Pressure gesture

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus that can include a pressure sensor, a user interface including an input surface opposite a bottom surface of the user interface, wherein the bottom surface is located proximate the pressure sensor, a controller, a memory in communication with the controller and including programming instructions that, upon execution, cause the controller to detect a lower pressure input while detecting a higher pressure input, calculate a pressure differential between the lower pressure input and the higher pressure input, and move an object presented in a display in communication with the controller based on the pressure differential.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for using gestures. In particular, this disclosure relates to systems and methods for using gestures in pressure-sensitive applications. Background Technology

[0002] Touchscreens are typically integrated into tablets and other devices to provide a mechanism for input. Touchscreens can be operated using pressure sensing, allowing direct manipulation of objects displayed on the screen. Pressure sensors detect the pressure applied by the user on the touchscreen as intended control input.

[0003] Examples of pressure sensors are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,296,091, granted to Robert W. Heubel et al. This reference discloses a method for generating tactile effects, the method comprising detecting pressure input applied to a device using a gesture and determining a level associated with the gesture based on the pressure input, determining selection of an item based on the gesture level and content associated with the item at that level, and generating a content tactile effect including tactile parameters based on the content of the item at that level.

[0004] Another example of a pressure sensor is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0368454 to Regis Croisonnier et al. This reference discloses a control method utilizing the touchpad functionality of a capture device, which includes measuring an analog threshold pressure value and its difference, and transmitting an event signal based on the threshold pressure value and its difference to execute a selected function. The capture device for remote virtual screen data input via manual annotation includes at least three functional layers: a bottom rigid layer, an intermediate pressure sensor layer, a capacitive flexible sensor layer, and a top flexible panel layer. The bottom rigid layer has a surface that provides mechanical support for writing. The intermediate pressure sensor layer is adapted to measure a pressure array or pressure map on the capture activity area and transmit data representing the measured pressure to a personal computer. The top flexible touch-sensitive passive LCD display layer includes an LCD surface through which content written on the LCD is displayed graphically due to its liquid crystal physics, where the applied pressure alters the orientation and optical properties of the crystal grains, thus leaving a visible mark when a stylus presses on its writing surface, allowing the user to draw graphics without using real ink.

[0005] Another example of a pressure sensor is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,156,921, granted to Michael S. Smith et al. This reference discloses a device and a computer-readable medium configured to: display at least a portion of an object and an interface in the same virtual display layer; detect a single static gesture applied to an object on a touchscreen; perform an operation if the pressure amplitude of the single static gesture applied to the object on the touchscreen is less than a first amplitude threshold; blur at least a portion of the interface and display at least a portion of the interface and the object in different virtual display layers as a function to increase the pressure amplitude of the single static gesture applied to the object on the touchscreen; and cause the device to vibrate and perform another operation if the pressure amplitude of the single static gesture applied to the object on the touchscreen is greater than the second amplitude threshold.

[0006] Another example of a pressure sensor is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,619,044, granted to Matthew Dominic Tenuta et al. This reference discloses a touchpad device including an upper surface, a capacitive sensor operatively coupled to the upper surface, a resistive sensor disposed below the capacitive sensor, and at least one controller operatively coupled to the capacitive and resistive sensors. The at least one controller and the capacitive sensor are configured to detect one or more objects on the upper surface. The at least one controller and the resistive sensor are configured to detect one or more objects on the upper surface independently of the detection by the at least one controller and the capacitive sensor. The at least one controller is configured to determine the position of one or more objects on the upper surface using information from the detections from the at least one controller and the capacitive sensor and information from the detections from the at least one controller and the resistive sensor. All contents disclosed herein are incorporated by reference. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one embodiment, the device may include: a pressure sensor; a user interface including an input surface opposite the bottom surface of the user interface, wherein the bottom surface is located near the pressure sensor; a controller; and a memory communicating with the controller and including programming instructions that, when executed, cause the controller to detect a lower pressure input while simultaneously detecting a higher pressure input, calculate a pressure difference between the lower and higher pressure inputs, and move an object presented in a display communicating with the controller based on the pressure difference.

[0008] The objects presented in a moving display can include the cursor presented in the moving display.

[0009] Objects displayed on a mobile display can include indicators for a mobile virtual control panel.

[0010] Objects displayed on a mobile display can include virtual 3D objects displayed on the mobile display.

[0011] Moving objects displayed on a mobile display can include moving objects from a first two-dimensional coordinate on the display to a second two-dimensional coordinate on the display.

[0012] The objects presented in the mobile display can include rotating the objects from a first angular orientation on the display to a second angular orientation on the display.

[0013] When executed, the programming instructions can further enable the controller to detect the relative position between the lower and higher pressure inputs on the input surface, calculate the direction based at least in part on the relative position, and cause the object displayed on the screen to move in the calculated direction.

[0014] Moving an object in a calculated direction can include rotating the object in the calculated direction.

[0015] Moving an object along a calculated direction can include moving the object from a first two-dimensional coordinate on the display to a second two-dimensional coordinate on the display.

[0016] The calculation of orientation may include identifying a first position of lower pressure input on the input surface; identifying a second position of higher pressure input on the input surface; calculating the angle between the first and second positions on the input surface; and calculating the orientation in the display based at least in part on the angle calculated from the input surface.

[0017] At least one of the lower pressure input and the higher pressure input can be relatively stationary relative to the pressure sensor on the input surface.

[0018] The objects displayed on the moving display can include objects that move at a speed related to the magnitude of the pressure difference.

[0019] The device may include a capacitive sensor located near the bottom surface of the input surface, wherein the pressure sensor is capable of detecting changes in pressure, and the capacitive sensor is capable of detecting changes in proximity of an external object adjacent to the input surface based at least in part on changes in capacitance.

[0020] In one embodiment, a method of using pressure gestures may include: detecting a lower pressure input on a pressure-sensitive surface, simultaneously detecting a higher pressure input on the pressure-sensitive surface, calculating a pressure difference between the lower and higher pressure inputs, and moving an object presented in a display communicating with the pressure-sensitive surface based on the pressure difference.

[0021] The objects presented in a moving display can include the cursor presented in the moving display.

[0022] Objects displayed on a mobile display can include indicators for a mobile virtual control panel.

[0023] Objects displayed on a mobile display can include virtual 3D objects displayed on the mobile display.

[0024] Moving objects displayed on a mobile display can include moving objects from a first two-dimensional coordinate on the display to a second two-dimensional coordinate on the display.

[0025] The objects presented in the mobile display can include rotating the objects from a first angular orientation on the display to a second angular orientation on the display.

[0026] In one embodiment, a computer program product may have a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions executable by a processor to perform the following operations: detecting a lower pressure input on a pressure-sensitive surface; simultaneously detecting a higher pressure input on the pressure-sensitive surface; calculating a pressure difference between the lower and higher pressure inputs; detecting a relative position between the lower and higher pressure inputs on the input surface; calculating an orientation based at least in part on the relative position; and moving an object presented in a display communicating with the pressure-sensitive surface based on the pressure difference and the calculated orientation.

[0027] In one embodiment, the device may include: a pressure sensor; a user interface including an input surface opposite the bottom surface of the user interface, wherein the bottom surface is located near the pressure sensor; a controller; a memory communicating with the controller and including programming instructions that, when executed, cause the controller to detect a higher pressure input from a first object; while detecting the higher pressure input, simultaneously detect a lower pressure input from a second object different from the first object; calculate the pressure difference between the higher and lower pressure inputs; and adjust parameters of the device at least in part based on the pressure difference.

[0028] The parameter can be increased when a higher pressure is near the first side of a lower pressure input.

[0029] The parameter can decrease when a higher pressure is near the second side of a lower pressure input, where the first side and the second side are different and relative.

[0030] The parameter can be turned on when a higher pressure is close to the first side of a lower pressure input.

[0031] The parameter can be turned off when the higher pressure is close to the second side of the lower pressure input, where the first side and the second side are different and opposite.

[0032] The parameter can be the display brightness level.

[0033] The parameter can be the audio volume level.

[0034] The parameter can be the power consumption mode.

[0035] The parameter can be the scaling level.

[0036] The parameters can be camera settings.

[0037] The parameters can be microphone settings.

[0038] The device may include a capacitive sensor located near the bottom surface of the input surface, wherein the pressure sensor is capable of detecting changes in pressure, and the capacitive sensor is capable of detecting changes in proximity of an external object adjacent to the input surface based at least in part on changes in capacitance.

[0039] In one embodiment, the method of using pressure gestures may include: detecting a higher pressure input from a first object on a pressure-sensitive surface; simultaneously detecting a lower pressure input from a second object different from the first object on the pressure-sensitive surface while detecting the higher pressure input; calculating the pressure difference between the higher and lower pressure inputs; and adjusting parameters of the device based at least in part on the pressure difference.

[0040] The parameter can be increased when a higher pressure is near the first side of a lower pressure input.

[0041] The parameter can decrease when a higher pressure is near the second side of a lower pressure input, where the first side and the second side are different and relative.

[0042] The parameter can be turned on when a higher pressure is close to the first side of a lower pressure input.

[0043] The parameter can be turned off when the higher pressure is close to the second side of the lower pressure input, where the first side and the second side are different and opposite.

[0044] In one embodiment, the computer program product may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions executable by a processor to perform the following operations: detecting a higher pressure input from a first object on a pressure-sensitive surface; simultaneously detecting a lower pressure input from a second object different from the first object on the pressure-sensitive surface while detecting the higher pressure input; calculating a pressure difference between the higher and lower pressure inputs; and adjusting parameters of the device based at least in part on the pressure difference.

[0045] The instruction, when executed, enables the processor to detect the relative position between a lower pressure input and a higher pressure input, and adjusts the direction parameters based at least in part on the pressure difference and the relative position.

[0046] The instruction can increase the parameters when the processor is near the first side of a lower pressure input at a higher pressure. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 Examples of portable electronic devices according to this disclosure are described.

[0048] Figure 2 An example of a substrate having a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes according to this disclosure is described.

[0049] Figure 3 An example of a touchpad according to this disclosure is described.

[0050] Figure 4 An example of a touchscreen according to this disclosure is described.

[0051] Figure 5 An example of an input surface according to this disclosure is described.

[0052] Figure 6 An example of an input surface according to this disclosure is described.

[0053] Figure 7 An example of the arrangement of pressure sensors according to this disclosure is described.

[0054] Figure 8 An example of the arrangement of pressure sensors according to this disclosure is described.

[0055] Figure 9 An example of the arrangement of pressure sensors according to this disclosure is described.

[0056] Figure 10 An example of the arrangement of pressure sensors according to this disclosure is described.

[0057] Figure 11 An example of moving the cursor according to this disclosure is described.

[0058] Figure 12 An example of moving the cursor according to this disclosure is described.

[0059] Figure 13 An example of a mobile virtual 3D object according to this disclosure is described.

[0060] Figure 14 An example of a control panel according to this disclosure is described.

[0061] Figure 15 An example of a gesture module according to this disclosure is described.

[0062] Figure 16Examples of methods for using pressure gestures according to this disclosure are described.

[0063] Figure 17 Examples of methods for using pressure gestures according to this disclosure are described.

[0064] Figure 18 Examples of methods for using pressure gestures according to this disclosure are described.

[0065] Figure 19 Examples of methods for using pressure gestures according to this disclosure are described.

[0066] Figure 20 Examples of methods for using pressure gestures according to this disclosure are described.

[0067] Figure 21 Examples of methods for using pressure gestures according to this disclosure are described.

[0068] While specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein, as various modifications and alternatives are readily available in this disclosure, it should be understood that this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Detailed Implementation

[0069] This description provides examples and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the following description will provide those skilled in the art with a feasible description of embodiments for implementing the invention. Various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements.

[0070] Therefore, various procedures or components may be appropriately omitted, substituted, or added in the various embodiments. For example, it should be understood that the methods may be performed in a sequence different from that described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Moreover, the described aspects and elements may be combined in various other embodiments relative to certain embodiments. It should also be understood that the following systems, methods, apparatuses, and software may individually or collectively be components of a larger system, wherein other programs may take precedence over or otherwise modify their application.

[0071] 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 of 55.0 to 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 the length perpendicular to the object measured across the object.

[0072] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "electrode" generally refers to a portion of an electrical conductor intended for measurement, and the terms "wiring" and "trace" generally refer to portions of an electrical conductor not intended for measurement. For the purposes of the circuits involved in this disclosure, the term "circuit" generally refers to a combination of "wiring" or "trace" portions of electrodes and electrical conductors. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "Tx" generally refers to a transmission line, electrode, or portion thereof, and the term "Rx" generally refers to a sensing line, electrode, or portion thereof.

[0073] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "portable electronic device" can generally refer to a device that is transportable and includes a battery and electronic components. Examples may include laptops, desktop computers, mobile phones, tablet computers, personal digital devices, watches, game controllers, wearable devices, another type of device, or combinations thereof.

[0074] It should be understood that throughout this document, the terms “touchpad” and “touch sensor” are used interchangeably with “capacitive touch sensor”, “capacitive sensor”, “capacitive touch and proximity sensor”, “proximity sensor”, “touch and proximity sensor”, “touch surface panel”, “touchpad”, “touchpad”, and “touchscreen”.

[0075] It should also be understood that, as used herein, the terms “vertical,” “horizontal,” “lateral,” “above,” “below,” “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” etc., can refer to the relative orientation or position of features of the disclosed apparatus and / or components shown in the figures. For example, “above” or “topmost” can refer to a feature that is closer to the top of the page than another feature. However, these terms should be interpreted broadly to include apparatus and / or components having other orientations such as inverted or tilted orientations, where top / bottom, above / below, on top / below, up / down, and left / right can be interchanged depending on the orientation.

[0076] In some cases, the sensor is located within a housing. The sensor may be located below the housing and capable of detecting objects outside the housing. For example, the sensor may be exposed within a cavity formed by the keyboard housing of a computer, such as a laptop or other type of computing device, and the sensor may be positioned below the surface of the keyboard housing. 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 sensor may be located below the cover layer, and the sensor may sense the presence of an object through the cover layer. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "input surface" can generally refer to a surface on which a pressure sensor, capacitive sensor, or other type of sensor senses pressure, presence, location, or other characteristics indicating user input. For example, an input surface may be a housing, cover layer, or other type of surface that senses input. In some examples, the input surface has no moving parts. In some examples, the input 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.

[0077] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "lower pressure input" generally refers to a pressure input measured at a relatively lower pressure value than another pressure input received through the input surface during the same time period. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "higher pressure input" generally refers to a pressure input measured at a relatively higher pressure value than another pressure input received during the same time period. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "simultaneously" generally refers to at least temporal overlap. For example, if higher and lower pressure inputs are received simultaneously, each of these inputs occurs at some overlapping point in time. In some cases, the inputs start and end simultaneously. In other examples, one of the inputs may start at a different time than another input. One of the inputs may end at a different time than another input. For example, the first input may start before the second input begins, and the first input may end after the second input ends. In another example, the first input may start before the second input begins, and the first input may end before the second input ends. The time interval for the first input may overlap at least somewhat with the time interval for the second input.

[0078] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "display" can generally refer to a display or screen that is not presented in the same area as the input surface. In some cases, the display is integrated into a portable computer where the keyboard is located between the display and the input surface. In some examples where the input surface is incorporated into the portable computer, the input surface may be part of a touchpad. Pressure sensors may be integrated into the stack that makes up the touchpad. However, in some cases, the pressure sensor may be located in another part of the portable computer, such as under the keyboard housing but outside the area used for sensing touch input, on the side of the portable computer, above the keyboard, on one side of the keyboard, in another location on the portable computer, or in other locations. In examples where these principles are integrated into a portable computer, the display may be pivotally connected to the keyboard housing. The display may be a digital screen, a touchscreen, another type of screen, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the display is located on the same device as the input surface, while in other examples, the display is located on a different device than the one on which the input surface is located. For example, the display may project onto a different surface, such as a wall or a projector screen. In some examples, the input surface is located on an input controller or game controller, while the display is located on a wearable device, such as a virtual reality screen or an augmented reality screen. In some cases, the input surface and the display are located on the same surface, but at different positions on that surface. In other examples, the input surface and the display may be integrated into the same device, but on different surfaces. In some cases, the input surface and the display may be oriented at different angles relative to each other.

[0079] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "indicator" can generally refer to any suitable type of indicator that indicates the state or level of an adjustable parameter of a device. For example, an indicator can represent audio level, brightness level, font size, magnification / zoom percentage, another type of parameter, or a combination thereof. Any suitable type of indicator can be used, including but not limited to sliders, dials, percentages, checkmarks, fill boxes, arrows, another type of indicator, or combinations thereof. In some cases, an indicator can describe whether a mode or function is on or off.

[0080] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "virtual 3D object" can generally refer to a digital image of a device, a digital icon, a model, a CAD model, an avatar, another type of digital image, or a combination thereof.

[0081] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "relative position" can generally refer to the position of the inputs relative to each other. For example, if the first input is located at the center coordinate of the input surface, and the second input is located 2 inches in the positive x direction and 2 inches in the positive y direction, the relative position of the two inputs can be approximately 2.83 inches apart at a positive 45-degree angle. This relative position can be used to move an object in the display. For example, if the relative position is at a 45-degree angle, the object in the display can be moved in a direction forming a 45-degree angle with respect to a reference point in the display. In some examples, the direction of movement can be determined based on the relative pressure of the two inputs. For example, in some cases, this direction moves away from the lower pressure input toward the higher pressure input. In this case, if the lower pressure input is located at the center coordinate, and the higher pressure input is relatively located at a positive 45-degree angle away from the lower pressure input, the direction can be upward to the right in the input surface. A similar movement can be simulated on the display by moving or rotating the object in a rightward and upward movement or rotation along a 45-degree trajectory. On the other hand, if the higher pressure input is located at the center coordinate, and the lower pressure input is relatively located at a positive 45-degree angle away from the higher pressure input, the direction may be reversed. In this scenario, an object on the display can move by moving left and down along a 45-degree trajectory or by rotating in that direction. Although this description has been given with reference to several specific examples, relative position, angle, and orientation can be achieved at any suitable position, angle, and orientation.

[0082] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "relatively static" can generally refer to input that remains within the same basic area. When a finger is pressed on an input surface, a user may intend to keep the finger in a stationary position on the input surface; however, due to finger swaying or other movements, the user may not be able to keep the finger completely still. However, these minute movements may not significantly affect the position of the input. Therefore, input from an object on an input surface may be relatively static, even if such input includes some swaying and minute movements.

[0083] Figure 1 An example of a portable electronic device 100 is described. In this example, the portable electronic device is a portable computer. In the example shown, the portable electronic device 100 includes input components such as a keyboard 102 and a touchpad 104 integrated into a housing 103. The portable electronic device 100 also includes a display 106. Programs operated by the portable 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 portable electronic device 100.

[0084] 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 depress a switch located below keyboard 102. In response to the selection key 108, a program can receive instructions on how to operate, such as a word processing program determining which type of word to process. The user can use touchpad 104 to issue different types of instructions to programs running on computing device 100. For example, the 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 issue a command via touchpad 104 to select that object. For example, the user can provide instructions for selecting an object by tapping the surface of touchpad 104 once or multiple times.

[0085] Touchpad 104 may include a capacitive sensor disposed beneath the surface containing keyboard 102. In some examples, touchpad 104 is located on the keyboard surface in an area where the user's palm can rest while typing. The capacitive sensor may include a printed circuit board including a first layer of electrodes oriented in a first direction and a second layer of electrodes positioned transversely to the first direction. These layers may be spaced apart and / or electrically isolated from each other, such that the electrodes on different layers do not short-circuit with each other. Capacitance can be measured at the overlapping intersections between the electrodes on different layers. However, the capacitance may change when a user's finger or other conductive object approaches the intersection. These capacitance changes and their associated locations can be quantified to determine the location where the user touches or hovers his or her finger within the area of ​​touchpad 104. In some examples, the first and second sets of electrodes are equidistant from each other. Therefore, in these examples, the sensitivity of touchpad 104 is the same in both directions. However, in other examples, the distance between the electrodes may be non-uniformly spaced to provide greater sensitivity for movement in a particular direction.

[0086] In some cases, the display 106 is mechanically separate and movable relative to the keyboard with the connecting 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 move relative to the keyboard 102 in a range of 0 degrees to 180 degrees or greater. In some examples, the display 106 can fold onto the upper surface of the keyboard 102 when in the closed position, and when in the operating position, the display 106 can fold away from the keyboard 102. In some examples, when the user uses the display 106, the display 106 can be oriented at an angle of 35 degrees to 135 degrees relative to the keyboard 102. However, in these examples, the display 106 can be positioned at any angle desired by the user.

[0087] 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 include a capacitive sensor located behind the outer surface of display 106. When a user's finger or other conductive object approaches the touch-sensitive screen, the capacitive sensor can detect a change in capacitance as input from the user.

[0088] Although Figure 1 The examples described illustrate portable electronic devices as examples of portable computers, but capacitive sensors and touch surfaces can be incorporated into any suitable device. The non-exhaustive list of devices includes, but is not limited to, desktops, monitors, screens, all-in-one computers, computing devices, tablet computers, other types of portable electronic devices, other types of devices, or combinations thereof.

[0089] Figure 2 An example of a portion of a touch input component 200 is described. In this example, the touch input component 200 may include a substrate 202, a first set of 204 electrodes, and a second set of 206 electrodes. The first set of 204 and the second set of 206 electrodes may be oriented laterally relative to each other. Further, the first set of 204 and the second set of 206 electrodes may be electrically isolated from each other such that the electrodes do not short-circuit with each other. However, capacitance can be measured when the electrodes from the first set of 204 overlap with the electrodes from the second set of 206. The touch input component 200 may include one or more electrodes from the first set of 204 or the second set of 206. Such a substrate 202 and electrode set may be incorporated into a touchscreen, touchpad, and / or integrated into an expansion detection circuit in a battery assembly.

[0090] In some examples, the touch input component 200 is a mutual capacitance sensing device. In such examples, the substrate 202 has a set of 204 rows of electrodes and a set of 206 columns of electrodes defining the touch / proximity sensitive area of ​​the component. In some cases, the component is configured as a rectangular grid of electrodes of an appropriate number (e.g., 8×6, 16×12, 9×15, etc.).

[0091] like Figure 2 As shown, the touch input controller 208 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 amplifiers, a peripheral interface controller (PIC), other types of microprocessors, and / or combinations thereof, and may be implemented 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 components, or a combination having appropriate circuitry, hardware, firmware, and / or software to select from available operating modes.

[0092] In some cases, the touch controller 208 includes at least one multiplexing circuit to allow alternation between the operation of the first group 204 and the second group 206 as driving and sensing electrodes. One driving electrode can be driven sequentially or randomly at a time, or multiple electrodes can be driven simultaneously in an coded mode. Other configurations, such as a self-capacitance mode for simultaneously driving and sensing electrodes, are possible. The electrodes can also be arranged in a non-rectangular array, such as a radial pattern, linear string, etc. Ground plane shield (see...) Figure 3 It can be positioned below the electrodes to reduce noise or other interference. The protective section can extend beyond the electrode grid. Other configurations are also possible.

[0093] In some cases, measurements do not use a fixed reference point. The touch controller 208 can generate signals that are sent directly to the first group 204 or the second group 206 electrodes in various modes.

[0094] In some cases, the element does not rely on absolute capacitance measurements to determine the position of a finger (or stylus, pointer, or other object) on the surface of the touch input component 200. The touch input component 200 can measure charge imbalances on electrodes used as sensing electrodes; in some examples, these sensing electrodes can be any electrodes specified in groups 204 and 206, or in other examples, dedicated sensing electrodes. When there is no pointing object on or near the touch input component 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, a capacitance change may occur at the intersection of electrode groups 204 and 206 that constitute the touch / proximity sensitive area. In some cases, the capacitance change is measured. However, in optional examples, an absolute capacitance value can be measured.

[0095] While this example has described the touch input component 200 as having the flexibility to switch between electrode groups 204 and 206 between sensing and transmission electrodes, in other examples, each electrode group is dedicated to either transmission or sensing functions.

[0096] Figure 3 An example of substrate 202 is described, wherein a first set of 204 electrodes and a second set of 206 electrodes are deposited on substrate 202 incorporated into a touchpad. The first set of 204 electrodes and the second set of 206 electrodes may be spaced apart from each other and electrically isolated from each other. Figure 3 In the example described, a first set of 204 electrodes is deposited on a first side of substrate 202, and a second set of 206 electrodes is deposited on a second side of substrate 202, wherein the second side is opposite to the first side and is separated by the thickness of substrate 202. The substrate may be made of an electrically insulating material to prevent the first set of 204 and the second set of 206 electrodes from short-circuiting with each other. Figure 2 As described, the first set of 204 electrodes and the second set of 206 electrodes can be laterally oriented relative to each other. Capacitance measurements can be performed at the intersection where the first set of 204 and the second set of 206 electrodes overlap. In some examples, a voltage can be applied to the transmission electrode, and the voltage of the sensing electrode overlapping with the transmission electrode can be measured. The capacitance at the intersection where the sensing electrode and the transmission electrode overlap can be determined using the voltage from the sensing electrode.

[0097] In describing the cross-section of the touchpad Figure 3 In this example, substrate 202 may be located between touch surface 212 and protective portion 214. Contact surface 212 may be a cover positioned above a first side of substrate 202 and through which the electric field at least partially penetrates. When a user's finger or stylus approaches touch surface 212, the presence of the finger or stylus affects the electric field on substrate 202. The voltage measured from the sensing electrode in the presence of a finger or stylus may differ from the voltage in the absence of the finger or stylus. Therefore, changes in capacitance can be measured.

[0098] The protective layer 214 may be a conductive layer that shields against electrical noise from internal components of a portable electronic device. This protective layer can prevent the influence of electric fields on the substrate 202.

[0099] The voltage applied to the transmission electrode can be transmitted from the touch controller 208 to the appropriate electrode group via electrical connector 216. The voltage applied to the sensing electrode by the electric field generated by the transmission electrode can be detected via electrical connector 218 from the sensing electrode to the touch controller 208.

[0100] Figure 4 An example of a touchscreen as a touch input controller is described. In this example, substrate 202, electrode groups 204, 206, and electrical connectors 216, 218 can be similarly combined. Figure 3 The described layout. Figure 4 In this example, the protective portion 214 is located between the substrate 202 and the display 400. The display 400 may be a layer of pixels or diodes that emit light to generate an image. The display may 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 protective portion 214, the substrate 202, and the touch surface 212 may all be at least partially transparent to allow the display to be visible to the user through the touch surface 212. Such a touchscreen may be included in a monitor, display assembly, portable computer, mobile phone, mobile device, electronic tablet computer, other types of portable electronic devices, or combinations thereof.

[0101] Figure 5An example of a cross-section of touchpad 200 is described, wherein substrate 202 may be located between touch surface 212 and protective portion 214. In this example, a first pressure sensor 500 and a second pressure sensor 502 are integrated into touchpad 200. As described in this example, pressure sensors 500, 502 may be positioned adjacent to the underside of substrate 202. However, in other examples, pressure sensors may be located at any suitable location, including but not limited to the underside adjacent to touch surface 212, the underside adjacent to protective portion, other locations, or combinations thereof. In the example where pressure sensors 500, 502 are located below substrate 202, pressure applied to touch surface 212 can be transmitted through the touch surface 212 applying pressure to substrate 202, which in turn applies pressure to at least one of pressure sensors 500, 502. In the example where pressure sensors are adjacent to protective portion, pressure applied to input surface can be transmitted to protective portion, which in turn applies pressure to pressure sensors. This pressure can be measured by pressure sensors 500, 502 to determine a 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 another dimension of the touch 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 touch surface 212. In some cases, those pressure sensors closer to the location of the pressure input can detect greater pressure than those at a greater distance. Different pressure values ​​can help determine the location of the pressure input.

[0102] Although this example is described as a pressure sensor integrated into a touchpad with stacked capacitive sensors, in other examples, the pressure sensor is not integrated with a capacitive 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.

[0103] 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 tactile device. When a piezoelectric material is compressed due to applied pressure, it can generate an electrical signal that can be detected by a controller. In some cases, the controller can generate an electrical signal that is sent to the piezoelectric material to cause it to expand and / or vibrate. Vibration from the piezoelectric material can cause the input surface to vibrate. This vibration can convey a tactile signal to the user. However, in some examples, the pressure sensor is not configured to provide a tactile signal.

[0104] Figure 6 An example of an input surface 600 is described. In this example, a first pressure sensor 602 and a second pressure sensor 604 are adjacent to the input surface 600. In this example, the first pressure sensor 602 and the second pressure sensor 604 are not incorporated into a stack containing other types of sensors.

[0105] Figures 7 to 10 An example of a pressure sensor disposed on the bottom surface 700 of the input surface 702 is described. Figure 7 In the example, the input surface 702 has a rectangular shape and pressure sensors 704, 706, 708, and 710 are located in each of the corners 712, 714, 716, and 718. Figure 8 In the example, only the first pressure sensor 704 is disposed on the first side 720 of the input surface 702, while the second pressure sensor 706 is disposed on the second side 722. Figure 9 In the example, pressure sensors 704, 706, 708, and 710 are positioned at the center of the first side 720, the second side 722, the third side 724, and the fourth side 726. Figure 10 In the example, pressure sensors 704, 706, 708, and 710 are positioned facing the center of the input surface and away from the edges and corners of the input surface 702.

[0106] Although described with reference to a specific number of pressure sensors Figures 7 to 10 However, any appropriate number of pressure sensors can be placed near the input surface. For example, the number of pressure sensors can include one pressure sensor or multiple pressure sensors. Although the above example has been described with reference to specific patterns and locations of pressure sensors, other arrangements are also contemplated, including but not limited to symmetrical distribution of sensors, asymmetrical distribution of sensors, other distributions and patterns of sensors, or combinations thereof.

[0107] Figure 11 An example of an input surface 1100 and a display 1102 communicating with the input surface 1100 is described. In this example, a first finger 1104 applies a first pressure input 1106 to the center of the input surface 1100. A second finger 1110 applies a second pressure input 1112 to a different location on the input surface 1100. In this example, the first pressure input 1106 is a relatively low pressure input, while the second pressure input 1112 is a relatively high pressure input.

[0108] In this example, the moving object displayed on monitor 1102 is cursor 1116. In this example, the higher pressure input is located on the input surface to the right and below the lower pressure input. In this case, the system interprets the pressure difference gesture as a command to move the cursor in the direction (indicated by line 1118) mimicking the relative position between the first input 1106 and the second input 1112. Therefore, in this case, the cursor moves to the right towards the bottom of monitor 1102. The system can determine the angle between the lower and higher pressure inputs and move the cursor to the lower right at an angle at least close to the angle between the higher and lower pressure inputs.

[0109] The system can determine the existence of a pressure difference by detecting that more than one pressure input is being performed on the input surface. In some cases, the pressure inputs may begin at relatively equal times, or one of the pressure inputs may begin sometime after the first pressure input. In response to determining that more than one pressure input is being performed on the input surface, each pressure value can be determined. If there is a difference between the values ​​of the first and second pressure inputs, the system can determine that the user is performing an input to move an object in the display. In some cases, the direction of movement is determined by the relative position between the higher and lower pressure inputs. For example, if the system follows a rule that the object moves away from the lower pressure input, and if the higher pressure input is to the right of the lower pressure input, the object moves to the right. Similarly, if the system follows a rule that the object moves away from the higher pressure input, and if the higher pressure input is to the right of the lower pressure input, the object moves to the left.

[0110] In some cases, the speed at which an object moves can be determined by the value of the pressure difference. In examples where the pressure difference is higher, the object can move at a faster speed compared to cases where the pressure difference is lower.

[0111] In some cases, the object to be moved on the display is always the same object, such as a cursor or parameter indicator. In other examples, the user can select and / or change the object to be moved. In some cases, the object to be moved is application-specific. In this case, the object to be moved changes based on the application running on the device. For example, an application may include a game involving moving vehicles, images, another type of object, or a combination thereof. In such an application, the user can use pressure differential gestures as directional keys to guide the movement of game objects, aim projectiles in the game, rotate objects in the game, or perform other actions in the game.

[0112] In some examples, pressure is applied to the input surface using a stylus, finger, or other object as the first and second inputs. In some cases where pressure is applied using a finger, the user can use two different fingers on the same hand to make a pressure difference gesture. In other examples, the user can use fingers from both hands to make a pressure difference gesture.

[0113] In the example where an object moves from a first two-dimensional position to a second two-dimensional position on the display, the object can move as long as both pressure inputs remain. In examples where the pressure difference changes (i.e., one of the pressure inputs increases or decreases), the speed at which the object moves can change accordingly. For example, if the value of the pressure difference increases, the speed of the object can increase. On the other hand, if the value of the pressure difference decreases, the speed of the object can decrease. In some examples, the object moves only a distance related to the distance between the first and second inputs. For example, if the first and second inputs are two inches apart on the input display, the system interprets this as the user giving a command to move the object two inches. In other examples, the distance between the input surfaces and the distance to the object on the display may not be a 1:1 ratio, but rather another suitable ratio.

[0114] Figure 12 An example of generating a pressure difference using a first pressure input 1106 and a second pressure input 1112 is described. In this example, the first input is a lower pressure input, and the second input is a higher pressure input. In some cases, at least the lower pressure input, the higher pressure input, or both inputs are relatively stationary relative to the two-dimensional coordinates of the input surface 1100. Figure 12 In the example described, the lower pressure input remains relatively stationary, while the higher pressure input moves while pressure is still applied to the input surface 1100. This allows the cursor 1116 (or other object to be moved) to move in a non-linear direction. The cursor can initially move along the direction of the original angle formed by the relative positions of the first and second inputs, but over time, the relative angle changes as the higher pressure input moves. In this case, the angle determined by the relative positions of the pressure inputs also changes. As the angle changes, the cursor's direction can change to reflect the new angle. Therefore, the cursor can move along a curved path represented by line 1120.

[0115] Although this example has been described with reference to a higher pressure input that changes its position, in other examples, a lower pressure input can also be moved to change the angle formed by the relative input position. This change in the position of the lower pressure input can also cause a change in the cursor direction.

[0116] Figure 13An example of a pressure difference gesture made on input surface 1100 is described. In this example, a higher pressure input is made to the lower right of a lower pressure input on input surface 1100. In this particular example, such an input is interpreted as causing object 1122 presented on display 1102 to rotate to the lower right. Object 1122 may rotate in a direction derived from the angle of the relative positions of the higher and lower pressure inputs. In some cases, object 1122 may rotate while both pressure inputs are being made. In other examples, object 1122 may rotate a specific distance or time derived from the distance between the higher and lower pressure inputs on the input surface. In some cases, the speed of rotation of object 1122 may be determined based on the value of the pressure difference.

[0117] In this example, the object 1122 presented on display 1102 is a virtual 3D object, such as a CAD model in modeling software or another type of object. In some examples, the system can be configured to rotate a 2D object within the display based on pressure-based gestures. In another example, the virtual 3D object can be an object that is part of a game, demonstration, presentation, other type of virtual 3D object, or a combination thereof.

[0118] Figure 14 An example of an indicator on a virtual control panel 1400 is described. The control panel can display current settings on a device that includes an input surface 1401, a display 1403, other devices, or combinations thereof. In some cases, pressure differentials can be used to control one or more parameters presented on the control panel.

[0119] exist Figure 14 In this example, control panel 1400 may include camera settings 1402, microphone / mute settings 1404, power settings 1406, radio settings 1408, volume settings 1410, zoom in / out settings 1412, and brightness settings 1414. Although this example describes specific settings, in other examples, control panel may include more or fewer settings.

[0120] In some examples, the system can be configured to change the position of an indicator presented in the control panel 1400. In such examples, the indicator can be an object that moves via a differential pressure input. For example, if the differential pressure input is interpreted as moving the object to the right, the indicator can be used on the right. In some cases, moving the indicator to the right can turn the setting mode on, off, increase the setting level, decrease the setting level, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, moving the indicator to the left can turn the setting mode on, off, increase the setting level, decrease the setting level, or a combination thereof.

[0121] In some examples, the system may interpret differential input as a command to execute a predefined task, such as moving the cursor by default or moving other types of objects. In other examples, the user may have the option to choose what task the default differential input performs. For example, in some cases, the default parameter might move the cursor on a laptop monitor. However, if a teleconference application is running on the laptop, the system may automatically switch to interpreting differential input to move indicators associated with the teleconference application, such as camera mode, microphone mode, etc. In some cases, when a teleconference application is running, the microphone indicator 1416 may become the default parameter to be moved. Figure 14 In the example of the control panel 1400 described, the microphone can be turned on or off. Therefore, a user can participate in a conference call muted until they wish to switch the microphone settings to speak during the meeting. For this, the user can apply a pressure differential gesture to move the microphone indicator, which will also turn the microphone setting 1404 on. In some cases, any detectable pressure differential can be interpreted as switching the microphone indicator 1416. In other examples, a pressure differential gesture must be made when the higher pressure input is in an appropriate relative position to the lower pressure input to move the indicator to the on position. In other cases, a pressure differential gesture can be made at a first position on the input surface to change the position of the microphone indicator, and other pressure differential gestures made in different areas of the input surface can be used to move an indicator for another parameter. For example, when a conference call application is running on a laptop, the control panel may appear on one side of the indicators for the camera and microphone. Those pressure differential gestures made on the right side of the input surface can control the microphone setting 1404, while pressure differential gestures made on the left side of the input surface can be used to move the camera setting indicator 1418.

[0122] In another example, the user may be prompted to set parameters. In this case, options with parameter indicators would appear on the display. The user might be asked to set the parameter to his or her desired level. Although options are presented on the display, the presented parameter could become the default setting, with the default setting indicator moving in response to the pressure differential input.

[0123] In some cases, the indicator is a dial 1420 with graduations arranged in a circle around its circumference. The dial 1420 can rotate based on its relative position to the pressure differential input. In other examples, the indicator may be a numerical value 1422, which can be moved up or down based on the user's pressure differential input to adjust the parameter as needed. In yet another example, the indicator may be a slider indicator 1424, where the slider can move along a continuum to adjust the value of the setting parameter.

[0124] Figure 15 An example of a gesture module 1500 is described. In this example, the gesture module 1500 includes programming instructions in memory and may include associated firmware, logic, processing resources, memory resources, power supply, hardware, or other types of hardware for performing tasks of the gesture module 1500. The gesture module 1500 may be combined with... Figures 1 to 4 and Figures 16 to 21 The described apparatus, modules, and principles are used for this purpose. In this example, gesture module 1500 includes a pressure sensor 1502, an input locator 1504, a relative position determiner 1506, a direction determiner 1508, and a difference calculator 1510. In some cases, object mover 1512 may optionally be included. In some cases, object mover 1512 may optionally include object slider 1514. In some cases, object mover 1512 may optionally include object rotator 1516. In some cases, gesture module 1500 may optionally include mode changer 1518. In some cases, gesture module 1500 may optionally include parameter changer 1520.

[0125] Pressure sensor 1502 can sense pressure applied to an input surface. In some cases, a single pressure sensor 1502 can be used to sense multiple pressures applied to the input surface. In other examples, multiple pressure sensors 1502 can be arranged to sense the pressure load applied to the input surface. In some cases, pressure sensor 1502 can also determine the pressure value applied to the input surface.

[0126] The input locator 1504 can determine the location of the applied pressure input on the input surface. The input locator can analyze the pressure values ​​measured by pressure sensors. In examples with multiple pressure sensors, the input locator can analyze the differences in pressure values ​​measured at each pressure sensor. In some examples where capacitive sensors are incorporated into a stack as pressure sensors, measurements taken using capacitive sensors can also be used to determine where the pressure input is located. In other examples, other types of sensors can be used to at least help determine the location of the pressure input. For example, a non-exhaustive list of sensors that can be used to at least help determine the location of the pressure input may include, but is not limited to, video sensors, inductive sensors, pressure sensors, capacitive sensors, audio sensors, accelerometers, level sensors, resistivity sensors, magnetic sensors, other types of sensors, or combinations thereof.

[0127] The relative position determiner 1506 determines the relative position between the higher pressure input and the lower pressure input. The relative position determiner can determine the angle formed between the higher and lower pressure inputs. In some cases, this angle can be determined relative to a reference point such as the edge of the input surface or other reference points.

[0128] The orientation determiner 1508 can determine the direction in which an object moves within the display. This direction can be based at least in part on the angle between a higher pressure input and a lower pressure input. The direction can also be based at least in part on the relative position between the higher and lower pressure inputs. The system can include programming rules instructing the direction to mimic a movement from a lower pressure input to a higher pressure input or vice versa. Therefore, if the angle between the inputs is 47.9 degrees, and the lower pressure input on the input surface is located on the lower right side of the input surface, while the higher pressure input is located on the upper left side, which is more towards the input surface, the object in the display will move in a 47.9-degree direction towards the upper left side of the display.

[0129] The Difference Calculator 1510 can determine the difference between the pressure values ​​of a lower pressure input and a higher pressure input. This difference can be determined by subtracting the lower pressure input value from the higher pressure input value, and vice versa.

[0130] Object mover 1512 allows an object to be moved on the display. The object can move in a direction determined by direction determiner 1508. In some cases, the object mover may optionally include an object slider 1514 that slides the object on the display from a first two-dimensional coordinate position to a second two-dimensional coordinate position. In other examples, the object may be presented on a three-dimensional display, such as in a virtual reality display, an augmented reality display, a 3D video display, a projection display, a holographic display, other types of displays, or combinations thereof. In such an example with a three-dimensional display, the object slider can move the object from a first three-dimensional coordinate position to a second three-dimensional coordinate position.

[0131] In some cases, the object mover may optionally include an object mover 1512 that rotates the object in the display from a first orientation to a second orientation. In other examples, the object may be presented in a three-dimensional space, such as in virtual reality space, augmented reality space, 3D video, curved displays, other types of space, or combinations thereof. In such an example with three-dimensional space, the object slider can move the object from a first three-dimensional coordinate position to a second three-dimensional coordinate position.

[0132] The mode changer 1518 can change the parameter mode of the device communicating with the input device in response to a pressure differential input. In some cases, the mode can be changed by moving an indicator representing the current mode of the device. In other cases, the mode changer will change the mode even if the mode is not displayed on the screen.

[0133] The parameter changer 1520 can change the parameter mode of the device communicating with the input device in response to a pressure differential input. In some cases, the parameter changer can move an indicator representing the current level of the parameter. In other cases, the parameter changer can change the parameter even if the parameter level or setting is not displayed on the screen.

[0134] Figure 16 An example of a method 1600 using pressure gestures is described. Method 1600 can be based on... Figures 1 to 15 The related devices, modules, and principles are described to perform this. In this example, method 1600 includes detecting a lower pressure input on a pressure-sensitive surface 1602, simultaneously detecting a higher pressure input on the pressure-sensitive surface 1604, calculating the pressure difference between the lower and higher pressure inputs 1606, and moving an object presented in a display communicating with the pressure-sensitive surface based on the pressure difference 1608.

[0135] Figure 17 An example of method 1700 using pressure gestures is described. Method 1700 can be based on... Figures 1 to 15 The related apparatus, modules, and principles are described to perform this. In this example, method 1700 includes detecting a lower pressure input on a pressure-sensitive surface 1702, simultaneously detecting a higher pressure input on the pressure-sensitive surface 1704, calculating a pressure difference between the lower and higher pressure inputs 1706, detecting the relative position between the lower and higher pressure inputs on the input surface 1708, calculating an orientation 1710 based at least in part on the relative position, and moving an object presented in a display communicating with the pressure-sensitive surface 1712 based on the pressure difference and the calculated orientation.

[0136] Figure 18 An example of method 1800 using pressure gestures is described. Method 1800 can be based on... Figures 1 to 15 The method is performed by describing the relevant devices, modules, and principles. In this example, method 1800 includes identifying 1802 a first position of a lower pressure input on an input surface, identifying 1804 a second position of a higher pressure input on the input surface, calculating 1806 an angle between the first and second positions on the input surface, and calculating 1808 an orientation in a display based at least in part on the angle calculated from the input surface.

[0137] Figure 19An example of method 1900 using pressure gestures is described. Method 1900 can be based on... Figures 1 to 15 The method is performed by describing the relevant apparatus, modules, and principles. In this example, method 1900 includes: detecting 1902 a higher pressure input from a first object in a pressure-sensitive surface; simultaneously detecting 1904 a lower pressure input from a second object different from the first object in the pressure-sensitive surface while detecting the higher pressure input; calculating 1906 a pressure difference between the higher and lower pressure inputs; and adjusting parameters of the apparatus 1908 based at least in part on the pressure difference.

[0138] Figure 20 An example of a method 2000 using pressure gestures is described. This method 2000 can be based on... Figures 1 to 15 The method is performed using a description of the relevant apparatus, modules, and principles. In this example, method 2000 includes detecting a first input and a second input on a pressure-sensitive surface during a predetermined time period (2002), and determining (2004) whether a pressure difference exists between the first input and the second input. If no pressure difference exists, method 2000 returns to monitoring the pressure input. If a pressure difference exists, method 2000 includes determining (2006) the relative position between the first input and the second input, and determining (2008) whether a position of the higher pressure input is detected closer to a first side of the lower pressure input position. If a position of the higher pressure input is detected closer to a first side of the lower pressure input position, method 2000 includes increasing (2010) a predetermined parameter of the apparatus. If a position of the higher pressure input is detected not closer to a first side of the lower pressure input position, method 2000 includes determining (2012) whether a position of the higher pressure input is detected closer to a second side of the lower pressure input position. If a position of the higher pressure input is detected closer to a second side of the lower pressure input position, the method includes decreasing (2014) a predetermined parameter of the apparatus. If not, the method may optionally redetermine the relative position. In other examples, if the relative positions of the higher and lower pressure inputs are not decisive, the system can be programmed to perform different actions.

[0139] Figure 21 An example of a method 2100 using pressure gestures is described. This method 2100 can be based on... Figures 1 to 15The method is performed using a description of the relevant apparatus, modules, and principles. In this example, method 2100 includes detecting 2102 a first input and a second input on a pressure-sensitive surface within a predetermined time period, and determining 2104 whether a pressure difference exists between the first input and the second input. If no pressure difference exists, method 2100 returns to monitoring the pressure input. If a pressure difference exists, method 2100 includes determining 2106 the relative position between the first input and the second input, and determining 2108 whether the position of the higher pressure input is detected to the right of the position of the lower pressure input. If the position of the higher pressure input is detected to the right of the position of the lower pressure input, method 2100 includes moving an object in the display to the right 2110. If the position of the higher pressure input is detected not to the right of the position of the lower pressure input, method 2100 includes determining 2112 whether the position of the higher pressure input is detected to the left of the position of the lower pressure input. If the position of the higher pressure input is detected to the left of the position of the lower pressure input, method 2100 includes moving the object in the display to the left 2114.

[0140] If it is determined that the higher pressure input is not on the right or left, method 2100 may optionally redetermine the relative positions of the higher and lower pressure inputs. In other examples, if the relative positions of the higher and lower pressure inputs are not deterministic, the system can be programmed to perform different actions. In some cases, the system may determine that the higher pressure input is near the top side of the lower pressure input. In such an example, the system may move an object in the display along the top side. In some cases, the system may determine that the higher pressure input is near the bottom side of the lower pressure input. In such an example, the system may move an object in the display along the bottom side.

[0141] In some examples, the system is configured to move an object on the display only in two directions, such as right or left. In other examples, the system can be configured to move the object in additional directions, such as top, bottom, or other directions. In still other cases, the system can be configured to move the object in any number of directions. In such examples, the system can determine the angle formed relative to a reference point between a lower pressure input and a higher pressure input. The angle determined between these inputs on the input surface can be related to the angle on the display, and the object on the display can move in that direction.

[0142] For example, a reference for determining the angle could be the flat edge of the input closest to the user while the user is operating the device, or another edge of the input surface. Continuing this example, if the lower pressure input is located at the center of the input surface, and the higher pressure input forms a line at a 36.3-degree angle with the bottom edge reference, then the relative position angle can be determined to be 36.3 degrees. The direction of the angle can be from the lower pressure input to the higher pressure input. This same angle and direction can be applied to objects in the display. For example, an object can move at a positive 36.3-degree angle in a direction away from the center of the display.

[0143] In some examples, the relative distance between lower and higher pressure inputs can be used as a factor in determining how far an object is moved on the screen. For example, if the relative distance between two objects is two inches, then the object on the display can move two inches. In this example, the ratio of the relative distance on the input device to the object movement on the display is 1:1. However, this ratio can be any suitable ratio. For example, the ratio could be 5:1, 2:1, 1.1:1, 1:1, 1:1.1, 1:2, 1:5, other ratios, or combinations thereof. In other examples, the relative distance between higher and lower pressure inputs is not used as a factor in determining how far an object is moved.

[0144] In some examples, an object can move in a certain direction as long as both a low pressure input and a high pressure input are provided simultaneously. In such examples, if both high and low pressure inputs are continuously applied to the input surface, the object can move in a certain direction until it reaches the limits of the display screen, a boundary restricting the object's movement, or a combination thereof. In such embodiments, the object may stop moving when the high pressure input, the low pressure input, or both are no longer applied to the input surface.

[0145] In some cases, the speed at which an object moves can be determined, at least in part, based on the pressure difference between a higher and a lower pressure input. For example, if the pressure difference is larger, the object will move faster than if the pressure difference is smaller. In such examples, the speed at which the object moves can be proportional to, directly proportional to, indirectly proportional to, and / or related to the pressure difference.

[0146] While the above examples have been described with respect to pressure difference gestures involving two inputs, these principles can be applied to three or more pressure inputs. In this case, each of the different pressure inputs can be measured at a different pressure value. In other such examples, only one of the three or more pressure inputs can be measured at a different pressure value.

[0147] It should be noted that the methods, systems, and apparatus discussed above are merely examples. It must be emphasized that various procedures or components can be appropriately omitted, substituted, or added in the various embodiments. For example, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the methods may be performed in a sequence different from that described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Moreover, features described with respect to certain embodiments can be combined in various other embodiments. Different aspects and elements of the embodiments can be combined in a similar manner. Furthermore, it should be emphasized that technology is constantly evolving; therefore, many elements are exemplary in nature and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0148] Specific details are set forth in the description to provide a full understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques have been shown with unnecessary details removed to avoid obscuring these embodiments.

[0149] Furthermore, it should be noted that embodiments can be described as processes that are described as 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 diagrams.

[0150] Having described several embodiments, 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 elements described above may simply be components of a larger system, where other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of the invention. Moreover, multiple 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.

Claims

1. A device for using pressure gestures, comprising: Pressure sensor; The user interface includes an input surface opposite the bottom surface of the user interface, wherein the bottom surface is located near the pressure sensor; Controller; The memory communicates with the controller and includes programming instructions that, when executed, cause the controller to: Detects lower pressure inputs; Simultaneously detects high pressure input; Calculate the pressure difference between the lower pressure input and the higher pressure input; Detect the relative position between the lower pressure input and the higher pressure input on the input surface; The direction is calculated at least in part based on the relative position; and The pressure difference causes the object displayed on the display to move in a calculated direction.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein moving an object displayed on the display includes moving a cursor displayed on the display.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein moving the object presented on the display includes moving the indicator of the virtual control panel.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein moving an object presented on the display includes moving a virtual three-dimensional object presented on the display.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein moving an object presented in the display comprises moving the object from a first two-dimensional coordinate in the display to a second two-dimensional coordinate in the display.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein moving an object presented in the display comprises rotating the object from a first angular orientation in the display to a second angular orientation in the display.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein moving the object along the calculated direction comprises rotating the object along the calculated direction.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein moving the object along a calculated direction comprises moving the object from a first two-dimensional coordinate in the display to a second two-dimensional coordinate in the display.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein calculating the direction comprises: Identify the first location of the lower pressure input on the input surface; Identify a second location of the higher pressure input on the input surface; Calculate the angle between the first position and the second position on the input surface; and The orientation in the display is calculated at least in part based on the angle calculated from the input surface.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the lower pressure input and the higher pressure input is stationary relative to the pressure sensor on the input surface.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein moving the object presented in the display comprises moving the object at a speed related to the magnitude of the pressure difference.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: A capacitive sensor is located near the bottom surface of the input surface; The pressure sensor is capable of detecting changes in pressure, and the capacitance sensor is capable of detecting changes in proximity of an external object adjacent to the input surface, at least in part, based on changes in capacitance.

13. A method of using a pressure gesture, comprising: Detects lower pressure inputs on pressure-sensitive surfaces; Simultaneously detect higher pressure inputs on the pressure-sensitive surface; Calculate the pressure difference between the lower pressure input and the higher pressure input; Detect the relative position between the lower pressure input and the higher pressure input on the input surface; The direction is calculated at least in part based on the relative position; and The object displayed on the monitor, which communicates with the pressure-sensitive surface, is moved based on the pressure difference and the calculated direction.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein moving an object presented on the display includes moving a cursor presented on the display.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein moving the object presented on the display includes moving the indicator of the virtual control panel.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein moving an object presented in the display includes moving a virtual three-dimensional object presented in the display.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein moving an object presented in the display comprises moving the object from a first two-dimensional coordinate in the display to a second two-dimensional coordinate in the display.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein moving an object presented in the display comprises rotating the object from a first angular orientation in the display to a second angular orientation in the display.

19. A computer program product using pressure gestures, the computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions executable by a processor to perform the following operations: Detects lower pressure inputs on pressure-sensitive surfaces; Simultaneously detect higher pressure inputs on the pressure-sensitive surface; Calculate the pressure difference between the lower pressure input and the higher pressure input; Detect the relative position between the lower pressure input and the higher pressure input on the input surface; The direction is calculated at least in part based on the relative position; and The object displayed on the monitor, which communicates with the pressure-sensitive surface, is moved based on the pressure difference and the calculated direction.

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