Electronic device and operation method thereof

Abstract

The electronic device includes a housing and a first input module. The first input module is disposed in the housing and includes a first sensor, a second sensor, and a bonding layer. The second sensor overlaps with the first sensor in one direction. The bonding layer is disposed between the first sensor and the second sensor to fix the relative position between the first sensor and the second sensor.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to an electronic device and its operating method. [Previous Technology]

[0002] To provide a more convenient input interface, some electronic devices include a sensor, which typically only accepts finger touch. However, finger touch sensitivity is low and cannot be used in situations requiring higher touch sensitivity. [Summary of the Invention]

[0003] One embodiment of the present invention provides an electronic device. The electronic device includes a housing and a first input module. The first input module is disposed in the housing and includes a first sensor, a second sensor, and a bonding layer. The second sensor overlaps with the first sensor in one direction. The bonding layer is disposed between the first sensor and the second sensor.

[0004] In one example, the housing has a storage section, and the first input module is completely offset from the storage section.

[0005] In one example, the electronic device further includes a switch and a controller. The controller is electrically connected to the switch and is used to: control the first sensor to be in a first operating mode based on the switch being in a first switching state.

[0006] In one example, the controller is further used to: control the first sensor to enter a second operating mode based on the switch being in a second switching state.

[0007] In one example, the housing has a receiving section, and the switch is disposed at one end of the receiving section.

[0008] In one example, the first operating mode is the disabled mode and the second operating mode is the hibernation mode.

[0009] In one example, the electronic device further includes a controller. The controller is electrically connected to the first sensor and is used to: control the first sensor to enter a third operating mode based on the distance between an interactive tool and the first input module being equal to or greater than a preset distance and lasting for a first preset time.

[0010] In one example, the controller is further configured to: control the first sensor to enter a fourth operating mode based on the distance between the interactive tool and the first input module being equal to or greater than a preset distance and the first sensor entering the third operating mode for a second preset time. The second preset time is greater than the first preset time.

[0011] In one example, the electronic device further includes an interactive tool and a controller. The controller is disposed within the housing, electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor, and is used to: control the first sensor to enter an operating mode and control the second sensor to enter a fifth operating mode based on the interaction tool being coupled to the housing.

[0012] In one example, the first sensing element includes a first portion and a second portion connected together, the second portion extending outward from an edge of the first portion; the second sensing element includes a third portion and a fourth portion connected together, the fourth portion extending outward from an edge of the third portion, the first portion and the third portion overlapping in a direction, and the second portion and the fourth portion not overlapping in a direction.

[0013] In one example, the first sensing element includes a first plate, a first electronic component and a first sensing circuit pattern layer. The first plate has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The first electronic component is disposed on one of the first surface and the second surface, and the first sensing circuit pattern layer is disposed on the other of the first surface and the second surface.

[0014] In one example, the first sensing element includes a first sensing circuit pattern layer, and the second sensing element includes a second sensing circuit pattern layer, wherein the first sensing circuit pattern layer and the second sensing circuit pattern layer are located on different sides of a plate.

[0015] Another embodiment of the present invention provides an electronic device. The electronic device includes a first input module and a controller. The first input module includes a first sensor and a second sensor. The second sensor overlaps with the first sensor in one direction. The controller is electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor and is configured to: control the first sensor to enter a third operating mode based on the distance between an interactive tool and the first input module being equal to or greater than a preset distance and lasting for a first preset time; and control the second sensor to enter a fifth operating mode based on the distance between the interactive tool and the first input module being equal to or greater than the preset distance and lasting for a first preset time.

[0016] In one example, the controller is further configured to: control the first sensor to enter a fourth operating mode based on the fact that the distance between the interactive tool and the first input module is equal to or greater than a preset distance and the first sensor has been in a third operating mode for a second preset time. The second preset time is greater than the first preset time.

[0017] In one example, the electronic device further includes a housing. The housing has a storage section for accommodating interactive tools. The first input module is completely offset from the storage section.

[0018] In one example, the electronic device further includes a switch. The controller is electrically connected to the switch and is used to: control the first sensor to enter a first operating mode based on the switch being in a first switching state.

[0019] In one example, the controller is further used to: control the first sensor to enter a third operating mode based on the switch being in a second switching state.

[0020] In one example, the electronic device further includes a housing. The housing has a storage section for accommodating interactive tools. A switch is disposed at one end of the storage section.

[0021] In one example, the electronic device further includes a housing. A controller is disposed within the housing, electrically connected to the first and second sensors, and is used to: control the first sensor to enter a third operating mode and control the second sensor to enter a fifth operating mode based on the interaction tool's connection with the housing.

[0022] Another embodiment of the present invention provides an electronic device. The electronic device includes a housing and a first input module. The first input module is disposed in the housing and includes a plate, a first sensing circuit pattern layer, and a second sensing circuit pattern layer. The plate has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The first sensing circuit pattern layer is disposed on the first surface. The second sensing circuit pattern layer is disposed on the second surface. The first sensing circuit pattern layer and the second sensing circuit pattern layer overlap in one direction.

[0023] In one example, the board includes a first portion and a second portion that are connected, the second portion extending outward from one edge of the first portion; a first sensing circuit pattern layer and a second sensing circuit pattern layer are disposed in the first portion, and the first input module further includes an electronic component disposed in the second portion.

[0024] In one example, the first input module further includes a protective layer. The protective layer covers the first sensing circuit pattern layer or the second sensing circuit pattern layer, wherein the protective layer has a surface that is coplanar with the outer surface of the housing.

[0025] In one example, the electronic device further includes a second input module. The second input module is disposed in the housing, and the first input module and the second input module do not overlap in the direction.

[0026] Another embodiment of the present invention provides an operation method. The operation method includes the following steps: providing an input module, wherein the input module includes a first sensing circuit pattern layer and a second sensing circuit pattern layer, and the second sensing circuit pattern layer overlaps with the first sensing circuit pattern layer in a direction; when the distance between an interactive tool and the input module is equal to or greater than a preset distance and lasts for a first preset time, controlling the first sensing circuit pattern layer to enter a third operation mode; and when the distance between the interactive tool and the input module is equal to or greater than the preset distance and lasts for a first preset time, controlling the second sensing circuit pattern layer to enter a fifth operation mode.

[0027] In one example, the operation method further includes: when the distance between the interactive tool and the input module is equal to or greater than a preset distance and the first sensing circuit pattern layer enters the third operation mode for a second preset time, controlling the first sensing circuit pattern layer to enter a fourth operation mode. The second preset time is greater than the first preset time.

[0028] In one example, the input module further includes a switch. The operation method further includes: when the switch is in a first switch state, controlling the first sensing circuit pattern layer to enter a fifth operation mode.

[0029] In one example, the operation method further includes: when the switch is in a second switch state, controlling the first sensing circuit pattern layer to enter a third operation mode.

[0030] In one example, the operation method further includes: when the interactive tool is combined with a housing, controlling the first sensing circuit pattern layer to enter a third operation mode and controlling the second sensing circuit pattern layer to enter a fifth operation mode.

[0031] In order to better understand the above and other aspects of the present invention, specific embodiments are described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

Implementation Method

[0033] In the accompanying drawings, the thicknesses of layers, films, panels, regions, etc., are enlarged for clarity. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. The terms "first," "second," etc., used herein are not in a specific order and may simply refer to different element names. Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of the relevant technology and the invention, and will not be interpreted as having idealized or overly formal meanings unless expressly defined herein.

[0034] Please refer to Figures 1A to 3. Figure 1A shows a top view of an electronic device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1B shows a side view of the electronic device 10 in Figure 1A. Figure 2 shows a functional block diagram of the electronic device 10 in Figure 1. Figure 3 shows a signal diagram of the controller 12 in Figure 2 controlling the first sensing element 110.

[0035] As shown in Figures 1A-2, the electronic device 10 includes a housing 11, a controller 12, an expansion interface 13, a switch 14, an indicator 15, a second input module 16, an interactive tool 17, and a first input module 100. In another embodiment, depending on the specific circumstances, the electronic device 10 may not include the expansion interface 13, the switch 14, the indicator 15, the interactive tool 17, and / or the second input module 16. The controller 12, the expansion interface 13, the switch 14, the indicator 15, the second input module 16, the interactive tool 17, and / or the first input module 100 may be disposed on or within the housing 11. The controller 12 is electrically connected to the expansion interface 13, the second input module 16, and the first input module 100. The controller 12 can receive signals from components connected to it (e.g., directly or indirectly connected) and can control components connected to it (e.g., directly or indirectly connected). The controller 12 is, for example, a physical circuit formed using at least one semiconductor manufacturing process, such as a semiconductor wafer or semiconductor package. The expansion interface 13 is, for example, an expand I / O port, providing more input / output ports for connecting more components. These input / output ports are, for example, compatible with Wi-Fi connectors, Bluetooth connectors, or board-to-board connectors. The switch 14 and indicator 15 are electrically connected to the expansion interface 13 for electrical connection to the controller 12 via the expansion interface 13. The indicator 15 is, for example, a light emitter, such as a light-emitting diode, and the indicator signal is, for example, light, such as colored light. The second input module 16 is, for example, a physical keyboard module, which includes at least one key mechanism.

[0036] In this embodiment, the electronic device 10 is, for example, a keyboard. In another embodiment, the electronic device 10 is, for example, a notebook computer, which further includes a display screen, pivotally connected to the housing 11 and controlled by the controller 12. In another embodiment, the electronic device 10 is, for example, a device that does not include the second input module 16, such as a tablet computer, a smartphone, etc.

[0037] As shown in Figures 1A-3, the first input module 100 includes a first sensor 110 and a second sensor 120. A controller 12 is electrically connected to the first sensor 110 and the second sensor 120. The controller 12 is configured to: control the first sensor 110 to enter a third operating mode (sleep mode) S3 and control the second sensor 120 to enter a fifth operating mode S5 when the distance D1 (e.g., along direction Z) between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100 is equal to or greater than a preset distance. The aforementioned distance D1 is, for example, the shortest distance between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100, or the distance between the magnetic component 17A of the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100. Since the controller 12 can control the first sensor 110 to enter the third operating mode S3, power-saving technology can be achieved. The aforementioned direction Z is, for example, the direction perpendicular to the touch surface 100u of the first input module 100. The touch surface 100u and the outer surface 11u of the housing 11 are substantially coplanar, or there is a slight step difference (e.g., no more than 1 mm). In addition, the "fifth operating mode S5" referred to herein, for example, is enabling the second sensor 120, which means putting the second sensor 120 into a normal operating mode (e.g., "non-sleep mode").

[0038] The aforementioned preset distance is, for example, between 0.5 cm and 2 cm, such as 1 cm, 1.5 cm, or larger or smaller, but the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0039] In one embodiment, the first input module 100 is, for example, a touch module, the first sensor 110 is, for example, a first touch panel, the second sensor 120 is, for example, a second touch panel, and the interactive tool 17 is, for example, a stylus, but this is not intended to limit the embodiments of the present invention.

[0040] As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the first sensing element 110 can, for example, accept the touch of an interactive tool. For example, the first sensing element 110 is an Electro Magnetic Resonance (EMR) touch panel; however, the aforementioned panel type is not intended to limit the embodiments of the present invention. The first sensing element 110 can sense the interactive tool 17. For example, the first sensing element 110 includes a sensing circuit pattern layer, which generates a magnetic field when energized. The interactive tool 17 includes a magnetic element 17A, which can change the strength and / or shape of the magnetic field when the magnetic element 17A approaches the sensing circuit pattern layer of the first sensing element 110 (not shown in Figure 1B). The controller 12 obtains the distance D1 between the interactive tool 17 and the first sensing element 110 based on (or analyzes) the change in the magnetic field. The magnetic element 17A is, for example, a metal, such as an iron core. In this embodiment, the interactive tool 17 is a passive interactive tool that does not contain a power-consuming active chip. The second sensor 120 may, for example, accept the touch of a finger. The second sensor 120 may be, for example, a capacitive touch panel. However, the aforementioned panel type is not intended to limit the embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] As shown in Figures 1B and 3, the controller 12 is further configured to: control the first sensor 110 to enter a third operation mode S3 when the distance D1 between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100 is equal to or greater than a preset distance and lasts for a first preset time T1; and control the first sensor 110 to enter a fourth operation mode S4 when the distance D1 between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100 is equal to or greater than the preset distance and the first sensor 110 has entered the third operation mode S3 for a second preset time T2. The second preset time T2 is, for example, equal to or greater than the first preset time T1. In one embodiment, the second preset time is, for example, 4.5 seconds, and the first preset time is, for example, 1.5 seconds, but this is not a limitation of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, in the fifth operating mode S5, the controller 12 outputs a constant current I to the first sensing element 110. The current I is continuously supplied to the first sensing element 110 over time, causing the first sensing element 110 to continuously generate a magnetic field. In the third operating mode S3 and the fourth operating mode S4, the controller 12 still provides current to the first sensing element 110, but the current is, for example, a pulsed current. For example, in the third operating mode S3, the current I is a periodic pulse signal with a first period. In the fourth operating mode S4, the current I is a periodic pulse signal with a second period. The larger the period, the less power is consumed. In one embodiment, the second period is greater than the first period, making the first sensing element 110 more power-efficient when entering the fourth operating mode S4 (compared to the first sensing element 110 when entering the third operating mode S3). When the interactive tool 17 is attached to the housing 11, the first sensing element 110 can enter the first operating mode S1, which is, for example, a disabled mode. In the first operating mode S1, the first sensing element 110 is, for example, shut down, and therefore does not consume power.

[0043] Furthermore, in the fifth operation mode S5, the third operation mode S3, the fourth operation mode S4, and the first operation mode S1, it indicates that the user may not be using the interactive tool 17. Therefore, the controller 12 can control the second sensor 120 to enter the fifth operation mode S5 to provide finger touch functionality. Additionally, when the distance D1 between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100 is less than a preset distance, it indicates that the user may be using the interactive tool 17. Therefore, the controller 12 controls the second sensor 120 to enter the first operation mode S1 to reduce the power consumption of the electronic device 10.

[0044] According to an experimental result, in the fifth operating mode S5, the power consumption of the electronic device 10 is 10 milliamperes. In the third operating mode S3 and the fourth operating mode S4, the power consumption of the electronic device 10 is reduced to 3 milliamperes. In the first operating mode S1, the power consumption of the electronic device 10 is reduced to 0.3 milliamperes. This shows that the mode control of the first input module 100 by the electronic device 10 in the embodiment of the present invention is indeed effective in saving overall power consumption.

[0045] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, when switch 14 is in the first switch state, controller 12 controls the first sensor 110 to enter the first operation mode S1. When switch 14 is in the second switch state, controller 12 controls the first sensor 110 to enter the third operation mode S3, as further illustrated below.

[0046] As shown in Figures 1A, 2, and 3, the housing 11 has a receiving portion 11a for accommodating the interactive tool 17. In one embodiment, the receiving portion 11a is, for example, a recess or a slot. The first input module 100 is completely offset from the receiving portion 11a in a direction (e.g., direction X), that is, the first input module 100 and the receiving portion 11a do not overlap in the direction Z. The switch 14 may be configured adjacent to one end of the receiving portion 11a. When the interactive tool 17 enters the receiving portion 11a and triggers the switch 14, the switch 14 is in a first switching state. When the switch 14 is in the first switching state, the controller 12 may control the first sensor 110 to enter a first operating mode S1. When the interactive tool 17 is disengaged from the switch 14, the switch 14 is in a second switching state. When the switch 14 is in the second switching state, the controller 12 controls the first sensor 110 to enter a second operating mode, such as a third operating mode S3 or a fourth operating mode S4. In one embodiment, the second operating mode is, for example, a sleep mode, the third operating mode S3 is, for example, a first sleep mode of the second operating mode, and the fourth operating mode S4 is, for example, a second sleep mode of the second operating mode.

[0047] As shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment, switch 14 is, for example, a mechanical switch. For example, switch 14 includes a spring contact 14A. When spring contact 14A is in a free state (as shown in Figure 2), switch 14 is on, and the state of switch 14 at this time can be defined as a second switch state. When the interactive tool 17 enters the storage section 11a and triggers switch 14, the interactive tool 17 pushes spring contact 14A (spring contact 14A deforms and stores elastic potential energy), causing switch 14 to open, and the state of switch 14 at this time can be defined as a first switch state. When spring contact 14A is released (for example, the interactive tool 17 disengages from switch 14), spring contact 14A releases its elastic potential energy and resets, causing switch 14 to change from the first switch state to the second switch state. In another embodiment, the on state of switch 14 can be defined as the first switch state, and the off state of switch 14 can be defined as the second switch state.

[0048] In other embodiments, switch 14 is, for example, a light interruptor that normally emits a light signal. When the interactive tool 17 enters the storage section 11a and interrupts the light signal emitted by switch 14, the state of switch 14 can be defined as a first switching state. When the light signal emitted by switch 14 is not interrupted, the state of switch 14 can be defined as a second switching state.

[0049] As can be seen from the above, switch 14 can be a mechanical switch, an optical switch, or other types of switches (e.g., contact or non-contact switches). Any element that can sense the interactive tool 17 can be used as a switch in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0050] As shown in Figures 1A and 2, in the first operating mode S1 (e.g., switch 14 is in the first switch state), when the interactive tool 17 is detached from the housing 11, the first sensor 110 enters the second operating mode, such as the third operating mode S3 or the fourth operating mode S4. For example, when the interactive tool 17 is detached from the housing 11, switch 14 changes to the second switch state, and the controller 12 controls the first sensor 110 to enter the second operating mode accordingly.

[0051] As shown in Figures 1A and 2, when the interactive tool 17 triggers the switch 14, the controller 12 can control the indicator 15 to emit an indicator signal. The indicator 15 is, for example, a light emitter, such as a light-emitting diode, and the indicator signal is, for example, light, such as colored light. In another embodiment, the indicator 15 is, for example, a speaker, and the indicator signal is, for example, sound; or, the indicator 15 is, for example, a vibrator, and the indicator signal is, for example, vibration.

[0052] In another embodiment, the first sensing element 110 and the storage portion 11a may be arranged adjacent to each other, so that after the interactive tool 17 enters the storage portion 11a, the magnetic field of the first sensing element 110 may change, and the controller 12 may control the first sensing element 110 to enter a second operating mode, such as a third operating mode S3 or a fourth operating mode S4. In this example, the switch 14 may be omitted from the electronic device 10.

[0053] Please refer to Figures 4A to 4B. Figure 4A shows a structural diagram of the first input module 100 in Figure 1, and Figure 4B shows an exploded view of the first input module 100 in Figure 4A.

[0054] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the second sensor 120 of the first input module 100 overlaps with the first sensor 110 along the Z direction. The first input module 100 further includes a bonding layer 130 disposed between the first sensor 110 and the second sensor 120. The bonding layer 130 can fix the relative position between the first sensor 110 and the second sensor 120. In an embodiment, the bonding layer 130 is, for example, adhesive or double-sided tape.

[0055] In this embodiment, the first input module 100 includes a plurality of sensors (e.g., a touch panel) to provide the user with a variety of sensing or touch methods. Furthermore, since the electronic device 10 includes a plurality of sensors, one of these sensors can provide higher sensing or touch sensitivity than one of these sensors, thus compensating for the deficiencies of sensors with lower sensing or touch sensitivity. Moreover, although the electronic device 10 includes a plurality of sensors, when one sensor is in the fifth operating mode S5, another sensor can selectively enter the second operating mode or even the first operating mode S1, which can reduce the overall power consumption of the electronic device 10.

[0056] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the first sensing element 110 includes a first plate 111 and at least one first electronic component 112, wherein the first plate 111 has opposing first surfaces 111u and second surfaces 111b, and the first electronic component 112 is disposed on the first surface 111u of the first plate 111. In another embodiment, the first electronic component 112 may be disposed on the second surface 111b of the first plate 111; or, multiple first electronic components 112 may be disposed on the first surface 111u and the second surface 111b of the first plate 111. The first electronic component 112 may be electrically connected to the first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 of the first sensing element 110 to receive a first sensing signal from the first sensing circuit pattern layer 113. The first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 may be located in the first active region 111A of the first sensing element 110, while the first electronic component 112 is disposed in the non-active region of the first sensing element 110 (e.g., a region other than the first active region 111A). The controller 12 is electrically connected to the first electronic component 112 to receive the first sensing signal and perform a corresponding function. The first electronic component 112 is, for example, a physical circuit formed using at least one semiconductor process, such as a semiconductor wafer or semiconductor package. Furthermore, the first plate 111 of the first sensing element 110 includes a first portion 1111 and a second portion 1112, with the second portion 1112 extending outward from the edge 1111e of the first portion 1111. The aforementioned first active area 111A and the first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 are located in the first portion 1111, while the first electronic component 112 is located in the second portion 1112.

[0057] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the second sensing element 120 includes a second plate 121 and at least one second electronic component 122, wherein the second plate 121 has opposing third surfaces 121u and fourth surfaces 121b, and the second electronic component 122 is disposed on the third surface 121u of the second plate 121. In another embodiment, the second electronic component 122 may be disposed on the third surface 121u of the second plate 121; or, multiple second electronic components 122 may be disposed on the third surface 121u and the fourth surface 121 of the second plate 121. The second electronic component 122 may be electrically connected to the second sensing circuit pattern layer 123 of the second sensing element 120 to receive sensing signals from the second sensing circuit pattern layer 123. The controller 12 may receive the second sensing signals to perform corresponding functions. The second sensing circuit pattern layer 123 may be located in the second active area 121A of the second sensing element 120, while the second electronic component 122 is disposed in the non-active area of ​​the second sensing element 120 (e.g., an area other than the second active area 121A). The controller 12 is electrically connected to the second electronic component 122 to receive the second sensing signal and perform the corresponding function. The second electronic component 122 is, for example, a physical circuit formed using at least one semiconductor process, such as a semiconductor wafer or a semiconductor package. Furthermore, the second plate 121 of the second sensing element 120 includes a third portion 1211 and a fourth portion 1212, the fourth portion 1212 extending outward from the edge 1211e of the third portion 1211. The aforementioned second active area 121A and the second sensing circuit pattern layer 123 are located in the third portion 1211, while the second electronic component 122 is located in the fourth portion 1212.

[0058] In another embodiment, the first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 and the second sensing circuit pattern layer 123 may be located on different sides of the same plate, such as opposite sides or adjacent sides. In this embodiment, the first sensing element 110 and the second sensing element 120 may be integrated into a single sensing element, which includes the aforementioned same plate.

[0059] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the third part 1211 of the second sensing element 120 overlaps with the first part 1111 of the first sensing element 110, for example, at least partially overlapping in the direction Z, while the fourth part 1212 of the second sensing element 120 does not overlap with the second part 1112 of the first sensing element 110, for example, not overlapping at all in the direction Z.

[0060] Please refer to Figure 5, which illustrates a schematic diagram of an electronic device 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device 20 includes a housing 11, a controller 12 (not shown), an extension interface 13, a switch 14 (not shown), an indicator 15, a second input module 16, an interactive tool 17, and a first input module 100. The electronic device 20 includes the same or similar technical features as the aforementioned electronic device 10, with at least one difference in that the housing 11a of the electronic device 20 overlaps with the second input module 16 in the Z direction.

[0061] Please refer to Figure 6, which shows the operation method flowchart of the electronic device 10 in Figure 1.

[0062] In step S110, the controller 12 determines whether the distance D1 between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100 is equal to or greater than a preset distance and lasts for a first preset time T1. If yes, the process proceeds to step S120. If no, the first sensor 110 and the second sensor 120 maintain their current modes. For example, the first sensor 110 maintains the fifth operation mode S5, while the second sensor 120 maintains the first operation mode S1. In one embodiment, the situation in step S110 is, for example, that the interactive tool 17 is detached from the housing 11, indicating that the user may want to use or is using the first sensor 110. Therefore, the first sensor 110 is in the fifth operation mode S5, while the second sensor 120 is in the first operation mode S1.

[0063] In step S120, the controller 12 controls the first sensing element 110 to enter the third operation mode S3, and controls the second sensing element 120 to enter the fifth operation mode S5.

[0064] In step S130, the controller 12 determines whether the distance D1 between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100 is equal to or greater than a preset distance. If not, it indicates that the interactive tool 17 is approaching the first sensor 110 (the user may be about to touch the first sensor 110), and the process proceeds to step S140. In step S140, the controller 12 controls the first sensor 110 to enter the fifth operation mode S5, and controls the second sensor 120 to enter the first operation mode S1. If the distance D1 between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100 is equal to or greater than the preset distance, the process proceeds to step S150.

[0065] In step S150, the controller 12 determines whether the first sensor 110 has entered the third operation mode S3 for a second preset time T2. If yes, the process proceeds to step S160. If no, the first sensor 110 and the second sensor 120 maintain their current modes, for example, the first sensor 110 is in the third operation mode S3, while the second sensor 120 is in the fifth operation mode S5.

[0066] In step S160, the controller 12 controls the first sensing element 110 to enter the fourth operation mode S4 in order to save more power consumption of the first sensing element 110.

[0067] In step S170, the controller 12 determines whether the interactive tool 17 is combined with the housing 11. For example, whether the interactive tool 17 is inserted into the storage part 11a of the housing 11. If yes, the process proceeds to step S180. If no, the process proceeds to step S172.

[0068] In step S172, the controller 12 determines whether the distance D1 between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100 is less than a preset distance (step S172). If so, it indicates that the user may want to touch the first sensor 110. The controller 12 then controls the first sensor 110 to enter the fifth operation mode S5 (step S174) and controls the second sensor 120 to enter the first operation mode S1 (step S174) to save power consumption of the second sensor 120. After step S174, the process can return to step S110. In step S172, if the distance D1 between the interactive tool 17 and the first input module 100 is not less than the preset distance, the process can return to step S170.

[0069] In step S180, the controller 12 controls the first sensor 110 to enter the first operation mode S1 to save more power consumption of the first sensor 110, and controls the second sensor 120 to enter the fifth operation mode S5 (or maintain the second sensor 120 in the fifth operation mode S5). When the first sensor 110 is in the first operation mode S1 (interactive tool 17 is combined with the storage part 11a of the housing 11), when the interactive tool 17 is disengaged from the storage part 11a of the housing 11, it indicates that the user may want to use the first sensor 110. Therefore, the controller 12 controls the first sensor 110 to enter the fifth operation mode S5, and controls the second sensor 120 to enter the first operation mode S1 to save power consumption of the second sensor 120.

[0070] Please refer to Figure 7, which illustrates a schematic diagram of an electronic device 30 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device 30 includes a display screen 31, a housing 11, a controller 12 (not shown in Figure 7), an extension interface 13 (not shown in Figure 7), a switch 14, an indicator 15, a second input module 16, an interactive tool 17, and a first input module 100. The electronic device 30 includes the same or similar technical features as the electronic device 10, with at least one difference in that the electronic device 30 further includes a display screen 31, which is pivotally connected to the housing 11. The electronic device 30 is, for example, a laptop computer. The operation method of the electronic device 30 is the same as or similar to the operation method of the aforementioned electronic device 10, and will not be described again here.

[0071] Please refer to Figure 8, which illustrates a schematic diagram of an electronic device 40 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device 40 includes a housing 41, a controller 12 (not shown in Figure 8), an extension interface 13 (not shown in Figure 8), a switch 14, an indicator 15, an interactive tool 17, and a first input module 400. The electronic device 40 includes the same or similar technical features as the electronic device 10, with at least one difference: the first input module 400 of the electronic device 40 is, for example, a touch display module, which can be configured on the housing 41. The electronic device 40 is, for example, a tablet computer or a similar product, such as a smartphone. Further, the first input module 400 includes the aforementioned first input module 100 and a display panel (not shown), wherein the display panel is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or other type of display panel, which can be configured on the first input module 100. The operation method of the electronic device 40 is the same as or similar to the operation method of the aforementioned electronic device 10, and will not be described again here.

[0072] Please refer to Figures 9A and 9B. Figure 9A shows a schematic diagram of a first input module 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 9B shows a cross-sectional view of the first input module 200 in Figure 9A along direction 9B-9B'.

[0073] As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the first input module 100 of the aforementioned electronic devices 10, 20, 30, or 40 may be replaced by a first input module 200. The first input module 200 includes a protective layer 205, a first sensor 210, a second sensor 220, a first connecting layer 230, a second connecting layer 240, and an auxiliary layer 250. The protective layer 205 is located on the outermost layer of the electronic device and is touch-sensitive by the interactive tool 17. The first connecting layer 230 is located between the protective layer 205 and the second sensor 220 and connects the two sensors. The second connecting layer 240 is located between the second sensor 220 and the first sensor 210 and connects the two sensors. The auxiliary layer 250 is disposed adjacent to the first sensor 210, for example, the first sensor 210 is disposed between the auxiliary layer 250 and the second connecting layer 240.

[0074] As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the protective layer 205 is, for example, a glass layer. The first sensing element 210 includes a first plate 111, at least one first electronic component 112, a first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 (not shown in Figures 9A and 9B), and at least one first connector 213. The first electronic component 112 is disposed on the second surface 111b of the first plate 111. The first connector 213 is disposed on the second surface 111b of the first plate 111 and electrically connected to the first electronic component 112. The first connector 213 can be connected to an external circuit board (not shown). The second sensing element 220 includes a second plate 121, at least one second electronic component 122, a first sensing circuit pattern layer 123 (not shown in Figures 9A and 9B), and at least one second connector 223. The second electronic component 122 is disposed on the second surface 121b of the second plate 121. The second connector 213 is disposed on the second surface 121b of the second board 121 and electrically connected to the second electronic component 122. The second connector 223 can be connected to the aforementioned external circuit board (not shown). The first connection layer 230 is, for example, an insulating layer, such as an electrostatic discharge (ESD) insulating layer, such as ESD Mylar. The second connection layer 240 is, for example, an insulating adhesive layer, such as Mylar coated with an adhesive layer. The auxiliary layer 250 is, for example, a silicon steel sheet with good magnetic permeability.

[0075] In terms of thickness (e.g., along the Z direction), the thickness of the second connecting layer 240 may be greater than the thickness of the second plate 121 of the second sensing element 220 or may be greater than the thickness of the first plate 111 of the first sensing element 210. The thickness design of the second connecting layer 240 can reduce or avoid mutual interference between the signals of the first sensing element 210 and the signals of the second sensing element 220. The thickness of the first connecting layer 230 may be less than the thickness of the second plate 121 of the second sensing element 220 or may be less than the thickness of the first sensing element 210 including the first plate 111. In one embodiment, the thickness of the protective layer 205 is, for example, 1.5 mm, the thickness of the first connecting layer 230 is, for example, 0.15 mm, the thickness of the second plate 121 of the second sensing element 220 is, for example, 0.8 mm, the thickness of the second connecting layer 240 is, for example, 1.15 mm, the thickness of the first plate 111 of the first sensing element 210 is, for example, 0.8 mm, and the thickness of the auxiliary layer 250 is, for example, 0.2 mm.

[0076] Please refer to Figures 10A and 10B. Figure 10A shows a schematic diagram of a first input module 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 10B shows a cross-sectional view of the first input module 200 of Figure 10A along the direction 10B-10B'.

[0077] As shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the first input module 100 of the aforementioned electronic devices 10, 20, 30, or 40 may be replaced by a first input module 300. The first input module 300 includes a protective layer 205, a sensor 310, a first connecting layer 230, and an auxiliary layer 250. The protective layer 205 is located on the outermost layer of the electronic device and is touch-sensitive by the interactive tool 17. The protective layer 205 covers the first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 and / or the second sensing circuit pattern layer 123. The protective layer 205 has a surface 205s (corresponding to the touch surface 100u in Figure 1B), which is coplanar with the outer surface of the housing (e.g., the outer surface 11u of the housing 11 in Figure 1B) or has a slight step difference (e.g., not greater than 1 mm). The first connecting layer 230 is located between the protective layer 205 and the sensor 310 and connects the protective layer 205 and the sensor 310. The auxiliary layer 250 is configured adjacent to the first sensor 210, for example, the sensor 310 is configured between the auxiliary layer 250 and the first connection layer 230.

[0078] As shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the aforementioned first sensing element 110 and second sensing element 120 can be integrated into sensing element 310. For example, sensing element 310 includes a board 311, at least one electronic component 312, a first sensing circuit pattern layer 113, a second sensing circuit pattern layer 123, and at least one connector 313. The board 311 has opposing first surfaces 311u and second surfaces 311b. The electronic component 312 and the connector 313 are disposed on the second surface 311b. The electronic component 312 can be electrically connected to the aforementioned first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 to receive a first sensing signal from the first sensing circuit pattern layer 113. The electronic component 312 can be electrically connected to the aforementioned second sensing circuit pattern layer 113 to receive a sensing signal from the second sensing circuit pattern layer 113. In one embodiment, the electronic component 312 can be integrated from the aforementioned first electronic component 112 and second electronic component 122. Although not shown, the first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 and the second sensing circuit pattern layer 123 are located on different sides of the board, such as opposite sides or adjacent sides. For example, the first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 and the second sensing circuit pattern layer 123 may be disposed on the second surface 311b and the first surface 311u of the board 311, respectively. The connector 313 is disposed on the second surface 311b and electrically connected to the electronic component 312, and the connector 313 may be connected to the aforementioned external circuit board (not shown).

[0079] As shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the board 311 includes a first portion 3111 and a second portion 3112, the second portion 3112 extending outward from the edge 3111e of the first portion 3111. A first sensing circuit pattern layer 113 and a second sensing circuit pattern layer 123 are disposed in the first portion 3111. Electronic components 312 and connectors 313 may be disposed in the second portion 3112.

[0080] In summary, embodiments of the present invention provide an electronic device and its operating method. The controller of the electronic device can control the sensors of the electronic device to enter a fifth operating mode, a second operating mode, or a first operating mode based on the state (e.g., position) of the interactive tool. In one embodiment, when the interactive tool is detached from the housing of the electronic device, one of the two sensors of the electronic device can be in the fifth operating mode, while the other sensor can enter either the fifth operating mode or the second operating mode depending on the state of the interactive tool. When the interactive tool is attached to the housing, one of the two sensors can enter the first operating mode, while the other sensor enters the fifth operating mode. In another embodiment, one of the two sensors can sequentially enter two different second operating modes based on the duration of the interactive tool's state. For example, when the distance between the interactive tool and one of the two sensors is equal to or greater than a preset distance and lasts for a first preset time, that sensor enters a third operating mode. When that sensor remains in the third operating mode for a first preset time, it enters a deeper fourth operating mode, wherein the fourth operating mode is more power-efficient than the third operating mode.

[0081] In summary, although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains can make various modifications and refinements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and refinements are not limited to the embodiments of the present invention, but are still within the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of the present invention shall be determined by the appended claims. [Simplified Explanation of the Diagram]

[0032] Figure 1A shows a top view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1B shows a side view of the electronic device in Figure 1A. Figure 2 shows a functional block diagram of the electronic device in Figure 1. Figure 3 shows a signal diagram of the controller in Figure 2 controlling the first sensor. Figure 4A shows a structural diagram of the first input module in Figure 1. Figure 4B shows an exploded view of the first input module in Figure 4A. Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 shows a flowchart of the operation method of the electronic device in Figure 1. Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9A shows a schematic diagram of the first input module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9B shows a cross-sectional view of the first input module in Figure 9A along direction 9B-9B'. Figure 10A shows a schematic diagram of the first input module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10B shows a cross-sectional view of the first input module of Figure 10A along the direction 10B-10B'.

Claims

1. An electronic device comprising: A shell; The housing includes a first input module disposed thereon and comprising: a first sensor; a second sensor overlapping the first sensor in a direction; and a bonding layer disposed between the first sensor and the second sensor.

2. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing has a storage portion and the first input module is completely offset from the storage portion.

3. The electronic device as described in claim 1, further comprising: One switch; And a controller electrically connected to the switch and used to: control the first sensor to be in a first operating mode based on the switch being in a first switching state.

4. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to: control the first sensor to enter a second operating mode based on the switch being in a second switching state.

5. The electronic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the housing has a receiving portion and the switch is disposed at one end of the receiving portion.

6. The electronic device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the housing has a receiving portion and the switch is disposed at one end of the receiving portion.

7. The electronic device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first operating mode is a disabled mode and the second operating mode is a sleep mode.

8. The electronic device as described in claim 1, further comprising: A controller, electrically connected to the first sensor, is used to: control the first sensor to enter a third operating mode based on the distance between an interactive tool and the first input module being equal to or greater than a preset distance and lasting for a first preset time.

9. The electronic device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured to: control the first sensor to enter a fourth operating mode based on the fact that the distance between the interactive tool and the first input module is equal to or greater than the preset distance and the first sensor has been in the third operating mode for a second preset time; wherein, The second preset time is greater than the first preset time.

10. The electronic device as described in claim 1, further comprising: An interactive tool; And a controller, configured within the housing, electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor, and used to: control the first sensor to enter an operating mode and control the second sensor to enter a fifth operating mode based on the interaction tool being combined with the housing.

11. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first sensor includes a first portion and a second portion connected together, the second portion extending outward from one edge of the first portion; the second sensor includes a third portion and a fourth portion connected together, the fourth portion extending outward from one edge of the third portion, the first portion and the third portion overlapping in the direction, and the second portion and the fourth portion not overlapping in the direction.

12. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first sensing element includes a first plate, a first electronic component and a first sensing circuit pattern layer, the first plate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, the first electronic component being disposed on one of the first surface and the second surface, and the first sensing circuit pattern layer being disposed on the other of the first surface and the second surface.

13. The electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first sensing element includes a first sensing circuit pattern layer, the second sensing element includes a second sensing circuit pattern layer, and the first sensing circuit pattern layer and the second sensing circuit pattern layer are located on different sides of a plate.

14. An electronic device comprising: A first input module includes: a first sensor; and a second sensor overlapping the first sensor in a direction; and a controller electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor, and configured to: control the first sensor to enter a third operation mode based on the distance between an interactive tool and the first input module being equal to or greater than a preset distance for a first preset time; and control the second sensor to enter a fifth operation mode based on the distance between the interactive tool and the first input module being equal to or greater than the preset distance for a first preset time.

15. The electronic device as claimed in claim 14, wherein the controller is further configured to: control the first sensor to enter a fourth operating mode based on the fact that the distance between the interactive tool and the first input module is equal to or greater than the preset distance and the first sensor has been in the third operating mode for a second preset time; wherein, The second preset time is greater than the first preset time.

16. The electronic device as described in claim 14, further comprising: A housing having a storage section for accommodating the interactive tool; wherein the first input module is completely offset from the storage section.

17. The electronic device as claimed in claim 14 further includes a switch; the controller is electrically connected to the switch and is used to: control the first sensor to enter a first operating mode based on the switch being in a first switching state.

18. The electronic device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the controller is further configured to: control the first sensor to enter the third operating mode based on the switch being in a second switching state.

19. The electronic device as described in claim 17, further comprising: A housing having a storage section for accommodating the interactive tool; wherein the switch is disposed at one end of the storage section.

20. The electronic device as described in claim 18, further comprising: A housing having a storage section for accommodating the interactive tool; wherein the switch is disposed at one end of the storage section.

21. The electronic device as described in claim 14, further comprising: A housing; wherein the controller is disposed within the housing, electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor, and is used to: control the first sensor to enter the third operating mode and control the second sensor to enter a fifth operating mode based on the interaction tool being combined with the housing.

22. An electronic device comprising: A shell; The housing includes a first input module, which is disposed on the housing and includes: a plate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other; a first sensing circuit pattern layer disposed on the first surface; and a second sensing circuit pattern layer disposed on the second surface; wherein the first sensing circuit pattern layer and the second sensing circuit pattern layer overlap in one direction.

23. The electronic device as claimed in claim 22, wherein the board includes a first portion and a second portion connected together, the second portion extending outward from one edge of the first portion; a first sensing circuit pattern layer and a second sensing circuit pattern layer are disposed in the first portion, and the first input module further includes an electronic component disposed in the second portion.

24. The electronic device as claimed in claim 22, wherein the first input module further comprises: A protective layer covering the first sensing circuit pattern layer or the second sensing circuit pattern layer, wherein the protective layer has a surface that is coplanar with the outer surface of the housing.

25. The electronic device as described in any one of claims 1-13, 16, 19-20 and 22-24 further includes: A second input module is disposed in the housing, and the first input module and the second input module do not overlap in the direction.

26. A method of operating an electronic device, comprising: An input module is provided, comprising a first sensing circuit pattern layer and a second sensing circuit pattern layer, wherein the second sensing circuit pattern layer overlaps the first sensing circuit pattern layer in one direction; when the distance between an interactive tool and the input module is equal to or greater than a preset distance and lasts for a first preset time, the first sensing circuit pattern layer is controlled to enter a third operation mode; and when the distance between the interactive tool and the input module is equal to or greater than the preset distance and lasts for the first preset time, the second sensing circuit pattern layer is controlled to enter a fifth operation mode.

27. The method of operation as described in claim 26 further includes: When the distance between the interactive tool and the input module is equal to or greater than the preset distance and the first sensing circuit pattern layer enters the third operation mode for a second preset time, the first sensing circuit pattern layer is controlled to enter a fourth operation mode; wherein the second preset time is greater than the first preset time.

28. The method of operation as described in claim 26, wherein the input module further includes a switch; the method of operation further includes: When the switch is in a first switch state, it controls the first sensing circuit pattern layer to enter the fifth operation mode.

29. The operation method as described in claim 26, wherein the input module further includes a switch; the operation method further includes: When the switch is in a second switch state, it controls the first sensing circuit pattern layer to enter the third operating mode.

30. The method of operation as described in claim 26 further includes: When the interactive tool is combined with a housing, it controls the first sensing circuit pattern layer to enter the third operating mode and controls the second sensing circuit pattern layer to enter the fifth operating mode.

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