Electronic device touch detection

Abstract

The invention relates to electronic device touch detection. An electronic device may include a touch-sensitive display and an electrode that is electrically isolated from the touch-sensitive display. The electrode may be configured to receive a first signal associated with performing a first function of the electronic device. In some examples, the electronic device may include a controller in electrical communication with the touch-sensitive display and the electrodes. The controller may be configured to perform a second function via the electrode, the second function including driving a second signal to the electrode when the electrode and the touch sensitive display are simultaneously touched. The second signal may have a characteristic that can distinguish from naturally occurring capacitive noise detected by the touch sensitive display.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The described implementation scheme relates generally to electronic devices. Specifically, this disclosure relates to identifying user input to electronic devices. Background Technology

[0002] Recent advancements in portable computing have enhanced the functionality and adaptability of various electronic devices. With the increased capabilities of portable devices, wearable devices and other electronic equipment are being widely used in diverse scenarios and environments. However, the lack of versatility in modern electronic devices can lead to malfunctions in certain environments. For example, electronic devices with touch-sensitive displays may malfunction in humid environments. More specifically, water and other substances in contact with touch-sensitive displays can interfere with the device's ability to recognize user input, making operation difficult. Additionally, electronic devices often perceive non-user substances as user input, further hindering the operation of many devices.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need to develop electronic devices that can operate efficiently in certain environments while distinguishing user input from non-user material. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one or more examples of the following disclosure, an electronic device may include a touch-sensitive display and an electrode electrically isolated from the touch-sensitive display. Additionally, the electrode may be configured to receive a first signal associated with performing a first function of the electronic device. In some examples, the electronic device may include a controller that is electrically in communication with the touch-sensitive display and the electrode. The controller may be configured to perform a second function via the electrode, the second function including driving a second signal to the electrode when both the electrode and the touch-sensitive display are touched simultaneously. The second signal may have characteristics distinguishable from naturally occurring capacitive noise detected by the touch-sensitive display.

[0005] In some examples, the electronic device may also include a housing. The housing may define an outer surface and may be electrically isolated from the touch-sensitive display. In at least one example, the controller may be disposed within the housing, and the electrode may be included within the housing. Additionally, the electronic device may also include a housing coupled to the touch-sensitive display. In some examples, the electrode may include a button electrically isolated from the housing and operable relative to the housing. In some examples, the first function of the housing may include an antenna function.

[0006] In one or more examples of this disclosure, the electronic device may include a housing coupled to the touch-sensitive display. In at least one example, the electronic device may also include a back cover coupled to the housing opposite to the touch-sensitive display, wherein the back cover may include the electrodes. In some examples, the first function of the back cover may include detecting whether a user is wearing the electronic device.

[0007] In at least one example, this characteristic of the signal includes frequency. In some examples, the naturally occurring capacitive noise may include a capacitive signal from a water droplet located on the touch-sensitive display.

[0008] In some examples, the touch-sensitive display may define an outer surface, and the electrode may also define an outer surface. In one or more examples, the controller is configured to drive a signal through the electrode to the touch-sensitive layer when a user simultaneously touches both the electrode and the touch-sensitive display. In some examples, the controller may detect this characteristic through the touch-sensitive display.

[0009] In one or more examples of this disclosure, an electronic display device may include a display component, electrodes, and a controller, the display component including a touch sensor. In some examples, the controller may be in electrical communication with the touch sensor. Additionally, the electrodes may be configured to drive a signal having characteristics distinguishable from capacitive noise detected by the touch-sensitive display. In some examples, the controller may be configured to drive the signal to the display component when the electrodes and the display component are touched simultaneously.

[0010] In some examples, the touch sensor may include a capacitive touch sensor. In some examples, the controller may include: a driver configured to drive the signal to the electrode; and a receiver electrically communicating with the capacitive touch sensor and configured to detect the characteristic. In at least one example, the characteristic may include voltage. Additionally, the characteristic may include a variable frequency.

[0011] In one or more examples of this disclosure, a sensor assembly may include a capacitive touch display, electrodes, and a controller, the electrodes defining an outer surface electrically isolated from the display. In some examples, the controller is electrically communicable to the capacitive touch display and the electrodes, and the controller is configured to drive a first signal to the electrodes. In some examples, the first signal may include a first characteristic distinguishable by the controller from a second characteristic of a second signal detected from a water droplet on the capacitive touch display when a user initiates contact between the capacitive touch display and the electrodes. In some examples, the controller may be configured to distinguish a third characteristic from the second characteristic, wherein the third characteristic may include features of the contact.

[0012] In some examples, the feature of the contact may include the shape of the contact area between the user's finger and the capacitive touch display. In additional examples, the feature of the contact may include the size of the contact area between the user's finger and the capacitive touch display. In at least one example, the feature of the contact may include the location of the contact on the capacitive touch display. Additionally, the feature of the contact may include the force applied by the user to the capacitive touch display. In some examples, the controller may be configured to use a machine learning algorithm to distinguish the third feature from the second feature. Furthermore, the capacitive touch display may be coupled to a housing, and the electrodes may include buttons operable relative to the housing. Attached Figure Description

[0013] This disclosure will be readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same structural elements:

[0014] Figure 1 A perspective view of an electronic device according to one or more examples of this disclosure is shown;

[0015] Figure 2 A side view of an electronic device focused on electrodes according to one or more examples of this disclosure is shown;

[0016] Figure 3 Another perspective view of an electronic device including a user's hand, according to one or more examples of this disclosure, is shown;

[0017] Figure 4 A block diagram of a system of electronic devices according to one or more examples of this disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figure 5 A side view of an electronic device in conjunction with a user, according to one or more examples of this disclosure, is shown; and

[0019] Figure 6 A top view of an electronic device with different contact areas according to one or more examples of this disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Reference will now be made in detail to the representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a single preferred embodiment. Rather, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that may be included within the substance and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

[0021] This disclosure generally relates to electronic devices. More specifically, this disclosure relates to recognizing user input to electronic devices. In one or more examples of this disclosure, the electronic device may include a touch-sensitive display, electrodes electrically isolated from the touch-sensitive display, and a controller communicating with the touch-sensitive display. In various examples, some components of the electronic device may be housed within a housing.

[0022] Recent advances in portable computing have enhanced the functionality and adaptability of various electronic devices. However, modern electronic devices can frequently malfunction in certain environments. For example, electronic devices with touch-sensitive displays may malfunction in humid environments. More specifically, substances in contact with touch-sensitive displays (such as water) can interfere with user input, making operation of the electronic device difficult. Additionally, electronic devices often perceive non-user substances as user input, further hindering the operation of many devices. This disclosure details an electronic device that operates efficiently in adverse environments, such as humid environments, while distinguishing user input from non-user substances.

[0023] In some examples of this disclosure, the electronic device includes electrodes and a controller, which are combined to confirm touch in a humid environment. Specifically, in some examples, the controller may be configured such that when a user of the electronic device simultaneously touches both the electrodes and the touch-sensitive display, a drive signal is sent through the electrodes to the touch-sensitive display to confirm the touch. In some examples, the electrodes may be electrically isolated from other components of the electronic device. Additionally, the electrodes may be maneuverable relative to the housing of the electronic device, thereby allowing the electrode elements to also function as functional components.

[0024] In some examples, the controller may be configured to receive signals driven by the user from the electrodes via the electronic device. In at least one example, the signal driven by the signal driver may include characteristics that can be distinguished from naturally occurring capacitive noise detected by the touch-sensitive display, such as naturally occurring capacitive noise from one or more water droplets on the display in a humid environment.

[0025] In some examples, the controller may include a receiver configured to detect characteristics of the signal, wherein the receiver is electrically communicable with the touch-sensitive display. In some examples, the characteristics of the signal include frequency. In additional examples, the signal may also include a variable voltage drop and / or capacitance level that can be measured by the controller when a user touches the electrodes and the touch-sensitive display. In some examples, this characteristic may be a first characteristic.

[0026] In one or more examples, the controller may be configured to detect signals from various substances that come into contact with the touch-sensitive display. In some examples, the controller may be configured to compare a first characteristic of a signal driven by a signal driver with a second characteristic of a signal received from a non-user substance, such as a water droplet. The controller may then associate the signal with the first characteristic with a user input and the second characteristic with a non-user substance.

[0027] In at least one example, the controller may be configured to distinguish a third characteristic from a second characteristic, wherein the third characteristic may include features of contact. In some examples, the features of contact may include the shape of the contact area between the user's finger and the touch-sensitive display. In one or more examples, the features of the contact area may also include the size of the contact area and the force applied to the contact area. Additionally, the controller may be configured to use a machine learning algorithm to distinguish the third characteristic from the second characteristic.

[0028] Therefore, the examples of the devices described herein can distinguish between a user-initiated touch (e.g., a finger touching a touchscreen) and the presence or contact of a water droplet on the display. This distinction occurs naturally and easily without requiring the user to initiate a wet mode or any additional steps necessary to distinguish between a user touch and a droplet.

[0029] The following text is for reference only. Figures 1 to 6 These and other embodiments have been discussed. However, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the detailed descriptions given herein with respect to these figures are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. Furthermore, as used herein, a system, method, article of manufacture, component, feature, or sub-feature comprising at least one of the first, second, or third options should be understood to mean a system, method, article of manufacture, component, feature, or sub-feature that may include one option of each listed option (e.g., only one first option of the first options, only one second option of the second options, or only one third option of the third options), multiple options of a single listed option (e.g., two or more first options of the first options), two options simultaneously (e.g., one first option of the first options and one second option of the second options), or combinations thereof (e.g., two first options of the first options and one second option of the second options).

[0030] Figure 1Perspective views of an electronic device 100 according to one or more examples of this disclosure are illustrated. In some examples, the electronic device 100 may be a portable device. In at least one example, the electronic device 100 may be worn by a user. For example, the electronic device 100 may be a watch or other device worn by a user. In additional examples, the electronic device 100 may be a device such as a telephone, tablet, computer, or other portable electronic device. In further examples, the electronic device 100 may be a sensor assembly.

[0031] In at least one example, the electronic device 100 may include a housing 102. In some examples, the housing of the electronic device 100 may be configured to house multiple different components. In some examples, the housing 102 may be a display assembly for housing the various components. In at least one example, the housing may surround the various components disposed within the electronic device 100. In some examples, the housing 102 may be made of various materials. In at least one example, the housing 102 may be constructed of a non-conductive material. For example, the housing 102 may be constructed using various polymers, plastics, or other non-conductive materials. This prevents the propagation of electrical charges and signals across the electronic device 100. Furthermore, the non-conductive construction of the housing 102 electrically isolates the housing 102 from other components disposed within the electronic device 100.

[0032] Additionally, the housing 102 may be constructed in such a way that it defines an outer surface 104 of the electronic device 100. In some examples, the outer surface 104 of the electronic device 100 may surround the electronic device 100. In some examples, the outer surface 104 may be configured to contact a user at various locations around the electronic device 100. Similar to the housing 102, the outer surface 104 may be configured to be non-conductive when in contact with a user of the electronic device 100.

[0033] In some examples of this disclosure, the electronic device 100 may also include a touch-sensitive display 106. In some examples, the touch-sensitive display 106 may be disposed on the top of the electronic device 100. Additionally, the touch-sensitive display 106 may be configured such that it may further define a portion of an outer surface 104. In at least one example, the touch-sensitive display may be electrically isolated from the housing 102. In some examples, the touch-sensitive display 106 may be disposed on the top of the electronic device 100. In this example, the touch-sensitive display 106 may define the outer surface 104 of the top of the electronic device 100. This allows the touch-sensitive display 106 to be used by a user of the electronic device 100.

[0034] In at least one example, the touch-sensitive display 106 may be configured to receive electrical signals from various sources. In some examples, the touch-sensitive display 106 may be configured to respond when a user of the electronic device 100 touches the touch-sensitive display 106. In at least one example, the touch-sensitive display 106 may include a capacitive touch sensor. In at least one example, the capacitive touch sensor included in the touch-sensitive display 106 enables the touch-sensitive display 106 to function as a capacitive touch display.

[0035] In some examples, the capacitive touch sensor capability of the touch-sensitive display 106 can be configured to react when it detects capacitance associated with a user's touch, where the user's touch can be confined to a specific capacitance range. This allows the user to interact with the electronic device 100 via the touch-sensitive display 106. This further enables the electronic device 100 to detect the user's touch more accurately in the presence of other components in contact with the touch-sensitive display 106.

[0036] In some examples, the electronic device 100 may also include an electrode 108. In some examples, the electrode 108 may be a button, dial, crown, or similar type of device. In some examples, the housing 102 may include the electrode 108. In some examples, the electrode 108 may extend from the housing 102. In this example, and similar to the touch-sensitive display 106, the electrode 108 may be configured to define another portion of the outer surface 104. This allows the electrode 108 to be easily used by the user of the electronic device 100.

[0037] In the examples of electrodes (e.g., electrode 108) described herein, the electrode may be configured to receive input for a first function and then perform a second function different from the first function to distinguish between a user-initiated touch and a water droplet on display 106. In examples where a button, dial, crown, or other operable component of device 100 serves as electrode 108, the button, dial, crown, or other component may include a first function for receiving input from a user (e.g., pressing the button or rotating the dial and / or crown). The first function of the button may include changing display output, sending text, scrolling user interface menus, etc. The same electrode 108 button / dial / crown may then be used for touch discrimination functions as described herein via unique signals driven to electrode 108.

[0038] In some examples, housing 102 may be configured to perform a first function. In at least one example, the first function of housing 102 may include an antenna function. In this example, housing 102 may be used as an antenna or part of an antenna assembly of electronic device 100. Housing 102 may be a resonator for an antenna assembly configured to transmit and receive signals. For example, electronic device 100 may participate in wireless communication with various smart devices via the use of housing 102. In some examples, a second function of housing 102 may include the use of electrodes 108. Housing 102 may then be used to drive the unique signals described herein as part of a touch recognition function.

[0039] Additionally, electrode 108 may be constructed of a conductive material. For example, electrode 108 may be electrically isolated from housing 102. Electrode 108 may also be electrically isolated from touch-sensitive display 106. This allows electrode 108 to be electrically isolated from other components of electronic device 100. In some examples, housing 102 may be electrically isolated from touch-sensitive display 106, and housing 102 may be an electrode or include an electrode.

[0040] In some examples, electronic device 100 may also include controller 110. In one or more examples, controller 110 may be an integrated circuit, wherein the integrated circuit may include various circuit components. In some examples, controller 110 may include a processor, memory allocation unit, antenna, and other electronic computing components. Additionally, controller 110 may include a computer-readable medium for storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause various components of the system described herein to perform the various functions described herein. In some examples, controller 110 may be configured to perform software functions, visual display functions, user interface functions, and other functions described in this disclosure. In some examples, the controller may be disposed within housing 102 of electronic device 100.

[0041] In at least one example, the controller 110 may be an electronic computing device that is in electrical communication with the touch-sensitive display 106. In some examples, the controller 110 may be configured to receive electrical signals from the touch-sensitive display 106. In this way, a user of the electronic device 100 can interact with the electronic device by manipulating the touch-sensitive display 106. For example, the touch-sensitive display 106 may detect a capacitive touch from a user of the electronic device 100 and convey relevant data from the user's contact with the touch-sensitive display 106 to the controller 110. The controller 110 may then process the contact as user input. This allows the user to operate the electronic device 100 via at least one capacitive touch feature.

[0042] In some examples, controller 110 may also include a signal driver 112 that is electrically in communication with electrode 108. For example, controller 110 may be electrically coupled to electrode 108. In at least one example, signal driver 112 may be a circuit component capable of transmitting signals for electrical communication purposes. In some examples, signal driver 112 may also include amplifiers, filters, power supplies, and other components to assist controller 110 in transmitting signals via signal driver 112.

[0043] In at least one example, controller 110 may be configured to drive signal 114 to electrode 108. In some examples, electrode 110 may be configured to receive a signal associated with performing a first function. In at least one example, the first function of electronic device 100 may be a function associated with normal operation of electronic device 100. For example, the first function may be determining when a user wears electronic device 100. In another example, the first function may be related to receiving health data from a user.

[0044] In some examples, controller 110 may be configured to drive signal 114 to electrode 110 to perform a second function of electronic device 100 different from the first function. In some examples, the second function may include distinguishing between a user-initiated touch on touch-sensitive display 106 and liquid in contact with electronic device 100. In at least one example, signal 114 may include characteristics distinguishable from naturally occurring capacitive noise (such as liquid on touch-sensitive display 106) detected by touch-sensitive display 106. In some examples, controller 110 may be configured to manipulate signal driver 112 to change the characteristics of signal 114. Further details of signal 114 with varying characteristics will be described in more detail in this disclosure.

[0045] refer to Figure 1 The components, configurations, and advantages described in the illustrated devices may be included individually or in combination with any other devices or systems described herein with reference to other accompanying drawings. Similarly, the components, configurations, and advantages described in other devices or systems with reference to other accompanying drawings may be included individually or in combination with those described herein. Figure 1 The components, configurations, and advantages of the device shown and described are included in combination.

[0046] Figure 2 A side view of an electronic device 200 according to one or more examples of this disclosure is illustrated. In some examples, a housing 202 may be coupled to a touch-sensitive display 206. In at least one example, a rear cover 216 may also be coupled to the housing 202 opposite to the touch-sensitive display 206, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown. In some examples, the back cover 216 may be configured to wrap around one side of the electronic device 200 opposite to the touch-sensitive display 206. In some examples, the back cover 216 may also be configured to contact the user.

[0047] In some examples, the back cover 216 may include a first function. In at least one example, the first function of the back cover 216 may include detecting whether a user is wearing the electronic device 100. In this example, the back cover 216 may sense when the user is in contact with the device. In some examples, a second function of the housing 102 may include using signals (e.g., Figure 1 Signal 114 in the present disclosure, as in the present disclosure Figure 4 As shown.

[0048] Similar to housing 202, back cover 216 may be constructed from conductive or non-conductive materials. For example, back cover 216 may be constructed from polymers, plastics, or other similar materials. This allows back cover 216 to be electrically isolated from various components disposed within electronic device 200.

[0049] In some examples, the back cover 216 may include electrodes 208. In some examples, and as... Figure 1 As shown, electrode 208 can be configured to extend from electronic device 200 to allow for easy user access. In some examples, electrode 208 may also include a button. As described above, electrode 208 may be made of a conductive material separate from the material of housing 202 and back cover 216. This allows electrode 208 to be electrically isolated from touch-sensitive display 206, housing 202, and back cover 216.

[0050] In at least one example, electrode 208 may be configured for user handling of electronic device 200. In some examples, electrode 208 is operable relative to housing 202. Additionally, electrode 208 may be operable relative to rear cover 216 of electronic device 200. Figure 3 As will be described further, this allows users to more easily use the electrodes 208 when operating the electronic device 200, and allows the electrodes to provide additional functions to the electronic device 200, such as input.

[0051] refer to Figure 2 The components, configurations, and advantages described in the illustrated devices may be included individually or in combination with any other devices or systems described herein with reference to other accompanying drawings. Similarly, the components, configurations, and advantages described in other devices or systems with reference to other accompanying drawings may be included individually or in combination with those described herein. Figure 2 The components, configurations, and advantages of the device shown and described are included in combination.

[0052] Figure 3A perspective view illustrating a user 318 interacting with an electronic device 300 according to one or more examples of this disclosure is shown. In some examples, a controller 310 may be in electrical communication with electrodes 308. In at least one example, the controller 310 may be configured to cause a signal driver 312 to send a signal 314 to the electrodes 308. In at least one example, the signal 314 may include unique characteristics that separate the signal 314 from the capacitance and / or electrical background experienced by various components of the electronic device 300. In some examples, the signal 314 may be configured to further propagate through the electrodes 308. This allows the user 318 to receive the signal 314 via the electrodes 308.

[0053] In some examples, user 318 may place a first finger 320 on electrode 308. In some examples, first user contact 324 may include the area where user 318's first finger 320 contacts electrode 308. Additionally, first user contact 324 may include a touch-sensitive layer of electrode 308. This touch-sensitive layer allows user 318 to comfortably contact electrode 308.

[0054] In some examples of this disclosure, signal 314 may propagate from electrode 308 to first finger 320 via first user contact 324. User 318 may then place second finger 322 on touch-sensitive display 306. In some examples, user display contact 326 may include an area of ​​touch-sensitive display 306 where second finger 322 contacts. In doing so, signal 314 may propagate through user 318 and back to electronic device 300. In some examples, signal 314 may propagate through user 318's first finger 320 and second finger 322 before being returned to electronic device 300 via touch-sensitive display 306. In this way, user 318 may initiate the completion of circuitry for signal 314.

[0055] In at least one example, after the circuitry for signal 314 is completed, the controller 310 can detect signal 314 via receiver 327. In one or more examples, receiver 327 may be housed within housing 302 of electronic device 300. In some examples, receiver 327 may be part of controller 310 configured to detect electrical signals, or may be an entirely new component. In some examples, receiver 327 may include a combination of circuit components capable of detecting electrical signals. In at least one example, receiver 327 may include an electronic receiver, a filter, an amplifier, and other circuit components that help receiver 327 detect various electrical signals.

[0056] In some examples, controller 310 may be configured to drive signal 314 through electrode 308 to the touch-sensitive layer when user 318 simultaneously touches electrode 308 and touch-sensitive display 306. In some examples, controller 310 may detect unique characteristics of signal 314 via touch-sensitive display 306. In some examples, the unique characteristics of signal 314 may be a variable frequency or frequency dithering to distinguish it from natural conditions. In other examples, the unique characteristics of signal 314 may be a variable voltage drop across signal 314 when the circuitry of signal 314 is complete when user 318 simultaneously touches electrode 308 and touch-sensitive display 306. According to this disclosure, unique characteristics may include other parameters. Some of these additional parameters are described below. Figure 6 Further details are provided below.

[0057] In some examples, controller 310 may detect a touch made by user 318 on touch-sensitive display 306 via the unique characteristics of signal 314. In some examples, other substances (such as water) may come into contact with the surface of touch-sensitive display 306 at the same time that user 318 initiates contact with touch-sensitive display 306. Controller 310 of electronic device 300 may identify which contact is user 318 via the unique characteristics of signal 314 driven by signal driver 312. For example, a contact on touch-sensitive display 306 that includes the unique characteristics of signal 314 may be identified as user 318. In some examples, controller 310 may also be configured to use machine learning algorithms to distinguish user display contact 326 from other substances contacting touch-sensitive display 306.

[0058] refer to Figure 3 The components, configurations, and advantages described in the illustrated devices may be included individually or in combination with any other devices or systems described herein with reference to other accompanying drawings. Similarly, the components, configurations, and advantages described in other devices or systems with reference to other accompanying drawings may be included individually or in combination with those described herein. Figure 3 The components, configurations, and advantages of the device shown and described are included in combination.

[0059] Figure 4 A side view of a user 418 interacting with an electronic device 400 is shown. In some examples, the signal 414 may be configured to propagate through the user's arm and body, rather than as... Figure 3 The image shown only propagates through the user's hand. Figure 4 In this example, user 418 may not need to contact electrode 408 to complete the signal driving (e.g., Figure 3 The circuitry connects the signal driver 312 (in the circuit) to the touch-sensitive display 406, which represents the signal 414. In this example, the signal 414 can be driven by the user 418 via a method other than contact electrode 408.

[0060] In examples where the electronic device 400 is a watch or other type of wrist-worn device, the electronic device 400 may include a strap 428. In some examples, the strap allows the electronic device 400 to be removably attached to a user 418. In at least one example, the strap 428 allows the back cover 416 of the electronic device 400 to rest against the skin of the user 418. Additionally, the strap 428 may be configured to rest against the skin of the user 418.

[0061] In some examples of this disclosure, electronic device 400 may include additional electrical contacts configured to allow signal 414 to propagate through user 418. In some examples, strip 428 may include at least a first electrical contact 430a and a second electrical contact 430b. In some examples, electrical contacts 430a and 430b may resemble electrodes 408, as they may be constructed of a conductive material. In some examples, electrical contacts 430a and 430b may be components such as diodes, heartbeat sensors, and other components found in conventional watches and similar devices. Electrical contacts 430a and 430b enable electronic device 400 to drive a stronger signal 414 through user 418.

[0062] In at least one example, the signal driver ( Figure 3 Component 312 can be configured to drive signal 414 to electrical contacts 430a and 430b. In some examples, electrical contacts 430a and 430b may rest against the user's skin. In this way, signal 414 can be configured to be driven by signal driver 312 to electrical contacts 430a and 430b and propagate through user 418. This allows electronic device 400 to drive signal 414 to user 418 when user 418 is not in contact with electrode 408.

[0063] In one or more examples, additional electrical contacts similar to electrical contacts 430a and 430b may be disposed on the back cover 416 of the electronic device 400 opposite the touch-sensitive display 406. In some examples, these additional electrical contacts may be constructed of a conductive material and electrically coupled to a signal driver 312. These additional electrical contacts may be diodes, heartbeat sensors, or other components found in current watches and similar devices. In some examples, the signal driver 312 may drive a signal 414 through the additional electrical contacts and into the user 418. These additional electrical contacts allow a stronger signal 414 to propagate a greater distance through the user 418.

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, signal 414 can propagate through the body of user 418, rather than as... Figure 3The example illustrates transmission only through the user's hand. In this example, the user can contact the touch-sensitive display 406 using a hand that does not touch the electrical contacts 430a and 430b of the electronic device 400. When the user 418 contacts the touch-sensitive display 406, the circuitry for signal 414 is completed. When the user 418 simultaneously contacts electrical contacts 430a and 430b, signal 414 can propagate through the user 418's body and return to the electronic device 400 via the touch-sensitive display 406.

[0065] In some examples, the receiver (e.g., Figure 3 The receiver 327 in the middle can receive the signal 414 after the user 418 contacts the touch-sensitive display 406. In at least one example, the controller (e.g., Figure 3 The controller 310 can be configured to receive signal 414 via receiver 327, such that the controller 310 can distinguish how the user 418 interacts with the electronic device 400 via touch-sensitive display 406 without contacting the electrode 408.

[0066] refer to Figure 4 The components, configurations, and advantages described in the illustrated devices may be included individually or in combination with any other devices or systems described herein with reference to other accompanying drawings. Similarly, the components, configurations, and advantages described in other devices or systems with reference to other accompanying drawings may be included individually or in combination with those described herein. Figure 4 The components, configurations, and advantages of the device shown and described are included in combination.

[0067] Figure 5 A top view illustrating various substances in contact with a touch-sensitive display 506 of an electronic device 500, according to one or more examples of this disclosure. In some examples, the various substances may be in contact with the electronic device 500. In some examples, these substances may sense capacitive signals that may be received by the electronic device 500. In at least one example, the user (e.g., Figure 4 The user (418) can contact the touch-sensitive display 506 via the user display contact 526. In some examples, other substances may contact the electronic device 500. Figure 5 An example is shown in which water contacts a touch-sensitive display 506 via a water droplet 532. In some examples, naturally occurring capacitive noise may include capacitive signals from the water droplet located on the touch-sensitive display 506.

[0068] In some examples, receiver 527 may receive signals from user display contact 526 and other contacts on touch-sensitive display 506, such as water droplets 532. In one or more examples, controller 510 may be configured to distinguish user display contact 526 from water droplets 532 and other non-user substances in contact with electronic device 500. This allows user 418 to operate electronic device 500 efficiently under various conditions. For example, if controller 510 is able to distinguish user display contact 526 from other contacts, user 418 may operate electronic device 500 under humid conditions, where a portion of touch-sensitive display 506 is in contact with water.

[0069] In some examples, controller 510 may be configured to distinguish user display contact 526 from other contacts using a variety of methods. Some of the methods described may further assist controller 510 in distinguishing user display contact 526 from other contacts, even if user display contact 526 has capacitance similar to one or more materials located on touch-sensitive display 506.

[0070] In one or more examples, controller 510 may be in electrical communication with touch-sensitive display 506 and electrode 508. In some examples, controller 510 may also be configured to drive signal 514 to electrode 508. In one or more examples, signal 514 may include a first characteristic that can be distinguished by controller 510 from a second characteristic of a second signal 534 detected from a water droplet 532 on touch-sensitive display 506 when user 418 initiates contact between touch-sensitive display 506 and electrode 508, thereby completing the circuitry of signal 514 and enabling controller 510 to receive signal 514. In at least one example, controller 510 may be configured to detect where signal 514 is received relative to touch-sensitive display 506. In this way, controller 510 may also be configured to identify the area as a user display contact 526 rather than a non-user material such as water droplet 532.

[0071] In at least one example, a first characteristic of signal 514 may include various parameters that enable controller 510 to distinguish user display contact 526 from other materials on the touch-sensitive display 506. In some examples, the first characteristic of signal 514 may include a variable frequency. For example, signal driver 512 may drive signal 514 at a specific frequency that is not naturally found in the material on which the touch-sensitive display 506 is accessible. In some examples, this frequency may be detected by controller 510 via receiver 527. This may further separate user display contact 526 from other contacts on the touch-sensitive display 506, such as water droplets 532.

[0072] In some examples, a first characteristic of signal 514 may include a voltage drop detectable by controller 510. In some examples, signal driver 512 may drive signal 514 using a certain voltage level. When user 418 completes the circuitry of signal 514 by simultaneously contacting electrode 508 and touch-sensitive display 506, signal 514 may be grounded, thereby enabling controller 510 to read the voltage drop of signal 514. In this example, controller 510 may be configured to measure the voltage drop from various contacts disposed on touch-sensitive display 506. In some examples, controller 510 may match the voltage drop from signal 514 with the voltage drop of user display contact 526, thereby further enabling controller 510 to distinguish user display contact 526 from other substances (such as water droplets 532).

[0073] In addition to including voltage drop, a first characteristic of signal 514 can be configured to change the total capacitance detected by controller 510 from user display contact 526. For example, signal 514 can be configured to add charge to user 418. When user 418 touches touch-sensitive display 506, the total capacitance measured by controller 510 from user display contact 526 can be a different capacitance than when user 418 touches touch-sensitive display 506 without simultaneously touching electrode 508. In some examples, the new capacitance of user display contact 526 can be configured to be different from the natural capacitance noise received by controller 510 from a source such as water droplet 532. Furthermore, controller 510 can be configured to detect the new capacitance of user display contact 526, thus improving the controller's ability to distinguish user display contact 526 from other substances.

[0074] Additionally, the controller 510 may be configured to distinguish the third characteristic from the second characteristic. In some examples, the third characteristic may include features of the user display contact 526. In some examples, the third characteristic of the contact may include the shape of the user display contact 526. In some examples, the shape of the user display contact 526 may differ in shape from other materials located on the touch-sensitive display, such as a water droplet 532. In some examples, the controller 510 may be configured to compare the shapes of different contacts on the touch-sensitive display 506 to further distinguish the user display contact 526 from other materials.

[0075] In one or more examples of this disclosure, a third characteristic of the contact may include the size of the user display contact 526. In some examples, the user display contact 526 may have a different size than other materials located on the surface of the touch-sensitive display 506. For example, a user 418 may operate the electronic device 500 in a humid environment where water (such as the depicted water droplet 532) may come into contact with the touch-sensitive display 506. In some examples, the water droplet 532 may be larger or smaller than the user display contact 526. In at least one example, the controller 510 may be configured to detect the size of the contact on the touch-sensitive display 506 and link the contact whose size is most similar to that of the user display contact 526 to the input from the user 418. This may further enable the controller 510 to distinguish the third characteristic from the second characteristic.

[0076] In at least one example, the characteristics of the contacts may include the position of the user display contact 526 on the touch-sensitive display 506. In some examples, the controller 510 may be configured to detect the positions of different contacts on the surface of the touch-sensitive display 506. In one or more examples, the controller 510 may detect the positions of different contacts (such as...) Figure 5 The positions of the user display contact 526 and the water droplet 532 shown are compared with the content displayed on the touch-sensitive display 506. In some examples, if the positioning of the user display contact 526 coincides with the content displayed on the touch-sensitive display 506, the controller 510 may further distinguish it from other contacts (such as the water droplet 532).

[0077] In some examples, the characteristics of the contact element may include the force applied to the touch-sensitive display by the user 418. In some examples, the touch-sensitive display 506 may also include a resistive touch sensor. In one or more examples, the resistive touch sensor of the touch-sensitive display 506 may be configured to detect the force applied to the touch-sensitive display 506. Information about these applied forces may be transmitted to the controller 510 for further analysis. In some examples, the user 418 may apply more or less pressure to the touch-sensitive display 506 than, for example, a water droplet 532. In some examples, the controller 510 may use this force information to further distinguish the user display contact element 526 from other materials of the contact electronics 500. In some examples, the force information may be a more or less precise estimate of the touch location relative to a capacitive sensor. For example, the touch-sensitive display 506 may be divided into quadrants, and the touch-sensitive display may provide an indication of which quadrant a force was detected in. Smaller and larger divisions of the touch-sensitive display 506 may also be utilized.

[0078] Furthermore, the controller 510 can be configured to use machine learning algorithms to distinguish the third characteristic from the second characteristic of non-user materials such as water droplets 532. In some examples, the machine learning algorithm can enable the controller 510 to adapt to fluctuations when detecting different features of the third characteristic. For example, the machine learning algorithm can enable the controller 510 to learn the average size of the user display contact 526, thus improving the controller 510's ability to distinguish the user display contact from other materials located on the touch-sensitive display 506. In some examples, the machine learning algorithm can enable the controller 510 to adapt to different conditions for all features of the third characteristic described herein.

[0079] refer to Figure 5 The components, configurations, and advantages described in the illustrated devices may be included individually or in combination with any other devices or systems described herein with reference to other accompanying drawings. Similarly, the components, configurations, and advantages described in other devices or systems with reference to other accompanying drawings may be included individually or in combination with those described herein. Figure 5 The components, configurations, and advantages of the device shown and described are included in combination.

[0080] Figure 6 The description of electronic devices according to one or more examples of this disclosure is illustrated (e.g., Figure 1 A block diagram of one or more systems (device 100 in the diagram). In some examples, the controller (e.g., Figure 1 The controller 110 in the system can be configured to propel the system, such as Figure 6 As shown. In some examples, controller 110 may begin with user intent recognition step 636. In at least one example, user intent recognition step 636 may include prompting the user ( Figure 4 The part 418 discloses when it may be beneficial for the user 418 to distinguish the user input from other substances in contact with the electronic device 100. For example, the user 418 may identify a humid environment, with the intention of distinguishing the user input from water located on the electronic device 100.

[0081] Following user intent recognition step 636, controller 110 may proceed to initiating a wet touch state step 638. In some examples, initiating a wet touch state step 638 may configure controller 110 to respond to touch-sensitive displays (e.g., ...). Figure 1 The touch-sensitive display 106 in the middle searches for signals when reading user input (e.g., Figure 1 (Signal 114 in the original text). In some examples, the electronic device 100 may wait to initiate wet touch state step 638 before looking for signal 114 upon receiving user input. In other examples, the electronic device 100 may be configured such that the controller 110 always looks for signal 114 upon receiving user input.

[0082] In some examples, initiating the wet touch state step 638 may also include several additional steps. In at least one example, initiating the wet touch state step 638 may include a step 640 of driving a finger with an electrical signal. In this step, the controller 110 may drive a signal 114 to an electrode (e.g., Figure 1 Electrode 108) and the first finger (e.g., Figure 3 (Finger 320 in the middle). In some examples, signal 114 can travel through the user's hand 418 and through a second finger (e.g., finger 320). Figure 3 The finger (322) returns. Then, the controller 110 can detect the signal 114 via the touch-sensitive display 106.

[0083] In one or more examples, controller 110 may then proceed to step 642, which involves measuring the user's baseline finger electrical state. In this step, controller 110 may be configured to measure the capacitance and / or voltage drop of the user input via touch-sensitive display 106. Additionally, this state may include a third characteristic that detects the user input, such as... Figure 5 As described.

[0084] In some examples, controller 110 may then proceed to step 644, which optimizes the touch panel for humid environments. In this step, controller 110 may also configure the touch-sensitive display 106 for humid conditions. In some examples, this may include configuring controller 110 to detect user input and / or use... Figure 5 The machine learning algorithm described herein is used to teach controller 110 how to use the characteristics of signal 114 and user display contacts (e.g., Figure 5 The characteristics of the contact element 526 in the middle are used to better detect user input.

[0085] In some examples of this disclosure, controller 110 may then proceed to wet touch detection step 646. This step may include multiple integrated steps that enable controller 110 to distinguish wet touches on touch-sensitive display 106 from user input. In some examples, wet touch detection step 646 may include rejecting non-user signals step 648. This step may include controller 110 being configured to compare a signal received from a non-user object with a signal 114 received using user display contact 526.

[0086] Additionally, the wet touch detection step 646 may include a step 650 of rejecting non-user signals using machine learning (ML) finger size and / or shape data. This step may include using machine learning to further distinguish the characteristics of user input from those of non-user input.

[0087] In at least one example, controller 110 may then proceed to step 652, which only accepts wet touches from the user's hand. This step enables controller 110 to reject touches detected by non-user substances. This allows electronic device 100 to accept only input from the user's intent via touch-sensitive display 106.

[0088] refer to Figure 6 The components, configurations, and advantages described in the illustrated devices may be included individually or in combination with any other devices or systems described herein with reference to other accompanying drawings. Similarly, the components, configurations, and advantages described in other devices or systems with reference to other accompanying drawings may be included individually or in combination with those described herein. Figure 6 The components, configurations, and advantages of the device shown and described are included in combination.

[0089] Within the limits applicable to this technology, the collection and use of data from various sources can be used to improve the delivery of inspirational content or any other content that a user may be interested in. This disclosure contemplates that, in some instances, such collected data may include personal information that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate specific individuals. Such personal information may include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, etc. (formerly known as) User ID, home address, data or records related to the user's health or health level (e.g., vital sign measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying or personal information.

[0090] This disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information data in the present invention can benefit users. For example, the personal information data can be used to deliver targeted content that is of interest to the user. Therefore, the use of such personal information data enables users to have planned control over the delivered content. Furthermore, this disclosure also anticipates other uses of personal information data that are beneficial to users. For example, health and fitness data can be used to provide insights into a user's overall health status or can be used as positive feedback for individuals using the technology to pursue health goals.

[0091] This disclosure anticipates that entities responsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transmission, storage, or other use of such personal information data will comply with robust privacy policies and / or privacy measures. Specifically, such entities should implement and maintain privacy policies and measures that are recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy and security of personal information data. Such policies should be easily accessible to users and should be updated as the collection and / or use of data changes. Personal information from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable entity purposes and should not be shared or sold outside of these legitimate purposes. Furthermore, such collection / sharing should be conducted only after receiving informed consent from the user. Additionally, such entities should consider taking any necessary steps to protect and safeguard the right to access such personal information data and ensure that other entities with access to personal information data comply with the privacy policies and procedures of those other entities. Moreover, such entities may subject themselves to third-party assessments to demonstrate their compliance with widely accepted privacy policies and privacy practices. Furthermore, policies and practices should be adapted to the specific types of personal information data collected and / or accessed, and to applicable laws and standards, including considerations of specific jurisdictions. For example, in the United States, the collection or acquisition of certain health data may be governed by federal and / or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); while in other countries, health data may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Therefore, different privacy measures should be advocated for different types of personal data in each country.

[0092] Regardless of the foregoing, this disclosure also contemplates implementation schemes for users to selectively block the use or access to personal information data. That is, this disclosure contemplates hardware and / or software components to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, with respect to advertising delivery services, the inventive technology can be configured to allow users to opt-in or opt-out at any time during or after service registration to participate in the collection of personal information data. In another example, users can choose not to provide emotion-related data for a targeted content delivery service. In yet another example, users can choose to limit the duration for which emotion-related data is retained, or to completely prohibit the development of baseline emotional states. In addition to providing opt-in and opt-out options, this disclosure also contemplates providing notifications related to access to or use of personal information. For example, users can be notified when downloading an application that their personal information data will be accessed, and then reminded again just before the application accesses the personal information data.

[0093] Furthermore, the intent of this disclosure is that personal information data should be managed and processed in a manner that minimizes the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Once data is no longer needed, this risk can be minimized by restricting data collection and deleting data. Additionally, and where applicable, including in certain health-related applications, data deidentification can be used to protect user privacy. Deidentification can be facilitated, where appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at the city level rather than the address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data among users), and / or other methods.

[0094] Therefore, while this disclosure broadly covers the use of personal information data to implement one or more of the various disclosed embodiments, it is also contemplated that various embodiments can be implemented without access to such personal information data. That is, various embodiments of the present invention will not be rendered inoperable due to the absence of all or part of such personal information data. For example, preferences can be inferred based on non-personal information data or a minimal amount of personal information such as content requested by a device associated with a user, other non-personal information available to the content delivery service, or publicly available information, thereby selecting content and delivering it to the user.

[0095] For purposes of explanation, the foregoing description uses specific names to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required to practice the described embodiments. Therefore, the foregoing description of specific embodiments described herein is presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the teachings above.

Claims

1. An electronic device, comprising: Touch-sensitive display; An electrode, electrically isolated from the touch-sensitive display, is configured to receive a first signal associated with performing a first function of the electronic device; and A controller, which is in electrical communication with the touch-sensitive display and the electrodes, is configured to perform a second function via the electrodes, the second function including driving a second signal to the electrodes when the electrodes and the touch-sensitive display are touched simultaneously, the second signal having characteristics that can be distinguished from naturally occurring capacitive noise detected by the touch-sensitive display.

2. The electronic device of claim 1, further comprising a housing defining an outer surface and electrically isolating it from the touch-sensitive display, wherein: The controller is housed within the housing; The electrode includes the housing; and The first function includes antenna functionality.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The electronic device also includes a housing coupled to the touch-sensitive display; and The electrode includes a button that is electrically isolated from the housing and is operable relative to the housing.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: A housing coupled to the touch-sensitive display; A rear cover, coupled to the housing opposite to the touch-sensitive display, the rear cover including the electrodes; and The first function includes detecting whether the user is wearing the electronic device.

5. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the characteristic of the second signal includes frequency.

6. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the naturally occurring capacitive noise includes capacitive signals from water droplets located on the touch-sensitive display.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The touch-sensitive display defines an outer surface; and The electrode defines the outer surface.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein: The controller is configured to: when a user simultaneously touches the electrode and the touch-sensitive display, drive the second signal through the electrode to the touch-sensitive display; and The controller detects the characteristic via the touch-sensitive display.

9. An electronic display device, comprising: A display component, the display component including a touch sensor; electrode; and A controller that is in electrical communication with the touch sensor and the electrodes, the controller being configured to drive a signal to the electrodes having characteristics that can be distinguished from capacitive noise detected by the touch sensor; The controller is configured to drive the signal to the display component when the electrode and the display component are touched simultaneously.

10. The electronic display device according to claim 9, wherein the touch sensor comprises a capacitive touch sensor.

11. The electronic device of claim 10, wherein the controller comprises: A driver, configured to drive the signal to the electrode; and A receiver that is in electrical communication with the capacitive touch sensor and is configured to detect the characteristic.

12. The electronic display device according to claim 9, wherein the characteristic includes a variable voltage drop.

13. The electronic display device according to claim 9, wherein the characteristic includes a variable frequency.

14. A sensor assembly, comprising: Capacitive touch display; Electrode, the electrode defining an outer surface electrically isolated from the display; A controller, which is in electrical communication with the capacitive touch display and the electrodes, is configured to drive a first signal to the electrodes; in: The first signal includes a first characteristic that can be distinguished by the controller from a second characteristic of the second signal, which is detected when water comes into contact with the capacitive touch display and the user initiates contact between the capacitive touch display and the electrodes; and The controller is configured to distinguish a third characteristic from the second characteristic, the third characteristic including the features of the contact.

15. The sensor assembly of claim 14, wherein the feature of the contact includes the shape of the contact area between the user's finger and the capacitive touch display.

16. The sensor assembly of claim 15, wherein the feature of the contact includes the size of the contact area between the user's finger and the capacitive touch display.

17. The sensor assembly of claim 15, wherein the feature of the contact includes the location of the contact area on the capacitive touch display.

18. The sensor assembly of claim 14, wherein the feature of the contact includes a force applied by the user to the capacitive touch display.

19. The sensor assembly of claim 14, wherein the controller is configured to use a machine learning algorithm to distinguish the third characteristic from the second characteristic.

20. The sensor assembly of claim 14, wherein: The capacitive touch display is coupled to the housing; and The electrode includes a button that can be operated relative to the housing.

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