AVAGO TECHNOLOGIES ECBU IP (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20130341537 | OPTOELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - An optoelectronic device is disclosed. The optoelectronic device may be employed as a single or multi-channel opto-coupler that electrically isolates one circuit from another circuit. The opto-coupler may include one or more folded leads that establish an enhanced isolation gap. The enhanced isolation gap increases the creepage distance of the opto-coupler and increases operational voltages that can be accommodated by the opto-coupler. | 12-26-2013 |
20130315533 | PREMOLDED CAVITY FOR OPTOELECTRONIC DEVICE - An optoelectronic device is disclosed. The optoelectronic device may be employed as a single or multi-channel opto-coupler that electrically isolates one circuit from another circuit. The opto-coupler may include one or more premolded cavities with a light-coupling medium contained therein. Walls of the one or more premolded cavities advantageously help shape the light-coupling medium during manufacture, therefore, resulting in a light path with controlled shape and dimensions. | 11-28-2013 |
20130299682 | OPTICAL LENS ASSEMBLY AND OPTICAL DEVICES THEREOF - In one embodiment, an optical lens assembly comprising a primary lens and an optical structure located at an outer portion of the lens is disclosed. The primary lens is configured to direct a substantial amount of light to a predetermined first distance whereas the optical structure is configured to direct light towards a second distance that is relatively close to the optical lens assembly compared to the first distance. Other embodiments disclose light-emitting devices and proximity sensors having such an optical lens assembly. Alternative embodiments of the optical lens assembly are disclosed, including but not limited to an optical structure defining an optical surface located at a lens flange and optical structure defining a light guide located at a base portion of the optical lens assembly. | 11-14-2013 |
20130279842 | OPTO-COUPLER AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A semiconductor device and methods of manufacturing the same are disclosed. Specifically, methods and devices for manufacturing opto-couplers are disclosed. Even more specifically, the opto-coupler includes a lens assembly to enhance light coupling efficiency between an optical transmitter and an optical receiver. An encapsulant material may also be utilized. | 10-24-2013 |
20130228676 | Optical Encoder With An LED Current Regulation System - An LED current regulator can regulate an LED current of an encoder system. The LED current regulator may comprise a first analog multiplier and a second analog multiplier. Each of the first and second analog multipliers may be configured to receive respective photodetector output signals, characterized by a peak-to-peak voltage, Vpp, and may be configured to generate respective first and second multiplier output signals. The first and second multiplier output signals may be combined to produce a first DC level, which may be representative of the peak-to-peak voltage, Vpp, of the photodetector output signals. | 09-05-2013 |
20130221212 | Coding Members With Embedded Metal Layers For Encoders - A coding member having a plurality of base structures is illustrated. The base structures are arranged in a predetermined periodic manner and each base structure comprises first and second metal layers. The base structures are embedded in a body made from an encapsulant such that a surface of the first metal layer is exposed externally whereas the second metal layer is completely embedded inside the body. Encoders, having such coding member are illustrated. The encoders include transmissive and reflective optical encoders, as well as non-optical encoders such as magnetic and capacitive encoders. | 08-29-2013 |
20130215611 | HYBRID CANOPY LIGHTING FOR OPTIMUM LIGHT BEAM SHAPING - A lighting system and method are disclosed. Specifically, the lighting system includes a hybrid canopy that can provide an optimum light beam shape for a number of different lighting applications. The hybrid canopy is equipped with lighting clusters of different types, thereby enabling a broader beam output without sacrificing beam intensity or brightness. | 08-22-2013 |
20130187644 | HALL-EFFECT SENSOR ISOLATOR - A coupler is disclosed that employs hall-effect sensing technology. Specifically, the coupler is configured to produce an output voltage by converting the magnetic field generated by a current conductor at an input side. The output and input sides may be electrically isolated from one another but may be coupled via the hall-effect sensing technology, such as a hall-effect sensor. | 07-25-2013 |
20130181232 | Optocoupler with Surface Functional Coating Layer - Various embodiments of methods and devices are provided for an optocoupler comprising an optically reflective compound comprising silicone and inner and outer surfaces. A molding compound surrounds and encapsulates at least portions of the outer surfaces of the optically reflective compound to form an enclosure. A surface functional coating layer is provided in the optically reflective compound to promote adhesion and increase breakdown voltages between inner walls of the enclosure and the outer surfaces of the optically reflective compound. | 07-18-2013 |
20130181122 | OPTICAL ENCODER WITH SIGNAL OFFSET CORRECTION SYSTEM - An offset correction system for correcting signal offset of an encoder. The offset correction system may include a light emitter, an encoder disk, a reticle, a light detector; an offset detection circuit and an offset correction circuit. The offset detection circuit may comprise a comparator and an offset detector configured to receive sinusoidal output signals from the light detector and a reference signal to create digital pulses for determining the signal offset. The offset correction circuit may be configured to apply a gain to correct the offset output signal. The offset correction may be implemented in real time mode. | 07-18-2013 |
20130170936 | Self-Aligning Pick and Place Collet for Tape and Reel Machine - Various embodiments of methods and devices are provided for a self-aligning pick and place collet having proximal and distal ends configured for use with a tape and reel machine. A suction area is located at a distal end of the collet. A pick and place collet contact area is located adjacent to and outwardly from the suction area, and comprises tapered sidewalls that depend downwardly and outwardly away from the outer periphery of the suction area. The tapered sidewalls and the outer periphery of the suction area are configured and dimensioned to cause an electronic device to substantially self-align and center itself with respect to the collet when engaged thereby. | 07-04-2013 |
20130168553 | Thermally-Sensitive Optocoupler - Various embodiments of methods and devices are provided for a thermally-sensitive optocoupler package. A layer in the optocoupler package has an upper surface and a lower surface, and comprises a thermally-sensitive material. In the package, an LED emits infrared or near-infrared light and a photodetector receives at least a portion of such emitted light and in response provides isolated output signals therefrom. The LED is located above the upper surface, and the photodetector is located beneath the lower surface. The thermally-sensitive material is configured such that an amount of light emitted by the LED, incident on the material and the layer, and transmitted through the material and the layer, changes in accordance with changes in ambient temperature or local thermal conditions. | 07-04-2013 |
20130168531 | Optocoupler with Multiple Photodetectors and Improved Feedback Control of LED - Various embodiments of methods and devices are provided for an optocoupler comprising a layer of dielectric optically semi-reflective and transmissive material disposed between an LED and a first photodetector located above an upper surface of the layer, and a second photodetector located beneath the lower surface of the layer. The layer reflects a first portion of light generated by the LED towards the first photodetector to generate LED feedback control signals, and transmits a second portion of light generated by the LED through the layer for detection by the second photodetector to generate isolated output signals. | 07-04-2013 |
20130135245 | On-Chip Power Down Generation for LDO-Based Touchscreen Controllers - Various embodiments of methods and devices are provided for a mutual capacitance touchscreen controller comprising a first on-chip low drop out regulator (LDO) configured to receive and regulate as a first input thereto an input supply voltage (VSUPPLY), and to provide as an output therefrom a first regulated output voltage (VDDA). A first comparator in the controller is configured to receive as first and second inputs thereto VSUPPLY and VDDA and to provide as an output therefrom a signal EN, EN being provided to the first LDO as a second input thereto. The first LDO is configured to operate in a first off mode and is turned off by signal EN when the difference between VSUPPLY and VDDA is less than a predetermined threshold. | 05-30-2013 |
20130102096 | SIMULTANEOUS SILICONE DISPENSION ON COUPLER - A semiconductor device and methods of manufacturing the same are disclosed. Specifically, methods and devices for manufacturing optocouplers are disclosed. Even more specifically, methods and devices that deposit one or more encapsulant materials on optocouplers are disclosed. The encapsulant material may include silicone and the devices used to deposit the silicone may be configured to simultaneously deposit the silicone on different sides of the optocoupler, thereby reducing manufacturing steps and time. | 04-25-2013 |
20130087812 | LIGHT-EMITTING DEVICE WITH A SPACER AT BOTTOM SURFACE - A light-emitting device having at least one spacer located at a bottom surface is disclosed. In two other embodiments, an electronic display system and an electronic system having such light-emitting device are disclosed. The light-emitting device comprises a plurality of leads, a light source die, and a body. The body encapsulates a portion of the plurality of leads and the light source die. The body has a least one side surface and a bottom surface. The at least one spacer is located at the bottom surface. In use, the light-emitting device is attached to a top surface of a substrate. The spacer is configured to create an air vent between the bottom surface and the top surface of the substrate when the light-emitting device is attached to, and the spacer is in contact with the substrate. | 04-11-2013 |
20130062655 | HIGH THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY AND LOW DEGRADATION DIE ATTACH WITH DUAL ADHESIVE - A package for a light source, a semiconductor device, and methods of manufacturing the same are disclosed. In particular, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) dice is attached to a bonding pad of the light source package by two discrete types of different adhesives. One of the adhesives may be curable under exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) light and the other adhesive may be cured under thermal radiation, but is stable when exposed to UV light. | 03-14-2013 |
20130038478 | Systems, Devices and Methods for Capacitor Mismatch Error Averaging in Pipeline Analog-to-Digital Converters - Various embodiments of methods and devices for reducing capacitor mismatch errors in a pipeline analog-to-digital converter (ADC) are disclosed, where in a pipeline element circuit and during a first phase, an input voltage provided by a sample-and-hold circuit is presented to first and second capacitors arranged in parallel in the pipeline element circuit. During a second phase, a second voltage corresponding to a second charge associated with the second capacitance is amplified and stored in the pipeline element circuit. During a third phase, the same input voltage of the first phase is again presented to the first and second capacitors, which are arranged in parallel in the pipeline element circuit. During a fourth phase a first voltage corresponding to the first charge is amplified and stored in the pipeline element circuit. After the first, second, third and fourth phases have been completed, digital representations of the first and second voltages are sent though corresponding registers for subsequent averaging along with digital representations of first and second voltages provided by other pipeline element circuits to produce a digital capacitor mismatch error corrected output. | 02-14-2013 |
20130038477 | Capacitor Mismatch Error Correction in Pipeline Analog-to-Digital Converters - Various embodiments of methods and devices for reducing capacitor mismatch errors in a pipeline analog-to-digital converter (ADC) are disclosed. A plurality of pipeline element circuits are provided, where each pipeline element circuit corresponds to a given bit of the pipeline ADC. A first pipeline element circuit is configured to digitize analog A and B capacitor mismatch error calibration voltages generated by all the pipeline element circuits of the ADC when the pipeline ADC is operating in a capacitor mismatch calibration phase. According to one embodiment, digital representations corresponding to A and B capacitor mismatch error calibration voltages for each of the pipeline element circuits are provided to an output shift register and summing circuit, which generates capacitor mismatch error correction codes corresponding to each bit and pipeline element circuit. The capacitor mismatch error correction codes are applied to each bit weight of the pipeline ADC after conversion of analog signals input to the pipeline ADC has been completed. | 02-14-2013 |
20130037837 | MINIATURE LEADLESS SURFACE MOUNT LAMP WITH DOME AND REFLECTOR CUP - A package for a light source is disclosed. In particular, a Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) is described which provides many features offered by traditional surface mount technology lamps, but also has a decreased height, increased light output, and enables a smaller viewing angle as compared to traditional surface mount technology lamps. | 02-14-2013 |
20130037705 | ENHANCED OPTICAL REFLECTIVE ENCODER - An optical encoder and optical encoding system are disclosed. Specifically, an encoder having a light detector elevated relative to a light source is described. The relative height difference between the light source and the light detector enables the optical encoder to minimize noise at the light detector without requiring a separate light baffle between the light source and light detector. Methods of manufacturing and operating such an encoder are also described. | 02-14-2013 |
20130026350 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL PROXIMITY SENSOR - A proximity sensor with multi-directional movement detection is provided. The proximity sensor may include an ASIC chip; at least three light sources configured to emit light in a particular sequence; and a photo detector configured to receive light and generate an output signal. The multi-directional proximity sensor may have a first proximity sensor with at least one side surface and a second proximity sensor connected to the first proximity sensor configured to detect object movement over a plane substantially parallel to the at least one side surface of the first proximity sensor. The multi-directional movement detection proximity sensor may include a PCB, in which more than one proximity sensor may be disposed on the PCB and operatively integrated to detect multi-directional movement. | 01-31-2013 |
20130020588 | OPTICAL DEVICE WITH THROUGH-HOLE CAVITY - A light-emitting device having a through-hole cavity is disclosed. The optical device may contain a plurality of conductors, a light source die, a body and a transparent encapsulant material. The body may have a top surface and a bottom surface. A cavity is formed within the body extending from the bottom surface to the top surface and defining therein a bottom opening and a top opening, respectively. Optionally, the light-emitting device may comprise a lens. During manufacturing process, liquid or semi-liquid form transparent material is injected from the bottom surface into the cavity, encapsulating the light source die and forming a lens. The shape of the lens is defined by a mold aligned to the top opening of the body. In yet another embodiment, optical devices having a cavity or multiple cavities are disclosed. The optical devices may include a proximity sensor, an opto-coupler, an encoder and other similar sensors. | 01-24-2013 |
20130016061 | Low Voltage Capacitive Touchscreen Charge Acquisition and Readout Systems, Circuits and Methods for High System Noise ImmunityAANM Souchkov; VitaliAACI Walnut CreekAAST CAAACO USAAGP Souchkov; Vitali Walnut Creek CA US - Various embodiments of capacitive touchscreen driving and sensing circuits are disclosed, where during a first phase the mutual capacitance between a given drive electrode and a given sense electrode is charged up to a first charge value corresponding substantially to a drive voltage times the mutual capacitance. During a second phase the charge storage capacitor is charged up to a value corresponding approximately to a difference in touchscreen capacitance network charges occurring during the first and second phases. The first and second phases do not overlap in time. Dark frame signals may also be acquired from the touchscreen to calibrate differences in touchscreen capacitance network charges. | 01-17-2013 |
20130002609 | OPTICAL NAVIGATION UTILIZING SPEED BASED ALGORITHM SELECTION - Embodiments of method and systems are disclosed. An embodiment of a method for optical navigation involves generating light at a light source, directing the light to a navigation surface, detecting light reflected from the navigation surface toward a sensor array, and generating movement information, which is indicative of movement of the navigation surface relative to the sensor array, in response to the detected light. Generating the movement information involves determining the speed of the movement, comparing the speed of the movement to a movement threshold, selecting a processing algorithm from a plurality of processing algorithms in response to the comparison, and processing the movement information according to the selected processing algorithm. In an embodiment, the processing algorithms include an adaptive navigation algorithm and a sensor resolution adjustment algorithm. | 01-03-2013 |
20130002599 | Method and Apparatus for Arbitrating Among Contiguous Buttons on a Capacitive Touchscreen - Various embodiments of a capacitive touchscreen system and corresponding methods are described. A touchscreen controller is operably connected to a first plurality of drive electrodes, a second plurality of sense electrodes, and a host processor. The touchscreen controller has computer-readable button group programming instructions and data loaded into a first memory portion thereof from the host processor that comprise steps for sensing and arbitrating among touches occurring on and within a first plurality of buttons. Firmware instructions and data are loaded into a second portion of the memory of the touchscreen controller. The first plurality of buttons is arranged in a first group on the touchscreen, and the first group is located within a first portion of the touchscreen. Capacitive sensing of touches occurring on and within at least second portions of the touchscreen that are located outside the first portion of the touchscreen are controlled by the firmware instructions. | 01-03-2013 |
20120327491 | HOLOGRAPHIC DISPLAY SYSTEM WITH MOTION SENSORS - A holographic display system with motion sensors is disclosed. In one embodiment, the holographic display system is a flat screen display having display screen and a holographic overlay positioned over the display screen. A plurality of sensors are embedded in the holographic overlay. Alternatively, the plurality of sensors may be attached to a substrate, which is positioned behind the display screen. In another embodiment, the holographic display system is a projection type display in which image beams are projected from an image projector onto a holographic screen. A plurality of sensors are located on the holographic screen. In yet another embodiment, a method for sensing a user's movement using a holographic display system with motion sensors is shown. | 12-27-2012 |
20120306801 | Charge Pump Frequency Selection in Touch Screen Sensor Interface System - Various embodiments of charge pump circuitry configured to generate output signals having first distortion signals superimposed thereon are disclosed. Demodulator input signals are also disclosed that have second distortion signals superimposed thereon. A synchronization signal is delivered to demodulator circuitry through at least first and second integer divider circuits and to charge pump circuitry through at least the first integer divider circuitry such that the first and second distortion signals have frequencies that are integer divisions of the synchronization frequency. | 12-06-2012 |
20120293472 | Ambient Light Sensor Configured to Determine the Direction of a Beam of Ambient Light Incident Thereon - Various embodiments of an ambient light sensor configured to determine the direction of a beam of light incident thereon are disclosed. In one embodiment, an ambient light sensor is provided that comprises a plurality of light detectors arranged in a spatial array upon a light sensing surface. Each of the light detectors in the array is configured to generate an analog output voltage in response to the beam of ambient light falling thereon. The amount of light incident on the individual light detectors in the spatial array varies according to the position of each such sensor with respect to direction of the beam of ambient light. An analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is operably coupled to the plurality of light detectors and is configured to receive the analog output signals generated thereby as inputs thereto, and to provide digital output values representative of the analog signals. Control logic circuitry is operably coupled to the ADC and configured to receive the digital output values therefrom, and is further configured to process such digital output values to determine the direction of the beam of light incident upon the spatial array. | 11-22-2012 |
20120293446 | Automatic Gain Control for Capacitive Touch Panel Sensing System - Disclosed are capacitive touchscreen or touch panel systems, devices and methods which increase the dynamic range of touches that may be detected on a capacitive touch screen or touch panel. Increased dynamic range is provided by employing automatic gain control methodologies and circuitry to process signals corresponding to individual mutual capacitance cells in a touch screen or touch panel. | 11-22-2012 |
20120293445 | Noise Blanking for Capacitive Touch Displays - Disclosed are various embodiments of a capacitive touchscreen or touch panel system comprising a controller operably connected to a first plurality of drive electrodes and a second plurality of sense electrodes. The controller includes a noise disruption detector circuit, a user noise source detector/anticipator circuit, clock control logic circuitry operably connected to the noise disruption detector circuit and to the user noise source detector/anticipator circuit, at least one static-clocked digital filter circuit operably connected to and controlled by the clock control logic circuitry, a central processing unit (CPU) operably connected to the clock control logic circuitry, firmware operably connected to the CPU; and touch position circuitry configured to deliver signals indicative of touch positions on the touchscreen to a host controller. The controller is configured to employ at least one of the CPU and the firmware to cause the clock control logic circuitry to inhibit operation of the digital filter circuit in response to a signal representative of excessive noise levels being provided by either the noise disruption detector circuit or the user noise source detector/anticipator circuit. | 11-22-2012 |
20120293444 | Controller and ADC for Low Power Operation of Touchscreen Device - Various embodiments of a low-power-consumption analog-to-digital converter (“ADC”) for a touchscreen or touch panel in a capacitive sensing system are disclosed. The ADC is configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode. The first mode is characterized by a first resolution having a first number of ADC bits and a first level of power consumption associated therewith. The second mode is characterized by a second resolution having a second number of bits and a second level of power consumption associated therewith. The ADC operates under control of the controller and is configured such that the first number of bits is greater than the second number of bits and the first power level is greater than the second power level. The controller causes the ADC to switch from operating in the first mode to operating in the second mode when low radio frequency (RF) noise conditions are detected by sense circuitry, the ADC and/or the controller. | 11-22-2012 |
20120274607 | OPTICAL FINGER NAVIGATION DEVICE - An optical finger navigation (OFN) device for use devices such as handheld portable devices is presented. The OFN device may include a lead frame, a light sensor, a clear mold compound encapsulating the light sensor and the lead frame so as to form the package. The mold compound may include a light guide system disposed thereon to direct light towards the light sensor. The OFN package may further include a light opaque material disposed on the mold compound to shield the light sensor against stray lights. | 11-01-2012 |
20120274606 | OPTICAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH OBJECT DETECTION - An optical finger navigation system with object detection is provided for preventing cursor movement if a user's finger has been lifted from the navigation surface. The optical finger navigation system may include a light source, an image sensor and an object detection engine. The object detection engine may be operatively coupled with the image sensor and the light source to selectively report motion data upon determining the presence of an object by comparing a scaled-up pixel value with a threshold value. The lift detection engine may be incorporated in a microcontroller, wherein the microcontroller may be added to a navigation system to provide an additional object detection feature. | 11-01-2012 |
20120268413 | IN-SITU DETECTION OF TOUCHSCREEN PANEL SHORTS - A test system for testing a capacitive-sense touchscreen is disclosed. Specifically, the test system may be incorporated within a controller that is also used to control operations of the touchscreen. The controller may include an Integrated Circuit and the test system may correspond to a test capacitor embedded into the Integrated Circuit. | 10-25-2012 |
20120268032 | COMBINATION LED DRIVER - A driver circuit for a Light Emitting Diode (LED) is disclosed. The driver circuit is capable of supporting a constant LED current circuit configuration as well as an external resistor-controlled LED current circuit configuration. By integrating both configurations into a single driver circuit, the either circuit configuration can be selected without requiring a different driver circuit. | 10-25-2012 |
20120267657 | LIGHTING APPARATUS WITH A CARRIER LAYER - A lighting apparatus having wavelength-converting materials formed in a carrier layer is disclosed. In one embodiment, the lighting apparatus has a light source attached to a substrate that is assembled in a housing. The light source is configured to emit a substantially narrow band light that is transformed into broad-spectrum white light by the wavelength-converting materials positioned on the carrier layer. The wavelength-converting materials and the carrier layer are distanced away from the light source, such that the carrier layer is thermally isolated from the light source. | 10-25-2012 |
20120236531 | LOW HEIGHT DISPLAY USING MULTILAYER PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD WITH A LAMINATED PANEL AS HOUSING - A multi-segment display is disclosed. Specifically, a low height LED-based display is disclosed that includes a number of segments. The segment construction may include a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) layer, a first substrate, and a second substrate that are laminated or otherwise connected to one another. The first and second substrates may include windows which allow light generated by a light source mounted on the PCB to exit the display and one or more of the windows may be filled with an encapsulant. | 09-20-2012 |
20120235287 | HIGH BRIGHTNESS AND HIGH CONTRAST PLASTIC LEADED CHIP CARRIER LED - A Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package is disclosed. The PLCC package provides a light source that is both high contrast and high brightness. Specifically, the PLCC package includes a reflector cup whose surface area is partially inclusive of a lead frame and partially inclusive of a plastic housing that surrounds the lead frame. | 09-20-2012 |
20120235188 | Method and Apparatus for a Flat Top Light Source - A light-emitting device and method for manufacturing the device are disclosed. In one embodiment, the light-emitting device comprises a flat substrate and an encapsulation layer formed above the flat substrate. The top portion of the encapsulation layer is flat and the encapsulation layer is divided into a high density layer and a low density layer. The high density layer is formed from a wavelength-converting material precipitated on one side of the encapsulation layer. In the low density layer, the wavelength-converting material exists in particle form suspended within the encapsulation layer. | 09-20-2012 |
20120212837 | LENS STRUCTURE HAVING LOW PASS FILTER CHARACTERISTIC - A lens structure includes a surface devoid of cusps that includes a seamless profile wherein the surface includes at least one segmented parabolic function forming a filtering surface for producing a controlled amount of spherical aberration. | 08-23-2012 |
20120211785 | HIGH POWER PLASTIC LEADED CHIP CARRIER WITH INTEGRATED METAL REFLECTOR CUP AND DIRECT HEAT SINK - A Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package is disclosed. The PLCC package includes a lead frame with an integrated reflector cup. The reflector cup is directly connected to a heat sink, which improves the ability of the PLCC package to distribute heat away from the light source that is provided in the reflector cup. | 08-23-2012 |
20120206919 | ULTRA-LOW PROFILE OPTICAL FINGER NAVIGATION ILLUMINATION SYSTEM THROUGH SEGMENTATION - An optical sensor assembly is disclosed. The optical sensor assembly includes an illumination system that segments light emitted by a light source into multiple segments. The multiple segments are allowed to travel different optical paths on their way to a common target area and are further allowed to irradiate different portions of the common target area. This enables a low-profile optical sensor assembly to be achieved. | 08-16-2012 |
20120205693 | NARROW VIEWING ANGLE PLASTIC LEADED CHIP CARRIER - A Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) package is disclosed. The PLCC package enables a narrow viewing angle without requiring a second lens. In particular, the PLCC package is provided with a reflector cup having multiple stages where the geometry or some other characteristic of one stage is different from the geometry or some other characteristic of another stage. | 08-16-2012 |
20120205528 | THREE-CHANNEL ENCODER USING A SINGLE OPTICAL TRACK - An optical encoder is disclosed. Specifically, a three-channel encoder is disclosed which utilizes a single track for all three channels. An index channel is provided on the same optical track as the first and second channels which are used to determine incremental angular position. Thus, a more compact and simple three-channel encoder is provided. | 08-16-2012 |
20120199728 | COMPACT OPTICAL FINGER NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH ILLUMINATION VIA REDIRECTION SURFACE HOLES - An optical finger navigation device includes a navigation cover. The navigation cover includes a tracking surface and an illumination surface. The tracking surface exhibits a first light reflection characteristic in a presence of a navigation object at the tracking surface and a second light reflection characteristic in an absence of the navigation object at the tracking surface. A light source generates illumination directed toward the illumination surface of the navigation cover. A redirection structure is interposed between the light source and the illumination surface of the navigation cover. A reflection surface of the first redirection structure is approximately facing the illumination surface of the navigation cover. An illumination surface of the redirection structure is approximately facing the light source. The redirection structure defines at least one hole therethrough to pass light generated by the light source toward the illumination surface of the navigation cover. | 08-09-2012 |
20120198258 | WIRELESS INPUT DEVICE WITH A POWER SAVING SYSTEM - An input device with a power saving system is provided for reducing the power consumption of the input device when the input device is at rest. The input device may include a sensor, a rest mode switch, control logic and a current controller. The sensor may be configured to obtain an image data in response to a light incident on the sensor. The rest mode switch may be configured to set the input device to various levels of rest modes when it is inactive. The control logic may be coupled to the rest mode switch and the sensor. The control logic may be configured to set the input device to process a portion of the image data on the sensor array during a wake up detection operation when the input device is at rest. The current controller may be coupled to the control logic and the sensor and configured to control the current supply limited to a section of the sensor array containing the portion of image data that is being processed by the input device during the wake up detection operation. | 08-02-2012 |
20120187942 | ENCODER MODULE WITH AN ALIGNMENT SYSTEM - An encoder module with an alignment system with an encoder device, a housing and a movable hub is presented. The encoder module may be integrated with an alignment system to facilitate a built-alignment feature for aligning an encoder device disposed within the encoder module. The encoder module may include a hub that may be movably arranged in the housing and rotatable about a central axis of rotation. The hub may be slidingly moved between a first position configured to set the encoder module to engage in a centering mode and a second position configured to set the encoder module to engage in a rotational mode. The encoder module may be configured to be slidingly disposed on a motor whereby a sleeve of the hub is configured to mate with a shaft of the motor by means of slide fitting. | 07-26-2012 |
20120182264 | NON-PLANAR REFLECTIVE FOLDED OPTICS - An optical sensor assembly is disclosed. The optical sensor assembly includes a folded optical system that utilizes one or more non-planar reflective surfaces that enable the manipulation or conditioning of the overall thickness of the sensor assembly, the field of view of the sensor assembly, and the image size, either independently or in combination. | 07-19-2012 |
20120182253 | Capacitive Touchscreen or Touch Panel with Fingerprint Reader - Various embodiments of a capacitive touchscreen or touch panel having dual finger or hand navigation and fingerprint reading capabilities. In one embodiment, fingerprints are read and processed by the same capacitive touchscreen controller that reads and processes capacitively-sensed finger or hand touches made across the touchscreen or touch panel. A small portion of the capacitive touchscreen or touch panel is dedicated to reading an authorized user's fingerprints, while a larger or main portion of the capacitive touchscreen or touch panel is dedicated to sensing a user's finger or hand navigation across the touchscreen or touch panel. | 07-19-2012 |
20120182252 | Differential Capacitive Touchscreen or Touch Panel - Various embodiments of differential cells for touchscreens or touch panels in capacitive sensing systems are disclosed. The differential circuit topologies of individual cells forming an array of such cells in a touchscreen or touch panel are configured to cancel common mode noise appearing on the multiple sense lines contained in each cell, and can result in lower power consumption, enhanced touch or near-touch sensitivity for a touchscreen or touch panel, and increased immunity from noise. | 07-19-2012 |
20120182225 | Detection of Predetermined Objects with Capacitive Touchscreens or Touch Panels - Various embodiments of systems, devices, components and methods of detecting the presence of at least one predetermined object held against a capacitive touchscreen by a user's finger or hand are disclosed. The predetermined object is held or placed against a touchscreen or touch panel, and sensed mutual capacitance signals are routed to a processor. The processor determines whether the sensed signals correspond to the at least one predetermined object on the basis of one or more predetermined ranges of mutual capacitances corresponding to the predetermined object, where the predetermined range of mutual capacitances does not correspond to a user's finger or hand. Other characteristics of the predetermined object may also be determined, such as the object's shape, orientation or electrical resistance. | 07-19-2012 |
20120181419 | COMPACT OPTICAL FINGER NAVIGATION SYSTEM BASED ON SPECKLES - An optical finger navigation device includes an image sensor, a tracking surface, and an optical element. The image sensor generates an image representative of light detected at a pixel array that has a pixel pitch which at least partially defines a surface area of a pixel. The tracking surface is approximately parallel to the image sensor. A first distance between and substantially orthogonal to planes of the tracking surface and the image sensor is insufficient under a set of illumination constraints to produce at the image sensor a speckle size above a threshold. The threshold is approximately one order of magnitude less than the pixel pitch. The optical element is interposed between the tracking surface and the image sensor. The optical element includes at least one optical redirection surface to redirect light along an optical path of a second distance between the tracking surface and the image sensor. | 07-19-2012 |
20120176139 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SENSING MULTIPLE USER INPUT SWITCH DEVICES - A system and method for sensing multiple user input switch devices uses a generated sense current that corresponds to an electrical current through a node to which the user input switch devices are connected to sense current states of the user input switch devices. The sense current is used to produce multiple output signals that indicate the current states of the user input switch devices. | 07-12-2012 |
20120162979 | LIGHT SOURCE WITH TUNABLE CRI - A light-emitting device with at least two light-emitting dies encapsulated with two different types of the wavelength-converting materials is disclosed. Each of the wavelength-converting materials is configured to produce a visible light from a narrow band light near UV region produced by the light-emitting dies, but with different correlated color temperatures (CCT) and different spectral contents. The combination of the two visible light forms the desired visible white light. The Color rendering index of the light-emitting device is tunable by adjusting the supply current to the light-emitting dies. In another embodiment, a light module with tunable CRI for an illumination system is disclosed. | 06-28-2012 |
20120138781 | Interpolation Circuitry for Optical Encoders - Disclosed are various embodiments of circuitry and methods for generating interpolated signals in an optical encoder. The optical encoder configurations and circuitry disclosed herein permit very high resolution reflective optical encoders in small packages to be provided. Methods of making and using such optical encoders are also disclosed. According to one embodiment, the interpolated signals are generated through the use of signal generation circuitry, peak voltage generation circuitry, reference voltage generation circuitry, slope detection circuitry, and a clocked comparator that is configured to output interpolated output pulses. | 06-07-2012 |
20120127076 | OPTICAL NAVIGATION WITH A DYNAMIC SQUAL THRESHOLD - A system and method for tracking movement between a surface and an optical navigation device are described. In an embodiment, the optical navigation device has an image sensor that includes an array of pixels and motion tracking involves acquiring image information, the image information including pixel values that correspond to the pixels, calculating a surface quality (SQUAL) value from the image information, determining a level of saturation of the pixel array from pixel values of the image information, comparing the determined level of saturation of the pixel array to a saturation threshold, increasing a SQUAL threshold if the determined level of saturation of the pixel array is greater than the saturation threshold, and deciding whether or not to output motion tracking information in response to a comparison of the SQUAL value to the SQUAL threshold. Other embodiments of the method are also described. | 05-24-2012 |
20120110662 | User Indentification with Capacitive Touchscreen - Disclosed herein are various embodiments of means and methods for verifying or authorizing one or more verified or authorized users to operate or use an electronic device containing a capacitive or other type of touchscreen or touch panel. Images are acquired from the touchscreen or touch panel and processed to determine first characteristics corresponding to fingers, hands or hand portions placed thereon. If the first characteristics match stored second characteristics with a sufficient degree of similarity, the user is identified as an authorized or verified user and then permitted to operate or use the electronic device. | 05-03-2012 |
20120110518 | TRANSLATION OF DIRECTIONAL INPUT TO GESTURE - A user device is disclosed which includes a touch input and a keypad input. The user device is configured to operate in a gesture capture mode as well as a navigation mode. In the navigation mode, the user interfaces with the touch input to move a cursor or similar selection tool within the user output. In the gesture capture mode, the user interfaces with the touch input to provide gesture data that is translated into key code output having a similar or identical format to outputs of the keypad. | 05-03-2012 |
20120105661 | ROW AND COLUMN JUMPING FOR PIXEL READOUT USING BURST SWITCHING MODE - An imaging apparatus is described for obtaining images. The imaging apparatus includes a pixel array, a row decoder, a column decoder, and a trigger circuit. The pixel array integrates electrical signals corresponding to incident light from a scene. The row decoder enables a selected row of pixels within the pixel array. The column decoder enables readout of a pixel in a selected column of the selected row within the pixel array. The trigger circuit generates one or more burst pulses to traverse through a corresponding number of decoder stages that correspond to pixels which are identified for discarding. Each burst pulse has a duration that is less than a stipulated minimum pulse duration of a typical decoder pulse of the decoders. By using shorter burst pulses, the trigger circuit can quickly jump to a desired row and/or column of pixels for readout, while conserving power. | 05-03-2012 |
20120105357 | Capacitive Touchscreen System with Reduced Power Consumption Using Modal Focused Scanning - Disclosed herein are various embodiments of a capacitive touchscreen system that is capable of sensing finger touches made on a capacitive touchscreen according to various scanning modes that reduce power consumption of the capacitive touchscreen system. The disclosed power saving scanning modes are modally focused, and can be used not only to reduce system power consumption, but also to enhance the user experience with the capacitive touchscreen system. | 05-03-2012 |
20120105356 | Capacitive Coupling of a Capacitive Touchscreen to a Printed Circuit and Controller - Disclosed herein are various embodiments of circuits and methods for capacitively coupling touchscreen electrode terminals to terminals of a flex circuit, printed circuit or printed circuit board, without physically attaching the touchscreen electrode terminals to the flex circuit, printed circuit or printed circuit board terminals by means of conventional electrical connection bonding materials or agents such as anisotropic conductive film or solder. The flex circuit, printed circuit or printed circuit board terminals are spaced apart from, or placed in physical contact with, corresponding ones of the touchscreen electrode terminals, but are not soldered or otherwise physically attached to the touchscreen electrode terminals by conventional electrical connection bonding materials or agents such as anisotropic conductive film or solder. The flex circuit, printed circuit or printed circuit board terminals are positioned with respect to the touchscreen electrode terminals such that the flex circuit, printed circuit or printed circuit board terminals are spaced part from, or in physical contact with, the touchscreen electrode terminals by gaps ranging between about 0.0 mm and about 1 mm. The gaps are sufficiently small to permit capacitive coupling of drive and sense signals provided by the touchscreen electrode terminals to the flex circuit, printed circuit or printed circuit board terminals. | 05-03-2012 |
20120105354 | Tactile Feedback Cover Lens for a Capacitive Touchscreen System - Disclosed herein are various embodiments of a mobile electronic device and corresponding cover lens therefor. The device comprises a primary capacitive touchscreen or display comprising a primary touch region having principal capacitive touch sensors associated therewith. A cover lens comprising at least a first secondary touch region forms a portion of the device. At least one secondary capacitive touch sensor is associated with the first secondary touch region. The cover lens is disposed and extends over the secondary touch sensor, and the first secondary touch region is spaced apart from the primary touch region and extends over the secondary touch sensor. The first secondary touch region is configured to provide tactile feedback to a user through the user's finger or other pointing device when the user's finger or other pointing device is placed on or moved across the first secondary touch region. The first secondary touch region of the cover lens further has a thickness sufficiently small to permit detection of the user's finger or other pointing device therethrough by the secondary sensor when the user's finger or other pointing device is in physical contact with the first secondary touch region and placed thereon or moved thereacross. | 05-03-2012 |
20120105353 | Method and Device for Reducing Noise Interference in a Capacitive Touchscreen System - Disclosed herein are various embodiments of means and methods for reducing noise interference in a capacitive touchscreen system. Second noise signals related to first noise signals generated by an external noise source are provided to a touchscreen controller, which determines fundamental and harmonic frequencies associated with the first noise signals. In response to determining the fundamental and harmonic frequencies associated with the first noise signals, the touchscreen controller may shift the frequency at which drive signals generated thereby are provided to a capacitive touchscreen. As a result, undesired interference between the first noise signals and the drive signals is minimized or avoided. | 05-03-2012 |
20120105325 | CAPACITIVE FINGER NAVIGATION INPUT DEVICE - A capacitive finger navigation input device uses a capacitive sensor array of capacitive sensing cells that includes only two capacitive sensing cells positioned along a linear direction. The capacitive finger navigation input device uses a drive circuit to drive at least one drive electrode of the capacitive sensor array and a sense circuit to sense mutual capacitance at each of the capacitive sensing cells of the capacitive sensor array to produce mutual capacitance signals, which are used to determine at least one of position and movement of a finger of a user with respect to the capacitive sensor array. The capacitive finger navigation input device may be used in a hand-held computing device and in a method for performing finger navigation. | 05-03-2012 |
20120104228 | PIXEL CIRCUIT, IMAGING INTEGRATED CIRCUIT, AND METHOD FOR IMAGE INFORMATION ACQUISITION - A pixel circuit uses two storage transistors to store two image signal samples, which include a reference signal produced by background noise of the pixel circuit and a signal produced by optical exposure of a photodetector and the background noise of the pixel circuit. An imaging integrated circuit uses a pixel circuit array, which may contain a number of such pixel circuits, and a charge acquisition circuit configured to read out image information obtained by the pixel circuit array. The charge acquisition circuit uses a first amplifier and a serially connected differential integrator that includes a second amplifier, a first differential integrator section and a second differential integrator section for the read out. A method for image information acquisition involves obtaining image information using the pixel circuit array and reading out the image information obtained by the pixel circuit array using the charge acquisition circuit. | 05-03-2012 |
20120076455 | OPTOCOUPLER - An optocoupler having an optical transmitter die, an optical receiver die, a light guide, a limiting element and a body is disclosed. The light guide is confined to upper portion of the body by using the limiting element. In one embodiment, the limiting element is a dielectric tape. In yet another embodiment, the limiting element is a pre-molded plastic attached to the lead frame via non-conductive epoxy. The use of the limiting element yields light guides having consistent shape. | 03-29-2012 |
20120019832 | OPTICAL NAVIGATION WITH SPECULAR REFLECTION BLOCKING - A system for optical navigation includes a light source and an imaging system. The light source illuminates a navigation surface. The navigation surface reflects light from the light source. The imaging system is located approximately within a path of the reflected light. The imaging system includes a lens, a mask, and an image sensor. The lens receives reflected light from the navigation surface. The lens focuses a specular portion of the reflected light to a focus region. The mask is located at approximately the focus region. The mask filters out substantially all of the specular portion of the reflected light and passes at least some of a scatter portion of the reflected light outside of the focus region. The image sensor generates a navigation signal based on the scattered portion of the light that passes outside the focus region and is incident on the image sensor. | 01-26-2012 |
20110310054 | Capacitive Touchscreen Signal Acquisition without Panel Reset - Various embodiments of readout circuits are disclosed where no touchscreen or touch panel recharge is required, and the amount of time available for signal acquisition is twice that relative to prior art touchscreen or touch panel readout circuits. Voltage offsets of the integrating amplifiers may be compensated for by notch filtering signals stored in readout circuit capacitors. Some embodiments of readout circuits disclosed herein permit large dynamic range capacitive touchscreen or touch panel signals to be processed, and do not require panel reset. Readout circuits are disclosed that permit doubling of the signal acquisition rate and pre-filtering of acquired touch panel signals for improved immunity from harmonic EMI. Signal acquisition and temporary storage may be carried out using the same capacitors in such readout circuits. | 12-22-2011 |
20110304484 | LIGHT GUIDE HAVING A CAPACITIVE SENSING GRID AND RELATED METHODOLOGY - An electronic device may include a keypad having a plurality of predefined key areas and a light guide that may be used to illuminate the key areas. The light guide may include a capacitive sensing grid to sense user contact relative to the keypad. | 12-15-2011 |
20110298540 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A POWER AMPLIFIER USING A PROGRAMMABLE RAMP CIRCUIT - A system and method for controlling a power amplifier using a programmable ramp circuit involves receiving an input bias current at a programmable ramp circuit, generating an output bias current based on the input bias current using the programmable ramp circuit, and transmitting the output bias current from the programmable ramp circuit to a power amplifier for amplifying a radio frequency signal. | 12-08-2011 |
20110297832 | Proximity Sensor - A proximity sensor includes a printed circuit board (PCB); a first cup and a second cup embedded in the PCB; an electromagnetic radiation transmitter operably mounted in the first cup; and an electromagnetic radiation receiver operably mounted in the second cup. | 12-08-2011 |
20110297831 | Small Low-Profile Optical Proximity Sensor - In an embodiment, the invention provides a proximity sensor including a transmitter die, a receiver die, an ASIC die, a lead frame, wire bonds, a first transparent encapsulant, a second transparent encapsulant, and an opaque encapsulant. The transmitter die, the receiver die and the ASIC die are attached to portions of the lead frame. Wire bonds electrically connect the transmitter die, the receiver die, the ASIC die, and the lead frame. The first transparent encapsulant covers the receiver die, the ASIC die, the wire bonds, and a portion of the lead frame. The second transparent encapsulant covers the transmitter die, the wire bonds, and a portion of the lead frame. The opaque encapsulant covers portions of the first and second encapsulants and a portion of the lead frame. | 12-08-2011 |
20110267268 | BACKLIGHTING FOR OPTICAL FINGER NAVIGATION - An optical finger navigation (OFN) device includes an OFN sensor module, a light source, and a vertical light guide. The OFN sensor module is coupled to a circuit substrate. The OFN sensor module generates a navigation signal in response to a movement detected at a navigation surface based on light reflected from a user's finger. The light source is also coupled to the circuit substrate. The light source generates light (which is separate from the light generated for the OFN sensor module). The vertical light guide is disposed to circumscribe a perimeter of the OFN sensor module. The vertical light guide receives the light from the light source and guides the light toward a light emission surface at a perimeter surface area circumscribing the navigation surface. | 11-03-2011 |
20110254032 | Electronic Assembly - An electronic assembly includes a first substrate and a second substrate, a hole through the first substrate, the second substrate having a trace with an indentation, an electronic device mounted over the indentation in the trace, and the first substrate is attached to the second substrate such that the electronic device is positioned within the hole through the first substrate. | 10-20-2011 |
20110235975 | OPTOCOUPLER WITH LIGHT GUIDE DEFINING ELEMENT - An optocoupler with a light guide defining element is presented. The light guide defining element has at least one cavity configured to define the shape of the light guide formed by a transparent encapsulant encapsulating the optical transmitter and receiver dies. The transparent encapsulant in liquid form may be injected into the cavity prior to a curing process to harden the encapsulant into a light guide with a predetermined shape. The cavity of the light guide element may be defined by a reflective surface having micro-optics formed thereon. A multichannel optocoupler with multiple transmitter and/or receiver dies having such light guide defining element is also presented. The light guide defining element may have a single cavity enveloping all the optical transmitter or receiver dies, or a multiple cavities by having a pair of transmitter and receiver dies inside each cavity. | 09-29-2011 |
20110215347 | Increasing Contrast In Electronic Color Displays Via Surface Texturing Of LEDs - In an embodiment, the invention provides a light source comprising a plurality of light-emitting semiconductor chips, a plurality of electrical leads and an encapsulant. The plurality of electrical leads is connected to the plurality of light-emitting semiconductor chips. The encapsulant completely encases the plurality of semiconductor chips. The encapsulant partially encases the plurality of electrical leads. | 09-08-2011 |
20110176573 | Silicone Leaded Chip Carrier - In an embodiment, the invention provides a SLCC package comprising first and second electrically conductive terminals, a polysiloxane and glass fiber structural body, a light source and a polysiloxane encapsulant. The first and second electrically conductive terminals are attached to the polysiloxane and glass fiber structural body. The light source is electrically connected to the first and second electrically conductive terminals. The polysiloxane and glass fiber structural body has a cavity that contains at least a portion of the polysiloxane encapsulant. | 07-21-2011 |
20110148764 | OPTICAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING SELF-CALIBRATION ON THE SYSTEM USING A CALIBRATION COVER - An optical navigation system and method for performing self-calibration on the system uses captured frames of image data of an interior surface of a calibration cover of the system to detect a performance-related change of the system. In response to the detected performance-related change, a predefined procedure is then initiated. | 06-23-2011 |
20110147788 | SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE WITH A LIGHT EMITTING SEMICONDUCTOR DIE - A semiconductor device includes a light emitting semiconductor die mounted on at least one of first and second electrically conductive bonding pads, which are located on a first major surface of a substrate of the device. The light emitting semiconductor die has an anode and a cathode, which are electrically connected to the first and second electrically conductive bonding pads. The semiconductor device further includes first and second electrically conductive connecting pads, which are located on a second major surface of the substrate. The first and second electrically conductive bonding pads are electrically connected to the first and second electrically conductive connecting pads via first and second electrically conductive edge interconnecting elements. | 06-23-2011 |
20110141048 | OPTICAL FINGERPRINT NAVIGATION DEVICE WITH LIGHT GUIDE FILM - Embodiments of a finger navigation device are described. In one embodiment, the finger navigation device includes a light guide film (LGF), a light source, a sensor, and a navigation engine. At least a portion of the LGF exhibits total internal reflection (TIR) and the light source is in optical communication with the LGF and configured to inject light into the LGF. The sensor is configured to detect light that exits from the LGF after being reflected from a finger that is proximate the LGF and the navigation engine is configured to generate lateral movement information, which is indicative of lateral movement of the finger relative to the sensor, in response to light that is reflected from the finger and detected by the sensor. Other embodiments of the finger navigation device are also described. | 06-16-2011 |
20110141022 | METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR TRACKING MOVEMENT RELATIVE TO A SURFACE - In an embodiment, a method of tracking movement relative to a surface involves comparing at least some data elements of a first array with at least some of data elements of a second array if it is determined, from an examination of the first array of data elements, that a characteristic condition does not exist in the first array of data elements, wherein the characteristic condition is related to the uniformity of at least a majority of the data elements of the first array. | 06-16-2011 |
20110121211 | Galvanic Isolator Having Improved High Voltage Common Mode Transient Immunity - A galvanic isolator having a transmitter die, a receiver die, and a lead frame is disclosed. The transmitter die includes an LED having first and second contacts for powering the LED, and the receiver die includes a photodetector. The lead frame includes first and second transmitter leads, and first and second receiver leads. The transmitter die is bonded to the first lead, the first contact being connected electrically to the first transmitter lead and the second contact being connected to the second transmitter lead. The receiver die is connected to the first and second receiver leads. The LED and the photodetector are positioned such that light generated by the LED is received by the photodetector. The first and second transmitter leads are capacitively coupled to the first receiver lead. The capacitive couplings are characterized by first and second capacitance values that are substantially the same. | 05-26-2011 |
20110095984 | OPTICAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF ESTIMATING MOTION WITH OPTICAL LIFT DETECTION - An optical navigation system and method of estimating motion uses a plate with an aperture, a photodetector and an optical system for optical lift detection. The optical system is configured to direct an input light to a target surface through the aperture of the plate and to direct the input light reflected from the target surface and transmitted back through the aperture of the plate toward the photodetector to be detected by the photodetector for lift detection. | 04-28-2011 |
20110090698 | LIGHT SOURCE - Light sources are disclosed herein. An embodiment of a light sources comprises a substrate having a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface. At least one first electrically conductive layer is affixed to the first surface of the substrate and partially covering the first surface of the substrate. At least one second electrically conductive layer is affixed to the first surface of the substrate and partially covering the first surface of the substrate. A light emitter is affixed to the first surface of the substrate in an area not covered by either of the at least one first electrically conductive layer or the at least one second electrically conductive layer. | 04-21-2011 |
20110089463 | Light Source - Light sources are disclosed herein. One embodiment comprises a substrate having a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface. At least one first electrically conductive layer is affixed to the first surface of the substrate and partially covering the first surface of the substrate. At least one second electrically conductive layer is affixed to the first surface of the substrate and partially covering the first surface of the substrate. A light emitter is affixed to the first surface of the substrate in an area not covered by either of the at least one first electrically conductive layer or the at least one second electrically conductive layer. The substrate may be thinner in the area where the light emitter is affixed than in the areas where the first and second electrically conductive layers are affixed. A heat sink may be attached to the second surface of the substrate. | 04-21-2011 |
20110089460 | LIGHT EMITTING DIODE ASSEMBLY - An electronic assembly includes a Light Emitting Diode (LED) mounted on a top surface of a heat spreader, at least two electrical contacts co-planar with the heat spreader, and at least one heat slug mounted on the top surface of the heat spreader, where the heat slug is made of high thermal conductive plastic. | 04-21-2011 |
20110089448 | Single Encapsulant For A Plurality Of Light Sources - In an embodiment, the invention provides a light source comprising a plurality of light-emitting semiconductor chips, a plurality of electrical leads and an encapsulant. The plurality of electrical leads is connected to the plurality of light-emitting semiconductor chips. The encapsulant completely encases the plurality of semiconductor chips. The encapsulant partially encases the plurality of electrical leads. | 04-21-2011 |
20110083951 | FITTING A LIGHT GUIDE SHEET TO A KEYPAD USING PROTRUSIONS - In an embodiment, the invention provides a keypad assembly comprising a keypad, a light guide sheet, a dome sheet, and a board. The keypad comprises at least one protrusion and at least one rib. The light guide sheet has openings that are smaller than a first portion of the at least one protrusion. The dome sheet and the board have openings that are larger than a first portion of the at least one protrusion. The at least one protrusion is compressible such that the first portion of the at least one protrusion is extendable through the openings in the light guide sheet, the dome sheet and the board. The at least one rib physically contacts at least a portion of the light guide sheet. | 04-14-2011 |
20110079802 | LIGHT EMITTER - Embodiments of light sources are disclosed herein. An embodiment of the light source comprises a lead frame having a first side and a second side. A hole extends through the lead frame between the first side and the second side. An adhesive is located in the hole and extends beyond the hole, wherein the adhesive extends beyond the diameter of the hole on the first side and the second side of the first lead frame. A light emitter adhered to the adhesive proximate the first side of the first lead frame. | 04-07-2011 |
20110075449 | Compact Power Transformer Components, Devices, Systems and Methods - Disclosed herein are various embodiments of compact coil power transformers configured to provide high voltage isolation and high voltage breakdown performance characteristics in small packages. Compact coil transformers are provided across which power may be transmitted and received by primary and secondary coils disposed on opposing sides of a substrate without high voltage breakdowns occurring therebetween. At least portions of the compact coil transformer are formed of an electrically insulating, non-metallic, non-semiconductor, low dielectric loss material. The compact coil transformers may be formed in small packages using, by way of example, printed circuit boards, flex circuits, lead frames, CMOS and other fabrication and packaging processes. | 03-31-2011 |
20110066874 | SNIFF MODE LOW POWER OSCILLATOR (LPO) CLOCK CALIBRATION - An apparatus for clock calibration on a remote device includes a first oscillator, a second oscillator, and a clock calibration module. The first oscillator generates a first clock signal during an active communication mode to facilitate communications between the remote and host devices. The first oscillator is inactive during a sniff mode. The second oscillator generates a second clock signal during both the active communication and sniff modes. The clock calibration module generates an estimated count for the first clock signal approximately at a transition from the sniff mode to the active communication mode. The estimated count is based on a clock ratio of a baseline count of the first clock signal relative to a baseline count of the second clock signal. The clock calibration module also calculates a difference between the estimated count and an actual count from the host device to determine whether to update the clock ratio. | 03-17-2011 |
20110044062 | LIGHT SOURCE - An embodiment of a light source comprises a first lead and a second lead. The first lead comprises a first mounting surface wherein a first light emitter is connectable to the first mounting surface, a support member attached to the first mounting surface, a conductor portion attached to the support member, and at least one tab extending from the first mounting surface, the at least one tab being used to hold the first lead during fabrication. The second lead is second lead located adjacent the first lead and comprises a second mounting surface wherein a second light emitter is connectable to the second mounting surface, at least two support members attached to the second mounting surface, and a conductor portion attached to each of the support members. | 02-24-2011 |
20110038508 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING OPTICAL NAVIGATION USING PORTIONS OF CAPTURED FRAMES OF IMAGE DATA - A system and method for performing optical navigation selectively uses portions of captured frame of image data for cross-correlation for displacement estimation, which can reduce the power consumption and/or increase the tracking performance at higher speed usage. | 02-17-2011 |
20110024785 | Light Emitting Diode Device - An electronic assembly includes a Light Emitting Diode (LED) and a substrate. The LED has a solderable surface other than the contacts. The substrate has an opening. The solderable surface is mounted substantially over the opening. When the opening is filled with solder, the solderable surface is metallically bonded with the solder in the opening. | 02-03-2011 |
20110012653 | CHARGE PUMP WITH LOW CHARGE INJECTION AND LOW CLOCK FEED-THROUGH - A charge pump with low charge injection and low clock feed-through for a phase locked loop (PLL). A first source-switched current mirror has a source transistor and an output transistor. The source transistor has a drain connected to a first current source. The output transistor has a drain connected to an output of the charge pump. The gates of the source and output transistors are coupled together by a first conductive link. A switch is coupled between a supply voltage source and a source of the output transistor of the current mirror. A tuner is coupled between the switch and the output transistor of the current mirror. A source of the tuner is coupled to a drain of the switch and to the source of the output transistor. A drain of the tuner is coupled to the first conductive link between the source and output transistors of the current mirror. | 01-20-2011 |
20100328902 | Coil Transducer Isolator Packages - In an embodiment, the invention provides a coil transducer isolator package comprising at least one lead frame, at least two integrated circuits (ICs) and a flex circuit comprising at least a first coil transducer. The first coil transducer comprises at least one metal coil. The coil transducer isolator package is fabricated such that no portion of the lead frame is physically located within a spatial volume extending substantially perpendicular to the at least one metal coil. The boundaries of the spatial volume are defined by a periphery of the at least one metal coil. At least one of the two ICs is at least partially located within the spatial volume extending substantially perpendicular to the at least one metal coil. | 12-30-2010 |
20100322550 | OPTICAL FINGERPRINT NAVIGATION DEVICE WITH LIGHT GUIDE FILM - An optical finger navigation device. Embodiments of the optical finger navigation device include a light guide film (LGF) including a finger interface surface, a light source in optical communication with the LGF to provide light from the light source to the finger interface surface, a sensor, and a navigation engine. At least a portion of the LGF exhibits total internal reflection (TIR). The sensor detects light from the LGF in response to contact between a finger and the finger interface surface which modifies reflection of light out of the LGF to the sensor. The light detected by the sensor is changed over at least a portion of the sensor in response to the contact between the finger and the finger interface surface. The navigation engine is configured to generate lateral movement information indicative of lateral movement of the finger relative to the sensor, in response to the detected light. | 12-23-2010 |
20100320485 | MULTI-CHIP PACKAGED LED LIGHT SOURCE - A light source having a lead frame, a body, and a plurality of dies, each die having an LED thereon is disclosed. The body includes a top surface, a bottom surface and a plurality of side surfaces. The lead frame includes first, second, and third sections, the first section includes a die mounting area having a first protrusion that passes through the body and terminates in a pad on the bottom surface. The second and third sections each include a protrusion that is bent to form first and second leads that run along one of the side surfaces. Each die is bonded to the die mounting area such that a first contact is electrically connected to the die mounting area, and a second contact is connected to one of the second and third sections. The first protrusion of the first section provides improved heat transfer. | 12-23-2010 |
20100302532 | PHOTODETECTOR HAVING DARK CURRENT CORRECTION - A method for determining the light intensity of a light signal in each of a plurality of spectral bands is disclosed and a method for fabricating a photodetector is also disclosed. | 12-02-2010 |
20100302208 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING OPTICAL NAVIGATION WITHOUT USING LENSES - An optical navigation device and method for performing optical navigation uses an optically transparent flexible film, which is positioned over a sensor that includes an image sensor array, to allow the image sensor array to receive imaging light from a target surface that is produced in response to illumination light emitted into the target surface from a light source. The imaging light from the target surface is received at the image sensor array of the sensor to capture frames of image data of the target surface. The frames of image data are then compared to estimate relative displacements between the target surface and the image sensor array. | 12-02-2010 |
20100296297 | LIGHT EMITTER - A light emitter is disclosed herein. The light emitter may have a lead frame and a plastic reflector cup. The lead frame may have a planar portion; a bond area having a light-emitting diode attached thereto; and at least two terminals configured for surface mount technology. The reflector cup may be proximate the bond area and may have an opening, wherein light emitted from the light-emitting diode passes through the opening; a side wall extending between the planar portion and the opening; and a clear lens located proximate the opening and attached to the reflector cup. The combination of the lens and the reflector cup causes a light beam originating from the light-emitting diode to be less than fifteen degrees. | 11-25-2010 |
20100289775 | FINGER NAVIGATION DEVICE - A finger navigation device is disclosed herein. An embodiment of the navigation device comprises a substrate; a light emitter located on the substrate; a photosensor located on the substrate; and a first cover located above the light emitter and the photosensor. The first cover has a first side and a second side, wherein the first side faces the substrate. A first lens is located in the first cover proximate the light emitter. An aperture is located in the first cover proximate the photosensor. A second cover faces the first side of the first cover and has a second lens proximate a transparent portion. A first light path extends between the light emitter and the first lens. A second light path extends between the first lens and the second lens. A third light path extends between the second lens and the transparent portion. A fourth light path extends between the transparent portion and the photosensor through the aperture. | 11-18-2010 |
20100289745 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTING LIGHT SOURCE DRIVE CURRENT DURING OPTICAL NAVIGATION OPERATION - A system and method for automatically adjusting a drive current to a light source during an optical navigation operation uses brightness characteristics of captured frames of image data to determine whether each of the frames of image data belongs to one of at least first and second types of frames of image data. The drive current is adjusted depending on counts of the frames of image data belonging to the first and second types of frames of image data. | 11-18-2010 |
20100289055 | SILICONE LEADED CHIP CARRIER - In an embodiment, the invention provides a SLCC package comprising first and second electrically conductive terminals, a polysiloxane and glass fiber structural body, a light source and a polysiloxane encapsulant. The first and second electrically conductive terminals are attached to the polysiloxane and glass fiber structural body. The light source is electrically connected to the first and second electrically conductive terminals. The polysiloxane and glass fiber structural body has a cavity that contains at least a portion of the polysiloxane encapsulant. | 11-18-2010 |
20100288608 | ILLUMINATED KEYPAD - An illuminated keypad is disclosed herein. And embodiment of the keypad comprises a first zone and a second zone; a substrate comprising a substrate surface; a first switch located on the substrate in the first zone; a first light guide having a first light guide first side and a first light guide second side, wherein the first light guide first side faces the first switch; a second light guide having a second light guide first side and a second light guide second side, wherein the second light guide first side faces the substrate surface; a masking layer having a masking layer first side and a masking layer second side, the masking layer first side facing the substrate surface; and at least one cut in the masking layer, wherein the masking layer blocks a light path between the light guides. | 11-18-2010 |
20100282950 | ECCENTRIC FIELD IMAGING LENS WITH TITLTED AND DECENTERED SURFACES - An optical navigation device determines relative movement between the optical navigation device and a navigation surface. The optical navigation device includes a light source, an image sensor, and an eccentric field imaging lens. The light source illuminates a navigation surface. The image sensor generates a navigation image of light scattered off of the navigation surface. The eccentric field imaging lens is disposed between the navigation surface and the image sensor. The eccentric field imaging lens includes multiple lens surfaces which are tilted at different oblique angles relative to the navigation surface to direct the light scattered off of the navigation surface toward the image sensor. | 11-11-2010 |
20100271842 | MULTI-COLOR ILLUMINATING BACK LIGHT STRUCTURE - In an embodiment, the invention provides a multi-color illuminating back light structure comprising a light guide, a reflector, at least one LED and a wavelength converter material. Micro-structures are formed on a first surface of the light guide. The reflector is attached to the first surface of the light guide. A wavelength converter material is deposited on a second surface of the light guide. At least one LED is optically coupled to at least one side of the light guide. A portion of light reflected from the micro-structures and the reflector is converted into light having at least one wavelength different from the wavelength of the reflected light. The light leaving the wavelength converter material comprises light with at least first and second wavelengths. | 10-28-2010 |
20100266158 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPTICALLY TRACKING A MOBILE DEVICE - A system and method for optically tracking a mobile device uses a first displacement value along a first direction and a second displacement value along a second direction, which are produced using frames of image data of a navigation surface, to compute first and second tracking values that indicate the current position of the mobile device. The first tracking value is computed using the second displacement value and the sine of a tracking angle value, while the second tracking value is computed using the second displacement value and the cosine of the tracking angle value. The tracking angle value is an angle value derived using at least one previous second displacement value. | 10-21-2010 |
20100264436 | PLCC Package With A Reflector Cup Surrounded By A Single Encapsulant - In an embodiment the invention provides a LFCC package comprising first, second and third lead frames, a light source, and an encapsulant. The first lead frame comprises two tongues and a reflector cup. The first, second and third lead frames are attached to the encapsulant. The light source is mounted at the bottom of the inside of the reflector cup. The light source is electrically connected to the second and third lead frames by wire bonds. The reflector cup is surrounded on at least four sides by the encapsulant, the encapsulant being an integral single piece structure. | 10-21-2010 |
20100258419 | LIGHT GUIDE FILM WITH CUT LINES - A light guide for an optical keypad is described. The light guide includes a light interface surface, top and bottom surfaces, a surface feature pattern, and a cut line. The light interface surface receives light into the light guide from a light source. The light received through the light interface surface reflects according to total internal reflection (TIR) within the light guide between portions of the top and bottom surfaces. The surface feature pattern disrupts the TIR and scatters at least some of the light outside of at least one surface of the top and bottom surfaces. The cut line redirects at least some of the light from a first direction to a second direction within the light guide. The first direction is a direction other than towards the surface feature pattern, while the second direction is a direction substantially towards the surface feature pattern. | 10-14-2010 |
20100253629 | Combined Mutual Capacitance and Switch-Actuated Keyboard for Enhanced Texting in an Electronic Device - In one embodiment, a mutual-capacitance sensing electrode array is disposed beneath a keyboard, and operates in conjunction with a series of single switches disposed beneath each of the keys in a keyboard. The electrode array and switches are employed in conjunction with one another to indicate that a letter, number or other symbol displayed on a particular key has been selected by a user. Although some embodiments find especially efficacious application in hand-held portable electronic devices such as mobile telephones, other embodiments are well suited for use in stationary equipment or other devices containing keyboards or control panels. | 10-07-2010 |
20100244064 | LIGHT SOURCE - A light source is described herein. An embodiment of the light source comprises a reflector cup having a cavity; a light emitter located in the cavity; a first encapsulant encompassing the light emitter; and a film located adjacent the first encapsulant, the film comprising phosphor. | 09-30-2010 |
20100220900 | FINGERPRINT SENSING DEVICE - A fingerprint sensing module for a touch screen device. The fingerprint sensing module includes a sensor, a light source, a motion detector, and an image processor. The sensor sets to capture portions for a fingerprint image as a finger is slid over the sensor. The motion detector determines a rate of the finger movement as the finger is slide over the touch screen device. The image processor reads fingerprint images from the sensor and the fingerprint motion data from the motion detector. The image processor subsequently combines portions of the fingerprint images into a complete fingerprint in accordance with the rate of the finger's movement. | 09-02-2010 |
20100214224 | LIGHT BEAM SHAPING ELEMENT FOR AN OPTICAL NAVIGATION INPUT DEVICE - An optical navigation input device with a light guide which acts as a beam shaping element. The optical navigation input device includes a light source and the light guide. The light source emits a light beam having a substantially elliptical or substantially circular cross section. The light guide is positioned relative to the light source to receive the light beam from the light source in a first direction. The light guide also redirects the light beam in a second direction toward an illumination surface at a non-zero angle of incidence. The light guide directs the light beam through a refraction interface in order to illuminate a substantially circular area on the illumination surface. | 08-26-2010 |
20100207884 | OPTICAL NAVIGATION DEVICE WITH PHASE GRATING FOR BEAM STEERING - An optical navigation device with a phase grating for beam steering. The optical navigation device includes a light source, and image sensor, and a beam steering element. The light source directs a light beam toward a navigation surface. The image sensor receives light along an imaging path and generates a navigation image of the navigation surface from the light received along the imaging path. The beam steering element is disposed between the navigation surface and the image sensor. The beam steering element receives reflected light from the navigation surface along a specular reflection path. The beam steering element directs a first portion of the reflected light along the imaging path toward the image sensor. The beam steering element directs a second portion of the reflected light along a beam steering path away from the imaging path. | 08-19-2010 |
20100207011 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING OPTICAL NAVIGATION USING A COMPACT OPTICAL ELEMENT - A system and method for performing optical navigation uses an illumination optical element positioned between a light source and a navigation surface to bend and collimate a beam of light from the light source, which may be originally emitted in a direction normal to the navigation surface. The illumination optical element includes a concave surface to receive the beam of light from the light source and a convex surface to transmit the beam of light from the illumination optical element toward the navigation surface. The beam of light incident on the navigation surface produces light, which is received at an image sensor array to capture frames of image data for displacement estimation. | 08-19-2010 |
20100195935 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING OPTICAL NAVIGATION USING ENHANCED FRAMES OF IMAGE DATA - A system and method for performing optical navigation uses a spatial noise pattern estimate of the spatial noise pattern in captured frames of image data caused by contamination on at least one component of the system to substantially remove the spatial noise pattern in the captured frames of image data before the captured frames of image data are used for displacement estimation. | 08-05-2010 |
20100188853 | LIGHT EMITTER - A light emitter is disclosed herein. An embodiment of the light emitter comprises a substrate having a substrate surface; a light emitting diode located on the substrate surface; an encapsulant located on the substrate surface and encapsulating the light emitting diode; and a reflector cup attached to the substrate, the reflector cup having a reflector cup first side and a reflector cup second side with a hole extending between the reflector cup first side and the reflector cup second side, wherein the reflector cup first side is attached to the substrate surface so that the hole in the reflector cup first side encompasses the light emitting diode. | 07-29-2010 |
20100188332 | THIN-FILM TRANSISTOR IMAGER - An optical input device for finger input on an electronic computing device. The optical input device includes a thin-film transistor (TFT) imager and an integrated circuit (IC). The TFT imager includes a protective layer, a substrate, and a TFT array. The protective layer has a finger contact surface. The TFT array includes photo-sensitive thin-film transistors disposed on a surface of the substrate, between the substrate and the protective layer. The TFT array generates image signals corresponding to physical features of a user's finger in contact with the finger contact surface of the protective layer. The integrated circuit is coupled to the TFT imager. The integrated circuit processes the image signals from the TFT array. | 07-29-2010 |
20100182601 | OFFSET ILLUMINATION APERTURE FOR OPTICAL NAVIGATION INPUT DEVICE - An optical navigation input device with an offset imaging aperture. The optical navigation input device includes a light source, an illumination aperture structure, and an image sensor. The light source directs a light beam toward a substantially specular illumination surface. Scattered light reflects off of a surface reflection feature along a scattered light path which is offset from a specular reflection path. The illumination aperture structure at least partially defines an illumination aperture interposed between the light source and the illumination surface. The illumination aperture produces a diffraction pattern that includes a diffraction discontinuity which is substantially free from diffracted light within a sector area outside of the light beam. The image sensor is disposed within the scattered light path at a location corresponding to the diffraction discontinuity. The image sensor receives the scattered light from the surface reflection feature and generates a navigation image of the surface reflection feature. | 07-22-2010 |
20100172545 | ABSOLUTE TRACKING IN A SUB-PIXEL RANGE - An optical navigation device for absolute tracking in a sub-pixel range. The optical navigation device includes an image sensor and a tracking engine. The image sensor includes a pixel array to generate a plurality of tracking images. The tracking images correspond to incident light at the pixel array. The tracking engine determines a sub-pixel displacement value of a tracking surface based on a comparison of at least two of the tracking images. The tracking engine includes a sub-pixel approximation engine and a linear approximation engine. The sub-pixel approximation engine generates an intermediate sub-pixel displacement value based on a sub-pixel approximation according to a non-linear sub-pixel distribution. The linear approximation engine generates a final sub-pixel displacement value from the intermediate sub-pixel displacement value. | 07-08-2010 |
20100171703 | IMAGING AND NAVIGATION ARRANGEMENT FOR CONTROLLING A CURSOR - A method for operating an optical pointing device involves capturing a plurality of arrays of data, representing light reflected from a surface to a two-dimensional array of photo detectors, processing at least some of the plurality of arrays of data to estimate movement of the surface during each of a plurality of measurement cycles, and sending a series of estimated movement update signals to a computer. | 07-08-2010 |
20100162054 | DETECTION OF AND RECOVERY FROM AN ELECTRICAL FAST TRANSIENT/BURST (EFT/B) ON A UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) DEVICE - An Electrical Fast Transient/Burst (EFT/B) detection and recovery system for a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device. The system includes a USB core and a burst controller. The USB core provides serial communications with a host device through a USB data channel. The burst controller is coupled to the USB core. The burst controller detects an EFT/B event and automatically reconnects the USB core to the host device in response to recognition of a suspend state of the USB core by the host device. | 06-24-2010 |
20100148911 | Miniature Transformers Adapted For Use In Galvanic Isolators And The like - A component coil for constructing transformers and the transformer constructed therefrom are disclosed. The component coil includes a substrate having an insulating layer of material having top and bottom surfaces. First and second traces are included on the top and bottom surfaces. Each trace includes a spiral conductor. The inner ends of the spiral conductors are connected by a conductor that passes through the insulating layer. The first and second spiral conductors are oriented such that magnetic fields generated by the first and second spiral conductors have components perpendicular to the top surface and in the same direction. The component coils can be used to construct a power transformer or a galvanic isolator. | 06-17-2010 |
20100147600 | TOUCH PAD DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING A POSITION OF AN INPUT OBJECT ON THE DEVICE USING CAPACITIVE COUPLING - A touch pad device and method for determining a position of an input object on the device uses multiple sensing electrodes to produce signals induced by mutual capacitive coupling that are dependent on which conductors of the device are being electrically contacted by the input object. These signals are then processed to determine the position of the input object on the touch pad device. | 06-17-2010 |
20100128003 | LIGHT PIPE ARRAY LENS, OPTICAL FINGER NAVIGATION DEVICE WITH THE LENS AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE DEVICE - An optical finger navigation device and method for making the device uses a light pipe array lens, which includes an array of light pipes formed in a monolithic block of material. The light pipe array lens is configured to function similarly to a fiber bundle lens to transmit light through the lens using the light pipes in the monolithic block of material. | 05-27-2010 |
20100127162 | OPTICAL JOG WHEEL WITH SPIRAL CODING ELEMENT - A user navigational apparatus. The user navigational apparatus includes a dial, a coding element, and an encoder. The coding element is coupled to a dial. The coding element includes a track of alternating reflective and non-reflective sections, each having a substantially oblique leading edge relative to a direction of movement of the coding element. The encoder includes an emitter and a detector. The emitter generates a light signal incident on the track of the coding element. The detector detects a reflected light signal which corresponds to a portion of the incident light signal that is reflected off of the reflective sections of the track. The detector also generates a channel signal corresponding to the reflected light signal. | 05-27-2010 |
20100105155 | DIGITAL TRIMMING IN A MICROELECTRONIC DEVICE - Digital trimming logic is included in a microelectronic device of a type that produces an output signal in response to an input signal and a threshold signal. Trimming logic values are produced in response to a clock signal that is applied to the device in a trimming mode. The clock signal can be applied to a device pin that is used in normal operation to provide an output signal, thus allowing the pin to serve a dual function. The trimming logic changes the trimming logic value in response to the clock signal until the trimming logic value reaches a trim value at which the threshold signal is substantially equal to the input signal. The trimming logic then stores the trim value in a non-volatile memory and enters a locked mode in which further trimming is prevented and the device is ready for normal operation. | 04-29-2010 |
20100079411 | OPTICAL FINGER NAVIGATION UTILIZING QUANTIZED MOVEMENT INFORMATION - A user input device includes an optical element comprising a finger interface surface, a light source in optical communication with the finger interface surface and configured to provide light from the light source to the finger interface surface, a sensor array configured to detect light reflected from the finger interface surface in response to contact between a finger and the finger interface surface, a navigation engine coupled to the sensor array, the navigation engine configured to generate lateral movement information, which is indicative of lateral movement of the finger relative to the sensor array, in response to the detected light, wherein the lateral movement information comprises first and second orthogonal components, and a quantization engine coupled to the navigation engine, the quantization engine configured to compare the first orthogonal component to the second orthogonal component and to generate first and second quantized orthogonal components in response to the comparison. | 04-01-2010 |
20100079408 | USER INPUT DEVICE WITH PLANAR LIGHT GUIDE ILLUMINATION PLATE - A user input device to generate an optical navigation signal based on an edge-lit pattern. The user input device includes an optical element, a light source, a sensor array, and a navigation engine. The optical element includes a finger interface surface. At least a portion of the optical element exhibits total internal reflection (TIR). The light source provides light to the finger interface surface. The sensor array detects light reflected from the finger interface surface in response to contact between a finger and the finger interface surface. The contact between the finger and the finger interface surface disrupts the TIR and causes light to be reflected out of the optical element towards the sensor array. The navigation engine generates lateral movement information, which is indicative of lateral movement of the finger relative to the sensor array, in response to the detected light. | 04-01-2010 |
20100078545 | LENSLESS USER INPUT DEVICE WITH OPTICAL INTERFERENCE - An optical navigation device which uses optical interference to generate navigation images. The optical navigation device includes an optical element, a light source, a sensor array, a navigation engine, and a light shield. The optical element includes a finger interface surface. The light source includes a laser in optical communication with the finger interface surface to provide light to the finger interface surface. The sensor array detects light reflected from the finger interface surface in response to contact between a finger and the finger interface surface. The navigation engine is coupled to the sensor array. The navigation engine generates lateral movement information based on lateral movement of the finger relative to the sensor array. The light shield is between the optical element and the sensor array. The light shield includes an aperture linearly aligned with the sensor array. | 04-01-2010 |
20100073327 | USER INPUT DEVICE WITH DYNAMIC AMBIENT LIGHT CALIBRATION - A user input device to generate a shutter threshold adaptive to ambient light conditions. The user input device includes a sensor array, a shutter controller, and a threshold generator. The sensor array obtains image data in response to light incident on the sensor array. The shutter controller is coupled to the sensor array. The shutter controller controls a shutter time during which the sensor array is responsive to the light incident on the sensor array according to a shutter value. The threshold generator is coupled to the shutter controller. The threshold generator dynamically generates a shutter threshold corresponding to the shutter value. The shutter threshold defines a transition of a finger-on/off state. | 03-25-2010 |
20100073293 | NAVIGATION DEVICE WITH DUAL AIRFLOW SENSORS - A navigation device with dual airflow sensors. The navigation device includes a first sensor to detect a first airflow in response to movement of the navigation device in approximately a first direction. The navigation device includes a second sensor to detect a second airflow in response to movement of the navigation device in approximately a second direction. The navigation device also includes first and second airflow directors which are aligned with the first and second sensors, respectively. Each airflow director includes multiple openings to direct the first and second airflows across the first and second sensors, and to maintain the first and second airflows substantially independent of one another. The navigation device also includes a microcontroller to generate a two dimensional navigation signal based on input signals from the first and second sensors. | 03-25-2010 |
20100072592 | LIGHT SOURCE USING A LIGHT-EMITTING DIODE - A light source is described herein. An embodiment of the light source comprises a mounting surface and a first lead frame. The first lead frame extends from the mounting surface. The first lead frame comprises a first portion extending from the mounting surface; a cup portion having a cup portion first side and a cup portion second side, the cup portion first side configured to receive a light-emitting diode, the cup portion second side being located opposite the cup portion first side; and a second portion extending between the first portion and the cup portion second side. | 03-25-2010 |
20100071967 | OPTICAL FINGER NAVIGATION DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED TACTILE SWITCH - A system of a tactile switch and an optical navigation device. The system includes a user device. The user device includes an optical finger navigation device. The optical finger navigation device enables a user to control a function of the user device via the optical finger navigation device. The optical finger navigation device includes a circuit board, a sensor array electrically coupled to the circuit board, and a tactile switch electrically coupled to the circuit board. The sensor array detects light and generates a navigation signal that corresponds to the detected light. The tactile switch is physically aligned with the sensor array on the circuit board. The tactile switch generates a switch signal upon actuation of the tactile switch in response to a force on a packaging structure of the sensor array. | 03-25-2010 |
20100054345 | High Speed Digital Galvanic Isolator with Integrated Low-Voltage Differential Signal Interface - Various types of high-speed digital galvanic isolators and corresponding integrated low voltage differential signal (“LVDS”) interfaces are disclosed herein. According to some embodiments, phantom power is provided to one side of a galvanic isolator from the other side of the isolator via a twisted pair cable with shielding interconnecting the two sides, and therefore eliminate the need to provide power to both sides of the galvanic isolator through different power supplies or by way of separate physical wiring being routed and connected to the two opposing sides of the isolator. Such phantom power supply configurations reduce cost, lower power consumption, and increase the number of engineering design options available in a device where high speed serial data communication with low noise are required. | 03-04-2010 |
20100052755 | SLEW RATE CONTROL FOR A LOAD SWITCH - An apparatus for slew rate control using a plurality of discrete slew rate levels. The apparatus includes a load switch and a switch controller. The load switch outputs a load voltage to a load. The switch controller generates a switch control signal in response to an enable signal. The switch control signal controls operation of the load switch. The switch controller controls a slew rate of the load switch according to a plurality of discrete slew rate levels. | 03-04-2010 |
20100039403 | TOUCH DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING TACTILE FEEDBACK - A touch device includes a touch panel and a vibration device to provide tactile feedback to a user to locate a key on a display of the touch panel. A processor generates a drive signal to the vibration device when the position on the display touched by a finger or stylus corresponds to a location of a key on the display. The vibration device causes the display to vibrate in response to the drive signal to provide a tactile key location indication to the user while the key is touched. | 02-18-2010 |
20100032703 | EDGE-EMITTING LED ASSEMBLY - A light-emitting diode (LED) in accordance with the invention includes an edge-emitting LED stack having an external emitting surface from which light is emitted, and a reflective element that is located adjacent to at least one external surface of the LED stack other than the external emitting surface. The reflective element receives light that is generated inside the LED stack and reflects the received light back into the LED stack. At least a portion of the reflected light is then emitted from the external emitting surface. | 02-11-2010 |
20100020448 | GALVANIC ISOLATOR - Galvanic isolators are disclosed herein. An embodiment of a galvanic isolator comprises a generally planar electrically insulating substrate comprising opposing first and second surfaces, the substrate comprising an electrically insulating, low dielectric loss material and having a transmitter coil disposed on the first surface and a receiving coil disposed on the second surface. A transmitter circuit is operably connected to the transmitter coil. The transmitter circuit comprises a first detector that detects a rising edge of an input signal; a first pulse generator that generates a plurality of first pulses upon detection of the rising edge; a second detector that detects a falling edge of the input signal; and a second pulse generator that generates a plurality of second pulses upon detection of the falling edge. A receiver circuit is operably connected to the second receiving coil. The receiver circuit generates a signal that is substantially similar to the input signal based on the first pulses and the second pulses. | 01-28-2010 |
20100001950 | POSITION DETERMINATION UTILIZING A CORDLESS DEVICE - A system for generating position information includes a reflector, an image collection system, and a processor. The image collection system is configured to collect at least two sets of image data, where one set of image data includes a stronger indication of the reflector than the other set of image data. The two sets of image data can be collected in many different ways and may include using a retroreflector as the reflector. The two sets of image data are used to generate position information related to the reflector. In particular, position information related to the reflector is generated by taking the difference between the two set of image data. Because one set of image data includes a stronger indication of the reflector than the other set of image data, the difference between the two sets of image data gives a definitive indication of the reflector's position. | 01-07-2010 |
20090310355 | Segmented Light Guide - An exemplary embodiment of a segmented light guide includes a light channeling layer having a plurality of regions, with multiple slits in the light channeling layer dividing neighboring regions. The segmented light guide also includes at least one light source associated with the light channeling layer. | 12-17-2009 |
20090295718 | MULTIPLE INPUT OPTICAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM - An optical navigation system with optical imaging of multiple inputs using a single navigation sensor. The optical navigation system includes a tactile interface device, an image sensor, and a processor. The tactile interface device facilitates a navigation input. The image sensor intermittently generates images of a surface of the tactile interface device and images of a contact navigation surface. The image sensor also generates the images of the surface of the tactile interface device exclusive of the images of the contact navigation surface. The processor is coupled to the image sensor. The processor generates a first navigation signal based on the images of the tactile interface device and generates a second navigation signal based on the images of the contact navigation surface. | 12-03-2009 |
20090284324 | Integrated Circuit Transmission Lines, Methods for Designing Integrated Circuits Using the Same and Methods to Improve Return Loss - Integrated circuit transmission lines are designed to match elements at opposing ends of the transmission line over a frequency range of interest. By modifying characteristics of the transmission line over the length of the transmission line, from a first end coupled to a first external element to a second end coupled to a second external element, return loss is improved. In various embodiments one or more of the width of the conductors and the distance between adjacent edges of the conductors are modified across the length of the transmission line. In an alternative embodiment, the conductors of the transmission line are segmented with each segment having a length and a width across the segment. | 11-19-2009 |
20090279270 | DUAL-CHANNEL OPTICAL NAVIGATION DEVICE - A dual-channel optical navigation system with vertically aligned sensors. The dual-channel optical navigation system includes a circuit board, a contact navigation sensor, and a free-space navigation sensor. The circuit board mechanically supports and electrically connects multiple navigation sensors on opposing sides of the circuit board. The contact navigation sensor is coupled to a first side of the circuit board. The contact navigation sensor generates a contact navigation signal based on contact navigation images of a contact navigation surface approximately adjacent to the dual-channel optical navigation system. The free-space navigation sensor is coupled to a second side of the circuit board. The free-space navigation sensor generates a free-space navigation signal based on free-space navigation images of an operating environment of the dual-channel optical navigation system. | 11-12-2009 |
20090263117 | CAMERA MODULE, CAMERA-ENABLED DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CAPTURING A FRAME OF IMAGE DATA USING A FAUX FLASH OF LIGHT - A camera module, camera-enabled device and method for capturing a frame of image data of a targeted scene uses a faux flash of light to indicate that the frame of image data has been captured. | 10-22-2009 |
20090262368 | LIGHT PIPE FOR LOW PROFILE OPTICAL NAVIGATION SYSTEMS - A light pipe for an optical navigation system. The light pipe includes a collection surface, a collimation surface, and a reflective surface. The collection surface is to accept incident light into the light pipe from a light source. The collimation surface is to collimate the light and to direct the collimated light to a navigation plane for detection by a navigation sensor. The reflective surface is between the collection surface and the collimation surface and is to reflect the light along a reflective path as the light travels within the light pipe from the collection surface to the collimation surface. The reflective surface has a curved geometry oriented substantially along the path of travel of the light through the light pipe. The curved geometry of the reflective path facilitates convergence of the light with respect to a first axis. | 10-22-2009 |
20090257481 | IDENTIFICATION OF BOARD CONNECTIONS FOR DIFFERENTIAL RECEIVERS - Embodiments of the invention include testing arrangements for detecting proper DC-coupled board connections on the input legs of a differential receiver. The testing implementation includes a first test receiver AC-coupled to the connection between the first input/output (I/O) pad and the differential receiver positive input and/or a second test receiver coupled to the connection between the second I/O pad and the differential receiver negative input. The test receiver protects the test receiver input from DC voltages applied to the differential receiver via the differential receiver input. Also, the test receiver includes a high-pass filter arrangement that generates data capable of detecting whether the I/O pad connected to the test receiver has a proper DC-coupled connection or an improper connection when presented with a stimulus pulse. The test receiver is less susceptible to noise because than conventional arrangements that use a low-pass RC filter. | 10-15-2009 |
20090256724 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING AN OPTICAL TRACKING OPERATION USING RELATIVE REFERENCING - A system and method for performing an optical tracking operation computes a translated movement value of a displacement values using a relationship between a reference displacement value derived using a reference surface and a corresponding displacement value using a target surface. The displacement value is produced using image correlation by optically sensing the target surface. The translated movement value is used for the optical tracking operation. | 10-15-2009 |
20090244903 | Illumination Assembly With Diffusive Reflector Cup - One embodiment of a method for configuring consumption of service includes identifying a service to be consumed by a user, identifying a plurality of bearer technologies across which at least one electronic device can access the service, selecting one of the plurality of bearer technologies for use in configuring the at least one electronic device, and configuring the at least one electronic device for the service using one of a plurality of management frameworks according to the selected bearer technology. | 10-01-2009 |
20090237274 | SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING POINTER POSITION, MOVEMENT, AND ANGLE - An a data input system includes an encoded pad having position encoding and a data input device adapted to image a portion of the encoded pad to determine position and orientation of the data input device relative to the encoded pad. The encoding pad includes a plurality of correlation windows. Each correlation window includes a primary encoding marker in form of vertical line segment and a set of secondary encoding markers in form of diagonal line segments, at least one diagonal line segment intersecting the vertical line segment at an intersection angle. Spacing of the diagonal line segments encodes the X-axis position of the input device relative to the encoding pad. Intersection angle encodes the Y-axis position of the input device relative to the encoding pad. Angle of the primary encoding marker vertical line segment within the frame of the captured image encodes the angular orientation of the input device relative to the axes of the encoded pad. | 09-24-2009 |
20090236507 | SHAFT-MOUNTED DETECTOR FOR OPTICAL ENCODER - A transmissive optical encoder is disclosed. The transmissive optical encoder includes a detector, a code wheel, and an emitter. The detector includes an aperture through the detector. The aperture is configured to receive a rotary shaft of a motor. The code wheel is coupled to the rotary shaft of the motor. Rotation of the rotary shaft results in corresponding rotation of the code wheel. The emitter is configured to emit a light signal through the code wheel toward the detector. Rotation of the code wheel results in modulation of the light signal at the detector. Embodiments of the transmissive optical encoder consume relatively little space and facilitate alignment of the emitter and detector. | 09-24-2009 |
20090219722 | CERAMIC LIGHT EMITTING DEVICE - A light emitting device comprising a ceramic substrate is disclosed. And embodiment of the substrate comprises a mounting portion, a peripheral wall extending from the mounting portion, and a reflective surface extending from the peripheral wall opposite the mounting portion. The reflective surface has a reflective material located thereon. The peripheral wall, the mounting portion, and the reflective surface form a well. A light emitter is located adjacent the mounting portion. A transparent material is located in the well. The peripheral wall is devoid of the reflective material. | 09-03-2009 |
20090219402 | Systems and Methods for Image Stabilization - An image capture device includes a frame buffer, a processor, a shutter, an actuator, a three-axis optical motion sensor and an image sensor. The image sensor defines an optical axis. The three-axis optical motion sensor provides information concerning rotational movement of the camera about each of a roll axis, a yaw axis and a pitch axis. The roll axis is parallel to the optical axis. The yaw axis and the pitch axis are orthogonal to one another and orthogonal to the roll axis. The actuator rotates the image sensor in response to the rotational movement of the device about the optical axis. The processor generates first and second offsets responsive to the rotational motion about the yaw axis and the pitch axis. The processor shifts each line of image information in a frame in accordance with the first and second offsets. | 09-03-2009 |
20090213062 | COLOR CONTROL OF A BACKLIGHTING SYSTEM - In an embodiment, the invention provides a method of color control in a backlighting system comprising a plurality of light sources, a plurality of color sensors, a plurality of PWM controllers, and a video input for receiving video data. The plurality of light sources is activated during a first operative mode to produce white light. The plurality of light sources is controlled during a second operative mode to produce white light. | 08-27-2009 |
20090201594 | OPTICAL FINGER NAVIGATION DEVICE WITH A FOLDED AIR LENS - A fingerprint navigation system with a folded air lens structure and a folded air lens. The system includes a light source, a folded air lens structure, a light reflector, and a navigation sensor. The folded air lens structure is aligned to direct light from the light source to an object surface. The folded air lens structure includes a first portion and a second portion. The light reflector is aligned to direct the light from the first portion of the folded air lens structure to the second portion of the folded air lens structure. The navigation sensor is calibrated to produce a navigation image corresponding to the light directed through the folded air lens structure and the folded air lens. | 08-13-2009 |
20090195503 | REPORTING OPTICAL TRACKING DATA BASED ON INTEGRATED RESOLUTION SWITCHING AND SURFACE DETECTION - An integrated resolution switching surface detection system for an optical navigation device. The integrated resolution switching surface detection system includes a resolution switching engine, a surface detection engine, and a navigation engine. The resolution switching engine sets a resolution status based on a motion speed of a tracking surface relative to a navigation sensor, wherein the motion speed is a measure of motion data over time. The surface detection engine sets a surface detection status based on the resolution status that is set by the resolution engine. The navigation engine reads motion data from the navigation sensor and reports the motion data to a computing device according to the surface detection status that is set by the surface detection engine. Embodiments of the integrated resolution switching surface detection system maintain smooth and predictable cursor movement associated with a plurality of finger assert and finger de-assert events. | 08-06-2009 |
20090194344 | Single Layer Mutual Capacitance Sensing Systems, Device, Components and Methods - According to one embodiment, there is provided a mutual capacitance sensing system comprising at least one substrate comprising an electrode array mounting surface. A plurality of drive electrodes are disposed in a first plurality of rows or columns positioned upon the electrode array mounting surface, where the drive electrodes in each row or column are electrically connected to one another. A plurality of sense electrodes are disposed in a second plurality of rows or columns positioned upon the electrode array mounting surface that is substantially perpendicular to the first plurality of rows or columns, and the sense electrodes in each column are electrically connected to one another. The sense and drive electrodes form an array disposed substantially in a single plane that is configured to permit at least one location corresponding to at least one finger placed in proximity thereto to be detected thereby. | 08-06-2009 |
20090159780 | OPTICAL NAVIGATION APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE APPARATUS - An optical navigation apparatus and method for making the apparatus uses a light source and a sensor having an imaging array mounted on a leadframe and encapsulated in an optically transparent body structure. The optically transparent body structure is configured to include a prism-like feature to internally reflect light from the light source toward a target surface and an imaging lens feature to optically manipulate the light reflected from the target surface onto the imaging array of the sensor. | 06-25-2009 |
20090154206 | Circuit and associated method for reducing power consumption in an a power transformer - A method and circuit is provided for reducing power consumption in a power transformer, typically incorporated into an electrical or electronic device such as a consumer device. In an embodiment, a detection/isolation circuit is coupled to an input of a power transformer/rectifier via a switching device. The switching device can be, for example, a solid state relay. The detection/isolation circuit is configured to sense the occurrence of no-load conditions in the power transformer and responsively disengage the power transformer from a coupled source of power (e.g., wall outlet) via the coupled switching device. | 06-18-2009 |
20090152452 | REFLECTIVE MULTI-TURN ENCODER - A reflective optical encoder for a gear train. The reflective optical encoder includes a gear train with a plurality of gears. Each of the gears is operably coupled to at least one other gear of the plurality of gears. A reflective code pattern is accessible on a surface of at least one of the gears. A reflective optical sensor detects light reflected by the reflective code pattern. Position logic coupled to the optical sensor determines a rotational parameter of the gear train based on the light reflected by the reflective code pattern. Additionally, the position logic may determine rotational parameter of a pinion coupled to the gear train based on the rotational parameter of the gear train. | 06-18-2009 |
20090141000 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING OPTICAL NAVIGATION USING HORIZONTALLY ORIENTED IMAGING LENS - A system and method for performing optical navigation uses an imaging lens, which is positioned between a target surface and an image sensor array, that is orientated to be substantially horizontal with respect to the target surface such that the optical axis of the imaging lens is substantially perpendicular to the target surface. | 06-04-2009 |
20090140984 | SELF-CALIBRATING OPTICAL FEEDBACK SYSTEM IN A LASER MOUSE - A self-calibrating optical feedback system for an optical navigation device. The self-calibrating optical feedback system includes a light source, an illumination lens, a beam splitter, and an optical feedback device. The illumination lens is coupled relative to the light source. The light source emits light based on a programming current. The illumination lens directs the light towards a beam splitter. The beam splitter partially reflects the light directed from the illumination lens. The optical feedback device detects the partially reflected light from the beam splitter and generates a feedback signal to modify an intensity of the light emitted by the light source. Embodiments of the self-calibrating optical feedback system maintain the output intensity of a laser driven optical navigation device below an eye-safety level. | 06-04-2009 |
20090135157 | Capacitive Sensing Input Device with Reduced Sensitivity to Humidity and Condensation - A capacitive sensing input device particularly well adapted for use in electronic devices such as portable computers, PDA's, cell phones, MP3 players and the like is disclosed that has reduced sensitivity to humidity and condensation. One or more fixed potential or ground conductors are placed between a sense electrode and a drive electrode. The fixed potential or ground conductors are configured in respect of the sense and drive electrodes to intercept or block undesired electrical fields or signals resulting from condensation or humidity. | 05-28-2009 |
20090129085 | OPTICAL DEVICE - An exemplary embodiment of an optical device may include a lead frame with a plurality of leads and a reflector housing formed around the lead frame. The reflector housing includes a first end face and a second end face and a peripheral sidewall extending between the first end face and the second end face. The reflector housing includes a first pocket with a pocket opening in the first end face and a second pocket with a pocket opening in the second end face. At least one LED die is mounted in the first pocket of the reflector housing, and a light transmitting encapsulant is disposed in the first pocket and encapsulating the at least one LED die. | 05-21-2009 |
20090129073 | Illumination Assembly Having Multiple Emitters - An exemplary embodiment of an illumination assembly includes a reflector housing having a plurality of cavities formed therein, an a plurality of light emitters mounted in the plurality of cavities. Each of the plurality of cavities contains a single one of the plurality of light emitters. | 05-21-2009 |
20090129049 | Segmented Light Guide - An exemplary embodiment of a segmented light guide includes a light channeling layer having at least one slit dividing the light channeling layer into a plurality of segments, and at least one LED associated with the light channeling layer. The slit substantially prevents light from migrating in the segmented light guide between adjacent segments that are divided by the slit. | 05-21-2009 |
20090127431 | ILLUMINATION SYSTEM CALIBRATION AND OPERATION HAVING A CALIBRATION MATRIX CALCULATION BASED ON A SHIFT IN COLOR SPACE (AS AMENDED) - A method for calibrating an illumination system is disclosed herein. The illumination system comprises at least one light emitter and at least one color sensor. The method comprises emitting a first wavelength of light from the a light emitter and measuring the color of light emitted by the light emitter using the color sensors. A second wavelength of light is emitted from the a light emitter and the color of light emitted by the light emitter is measured using the color sensors. The shift in color space based on the measurements is calculated. At least one calibration matrix based on the shift in colors space is calculated. | 05-21-2009 |
20090078858 | ORIENTATION DETERMINATION UTILIZING A CORDLESS DEVICE - A system for generating orientation information includes a reflector, an image collection system, and a processor. The image collection system is configured to collect at least two sets of image data, where one set of image data includes a stronger indication of the reflector than the other set of image data. The two sets of image data are collected using at least one reflector with some orientation-specific characteristic or a reflector integrated into a device that includes some orientation-specific structural feature. Once collected, the two sets of image data are used to generate orientation information related to the reflector. In particular, orientation information related to the reflector is generated by taking the difference between the two sets of image data. | 03-26-2009 |
20090058802 | INPUT DEVICE - An embodiment of a system for controlling a graphical user interface of a device includes a tiltable member, an electrically conductive member, a substrate, a drive circuit, a switch, and signal logic. The tiltable member is configured for tilting by a user. The electrically conductive member is configured to move in response to the tilting. The substrate is spaced apart from the electrically conductive member by a gap and has mutually isolated sense electrodes disposed thereon. The drive circuit provides an electrical drive signal to the electrically conductive member. The switch is centrally located between the sense electrodes, wherein the tiltable member is connected to the switch to enable actuation of the switch in response to tilting of the tiltable member. The signal logic translates capacitance measurements and actuations of the switch into a signal that is indicative of an input function in a graphical user interface. | 03-05-2009 |
20080304011 | SAFE EYE DETECTION - An eye detection system for safe detection of the eye positions of a subject estimates the distance from the eye detection system to the subject and reduces the power level of at least one primary light source of the eye detection system if the subject is too close to the eye detection system. If the subject is not too close to the eye detection system, the power level of the at least one primary light source of the eye detection system is increased, provided the power level is below a predetermined maximum power level. Primary light from the at least one primary light source reflected from the subject is sensed by an imager to obtain one or more images, from which the eye positions of the subject are estimated. | 12-11-2008 |
20080278449 | APPARATUS FOR CAPTURING AND ANALYZING LIGHT AND METHOD EMBODIED THEREIN - An apparatus including an image sensor is disclosed. The apparatus includes a polarization filter, an image sensor, and a processor connected to the image sensor. The polarization filter is adapted to filter out light polarized in a first direction from a first scene. The image sensor is adapted to capture the filtered light, and the image sensor includes support circuits to convert the captured filtered light to image data. The processor is adapted to process the image data to detect features of the first scene. The polarization filter filters out noise component of the image, thus increasing contrast. In another embodiment, a mosaic polarization filter is used to capture a scene in a first image including light from the scene having first polarity and to capture the scene in a second image including light from the scene having first polarity. The two images can be analyzed to determine various characteristics of the scene. | 11-13-2008 |
20080254556 | Semiconductor Light Emitting Device and Method of Manufacture - A light-emitting diode (“LED”) device has an LED chip attached to a substrate. The terminals of the LED chip are electrically coupled to leads of the LED device. Elastomeric encapsulant within a receptacle of the LED device surrounds the LED chip. A second encapsulant is disposed within an aperture of the receptacle on the elastomeric encapsulant. | 10-16-2008 |
20080246725 | APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING THE POSITION OF A SCREEN POINTER WITH LOW SENSITIVITY TO PARTICLE CONTAMINATION - An apparatus for controlling the position of a screen pointer includes an at least partially coherent light source for illuminating an imaging surface, thereby generating reflected images. The apparatus includes a navigation sensor for generating digital images based on the reflected images, performing a movement computation based on the digital images, generating movement data based on the movement computation that is indicative of relative motion between the imaging surface and the apparatus, wherein the movement computation has a low sensitivity to effects in the digital images caused by particle contamination. | 10-09-2008 |
20080238876 | CONTAMINANT-RESISTANT OPTICAL MOUSE AND CRADLE - A contaminant-neutralizing cradle comprises a base and a support surface configured to removably receive a coherently-illuminated mouse. A neutralizing element is disposed on the support surface for alignment with at least one exposed surface of an optics module of the mouse and is configured to neutralize the optical effect of a contaminant on the at least one exposed surface. A method of neutralizing contaminants for an optical mouse comprises providing a mouse containing an optics module having at least one surface exposed to an opening of the mouse and interposing a barrier in the mouse between a contaminant and the at least one exposed surface. A method of detecting contaminants comprises aligning an optics module of a mouse with an imaging surface, obtaining a first image of the imaging surface, via application of coherent illumination from the optics module to the imaging surface, analyzing the first image to identify an interference pattern associated with a contaminant, alerting a user if a parameter of the interference pattern exceeds a threshold value. | 10-02-2008 |
20080211049 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR INTEGRATING AN ILLUMINATION SOURCE AND DETECTOR INTO THE SAME IC PACKAGE THAT ALLOWS ANGULAR ILLUMINATION WITH A COMMON PLANAR LEADFRAME - An optical navigation device includes an integrated package. The integrated package includes a planar leadframe, a light source die mounted on the leadframe, and a sensor die mounted on the leadframe to be coplanar with the light source die. The integrated package may be mounted at an angle or parallel to a navigation surface. The sensor die may be mounted at a distance from the light source die to detect specular or scattered reflection. The optical navigation device may be devoid of any optical element used to manipulate light generated by the light source die. | 09-04-2008 |
20080204761 | POINTING DEVICE - There is provided a pointing device including a light source that provides incident light for illuminating a front surface of a substrate at a predetermined angle of incidence, the substrate having a rear surface as well as the front surface and being transparent to the wavelength of the incident light, a detector that detects the intensity of speckle light from the front and rear surfaces, the speckle light generated from the incident light, and legs that are in contact with the substrate and charge the front surface of the substrate through friction between the legs and the substrate. | 08-28-2008 |