Detecting screen using capacitive module

Abstract

A capacitance module may include: at least one capacitance electrode; a controller in communication with the capacitive electrode; a memory in communication with the controller; and programming instructions stored in the memory and configured, when executed, to cause the controller to detect a broadcast signal from the electronic display component using the at least one capacitive electrode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for detecting display assemblies using capacitive modules. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for detecting when a display assembly is closed by detecting whether the position of the display assembly in a lid of a laptop or other type of electronic device is adjacent to a capacitive module. Background Art

[0002] Display screens are often incorporated into laptop computers, mobile devices, electronic devices, and other types of devices to provide a mechanism for displaying visual output. Laptop computers can be closed and opened, and the closed or open state can be detected.

[0003] An example of a lid closure detection device is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 2009 / 0016003 issued to Chris Ligtenberg et al. The reference discloses a portable computer having a display assembly coupled to a base assembly to alternate between a closed position and an open position. An input device disposed on the base assembly senses contact with a portion of the display assembly to detect that the display assembly is in a closed position.

[0004] Another example of a cover closure detection device is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,428,142 issued to Chris Ligtenberg et al. This reference discloses a portable computer having a display assembly coupled to a base assembly to alternate between a closed position and an open position. An input device disposed on the base assembly senses contact with a portion of the display assembly to detect that the display assembly is in a closed position.

[0005] Each of these references is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for its disclosure. Summary of the invention

[0006] In one embodiment, a capacitive module may include: at least one capacitive electrode; a controller in communication with the capacitive electrode; a memory in communication with the controller; and programming instructions stored in the memory and configured to cause the controller, when executed, to: detect a broadcast signal from an electronic display component using at least one capacitive electrode.

[0007] The display component may have capacitive electrodes.

[0008] The capacitive electrodes of the display assembly may be part of the touch module.

[0009] At least one capacitive electrode may be a sensing electrode.

[0010] The capacitive module may have at least one transmitting electrode, and the programmed instructions, when executed, may cause the controller to deactivate the at least one transmitting electrode during a time period when the broadcast signal is detected.

[0011] Broadcast signals from electronic display components may be electrical noise.

[0012] The broadcast signal may be generated by a pixel refresh pattern of an electronic display component.

[0013] At least one of the capacitive electrodes may be driven at a fundamental frequency above 100 kHz.

[0014] The programming instructions, when executed, may cause the controller to tune at least one sensing electrode to a determined frequency and drive at least one transmitting electrode at the determined frequency, wherein the determined frequency has at least one attribute of a broadcast signal from the display assembly.

[0015] The detected broadcast signal may be an authentication signal.

[0016] The programming instructions, when executed, may cause the controller to determine a position of the electronic display assembly based at least in part on the broadcast signal.

[0017] The programming instructions, when executed, may cause the controller to change the power management settings in response to the determined position of the electronic display assembly.

[0018] A computer program product may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions executable by a controller to: receive a detected broadcast signal from an electronic display component from a capacitive electrode; and execute a response in response to receiving the detected broadcast signal.

[0019] The capacitor electrode may be part of a capacitor module.

[0020] The broadcast signal may be generated by a pixel refresh pattern of an electronic display component.

[0021] A method may include receiving a detected broadcast signal from an electronic display component from a capacitive electrode; and executing a response in response to receiving the detected broadcast signal.

[0022] The broadcast signal may be generated by the touch electrodes of the electronic display assembly.

[0023] An electronic device may include: a first component; a second component, movably connected to the second component; a first capacitor electrode, integrated into the first component; a second capacitor electrode, integrated into the second component; a controller, communicating with the first capacitor electrode, the second capacitor electrode, or a combination thereof; a memory, communicating with the controller; and programming instructions, stored in the memory and configured to cause the controller to broadcast a signal using the first capacitor electrode when executed; and to detect the broadcast signal using the second capacitor electrode.

[0024] The programming instructions may be further configured to, when executed, determine a position of the first component and the second component relative to each other.

[0025] The programming instructions may be further configured to, when executed, change a power setting of the electronic device in response to detecting the broadcast signal.

[0026] The first capacitive electrode may be integrated into the touch display.

[0027] The first capacitor electrode may be integrated into a capacitor module of the touch panel.

[0028] The first component may be movably connected to the second component by a hinge connection.

[0029] The first capacitive electrode may be integrated into a touch display of the electronic device, and the second capacitive electrode may be integrated into a capacitive module associated with a touch panel of the electronic device.

[0030] The first capacitive electrode may be integrated into a capacitive module associated with a touch panel of the electronic device, and the second capacitive electrode may be integrated into a touch display of the electronic device.

[0031] The first capacitive electrode may be integrated into a first portion of a touch display of the electronic device, and the second capacitive electrode may be integrated into a second portion of the touch display of the electronic device.

[0032] The first capacitive electrode may be integrated into a first touch display of the electronic device, and the second capacitive electrode may be integrated into a second touch display of the electronic device.

[0033] A computer program product may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that can be executed by a controller to perform the following operations: receiving input from a first capacitor module, wherein the input represents a detected broadcast signal from a second capacitor module; and executing a response in response to receiving the input representing the detected broadcast signal.

[0034] The programming instructions may be further configured to, when executed, determine a position of a first component of the electronic device comprising a first capacitive electrode and a second component of the electronic device comprising a second capacitive electrode relative to each other.

[0035] The first component may be movably connected to the second component by a hinge connection.

[0036] The first capacitive electrode may be integrated into the touch display.

[0037] The first capacitor electrode may be integrated into a capacitor module of the touch panel.

[0038] The programming instructions may be further configured to, when executed, change a power setting of an electronic device including the second capacitive electrode in response to detecting the broadcast signal.

[0039] A method of detecting a broadcast signal may include receiving an input from a first capacitive module, wherein the input represents a detected broadcast signal from a second capacitive module; and executing a response in response to receiving the input representing the detected broadcast signal.

[0040] The method may include determining a position of a first component of the electronic device including a first capacitive electrode and a second component of the electronic device including a second capacitive electrode relative to each other.

[0041] The method may include changing a power setting of an electronic device including the second capacitive electrode in response to detecting the broadcast signal.

[0042] Changing the power setting of the electronic device may include shutting down the electronic device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Figure 1 An example of an electronic device according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0044] Figure 2 An example of a substrate having a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0045] Figure 3 Depicted is an example of a touch pad in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 4 Depicted is an example of a touch screen in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 5 An example of an electronic device according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0048] Figure 6 Depicted are examples of display assemblies and capacitive modules according to the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 7Depicted are examples of touch display assemblies and capacitive modules according to the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 8 Depicted are examples of first and second signal frequency graphs according to the present disclosure.

[0051] Fig. 9 Depicted are examples of display assemblies in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0052] Fig.10 Depicted are examples of first and second signals according to the present disclosure.

[0053] Fig.11 Depicting an example of a screen changing brightness according to the present disclosure.

[0054] Fig.12 An example of a smartphone device in accordance with the present disclosure is depicted.

[0055] Fig.13 Depicted are examples of laptop and smartphone devices according to the present disclosure.

[0056] Fig.14 Depicted are examples of an automated teller machine and a smart phone device according to the present disclosure.

[0057] Fig.15 Depicted are examples of a laptop computer and a smart watch device according to the present disclosure.

[0058] Fig.16 An example of a method of detecting a broadcast signal according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0059] Fig.17 An example of a method of receiving a broadcast signal according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0060] Fig.18 An example of a method of receiving a broadcast signal according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0061] Although the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and substitutions, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific form disclosed. On the contrary, the purpose is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternative forms that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] This description provides examples and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the present invention. Instead, the following description will provide a feasible description for those skilled in the art to implement embodiments of the present invention. Various changes can be made to the functions and arrangements of the elements.

[0063] Therefore, various embodiments may appropriately omit, replace or add various steps or components. For example, it should be understood that the method may be performed in a different order than described, and various steps may be added, omitted or combined. In addition, aspects and elements described in certain embodiments may be combined in other various embodiments. It should also be understood that the following systems, methods, devices and software may be individually or collectively components of a larger system, wherein other steps may take precedence over or otherwise modify their application.

[0064] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "aligned" generally refers to parallel, substantially parallel, or forming an angle of less than 35.0 degrees. For purposes of this disclosure, the term "lateral" generally refers to perpendicular, substantially perpendicular, or forming an angle of 55.0 degrees to 125.0 degrees. For purposes of this disclosure, the term "length" generally refers to the longest dimension of an object. For purposes of this disclosure, the term "width" generally refers to the dimension of an object from side to side, and may refer to a measurement across an object perpendicular to the length of the object.

[0065] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "electrode" may generally refer to a portion of an electrical conductor that is intended to be measured, while the terms "route" and "track" generally refer to a portion of an electrical conductor that is not intended to be measured. When referring to a circuit in this disclosure, the term "circuit" generally refers to the combination of an electrode and a "route" or "track" portion of an electrical conductor. For purposes of this disclosure, the term "Tx" generally refers to a transmitting line, electrode, or portion thereof, while the term "Rx" generally refers to a sensing line, electrode, or portion thereof.

[0066] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "electronic device" may generally refer to a device that can be transported and includes a battery and electronic components. Examples may include a laptop, a desktop, a mobile phone, an electronic tablet, a personal digital device, a watch, a game controller, a gaming wearable device, a wearable device, a measurement device, an automation device, a security device, a display, a computer mouse, a vehicle, an infotainment system, an audio system, a control panel, other types of devices, a sports tracking device, a tracking device, a card reader, a purchasing station, a kiosk, or a combination thereof.

[0067] It should be understood that the terms "capacitive module", "touch pad", "touch sensor" used herein may be used interchangeably with "capacitive touch sensor", "capacitive sensor", "capacitive sensor", "capacitive touch and proximity sensor", "proximity sensor", "touch and proximity sensor", "touch panel", "track pad", "touch pad", and "touch screen". The capacitive module may be integrated into an electronic device.

[0068] It should also be understood that, as used herein, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," and the like may refer to the relative orientation or position of features in the disclosed devices and / or components as shown in the figures. For example, "upper" or "uppermost" may refer to a position where one feature is closer to the top of the page than another feature. However, these terms should be broadly interpreted to include devices and / or components having other orientations (e.g., inverted or tilted orientations), where top / bottom, above / below, over / below, above / below, and left / right may be interchanged depending on the orientation.

[0069] In some cases, the capacitive module is located within the housing. The capacitive module may be below the housing and may be capable of detecting an object outside the housing. In an example, when the capacitive module is capable of detecting a change in capacitance through the housing, the housing is a capacitive reference surface. For example, the capacitive module may be disclosed in a cavity formed by a keyboard housing of a computer (e.g., a laptop or other type of computing device), and the sensor may be disposed below the surface of the keyboard housing. In such an example, the keyboard housing adjacent to the capacitive module is a capacitive reference surface. In some examples, an opening may be formed in the housing, and a cover layer may be located in the opening. In this example, the cover layer is a capacitive reference surface. In such an example, the capacitive module may be located near the back of the cover layer, and the capacitive module may sense the presence of an object through the thickness of the cover layer. For purposes of this disclosure, the term "reference surface" may generally refer to a surface through which a pressure sensor, a capacitive sensor, or other type of sensor is positioned to sense pressure, presence, position, touch, proximity, capacitance, magnetism, electrical properties, other types of attributes, or other characteristics representing input, or a combination thereof. For example, the reference surface may be a housing, a cover layer, or other type of surface through which input is sensed. In some examples, the reference surface has no moving parts. In some examples, the reference surface can be made of any suitable type of material, including, but not limited to, plastic, glass, dielectric material, metal, other types of materials, or combinations thereof.

[0070] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "display" may generally refer to a display or screen that is not depicted in the same area as the capacitive reference surface. In some cases, the display is integrated into a laptop computer, where the keyboard is located between the display and the capacitive reference surface. In some examples where the capacitive reference surface is integrated into the laptop computer, the capacitive reference surface may be part of a touchpad. The pressure sensor may be integrated into the stack that constitutes the capacitive module. However, in some cases, the pressure sensor may be located in other parts of the laptop computer, such as below the keyboard housing, but outside the area for sensing touch input, on the side of the laptop computer, above the keyboard, on the side of the keyboard, in other locations of the laptop computer, or in other locations. In examples where these components are integrated into the laptop computer, the display may be pivotally connected to the keyboard housing. The display may be a digital screen, a touch screen, other types of screens, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the display is located on the same device as the capacitive reference surface, while in other examples, the display is located on other devices that are different from the device where the capacitive reference surface is located. For example, the display may be projected onto different surfaces, such as a wall or a projector screen. In some examples, the reference surface may be located on an input or game controller, and the display is located on a wearable device, such as a virtual reality or augmented reality screen. In some cases, the reference surface and the display are located on the same surface, but at different locations on the surface. In other examples, the reference surface and the display may be integrated into the same device, but on different surfaces. In some cases, the reference surface and the display may be oriented at different angular orientations relative to each other.

[0071] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "electrical noise" may generally refer to electrical signals broadcast by a system due to standard operation of the system, but these electrical signals are not the primary function of the system. In some examples, electrical noise may be broadcast from a light emitting component of a display system. In some examples, a light emitting component may broadcast a signal when an electrical signal is applied to it. In some examples, electrical noise may be broadcast from a capacitive module. In some examples, a capacitive electrode may broadcast electrical noise when an electrical signal is applied to it. In some examples, electrical noise is caused by other circuits that are integrated into, work with, and / or are associated with the display component.

[0072] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "baseband" may generally refer to the main frequency at which a broadcast signal is broadcast. In some examples, the baseband may at least partially affect the harmonic content of the signal. In some examples, the baseband of the signal may be based at least in part on the alternating current (AC) frequency of the components applied to the broadcast signal. In some examples, the broadcast signal is a noise signal. In some examples, the baseband of the signal may be based at least in part on a combined signal from multiple sources. In some examples, the baseband of the signal may be determined by the rate at which the light-emitting components of the display device change and / or operate.

[0073] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "power management settings" may generally refer to settings on a device that control how power is used for operations and / or how much power is used for operations. In some examples, the power management settings may control whether the device is using power, how much power the device is using, which components of the device are using power, or a combination thereof. The device with the power management settings may be a laptop, a desktop computer, a smart phone device, a smart watch device, a mobile device, an electronic tablet, or other electronic device, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the power management settings of a laptop may control when the computer is in sleep mode, turned on, turned off, in other operating modes, or a combination thereof.

[0074] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "authentication signal" may generally refer to a signal broadcast from an electronic device that may be used to determine the identity of the device. In some examples, the authentication signal may have a specific frequency, amplitude, harmonic content, encryption method, data transmission method, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the authentication signal may be used to grant access to information, access a physical space, perform certain actions, or perform other types of operations.

[0075] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "pixel refresh mode" may generally refer to a pattern, method, rate, or combination thereof that a display system uses to change or update light-emitting components of the system. In some examples, a pixel refresh mode of a display may be used to update an image or information displayed on the display. In some examples, a pixel refresh mode may be a method and / or pattern by which a display applies electrical signals to components of the display. In some examples, a pixel refresh mode may have a specific frequency that is capable of emitting a signal having a recognizable pattern.

[0076] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "display component" may generally refer to a component integrated into a display of a device. For example, a component of a display may include a pixel, a pixel layer, a touch circuit in a display with touch sensing capabilities, a touch sensor layer, a circuit, a bevel, glass, a substrate, a sensor, or other devices integrated into a display.

[0077] Figure 1 An example of an electronic device 100 is depicted. In this example, the electronic device is a laptop computer. In the illustrated example, the electronic device 100 includes input elements such as a keyboard 102 and a capacitive module such as a touch pad 104, which are integrated into a housing 103. The electronic device 100 also includes a display 106. Programs operated by the electronic device 100 can be displayed in the display 106 and controlled by a sequence of instructions provided by a user via the keyboard 102 and / or via the touch pad 104. An internal battery (not shown) can be used to power the operation of the electronic device 100.

[0078] The keyboard 102 includes an array of keys 108 that can be individually selected when a user presses the keys 108 with sufficient force to cause the keys 108 to be pressed toward a switch located below the keyboard 102. In response to selecting the keys 108, the program can receive instructions on how to operate, such as a word processing program determining which types of words to process. The user can use the touch pad 104 to issue different types of instructions to programs operating on the computing device 100. For example, a cursor depicted in the display 106 can be controlled by the touch pad 104. The user can control the position of the cursor by sliding a hand along the surface of the touch pad 104. In some cases, the user can move the cursor to or near an object located in the display of the computing device and issue instructions to select the object through the touch pad 104. For example, the user can provide instructions to select the object by tapping the surface of the touch pad 104 one or more times.

[0079] The touch pad 104 is a capacitive module that includes a stacked layer disposed below a keyboard housing, below a cover layer that fits into an opening of the keyboard housing, or below other capacitive reference surfaces. In some examples, the capacitive module is located in an area of ​​the keyboard surface where a user's palm can be placed when typing. The capacitive module may include a substrate, such as a printed circuit board or other type of substrate. One of the layers of the capacitive module may include a sensor layer, the sensor layer including a first group of electrodes oriented in a first direction and a second layer of electrodes oriented in a second direction, the second direction being transverse to the first direction. The electrodes may be spaced apart and / or electrically isolated from each other. Electrical isolation may be achieved by depositing at least a portion of the electrodes on different sides of the same substrate or providing a dedicated substrate for each group of electrodes. Capacitance may be measured at overlapping intersections between different groups of electrodes. However, when an object having a dielectric value different from that of the surrounding air (e.g., a finger, a stylus, etc.) approaches the intersection between the electrodes, the capacitance between the electrodes may change. This change in capacitance and the relative position of the object relative to the capacitive module may be calculated to determine the location of the user touching or hovering the object within the detection range of the capacitive module. In some examples, the first group of electrodes and the second group of electrodes are equidistant relative to each other. Thus, in these examples, the sensitivity of the capacitive module is the same in both directions. However, in other examples, the distance between electrodes may be unevenly spaced to provide greater sensitivity for motion in certain directions.

[0080] In some cases, the display 106 is mechanically independent and can be moved relative to the keyboard using the connection mechanism 114. In these examples, the display 106 and the keyboard 102 can be connected and can move relative to each other. The display 106 can move relative to the keyboard 102 within a range of 0 degrees to 180 degrees or more. In some examples, when in the closed position, the display 106 can be folded onto the upper surface of the keyboard 102, and when the display 106 is in the operating position, the display 106 can be folded 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 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.

[0081] In some examples, display 106 can 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 can also include a capacitive module located behind the outer surface of display 106. When a user's finger or other object approaches the touch-sensitive screen, the capacitive module can detect a change in capacitance as the user's input.

[0082] Although Figure 1 The example depicts an example of an electronic device being a laptop computer, but the capacitive sensor and touch surface may be incorporated into any suitable device. A non-exhaustive list of devices includes, but is not limited to, desktops, displays, screens, kiosks, computing devices, electronic tablets, smart phones, location sensors, card reader sensors, other types of electronic devices, other types of devices, or combinations thereof.

[0083] Figure 2 An example of a portion of a capacitor module 200 is depicted. In this example, the capacitor module 200 may include a substrate 202, a first set of electrodes 204, and a second set of electrodes 206. The directions of the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be mutually transverse. In addition, the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be electrically isolated from each other so that the electrodes are not short-circuited to each other. However, where the first set of electrodes 204 overlaps with the second set of electrodes 206, capacitance may be measured. The capacitor module 200 may include one or more electrodes in the first set of electrodes 204 or the second set of electrodes 206. Such a substrate 202 and electrode groups may be integrated into a touch screen, a touch pad, a position sensor, a game controller, a button, and / or a detection circuit.

[0084] In some examples, the capacitive module 200 is a mutual capacitance sensing device. In such examples, the substrate 202 has a set of row electrodes 204 and a set of column electrodes 206 that define the touch / proximity sensitive area of ​​the element. In some cases, the element is configured as a rectangular grid consisting of an appropriate number of electrodes (e.g., 8 by 6, 16 by 12, 9 by 15, etc.).

[0085] like Figure 2 As shown, the capacitive module 200 includes a touch controller 208. The touch controller 208 may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an analog front end (AFE) including an amplifier, a peripheral interface controller (PIC), other types of microprocessors, and / or combinations thereof, and may be implemented as an integrated circuit with appropriate circuits, hardware, firmware, and / or software to select available operating modes, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a combination of logic gate circuits, other types of digital or analog electrical design elements, or combinations thereof.

[0086] In some cases, the touch controller 208 includes at least one multiplexing circuit to alternate which of the two sets of electrodes 204, 206 is used as the drive electrode and the sense electrode. The drive electrodes can be driven one at a time in sequence, or randomly, or multiple electrodes can be driven simultaneously in an encoded pattern. Other configurations are also possible, such as a self-capacitive mode, where the electrodes are driven and sensed at the same time. The electrodes can also be arranged in non-rectangular arrays, such as radial patterns, linear strings, etc. A shielding layer can be provided under the electrodes (see Figure 3 ) to reduce noise or other interference. The shielding can extend beyond the grid of electrodes. Other configurations are also possible.

[0087] In some cases, no fixed reference point is used for measurement.Touch controller 208 may generate signals that are sent directly to first set of electrodes 204 or second set of electrodes 206 in various modes.

[0088] 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 capacitance module 200. The capacitance module 200 can measure the charge imbalance of electrodes used as sensing electrodes, which in some examples can be any one of the electrodes specified in the groups 204, 206, or in other examples, using dedicated sensing electrodes. When there is no directional object on or near the capacitance module 200, the touch controller 208 may be in a balanced state and there is no signal on the sensing electrode. When a finger or other directional object creates an imbalance due to capacitive coupling, a change in capacitance may occur at the intersection of several groups of electrodes 204, 206 that constitute the touch / proximity sensitive area. In some cases, the change in capacitance is measured. However, in optional examples, absolute capacitance values ​​can be measured.

[0089] While this example describes a capacitive module 200 having the flexibility to switch the two sets of electrodes 204, 206 between sensing electrodes and transmitting electrodes, in other examples, each set of electrodes is dedicated to either a transmitting function or a sensing function.

[0090] Figure 3 Depicting an example of a substrate 202 on which a first set of electrodes 204 and a second set of electrodes 206 are deposited and integrated into a capacitor module. The first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 can be spaced apart from each other and electrically isolated from each other. Figure 3 In the depicted example, the first set of electrodes 204 are deposited on a first side of the substrate 202, and the second set of electrodes 206 are deposited on a second side of the substrate 202, where the second side is opposite the first side and is separated by the thickness of the substrate 202. The substrate may be made of an electrically insulating material to prevent the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 from shorting to each other. Figure 2 As shown, the orientation of the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 can be transverse to each other. Capacitance measurements can be made at the intersections that overlap the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206. In some examples, a voltage can be applied to the transmit electrode, and the voltage of the sense electrode that overlaps the transmit electrode can be measured. The voltage from the sense electrode can be used to determine the capacitance at the intersection where the sense electrode overlaps the transmit electrode.

[0091] exist Figure 3In the example depicting a cross section of a capacitive module, substrate 202 can be located between capacitive reference surface 212 and shield 214. Capacitive reference surface 212 can be a cover that is placed over a first side of substrate 202 and through which the electric field at least partially penetrates. When a user's finger or stylus approaches capacitive reference surface 212, the presence of the finger or stylus can affect the electric field on substrate 202. In the presence of a finger or stylus, the voltage measured from the sensing electrode may be different than when the finger or stylus is not present. Therefore, a change in capacitance can be measured.

[0092] Shield 214 can be a conductive layer that shields electrical noise from internal components of the electronic device. The shield can prevent the influence on the electric field on substrate 202. In some cases, the shield is a conductive solid material. In other cases, the shield has a substrate and a conductive material disposed on at least one substrate. In other examples, the shield is a layer in a touch panel that performs a function while also shielding the electrodes from electrical interference noise. For example, in some examples, a pixel layer in a display application can form an image visible through a capacitive reference surface, but also shield the electrodes from electrical interference noise.

[0093] The voltage applied to the transmit electrodes can be made through electrical connections 216 from touch controller 208 to the appropriate set of electrodes. The voltage applied to the sense electrodes by the electric field generated from the transmit electrodes can be detected through electrical connections 218 from the sense electrodes to touch controller 208.

[0094] Although Figure 3 The example of is depicted as having two sets of electrodes deposited on a substrate, one set of electrodes deposited on a first side and a second set of electrodes deposited on a second side; but in other examples, each set of electrodes can also be deposited on its own dedicated substrate.

[0095] In addition, although the above examples describe a touch pad having a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes; in some examples, the capacitive module also has a single set of electrodes. In such examples, the electrodes of the sensor layer can be used as both transmitting electrodes and receiving electrodes. In some cases, a voltage can be applied to the electrode for a duration, thereby changing the capacitance around the electrode. When the duration ends, the application of the voltage stops. The voltage can then be measured from the same electrode to determine the capacitance. If there is no object (e.g., a finger, a stylus, etc.) on or near the capacitive reference surface, the voltage measured from the electrode after the application of the voltage stops may be at a value consistent with the baseline capacitance. However, if an object is in contact with or close to the capacitive reference surface, the measured voltage can indicate a change in capacitance compared to the baseline capacitance.

[0096] In some examples, a capacitive module has a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes and communicates with a controller that is configured to perform mutual capacitance measurements (e.g., capacitance measurements using both the first set of electrodes and the second set of electrodes) or self capacitance measurements (e.g., capacitance measurements using only one set of electrodes).

[0097] Figure 4 Depicts an example of a capacitive module that is integrated into a touch screen. In this example, the substrate 202, the sets of electrodes 204, 206, and the electrical connections 216, 218 can be similar to the combination of Figure 3 The layout described. Figure 4 In an example of , shield 214 is located between substrate 202 and display layer 400. Display layer 400 can be a layer of pixels or diodes that emit light to produce an image. The display layer can be a liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, an organic light emitting diode display, an electroluminescent display, a quantum dot light emitting diode display, an incandescent filament display, a vacuum fluorescent lamp display, a cathode gas display, other types of displays, or combinations thereof. In this example, shield 214, substrate 202, and capacitive reference surface 212 can all be at least partially optically transparent so that the image depicted in the display layer is visible to the user through capacitive reference surface 212. Such a touch screen can be included in a display, a display assembly, a laptop computer, a mobile phone, a mobile device, an electronic tablet, a dashboard, a display panel, an infotainment device, other types of electronic devices, or combinations thereof.

[0098] Figure 5 An example of an electronic device 500 is depicted. In this example, the device is a laptop computer. Hinge 504 can allow screen 502 to move relative to capacitive module 506. In this example, electrical signal 508 is broadcast from display 502. Sensing range 510 of the capacitive module is adjacent to capacitive module 506. In some examples, display 502 can move toward capacitive module 506 by rotating around the hinge. When the display moves closer to the capacitive module, the signal emitted from the display can begin to be detected within sensing range 510. In such an example, sensing range 510 can detect electrical signal 508 before the display is within the sensing range. In some examples, when the capacitive module can detect the signal broadcast from the display component, a controller in communication with the sensor of the capacitive module can determine that the display is in a closed position. In other examples, a controller in communication with the sensor of the capacitive module can determine a more precise position of the display based on the characteristics of the broadcast signal. For example, signal strength can be used to determine a more precise position of the display. In some examples where a determination about a more precise position of the display can be made, the controller can determine that the cover of the electronic component is closed based on the determined position of the display. In other examples, other characteristics of the broadcast signal may be utilized to determine a more precise location of the display.

[0099] In such an example, sensing that the laptop is shutting down can trigger an executable action. For example, in response to determining that the laptop is shutting down, the laptop can switch power modes or shut down. In other examples, the laptop can communicate a message to the user. For example, the message can be an audible message indicating that the laptop will shut down within a defined time period. In other examples, the message can include a text message, an email, or other type of electronic message indicating that the device is shutting down.

[0100] In some examples, the sensing range 510 can be a sensing range within which a capacitive electrode or a set of capacitive electrodes within the capacitive module 506 can sense a broadcast signal 508 of a display. Although the illustrated example depicts the sensing area within a small range directly above the capacitive module 506, in other examples, the sensing range can be large enough to sense a display within a larger range of positions. In some examples, the sensing range can detect a broadcast signal from the display when the display is substantially aligned with the capacitive reference surface. In other examples, the sensing range can detect a broadcast signal when the display forms an angle between 1 degree and 90 degrees with the capacitive reference surface.

[0101] Figure 6 An example of a capacitive module 600 is depicted. A display component 614 is movable relative to the capacitive module. A substrate 604 of the capacitive module is located near a capacitive reference surface 602, wherein the capacitive reference surface 602 is located between the substrate 604 and the display component 614. In this example, a first side of the substrate 604 has a set of capacitive sensing electrodes 608, and a second side has a set of capacitive transmitting electrodes 610. The display component 614 can broadcast an electrical signal 616, such as electrical noise or other types of signals. In this example, the display component and the capacitive module 600 are initially separated by a first distance 618, wherein the signal from the display component cannot be detected within the sensing range. Then, the display component is moved to a second distance from the capacitive module 600 so that the broadcast signal can be detected within the sensing range of the capacitive module.

[0102] In some examples, a set of sensing electrodes 608 of a capacitive module can be used to detect broadcast signal 616. In such examples, sensing electrodes 608 can measure electrical properties of broadcast signal 616, such as amplitude, frequency, pattern, harmonic content, any other characteristic of the signal, or a combination thereof. In some examples, these electrical characteristics can be used to determine the position of the display component. In some examples, these electrical characteristics can be used to determine that display component 614 is a predetermined display component.

[0103] For example, both the display assembly 614 and the capacitive module 600 can be components of a laptop computer. When the laptop computer is closed, the distance between the display assembly and the capacitive module can change from a first distance 618 to a second distance 620. A set of sensing electrodes 608 can detect a signal having a specific amplitude, frequency, and harmonic content. A controller in communication with the sensing electrodes can determine that the frequency and harmonic content of the received signal are from a known display assembly 614. As the amplitude of the signal increases, it can be determined that the lid of the laptop computer housing the display assembly is getting closer to the capacitive module 600. In this way, it can be determined that the laptop computer is closing. Then, the controller in communication with the laptop computer component can execute a program, action, and / or response in response to determining that the laptop computer is closed.

[0104] exist Figure 6 In the example shown, the two sets of electrodes 608 and 610 can be part of a mutual capacitance circuit that detects and / or measures changes in capacitance. In other examples, the capacitance module 600 can have a self-capacitance circuit. In some examples, a set of transmitting electrodes 610 can be driven while a set of sensing electrodes 608 senses a broadcast signal 616. In some examples, once the broadcast signal 616 is detected to be at a specific amplitude, the transmitting electrode 610 can be deactivated. In some examples, a set of transmitting electrodes can be driven at specific intervals and / or in a specific pattern, and the sensing electrodes 608 can detect properties of the broadcast signal 616 when the transmitting electrodes are not driven.

[0105] In some examples, the broadcast signal 616 can be a noise signal of the display component 614. In some examples, a group of sensing electrodes 608 can detect certain properties of the noise signal. In some examples, the broadcast signal can be analyzed to determine the fundamental frequency of the signal, the harmonics of the signal, and / or the amplitude of the fundamental and harmonic frequencies. In some examples, the fundamental frequency and odd harmonics of the signal can be analyzed. In such examples, it can be determined based on the amplitude and / or frequency of the measured fundamental frequency and / or odd harmonic frequencies that the signal comes from a specific source. In some examples, a group of sensing electrodes 608 can be tuned to be sensitive to certain frequencies. In such examples, the harmonic shared frequency of the tuning frequency and the signal frequency can be used to determine that the signal may be a signal from the display component 614. In some examples, these frequencies can be between 100 kilohertz and 50 megahertz and other appropriate ranges.

[0106] In some examples, the amplitude of the measured broadcast signal 616 can at least partially determine the position of the display component 614 relative to a set of sensing electrodes 608. In some examples, the determined display component position can be greater than or less than a predetermined sensing range. In some examples, the sensing range can be used to determine the position of the display component 614. For example, if it is determined that the distance between a set of capacitive sensing electrodes 608 and the display component 614 is within the sensing range, it can be determined that the display component and / or the capacitive module 600 may not be in use. In such an example, a controller communicating with the capacitive module and / or the display component can shut down the component or enter a low power mode. In some examples, the proximity threshold can be based on the calculated position of the display component 614 relative to the sensing electrodes 608. In other examples, the proximity threshold can be based on the amplitude of the broadcast signal 616.

[0107] In some examples, the amplitude of broadcast signal 616 can change based at least in part on user-defined settings. For example, if a user changes the brightness or color on display component 614, the amplitude of the signal may become greater or less than a default amplitude. In such an example, a controller in communication with the display component and / or capacitive module 600 can adjust the calculation of the position of the display component relative to the capacitive module.

[0108] In some examples, a set of sensing electrodes 608 may be tuned to detect a certain characteristic of the broadcast signal 616. In some examples, the broadcast signal 616 may have a harmonic pattern determined by a consistent characteristic of the display component 614. For example, the rate at which pixels on a laptop screen change may determine a fixed harmonic pattern in the output noise signal. In such an example, a set of sensing electrodes 608 may be tuned to detect a fixed harmonic pattern. In other examples, the broadcast signal 616 may change based on the brightness, color, and / or shape of an image displayed in the display component 614. In such an example, a set of sensing electrodes 608 may be tuned to detect multiple characteristics of the signal 616. In some examples, a controller in communication with the display component 614 and / or the capacitive module 600 may tune the sensing electrodes 608 to detect a specific characteristic of the signal based at least in part on the output in the display component 614.

[0109] In some examples, a controller in communication with the capacitive module 600 and / or the display component 614 can be calibrated or recalibrated to recognize the broadcast signal 616. In some examples, the display component 614 can display a static image when it is adjacent to the display component 614. In such an example, a set of transmitting electrodes 610 can be deactivated and a set of sensing electrodes 608 can measure the broadcast signal 616. A memory in communication with the controller can save the measurements from the sensing electrodes, and after calibration, detecting similar measurements on a set of sensing electrodes 608 can indicate that the broadcast signal 616 is detected. In some examples, the calibration can be initiated by a user.

[0110] In some examples, a controller in communication with display component 614 and / or capacitive module 600 can apply an image to display component 614. In some examples, capacitive module 600 can detect a signal without being able to determine whether the signal is a broadcast signal 616. In such an example, a controller in communication with capacitive module and / or display component 614 can apply an image to display component 616 that broadcasts a known signal. For example, if display component 614 is adjacent to capacitive module 600, and capacitive module 600 does not determine that display component 614 is adjacent, but does detect a signal, the controller in communication with capacitive module 600 and / or display component 614 can cause display component 614 to display a black screen. Capacitive module 600 can then recognize that the signal it detects may be a broadcast signal 616 of display component 614.

[0111] In some examples, the broadcast signal is programmed to be emitted from the display assembly. One or more characteristics of the broadcast signal may be stored in a memory accessible to a controller in communication with the capacitive module. In response to detecting the broadcast signal, the controller may compare the received broadcast signal to a stored signal or characteristics of the stored signal. If the received broadcast signal is sufficiently similar to the stored signal, the controller may determine that the lid containing the display assembly is closed or within a range where the user is unlikely to use the laptop.

[0112] In some examples, the broadcast signal is a continuous signal sent from the display component. In other examples, the broadcast signal is sent periodically. For example, the broadcast signal can be sent from the display component at fixed intervals. In some cases, the intervals between the transmission of the broadcast signal can be used to confirm what type of signal the capacitive module is receiving.

[0113] In some cases, the display broadcasts multiple predetermined signals. In some examples, the controller must determine that more than one broadcast signal is received to determine the position of the display component. In this particular example, receiving multiple broadcast signals can reduce false alarms. In another example, the first broadcast signal can be used to determine the position of the display component, and the second broadcast signal can be used to convey another condition or instruction to the controller. For example, when the display component moves to the closed position, the second broadcast signal can be used to determine that the display is already in low power mode. In another example, when the lid of a laptop or other electronic device is closed, the second broadcast signal can be used to determine that the display component is showing a movie. In such an example, the controller can send a signal to pause the movie before shutting down the computer, or put the time position of the movie into a memory so that the user's viewing progress bar can be saved when the user opens the lid of the laptop or other device.

[0114] In some cases, the system may determine multiple positions of a display component of an electronic device. For example, the system may be configured to determine when an electronic device is partially turned off. In this example, the system may send a message to perform one or more partial closing actions. The system may also be configured to determine when the electronic device is completely turned off. In the event that the system determines that the electronic device is completely turned off, the system may send an instruction to perform a complete closing action that is different from one or more partial closing actions. By way of example only, a partial closing action may include pausing a movie, lowering the power mode of the electronic device, turning off the screen, turning off the camera, muting the microphone, turning off the speaker, closing an application, authenticating a user action, performing other operations, or a combination thereof. Also by way of example only, a full closing action may turn off an electronic device or other types of actions.

[0115] Figure 7 An example of a capacitive module 700 integrated into a first component of an electronic device and a touch display assembly 701 integrated into a second component of the electronic device located near the capacitive module 700 is depicted. In this example, electrodes of the touch module can be used to broadcast signals of the display assembly to the capacitive module in the first component of the electronic device. In some cases, the first component of the electronic device includes the capacitive module and a separate keyboard module. The first component and the second component of the electronic device can be pivotally attached to each other.

[0116] In the first part of the electronic device, a capacitive substrate 704 is located near a capacitive reference surface 702. A first side of the capacitive substrate has a set of capacitive sensing electrodes 708, and a second side of the capacitive substrate has a set of capacitive transmitting electrodes 710. In other examples, the capacitive module includes a set of capacitive electrodes configured to transmit and receive signals.

[0117] In the second part of the electronic device, the display substrate 714 is located between the touch reference surface 720 and the display layer 722. The display layer may include one or more pixels configured to present an image in the display. The first side of the touch substrate has a set of touch sensing electrodes 716, and the second side has a set of touch transmitting electrodes 718. In some examples, the two groups of capacitive electrodes 708 and 710 in the first part of the electronic device are included in a first capacitive circuit that detects and / or measures a capacitance change in the first part of the electronic device, and the two groups of touch electrodes 716 and 718 are part of a second touch sensing circuit that detects and / or measures a capacitance change in the second part of the electronic device. For example, the touch circuit can be integrated into a touch screen of a laptop computer, and the capacitive module can be integrated into a touch pad of the laptop computer. In another example, the touch circuit can be integrated into the first part of a flexible smart phone, and the capacitive circuit can be integrated into the second part of the flexible smart phone. In some cases, the touch circuit and the capacitive circuit operate in the same or similar manner and / or have the same or similar structure. In other examples, the touch circuit and the capacitive circuit can operate differently and / or have different structures.

[0118] In some examples, a set of capacitive sensing electrodes 708 and a set of display transmitting electrodes 718 can interact. In some examples, the display transmitting electrodes can be driven by a specific signal that can be detected with the capacitive sensing electrodes. In some examples, a set of capacitive sensing electrodes 708 can detect the properties of the signal driving the set of display transmitting electrodes 718. In some examples, a set of capacitive sensing electrodes 708 can detect the frequency, amplitude, harmonic content, other electrical properties, or combinations thereof of the signal driving the set of display transmitting electrodes 718.

[0119] In some examples, a group of capacitive modules 700 can determine the relative position of the display component 701 by detecting the amplitude of a signal driving a group of display transmitting electrodes 718 using a group of capacitive sensing electrodes 708. For example, the display transmitting electrode can be driven with a signal having a specific frequency and amplitude. This causes the display transmitting electrode 718 to generate an electric field. If a group of display transmitting electrodes 718 is adjacent to a group of capacitive sensing electrodes 708, the group of capacitive sensing electrodes can detect the electric field generated by the display transmitting electrode 718. A controller in communication with the capacitive module 700 can determine that the electric field may come from the display transmitting electrode by analyzing the properties of the electric field based at least in part on the measurement results of the group of capacitive sensing electrodes 708. The controller can also determine the position of a group of display transmitting electrodes 718 based at least in part on the measurement results of the group of capacitive sensing electrodes 708.

[0120] In some examples, the capacitive sensing electrodes 708 can detect the properties of the signal driving a set of display transmitting electrodes 718, and can determine that the source of the signal is a specific device. For example, a laptop computer can have a touch screen on the top and a touch pad on the bottom. In such an example, the touch display device 701 can be a touch screen, and the capacitive module 700 can be a touch pad. When the top of the laptop moves closer to the bottom of the laptop, a set of capacitive sensing electrodes 708 can detect the signal driving a set of display transmitting electrodes 718. A controller in communication with the touch display assembly 701 and / or the capacitive module can determine that the signal detected by the capacitive sensing electrodes is being output by the touch display assembly.

[0121] In some examples, the touch display component 701 can be a laptop screen. In other examples, the touch display component can be a smartphone screen, a smart watch screen, or any other electronic touch display device. In some examples, a set of capacitive sensing electrodes 708 can detect the signal, and can determine that the source of the signal is a specific device from one of several known devices.

[0122] In some examples, detecting signals generated by a touch display component using a set of capacitive sensing electrodes 708 can trigger a device communicating with the capacitive module 700 and / or the touch display component 701 to enter a low power mode, authenticate a login, verify two-factor authentication, open a computer program, execute an action within a computer program, or any other appropriate response in a device communicating with the capacitive module 700 and / or the touch display component 701.

[0123] Figure 8 Depicted are examples of a display signal frequency graph 800 and a touchpad signal frequency graph 802. These graphs may represent the frequency content of noise signals generated by a display and a touchpad, respectively. In graphs 800 and 802, the x-axis of the graphs represents frequency, and the y-axis represents amplitude. A display base peak 804 on the display frequency graph 800 may represent the amplitude of the fundamental frequency of the display noise signal. A display harmonic peak 808 may represent the amplitude of the harmonics of the display noise signal. A touchpad base peak 806 on the touchpad signal frequency graph 802 may represent the amplitude of the fundamental frequency of the touchpad noise signal. A touchpad harmonic peak 810 may represent the amplitude of the harmonics of the touchpad noise signal. The touchpad base peak 806 may have a first frequency, and the display base peak 804 may have a second frequency. Harmonic peaks 808 and 810 may have a third frequency.

[0124] For example, the display fundamental frequency may be 180 kilohertz and the touchpad fundamental frequency may be 315 kilohertz. In such an example, the broadcasted display signal may have odd harmonics with higher amplitudes. The odd harmonics of the display signal may be 540 kilohertz, 900 kilohertz, 1.26 megahertz, etc., and the harmonics of the touchpad signal may be 630 kilohertz, 945 kilohertz, 1.26 megahertz, 1.58 megahertz, etc. The 1.26 megahertz harmonic may be part of both signals and may be represented by harmonic peaks 808 and 810. In some examples, this harmonic may be broadcast by the display assembly and detected with the touchpad.

[0125] In some examples, the touch pad noise signal represented by the touch pad signal frequency graph 802 can be the noise broadcast by the alternating current (AC) signal applied to a set of transmitting electrodes in the touch capacitance module. A set of sensing electrodes in the touch capacitance module can be tuned to receive the applied signal at the frequency of the applied signal. In such an example, a set of sensing electrodes can be tuned to receive the frequency shown at the touch pad base peak 806 and the touch pad harmonic peak 810. In some examples, the display noise signal represented by the display signal frequency graph can be a noise signal generated by the display component. In some examples, the noise can be determined by refreshing the display and / or changing the pixels in the display component. In some examples, the noise broadcast by the display can be determined at least in part by the frequency of the alternating current (AC) signal applied to the components of the display. In some examples, the display system can broadcast the noise signal at the frequency shown by the display base peak 804 and the display harmonic peak 808.

[0126] In some examples, the shared frequency of display harmonic peak 808 and touch pad harmonic peak 810 can represent a frequency that the display component is broadcasting and that a set of sensing electrodes in the touch capacitance module are programmed to receive. In some examples, a set of sensing electrodes in the touch capacitance module can detect the position and / or proximity of the display component by detecting the frequency and / or amplitude of the harmonics of the signal represented by display harmonic peak 808.

[0127] In some examples, the display signal represented by the display signal frequency graph 800 may have odd harmonics with higher amplitudes. In some examples, the display signal may have even harmonics with higher amplitudes. In some examples, the display signal may have some harmonics, all harmonics, a group of harmonics, or a combination thereof with higher amplitudes. In some examples, the touchpad signal represented by the touchpad signal frequency graph 802 may have odd harmonics with higher amplitudes. In some examples, the touchpad signal may have even harmonics with higher amplitudes. In some examples, the touchpad signal may have some harmonics, all harmonics, a group of harmonics, or a combination thereof with higher amplitudes.

[0128] Fig. 9 An example of a display system 900 is depicted. A first light emitting component 902 is located near a second light emitting component 904. In some examples, the two light emitting components are part of a plurality of light emitting components. In some examples, the plurality of light emitting components emit light having a particular color and / or brightness. In some examples, the light emitting components are part of a display circuit. In some examples, the color and / or brightness of the plurality of light emitting components may be set using a controller that communicates with the display circuit. The controller may set the color and / or brightness of the plurality of light emitting components in sequence. In some examples, first the light emitting component 902 may be set to a particular color and / or brightness, then the light emitting component 904 may be set to a particular color and / or brightness, and then the rest of the plurality of light emitting components may be set in a similar manner. The display system 900 may use light emitting components to display a picture.

[0129] In some examples, the display system 900 may set a plurality of light emitting components in a continuous manner. In some examples, after the display system has set the last of the plurality of light emitting components, the display system may set the first of the plurality of light emitting components again and set all the light emitting components again. In some examples, the display system may continue to do so when operating. In some examples, the display system 900 may change the color and / or brightness of some of the plurality of light emitting components and set some to be unchanged when it sets the plurality of light emitting components. In some examples, the display system 900 may change the color and / or brightness of the plurality of light emitting components. In some examples, the display system may set the light emitting components to keep emitting the same color and / or brightness as it sets the plurality of light emitting components. The mode in which the display system sets the plurality of light emitting components may at least partially determine the electrical noise generated by the display system. In some examples, the color and / or brightness of each of the plurality of light emitting components may at least partially determine the electrical noise generated by the display system. In some examples, a capacitive module adjacent to the display system 900 may detect electrical noise broadcast from the display system 900. In some examples, a controller in communication with the display system and / or the capacitive module can determine, at least in part, how the capacitive module detects noise from the display system 900. In some examples, the controller can determine, at least in part, how the capacitive module detects noise from the display system 900 based on a mode of updating the plurality of light-emitting components, a method of updating the plurality of light-emitting components, a frequency of updating the plurality of light-emitting components, a color of the light-emitting components, a brightness of the light-emitting components, or a combination thereof.

[0130] In some examples, the display system can set multiple light-emitting components at a certain rate. For example, the display system can set the first light-emitting component 902, then wait for a certain period of time, and then set the color and / or brightness of the second light-emitting component 904. The rate at which the display system sets the multiple light-emitting components can at least partially determine the electrical noise generated by the display system. In some examples, the noise signal has a certain frequency, amplitude, and / or harmonic content based at least in part on the rate at which the display system updates the multiple light-emitting components. In some examples, a capacitive module adjacent to the display system can detect the frequency, amplitude, and / or harmonic content of the noise signal broadcast by the display system 900. In some examples, a capacitive module adjacent to the display can be tuned to detect the noise signal broadcast by the display system based at least in part on the rate at which the display system sets the multiple light-emitting components.

[0131] Fig.10 An example of a first signal 1000 and a second signal 1002 is depicted. In some examples, the first signal 1000 may represent a first signal having a specific frequency, amplitude, and harmonic content, and the second signal 1002 may represent a second signal having a specific frequency, amplitude, and harmonic content. In some examples, the signals may share features, such as harmonics or fundamental frequencies. In some examples, both signals 1000 and 1002 may be signals broadcast from a display component. In some examples, the first signal 1000 may be a broadcast signal from a display component displaying a first image, and the second signal 1002 may be a broadcast signal from a display component displaying a second image. In some examples, the display component may broadcast signals having different frequencies, amplitudes, harmonic content, or combinations thereof based at least in part on an image displayed by the display component. In some examples, different signals broadcast by the display component may share some properties. In some examples, these shared properties may be present in any signal broadcast by the display component. In some examples, these shared properties may be detected with a capacitive module adjacent to the display component.

[0132] Fig.11 An example of a laptop device 1100 having a display 1102 and a capacitive module 1103 (e.g., a touchpad) is depicted. The display 1102 can be configured to have multiple brightnesses. For example, the display can have a first brightness 1104 and a second brightness 1106. The display can emit the first brightness or the second brightness based on user input, instructions from a program, media presented in the display, device settings, other factors, or a combination thereof.

[0133] In some examples, changes in the brightness of display 1102 can change the amplitude, frequency, and / or harmonic content of the electrical signal broadcast from screen 1106. In some examples, the signal can be detected by capacitance module 1103. In some examples, changes in the amplitude, frequency, and / or harmonic content of the signal can affect the detection of the signal by capacitance module 1103. In some examples, a controller in communication with the display and / or the capacitance module can change how the capacitance module detects the signal from display 1102.

[0134] In some examples, a first broadcast signal associated with a first brightness is different from a second broadcast signal associated with a second brightness. Both the first signal and the second signal can be stored in a memory accessible to a controller in communication with the capacitive module. In some cases, when the characteristics of the detected signal match the stored first signal or second signal, the system can determine that the signal is from the display and trigger an appropriate response.

[0135] In some examples, a controller in communication with the display and / or the capacitive module can determine that the amplitude, frequency, and / or harmonic content of a signal broadcast from the display has changed when the display changes from a first brightness 1104 to a second brightness 1106. The controller can change how the capacitive module 1103 detects the new signal.

[0136] Fig.12 An example of a mobile device 1200 such as a smart phone, electronic tablet, or other type of electronic device is depicted. A first portion 1202 is movable relative to a second portion 1204 such that the first portion and the second portion can be folded over each other. In some examples, the two portions can be part of the same continuous display. In other examples, the first portion can include a first display and the second portion can include a second display.

[0137] In some examples, one or both of the first component and the second component can broadcast a noise signal. In some examples, one or both of the first component and the second component can determine the location of the other component based at least in part on detecting a broadcast signal from the other component.

[0138] Fig.13An example of a laptop computer 1300 and a smart phone device 1310 is depicted. The smart phone device may have a touch display component that is located near a capacitive module 1304 of the laptop computer. In some examples, the touch display component of the smart phone device 1310 may broadcast a noise signal. In some examples, the capacitive module 1304 may determine the location of the smart phone device based at least in part on detecting the noise signal from the touch display component of the smart phone device 1310. In some examples, the capacitive module and / or a controller in communication with the capacitive module may determine that the smart phone device is a known specific device. In some examples, the touch display component of the smart phone device may broadcast a specific signal that can be detected with the capacitive module.

[0139] In some examples, detecting a particular signal from a smart phone device can cause the capacitive module and / or a controller in communication with the capacitive module to perform a predetermined action within laptop computer 1300. For example, the predetermined action can include authenticating a user action, pairing the devices together, sending a message between the devices, changing a power setting on either device, opening a program on one of the devices, performing other actions, or a combination thereof.

[0140] Fig.14 An example of a display in an automated teller machine (ATM) 1400, a kiosk, or other type of display is depicted. In this example, a smart phone device 1406 can be positioned adjacent to a touch display component 1402 of the ATM 1400. In this example, the smart phone device includes a display that is obscured from view due to the direction in which the smart phone device faces the touch display of the ATM. In some examples, the display component of the smart phone device 1406 can communicate with the touch display component 1402 of the ATM 1406 to authenticate the smart phone device 1406 as a specific known device. In some examples, the communication can be part of an authentication process. In some examples, the communication can be part of a two-factor authentication process.

[0141] Fig.15 An example of a laptop computer 1500 and a smart watch device 1504 or other type of mobile device is depicted. In this example, the smart watch includes a display that is obscured from view because the smart watch faces the direction of the capacitive module of the laptop computer. The smart watch device 1504 can be positioned adjacent to the capacitive module 1502 of the laptop computer 1500 so that the broadcast signal from the display of the smart watch is within the sensing range of the capacitive module of the laptop computer. In some examples, the touch display component of the smart watch device can communicate with the capacitive module 1502 and / or a controller that communicates with the capacitive module 1502.

[0142] Fig.16An example of a method 1600 for detecting a broadcast signal is depicted. The method 1600 may be based on Figures 1 to 15 The method 1600 is performed by describing the related devices, modules and principles. In this example, the method 1600 includes: 1602, detecting with at least one capacitive sensing electrode in the capacitive module. The method 1600 also includes: 1606, determining whether the attribute of the signal is a known attribute of the signal broadcast from the display component. If the attribute of the signal is a known attribute of the broadcast signal from the display component, the method 1600 includes: 1608, determining whether the amplitude of the detected broadcast signal is higher than a predetermined threshold. If the amplitude of the detected broadcast signal is higher than the predetermined threshold, the method 1600 includes running a predetermined response 1608. If the amplitude of the detected broadcast signal is higher than the predetermined threshold, the method 1600 includes: 1612, continuing to detect the signal with at least one capacitive sensing electrode in the capacitive module.

[0143] Fig.17 An example of a method 1700 for receiving a broadcast signal is depicted. The method 1700 may be based on Figures 1 to 15 In this example, the method 1700 includes: 1702, receiving input from a capacitive electrode, wherein the input represents a detected broadcast signal from an electronic display component; and 1704, executing a response in response to receiving the input representing the detected broadcast signal.

[0144] Fig.18 An example of a method 1800 for receiving a broadcast signal is depicted. The method 1800 may be based on Figures 1 to 15 The method 1800 is performed by describing the related devices, modules and principles. In this example, the method 1800 includes: 1802, receiving an input from a first capacitor module, wherein the input represents a detected broadcast signal from a second capacitor module; and 1804, performing a response in response to receiving the input representing the detected broadcast signal. In some examples, the method 1800 may optionally include: 1806, determining the positions of a first component of an electronic device including a first capacitor electrode and a second component of an electronic device including a second capacitor electrode relative to each other. In some examples, the method 1800 may optionally include: 1808, changing a power setting of the electronic device including the second capacitor electrode in response to detecting the broadcast signal.

[0145] It should be noted that the methods, systems and devices discussed above are for example purposes only. It must be emphasized that various embodiments may appropriately omit, replace or add various steps or components. For example, it should be understood that in optional embodiments, the method may be performed in an order different from that described, and various steps may be added, omitted or combined. In addition, the features described in certain embodiments may be combined in various other embodiments. Different aspects and elements of the embodiments may be combined in a similar manner. In addition, it should be emphasized that technology is constantly evolving, and therefore, many elements are exemplary in nature and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0146] Specific details are given in the description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques have been shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

[0147] In addition, it is noted that the embodiments may be described as processes, which are depicted as flow charts or block diagrams. Although each figure may describe the operations as a sequential process, many operations may be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be rearranged. The process may have additional steps not included in the figure.

[0148] Having described several embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, alternative structures, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the above elements may be merely components of a larger system, in which other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of the present invention. In addition, some steps may be taken before, during, or after considering the above elements. Therefore, the above description should not be regarded as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A capacitor module, comprising: at least one capacitive electrode; a controller in communication with the capacitive electrodes; a memory in communication with the controller; as well as Programming instructions, stored in the memory and when executed, cause the controller to: detect a broadcast signal from an electronic display assembly using the at least one capacitive electrode.

2. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein: The electronic display component has at least one capacitive electrode.

3. The capacitor module according to claim 2, wherein: The capacitive electrodes of the electronic display assembly are part of a touch module.

4. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one capacitive electrode is a sensing electrode.

5. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein: The capacitor module has at least one emitting electrode; and The programming instructions, when executed, cause the controller to deactivate the at least one transmitting electrode during a time period when the broadcast signal is detected.

6. The capacitor module according to claim 5, wherein: The programming instructions, when executed, cause the controller to: tuning the at least one sensing electrode to a determined frequency; driving the at least one transmitting electrode at the determined frequency; Wherein the determined frequency has at least one attribute of a broadcast signal from the electronic display assembly.

7. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein: The broadcast signal from the electronic display assembly is electrical noise.

8. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein: The broadcast signal is generated by a pixel refresh mode of the electronic display component.

9. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one capacitive electrode is tuned to a fundamental frequency above 100 kHz.

10. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein: The detected broadcast signal is an authentication signal.

11. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein: The programming instructions, when executed, cause the controller to determine a position of the electronic display assembly based at least in part on the broadcast signal.

12. The capacitor module according to claim 11, wherein: The programming instructions, when executed, cause the controller to operate in response to the determined position of the electronic display assembly.

13. The capacitor module according to claim 11, wherein: The programming instructions, when executed, cause the controller to change a power management setting in response to the determined position of the electronic display assembly.

14. A computer program product, the computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer readable medium storing a program executable by a controller to: receiving input from a capacitive electrode, wherein the input represents a detected broadcast signal from an electronic display component; and A response is executed in response to receiving an input indicative of a detected broadcast signal.

15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein: The capacitor electrode is a part of the capacitor module.

16. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein: The broadcast signal is generated by a pixel refresh mode of the electronic display component.

17. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein: The broadcast signal is generated by a touch electrode of the electronic display component.

18. A method comprising: receiving input from a capacitive electrode, wherein the input represents a detected broadcast signal from an electronic display component; and A response is executed in response to receiving an input indicative of a detected broadcast signal.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The capacitor electrode is a part of the capacitor module.

20. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The broadcast signal is generated by a pixel refresh mode of the electronic display component.

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