is configured to use the sensor layer to detect touch input performed by a user on the external panel; In response to detecting a first touch input performed by a user on the touch recess, (i) determining whether the first touch input includes a tap or a swipe, and (ii) interpreting the first touch input based on whether it includes a tap or a swipe to control a set of devices; And in response to detecting a second touch input performed by a user on an area surrounding the touch recess, interpreting the second touch input to control a set of devices based on the second touch input; The second touch input is interpreted based on one or more attributes, including the position of the touch input in the region surrounding the touch notch; wherein, interpreting the second touch input includes adjusting the sensitivity of the sensor layer based on the position of the second touch input; The area surrounding the touch recess includes multiple regions, including a left region and a right region, and the control module implements a first logic for interpreting touch input detected on the left region and a second logic for interpreting touch input detected on the right region.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein when the first touch input includes a slide input, the control module interprets the first touch input as a range value command, and wherein when the first touch input includes a slide input, the control module interprets the first touch input as one of a device selection command, a mode selection input, or an on / off command.

3. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the device comprises one or more of a lighting device, a ceiling fan, a thermostat, an electrical or media device.

4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein when the first touch input includes a slide input, the control module is configured to interpret the first touch input as a range value command to set a range value for at least one of the connected devices in the set of connected devices.

5. The control device according to claim 4, wherein the range value command sets the output level of at least one of the connected devices in a group of connected devices.

6. The control device of claim 1, wherein when the second touch input includes a click input, the control module is configured to interpret the second touch input as an on / off command for at least one connected device in the set of devices.

7. The control device of claim 1, wherein one or more attributes include the direction of the second touch input.

8. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more attributes include at least one of the sliding direction or sliding distance of the second touch input.

9. The control device of claim 1, wherein the control module is configured at least in part by the user to interpret the touch input.

10. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control device is wall-mounted.

11. A base assembly for a wall-mounted control device, the base assembly comprising: A control module includes a sensor layer, the sensor layer including one or more touch sensors, the control module being operable to control a set of devices; The control module is configured to position the sensor layer within a threshold proximity to an external panel disposed on the base assembly during installation of the base assembly, the external panel including a touch recess and a region surrounding the touch recess; The control module is configured to: use the sensor layer to detect touch input performed by a user on the external panel; in response to detecting a first touch input performed by the user on the touch recess, (i) determine whether the first touch input includes a click input or a swipe input, and (ii) interpret the first touch input based on the determination that the first touch input includes a click input or a swipe input to control a set of devices; And in response to detecting a second touch input performed by a user on an area surrounding the touch recess, interpreting the second touch input to control a set of devices based on the second touch input; The second touch input is interpreted based on one or more attributes, including the position of the touch input in the region surrounding the touch notch; wherein, interpreting the second touch input includes adjusting the sensitivity of the sensor layer based on the position of the second touch input; The area surrounding the touch recess includes multiple regions, including a left region and a right region, and the control module implements a first logic for interpreting touch input detected on the left region and a second logic for interpreting touch input detected on the right region.

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