Inverse Signal Touch Sensor Sensitivity

The patent segments the measurement process into multiple sequential stages, with different groups of drive electrodes being measured in different time periods. This allows the use of simpler electronics that can handle fewer simultaneous measurements, while still achieving high sensitivity through multiple measurements per intersection point. The measurement process is divided into first and second time periods, each handling specific electrode groups separately.

The patent implements periodic action by cycling through different groups of drive electrodes in sequential time periods. The control circuitry alternates between measuring first groups and second groups of drive electrodes, repeating this cycle multiple times. This periodic measurement approach allows simpler electronics to achieve high sensitivity through accumulated measurements over time, without requiring all electrodes to be measured simultaneously.

The patent segments both the electrode array and measurement process into parallel tracks. Multiple groups of drive electrodes are measured in alternating time periods, with each group receiving multiple measurements. This segmentation allows the system to accumulate sensitivity-equivalent data from multiple measurements while maintaining fast overall scan rates by processing different electrode groups in parallel across time periods.

The patent maintains continuity of useful action by ensuring that while one group of electrodes is being measured, the system is simultaneously preparing or measuring other electrode groups. The measurement process continues without idle periods, cycling through different electrode groups in sequential time periods. This continuous operation achieves high responsiveness while accumulating sufficient measurement data for high sensitivity.