Control method with multiple sensing functions

Abstract

A control method with multiple sensing functions, particularly for a controller in an interface device, includes the following steps. The interface device has multiple capacitive sensors arranged on a plane. During a first period, the controller individually sets the multiple capacitive sensors as multiple self-capacitive sensors. During a second period, the controller divides the multiple capacitive sensors into at least a first group and a second group, sets the capacitive sensors in the first group as mutual-capacitive transmitters, generates a pulse signal to the mutual-capacitive transmitters, sets the capacitive sensors in the second group as mutual-capacitive receivers, and collects sensing signals from the mutual-capacitive receivers. Thus, higher resolution can be achieved in touch sensing, and a larger range can be covered in proximity sensing or three-dimensional gesture sensing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a control method for a controller with multiple sensing functions, and more particularly to a control method for a controller capable of sensing touch events, proximity events, or three-dimensional gesture events on an interface device. Background Technology

[0002] Mobile devices employ various sensors to detect different environmental states or events. For example, a mobile device may include a touch sensor to detect the coordinates of a touch on a sensing surface, an optical proximity sensor to detect the distance between the mobile device and an object in front of it, or an optical gesture capture module to sense the user's gestures.

[0003] The different sensing functions mentioned above are typically implemented by different hardware components located on the mobile device. These different hardware components occupy a certain amount of space in the mobile device. For example, touch sensors, optical proximity sensors, and optical gesture capture modules can be independently located in different positions on the front of the mobile device. Therefore, more area needs to be occupied on the front of the mobile device to accommodate these different sensors. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure presents a control method applicable to a controller in an interface device having a plurality of capacitive sensors disposed on a plane. The control method includes: during a first period, the controller individually configuring the plurality of capacitive sensors as a plurality of self-capacitance sensors; and during a second period, the controller at least classifying the plurality of capacitive sensors into a first group and a second group, configuring the capacitive sensors of the first group as mutual capacitance transmitters and generating pulse signals to the mutual capacitance transmitters, configuring the capacitive sensors of the second group as mutual capacitance receivers, and collecting sensing signals from the mutual capacitance receivers corresponding to the pulse signals.

[0005] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: during the first period, the controller detecting a touch location of a touch event based on the plurality of self-capacitance sensors; and during the second period, the controller detecting a proximity event based on the sensing signal, wherein the sensing signal is generated by the mutual capacitance receiver during the second period.

[0006] In some embodiments, during the second period, the plurality of capacitive sensors are classified by the controller into the first group, the second group, and a third group, and the control method further includes: the controller generating a fixed voltage signal to the capacitive sensors of the third group or the controller maintaining the capacitive sensors of the third group at a floating voltage level.

[0007] In some embodiments, the third group of capacitive sensors is located between the first group of capacitive sensors and the second group of capacitive sensors.

[0008] In some embodiments, the plurality of capacitive sensors are disposed on a plurality of columns and a plurality of rows on the plane, the second group of capacitive sensors is disposed on a strip-shaped region on the plane, the strip-shaped region including a first column or a first row on the plane, and the first group of capacitive sensors is disposed at a position outside the strip-shaped region on the plane.

[0009] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: using the second group of capacitive sensors located on the strip region as the mutual capacitance receiver; detecting a capacitance change between the first group of capacitive sensors and the second group of capacitive sensors based on the sensing signal generated by the mutual capacitance receiver in response to the pulse signal; and detecting the occurrence of a proximity event by the controller when the capacitance change exceeds a threshold value.

[0010] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: the controller dividing the second group of capacitive sensors into K subgroups, wherein the capacitive sensors of the K subgroups are used as multiple mutual capacitance receivers to detect K capacitance changes between the capacitive sensors of the first group and the capacitive sensors of the K subgroups; and the controller detecting the occurrence of a proximity event when at least one of the K capacitance changes exceeds a threshold value, where K is a positive integer greater than 1.

[0011] In some embodiments, the plurality of capacitive sensors are disposed on a plurality of columns and a plurality of rows on the plane, the second group of capacitive sensors is disposed on two strip regions on the plane, and the first group of capacitive sensors is disposed on the plane outside the two strip regions, wherein the two strip regions include a first column and a second column on the plane, or include a first row and a second row on the plane.

[0012] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: using the second group of capacitive sensors located on the two strip regions as two mutual capacitance receivers; detecting two capacitance changes between the first group of capacitive sensors and the second group of capacitive sensors on the two strip regions based on two sensing signals generated by the two mutual capacitance receivers in response to the pulse signal; and detecting the occurrence of a proximity event by the controller when both capacitance changes exceed a threshold value.

[0013] In some embodiments, a first area covered by the first group of capacitive sensors serving as the mutual capacitance transmitter is larger than a second area covered by the second group of capacitive sensors serving as the mutual capacitance receiver.

[0014] Another aspect of this disclosure discloses a control method applicable to a controller in an interface device having a plurality of capacitive sensors disposed on a plane. The control method includes: during a first period, the controller individually setting the plurality of capacitive sensors as a plurality of self-capacitance sensors; and during a second period, the controller at least classifying the plurality of capacitive sensors into a plurality of groups, setting a first combination of capacitive sensors in the plurality of groups as mutual capacitance transmitters and generating pulse signals to the mutual capacitance transmitters, setting a second combination of capacitive sensors in the plurality of groups as a plurality of mutual capacitance receivers, collecting a plurality of sensing signals from the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers corresponding to the pulse signals, and detecting three-dimensional gestures by the controller based on the plurality of sensing signals.

[0015] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: during the first period, the controller detecting a touch location of a touch event based on the plurality of self-capacitance sensors; and during the second period, the controller detecting the three-dimensional gesture based on the plurality of sensing signals, wherein the plurality of sensing signals are generated by the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers during the second period.

[0016] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: the controller dividing the plurality of capacitive sensors into a plurality of left groups, a middle group, and a plurality of right groups, wherein the plurality of left groups are disposed along a left edge of the plane, the plurality of right groups are disposed along a right edge of the plane, and the middle group is located near a center point of the plane and between the plurality of left groups and the plurality of right groups.

[0017] In some embodiments, during the second period, the first combination includes the middle group, the second combination includes the plurality of left groups and the plurality of right groups, and the control method further includes: generating the pulse signal by the controller to the mutual capacitance transmitter formed by the middle group; and collecting the plurality of sensing signals by the controller from the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers formed by the plurality of left groups and the plurality of right groups.

[0018] In some embodiments, in a first portion of the second period, the first combination includes the middle group and the plurality of right groups, and the second combination includes the plurality of left groups. The control method includes generating a pulse signal by the controller to the mutual capacitance transmitter formed by the middle group and the plurality of right groups, and collecting a plurality of first sensing signals by the controller from the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers formed by the plurality of left groups. In a second portion of the second period, the first combination includes the middle group and the plurality of left groups, and the second combination includes the plurality of right groups. The control method includes generating a pulse signal by the controller to the mutual capacitance transmitter formed by the middle group and the plurality of left groups, and collecting a plurality of second sensing signals by the controller from the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers formed by the plurality of right groups, wherein the controller detects the three-dimensional gesture based on the plurality of first sensing signals and the plurality of second sensing signals.

[0019] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: during the second period, the controller further classifies the plurality of capacitive sensors into the plurality of left groups, the middle group, the plurality of right groups and a dummy group, generating a fixed voltage signal to the capacitive sensors of the dummy group or maintaining the capacitive sensors of the dummy group at a floating voltage level.

[0020] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: during the second period, the controller classifies the plurality of capacitive sensors into a first group, a second group, a third group, a fourth group, a fifth group, a sixth group, and a seventh group, wherein the first group is located at an upper left corner of the plane, the third group is located at an lower left corner of the plane, the second group is located near a left edge of the plane and between the first group and the third group, the fifth group is located at an upper right corner of the plane, the seventh group is located at a lower right corner of the plane, and the sixth group is located near a right edge of the plane and between the fifth group and the seventh group.

[0021] In some embodiments, the control method further includes, during the second period, the controller further dividing the plurality of capacitive sensors into the first group to the seventh group, an eighth group, and a ninth group, wherein the eighth group is located between the left edge of the plane and the first group to the third group, and the ninth group is located between the right edge of the plane and the fifth group to the seventh group.

[0022] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: during the second period, the controller transmitting the pulse signal to the eighth group of capacitive sensors and the ninth group of capacitive sensors.

[0023] In some embodiments, a first area covered by the mutual capacitance transmitter is larger than a second area covered by the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers.

[0024] This allows the interface device to achieve a high resolution in detecting touch locations during touch sensing. Furthermore, during proximity sensing or 3D gesture sensing, the power lines above the mutual capacitance transmitter and receiver can cover a larger area, enabling the sensing of proximity events or 3D gesture input over a greater area above the surface of the capacitive sensor. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To make the above and other objects, features and embodiments of this disclosure more apparent and understandable, the accompanying drawings are described below:

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an interface device according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown;

[0027] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating a plurality of capacitive sensors disposed on a touch panel according to some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 3A A flowchart illustrating a control method according to some embodiments of this disclosure is provided;

[0029] Figure 3B The diagram illustrates the signal timing of the signal provided by the controller to the capacitive sensor during various periods in some embodiments.

[0030] Figure 4 Illustration during touch sensing Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing the use of a capacitive sensor as a self-capacitance sensor.

[0031] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating a first grouping arrangement of multiple capacitive sensors of a touch panel during proximity sensing, according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0032] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the circuit structure formed by the mutual capacitance transmitter and the mutual capacitance receiver during proximity sensing is shown.

[0033] Figure 7A A schematic diagram illustrating the electric field distribution when the capacitive sensor is used as a self-capacitive sensor during touch sensing;

[0034] Figure 7B A schematic diagram illustrating the power line distribution when multiple capacitive sensors are integrated and used as mutual capacitance transmitters or mutual capacitance receivers during proximity sensing.

[0035] Figure 8A schematic diagram illustrating a second grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 9 A schematic diagram illustrating a third grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during proximity sensing in some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 10 A schematic diagram illustrating a fourth grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 11 The drawing corresponds to Figure 10 The illustrated embodiment of the touch panel shows a schematic diagram of the circuit architecture formed between the mutual capacitance transmitter and multiple mutual capacitance receivers during proximity sensing.

[0039] Figure 12A A schematic diagram illustrating a fifth grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 12B A schematic diagram illustrating a sixth grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0041] Figure 13 A schematic diagram illustrating a seventh grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 14A A schematic diagram illustrating an eighth grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0043] Figure 14B A schematic diagram illustrating a ninth grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 15A A flowchart illustrating a control method according to some embodiments of this disclosure is provided;

[0045] Figure 15B Draw a timing diagram showing the signals provided by the controller to the capacitive sensor at different times;

[0046] Figure 16 The illustration depicts a plurality of capacitive sensors on a touch panel having a tenth group layout according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 15A and Figure 15B A schematic diagram of the configuration during 3D gesture sensing;

[0047] Figure 17 Drawing 3D gestures relative to Figure 16 A schematic diagram showing the spatial relationship between multiple mutual capacitance receivers.

[0048] Figure 18 Plot the timing diagram of the signals provided by the controller to the capacitive sensor at different times;

[0049] Figure 19A The illustration depicts an embodiment according to this disclosure document. Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the configuration of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel with an eleventh group layout in the first part of the three-dimensional gesture sensing process.

[0050] Figure 19B The illustration depicts an embodiment according to this disclosure document. Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the configuration of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel with a twelfth group layout in the second part of the three-dimensional gesture sensing process;

[0051] Figure 20 A schematic diagram illustrating a thirteenth group layout configuration of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during three-dimensional gesture sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure; and

[0052] Figure 21 A schematic diagram illustrating a fourteenth group layout configuration of multiple capacitive sensors on a touch panel during three-dimensional gesture sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0053] [Symbol Explanation]

[0054] 100: Interface Device

[0055] 110, 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d: Touch panel

[0056] 110e, 110f, 110g, 110h, 110i: Touch panel

[0057] 110j, 110k, 110l, 110m, 110n: Touch panel

[0058] 120: Capacitive sensor

[0059] 140: Controller

[0060] 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126: Capacitive sensors

[0061] 200, 300: Control methods

[0062] S211, S212, S221, S222, S223: Steps

[0063] S224, S225, S226: Steps

[0064] S311, S312, S321, S322, S323: Steps

[0065] S324, S325, S326: Steps

[0066] P0, P1, P2, P3: Period

[0067] TE: Touch Event

[0068] Pch, PTx: Pulse signals

[0069] Sch1, Sch2, Sch6: Resulting signals

[0070] 121E, 122E, 126E: Electrode plates

[0071] Cch1, Cch2, Cch6: Capacitors

[0072] Ctouch: Capacitor

[0073] GND: Ground terminal

[0074] R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R36: rows

[0075] C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C28: Columns

[0076] Tx: Mutual Capacitance Emitter

[0077] Rx, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3: Mutual capacitance receiver

[0078] Rx4, Rx5, Rx6: Mutual capacitance receiver

[0079] Sin, Sin1, Sin2, Sin3: Sensing signals

[0080] C_Tx, C_Rx, C_TxRx, C_ObjTx, C_ObjRx: Capacitors

[0081] PE: Proximity Event

[0082] Dum: Virtual sensor

[0083] Pad1, Pad2, Pad3, Pad4: Group

[0084] Pad5, Pad6, Pad7, Pad8, Pad9: Group

[0085] GE: 3D Gestures

[0086] CV1, CV2, CV3, CV4, CV5, CV6: Changes in capacitance

[0087] P3a: Part 1

[0088] P3b: Part Two Detailed Implementation

[0089] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various features of this disclosure. Elements and arrangements in the specific examples are used in the following discussion to simplify this disclosure. Any examples discussed are for illustrative purposes only and do not in any way limit the scope or meaning of this disclosure or its examples. Where appropriate, the same reference numerals are used between the drawings and in the corresponding text to represent the same or similar elements.

[0090] Please see Figure 1 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of an interface device 100 according to some embodiments of this disclosure. In practical applications, the interface device 100 may be a touch display, a touch sensor, a smartphone, a laptop computer, or an electronic device with touch sensing capabilities. Figure 1 As shown, the interface device 100 includes a plurality of capacitive sensors 120 and a controller 140 electrically connected to the capacitive sensors 120.

[0091] In some embodiments, a plurality of capacitive sensors 120 are disposed on the plane of the touch panel 110. The capacitive sensors 120 are used to sense changes in capacitance on the touch panel 110. A controller 140 is electrically connected to each capacitive sensor 120.

[0092] Please refer to the following: Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a plurality of capacitive sensors 120 disposed on a touch panel 110 according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 2 In this embodiment, a total of 648 (18*36) capacitive sensors 120 are respectively arranged on 18 columns and 36 rows of the plane of the touch panel 110. For example, the multiple capacitive sensors 120 include capacitive sensors 121 to 126, wherein capacitive sensors 121, 122 and 123 are arranged in the first row on the plane of the touch panel 110; and capacitive sensors 124, 125 and 126 are arranged in the second row on the plane of the touch panel 110.

[0093] It should be noted that, Figure 2The illustrated embodiments are for illustrative purposes only. However, this disclosure is not limited to a specific number of capacitive sensors. For example, the interface device 100 may include 10*10 capacitive sensors, 30*20 capacitive sensors, 30*40 capacitive sensors, 360*240 capacitive sensors, or other feasible configurations. The number of capacitive sensors can be modified as needed for the resolution of the interface device 100.

[0094] like Figure 1 As shown, the controller 140 is coupled to each of the multiple capacitive sensors 120. The controller 140 is used to control the capacitive sensors 120 (e.g., to provide pulse signals to the capacitive sensors 120, to collect results from the capacitive sensors 120, etc.) to detect various events (e.g., touch events, proximity events, or three-dimensional gesture events) based on changes in capacitance.

[0095] In some embodiments, the controller 140 may detect information about touch events and proximity events based on changes in capacitance sensed by the capacitance sensor 120. Please refer to [further details omitted]. Figure 3A as well as Figure 3B , Figure 3A A flowchart illustrating a control method 200 according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Figure 3B The diagram illustrates the signal timing of the signal provided by controller 140 to capacitive sensor 120 during various periods in some embodiments. Figure 3A The control method 200 shown can be derived from Figure 1 The controller 140 of the interface device 100 performs the operation.

[0096] like Figure 3B As shown, there are three different periods, P0, P1, and P2. During the display driving period P0, the controller 140 may generate some display-related signals (such as scan signals, data signals, or polarity signals, not shown) to the display of the interface device 100 (not shown).

[0097] Figure 3A The control method 200 executed by the controller 140 of the display interface device 100 corresponds to periods P1 and P2.

[0098] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, during touch sensing P1, the controller 140 executes step S211 to individually configure the multiple capacitive sensors 120 as multiple self-capacitance sensors. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4 It is drawn in P1 during touch sensing. Figure 2The diagram shows the capacitive sensors 121-126 used as self-capacitance sensors.

[0099] like Figure 4 As shown, each of the plurality of capacitive sensors 120 includes an electrode plate and a capacitor formed therefrom. For example, capacitive sensor 121 includes an electrode plate 121E and a capacitor Cch1, which is inductively formed between the electrode plate 121E and a ground terminal GND. Similarly, capacitive sensor 122 includes an electrode plate 122E and a capacitor Cch2, which is inductively formed between the electrode plate 122E and the ground terminal GND. Similarly, capacitive sensor 126 includes an electrode plate 126E and a capacitor Cch6, which is inductively formed between the electrode plate 126E and the ground terminal GND. For example, the ground terminal GND may be the ground plane of the substrate or the touch panel 110. Figure 3B and Figure 4 As shown, during touch sensing P1, the controller 140 provides a pulse signal Pch to each of the plurality of capacitive sensors 120.

[0100] During touch sensing period P1, capacitive sensor 121 is set as a self-capacitance sensor. Controller 140 provides a pulse signal Pch to capacitive sensor 121 and collects a result signal Sch1 (e.g., induced current) from capacitive sensor 121 in response to the pulse signal Pch. Based on the result signal Sch1, controller 140 calculates the capacitance reading corresponding to capacitive sensor 121. Figure 4 As shown, when no touch event occurs on the capacitive sensor 121, the capacitance reading on the capacitive sensor 121 will remain stable and similar to the original capacitance reading of the capacitor Cch1.

[0101] Similarly, controller 140 provides a pulse signal Pch to capacitance sensor 122 and collects a result signal Sch2 (e.g., induced current) from capacitance sensor 122 in response to the pulse signal Pch. Based on the result signal Sch2, controller 140 calculates the capacitance reading corresponding to capacitance sensor 122. Figure 4 As shown, when no touch event occurs on the capacitive sensor 121, the capacitance reading on the capacitive sensor 121 will remain stable and similar to the original capacitance reading of the capacitor Cch1.

[0102] like Figure 4As shown, assume a touch event TE occurs on capacitive sensor 126 (e.g., a finger touches the surface above capacitive sensor 126). In this case, the touch event TE senses and forms a capacitance Ctouch, which is coupled to the electrode plate 126E of capacitive sensor 126. During touch sensing P1, controller 140 provides a pulse signal Pch to capacitive sensor 126 and collects a result signal Sch6 (e.g., induced current) from capacitive sensor 126 in response to the pulse signal Pch. Based on the result signal Sch6, controller 140 calculates the capacitance reading corresponding to capacitive sensor 122.

[0103] In this case, the touch event TE senses and generates capacitance Ctouch, which is coupled to the electrode plate 126E of the capacitance sensor 126. When the touch event TE occurs on the capacitance sensor 126, the capacitance reading of the corresponding capacitance sensor 126 will increase and exceed the original capacitance reading of the capacitor Cch6. In this case, the controller 140 executes step S212 to detect the touch event TE and, based on the result signal generated by each capacitance sensor, determines whether a touch event exists (e.g., whether there is a touch on the touch panel 110) and detects the touch location of the touch event TE (e.g., at...). Figure 4 In the example shown, the touch position is located on the capacitive sensor 126. During touch sensing P1, multiple capacitive sensors 120 generate their own result signals to reflect the touch sensing result, thereby achieving a relatively high sensing resolution (equal to the total number of capacitive sensors 120, for example, 18*36 in the above embodiment).

[0104] In some embodiments, during touch sensing P1, multiple capacitive sensors 120 are used individually and independently as self-capacitance sensors to detect touch events TE at different locations.

[0105] Please refer to further information. Figure 5 The diagram illustrates a first grouping arrangement of a plurality of capacitive sensors 120 of a touch panel 110a during proximity sensing, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] During proximity sensing P2, in some embodiments, controller 140 executes step S221 to divide capacitive sensors 120 into at least a first group and a second group. For example... Figure 5The touch panel 110a shown employs a first grouping layout, where capacitive sensors 120 located in rows R1-R2 and R4-R36 are grouped into a first group, and capacitive sensors 120 located in row R3 are grouped into a second group. In this example, during proximity sensing P2, step S222 is executed, and the controller 140 sets the capacitive sensors 120 in the first group (located in rows R1-R2 and R4-R36) as mutual-capacitance transmitters (Tx). On the other hand, step S223 is executed, and the controller 140 sets the capacitive sensors 120 in the second group (located in row R3) as mutual-capacitance receivers (Rx).

[0107] Further reading Figure 6 The diagram illustrates the circuit structure formed by the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx and the mutual capacitance receiver Rx in P2 during proximity sensing.

[0108] It is worth noting that, Figure 6 The mutual capacitance emitter Tx shown contains the first group (located in Figure 5 Multiple capacitive sensors 120 are shown in rows R1~R2 and rows R4~R36. Figure 5 As shown, this makes the mutual capacitance emitter Tx equivalent to having a large-sized emitter electrode (by integrating the electrodes of the 18*35 capacitive sensors 120 in the first group). Similarly, Figure 6 The mutual capacitance receiver Rx shown contains a second group (located in...) Figure 5 The multiple capacitive sensors 120 shown in row R3 make the mutual capacitance receiver Rx equivalent to have a large receiving electrode (by integrating the electrodes of the 18 capacitive sensors 120 in the second group).

[0109] like Figure 6 As shown, a capacitance C_Tx is induced between the mutual capacitance emitter Tx (integrated from the first group of electrodes) and the ground terminal GND. For example, the ground terminal GND can be the substrate of the touch panel 110 or a ground plane. A capacitance C_Rx is induced between the mutual capacitance receiver Rx (integrated from the second group of electrodes) and the ground terminal GND. Another capacitance C_TxRx is induced between the mutual capacitance emitter Tx and the mutual capacitance receiver Rx.

[0110] like Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 6As shown, during proximity sensing P2, controller 140 executes step S224 to provide a pulse signal PTx to the mutual capacitance emitter Tx. In other words, the pulse signal PTx is synchronously provided to all capacitance sensors 120 in the first group (as mutual capacitance emitters Tx), so that all capacitance sensors 120 in the first group operate together as a single mutual capacitance sensor.

[0111] like Figure 3B as well as Figure 6 As shown, during proximity sensing P2, controller 140 sets all capacitive sensors in the second group as mutual capacitance receivers Rx. In some embodiments, the mutual capacitance receivers Rx are set to a floating voltage level during proximity sensing P2. Figure 3A , Figure 3B as well as Figure 6 As shown, during proximity sensing P2, controller 140 executes step S225 to collect a sensing signal Sin corresponding to the pulse signal PTx from the mutual capacitance receiver Rx. In some embodiments, when the pulse signal PTx is applied to the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx, the pulse signal PTx will induce a corresponding current on the mutual capacitance receiver Rx (through the capacitor C_TxRx coupled between them), and controller 140 can collect the induced current from the mutual capacitance receiver Rx as the sensing signal Sin.

[0112] In some embodiments, the controller 140 performs step S226, during proximity sensing P2, detecting a proximity event PE based on the sensing signal Sin generated by the mutual capacitance receiver Rx. If no proximity event PE occurs, because the capacitor C_TxRx is coupled between the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx and the mutual capacitance receiver Rx, the pulse signal PTx applied to the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx will be coupled to the mutual capacitance receiver Rx through the capacitor C_TxRx and induce a sensing signal Sin. Based on the sensing signal Sin, the controller 140 can calculate the capacitance reading corresponding to the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx and the mutual capacitance receiver Rx. When no proximity event PE occurs at the two ends of the mutual capacitance transceiver (between the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx and the mutual capacitance receiver Rx), the capacitance reading will remain stable.

[0113] On the other hand, if there exists such Figure 6The proximity event PE (e.g., a user's finger, palm, or cheek hovering above the touch panel) senses the capacitance C_ObjTx formed between the approaching object and the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx, and the capacitance C_ObjRx between the approaching object and the mutual capacitance receiver Rx. When a pulse signal PTx is applied to the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx, a portion of the pulse signal is coupled to ground through the capacitor C_ObjTx. In this case, the presence of the proximity event PE reduces the current flow of the sensing signal Sin. In some embodiments, the capacitances C_ObjTx and C_ObjRx sensed by the proximity event PE are coupled to the mutual capacitance transceiver (mutual capacitance transmitter Tx and mutual capacitance receiver Rx). In this case, when the proximity event PE occurs, the capacitance reading across the mutual capacitance transceiver (between the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx and the mutual capacitance receiver Rx) decreases below the original capacitance reading (i.e., the capacitance reading without the proximity event PE). By monitoring the change in capacitance reading, the controller 140 can detect the proximity event PE.

[0114] Further reading Figure 7A as well as Figure 7B . Figure 7A The diagram illustrates the electric field distribution when capacitive sensors 121-123 in P1 are used as self-capacitive sensors during touch sensing. Figure 7B A schematic diagram illustrating the power line distribution when multiple capacitive sensors 120 in P2 are integrated as mutual capacitance transmitters Tx or mutual capacitance receivers Rx during proximity sensing.

[0115] like Figure 7A As shown, due to the limited electrode size of each of the capacitive sensors 121-123, the area covered by the electric field lines above the capacitive sensors 121-123 is relatively small. In this case, the capacitive sensors 121-123 can only sense the touch event TE when it approaches or touches the surface of the capacitive sensors 121-123. The interface device 100 can achieve a high resolution in detecting the touch position P1 during touch sensing, but it cannot sense a finger hovering above the capacitive sensors 121-123.

[0116] like Figure 7B As shown, the power lines above the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx and the mutual capacitance receiver Rx can cover a large area. In this case, a proximity event PE can be sensed over a large area above the surface of the capacitance sensor 120. During proximity sensing P2, the interface device 100 is able to sense a finger hovering above the capacitance sensor 120. After this, the interface device 100 can sense the proximity event PE during proximity sensing P2 (to determine if an external object is approaching the mutual capacitance receiver Rx).

[0117] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, multiple capacitive sensors 120 are arranged on the plane of the touch panel 110a in different column and row arrangements. On the touch panel 110a employing a first grouping layout, the capacitive sensors 120 in the second group (acting as mutual capacitance receivers Rx) are disposed in a strip-shaped area on the plane of the touch panel. According to the first grouping layout, the strip-shaped area includes row R3 on the touch panel 110a. The multiple capacitive sensors 120 in the first group (acting as mutual capacitance emitters Tx) are located outside this strip-shaped area on the touch panel 110a. However, the aforementioned strip-shaped area (acting as mutual capacitance receivers Rx) is not limited to a single row on the touch panel 110a.

[0118] Please refer to the following: Figure 8 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of a second grouping layout used by multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110b during proximity sensing in some embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 8 The touch panel 110b has a second grouping layout. Capacitive sensors 120 located in rows R1, R4 to R36 are divided into a first group, while capacitive sensors 120 located in rows R2 and R3 are divided into a second group. In this case, the strip area (including rows R2 and R3) is configured as the second group. The capacitive sensors 120 in the first group are located outside the strip area on the touch panel 110b. In this example, during proximity sensing P2, the controller 140 configures the capacitive sensors 120 in the first group (located in rows R1, R4 to R36) as mutual capacitance emitters Tx and the capacitive sensors 120 in the second group (located in rows R2 and R3) as mutual capacitance receivers Rx. (About...) Figure 8 The operation and function of the multiple capacitive sensors 120 on the central touch panel 110b are similar to those previously used. Figure 1 The embodiments discussed in Figure 7 will not be described again here. Figure 8 110b touch panel and Figure 5 The difference between the touch panel 110a and the one in the middle is that... Figure 8 The area covered by the mutual capacitance receiver Rx is larger (two rows, R2 and R3) compared to... Figure 5 The middle section covers a smaller area (a total of one row, R3), so that... Figure 8 In one embodiment, the sensing signal Sin generated by the mutual capacitance receiver Rx and transmitted to the controller 140 can be enhanced.

[0119] It should be noted that the mutual capacitance receiver Rx is not limited to being placed on two adjacent rows, such as... Figure 8Rows R2 and R3 are shown in the figure. In some other embodiments, the mutual capacitance receiver Rx can also be located on two non-adjacent rows, for example, on rows R2 and R4 (not shown).

[0120] Please refer to further information. Figure 9 The diagram illustrates a configuration of a third grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110c during proximity sensing in some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0121] like Figure 9 As shown, during proximity sensing period P2, the controller 140 divides the plurality of capacitive sensors 120 into a first group (including rows R1, R2, and rows R6 to R36 as mutual capacitance transmitters Tx), a second group (including row R4 as mutual capacitance receiver Rx), and a third group (including rows R3 and R5). In some embodiments, the controller 140 is used to generate a fixed voltage signal to the capacitive sensors 120 in the third group (located in rows R3 and R5), or to maintain the capacitive sensors 120 in the third group (located in rows R3 and R5) at a floating voltage level.

[0122] In this example, during proximity sensing P2, the plurality of capacitive sensors 120 in the third group can function as a plurality of dummy sensors Dum. These dummy sensors Dum are located between the capacitive sensors 120 in the first group (as mutual capacitance emitters Tx) and the capacitive sensors 120 in the second group (as mutual capacitance receivers Rx). The dummy sensors Dum in the third group provide a certain spacing between the mutual capacitance emitters Tx and the mutual capacitance receivers Rx, thereby reducing circuit interference (e.g., signal interference between adjacent rows) and adjusting the detection sensitivity of the proximity event PE. In some examples, if the interface device 100 is too sensitive to the detection of the proximity event PE, the aforementioned dummy sensors Dum can be added to adjust the sensitivity.

[0123] In the above embodiments (e.g.) Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 The touch panel 110a-110c, responding to the pulse signal PTx, utilizes the second group of capacitive sensors on the strip area as a single mutual capacitance receiver Rx to generate a sensing signal Sin, which is used to detect the capacitance change between the first group of capacitive sensors (mutual capacitance emitters Tx) and the second group of capacitive sensors (mutual capacitance receivers Rx). If the capacitance change exceeds a threshold value, the controller 140 determines that a proximity event PE has occurred. In some embodiments, the threshold value can be set to 10%, 20%, or 40% of the original capacitance reading (when no proximity event has occurred).

[0124] However, this disclosure is not limited to forming a single mutual capacitance receiver Rx and detecting a set of capacitance changes. Please refer to [further details]. Figure 10 The diagram illustrates a fourth grouping layout configuration of multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110d during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0125] like Figure 10 As shown, the controller further divides the multiple capacitive sensors in the second group (e.g., multiple capacitive sensors on row R4) into K subgroups, where K is a positive integer greater than 1. The capacitive sensors in the K subgroups act as K mutual capacitance receivers to generate K sensing signals to detect K capacitance changes between the capacitive sensors in the first group (e.g., the capacitive sensors on rows R1 to R3 and R5 to R36) and the K subgroups. In some embodiments, if at least one of the K capacitance changes exceeds a threshold value, the controller 140 determines that a proximity event PE has occurred. In some other embodiments, the controller 140 determines that a proximity event PE has occurred only if all K capacitance changes exceed the threshold value, thereby avoiding excessive sensitivity of the proximity sensing function.

[0126] exist Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, K equals 3. The multiple capacitive sensors on row R4 are divided into three subgroups. The left subgroup is configured as a mutual capacitance receiver Rx1; the middle subgroup is configured as another mutual capacitance receiver Rx2; and the right subgroup is configured as another mutual capacitance receiver Rx3. Please refer to [further details omitted]. Figure 11 Its drawing corresponds to Figure 10 The illustrated embodiment of the touch panel 110d shows a schematic diagram of the circuit architecture formed between the mutual capacitance emitter Tx and the multiple mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 to Rx3 within P2 during proximity sensing. In response to the pulse signal PTx, the controller 140 collects three sensing signals Sin1 to Sin3 from the multiple mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 to Rx3. In this example, when all three capacitance changes exceed a threshold value, the controller 140 determines that a proximity event PE has occurred. Based on the above... Figure 10 and Figure 11 In the embodiment shown, when all three mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 to Rx3 sense the capacitance change, it is determined that a proximity event PE has been detected. This helps to reduce false triggering of the proximity sensing function and can solve the problem of excessive sensitivity of the proximity sensing function.

[0127] Please refer to the following: Figure 12A This illustration shows a schematic diagram of a fifth grouping layout used by multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110e during proximity sensing in some embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 12A In the illustrated embodiment, the capacitive sensors on row R4 are divided into three subgroups. The left subgroup is configured as mutual capacitance receiver Rx1; the middle subgroup is configured as another mutual capacitance receiver Rx2; and the right subgroup is configured as another mutual capacitance receiver Rx3. Furthermore, a portion of the capacitive sensors on row R4 are configured as dummy sensors Dum. Figure 12A As shown, a dummy sensor Dum is set between mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 and Rx2, and another dummy sensor Dum is set between mutual capacitance receivers Rx2 and Rx3.

[0128] Please refer to the following: Figure 12B The diagram illustrates a sixth grouping layout configuration of multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110f during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0129] like Figure 12B As shown, multiple capacitive sensors 120 are arranged on the plane of the touch panel 110f in different column and row configurations. The multiple capacitive sensors 120 are divided into a first group and a second group. The capacitive sensors 120 of the second group are arranged in two strip-shaped areas (e.g., mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 and Rx2 are located in rows R4 and R7). The capacitive sensors 120 of the first group are arranged in positions outside the two strip-shaped areas (e.g., mutual capacitance emitters Tx are located in rows R1 to R3, rows R5 to R6, and rows R8 to R36).

[0130] like Figure 12B As shown (and refer to) Figure 11 In response to the pulse signal PTx, the second group of capacitance sensors 120 on the two strip regions act as two mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 and Rx2 to generate two sensing signals Sin1 and Sin2, which are used to detect the two capacitance changes between the first group of capacitance sensors (i.e., mutual capacitance emitters Tx) and the second group of capacitance sensors (i.e., mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 and Rx2) on the two strip regions. The controller 140 detects the proximity event PE based on the two capacitance changes. If both capacitance changes exceed a threshold value, the controller 140 determines that the proximity event PE has occurred.

[0131] In the above Figures 5 to 12B In this embodiment, the multiple capacitive sensors 120 are grouped in different rows. However, this disclosure is not limited to this. Please refer to [other documents]. Figure 13 The diagram illustrates a seventh grouping layout configuration of multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110g during proximity sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0132] like Figure 13As shown, multiple capacitive sensors 120 are arranged on the plane of the touch panel 110g in different column and row configurations. The multiple capacitive sensors 120 are divided into a first group and a second group. The capacitive sensors 120 of the second group are arranged in a strip-shaped area (e.g., mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 and Rx2 are located at the top and bottom of column C4, respectively). The capacitive sensors 120 of the first group are arranged outside the strip-shaped area (e.g., mutual capacitance emitters Tx are located in columns C1 to C3 and columns C5 to C28).

[0133] about Figures 5 to 13 The number of columns and rows shown is for illustrative purposes only, and the touch panel in this disclosure is not limited to a specific number of columns and rows.

[0134] In some other embodiments, the touch panel 110 of the interface device 100 is not limited to a rectangular shape. Please refer to [further details omitted]. Figure 14A as well as Figure 14B , Figure 14A The illustration shows a schematic diagram of an eighth grouping layout used by a plurality of capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110h during proximity sensing in some embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 14B A schematic diagram illustrating a ninth grouping layout of multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110i during proximity sensing is shown in some embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 14A As shown, the mutual capacitance receiver Rx is disposed on the strip-shaped area in the circular touch panel 110h, and the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx is disposed on the circular touch panel 110h, located outside the strip-shaped area and surrounding it. Figure 14B As shown, the mutual capacitance receiver Rx is disposed on a frame-shaped area in the circular touch panel 110i, and the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx is disposed on the circular touch panel 110i, located inside the frame-shaped area and at the outer ring of the frame-shaped area. These different arrangements of the mutual capacitance receiver Rx and the mutual capacitance transmitter Tx are all possible configurations to achieve the functions of the aforementioned interface device 100.

[0135] In the above embodiments, the controller 140 can detect information about touch events TE and proximity events PE based on the amount of capacitance change sensed by the capacitive sensor 120. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some other embodiments, the controller 140 can detect information about three-dimensional gesture events based on the amount of capacitance change sensed by the capacitive sensor 120.

[0136] Further reference Figure 15A and Figure 15B . Figure 15A A flowchart illustrating a control method 300 according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, Figure 15AThe control method 300 shown can be used by Figure 1 The controller 140 in the interface device 100 shown performs the operation. Figure 15B A timing diagram illustrating the signals supplied by controller 140 to capacitive sensor 120 at different times is shown. Figure 15B There are three distinct periods, P0, P1, and P3. During the display driving period P0, the controller 140 generates some display-related signals (e.g., scan signals, data signals, or polarity signals, not shown) to the display of the interface device 100 (not shown). Figure 15A The steps of the control method 300 executed by the controller 140 in the interface device 100 are illustrated during periods P1 and P3. In steps S311 and S312 of the touch sensing period P1, the controller 140 sets the capacitive sensor 120 as a self-capacitance sensor. The behavior and details of the display driving period P0 and the touch sensing period P1 are similar to... Figure 3A Steps S211 and S212 in the above, and have been described in the foregoing Figure 3A The relevant embodiments are described and can be referred to. Figures 1 to 4 The relevant embodiments are not described in detail here.

[0137] Please refer to the following: Figure 16 The illustration depicts a plurality of capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110j having a tenth group layout according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 15A and Figure 15B A schematic diagram of the P3 configuration during 3D gesture sensing.

[0138] During 3D gesture sensing (P3), controller 140 executes step S321, dividing the multiple capacitive sensors 120 into multiple groups. Figure 16 In the illustrated embodiment, the multiple capacitive sensors 120 are divided into seven groups: Pad1, Pad2, Pad3, Pad4, Pad5, Pad6, and Pad7.

[0139] In this example, during 3D gesture sensing (P3), the controller divides the multiple capacitive sensors 120 into three left groups (Pad1 to Pad3), one middle group (Pad4), and three right groups (Pad5 to Pad7). The three left groups (Pad1 to Pad3) are positioned at different horizontal heights along the left edge of the plane. The three right groups (Pad5 to Pad7) are positioned at different horizontal heights along the right edge of the plane. The middle group (Pad4) is positioned near the center of the plane, between the left groups (Pad1 to Pad3) and the right groups (Pad5 to Pad7).

[0140] At Figure 16In the example shown, group Pad1 is located at the top left corner of the plane; group Pad3 is located at the bottom left corner of the plane; group Pad2 is located at the left edge of the plane and between group Pad1 and group Pad3; group Pad5 is located at the top right corner of the plane; group Pad7 is located at the bottom right corner of the plane; and group Pad6 is located at the right edge of the plane and between group Pad5 and group Pad7.

[0141] like Figure 15B as well as Figure 16 As shown, the controller 140 executes step S322 to set the capacitive sensors of the first combination of the aforementioned multiple groups as mutual capacitance emitters Tx, and executes step S324 to generate pulse signals to the mutual capacitance emitters Tx. In this example, the first combination includes the middle group (i.e., group Pad4) located in the center of the touch panel 110j. The capacitive sensors 120 in group Pad4 are set as mutual capacitance emitters Tx.

[0142] like Figure 15B as well as Figure 16 As shown, the controller 140 executes step S322 to set the capacitive sensors of the second combination of the aforementioned multiple groups as multiple mutual capacitance receivers. In this example, the second combination includes the left group (i.e., group Pad1 to group Pad3) located on the left side of the touch panel 110j and the right group (i.e., group Pad5 to group Pad7) located on the right side of the touch panel 110j. The capacitive sensor 120 in group Pad1 is set as mutual capacitance receiver Rx1; the capacitive sensor 120 in group Pad2 is set as mutual capacitance receiver Rx2; the capacitive sensor 120 in group Pad3 is set as mutual capacitance receiver Rx3; the capacitive sensor 120 in group Pad5 is set as mutual capacitance receiver Rx4; the capacitive sensor 120 in group Pad6 is set as mutual capacitance receiver Rx5; and the capacitive sensor 120 in group Pad7 is set as mutual capacitance receiver Rx6.

[0143] Controller 140 executes step S325, in response to the pulse signal PTx, by collecting six different sensing signals from six mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 to Rx6 (see reference). Figure 11 The illustration shows an example where three sensing signals Sin1 to Sin3 are collected by three mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 to Rx3. The controller 140 executes step S326 to detect a three-dimensional gesture based on the individual sensing signals collected by the mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 to Rx6.

[0144] Please refer to further information. Figure 17 Its rendering of 3D gestures is relative to GE Figure 16 A schematic diagram showing the spatial relationship between the mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 to Rx6. (See diagram below.) Figure 17As shown, when a 3D gesture GE hovers above, the 3D gesture GE will sense different degrees of capacitance changes in the mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 to Rx6.

[0145] For example, the 3D gesture GE is relatively close to the mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 and RX4, resulting in relatively large capacitance changes CV1 and CV4. Conversely, the 3D gesture GE is relatively far from the mutual capacitance receivers Rx3 and RX6, resulting in relatively small capacitance changes CV3 and CV6.

[0146] By comparing capacitance changes CV1, CV2, and CV3, controller 140 can obtain the Y-axis coordinate of the three-dimensional gesture GE. By comparing capacitance changes CV1 and CV4 (or comparing capacitance changes CV1 and CV5; or comparing capacitance changes CV3 and CV6), controller 140 can obtain the X-axis coordinate of the three-dimensional gesture GE. Based on the average value of capacitance changes CV1 to CV6, controller 140 can obtain the Z-axis coordinate of the three-dimensional gesture GE. In this example, during the three-dimensional gesture sensing period P3, controller 140 detects the spatial coordinates of the three-dimensional gesture GE based on the sensing signals generated by mutual capacitance receivers Rx1 to Rx6 (formed by the left group Pad1 to Pad3 and the right group Pad5 to Pad7).

[0147] In the above Figure 15B and Figure 16 In the illustrated embodiment, the left-side groups Pad1 to Pad3 and the right-side groups Pad5 to Pad7 are simultaneously used as mutual capacitance receivers, while only group Pad4 acts as a mutual capacitance transmitter Tx. This reduces the area used as a mutual capacitance transmitter Tx. This disclosure is not limited to... Figure 15B and Figure 16 The example shown.

[0148] Further reference Figure 18 The diagram illustrates the timing of the signals provided by the controller 140 to the capacitive sensor 120 at different times. For example... Figure 18 As shown, there are three distinct periods, P0, P1, and P3. During display driving period P0, the controller 140 generates display-related signals (e.g., scan signals, data signals, or polarity signals, not shown) to the display of the interface device 100 (not shown). During touch sensing period P1, the controller 140 independently configures the multiple capacitive sensors 120 as multiple self-capacitance sensors. The behavior and details of display driving period P0 and touch sensing period P1 have been referenced in the foregoing embodiments. Figures 1 to 4 This will be discussed further, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0149] like Figure 18As shown, during 3D gesture sensing, P3 comprises a first part P3a and a second part P3b. Please refer to both. Figure 19A and Figure 19B . Figure 19A The illustration depicts an embodiment according to this disclosure document. Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the configuration of multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110k with an eleventh group layout in the first part P3a of P3 during three-dimensional gesture sensing. Figure 19B The illustration depicts an embodiment according to this disclosure document. Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the configuration of multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110l with a twelfth group layout in the second part P3b of P3 during three-dimensional gesture sensing.

[0150] like Figure 18 As shown, during the gesture sensing period, in the first part P3a and the second part P3b of P3, the capacitive sensors 120 in the left group Pad1 to Pad3 and the capacitive sensors 120 in the right group Pad5 to Pad7 are used alternately as mutual capacitance receivers.

[0151] like Figure 18 as well as Figure 19A As shown, during the first part P3a of gesture sensing P3, multiple left-side groups Pad1 to Pad3 are used as multiple mutual capacitance receivers, while the middle group Pad4 and multiple right-side groups Pad5 to Pad7 are used as mutual capacitance transmitters. During the first part P3a, the controller 140 generates a pulse signal PTx to the mutual capacitance transmitters formed by the middle group Pad4 and the multiple right-side groups Pad5 to Pad7, and collects multiple sensing signals from the mutual capacitance receivers formed by the multiple left-side groups Pad1 to Pad3.

[0152] like Figure 18 as well as Figure 19B As shown, during the second part P3b of P3 during gesture sensing, multiple right-side groups Pad5 to Pad7 are used as multiple mutual capacitance receivers, while the middle group Pad4 and multiple left-side groups Pad1 to Pad3 are used as mutual capacitance transmitters. During the second part P3b, the controller 140 generates a pulse signal PTx to the mutual capacitance transmitters formed by the middle group Pad4 and the multiple left-side groups Pad1 to Pad3, and collects multiple sensing signals from the mutual capacitance receivers formed by the multiple right-side groups Pad5 to Pad7.

[0153] In this example, Figure 18 During the gesture sensing period P3 shown, the left group Pad1 to Pad3 and the right group Pad5 to Pad7 are used alternately as mutual capacitance receivers.

[0154] In the above Figure 18 , Figure 19A as well as Figure 19B In the example, the left groups Pad1 to Pad3 and the right groups Pad5 to Pad7 were not used synchronously as mutual capacitance receivers. In Part 1, P3a, only the left groups Pad1 to Pad3 were used as mutual capacitance receivers; in Part 2, P3b, only the right groups Pad5 to Pad7 were used as mutual capacitance receivers. Figure 18 , Figure 19A as well as Figure 19B The example shown can increase the area used as a mutual capacitance emitter Tx, thereby helping to expand the sensing range for 3D gestures GE.

[0155] Please refer to the following: Figure 20 The diagram illustrates a thirteenth group layout configuration of multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110m during three-dimensional gesture sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0156] During 3D gesture sensing (P3), the controller 140 distinguishes the multiple capacitive sensors 120 into multiple left groups (Pad1 to Pad3), a middle group (Pad4), multiple right groups (Pad5 to Pad7), and a virtual group of dummy sensors (Dum). The controller 140 generates a fixed voltage signal to the multiple capacitive sensors 120 in the virtual group of dummy sensors (Dum), or maintains the multiple capacitive sensors 120 in the virtual group of dummy sensors (Dum) at a floating voltage level. The multiple capacitive sensors 120 in the virtual group of dummy sensors (Dum) are configured to separate any two adjacent groups from Pad1 to Pad7.

[0157] In the above Figure 16 , Figure 19A as well as Figure 19B In the embodiments described, the capacitive sensor 120 is divided into seven groups, Pad1 to Pad7; however, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Please refer to the accompanying documents. Figure 21 The diagram illustrates a configuration of a fourteenth group layout of multiple capacitive sensors 120 on a touch panel 110n during three-dimensional gesture sensing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0158] During 3D gesture sensing (P3), the controller 140 classifies the multiple capacitive sensors 120 into groups Pad1 to Pad7, group Pad8, and group Pad9. Group Pad8 is located between the left edge of the touch panel 110n and groups Pad1 to Pad3. During 3D gesture sensing (P3), the controller 140 transmits pulse signals PTx to the capacitive sensors 120 in groups Pad4, Pad8, and Pad9. In other words, the capacitive sensors 120 in groups Pad4, Pad8, and Pad9 are used as mutual capacitance emitters Tx.

[0159] based on Figure 21 In the configuration shown, the capacitive sensors 120 in groups Pad8 and Pad9 located at the boundaries of the touch panel 110n are used as mutual capacitance emitters Tx. Groups Pad8 and Pad9 help block or reduce interference from ambient electromagnetic waves on the left and right sides of the touch panel 110n. Especially when sensing three-dimensional gestures GE located above the touch panel 110n, the accuracy of three-dimensional gesture sensing can be improved (by reducing interference from ambient electromagnetic waves).

[0160] It should be noted that, Figure 3B The proximity sensing period P2 shown in the embodiment is in Figure 15 or Figure 18 The 3D gesture sensing period P3 shown in the embodiment can coexist simultaneously in the interface device 100. In other words, the interface device 100 can sequentially include a display driving period P0, a touch sensing period P1, a proximity sensing period P2, and a 3D gesture sensing period P3. The controller 140 can assign multiple capacitive sensors 120 to perform different functions at different times, so that the various functions (touch sensing, proximity sensing, and / or 3D gesture sensing) can be integrated with each other and executed based on the capacitive sensors 120. The interface device 100 can perform the various functions without setting up additional sensors (such as optical proximity sensors or optical gesture capturing cameras).

[0161] Although this disclosure has been described in considerable detail with reference to numerous embodiments, other implementations are possible. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the claims should not be limited to the embodiments described above.

[0162] While specific embodiments have been disclosed in connection with the above-described embodiments, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Various substitutions and modifications can be made to this disclosure by those skilled in the art without departing from the principles and spirit of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection of this disclosure is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A control method, characterized in that, The control method is applicable to a controller in an interface device having a plurality of capacitive sensors arranged on a plane. The control method includes: During a first period, the controller individually configures the plurality of capacitive sensors as a plurality of self-capacitance sensors; and During a second period, the controller classifies the plurality of capacitive sensors into at least a first group and a second group. The controller sets the capacitive sensors of the first group as mutual capacitance transmitters and generates a pulse signal to the mutual capacitance transmitters. The controller sets the capacitive sensors of the second group as mutual capacitance receivers. Corresponding to the pulse signal, the controller collects a sensing signal from the mutual capacitance receivers. The first area covered by the capacitive sensors of the first group that act as mutual capacitance transmitters is larger than the second area covered by the capacitive sensors of the second group that act as mutual capacitance receivers.

2. The control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: During this first period, the controller detects a touch location of a touch event based on the plurality of self-capacitance sensors; and During the second period, the controller detects an proximity event based on the sensing signal, wherein the sensing signal is generated by the mutual capacitance receiver during the second period.

3. The control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, During the second period, the plurality of capacitive sensors are classified by the controller into the first group, the second group, and a third group, and the control method further includes: The controller generates a fixed voltage signal to the capacitive sensors of the third group or holds the capacitive sensors of the third group at a floating voltage level.

4. The control method as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The capacitive sensors in the third group are located between the capacitive sensors in the first group and the capacitive sensors in the second group.

5. The control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of capacitive sensors are disposed on a plurality of columns and a plurality of rows on the plane. The second group of capacitive sensors is disposed on a strip-shaped region on the plane, the strip-shaped region including a first column or a first row on the plane. The first group of capacitive sensors is disposed at a position outside the strip-shaped region on the plane.

6. The control method as described in claim 5, characterized in that, Also includes: The capacitive sensors of the second group located on the strip region are used as mutual capacitance receivers; In response to the pulse signal, based on the sensing signal generated by the mutual capacitance receiver, a capacitance change between the first group of capacitance sensors and the second group of capacitance sensors is detected. as well as When the change in capacitance exceeds a threshold value, the controller detects the occurrence of a proximity event.

7. The control method as described in claim 5, characterized in that, Also includes: The controller divides the second group of capacitive sensors into K subgroups, where the capacitive sensors of the K subgroups are used as multiple mutual capacitance receivers to detect K capacitance changes between the capacitive sensors of the first group and the capacitive sensors of the K subgroups. as well as When at least one of the K capacitance changes exceeds a threshold value, the controller detects the occurrence of a proximity event, where K is a positive integer greater than 1.

8. The control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of capacitive sensors are arranged in multiple columns and multiple rows on the plane. The second group of capacitive sensors is arranged in two strip-shaped areas on the plane, while the first group of capacitive sensors is arranged in positions outside the two strip-shaped areas on the plane. The two strip-shaped regions include a first column and a second column on the plane, or a first row and a second row on the plane.

9. The control method as described in claim 8, characterized in that, Also includes: The capacitive sensors of the second group located on the two strip regions are used as two mutual capacitance receivers; Corresponding to the pulse signal, based on the two sensing signals generated by the two mutual capacitance receivers, the two capacitance changes between the first group of capacitance sensors and the second group of capacitance sensors on the two strip regions are detected. as well as When both capacitance changes exceed a threshold value, the controller detects the occurrence of a proximity event.

10. A control method, characterized in that, The control method is applicable to a controller in an interface device having a plurality of capacitive sensors arranged on a plane. The control method includes: During a first period, the controller individually configures the plurality of capacitive sensors as a plurality of self-capacitance sensors; and During a second period, the controller classifies the plurality of capacitive sensors into at least a plurality of groups, sets a first combination of capacitive sensors from the plurality of groups as a mutual capacitance transmitter, generates a pulse signal to the mutual capacitance transmitter, sets a second combination of capacitive sensors from the plurality of groups as a plurality of mutual capacitance receivers, collects a plurality of sensing signals from the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers corresponding to the pulse signal, and detects a three-dimensional gesture by the controller based on the plurality of sensing signals, wherein a first area covered by the mutual capacitance transmitter is larger than a second area covered by the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers.

11. The control method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, Also includes: During this first period, the controller detects a touch location of a touch event based on the plurality of self-capacitance sensors; and During the second period, the controller detects the three-dimensional gesture based on the plurality of sensing signals, wherein the plurality of sensing signals are generated by the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers during the second period.

12. The control method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, Also includes: The controller divides the plurality of capacitive sensors into a plurality of left groups, a middle group, and a plurality of right groups. The plurality of left groups are arranged along a left edge of the plane, the plurality of right groups are arranged along a right edge of the plane, and the middle group is located near a center point of the plane and between the plurality of left groups and the plurality of right groups.

13. The control method as described in claim 12, characterized in that, During the second period, the first combination includes the middle group, the second combination includes the plurality of left groups and the plurality of right groups, and the control method further includes: The controller generates the pulse signal and sends it to the mutual capacitance transmitter formed by the intermediate group; as well as The controller collects the multiple sensing signals from the multiple mutual capacitance receivers formed by the multiple left groups and the multiple right groups.

14. The control method as described in claim 12, characterized in that, In a first portion of the second period, the first combination includes the middle group and the plurality of right groups, the second combination includes the plurality of left groups, and the control method includes generating the pulse signal by the controller to the mutual capacitance transmitter formed by the middle group and the plurality of right groups, and collecting a plurality of first sensing signals by the controller from the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers formed by the plurality of left groups. In a second portion of the second period, the first combination includes the middle group and the plurality of left groups, the second combination includes the plurality of right groups, and the control method includes generating the pulse signal by the controller to the mutual capacitance transmitter formed by the middle group and the plurality of left groups, and collecting a plurality of second sensing signals by the controller from the plurality of mutual capacitance receivers formed by the plurality of right groups. The controller detects the three-dimensional gesture based on the plurality of first sensing signals and the plurality of second sensing signals.

15. The control method as described in claim 12, characterized in that, Also includes: During the second period, the controller further divides the plurality of capacitive sensors into the plurality of left groups, the middle group, the plurality of right groups, and a dummy group, and generates a fixed voltage signal to the capacitive sensors of the dummy group or keeps the capacitive sensors of the dummy group at a floating voltage level.

16. The control method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, Also includes: During the second period, the controller classifies the plurality of capacitive sensors into a first group, a second group, a third group, a fourth group, a fifth group, a sixth group, and a seventh group. The first group is located in the upper left corner of the plane, the third group is located in the lower left corner of the plane, the second group is located near the left edge of the plane and between the first group and the third group, the fifth group is located in the upper right corner of the plane, the seventh group is located in the lower right corner of the plane, and the sixth group is located near the right edge of the plane and between the fifth group and the seventh group.

17. The control method as described in claim 16, characterized in that, Also includes: During the second period, the controller further divides the plurality of capacitive sensors into the first group to the seventh group, an eighth group and a ninth group, wherein the eighth group is located between the left edge of the plane and the first group to the third group, and the ninth group is located between the right edge of the plane and the fifth group to the seventh group.

18. The control method as described in claim 17, characterized in that, Also includes: During the second period, the controller transmits the pulse signal to the capacitive sensors in the eighth group and the capacitive sensors in the ninth group.

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